EV Brief 4/4/21 EV Brief 4/4/21

Meet the Dacia Spring - an electric crossover you can purchase in Europe for a ridiculous price

If one needed proof that European manufacturers are getting serious about decarbonising their passenger car fleets, look no further than the Dacia Spring.

DaciaSpringElectric(8).jpg — The Dacia Spring is the cheapest BEV on sale in Europe

If one needed proof that European manufacturers are getting serious about decarbonising their passenger car fleets, look no further than the Dacia Spring. A Romanian manufacturer dating from 1966, Automobile Dacia is now wholly-owned by Groupe Renault, and produces a number of passenger and commercial vehicles with an emphasis on practicality and price.

The price of the Dacia Spring varies by country; in Germany it lists for €20,490, in the UK for £14,500 and in Romania for €18,100. Factor in electric vehicle/environmental grants available, and those numbers drop to €10,920 (€-9,570) in Germany, £12,000 (-£2,500) in the UK, and €8,100 (€-10,000) in Romania. Yes, with a generous state grant for environmental vehicles in Romania under the Rabla Plus (Clunker Plus) scheme, this Dacia costs less than some two-wheeled vehicles.

So what’s under the skin? There’s a 33 kW (45 PS) front-mounted electric motor with 125 Nm (92 lb ft) of torque, a 26.8 kWh battery and a compact crossover body that seats five. Before you start decrying the range and performance of those specifications, there’s one more number to consider: Curb weight. At 921 kg (2,030 lb) The Dacia Spring is incredibly light for an electric car, and therefore provides acceptable performance for a city car, and provides a useful range of 225 km (139 miles) on the WLTP combined cycle. That’s perfectly fine for a few days driving around town.

We believe that the future of electric vehicles may look something like the Dacia Spring. It will require a mindset-shift in consumers, but we will no longer be looking for a one-car-fits-all solution, and the Dacia spring is a perfect city car/car-share prospect. The nature of electrification and battery technology means that less mass simply means greater efficiency and range, and therefore a market will emerge for smaller, lighter (and cheaper) BEVs that are designed exclusively for commuting. According to the European Parliament Resolution on Sustainable Urban Mobility, by 2050, 82 percent of Europeans will commute outside an area in which they live (though this may change post COVID-19). Obviously, public transport is key to moving greater numbers of people more efficiently, but Europeans—and Australians and Americans—love their cars, and cheap, efficient urban commuter vehicles will be key to the phase-out of fossil fuel vehicles this decade.

EV Brief 4/1/21 EV Brief 4/1/21

Genesis unveils X Concept high-performance electric GT coupe

Genesis X Concept is a luxurious, futuristic design study

Light on details, but big on style. That’s the point of a concept car isn’t it? The Genesis X Concept is an electric grand tourer; a Bentley Continental or BMW 8 series for a future world of strict emissions standards. Hyundai Motor Group has been flexing its design muscle of late and clearly working overtime, following the recently revealed IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6 models presenting all-new design languages for their brands.

The Genesis X Concept is low, wide and aggressively-styled, and is centered on Genesis’ ‘Two Lines’ design concept. The broad Two Line tail lamps and headlamps accentuate the wide wheel arches, and the integrated hood and fender produce a large clamshell piece reminiscent of an Aston Martin (the winged logo also aides this comparison).

The Genesis X Concept can be described as the ultimate vision of Athletic Elegance, the inherent design language of Genesis," said SangYup Lee, Head of Genesis’ Global Design. "The signature Two Lines theme and sustainable luxury will be blueprints for the futuristic designs and state-of-the-art technologies that Genesis seeks to adopt in its future models."

The side follows the traditional GT model design with a long hood and a short rear, and the two-lined lamps leading to the headlamps, which will likely not carryover to the production version. The arching side parabolic line gives the impression of a car ready to accelerate, though we can’t help but notice the ratio of glass-to-metal gives an appearance of slightly odd proportions. It’s a good looking car for sure, but the side and rear angles look a little droopy. And if it’s an electric vehicle, why does it need a hood that long?

The very Aston Martin-esque hue is known as Lençóis Blue, and “the color was developed to express the level of sustainable luxury that Genesis pursues. It is inspired by the lagoons of Maranhenses National Park in Brazil, where a lake forms only during the rainy season.” according to Genesis’ press release. Err, right. It’s a lovely colour, but there is such a thing as too much marketing.

The interior has a futuristic, swooping free-form display, and in our eyes is a tech-ier take on Bentley-esque luxury. Metal-backed bucket seats and sumptuous leather surfacing welcomes passengers, and the floating centre console features only a metal drive selector, and touch screen buttons. Genesis claims that the use of upcycled materials were used for the safety belts, parts of the steering wheel, and the airbag cover, highlighting the concept car’s eco-friendliness.

EV Brief 3/13/21 EV Brief 3/13/21

Nissan reveals paint colour palette for upcoming Ariya electric SUV

Nissan has unveiled a palette of ten exterior colours for the Ariya SUV, a pleasing change from the likes of Volkswagen which only offers a greyscale palette plus red or blue on expensive variants of its ID.4. There are four monotone and six two-tone options, and Nissan claims the paint portfolio was crafted to elevate Ariya’s premium look and feel.

NissanAriya.JPG.jpg — Nissan Ariya boasts two bespoke colours, reduced CO2 output during paint process

Two brand-new colours have been developed by Nissan, Akatsuki Copper and Aurora Green

Technological innovations in the paint production line reduces carbon dioxide output by 25%

There are four monotone and six two-tone options, and Nissan claims the paint portfolio was crafted to elevate Ariya’s premium look and feel. The colours are applied by a highly advanced, environmentally sustainable paint production technology that reduces carbon dioxide output by 25% according to the company – further reducing the environmental footprint of this zero emission vehicle.

New colours for a new era of electrification

The design team developed Akatsuki Copper and Aurora Green especially for the all-electric coupé crossover. “The ingenuity the Nissan Ariya represents inspired us to adopt an entirely new mindset for colour design,” said Lesley Busby, Colour Manager at Nissan Design Europe.

Ceramic Grey

Gun Metallic

Warm Silver

Tinted Red

Burgundy

Akatsuki Copper

Pearl Blue

Aurora Green

Pearl Black

Nissan Ariya in Akatsuki Copper. Images: Nissan

“Ariya is the culmination of Nissan’s electric mobility expertise and a strong statement of intent for the future of EV design. We therefore worked hard to introduce a truly futuristic and technology-driven design language for the colours, analysing them in detail to create the perfect match for Ariya’s innovative personality,” Lesley Busby continued.

Inspired by the Japanese phrase for ‘dawn’, Akatsuki Copper’s striking appearance mimics the brilliance of a sunrise, reflecting the beginning of Nissan’s new brand identity. Its metallic sparkle is enhanced to evoke the conductivity of copper wires, honouring the model’s advanced EV technology.

Aurora Green takes its name from the beautiful ‘Northern Lights’ phenomenon, aurora borealis, commonly seen in the arctic. A sophisticated blend of different tones means the colour may appear green or purple depending on the angle that it is viewed, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue.

Technology innovation in colour

Nissan claims an all-new level of detail and depth to customer-favourite colours, created with state-of-the-art paint production techniques. Lesley Busby commented: “We know that black and white colours are some of the most popular options with vehicle owners in Europe and around the world. With Ariya, we have introduced a new level of richness and a premium veneer for these customer favourites. Combined with the quality and attention to detail seen throughout the colour palette, we’re excited for customers to experience Nissan’s new era of colour design for themselves.”

Sustainable production techniques

Technological innovation has also been employed to enhance the sustainability of the paint production line. Nissan has introduced a water-based paint which allows colours to be applied at a lower temperature, ensuring that each part of the vehicle can be painted together. This streamlines the entire application process, reducing carbon dioxide output by 25%.

The Ariya already has over 29,000 preorders worldwide according to Nissan, and is scheduled for a Japanese launch mid-2021 starting from 5 million yen ($66,700 AUD), and a European, Chinese and North American launch late in 2021.

While Nissan Australia has gone on the record as keen to import the Ariya, no Australian launch timing or pricing has been provided by the company. We’ll keep you updated if and when that changes.

EV Brief 3/12/21 EV Brief 3/12/21

Australian commercial EV manufacturer SEA Electric completes US$42 Million equity financing

This week, SEA Electric announced it has closed initial private placement equity financing for total gross proceeds of approximately US$42 million. The net proceeds from the investment will allow SEA Electric to solidify its position as a market leader in the electrification of commercial vehicles whilst funding its considerable backlog and facilitating more pilot programs with operators.

The SEA-Drive Power System. Images: SEA Electric

Founded in Australia in 2012, SEA Electric Holdings Pty Ltd. (SEA Electric) has become an international success story with its proprietary electric power-system technology (known as SEA-Drive®) now found across the world's urban delivery and distribution fleets.

With products in seven countries including USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia and South Africa, SEA Electric has more than one million miles of independently OEM-tested and in-service operation behind its technology.

According to President and Founder Tony Fairweather, the financing allows SEA Electric to accelerate its global sales efforts and further utilize its proprietary Sea-Drive® 120b battery power system, while strengthening the delivery and distribution transportation segment for vehicles that operate in urban and metropolitan areas.

SEA Electric issued approximately 1.1 million Series A Preferred Shares at a price of US $40.1995 per share, convertible into common shares of SEA Electric at the option of subscribers and automatically convert to common shares under certain conditions, including SEA Electric completing a public transaction.

Fairweather stated, “We are very pleased to have completed a heavily oversubscribed equity financing and are excited to welcome aboard a global set of institutional investors as partners. The financing allows SEA Electric to grow our backlog as we explore options to seek a public listing in the United States this year.”

SEA Electric currently partners with commercial vehicle OEMs, dealers, operators and upfitters to deliver a new range of zero-emissions trucks and is on schedule to deliver more than 1,000 electric commercial vehicles this year. The company forecast is to have more than 15,000 vehicles on the road by the end of 2023.

“2021 will see a paradigm shift in the way developed markets facilitate uptake of commercial electric vehicles and the unstoppable momentum will build year-after-year” said Fairweather.

It is a notable achievement that in the face of lacklustre government support for clean technology in Australia, a company like SEA Electric has successfully conquered the international market in eight years. Companies like SEA Electric, Tritium and Evans Electric exemplify the technical and creative capital that exist in Australia that must be nurtured to support jobs, manufacturing and the transition to clean energy technologies.

EV Brief 3/5/21 EV Brief 3/5/21

2021 Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo launches as the rugged, practical EV

Porsche’s Taycan Cross Turismo arrives with more space, practicality, and off-road looks

Four all-wheel-drive variants available, starting with the 280 kW (380 PS) Taycan 4 Cross Turismo
Australian buyers limited to 4S and Turbo variants, priced from AUD$201,000
Similar silhouette to Mission E Cross Turismo concept; optional Off Road Design package available
30mm increase in ride height; 36mm increase in rear headroom for passengers
Adaptive air suspension, 93.4 kWh battery standard-fit for Cross Turismo

Porsche has pulled the wraps off the Taycan Cross Turismo range, and to no one’s surprise, it looks very similar to the Mission E Cross Turismo concept. Let’s get straight to the point; we love the look of this uber-fast wagon. Fast German wagons are an underappreciated niche in Australia, but there is much enthusiasm for the likes of Audi’s RS4 and RS6, Mercedes-Benz’ C63S AMG Estate and Porsche’s own Panamera Sport Turismo.

On that note, the slightly larger Panamera 4S Sport Turismo is available in Australia from $217,000, meaning that the equivalent Taycan 4S Cross Turismo is $16,000 cheaper. The second model to make it to Australia is the Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo, priced from $271,200.

Globally, four models will be available, with identical specifications to the Taycan sedan:

The Taycan 4 Cross Turismo with 280 kW (380 PS), overboost power for Launch Control 350 kW (476 PS), acceleration 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds, top speed 220 km/h, range (WLTP) 389 – 456 km - USD $92,250 (not available in Australia)

The Taycan 4S Cross Turismo with 360 kW (490 PS), overboost power with Launch Control 420 kW (571 PS), acceleration 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, top speed 240 km/h, range (WLTP) 388 – 452 km - USD $111,650/AUD $217,000
The Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo with 460 kW (625 PS), overboost power with Launch Control 500 kW (680 PS), acceleration 0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds, top speed 250 km/h, range (WLTP) 395 – 452 km - USD $154,850/AUD $271,200
The Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo with 460 kW (625 PS), overboost power with Launch Control 560 kW (761 PS), acceleration 0-100 km/h in 2.9 seconds, top speed 250 km/h, range (WLTP) 388 – 419 km.- USD $188,950 (not available in Australia)

The Taycan Cross Turismo adds just a little bit more space everywhere over the regular Taycan, with a wheelbase of 2,904mm (+4mm), a length of 4,974mm (+11mm), a width of 1,967mm (+1mm) and a height of 1,412mm (+31mm).

This results in an additional 36mm of headroom for rear seat passengers; a lack thereof in the sedan was a common criticism. Rear cargo space is increased too, with the 4 and 4S variants up to 446 litres with the rear seats upright (+80 litres), or 1212 litres with the seats flat. There’s also an 84-litre front trunk/boot.

For our money, we think the Cherry metallic with 20 inch turbo aero wheels, roof rails, panoramic roof and off road design package is the right specification.

Taycan 4S Cross Turismo in Cherry metallic

With adaptive air suspension fitted as standard, five drive modes including a gravel mode are available to the driver. Gravel changes the air suspension's firmness, controls torque to the wheels to suit slippery surfaces, and optimises traction control and stability control systems for loose surfaces. An optional Off Road Styling package can be added, increasing ride height a further 10mm in gravel mode. The package also includes visual elements such as a larger rear diffuser, front aero pieces and a faux skid plate.

The Cross Turismo receives the larger Porsche 93.4 kWh battery pack as standard, presumably to deal with additional hauling and range requirements of wagon buyers.

The Taycan Turbo Cross Turismo in Mamba Green.

EV Brief 2/18/21 EV Brief 2/18/21

Ford Europe to produce electric cars exclusively by 2030

Ford Europe has confirmed a commitment to sustainable profitability overnight, beginning a US$1 billion transformation of its Cologne manufacturing site to modernise its vehicle assembly facility, and create a home for the company’s planned e-mobility business.

Ford Europe to go all electric by 2030 with new models and new e-mobility factory in cologne

Ford plans for 100% of its passenger vehicle range in Europe to be zero-emissions capable by mid-2026, moving to all-electric by 2030
$1 billion will be invested in a new electric vehicle manufacturing centre in Cologne
The company’s first European-built, volume all-electric passenger vehicle for European customers will roll off the lines in Cologne starting in 2023
Ford will utilise Volkswagen’s modular electric-drive toolkit (MEB) to underpin the new vehicles

Ford states that 100 percent of their passenger vehicle range in Europe will be zero-emissions capable, all-electric or plug-in hybrid by 2026, and that the range will be completely all-electric by 2030.

The Mustang Mach-E, Ford’s all electric sports crossover. Images: Ford Motor Company

Interestingly, Ford will rely heavily on Volkswagens MEB platform architecture, with the German automaker tweeting about the deal, and claiming Ford will be using 600,000 MEB platforms and associated components by 2028:

.@Ford intends to produce its electric models on the basis of the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) developed by Volkswagen! @Ford_de
— Volkswagen Group (@VWGroup) February 17, 2021

Ford returned a profitable fourth quarter of 2020 in Europe, despite losses across the business globally. Ford recently announced US$22 billion would be allocated for e-mobility investment through 2025, across all its R&D and manufacturing facilities.

Ford’s announcement comes immediately after Jaguar Land Rover committed to electrifying their fleets over the next decade, with General Motors, Volkswagen and Volvo making similar commitments last year.

EV Brief 11/12/20 EV Brief 11/12/20

Hyundai's Kona Electric Debuts a New Look for 2021

Hyundai’s design language, much like the company itself has come a long way over the last few decades. From humble origins echoing the form of best-selling models from Japan and the USA, to the creation of the brand’s own identity under Peter Schreyer, Luc Donckerwolke and SangYup Lee, the 2021 Kona and Kona Electric continue Hyundai’s recently-introduced ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design theme.

Hyundai’s design language, much like the company itself has come a long way over the last few decades. From humble origins echoing the form of best-selling models from Japan and the USA, to the creation of the brand’s own identity under Peter Schreyer, Luc Donckerwolke and SangYup Lee, the 2021 Kona and Kona Electric continue Hyundai’s recently-introduced ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design theme.

The result is a handsome SUV; the front end is confident yet elegant, and somehow mananges to avoid the clumsy look carried by Jeep’s split-headlight offerings, no doubt due to the grill-less nose. The side profile is quite simple, but beefy wheel arches accentuate the Kona Electric’s rugged ambitions, and sharp door creases reduce any slab-sided appearance.

The 2021 Kona Electric will be available in the following colours, but availability may be limited by market:

Dive in Jeju [New]

Silky Bronze [New]
Shimmering Silver [New]
Ignite Flame [New]
Misty Jungle [New]
Surfy Blue [New]
Teal [New]
Cyber Grey [New]
Atlas White [New]

The interior is largely unchanged, but the Kona Electric is a fine (if traditional) place to be. With a new 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster in front of the driver and a 10.25-inch centrally mounted touch screen, information and infotainment is easily at hand.

The Kona Electric comes with a raft of active and passive safety systems under the banner of Hyundai SmartSense:

[NEW] Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
[NEW] Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
[NEW] Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA)
[NEW] Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
[NEW] Rear Seat Alert (RSA)
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection (FCA-Ped)
Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC w/ S&G)
Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW)
Driver Attention Warning (DAW)

While there are no changes to the drivetrain, this is no bad thing, with the Kona Electric producing 150kW maximum power and 395Nm of torque from it’s 64kWh battery pack. The battery can be charged via 100kW DC fast charging, topping up from 10-80% in 47 minutes according to Hyundai. The company also claims class-leading range, with a WLTP rating of 484 kilometres.

Charging Times

DC Fast Charging (10-80%)

50kW Charger -64min

100kW Charger - 47min

AC Normal Charging (10-100%)

7.2kW on-board charger - 9h 15min

10.5kW on-board charger - 6h 50min

In Cable Control Box (ICCB) Charging (10-100%)

(220V/12A) - 28h

The Kona Electric is expected to arrive in Australia in the first half of 2021, and is currently priced at $60,740 before on-road costs. European and North American customers can expect cars on the road before the end of 2020.

11 November, 2020 - Hyundai Motor has made a series of updates to its successful all-electric small SUV, the Kona Electric. In order to make the new Kona Electric an even better product for its customers, the upgrades revolve around design, technology, and practicality.

Since launching in 2018, demand for the Hyundai Kona Electric has exceeded all expectations globally, thanks to its powerful electric drivetrain, long driving range and stylish SUV looks. In just two years, over 120,000 units have been sold globally.

In August, three production models set a new range record of 1,026km on a single battery charge at the Lausitzring in Germany. Meanwhile, in January, the Kona Electric made it into the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ under the category “Highest Altitude Achieved in an Electric Car”, after being driven to an altitude of 5,731m to Sawula Pass in Tibet.

The new Kona Electric has undergone bold design upgrades for a dynamic new look, as well as featuring safety enhancements and an advanced technology package.

“When we launched the Kona Electric in 2018 as the world’s first fully-electric small SUV, it represented a major step forward for affordable e-mobility,” says Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, Vice President Marketing and Product at Hyundai Motor Europe. “With the new Kona Electric, we’re showing that Hyundai is fully committed to zero-emissions driving, by providing our customers with enhanced driving assistance and safety features, making it an even more desirable package.”

Bold exterior design upgrades for a clean and stylish appearance

The new Kona Electric has undergone a series of bold exterior design updates. By combining a clean and sleek appearance with the protective and bold small SUV body type of the Kona, it expresses its exceptional electric technology while being even more recognisable on the road.

The front with the new-look closed grille features a pure and clean design. This modern look is further enhanced by the new LED Daytime Running Lights, which emphasise the car’s wide stance. The front is complemented by an asymmetric charging port, a feature unique to the Kona Electric which makes a strong statement about driving electric.

New, sharper headlamps stretch around the side of the car. The high-tech headlamp inner bezel now incorporates multifaceted reflector (MFR) technology. The headlamps are connected to the painted wheel arch claddings, giving the new Kona Electric a distinctive and sophisticated look. Vertical air inlets in front of the wheel arch claddings enhance its aerodynamics, substantially reducing turbulence in the front wheelhouse area. Meanwhile, a functional air intake in the lower bumper is visually enhanced by horizontal satin accent bars, which give it a pronounced stance.

The rear bumper retains the accent bars to add value to the overall look of the car, while new horizontally-stretched rear lamps complement the pure appearance of the front.

Like the new Kona with internal-combustion powertrains, the new Kona Electric is 40mm longer than the previous version. This ensures it has a dynamic appearance combined with a strong visual stance.

Segment-leading driving range

Like its predecessor, the new Kona Electric offers zero-emissions battery electric powertrains, with no compromises on performance.

The new Kona Electric retains its 64kWh battery and electric motor, which delivers maximum power of 150kW and a maximum speed of 167km/h.

Delivering 395Nm of immediate torque, ensures the new Kona Electric is fun-to-drive with full power available from the first second.

Since its launch in 2018, the Kona Electric has been equipped with one of the best all-electric driving ranges in its segment. With tyre improvements Kona Electric offers a class-leading range of 484km (WLTP) on a single charge.

The shift-by-wire system enables operation of the car simply by pressing buttons to switch driving modes. It also eliminates the routing space required for housing the mechanical linkages between a normal shifter and the transmission, providing additional storage space in the front of the car.

The Smart Adjustable Regenerative Braking system allows the new Kona Electric to automatically set the regenerative braking level, while paddle shifts behind the steering wheel allow the driver to adjust the intensity of the regenerative braking. The system recuperates additional energy when possible. Regenerative braking is maximised when keeping the left pedal held, allowing the driver to even bring the vehicle to a full stop – without use of the brakes.

Charging the lithium-ion polymer battery from 10 to 80 per cent only takes about 47 minutes using a 100kW direct current (DC) fast charger. The Kona Electric features an optional 10.5-kW three-phase on-board charger, allowing for significantly shorter charging times using public three-phase AC charging stations or with a private compatible wall box at home. Drivers also have the option of charging their car at a compatible regular household power socket using the ICCB-cable (in-cable control box).

An updated interior with progressive technology

For the first time, the new Kona Electric is equipped with a 10.25-inch digital cluster, while the 10.25-inch multimedia screen is carried over from the last update.

Meanwhile, new ambient light technology illuminates the passenger and driver side footwell, emphasising the lifestyle character of the vehicle.

Even more best-in-class safety features

The new Kona Electric features a state-of-the-art Hyundai safety package for peace of mind. Hyundai SmartSense provides comprehensive, best-in-class active safety and driving assistance systems, and the new Kona Electric is now equipped with even more functions than its predecessor.

Upgraded Hyundai SmartSense features that feature on the new Kona Electric include Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), which offer not just warnings to drivers, but also implement the brakes where necessary. RCCA works to avoid a collision when reversing, as the car’s sensors detect approaching vehicles from both sides, with the brakes applied if necessary. Meanwhile, BCA engages the car’s differential brakes to prevent an accident if another vehicle is detected near the rear corner and the driver attempts to change lanes.

Another feature new to this model is Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA), which alerts the driver if they do not react fast enough when the vehicle ahead of them starts moving.

Further new safety features include Safe Exit Warning (SEW) and Rear Seat Alert (RSA). SEW warns passengers intending to exit the vehicle if it is not yet safe to do so. RSA is a door-checker feature that recognises if the rear doors have been opened prior to departing. When the drive is completed, the car alerts the driver if someone or something is in the back seat when they open the doors.

Hyundai SmartSense safety features:

[NEW] Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
[NEW] Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
[NEW] Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA)
[NEW] Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
[NEW] Rear Seat Alert (RSA)
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection (FCA-Ped)
Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC w/ S&G)
Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW)
Driver Attention Warning (DAW)

Increased comfort and convenience

A number of convenience features allow for a more comfortable ride, in particular for back seat passengers. As with its predecessor, the new Kona Electric’s second row heated seats allow rear passengers to relax when travelling on longer journeys. The new second row USB port delivers additional power to recharge devices on-board if needed.

Meanwhile, an electric parking brake offers even more reassurance for drivers, and can be activated by the simple push of a button.

Australian Market

Arriving locally in the first half of 2021
Long range 64kWh version only for our market (a smaller capacity 39.2kWh model is also offered overseas)

EV Brief 11/10/20 EV Brief 11/10/20

Meet the MG ZS EV: Australia's Most Affordable Battery Electric Vehicle

Enter MG’s all-new zero emission ZS EV. Priced from $43,990 AUD (inclusive of on-road costs), it takes the crown for the most affordable fully electric vehicle on sale in Australia, undercutting the Hyundai Ioniq BEV by about $15,000

On the one hand, MG traditionalists must be up-in-arms over the manufacturer’s current range of SUVs. Though the MG ZS EV is a long way from the classic MGB GT or elegant MGA, the reality is that the Australian passenger car market is dominated by SUV sales in 2020. Every manufacturer has multiple toes in the crossover pool, and can you blame them? At the top end of the market, Porsche SUV sales have arguably saved the brand, accounting fo 68% of sales worldwide, but across the spectrum, brands are finding new customers with SUVs of all sizes.

Unfortunately for the planet, SUVs aren’t exactly green, and have a large environmental footprint. Enter MG’s all-new zero emission ZS EV. Priced from $43,990 AUD (inclusive of on-road costs), it takes the crown for the most affordable fully electric vehicle on sale in Australia, undercutting the Hyundai Ioniq BEV by about $15,000, and the equivalent Kona Electric SUV by about $23,000.

The MG ZS EV features a 45kWh battery, and is rated to offer up to 263km in combined driving (WLTP) but MG Australia and New Zealand CEO Peter Cao says the car can drive up to 370km in stop-start city traffic. With three driving modes as well as three levels of regenerative braking, the new electric MG has the ability to charge to 80% in 45 minutes at a max charge rate of 85kW.

With 105kW of power and 353Nm torque, the ZS EV can reach 60 km/h in 3.2 seconds, and 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds.

With safety a top priority, the ZS EV has a range of active and passive features, including lane keeping, rear cross traffic alerts, and intelligent speed assist that helps the driver keep to the speed limit and follow the car in front.

The ZS EV offers a good range of standard equipment, including touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto/Apple Carplay, keyless entry and start and numerous active and passive safety systems.

EV Brief 11/5/20 EV Brief 11/5/20

It's a BMW X3...but Electrified: BMW Introduces new iX3

For those who want to proudly show off their green SUV purchase in the school carpark, there’s the futuristic Jaguar iPace or Tesla Model X. For anyone else who doesn’t think the traditional SUV shape needs reinventing, meet BMW’s new iX3.

For those who want to proudly show off their green SUV purchase in the school carpark, there’s the futuristic Jaguar iPace or Tesla Model X. For anyone else with a penchant for the traditional SUV box design, meet BMW’s new iX3. The vehicle adopts a modified version of the X3 architecture, and adds a lithium-ion battery comprised of prismatic cells. With a 74kWh net battery capacity, BMW says the iX3 is good for 460km (WLTP).

The battery weighs 518kg, contributing to a total vehicle weight of 2,185kg. That’s porky for a medium size SUV, but comparably, it’s 300kg less than the Mercedes-Benz EQC or 52kg heavier than Jaguar’s iPace.

Efficiency is rated at 18.5-19.5 kWh/km (WLTP), which compares favourably to Mercedes’ electric SUV at 26-28kWh/km, Jaguar’s iPace at 31-33 kWh/km, and slightly behind Tesla’s Model Y at 17.5 kWh/km.

BMW’s fifth generation electric drive unit incorporates motor, electronics and transmission into a single unit, reducing the footprint and imroving efficency over the unit fitted to the company’s i3 city car.

The iX3 features 150kW fast charging, a power output of 215kW with 400Nm of torque, a 4-mode regenerative braking system, and a rear-biased weight distribution, leadinging to familiar BMW handling characteristics.

The iX3 starts from £61,900 in the UK for the Premiere Edition (before Government rebate), and is expected to go on sale in Europe in time for summer 2021, while Australians are likely to wait until late 2020 to see it on our shores. Full press release below, and a link to CarExpert’s review can be found here:

The First Ever BMW iX3

Fully electric mobility celebrates its premiere in a BMW X model – the new BMW iX3 (fuel consumption combined in the NEDC test cycle: 0.0 l/100 km; electric power consumption combined: 17.8 – 17.5 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km; fuel consumption combined in the WLTP test cycle: 0.0 l/100 km; electric power consumption combined: 19.5 – 18.5 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 0 g/km). Locally emission-free driving pleasure complements the sporting ability for which BMW is renowned and the comfort, multi‑faceted functionality and spaciousness of the successful BMW X3. Latest stage in the ongoing rollout of the BMW Group’s electrification strategy; technological expertise amassed in the development of BMW I cars utilised for the first time in a purely electrically powered model from the BMW core brand.

New BMW iX3 will be the brand’s first model to also be produced for export at the Shenyang manufacturing facility in China. Market launch will begin in China later in 2020.
Strategic “Power of Choice” approach covers broad spread of customer requirements and statutory regulations around the world: BMW X3 is the first model to be available with a petrol or diesel engine, plug-in hybrid drive system or all-electric drive system.
New BMW iX3 blazes a trail for fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. Major progress made in terms of power density, operating range, weight, installation space requirement and flexibility. Power density of the electric drive system increased by 30 per cent over the BMW Group’s existing fully electric vehicles; gravimetric energy density of the high-voltage battery at cell level up by 20 per cent. Latest versions of the electric motor, power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage battery (all developed in-house) will also be deployed in the BMW iNEXT and BMW i4 from 2021.
Efficiency boosted significantly compared with the BMW i3 by highly integrated drive system technology. Electric motor, power electronics and transmission arranged in a central housing for the first time. Fifth-generation BMW eDrive high-voltage battery with the latest battery cell technology and gross energy content of 80 kWh enables operating range of up to 460 kilometres [285 miles] in the statutory new WLTP test cycle (up to 520 kilometres [323 miles] in the NEDC test cycle). BMW Group monitors compliance with environmental and social standards as part of its procurement process for the lithium and cobalt used in battery cells.
Newly designed fifth-generation BMW eDrive electric motor produces maximum output of 210 kW/286 hp and peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h [62 mph] in 6.8 seconds (for purposes of comparison – BMW X3 30i: 6.4 seconds), top speed (electronically limited): 180 km/h [112 mph]. The design principle of a current-excited synchronous motor enables optimised power development and allows engineers to avoid the use of rare earths.
Scope for varying degrees of recuperation enables choice between pronounced one-pedal feeling with extensive recuperation of braking and coasting energy in driving position B and adaptive recuperation including coasting function in driving position D. Recuperation level can be adjusted through three stages. Adaptive recuperation enhances driving comfort and efficiency by adjusting Brake Energy Regeneration and the coasting function to the driving situation at hand.
Power transfer to the rear wheels delivers a classical BMW driving experience. Unrivalled combination of low electric power consumption and high charging capacity enables long-distance journeys at high average speeds. Adaptive suspension (fitted as standard) optimises sporting responses and comfort.
BMW IconicSounds Electric. Newly developed soundscape for electrically powered BMW models makes its debut in the BMW iX3 and adds extra emotional depth to the driving experience. Powerful drive sound available in cars with the equipment line “Impressive”. Unmistakable composition when starting and deactivating the electric drive system developed in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.
Bespoke charging products and services: BMW Charging Card provides simple and convenient access to currently more than 450,000 public charging points worldwide ; new Flexible Fast Charger (allowing use of different socket types) and high-output Wallboxes now available as options. Individual packages offer the optimum charging solution for every customer need.
New digital services from BMW Connected Charging in the car and via the app promote user-friendly electric mobility and enhance navigation planning, including recommendations for charging stops. Navigation system factors mid-journey breaks to charge the high-voltage battery (includes detailed information on individual charging points) into route planning and calculation of arrival times.
Optimised energy storage concept now enables vehicle charging capacity of up to 150 kW at DC fast-charging stations; Recharging from 0 to 80 per cent of the high-voltage battery’s capacity takes 34 minutes, 10-minute charge adds 100 kilometres [62 miles] of range (WLTP). BMW iX3 customers enjoy particularly favourable tariffs at IONITY fast-charging stations with a consumption dependent component of e.g. €0.29 per kWh for Germany)
Characteristic proportions of a BMW X model combine with model-specific design features. Innovative BMW aerodynamic wheels: 19-inch light-alloy items with new, drag-reducing design fitted as standard.
Premium interior ambience with model-specific accents. User-friendly, variable-usage cabin with high level of comfort for five people over everyday journeys and longer distances; load capacity can be expanded from 510 litres to as much as 1,560 litres.
Wide-reaching standard specification (“Inspiring”) includes metallic paintwork, LED headlights, three-zone automatic climate control with pre‑heating and pre-conditioning, automatic tailgate operation, panoramic glass sunroof, Driving Assistant Professional and ambient lighting. Optional equipment line “Impressive” also brings 20-inch light-alloy wheels, acoustic glazing, sport seats, Vernasca leather trim, BMW Head-Up Display, Parking Assistant Plus and Harman Kardon Surround Sound.
BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Maps cloud-based navigation system and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant as standard. Smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto preparation, Remote Software Upgrade and digital services from BMW Connected Charging also standard).
Outstanding environmental credentials thanks to commitment to sustainability throughout the value chain. CO2 impact of the BMW iX3 over its entire lifecycle is significantly less than a BMW X3 xDrive20d; impact reduced by 30 per cent when using electricity from the European energy mix for charging and by around 60 per cent when using exclusively green energy.

EV Brief 10/30/20 EV Brief 10/30/20

Rivian R1T Goes Offroad, Tests Real World Range

Rivian R1T prototypes have covered thousands of miles around the world testing, and production looks set to begin in June 2021. Reporter Emme Hall from Roadshow brings this story from the Californian desert, where Rivian invited journalists on a 5-day offroading adventure.

The test vehicle featured the 135kWh battery, which has a claimed range of 300 miles (644km) but understandably, when running on soft ground, laden with 600 pounds of people and equipement, that quickly drops and Hall estimated the R1T achieved 137 miles of range.

With 826lb-ft (1120Nm) of torque, the R1T is a performance beast, but it also works wonders off road. Hall states “The R1T might not have locking differentials, a two-speed transfer case or any kind of tough-guy wizardry you'd associate with off-road prowess, but none of that matters when you've got an absolute ton of torque. I can slowly pick my line up a steep, rocky hill, never worrying about keeping momentum. The sophisticated traction control system moves the torque where it's needed most, and before I know it, the R1T hits the top of a peak while the Jeeps behind me are still switching into low gear.”

Audi's E-Tron, E-Tron Sportback Land in Australia

Swoopy coupe SUVs are all the rage right now; stroll down any inner-city cafe strip in Australia, and it’s likely you’ll see Porsche Cayenne Coupes, BMW X4s and X6s, and Mercedes-Benz GLCs/GLEs. Audi has been a bit late to this party, with the Q3 Sportback and Q8 not long on the market, but in typical Ingolstadt fashion, when they arrive, everyone notices.

Swoopy coupe SUVs are all the rage right now; stroll down any inner-city cafe strip in Australia, and it’s likely you’ll see Porsche Cayenne Coupes, BMW X4s and X6s, and Mercedes-Benz GLCs/GLEs. Audi has been a bit late to this very fashionable party, with the Q3 Sportback and Q8 not long on the market, but in typical Ingolstadt fashion, when they arrive, everyone notices.

Enter the E-Tron and E-Tron Sportback. With the former holding the title of best selling electric SUV in Europe, these are cars that are sure to be popular with Australian consumers itching to drop $140k+ on a luxury SUV.

Pricing is as follows:

E-tron 50 quattro (230kW): $137,100
E-tron 55 quattro (265kW): $146,100
E-tron Sportback 50 quattro: $148,100
E-tron Sportback 55 quattro: $157,100
E-tron 55 quattro First Edition: $159,000
E-tron Sportback 55 quattro First Edition: $169,350

All prices exclude on-road costs, government charges and CTP insurance.

Full specifications can be found on Audi Australia's website

First Edition models receive the Audi Virtual Exterior Mirrors, painted orange brake calipers, matrix LED headlights, black exterior trim, a 705-watt, 14-speaker sound system, S sports seats and interior highlights, four-zone climate control, privacy glass and unique 21-inch alloy wheel design, as standard.

The E-Tron comes with an 11kW AC home charging kit in Australia, and is also 150kW DC rapid charging capable. A single DC port is fitted to the driver’s side, while an AC port is available on each side. Audi Australia claims DC rapid charging will top up a battery from 0 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes for both models, and 100 per cent in 45 minutes.

The E-Tron range joins the Mercedes-Benz EQC and Jaguar I-Pace electric SUVs on the market, and Audi Australia aims to provide additional value to E-Tron early adoptors, offering a complimentary six-year service program, as well as six years’ unlimited access to the Chargefox ultra-rapid charging network.

A six-year roadside assist program along with a home wallbox installation is also included.

More information in the following Australian reviews: