EV Brief 4/7/21 EV Brief 4/7/21

Electric Chevy Silverado pickup gets green light, will be manufactured in Detroit

In a move set to anger coal-rolling pickup drivers yet guarantee the future viability of Chevrolet, the company has announced that a fully electric version of it’s popular Silverado pickup truck will be manufactured at it’s Factory Zero electric vehicle only manufacturing site in Detroit and Hamtramck.

The fact that General Motors (GM) is going electric not only signifies GM’s commitment to electrification, but represents a significant future shift in the market. The Chevrolet Silverado is the second most popular new and used vehicle in the United States, selling close to 600,000 new units in 2020.

The Chevrolet Silverado electric will be a full-size pickup based on the company’s Ultium EV architecture, and according to GM will travel more than 400 miles (642 kilometres) on a full charge. General motors has committed billions not only to the new Factory Zero site, but also to electrifying its entire model line up, and its Ultium Cells joint venture with LG Chem LLC.

A release date for the Silverado electric is not yet known, but GM president Mark Reuss said at an event on Tuesday this week that the company will also make fleet-focused versions of the truck for commercial customers.

The current 2021 Chevrolet Silverado. Image: General Motors

Announcing the first-ever electric #Silverado full-size truck, with a GM-estimated range of more than 400 miles on a full charge, will be built at Factory ZERO, Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center.https://t.co/7i5bqRNUt7 pic.twitter.com/1ONRFOfuAR
— Chevrolet (@chevrolet) April 6, 2021

EV Brief 4/7/21 EV Brief 4/7/21

Mercedes-Benz releases technical details of electric EQS sedan ahead of April 15 launch

Following the recent reveal of the Mercedes Benz EQS interior, we now have a full suite of technical details for the S-Class segment EV from the German automaker. Set to arrive in three variants, the EQS sedan will be a technological tour-de-force based on the automaker's dedicated EV architecture dubbed EVA

Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC flagship to offer 770km range, 385kW power

Following the recent reveal of the Mercedes Benz EQS interior, we now have a full suite of technical details for the S-Class segment EV from the German automaker. Set to arrive in three variants, the EQS sedan will be a technological tour-de-force based on the automaker's dedicated EV architecture dubbed EVA, with an aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.20cd (Tesla’s revised Model S promises a drag coefficient of 0.208cd), rear and all wheel drive options, sophisticated thermal management, and two battery options with net usable capacities of 90 kW and 107.8 kW. Let’s take a look at the range:

Mercedes Benz EQS 450+
- single permanent magnet synchronous motor, rear wheel drive
- 245 kW (333 PS) / 568 Nm (418 lb ft), WLTP combined energy consumption 20.4-15.7kWh/100 km, range not stated
- 90 kWh nickel, manganese cobalt (NMC) modular battery, pouch cell design with 400V architecture, 200 kW DC fast charging
Mercedes Benz EQS 580 4MATIC
- front and rear permanent magnet synchronous motors, all wheel drive
- 385 kW (523 PS) / 855 Nm (630 lb ft), WLTP combined energy consumption 21.8-17.4 kWh/100 km, range up to 770 km (478 miles)
- 107.8 kWh NMC modular battery, hard case cell design with 400V architecture, 200 kW DC fast charging

Is there anything special about the technology in the EQS?

In typical Mercedes Benz fashion, the press kit is a weighty tome. The largest battery available is a whopping 107.8 kWh, good for a claimed 770 kilometres (478 miles) of range on the WLTP combined cycle. Mercedes-Benz states the battery management system is designed for over the air updates, and that the batteries’ cell chemistry has been revised to reduce cobalt use, with the optimised active material constituting nickel, cobalt and manganese in a ratio of 8:1:1.

AC charging is available up to 22 kW, and DC charging can pump 200 kW into the EQS, good for 300 kilometres (186 miles) of charge in 15 minutes.

In terms of the drivetrain, Mercedes-Benz has worked with Bosch to develop synchronous motors for the EQS, unlike the asynchronous type found in the EQC. This means that the speed of the stator's magnetic field is equal to the motor's rotor speed, eliminating slip, and providing greater refinement, precision and efficiency. The motor on the rear axle features six-phase operation with two windings of three phases each, and stators with pull-in winding.

Mercedes-Benz claims a particularly strong magnetic field, improving energy efficiency, performance and reducing space in these new motors. The 4MATIC all wheel drive system continuously distributes the drive torques between the front and rear axles.

Braking recuperation is available, with drivers able to select from three stages. The recuperation output is up to 290 kW, with the ability to brake to a stop.

How smart is the EQS?

Tesla’s navigation route guidance has the ability to accurately calculate projected energy consumption versus real time consumption to your destination based on driving inputs, traffic and topography has always been considered industry leading. Mercedes-Benz will be introducing Navigation with Electric Intelligence on the EQS, which promises to calculate routes based on projected energy demand including topography of route, ambient temperature, energy consumers and more, as well as responding dynamically to congestion and changes in energy demand.

Mercedes-Benz promises smart navigation on the EQS.

Critically, the charging process must be simple for the EQS. Mercedes-Benz will be attempting to lure current S-Class owners into their flagship EV, and will also be looking to make conquest sales from the likes of Tesla, Porsche and BMW. It is critical that the charging process requires minimal effort for EQS owners, and Mercedes-Benz is promising a plug-and-charge service at European Ionity chargers where the vehicle and charger will automatically perform a handshake and sort out payment. It’s expected that United States EQS owners will have access to the Electrify America (EA) DC fast charging network, but it’s imperative that this flagship vehicle avoid charging issues seen by many on the Electrify America network.

The Mercedes-Benz EQS will be revealed in full on April 15.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

EV Brief 4/5/21 EV Brief 4/5/21

Lexus LF-Z Electrified EV is a preview of the brand's future direction

The Lexus LF-Z Electrified has been revealed in the form of concept renderings, and the Japanese automaker claims that we’ll see a production version around 2025.

Visually Striking Lexus LF-Z Electrified is heavy on style, light on details

The Lexus LF-Z Electrified has been revealed in the form of concept renderings, and the Japanese automaker claims that we’ll see a production version around 2025. According to Lexus, the LF-Z features “ideal dynamic balance achieved through the optimal placement of the battery and electric motors, as well as, among others, a new four-wheel driving force control technology known as "DIRECT4" that generates a superior and highly flexible driving performance, setting the LF-Z Electrified apart from conventional vehicles.”

So far, that all sounds rather vague. While most major automakers have committed to decarbonising their product line-ups and reducing manufacturing and supply chain emissions, Toyota Motor Corporation’s President Akio Toyota has recently criticised electric vehicles as overhyped, and stated that the transition to electrification is happening too quickly. While Toyota has been a pioneer in petrol-electric hybrid technology since the original Prius launched in 1997, the company has firmly refused to adapt to the current trend of electrification, and the LF-Z is the only sign that Lexus is serious about attaining market share in key European and American markets.

Exterior Design

The LF-Z Electrified retains some familiar Lexus design signatures; the aerodynamic ‘tick’ headlights, complex side-profile surfacing and cab-rear stance tie the LF-Z to the current model line up. The vehicle’s designers have added some pleasing new elements such as the swooping glasshouse, Aston Martin-esque wraparound rear with ducktail spoiler and vertical brake lights.

The Lexus LF-Z Electrified has a striking side profile.

The interior is bare, futuristic and laden with screens, and since it is just a concept at this stage, we can’t glean much about Lexus’ cabins of the future. The cockpit was designed based on the company’s concept of "Tazuna" ("tazuna" is Japanese for "rein"). and according to Lexus they were “inspired by the relationship between horse and rider, who communicate through a single rein, steering wheel-mounted switches and the vehicle's head-up display have been highly coordinated to create a space in which various functions, such as the navigation system, audio system, and driving mode selection, can be performed while concentrating on driving and without movement of the driver's line of sight or need to operate complicated switches.”

The company has not hinted at any drivetrain or battery specifications, except to say that the LF-Z will be based on a dedicated electric vehicle platform. Lexus aims to offer electric variants of all its models by 2025, with the sales ratio of electric vehicles exceeding that of gasoline-engine vehicles. Lexus hasn’t specified how many of these will be Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) and how many will be fossil fuel free however. Given that the LF-Z is the company’s first fully electric vehicle, we don’t expect to see BEVs dominating the Lexus lineup within the next 5 years.

Source and Images: Toyota Motor Corporation

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 3/31/21 EV Brief 3/31/21

Kia's EV6, and high performance EV6 GT revealed; headed for Australia, US and Europe in 2021

Another day, another good looking electric vehicle from Korea it seems. Kia is making a big deal about its first EV to be based on the E-GMP platform shared with Hyundai, and for good reason; the EV6 leads the automaker’s rollout of 11 new BEVs by 2026, and is fundamental to Kia’s ambitions to grow BEV sales to 880,000 units worldwide by 2030.

The KIA EV6 Range

Three models available; EV6, EV6 GT-Line and EV6 GT
800V architecture with 510km max. range, 0-80% charge in 18 minutes
58 kWh and 77.4 kWh battery sizes available; 2WD and 4WD variants
EV6 GT fastest Kia ever with 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 3.5s from 430 kW, 740 Nm dual motors

Another day, another good looking electric vehicle from South Korea it seems. Kia is making a big deal about its first EV to be based on the E-GMP platform shared with Hyundai, and for good reason; the EV6 leads the automaker’s rollout of 11 new BEVs by 2026, and is fundamental to Kia’s ambitions to grow BEV sales to 880,000 units worldwide by 2030.

Exterior Design

Kia’s EV6 debuts the company’s new design philosophy known as ‘Opposites United’, which “takes inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity”. Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Center, elaborated: “EV6, as the first dedicated Kia EV, is a showcase of human-centred, progressive design and electrified power. We strongly believe EV6 is a compelling and relevant model for the new EV era. With EV6 we aimed to create a distinctive, impactful design by using a combination of sophisticated, high-tech features on pure and rich volumes while providing a dedicated EV aiming to define our future.”

The EV6 sports the high-riding semi-crossover look of the Polestar 2, thanks to its battery pack in the floor. Interestingly, the wheelbase of 2,900mm (115 inches) is 100mm shorter than its sister Hyundai IONIQ 5, and almost the same as Tesla’s Model Y (2,891mm).

It’s a sporty—if a little understated—look; the short front overhang and plunging hood works well with the ‘tiger face’ angular headlights, and the big wheels offset the slab-sided profile view. The rear of the EV6 is highlighted by that nifty ducktail spoiler, and the descending highlight that blends into the side sill.

Kia’s EV6 GT-Line has some very pleasing design elements. Images: Kia

Interior Design

The EV6 interior is somewhat familiar to the IONIQ 5, but still retains its own identity. The dual screens, floating centre console and elevated driving position are similar to the Hyundai, but darker interior tones, sport-themed highlights and textures, and figure hugging seats differentiate the GT-Line and GT models. If the IONIQ 5 aims to offer the high-end ambience of a living room, the EV6 is positioned as the choice for sportier drivers.

Speaking of those seats, they’re made from recycled plastics, and demonstrate a trend of the auto industry moving to cruelty-free interiors ultilising natural fibres, recycled materials and animal free surfaces. That long wheel base translates to trunk space of 520 litres, and plenty of rear legroom.

The dual 12-inch screens are connected behind one piece of reinforced glass, and the EV6 also features an augmented reality head-up display system, as we’ve seen on Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Like the IONIQ 5, the vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature can supply up to 3.6kW of power to devices, and can even charge another EV.

The EV6 GT-Line interior, is sporty, premium, and shouldn’t scare away first-time EV buyers.

Battery and Drivetrain

Let’s get one thing straight; in GT trim, this is the fastest Kia ever. Battery and electric motor technology is so advanced now that BEVs simply leave petrol, diesel and hydrogen cars in their wake. In base trim, the EV6 features a 58 kWh battery, with a single rear motor, 125kW (203 PS) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft). It’s good enough to propel the EV6 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.2 seconds.

Step up to the EV6 GT, and you’re rewarded with a 77.4 kWh battery, 430 kW (584 PS) and 730 Nm (538 lb-ft), from two electric motors. That’s enough grunt to propel the EV6 GT to 100km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds, and it makes Kia’s previous king of performance—the Stinger GT with 274 kW, 510NM and a 0-100 km/h time of 4.9 seconds—look like a steam locomotive.

Full specifications are below; if you’re a customer who is interested in the model with the best efficiency/range for your dollar, the rear-wheel-drive 77kWh EV6 long range is the one to go for with 510 km (316 miles) WLTP range.

Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform underpins the Kia EV6.

Like Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, the EV6 features 400V and 800V electrical architecture, across all models. Kia quotes the ability to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes on all variations, or a top-up charge of 100km of driving range in less than four and a half minutes when pairing 2WD with the 77.4-kWh battery option.

With an Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU), the EV6 allows for vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, supplying up to 3.6 kW of power to charge another EV (albeit slowly) or power household items such as a laptop, or, according to Kia, a 55 inch television and an air conditioner for 24 hours.

Under the hood, there’s an energy efficient heat pump, which recovers waste heat from vehicle systems, and helps to improve range. Energy recuperation is also standard, and can be controlled by the paddles on the back of the steering wheel. Six recuperation modes allow drivers to customise the drive to their liking; many EV fans will be pleased to know one-pedal driving is possible with the Kia EV6.

Kia EV6 specifications supplied by Kia Motors

Autonomy and Technology

We mentioned the augmented reality head-up display earlier; this system projects driving information onto the base of the windscreen in the driver’s line of sight, including alerts from the car’s Advanced Driver Assistance System, details of vehicle speed, and turn-by-turn navigation instructions.

Kia Connect is included, promising real time services and over-the-air updates. Kia Connect will also allow drivers to find EV charging points, plan charging schedules, and check the range radius based on remaining charge and consumption.

Lane Following Assist (LFA) centers the Kia EV6 in the middle of the lane, and in conjuncion with Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), the EV6 can steer, brake and even change lanes autonomously. Remote Smart Parking Assist—a feature found on most new EVs and premium Euro models now— helps remotely park or exit a tight parking spot via a smartphone app or key.

It’s an exciting time for Kia; new brand identity, new platforms, drivetrains and a solid path towards a fully electric model line up over the next decade. The EV6 should be a car that suits many different buyers from long range highway cruisers, to parents doing the school run.

Pricing is expected to kick off around $45,000 USD or £40,895 in the UK, before government incentives. Australians will have to wait a bit longer for pricing information, but we believe the EV6 will start in the $70,000 price bracket. Northern Hemisphere customers can expect to start seeing cars in summer 2021, while down under, Kia has confirmed the EV6 will go on sale in Australia and New Zealand in the second half of the year.

EV Brief 3/29/21 EV Brief 3/29/21

Jeep announces 4xe Charging Network to provide EV charging stations

Hot on the heels of Rivian’s announcement of the Rivian Adventure Network, Jeep has partnered with Electrify America to roll out level 2 EV charging stations at Jeep Badge of Honor off-road trailheads around the United States.

The launch of these trailhead chargers coincide with the launch of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid model, and the company states that they will support future fully electric Jeep models. Jeep 4xe charging stations are initially scheduled to open this spring at three of the most-popular off-road sites and icons for the Jeep brand – Moab, Utah; the Rubicon Trail in Pollock Pines, California; and Big Bear, California.

“Electrification opens a new chapter in the Jeep brand story, and it brings an entirely new level of excitement and enjoyment for our enthusiastic owners,” said Christian Meunier, Jeep Brand Chief Executive Officer – Stellantis. “Key to making Jeep brand the greenest SUV brand is assuring our owners can enjoy the benefits of electric propulsion wherever they go, including the most iconic off-road trails in the country.”

Jeep is working with leading public charging network Electrify America to establish the trailhead charging sites and install the charging equipment. Jeep 4xe owners will be able to login to unlock free charging via a custom mobile app by Electrify America, which also allows drivers to initiate and monitor their charging session.

“It is our goal to provide electric vehicle drivers with the freedom to get to where they want to go – whether it be on a highway or off-road – and we look forward to bringing Jeep enthusiasts along on the journey,” said Giovanni Palazzo, president and chief executive officer of Electrify America. “Through the customizable electric vehicle charging offerings of our Electrify Commercial B2B brand, we were able to work with Jeep to identify where their drivers will need charging access most, and make it a reality.”

The jeep Wrangler and an Electrify America solar charger

The Jeep 4xe Charging Network trailhead chargers will deliver Level 2 (240-volt) charging, meaning the 17 kilowatt-hour battery pack in the Jeep Wrangler 4xe can be fully recharged in about two hours, delivering up to 21 miles (33 km) of electric range.

The 4xe charging stations will be either directly connected to the power grid or use solar power to generate electricity, though the company has not stated exactly how much power will be generated by renewables.

We’re not certain how many hybrid Jeep owners would bother to plug in to charge while they’re off-roading or hiking, but it’s a small gesture towards Jeep’s—and Stellantis’—all electric future.

EV Brief 3/29/21 EV Brief 3/29/21

Mercedes-Benz reveals EQS EV interior before worldwide debut on April 15th

Mercedes-Benz has shown us the production ready interior of its upcoming EQS sedan, and its a thing of illuminated beauty if timber, glass and OLEDs are your thing. The EQS is the flagship vehicle for Mercedes-Benz’ EQ brand—literally the S-Class of the electric world—so you can expect that the designers have gone all out.

Mercedes-Benz has shown us the production ready interior of its upcoming EQS sedan, and its a thing of illuminated beauty if timber, glass and OLEDs are your thing. The EQS is the flagship vehicle for Mercedes-Benz’ EQ brand—literally the S-Class of the electric world—so you can expect that the designers have gone all out.

The MBUX Hyperscreen is the (optional) pièce de résistance, combining all features of the drivers’ instrument panel, dashboard and infotainment into a single glass panel. Mercedes-Benz likes to reference historical details, and the thin silver shadow frame around the screen, combined with the single ventilation band and a narrow leather frame are reminiscent of classic instrument panels according to the automaker.

If one doesn’t option the Hyperscreen, the interior looks quite similar to the latest W223 S-Class. with a single, vertically mounted touchscreen. The EQS is set to debut on April 15, before going on sale in July/August 2021. Scroll down for 10 interesting facts about the interior of the EQS:

The EQS interior with hyperscreen and floating centre console.

10 interesting facts about the interior of the EQS:

With the MBUX Hyperscreen, multiple displays merge seamlessly to create an impressive curved screen band over 141 centimetres wide. The area perceived by the occupants measures 2432.11 sq. cm.
The large glass covering the MBUX Hyperscreen is curved in three dimensions in a moulding process at temperatures of approx. 650°C.
The HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air) as part of the optional equipment ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL Plus cleans the incoming outside air at its very high filtration level. Over 99.65 percent of particles of all sizes are eliminated, and the adsorption area is equivalent to about 150 football fields.
The key applications are always offered on the top level in the field of vision, depending on the situation and context, as part of Mercedes’ “zero-layer design”.
The "Mercedes-Benz pattern" is used in several places in the EQS interior such as on the backlit trim elements or on the passenger display as a digital decorative image. It is an abstracted, three-dimensional star pattern based on an early trademark of the Daimler Motorengesellschaft.
The EQS comes with the two soundscapes Silver Waves and Vivid Flux, and they can be selected or switched off as sound experiences on the central display. The algorithms and sounds for the sound design are created in-house at Mercedes-EQ by physicists, sound designers, media designers and mechatronics specialists.
Mercedes-Benz is showcasing its modern, leather-free material for the interior, NEOTEX. According to the company, it “combines the look of nubuck leather and high-tech neoprene”. There are eight coordinated colour combinations in the interior.
More than 40 new inventions have found their way into EQS. In addition, 20 design applications protect the design of the vehicle.
The design of the door panels borrows from the interior design of modern living spaces. Doors and their centre panels emerge from behind the MBUX Hyperscreen to span the space. A surface-mounted modular body floats like a sideboard in front of the door panel.
ENERGISING COMFORT features three programmes—Forest Glade, Sounds of the Sea and Summer Rain—which provide an immersive and realistic on-board sound experience. These calming sounds were created in consultation with the acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton.

EV Brief 3/26/21 EV Brief 3/26/21

Mercedes-Benz EQA electric crossover confirmed for Australian arrival in June 2021

Mercedes-Benz is set to get a head start in Australia, beating Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, Tesla’s Model Y and BMW’s iX3 to market in 2021. The manufacturer has confirmed that the EQA 250 will open for orders from Australian customers next month, with deliveries to commence in June.

Mercedes-Benz expands EQ range in Australia - EQA 250 available from June

Mercedes-Benz is set to get a head start over its rivals in Australia, beating Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, Tesla’s Model Y and BMW’s iX3 to market this year. The manufacturer has confirmed that the EQA 250 will open for orders from Australian customers next month, with deliveries to commence in June.

Priced from $76,800 AUD for the EQA 250 and $84,100 for the EQA 250 Edition 1 (excluding on-road costs), both models feature an asynchronous electric motor at the front axle, with 140 kW (190 PS) or power and 375 Nm (276 lb ft) of torque.

Regarding the battery, Mercedes-Benz has a 420 volt lithium ion battery with five modules and 200 cells in a double decker design. It offers a net energy content of 66.5 kWh, with an energy consumption rating of 16.2kWh/100km. The EQA 250 offers 480 kilometres ADR range (426km/265miles WLTP), so expect around 400km in real world Australian conditions.

Mercedes-Benz Australia is offering a comprehensive standard equipment list on the EQA. The EQA 250 receives adjustable damping with DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes, 19-inch AMG 5-twin spoke AMG alloy wheels, the twin-10.25-inch MBUX infotainment system/instrument cluster, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, wireless phone charging, DAB+ digital radio, DISTRONIC active distance assist cruise control, and active assists including blind-spot monitoring, Traffic Sign Assist, lane keeping and automatic emergency braking.

The Edition 1 package is a limited volume option, and includes the above features plus 20-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels in matte copper, AMG exterior trim, Neva grey leather, backlit design trim elements in the interior, silver chrome metallic finishes, AMG pedals, illuminated door sill panels, a unique vehicle key, sports multifunction steering wheel, and most importantly, “Edition 1” floormats.

We can’t wait to see the EQA 250 land in Australia. While the EQA range is still based on Daimler’s MFA2 platform architecture—we’ll have to wait for the EQS to debut the modular MEA platform—it’s size, performance, equipment, looks and price should see it compete admirably in the popular premium compact crossover market in Australia. We covered the global launch of the EQA range extensively; for more information and pictures, read our article here

EV Brief 3/24/21 EV Brief 3/24/21

Westport CT's Tesla Model 3 police cruiser - one year and 13,000 miles later

Westport Police purchased the first EV in Connecticut for active police duty in 2019, and while the COVID-19 pandemic has seen the car travel less than the department had been expecting, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range dual motor variant has now covered 13,000 miles (21,000 kilometres).

Police Chief Foti Koskinas happily gave a tour of the vehicle and update regarding its service at last weekend’s EV Freedom event in Westport. Chief Koskinas stated in the video that the Model 3 police cruiser has used about US$600 worth of electricity over 13,000 miles, and that they’re already way past break even with this car on the fleet.

While the Model 3 police cruiser is only used for traffic duties—excluding prisoner transport at this stage—Chief Koskinas stated that the car is capable of performing two 8-hour back to back shifts without requiring a charge.

The rear compartment is perfectly sized to hold emergency equipment, handguns and larger firearms, while the front trunk or “frunk” is a very convenient storage option for emergency medical equipment.

The rear of the Model 3 is spacious enough for police equipment and firearms. Screenshot: Paul Braren on YouTube

There are a number of benefits in choosing Tesla for police duties; namely the built in cameras can be adapted for police use, rather than having to retrofit thousands of dollars worth of external cameras. Antennas and radio equipment can be easily incorporated into the vehicle’s frame and glass roof, giving the Tesla Model 3 police cruiser a very clean look.

The only drawback according to Chief Koskinas is that the headlights will switch off after 45 seconds upon stopping the vehicle, which is unsuitable for police duties. He stated that Tesla is working with the department to recode this however.

The frunk of the Tesla Model 3 stores medical equipment. Screenshot: Paul Braren on YouTube

Electric vehicles have huge benefits to police departments in terms of running costs, but there are also benefits to officer health, ease of operation, flexibility in customisation, reducing emissions and of course on-road performance. While municipal and state governments across the world have been a little hesitant at adopting battery electric vehicles, mainly due to issues around range performance, we’re certainly seeing the tide changing; Thai police have a number of Tesla Model 3’s on their fleet, Freemont, CA has run a successful trial with a Tesla Model S, and, Closer to home, Victoria, Australia has a Tesla Model X for highway patrol duties while the New South Wales Police has recently taken delivery of a Hyundai Kona Electric.

Source: Paul Braren on YouTube

EV Brief 3/23/21 EV Brief 3/23/21

Tesla looks to officially commence Singapore operations; Model 3 available to order

Tesla looks to be gearing up for a launch of operations in Singapore this year, with multiple roles in retail, service, parts and customer service advertised on the company’s website as at 25 January 2021. Also visible on the website’s charging location search page is a marker over Singapore showing that a Supercharger site is planned, but that the “Target opening date [is] to be confirmed”, and that “Timing and location subject to change”.

Tesla looks to be gearing up for a launch of operations in Singapore this year, with multiple roles in retail, service, parts and customer service advertised on the company’s website. Also visible on the website’s charging location search page is a marker over Singapore showing that a Supercharger site is planned, but that the “Target opening date [is] to be confirmed”, and that “Timing and location subject to change”.

Note that many reputable news sources are reporting Singapore’s first Supercharger is likely to be located exactly on the pin; that is at the Singapore Island Country Club. Our take is that this is a general location marker, and Tesla would be unlikely to place the company’s first rapid charging site within the grounds of a private club, off limits to the public.

Tesla’s website shows that Singapore is a planned future Supercharging location.

The Tesla model 3 can also now be ordered in Singapore, in Standard Range Plus and Performance specifications. Tesla’s website quotes a date of “mid 2021” for deliveries of either model, and is available from SG$S112,845 (SR+) and SG$154,845 (Performance), excluding Certificate of Entitlement (COE) which can cost between SG$40-50,000 at today’s rates. The COE gives vehicle owners the right to own and operate a vehicle for ten years, and is purchased through an open bidding system, though if you purchase a new vehicle, the dealership generally handles the acquisition of the COE.

Tesla’s Model 3 is eligible for significant government concessions in Singapore.

Interestingly, Tesla’s website shows that the Model 3 is eligible for two sizeable discounts on the country’s Additional Registration Fee (ARF). There’s a SG$20,000 EV early adopter incentive, and a SG$20,000 Vehicle Emissions Scheme (VES) rebate. These discounts make the Model 3 incredibly competitive with other sports sedans in the market.

At this stage, The revised Model S and Model X remain off limits for Singaporeans to order.

Although Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk has, in the past been rather uncomplimentary of the Singaporean Government’s attitude towards not only electric vehicles generally but his company, Singapore now has a mandate to eradicate internal combustion engined vehicles on its roads by 2040. This government support means that Singaporeans will soon have not only policy certainty around zero emissions vehicles, but an increased rollout in charging infrastructure, as well as potential rebates on the cost of vehicle registration.

Tesla’s Model 3 will be available to Singaporeans by mid-2021.

Reducing vehicle emissions will be crucial in achieving the island-state’s overall goal of peak emissions of 33 million tonnes by 2050, given the heavy reliance on gas, coal and oil for energy. There are about 600,000 privately owned cars on the road in Singapore, with EVs numbering about 1,100 (that’s only 0.18%).

With the zero emissions mandate, recently raised petrol duties, no minimum registration fee and the 10 year validity of the mandatory Certificate of Entitlement, some analysts are predicting that Singapore has the potential to produce a market for a minimum of 50,000 electric vehicle sales per annum.

EV Brief 3/22/21 EV Brief 3/22/21

Vietnam's VinFast discussing potential EV battery and components deal with Apple supplier Foxconn

Vietnam's largest conglomerate Vingroup confirmed on Friday that its automotive subsidiary VinFast was in early stage talks with the Foxconn Technology Group about working together and that any partnership formed would focus on developing batteries and electric car parts.

Foxconn’s EV platform at a company event in 2020. Image: Reuters/Yimou Lee

"Vingroup has received proposals from Foxconn but nothing is concrete yet. The partnership, if any, will focus on developing the batteries and electric car parts," a spokesman for Vingroup said. "No decision on working together to produce EVs has been made yet."

According to Reuters, Foxconn has put forward a proposal to VinFast to acquire their EV production lines, However VinFast would prefer a partnership as it remains keen to keep and grow its EV business.

Foxconn naturally declined to comment, however chairman Liu Young-Way also stated that the company may consider producing electric vehicles at its Wisconsin, USA plant, or look to setting up production facilities in Mexico. Liu described Foxconn as the "new kid in town" for vehicle manufacturing, and said the company needs to quickly build up its capacity to earn trust from clients.

Foxconn has been the world’s largest contract manufacturer for OEM’s for a few years now, and has openly stated that it has ambitions to shake up the automotive industry, but offering startup and established players alike a shortcut to competing in the electric vehicles market.

There’s no reason to expect that this can’t happen; Foxconn has moved quickly to establish deals with companies like Fisker and Byton. Recently Foxconn successfully established a deal with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group to provide contract manufacturing.

The VinFast LUX SA2.0 designed by Pininfarina. Image: VinFast

Vinfast is the automotive arm of Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest conglomerate consisting of 48 subsidiary companies across real estate development, retail services, education, network security, healthcare and of course automotive manufacturing. The group has a combined estimated 50,000 employees, and a turnover in 2019 of 100 trillion VND - approximately $4.3 billion USD. Vinfast recently set up a research and devlopment arm in Australia, based in Melbourne.

The company sold around 30,000 vehicles in 2020, and plans to increase that by 50% in 2021. VinFast’s electric vehicle offerings are expected to begin hitting the domestic Vietnamese market by December 2021.

Source: Automotive News

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

Rivian plans US EV charging network comprising private DC and public AC charging sites

Rivian has announced ambitions plans to rollout its Rivian Adventure Network, a charging network designed to help Rivian R1S and R1T customers get to and from outdoor adventure locations across the United States, including Alaska and Hawai’i.

Rivian has announced ambitions plans to rollout its Rivian Adventure Network, a electric vehicle charging network designed to help Rivian R1S and R1T customers get to and from outdoor adventure locations across the United States, including Alaska and Hawai’i.

The Rivian Adventure Network. Image: Screenshot/Rivian

Rivian is aiming to install 3,500+ DC fast chargers at 600+ sites by the end of 2023 along popular highway routes in the United States, for the exclusive use of its customers. In a move that mimics Tesla’s proprietary Supercharger network, the Rivian Adventure Network allows automatic charging without the need for access cards or payment devices, is powered by 100% renewable energy, and can theoretically charge at over 200kW.

In addition, Rivian plans to install over 10,0000 “Waypoint” Level 2 J1772-plug AC chargers at popular destinations like State and National Parks, shopping centres and restaurants. These chargers offer an 11.5kW charging speed, and will be open to non-Rivian EV owners.

Regarding the environmental impact of the power provided, Rivian states that “Through partnerships with electricity providers, we will use wind and solar wherever possible, as well as Renewable Energy Certificates to ensure your vehicle is powered with clean electricity.”

This week, the company announced that all 42 Colorado State Parks will feature two level 2 Rivian Waypoints each, with installation commencing in July. In-vehicle navigation will be able to route customers to the nearest Rivian Adventure Network charge point, and the Rivian app will provide real-time charging information.

The Launch Edition R1T, in Launch Green is expected to begin customer deliveries in the US by August 2021.

The (sold out) Rivian R1T Launch Edition. Image: Rivian

EV Brief 3/20/21 EV Brief 3/20/21

Porsche aims for faster charging, higher energy density batteries and own fast charging network

As part of the Volkswagen Group’s inaugural Battery Day presentation, Porsche revealed continuing research and development into high performance battery and charging technologies, including the replacement of graphite with silicone in battery cell anodes.

Battery Technology

"The battery cell is the combustion chamber of tomorrow," says Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG. "Our electrified high-performance sports and racing cars place the highest demands on battery technology. To meet these demands, Porsche needs special high-performance cells. Silicon has big potential."

Porsche’s Performance Battery Plus and 800V architecture as fitted to the Taycan Turbo.

An EV battery is made up of a few core components: the anode, cathode, separator, electrolyte, and one positive and one negative current collectors. Lithium ions are stored across both the cathode and anode, and the electrolyte carries these positively charged ions from the cathode to the anode during charging, and from the anode to the cathode during discharge (driving).

Porsche is looking at new battery cell chemistries to allow efficient operation in extreme temperatures, and to improve reliability and longevity in DC rapid charging. Porsche states that new batteries will begin testing in limited-production road vehicles and within their customer motorsport program. Porsche has also outlined a desire to ensure that there is a “completely European production chain for high-performance batteries”, implying a geopolitical need to avoid any reliance on dominant South Korean and Chinese cell providers LG Chem and CATL.

Battery modules in the Performance Battery Plus.

Porsche’s Own Charging Network

Porsche also announced plans to roll out a DC fast-charging network across important European autobahns, highways and motorways. Clearly looking to imitate Tesla’s Supercharger network—at least on a small scale—which provides industry-leading convenience and ease of use for Tesla owners, Porsche’s charging stations will feature six to twelve charging points, from 350kW and up.

The DC chargers at Porsche’s Leipzig customer centre could be a model for the company’s future highway chargers.

According to Blume, "An important prerequisite for electromobility is fast and convenient charging. That is why we are currently working on the details of a concept for our own fast-charging stations. We will select attractive locations for these in order to offer our customers the most comfortable and fastest long-distance travel experience possible."

Exact locations are not known at this stage, and plans outside Europe seem unlikely, but Porsche plans self-service lounge facilities with smartphone app access for its customers. These Porsche charging stations should complement the Ionity network nicely, and you can bet that the charging sites will feature Porsche’s usual high-end techno-minimalist look and feel. As the brand expands its electric offerings beyond the Taycan to the Macan and potentially the Cayenne by 2025, this rollout should quell future customers’ concerns about range anxiety, at least in Europe.

Porsche Leipzig’s customer centre features 350 kW DC/22 kW AC charging.

EV Brief 3/19/21 EV Brief 3/19/21

MG reveals next generation EVs; Marvel R Electric crossover set for May 2022 European launch [Updated]

MG Motor has pulled the covers off its Marvel R Electric SUV this week. Self-described by the company as “a high-tech, luxurious ‘lifestyle’ SUV for the C-segment”, the Marvel R Electric is essentially an export-version carbon copy of sister SAIC brand Roewe’s Marvel R.

MG Marvel R features tri-motor design, 400km WLTP range with vehicle-to-load technology

MG Marvel R Electric [updated]

[Update] Speaking with Tim Robson, PR and Communications Manager for MG Motor Australia EV Brief was told "We're excited to see what MG Motor Europe has shown with the Marvel R, and we reckon Australians would love its performance, technology and styling. However, it's not on the cards for Australia at the moment."

MG Motor has pulled the covers off its Marvel R Electric SUV this week. Self-described by the company as “a high-tech, luxurious ‘lifestyle’ SUV for the C-segment”, the Marvel R Electric is essentially an export-version carbon copy of sister SAIC brand Roewe’s Marvel R.

This “R” sub-brand was conceived to promote higher-end vehicles of a sportier design aesthetic, and these cars are marketed though a stand-alone dealer network in China.

The MG Marvel R Electric does indeed appear to be high-tech, with a tri-motor drivetrain (albeit with “only” 212 kW (288 PS). One can only assume that MG Motor has chosen a three motor setup—one of the front axel and two on the rear—so as to integrate smaller, more compact and efficient motor designs into its BEVs. The company has not provided a curb weight figure however.

The Marvel R Electric boasts a peak torque figure of 665 Nm, (490 lb ft) and a claimed 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 4.9 seconds. According to MG Motor’s press release, a rear-wheel-drive variant will also be available; presumably with a two-motor setup to accommodate a front trunk.

At 4,674 mm long with a 2,800mm wheelbase, 1,919 mm wide and 1,618 mm tall, The Marvel R Electric is slightly longer, and wider than Volkswagen’s ID.4 (4,585 mm long, 2,765 mm wheelbase, 1,852 mm width, 1,636 height)

The Marvel R Electric has a pleasingly contemporary appearance; one that is far removed from the traditional-yet-handsome ZS EV. Wide front and rear LED light strips—de rigueur these days it seems—dominate the design, and pleasing surface creases and aggressive vents give the Marvel R Electric some street appeal.

The interior is also a step up from the ZS EV, with soft touch materials across the doors and dashboard, metal-finish switchgear, a full LCD driver’s display measuring 12.3 inches and large vertically-mounted touchscreen of almost 20 inches—a la Tesla Model X and Mustang Mach-E—dominating the console.

MG Marvel R Electric provisional specifications

Tri-Motor 212 kW / 665 Nm*
All-Wheel Drive (Tri-motor)
>400 km WLTP range*
1.8 sec (0-50 km/h acceleration)*
4.9 sec (0-100 km/h acceleration)*
200 km/h (top speed)*
11 kW AC Charger (3-phase fast charging)
30 min to 80% battery level fast-charging capacity
750 kg towing capacity*
Digital cockpit with 19.4” floating screen
MG Pilot – advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
Climate control with heat pump
V2L 2,500W power supply for external usage

Battery technology

MG Motor claims a WLTP range of over 400 kilometres, and although battery specifications haven’t been provided, it’s safe to assume that the MG will share Roewe’s 69.9 kWh gross battery capacity. There’s also 11kW AC charging on board, and DC charging that can achieve 80% SoC in 30 minutes. MG hasn’t provided a DC charging rate, but from the above figure we can assume it will be around 100-120kW.

The MG Marvel R Electric is expected to launch in Europe from May 2021. We have contacted MG Motor Australia about possible availability, and will update with their response.

The SAIC Roewe Marvel-R, on which the MG Marvel R is based. Image: Forma car News

MG5 Electric Wagon

Also not to be missed, was MG’s announcement of a facelift for its MG5 electric station wagon (or estate, or touring depending on where you reside).

This update brings a fresher face to the current version’s plain styling. Don’t dismiss the MG5 purely on aesthetic grounds however. A practical, spacious wagon with 578l trunk space priced from £24,495 (after Plug In Car Grant) helped the brand to strong UK sales in 2020 despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

The MG5 offers a similar 400 kilometre WLTP range to the Marvel R, and features a single drive motor with 135 kW (184 ps) and 280 Nm of torque. 11kW AC charging and high-speed DC charging are standard.

We can expect to see the MG5 Electric hitting the streets of Europe in October 2021.

MG5 Electric provisional specifications

World’s first electric station wagon
>400 km (WLTP range)*
578L (trunk volume)
1,456L trunk volume max
135 kW / 280 Nm electric motor*
3.4 sec (0-50 km/h acceleration)*
8.3 sec (0-100 km/h acceleration)*
11 kW AC Charger (3-phase fast charging)
30 min to 80% battery level fast-charging capacity
500 kg towing capacity*
75 kg roof load*
MG Pilot – advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
V2L 2,500W power supply for external usage

EV Brief 3/18/21 EV Brief 3/18/21

BMW teases i4 electric sedan with new images and details; BMW M Performance version to follow

BMW has teased exterior images of the new i4 Gran Coupe EV at its annual conference in Munich, Germany overnight. The automaker is drawing out the launch, with full technical specifications and interior images to be released over the next few weeks.

BMW shows off its first all electric sports sedan - the i4 Gran Coupe with up to 590km (366mi) WLTP range

BMW promises up to 590km (366mi) WLTP range, power up to 390 kW (530PS) as well as a BMW Motorsport version (eventually). We can expect the i4 Gran Coupe to compete against a range of vehicles in the competitive sports sedan class, from Tesla’s Model 3, Model S and Polestar 2 at the more affordable end, to the Porsche Taycan and Audi E-Tron GT when BMW announces an i4 Gran Coupe M Performance.

Broadly sharing most of the design details from the concept i4, the usual “toning down” has taken place, with less futuristic headlights to satisfy various legal and cost constraints, conventional side mirrors and smaller wheels.

The large “grille” remains, along with vertical front intakes, slim, broad taillights and BMW’s signature Hofmeister kink on the rear doors. We like it; though it lacks the “wow” effect of the concept i4, proportions are sound, and the design details are contemporary. One thing though; please lose the blue highlights BMW!

The BMW Concept i4 vs. the production i4:

The i4 will be built on BMW’s flexible and modular CLuster ARchitecture (CLAR) platform, on which the iX3 and iX SUVs are based. Notably, BMW will produce the i4 Gran Coupe on the same production lines as petrol and diesel models, thanks to a massive €200 million retooling of the Munich assembly plant.

Most manufacturers—including BMW—are focusing on the development of crossovers and SUVs based on their next generation electric architectures, so it’s great to see Munich also prioritising an all-electric sports saloon.

As mentioned, further technical details and imagery is expected to be launched over the next few weeks. While BMW has yet to reveal pricing and launch timing, we can expect the i4 to follow the iX SUV to market in early 2022.

Images: BMW AG

EV Brief 3/17/21 EV Brief 3/17/21

BMW announces iX xDrive40, xDrive50 ahead of Q4 2021 Australian launch

BMW has today confirmed that it’s first-ever iX model line will reach Australian shores in 2021, in the form of the iX xDrive40 and iX xDrive50.

The BMW iX is currently undergoing its final phase of series development, and is the first model based on a new, modular and scalable toolkit which will underpin the brand’s future electric vehicles.

BMW has today confirmed that it’s first-ever iX model line will reach Australian shores in the fourth-quarter of 2021, in the form of the iX xDrive40 and iX xDrive50.

The BMW iX is currently undergoing its final phase of series development, and is the first model based on a new, modular and scalable toolkit which will underpin the brand’s future electric vehicles.

Full specifications are yet to be released, but BMW claims “In excess of” 370kW and 240kW developed by BMW iX xDrive50 and iX xDrive40 drive systems respectively, allowing 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) sprint times of five seconds for the iX xDrive50 and six seconds for the iX xDrive40.

The iX xDrive 50 will offer a WLTP range of more than 600km, and the xDrive40 a range of 500 km. BMW claims an energy consumption figure of less than 21kWh per 100 kilometres for both models.

While BMW hasn’t revealed full battery specifications, they have stated that the xDrive50 will have a gross energy content of “more than 100kWh” with 200kW charging, while the battery unit for the BMW iX xDrive40 has a gross energy content of “more than 70kWh” with 150kW charging.

In terms of technology, the iX range will debut BMW’s newest iteration of iDrive including BMW Operating System 8 which debuted this week.

BMW iX xDrive40 starts from £69,000 ($96,000 USD or $124,000 AUD) in the UK, so expect it to launch closer to $150,000 when it arrives in Australia later this year. It’s understood that BMW is working on an M motorsport-honed variant too. We will keep you updated as further details and pricing are released closer to launch.

EV Brief 3/15/21 EV Brief 3/15/21

Kia reveals EV6 electric crossover ahead of late March 2021 launch

Kia has pulled the covers off its new E-GMP based EV6 overnight, and it’s a sharp looking thing. Part crossover and part sedan, the EV6 share’s the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Polestar 2’s high-riding design, and points to a new design direction for the company’s battery electric vehicles.

According to Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia’s Global Design Center, “EV6, as the first dedicated Kia EV, is a showcase of human-centred, progressive design and electrified power. We strongly believe EV6 is a compelling and relevant model for the new EV market. With EV6 we aimed to create a distinctive, impactful design by using a combination of sophisticated, high-tech features on pure and rich volumes, while providing a unique space as a futuristic EV.”

Kia’s new logo graphic works very well on the EV6, looking contemporary, upscale and progressive all at the same time. It’s nice to see a company moving away from the trend of ginormous front grilles, especially when it’s a case of form over function with electric vehicles. The front headlights have a hint of Audi design to them, while the generously sized up-swept rear taillights remind us of Aston Martin’s DBX.

The interior of the EV6 shares some similarities with the IONIQ 5 in basic architecture and the two-screen setup, but the design and control surfaces are a little more conventional. We expect Kia to release more information on features and functionality at the global launch. At this stage, we have only been advised by Kia that the launch will take place in “March 2021”.

EV Brief 3/14/21 EV Brief 3/14/21

2022 Audi Q4 e-tron previewed with 450km range, augmented reality tech

With aspirations to dominate every market segment, the Volkswagen Group is looking to utilise its electric vehicle architecture across multiple brands and vehicle classes. Enter the Q4 e-tron: the first Audi model based on the Modularer E-Antriebs-Baukastenmodular, or modular electric drive toolkit as a literal translation.

Audi reveals pre-production MEB-based 2022 Q4 e-tron

Based on Audi’s Modularer E-Antriebs-Baukastenmodular (MEB) architecture
The smallest e-tron SUV in Audi’s line up at 4,590mm (15.1 ft) long, 1,865 millimeters (6.1 ft) wide, and 1,613 millimeters (5.3 ft) high
Two electric motors with 224 kW (304 PS), 82kWh battery with claimed 450 km (280 mile) range
Fully digital operating concept with augmented reality head-up display
Upholstery materials with recycled polyester
Worldwide reveal set for April 2021

Q4 e-tron spearheads Audi’s compact electric crossover rollout

The MEB is designed exclusively for EVs, and already underpins the Volkswagen ID.3 and ID.4, as well as the Škoda Enyaq. It’s flexibility will see use across future Volkswagen family models, including from the Cupra brand.

Q4 e-tron battery and drivetrain

Packing an 82kWh battery likely to be manufactured by LG Chem, the Q4 e-tron should have a WLTP range of 450 km (280 miles) and can be charged up to 125 kW. With two electric motors outputting a combined 224 kW (304 PS), Audi claims a 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) time of 6.4 seconds.

Of course, quattro -all-wheel-drive will be standard, and it’s expected that adaptive air suspension will also be a feature on the Q4 e-tron.

Exterior Styling

My, didn’t Audi’s wrappers have a field day? Graphics aside, the Q4 e-tron has many familiar Audi design cues. Those slim LED headlights with segmented daytime running lights, that single-frame grille (though perhaps it’s time for Audi to ditch this when it serves no function) the pronounced rear wheel arches and angular taillights.

At 4,590mm (15.1 ft) long, it’s around 10cm longer than a Q3, though that may be hard to discern in the metal. Audi will likely be producing a Q4 e-tron Sportback, complete with cut-off plunging roofline.

Technology and Interior

Audi is promoting the technical innovations and interior features of the Q4 e-tron in the lead up to the vehicle’s global reveal. With the latest version of the Audi Multi-Media Interface (MMI), drivers will have a head-up display with augmented reality features that can project important information over objects in the driver’s line of site, similar to technology already deployed by Mercedes-Benz.

The usual passive and active safety features are expected, such as blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistant, front collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous capabilities.

Audi also claims the Q4 e-tron offers similar exterior dimensions to a Q3 SUV, but with Q5 levels of space on the inside. The luggage compartment provides 520 litres (18.4 cu ft) of space for luggage, and the 2.76 metre (9.1 ft) long wheelbase should provide comfortable foot, knee and legroom for front and rear seat passengers.

It’s nice to see the shift away from leather interiors; to each their own, but leather has a huge environmental footprint, not to mention the ethical issues around animal skin. The Q4 e-tron offers a combination of artificial leather microfiber Dinamica, which looks and feels like suede but is made of 45 percent recycled polyester, sourced from textiles and PET bottles.

We’re expecting the Q4 e-tron to go on sale (in base trim) from $45,000 USD / £50,000 when it is revealed to the public next month. While there’s nothing about this upcoming crossover that appears revolutionary, the combination of the usual Teutonic interior quality with Audi’s contemporary (if predictable) exterior styling should bode well for the MEB-based electric crossover’s sales.

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.