Ford Mustang Mach-e becomes first EV to pass Michigan State testing for police duty

Check your rear-view mirrors because you might see the Mustang Mach-e EV chasing you with lights flashing real soon. Ford's Pro division submitted the Mustang Mach-e EV for testing to the Michigan State Police. Michigan's State Police test vehicles from manufacturers and publish the results for consideration by police agencies nationwide. No specifics were given of the vehicle tested but it does have the Mach-e GT grille, large wheels/tires and seems lowered. A vehicle for police use would have steel wheels and in interior tailored for police use (room for computers, police belts, dividers, special interior fabrics - aka heavy-duty vinyl, etc.). I'm sure Ford will "show" the fully outfitted Mustang Mach-e for police duty soon. Passing this stage was the first test. Remember that police departments around the country have purchased and are using the "untested" Tesla Model 3 for police use. So far most are very happy with the Teslas and praise the EV's efficiency as a high point in their usage. Many are buying additional vehicles. Now they can go get EVs from Ford. More to come. CLick on "read more" to view the brief media release and a short testing video.

Source: Ford - Media release, pics, and video

Audi releases Q4 EV crossover and Sportback into the wild

Audi is releasing the fourth and fifth models of their e-tron family, the Q4 e-tron (above) and the Q4 e-tron Sportback (below). The "base" Q4 e-tron is the Q4 e-tron 40 that comes with a 201 hp motor, an 82 kWh battery pack, and fast charging with prices starting at $43,900 plus taxes, license, fees, destination and minus any state and federal incentives (Audi still qualifies for the $7,500 federal incentive assuming you do). EPA-range estimates are still to be determined. I guess only the Q4 e-tron 50s (regular and sportback) will be available in the beginning. The Q4 e-tron 50s get dual motors rated at 295 hp with the same 82 kWh battery pack (and fast charging), all-wheel drive, 0-60 in under 7 seconds, and an EPA-rated 241 miles of range (100e city/89e combined/81e highway). If these numbers sound similar to what's available in the VW iD4 you wouldn't be wrong but the Q4 is a nicer place to be. And more expensive. I apologize for the quality of the interior shot (taken from the configurator), but you get Audi's typical high-quality interior fitments. The Q4 e-tron 50 starts at $49,900 +/- and the Sportback version starts at $52,700 +/-. Of course there are lots of trim choices, options and options packages for you to spend your hard-earned dollars. Click on "read more" to view the media release (with configurator links), a couple of additional pics, and two brief videos. The all-new Q4 e-tron models should be at your local dealer anytime. Check it out...so Audi, where's the Q2 e-tron EV?

Source: Audi - Media release, pics, and videos (2)

Mercedes Benz takes the G-Class into the future with the EQG EV study shown at IAA

Well this one was a no-brainer. With its ladder frame (a great place to store batteries), the G-Class Mercedes was a natural for electrification. What you see here is what Mercedes is calling a pre-production study or a concept if you will that shows what could (can?) be done with Mercedes' macho off-roader. No specifics were given other than the EQG would have all-wheel drive with four motors and a two-speed transfer case for those times that you might need to "step things down" so to speak. This would allow the EQG to go just about anywhere and be as capable as the current G-Class but with a new level of efficiency. We would expect  no less from Mercedes. The pre-production study has numerous light accents like the headlights, grille, side accents, the light bars on the leading and trailing edges of the roof rack, and the blue squircles on the "grille" or faceplate. The concept has 22-inch wheels and a "wallbox" in lieu of a rear spare to store cables and other EV stuff. The interior is a calm place to be, but the white color of the materials would need to be extremely robust to survive off-roading. But then how many G-Class vehicles go off road today? It sounds like Mercedes has every intention of making this one in their electrification-of-every-model drive. Interesting. More to come I'm sure. Click on "read more" below to view the media release, a couple of additional pics, and an intro video.

Source: Mercedes Benz - Media release, pics and video

2022 Honda Civic Hatchback goes on sale

When the 2022 Honda Civic Sedan was first shown I was a bit underwhelmed. The then current Civic sedan with its fastback shape was sportier and better-looking than the 22 Sedan that has the vestiges of a trunk. Now the new '22 Civic Hatchback shares the fastback shape with the current Civic (and the rear liftgate, see photo after the jump) and is much better-looking than the sedan. At least now you can tell them apart even if you don't have a sharp eye for those things. I wonder if the more "wagon-like" two-box shape will be shown when the Si and R versions are introduced. For now, the '22 Civic Hatchback comes in LX ($22,900+ $1,015 destination, taxes, license, fees, and options, CVT), Sport ($24,100+ either CVT or 6-speed manual), EX-L ($26,600+ CVT), and Sport Touring ($29,400+ CVT or manual) trim levels. The LX and Sport models get Honda's 2.0-liter four that makes 158 hp while the EX-L and Sport Touring models get the 1.5-liter turbo four that makes 180 hp. Surprisingly, the EX-L model gets the highest EPA fuel economy rating of 31 city, 39 highway and 35 combined. Check out the EPA numbers and pricing chart after the media release. This should sell well and it's built in the US. Click on "read more" below to view the media release, pics, and an intro video. With the release of the Civic Hatchback for 2022, Honda has another fuel-efficient winner on their hands. 

Source: Honda - Media release, pics, and video. Sedan Post.

Honda announces 2024 Prologue SUV EV and their electrification plans - Update

Japanese automakers are playing catch up when it comes to EVS. Most followed Toyota's lead into hydrogen fuel cell propulsion even though pretty much everyone else skipped the hydrogen middle step and went straight to EVs. Honda has hooked up with General Motors to product Honda's first EV, the Prologue SUV. The Prologue (first?) EV will be jointly developed with GM using GM's Ultium Batteries and platform (economies of scale don'tcha know). An Acura SUV will be introduced after the Honda version is introduced. Honda is also developing its own e-architecture for future vehicles. Honda expects to be EV-only by 2040. Click on "read more" below to view the media release and watch Honda's teaser video above (big whoop I know). More to come.

Btw: Honda makes the well-received Honda e city car EV (130 miles of range) but it is available in limited markets aka not the US. Honda e post.

Source: Honda - Media release, pic, and video

EVgo charging network starts customer rewards program

EVgo is one of the largest charging networks today with over 4,000 charging ports (500+ locations) that get their energy from renewable sources. To continue growing, EVgo is opening new sites as well as starting a customer loyalty/rewards program called (drum roll please) EVgp Rewards. The program rewards customers when they interface with the company, by charging (5 points per dollar) and when you interface with the EVgo website. After accumulating 2,000 points, you receive free charging equal to a five minute fast charge. Unless you're a social media wizard, iot might take a while for normal folks to achieve the reward, but I would imagine that it could happen faster than you might think. Plus every bit of "free" we can get now-a-days is important. Existing EVgp customers are automatically enrolled in the program. Cool and as EVgo grows it is the type of thing that might be very important down the line. Click on "read more" to view the release and a short intro video. On a side note, the video shows a Tesla charging up. Interesting.

Source: EVgo - Media release, pic, and video

AVWWG: Microlino shows production versions at IAA

From the Another Vehicle We Won't Get files, the almost-ready production versions of the Microlino 2.0 city/bubble car were shown at the IAA auto show in Munich. The Turin-based automaker creates urban and city vehicular solutions with their city cars and scooters. The Microlino 2.0 is a niche automobile that could meet the needs of city dwellers who need inexpensive vehicles to shop, get around town, and other uses that don't require a large range. The top Microlino 2.0 will have a 140+ mile range that should get you around town or to most places you want to go. Vehicles like the Microloni 2.0 due to their affordability allow folks to own multiple vehicles for specific needs or get folks like students access to mobility...plus they're easy to park. The Microlino will enter production later in 2021 and come in three styles, Urban (right) Dolce, (below) and Competizione (top) with additional motor options devoted to range and performance issues and the optional folding sunroof. Prices will be revealed closer to production but Microlino has promised the 2.0 will be affordable. Click on "read more" below to view the release (with version 2.0 updates), an additional pic (from IAA), an intro video, and a technical data chart. Too bad we won't see this one in the US because I doubt the sales numbers would justify the costs to meet regulations. Smart sold quite a few cars here and those who remember BMW's Isettas might be customers. Too bad. So cute.

Source: Microlino - Media release, pics

Lucid Air Dream Edition R EV has an EPA-rated range of more than 500 miles

Lucid has received the official EPA-ratings for the Dream Edition of the Air luxury EV sedan and they are amazing. The top Lucid Air Dream Edition R has been range rated at 520 miles for the 933 hp model with 19-inch wheels. Also amazingly the EPA ratings for the other Air models have range ratings of no less than 400 miles which puts the Lucid Air ahead of the competition...for now. (Check out the range ratings chart after the jump.) “I’m delighted that our Lucid Air Dream Edition Range has been officially accredited with a range of 520 miles by the EPA, a number I believe to be a new record for any EV. Crucially, this landmark has been achieved by Lucid’s world-leading, in-house EV technology, not by simply installing an oversize battery pack,” said Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO, Lucid Group. “Our race-proven 900V battery and BMS technology, our miniaturized drive units, coupled with our Wunderbox technology endow Lucid Air with ultra-high efficiency, enabling it to travel more miles from less battery energy. The next generation EV has truly arrived!” Blustering aside, this is a remarkable outcome for one of the first premium luxury EVs to hit the market. Click on "read more" below to view the media release and a drive video by the Lucid CEO. Prices start north of $75k and go up from there.

Source: Lucid Motors - Media Release, pics, and video

Mercedes Benz shows latest pre-production Maybach model, the Maybach EQS SUV

Mercedes Benz and it's Maybach division have been busy with multiple EV concepts and production model reveals at the IAA motor show in Munich. Shown here is the Maybach EQS SUV an uber luxury take on the upcoming Mercedes Benz EQS SUV model. These two vehicles share the modular EV platform with the Mercedes EQS sedan and the EQE "executive-sized" sedan. No specifics were posted but expect an EV range of more than 300 miles and with performance befitting a Maybach model. The Maybach EQS is highly configurable with Executive Seats and a Chauffeur Package highlighting interior comfort, space, and luxury. Lots of safety and tech were thrown in too like the curved MBUX dash that runs (almost) from a-pillar to a-pillar with various areas devoted to infotainment and vehicle notifications (like speed, etc.). The design is typical Maybach with two-tone paint and an abundance of real chrome accents. Not my thing, but I couldn't afford one anyway. Prices weren't announced, but if you have to ask... Expect the Maybach EQS sometime in 2022 after the debut of the Mercedes EQS vehicle. More to come. Click on "read more" below to view the media release, a couple of pics and videos

Source: Mercedes Benz/Maybach - Media Release, pics, and video

2023 Ford F-150 Lightning electric truck enters pre-production

Ford's electric truck, the F-150 Lightning (great name btw), has entered the pre-production stage with production and sales expected in the spring of 2022. The highly-anticipated Ford truck EV (reportedly more than 100,000 online orders) could be a game-changer for Ford if the early numbers are true. The F-150 Lightning is expected to hit 60 mph from a standstill in under 5 seconds, with a range of 300+ miles with a 1,000 pound load and an extended range battery pack. Imagine how far you can go without 1,000 pounds in the back. Again, these are early estimates and the official EPA numbers will come in closer to the Lightning's on-sale date. If the final numbers are even close, the Lightning should be a winner for Ford. That's why pre-production is important. Rivian began production of it's truck recently, so Ford should be the second truck maker to get their product "out of the gate" so to speak well ahead of GM and Tesla. Will EV truck buyers still want Tesla's Cybertruck? Probably, but not in the numbers originally expected. Plus the Cybertruck is huge and folks are used to the size of Ford's F-150. So we shall see. Not to mention that the Lightning looks like an updated (upgraded?) F-150 versus the Cybertruck's in-your-face design. Should be interesting. More to come... Click on "read more" to view the extensive media release and to watch a video of the F-150 Lightning.

Source: Ford - Media release, pics, gif, and video

Mercedes Benz unveils the EQE EV at IAA auto show in Munich

Mercedes took the wraps off of its latest EV salvo, the middling (E-Class size) EQE. The EQE doesn't look mid-sized but it is smaller than the luxury EQS with which it shares Mercedes' new EV platform. The EQE continues the sleek, rounded styling and low stance first seen on the EQS which is a big improvement over Mercedes' ICE (internal-combustion engine) models. The interior can features Mercedes' MBUX curved display which is a knock-out (see right) and allows for OTA (over the air) tech updates and pretty much all of their safety and infotainment equipment as either standard or optional. The EQE is, as Mercedes calls it, the "business avant-garde sedan." No specifics are available yet, but preliminary figures show the range should be 300+ miles with such extras as rear-axle steering and more available. The EQE will hit the road in 2022 after a staggered introduction with the EQS with most models built in Germany except for those vehicles destined for China which will be sourced locally. Can't wait to see this one. More to come. Click on "read more" below to view the media release, an "interesting facts" section, a couple of pics, and two videos. Enjoy.

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

Subaru debuts new 2022 WRX rally/sports sedan featuring new GT model

Subaru has released the all-new WRX sports/rally sedan into the wild for 2022 (23 MY?). The new sportster now sits on Subaru's global platform which should yield a better ride, rigidity, and improved handling. And handling is what sets rally cars apart from the rest versus straight-line performance, although the new WRX's 271-hp boxer engine is no slouch in that department. The look is more mature with a muscular wide body stance that subtly lets one know that this is no ordinary Subaru. The front is familiar with a smaller grille and sleek headlamps but the large hood says WRX. The rear is updated and the bumpers feature dark grey inserts to match the wheel arches and lower body accents. Looks good. The interior is a big update with an 11.6 inch, tablet-style screen and gauges and all the infotainment features and equipment you could want. Using the global platform means an upgrade in safety features as well such as EyeSight Driver Assist. A new top-of-the-line GT trim comes with a new automatic transmission, the Subaru Performance Transmission, as standard. The new WRX GT offers a first-ever for WRX, new electronically-controlled suspension dampers that can tailor the dynamic performance to the driver’s preferences with Comfort, Normal, and Sport settings. The Drive Mode Select also offers additional options to configure steering feel, damper settings, SI-Drive settings, and more, with up to 430 different customization options. Also standard on the GT trim is EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (including Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control and new Automatic Emergency Steering), 18=inch alloy wheels, Recaro seats, and more. The new 2022 Subaru WRX is a nicely balanced package that is good-looking and provides many driving smiles per mile. Click on "read more" to view the extensive media release, a pic and a video outlining features with driving footage. Enjoy! Subie's WRX will hit dealers in 2022. Oh and let's not forget Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive is standard as well.

Source: Subaru - Media release, pics, and video

Polestar adds new single motor Polestar 2 for lower price and increased range

Polestar (owned by Geeley and Volvo), started life as the manufacturer of performance Volvos, but has now become a stand-alone automaker producing (mostly) electric vehicles (the Polestar 1 is a performance hybrid). The first Polestar 2 was a dual-motor EV with over 400 hp and prices in the mid $50k range. The new model is the Polestar 2 single-motor version that has prices starting at $45,900 plus taxes, license, fees, etc. ($34,900+ after state and federal tax incentives) and a range increase to 265 miles (the dual motor range is 249 miles) Two optional upgrade packages are available. The Plus Pack ($4,000) adds a mechanical heat pump, (which is designed to extend the vehicle’s range by up to 10% under certain conditions), a full-length panoramic glass roof, a premium interior featuring a Harman Kardon audio system, WeaveTech vegan upholstery, and high-level interior illumination. The Pilot Pack ($3,200) offers enhanced safety and driver assistance features, such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Pilot Assist, Blind Spot Information System (BLISTM), Cross Traffic Alert, along with a 360-degree surround view camera and all-round parking sensors, plus more advanced safety features. In other words you can spec your Polestar 2 to fit your needs and budget. Other optional extras are leather upholstery, metallic paint, and larger wheels. All versions of the Polestar 2 feature Google’s Android Automotive OS native infotainment system with key features such as Google Assistant and Google Maps built-in. Besides being a good-looking sedan, the Polestar 2 offers a lot of "bang for your buck." Click on "read more" below to view the media release which includes links to Polestar's order site and to sign-up for a test drive (Polestar has few physical stores at this time) and a video about driving a Polestar 2. Another excellent option for you EV bucks.

Source: Polestar - Media release, pics, and video

smart shows the smart Concept #1 EV at IAA before eventual production

smart has been the funky citycar division of Daimler Benz for years, but recently Daimler entered into an agreement with Chinese automaker Geeley to help design and produce the next smart vehicles for Europe and China. The smart #1 Concept that debuted at IAA auto show in Munich represents the next smart cars and honestly, this is where they should have been all along. The smart #1 Concept is "production ready" meaning that what you see is close to what you'll be able to buy. The concept has 21" wheels which might not see production but the light bars front and rear should. It's a good-looking EV and should sell well. smart is even rethinking their sales and service structures to reflect new realities. Could this be another way of saying on-line only sales? The #1 (first car of the new age?) is a sub-compact based on Geeley's EV architecture that has tidy proportions with a large interior. No word was given on the source or specifications of the vehicle's tech, motors, and batteries. The interior is more upscale than in smarts of the past, but this is a pre-production concept, so changes can be made. Expect a less glittery interior and a rear seat for three. This will be interesting. Expect more info closer to the #1's on-sale date. No word on US sales. Click on "read more" below to view the media release, pics, and a video from FastAutoTrack. If smart makes a video available, I'll swap it out but until then, enjoy FastAutoTrack's professional video.

Source: smart (Geeley/Daimler) -  Media release, pics. YouTube video from FastAutoTrack.

Mercedes Benz reveals 2023 EQB EV crossover

What is shown here is the latest Mercedes EV, the EQB crossover/SUV. The EQB will be introduced in Europe and China before the end of the year and in the US in 2022. The EQB is just the latest chapter in Mercedes Benz' push towards full electrification. BTW, EQ is the Mercedes naming convention of battery-electric vehicles and the third letter refers to size. This means that the EQB is a B-Class vehicle, a size we don't see much (aside from a few early EVs) here in the US. The compact EQB can be fitted to seat seven, (five is standard) but the third-row occupants had better be small (under 4 feet). Car seats can be fitted in this area if you want to place potential screamers way in the back. Range for the first model, the EQB 350 4Matic, will be more than 250 miles with longer range versions to be introduced later. There is just under 300 hp available (in this version) and the 4Matic badge signifies all-wheel drive probably from a motor on each axle. This is a Mercedes so don't expect bargain pricing (a look at the interior underscores that). There is lots of tech on display and we'll know more closer to the EQB's on-sale date. Click on "read more" below to view the Euro media release, a couple of pics, and a brief video. More to come...

Source: Mercedes Benz - Media release, pics, and video

Volkswagen reveals concept precursor to affordable EV, the iD Life

Volkswagen is showing the iD Life concept at the IAA auto show in Munich that is a forerunner to a production model that will be called either iD 1 or iD 2. Granted some of the styling flourishes like the lighting might change on the production model, but then the lights have a useful purpose...to light the road ahead or warn those behind. The lighting here doesn't seem to fulfill this basic function so we'll see. What you have is a clean retro design with accents in just the right places. Sustainable materials were used whenever possible and that is one area that might change in any production model, although it is good to see a major automaker committed to sustainability. The coating uses wood elements for color. The iD Life is VW Polo sub-compact sized but with an interior that is comparable to a VW Golf. In the US, the EPA determines vehicle class by interior volume, so the iD Life might be categorized as a compact. Of course VW doesn't even bring the iD 3 to the US so chances of the production iD Life hitting these shores is slim (except at auto shows). Of course pricing might change that since the iD Life model is expected to cost in the mid-$20k range. More to come. I have included a video from one of mt YouTube faves Autogefuhl for more information. Enjoy. Click on "read more" below to view the media release and the video. We won't even discuss the removable soft top or the pop-up screen...

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, pics, and video from Autogefuhl

BMW shows future-focused concept i Vision Circular EV at IAA

 

BMW unveiled it's new "vision" for the future, the i Vision Circular concept at the IAA auto show in Munich. “We gave thorough consideration to circularity from the outset during the design process for the BMW i Vision Circular. As a result, this Vision Vehicle is packed with innovative ideas for combining sustainability with a new, inspirational aesthetic – we call this approach ‘circular design’,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. Circular design embraces the four principles of RE:THINK, RE:DUCE, RE:USE and RE:CYCLE. Almost all of the concept's materials are reclaimed, like the front outer body panels that are processed recycled aluminum which gets its bronze color from the processing, The rear panels are reclaimed and processed steel giving it the unique blue color. No paint is used. The design shows familiar BMW cues, but with a future-focused aesthetic like the Hofmeister kick at the rear doors and the traditional kidney grille interpreted in light. The interior features a glowing crystal in several locations that are used as computerized control pods. Future, indeed. The wheels are pushed to the ends of the vehicle maximizing the interior space in a small package. The extensive media release goes into great detail about how the vehicle pushes sustainability to the extreme. The EV architecture also  allows for max space and storage in this compact package. BMW projects a vehicle like this in 2040. It should be sooner. This would make an excellent replacement for the i3 using today's tech and materials. Of course it wouldn't have the future tech, but there is a lot to like here that should be available today. How about it BMW? Click on "read more" below to read the media release, watch two videos and peruse additional pics. (The first video is a brief look at the car and the second is the official intro video.)

Source: BMW - Media release, pics, and videos (2)

Audi shows the grandsphere concept at IAA

What you see here is the second of the "sphere" concepts revealed by Audi, the Audi grandsphere. (the first was the skysphere - with the adjustable wheelbase - which I didn't care for, so I passed on covering it.)  But the grandsphere concept (yes Audi is still doing the lower-case name thing) is Audi's luxury vision of the future with stand-out styling and a private-jet-inspired interior. The interior uses the latest (and future) technology to create a comfortable environment that allows...well a lot. Make dinner and entertainment reservations, watch your favorite movies and TV, relax while the car gets you to your destination and keeps you updated. The steering wheel parks in a binnacle in the dash for fully autonomous driving. I mean you wouldn't want your reclined seat to hit the steering wheel, right? Completely overlooking the socio-economic issues this vehicle brings up, it is nice to see Audi stretch themselves with a forward-looking concept. The concept is sleek and beautiful even if the grille is kind of a misstep that a little black or matte gray paint couldn't fix. No specs were given, but then why should they guess what will be available when this car might see production. Could this be an e-tron luxury sedan? Click on "read more" to view the extensive media release, a grille pic and a steering wheel hidden pic, and two videos. The first one is the unveiling video that is long, but goes into detail about the car's features and the second just shows off the concept. Enjoy! As Audi says, "First class toward the future..."

Source" Audi - Media release, pics, and videos (2)

TA.b Quickie: California helps fund Semi EV adoption for short-haul routes

In conjunction with Electrify America, NFI, the California Air Quality Management Board, (AQMD) the California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the California Energy Commision (CEC), the State has set aside almost $30 million dollars towards semi truck EV infrastructure and vehicle adoption. For now, the focus is on short-haul trucking with the first charging centers being built in Ontario, Calif and later in Bakersfield, Calif. Electrify America is working with NFI to develop the charging sites specifically for semi-trucks, with Freightliner's eCascadia (Freightliner Inspiration EV shown right) and Volvo Trucks EV semis the first to be put to use (both manufacturers have various EV trucks available today). This is a first step towards replacing diesel-engined trucks with EVs and long-haul semis are next. Tesla's Semi should be available soon. Interesting. Click on "read more" below to view two media releases.

Source: Electrify America, AQMD, CARB, and CEC