Chevrolet showcases E-Crate EV conversion kit with 1977 K-5 Blazer-e for SEMA360

This is kinda cool. Chevrolet put together the Blazer-e proof of concept vehicle for SEMA360 showcasing the automaker's new e-Crate electric motor. The Blazer-e is a 1977 Chevy Blazer that has had its 140 hp V-8 removed to be replaced by the 200 hp electric motor from the Chevy Bolt. Yes, Chevrolet is going to sell electric motors through its Connect and Cruise package to those looking to convert to battery-electric propulsion. Sales will begin in the second half of 2021. But before you start cleaning your garage, Chevrolet Performance is certifying Electric Connect and Cruise installers. Participating Chevrolet dealers and aftermarket companies will receive the training, tools and equipment needed to work with high-voltage systems and charging stations to service customers’ vehicles. In fact, Lingenfelter Performance Engineering in Brighton, Michigan will be the first company to pilot the training and certification program. This experience will help Chevy develop the certification process for future installers. In other words, if you're gonna do it, do it right. Packages will include controllers and batteries (GM's Ultium). As I've posted about in the recent past, numerous EV conversion companies are sprouting up. My only concern with this new package is the utilization of the existing running gear, like transmissions, axles, etc, which counters the low maintenance requirements for newer EVs. You've gotta maintain the fluids, etc. in those transmissions, axles, and steering gear. Maybe additional equipment will be available in the future since Chevy anticipates bigger motors and more power in the future. This is just the beginning. How about it Tesla? For more info, check out the media release and 2 pics after the "read more" jump. I do like how they highlighted the E and V in the Chevrolet name on the back of the truck (pic below).

Source: Chevrolet - Media release and pics

AVWWG - Fiat reveals all-new 500e 3+1 EV

What you see here is another vehicle we won't get (AVWWG). the Fiat 500e 3+1. It's a pity on many levels. Firstly, the 500 and the 500e are small. sub-compact, city cars that are made for the cities and hills of Italy, but don't play well in the wide open spaces of the US's mid-west and other areas. But Fiat had some initial success with the 500 in the US when it was first released mostly in cities and urban areas. But with FCA's handling of Fiat vehicle updates, US customers lost some interest due to the mild updates or evolutions rather than major revisions. While the all-new 500 is changed and you can see it in the pics and video, without a big marketing push by FCA (Fiat/Chrysler Automobiles), most US customers wouldn't notice (evolution not revolution). But the one change that would be welcomed is the new 3+1 model (shown above) that has three doors for vehicle entry and the rear hatch. Sub-compacts are hard to get into, especially the back seat, if you're more than 10, but the 3+1's small rear passenger door takes care of that problem. The rear door is hinged in the back providing a large(er) opening for entry but the front door must be open for the rear door to be activated. This a good idea that many automakers have used to improve on the accessibility of small cars. Just look at BMW's i3 for instance. BMW has sold thousands of its i3 EV city cars and Fiat could as well with this new version of the 500e. We shall see. FCA is going through a tough time right now, so the funds may not be available for the push that the new 500e 3+1 would require for success. It's a shame too because the updates that have been made to all 500s are substantial and bode well for any customers. They'll sell bunches of these in Italy and the rest of Europe. For lots and lots of information about the new 500s and the 500e, check out the informative (Euro) media release after the "read more" jump. Also, enjoy the video below. Who knows, maybe FCA will have a change of heart and bring the 500e 3+1 to the US. Bring that one and the Cabrio, in EV form, and leave the rest at home, Consider it FCA.

Source: Fiat/FCA - media release, video, and pics

TA.b - Here ya go - 10B-20

A couple of weeks ago, I shared some info about EV conversions that're happening now (and have been for some time) and provided some links to conversion company sites like Zelectric. To show you the level of expertise and prowess that some of these companies provide, I have attached a video (below) from Zelectric of a recent VW Beetle conversion that the company completed. The level of workmanship is high and I'm sure the cost is possibly as well on the order of a classic rebuild. Enjoy the video. Contact them for quotes.

Another post I read recently, discussed a French company, Transition One,  that will convert your present (Euro small/city) car to electric propulsion in just four hours (depending on the car of course. Fiat 500 conversion photo above). This is an interesting proposition. If you have a car that you like (size, equipment, you own it, etc,) this could make a lot of sense for those that want to join the EV revolution, don't have the price of entry for a new EV, and do their part for the planet. And let's not forget that (equipped properly) EVs are fast and economical with recent reports putting the operating cost savings versus ICE vehicles at 50% (or more)...less! Also, the EV conversion cost for this French company is about $10K. This is certainly cheaper than buying a new car. TO also makes conversion kits for the mechanically-inclined. No word on government regulations, etc. I know in California, major changes of this type require a once over and review by the DMV, so...

Source: Zelectric/YouTube - video. Transition One - pic

Interesting and related posts:

Transition One will convert your gasmobel - CleanTechinica

Watch Tesla full-self-driving beta - Electrek

SK Innovation develops high-speed charging batteries - Inside EVs

BMW has made 200,000 of its quirky 13 electric cars - Green Car Reports.

Volvo announces 2021 XC40 Recharge EV pricing

I post a lot about a vehicle being "right-sized" or in other words able to fit in most garages. The Volvo XC40 is a compact SUV/crossover that fits the definition of right-sized as does the EV version the XC40 Recharge (Volvo's EV designation). While the XC40 Recharge shares many components with it's Polestar 2 sibling, unlike the Polestar 2 the XC40 Recharge is not built on a dedicated EV platform. Modifying an existing platform can make battery placement and weight a problem, but the 402 hp motor should move the XC40 Recharge right along down the road. Another cool thing that the XC40 Recharge shares with the Polestar 2 is the Android-based infotainment system (developed by Google running their software) that is supposedly very easy to use and can receive over-the-air software updates. The 78kWh battery pack can utilize 150 kW DC fast chargers and Volvo has in fact made arrangements for owners to have access to ChargePoint's world-wide charging network. Interestingly, no EPA range numbers were provided, but were expected to be in excess of 200+ miles. The XC40 Recharge should be eligible for state, local, and Federal tax credits/rebates/incentives. Given that the XC40 Recharge pricing starts at $53,990 (plus taxes, license, fees, and options) those tax credits can reduce prices dramatically. Expect a fairly loaded XC40 Recharge to approach $60k which is Tesla Model Y territory, but then the Model Y is larger (size again). For more info, check out the media release, which includes major option prices and one additional pic. after the jump. The XC40 Recharge should be at your local dealer by the end of the year. You can order yours now on Volvo's website.

Source: Volvo - Media release, pics - Previous post

GMC reveals all-new Hummer EV Edition 1 "Supertruck" - Update

We all knew that the new Hummer EV Edition 1 was going to be something, but the "Supertruck" moniker may not be far off. If you watch the reveal video in the next post, you'll see that GM has shoved just about everything into this showcase EV from it's "Crabwalk" diagonal driving, four-wheel steering, adjustable suspension, all-wheel drive, removable roof (stowable in the frunk) and rear window that can be lowered, to its special tires and wheels, and much, much more. Hummer Edition 1 has a tri-motor EV drivetrain with more than 1,000 horsepower (GM-estimated) and 11,500 lb./ft. of torque that has a range of about 350 miles using GM's new Ultium batteries with fast charge capabilities. Try 0 to 60 mph in about three seconds. As a true EV design, the batteries are located below the passenger space but with body armor just in case you decide to test the EV's capabilities. Class-leading (at this point) graphics are part of the package including "heads-up animation." GM's Super Cruise autonomous driving suite is also included. The Hummer Edition 1's 0 to 60 mph time is kind of amazing given the weight this behemoth is towing around. Multiple cameras, including two underbody views, will help you know here you are and keep you out of trouble...hopefully. To buy all this good stuff will set you back well into the six-figure range plus taxes, license, fees, options, destination, etc. Eventually there will be a model that starts at just $70k (just!). No intro date has been given, so we shall see whether Rivian (RT 1) or Tesla (Cybertruck) or GMC's Hummer Supertruck gets to market first. My money's on Rivian, but who knows? More to come as we get closer to the Hummer Edition 1 EV's roll-out.

Update: According to published reports, GMC does not have a complete, working Hummer Edition 1 prototype. Only pieces or sections have been built to study "proof of concept" like the Crabwalk, etc. Other pieces like the four-wheel steering have been done before, but there isn't a Hummer Edition 1 out there that puts everything together to see if it all works...as expected. I was hoping that GMC was further along in the process. In fact the factory where the Hummer will be built hasn't been prepped yet. So since Tesla Austin is being constructed and Rivian has started pilot production of their truck, I'd say GMC is coming up dead last in the race to get big EV trucks to market. We shall see, more to come...

Source: GMC - Media release, pics, previous post - additional video after the "read more" jump.

Volkswagen announces sub-Tiguan compact crossover, the 2022 Taos

What you see here is Volkswagen's latest entry into the compact SUV/crossover market, the Taos. Anyone who watches closely would know that this was inevitable from VW.  They listened to dealers, who always want bigger and better (aka more profitable), instead of looking at the marketplace itself and future trends. The Tiguan became a large compact that was just inches away from becoming a mid-sized entry. Some of you may remember the original Tiguan. A smallish, boxy crossover that was loved by their owners due to their style, size, and zipability. Volkswagen "updated" the Tiguan (read make it like everyone else's compact crossovers) with bland non-threatening styling and less zip. Let's admit that the Tiguan has been relatively successful but it left behind all those who liked the car before not to mention the millions of folks that were buying sub-compact CUVs.  Dealers spoke again (due to lost sales) and Volkswagen rushed the Taos (market mid-range) compact into production. The size and specs read like a somewhat de-contented Tiguan that isn't really that much smaller. It has the 158 hp 1.5-liter turbocharged engine from the base Jetta mated to an eight-speed automatic (seven-speed dual-clutch transmission when fitted with all-wheel drive), but VW's 2.0-liter four would be a better choice for more zip and to overcome the extra weight that comes with the crossover body style. The Taos is attractive in a VW-sort-of way, but looking at the pics, it screams down-market. Which is okay, cuz not everybody wants glam to the max. I'm sure that numerous options and upgrades will be available especially for those attracted to the Taos' somewhat smaller size. For more info, check out the media release after the "read more" jump and watch the reveal video in the next post. The Taos will not be available until some time next year, so more to come. I think a Taos GTI would be nice, you?

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, video (next post), and pics

 

2022 Volkswagen Taos Reveal

Source: Volkswagen/YouTube

Lucid announces "base" Air sedan for under $70k*

 

At this juncture, it's easy to ask, "Why are they releasing this now?" The entire line was introduced just last month, (previous post) which included some info on the "base" Air sedan. Since Tesla just reduced prices on the Model S, maybe Lucid wanted to tie folks up with their competitive sedan. The base Air has a range in excess of 400 miles (EPA range numbers to come) and has 480 horses. While some EVs are heavy due to their battery packs, 480 hp should move the Air along quite nicely (remember the Dream Edition Air has over 1,000 hp). The Air is a looker with lines that emphasize air flow even when standing still.  If there is any portion of the design of the Air that I question, it is the short rear clip that seems to suggest that the whole tail section comes up to access the trunk/storage. We shall see. Remember that first deliveries of the Air sedan won't take place until early next year and according to the first media release, the base Air won't come to market until 2022. Maybe time tables are moving up. So for your $300 reservation fee, you can order your Air sedan at a price of $77,400 which drops to $69,900* when the $7,500 Federal Tax credit is deducted from the price. So if this looks like this could be your EV luxury sedan, go to Lucid's reservation website and design your Air and place your order today. Early reservation holders will get three-years of free charging on Electrify America.

Source: Lucid - Pics and media release - Previous post

Honda refreshes 2021 Accord and adds new 40+ mpg hybrid model

“The new Honda Accord Hybrid is really the Accord to buy, offering customers more of everything they like about Accord -- more power, refinement and, of course, excellent fuel economy ratings,” said Dave Gardner, executive vice president of National Operations at American Honda. Previous Accord hybrids were about power and not efficiency, but the 2021 Accord Hybrid gives you both, more power (212 hp, 232 lb./ft. of torque, more than the base Accord) and EPA mpg ratings of 44 City/ 41 Combined/ 43 Highway for the Touring model and 48/48/48 for all other hybrid models. That is one of the differences this time around. The Hybrid option can be had on just about any of the Accord flavors, like the base Accord, EX. EX-L, and Touring. Prices for the Accord Hybrid start at $27,375 (plus taxes, license, fees, destination and options) to $37,195+ for the Hybrid Touring. All Accords received upgrades this year like revised styling with a new grille that offers better integration for Honda's radar unit (if so equipped), new alloy wheels designs, new colors (depending on trim selected), and new LED headlights (depending on trim level selected).  The 8-inch dash display is now standard on all models and a rear-seat reminder along with a new low-speed braking control system (on upper levels). Tech is also updated. You can read about all the changes in the media release as well as the spec charts after the "read more" jump. Accord is still offered with the 1.5-liter ICE and the 2.0-liter turbo four (top power choice, but mpgs are cut dramatically) mated to a continuously-variable transmission (AKA rubber-band transmission). The 2021 Honda Accord seems to be better at just about everything than it's predecessor. Revised styling, better tech, and better efficiency (hybrid). Check with your local dealer about availability if the new '21 Accord seems like it could be your thing. Check out the Honda video in the next post.

Source: Honda - Pics, media release

The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid: Our (their) Best Accord Yet

Source: Honda/YouTube

Audi fulfills many EV dreams with the all-new e-tron Gran Turismo (GT)

See. Dreams can come true. Audi has released the first images and info about it's upcoming e-tron GT  (Gran Turismo) EV supercar. While it looks like it might share some DNA with Porsche's Taycan EV, there is no evidence other than look to suggest this plus the e-tron GT will share limited production on the same assembly line with Audi's R8 in Neckarsulm, Germany. Yes folks, this concept is headed for (limited) production. Expect incredible performance and luxury from Audi's latest addition to the e-tron family. Production is slated to start at the end of 2020. So, more info and pics will be coming closer to the e-tron GT's release date in 2021. More to come... Enjoy the video...

Source: Audi/YouTube - Media release and video

Amazon shows new electric delivery van developed with EV maker Rivian

This just shows to go ya, what can happen when a large company puts it's money where it's proverbial mouth is. Amazon has Made a "Climate Pledge" to reduce emissions and to become net zero carbon across its operations by 2040. As such, Amazon enlisted the help of EV maker Rivian (whose trucks I've posted about before) to develop it's own electric delivery van to help meet the pledge. It also helps that EVs in general are more efficient, less polluting, and cheaper to run that ICE (internal combustion engine) vans. It also allows Amazon to spec it's new vans specific to their needs like short trips between stops, silence, space, etc. In this way, Amazon got exactly what they wanted and didn't have to retro-fit an existing model. Smart. It's also kinda cool looking with a front visage that is cute and non-threatening and it is also Amazon branded (aka free advertising). Amazon has ordered 10,000 of these EV vans that should start hitting the road no later than 2022. For more info, check out the media releases and pics after the "read more" jump or check out the video in the next post.

Source: Amazon - Media release and pics

Amazon's first custom 100% electric delivery vehicle

Source: Amazon/YouTube

Honda releases revised 2021 Ridgeline pickup into the wild

Honda's Ridgeline was always an odd entry in the mid-size/compact pick-up truck marketplace. Firstly, the Ridgeline features unibody construction unlike it's rivals that have a separate frame and body set-up. In the past, the separate frame construction was seen as a tougher act to follow allowing for greater payload and towing capabilities. That may be true, (check out any Ford, Chevy, or Ram numbers) but the Ridgeline has capabilities more in line with how the truck will be used. I mean, if you work in construction or have a giant boat to tow, you're probably not gonna shop for your truck at a Honda dealer. But if you go light off-roading, pick up stuff at your local hardware purveyor, buy groceries for the month, or move, the Ridgeline has more than enough guts to meet your needs. Plus it has some interesting bits like the pickup bed trunk; the dual-action tailgate; Honda's Automatic, Torque-vectoring, all-wheel drive system; and more. But for 2021, the Ridgeline actually looks like a truck (can you say Tacoma or Ranger) with a completely revised front end and details that make the truck appear more tough. Ridgeline comes in Sport, RTL, RTL-E, and Black editions with a new Honda Performance Development (HPD) package. The new HPD Package adds a unique grille treatment, black fender flares, aggressive bronze-colored wheels, and special HPD graphics to any Ridgeline trim level. Honda's 280-hp, 3.5-liter V6 is standard mated to a nine-speed automatic. All-Wheel drive is optional on Sport and RTL trim levels and standard on the others. The new 2021 Ridgeline will be pulling up to your local Honda dealer early next year. For (lots) more info and one pic, check out the media release after the "read more" jump and check out the video in the next post.

Source: Honda - Media release and pics - Video from previous post

The Redesigned 2021 Honda Ridgeline: Powerfully Reimagined

Source: Honda/YouTube

Nissan's all-new 2021 Rogue pricing starts at $25,650+

Nissan's Rogue crossover/SUV is as important to Nissan as the RAV-4 is to Toyota and the CR-V is to Honda. All three represent one of each automaker's biggest sellers in the US. The all-new 2021 Rogue (not to be confused with the smaller Rogue Sport) is a refreshed and updated entry into a very competitive segment (aka compact SUVs). Although with each redesign, these compacts aren't so compact anymore since they grow in size with each major update. The new Rogue will be available in four flavors, S, SV, SL, and the new Platinum levels. Prices start at $25,650 (plus taxes, license, fees, options and $1,000 destination) and go up to $36,830+ for the all-wheel drive Platinum edition. Two optional packages are available: the SV Premium Package at $2,660 and the SL Premium Package at $1,320. Nissan has added most of it's safety and tech as either standard or optional. "The all-new Rogue delivers everything families are looking for today – connectivity, safety, versatility and fun," added Mike Colleran, senior vice president, Nissan U.S. Marketing and Sales. "As our top-selling model, Rogue is our most important launch yet." The big news are the updated styling both inside and out. The "buck-tooth grille is more assimilated and provides a much better looking front clip. The side and rear views are more muscular in shape and provide a more competitive look. The interior is a nicer place to be with three digital displays, including a heads-up display, that showcases Nissan's over-the-air update-able tech. Starting this fall, the 2021 Rogue will give you a new option for those looking to purchase a "compact" SUV/crossover. For more info regarding tech and new features, check out the media release, pics, and a ProPilot infographic after the "read more" jump. Check out the walk around and review provided by Nissan in the next post.

Source: Nissan - Media release and pics

2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover Walkaround & Review

Source: Nissan/YouTube

Exploring the all-new BMW 4 Series, inside and out.

See the all-new 4-Series Convertible post below.

Source: BMW/YouTube

TA.b - Here ya go -10.20

In the Here ya go posts, I'll provide links to articles I think might be of interest as well as info that I've found or been made aware of. 

Recently, I read a couple of articles (one, two) about a new company called EV West that has developed an electric motor conversion that will bolt in anywhere a small-block Chevy will fit. EV Wesr is reconditioning Tesla motors (from crashes?, since Tesla currently doesn't sell individual parts) to be installed in place of the small-block V8s. 

This made me think about a company that I was aware of for some time called Zelectric that is headquartered down near San Diego. Zelectric has been modifying vintage Volkswagens and Porsches for some time. The pic above is an example of their work. Zelectric will convert your VW or Porsche to electric power or you can buy cars that have already been converted. You can also ask them to find you a specific car for conversion. Check out Zelectric's project gallery to see cars that have been converted as well as ones that are in the conversion process.

Some conversions utilize the existing car's transmission and axles, etc. and just replace the motors. One of the joys of EV ownership is the reduced maintenance that EVs provide. I question whether these swaps still require regular maintenance (where would you get it?) and if the mechanical bits will stand up to the unique properties of an electric motor (instant torque, high revs, etc.). I'm sure that either of these companies can answer those and other questions.

Posts I think you should be aware of:

Tesla's record deliveries - Electrek,

Volvo begins XC40 Recharge production - Green Car Reposts,

Polestar 2 experiencing shutdowns - CNET Road Show,

Polestar recall - Inside EVs.

Source: Various

All-new BMW 4-Series Convertible breaks cover

Behold! BMW's latest beautiousness has been revealed! Okay, I'll admit to really liking convertibles. The first cars I drove as a teen were convertibles. I've owned a Cougar convertible and an MGB sports car (vintage shall we say?), As the world has changed, so has the vehicles I drive like most folks. Where I live it was 117 degrees the other day which is not conducive to top-down driving. But I digress. What we have here is BMW's latest cabriolet, the 4-Series Convertible. It will be available in Germany in numerous permutations, with gas, diesel, and mild hybrid drivetrains. Here in the US, we'll see the gas versions (four- and six-cylinder) and maybe the mild hybrids. (The mild hybrids use four-cylinder engines mated to a small hybrid drive that increases power and fuel efficiency. Interestingly, the diesel mild hybrid gets more than 40 mpg. See media release after the "read more" jump.) I like the look of the new grille which was first seen on a BMW concept EV. While processing these pics, I was struck by how Audi-like the new car looks. Don't get me wrong, the A5 Cabriolet is a looker. Maybe it's the rounded rump over the rear wheels of the 4-Series Convertible that does it. Anyway, the previous convertible had a hard metal plastic roof while the new 4-Series Convertible has a fabric folding top like in the olden days. Of course today's soft tops are far superior in terms of quietness and weather protection (My MG leaked like a sieve, but I loved it anyway). The real point is that this new 4-Series Convertible provides all the fun, luxury, tech, and sporty driving you could want and more. That is if you have the bank account of course. All of BMW's suite of tech and features are either standard or optional. The 4-Series Convertible will go into production later this year for Germany and the EU. Expect US arrival in Spring 2021 (my guess).

Source: BMW - Media release and pics

Lotus wins UK Government funding to develop next-gen EV architecture

Lotus and its Engineering Group along with Brunel University London and Sarginsons Industries, has  won a UK Government competition to develop an all-new generation of light-weight EV architecture. "The successful application is called LEVA, which stands for Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture. Led by Lotus, it is targeting the acceleration of and innovation behind new lightweight structures for next-generation BEVs (battery-electric vehicles). Incorporating cutting-edge UK-based engineering and digital manufacturing expertise, LEVA will be a showcase for pioneering new BEV chassis and powertrain concepts." Matt Windle, Executive Director of Engineering, Lotus, commented: “This is great news for our industry and its transition to electrification. As a collaboration between Lotus, Sarginsons Industries and Brunel University London there is a wealth of talent involved, and we are excited to have already begun the project work. Following the launch of the Lotus Evija, our all-electric hypercar, this project is a key building block in our vision to deliver a full range of electrified Lotus performance cars ‘For The Drivers’. Funding of this nature is critical to stimulate the automotive industry and supply chain as both continue to adjust to a rapidly changing landscape.” Let's not forget that Tesla's first vehicle, the Roadster, rode on and utilized a Lotus platform and body. And yes, this is more of an FYI post. It's good to see government funding for this type of endeavor. This could give the UK EV industry a boost, which was probably the point.

Source: Lotus - Logo and Media release

2021 Toyota Venza hybrid crossover deliveries start and marketing begins

Toyota made a smart move when introducing the 2021 Venza crossover. The Venza is a crossover hybrid with all-wheel drive standard. What a way to differentiate your vehicle from the rest, and the EPA-rating of 39 mpg combined helps also. As a recap, the Venza comes in three flavors, LE, XLE, and Limited with prices starting at $32,470 plus taxes, license, fees, and options. Features include the aforementioned standard Toyota Hybrid System and Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive; an available Toyota-first Star Gaze™ fixed panoramic glass roof with one-touch frost control; standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS-2.0); available digital rearview mirror with HomeLink universal transceiver; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility; standard hands-free power liftgate; and an available 12.3” touch-screen with JBL® audio and 9 JBL speakers. In other words there's a Venza for just about everyone and every pocketbook. The following two posts (1,2) are the video of the ad campaign (1) and a video overview of the 2021 Venza (2). The all-new Toyota Venza is at your local retailer today. Check out the media release after the "read more" jump.

Source: Toyota - Media release and pics

2021 Venza Overview | Toyota

Source: Toyota/YouTune