Volkswagen shows latest robotic charger prototype

As EVs become more and more popular and more affordable, charging infrastructure becomes increasingly important. In fact, many buyers of Tesla vehicles specify Tesla's expanding charging network as an important factor in the purchase of the automaker's vehicles. Those that live in large complexes often skip even looking at EVs since they have few charging options (that will be less problematic as charging stations become as numerous as gas stations). Volkswagen is developing a robotic charger that will autonomously charge a vehicle in restricted parking areas and underground structures utilizing a phone app or other communication.  The unit independently steers to the vehicle to be charged and communicates with it: from opening the charging socket flap to connecting the plug and decoupling it. The entire charging process takes place without any human involvement whatsoever. To charge several vehicles at the same time, the mobile robot moves a mobile energy storage unit to the vehicle, connects it, and then uses this energy storage unit to charge the vehicle and repeats the process to charge other vehicles. Once the vehicle is fully charged, the robot independently collects the mobile energy storage unit and takes it back to the central charging station. Welcome to the 21st Century. The units shown here are prototypes and show just how committed VW is to our electrified future. More to come...

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, pics, and video (after the "read more" jump)

2021 Nissan Leaf gets updates and low(ish) price of entry

Some may forget that Nissan was one of the first US automakers to enter the EV market with the first Leaf. That first Nissan EV had unique styling that was attractive, but also said "I'm a little bit different." No grille, and an airy interior were hallmarks of the first Leaf. Range was small, but the technology was in its infancy. Nissan sold quite a few Leafs (Leaves?) and the little EV was updated a few years ago to look less "Leafy" and more like other Nissans. You can debate the wisdom of that choice, but the new 2021 Leaf is an attractive alternative to "regular" compact sedans like Nissan's various Sentra models. The newest Leaf starts with a relatively low prices (for an EV) of under $32k with a 149-mile range and 147 hp and 236 lb./ft. of torque in either S or SV trim. Upgrade to the Leaf PLUS and get up to 226-miles of range and 214 hp and 250 lb./ft. of torque in either the S PLUS, SV PLUS, or SL PLUS trim levels. The top-of-the-line Leaf SL PLUS gets most of the good stuff and tech and pricing starts at just under $44K. Interestingly, it's the Leaf S PLUS that has the greatest range (226 miles). I guess the added equipment in the top trim levels decreases range (215 miles). For more information, check out the media release and pics after the "read more" jump. The newest Leaf could be an inexpensive alternative to other EVs...that is until the tech becomes less expensive in the next few years and there are more options available like Nissan's upcoming Ariya.

Source: Nissan - Media release and pics

Volkswagen iD4 gets official EPA-range, mpg-e ratings for early editions

Volkswagen's all-new iD4 EV should be at your local dealer very soon and the EPA has released the official ratings for the first versions to be available. First up, are the 1st Edition and the Pro RWD 82 kWh models that feature rear-wheel drive, a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 200 hp and 225 lb./ft.  of torque (instant EV torque), and a battery pack that allows a fast-charge (125 kW) from 5 to 80 % in less than 40 minutes. The EPA rates the iD4 at 104 MPGe, highway driving is rated at 89 MPGe, and combined city/highway at 97 MPGe. The EPA also estimates that new iD4 owners will save about $2,200 annually versus the average automobile. Don't forget that the iD4 will come with three-years of free charging with Electrify America as a promotional offer. VW is taking a different road with the development of the iD4. The little(ish) ute was designed to compete with other compact crossovers like the RAV-4 and CR-V (with gas engines) directly and not other EVs. This shift makes the iD4 more than competitive in it's class and an easier sales proposition for dealers and consumers. And. it ain't bad looking either. Later in 2021, an all-wheel drive version with more than 300 hp will be introduced. Those numbers have yet to be released. Pricing starts at $39,995 + for the Pro model and Federal and State rebates are available. More to come. Check out the brief media release after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, video, and pics

Happy Holidays to all and to a better New Year!

A friend sent me this pic several years ago and I don't know where it came from (source) but we could all use a little car-themed humor right now. Whoever did this is brilliant. Have a great holiday season!

Alpha Motor Corporation unveils the new Ace EV Coupe

it seems like another day, another new EV. Of course, that's far from true since the latest crop of new EVs have been in development sometimes for years. The fact that so many have running prototypes and mock ups to introduce says a lot about the electrified-future we are all going to live in. It also says a lot about legacy automakers and the game of catch-up they are going to need to play. It also means that some of these new automakers will be bought up by larger companies, but that's a discussion for another day. 

What you see here is the new Ace coupe, an EV from Alpha Motor Corporation of Irvine, California. The Ace is a small EV with seating for 2 and a pair of jump seats for storage (14 cubic feet) and occasional riders (if Gov. Regs allow). Early specifications (after the media releases) expect a 0-60 mph time of under 6 seconds, rear-wheel drive, fast charging, and about 250 miles of range. 16- to 18-inch wheels will be available and premium sound will be standard.  All this may change by production which is expected in 2023. The overall look has Volkswagen hints like the early Golf/Rabbit and the side profile hints of the New Beetle. It's a nice look...very clean. No side marker lights, but they've got time. I'm sure other things will crop up. The Ace Coupe will spawn a number of vehicles including the compact Icon crossover/SUV. Smart move to use the first product for more like the Tesla Model S and X, etc. The interior has a minimalist Tesla look to it as well. I'm sure we'll be seeing more in the future, at least I hope so. Not every one needs a giant sedan or SUV battery-electric vehicle. so the Ace Coupe city car would be a nice addition to the list of available EVs. For more info, check out the 3 media releases, pic, videos, and spec sheet after the "read more" jump. More to come...

Source: Alpha - Media releases, pics, and videos.

Aptera introduces the all-new "never charge" EV citycar

Okay, that title may be a bit of a stretch, but it is possible (depending on driving style of course) with Aptera's new EV. To begin, the Aptera is an electric vehicle that has several different battery sizes in the offing that will provide anywhere from 250 to 1,000 miles of range on a single charge. The never charge kicker is that the Aptera features solar panels to recharge the batteries on the go...so you may never have to stop. The point is that you have options. To charge or not to charge, that is the question. Obviously, this will make the Aptera extremely economical to use and so will the price of entry. The basic 25kWh Aptera two-seater (250-mile range), will start at just under $25K. Stepping up to the top-of-the-line 100 kWh battery pack (1,000 mile range) will set you back about $46K plus the price of any options. The three-wheel, light-weight design in the top configuration will tip the scales at just 2,200 lbs. including batteries and hit 60 mph in less than 6 seconds (3.5 seconds with all-wheel drive). We can agree that the new Aptera EV won't be for everyone, with it's size and capacity, but as a city car or a daily driver it could meet many folk's needs. Plus it won't cost much (or anything) to run. Also, the three-wheel design does not require a motorcycle license in 48 of the 50 states. Check with your DMV offices about your state's requirements or give Aptera a holler. For more information, check out the media release, specifications sheet (at the end), and 2 videos after the "read more" jump. The new Aptera EV is expected to meet all NHTSA tests and regulations before the vehicle roll-out in 2021. It's also kinda cool looking in a space-age sort of way. Aptera is taking orders now.

Source: Aptera - Media releases, pics, spec sheet, and videos

Canoo unveils all-new EV delivery van for under $35k

What you see here is the design of the Canoo MPDV 1 (height is estimated at 6.2 ft.) EV delivery van that the company plans on bringing to market with a sub-$35k starting price and a 170-mile range. The MPDV 2 is the tall, walk-in version of the Canoo MPDV 1 (picture it much taller, 8.4 ft.in height). Three battery sizes will be available allowing up to 300 miles on a charge. Range estimates for the MPDV 2 (250 miles max) are lower due to the increased size and weight of the vehicle. The electric motor will send the power (200 hp, 236 lb./ft. of torque) to the front wheels. The driving module is set back a bit for increased safety but the MPDV 1 and 2 are expected to have class-leading cargo capacity. The new vans are positioned atop Canoo's skateboard architecture (see pic after the jump) that is expected to spawn numerous vehicles including Canoo's taxi-like passenger van and possibly a truck. The passenger van eschews the MPDV's Lego-like styling for a more rounded (and possibly aerodynamic) design. While Canoo has a ways to go before we see these vehicles on the road, these prototypes look good and should be well received. The fact that Canoo is also shooting for much lower total ownership costs is also a big plus. I hope they make it. Check out the media release (with specifications), Forward-looking statement, and the intro video after the "read more" jump. The vehicular world is certainly getting more interesting. More to come I'm sure...

Source: Canoo - Media release, Forward-looking statement, pics, and videos

Mini Countryman goes to the "Boardwalk"

Few car companies do special editions better (or as many) as the Mini brand and this is the latest, The Countryman Boardwalk. The Boardwalk edition (I keep hearing the song "Under the Boardwalk" as I type this) comes outfitted with special Deep Laguna Metallic blue paint with black accents and a stripe pattern in Deep Laguna metallic and black metallic with the lettering “BOARDWALK” on the frame of the side trims known as "Side Scuttles." Patterns and inscriptions can also be found on the entry bars. In addition, the side flanks of the roof at the rear side windows and the interior bar on the passenger side each bear a logo with the name of the edition model. The Boardwalk edition will come in three Countryman flavors: Cooper, Cooper S, and Cooper S All4 (with all-wheel drive). A six-speed manual is standard and a seven-speed automatic is optional. All4 models step up to the eight-speed Steptronic automatic. Cooper S and Cooper S All4 models get the turbocharged four (178 hp). Options are available to further enhance your Mini special. Personally, I like the Deep Laguna Metallic paint and the overall look. Now if it was available in the hybrid SE version... For more, check out the media release, general Countryman video, and additional pic after the "read more" jump. Check with your dealer regarding availability.

Source: Mini - Media release and pics

Ford Mustang Mach-e EV hits range targets

Ford's all-new Mustang Mach-e EV has received it's official EPA range numbers and the electric pony has met it's early range estimates with the extended-range RWD version capable of 300 miles before needing a recharge (assuming you run it down to zero charge). Even the "base" or standard-range Mach-e will run for 230 miles between charges. (See chart after the jump. AWD versions have lower numbers due to extra weight, etc.) Of course, mileage will vary based on equipment, weather, conditions, and driving style. Range numbers have not been released for the higher-performance Mach-e GT that will be released this summer. Ford's Mach-e range puts the EV crossover into the marketplace as one of the only EVs to hit the magic 300-mile EPA-range number which also includes Tesla's Model Y, a direct competitor. The Mustang Mach-e should be hitting dealer showrooms any day now. Can't wait to see them out "in the wild." For more, check out the brief release, b-roll/interior video after the jump. More to come...

Source: Ford - Media release after the "read more" jump.

Zoox Robotaxi videos

   

Source Zoox/YouTube - second (more informative) video after the "read more" jump. Robotaxi write-up.

Zoox Incorporated shows its Robotaxi autonomous vehicle

 

Zoox Inc, unveiled its purpose-built Robotaxi autonomous vehicle that could be used in urban settings replacing "normal" taxis and ride-share services. Zoox's autonomous tech is far along in the development process with prototypes currently testing in Las Vegas, San Francisco, and Foster City (Zoox's home town). Zoox was purchased by Amazon this year and became an independent subsidiary of the giant corporation. Zoox's Robotaxi makes a lot of sense for big cities and, just possibly, for the delivery of goods between warehouses, consumers. etc. Could this be the source of Amazon's interest? The Robotaxi has a large 133 kW battery pack that would allow for 16 hours of continuous usage and fast recharges. The Robotaxi is bi-directional making parking, etc. a breeze. It also features four-wheel steering for improved maneuverability. Top speed is limited to 75 mph. In developing the Robotaxi, Zoox developed more than 100 pieces of new safety tech such as special airbags that would protect riders in the Robotaxi's open interior and more. We are very close to having totally autonomous vehicles and if you live in a fairly large metropolis, you could see Robotaxis soon. See the videos in the preceding post. We shall see. More to come...

Source: Zoox - Media release, pics. Video post.

TA.b Here ya go - 12A-20 AKA John Cooper Works Mini gets electric

This falls into the "well duh" category. BMW's Mini division is developing an electric platform to support the brand's JCW (John Cooper Works) performance models (I'm sure BMW would "borrow" the platform for its own use as well). With Tesla and other automaker's EV sedans and crossovers shaming supercars with better performance and better efficiency to boot, this is an easy to understand development. Can't wait to see the first electric JCW Minis. Brief media release and additional pic after the "read more" jump.

Source: Mini/BMW - Media release and pic

Below are the "Here ya go" articles of interest to me and hopefully you. First off, we have articles about Tesla's possible merger (won't happen,.,for now) with another automaker (and third article). The article includes various car companies' valuations. Interesting. The fourth article talks about the expanding charging infrastructure for Semis and so on and so on... Click to enjoy.

Tesla open to merging - Electrek

Possible that Tesla would acquire legacy automaker - Clean Technica

City of Portland and Daimler create "charging island" for Semis - ElectreK

LG Chem to double battery output for Tesla - Inside EVs

Robotics maker receives order of "bots" to produce VW iD Buzz - Inside EVs

Lucid hits major production milestone - Teslarati

Subaru introduces all-new BRZ Sports Coupe for 2022

A few years ago, Toyota and Subaru got together and created an all-new sports coupe to be sold by Subaru and Scion dealers. The cars each had details that differed, but the basic design was the same. When Scion went bye bye, the sports coupe became a Toyota, the FT 86. For 2022, the Subaru BRZ has received updates and upgrades to allow for the all-new title. New styling, a new engine, new infotainment, new safety equipment, etc. The cool thing here is that sports coupes can get pushed aside and the Subie (at least, no word on the Toyota version) has been redone to keep the little coupe relevant. Okay, no hybrid or EV at this time, but the 2.4-liter Subaru Boxer, naturally-aspirated engine is new (228 hp, 184 lb./ft. of torque) that comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. With the car's low center of gravity, handling should be exceptional but the BRZ is more about balanced performance than straight-line numbers. The interior is new with Subaru's latest infotainment package and the interior looks like a nice place to be. The BRZ is a 2+2, but the room in the back is better for kids or short folk. But then if you wanted comfy seating for four+, you wouldn't be buying a sports coupe, you'd find some sporty sedan to fill your needs. The new styling is a stand out like a sport coupe should be with sculpted sides and a reworked rear clip that is very good-looking. The front clip is also nice as it should also be. The 2022 Subaru BRZ will be hitting your local dealer later next year, but if this looks like it could be your next car, get in line at your local Subaru dealer now. Sports coupes often sell out after a major update and this is an update. For more info, check out the media release and video after the jump. More to come, I'm sure...

Source: Subaru - Media release. pics, and intro video after the "read more" jump.

AVWWG - Morgan Motor Company launches final run of P101 limited-edition three-wheeler

Morgan Motor Company is known for their sports cars with wood chassis bits and their original vehicle, the three-wheeler. But the vehicle seen here, the P101, marks the end of an era. Morgan is going to halt production of it's three-wheeler in 2021. The current three-wheeler was updated in 2011. The P101 will be available with four distinct packages, the Belly Tank, The Dazzleship (below), the Aviator, and the Race Car each with their own graphics package that attaches to the Deep Black or Satin White Silver painted body. So why is this Another Vehicle We Won't Get (AVWWG) you ask? Well firstly there isn't much call for three-wheel vehicles in the US. Secondly there is the whole regulations and crash testing thing and thirdly Morgan is only going to make 33 examples which appear to be spoken for. Also, the P101 would set US owners back about $70k with current exchange rates, etc. so there's that. I could see a very few collectors wanting to add this special, limited-edition model that marks the end of three-wheeler production to their respective garages. Since Morgan is to continue sports car production, it will be interesting to see how the boutique automaker will handle the upcoming ICE ban in Europe and the UK. Morgan's sports cars use running gear sourced from various other companies, like BMW, so sourcing EV parts should be relatively easy. Just wanted to let you know that the automotive world was much more than just GM, Ford, Toyota, and now Tesla. Check out the media release and video after the jump. Enjoy!

Source: Morgan - Media release, pics, and video after the "read more" jump.

Lincoln upgrades 2021 Nautilus mid-size crossover/SUV

For 2021, Lincoln has refreshed the Nautilus mid-size crossover/SUV with updated styling and a new interior that echoes larger Lincoln vehicles. Yes folks, you can expect mega luxury and loads of safety equipment and the latest Lincoln technology in a nice-sized vehicle. Not everyone needs a Navigator. The updates are good-looking and the interior looks to be a "serene" place to be. The Nautilus comes in many portfolio trims that in "Black Label" trim offer specific environments to uplift your driving experience. Ford's new Sync 4 handles the infotainment duties along with Lincoln's safety and technology suite (including Co-Pilot 360) befitting the Nautilus's stature (see media release for specifics). Two engines will be available depending on trim level chosen: a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four that produces 250 hp and 280 lb/ft. of torque and a 2.7-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 that makes 335 hp and 380 lb/ft. of torque both mated to an eight-speed automatic. That's where my problem with the new Nautilus lies. Where's the plug-in hybrid or the EV? The Nautilus appears to be similarly sized to Ford's Mustang Mach-e EV, so why not make the leap and make the Nautilus Lincoln's first EV? Could be supply issues or dealer resistance, but Ford/Lincoln missed an opportunity here. What do you think? For more info and two videos (one at the end of the release) make the jump and enjoy!

Source: Lincoln - Media release, digital experience, pics and videos (YouTube, 2) after the "read moire" jump.

Honda debuts prototype of the 2022 Civic sedan

To say that the new 2022 Honda Civic is good-looking is more than accurate. The aspects of the current 10th-generation car have been improved. The new, 11th-generation Civic gets a much cleaner front end without the awkward chrome bars while the sides receive a very clean muscular design. So far, Honda has committed to the standard Civic sedans and the Civic Hatchbacks, as wells as the Civic Si, and the high-performance Civic Type R that will be built in the US for the US market. Since this is a prototype, there could be some changes, but production is set to begin in the Spring. Expect updated tech and safety equipment to help the Civic maintain its "Best-Seller" badge. Yep, Civic is the best-selling compact cat and one of the top-ten sellers period (on and off). The dash art (above) gives an indication of the interior direction of the new Civic. Since Civic is Honda's best-selling compact the new design is important. I don't think Honda needs to worry. Enjoy the intro video above and go to the "read more" jump for the media release and an additional pic. More info to come...

Source: Honda - Media release, video, pics

Mini shows one EV future with innovative Vision Urbanaut concept

Minis have always been about space utilization and their new Vision Urbanaut concept takes the uses of space to a new level. The four-seat interior comes in varying modes aka "Mini Moments" like Chill, Wanderlust, and Vibe with varying uses of the "Cozy Corner" rear seating area. The driver's front area can be converted to a daybed and the instrument cluster folds down into a table. Camping (or is it glamping) anyone? The Urbanaut's footprint is very Mini-esque with a much taller greenhouse than any other Mini model. Interesting touches include front and rear lamps that change from their normal "working" colors to various images, a new interpretation of the Mini grille that houses sensors for autonomous driving, etc,. and the versatile interior. The body-color shading of the glass is very nice and could become the new dark-tinted rear windows. The concept's wheels draw upon the look of skateboard wheels and are unique with clear centers that color change with the Mini Moment selected. Don't see that one making production due to cost and regulations. The hinged windshield is really unnecessary. The single side door entry is interesting. So what could eventually see production? The overall shape and size of the Urbanaut is similar to VW's upcoming iD Buzz reinterpretation of the classic VW van from the 60's. The Urbanaut utilizes an existing BMW/Mini EV platform and the Cozy Corner hoop could provide crash protection and structural strength to offset the large glass area. The reconfigurable four-seat interior (with single door entry) could see production in some form and the digital exterior lights are a possible next step in lighting. As mentioned before, the glass gradient is nice and wouldn't overly restrict the outside view (see bus and building wraps, etc.).  So there is a lot going on with the Mini Vision Urbanaut that shows possible future directions of automotive design, execution, and usage. The question is, "How quickly could Mini get the Urbanaut into production without overly watering down the concept's flavor? We shall see. Interesting though. For lots more info and pics, not to mention the introduction video (after the release), click on the "read more" jump. Enjoy! Oh yeah, add bumpers...and rear-view cameras...

Source: Mini - Media release, intro video (after the media release), and pics

Toyota to begin deliveries of the latest Mirai hydrogen-powered sedan in December

This sleek-looking sedan replaces one of the arguably ugliest vehicles ever produced, the Toyota Mirai. I believe the idea was to make the original Mirai stand out when it came to market five years ago and boy did it. Toyota sold very few of them and the range was very small. In later years, range was improved but if you think it's hard to find electrical charging, try finding a hydrogen station. In fact, Toyota has installed a handful of hydrogen stations as a result. Toyota bribed Mirai buyers with free hydrogen for up to three years (term of a lease?). Sales improved, but not to the levels required. So a new Mirai was needed. Enter the 2021 Mirai with styling that says Toyota/Lexus and is a major improvement. Now Mirai will be offered in XLE (red car below) and Limited grades (blue car and interior pic above) with varying levels of trim and features. Most of Toyota's safety and tech suites come standard with models differentiated by trim mostly like wheels, tires, panoramic roof, upholstery choices, etc. Interestingly, at least to me, the media release does not mention range or pricing, so check with your dealer for info or visit Toyota's consumer website. While the 2021 Mirai is a step forward, why Toyota didn't take the next step and make the Mirai an EV is beyond me. It feels like Toyota invested in the wrong technology, especially since EVs are being accepted around the globe and maybe they didn't anticipate battery advancements. (FYI: hydrogen fuel cells create electricity which is used to power electric motors.) Also hydrogen for vehicles is often created from hydrocarbons aka oil or by breaking apart water molecules which requires energy. Is Toyota somehow wedded to the oil industry? Hydrogen-fueled vehicles emit mostly water out the exhaust which is a step up from ICE vehicles, but hydrogen-fuel cells seem to be a middle step most manufacturers decided to skip. The 2021 Mirai will be at your local dealer in December. Maybe Toyota will release an EV version of the new Mirai which might spur more interest from consumers.

Source: Toyota - Media release and pics

Hyundai adds 50+ mpg hybrid model to dramatic 2021 Elantra

 

To say that Hyundai has upgraded the 2021 Elantra is an understatement. The new car has a dramatic styling overhaul that makes the new Elantra appear much larger than its predecessor while the increases in size are less than two inches (length, width, lowered height) the interior volume remains mostly the same. The styling updates are, like all things, subjective and up to your eyes to decide, but the new Elantra is a looker. The big news is the addition of the new hybrid model that is expected to get a 50+ mpg rating by the EPA. Just to show how diminutive the new Elantra really is, just look at the power ratings. The standard car's 2.0-liter four is rated 147 hp and 132 lb./ft of torque while the hybrid makes 139 hp and up to 195 lb./ft of torque which in the past, has moved the car along nicely. If you're interested, drive it and decide for yourself. The hybrid gets a six-speed dual-clutch automatic while the ICE version has to make do with a CVT (continuously-variable transmission) or what I like to call a rubber-band transmission (sound and engine noise/revs don't always match speed). The interior (shown) has an optional 10.25 infotainment screen and 10.25 instrument display along with what you'd expect and can afford. Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto are new additions. For more info on standard and available equipment, check out the media release, intro video (at the end). and pics after the "read more" jump. Expect the 2021 Elantras (Elantri?) to show up at your local dealer soon.

Source: Hyundai - Media release, B-roll video, and pics

Volkswagen intros new Golf R with R-Performance Torque-Vectoring 4Motion all-wheel drive

Volkswagen's Golf (now in its eighth generation) has been a mainstay in the automaker's line-up as the replacement for the venerable Beetle. Since then, the Golf has received numerous upgrades including the performance-oriented GTI and R models. Where the GTI is a well-balanced run-a-bout, the Golf R is all about speed and handling with 4Motion all-wheel drive. This newest Performance Golf R features an upgraded engine with more than 315 hp and torque-vectoring added to the all-wheel-drive system. Expect the new Golf R to hit 60 mph in about 4.5 seconds and early prototypes have posted record times (for Golfs) at Germany's Nürburgring Nordschleife racing center. As the top-of-the Golf line, the R receives all of VW's good stuff from tech to safety equipment. As anyone who's shopped a Golf R before, prices can climb to the mid-five-figure region quickly depending on options chosen, etc. VW may not sell tons of these, but those lucky enough to come up with the price of entry are generally very happy. On a down note, couldn't all this have been accomplished with a performance-hybrid system (gas engine in the front driving the front wheels, electric motor in the back driving the rear wheels) which could provide equal or better performance with improved fuel economy and provide a bit of a "green" patina. VW is expected to phase out the Golf over the next few years and replace it with the iD.3 EV series. Rumor has it that VW is already at work on an iD.3 GTI. We shall see. Enjoy the media release and video after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, video, and pics after the "read more" jump.

Ford powering ahead with new 2022 E-Transit battery-electric commercial vans

Ford, who controls much of the US van market, has just announced the 2022 E-Transit models that will be available next year. The fully battery-electric powered EV vans will come in three lengths with three roof sizes as well as cutaway and cab-only versions. Initially the E-Transit will come with one motor size and battery pack that will be good for 266 hp and 126 miles of range (van needs are much different than the needs of the general public). Even with those specs, the E-Transit is expected to carry between 3,000 and 4000+ pounds of cargo. The E-Transit is rear-wheel drive with the electric motor on the rear axle and with the batteries under the cargo floor. Pricing will start at $45k for the smallest length and lowest roof (yes these babies ain't cheap, but then neither are the gas and diesel models), but you can expect cost savings from an EV's lower costs of operation. Full info and pricing will become available closer to the van's intro. The E-Transit comes with Ford's full safety and tech suites including ProPower options, Sync 4 and a standard 4g LTE modem. For the available info and more, check out the informative media release and video after the jump.

Source: Media release, pics, and video after the "read more" jump.