Buick debuts Electra EV concept in Shanghai

Buick has chosen a storied name from its past, Electra, to be affixed to its concept EV for the Shanghai Motor Exposition. China is Buick's largest market where they sell hundreds of thousands more vehicles there than in the US. As a result, Buick's attention is very China-centric creating vehicles and concepts that will appeal to Chinese buyers. With that in mind, Buick created the Electra concept showing the brand's vision for the future. Remember that Electra was the name given to Buick's top-of-the-line land yachts of decades past. It seems fitting that the name was resurrected for an EV. While no specs were given other than a 0 to 60 time of just over 4 seconds, the Electra uses flowing design themes and a few touches that won't see production like the A and B pillar-less roof, floating dashboard, and doors that open up (just ask Tesla how that works out on a production vehicle). It is a striking design and I look forward to seeing how this design rubs off on Buick's vehicles. More to come.

Source: Buick - Pics and media release

BMW releases X2 (s or x)Drive 28i Edition M Mesh trim level

The BMW X2 is one of my favorites in their line up. It's the right size, looks great, and has decent performance with the 2.8-liter turbo four mated to an eight-speed automatic. 0 to 60 times are in the low to mid-range 6s depending on whether you choose the sDrive or xDrive (all-wheel drive) option. If you want more go, step up to the X2 with the 3.5-liter engine. What the M Edition Mesh gets you is trim from the M Sport X exterior package like the M Mesh kidney grille, choice of metallic paint including, for the first time on the X2, Brooklyn Grey Metallic, new 19-inch M Aerodynamic Style 919M wheels with orange or black highlights, 8-Speed Sport automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters, specially selected interior appointments including Edition badging, and M Sport Seats with leather upholstery. 20-inch wheels are optional. You can get your X2 Edition M Mesh in any color as long as it's one of these choices - Alpine White, Brooklyn Grey Metallic, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, and Sunset Orange Metallic. The Shadowline trim is nice as are the leather seats. Luckily for US customers, the Orange stripes are not included (which is the one thing I don't like). All this goodness will set you back about $3,550 on top of the X2 xDrive28i's $36,600 plus taxes. fees, destination ($995), and options and the X2 xDrive28i's $38,600 plus. EPA-rated fuel economy is 24 city, 31 highway, and 27 combined. (The xDrive model gets 1 mpg more on the highway - go figure.)  The X2 Edition M Mesh models will be available starting November 2020. If this looks like your thang, let your local dealer know. For more info, check out the media release, one pic, and spec chart after the "read more" jump. Now, where are the hybrids and EV models...

Source: BMW - Pics, spec chart, and media release

New 2021 Ford F-150 available with Powerboost Hybrid option

While I normally wouldn't blog about most (non-EV) trucks and their numerous permutations, the all-new 2021 Ford F-150 is a bit different this time around. What makes it different you ask? The availability of a hybrid option, the 3-5-liter Powerboosr hybrid V6. While EPA fuel economy numbers weren't available, I wouldn't expect huge fuel economy numbers from this large truck. Better, but not hugely better. As an interesting side note, the Powerboost V6 provides the highest horsepower and torque ratings (430 hp, 570 lb./ft. of torque) of any powertrain available in the new F-150, but slightly lower tow ratings (12,000 lbs, versus 14,000 lbs for the Ecoboost V6) probably due to the hybrid componentry. The new F-150 gets numerous updates (see media release after the "read more" jump) as well as over-the-air tech updates. It's interesting to me that Ford has made this option available what with the F-150 Electric (developed with Rivian) looming on the horizon. More to come. Check out the media release, one pic, and the engine spec charts after the jump. Don't you think that a two-seat regular cab F150 with a short bed and the Powerboost V6 would make an interesting eco-performance truck?

Source: Ford - Pics and media release

TA.b - EV talk 9.20 - Update

I haven't posted an EV musing in a while, so here goes. I will post rumors, facts, and opinions regarding the EV marketplace today.

A good one (with media release after the "read more" jump) is that the Polestar Precept "commitment car" will enter production. The Precept is intended to compete with the Tesla Model S and the Lucid Air luxury sedans. As you can see from the above pic, the Precept is an attractive vehicle that should do well in the marketplace. No specs were released, but the Polestar 2 sedan that is currently available is a competitive EV entry, so the Precept should have decent bona fides. In fact, Polestar is building a new facility for Precept production, so availability is a ways off. Check back as more info is released.

Early (serious) EVs that entered the market, were higher-end, proof-of-concept models for the most part and they have done their jobs. After Tesla set the EV standards. others have rushed in to grab a "slice of the pie" often with sub-par entries. But the one thing Tesla accomplished was to prove that EVs were viable alternatives to ICE (internal-combustion engine) vehicles. EVs are also cheaper to run than ICE vehicles (see Consumer Reports) and create almost zero pollution depending on where the electricity is generated. At some point in the near future, all new vehicles will be either EVs or battery-electric vehicles (hybrids, plug-in hybrids). One positive note regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, was the fact that every city that locked down, saw air pollution drop dramatically. Here in California it was very dramatic and was noted by the International Space Station as the difference was that noticeable. And let's not forget the effect EVs have and will have on climate change. Climate change is responsible for the incredible heat we've been having in California that has spurred on the numerous wildfires. And as the smoke drifts eastward, the fires will effect the whole country if not the world.

Speaking of Tesla, one thing that Tesla did right that others are just realizing is the fact that batteries and battery technology is important and can't be left for others to develop. Tesla creates most of its own batteries (sometimes built by others under license) and has purchased battery development companies to improve battery tech. Tesla's recent battery day reveal showcased their latest developments that should reduce cost and allow for less expensive models (like the smaller vehicles planned for production in China and Germany). VW's new ID 4 SUV will hit the market by the end of the year here in the US, but VW won't bring the compact ID 3 here. Big mistake. Why do automakers ask dealers what they want? Dealers only want big vehicles with big profit margins and to be honest, most don't know how to service or sell EVs. That will change with pressure from manufacturers and when dealers realize that consumers are going elsewhere to get what they want, not what the dealer wants to sell.

One thing I want to remind people is that an electric motor is a powerplant option just like gas or diesel. Folks shouldn't be so threatened by EV adoption. That is unless they have financial ties to the oil and gas industries. Some folks are reluctant to learn new things like KWh, Nm, and charging rates instead of horsepower and torque. And remember that as more green energy alternatives create more of our power needs, oil companies could have invested in new energy sources, but chose not to...at least in the beginning. "May we live in interesting times" indeed. More to come...

Sources: Various

Is this Honda's future? The Honda SUV e:Concept and the CRV PHEV

 Yes, it probably is...at least in China. China is the world's largest automotive market having passed the US years ago. Therefore cutting-edge product has become even more important there since Chinese consumers and the Chinese government demand them. As a result of this, Honda is showing the SUV e:Concept and the production CRV PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) at the Bejing International Auto Exhibition (Auto China 2020). The e:Concept (above) is an attractive take on Honda's current styling themes that has been updated to reflect EV design cues like the grille=less front clip. While I like the e:Concept's look several things will probably change when it reaches production (if it reaches production?). Firstly, it appears to be a two-door which most automakers have been shying away from for some time and the roof line seems very low limiting utility but increasing style. And that's probably the point, right? No specs were provided at this point so production is probably a ways down the road. On the other hand, the CRV PHEV will be available in China in early 2021 using Honda's 2-motor hybrid system, SPORT HYBRID i-MMD, with improved efficiency of the battery and converter systems. No fuel economy numbers were given, but this one should come to the US...eventually. Honda (Clarity) and Toyota (Mirai) have been myopically focusing on fuel-cell technology while everyone else skipped that step and went right on to fully electric vehicles. I'm sure they'll catch up. At least Honda has given some insight into their future with the SUV e:Concept and the plug-in hybrid CRV. More info to come...

Source: Honda - Pics and media release

Volkswagen officially unveils the all-new, all-electric ID 4

Just as the Beetle and the Golf were defining new vehicles for Volkswagen, the new ID 4 EV could be VW's most important vehicle launch yet. Whether folks want to hear it or not, we will all be driving battery-electric vehicles of some sort in the future. The planet is screaming at us, with fires, record-breaking heat, and increasingly violent storms pointing out that we must begin to take care of our planet or it will take care of us. While on first viewing of the media release, I was a bit upset that the ID 4 was not "best-in-show" but I realized that it wasn't meant to be. The ID 4 isn't competing directly with Tesla's Model Y, it is competing against the Rav'4, CRV, and the Foresters of the compact SUV/crossover segment providing (that) class-leading performance, utility, and efficiency. The ID 4 has it's batteries below the floor for space efficiency and a lower center of gravity for improved handling. The rear-mounted electric motor produces about 201 hp and 238 lb./ft. of immediate torque. The EPA-rated range is 250 miles and 80% charging can be accomplished in just over 30 minutes although I would imagine most will charge at home over night (currently a majority of EV owners do that). But to "sweeten" the pot, VW has made a deal with Electrify America for ID 4 owners to receive free charging for 3 years. If you live in a condo or apartment that isn't currently wired, no problem go to the Electrify America charging site near you (more and more are added every day). Pricing for the ID 4 starts at $39,995 before state and federal rebates (VW still qualifies for the $7,500 rebate, others do not) which is competitive with top trim levels of the ID 4's competition. Several trim levels will be available at launch like the limited First Edition and First Edition Max (sold out) and the Performance and Pro models.  All ID 4s will be built in Germany until production starts in Tennessee in 2022. An all-wheel drive version with two motors and 300+ hp will be available early next year. While a lot of VW's tech is standard or available, the ID 4 is not a rolling technology suite, but there are a few nice touches like the light bar below the window that can assist with navigation or tell charge info. For more info, check out the media releases and additional pics (including the ID 4 in gold) after the "read more" jump. Oh, and did I mention that the ID 4 is terrific looking as well. Go to VW's website and build and reserve your ID 4 today.

Check out the global reveal video in the next post.

Source: Volkswagen - Pics & media releases

Volkswagen ID.4 SUV Global Reveal Video

Source: Volkswagen/YouTube

Volkswagen will offer free charging for three years for early iD 4 EV purchasers

With the introduction of the iD 4 EV crossover, Volkswagen has entered into an agreement with Electrify America for the charging group to offer free unlimited charging for the first three years of US ownership (or lease). This move is intended to reduce new EV owners range anxiety and to support EV purchases. Electrify America is expanding their network and should have more than 3,000 EV chargers available nationwide next year including more than 2000 fast chargers capable of charging at the 250W rate. The iD 4 EV (shown in camouflage above) is a good-looking crossover that should do well in the marketplace. The iD 4 is sized similarly to Tesla's Model Y although the Model Y is expected to be faster but both vehicles should have similar range (although automakers, especially Tesla, increase their range numbers regularly with automatic updates and new offerings). The iD 4 will be available soon (winter or early next year) with the first vehicles coming from abroad. US production will happen in late 2021 or 2022. Looks like Tesla is going to get a little competition. Now if VW would bring the iD 3 to the US, I know of at least one sale...

Source: Volkswagen - Pic - Medial release after the "read more" jump.

Nissan unveils new 2021 Maxima 40th Anniversary Edition

For the 2021 model year, Nissan is releasing the 40th Anniversary Edition of the Maxima "four-door-sports car." This new trim level will feature special touches that are not available on the Platinum model Maxima that the 40th Ann. Ed. is based. For starters, the Maxima 40th will feature two-tone paint in Ruby Slate Grey Pearl and black (roof, trim, 19-inch wheels, exhaust tips, and badging). The interior is fitted with unique Red semi-aniline leather-appointed seating with 40th Anniversary embossing and Red contrast stitching (see pic right and dash pic after the "read more" jump). So for the most part, the 40th Anniversary Edition 2021 Maxima is an appearance package, but what an appearance. Surprisingly (to me), I really like the look especially the red interior which on most cars today, the red choice is usually burn-my-retinas red. Like the Platinum model on which it is based the Maxima 40th will feature Nissan's 300-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine and Xtronic transmission (CVT). I wish Nissan would go back to using geared transmissions like other automakers have, abandoning what I call "rubber-band transmissions." Not everyone will notice the "buzzing" difference, but since the Maxima is Nisssan's "Four-door-sports car" shouldn't the transmission reflect that? Steal some from Infiniti. This a nice-looking package that should include just about everything Nissan offers and a few "special touches." Pricing will be announced closer to the Maxima 40th Anniversary Edition's intro later in the fall. More to come...

Source: Nissan - Pics and media release

Mazda adds power to the 2021 CX-30 with the 2.5-liter Turbo engine

Mazda's CX-30 crossover is a capable vehicle that has styling that is a breed apart from the others. In a good way. The CX-30's styling mimics that of the New Mazda3 but in a raised, crossover form. I personally like it a lot and no one does deep metallic red better than Mazda. For 2021, Mazda decided to make things more interesting by throwing in the 2.5-liter turbochargesd engine and standard all-wheel drive to create the CX-30 2.5 Turbo. The turbo engine creates 250 hp on premium (less with regular) and 320 lb./ft of torque which will move the new CX-30 Turbo down the road much faster than the "regular" CX-30 and its 187 hp. No transmission was listed but expect an automatic. Special black wheels and trim round out the Turbo model which should sit at the top of the model line-up (with prices to match). The dash pic is of a 2020 model since no pic was available for the new version. Might still be tweaking things. Don't rush down to your dealer yet (except to order maybe) since the Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo will not be released until late 2020. Looks good and should be fun. More to come. Check out the brief media release (with some additional info) and one pic after the "read more" jump.

Source: Mazda/NewsPress - Pics and media release

Hyundai shows all-new 2022 Tucson compact crossover

 

These days, you never know when one is going to release a new vehicle. Even an all-new one like Hyundai has with it's 2022 Tucson. The Tucson is one of Hyundai's best-selling products, so this roll-out is important. Hyundai has taken the Tucson's styling from SUV/crossover generic to something much more expressive...and expensive looking. The body sculpting is very muscular in appearance. I like the look of the front clip, but the ten lights in the grille might be a bit much. Maybe base models will be less illuminated. I also think the rear end is nice with it's multiple light pods and full-length units. The "chrome" or aluminum strip that runs from front to back following the roofline is a bit much and really not needed. Again, this may be a model differentiation add-on and we won't know this until the Tucson arrives sometime in early 2021. At this point, a 2.5-liter turbo engine (about 190 hp) will be available mated to an eight-speed automatic. A hybrid model will come with a 1.6-liter turbo four with a combined output of about 180 hp. No fuel economy numbers are available. The interior seems to be a nice place to spend time in and Hyundai is filling the Tucson with lots of tech (see info after the "read more" jump). More information will be available closer to the Tucson's introduction. Check out the Hyundai Tucson reveal video in the next post.

Source: Hyundai - Pics and media release

2022 Tucson Global Reveal

Source: Hyundai/YouTube

Ford hits the (off) road with the 2021 Ranger Tremor - Update

Some of you may remember that this isn't Ford's first Tremor. A few years ago, the Tremor was an F-159 shortcab, with the smallest available bed, 2 bucket seats with console, and the performance version of the Ecoboost V-6. Due to it's size and (relatively) light weight, the F-150 Tremor was one of the quickest trucks Ford made at the time. Switch to 2021 and the Tremor becomes an off-road package on the mid-size Ranger XLT or Lariat pickup. The sub $5k Tremor Off-Road package adds Fox dampers, increased approach and departure angles, increased ride height, special 17-inch wheels and tires (32-inch General Grabber tires), a special interior, increased suspension articulation, and more. The Tremor features Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine with 270 horsepower and a torque rating of 310 lb.-ft., paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4x4 with an electronic locking rear differential. A graphics package is available (see pic after the "read more" jump) if you want your truck to scream Tremor. The Tremor package is more accomplished that Ford's FX4 Off-Road Package and answers the requests of off-road customers for something more. If this looks and sounds like your idea of the "perfect" mid-size, off-road truck, then contact your dealer for Tremor package availability. See the Ranger Tremor video in the next post. Update, There is a Tremor package available for Ford's F-Series trucks as well.

Source: Ford - Pics and media release

Meet the 2021 Ranger Tremor Off-Road Package

Source: Ford/YouTube

Goodbye Kia Optima, Hello all-new Kia K5 mid-size sedan

Kia's Optima was a stand-out in the mid-size sedan marketplace. Everyone I knew who drove or owned the Optima loved it. I knew of one guy who rented cars for business trips and the Optima was always his first choice. Now comes 2020 and the Optima is dead, and for 2021 the Kia K5 takes its place. As you can tell from the GT-line model in these pics, the all-new K5 is aggressively styled and features body sculpting, the best use of Kia's bow-tie grille so far, a lower stance, and a fastback roofline. All these things make the K5 a very sporty mid-size sedan. What's under the hood backs up the car's looks. all engines are turbocharged for improved power and efficiency with a new 2.5-liter four that produces 290 hp that will be optional. An eight-speed automatic is standard with an eight-speed, wet dual-clutch transmission available in sportier models. All-wheel drive is available with the smaller engine choice. The new K5 will be available in five trim levels; LX, LXS, GT-Line, EX, and GT (available later this year). GT-Line models give the appearance of the GT model without the larger engine and dual-clutch transmission. Kia's complete suite of safety equipment and tech are available (see media release after the jump) so that you can fulfill your K5 desires and match the size of your wallet. However you spec it, the new K5 is a good-looking sedan that will impress your neighbors (at least). For more info and a couple of pics, check out the media release after the "read more" jump. The new Optima, er, K5 sedan is at your local Kia retailer now. Check out the current K5 spot cruising the airwaves in the next post. Now where are the hybrid and EV versions?

Source: Kia - Pics and media release

The All-New Turbocharged 2021 Kia K5 Sedan

K5 intro commercial. Very good stuff.

Source Kia/Youtube

Rivian joins the EV truck marketplace with the R1T pickup

Rivian first showed the R1T EV truck at the LA Auto Show almost 2 years ago. At the time I thought the large truck was someone's pipe dream but time has shown me wrong. The R1T has recently gone into pre-production at Rivian's Illinois plant (see next post) where early examples will be tested, and checked for build quality (you here that Tesla?). With it's more traditional pickup looks, the R1T should give Tesla's Cybertruck a run for it's money, but admittedly both trucks are targeted at different audiences. The R1T's specs are impressive with a skateboard platform where the battery pack is sealed and cooled under the cab and bed, not to mention three motor capacities and battery pack capabilities on the offing. The largest 180KWh motors (4) will produce more than an equivalent of 700 horsepower and more than 10,000 LB/Ft of vehicle ground torque (assuming my online conversion chart is accurate). Amazing numbers but don't forget this truck will be heavy. The R1T with the largest motors will hit sixty from a standstill in 3.2 seconds and have a range of more than 400 miles. Due in part to the R1T's architecture, the R1T has a huge frunk (330-liters) and a tunnel (200-liter, door becomes a perch) that runs under the rear seats that has lockable doors on the outside. With a motor at each wheel, the R1T is obviously all-wheel drive with each motor being controlled for torque vectoring and increased grip. The interior hasn't been finalized but it is expected to be truck tough and upscale in keeping with the largest-capacity truck hitting the $70k+ mark. The 135 KWh R1T will start at $61k, while the 105 KWh R1T specifications have not been finalized so no prices were quoted. The R1T is a good-looking truck, even better in person, but it is big. Rivian will also offer over-the-air updates and have a full suite of tech including some autonomous driving capability. The R1T is expected to hit owner's driveways early next year (due to pandemic delay). Final numbers and prices will be released closer to the vehicle's entrance into the wilds. For lots more information, check out the specifications chart, 1 pic, and media release after the "read more" jump and the pre-production video in the next post. Rivian's future looks secure with capital infusions from T. Rowe Price, Cox Automotive, Amazon, Ford (Rivian will make a truck for Ford), and numerous investors. So feel free to go to the Rivian site, place your $1k refundable deposit, order and spec your R1T, and get in line for delivery. BTW: Rivian's battery pack uses level 2 fast-charging and can add 200 miles of range in just 30 minutes. Also, the R1T is the basis for Rivian's upcoming R1S SUV.

Source: Rivian - Pics and media release. Specification chart after the media release.

Rivian begins pilot production of R1T pickup

In an effort to "get it right" Rivian has begun initial pre-production of it's R1T pickup. Early models will be used for testing and to check and verify product, production, and quality. Gives new meaning to the phrase taking it slow to get it right.

Source: Rivian/YouTube

Electrify America makes it easier to get charged up

Electrify America (EA) has just made home charging a little bit easier. As you may remember, EA owns one of the largest DC fast charging networks in the US with a $2 billion commitment for network expansion. Through their Electrify Home web store, EA has just added a new level 2 fast charger (right) for your home that can be plugged in to an existing 240v outlet or hard-wired by an electrician. The station sells for $449 (currently, no pun intended) and EA can help with installation scheduling. The station comes with a three-year warranty and EA provides unit servicing. A more than 26-foot cord makes garage placement of your unit easier and makes charging a breeze. LED lights on the unit signal charging status. Electrify America's Level 2 EV Charger provides up to 7.6 kW of charging power for level-2-capable vehicles and provides up to 6 times faster charging than a standard Level 1 charger. At this time, more than 75% of EV owners charge their vehicles at home which makes EA's level-2 offering very timely. For more information, check out the media release after the "read more" jump (includes some links).

Source: Electrify America - Pics and media release

Lucid Motors unveils the all-new Air luxury EV sedan

Lucid Motors has announced the birth of their first baby, the Lucid Air. (An SUV will follow.) This luxury sedan is electrified and electrifying, with the EV (electric vehicle) boasting more than 1000 hp when equipped as the limited "Dream Edition" that will be the first model hitting the streets in early 2021. Subsequent models will be rolled out after the Air Dream Edition arrives. Lucid Air models will come with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that can run the quarter mile in under 10 seconds and hit 60 from a standstill in 2.5 seconds with an EPA estimated range of more than 500 miles (Dream Edition). Step down one notch and the Air Grand Touring will feature 800 hp, a 500-mile range, and hit 60 in 3 seconds. The Air Touring features 620, hp, hit 60 in 3.2 seconds, and have 406 mile range. All numbers are not official, but show just how fast and efficient this all-new vehicle can be. Numbers for the "base" Air have yet to be determined since this model won't arrive until 2022. The Lucid Air comes with all the kit you could image and some you haven't thought of (see media release after the "read more" jump). Lucid Air's battery pack has been "race proven" and features top-of-the-class fast charging (300 miles of range in 20 minutes). Let's be honest, things change quickly in the EV marketplace, so stay tuned for more info closer to the Air Dream Edition's debut early next year. BTW: Prices start in the six-figure range and since Lucid is a new company, their vehicles do qualify for federal and state tax rebates which can lower the point of entry somewhat.  Lucid Motors is taking $7,500 deposits for Dream Edition models and $1,000 deposits for all other trim levels. Interested? Got the wallet? Then order yours now. Also, there is a specification chart after the jump (towards the end of the release) to help you decide which Air you want.

Source: Lucid Motors- Pics, specifications chart, and media release

All-new Ford Bronco Sport - Right sized for today

Ford brought the Bronco back! Not the over-sized SUV of freeway-chase fame, but as an off-roader set to rival the Jeep Wrangler. The car we're looking at here, is the Bronco's little sibling, the Bronco Sport. While the new Bronco reportedly shares underpinnings with the next-gen Ranger pick-em-up, the Bronco Sport reportedly shares it's platform with the latest Escape. The Bronco Sport will come in five trim levels with names like Big Bend™, Outer Banks™, Badlands™ and First Edition™ not to mention the base model. Badlands and First Edition models get the 2.0-liter Ecoboost four rated here with 245 hp, while the other models get the 1.5-liter Ecoboost with 181 hp. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic. Four-wheel drive is also standard. Ford has truly made the Bronco Sport off-road capable and the top grades get special suspensions to further the Sport's prowess. It can even ford (pun intended) over 26 inches of standing water, (For full details, check out the media release after the "read more" jump). Ford's Co-Pilot 360 safety suite is also standard. Options include a Bang & Olufsen sound system and dealer-installed accessories like the Yakima interior bike rack. You can get just about everything your on- and off-roading heart desires. (Again, check the release for more.) The Bronco Sport is a good-looking little ute with a really nice interior that can be outfitted as you like it. Ford is taking reservations now for a late 2020 delivery. Oh, and you can spend a lot of money here, so if your wallet isn't thick, careful choices on the order sheet can get you a great little vehicle. Now where is the hybrid and EV models. Jeep has a new plug-in hybrid Wrangler (see post), Renegade, and Compass. Ford?

Source: Ford- Pics and media release after the jump

Audi adds e-tron Sportback coupe to EV line-up

 

Audi is adding to its e-tron line-up of vehicles with the new e-Tron Sportback. The new Sportback e-tron adds a little bit of style to Audi's mid-size(ish) crossover. The fastback five-door SUV/crossover mrket was originally started by BMW and naysayers sota, well, laughed. When sales took off, no one was laughing except maybe BMW. Now everyone is making five-door coupe versions of their crossovers. This just happens to be a good-looking one. It satisfies the need some have for a tallish five-door, but one that doesn't look like your mother's station wagon or SUV. Best of both worlds, right? The Audi e-tron is a middling EV in terms of range and charging. The Sportback has an  EPA-rated range of 218 miles and can be charged at the rate of 150kwh giving you a full-charge (100%) in nine hours from empty. An around town charge can be achieved in about 30 minutes. In other words, if you need a full charge, do it over night. Rates are lower then anyway. Kinda like getting premium for the price of regular. The e-tron Sportback makes 355 hp (402 in boost mode) and hits sixty from a standstill in 5.5 seconds. Not Tesla fast, but fast enough for most. The EPA gives the e-tron Sportback an mpge (miles per gallon equivalent) rating of 76/78/77 (city, combined, highway). And, since charging is much cheaper than an oil-based fill-up, you end up saving bucks. Audi provides 1000 kwh of charging (about 2500 miles) at Electrify America for free to new owners. Audi even offers a 240-volt home charging set-up through Amazon Home Services to get you going. As long as your electrics are set-up to handle 240, then you won't face any electrician bills for home charging. It's cheaper to charge at home especially if you have solar. Then it's kinda free. Hmmm. Anyway, the e-tron Sportback gets you style, German electronics, and a killer interior. But all of this good stuff doesn't come cheap. The Presmium-Plus Sportback starts at $77,400., and gets you Bang & Olufsen premium audio, Audi adaptive cruise assist, 12-way heated and cooled seats, and more. The Prestige model jumps to $83,400 and adds a Heads-up display with navigation, full leather package, an air quality system and yes, even more. The Edition One package (limited to 200 units) starts at $88, 495 and adds special Blue Plasma paint and blue leather interior, 21-inch wheels and even more. These prices are not for the faint of heart or wallet. The Audi e-tron Sportback should be at your local dealer now, but check first before you head on down cause you never know these days. For lots more info and one pic click on the "read more" jump. I like this one, you?

Source: Audi - Pics and media release

Polestar Cars releases Polestar 2 five-door EV

Polestar Cars, which is jointly owned by Volvo and Geely, has released the Polestar 2 five-door EV (electric vehicle). The Polestar 2 will be the brand's volume production model with the Polestar 3 SUV/crossover following later. (The Polestar 1 Is a limited-edition performance hybrid coupe.)  The Polestar 2 features two electric motors providing all-wheel drive. The drivetrain produces more than 400 hp with the "2" hitting 60 in around 5 seconds. Range is approximately 300 miles (500 km) but the final EPA numbers are not available. Polestar 2 is a premium EV competing against the Tesla Model 3 in size, range, and features. The Model 3 is faster and more distinctively styled, but the Polestar 2 is good-looking with heavy Volvo cues. Options include the Performance Pack (see next post), Nappa leather seating, metallic paint, and more. Prices start around $50k and can hover around $80k when you check all the boxes. Early reviews are very positive. The point is that Polestar has provided a Tesla Model 3 alternative that should make many folks happy. Polestar will begin deliveries in December 2020 if you make your reservation now online. Yea, Tesla is ahead of the auto industry by almost ten years in terms of production, products, and technology but if the others don't move quickly, they may never catch up. Polestar is closer. Of course not everyone wants so much tech in their vehicles, so... I mean not everyone wants to play games on their dashboard.

For more info, check out the five media releases after the "read more" jump.

Source: Polestar - Pics and Media Releases (5)

Polestar 2 EV gets Performance Pack to add even more zing

Volvo and Geely created Polestar years ago (after the merger with Zhejiang Geely Holding) originally for performance versions of both brand's products. With the dawn of the EV age, Polestar's mission changed to create battery-electric vehicles, but the original mission has not ceased with Polestar vehicles earning a reputation for excellent ride and, most importantly, handling. The Polestar 2 five-door sedan will be followed by the Polestar 3 SUV/crossover. But the news here is the Polestar 2 Performance Pack. The optional Performance Pack is available at launch, across all launch markets, and includes the four-piston Brembo braking system, Öhlins DFV dampers, 20-inch forged alloy wheels, and the Swedish gold brake calipers, seatbelts and tire valve caps. The Performace Pack option will add a paltry (for this price range) $5k to the bottom line. When I configured a Polestar 2 online the car was priced just over $70k (including the Performace Pack) with delivery in December of this year. Happy Holidays indeed.

Check out the preceding post for more info on the Polestar 2.

Source: Polestar - Pics and Media Release

Hyundai updates the Kona subcompact crossover for 2021

If you like your crossovers on the smaller side, then Hyundai has numerous choices to fit your needs. One is the Kona subcompact crossover. The original Kona looked like it was designed by many people. One created the front end to be edgy. Another made the general body shape. One, the rear end, another the interior and on and on. Unfortunately, they put them together without comparing notes. Then someone suggested body cladding to make it look more rugged. The early Kona was unfortunate looking. The 2021 Kona has been cleaned up with a new front clip and more integrated styling especially in the new, sporty N Line trim (red car shown), I thought body-colored cladding might make the car look heavy, but it doesn't. The regular Kona (blue car after the jump) is improved but is still a mess. My advice to you, if you're gonna go Kona, get the N Line. Currently the Kona comes in four trim levels, SE, SEL,  SEL Plus and Limited. For 2021 add in the N Line (not sure if the N Line is a trim option or a stand alone model). The Kona SE is the price leader starting at just over $20k with the SEL Plus adding just $4k more. With the SEL Plus you get Infinity premium audio, 8-way driver's power seat, wireless device charging and more. 2020 Kona models (except Limited) utilize a 2.0-liter four that pumps out 147 hp. Select the Limited trim, for an additional $2k, and you add a 1.6-liter turbo four (175 hp), leather seating, a 7-speed dual clutch automatic, and special 18-inch alloy wheels. All models are EPA-rated at 30 mpg combined. Few changes are expected under the sheetmetal for 2021, but there is no mention of the Kona Electric EV so expect that at a later date. All of these changes seek to get the Kona on more car-shopping lists and I think it just might work. Five new exterior colors are available Surfy Blue, Dive In Jeju, Ignite Flame, Cyber Gray, and Misty Jungle (don't you love the names? I do). Leather seating can be had in black,  beige, or khaki colors so there are plenty of choices to make a new Kona just how you like it. For more info, check out the Euro media release and one pic after the "read more" jump.

Source: Hyundai - pics and media release