Genesis reveals official images of E-GMP based GV60 electric crossover

The Genesis GV60 exterior. Images: Genesis

Genesis has released official images of the new GV60 all electric crossover today, less than a week after we caught a prototype testing in Sydney, Australia. Based on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform (which we seem to be writing about every other day on this site), The GV60 is an upmarket version of Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 and Kia’s EV6.

Exterior Styling of the GV60

Let’s start on the outside of the GV60, because the design language is quite radical. Sure, there’s the double-slit head and tail lamps that are familiar visual cues from other Genesis models, but the GV60 looks nothing like other vehicles from the brand’s range.

Certainly less brute-ish and more futuristic than the GV70 and GV90 petrol SUVs, the GV60 echoes the Kia EV6’s “sporty crossover coupe” design language, with a sloping clamshell hood, long wheelbase, and high, raked rear end.

A frontal grille-like area dominates the nose of the GV60, however the majority of the blacked-out structure is closed off for improved aerodynamics. A coloured ring defines the front, dividing the black grille into two portions, the lower of which mimics the shape of a modern aircraft’s wings, complete with winglets.

Contrasting arches and lower mouldings define the lower structure of the GV60, and give that off-road appearance, though we expect the higher specification models to feature body-coloured paintwork on these trim pieces.

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This Genesis GV60 Prototype features the same 21” alloy wheels as the vehicle in the press photos.

The glasshouse area is very similar to Kia’s EV6 in our minds, but the sharp wedge in the C-pillar is an attention grabbing design element. The large rear-glass area, ducktail spoiler with integrated LED brake light, and squared-off rear remind us of a cross between Mercedes-Benz’s GLE Coupe, and a Baja Beetle (call us crazy!)

The wheels on the GV60 in the media release are the same 21” design as fitted to the prototype we spotted last week.

Genesis presents its next generation of interior luxury

While the lime green exterior/blue interior may not be to everybody’s tastes, there’s an undeniable luxury to the interior of the GV60. Again there’s a familiarity here from Kia and Hyundai’s siblings - the dual-screen setup, the placement of important switchgear, and the floating centre console, but Genesis has clearly overhauled the interior architecture to suit its market positioning.

Firstly, there’s the digital side mirrors that we’ve seen from Korean and European market Hyundai IONIQ 5s, which almost certainly won’t make it to the USA or Australia just yet. The seats appear to be a high-grade nappa leather (we hope to see an animal-free interior option too), and there’s leather or fake leather with contrasting stitching adorning the dash, armrests, and upper door cards. The climate control setup receives a larger screen the the IONIQ 5, and pleasingly, there are a number of physical buttons present. The same goes for the steering wheel; Genesis has opted for actual buttons, rather than touch-sensitive items. There’s a drive mode button and boost button, likely to provide an additional hit of torque for a limited period, similar to Porsche’s Taycan.

The GV60 features an interior with lots of pleasing details.

All the switchgear is metallic, or at least in a metallic finish, and the textured knurling on these elements is a lovely, tactile touch that evokes a Bentley’s interior. In fact, call us crazy, but Genesis appears to be aiming to create an interior that offers a lot of similarities to something coming out of Crewe, at a much more pocket friendly pricepoint.

The IONIQ 5’s storage drawer remains, and there’s a floating centre console, which appears to be fixed. This design still allows for plenty of storage, and a flat passenger footwell. Atop the console is a wireless charging pad, media controller, and Genesis’ “Crystal Sphere” Shift By Wire drive controller. Genesis states that this controller becomes the vehicle’s mood lights before the GV60 is started, creating a pleasing interior atmosphere, and a little bit of theatre as the orb rotates and glows prior to powering on.

Digital side mirriors will likely be unavailable on the GV60 outside Korea and Europe.

Drivetrain of the GV60

While Genesis has yet to publish drivetrain information, as stated in our previous article, we know that the company has had three variants certified under Korea’s Noise and Emissions Certification process.

• GV60 base model: 169 kW (226 hp)

• GV60 all-wheel-drive long-range model: 242 kW (325 hp)

• GV60 all-wheel-drive high specification model: 325 kW (436 hp)

At this stage, it’s unclear which models are destined for foreign markets, but we’re certainly excited to finally see the GV60 uncovered in any case. While the design may not be to everyone’s tastes, We’ll have to wait until images of different colours and specification grades are made available, before passing judgement. Hopefully we’ll be able to catch a look at a pre-production version later this year, before the crossover goes on sale sometime in 2022.

BYD EA1 (BYD Dolphin) EV hatchback walkaround video from China

A walkaround of BYD’s compact EV, the EA!. Image: Wheelsboy on YouTube

We’ve covered the BYD EA1 previously, but until now, there have been few detailed English language reviews of the car. Wheelsboy on YouTube brings us an up-close walkaround of the vehicle in a BYD showroom, giving us some insights on the styling and features of the vehicle.

For the Chinese domestic market, the EA1 is actually named 海豚 (Pinyin: Hǎitún), or Dolphin, hence the rather oceanic-themed marketing surrounding the vehicle. Ignoring the inflatable Orca on the roof It’s important to take this vehicle seriously. The EA1 offers a refined and upmarket design language for a small electric city car, with use of a clamshell-like front hood/bonnet, coloured trim accents, signature LED lighting all around, with a dramatic rear light cluster evoking traditional Chinese knots , and a spacious, practical interior. In a world where manufacturers are racing to build more and more electric crossovers and SUVs, no company has cracked the global compact city car formula yet.

The EA1 features BYD’s patented Blade Battery pack, which claims a lifecycle of 1.2 million km after 3,000 charge/discharge cycles and an extensive single-charge range capability. The company manufacturers its battery packs in house, at a 20 GWh facility in Chongqing, China.

Australia is likely to first see the EA1 in a rideshare capacity, after right-hand-drive distributor Nexport signed a deal with rideshare vehicle leasing company Splend for 3,000 electric vehicles.

Kia EV7 full size electric SUV set to be Korean brand's flagship; due in 2024

A rendering of Kia’s EV7. Image: Motor1.com

Kia’s purpose-built electric vehicle range will officially launch with the eagerly anticipated EV6, set for northern hemisphere market introduction early in 2022. The automaker plans to grow EV sales over the coming decade to 880,000 units in 2030, positioning itself as a big player in the zero-emissions passenger vehicle market.

Kia’s EV7 spied testing. Image: Motor.es

Prototypes of Kia’s largest vehicle, currently dubbed the EV7, have been spotted testing across the world, and by all accounts, it is a large vehicle with a design language that is unique to the brand. Judging by the below spy photo, we can expect a high-set full-length rear lightbar (similar to its EV6 sibling), but other clues hint at a more geometric and angular design.

Motor1 has rendered what it believes the EV7 will look like, taking current styling cues such as the headlights from the EV6, and working off what body lines are visibly under the camouflage. The result is a rather Range Rover-like full-size SUV, certain to be popular with North American and South East Asian consumers.

A concept rendering of Hyundai’s EV range; from L to R, the IONIQ 6, IONIQ 7 and Project 45 (IONIQ 5). Image: Hyundai

For its part, Hyundai will also build a full-size EV7 equivalent, likely to be dubbed the IONIQ 7. Little is known about this vehicle at this stage, however, the Korean Times has reported the vehicle will likely go on sale in 2023, and will utilise battery backs from South Korean cell manufacturer SK Innovation.

Speaking at the IONIQ 5 launch, Hyundai America President and CEO José Muñoz confirmed the existence of the IONIQ 7, its three-row occupancy, and a market introduction of 2024 in North America. “We will follow the exciting Ioniq 5 compact CUV with the stunning Ioniq 6 mid-size sedan next year and the Ioniq 7 three-row mid-size SUV in 2024, and that is just the beginning. Hyundai will introduce 23 battery-electric vehicles worldwide by 2025.”

Source: Motor1.com

Genesis GV60 Electric Prototype spotted in Sydney, Australia

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Genesis’ GV60 Electric is undergoing testing in Sydney, Australia.

[Updated 14/08/21] : The GV60 passes Korean Emissions and Noise Certification, and Motor 1 reports that the car’s power outputs have been revealed:

• GV60 base model: 169 kW (226 hp)

• GV60 all-wheel-drive long-range model: 242 kW (325 hp)

• GV60 all-wheel-drive high specification model: 325 kW (436 hp)

13/08/21: EV Brief has spied the yet to be revealed Genesis GV60 Electric outside the Hyundai Australia offices in Sydney, ahead of the vehicle’s global reveal in the coming months.

Taking styling cues from the Genesis Mint concept, The GV60 Electric is the luxury brand’s Hyundai IONIQ 5 equivalent, underpinned by the E-GMP platform architecture. It’s not known whether the GV60 Electric is in Australia as part of a global testing program, or whether engineers are tuning the crossover specifically for roads down under.

In the metal, the GV60 Electric appears smaller than Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, likely due to the curves, extensive camouflage, and its placement next to the large Hyundai Staria. However, two things give away its true size; the large 21” wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, and the length of the wheelbase, which is not far off the Staria’s, and certainly close to the IONIQ 5’s measuring 3,000mm.

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Genesis has certainly developed a unique visual language for its cars, with the split, two-stroke light clusters, bold grille elements, and dramatic rooflines. It’s believed the GV60 Electric will shun a faux grille on its nose (as it should) but will feature lower air intake mesh, which is visible in the below pictures. It appears there’s no space for active louvers a la Hyundai IONIQ 5. The rear deck appears to be quite high and differentiates the GV60 Electric from the rest of the Genesis lineup.

Sharing its mechanicals with the IONIQ 5, we can expect to see 800 volt 220 kW DC fast charging, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options, and a range of battery pack sizes. At the company’s second-quarter earnings call, a company official stated that the GV60 Electric would have a “unique design identity, increased motor performance, and increased battery capacity.” Genesis also plans to be the first automaker to offer wireless charging on its cars, according to ET News.

Contrasting wheel arches are present on this prototype, and are likely to be standard on the entry-level model. This test car sported an interior befitting the Genesis badge; quilted leather, Alcantara, metallic accents, and soft materials, though all but the seats and door cards were covered up. Overseas prototypes have been spotted, and have revealed a little more about the cockpit. There’s metal-look switchgear, a more elegant set of graphics for the instrument cluster, and a retractable gear selector.

We’re excited about what the Hyundai Motor Group is planning for its family of brands, both globally and in Australia. While Tesla is the king of battery electric vehicle market share, there are a raft of challengers coming to market in the next six to twelve months, each a genuinely compelling alternative for consumers.

It's also noteworthy that Hyundai has the will —and the expertise — to develop and test its vehicles in Australia.

We’ll keep you updated with any news on the worldwide launch of the GV60 Electric, as well as on the impending launch of the IONIQ 5.

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First look at Volkswagen's upcoming ID.5 GTX electric SUV coupe

Personally, I hate the “SUV coupe” nomenclature that has sprung up over the last few years, but the industry seems to have adopted it with vigour. Traditionally, the term coupe came from a four-wheeled vehicle that could hold two passengers. In the mid-20th century, it came to define desirable, low-roofed sports cars that could carry two passengers comfortably, and four at a pinch.

Are they pointless? Perhaps. after all, the whole point of an SUV is to carry more stuff and more bodies over a wagon or sedan right? Are they going anywhere? absolutely not.

And so it goes with the Volkswagen Group. We’ve seen Audi introduce various Q3/Q5/Q8 sloping-roof-coupe-things to much sales success; Porsche lopped the back off its Cayenne to produce the Cayenne Coupe, and now we have the group’s first all-electric coupe SUV variant.

The ID.5 range will include this range-topping GTX model, sharing the same dual-motor AWD setup as its ID.4 GTX sibling, as well as it’s 77 kWh (net) battery. Volkswagen claims a 250 mile (402 km) range. A single-motor rear wheel drive variant will also be available.

Volkswagen has faced a slow start to sales of its electric ID range in China, however sales in Europe have eclipsed the likes of Kia’s Niro EV, the Skoda Enyaq, Volvo XC40 Recharge and its sister ID.3 electric hatch, and sales in North America must be pleasing Wolfsburg; the ID.4 made up 4.8 per cent of Volkswagen North America’s total sales in Q2 2021.

Autogefühl already has a first drive impression video which you can watch below, and Volkswagen has provided additional exterior driving footage.

Expect a full reveal during Munich’s IAA Mobility 2021 on September 5.

Source: Volkswagen

Austrian health company Biogena takes delivery of Mini Electric fleet

Biogena’s new 82-strong Mini Cooper SE fleet. Images: Supplied

Health Company Biogena, an Austrian micronutrient company, has taken delivery of 82 Mini Cooper SE Electric vehicles, as it pursues a strategy of sustainability, which includes eco-packaging, reforestation, and environmental protection.

Despite giving every employee the opportunity to order a petrol-variant Mini Cooper SE through a company lease early in 2021, Biogena has now pivoted to the zero-emissions model, and according to Managing Director Julia Ganglbauer, "The pulsating performance of the E-MINI is a perfect match for the passionate spirit of the Biogena team".

Austria —as a member-state of the European Union— adheres to strict environmental and emissions standards, and as such offers attractive incentives for private and corporate battery electric vehicle (BEV) buyers. Under the present scheme, Biogena would be eligible for an in-kind benefit of 0% tax for the private usage of company cars, as well as a VAT exemption.

There are also plans to introduce new policies in Austria that will accelerate EV uptake, including a plan to allow anyone with an electric vehicle to drive 130 km/h on the IG-L-Hunderter highways, which normally allow for a 100 km/h speed. This covers a total area of 440 km of roads. Lane privileges will also be granted for EV drivers, and they will be allowed to use bus lanes on public roads, and free parking will be introduced in urban areas.

The Mini Cooper SE is the brand’s first fully electric model and has sold over 30,000 units worldwide since 2020. With a drivetrain carried over from BMW’s revolutionary i3, it offers a 184 PS (135 kW) motor and a 32.6 kWh battery.

"LCID" to begin NASDAQ trading on Monday, after Lucid Motors and Churchill Capital pass SPAC merger

The Lucid Air promises performance, style, and exceptional quality, but can it beat Tesla at its own game? Image: Lucid

After a rocky start to its shareholder vote last Thursday, where the company failed to receive enough votes from retail investors to approve its merger with Churchill Capital IV, NASDAQ reports that the deal successfully went through on Friday, after Churchill Capital IV and Lucid extended the deadline for shareholders to vote, and executives pleaded with investors to vote in favor of all proposals in order to cross the finish line.

NASDAQ reports that some investors saw the move as highly dilutive based on misinterpretations of Lucid’s regulatory filings, which details a 2.61 exchange ratio of Churchill Capital IV shares to Lucid stock. This high exchange ratio is not actually relevant to the SPAC's public investors, who incorrectly feared that excessive dilution could adversely impact the value of the investment. Lucid will receive approximately $4.4 billion (after transaction expenses) in cash from the SPAC merger.

"Lucid has further increased its momentum as we gear up to make the first customer deliveries of our Lucid Air lineup of electric sedans later this year," Lucid CEO Peter Rawlinson said in a statement. "We are making significant investments in the long-term growth and innovation of our company, and we will continue to bring to bear world-class technology to positively impact mankind's transition to sustainable mobility."

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Lucid recently opened its NYC design studio in the Meatpacking District. Image: Lucid

Auto manufacturing is an expensive business, and even more so for a startup like Lucid that doesn’t have a bank account the size of Volkswagen’s or General Motors’ to throw at electromobility. This Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) trend on Wall Street has been taking off in the automotive sector, with companies like Fisker and Nikola also receiving an injection of funds through the SPAC investment process. Essentially a shell company, a SPAC is set up for the sole purpose of raising capital to acquire another company. Generally, a SPAC’s only asset is the money raised in its own IPO.

Lucid’s first EV, the Air, is currently undergoing final testing and development, and the company plans to officially commence customer deliveries “in the second half of 2021”. CEO Peter Rawlinson has already delayed deliveries from (northern hemisphere) Spring this year, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an impediment to that target date. The Air is a luxurious, Mercedes-Benz S-Class rival, initially launching in the highest specification, with 500 miles (805 km) of range and over 1,000 hp (745 kW). More affordable variants will be launched in due course, as rivals to Tesla’s Model S, BMW’s i4 Gran Coupe, and the Mercedes-Benz EQE. Pricing for the Lucid Air in the United States is as follows:

• Air Dream Edition - $169,000

• Air Grand Touring - $139,000

• Air Touring - $95,000

• Air Pure - $77,400

Source: NASDAQ

Mercedes-Benz announces electrification plan, EV and battery rollout, end of internal combustion vehicles

Mercedes-Benz has announced an end to its internal combustion-engined product offerings, moving towards a range of electric-only vehicles by 2030. The caveat provided by the company is that zero-emissions vehicles will prevail “where market conditions allow”, presumably giving the automaker a guilt-free emissions pass in markets where charging infrastructure and EV uptake is yet to develop.

Mercedes-Benz will cease the development and release of internal combustion vehicle architectures from 2025, and will launch three electric-only platforms in the same year. According to the company, customers will be able to choose an all-electric alternative for every model in the Mercedes-Benz range, and that “Mercedes-Benz intends to manage this accelerated transformation while sticking to its profitability targets.”

Ola Källenius, CEO of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG said in a media statement that "The EV shift is picking up speed - especially in the luxury segment, where Mercedes-Benz belongs. The tipping point is getting closer and we will be ready as markets switch to electric-only by the end of this decade," "This step marks a profound reallocation of capital. By managing this faster transformation while safeguarding our profitability targets, we will ensure the enduring success of Mercedes-Benz. Thanks to our highly qualified and motivated workforce, I am convinced that we will be successful in this exciting new era."

Ola Källenius, CEO of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG with the Mercedes-Benz EQ range.

Mercedes-Benz’s Future Product Line-Up

Let’s look at the above image and get a sense of where the brand is heading this decade. We’re already familiar with the upcoming EQS luxo-barge next to Ola Källenius, and pictured to its right is the soon-to-be-revealed EQE sedan. Both vehicles are based on Mercedes-Benz’s Electric Vehicle Architecture (EVA) modular platform. Behind them, from left to right, we have the GLB crossover, and the currently on sale EQC and EQA crossovers. In the third row, a mysterious crossover —likely the EQS SUV— sits just ahead of the EQV.

Mercedes-Benz revealed its subbrands including AMG, Maybach and G-Class —made infamous in the 2010s as a symbol of gas-guzzling excess— will go electric. The EQS SUV will be the first vehicle in the lineup to receive the Maybach work-over, as teased in this image below.

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The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV Maybach. Image: Mercedes-Benz

All subbrands to go electric. Images: Mercedes-Benz.

Brand new electric platforms from 2025

Three electric-only architectures will be launched in 2025:

• MB.EA will cover all medium to large size passenger cars, establishing a scalable modular system as the electric backbone for the future EV portfolio.

• AMG.EA will be a dedicated performance electric vehicle platform addressing technology and performance oriented Mercedes-AMG customers.

• VAN.EA ushers in a new era for purpose made electric vans and Light Commercial Vehicles, which will contribute to emission free transportation and cities in the future.

Manufacturing and battery cell demands

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The upcoming mercedes-Benz EQB.

Mercedes-Benz plans to install battery cell capacity of more than 200 Gigawatt hours with partners, and sets its sights on eight Gigafactories to support this product rollout. The company will develop new partnerships for R&D and production of battery cells in Europe.

Following Tesla’s lead and in an attempt to reduce the bureaucracy and cost of development for legacy automakers, Mercedes-Benz is reorganizing its powertrain activities to put planning, development, purchasing and production under one roof. The company claims this will deepen the level of vertical integration in manufacturing and development and electric drive technology.

Mercedes-Benz’s next-generation batteries will debut in 2025 and will be highly standardized, and suitable for use across more than 90 percent of all Mercedes-Benz cars and vans according to the automaker. The company intends to focus battery cell and module manufacturing in Europe, keeping the supply chain close to home. It will work with technology partners across Europe such as SilaNano to further increase energy density in batteries through silicon- carbon composite anodes.

Mercedes-Benz is also developing solid-state technology, with an aim to create batteries with even higher energy density and safety. The company is already trialling Citaro buses with solid-state batteries.

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EV Brief’s Take

This is all great news in our view. After a general reluctance to commit to electrification from Germany’s big automakers, Mercedes-Benz is officially going “all in”. Massive investment in capital works, battery gigafactories, and cell R&D, as well as ensuring reduced emissions and CO2 neutrality from the production process will allow the brand to get ahead of strict EU emissions regulations, while ensuring future commercial viability.

Streamlining its business through centralised production, common battery modules and shared platform architecture will not only lead to positive business outcomes and an increased return on investment, but it should also bring with it faster product rollout timeframes, and a greater diversity of product offerings.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

The Mercedes-Benz EQS.

[Updated] Xpeng P5 EV lineup and pricing revealed, set to be first production vehicle WITH Lidar-based Navigation Guided Pilot

[Updated 22/7/21] Cnevpost reports that China’s ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has received filings from Xpeng for the entire model range, revealing three versions of the P5 with 460km, 550km and 600km NEDC range, and battery packs of 55.9kWh, 66.2kWh and 71.4kWh, respectively.

The P5 line-up costs from RMB 160,000 ($24,700 USD) to 230,000 ($35,560), with the Chinese EV subsidy included.

Colours available for Xpeng’s P5. Image: Xpeng

Original article:

Xpeng Motors pulled the covers off the P5 mid-size sedan this week just prior to Auto Shanghai, and the Chinese automaker claims its new Lidar-based XPILOT 3.5 architecture is “the strongest autonomous driving system in production cars”. The P5 sits below its P7 in the model range, and features a raft of sensors as the company ramps up plans to compete with Tesla in the race to autonomous vehicle control.

It is well known that Tesla’s CEO Elon musk has derided the use of Lidar in passenger vehicles, stating that it is a “fool’s errand”. Tesla’s is likely to begin rollout out 4D vision technology utilising only 8 cameras within the next few months. Xpeng is a Chinese startup that has gone from strength to strength, and seems to be powering ahead with capital raises and strong Chinese sales numbers.

The company has debuted its most advanced autonomous driving technology on the new P5 sedan, with its Navigation Guided Pilot (NGP) claiming to handle highway and city driving. The company’s CEO He Xiaopeng has stated that he believes a full suite of sensors is required to safely navigate urban conditions, and the P5 sedan features 32 perception sensors (including 2 LiDAR units, 12 ultrasonic sensors, 5 millimeter-wave radars, and 13 high-resolution cameras) and 1 high-precision positioning unit (GNSS + IMU). There is redundancy built into the perception sensors to handle “challenging and complex road conditions”.

The P5’s double-prism LiDAR units are capable to distinguish pedestrians, cyclists and scooters, static obstacles, and road works and according to Xpeng, challenging scenarios such as night and low-light conditions, backlighting, and alternating light and dark illumination in tunnels are also not a problem for the system.

“Each new Xpeng model aims for a new high in technology, and the P5 is our most advanced and technically ambitious model yet” according to He. “Our home-grown technology, distinctive design language and user experience philosophy: all reflect Xpeng’s drive to grow from its Chinese roots to realise its global vision of leading the world’s smart EV market.”

Exterior Design

With a length of 4808mm and wheel base of 2768mm, the P5 is 114mm longer that the Tesla Model 3 (4,694mm), but 107mm shorter in the wheelbase (2,875mm for the Tesla). The P5 has a more ‘upright’ look than the Model 3 or it’s P7 sibling, but we like the bold ‘X’ graphics in the front headlight cluster, and the expansive glass area.

Interior Design

Xpeng promises lots of passenger space inside and claims that the interior can be reconfigured into a private cinema or sleeping compartment (though it’s likely BYO projector and mattress). The P5 features a 15.6in touchscreen in the centre console, with access to many popular apps on the Chinese market, and voice control for almost every function via the Xmart OS 3.0 system. The design is minimalist and fuss-free, and appears to be of a high quality.

Full technical details and range will be revealed in the coming months, but Xpeng insiders have hinted that the vehicle could provide up to 600km (373 miles) of range on the Chinese NEDC cycle.

The Xpeng P5 interior

A variety of popular apps will be available in the P5’s infotainment system.

The P5’ flexible interior allows for a cinema-style seating setup.

Polestar Australia confirms Australian management team, ahead of November Polestar 2 launch

The Polestar 2 sedan. International model shown. Images: Polestar

Polestar is only 4 months away from the launch of its brand in Australia, and the market introduction of the Polestar 2 sedan. The Swedish electric-only automaker founded by Geely Holding and Volvo Cars has today announced further additions to its senior management team, after recently naming Australian-born Samantha Johnson — formerly of Volvo Cars Australia — as its managing director.

The new appointments are as follows:

Jeremy Goh - Head of Commercial. A senior leader of almost two decades in the automotive industry, Jeremy has worked in sales, network, and supply chain management roles in competitive and dynamic markets including China, Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. Jeremy joins Polestar from Nissan Motor Co. Australia where he was the lead for Residual Value Management & Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles at Nissan, and General Manager, National Sales & Dealer Network Development for Infiniti. Prior to joining the Nissan Alliance, Jeremy held various roles within DaimlerChrysler / Fiat Chrysler Automobiles for 13 years. In his capacity as Head of Commercial Operations for Polestar, Jeremy will oversee sales, customer care, supply chain logistics, service network operations and technical support.

Paul Jowett - Head of Business Development. For the past 18 years, Paul has worked in senior management roles across a number of leading technology brands in Australia including Apple, Samsung, and Vodafone. Paul joins Polestar from Huawei where he was Director of Marketing for the retail team in the consumer electronics division. The Head of Business Development role will encompass Polestar’s operator network, retail, charging solutions, financial services, digital commerce and pricing.

Jonathan Williams – Head of Marketing. Jonathan is a creative marketer with a passion for disruptive technology as his experience can attest. Jonathan spent four years driving growth for PayPal, followed by seven years at Google where he led key product launches for Google Ads, Google Maps and Android Pay. He joins Polestar from tech start-up KLOOK, the most funded travel booking platform in history, where he held the role of Marketing Director – ANZ.

Commenting on the appointments, Ms. Johnson said “I am delighted to announce the Australian management team for Polestar, which brings the right mix of automotive know-how and a progressive, start-up mindset to the brand.

“The team will be instrumental in overseeing the launch of Polestar and the all-electric Polestar 2 to Australian audiences from November 2021, while playing a central role in achieving our ambitious growth plans for 2022.”

Although under the umbrella of conglomerate Geely-Volvo, Polestar is ostensibly a new startup, building its Australian staff, presence, and brand image from scratch. As we mentioned in previous coverage of the brand, Polestar’s vehicles will rely heavily on an online sales platform, complemented by physical showroom locations known as “Spaces”, to be located in heavily-trafficked central business districts. It’s not yet known whether Polestar plans to offer stand-alone service facilities, piggyback off Volvo’s Australian network, or servicing to customers’ homes and workplaces like Tesla.

Featuring a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup with a 78 kWh battery, the Polestar 2 is based on the group’s Compact Modular Architecture platform, which underpins the Volvo XC40 Recharge and C40, as well as a number of Geely and Lynk & Co vehicles. The car has already received many accolades globally, holding the crowns for German Car of the Year 2021 and Top Gear’s Best All-Round EV.

With unique styling, a spacious interior, great performance, and the only fully integrated Android Automotive in-car OS, the Polestar 2 is one of our most anticipated EVs for 2021. We’ll keep you updated on any Polestar news down under as it happens.

BMW i4 electric sedan set for early 2022 launch priced from $99,900 MSRP

The BMW i4 M50. Images: BMW

• i4 eDrive40 priced from $99,900 MSRP, offering 250kW/430Nm from a single motor with a 590 kilometre WLTP range

• i4 M50 priced from $124,900 MSRP, offering 400kW/795Nm from two motors with xDrive
  all-wheel-drive with 510 kilometre WLTP range

• M50 model performs 0-100km/h sprint in 3.9-seconds

• BMW Operating System 8 fitted as standard

• 5 years free DC rapid charging with the Chargefox network in Australia

It wasn’t long ago that Klaus Fröhlich, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development said in an interview that the discussion around electric vehicles was “a bit irrational”. His qualified this with “Perhaps in the eastern region of China; Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong … they might be 100 per cent electric. But the world – Russia, Australia, USA, big portions of Europe – they will have combustion engines for a very long time.”

And yet here we are. BMW has always been famous for its sports sedans, having sold close to 5 million 3 series models since the line was introduced in the mid-1970s. The company was also an early pioneer in electrification, with the quirky i3 city car sporting a revolutionary mass-produced carbon monocoque, and making recycled plastic and hemp fibre interiors cool, long before the likes of Mazda, Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz started on the trend.

The i4 eDrive40 is a handsome liftback.

The i4 is a liftback sedan (similar to the petrol and diesel-powered 4 series) based on BMW’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR). This flexible platform was built for EVs from the ground up, maximising packaging efficiency for electric motors and drivetrain components.

The i4 eDrive40 and i4 M50 will land in Australia with adaptive M suspension as standard and M Sport brakes, M Light alloy wheels, and variable sport steering. The M50 adds electric all-wheel-drive and a second motor for greater acceleration. Speaking of which, 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) is dispatched in 3.9 seconds on the M50 variant, and 5.7 seconds on the eDrive40 model.

In terms of battery technology, the pack is comprised of four modules with 72 cells each and three 12-cell modules, for a total of 324 cells and 84 kWh (gross). BMW states 200kW DC fast charging is possible, which will be free for owners for the first 5 years when using Chargefox infrastructure. The automaker claims the car’s range can be increased by as much as 164 kilometres (102 miles) in 10 minutes at a 10 percent state of charge. While certainly rapid, it pales in comparison to Hyundai’s 800 volt IONIQ 5 which adds 100 km (62 miles) of range in four minutes when charging at 220 kW.

BMW has invested a lot of money in its electric vehicle production; one hundred percent green energy is used for both vehicle production and battery cell manufacturing, and the company has set an ambitious goal of net carbon-neutral production across all locations by the end of 2021. At this year’s annual general meeting, the BMW group announced that it will avoid the emission of over 200 million tonnes of CO2 by 2030.

Scroll down for pricing and standard equipment for the Australian market, as well as a gallery of images.

[Updated] Hyundai's IONIQ 5 electric SUV moves one step closer to arriving in Australia

We’d lay down our hard-earned for a Lucid Blue IONIQ 5. Image: Hyundai UK

Update 13/7/2021: Speaking with Hyundai Australia representatives last week, the IONIQ 5 range is still on track for a Q3/Q4 launch in Australia. Pricing and full specifications will be launched close to that time.

We’ve extensively covered Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 crossover, and have even had some hands-on time with a pre-production prototype, as seen in the video below. Hyundai Australia has been getting clucky with showing off the car, hosting former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull for a test drive last week, and demonstrating the car’s V2L capabilities at a local government conference. We now have confirmation that the retro EV has completed its Australian Design Rules (ADRs) certification, with the upcoming model visible on the Australian Government’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications “Road Vehicle Certification System” website.

According to the government, the RVCS, or the Road Vehicle Certification System, is the vehicle certification system used in Australia. It makes extensive use of electronic lodgement of forms using the Internet. RVCS is operated by the Vehicle Safety Standards Branch (VSS) of the abovementioned department. The RVCS system ensures that imported vehicles comply with ADRs, and manufacturers electronically submit certification data to the system.

In the first image below, the RVCS website shows that Hyundai is bringing four variants of the IONIQ 5 to Australia; however, they may not necessarily arrive all at once. There are 2 two-wheel-drive variants (columns 1 and 2), and two all-wheel-drive variants (columns 3 and 4). We expect these to be consistent with overseas specifications:

IONIQ 5 Standard Range 58 kWh:

• RWD single-motor with 125kW, 350Nm

• AWD dual-motor with 160kW, 605Nm

IONIQ 5 Long Range 72.6 kWh:

• RWD single-motor with 173kW, 350Nm

• AWD dual-motor with 225kW, 605Nm

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Interestingly, it looks like both of the Long Range variants (denoted by LRG under Variant Information) will be approved to tow, showing a maximum braked towing mass of 1,600 kg, and a maximum non-braked towing mass of 750 kg.

All major dimensions are identical as we would expect, as are brake sizes and suspension data. 235/55 R19 tyres (likely the Michelin Pilot EV tyres used on other Hyundai eco models) on 7.5Jx19 wheels are standard across the range, and 255/45 R20 tyres on 8.5J x 20 are optional for the long range models.

Pricing and an exact launch window for Australia are still yet to be confirmed, but we know from our conversations with Hyundai’s product planning team that they are just champing at the bit to get this car to Australia. The IONIQ 5 is yet to show up on state vehicle certification databases; usually, a sign that launch is imminent.

European customer deliveries are expected to commence this month, with pricing from £36,995 in the UK, and 41,900 EUR in Germany. Our New Zealand friends across the pond will have to shell out $NZ79,990 to get into the IONIQ 5. All prices above exclude respective country-specific EV/plug-in grants or rebates.

Porsche aims to reduce CO2 in manufacturing process; asks component suppliers to green up

Porsche’s Taycan production line is already carbon neutral. Images: Porsche AG

Porsche is asking its automotive component suppliers to switch to renewables, as the company is said to have set a goal of 100% carbon neutrality across its whole production chain within 9 years.

The Zuffenhausen automaker has stated that Suppliers who are unwilling to switch to certified green energy will no longer be considered for contracts in the long term. Porsche’s supply chain is responsible for around 20 percent of the company’s total greenhouse gas emissions. This percentage is set to rise to around 40 by 2030 due to the increasing electrification of its model range.

Uwe-Karsten Städter, Member of the Executive Board for Procurement at Porsche AG said in a statement "By using only renewable energy sources, our suppliers are following our example in our efforts to reach CO2-neutrality. We plan to have even more intensive talks with our partners in order to drive forward improvements in our sustainability. It is only by working together that we will be able to combat ongoing climate change."

For its part, Porsche has been trying to reduce carbon emissions from its production sites. The automaker will be investing 1 billion euros in decarbonisation measures this decade, and its Zuffenhausen plant has been carbon neutral since 2019. Porsche’s just released Taycan Cross Turismo is the world’s first-ever carbon neutral vehicle according to the company.

Source: Porsche AG

Nexport to bring self-branded last mile electric van to Australia in October 2021

Nexport’s DLX electric van. Via Luke Todd on Linkedin

Australia's importer for BYD vehicles and electric buses Nexport has revealed that it plans to bring an all-electric commercial van to Australia, to be named the Nexport DLX. In a statement via Linkedin, Nexport managing director Luke Todd said that “Mass production in NSW will commence in early 2022. We will soon announce price and specifications....Nexport is creating jobs for Australians wishing to join the clean-tech manufacturing renaissance.”

Nexport DLX revealed on Linkedin

Earlier in the week, Todd also posted on Linkedin, stating “ARRIVED. Introducing the DLX electric logistics truck, the newest addition to the Nexport suite of zero-emission products. Customer test drives to commence in Australia by October 2021. Customer deliveries scheduled for Q1, 2022. No overhyped market build up needed. The DLX just arriEVd and will deliEVr.”

The use of “Arrived” references UK-based EV commercial vehicle startup Arrival, which currently has a similar electric van in development, with production to commence in the third quarter of 2022. Arrival has no plans to bring its vehicles to markets outside North America and Europe at this stage.

Nexport’s vehicles will eventually be manufactured in Australia

This is a very short but welcome timeline from Nexport; Australia’s transport emissions have grown steadily over the last few decades, and account for one-third of our greenhouse gas emissions according to the Climate Council.

Nexport already manufactures buses in Australia, utilising BYD powertrains and bus bodies from Gemilang and Volgren, so it’s possible that they are leveraging existing manufacturing capacity to bring the DLX to market so quickly. Another scenario could be that the company plans to “flat pack” vehicle bodies and drivetrain components, ready for final assembly on Australian shores.

Nexport has plans to eventually establish a passenger and commercial vehicle manufacturing facility in Australia, on a 51 hectare site 90 minutes south-west of Sydney. We have contacted Nexport for more information and will update this post accordingly.

Source: LinkedIn

Stellantis hosts "EV Day", targeting best-in-class electric vehicles across all 14 brands

Stellantis’ EV Day highlighted the automotive group’s future electrification plans.

Stellantis, the parent company of brands including Fiat, Jeep, Citroën and Opel, has hosted its annual “EV Day”, presenting its electrification and investment roadmap for the coming decade.

Stellantis has committed to offering fully electrified solutions across all 14 major brands, utilising four flexible electric-only vehicle platforms, and a family of three scalable electric drive modules and standardised battery packs.

The company noted that affordability is a priority across the group, as the company is targeting price parity with equivalent internal combustion engine vehicles by 2026. Stellantis’ marketing agency also conjured up a number of just plain puzzling statements which are supposed to express each brand’s electrification approach:

• Abarth – “Heating Up People, But Not the Planet”

• Alfa Romeo – “From 2024, Alfa Becomes Alfa e-Romeo”

• Chrysler – “Clean Technology for a New Generation of Families”

• Citroën – “Citroën Electric: Well-Being for All!”

• Dodge – “Tear Up the Streets… Not the Planet”

• DS Automobiles – “The Art of Travel, Magnified”

• Fiat – “It’s Only Green When It’s Green for All”

• Jeep® – “Zero Emission Freedom”

• Lancia – “The Most Elegant Way to Protect the Planet”

• Maserati – “The Best in Performance Luxury, Electrified”

• Peugeot – “Turning Sustainable Mobility into Quality Time”

• Ram – “Built to Serve a Sustainable Planet”

• Vauxhall/Opel – “Green is the New Cool”

• Commercial Vehicles – “The Global Leader in e-Commercial Vehicles”

Slogans are all well and good (though I’m not sure what, if anything, the above words achieve) but concrete plans and products are what counts.

Stellantis’ four platform EV range

Stellantis is working on four different platforms; STLA Small, STLA Medium, STLA Large, and STLA Frame. As previously mentioned, a completely modular solution allows for key components to be easily shared across platforms, including drive units and body options.

The platforms will use existing liquid-type battery technology, including a premium high energy-density option and a more affordable nickel cobalt-free alternative, and Stellantis plans to then introduce solid-state technology by 2026. While the company will rely heavily on outside battery suppliers initially, it will also build five battery plants across Europe and North America, and is aiming to reduce battery cost by more than 40 per cent over the next 3 years.

Dodge spriuks “emuscle”, but doesn’t reveal what’s under the cover.

Jeep’s new plug in hybrid Grand Cherokee begins the brand’s slow move to electrification.

For what was allegedly an EV day, Stellantis did not go into electrification plans for each brand. We know European brands in the portfolio already have fully electric models, and a firm commitment to ditch internal combustion engines by 2030 in the case of Fiat, but we also saw a commitment from brands such as Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler to accelerate the electrification of their model ranges.

Stellantis will invest more than 30 billion euros (approximately $35.6 bn USD/$47.5 bn AUD) on vehicle development through the next three years. A lot of this money will be spent on R&D across the group, as well as capital expenditure relating to battery and vehicle manufacturing facilities. Stellantis is also spending big on software, including on its joint venture deal with Foxconn to develop digital cockpits and in-car connected services.

Fiat’s electric only 500 has been a good seller for the brand in Europe.

Jeep reveals plug in hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe, first of many new EVs in line up by 2025

Jeep’s Grand Cherokee 4xe plug in hybrid has been revealed, the first of many new electrified offerings from the off road brand over the next four years. During the Stellantis EV Day 2021, the company said in a statement “The introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is another step toward expanding electrification and strengthening the Jeep brand’s vision of “Zero Emission, 100% Freedom” in a year in which the Jeep brand celebrates 80 years of achievements and innovations.”

The unveiling of the Grand Cherokee 4xe follows the launch of the somewhat underwhelming Wrangler 4xe, and the announcement from the automaker of a 4xe charging network, in partnership with Electrify America.

The Wrangler 4xe is powered by a 270-hp (201 kW) turbocharged inline-four that is sandwiched between a 44-hp (33 kW) motor connected through the accessory belt at the front, and a 134-hp motor taking the place of the transmission's torque converter at the back according to Car and Driver . These are paired with a 14 kWh lithium-ion battery. It is not yet known whether the Grand Cherokee 4xe will retain this setup, or whether the vehicle will be sold outside North America.

[Updated] The new BMW CE 04 electric scooter is a futuristic urban commuter with a 130km range

[Update] 1:15pm 8/7/21: The CE 04 is confirmed for an Australian market introduction in Q1 2022, and pricing and specifications are listed at the bottom of this article. At $20,350 AUD, it’s certainly not cheap, but with little maintenance and refueling needed, we’re confident this scooter will find popularity among well-heeled urban commuters.

BMW is well known for its motorcycles; the Bavarian automaker has built many iconic bikes such as the twin-cylinder boxer-engined R series, to the water-cooled BMW K series, however outside Europe, BMW Motorrad is not a name synonymous with scooters.

The BMW CE 04 is a serious bike, and BMW is throwing all its technology at the futuristic scooter. With an 8.9 kWh battery pack, the CE 04 shares its cells with the yet-to-be-released iX SUV. According to Oliver Zipse, CEO of BMW AG, “The BMW CE 04 is our new electric star for the city. It combines an e-drive with emotion and motorcycling fun. The latest technology, and the best battery cells, which also provide power in the BMW iX.”

Those 8.9 kWh will provide a 130 kilometre (81 mile) range, and power a 31 kW (42 PS) rear wheel-mounted electric motor that propels the CE 04 from 0 to 50 km/h (31 mph) in just 2.6 seconds. In the urban traffic light grand prix, the CE 04 will be tough to beat. The maximum speed is 120 km/h (65 mph).

BMW will make a reduced-output version available in Europe, with 23 kW (31 PS) to comply with L3e-A1 vehicle class regulations for riders with licence restrictions.

The battery will charge from 0-100 percent on a regular, household power socket (2.3 kW) in 4 hours and 20 minutes. With a 6.9 kW fast charger, the same charge will take only 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Design and Technology

Let’s talk design; it has already been designed as radical and futuristic, but I think it’s the perfect evolution of BMW’s urban mobility bikes. a broad, aggressive front with LED headlgiths, low-slung body thanks to the hub-mounted motor and tech-y colours like grey, white, matte black and orange. BMW designers have even described it as architectural, and the CE 04 appears to share some design elements with the BMW Welt pictured in some photographs below.

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There’s a 10.25-inch TFT colour screen with integrated map navigation and telephone connectivity. It would be great to see a touch interface integration of Apple Carplay or Android Auto, but we’re not sure if that smartphone mirroring tech has made it to bikes yet.

A permanent magnet electric motor mounted in the frame between the battery and the rear wheel drives the CE 04, and three riding modes “ECO”, “Rain” and “Road” are standard. The additional “Dynamic” riding mode is also available as an ex-works option, enabling the scooter to accelerate at an even swifter pace. it’s unclear whether this will be available as an option outside Europe at this stage.

Engineering and Mechanicals

BMW bikes are always criticised for their price, and sure, one does pay a premium for perceived brand cache, however from the handful of different (petrol) BMW bikes I’ve ridden, you can literally feel the engineering that has gone into the product. They ride, corner and handle beautifully, and inspire a confidence on the road that, in my opinion, is worth the entry price.

The main frame of the body is a tubular steel construction. The front wheel is controlled by a telescopic fork with a slider tube diameter of 35 mm. Rear wheel control consists of a single-sided swing arm. At the rear, suspension and damping are performed by a directly controlled, fully covered spring strut.15 inch tyres are standard, with 120/70 R15 67H fitted at the front, and 160/60 R15 56H at the rear. These are sure to provide grip aplenty.

Powerful braking is present to halt all that performance; disc brakes all round, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ASC (Automatic Stability Control).

While 130 kilometres of range may not sound like much, that’s enough in theory to complete the round-trip from Palm Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches to the Central Business District, or from Greenwich Connecticut to Midtown Manhattan.

While greater range is always welcome, there is an environmental and performance trade-off, and we think BMW has struck the right balance here with its 8.9 kWh battery pack.

The BMW CE 04 will launch in Spring 2022 (quarter 2) in the northern hemisphere; BMW Australia has been contacted regarding a possible local market introduction.

[Update] Australian specification is as follows:

BMW CE 04: $20,350* 

Standard specification: 

- Liquid-cooled permanent magnet electric motor 

- 130kW (42hp) output 

- 62Nm torque 

- 8.9kWh air-cooled lithium-ion high voltage battery 

- 2.3kWh charger 

- Tooth-belt driven gearbox (total gear ratio: 10.5) 

- Dynamic Package (Headlight Pro, Adaptive Headlight, Daytime Riding Light, Riding Modes Pro, ABS Pro) 

- Comfort Package (Heated Grips and Backrest Comfort Seat) 

- Seat Heating 

- Tyre Pressure Control 

- Centre Stand 

- LED indicators 

- LED headlight and taillight 

- 10.25-inch TFT display 

- Ventilated mobile phone charging compartment 

- USB-C charging port 

- Front and side storage compartments 

- Light White paint 

Options 

- Backrest Comfort Seat II: No cost option (note: recommended for riders above 190cm tall) 

- Windshield High: $140 

- Anti-theft alarm system: $375 

- 30A Quick Charger: $1,330 

BMW CE 04 Avantgarde: $20,690* 

Includes all standard specification from the CE 04 and adds the following: 

- Windshield High 

- Magellan Grey Metallic paint 

Options 

- Backrest Comfort Seat II: No cost option (note: recommended for riders above 190cm tall) 

- Anti-theft alarm system: $375 

- 30A Quick Charger: $1,330 

ŠKODA preps fully electric rally car to debut in July's Rallye Weiz in Austria

Škoda’s all-electric RE-X1 Kreisel concept car. Images: Škoda Motorsport

Škoda Motorsport has unveiled the lithium-ion powered Škoda RE-X1 Kreisel concept car. The rally beast was developed in conjunction with Kreisel Electric and Baumschlager Rallye, and is based on the successful ŠKODA Fabia Rally2 evo.

Škoda Motorsport developed the vehicle, and provides a bespoke chassis for the electric power unit which delivers 260 kW or power and 600 Nm of torque. That’s a lot more than the petrol Škoda Fabia Rally2 evo 1.6 litre turbo version which produces 214 kW and 425 Nm of torque. The lithium-ion battery pack has a 52.5 kWh capacity, powering an 860 volt electrical system.

“The concept car Škoda RE-X1 Kreisel is an exciting combination of traditional and future-orientated technology. We provided our best experience, based on developing already three generations of the rally-going Škoda Fabia,” comments Michal Hrabánek, Head of Škoda Motorsport. “The concept car offers all the setup possibilities of the latest generation Škoda Fabia Rally2 evo, but with a fully electric powertrain and I really believe rally fans will find such a combination truly interesting.”

The first chassis built by ŠKODA Motorsport is in asphalt spec. However, Baumschlager Rallye & Racing, the project’s partner for the testing program and future competition activities, has started to put the ŠKODA RE-X1 Kreisel through its paces on gravel as well. The car has undergone a successful homologation by the Austrian Motorsport Federation AMF (ÖAMTC), and is expected to debut in July’s Rallye Weiz as part of the Austrian Rally Championship.

We’ve seen electric rally cars before in the form of one-off specials such as New Zealand rally champion Haydon Paddon’s Hyundai Kona, and Ken Block’s electric Ford Fiesta ST special, but its great to see factory teams like ŠKODA getting in on the action. With the Extreme-E rallycross series kicking off this year, its only a matter of time until the WRC hosts fully electric entrants.

Volvo and Google tease next generation connected OS

Volvo’s Concept Recharge. Image: Volvo Car Group

Volvo Car Group was the first car maker to introduce cars with an infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS (distinct from Android Auto) with Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play built-in. We already know the next generation of Volvos will be exclusively fully electric, and the two companies are looking to build on their strategic partnership to provide a world-leading in-car operating system.

Volvo has released this series of concept renderings overnight, outlining the basic functionality and design of the new OS. The automaker is seemingly staying with the portrait-oriented screen, increasing the size over the Polestar 2 and XC40 Recharge while mounting it closer to the driver.

Volvo promises easy-to-see information and responsive interaction. The Polestar 2 is already excellent in this regard, but Volvo claims the new OS results in “a simple user experience that is consistent, clean, easily scannable and takes a minimalistic and contextual approach.”.

“Our teams have spent a lot of time with Google to further develop and improve our user experience for the next generation of Volvo cars,” said Henrik Green, chief technology officer. “Especially in terms of safety, serenity and simplicity, we have made great strides thanks to a deeper integration of design and technological development. We are convinced that it will allow us to create even better Volvo cars and set a new industry standard.”

Volvo hasn’t ditched the driver’s instrument display just yet, retaining a compact, digital cluster and adding a head-up display. Numerous manufacturers are now offering an augmented reality (AR) version of this projection technology—which aids drivers by highlighting navigational directions and hazards in real-time in the line of sight—and Volvo is expected to follow suit.

The ability to use a smartphone to lock and unlock the vehicle will become standard, as will on-demand, over-the-air vehicle updates a la Tesla. Volvo has been building up its software development team too, as it works to move key vehicle development in-house. While we don’t have any confirmation around specific next-generation models to feature this technology, we now know from Volvo that the fully electric successor to the XC90 full-size SUV will arrive sometime2022.

Kia EV4 spied: Small electric SUV to sit below EV6 when launched in 2022

Kia’s EV4 caught testing. Image: Korean Car Blog

The Korean Car Blog brings us some exclusive images of Kia’s second Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)-based electric vehicle, caught testing in South Korea.

The EV4 is a Seltos/Soul-sized crossover—think 2,600mm wheelbase and 4,300mm length—and is expected to launch sometime in 2022. Not much is known about the specifications or features, but from what we can see from this test vehicle, the EV4 is a more conventional compact SUV shape than Kia’s EV6 or Hyundai’s IONIQ 5. A couple of EV6 design cues appear to be present: the broad C-pillar with its distinctive 45-degree line, as well as the high-set full-length rear LED light assembly.

The EV4 is just part of Kia’s plans for EV domination: CEO Ho Sung Song announced a plan to release 11 fully electrified vehicles by 2025, and for EVs to make up 25 per cent of the company’s global sales by 2029.

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Kia plans 11 EVs by 2025. Image: Kia

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Kia’s EV4 at the brand’s recent product showcase. Image: Kia

While Kia’s debut E-GMP models are both crossovers, expect the full gamut of vehicle styles and sizes to launch by 2025, including compact, full-size sedan and SUV, and even commercial vehicles. Kia has not forgotten about charging either; Hyundai Motor Group has commenced the rollout of its own 800 V DC fast-charging network in South Korea dubbed E-PIT, and has partnered with IONITY to provide DC fast-charging for customers in Europe. We can expect further deals across Asia and the Americas soon.

Source: Korean Car Blog