BYD partners with Nexport to sell electric vehicles in Australia from 2022

BYD signs deal to retail electric cars in Australia from 2022

BYD Co Limited (Build Your Dreams) has signed an historic deal with Nexport this week, allowing the Australian company to retail a number of BYD electric passenger vehicles locally from 2022.

This is the first foreign distribution agreement signed by BYD, and will see the launch of a range of the company's electric vehicles to buyers down under next year.

A left hand drive BYD Han in Australia for testing purposes. Image: BYD Australia

“Australian consumers will soon be able to access affordable, best of class electric vehicles in both the passenger and commercial space” according to Luke Todd, Managing Director of Nexport. “Thel right hand markets have been undersupplied in the Electric vehicle space and this agreement ensures certainty of local supply in these best of class EV vehicles”, Todd continued.

The BYD Tang is an all electric luxury SUV. Image: BYD

Nexport plans to retail BYD electric vehicles through a new online site EV Direct, which is expected to launch customer pre-orders from July 2021. The direct sales model should help to bring the price of EVs down, by avoiding dealership, franchise and transportation overheads, and BYD claims that price parity will be achieved with equivalent internal combustion engined vehicles.

The BYD Han. Image: BYD

It's expected BYD's Tesla-rivalling Han sedan will make it here, as well as the plug-in hybrid crossover Song and Tang SUV.

We are very excited about the prospect of more electric options for consumers in Australia. Any brand snobs should be on notice: a reality check is coming. BYD is the largest electric vehicle manufacturer in China, and before expanding into the automotive sector, the company was the leader in global mobile phone battery manufacturing. There's no doubt that they can make an impact on the Australian automotive market with the right mix of value, luxury and performance.

The BYD Han promises a level of luxury, tech and refinement on par with the best in the business.

Mini Cooper SE electric receives a refresh; lands in Europe March 2021, Australia in Q3 2021

MINI refreshes COOPER SE Electric hatch; subtle interior and exterior upgrades are the order of the day

• Same 135kW (184hp) motor and 32.6kWh battery

• New exterior design, with new Island Blue Metallic paint finish and optional colour gradient roof

• Adaptive LED headlights, 17” alloys and Connected Navigation package standard

• Driver Assistance Package with Active Cruise Control now an option for the Mini Cooper SE

Mini has refreshed the Cooper SE model in its line up, with a fresh face sporting a hexagonal grille and other subtle exterior upgrades in line with its petrol siblings. The most obvious change perhaps is the distinct lack of yellow highlights everywhere denoting the ‘E’ variant; perhaps customer feedback suggested the Mini Cooper SE would be a more enticing proposition if it looked exactly like the regular Mini hatch?

The Mini Cooper SE has lost its yellow mirrors and ‘E’ bading; you’d have to look hard to see this was the electric variant. Images: BMW AG

A new exterior colour and rooftop colour are available, known as Island Blue metallic and Rooftop Grey respectively. The MINI Electric Collection also includes the painted Multitone Roof. According to BMW, with the aid of a new paintwork technique, the MINI plant in Oxford has created a fascinating colour gradient from San Marino Blue through Pearly Aqua to Jet Black, extending from the windscreen frame to the rear.

Mini’s new gradient roof is impressive for its technique, but won’t be to everyone’s taste.

The electric drivetrain in the Cooper SE has not changed—it’s still sporting the 32.6kWh battery with 200-234km WLTP range, and a respectable power output of 135kW. Mini has created new equipment packages, and added the option of steering wheel heating for the first time.

The Connected Navigation package is now standard, with the Connected Navigation Plus package includes a Head-Up Display, telephony with Wireless Charging, Concierge Service and MINI Connected XL features available as an option.

Mini is offering a new Driver Assistance Package Plus package which includes Active Cruise Control, and now features a Stop & Go function for the first time. This enables the system to slow the MINI Cooper SE down to a standstill if necessary. In our opinion, this kind of active safety equipment should be standard on vehicles these days.

Pricing will be announced closer to the European launch in March 2021, and Australian launch in the second half of 2021.

The only cue at the front that this might be the silent variant

The Mini Cooper SE retains the power socket style wheel design, but with a bit less yellow for 2021.

The Mini Cooper SE retains the cute charm of the R53 Cooper, but with more presence, more vents and more grille

The Union Jack tail lamp design is a nice retro touch

Volta Zero electric truck to make its French debut on customer tour

VOLTA ZERO MAKES ITS FRENCH DEBUT ahead of customer deliveries in late 2021

The Volta Zero, the first purpose-built full-electric large commercial vehicle, will make its French debut at a series of high-profile customer and supplier events, starting in Paris on Monday 15 February and running for four weeks.

Volta is a European start-up that launched a prototype version of its Zero full-electric 16-tonne in September 2020. The company expects European customer deliveries to begin by the end of 2021. Perfect for inner-city freight deliveries, the Zero has a pure-electric range of 150 - 200 kms (95 – 125 miles), the Volta Zero will eliminate an estimated 180,000 tonnes of CO2 by 2025 according to the company.

For the first time in France, the Volta Zero will be displayed with Swoopin, the global provider of sustainable transportation and urban logistics services, in south east Paris. In early January, Swoopin confirmed the use of the Volta Zero as part of their existing zero-emission fleet of electric vans, cars and eBikes, supporting their last-mile distribution hubs, and helping cities meet ambitious CO2 emissions targets. Over the four-week event, many potential and existing customers, fleet operators and suppliers will experience the Volta Zero, as well as introductions to local legislators and policymakers.

The Volta Zero in Swoopin livery, ready for its French debut. Image: Volta

Under current legislation, internal combustion engine commercial vehicles will be banned from operating in Paris from 2024 as all French cities of more than 150,000 residents adopt new Low Emissions Zones. As part of this legislation, the French government is offering incentives of up to €50,000 for the transition to zero emission commercial vehicles, making the acceleration of fleet electrification of paramount importance to French fleet operators.

Confirming the French debut, Chief Executive Officer of Volta Trucks, Rob Fowler, said; “With the imminent changes in legislation in French cities, it’s clear that the adoption of electric commercial vehicles needs to accelerate very quickly. Currently there is a real shortage of electrified products on offer to fleet operators, but with the Volta Zero, we can show our important French customers that we have a compelling solution that meets their needs.

“When our founders created Volta Trucks, they didn’t want to just offer a zero-emission vehicle, but to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles as a whole, especially in city centres where air quality is at its worst. In bringing the Volta Zero to France, we also hope to stimulate a wider awareness of full electric vehicles in the commercial sector and thus, help improve the air quality and environment for all French city inhabitants.”

Audi electrifies the sports sedan: meet the 2022 Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT

Audi adds vorsprung to its electric range with the 2022 e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT

• e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT feature a 93.4kWh battery with 800 volt electrical architecture, and a maximum DC charging rate of 270kW

• e-tron GT quattro produces a combined 345 kW (469PS) and 629Nm (464 lb-ft) from its two motors

• RS e-tron GT produces a combined 440kW (590PS) and 830Nm (612 lb-ft) from upgraded motors

• Three-chamber air suspension and all-wheel steering improve handling and agility

• e-tron GT quattro priced from US$99,900 MSRP, RS e-tron GT priced from US$139,900 MSRP

• Sales commence in North America from summer 2021

Audi has officially pulled the camouflage off the 2022 e-tron GT quattro and Rennsport RS e-tron GT models overnight, and we certainly like what we see. Long, low and wide, the e-tron shares a lot with the show car unveiled in 2018, and also shares a lot under the skin with Porsche’s Taycan EV. Audi has released US pricing for the e-tron, with the e-tron GT quattro Premium Plus starting from $99,900, the e-tron GT quattro Prestige from $107,100 and the RS e-tron GT from $139,900. For comparison, the Porsche Taycan 4S starts at $103,800 and the Turbo from $150,900.

Exterior Design

Marc Lichte, Head of Audi Design states that “Good design is achieved when a product is aesthetic and functional at the same time”. He goes on to say that ”form follows function, [and] aesthetics arise from efficiency. The new design language creates a stronger flow and thereby creates refined aerodynamics. The design of the e-tron GT thus forms the basis for the design of future electric models.”

Clearly Porsche’s J1 platform architecture has informed the design of the e-tron GT family, but we don't mind one bit. Audi has reinterpreted its singleframe honeycomb grille into a drag coefficient friendly form (0.24Cd in case you’re wondering), and paired it with a long, wide front and squared-off blistered fenders reminiscent of the quattro S2 and RS wagons.

The E-Tron GT's sloping roof is made from five layers of carbon fiber reinforced plastic, and helps to keep the centre of gravity low in the body. It tapers back to an agressive rear end with bold tail light graphics. Large wheels are very much the order of the day with EVs at the moment, and the e-tron comes with 20-inch 5-double-spoke alloys as standard. 21-inch wheels are available as an option.

The e-tron GT shares the Taycan’s 2.9 metre wheelbase, but bests the Taycan on overall length by around 3cm, at 4.98 metres long. Overall height is low, at just 1.41 metres.

The RS e-tron GT promises to excite with its RS handling and performance characteristics.

For us, the e-tron really brings together the best of Audi’s Vorsprung durch Technik design philosophy. While regular A-series Audi’s are perhaps becoming too fussy with slats, fake vents and angles everywhere in a bid to stand out from the crowd, the e-tron GT keeps things simple; the wide arches, rising dynamic line up the side, large functional vents and a scalloped hood hint at muscular performance without putting on a show. It's an evolution of Audis of the past, from the first gen type 42 R8, to the quattro coupe concept and the original RS2 Avant. We particularly like the pale blue used in the press images, which reminds us of the 2008 R8’s Jet Blue hue.

Low and wide, the e-tron GT shares the Porsche Taycan’s J1 architecture.

Interior Design

On the inside, current A7 or RS7 drivers would feel right at home in the interior of the e-tron GT quattro or RS e-tron GT. It sports a traditional instrument cluster, and centrally mounted screen with Audi’s familiar MMI-touch interface. Audi claims the e-tron GT interior harks back to the monoposto (single-seat) cockpit design of the R8, with the screen and dashboard angled towards the driver.

The e-tron GT features an animal free interior, and a driver zone familiar to current Audi drivers.

Audi must have listed to customers and the media, because the third touch screen for climate control from the A6, A7 and A8 models has gone, replaced by a conventional set of buttons and knobs. A leather-free interior featuring Dinamica and Alcantara is standard, however Nappa leather is available should hold a strong desire to sit on dead cow.

A large slab of open-pore wood sits atop the dash in the e-tron GT quattro; the RS variant receives carbon fibre inlays. The rest of the interior appears to be classic Audi; functional and stylish, with solid build quality and (hopefully) soft plastics on touch points. Side vision mirrors appear to remain conventional glass rather than the camera and screen setup from the e-tron SUV.

The RS e-tron GT ups the ante with sporty seats, carbon fibre and alcantara with contrasting stitching

Battery and Drivetrain

The e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT both feature two permanent magnet synchronous motors, one each at the front and rear axles and a two-speed transmission at the rear axle:

• The Audi e-tron GT quattro has a total output of 350 kW (476 PS) and 630 Nm (464.7 lb-ft) of torque

• The RS e-tron GT outputs 440 kW (598 PS) and 830 Nm (612.2 lb-ft) of torque

• 0–100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.1 or 3.3 seconds (RS model), respectively

• Top speed of 245 km/h (152.2 mph) with the e-tron GT quattro and 250 km/h (155.3 mph) with the RS model

• Intelligent control of coasting and recuperation, brake recuperation of up to 265 kW

The liquid-cooled Li-ion battery is comprised of 396 pouch cells in 33 modules.

The Lithium-ion battery is shared with porsche’s Taycan, and has a net energy content of 85 kWh (93 kWh gross) and a voltage level of 800 volts comprised of 396 pouch cells in 33 modules. Both models feature AC charging up to 11kW, and DC charging up to 270kW.

Officially the WLTP range of the e-tron GT quattro is 487 kilometres (303 miles) on the WLTP cycle. Audi claims a 100km range boost in five minutes. the e-tron GT features sophisticated thermal management with four cooling circuits and an efficient heat pump as standard, with battery preconditioning for fast DC charging on the road.

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The e-tron GT drivetrain features two electric motors and a two speed gearbox

Vehicle Tecnhology

As standard, the e-tron GT quattro features controlled damping with a rear-axle differential lock. The RS model adds a controlled rear axle differential lock with multi plate clutch for greater control over each the traction at each wheel. A three-chamber air suspension system is also standard on the RS. All-wheel steering is optional for both models, providing greater handling and roadholdling through counter steering up to 2.8 degrees.

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Audi’s three chamber air suspension (optional on e-tron GT) promises upgraded ride comfort and handling

The brake disks are conventiional steel, with tungsten carbide coating as an option (standard with the RS model. Carbon fiber ceramic discs are optional for both models for those with deep pockets and/or track ambitions.

Audi pre sense safety systems are fitted as standard, while the e-tron GT offers adaptive cruise assist, and (remote) park assist plus. As the owner of a current VAG model, Audi’s adpative cruise in its current generation is a fine safety aid, but is nothing like Tesla’s Autopilot. This is still very much a vehicle one has to drive oneself.

LED front and rear lights are standard, with optional Matrix LED lights available (standard on the RS model). Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light are available as a range-topping option, providing an additional laser spot/high beam light about 70 km/h.

The Audi e-tron GT quattro and RS e-tron GT models are assembled in the Böllinger Höfe plant at Neckarsulm alongside the Audi R8 supercar. Production of the Audi e-tron GT uses 100% eco-electricity, with a combined heat and power plant fired with biogas providing the necessary heat for the Böllinger Höfe. Emissions that cannot yet be avoided are compensated with carbon credits from certified climate protection projects. This is now the first Audi site in Germany and the third worldwide behind the Brussels and Győr sites to be certified as carbon neutral.

A pre-production e-Tron GT outside the Böllinger Höfe plant at Audi’s Neckarsulm facility

Legacy auto manufacturers still have a lot of catching up to do when it comes to Tesla; ease of charging is a consideration when purchasing a new EV for most people, and in that regard Tesla has the competition trounced. For those who would prefer a bit of German flair with their zero emission status symbol however, the e-tron GT range would be worth your consideration.

North American and European sales are expected to commence in summer 2021, while Audi has stated that Australia can expect to see the e-tron GT range in Australia from Q3 2021.

Scroll down for additional images and video, courtesy Audi AG.

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Volvo receives platinum medal in corporate sustainability rating from EcoVadis

EcoVadis awards Volvo highest corporate sustainability accreditation placing it in top one per cent of companies

Volvo Cars has received the highest rating for its sustainability performance from EcoVadis, a leading provider of corporate sustainability assessments, which has assessed over 75,000 companies in 160 countries.

According to EcoVadis, Volvo Cars’ sustainability performance deserves an Advanced ranking, based on the agency’s methodology. The resulting Platinum Medal rating places Volvo Cars in the top 1 percent among all 75,000 companies assessed by EcoVadis.

Volvo claims that this accreditation serves as further evidence that sustainability is as important as safety to Volvo Cars and has the highest priority throughout the company’s operations. Volvo Cars is already planning to manufacture all-electric vehicles exclusively in line with tightening emissions regulations from EU member countries.

“Sustainability is as important as safety to us at Volvo Cars,” said Anders Kärrberg, head of global sustainability at Volvo Cars. “We are taking action across the board to ensure we become a more sustainable business, including through reduction of our carbon footprint. It is encouraging that EcoVadis, through its rigid assessment, now confirms that we are on the right track.”

Volvo Cars has a comprehensive climate plan which addresses carbon emissions across all its operations and products, towards its ambition to become a climate-neutral company by 2040.

The plan goes beyond addressing tailpipe emissions through electrification; the company will also tackle carbon emissions in its manufacturing network and wider operations, its supply chain and through recycling and reuse of materials.

The XC40 Recharge is the first of many battery electric vehicles planned for Volvo’s product lineup. Image: Volvo Cars

As a first tangible step towards its 2040 vision, the company aims to reduce its lifecycle carbon footprint per car by 40 percent between 2018 and 2025.

EcoVadis looks at how companies implement sustainability across their supply chain. International companies in a variety of industries, and in particular large fleet buyers, use the ratings published by EcoVadis for their purchasing decisions to move away from unsustainable and unethical suppliers.

In its rating of Volvo Cars, EcoVadis highlighted several of the company’s ongoing sustainability activities and initiatives. It positively mentions its CO2 reduction actions across the supply chain, the verification of its sustainability strategy by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTI) and Volvo Cars’ work to improve energy efficiency and the efficient use of material and resources.

Elsewhere, EcoVadis also highlights Volvo Cars’ work to promote diversity and inclusion, its initiatives around protecting labor rights, the company’s extensive ethical business training program and its focus on sustainable procurement around the globe.

UK’s greenest taxi fleet to add five new MG5 EV wagons to its Manchester roster

Five MG 5 EV wagons set to join Lancashire taxi fleet

The MG5 EV estate is an electric vehicle with plenty of space, and an accessible entry price, making it perfect for taxi duties. Premier Taxis was named GreenFleet Private Hire/Taxi Company of the year thanks to its EV initiative after it began operating electric taxis in 2015.

The new all-electric MGs replace Toyota Auris Hybrids on the Premier fleet and will be used across the Lancashire firm’s region, as well as airport transfers where the large luggage capacity comes in handy.

Premier Taxis Business Manager, Nikita Cutler, said: “The MG5 EV is great as it has a larger luggage capacity.  This will come in handy as these vehicles are viable for airport transfers to Manchester, allowing us to offer customers the opportunity to use a Zero Emission airport transfer service for the first time. 

“They will also be really handy for local journeys for those customers who have just been shopping, or for when we are collecting shopping for our most vulnerable customers during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The MG5 is a spacious, affordable estate priced from £24,495. Image: Auto Express

Premier Taxis is gradually converting its entire fleet to electric-only thanks to huge reductions in running costs as well as positive feedback from its passengers.

“The investment in new electric vehicles is money well spent as operating costs for the company and drivers have reduced while at the same time allowing us to contribute to improving the air quality around Lytham St. Annes, Blackpool and Wyre,” added Nikita. “Electric vehicles also require less day-to-day maintenance, further reducing cost.

“Our customers find them very comfortable, enjoy the smooth and quiet ride and some of them choose only to travel in a 100% Electric vehicle as they understand the difference Zero Emission travel can make to local air quality.”

Premier Taxis driver Steve Foster added: “I have already been managing more than 200 miles (320 kilometres) on a single charge. I plug the car in at home at 5pm and that will last me until the following day at 5pm.

“Our old cars cost £22 to get to Manchester Airport. With the MG it will cost hardly anything to complete the same trip so they make great sense for a taxi driver.”

The MG5 EV is the UK’s first and only all-electric estate (wagon) model, and has a usable luggage capacity of up to 1,456 litres (578 litres with rear seats up). With a 52.5kWh battery, the MG5 has a single-speed front-mounted motor that produces 115kW (154hp) and 260Nm of torque. It has a respectable 0-100kmh (0-62mph) time of 7.7 seconds.

Sadly, SAIC Motor Australia has ruled out the MG5 for the Australian market, and is relying on the MG ZS EV to fly the electric flag for the brand down under. Most likely this is a business decision based on low EV uptake in the Australian market, and a consumer penchant for high-riding SUVs over estates.

Top 5 all-new electric vehicles bound for Australia in 2021

the most exciting all-electric passenger cars launching in Australia this year

Australia’s government has a topsy-turvy list of priorities when it comes to the nation’s shift to renewables and zero emissions vehicles, and while we may have to wait longer for new models than northern hemisphere countries (and longer than our New Zealand neighbours for that matter), the future of all electric passenger cars in Australia is bright. Here are some of our highlights, expected to land in 2021:

1. Hyundai Ioniq 5

   We’re excited about the IONIQ 5 for a number of reasons. Hyundai has proven it can make competent, efficient electric vehicles, and the IONIQ family should continue this trend.

   Moreover, IONIQ brings with it a unique design language dubbed ‘parametric pixel’ that is rectangular, futuristic and bold in a sea of familiar compact SUVs. Not just a pretty face, the IONIQ 5 promises an advanced 800 volt architecture, with fast charging up to 350kW, and V2X technology to power almost any device. The IONIQ 5 prototype has already been spotted in Sydney undergoing final testing, so its clear parent company Hyundai sees Australia as an important market for the new brand.

Not a whole lot is known about the IONIQ 5, but Hyundai plans to launch the car down under in 2021. Image: Hyundai Motors

2. Tesla Model Y

Tesla’s Model Y isn’t the new kid on the block anymore, but that doesn’t mean Australians won’t want it. Sporting all the same technology that underpins the Model 3—Australia’s best selling EV— the Model Y features the raised driving position and spacious cabin that makes SUVs so popular in Australia. Available overseas in rear wheel drive Standard Range Plus guise, as well as all wheel drive dual motor Long Range and Performance variants, the Model Y is expected to start from A$80,000-$90,000 for the Standard Range Plus, A$90,000-$100,000 for the Long Range and A$100,000-$110,000 for the Performance variant by the time it lands in Australia. Though there’s nothing offical from Tesla, with the Model Y production line in China now operating, we can expect Tesla’s small SUV to join the local line-up sometime in the seond half of 2021.

Tesla’s Model Y sells well overseas for good reason: it’s efficient, fast and comfortable. Image: Tesla Motors

3. BYD Han

BYD’s Han sedan is exciting for a number of reasons; firstly it’s a svelte, handsome sedan with performance and luxury to match its looks. With a 76.9kWh LFP blade battery and a range of 500+ kilometres, the Han can accelerate to 100 kilometres per hour (62 miles per hour) in 3.9 seconds. It’s got a luxurious interior too, and priced from 279,500 RMB (about AUD$55,500) in China we believe the Han could have a decent slice of the EV market share if priced at or below Tesla’s Model 3 (around AUD$70,000). Importer Nexport currently has one left hand drive Han in Australia, possibly for evaluation/compliance purposes. While no official launch timing has been revealed, Nexport’s direct-to-consumer site evdirect.com.au is planning a big announcement for Wednesday 10 February.

BYD’s Han has the potential to be a great value player in the luxury EV market. Image: BYD

4. Porsche Taycan

EV Performance, refinement and efficiency combined with Zuffenhausen’s legendary interior and exterior design? What’s not to love? Well, the eye-watering price for starters. Forget for a moment that the Taycan Turbo S Starts from $366,133; less expensive variants will eventually make their way down under. It’s significant that one of the world’s most revered sports car manufacturers should design and develop an all electric vehicle, and from overseas reports, the Taycan hasn’t lost Porsche’s handling and performance DNA. Real world range of the standard 79.3kWh battery is also greater than the official figure of 326 kilometres as we reported here. Deliveries are expected to commence in February 2021.

Australian Porsche fans can expect deliveries of the Taycan to commence in February/March 2021. Image: Porsche Cars Australia

5. BMW iX

Yes it’s another SUV on the list, but isn’t that what the market wants? Looks are subjective, but one can’t argue with the imposing face of the iX. While a big, hulking electric SUV may not be our cup of tea, it makes the list because in inner-city parts of Australia where the BMW X5, Porsche Cayenne and Mercedes-Benz GLE are king. Electrifying these vehicles will have a significant impact on emissions and perceptions around electric vehicles. While Mercedes-Benz’ EQS has been on the scene for over a year now, BMW’s iX rides on a new-from-the-ground-up advanced aluminium space frame/CRFP composite chassis designed specifically for EVs. BMW claims a WLTP range of “over 600 kilometres” and an engine output of “over 370kW”, and the iX should arrive in Australia before the end of 2021.

The BMW iX is big, aggressive and all electric. Image: BMW AG

Vauxhall Mokka-e SUV available to order now from £30,840 OTR* in the UK

Mokka-e headlines vauxhall’s new compact suv range

Vauxhall’s new Mokka-e is available to order in the UK, and starts from £30,840 OTR after Plug-in Car Grant. The fully electric variant features a 50kWh battery and 100kW (136PS) electric motor to produce 260Nm of torque. The new Mokka-e can drive for up to 201-miles on a single charge (WLTP) and supports up to 100kW rapid charging, with an 80% charge taking around 30 minutes.

The Vauxhall Mokka-e starts from £30,840 in the UK

Built on Vauxhall’s multi-energy Common Modular Platform (CMP) shared with Peugeot’s e-2008, the new Mokka measures 4,151mm long, 1,791mm wide (excluding the mirrors), and 1,531mm tall. Compared to the previous model, the new Mokka is 124mm shorter, and 10mm wider, while the wheelbase has been increased by 2mm. The shorter profile and flowing body surfaces give the new Mokka a sporty and dynamic stance.

Customers can choose between three driving modes, Normal, Eco and Sport to suit their driving requirements and energy consumption. Each mode not only alters the throttle and steering response, but also adjusts the power and torque available.

• Eco: Power and torque limited to 60kW and 180Nm – maximises vehicle range

• Normal: Power and torque limited to 80kW and 220Nm – ideal for daily driving

• Sport: Full power and torque (100kW and 260Nm) – maximises performance

The Mokka-e comes standard with Automatic Emergency City Braking, LED headlights, speed sign detection, adaptive cruise control, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, DAB digital radio and more. The Mokka-e is available to order online, with the first vehicles scheduled to arrive at dealers by the end of March.

Volkswagen's electric ID.6 SUV revealed in documents filed with Chinese government

VOLKSWAGEN TO DEBUT chinese built full-size id.6 SUV

Leaked images of Volkswagen’s new ID.6 full-size electric SUV have appeared online thanks to regulatory filings with the Chinese government. Based on the 2019 I.D. Roomzz concept premiered at the Shanghai Auto Show, The ID.6 is expected to have an 82kWh battery with 150KW charging and 450km range (WLTP) Power in the concept car was rated at 225 kilowatts (302 horsepower) from a pair of electric motors, and Volkswagen estimated acceleration to 100 kilometres per hour (62 miles per hour) in 6.6 seconds.

The VW ID.6 is the third vehicle to be based on the company’s MEB platform architecture, and share’s many design cues with the ID.3 and ID.4. At this stage it appears that it will be produced exclusively for the domestic Chinese market. While one might expect countries such as the USA, Australia and South Africa to be a perfect fit for the ID.6, it’s likely that Volkswagen is using the upcoming ID.4 to test the waters of the electric SUV market.

The ID.6 will likely debut at Auto Shanghai on April 21 2021.

Source: Autocar

The VW ID.6 is based on the 2019 I.D. Roomzz concept, and at this stage is China-only. Source: Volkswagen AG

The VW ID.6 has evolved into a more conservative form, with fewer sweeping curves and trick details from the concept car.

A broad, imposing rear profile, the VW ID.6 is a large SUV that Volkswagen is no doubt considering for the US market.

AGL expands electric vehicle subscription service to Brisbane, Queensland

AGL expands EV subscription serivce to third australian city

As traditional energy retailers look for additional revenue streams in the face of falling demand for fossil fuel derived electricity, greater uptake of behind the meter solar and changing consumer preferences, AGL is expanding its electric vehicle subscription service to Brisbane, Queensland, after initially rolling it out in Sydney and Melbourne late last year.

Starting from $299 per week, customers can choose from an MG ZS EV or a Hyundai Ioniq. For $599 per week, customers can get there hands on the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus.

There's a one-off $800 sign up fee, plus a $150 fee if subscribers cancel within the first six months.

AGL is offering a month-to-month all-inclusive EV subscription plan

A range of models are available, including Nissan's Leaf and Hyundai's Ioniq.

For a higher weekly price, subscribers can access the excellent Hyundai Kona Electric or Tesla Model 3.

This equates to $15,152 per year for either the MG ZS EV or Hyundai’s Ioniq. If you’d like to step up to Tesla’s Model 3 Standard Range Plus, it’s going to cost you $29,552 per year (gulp). While there are many benefits to this program—the ability to change vehicles every six months, inclusive serving and insurance and no need to pay a deposit on the vehicle—this still appears to represent poor value compared to just leasing a vehicle over 3-6 years.

If one was to lease a Model 3 in Australia direct from Tesla/Pepper Finance on an 36 month term with a driveaway price of $71,996 for the Standard Range Plus vaiant, One would pay $1,232/mo in the first year for the car, plus the following:

• $150 deposit

• $2350 12 months comprehensive insurance (approx. average price)

• $500 for annual service (approximate)

• $1,000 wallbox charger + installation fee (approximate)

• $1,000 for tyres (unlikely, but let’s just include it)

If we add those costs to the vehicle repayments of $14,784 for the first twelve months, that’s $19,784 total for the first year of ownership, or around $10,000/$833 per month less expensive than AGL’s plan.

Despite appearing to offer poor value, many consumers not familiar with the EV market, or simply sick of having to deal with dealerships and sales staff may find benefits in a subscription plan like AGL’s. If you want to try a selection of EVs, you have the ability to change vehicles every 6 months, and you also have the peace of mind of no additional costs outside the monthly repayment.

Volkswagen's ID.4 launches in the UK, 1st Edition specification priced from £40,800

VW’s ID.4 LANDS IN THE UK, WITH DELIVERIES COMMENCING IN MARCH 2021

• Featuring a 77kWh battery with 498 kilometres (310 miles) range (WLTP)

• Rear-motor, 150kW/310Nm

• Available initially as 1st Edition trim level only

• Priced from £40,800 RRP OTR, or approximately £37,800 after Plug-in Car Grant

• Available in dealerships from March 2021

VW has launched the ID.4 electric SUV in the UK market, priced from £37,800 after the government Plug-in Car Grant. Initially only available in the 1st Edition trim, the ID.4 features a single rear motor producing 150 kW, with a maximum torque output of 310 Nm.

The ID.4 will be able to rapidly charge up to 125kW. Images: Volkswagen UK

WIth a 77 kWh net capacity, the ID.4 offers an official WLTP range of 498 kilometres (310 miles), however take that with a grain of salt, as real-world driving has shown a 10-15 per cent reduction on this figure. Luckily the ID.4 offers fast charging capacity up to 125kW, allowing ID.4 owners to add around 320km (199 miles) in 30 minutes. The battery pouch cells and pack are manufactured by LG Chem in Poland, featuring the company’s NCM 712 battery cells. These batteries have been in production since 2020, and feature the company’s new chemistry of 7 parts nickel to 1 part cobalt to 2 parts manganese, providing greater energy density, reduced manufacturing costs and a smaller environmental footprint.

The ID.4 is pictured in striking Honey Yellow with contrasting silver-painted roof arch.

Similar to the launch variant of the ID.3 1ST Edition, the ID.4 first edition features special badging, an interior with Artvelours micro-fleece seats with Florence Brown highlights, and a selection of colours including Glacier White, Blue Dusk, Honey Yellow (pictured) and Manganese Grey.

The VW ID.4 features Artvelours micro-fibre seats, and a driver zone and infotainment system from the ID.3 hatchback.

A full suite of safety features are included, with adaptive cruise control, lane assist with blind spot warning, autonomous emergency breaking and front and rear parking sensors. the 10-inch Discover Pro navigation system is included, and is controlled via a rather prominent screen perched on the dash like the ID.3. The nifty ID. Light is also included, which flashes, pulses and changes colour to communicate various information to drivers such as navigation instructions, charging status or responses to voice input.

The ID.4 is based on Volkswagens Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform.

Sadly, There are no plans to bring any electrified Volkswagen model to Australia any time before 2023 according to Car Expert. With little in the way of emissions standards, fuel quality standards or EV incentives, Australia is not seen as a priority for companies like Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz or Kia. While China, the United States and the United Kingdom have strict CO2 emissions requirements for new vehicles, they also offer incentives for the purchase of zero emissions vehicles, providing an ultimatum for automakers to cease retailing internal-combustion engined cars.

Lucid Motors reveals Arizona factory paint shop; targets 400,000 units per year across four models

Lucid’s Arizona factory to produce high-end paint finishes, starting with 30,000 Lucid AIR Sedans per year

On the back of news that Tesla Motors has begun construction on what may be the world’s most advanced automotive paint shop, Lucid Motors has released details on its own paint shop currently under construction in its AMP-1 factory, located in Casa Grande, Arizona.

Lucid Motors’ competitor Tesla has been criticised in the past for many poor (and downright ghastly) paint jobs over the years. Recently however, Sandy Munro was thoroughly impressed with the exterior paint on a brand new 2021 Model—anecdotal evidence of course—which implies things may be improving in Tesla’s paint shop and its QA checks.

For many, Porsche has always been held up as among the best in the business when it comes to high-grade exterior finishes, and Lucid is clearly watching the big German manufacturers and Tesla closely to ensure its vehicles’ paint matches the company’s luxury image.

A Lucid Air after what appears to be the pretreatment and sealer phases of the painting process.

According to Mike Boike, Director of Manufacturing, “We're competing against the best in the world, and we know it.” he added. “So the processes and the materials that we use are nothing but the best in the world. We've got the latest and greatest paint process. We have the latest and greatest materials, and we have a high-powered team of engineers and manufacturing professionals.”

Lucid’s paint shop process involves the following steps:

• Pretreatment and Electrocoat: As each Lucid Air comes out of the body shop, it gets rigorously cleaned. Then we apply both a thin film coating and electrodeposition coating, which protect the entire body structure from corrosion.

• Sealer: Next we thoroughly seal the vehicle to prevent any type of air or water intrusion that could create road noise or water leakage into the car.

• Paint: Once the unit is sealed and sanded, it’s then sent into the paint booth. Here, we’ve integrated the latest innovative process and materials technologies that result in a flawless, luxurious finish.

• Finesse: Finally, post-bake, the car is brought to the finesse deck where a team inspects and polishes it to perfection before approving to ship to the customer.

Lucid’s automated painting process

Lucid plans to commence building the Air sedan in 2021, and is aiming for 30,000 vehicles in its first full year of production. According to the company, it’s more economical to build the paint shop based on the eventual full capacity of the plant, which is 400,000 units per year.

Lucid’s second model line, a luxury SUV codenamed “Project Gravity”

Lucid’s second vehicle will be a luxury SUV currently codenamed Project Gravity, which will arrive in 2023.

Source: Lucid Motors

Tesla Reveals Revised Model S and Model X; Introduces Plaid and Plaid+ Tri-Motor Options [updated]

Model S Plaid+ headlines revised range with over 1,100hp and a sub 9 second quarter mile

• Model S will come in Long Range, Plaid and Plaid+ variants starting from USD$79,990, C$114,990 and AUD$129,990

• Model X will come in Long Range and Plaid variants starting from USD$89,990, C$124,990 and AUD$149,990

• Plaid+ boasts 520 mile (836 kilometre) range and will likely features Tesla’s new tabless 4680 cells

• Both models feature redesigned interior with three screens, cut off steering wheel

Tesla revealed revised versions of both the Model S sedan and Model X SUV during the company’s Q42020/FY2020 earnings announcement on Wednesday, Pacific time. Though many speculated the company may cut the Model X altogether due to slow sales, Tesla has in fact rolled out a refreshed and upgraded Model X including a Plaid performance variant that may even tempt some buyers out of the Model Y and new Model S.

The revised Model S sedan. Image: Tesla

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The revised Model X SUV. Image: Tesla

Exterior

Subtle exterior updates are the order of the day, with both the Model S and Model X receiving blacked out trim covering window frames, exterior mirrors, door handles and rear trunk lid stripbaimilar to the Model 3 and Model Y. There is a new selection of wheels for both models, as well as subtle detail changes to the front air intakes and bumper. It appears that there might be a slight increase in the track of the Model S, with ever-so-slightly wider arches than the 2020 model, but we won’t know for sure until the official dimensions are released.

Blacked-out trim pieces the order of the day for Tesla’s new Model S.

Technology

Under the metal, both the Model S and Model X will utilise the heat pump technology seen on Tesla’s Model Y and 2021 Model 3, known as the Super Manifold (you can see more on this piece of hardware in Sandy Munro’s teardown) and this piece of technology will provide improved cold-weather performance, greater HVAC efficiency without an antiquated electric heating element, and thermal cooling to battery, motor and other systems. The battery packs have also been redesigned, and Tesla claims the 2022 Model S and Model X are capable of 5X more high-speed quarter mile runs than previous battery architecture (for what that’s worth)

Interior

The interiors of the new models are where Tesla fanboys and fangirls will be most gratified, with substantial changes to trim, interior architecture and technology. The first element that grabs the observer is the yoke-style steering wheel that wouldn’t be out of place on a Cessna aircraft. Tesla’s version features a lot more technology however, with the company’s traditional scroll wheels integrated, as well as Ferrari-style buttons for vehicle functions such as indicators and headlights, removing protruding stalks from the steering column. Another benefit of removing buttons and stalks from interiors is that when Tesla rolls out its autonomous Robotaxi fleet, there’s nothing for passengers to potentially interfere with or damage.

The central rear screen will allow rear seat passengers to game away the hours.

One overlooked feature in the press release is a new 960 watt 22 speaker audio system with active noise cancelling. That’s the technology inside your favourite headphones for long haul flying, and it uses microphones to pick up distracting low-frequency noise, and fires back phase-inverted frequencies into your ear to enhance your listening experience. Tesla is looking to tech to solve a problem most other manufacturers try to alleviate with sound deadening insulation, double glazing and acoustic panels. It will be interesting to see its effectiveness.

In addition, Tesla has eliminated the vertical central touch screen, and reverted to a landscape orientation screen like the Model 3. This has been rumoured for some time, however the unlike the Model 3, the Model S and Model X keep the driver’s main screen and also add a rear screen that can be used for gaming via wireless controllers. Tesla says the system features a 10 teraflop processor (as much as a Playstation 5), but it’s not known if the graphics processing unit is the company’s own or one sourced from a third party such as Nvidia. The rear compartment also receives wireless charging pads in the centre armrest behind the cupholders.

[Update] Overclock3d.net reports that a leaked block diagram shows that Tesla will be using Radeon's AMD Navi 23 GPU, with 128-bit memory bus connected to 16Gb (2GB) GDDR6 memory modules that operate at 14Gbps speeds within the car. The graphics chip said to be connected to the rest of Tesla's infotainment system using a PCIe 3.0 x8 connection.

The rear of Tesla’s Model S retains its signature flat floor, and adds a central screen and redesigned door cards with wrap around inlays. Image: Tesla

For our money, the Lucid Air still appears to have the edge in terms of outright luxury and interior tactility, but we’ll reserve our judgement until we can get hands on sometime next year. Tesla offers black and white, all-black and beige interior trim options on both new models, with either timber inlays or carbon fibre inlays (Plaid models only) . Two wheel options per model are available, and are unique to their body styles.

Tesla Model S with standard 19” “Tempest” wheels

Tesla Model S with optional 21” “Arachnid” wheels

Tesla Model X with standard 20 inch “Cyberstream” wheels

Tesla Model X with optional 22 inch “turbine” wheels

Drivetrain and Battery

Both the Long Range Model S and Model X feature Tesla’s 100kWh battery pack, and offer 663 kilometres (412 miles) and 580 kilometres (360 miles) of claimed range respectively. The Plaid and Plaid+ variants are what tje internet is talking about however.

Although full specifications and details about the battery technology are yet to be released, according to Tesla’s website, the Plaid version is the quickest accelerating production car today, and offers a 0-60mph time of less than 1.99 seconds. The Model S and Model X Plaid have three high performance motors, with over 1,020 horsepower, carbon-sleeved rotors and torque vectoring, meaning that drive power sent to each wheel on a driveshaft is variable to optimise traction and performance.

The Plaid+ version of the Model S will feature, according to Tesla, “the quickest 0-60 mph and 1/4 mile acceleration of any production car ever”. Bold claims, but certainly possible with the 1,100+ horsepower and Tesla’s new tabless 4680 cells within the battery pack. It’s expected that said battery will pack way more than 100kWh too; Lucid will be using a 113kWh pack to achieve a 520 mile (836 kilometre) claimed range; whatever Tesla settles on, we’d bet that the Model S energy efficiency will be class leading, and that Tesla will also come close to a 520 mile range for the Model S Plaid+.

2021 Tesla Model X Range and Performance Specifications

2021 Tesla Model S Range and Performance Specifications

Tesla has been upgrading and retooling the Fremont California production lines to build the new models, a move that likely took place in December during the 18-day shutdown of the lines. which include new battery modules, battery packs and drive units, as well as the full suite of revised interior features. Tesla states that production will ramp up in Q1 2021 to full capacity later in the year, with customer deliveries expected as early as February/March in North America, and late 2021/early 2022 in Australia and Europe.

While Tesla is powering ahead with production of its new tabless 4680 cell batteries in California, it will take time for the company to scale up production to cover the entire production output. After selling 499,500 units in 2020, many analysts and commentators are expecting Tesla to sell between 600,000 and 800,000 units in 2021, thanks largely to the first full year of Model Y sales in China. For now, Tesla is still relying on sourcing batteries from Panasonic, CATL and LG Chem to supplement its own production.

See below for more images courtesy Tesla Motors.

The Model S design has aged well, and few exterior changes are made.

The Model S in Deep Blue Metallic

Timber inlays come as standard on the Model S and X, and add a refined touch to the interior.

The Model S and X now share a landscape oriented screen with the Model 3

Elon Musk is known to be a gaming fan, and the new Model S and X feature 10 teraflops of processing power to deal with high end games.

Gone is the split sunroof design from the previous Model S; the 2021 model goes full glass with a single piece panoramic pane

Tesla’s new cut-off steering wheel. Vehicle control functions are moved from stalks to the face of the wheel.

Expect similar a similar experience from the in car entertainment to Tesla’s Model 3.

Sandy Munro Evaluates the Engineering behind the latest 2021 Tesla Model 3

In his down-to-earth yet comprehensive way, Chief Executive Officer Sandy Munro of Munro and Associates has purchased a 2021 Tesla model 3, and proceeded to look under the skin to show us the engineering improvements from the company.

Munro looks at the front trunk or “frunk”, and demonstrates big improvements in design, moulding shape and in the plenum intake. He also takes a look at the company’s improvements in terms of cost savings on unnecessary clips and plastic pieces, and he seems impressed with Tesla’s Octovalve, now named “super manifold”, and overall, in terms of the engineering at least, Munro says that he can’t find any fault under the body panels, and that Tesla’s design and build of core components is excellent.

It’s not all roses and sunshine however, as even on this latest iteration of the Model 3, Sandy Munro finds inconsistency in panel gaps from one side of the vehicle to the other. For all the advanced engineering in the Model 3, Sandy remarks that consistency in production quality is something that Tesla should be able to easily achieve, so why are cars still having issues?

BMW readies electric i4 performance sedan for production with final calibration drive

BMW aims to bring signature dynamics to new EV sedan

2021 is set to be a bumper year as mainstream automakers launch an electric vehicle onslaught in response to changing customer demands and governmental zero emissions mandates around the world.

The BMW i4 is set for production later in 2021, and the German automaker has released more information, photos and video from the vehicle’s final calibration drive. Expected to evolve from the striking Concept i4, it’s likely that—love it or hate it—the bold, elongated kidney grille will make it to the production model.

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The 2020 BMW Concept i4. Image: BMW USA

BMW claims the production i4 will sport 390 kW (530 hp), and will scoot to 100kmh (62mph) in just 4.0 seconds. The BMW i4 will feature an 80kWh high-voltage battery pack with 150kW fast charging, and its expected to weigh around 550kg. BMW provides a claimed range of around 600 kilometres (373 miles).

It’s expected the i4 will share many visual similarities with the upcoming 4-series GranCoupe. These photos were taken during a final prototype calibration drive, which BMW claims was used to ensure that “the spontaneous power delivery of the electric motor is combined with precisely controllable handling in every situation, fascinating cornering dynamic, optimised traction in all weather and road conditions and perfectly balanced ride comfort”.

BMW is focusing on ride and handling—typical hallmarks of cars from Munich—and the company claims that “The BMW i4 conveys the feeling of being light and agile yet also solid and authoritative,” according to project manager David Alfredo Ferrufino Camacho. He goes on to add “With its superior directional reliability and high level of cornering stability, it seems to literally attach itself to the road. All electric vehicles are capable of fast straight-line acceleration. But that’s not enough for us at BMW.”

The i4 will likely launch after the compact iX3 and full-size iX SUVs, as the third all-electric model out of five planned by 2025. The company also plans for 12 all-electric vehicles across the BMW Group, which includes, Mini and luxury brand Rolls Royce. It’s all part of a European Union mandate to ensure automakers achieve a target of 50g/km or less of CO2 across 40 per cent of their fleets by 2030.

You can view the press images, a video of the i4 going sideways and the full press release below.

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Images: BMW AG

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Press Release:

Munich. When an ideal balance is called for between dynamics and ride comfort, the BMW 3 Series and 4 Series models consistently set the benchmark within their segments in the premium market. In terms of electrically powered vehicles, the new BMW i4 is set to take on this role very soon. The first purely electrically powered 4-door Gran Coupé enriches locally emission-free mobility with sheer driving pleasure.

“For the first time, we’ve developed a BMW with sporty DNA for purely electric driving entirely from scratch,” explains project manager David Alfredo Ferrufino Camacho. “The BMW i4 offers everything BMW stands for – and it’s fully electric, too.”  

A few months prior to its world premiere, the BMW i4 is currently completing the final phase of driving dynamics testing. The focus here is on the integrated application of all drive and suspension components, ensuring that the spontaneous power delivery of the electric motor is combined with precisely controllable handling in every situation, fascinating cornering dynamics, optimised traction in all weather and road conditions and perfectly balanced ride comfort. For the purpose of this fine-tuning process, the BMW Group applies its technological expertise in the areas of drive and suspension drawn from decades of experience. This gives the new BMW i4 a mature premium character and makes for a driving experience that is unique within the competitive environment.

Excitingly calm: sprinting with the BMW i4.

With a maximum output of up to 390 kW/530 hp, the electric powertrain in the BMW i4 enables impressive acceleration manoeuvres: it reaches the 100 km/h mark in just four seconds from standstill. But even more impressive than its pure sprint capacity is the driving response it conveys. A model-specific damper technology reduces the dipping movements of the body at the moment of set-off, while the actuator-related wheel slip limitation (ARB) developed by BMW with its extremely fast and precise control guarantees optimum traction and perfect straight-line stability at all times – even on slippery road surfaces. This makes the catapult-like sprint in the new BMW i4 an experience that is both exciting and carefree, because it is not affected by drive slip or course corrections.

However, fascinating acceleration is only one aspect of the superior performance characteristics that define the BMW i4. Other distinguishing features include its spontaneous reactions to every movement – not just of the accelerator pedal but also of the steering and the brake pedal. The prerequisites for this high level of agility and precision are anchored in the underlying vehicle concept of the BMW i4. This includes the car's long wheelbase, wide track widths, model-specific camber values, large wheels, as well as the high torsional rigidity and the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and weight balance.

Effortless precision: taking the bend on the ideal line.

All these parameters were taken into account in detail in the integrated application of the drive and suspension components so as to ensure hallmark BMW sporty flair in every situation on the road. The design and tuning of the suspension and damping systems consistently ensure optimum road contact. At the same time, the virtually silent drive in combination with the sophisticated suspension technology gives the impression of an effortlessly floating vehicle even at higher speeds, entirely unaffected by bumps in the road or difficult traction conditions.

“The BMW i4 conveys the feeling of being light and agile yet also solid and authoritative,” says project manager David Alfredo Ferrufino Camacho. “With its superior directional reliability and high level of cornering stability, it seems to literally attach itself to the road. All electric vehicles are capable of fast straight-line acceleration. But that’s not enough for us at BMW.”

The BMW i4 is also effortlessly controllable – even in highly dynamic driving situations. In addition to its neutral self-steering behaviour and its powerful, precisely controllable brakes, the steering in the BMW i4 is a major contributing factor here: it responds directly and with a high degree of accuracy, offering the driver precise feedback at all times while remaining entirely independent of drive forces, even during intensive acceleration or deceleration. Lane changes at high speeds are mastered with ease, while relaxed driving over long distances is ensured by the speed-related Servotronic power steering and the fact that the vehicle is largely insusceptible to any disruption caused by road bumps.

Typical BMW: the unique balance between sporty flair and ride comfort.

The distinctive driving dynamics of the BMW i4 derive partly from the fact that its performance characteristics are not achieved at the expense of driving comfort. The purely electrically powered Gran Coupé is characterised by unrestricted suitability for day-to-day use. Fitted with a high-voltage storage system featuring the latest battery cell technology that enables a range of up to 600 kilometres (WLTP), the chassis technology of the BMW i4 is designed for long-distance comfort, too. It is based on the high-quality damper technology, supplemented with model-specific components and separately tuned. This effectively reduces body vibrations due to road unevenness and on bends. The model-specific fine-tuning of the suspension and damping contributes significantly to the harmonious driving characteristics of the BMW i4.

At the same time as the final calibration runs are being held, preparations are underway for the production start-up at BMW Group Plant Munich. (See link to related press release.)
Here, every single production step is currently undergoing validation before the BMW i4 receives its final stamp of approval for characteristic BMW delivery quality.

Rivian announces new funding windfall; company valued at $27.6 billion

Rivian closes January 2021 investment round with $2.65 billion

Rivian has raised USD$2.65 billion as it readies itself for production of the all-electric R1T pickup truck this July.

Spearheaded by funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates Inc, investors included Fidelity Management and Research Company, Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund, Coatue and D1 Capital Partners as well as “several other existing and new investors” according to Rivian.

Rivian has already raised close to $USD8 billion since early 2019, but as we all know, manufacturing a vehicle is not an inexpensive task. Rivian has spent almost $1 billion on the former Mitsubishi factory in Normal Illinois where it plans to commence manufacturing operations this year. The company plans to produce the R1T Pickup, R1S SUV as well as the Rivian/Amazon delivery van there.

Rivian CEO and founder RJ Scaringe said in a statement “The support and confidence of our investors enables us to remain focused on these launches while simultaneously scaling our business for our next stage of growth,”

According to Chicago Business, a person familiar with the workings of Rivian’s funding said that the company is presently worth around US$27.6 billion. Any suggestions that Rivian might be going public with an IPO sometime soon have been quashed by Scaringe, who stated in the video below that “the company is focused on the product and back-end operations for the next year”, indicating we’re unlikely to see an IPO in the shirt term.

Source: Rivian

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQA brings electric drivetrain, "EQ" styling and badge appeal to compact SUV class

Mercedes-Benz reveals 2022 EQA compact SUV

• Initially offered with a 66.5kWh battery and 140kW (187hp) / 375Nm (275 ft-lb) front-engined motor

• Confirmed for release in Europe and Australia, but North American release uncertain

• Performance-oriented version likely in the model’s future

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the second “EQ” battery electric vehicle to join the range. Essentially an EV variant of the automaker’s recently released GLA SUV, the EQA 250 joins the larger EQC in 2021, and Mercedes-Benz expects to release further electric derivatives of popular models over the coming 2-3 years; namely the EQE and larger EQS sedans, and an EQB based on the GLB SUV.

Despite a 7.5 per cent downturn in global sales for 2020, most likely due to COVID-19, Mercedes-Benz reported 2,164,187 units for the year. Depending on how you look at it, the company is either a product planner’s dream or nightmare, with Mercedes-Benz occupying almost every market segment imaginable. With eight SUVs already available — GLA, GLB, GLC, GLC Coupe, GLE, GLE Coupe, GLS and EQC — one could be mistaken for thinking the company has more than enough variants available to cater to market needs.

Mercedes-Benz thinks differently, and the EQA will launch in Germany in 2021 at a price of €47,540 — USD$57,700/AUD$74,000 — competing directly with the likes of Volvo’s XC40 Recharge, BMW’s iX3, Volkswagen’s ID.4 as well as the Tesla Model 3 and model Y. It’s likely to make it to Australia too, but we think that given the size and performance of the vehicle, for the US dollar equivalent of €47,540 Mercedes-Benz North America won’t see a compelling case for bringing the EQA to North America.

Exterior Design

No one will accuse Mercedes-Benz designers of being too avant-garde with their designs. The EQA is a pleasingly soft interpretation of a mix of EQC and GLA design cues. While other fully electric vehicles eschew traditional design cues such as grilles and intakes and long front ends, the EQA still looks like a combustion-engined vehicle. It’s almost as if it doesn’t want to be the odd one out amongst its peers.

Call us strange, but if a design element serves zero function and provides no net benefit, wouldn’t it be better to remove it? Nevertheless, the EQA is sure to attract present Mercedes-Benz customers who are comfortable with the corporate design language. Mercedes-Benz claims the vehicle’s “electro-aesthetics” of the design are indicative of the Progressive Luxury within; what this actually translates to is blue “EQ” lettering, a high-gloss black front grille, multi-spoke aerodynamic wheels and an LED rear light bar strip.

With a wheelbase of 2.729cm, it is slightly shorter than VW’s ID.4 at 2.766cm, and considerably shorter (17cm) than the Tesla Model Y’s 2.891cm wheelbase. Overall length of the EQA is 4.463cm, and the width is 1.834cm. This compares to the GLA’s dimensions of 2.699cm (-3cm) for the wheelbase, 4.445cm (-1.8cm) for the length and 1.804cm (-3cm) for the width.

The EQA brings Mercedes’ signature “EQ” styling to the compact SUV class

Interior Design

On the inside, you’re greeted with the now familiar twin 7-inch displays (European base specification) or twin 10.25-inch displays that Australian and North American Benz owners would recognise. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience(MBUX) system has a number of different display presets available, and a degree of configurability. The dashboard and doorcard design is very similar to that of the GLA, with turbine-style air vents, a recessed dash inlay area, and conventional shapes and materials. Rose gold metallic-look detailing around buttons and air vents, a-la Mercedes-EQC is a must-have option for those looking to add a touch of the current fashion zeitgeist; think Apple’s rose gold iPhone, or the last Michael Kors watch you saw on someone’s arm and you get the picture.

Blue has become the de rigeur colour to signify an electrified variant; think about it. From Nissan’s Leaf, to the range of BMW’s “I” vehicles, blue is a colour used to represent electricity, possibly due to the fact that is how the human eye “sees” it. It’s no surprise then that Mercedes splashes blue all over the interior, from the dash, to the seating, trim and ambient lighting.

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The Interior of the EQA will be familiar to those who drive an A-Class or GLA

Battery and Drivetrain

The performance of the EQA will be adequate if not scintillating; with a 66.5 kWh (net) double decker lithium ion battery comprised of 200 cells, Mercedes-Benz claims the 140kW (187hp) / 375Nm (275 ft-lb) motor will reach 100km/h in 8.9 seconds, and hit a top of 160kmh (99mph). Mercedes-Benz claims a WLTP combined range of 426km (265mi) and due to the battery mass, the EQA is a bit of a porker, at 2,040kg (almost 4,500lbs). Mercedes states the EQA launch variant will hold an energy efficiency of 15.7 kWh/100km.

Mercedes announced last year that they would be teaming up with CATL for future battery projects, but it is not known at this stage whether the EQA is a result of this collaboration, or whether its energy platform comes from the wholly owned subsidiary Deutsche Accumotive based in Kamenz, Germany.

The EQA utilises permanent magnet technology, whereby the AC motor incorporates magnets. The magnets – and thus the rotor – follow the rotating alternating current field in the winding of the stator. The engine is described as synchronous, because the rotor turns at the same rate as the magnetic field of the stator.

The EQA also features an intelligent recuperation system, which continuously generates coasting simulations in the background during motion. Depending on the state of charge of the battery and the traffic situation, the car computes whether the vehicle should ideally be allowed to coast with the lowest possible driving resistance with the driver's foot off the pedals, or whether it should be decelerated so that the battery can be charged.

Eco Assist functions also take into account route profiles, speed limits and traffic flow to assist with the vehicle’s efficiency strategy. According to Mercedes-Benz, the driver can select the recuperation function manually from a choice of five different modes using the two paddles behind the steering wheel. The paddle on the left increases the level of recuperation, the paddle on the right reduces it.

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Mercedes-Benz utilises a double decker battery design for the EQA

Autonomy and Vehicle Technology

Mercedes-Benz has long been a leader in advanced vehicle safety systems, and features that were once only available on an S-Class are now widely seen across the range. On top of the now expected active safety systems, the EQA features Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with the braking for stationary vehicles in front, and extended, automatic moving off in a traffic jam. The Active Speed Limit Assist with Evasive Safety Assist reacts to changing speed limits in conjunction with Traffic Sign Assist, carries out route-based speed adjustment ahead of bends, roundabouts, toll booths etc and when approaching a traffic jam.

The Navigation with Electric Intelligence system takes into account the electric range, the current electrical consumption, the topography of the proposed route (due to the energy requirements) and the temperatures along the way (due to the duration of the charge). It also looks at the traffic situation along the planned route, as well as the available charging stations to be found there and their capacity. Mercedes states that the customer does not necessarily always have to take on board a full charge, but will be given a specific recommendation as to the required charging time at the charging station. The charging station stops will be planned in the way that is most favourable for the overall travelling time. In other words, for those familiar with Tesla’s route planning, the car will advise shorter, more frequent stops rather than one long charging stop if it results in a faster overall trip. This is similar to the software from A Better Route Planner.

The EQA features a heat pump, that utilises waste-heat from the drivetrain and uses it to warm the cabin. The driver can also pre set the desired temperature of the cabin before commencing a journey.

The EQA 250 with a 66.5 kWh battery and 140kW motor will be the first to launch in Europe mid-2021, and in Australia/New Zealand by the end of 2021. It’s likely that more performance-oriented versions will appear from 2022.

Full suite of press images below. Courtesy Mercedes-Benz AG

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Hyundai kona electric becomes first EV to enter service with New South Wales Police

Kona electric to join Australian police duties

The NSW Police Force has been loaned the vehicle from Hyundai Australia for a period of twelve months.

Hyundai’s Kona Electric has become the first all-electric vehicle enter service with the NSW Police Force. The vehicle is on loan from Hyundai Australia for a period of twelve months.

Kitted out in a striking blue and red livery pack, the Kona Electric won’t be used as a patrol vehicle, rather it will join the Crime Prevention Unit and will be used for community engagement.

According to the automaker, “The addition of a Kona EV to its fleet for 12 months will provide the Nepean Police Area Command with the opportunity to experience the practicality, convenience, driveability and safety of a zero-emission vehicle over the course of their daily patrols. In addition, pressing the Kona EV into service for community engagement events will let the public sample the model’s unique benefits, to win new EV fans.”

Hyundai Motor Company Australia Chief Executive Officer, Jun Heo said “We’re delighted to provide a Kona Electric for use by the NSW Police Force. Deploying Kona Electric within the Nepean Area Command Crime Prevention Unit as well as for community engagement is a terrific opportunity for the NSW Police Force and the public to experience the unique benefits of our long-range, zero-emission battery-electric SUV,”

An AC charger installed in the Penrith Police Station underground secure carpark will allow recharging overnight as well as during the day. With a real-world range of close to 400km (250mi), it’s unlikely that the Kona Electric will need charging between duties.

Although this is little more than a goodwill and marketing exercise, we hope that this short program gets some police officers thinking differently about their patrol vehicles. A number of police departments in the United States are trialing Teslas for general duties, and the results so far have demonstrated considerable savings over internal combustion engined vehicles.

Hyundai will be launching a refreshed Kona Electric sometime in 2021.

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Images: Hyundai Australia

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Porsche set to Release Rear-Wheel-Drive Taycan EV Outside Chinese Market [Updated]

Porsche introduces the Taycan

Entry-level Taycan joins the EV sedan family

[Update] Overnight, Porsche has confirmed the Taycan will join the range, with a single-deck Performance Battery with a gross capacity of 79.2 kWh fitted as standard. The two-deck Performance Battery Plus is available as an option with a gross capacity is 93.4 kWh. Range, in accordance with WLTP, is up to 431 or up to 484 kilometres respectively.

The Taycan accelerates from a standing start to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, whichever battery is specified. Its top speed is also 230 km/h in both configurations, while its maximum charging capacity is up to 225 kW (Performance Battery) or up to 270 kW (Performance Battery Plus). This means that both batteries can be charged from five to 80 per cent SoC in 22.5 minutes and that power for a further 100 kilometres is achieved after only five minutes.

The Porsche Taycan will start at $79,990 (MSRP) in the US before federal tax credit, while the Porsche Taycan with Performance Battery Plus will start at $85,680 (MSRP). The Porsche Configurator in the US has been updated to reflect the introduction of the new model.

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January 18 2021: Porsche has hinted at the imminent arrival of the rear-wheel-drive Taycan EV, releasing a shadowy teaser image. It has long been expected that the company would include a more affordable two-wheel-drive variant to compliment the Taycan 4S, Taycan Turbo and Taycan Turbo S.

The image features a Taycan Turbo in Gentian Blue, a Taycan Turbo S in what looks to be Coffee Beige and a Taycan 4S in Neptune or Miami Blue. The final vehicle, painted in Frozenberry Metallic is unfortunately too dark to reveal any badge on the rear, (the Porsche marketing department has blacked out a lot of the detail in the image file) however it makes sense that after filling the initial demand from the launch of the vehicle in the Chinese market that Porsche would open the order books up to the rest of the world this year.

A new addition to the family. More to come soon, stay tuned … pic.twitter.com/hrSmCldbPC

— Porsche Newsroom (@PorscheNewsroom) January 18, 2021

While this won’t be a Taycan for the people —it’s expected to have a starting price around $80-85,000USD— it will bring the electric Porsche within the realm of affordability for buyers of performance combustion-engined vehicles such as Audi’s RS5 and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG.

While it’s expected that Porsche will eventually pad out the Taycan range with GTS and anniversary variants, personally we at EV Brief are more excited for an all-electric wagon; namely the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo. This svelte estate will feature the Taycan’s storming performance, in an aerodynamic and practical body. It’s expected to launch sometime in 2021.

Meet SAIC Motors' New Premium Electric Vehicle Brand Zhiji Auto

Meet SAIC Motors' New Premium Electric Vehicle Brand Zhiji Auto

Zhiji IM sedan launching in 2021

As electrification drives the convergence of traditional manufacturers and big Tech, SAIC Motors has announced a joint venture with Alibaba Group and Shanghai’s Zhangjiang Group to release electric vehicles under a new brand dubbed “IM”, which also signifies “Zhiji Motor” in Mandarin Chinese. “IM” stands for “Intelligence in Motion”, and will join the suite of brands in SAIC Motors’ stable including Roewe Motors, MG, Maxis and SAIC.

The company has yet to release detailed information about the future models under the “IM” brand, but has announced that it is working on a luxury sedan to rival NIO’s new ET7. The “IM” sedan measures 5,000mm long, 1,960mm wide and 1,485mm tall; similar to NIO’s upcoming sedan. Electrive reports that Liu Tao, the co-CEO of Zhiji Automobile, said in an interview with Chinese media that the IM brand was there to “kill” Tesla.

Sources have stated that the sedan will feature energy dense batteries from Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL), autonomous driving capabilities from Nvidia’s drive technology, and based on the released images, roof-mounted Lidar.

There will be 93 kWh or 115 kWh options, which will be available for order in Q2 2021. In 2022, Zhiji Motor will launch a luxury SUV.

With murmurings around a partnership between Apple and Hyundai, this joint venture makes a lot of sense; SAIC will focus on manufacturing — something it obviously excels at as China’s largest automaker — and Alibaba will hold responsibility for AI technology and the data side of vehicles.

More information is expected as April’s Shanghai Auto Show nears;

Source: Gasgoo

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