Alpha Motors shows new SuperWolf EV crew cab truck design

First off, I like Alpha Motors' designs and have posted about each new model that is based on the one EV platform -- which is smart for a start-up. But that's the rub as they say. Another website contacted Alpha Motors for more information and got no response. Evidently all these nifty designs are (very good) digital representations at this point. No physical models have been made supposedly. I hope that whatever the problem is, that Alpha gets it together and brings their designs to life and to market. Take the vehicle here...the new Alpha SuperWolf crew cab truck. It's based on the previously shown Wolf+ which can trace it's roots all the way back to the Ace coupe. The Superwolf has four full-sized doors and is shown with accessories from various aftermarket companies (see media release). Let's hope that Alpha gets the funding they need to makes these designs real or sell them to a company that can bring the various models to fruition. I would think that they could buy the equipment and tech "off the shelf." GM sells a 200-hp electric motor as a "crate" motor, so... For more information and a video, click on "read more" below. Let's all keep out fingers crossed.

Source: Alpha Motors - Media release, pics, and video

Mercedes EQS - the S-Class of EVs

 

I have to admit that I've been put off by Mercedes' styling of late, but the new EQS EV is a return to (former) form. From the side the EQS is elegant (see two-tone side pic after the jump) and screams luxury. The tail is okay with the thin rear lights and the front visage is a vast improvement over Mercedes' recent ICE designs. Electric motors of 245 kW (328 hp) and 385 kW (516 hp) will be available at launch with at 560 kW (763 hp) motor under development. Expect 400+ miles of range and fast charging. 4Matic all-wheel drive is an option. As a top range EV, the EQS comes with a plethora of standard and optional equipment like the MBUX door-ro-door Hyperscreen, Burmester premium audio, rear-wheel steering, four automatic comfort doors (allowing the rear doors to be opened at school pick-ups), infotainment with "Hey Mercedes" (supports 27 languages with Natural Language Understanding (NLU) and more than can be listed here. Prices will be in the six-figure range, but you knew that. For more information and two videos, click on "read more" and enjoy. We'll talk later about the amount of automakers chasing the luxury EV market (which may get very full) with lots of choices. With the increased competition fewer units may be sold, which is not indicative of overall demand for EVs. I know the more expensive models pay for the development costs, but we should be almost past that. The EQS should be at dealers soon. We shall see...

Source: Mercedes Benz = Media release, pics, and videos (2)

AVWWG: The AC Cobra Series 1 and Series 4 - Electric sports cars

 
Here's another one from the Another Vehicle We Won't Get files, the AC Cars Cobra Series 1 and Series 4 Electric sports cars. Most folks with even a passing interest in performance cars knows about the AC Cobra, The Cobra sports cars combined extremely light weight with lots of horsepower to make an agile (and sometimes frightening) conveyance. They were known for their rapid acceleration and agile handling. During the era of government safety and emissions regulations, the cars were brought to the US in pieces and sold as kits. Some dealers would build the car for you for a price. Even though the Electric Series cars have no emissions, there still are the safety regs that just looking at the car, you know they won't meet even basic requirements. Maybe they'll do the whole kit thing again. Evidently the Series 4 car is ready to go. It features the larger body with a 460kW motor (600+ hp) and will hit sixty in under four seconds with a range of 160 miles (less if your foot stays on the go pedal) with a body weight of roughly 2,700 pounds. The Series 1 cars feature the smaller body with a 230kW motor (300+ hp) which will hit sixty in just under five seconds with a range of 190 miles and a body weight of just over 2,600 pounds. No word yet on the handling but the extra weight could make the cars feel more "planted." The two media releases show different performance numbers but the release for the Series 1 cars has early estimates. This will be interesting. We shall see. Click on "read more" to read the releases (which were processed as pics so you can click on them for a closer look). Interesting. An AC Cobra for the 21st century. Who would've thought?

Source: AC Cars - Media releases (2), pics

Volkswagen shows Atlas Cross Sport GT Concept

If you live in an area like I do where you see a lot of customized vehicles, The Volkswagen Atlas Sport Cross GT Concept wouldn't seem out of place. With one possible exception, the go factor. Volkswagen has taken care of that by fitting the drivetrain from the new Golf R (2.0-liter turbocharged four, 300 hp, seven-​speed DSG® automatic transmission, 4Motion® all-wheel-drive) for more oomph. Granted, the Sport Cross GT would not be as fast as the Golf R due ro the extra weight, but it would probably be the quickest Atlas model. Using a 2021 Atlas Cross Sport SEL Premium R-Line as its base, the GT Concept includes upgrades like the special Eisvogelblau paint color, 22-inch ABT Sport HR AEROWHEELs wrapped in Yokohama Advan Sport V105 UHP 285/35R22 tires; lowered ST Suspension with XTA Plus 3 coilovers with color-matched and GT Concept-branded springs; TAROX eight-piston front brakes; and gloss black exterior trim and custom GT badging. Inside, the Eisvogelblau color was used throughout from the custom RECARO Sportster CS seats to the custom blue gear shift and safety belts. While VW gave no word on the production of the Atlas Sport Cross GT Concept in Tennessee, the concept will be touring to gather potential buyer reaction. Who knows. If they can homologate the Golf R powertrain into the Atlas easily and with little extra testing to meet government regulations, we might see this one at your local dealer. If this looks like something for you, let VW know. Click on "read more" below fore more info.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, pics

Lotus unveils it's latest sports car, the Emira

As we know, Lotus is a builder of sports cars. Good ones too, but Lotus is also an engineering company creating designs and doing engineering work for other automakers. Some of these car companies cannot afford extensive internal engineering departments. Lotus even creates platforms for others to use, like Tesla did with the original Roadster. It has been reported that Lotus has designed three EV platforms, one for their upcoming SUV, one for sports cars, and one that is offered to other automakers. Geeley, Lotus' parent, will use this platform for an upcoming EV. It has also been reported that the Emira will be Lotus' last model with an internal-combustion engine (ICE). Lotus calls the Emira their most accomplished Lotus ever made, which is saying something. The mid-engine design will feature two engines. At launch, the first cars will be available as limited-production ‘First Edition’ models powered by the Lotus-honed supercharged 3.5-litre V6 that creates 400hp. The V6 engine is source from Toyota and breathed on (heavily) by Lotus. The second engine is a four-cylinder engine that was developed by AMG and Lotus that produces 360 hp. AMG is the performance division of Mercedes Benz, so Lotus is hangin' with good company. A manual, an automatic, and a dual-clutch automatic are the transmission choices. The Emira is loaded with safety equipment and tech like the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) which includes adaptive cruise control, anti-collision system, fatigue alert, road sign information, vehicle speed limiter, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist and much more. Click on "read more" below for all the details and an extensive (read long) video of the Emira reveal. Like most Lotus offerings, the cars can be extensively personalized. For example, Emira will be available with six exterior paint colors – Hethel Yellow, Shadow Grey, Magma Red, Nimbus Grey, Dark Verdant and the launch finish of Seneca Blue (shown). Seven interior colours are available – Black Nappa leather, Red Nappa leather, Grey Nappa leather, Tan Nappa leather, Black Alcantara with grey stitch, Black Alcantara with red stitch and Black Alcantara with yellow stitch. There are five wheel choices – cast 10-spoke, gloss black 10-spoke, silver forged V-spoke, gloss black forged V-spoke and diamond cut forged V-spoke) – with four brake caliper colours – black, red, yellow and silver. Choose away at their digital visualiser showcasing the car’s striking design which can be found at www.lotuscars.com. Prices should be just under six figures, but can go higher with lots of checks on the options sheet. Emira will be available early next year. No word on US deliveries. Enjoy.

Source: Lotus - Media release, pics, spec sheet, and video

JFF: Mini shows tri-color roof treatments

Another one from the Just For Fun files. Originally shown with the Mini-e as part of the Electric Collection, the tri-color roof treatment has now spread to the rest of Mini models. A special new paint process allows the unique design, Of course Mini has always offered various contrasting roof colors, not to mention a Union Jack and checkered pattern, The light color Pearly Aqua is applied first to the roof of the correspondingly configured vehicles. In further steps, San Marino Blue is applied to the front of the roof and Jet Black to the rear, creating the flowing color gradients characteristic of the Multitone Roof. The innovative painting process is fully integrated into the automated production process at the MINI plant in Oxford. Nevertheless, slight deviations in the color pattern occur due to changing environmental conditions, so that each MINI with a Multitone Roof is already given the character of a unique specimen by the painting process at the factory  But if blue isn't your thing and depending on the model variant, contrasting paint finishes in white, black and silver are offered as optional equipment. A red-painted roof is also available for the John Cooper Works models. So lots more personalization choices for Mini buyers. Don't know if dealers will keep these in stock for impulse buyers, but I thought it was kinda cool when it was introduced as part of the Mini-e Electric Collection. Choices, choices... Click on "read more" below for the surprisingly long media release and an additional pic.

Source: Mini - Media release, pics

JFF: Ford develops a fragrance, Mach Eau, to help with EV adoption

From the Just For Fun files, Ford has developed a new fragrance to help with EV adoption. The Mustang Mach-e GT has just become available in Europe and Ford did a study to find out what some of the barriers were to EV adoption (Ford offers a few more EVs, vans, etc., in Europe). According to the study, many folks miss the smell of gasoline (petrol there) after switching to an EV (not to mention the possible carcinogens). Others thought that that would be a problem for them as well even though they haven't made the switch. The Mach-Eau fragrance was created by renowned fragrance consultancy, Olfiction, with ingredients that each add a specific element of the scent’s story. Pia Long, an Associate Perfumer in the British Society of Perfumers, who has worked creating fragrances for some of the most famous perfume brands was instrumental in its inception. “Judging by our survey findings, the sensory appeal of petrol cars is still something drivers are reluctant to give up. The Mach Eau fragrance is designed to give them a hint of that fuel-fragrance they still crave. It should linger long enough for the GT’s performance to make any other doubts vaporise too,” said Jay Ward, director, Ford of Europe Product Communications. Interestingly, the fragrance won't be available for sale which strikes me as a possible missed opportunity (at least for a while), No word in the press release if a bottle of Mach Eau would be found in the glove compartment of a new Mach-e. For more info regarding the survey results and a glamour video of the Mach-Eau bottle, click on "read more" below. What, Eau de Gasoline was taken? I know, I know...

Source: Ford of Europe - Media release, pics, and video

Redesigned 2022 Nissan Frontier mid-size pickup breaks cover before Summer on sale date

Nissan's Frontier is utilized around the world in far-flung areas of the globe where it is more of a workhorse than a boulevard cruiser with style. And finally, it has some. Style that is. Luckily, Nissan didn't burden the new Frontier with the beaver-tooth grille like pretty much every other vehicle in their lineup. This is a design more in line with it's contemporaries like the Toyota Tacoma and the Ford Ranger. But, it is still unique with fender bulges and unique lighting giving a somewhat more muscular design. The interior has been massively updated and is a much nicer place to be. The 3.8-liter V6 has been reworked to produce 310 hp and is mated to a nine-speed automatic. Also on hand is Apple Carplay and Android Auto, not to mention available Wi-Fi and wireless charging. The 2022 Frontier King Cab is offered in 2WD and 4WD S and SV grades. The 2022 Frontier Crew Cab is available in 2WD and 4WD S, SV SWB (standard bed) and SV LWB (long bed), along with the Crew Cab PRO-4X (4WD only) and new-for-2022 PRO-X (2WD only). The PRO-X grade provides the same rugged design touches as PRO-4X but does not include certain 4WD-related content (electronic locking differential, underbody skid plates). Seven option packages will be available. A 5-foot bed is standard on all Crew Cab models, with a 6-foot bed optional on Crew Cab SV Long Wheelbase models. A 6-foot bed is also standard on all King Cab models. Nissan has been building trucks (in multiple sizes) for many decades and the new 2022 Frontier reflects Nissan's latest and greatest mid-size truck. To view a few more pics, the media release and two videos, click on "read more" below. Nissan has delivered a competitive truck, but the top players from Ford and Toyota are due for redesigns so we shall see. But the most important thing is that buyers now have an additional and compelling choice in the mid-size truck market. The 2022 Frontier began production this week so the trucks should be arriving at dealers soon. Check with your local Nissan provider regarding availability and details such as pricing. Too bad Nissan didn't take parts from the Leaf EV and introduce a Frontier battery-electric truck and get a jump on the competition.

Source: Nissan - Media Release, pics, and videos

Aston Martin unveils the Valhalla hybrid hypercar

Aston Martin is hanging in there and just released it's latest, the Valhalla Hybrid Hypercar. The low slung sports machine features stunning looks and a 950 hp (combined) hybrid powertrain that gets you to sixty in under three seconds, improved efficiency, and a 217 mph top speed. Ralph Illenberger, Head of Powertrain Engineering said: “Valhalla is our first opportunity to really show what we are capable of in a true production sense. We have created our own bespoke air-to-air charge-cooled, flat-plane crank V8 engine and have combined it with a powerful hybrid system. And, of course, we also have our own bespoke Dual Clutch Transmission - a first for Aston Martin and an essential component both for Valhalla and future Aston Martin models. The result is a truly world-class powertrain for an efficient, ultra-performing supercar.” Valhalla has a carbon fiber tub and performance suspension created with technology gleaned from Aston Martin's F1 program. This is a beautiful car with the latest technology and performance befitting a proper Aston Martin for the future. Says AM, "Valhalla is a new generation Aston Martin, it defines a new driver and driving experience – ‘the Mastery of Driving’, a true ultra-luxury, exclusive, British supercar." Here, here, pip, pip, Cheerio. I understand that a certain famous British spy has been looking the Valhalla over. Celluloid dream (cars). Pricing wasn't released, but as they say, "If you have to ask..." For more information, a well-written media release, and a video, click on "read more" below. Enjoy!

Aston Martin - Media release, pics, and video

Hyundai releases pricing for the Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle

Hyundai has released the pricing for the Santa Cruz Sport Adventure Vehicle (as opposed to BMW's Sport Activity Vehicle). Sort of a compact truckish thing, the Santa Cruz is unibodied like the upcoming Maverick, but more like an SUV/crossover with a truck bed. Standard engine is a 2.5-liter four (with a turbocharger thrown in for top trim levels) that provides the power mated to an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive (a $1,500 option) are available depending on model chosen. Prices start at $23,990 (plus taxes, license, fees, options, and $1,185 destination) for the SE trim, going all the way to $39,720 for the top Limited trim. Standard equipment includes:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED taillamps and cargo area lighting
• Integrated rear bumper side steps
• Rear privacy glass
• Body-colored side mirrors
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®
• Molded composite bed (vs. steel bed)
• Lockable underfloor bed storage
• Power-locking tailgate
• Remote open tailgate via fob
• Rear 60:40 flip-up lower cushions (vs. one-piece)
• Rear occupant alert
• Driver attention warning
• Lane keeping/lane following assist
• Intelligent speed limit warning
• Leading vehicle departure alert

For more information, click on "read more" below to view the media release and two intro videos. Only question is where are the hybrid and EV options. Ford's Maverick compact truck comes standard with a hybrid-drive system and an expected 40 mpg in the city. Hyundai has the technology in house, but I guess you can't get everything at once, not to mention that they may want to check the vehicle's popularity first. Check with your local dealer regarding dates of availability.

Source: hyundai - Media release, pics, and videos

Volkswagen shows updated 2022 Golf R and GTI

For those of you that still imbibe the dino juice, there are still a few interesting cars available today to whet your whistle. Volkswagen just released two of those cars, the 2022 Golf R and GTI. Available this Fall, the performance pair got numerous updates including engines, interiors, and more. The turbocharged I-4 now resides under both hoods with the GTI now rated at 241-hp and the R jumps that up to 315-hp mated to a six-speed manual or seven=speed DSG dual clutch automatic. Both models have improved power numbers with the new R beating previous model's six-cylinder engine. Inside an all-new electronic architecture enhances the interior with standard 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, touch interfaces, and 30-color ambient lighting, New vehicle dynamics settings improve handling, along with standard VAQ torque-sensing limited-slip differential on GTI and torque-vectoring AWD on R. New wheels, colors, and options complete the update. The pics shown on this page are of the R model while comparable GTI images appear after the jump. The GTI has three flavors, S, SE, and Autobahn with prices starting at $29,545 (plus taxes, license, fees, destination) for the S trim and the R starts at $43,645+. Destination is $995 for both. What your money gets you is one of the quickest, best handling, and well-balanced hot hatches. What will these two be like when they convert to electric drive? For more information about the new performance VW Golfs and Golf R intro video, click on "read more." The release even details the equipment by model and trim level.

Source: Volkswagen - media release, pics, and videos

Daikin Global develops efficient new car air-con refrigerant, R-32. that may extend EV range

This could be a pretty big one. Daikin Global Industries has developed a new refrigerant, R-32, that shows great promise for automotive applications. The refrigerant is highly efficient and very clean (see chart below and after the jump) with zero ozone depletion and a very low global warming impact. But the big news is that the efficiency of the refrigerant uses less energy and therefore would extend EV range by as much (in best cases) as 50%. According to Daikin, an EV that has a range of 124 miles could see an additional 62 miles by using their product. No word was given whether new air-conditioning compressors would be needed, but that should be disclosed after the company rolls out R-32 in about a year (tests, standards, and meeting regulations dontcha know).  I'm sure we'll be hearing more closer to the R-32 rollout. Stay tuned. Click on "read more" for the other charts and the media release. PS: I used the Volvo XC40 Recharge in the pic above since it's one of my current favorites and Volvo's usually on top of things like this.

Source: Daikin - Media release, pics - Published post

BMW reveals new 2022 2-Series Coupe and yes you can get purple...er, Thundernight Metallic

arts

Starting in November 2021, two models of the new BMW 2-Series Coupe will become available. The 230i with a 2.0-liter turbo four that makes 255 hp mated to an eight-speed sport automatic and the M240i xDrive (shown) that comes with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo six with 382 hp also mated to an eight-speed sport automatic. Both engines sip premium unleaded. To additional models will be added later. The design modifications to the slightly larger 2-Series Coupe are subtle but nice providing a good-looking (to these eyes) update to the popular coupe. The last generation could look a little frumpy with its higher roof line. With prices hovering between $40k and $50k before options, taxes, fees, destination, etc., you can expect BMW's complete suite of safety equipment and tech. You wouldn't be wrong. For all the information, click on "read more" below and check out the extensive media release (complete with option package breakdowns), specification charts, and a brief intro video. Some will mourn the loss of a manual transmission option, but if we must be honest, how many of those does BMW really sell anymore? While I understand that the electrification of the auto industry won't happen overnight, a hybrid version of the new coupe would have been welcome. EV to come I guess, but it would probably get a different name. We need more sporty and coupe EVs (or some). This one I can't wait to see on the road, especially in Thundernight Metallic. Enjoy!

Source: BMW - Media release, pics, and video

BMW shows the new i4 eDrive40 and the i4 M50 EVs before their early 2022 debut

I must say that the new BMW i4 EVs are good-looking, mainstream sedans hewn out of a BMW block of stone. They look like other BMWs (with a touch of Camry thrown in); engineered to the hills with safety equipment, luxury, and tech; and the very latest EV items like batteries, non-rare-earth motors, etc. In case you forgot, BMW is an upscale, luxury, and performance automaker and the i4's prices will reflect that (mid five figure to start). Two models will be available when the i4 goes on sale in the first quarter of next year, the eDrive 40 (below) and the M50 (above). The M50 is the performance version with dual motors, all-wheel drive, more than 560 hp (plus Sport Boost), and a sub-four second 0 to 60 time. Expect M model fitments, superior handling and more. The "starter" i4, the eDrive40, gets 335 hp, rear-wheel drive, but at this price point, the i4 eDrive40 won't be a "stripper" or car with nothing on it. The interior is typical BMW with a splash of EV style (aka somwhar minimalist and with lots of screens). Range for the eDrive40 model is estimated at about 300 miles with the M50 getting less than 250 (estimated) miles. Fast charging of 200 KW will be available to get you on the go, quickly. Since this is a vehicle from the "Ultimate Driving Machine" marque, expect incredible handling aided by the low battery placement improving the car's center of gravity. BMW has teamed up with EVGo to give access to one of the largest charging networks that features 100% sustainable energy. For an incredible amount of information and two videos, click on "read more" below. BTW: this is one of the longest media releases i've ever seen, so answers to most questions should be there. Enjoy!

Source: BMW = Media release, pics, spec chart, and videos (2)

Volta Charging works with Bloomberg Green to create air-quality scoreboards at free chargers

 So this one showed up in my news feed and I looked further. Volta Industries subsidiary Volta Charging has a unique business model that will show up in more places in the future I'm sure. The main idea is that Volta Charging places their kiosk charge points in or near brick and mortar shopping areas with chargers that feature large screens. The screens display advertising from various sources like Southern California Edison, Albertson's (Food) Company, and others The new spin is that the kiosks will now feature a clean-air scoreboard for the immediate area from Bloomberg Green. I guess it sorta reinforces that we should all be driving EVs. Plus, depending on your charge time, it gives you something to look at instead of your phone. Did I mention that due to the advertising, the charging is currently free. That may change but expect some advertising price support going forward. I must admit that I hadn't heard of Volta Charging before this, but there are several Volta Chargers at major shopping centers presently in my area with more scheduled. Watch the video after the jump, to see which areas are currently served. For more information, click on "read more" below to view the media release and two videos including the second vid (after the release) about the Volta Response System. Google them or click here (www.voltacharging.com) to see if there are any Volta Charging units in your area.

Source: Volta Charging - Media release, pics