Volvo Concept recharge reflects the pure-electric future of Volvo

Volvo has taken the wraps off of the Concept Recharge (Recharge is what Volvo currently calls their EVs) which is a very clean, attractive design that is indicative of Volvos to come.  While no specifics were given at this time, Volvo is showcasing what is possible with an EV platform. You get flat floors. A larger interior compared to overall size (see rendering after the media release) and easier placement of safety equipment, etc. The beautiful design is instantly recognizable as a Volvo and follows Volvo's Scandinavian "less is more" ethos. While looking long and sleek, the Concept Recharge maintains seat placement and eye levels that SUV/crossover buyers look for and expect. The clean design extends to the interior with a large screen that utilizes the infotainment system develop by Google and Volvo which has gotten high marks from users in the XC40 Recharge EV. Looking forward to this one. Maybe it will show up at the LA Auto Show this fall. Could the Concept Recharge reflect the next XC90 or XC60? Let's hope so. For more info, pics, and a brief video click on "read more" below.

Source: Volvo - Media Release, pics, and video

Lucid Motors opens Lucid Air Studio in Manhattan

Some may wonder why I made this post since most previous posts were more product-specific. This is important to show that another from-the-ground-up EV start-up has made it past the development stage. Lucid Motors Air luxury sedan has gotten excellent reviews in first drives and full test drives with a unanimous declaration that the Air is a true Tesla Model S competitor.  Some have gone so far as to say that the Model S Plaid is a direst response to the most powerful Air sedan (both cars claim more than 1,000 hp). But this is good news for everyone. This means that our EV futures are looking very bright indeed. The design (Manhattan facility below) of the Lucid Air Studio reflects their expected customer with the studio looking for all the world like a high-end clothier or interior design location. Lucid Motors expects to open twelve of these locations across the country in cities like Chicago, San Francisco, Phoenix, Long Island, Boston, San Diego, and the D.C. Metro area. It looks like Lucid Motors is expecting to remain a high-end luxury purveyor of battery-electric vehicles. To view the brief media release and a first-drive video with Lucid's CEO Rawlinson, click on "read more" below. Expect to see the Air sedan on streets soon. Watch out Tesla.

Source: Lucid - Media release, pics, and video

The numbers are in - Mach-e GT and GT Performance Pack EPA-estimated range announced

Ford has released the EPA numbers for the Mustang Mach-e GT and GT Performance Pack and they're better than expected by as much as 15 miles per charge. The Mach-e GT has a final EPA-estimated range of 270 miles per charge while the GT Performance Pack accomplishes the same feat in 260 miles (probably due to larger tires, etc,). While Ford originally estimated deliveries to begin late summer, now orders will be accepted in the fall. The delat is probably due to the fact that they can't complete the orders they have due to demand and parts issues. Now the Mustang Mach-e with its 480 hp and 634 lb.-ft of torque/860 Nm1 and a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds can compete openly with the faster Teslas. Check with your dealer and get in the queue. To check out the media release and a short video, click on read more."

Source: Ford - Media release, pics, and video

Chevrolet's Bolt EV receives major updates for 2022

A few weeks ago, Chevrolet unveiled the new Bolt family, the EV and the somewhat larger EUV (a sort of compact crossover thing - see spec chart).  At the time, I focused on the newest family member, the Bolt EUV, and now the EV compact takes the spotlight. The styling has been updated and improved, although the previous model was a nice design. The interior has been upgraded addressing one of the few complaints of the existing Bolt (long-term seat comfort was the prob).  Since it's 2017 introduction, the Bolt has found homes in over 100,000 garages (federal tax incentive availability?). 240V fast charging is available with the electric motor delivering 200 hp and almost 260 miles of range on a full charge. A new Dual Level Charge Cord is available for Bolt EV with a maximum Level 2 charging speed (11 kW Level 2 charging) but without the need for separate charging equipment. For those who qualify, Chevy has a deal with Qmerit to provide charging units. Acceleration is quick, but not fast making the Bolt a nimble driver (which for many was the reason to choose the Bolt). For the updated models, Chevrolet has added new features like GM's Super Cruise hands-free assistance system (optional) and available driver assistance technologies like Rear Cross Traffic Alert, HD Surround Vision, and Adaptive Cruise Control. The HD Rear Vision Camera is standard on the Bolt EV. Prices start at $31,995 plus taxes, license, fees, destination and options. For lots of info including spec charts, click on "read more" to view the media release (for both models) and a running footage video (click on full screen for better viewing). Could this be your new EV? Might be...the 2022 Bolt EV will be available this summer.

Source: Chevrolet - Media release, pics, and video

Sad for some - BMW dropping i3 from US line-up in July of 2021

In 2019, BMW made it's last major update to the i3 EV with a larger battery and updated equipment (the media release and pics are from that update). The cool thing about the i3 is that it is an EV, you can get it with a range-extender option (a motorcycle engine runs a generator to charge the batteries in a pinch to help reduce range anxiety,) a carbon-fiber frame for light weight and stiffness, and good looks. Oh and it's a good size also, cuz not everyone needs or wants a giant conveyance. Even with the new batteries for 2019, the i3 has a range of about 150 miles and you can add anywhere from 20 - 30 miles if you choose the REX (range extender) option. There is also an s model that adds larger wheels and tires, a sport suspension, black-out trim, and a touch more horsepower. Three interior trim levels (mid-level shown above) are offered as are a plethora of options. BMW's safety suite and tech goodies are also on hand. Two (or three) things hindered the i3's acceptance in the US outside of major urban centers: the cost (it is imported from the EU and new tech is expensive), the range, and size (it's not a giant conveyance). It's sad cuz the i3 is a great looking citycar that would meet a lot of folks needs. Every person I've spoken to that has one absolutely loves the look and how it drives, but all wanted a touch more range...like 200+ miles as an example. A good little EV in search of a better and bigger battery. There will be a few new cars brought in close out the new i3's availability in the US. Of course used i3s (including certified models) are a pretty good deal, but prices have shot up recently. Something to consider before they're all gone. I've included a link to BMW Blog where the announcement was made. Select "read more" to see a couple opf brief videos as well.

Source: BMW/BMW Blog - Older media release, pics, videos after the jump.

All-new Polestar 3 SUV EV to be built in updated US Volvo facility

Volvo makes S60 cars in Ridgeville, South Carolina in the US and has since 2018 (see inauguration video after the jump). Recently, Volvo announced an additional $118 million investment in the site to produce electric vehicles both for itself and for partner Polestar. For those that don't know, Polestar is an EV maker that is jointly owned by Volvo and Geely. The first vehicle to be built for Polestar is the Polestar 3, a performance SUV, that is seen "under wraps" below. The plant will be the first site to build vehicles using a newly developed EV architecture that will underpin upcoming Volvos and probably Chinese-made Geelys as well. So good news for South Carolina car builders and all EV buyers. For more info and the video, click on "read more" below.

Source: Volvo/Polestar - Media releases (2), video - Select "read more" below.

VW introduces iD4 Pro AWD as the least-expensive AWD EV in the US

Volkswagen USA took the wraps off of the iD4 EV folks have wanted, the iD4 Pro AWD (you can also add an S in there, for you know, Sport if you check the right option box). The iD4 Pro AWD has a motor on each axle (the standard iD4 is RWD only) which ups the power to 295 hp with a 0 to 60 that's under 6 seconds. (Pics on this page are of the iD4 Pro S non AWD.) Range is 249 miles for the iD4 Pro AWD and about 240 miles for the S version. Yes bigger tires reduce range. Prices will start at just over $40k not counting any eligible rebates, etc. While it hasn't been announced for the US market, these stats are very similar to the iD4 GTX which is sort of the GTI of iD4s. The GTX version would add suspension tuning and blacked out trim, wheels, sports seats (?), etc. to the mix so here's hopin'. (Click on the link for my GTX post.) All in all, this is good news for EV buyers. More choice and a better (and more expensive) product. Remember that VW is marketing the iD4 to regular SUV/crossover buyers, you know like the folks that buy RAV4s. But this new model is a stronger competitor for EV buyers. If you can find one. I went with a friend to a VW dealer recently and the salesperson admitted that dealers aren't excited to sell EVs cuz they really make their money in the service bay (EVs don't require as much service as do ICE vehicles). Think about that. For more information, click on "read more" to jump to the media release and additional pics.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, pics

Micro Motors Microlino EV gets one step closer to production

I saw a post for this car/not-a-car and looked into it. Anyone who has a car knowledge with some depth, will recognize the inspiration for Micro Motors new Microlino, the BMW Isetta from the 50s and 60s. The big difference of course is that the Microlino is 100% electric with a 200 meter (120+ mile) range and seating for two. The door opens to the front for entrance and egress and ease of entry. Depending on your area will determine, how the Microlino is classified whether that be car, scooter, motorcycle, or other. The point being that the Microlino, due to it's size and layout, would not pass most crash and safety testing, but then the Microlino's mission is different. It is a citycar designed for limited (aka low-speed) use. I don't see many long-distance trips in the Microlino's future. The Microlino was developed in Switzerland but will be built in Italy. The car shown here is the third prototype that has almost completed "industrialization" or preparation for production. Will your area see the Microlino? Contact them to find out, but Europe is a given. Pricing is reasonable quoted at 12,000 Euros, so the Microlino is affordable as more and more consumers buy specialized vehicles for their needs. In the US, the Microlino would fall into the category that covers Polaris three-wheelers and similar vehicles and the Polaris does not require a motorcycle driver's license in most states. So maybe... Click on "read more" to see the two media releases, additional pics and two videos (after the releases) and enjoy. Probably more to come.

Source: Micro Motors - Media releases, pics, and videos (2) after the jump.

Lexus rolls out the new 2022 NX as their future of luxury

The Lexus NX has been updated for 2022 with cleaner styling and new features/models. Lexus calls the NX the "Future of Luxury" which can be looked at from many angles. Is this what Future Lexi will look like? Is it the "Future" because of its size and available hybrid drivetrain? Or is this marketing hyperbole? We shall see. The design is cleaner without reverting to the blobtastic vanilla designs of much of the Lexus line-up. Yep, not a fan, but I do like the new NX. Heck, I didn't hate the old one. The new NX will come in several flavors, the NX 250, 350, and the new 450h+. The NX 250 features a 2.5-liter four (203 hp) mated to an eight-speed automatic that comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD) with all-wheel drive (AWD) optional. The NX 350 features a 2.5-liter turbo engine (275 hp) also mated to an eight-speed auto. The "performance"  NX is the NX 450h+ that combines the 2.5-liter engine with a plug-in hybrid drive mated to an electronically-controlled, full-time AWD system. Expect extra performance and efficiency from the plug-in hybrid (36 miles of electric-only drive available). This is a Lexus folks so, you can spend as much as you want or can. The F-Sport option is on the options sheet (blue car and red interior) which adds black accents, larger wheels, and more. All of Lexus' safety and luxury equipment is either standard or optional. If the size is right for your needs, this is one to consider. If you can afford it, I'd go for the full-on NX 450h+ for its equipment and efficiency until a full electric version is available down the road. For a pic of the head-up display, a video, and the media release that fills in the wholes, click on "read more" below.

Source: Lexus - Media release, pics

Potentially ground-breaking '22 Ford Maverick compact truck gets standard hybrid power

Let's be real for a minute. It's been rumored and spy photos have shown Ford developing a new truck for a while. Early spy shots didn't show the truck next to anything for size comparison so this could have been the Ranger re-do. Nope, this truck is smaller than it's Ranger brethren (see size chart after the jump) and a storied Ford name was resurrected just for the new truck, Maverick. It kinda fits. Who would of thought that this little truck would have potentially such an impact that it is bound to have? After all today's trucks have been getting increasingly large and expensive, so Ford develops a smaller truck on the new Bronco Sport platform...not too small, that has a starting price of $19,995 plus taxes, license, fees and destination. Yup, it's a Maverick all right. This rig is cheaper out of the starting gate than any other US truck and less expensive than many compact sedans and hatches. And on top of all that, the standard powertrain is a hybrid (2.5-liter four, hybrid drive, FWD, 191 hp, CVT) and an estimated 40 mpg in the city. In a truck. The base truck will tow 2,000 lbs. or carry about 1,500 lbs, but if you need a bit more oomph, there is an available 2.0-liter Ecoboost ICE engine (250 hp) that comes mated to an eight-speed automatic and can tow up to 4,000 lbs. The EcoBoost engine must be specified if you want all-wheel drive. Maverick comes in three flavors XL, XLT, and Lariat with packages like Ford's FX-4 all-wheel drive package thar's optional on XLT and Lariat trim levels. This truck is filled with gobs of features and specs for just about any buyer/driver. Ford has developed a new FlexBed system (see video) for this truck (including power outlets) that makes the Maverick sort of a Swiss Army Knife of pick-em-ups, as an example. The rear seat lifts for storage. Lots of infotainment options including wi-fi and more safety equipment and packages than you can shake a stick at (read the media release for more specific info). Granted if you check all the boxes on the options sheet you can spend some bucks, but the point is that you don't have to with the Maverick. Imagine, a good-looking truck, with all the available options, a low starting price, and great gas mileage from the hybrid set-up. Who'da thunk it? BTW: there will be a Maverick First Edition package that is built off the Lariat trim level and includes unique graphics on the hood and lower doors, a high-gloss black-painted roof, soft tonneau cover, body-color door handles, high-gloss black skull caps, and gloss black-painted and machined 18-inch wheels for hybrid or unique 17-inch aluminum wheels for the gas model with Carbonized Gray, Area 51 and Rapid Red, being the only First Edition colors. Click on the jump for more. The Maverick hits dealers this fall. You can build and order yours now at Ford.com. Check it out. Now all we need is a Maverick Lightning.

Source: Ford - Medial release, pics, size reference chart, and videos (3) after the "read more" jump

Meet the all-new Ford Maverick hybrid compact truck - Videos

 

 
These will hold you 'til I write it up.  One more video after the "read more" jump.

 Source: Ford/YouTube

Greek island of Astypalea to go totally green with help from solar and Volkswagen

This is one of those articles/releases that I flag for post just because I found it interesting. Volkswagen is working with the Greek authorities to develop the resources to turn Islands and island nations into self-sustainers with green technology. I though something like this would happen in the US when Puerto Rico was pretty much wiped out in a recent storm. I know Tesla donated a few solar arrays and battery back-up equipment to Puerto Rico but it was nothing like this. Considering that Puerto Rico is part of the US, I expected more but our then President 45 thought throwing paper towels at people was a better idea. He didn't know, or care for that matter, that Puerto Rico is under US governance (a territory) and there has been talk of statehood many times through the years, but I digress. I admit it. I wanted to be able to brag about how we were turning things around in Puerto Rico in a sustainably green manner like Volkswagen is doing on the Greek island of Astypalea. This is a joint project for future energy needs. Currently, the folks that inhabit Astypalea get the majority of their electricity and power from diesel generators. The new plan will give the island a solar array with battery storage units that will deliver about 60% of their power needs by 2023. A 100% conversion to green energy (mostly solar) will happen after that. All vehicles will switch to electric power including motor scooters. The Greek government expects at least a 25% savings over current systems. In effect, VW and Greek Authorities are testing systems and equipment that can be utilized all over the world and fairly quickly. For more info, check out the media release after the "read more" jump. I'll either add another post or update this one as the test results come in and yes that is a new VW iD4 that was drafted for police duty.

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

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross compact crossover revealed

This was a bit of a surprise not only because it is a compact crossover (the RAV4 ain't no compact), but also that they attached the vehicle to the Corolla family (for marketing/bragging reasons?). Just add an X or Cross, or some other moniker and voilá, you've got a new vehicle. (Ford even considered calling the current Escape the Focus Activ.) But since most of the previously compact SUVs and crossovers have moved up in size, automakers found they had misread the market and are now coming out with new compact crossovers, like VWs new Taos to name one The Corolla Cross shares some underpinnings with its sedan brethren. The engine is a 2.0-liter four that makes 169 hp and gets mated to a higher capacity CVT. Expect about 30 mpg combined with the all-wheel-drive versions and add 2 mpg for the front-wheel-drive only Corolla Crosses. Features include Toyota's safety suite either standard or optional depending on the grade chosen (L, LE, XLE), an available JBL audio system, SofTex-trimmed seating, a 10-way, power-adjustable driver’s seat, and more depending on your needs and wallet. (Check out the media release for more). No word on exactly when the Corolla Cross will hit your local dealer, but they are calling it a 2022 model which would mean deliveries should start this year. One question though...where's the hybrid version?

Source: Toyota - Media Release, pics, and video after the "read more" jump.

TA.b - EV Talk 6A21

This post is sort of an opinion piece about EVs and a way to inseminate info available around the web that I can't find releases and back-up for (many sites have staff members that can contact manufacturers directly, etc.). To begin let's talk about infrastructure. I don't know what the hold-up is, but several infrastructure bills have been submitted and a couple of them visit the need to develop EV charging infrastructure. I read a piece a while back where a Shell exec had stated that they were past peak oil production and were looking towards the future with possible charging stations at their "energy locations" aka gas stations. I guess after several nasty discussions, the head of Shell came out and gave the typical "ain't oil and everything petroleum great" speech. So much for progress. But governments and investors in Big Oil gave the oil execs reasons to lose sleep this week demanding that Big Oil step up their climate change changes. See one article from NPR here.

The folks at Green Car Reports are quoting an Automotive News piece that shows Ford has made more Mustang Mach-es (above) than regular Mustangs in a recent period. While the Mustang may be the bigger seller (for now), the Mach-e is in high demand and could overtake Ford's ponycar in the sales charts. They also talk about how Ford's approach to electrification is different than other automakers. Interesting and a quick read at the link above. Second post from CarBuzz.  Electrek's take on this.

This post from the Robb Report states that the Lexus LF-Z concept (below) will see production. 

Change is in the air. Climate change detractors need to see the writing on the walls and realize that climate change and pollution aren't going away and get better by themselves. We have to do our part.  Look into a little one's face and tell them you don't want to create a better world for them because you like polluting and burning oil. Remember that not long ago, the gas and oil industry stated that "green" energy would never catch on due to it's high cost. In a few short years, green energy is cost competitive and in some cases cheaper than burning oil, natural gas, and/or coal. In fact, Texas is one of the country's largest green energy creators and users. Think about that for a minute. Just Google Texas Green Energy programs for more. Skip the ones about how they messed up by not winterizing their equipment.

All-new BMW iX EV xDrive50 SAV part 2

When I did my first production iX post about BMW's new sport activity vehicle, I used info from the international BMW site, since nothing seemed to be available at the US version. I was early I guess. The US media release gives us lots and lots of info that wasn't available elsewhere. (I used different pics of the same iX to give more exposure.) Firstly, the iX is scheduled to arrive in the US during the first quarter of 2022 (as a 2023 model?). Secondly, the iX xDrive50 is the model coming to the US with a starting price of $83k+ which is a lot more than I thought. I was guessing an iX xDrive40 would start here under $50k, but what do I know?  Since BMW utilizes groups and packages to allow customization and to drive up pricing I thought these newbies would be cheaper. Wrong. Size wise the iX may compete with more mid-sized EVs, the pricing puts the car in the luxury group like the Tesla Model Y, Jaguar i-Pace, and others. Depending on how they flesh-out the rest of their EV line-up (besides EV versions of regular models) will determine if BMW has made a mistake. BMW has been making EVs for years so it can't be all about recouping cost. On this issue there will be more...

One thing the new media release provides is much more information about the production version. In fact, it is one of the longest media releases I've seen in a long time and it's all there after the "read more" jump. Highlights include the new iDrive system with over-the-air updates, an adjustable roof that can be clear or opaque, available 5G and eSIM, a curved display with a heads-up feature, all-wheel-drive, and lots more, Range is still estimated at 300 miles with 516 hp and fast charging. Zero to sixty mph is estimated at just over 4.5 seconds. Remember that the iX xDrive50 is the first iteration we'll get in the US with others following like the high-performance iX xDrive 60 with 600+ hp and the more reasonably priced iX xDrive40. Personally, I like the styling and the front end doesn't bother me especially when you read about the tech that is housed there. (PS: I still like the dark metallic red on this car) Since I live in an area that has lots of EVs and BMWs, I can't wait to see these out on the road. BTW: BMW is partnering with EVGo to provide sustainable charging and to improve the EV infrastructure. Read on and enjoy the videos as well.

Source - BMW USA - Media release: pics, videos (2) and spec chart after the "read more" jump. Really first post,

Toyota's production-bound BEV bZ4X concept

This one is interesting. Recently Toyota's Chairman got visibly upset when folks questioned his stance on EVs. He stated that hydrogen was the future and these same folks asked why take the middle step when they could just go with a true battery-only EV? Let's remember that hydrogen-fuel-cell vehicles use hydrogen mixed with oxygen in the air to make electricity to send to batteries to then drive the vehicle. The only tailpipe emission is water. Cool right? And then you must consider where the hydrogen comes from either water or hydro-carbons (aka oil) processed. But as you can see, eliminating the hydrogen-fuel cell and by putting in larger batteries can accomplish the same thing in a much simpler manner. Plus you don't have to drive around with highly-pressurized hydrogen tubes which are incredibly flammable. Like blow-up flammable (remember blimps?). Sure the tech has made advances but ICE cars don't catch fire like in the olden days (remember that your gas tank is basically a Molotov Cocktail) and that battery fires are few in comparison (unless you blow it like GM has with recent Chevy Bolts...supposedly fixed btw).  Let's move ahead to today's post. Toyota recently announced it's new EV division bZ (as in let's get busy or I'm so busy? Oh Beyond Zero, right...) with the debut of the bZ4X crossover concept. The RAV4 sized ute is handsomely styled, but no specs have been released. The bZ4X is expected to go into production next year so more info is around the corner. No word on whether this concept (and production version) will ride on a new more-efficient EV-only platform or whether the bZ4X utilizes an existing one. Expect Lexus and Subaru versions. I know more information is on the horizon, but this is a step in the right direction for Toyota and our futures. Maybe Toyota executives should take their chairman for a ride in a new Tesla Model S of a Lucid Air. I really take issue with the media release making Toyota sound like the EV leader. The numbers quoted include hybrids (like the Prius, etc.) and while a hybrid is a good step, a full battery-electric vehicle is better on many counts. And in just a few short years, EVs will be purchase-cost competitive since they are already cheaper to run.

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

BMW's all-new iX e-SAV breaks cover

BMW's iX electric sports activity vehicle (e-SAV) is ready and about to hit the roads near you later this year (assuming that you're in Europe and Germany of course). The iX and the upcoming i4 share one of BMW's new EV platforms. Despite the controversial front end design (I like it especially when the grilles are blacked out), the iX is an attractive ute-ish thing especially from the rear. The interior features a large video component that appears to sweep across most of the dash. Color will be very important to this car with some colors wiping out the car's distinctiveness while other colors will accentuate the design (and yes I still love a candy-apple red metallic color). The iX will initially be available in xDrive40 and xDrive50 models with a higher-performance xDrive60 model coming later. The xDrive40 iX will feature about 324 hp and about 263 miles of range with a 10 to 80% charge taking only 30+ minutes. The iX xDrive50 features 523 hp and 391 miles of range. Expect 600 hp from the xDrive60 model. Taking the extra battery weight into consideration, the BMW iX should move along very quickly and still have BMW's vaunted all-wheel-drive traction and handling. Ultimately, availability and price will be the decision maker's quandary especially since charging is getting easier every day. My advice, charge at home of you can (oh and get a solar roof for almost free driving...btw: apartments and other buildings are getting in on this too). Check out the complete media release and b-roll video after the "read more" jump. Can't wait.

Source: BMW - Media release, pics, and video