Mercedes-Benz VISION EQXX demonstrates its world-beating efficiency

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 c_d 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 c_d 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 c_d 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 5^th, 2022, 7:00 a.m.
Arrival	Cassis, April 5^th, 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

Energy content of the battery	kWh	< 100
Rated voltage	volts	> 900
Energy consumption	kWh/100 km (miles/kWh)	8.7 (7.1)
C_d value		0.17
Front face	m²	2.12
Power	kW	180
Wheelbase	mm	2,800
Length/width/height	mm	4,977/1,870/1,350
Unladen vehicle weight	kg	1,755

KIA EV9 – ALL ELECTRIC SUV CONCEPT

THE KIA CONCEPT EV9

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.

LOTUS ELETRE | The first electric hyper-SUV

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.”

The new MINI 3-door on snow and ice.

Fully electric and packed with driving fun:

The fifth model generation also kicks off with the MINI 3-door. The new edition of the original is now undergoing its driving dynamics tests in the winter landscapes of Lapland.

The fully electric edition of the new MINI 3-Door hatch is now completing a significant chapter in its series development process as it undergoes driving dynamics tests on the snow and ice at the BMW Group’sGroup’s winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden.

With its high-voltage battery, power electronics and charging technology of the new MINI prototypes, the electric drivetrain is already demonstrating its high degree of maturity at extreme temperatures below freezing.

Snow-covered roads and specially prepared areas on frozen lakes serve as ideal test tracks, and the test engineers can precisely tune the spontaneous power development of the electric motor, the control systems for optimizing traction, cornering behaviour, suspension and damping characteristics as well as the character of the steering and braking system. The integrated application of all drive and chassis systems enables a mature degree of overall harmony, which helps the production model deliver the perfect balance of MINI go-kart feeling and driving comfort.

MINI is launching its fifth generation with the MINI 3-Door Hatch as the first model of the new MINI family. With its vehicle concept geared towards complete electrification, it is ideally suited to deliver hallmark MINI handling and creative use of space with plenty of room inside and a small footprint on the tarmac. It will be revealed in late 2023 and will be available with an internal combustion engine option as well.

The future core portfolio of all-electric powered vehicles will include the MINI 3-Door Hatch, a new crossover in the small-car segment and the next generation MINI Countryman in the compact SUV segment. MINI is also developing concepts for the John Cooper Works models with an electric drivetrain.

This year, MINI will reveal its concept of the new all-electric crossover. The next-generation MINI Countryman will be revealed in 2023, which will again be available with an internal combustion engine option.

The iconic MINI 3-door consistently continues the concept of urban driving fun that has been successful for more than 60 years. All this shall be implemented even more puristically and sustainably in the future.

It becomes evident in the design of the classic body variant. Electrification allows designers to think fundamentally differently and creates new starting points for the hallmark MINI combination of individual style, attention to detail, a sense of tradition and a passion for innovation. The design of the new MINI harks back to its unique history, uses the latest technology and creates a maximum of emotions combined with a minimal footprint.

All the driving characteristics of the new MINI 3-door can be optimally refined at the winter test centre in Arjeplog. With every lap it completes on packed snow and ice, the test engineers can precisely tune the spontaneous power development of the electric motor, the control systems for optimizing traction, the cornering abilities, the suspension and damping characteristics, and the character of the steering and braking system. The integrated application of all drive and chassis systems enables a mature degree of overall harmony, which will help the later production model deliver a coherent and hallmark MINI balance of go-kart feeling and driving comfort.

To read more about the future of Hypercars, click here.

Formula E and FIA introduce ‘Gen3’ racing car

The pinnacle of performance, efficiency and sustainability

About Formula E and the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship

It is the world’s only all-electric FIA World Championship and the only sport to be certified net zero carbon emission since its inception. ABB FIA Formula E World Championship brings in dramatic racing to the heart of some of the world’s most iconic cities providing an elite motorsport platform for the world’s leading automotive manufacturers to accelerate electric vehicle innovation and development.

Everyone associated with it, be it the teams, manufacturers, partners or broadcasters, are all passionate for the sport with the belief in its potential to create a better future of electric mobility.

www.FIAFormulaE.com

Formula E and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) have shared a sneak peek into the third-generation all-electric Formula E racing car that will race in Season 9 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

The Gen3 was described by FIA President Jean Todt as: “a machine created at the intersection of high performance, efficiency and sustainability.”

The Gen3 was presented to an exclusive group of Formula E manufacturers, teams, drivers and partners in Valencia, Spain, where pre-season testing is underway for Season 8 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, which begins in January next year.

While Formula E manufacturers are all set to take delivery of Gen3 cars in spring 2022 following further intensive development testing on and off the track, the briefing in Valencia disclosed a series of design, performance and sustainability innovations incorporated in the Gen3 car:

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship creates an environment where high-performance co-exists with utmost sustainability. Leading experts in sustainability at the FIA and Formula E worked closely with engineers throughout the development process to ensure sustainability in high performance racing cars.

The Gen3 will be net-zero carbon, maintaining the Championship’s status as the first sport to be certified as net-zero carbon footprint since inception.
All the carbon fiber broken parts will be recycled by an innovative process from the aviation and aerospace industry into new fibers which can be used in other applications.
This pioneering process will deliver 26% sustainable materials into the composition of tyres.
The Gen3 is powered by electric motors that are substantially more efficient than ICEs as they can convert over 90% of the electrical energy into mechanical energy compared to approx 40% in high efficiency ICEs.
Series of industry-leading design, production and technological innovations in Formula E’s fastest, lightest, most powerful and efficient racing car ever
Third generation of Formula E racing car, the Gen3, sets the benchmark for sustainable high performance racing cars
Design inspired by the aero-efficient delta wing of a fighter jet and optimized for street racing.
The world’s most efficient racing car – at least 40% of the energy used within a race will be produced by regenerative braking during the race.
The first formula car with both front and rear powertrains: a new front powertrain adds 250kW to the 350kW at the rear, more than doubling the regenerative capability of the current Gen2 to a total of 600kW.
The first formula car that will not feature rear hydraulic brakes due to the addition of the front powertrain and its regenerative capability.
An electric motor delivering up to 350kw of power (470BHP), capable of a top speed of 200mph (320 km/h), with a power-to-weight ratio that is twice as efficient as an equivalent 470BHP internal combustion engine (ICE).
Lighter and smaller than the Gen2 to enable faster, more agile wheel-to-wheel racing.

Official Interviews :

Jean Todt, FIA President, said:

“The new Gen3 Formula E single-seater is a car created at the intersection of high performance, efficiency and sustainability. The work accomplished by the FIA’s teams together with Formula E, since the launch of the discipline eight seasons ago, tirelessly seek to drive innovation and further the development of sustainable mobility. I have no doubt that this new single-seater will elevate Formula E to the next level.”

Jamie Reigle, Formula E CEO, said:

“In designing the Gen3 car, we set out to demonstrate that high performance, efficiency and sustainability can co-exist without compromise. Together with the FIA, we have built the world’s most efficient and sustainable high performance race car.

“The Gen3 is our fastest, lightest, most powerful and efficient racing car yet. It is a creature designed for its habitat: racing on city streets in wheel-to-wheel combat. We look forward to witnessing it inspire and excite the next generation of motorsport fans in cities around the world from Season 9 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.”

Formula E launches a new short-form episodic documentary series, Formula E: Unplugged, with all episodes free to view on Formula E’s YouTube and Facebook pages –

https://bit.ly/FormulaEUnpluggedPlaylist

The 15-episode x 15-minute series takes viewers through Season 7 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, revealing what it takes to deliver international motorsport against the backdrop of challenges imposed by the global pandemic

Viewers will see how drivers, engineers, team crews and executives are pushed to the limit in Formula E’s first season operating as an official motorsport FIA World Championship. From the season opener in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia to the climax in Berlin via Rome, Valencia, Monaco, Puebla (Mexico), New York and London, the Formula E: Unplugged cameras capture the triumphs and challenges of life in the Formula E paddock.

Season 7 the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship attracted record-breaking international TV audiences for the live race broadcasts. Formula E: Unplugged delivers a new perspective with original content from the garages and driver interviews in addition to racing action.

Formula E: Unplugged offers an honest and unfiltered look behind the scenes at Formula E during its first campaign as an FIA World Championship. It’s about the people who make up our sport, with a spotlight on their stories from a unique season in motorsport.

Whether viewers are long-time fans of Formula E, motorsport followers curious about electric racing, or simply intrigued to find out more about our world, Formula E: Unplugged will offer a new perspective on our teams and drivers as they navigate the season on and off the track.

Season 8 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship begins in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, on January 28 and 29 and will feature 16 races in 12 iconic world cities including Jakarta, Vancouver, Mexico City and London before concluding in Seoul, South Korea in August.

Future of electric mobility in India

Clean, green and surprisingly fun

The Indian Automobile Industry is ranked as the 5th largest in the world and is expected to move up to be the 3rd largest by 2030. Despite this impressive growth, India still needs a dramatic shift in the mobility sector so as to cater to its vast, ever-growing population. With the crude oil prices drifting up internationally, as well as the rocketing fuel prices, the existing models might not suffice in the coming years; as technology needs to be environment-friendly and cost-effective at the same time. What, then, should be the alternative?

Electrification certainly seems to be the talk of the town in this regard. It would do a great deal in reducing vehicular emissions – which are a key contributor to air pollution, a major and looming issue today in all the big, crowded cities of the country. The Indian auto industry has been buzzing with new innovations and trends with respect to this in the recent years. It all started with the “Reva” electric car which made its debut in the year 2001 (and later got acquired by Mahindra), and a few e-rickshaws which entered the market at that time. Since then, there have only been a few automakers (both four & two wheelers) to fill the gap. But the concept of electric vehicles, that used to turn just a few heads, is now catching everyone’s attention. It can definitely be said that electric vehicles are on their way to becoming a lucrative solution & a bright reality.

Besides the strengthening of EV and related component manufacturing, the battery prices are also expected to fall by more than 30% by 2025, which will make electric vehicles more affordable over the period of time. Also, the government of India has announced various tax redemptions and subsidies to further encourage more people to consider EVs. Under the Make In India programme, the manufacturing of EVs and their associated components is expected to increase. On the economic front, large-scale adoption of electric vehicles is expected to bring down the dependency on foreign oil & petroleum imports. The running cost of EVs, as compared to fuel could fall as low as Rs 1.1/km from that of Rs.6-10/km of a diesel or petrol vehicle , helping an electric vehicle owner save up to Rs. 20,000 for every 5,000km traversed.

Further, a holistic e-mobility ecosystem is complete only with an effective charging infrastructure & e-mobility service providers (rentals, charging spots, battery swapping stations etc.) and related regulations. Currently, charging infrastructure for EVs is an area of concern; however, there have been some positive developments with more and more OEM’s entering the market with their products and collectively helping set and grow the infra across the country.

The demand for electric vehicles in our country is driven by the concern of fast-charging batteries coupled with great performance & extended driving range. Indians are known for being value-conscious & thus the number of EVs selling today is less. Talking money, the running cost of a diesel/petrol vehicle can be tremendously more than that of an EV, but the initial investment is what gets heavy on the pockets. It is this mentality which needs to be changed.

For automotive players today, the primary challenge is to develop quality battery packs with extended range and longer lifespan; batteries which are safe and can store & deliver a lot of energy. In the current ecosystem, lithium ion batteries have emerged as the most suitable option.

Reservations do exist among consumers today due to the limited range of these vehicles and the lack of charging facilities, as well as the high operating costs behind setting up Public Charging Stations (PCS) – the burden of which would be passed on to them in the form of higher tariffs. As a result, EVs are only used for short, irregular trips and have yet to become the norm. However, despite these infrastructural limitations, continuous investments are taking place in the research and development arena to make EV and associated technology more cost-effective. Along with this, an increasingly facilitative role is being played by the Government in providing concessions to encourage their adoption. Finally, with the realization of the practical realities surrounding traditional vehicles and their externalities, these factors will cumulatively begins to shape the consumer’s preferences favourably towards EVs. They will surely become a viable and optimal alternative in the coming future, with immense potential to transform the landscape, and usher in a new era for the automobile sector.

India can benefit on a large scale with the widespread adoption of e-mobility. Various government interventions can definitely play a vital role in advancing electric mobility in the country. Indian policymakers have been actively pushing EV adoption in the recent years, by introducing various plans like NEMMP (National Electric Mobility Mission Plan, 2020) , the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric vehicles (FAME) and other electric campaigns under different state governments.

Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure: NITI Aayog’s Policy Review Part – 1

A few days ago, our Chief Editor, Ramesh Somani, came with a quote – Future is Electric. Yes, it is. As if Ramesh Somani has some sort of telepathy with one of the largest think tanks of this country – NITI Aayog. Why? Check out their website, and you will know why. Recently NITI Aayog has come up with their new handbook on Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure. Now, terracotta environmentalists can differ from me that EV policy is not going to help. The 6th IPCC Report also showcases that human effort towards a better future in terms of climate change is not helping a lot. But, EVs can turn around things and reduce the penetration of pollutants in your vicinity. Let’s know what this handbook is all about from this Exhibit blog.

Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE)

If you don’t know what terminology I have just thrown towards you, let me make you understand it easily. Well, this EVSE is nothing but the core component of charging infrastructure. It’s like finding a charging station for your EV, like when you seek electric sockets to charge your smartphones. However, an EVSE has more niche than your smartphone charging point. It is because your EVSE is a public point and will not be present at your home. Hence, you must add more functionality, including user authorization, authentication process for charging, privacy, security, information storage, and network management for better regulations.

Segmentation based on Battery Capacity

Trust me; it’s an important section. Wherever you go to fill the tanks of your car in a pumping station, you get several choices – petrol, diesel, power, CNG, etc. A similar sort of consideration should come in the charging infrastructure prospect of an EV. Why? Now, your two-wheeler EV will not have the same battery capacity that your four-wheeler will hold. Even when the Government of India will think about EV trucks, situations will become more different. So, if anyone thinks to install a charging infrastructure on any land, one must also ponder battery capacity segmentation.

Battery Charging or Battery Swapping

EV battery charging methods will have different methods, consisting of AC or DC. Apart from this, the charging infrastructure must have a battery swapping facility if the lifespan of a battery finishes. But, it can be in a normal car repairing centre. No, it should not be there. You will like to know the reason for sure. See, many of these repairing centres will have the capital to go for such battery replacement. But batteries are a bit costly, and it won’t be possible for small repair centres. Thinking about the population of this country who will purchase EVs after the Vehicle Scrappage Policy, the demands for batteries will increase for sure. To meet such needs, charging infrastructure must add such facilities there.

Final Remarks & Lacunae in Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

The Exhibit team has discussed hardly anything in the handbook that NITI Aayog has brought. So, I will get more editions for you by examining every aspect of this so-called future document, just like we did yesterday for these articles. However, before we wrap, this document can add some more facilities. Governments must think about installing computer vision cameras that can track the vehicle number of your car and integrate the same with the VAHAN portal to know its car details and accordingly give directions to a particular place where they can charge their batteries (due to different battery capacities). It is an age of automation, and charging infrastructure should have such arrangements. It will surely avoid a fuss even in an electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Kia teases upcoming EV, confirms new platform

Kia Corporation has revealed the first official images of the EV6 – it’s first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV), built on its new EV platform (Electric-Global Modular Platform, or E-GMP).
EV6 is also the first of Kia’s next-generation BEVs to be developed under a new design philosophy that embodies Kia’s shifting focus towards electrification.
“EV6 is the embodiment of both our brand purpose, ‘Movement that inspires’, and our new design philosophy. It has been designed to inspire every journey by offering an intuitive and natural experience that improves the daily lives of our customers and provide user ownership that is simple, intuitive and integrated,” said Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Center. “We aim to design the physical experience of our brand and to create bold, original and inventive electric vehicles.”

Kia’s new naming strategy for upcoming dedicated BEVs

As part of its brand transition, Kia’s new reliable battery electric vehicles will be named according to a new naming strategy. The new approach brings simplicity and consistency to Kia’s EV nomenclature across all global markets.
All of Kia’s new dedicated BEVs will start with the prefix “EV”, making it easy for consumers to understand which of Kia’s products are fully electric. This is followed by a number that corresponds to the car’s position in the line-up.
Designed and engineered to embody Kia’s new brand slogan, ‘Movement that inspires’, EV6 will make its world premiere during the first quarter of 2021.