Category: electric

Dec 18

2024 Acura ZDX: Performance and Reservations Now Open for This All-Electric SUV

Performance and Exclusive Offers

Acura is introducing the 2024 ZDX with impressive features, including a 325-mile range for the A-Spec model and a powerful 500 horsepower for the dual-motor Type S variant. Expected deliveries for the ZDX are slated for early next year, and Acura is aiming to attract buyers with the Acura Energy Key Card. This exclusive perk offers access to high-profile events such as the Sundance Film Festival and the Long Beach IndyCar race.

Premium Features and Partnerships

The ZDX will come equipped with a top-tier Bang & Olufsen sound system, highlighting Acura’s collaboration with the renowned Danish audio brand. Additionally, Acura is enhancing the ownership experience by providing access to extensive EV charging networks, including EVgo and Electrify America. This move aligns with Honda’s broader strategy to shift its entire vehicle lineup to zero-emission technologies, with a goal of achieving full carbon neutrality by 2050.

Dec 18

Tesla Model 3 vs. VW ID.7 vs. BYD Seal: Which Electric Sedan Reigns Supreme?

Unveiling the Best in Electric Sedans

In a recent UK comparison, the Tesla Model 3 Highland emerged as the top contender among electric sedans, excelling in affordability, efficiency, and charging ease. Despite dominating the affordable EV market for years, Tesla now faces formidable competition from the BYD Seal and Volkswagen ID.7. This review pits these three models against each other to determine which offers the best overall driving experience.

Comprehensive Comparison and Performance Insights

The review, conducted on a 556-mile journey from London to Wales, evaluated the three sedans across various driving conditions and charging scenarios. The Tesla Model 3 stood out for its cost-effectiveness, needing just £59.20 for the trip, compared to the ID.7 and Seal, which incurred higher charging expenses. Additionally, the Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network proved advantageous, while its efficiency, averaging 3.6 miles per kWh, surpassed the BYD Seal and VW ID.7.

Practical Considerations and Real-World Performance

Testing revealed that the ID.7, despite its higher price and larger size, fell short in cold weather conditions, showing a 48% range reduction compared to its claimed range. The Model 3 Highland exhibited a more moderate 33% drop, and the BYD Seal fared better with a 23% reduction. This real-world performance data underscores the Model 3’s superior efficiency and cost benefits, making it a compelling choice for those seeking value in the electric sedan market.

Dec 18

Acura’s All-Electric ZDX SUV Now Available for Reservations: Pricing and Details

Acura has officially opened reservations for its inaugural all-electric vehicle, the 2024 ZDX SUV, which will commence deliveries in early 2024. Starting at $60,000, this groundbreaking EV will offer a range of trims, including a base A-Spec model with single-motor rear-wheel drive and a more powerful Type S variant boasting 500 horsepower, priced at $70,000.

The ZDX promises an impressive estimated range of up to 325 miles and will feature a user-friendly operating system powered by Google. This new model will launch alongside the 2024 Honda Prologue as a product of Honda and General Motors’ collaboration, utilizing GM’s Ultium battery technology. In a nod to modern convenience, the ZDX will be Acura’s first model available for online reservations, with options for dealership pickup or home delivery, and includes a choice of three charging packages as part of the purchase.

Dec 18

Top 10 Cars of the Year: Navigating Through Petrol, Diesel, and Electric Options

As we reflect on the best new cars of the past year, it’s evident that the automotive landscape is shifting. While the push towards electric vehicles is strong, there’s still a diverse selection of exceptional petrol and diesel cars. This list showcases the top 10 vehicles currently available, combining innovation, style, and performance to meet various driving needs.

1. Renault Austral

The Renault Austral stands out with its unique hybrid system, blending elements from traditional and range-extender hybrids. Although it may seem pricey and occasionally noisy, it offers a stylish design, an impressive interior, and commendable fuel efficiency. Its blend of features makes it a distinctive choice, despite some minor flaws.

Pros: Stylish design, efficient, well-equipped
Cons: Expensive, hybrid system can be noisy
Overall: A compelling option with a few quirks

2. Ford Tourneo

The Ford Tourneo, essentially a Transit with seats, offers a spacious interior and a high-tech platform. With room for up to nine people and versatile seating arrangements, it’s perfect for large families or groups. While it comes at a premium price, its practicality and driving comfort are notable.

Pros: Ample space, high-tech features, versatile seating
Cons: Higher cost
Overall: Ideal for those needing extensive space and comfort

3. Skoda Fabia

The Skoda Fabia has elevated itself above the VW Golf, offering a more refined cabin and a surprisingly spacious boot. Although it’s priced similarly to a Golf, the Fabia delivers excellent value with its improved features and layout. The only drawback is its somewhat cramped rear seating.

Pros: Excellent value, spacious boot, refined cabin
Cons: Tight rear seat space
Overall: A better option compared to the Golf for many

4. Opel Astra

The Opel Astra is a solid hatchback with a stylish design and engaging drive. The 1.2 petrol engine is efficient and enjoyable, while the upcoming all-electric version promises an impressive range. The estate variant remains the top choice due to its practical boot space and sleek appearance.

Pros: Attractive design, fun to drive, efficient engine
Cons: Some cabin quality issues, PHEV is less practical
Overall: Great as a petrol model now, with electric options on the horizon

5. Polestar 2

The Polestar 2 competes with the Tesla Model 3 but falls short on long-range efficiency. The new rear-wheel drive version, arriving next year, promises improved range and performance. Currently, the Performance model offers an exhilarating drive, though it does suffer from range limitations.

Pros: Stylish design, enjoyable to drive, high-quality build
Cons: Limited range, current efficiency issues
Overall: Worth waiting for the updated rear-wheel drive version

6. Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage stands out with its distinctive design and broad engine options, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids. It offers a good balance of roominess and style, although its hybrid version may be less efficient on the highway. Its appeal lies in its combination of quality and uniqueness compared to its sibling, the Hyundai Tucson.

Pros: Stylish, spacious, high-quality interior
Cons: Hybrid can be thirsty, SUV might be unnecessary for some
Overall: A stylish alternative to the Tucson with minor trade-offs

7. Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross offers a practical size with better rear seat space than the standard Yaris. Its 1.5 hybrid engine delivers decent performance and excellent fuel economy. Though not the quickest, it provides a compact, efficient option for those needing more space than a typical small car.

Pros: Compact yet spacious, excellent fuel economy
Cons: Basic interior, not very fast
Overall: A top choice among small crossovers for its efficiency and practicality

8. Ford Mustang Mach-E

Ford’s Mustang Mach-E competes well against the Tesla Model Y with its impressive range and driving dynamics. While it’s more fun to drive and better built, its high price may be a drawback. Future affordable versions with lower costs are anticipated.

Pros: Enjoyable to drive, well-built, attractive design
Cons: Expensive
Overall: An appealing option if price is not a primary concern

9. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is popular for its long range and access to the Supercharger network. It offers practical features and a solid driving experience, though it suffers from some quality issues and a less comfortable ride. Despite its flaws, it remains a top choice for electric vehicle enthusiasts.

Pros: Excellent range, spacious, advanced tech
Cons: Ride quality, inconsistent build quality
Overall: A leading EV choice with some room for improvement

10. VW ID. Buzz

The VW ID. Buzz brings a nostalgic design to the electric MPV market. Its retro styling and practical interior make it a charming alternative to typical SUVs. However, its high price and limited range might deter some buyers.

Pros: Unique design, spacious, comfortable
Cons: High cost, limited range
Overall: A nostalgic and practical choice if budget allows

Nov 21

BMW Unveils Neue Klasse Electric SUV, Echoing Vision Sedan Design

Introduction to BMW’s Latest Electric Innovation

For the first time, the BMW Neue Klasse Electric SUV has been spotted in testing, marking a significant step forward in BMW’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup. Positioned to compete in the popular mid-size SUV segment, this model is anticipated to set new benchmarks in both performance and design, following the aesthetic cues of the Vision Neue Klasse sedan concept.

Design and Expectations

The new electric SUV from BMW, expected to be sized similarly to the X3, showcases the distinctive wide kidney grilles introduced in the Vision Neue Klasse sedan concept. This design choice not only aligns it with BMW’s evolving aesthetic but also emphasizes the brand’s commitment to a distinctive, recognizable look for its electric fleet. Observers and potential customers can expect state-of-the-art technology integrated with BMW’s legendary engineering prowess.

Impact on the Electric Vehicle Market

BMW’s expansion into electric SUVs with the Neue Klasse line is poised to make a substantial impact on the EV market. By combining BMW’s engineering excellence with cutting-edge EV technology, this vehicle is designed to appeal to both existing BMW enthusiasts and new customers prioritizing sustainability without compromising on luxury. As BMW continues to reveal more details, the automotive community is keenly watching, ready to see how this vehicle will compete in a rapidly growing segment.

Nov 20

Volkswagen’s APP550 Electric Motor Bottleneck Spreads In Europe

The Volkswagen Group’s problem with the all-new APP550 drive units for MEB-based electric cars might be bigger than initially thought.

According to Handelsblatt (via Electrive), the production volume of the new APP550 rear-wheel drive unit (210 kW / 286 PS and 550 Nm) is significantly limited.

The constraints are so big that it already affected the Zwicaku and Emden plants in Germany, causing Zwickau’s production halt of Volkswagen ID.4, Volkswagen ID.5, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron. Soon, the production will be limited at Skoda’s plant in Mlada Boleslav in the Czech Republic too, which means fewer Skoda Enyaq iVs. Handelsblatt reports that a Skoda spokeswoman confirmed that the shortage of APP550 units will affect the Skoda Enyaq iV in November and December. The Cupra Tavascan (production in China for Europe) could be affected too.

The only good news is that the U.S. factory for the Volkswagen ID.4 and Chinese production of the MEB-based models for the local market continue to be unaffected.

The European models, equipped with the original APP310 electric motor (150 kW and 310 Nm), can be produced without disruption (although they are disrupted because of insufficient demand for the ID.3 and Cupra Born).

According to Handelsblatt, two people familiar with the matter confirmed that the issue with the APP550 is related to the ramp-up of the production line: “According to the insiders, the problem lies with a system that produces stators for the APP550. The plant can currently only reach around 30 percent of the technically promised capacity. Over 50 VW employees are working in a task force to rectify the problem.”

There are also reports that Volkswagen is trying to redirect the available APP550 motors to the Emden plant to at least limit the disruption of the ID.7 and ID.4 production there, but even in Emden, there was a five-day break.

Well, the new APP550 electric motors are not only more powerful than the original APP310 but also more efficient to improve the driving range. However, it’s not good news that Volkswagen Group can’t produce enough of them.

With the limited APP550 supply, the Volkswagen Group might easily lose a five-digit production number of the MEB-based cars in Q4. It would undercut the company’s all-electric car sales results, further increasing the distance to Tesla and BYD.

Oct 18

Toyota’s FT-Se Electric Sports Car: A Glimpse into the Future of High-Performance EVs

Toyota’s Shift Towards Electric Sports Cars

After facing criticism for its slow progress in battery-electric vehicles, Toyota seems ready to turn the tide. At the upcoming Japan Mobility Show, Toyota and Lexus will unveil a host of new concepts, including the intriguing FT-Se Concept. This vehicle, reminiscent of a modern electric MR2, hints at a promising shift towards high-performance EVs in Toyota’s lineup.

Evolution from Previous Concepts

Recent teasers reveal that the FT-Se Concept shares notable similarities with Toyota’s Sports EV Concept from late 2021. Both concepts showcase a striking, low-profile design with aggressive features and mid-engine aesthetics, hinting at a refined evolution of the earlier model. This continuity suggests that the FT-Se may be a well-developed iteration of Toyota’s earlier design ideas, now enhanced for a new era of electric sports cars.

Toyota’s Growing Electric Ambitions

As Toyota adapts to the electric vehicle landscape, its commitment to innovation becomes more apparent. The automaker is investing in advanced technologies like solid-state batteries and aims for a significant EV lineup expansion, including Lexus’s plan to go fully electric by 2030. The anticipated FT-Se and other upcoming models could signify Toyota’s serious step forward in the competitive electric sports car market.

Oct 18

Toyota’s Electric Pickup Truck Testing in Australia: What It Means for the U.S. Market

Toyota’s Electric Pickup Truck Progress

In December, Toyota showcased the Hilux Revo BEV Concept in Thailand, an electric pickup based on the popular Hilux model. Recently, this prototype has traveled to Australia for further testing and feedback from key Hilux fleet customers. According to Sean Hanley, Toyota Australia’s VP of Sales, the BEV prototype not only resembles the traditional Hilux but also performs impressively like a production-ready model.

U.S. Market Implications and Future Prospects

Toyota’s focus on markets like Australia and Thailand is understandable given the Hilux’s popularity, with impressive sales figures of 64,000 units in Australia and 145,000 in Thailand in 2022. However, its plans for the U.S. remain ambiguous. While electric truck adoption is gradual and faces challenges, such as high costs and limited production, Toyota is preparing to introduce its electric offerings, potentially including a U.S.-bound truck among its 10 new BEVs by 2026. This strategic move aims to address range anxiety and streamline manufacturing, ensuring a well-rounded and affordable electric truck when it finally arrives.

Oct 18

Smart’s New #1 Electric Crossover Becomes More Affordable with LFP Batteries

Smart’s Entry-Level Electric Crossover Gets a Price Cut

Smart, renowned for its compact city cars since the 1990s, has unveiled a new budget-friendly version of its electric crossover, the #1. Priced at €37,490 in Germany (approximately $39,700), the new “Pro” variant features a 49-kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. This setup provides a WLTP-rated driving range of 192 miles (310 kilometers), making it a practical choice for urban driving in Europe’s bustling cities.

Advantages and Limitations of LFP Batteries

The LFP battery in the Smart #1 Pro, while less energy-dense compared to the larger 66-kWh nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) batteries found in higher trims, offers the benefit of longevity. Unlike NCM batteries, LFP batteries can be fully recharged repeatedly without significant degradation. However, this comes at the cost of a lower driving range due to their increased weight and lower energy density.

Smart #1 Pro Features and Performance

Equipped with a 200 kW (268 horsepower) rear electric motor, the Smart #1 Pro includes standard amenities such as a glass roof, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, 19-inch wheels, and LED headlights. Charging capabilities for the LFP version allow for a top-up in under 30 minutes with a 130 kW DC fast charger, slightly slower than the NCM-equipped version that supports 150 kW. According to Dirk Adelmann, CEO of Smart Europe, this model caters to environmentally conscious city drivers who prioritize practicality and efficiency in their daily commutes.

A Legacy of Innovation

Founded in 1994 through a collaboration between Daimler-Benz and Swatch, Smart has evolved significantly, now operating under a partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese automaker Geely. While the brand’s iconic Fortwo city car was a notable entry in the U.S. market, Smart’s current lineup, including the #1 and #3 EV models, reflects its shift towards electric mobility and global market focus, with manufacturing based in China.

Jul 12

Caterham’s Project V: A Game-Changing 2,623-Pound Electric Sports Car

Unveiling the Future of Electric Sports Cars

On July 12, Caterham will showcase Project V at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, marking its entry into the electric vehicle arena. Inspired by the classic Caterham Seven, this new model combines the thrill of rear-wheel drive with the innovation of electric power. Set to debut in late 2025, Project V promises a revolutionary driving experience with its lightweight design and cutting-edge technology.

Innovative Design and Performance

Designed by Anthony Jannarelly, Project V features a 200-kilowatt rear motor and a 55-kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering 268 horsepower and an estimated range of 249 miles. The car boasts a swift 0-60 mph acceleration in under 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 143 mph. Its minimalistic design includes a carbon fiber and aluminum chassis, fully adjustable suspension, and intuitive controls, ensuring a thrilling yet practical driving experience.

Versatile and Practical Features

Project V offers a versatile 2+1 seating layout with an optional 2+2 configuration, enhancing comfort and flexibility. The dashboard is sleek and simple, with digital gauges and adjustable driving modes for Normal, Sport, and Sprint settings. CEO Bob Laishley emphasizes that Project V not only complements the classic Seven but also embodies Caterham’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, aiming to attract both long-time enthusiasts and new customers.

Project V will share the spotlight at the Goodwood Festival of Speed with other cutting-edge EVs, like the Pininfarina Battista Edizione Nino Farina and the MG4 EX4 concept, showcasing the future of electric performance.