Human senses are triggered with the varied audio and visual experiences we go through. Catering to the perception of enthusiasts in all the best visually appealing aspects, Hyundai has introduced the N-Line to one of their most successful products, the Venue. Hyundai has appealed to performance lovers’ auditory and optical senses before with the i20 N-line and now with tweaks on the Venue, the Venue N-Line is here to make it pop, bang and feel like a complete enthusiastic performance update.
Visual fantasy & an aural experience ?
Powered by the same engine as the regular 2022 Venue, the N-line produces 172 Nm torque and 120 bhp power from its 1L 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine which is mated to a 7-speed DCT with similar drive modes – Normal, Eco and Sport. There are noticeably minor updates on the Venue N-Line on the exterior. N-Line badging all across the car, along with red highlight lines in the form of stickers, add a visual flair to the overall N-line appearance. While the straight lines on the Venue 2022 make it look sophisticated, the redesigned bumpers on the Venue N-Line bring curves on the edges. Complimenting the overall design are the new skid plates at both front and rear.
The Venue N-Line also gets N-badged redesigned 16-inch diamond cut alloy wheels which are distinctively prominent. Adding safety and better control is the inclusion of rear wheel disk brakes. Visual updates include a tailgate spoiler, red highlight strips across the car’s length and breadth, and a sharply redesigned front grille with X-shaped elements and generous use of dark chrome. A relatively stiffer suspension setup makes the car’s maneuverability a lot crispier than before. The Venue N-Line retains the best aspects of the Venue 2022 like the projector headlights with built-in cornering lamps. What stands apart are definitely the new dual-pipe exhaust mufflers which offer a grunty note; this is the audio sensory that will tickle most enthusiasts.
The interiors are equally sporty !
Hop in the Venue N-Line, and you are greeted with an all-black interior scheme with red N-Line highlights all around the car’s interiors. The red and black theme suits the performance appeal of the vehicle and adds a sense of visual drama. There are red accents on the AC vents, knobs, and switches. The seats now get N-Line imprints with red stitching and piping. The Venue N-Line looks similar yet different from the standard Venue line-up with an all black and red theme. Though the dark interiors do make the cabin feel small, plenty of room inside along with the sunroof doesn’t make it claustrophobic. Every feature is identical to the Venue 2022, all the way from an 8-inch touch infotainment system with BlueLink, Voice Assistant support, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 4-way adjustable electric adjustments for the driver’s seat, coloured driver’s MID, wireless charger, USB A and C ports, electric sunroof and all the goodies of the Venue top-spec line-up.
Adding flair to the overall interior sportiness is the new N-Line gear knob with matching black leatherette and red elements. The foot pedals are also metal to add to the appeal. A significant change is perceived with a sportier N-Line three-spoke steering wheel which feels comparatively chunky to hold. It is functional with media controls on it and is finished in gloss black with sizable black paddle shifters tucked behind nicely. Hyundai has now added red ambient lighting which seems like a cherry on a well-baked cake. What is surprising is the absence of ventilated seats, but as performance demands weight reduction, maybe it was a calculated move. Compared to a regular Venue with ventilated seats, the power-to-weight ratio must be the reason for it. Another standard feature for the N-Line is the inclusion of a 1080p 30fps dash camera with front and rear cameras mounted beside the auto-dimming IRVM.
Does it handle well or just pops and crackles?
The Venue N-Line is a practical compact SUV making it a daily driver. The aural experience of the nicely tuned dual-pipe exhausts stuns, which sounds way sportier than the actual drive experience. Despite the city’s legal speed limits, each rev built-up sounds exciting and exhilarating. The exhaust note alone feels like they’ve added a sportier engine beneath the hood, although that’s not the case here.
Adding to the overall experience is a lightweight steering wheel coupled with a stiffer suspension setup and four disc brakes on all four tyres. The Venue N-Line has the exact power figures as the standard Venue with 7-Speed DCT, but the weight reduction in the form of regular seats compared to the ventilated seats on the Venue 2022 make the N-Line feel a tad bit snappier in the real world. The stiffer suspension setup keeps the car well planted on high-speed cornering while still being able to soak road undulations like any other mid-size SUV. This duality makes it feel more confidence inspiring than its formal-suited sibling..
The improved power-to-weight ratio is prominently evident while driving the Venue N-Line. The N-Line steering makes it a joyful experience to maneuver this car in the city traffic and equally fun out on the highways. Despite it being on any driving mode, this car sounds maddening fun when revved. The DCT performs excellently with the Turbo GDi configuration being smooth, but a slight lag in the initial power output can get a little frustrating as it wouldn’t perform as much as it sounds to be. In Sport mode, the 7-Speed DCT keeps the gears engaged right up to an invisible redline, but the most fun can be exploited from using the large paddle shifters while driving this car in sports mode. Thanks to the entire N-Line driving dynamics, it feels relatively light on its wheel yet surefooted. We dearly missed the rev counter on this car, and being digital; we hope Hyundai updates the MID in the future, at least on the N-line for that analog revving drama.
Should you consider this “N” ?
Starting at Rs. 12.16L ex-showroom, the Venue N-Line is a competitive vibe which is bound to be enjoyed by enthusiasts only. The relatively low body-to-weight ratio paired with N-Line light steering feedback, stiffer suspensions, N-Line design elements, and a nasty exhaust note makes the Venue N-Line feel sportier and sounds more invigorating than most cars of this segment on the block. If you’re out there looking for exclusivity while compromising on a few liters of petrol, the Venue N-line might just hit the right N-spot for you..
Lexus ES 300h, a self-charging hybrid electric luxury sedan, is one of many electrified cars from the luxury car maker Lexus, a pioneer in the field of hybrid electric technology. Lexus has over 2.3 million electrified vehicles on the roads globally as of today. Powered by Lexus Hybrid Drive, a seamless, optimal combination of electric power and fuel, this luxurious sedan was our abode on wheels on the beautiful roads of Kovalam, Kerala, where the Exhibit InfluencEX Awards 2022 was held to felicitate the best of best influencers across India.
Kerala, well known as God’s Own Country, is one of India’s most beautiful states with lush, scenic landscapes and a rich culture that befits the title. Adding inimitable charm to the experience was the Lexus ES 300h, which took us in luxurious comfort through picturesque Kovalam, stopping at the arts and crafts village, Shiva Stupa and finishing off with a magnificent Sadya feast at Taj Green Cove Resort and Spa, Kovalam. As we found out, the Lexus ES 300h was indeed a refined companion to explore this stunning city.
A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship
Kovalam is an idyllic destination, the perfect setting for the elegant Lexus ES 300h. Starting in absolute silence in pure EV mode, the car is capable of unleashing all its power with a simple toggle of the drive selector. Courtesy of the MacPherson Strut suspensions upfront and rigid rear double-wishbone suspension-member braces on the ES 300h, changing direction while on the highway or in the streets of Kovalam was a breeze. Add to that, the signature Lexus spindle grille design, and slender and beautiful silhouette, made the ES 300h a true head turner.
Our first destination was the Kovalam arts and crafts village, an 8-acre sustainable property dedicated to showcasing the vibrant art and skilled craftsmanship of the state. The Lexus ES 300h felt right at home as it cruised silently, enhancing the sense of serenity in the tranquil village. If you are yet to visit this place, the craftsmanship offered here is second to none – recycled wood, metals, textile, and many other elements of nature are beautifully carved into striking art pieces created by skilled and traditional craftsmen. Lexus draws a great parallel as the craftsmanship is at the brand’s heart. Consider the Lexus Takumi masters, the skilled craftsmen behind every Lexus. Takumi dedicates their lives to the perfection of an individual skill set, and precisely apply their highly trained senses to refining every detail.
“THE ARTISTIC ELEMENT & CLASS-LEADING JAPANESE CRAFTSMANSHIP MAKE THE LEXUS ES300h A PIECE OF ART ON WHEELS.”
This is apparent in the design of the ES, from the subtle touches of crafted luxury in the interiors to the distinctive and refined styling of the exteriors. This class-leading Japanese craftsmanship makes the ES 300h a perfect blend of elegance with luxury.
The Perfect Drive Partner
Our next stop took us across Kovalam to Kerala’s tallest Shiva sculpture, which stands at 58 feet in the form of Gangadeshwara on the cliff of Azhimala beach in Kovalam. This massive statue, which took six years to create, dwarfs the Azhimala temple and is visible across Kovalam’s expansive beaches from miles away.
The Lexus was a perfect partner for the journey, with a quality of excellence and a finish that stands tall. Everything in the ES 300h, including the extensive 12.3-inch widescreen crisp touch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, is oriented towards the owner’s comfort and within arm’s length for efficient operation. The multiple tones of pure luxury inside the cabin add to the experience cocooning you in comfort. The wireless charger and 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround sound system amp the cabin experience to even greater heights.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there’s more: the three-eye bi-beam LED headlamps, stylish rear L-shaped LED lamps, panoramic sunroof, acoustic glass on the windows which insulates the cabin from outside sounds along with active noise cancellation which further adds to the Lexus ES 300h experience. The engaging driver’s 7-inch MID and an even more astonishing heads-up display provide all the necessary information required by one in the driver’s seat. Pairing this opulence with active noise cancellation inside the cabin made the drive a truly serene experience that only a Lexus could deliver.
Luxury Made Personal
From Azhimala beach, our drive continued to the Taj resort consolidating further the driving pleasure the ES 300h is capable of. A dedicated drive mode selector features Eco, Normal and Sport modes for enhanced driving options making the most of both powertrains. The silhouette is not just attractive but also functional, with underbody and rear fins optimizing aerodynamics. The improved engine paired with batteries and motors makes for an unprecedented experience of instant acceleration and dynamic performance at all speed levels without any compromise on the fuel efficiency – along with a step towards a carbon neutral drive.
Along with our co-passengers, we were entranced by the Lexus climate concierge, 3-zone climate control with rear door and window shades for added privacy and luxury made personal. Further enhancing the back seat experience is an integrated central console, which lets you control the audio system, 8-degree rear seat recline, ambient illumination and other settings neatly integrated for a seamless experience. Reaching our destination, we were just in time to relish Kerala’s famous Sadya feast with multiple authentic signature delicacies served on a banana leaf.
IT’S ASTONISHING TO WITNESS A SELF-CHARGING HYBRID ELECTRIC LUXURY VEHICLE SEDAN AS POWERFUL AND YET EFFICIENT
The ES 300h offers the best of the best driving pleasure and excitement served in a sustainable package. Kerala was a great destination to test the Lexus ES 300h, and a beautiful hybrid-electric sedan explored the best each had to offer. Kerala’s lush greenery, beautiful clean beaches, and great food and culture are mesmerizing. The ES 300h reflects that ethos and class perfectly, the absolute partner to wow your senses in a tranquil, luxurious experience. Brilliant and trusted by millions, the hybrid-electric technology makes this car a joyous driving experience while contributing toward carbon neutrality.
Lexus is redefining the meaning of abundance with comfort, technology and a sustainable approach to crafting a better tomorrow. Lexus plans to go carbon neutral by 2050, and if the ES 300h is the starting point of that journey, we are very excited to see what the future holds.
Some of the best concept cars of all times that saw the light of day
Concept cars are alluring. They not only give us a sneak-peek of the future of car brands, but they even give designers the very opportunity to unleash their creativity, giving us some jaw-dropping automotive marvels. Due to the countless and never ending regulations, however, production models often look significantly different than the prototypes we spot at car shows.
That said, every now and then we witness concepts that actually come true with a design very close or sometimes identical to the intended. Hereès a list of 10 well known concept cars that made their way into reality.
FORD GT / 2002 FORD GT-40 CONCEPT
The Ford GT-40 has been a legendary piece of machinery. It was intentionally built to defeat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. And it did defeat Ferrari, taking four wins consecutively.
Ford took almost fifty years to revive the legend until finally, in 2002 it managed to do so. That year, at the Detroit Auto Show (USA), Ford came up with a modern supercar killer. Design-wise, the 2002 GT-40 Concept was an exact copy of the original 1960s legendary model. In 2003 production version dropped the “40” from its name.
LEXUS LC / 2012 LC-LF CONCEPT
Toyota and Lexus rarely get a car that closely resembles the concept because of the over-dramatic lookers they are portrayed to be. When Lexus introduced its future production of a gran-tourer made on the 2012 LF-LC, people were shocked.
Instead of going for a more covert look, Lexus simply copied the concept car into production, as it was. The production vehicle ended up looking incredibly magnificent and sophisticated that it was often compared to cars like the Aston Martin DB-11. And don’t forget the amazing 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V-8 with 470 horsepower. Pure symphony!
AUDI R8 / 2003 AUDI LE MANS QUATTRO CONCEPT
Things started changing in the mid-2000s, after Audi announced that they were going to bring a mid-engine sports car. . It was meant to commemorate the manufacturer’s 3 consecutive wins in the world endurance race. Its study led to the creation of the Audi R8, which looked exactly the same. It even retained the Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
DODGE VIPER / 1989 DODGE VIPER CONCEPT
Back in the 1980s, Bob Lutz, Lee Iacocca, and later Carol Shelby had collaborated in order to produce what is known as one of the most brutal American sports cars ever conceived – the Dodge Viper. The primary idea was to capture the spirit of the Shelby Cobra and recreate it using the 90s technology. Big engine, manual gearbox, and lightweight.
A stunning roadster was unveiled at the 1989 Detroit Auto Show. This concept featured a 5.9-liter V-8, as the V-10 was still under development. It would have eventually evolved into the first generation of the Dodge Viper RT-10, while retaining all the original design elements.
PORSCHE BOXSTER / 1993 BOXSTER CONCEPT
Despite all its colorful portfolio, Porsche wasn’t doing so great back in the 1990s. Even with the brand having the rear-engined 911 and front-engine 944, 928, and 968 models, they fell short of a compact mid-engine model. The Boxster Concept was introduced back in 1993, and despite its modern design, it called back to the 550 Spyder.
The production version which followed adopted the design of the concept, without any significant changes. Its name “Boxster” came from the boxer engine in the car, and the fact it was a roadster. The “Baby Porsche” name came in the nick of time.
LEXUS LFA / 2005 LFA CONCEPT
Probably the modern-day supercar that took the longest time into development. Toyota wanted to tighten the pants in the racing segment when Lexus stepped up to the challenge. A special team of engineers was hand-picked and a unique facility was created, where this exceptional car would be produced. Its prototypes were also spotted testing as early as in 2005.
Mid-way through its development process, it was decided that the chassis had to be carbon fiber and not aluminum. Regardless of which, what came up was a Japanese supercar like no one had seen before. Although the concept was radical, the production spec LFA looked even better, while retaining the same futuristic design language. Adding to that, its 552-horsepower naturally-aspirated high-revving V-10 engine is the talk of legends.
CHEVROLET CAMARO / 2006 CAMARO CONCEPT
In the early 2000s, American manufacturers had started implementing the retro-futuristic design ideology, and to recreate the 1960s glory of the muscle car era. Most stunning concept car was the 2006 Camaro. Both exterior and interior were incredible and it was an obvious throwback to the 1960s classic scene. The car also got fame as it was also featured in the 2007 Transformers movie and instantly became recognizable as the yellow “Bumblebee”.
Luckily, they settled to have the design as it was for the production version. The design of the fifth-gen Camaro became so popular that even a couple of tuning companies offered to bring back some of its elements from the concept as we know of. It included the exhaust tip, which mimicked the shape of the taillights. Even the production model also kept the engine – a 6.0-liter V-8, later replaced by a 6.2-liter.
ACURA NSX / 2012 NSX CONCEPT
The 2012 NSX Concept might not have been far from Honda’s original perception of a successor to its original 1990s sports car, but there is no denying the fact that it looks amazing. The production-spec vehicle looked exactly the same as the 2012 concept car. Featuring Acura’s SH-AWD system and a 3.5-liter V-6 which all-together with 3 electric motors produces 573 horsepower and 476 pound-feet of torque (645 Nm). All of this was mated to a nine-speed dual-clutch-automatic.
JAGUAR F-TYPE / 2011 C-X16 CONCEPT
The Coventry-based(UK) British carmaker is known for its heritage and clinching on to its legendary history. However, Jaguar started getting bolder and dynamic around the late 2000s and started giving us some bold Bond-like styling and more modern day technology. One of the cars which was ideated, came as the C-X16 Concept. This, when Jaguar also decided to make a spiritual successor to one of their most iconic car which was the 1960’s E-type.
Although the clamshell front hood was dropped, the car screamed modern-day E-Type from every angle. Luckily, the exact same design, courtesy of Ian Callum, made it into production, making the F-type one of the most gorgeous looking cars of our time.
NISSAN GTR / 2005 GTR PROTO
In 2005 one thing was certain that a new Godzilla was on its way. At that time, the Tokyo Motor Show unveiled the GTR Prototype which showed the potential futuristic design of the Supercar slayer. The design was nothing less than groundbreaking, as it was a long too far away from the boxy forms of the older R34. At the same time, the concept retained the signature for the model four’s twin round tail lights setup, which in one form or another were featured on all generations before it. The design was more functional than radical, although it still gave the car immense dynamic presence. With the exception of two small vents on the front bumper, which were connected to the headlights via carbon-fiber trim pieces, the production version R35 looked identical to the concept.
Naked streetfighting machines have always adorned the Indian roads and have had a sweet spot in my heart. So when Yamaha first launched the MT-15 in India, expectations were outraged because it was almost the same motorcycle as the R15 underneath, but with less weight to carry around and an extra-terrestrial fascia that could even make an alien contemplate its existence. The Yamaha R15 might have been a raging success but the same couldn’t be said about its street counterpart.
However, Yamaha has now equipped the MT-15 with enough ammunition to go all-guns-blazing on its competition. The prime weapon of choice has to be the inclusion of golden USD forks and a few other key upgrades, but would these updates suffice in making the MT-15 2.0 better than its predecessor?
The Japanese connection
Now that the R15 V4 is finally bestowed with the addition of golden USD forks, it was child’s play to assume that the MT-15 would receive the same upgrades. And it has! The USD forks have certainly added a lot of drama in the front, apart from lending the MT-15 with sharper riding dynamics. The MT-15 has never been lethargic when it came to maneuvering it, but the second generation has kicked up the handling characteristics by several notches. The front end is now more reactive and the rider now feels a lot more connected to the tarmac than before. This particularly makes the MT-15 2.0 a perfect motorcycle for shuttling around in city traffic where you can just slice through the moving traffic like a Japanese Katana. A cast aluminum swingarm has now replaced the box-section unit of the previous motorcycle. This addition has affected its stability by a fair margin and the MT-15 2.0 now feels a lot more pliant on the road than before. Be it highway straights or leaning bends and corners, the MT-15 for sure feels like a Yamaha in all its glory.
This hooliganism and reactive handling is further accentuated by its comfortable ergonomics. Its riding stance is like that of a true-blue streetfighter with a low-set flat handlebar and rear-set footpegs which provide a more comfortable posture than the R15. But the downside to the suspension front is that it feels way too stiffer on city road potholes and over the undulations of the road.
Ninja technique
Yamaha has also slightly tweaked the engine, the official spec sheet reveals that the overall power output from this 155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine is down by 0.1PS but the torque has gone up by 0.2NM. These mild revisions have made the MT-15 a lot more tractable than before as it can chug along as low as 25kmph in the sixth gear which is a formidable feat for an engine that is renowned for its high-revving nature. This 155cc motor is an absolute gem, no wonder Yamaha has milked the cows out of this engine by deploying it in a variety of products. All thanks to the magic woven by the VVA tech, the MT-15 2.0 is a lively machine but in particular power bands. From a standstill, it gets off nicely, taking all the assistance from the VVA but the actual feast commences when you breeze past the 6000 rpm mark on the tachometer. At around 7000 rpm, the VVA kicks in yet again, breathing a new life into this engine. After that, it keeps pulling ahead like its tail’s on fire and keeps pulling with a feisty force till it hits its redline. This is exactly what makes the MT-15 2.0 a joy to blast around. Keep the throttle pinned in every gear and it delivers in spades. The ideal cruising speed is around 100kmph with the engine humming happily at 8000 clicks.
The simplistic LCD instrument cluster is now a goner and has paved way for a Bluetooth-enabled unit that displays Call, E-mail, and SMS Alerts along with Smartphone battery status available through the Bluetooth-Enabled Y-Connect App.
It is now time to shed some light on its dark side.
As rude as pointing a finger at a Japanese!
Life is like a perennial barter deal as you have to trade something to receive something in exchange for it. Those glitzy golden USD forks might have made the MT-15 2.0 sharper than before but the stiff ride quality comes out as major trade-off. Since the front end now chatters a lot more than before, you can feel everything that is happening on the road. The braking feels adequate at best but more feedback and bite would have rounded off the rough edges. We still cannot wrap our heads around the fact that it still misses out on dual-channel ABS.
The cramped proportions of the MT-15 become even more pronounced when you invite someone to ride as a pillion. The pillion seat is borderline non-existent because even the number plate holder at the back is longer than the pillion seat. It might make the MT-15 look uber-cool but be prepared to get hurled with curses if you take someone along with you on a long ride.
We might adore the 155cc mill to death but it has its own set of shortcomings. Although the top-end performance of the MT-15 is to die for, the mid-range is rather bleak. There’s absolutely no juice in the mid-range so you are left with no other option than to wring it through all the gear ratios. Moreover, mild vibrations start spoiling the fun at around 7000 rpm and they keep get surfacing higher up in the rev range.
The MT-15 2.0 definitely looks more radical than its competition, thanks to that unique fascia. But it sort of comes out as a missed opportunity that Yamaha didn’t play around with the aesthetics of the MT-15. A revamped overall design inspired by the bigger MTs would have justified this generational upgrade even more.
Usually, we save the best bits for the last but this time around, we are sliding away from the regime to pinpoint the most irritating ergonomic feedback of the MT-15 2.0. The horn is placed usually where we find the indicator toggle and vice versa. Its more of an intuitional defect than an ergonomic one. I mean, why Yamaha? I had the MT-15 with me for a week and even after riding it for a considerable amount of time, I found myself cursing at this placement every single time I reached out to operate either the horn or the indicator. I could have dug deep in the thesaurus to find a better word than ‘irritating’ but it fits the bill perfectly. It actually is irritating. It also loses out on turn-by-turn navigation which could have proved to be a lot more useful than SMS and call alerts.
Yes Yamaha ! Why Yamaha ?
The new MT-15 2.0 has seen a price bump of INR 12,000-13,000 as it now retails at INR 1.60 Lakh. The pricing might sound a little steep but when you factor in the R15 V4 and KTM 125 Duke into the equation, it starts making sense. It looks dope! Even criminal in some sense! Handles like it is supposed to and being an urban commuter, its top-end performance will make your urban ex-girlfriend curse you more. But the MT-15 2.0 could have been so much more! It lacks the mid-range grunt we usually associate with streetfighters and the lack of dual-channel ABS is still not quite understandable. Overall, the Yamaha MT-15 2.0 might be a better bike than before but it still needs another generational upgrade to evolve to be the best version of it.
Hyundai Motor has invested in a series of cutting-edge technological solutions to overhaul its design process. By embracing the latest innovations, such as virtual reality (VR) and 3D gravity sketching, the company has consolidated its position at the forefront of car design.
Beyond sheer aesthetics, the benefits of this approach are three-fold. Firstly, Hyundai’s designers are equipped with state-of-the-art tools that enable them to develop models with boundary-pushing features. Secondly, a streamlined digital process speeds up vehicle development. Finally, a lower carbon footprint supports the company’s environmental commitments.
Hyundai has made significant investments in state-of-the-art virtual reality (VR) technology and infrastructure to transform its design process
Company stakeholders can now collaborate across continents in a virtual space to speed up vehicle development and support the planet
Hyundai’s latest concept SEVEN is the company’s first model to be designed completely digitally
Stepping away from a traditional design approach
Much like today, Hyundai’s designers commenced the initial creative phase by creating pencil sketches on paper in the past. These images would reflect the kind of car they wanted to convey: perhaps one that is dynamic and sporty, or one that is brimming with new technology. Typically, these drawings would feature exaggerated proportions of the car, such as emphasized wheels and curves.
Once designers completed their initial sketches, they would compete with one another to have their proposals selected. After a winning design was selected, the chosen model would be developed as a scale model from clay, based on two-dimensional paper sketches.
Developing a scale model would take anywhere between four weeks and two months, depending on the schedule. Afterwards, the scale model would then be scanned and milled in a full-size. However, this approach was not without its drawbacks. After all, when shifting from a scale model to full-size, no line stays the same.
Previously, Hyundai’s designers were required to work together with clay modelers to refine the final design of an upcoming model. However, lines and surfaces had to be marked out using tape. On top of this, the company’s engineers were unable to work simultaneously with the designers, as they could only receive data after scanning the model with a photogrammetry system. Both of these factors made the process very time-consuming and cost-intensive.
VR: the revolution
Modern design technology is now very fast and much more stable. Today, Hyundai no longer produces scale clay models; instead it utilizes technologically advanced tools that are more intuitive, such as 3D digital design software. These enable the company’s engineers to mill full scale models using 3D data, which significantly speeds up the design process. Today, 80 per cent of Hyundai’s design development is fully-digital.
Hyundai’s designers work with industry-standard software that has been reprogrammed so that they can work in collaboration across multi-user and multi-location environments. This state-of-the-art technology includes laptops designed for high-performance gaming, in order to handle 3D graphics, motion technology from the film industry, as well as innovations derived from sport. Using this software, the designers can create models and immersive environments in VR that look extremely close to the real thing. The difference between modern design and the traditional approach is stark, and can be compared to the revolution cars undertook before and after anti-lock braking systems were introduced.
VR technology also opens up a host of new opportunities for Hyundai’s designers. For example, the gravity sketching tool enables designers to create more human-centric vehicle designs by working in 3D from the start. Designers swap their paper and pencils for a headset and controllers to become immersed in VR, imitating gestural interactions through motion tracking. By working in 3D, Hyundai’s designers can experiment with different proportions and build variations based on their ideas. Meanwhile, a 360-degree view of the vehicle allows them to sketch from any angle – in contrast to the traditional 2D process.
3D gravity sketching also enhances the collaboration between Hyundai’s exterior and interior designers. Through this technology, the two teams are able to work together simultaneously. While the exterior design team refine the digital model, the company’s interior designers can work in parallel by virtually stepping inside the car to develop features or make quick adjustments.
Another advantage of this technology is Hyundai’s designers’ ability to test unlimited colour options and material applications, including fabrics and leather, ambient lighting and other types of materials. As well as saving time, this also reduces shipping and traveling costs. In addition, this approach is much more sustainable as significantly less waste is produced, resulting in a dramatic reduction of CO2 emissions.
Hyundai’s VR design evaluation system
Hyundai’s design journey in multi-user wireless VR spaces started in 2017. Then, in December 2019, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Corporation announced an ambitious new virtual reality (VR) design evaluation system. Two years on, this has now been fully implemented. The system demonstrates a heightened focus on enhancing vehicle development processes through the implementation of VR technology. It simulates many aspects relating to a model under development, including interior and exterior design elements, as well as lighting, colours and materials.
These cutting-edge facilities in Namyang, Rüsselsheim, and Irvine, California, allow the designers to review a multitude of design concepts earlier in the developmental process, and in ways that were previously physically impossible. VR headsets allow colleagues from Hyundai’s Design and Engineering departments to enter into a virtual conference in real-time and simultaneously undertake vehicle design quality assessments and development verification processes, no matter where they are in the world.
Hyundai has also established remote VR design assessment capabilities to enable real-time virtual collaboration between its design centers in Europe, Korea, China, India, Japan and the U.S.. The benefits for the company are clear: it has facilitated greater cross-team – and intercontinental – collaboration than ever before.
These changes were already underway before COVID-19 emerged and sent the world into lockdown in early 2020. According to Simon Loasby, the pandemic served as a catalyst for Hyundai’s global design workforce, accelerating the transition to digitalization and agile working.
VR technology promises a sustainable future
VR technology is continuing to evolve. In the future, it will offer much higher levels of detail and operate at far quicker speeds. It is therefore set to play an increasingly prominent role for Hyundai’s designers and engineers. In addition, advances in AR and mixed reality will enable the company’s colleagues to interact with one another even more immersively.
However, one fundamental benefit that should not be overlooked is its positive environmental impact. A digital design process produces are much lower carbon footprint, as far fewer clay, paper and waste materials are used in the process. For the development of SEVEN, Hyundai produced one clay model for verification at the end, rather than a multitude of scale clay models. By meeting in a virtual conference space, Hyundai’s designers are no longer required to frequently travel around the globe, expending thousands of air miles in the process. Going forward, this will contribute towards Hyundai achieving its goal of carbon neutrality by 2045.
Mercedes-Benz VISION EQXX demonstrates its world-beating efficiency in real world driving – over 1,000 km on one battery charge and average consumption of 8.7 kWh/100 km
Successful first road trip takes electric vehicle efficiency to a new level.
The VISION EQXX from Mercedes-Benz has now taken to the roads of Europe and has demonstrated its outstanding range and efficiency. Traveling from Sindelfingen across the Swiss Alps and Northern Italy, to its destination of Cassis on the Côte d’Azur, it effortlessly covered more than 1,000 km in everyday traffic, on a single battery charge. The journey started in cold and rainy conditions, and was undertaken at regular road speeds, including prolonged fast-lane cruising at up to 140 km/h on the German autobahn and near the speed limit elsewhere. The battery’s state of charge on arrival was around 15 percent, amounting to a remaining range of around 140 kilometers, and the average consumption was a record-breaking low of 8.7 kWh per 100 kilometers.
The VISION EQXX has thus taken electric vehicle efficiency to a whole new level – in real-life conditions and with independent proof. The long-distance drive was completed with the charging socket sealed and accompanied by an independent expert from certification body TÜV Süd. This officially confirms the effectiveness of the new Mercedes-Benz development approach – thinking holistically about efficiency from the drivetrain to aerodynamics and beyond, down to the tiniest detail, as well as working with even greater inter-functional collaboration and with external partners. This new blueprint for automotive engineering has delivered a new benchmark for electric vehicle efficiency and range, and the technology in the VISION EQXX will be deployed in upcoming series-production Mercedes vehicles.
“We did it! Powering through more than 1,000 kilometers with ease on a single battery charge and a consumption of only 8.7 kWh/100 km in real-world traffic conditions. The VISION EQXX is the most efficient Mercedes ever built. The technology program behind it marks a milestone in the development of electric vehicles. It underpins our strategic aim to ‘Lead in Electric’,” says Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
Ready for the longest road trip since the invention of electric mobility
There’s a reason why road trips have been a cultural touchstone for decades, telling stories from the highway in books, movies and music. The road trip defines freedom, individuality, the very spirit of the automobile and the passing world. Stick a pin in the map – and drive.
The journey to electric mobility is also a road trip; as exhilarating as it is challenging, as unknown as it is certain. For Mercedes-Benz, it is a journey with a clear goal – maximum efficiency through innovation. The VISION EQXX is the product of a holistic approach with innovations in all technical areas that have an impact on energy consumption. “With our successful road trip to the South of France, we’ve shown that efficiency is the new currency. And this success also clearly speaks for our new collaborative development process, incorporating many learnings from the Mercedes-AMG F1 team and its cutting-edge expertise in electric powertrains. The VISION EQXX is the result of a comprehensive program that provides a blueprint for the future of automotive engineering. Many of the innovative developments are already being integrated into production, some of them in the next generation of modular architecture for compact and midsize Mercedes‑Benz vehicles. And the journey continues. With the VISION EQXX, we will keep testing the limits of what’s possible,” says Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer responsible for Development and Purchasing.
Challenging route profile and varying weather conditions
The VISION EQXX is packed with innovations. This software-defined research prototype is part of a far-reaching technology program that combines the latest digital technology with Mercedes’ pioneering spirit, the agility of a start-up and the speed of Formula 1. The mission in developing the VISION EQXX was to break through technological barriers across the board. To show what is electrically “feasible”, the research vehicle completed a one-day road trip across several European borders: from Germany to Switzerland, on to Italy, past Milan and finally to its destination, the port town of Cassis near Marseille in the South of France.
The route profile – from motorway to mountain passes, including roadworks – and the weather conditions presented the VISION EQXX with a wide variety of challenges. Departing from the Sindelfingen R&D centre near Stuttgart in cold conditions, temperatures from start to finish ranged from 3 to 18 degrees Celsius. North of the Alps there was light rain and further south a gentle headwind blew in the sunshine. The various sections of the route helped document the effect of the many efficiency measures.
An excerpt from the trip log:
Up to 140 km/h on the motorway – low drag and rolling resistance pay off
The first leg from Sindelfingen to the north-eastern border of Switzerland runs along Autobahn 81. At times, the VISION EQXX sliced through the wind at speeds of up to 140 km/h. With its low cd value of 0.17, it gives the wind virtually nothing to grab hold of. This world-beating figure for a road-legal vehicle results from the intelligent interaction of many individual measures. It starts with the basic shape of the body, cradling the smooth-surfaced dome of the greenhouse as it flows elegantly like a water droplet towards the rear. Equally beneficial to the aerodynamics are the small frontal area of 2.12 m² and the reduced rear track. Because this is 50 mm narrower than at the front, the rear wheels roll in the slipstream of the front wheels. The active rear diffuser, which automatically deploys at 60 km/h, provides better airflow and thus contributes significantly to the reduced drag.
The technology vehicle gains further efficiency benefits from its tyres, with their extremely low rolling-resistance rating of 4.7. Bridgestone developed these specifically for the VISION EQXX in partnership with Mercedes-Benz. By way of comparison, the current EU tyre label requires a figure of 6.5 for the top rating in Class A. The EQS uses tyres with a rolling resistance of 5.9, which is significantly lower. With the VISION EQXX, Mercedes-Benz is now going one step further. A striking feature is the size of the new tyres. The dimensions 185/65 R 20 97 T mean they have a large diameter and a narrow tread. The specialist Turanza Eco tyres combine two innovative Bridgestone technologies that enable a higher range: ENLITEN technology reduces both rolling resistance and weight by up to 20 percent. The ologic technology reduces tyre deformation while driving, in part through a more tensioned belt section. In addition, the transition from the tyre to the wheel rim was optimized in cooperation with the Mercedes-Benz aerodynamics team.
Over the mountains – the lightweight dividend
The VISION EQXX’s special features also include its carefully thought-through lightweight construction, which has a particularly positive effect on uphill climbs. Any keen cyclist knows why it’s always the same kind of rider out in front on mountain stages. The heavier, more muscular sprinters are always staring at the taillights of the wiry featherweights on the uphill slogs. The decisive factor is the power-to-weight ratio. It’s not about sheer performance in the sense of “faster; higher; further” but about endurance and lower energy consumption.
This is exactly what the VISION EQXX demonstrates impressively on the approach to the Gotthard Tunnel heading for Italy. On the section between Amsteg and Göschenen, there’s a 14-kilometers uphill stretch with a gradient of up to five percent. It is here, where every gram of extra weight eats up energy, that the VISION EQXX scores sustainable points with its unladen weight of only 1,755 kilograms.
The lightweight design concept of the VISION EQXX is comprehensive – from the materials used to innovative bionic structures that deliver a favorable power-to-weight ratio. Examples of this are the sustainable carbon-fibre-sugar composite material used for the upper part of the battery, which is also used in Formula 1, and the BIONEQXX rear floor, manufactured using an aluminum casting process. The light metal structural component replaces a much heavier assembly of several interconnected parts. It has gaps in places where structural strength is not required, thus saving material. This innovative design approach results in a weight saving of up to 20 percent compared to a conventionally manufactured component.
A large part of the weight efficiency is also due to the dedicated electric chassis with lightweight F1 subframe and aluminum brake discs. Another is the battery. At 100 kWh, the power storage unit developed specifically for the VISION EQXX has almost the same amount of energy as the battery of the EQS, which is already a global benchmark among electric cars currently on the market. However, it has 50 percent less volume and is 30 percent lighter. The outcome is that the compact battery, measuring just 200 x 126 x 11 cm, is also comparatively light at 495 kilograms and fits in a compact car. The electric drive was developed in cooperation with the experts from Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.
Back down the hill – recuperation is the name of the game
After the Gotthard Tunnel, the road goes downhill for a very long way. This is where the VISION EQXX makes the most of the situation in its own way. While the golden rule of the professional cyclist is to go full throttle downhill to make up time, the VISION EQXX does the unthinkable and regenerates its energy reserves. In electric cars, this is called recuperation, the recovery of braking energy. In this discipline, too, the VISION EQXX sets new standards thanks to its highly efficient electric powertrain.
The VISION EQXX can use the recuperation effect on any type of gradient and during every braking maneuver, thus extending its range. A positive side effect of this electric braking is that the mechanical brakes are barely used. This makes it possible for the first time to use new types of aluminum brake discs that weigh significantly less than their steel counterparts.
Solar roof – energy snack in sunny Italy
The VISION EQXX gets a hearty energy snack around midday in the Po Valley near Milan – not at the charging station, but via its fixed solar roof. The 117 solar cells feed the 12-volt battery, which supplies power to auxiliary consumers such as the navigation system. The added value is measurable through the load this removes from the high-voltage battery, displayed by the onboard computer. Overall, the solar booster increases the range by more than two percent – which adds up to a good 25 kilometers on a journey of over 1,000 kilometers.
Innovative eATS – powerful, frugal, enduring
The electric drive unit in the VISION EQXX – consisting of the electric motor, transmission and power electronics – was developed together with the F1 specialists at HPP, and has a peak output of 180 kW. Thanks to the torque available from the first rev of the motor and the very low aerodynamic and rolling resistance of the VISION EQXX, its full potential is barely tapped during the entire trip. Much more important than top performance are other factors. Just like the battery, the electric drive unit is compact, lightweight and highly efficient. Its average efficiency in this application is 95%. That means 95% of the energy from the battery ends up at the wheels.
This goes hand-in-hand with further efficiency benefits such as the reduction of losses in the drivetrain. The engineers at Mercedes-Benz have succeeded in reducing the total losses in the drivetrain (motor, inverter and transmission) by 44% compared to an e-drive that is not based on this project. This makes a big different to the bottom line, with one percent more efficiency bringing two percent more range. This effect is further amplified by the battery of the VISION EQXX, thanks to its remarkable energy density of almost 400 Wh/l and particularly high operating voltage of more than 900 volts. And on the topic of high voltage: The VISION EQXX marks the first use of this technology, which proves itself throughout the entire journey. With not a single problem such as line overheating, everything is well under control. There are further efficiency from the active cell balancing. It ensures that energy is drawn evenly from the cells during the journey, which increases the usable energy and thus the range even more.
Efficient thermal management system – passive powertrain cooling is all it takes
Since the electric drivetrain generates little waste heat thanks to its high efficiency, passive cooling is sufficient throughout the journey. The cooling plate in the underbody uses the airflow to ensure even cooling. This aerodynamically highly efficient solution increases the range by 20 kilometers, while the cd value remains unchanged at a low 0.17.
Even on the ascent to the Gotthard Tunnel, the air shutters remain closed. The air control system would only open an additional air-path if there was an increased demand for cooling the electric drive or for climate control inside the cabin on hot days or if the heat pump was running on cold days. The air-path then connects the high-pressure zone at the front of the vehicle with the low-pressure zones along the top of the bonnet. This enables highly efficient thermal management with minimal air resistance. With the shutters open, the cd value would increase by only seven points (0.007).
Efficiency assistant – actively helping to save energy
Whether e-drive or combustion engine, the amount of energy a motor consumes in practice ultimately depends a great deal on driving style. In Switzerland, Italy and France, “pedal to the metal” is not an option anyway, thanks to speed limits and attentive law-enforcement officers. However, the VISION EQXX also proves to be an intelligent sidekick, assisting the driver like a co-pilot with tips on the best possible driving style. The efficiency assistant provides information on energy flow, battery status, topography and even the direction and intensity of wind and sun.
The UI/UX features an all-new, one-piece display that spans the entire width of the interior. Elements of the user interface support seamless interaction between the driver and the vehicle. These include Artificial Intelligence (AI) that mimics the way the human brain works. In the VISION EQXX, Mercedes-Benz takes a radically new UI/UX approach. A game engine takes UI graphics to a whole new level. The UI shows how real-time graphics open up new digital possibilities by reacting instantly to the driver’s needs and bringing the real world into the vehicle.
Finale in France – crossing the finish line with around 140 kilometres of remaining range
Shortly before crossing the finish line in Cassis, the VISION EQXX gathered energy once more through recuperation. After 11 hours and 32 minutes of driving time, it ended its 1,008-kilometers road trip with a remaining range of around 140 kilometers. This means it could have set off again for a jaunt along the Mediterranean coastline without recharging.
The VISION EQXX has unequivocally proven the real-world potential of outstanding efficiency for electric vehicles. This first road trip to Cassis is a watershed moment on a much bigger journey that is far from over. There’s a lot more to come.
VISION EQXX: the most important facts at a glance
#MissionAccomplished: more than 1,000 km with a single battery charge in real everyday traffic allows for relaxed long-distance journeys.
#EnergyWizard: efficiency-enhancing measures lead to an outstandingly low consumption of 8.7 kWh per 100 km.
#AeroChamp: outstanding work in aerodynamics and exterior design enables a benchmark drag coefficient of 0.17, which has a particularly positive effect on fuel consumption at high speeds on the motorway.
#RollingEfficiency: tyres with a significantly lower rolling resistance than the class A required by the EU tyre label and improved aerodynamic geometry, combined with lightweight magnesium wheels, provide more range.
#ElectricDrive: the radically new drive concept developed by Mercedes-Benz achieves a benchmark efficiency of 95% from battery to wheels.
#PassiveCooling: innovative passive drivetrain cooling via a cooling plate in the underbody.
#BionicEngineering: advanced digital tools enable innovative lightweight designs that increase efficiency and range.
#SolarPower: ultra-thin roof panels feed the battery system and provide up to 25 km of additional range.
#SoftwareDriven: software-driven approach is the key to success in achieving efficiency targets and a fast development process, including a sophisticated battery management system.
#GlobalResponsibleLeadership: with the VISION EQXX, Mercedes-Benz is stepping up the pace to “Lead in Electric” and “Lead in Car Software” and to set standards for sustainable mobility.
VISION EQXX: the trip log in figures
Start
Sindelfingen, April 5th, 2022, 7:00 a.m.
Arrival
Cassis, April 5th, 2022, 7:02 p.m.
Travel route
Sindelfingen, Gotthard Tunnel, Milan, Cassis
Driving distance
1,008 kilometres
Total travel time/movement
12 hours and 2 minutes/11 hours and 32 minutes
Average speed
87.4 km/h
Maximum speed on motorway
140 km/h
Average consumption
8.7 kWh per 100 km
Battery charge level on arrival (SoC)
around 15%
Remaining range on arrival
around 140 km
VISION EQXX: the most important technical data at a glance
Over 50,000 Kilometers Covered in Endurance Testing
The second modern coach built model from Bugatti pays homage to the definitive super sports car of the 1990s: the EB110. A performance package the world had never seen before, the EB110 features a 3.5-liter V12 engine with four turbochargers producing up to 610 PS, linked to an all-wheel-drive system and a carbon-fiber monocoque.
Just ten Bugatti Centodieci cars will be built, yet the French luxury car manufacturer is putting the very same energy into developing and testing them as it devotes to its ‘series products’, such as the Bugatti Chiron. Bugatti’s customers expect nothing less. After all, coach built models are the most exclusive the brand has to offer, with limited production units and extraordinary design featuring individual dynamic setups.
Over the course of many months, Bugatti test drivers and engineers gather technical data and gain valuable experience at high-speed, on handling routes and circuits, on highways and in city traffic – all of which is shared with the technical development department at Bugatti Engineering for meticulous evaluation. The production-based prototype of the Centodieci completed over 50,000 test kilometers in total upon its return from Nardò in the Puglia region of southern Italy, following final endurance testing.
The white prototype completes lap by lap for hour after hour, kilometer after kilometer. Three drivers rotate to examine all functions of the Centodieci, registering and logging every minor anomaly. They drive day and night on different track profiles and across every speed range, from stop-and-go pace to top speed. Endurance testing requires drivers to possess outstanding technical knowledge, maximum concentration, and sensitivity, as well as precise mastery of the vehicle. Even after hours on the high-speed track, they must be able to perceive the slightest of atypical noises, movements, and irregularities. Everything is inspected one final time: driving on different surfaces – both wet and dry – testing every little steering movement, braking, acceleration, cornering load, and functionality of the driver assistance systems.
“With its high-speed circuit and handling course, the Nardò test center provides the ideal conditions for intensive endurance tests,” says Steffen Leicht – the man responsible for endurance testing at Bugatti. The 12.6-kilometer-long circular track with a diameter of four kilometers is considered the fastest automotive circuit in the world – perfect for the 380 km/h Centodieci. The 6.2 kilometer-long handling course on the inner section permits checks at the highest load levels and with longitudinal and transverse dynamics. The over 70 hectare-large site at Nardò provides 70 kilometers of roads with different surfaces, enabling extensive testing and inspection of all vehicle components.
The Centodieci covers up to 1,200 kilometers each day, interrupted only by technical checks, refueling, and driver changes. Throughout the entire time, Bugatti’s engineers analyze the engine and vehicle data and make adjustments where necessary. “We assess every element on the vehicle one last time, paying particular attention to functionality and durability before the first Centodieci cars go into production,” explains Carl Heilenkötter – project manager responsible for one-off and few-off projects at Bugatti. All components must interact perfectly with one another and be capable of withstanding any kind of overloading. They must also harmonize in a stable and safe manner even when subjected to the most severe handling situations.
Bugatti has subjected its products to the highest quality standards for more than 100 years, and the marque continues to adhere to these standards up to this day. As such, the Centodieci will guarantee its owner a unique driving experience 100 years from now. To achieve this level of quality, Bugatti goes well beyond the legal and expected requirements.
“The Centodieci is deliberately driven to its limits in order to guarantee reliable handling at the highest level, even in extreme situations. Even though most cars never enter this range, it is nonetheless tested. This is the philosophy of the brand and that is why we put such a huge amount of effort into all this testing. Bugatti is committed to the highest quality standards, durability, and customer satisfaction,” says Carl Heilenkötter. The endurance tests in Nardò represent the final act of the extensive trials.
As soon as the final assessment has been completed, the first of the highly exclusive vehicles – each with a starting price of eight million euros – enters into production. In the Molsheim Atelier, Alsace, the Centodieci will be built with the same diligence taken by the engineers during the development phase. All ten cars are set to be delivered to their owners this year.
David Brown Automotive has recently given an enticing glimpse of its upcoming, limited run version of Mini Remastered, produced in collaboration with another iconic British brand, Marshall Amplification.
The special variant of David Brown Automotive’s popular reimagined classic Mini has been conceived to mark a momentous achievement in Marshall’s storied history – their 60th anniversary.
In addition to the complete restoration and enhancement applied to all Mini Remastered models, Mini Remastered Marshall Edition will present a number of new Marshall audio features, developed in collaboration between the vehicle engineers and the artisan technicians at David Brown Automotive, and the expert engineering team at Marshall Amplification. With its comprehensively upgraded speaker system and an array of other Marshall Amplification audio enhancements, Mini Remastered Marshall Edition will pack a serious, modern & sonic punch.
For each Mini Remastered Marshall Edition sold, David Brown Automotive and Marshall Amplification will make a charitable donation to the Music Trust Venue, which is working to help get the UK’s independent music scene back on its feet after the disruption of the pandemic.
About David Brown Automotive
David Brown Automotive was started in 2013 by British businessman, David Brown and was born out of his admiration for iconic classic cars and passion for hand craftsmanship combined with state-of-the-art engineering. He believes that cars should not only be beautifully designed and crafted but also usable and reliable.
The company is based in an 18,000 sq ft build facility in Silverstone, with a showroom in St John’s Wood, London, and a worldwide distribution and service network.
Its current model line-up includes Speedback GT, Speedback Silverstone Edition, Mini Remastered and the recently-launched, Mini Remastered, Oselli Edition.
About Marshall Amplification
Marshall Amplification has a vibrant and dynamic history within the music industry and is celebrated by some of the greatest artists in the world. Catapulted from humble beginnings in Hanwell, London, Marshall is now a global brand achieving manufacturing excellence. Creativity and innovation are at the heart of the business and every product they create. With 60 years of music experience, Marshall continue to push the boundaries of possibility for the musicians of the future.
About Music Venue Trust
Music Venue Trust, founded in 2014, is a registered charity that seeks to preserve, secure and improve the UK’s network of small to medium scale, mostly independently run, music venues. We have a long term plan to protect that live music network which includes, where necessary, taking into charitable ownership freehold properties so they can be removed from commercial pressures and leased back to passionate music professionals to continue their operation.
KIA’S ALL-ELECTRIC SUV CONCEPT TAKES CENTER STAGE AT AUTOMOBILITY LA
Having just recently launched the EV6 to great international acclaim and appreciation, Kia Corporation has stunned onlookers at the AutoMobility LA event with the reveal of its all-electric SUV concept, the Kia Concept EV9.
It is the clearest signal yet from Kia as to what might turn out to be the next addition to its new-generation EV lineup. The Concept EV9 epitomizes the brand’s recent leadership in designing and developing desirable, high-tech, zero-emissions vehicles. Just like the EV6, the Concept EV9 is known as a dedicated EV from Kia, having been carefully developed and optimized on the company’s advanced Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).
The Kia Concept EV9 embodies Kia’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions, having recently showcased the company’s future vision at the ‘Kia Sustainability Movement’ digital presentation. The design of the vehicle was inspired by nature and uses up-cycled materials developed from waste deposited into the fragile marine ecosystem.
The SUV even offers striking visual aesthetics. Thanks to Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy.The Kia design team was especially influenced by the ‘Bold for Nature’ pillar of “Opposites United”. This has helped the all-electric SUV concept to take on an iconic and bold form, meshing logical and emotional qualities with playful, rugged features and styling cues.
Kia Concept EV9’s extensive list of tech capabilities and all-round flexibility ensures that it always feels at home even when tackling traffic in densely populated urban areas; at the same time, it even offers families the freedom to experience leisure pursuits away from city vicinity.
The shape of things to come
It blends a stunning exterior profile with modern and sleek interior space which is influenced with state-of-the-art technology. The incredible aesthetics of the Kia Concept EV9 – both inside and out – have been carefully honed from “Opposites United”, Kia’s new design philosophy.
Taking inspiration from the ‘Bold for Nature’ design pillar of Opposites United, the Concept EV9 embodies an adventurous, recreational and outgoing form with its chiseled upright stance. From the outside, such proportions highlight a three-row SUV footprint, hence signifying a vehicle which is highly capable, practical and ready for action all the time. From the side, this modern looking angular profile gives the all-electric SUV a unique and distinctive silhouette that is deeply rooted in the new design language.
A low gravity side body creates maximum and instant impact with the sharp crystalline contoured fenders that sit high up on the vehicle. The low side body profiling effect makes the fender volumes of the Concept EV9 pop out, resulting in a butch SUV stance.
Concept EV9 measures 4,930mm in length, 2,055mm in width and 1,790mm of height. It boasts a wheelbase of 3,100mm. The concept also combines its stunning SUV form with state-of-the-art engineering. The all-electric SUV delivers driving range of up to 300 miles. It also features next-generation ultra-fast charging technology with a 350kW charger which allows its advanced battery electric powertrain to juice up from 10% to 80% charge in just 20-30 minutes.
Contrasting with its muscular on-road presence, soft and welcoming volumes across the body of the Concept EV9 are offset with sharp and neatly edged elements. Solid rock geometry is expressed through a sophisticated design distribution of mass, while the volume of the soft fuselage cabin has been made to feel welcoming and approachable.
Tiger Face goes digital
Kia’s iconic Tiger Face has been reinterpreted for the BEVs and is showcased on the Kia Concept EV9.
The new BEV-focused grille houses an intricate star cloud pattern display that is completely hidden behind the body panel of the Concept EV9 when not in use. This stylish light-show further highlights the high-tech nature of the all-electric SUV while still paying homage to the natural world. Sequential patterns create a ‘welcome light’ for the driver and also function to appropriately position lights during driving. The star cloud pattern inspired the Kia design team to create standout vertical Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs) for both the front and rear of the car, in-turn creating a unique signature look from start to finish.
Enhancing aero efficiency are retractable roof rails that close inward into the roof of the Concept EV9 when not in use, creating smooth airflow over the vehicle. When needed, the roof rails can be raised by a simple touch of a button, further emphasizing the all-action and all-go nature of the Concept EV9. A next-gen camera monitoring system that replaces the conventional wing mirrors further improves aerodynamic properties while also enhancing the spatial awareness of the driver.
Natural light
At the rear of the Concept EV9 is a compelling yet beatifically delicate triangular d-pillar treatment that acts as a visual focal point and resonates with the SUV’s angular design elements. The innovative d-pillar design also creates a unique Daylight Opening (DLO) signature.
The machined 22-inch wheels further add to the geometric appearance and robust nature of the Concept EV9. A triangular aero design piece controls the airflow around the wheel and creates a visual contrast to the circular nature of the wheel to fully express the Opposites United design philosophy, making sure a balance in harmony extends into every element and section.
To stay in tune with the environment – and tapping back into the ‘Bold for Nature’ design pillar – the Concept EV9 has an all-encompassing DLO panoramic sky roof. This not only offers passengers relaxing views from above but also opens the potential for positive impact on wellness and mood.
The beautifully sleek glass structure creates a direct connection to the outside environment, be that sunshine flooding into the cabin on a blue-sky day, the tranquil sound of rain during a weekend drive in autumn or the calming feel of the luminous glow of moonlight and the stars on a cloudless evening.
Transformative interior space
Against a wellbeing, wellness and mindfulness backdrop, the Concept EV9 has been carefully crafted to offer the driver and passengers a transformative interior space as the journey experience evolves.
Mirroring the exterior design, the interior of the Concept EV9 has also been greatly influenced by the ‘Bold for Nature’ design pillar of Opposites United.
Inside the all-electric SUV is a design undertaking that integrates the qualities of nature, movement and stillness as part of a scenic, first-class lounge. The panoramic roof, with its sky-gazing views, further adds to the sense of lightness and being in contact with the environment.
An interactive 27-inch ultra-wide display connects the Concept EV9 from the real-world to the virtual one, while serving as the nerve center for all driver and passenger requirements, including media, climate control and comfort functionality features.
This sense of ‘tomorrow’ extends from the visionary interior design and into the steering wheel. The automotive industry today treats the steering wheel like a separate product – a total standalone subsystem; the Concept EV9, however, takes a radically different approach in which the pop-up steering pad is an extension of – and integrated and harmonized within – the interior space.
Innovative interior modes when not moving
The interior of the Concept EV9 explores new perspectives as the journey experience evolves. The all-electric SUV has three forward-thinking interior modes that capture different journey situations and requirements. Active Mode is when the Concept EV9 is on the move, making sure the driver and passengers have an optimal driving experience from within the all-electric SUV. The two other modes relate to when the Concept EV9 is not moving.
Pause Mode modifies the interior space to be more akin to a first-class lounge, giving occupants the opportunity to directly interact with each other while benefiting from the light streaming in from the wide panoramic roof. In this mode, the seats switch around to enable occupants seated in the first-row and third-row to face each other. The second-row seats fold down and become a table, completing the first-class lounge arrangement.
The second stationary mode is Enjoy Mode, which opens the interior into a downtime breakout space by turning around the three-row seat configuration. In this mode, the tailgate opens, giving all occupants the opportunity to connect with the outside environment and gaze ahead and beyond the vehicle while sitting comfortable inside the all-electric SUV.
Inspired by water
The Concept EV9 features a design inspired by taking note of the simplicity and perfection of nature, and how it contrasts and works together in perfect harmony. In this respect, the Concept EV9 took further inspiration from the ‘Water Element’ of Opposites United, taking on characteristics that relate to serenity, calmness and wellbeing. For example, the exterior color mimics the expansive depth of the ocean; this is then balanced by a soothing and clear blue sky that radiates throughout the interior.
The ‘Water Element’ ethos also came to the fore when the Kia design team was looking at sustainable and ecological materials for use in the Concept EV9. Recycled fishnets have been used to help create the flooring of the vehicle and seating fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles and recycled wool fibers. Also, vegan leather, which is far more ethical and sustainable compared to conventional animal leather, was used throughout the interior space. Kia plans to gradually reduce the use of animal leather in all its vehicles.
Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider
Kia recently announced its corporate vision to become a “Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider,” along with the intention to achieve carbon neutrality throughout the company’s value chain by 2045 at the ‘Kia Sustainability Movement’ event on November 11. The three-pillared carbon neutrality goal consists of commitments to “Sustainable Mobility,” “Sustainable Planet” and “Sustainable Energy”. The strategy encompasses processes from logistics, vehicle production, vehicle use and the disposal of waste. The Concept EV9 embodies an important part of this strategy as the next possible addition to Kia’s high-tech BEV line-up.
The Eletre is a new icon from Lotus. It is the latest in a long line of Lotus road cars whose name begins with the letter “E”, which means ‘Coming to Life’ in some Eastern European languages. It’s an appropriate link as the Eletre marks the start of a new chapter in the history of Lotus – the first accessible EV and the first SUV.
The ongoing transformation of Lotus to a truly global performance car brand has reached its most significant milestone yet.
The all-new and all-electric Lotus Eletre is a striking and progressive Hyper-SUV – the first of a new breed of pure electric SUVs. It takes the Lotus DNA from more than 70 years of sports car design and engineering, evolving them into a desirable all-new lifestyle car for the next generation of Lotus customers.
The company’s famed expertise in the fields of ride and handling, steering, and optimized aerodynamics has been carefully and respectfully evolved. The Eletre takes the heart and soul of the latest Lotus sports car – the Emira – and the extreme aero performance of the all-electric Evija hypercar and reinterprets them as a Hyper-SUV.
Known only two days ago by its Lotus codename, Type 132, the Eletre is a globally relevant product, a shining halo of sustainable mobility for a worldwide audience. Embodying emotion, intelligence and prestige, it extends the reach of the Lotus name, badge and renowned driver engagement to a new audience.
A bold new dimension to the Lotus performance car portfolio, the Eletre delivers many firsts for Lotus – the first five-door production car, the first model outside sports car segments, the first lifestyle EV, the most ‘connected’ Lotus ever. And yet it remains an actual Lotus, a beautiful car ‘carved by air’, packed with pioneering technology, sporting performance and simplicity of purpose, designed and developed by a passionate global team. The Lotus Eletre is alive with character and personality.
The Eletre is 4WD, has a battery capacity that’s over 100kWh and with power from 600hp. A 350kW charger will deliver a 400km (248 miles) range in just 20 minutes. The car’s target maximum WLTP driving range is c.600km (c.373 miles). It also comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging which, where available, reduces the time plugged in.
Technology includes the most advanced active aerodynamics package on any production SUV, and intelligent driving technologies such as the world’s first deployable Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) system in a production car. Add in a dynamic walk-up sequence that delivers a moment of theatre every time the driver approaches the car, and it’s clear the Eletre is making a simple statement – this is Lotus reinvented, the birth of a new icon into the Lotus stable.
The immersive experience with the Lotus Eletre begins before the driver has reached the car. Pressing the button on the key or smartphone app activates a unique moment of theatre in the automotive world. The car’s exterior lights run through a short sequence, the active front grille ‘breathes’, and the illuminated flush door handles deploy. The experience is repeated inside the car as the door closes behind the occupant.
The infotainment experience in the Eletre sets new standards in the automotive world, with pioneering and innovative use of intelligent technologies. The result is an intuitive and seamless connected experience. It is a collaboration between the design team in Warwickshire and the Lotus team in China, who have huge experience in the fields of User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX).
The Eletre is the first in a new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles to be built at an all-new state-of-the-art production facility in Wuhan, China. The car has been ‘Born British, Raised Globally’, with design led by the UK, supported by collaborative work with teams in China, Sweden and Germany. The overall exterior and interior design has been led by an international team based at the Lotus Tech Creative Centre (LTCC) in Warwickshire, UK.
The Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new and highly versatile Electric Premium Architecture (EPA). The low-to-the-ground design means outstanding handling, and the EPA can easily adapt to accommodate C+ to E+ vehicle class battery sizes, motors, component layouts and intelligent driving technologies.
The platform will be the basis for an all-new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles from Lotus. Led by the Eletre, these cars will catapult Lotus into a new era of higher retail volumes and significant revenues.
Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars, commented: “The Eletre is a bold and revolutionary new car, delivering on our commitment to move Lotus into completely new automotive segments as we widen our global appeal and accessibility. This is a momentous point in our history and a clear signal of our ongoing desire to transform our business. It is a true Lotus, and we’re confident it will delight performance car customers and offer a distinct alternative to the segment’s established players. The Eletre has the soul of a Lotus and the usability of an SUV. Alongside the Emira sports car, this is the perfect two-car garage from Lotus.”
Qingfeng Feng, CEO, Group Lotus, added: “The Eletre, our Hyper-SUV, is a new performance car from an iconic performance car brand and it will appeal to independent-minded and adventurous driving enthusiasts – those who love the thrill of driving. It is a unique combination of beautiful design, exceptional dynamic performance and everyday usability, for those who dare to look beyond the conventional, and marks a turning point for our business and brand.”
He added: “While the worldwide critical acclaim for the Emira has reaffirmed Lotus’ position as a respected sports car marque, the Eletre will make Lotus accessible to a whole new audience. It is a compelling alternative for those who desire a true driver’s car but whose lifestyle demands something more practical than a traditional sports car. And it is only the start for Lotus – there is much more to come.”
