Jeep unveils near-term future with EVs for Europe and the US

Jeep has taken the wraps off of their EV plans for the near future, the Jeep Avenger (below), the Wagoneer S (after the jump), and the Jeep Recon (above and right). Since most European countries have banned the sale of gas- and diesel-fueled vehicles after 2030, Jeep is aiming for SUV EV dominance in the years ahead. First up is the Jeep Avenger that will be available in Europe next year, followed by the Jeep Recon for the US for the 2025 model year. Then the all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S (the S may get dropped) will debut. Some numbers have been thrown around for range and power, but those numbers may change the closer we get to production. From the look of things, Jeep seems to be well on their way to SUV EV dominance with these three vehicles with more to come. Remember, all vehicles sold will be electric in Europe by 2030 so we can expect electric Wranglers, Cherokees, and more. “Encouraged by the success of our electrified 4xe portfolio in North America and Europe, we are designing and developing the best performing and most sustainable Jeep SUVs ever, moving forward on our march to become the world's leading zero-emission SUV brand. It's a forward-looking strategy to ensure that millions of Jeep enthusiasts around the world continue to have a planet to explore, care for and protect. Electrification is extremely positive for our brand, as it makes it even more performing, interesting, sustainable and fun ." Sounds and looks good. For more info, check out the media release, other pics, and a video by clicking on the "read more" jump. Enjoy.

Source: Jeep - Media release, pics, video

EVgo just made fast charging simpler with Autocharge+

Fast charging network operator EVgo has announced a new program open to all CCS EV owners. EVgo's Autocharge+ is a plug and go program exclusive to EVgo. With Autocharge+, which is available at all EVgo DC fast charging locations, drivers with compatible EVs are able to start a charging session in seconds by simply plugging in – eliminating the need to swipe a credit card, tap an EVgo program card (RFID) or open an app to initiate a session. Each vehicle has it's own unique coding which makes charging easy and quick (vehicles with CHAdeMO connectors do not have unique identifiers). Previously, this program was open to Fleet owners and certain GM vehicles. Many CCS EV models are Autocharge+ compatible, including the Cadillac LYRIQ, Chevrolet Bolt EV, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Ford F-150 Lightning, Genesis GV60, GMC Hummer EV, Hyundai Ioniq Electric, Hyundai Kona Electric, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia Niro Electric, Kia EV6, Mercedes-Benz EQS, Polestar 2, Subaru Solterra, Toyota bZ4x, and Volvo C40 (right) and XC40 Recharge. “EVgo believes every step of the charging experience must be convenient and easy, including locating and reserving a charger, finding nearby shopping and experiences, and now with Autocharge+, seamlessly initiating a charging session,” said Ivo Steklac, Chief Technology Officer at EVgo. “The modern digital technology we’ve built is making charging an EV even simpler than fueling up at a gas station. Autocharge+ is game-changing just like mobile wallets and same-day delivery have become, once again demonstrating EVgo’s leadership in delivering cutting-edge charging services for EV drivers.” EV ownership just got a lot easier  To view the media release and two videos (including a vid explaining enrollment), click on "read more" below..

Source: EVgo - Media release, pic videos (2)

All-new 2024 Ford Mustang debuts with sharper styling and up-to-date interior

If you learned to drive in a Mustang convertible like I did, then an all-new Mustang is news...and this one is a looker. The styling is recognizable but is somehow better, cleaner, and more modern. The three headlamps up front is a nice touch echoing the rear lamps in number. The body is very muscular and less "tacked-on" looking as the past few generations did. The "coke-bottle" shape of the side view is sort of there as is a hint of the fake side scoops of the original Mustang. The roofline of fastback models is very sleek and the side glass is mostly flush. I wonder if this Mustang is more aerodynamic than the past few generations based on the design cleanliness...you know, less for the wind to jump out from. The interior sort of abandons (to a point) the cockpit design of the original for a more modern and tech-heavy layout with a 12-4 customizable digital screen. In the beginning, there will be two engine choices, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four and the Mustang GT’s most powerful 5.0-liter Coyote V8 ever mated to either a manual or automatic transmission. No hybrids or EV versions...yet. “Investing in another generation of Mustang is a big statement at a time when many of our competitors are exiting the business of internal combustion vehicles,” said Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company. “Ford, however, is turbocharging its ICE growth plan, adding connected technology, opinionated derivatives, and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars – all in the Ford Blue family – on top of investing $50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026.” Looks like the future holds some interesting developments. The new 2024 Mustang is available with all of Ford's safety equipment and tech as standard or as stand-alone options or in options packages. You can spend as much as you like or can afford. For view the available information, click on "read more" below to check out the media release and two videos. The 2024 Mustangs will be available to put in your garage/parking space in the Summer of 2023 (aka next year). Enjoy.

Source: Ford - Media Release, pics, videos (2)

Chevrolet announces affordable, compact 2024 Equinox EV crossover

Chevrolet has been introducing several attractive vehicles recently and most are EVs. First there was the 2024 Blazer EV and now there is the new 2024 Equinox EV. Chevy and GM are on a roll (so to speak). While most of GM's latest share the Ultium EV platform, the platform is scalable...meaning it can accommodate vehicles of various sizes. Thus the Equinox slides in below the larger Blazer in Chevy's lineup. In fact the new Equinox is called a compact intended to compete with Ford's Escape, Honda's CRV, etc. none of which are available as EVs. It's good to see new, smaller EVs enter the marketplace since many folks don't need, want, or can afford a large vehicle. In fact, the "base" Equinox 1LT should start around $30k. The new Equinox EV shall start out in five flavors, 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 2RS, and 3RS, with most levels available with eAWD. The Equinox has a 210 hp motor with 242 lb-ft of torque and adding eAWD gets you two motors whose combined output equals 290-horsepower and 346 lb-ft torque. DC fast charging is available depending on equipment. Prices and equipment increase as you move up the ladder with RS models taking on a sportier look. Obviously you can outfit your new Equinox as you like and as you can afford with the numerous options and packages available (see media release). I think Chevy has a winner on their hands. For more information, click on "read more" below and check out the media release and two videos. Enjoy! The 2024 Chevrolet models we be at your local dealer, next year.

Source: Chevrolet - Media release, pics, content charts, and videos (2)

GM, Pilot Company, and EVGO eXtend to create nation-wide charging network

GM, Pilot Company, and EVgo eXtend are working together to create a nationwide EV charging network. The new network will be powered by EVgo eXtend which has extensive experience in EV fast-charging stations, maintenance, and power solutions. Pilot Company and Flying J Travel Centers are part of this new endeavor with the goal of having an EV-charging station every 50 miles along major highways. "GM and Pilot Company designed this program to combine private investments alongside intended government grant and utility programs to help reduce range anxiety and significantly close the gap in long-distance EV charger demand,” said Shameek Konar, Pilot Company Chief Executive Officer. “Our travel centers are well-equipped to accommodate EV charging with 24/7 amenities and convenient proximity to major roadways across the country. We look forward to collaborating with GM and the U.S. Department of Transportation to make convenient coast-to-coast EV travel a reality through our national network of travel centers.” This network of 2,000 charging stalls, co-branded “Pilot Flying J” and “Ultium Charge 360,” will be powered by EVgo eXtend and open to all EV brands at up to 500 Pilot and Flying J travel centers. Many of these charging stations will be "drive-throughs" to allow access to trucks and SUVs towing trailers. The stations will be open to all EVs including Teslas. Click on "read more" below to view the media release. Soon range anxiety may be a thing of the past.

Source: GM - Media release, graphic

Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Concept unveils Dodge's future

l Iove this car. Firstly, it's amazing looking immediately recalling the original Dodge Charger and secondly because the third video has a Dodge exec explaining how they (Dodge) will never have an EV right before he intros Dodge's first EV (concept). Yes folks, this one is heading towards production with possible changes (of course). The Charger Daytona SRT Concept looks production ready but has a few questionable details that underscore Dodge's commitment to being the "hooligan" automotive brand. The Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust (yes on an EV) is there for one reason...to make noise. You know engine noises from an engine that isn't there. Hopefully, this one won't see production (who needs more noise?). And the eRupt transmission proves that the Charger comes from a European-headquartered manufacturer who likes to speed on the Autobahn. Just like in Porsche's Taycan EV, a transmission will provide a higher top speed, but reduce the car's efficiency. For example, the Taycan has the same efficiency rating as the F-150 Lightning (2 miles per KWH). Tesla and Rivian seem to do fine with high-end performance without transmissions, so why does Dodge need one? One more thing that will need service, I guess. Production is a ways off, so... Click on "read more" below to view the media release, one more pic and the three videos to satiate your curiosity. Let's hope we see this one sooner rather than latter. BTW, Dodge's excuse for creating an EV is that "performance made us do it." Indeed. 

Source: Dodge/Stelantis - Media release, pics, videos

Ford celebrates the original Bronco with Heritage Editions of new Bronco and Bronco Sport

When Ford introduced the all-new Bronco, the Jeep Wrangler got its first real American automotive competition in years (decades?). Ford is happy with the new model's success (and its Bronce Sport little sibling) so a little reminder of Broncos past was in order. For 2023, Ford has created the Heritage Editions of the Bronco family with paint, wheels, and trim that echoe the first Bronco (not the OJ version). While the new Bronco's styling recalls the first Bronco, the interior (right), safety equipment, tech, and options are certainly 21st century. The Heritage Editions allow one to personalize their Broncos with a unique look and updated trim and equipment for a single price (you don't have to check off lots of option boxes). Only 1966 versions of each Bronco variation will be built. “Bronco captivated America in the mid-’60s with its rugged style and uncompromising off-road agility, a legacy that is still prevalent today,” said Mark Grueber, Bronco marketing manager. “With these new Heritage and Heritage Limited editions, we’re paying respect to Bronco’s roots with nods to some of the signature design cues from the first-generation vehicle, while continuing to build the Bronco Brand with more special editions that our customers want.” Bronco Sport Heritage Editions will start at $34,245 (plus taxes, license, fees options) and the Heritage Limited versions start at $44,655 + which includes the 2.0-liter four with 250 hp. The Bronco Heritage edition will start at $44,305+ and Bronco Heritage Limited will be priced at $66,895+. Bronco Heritage Limited Edition models offer the increased capability of Badlands™ series equipment and features, including a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine with up to 330 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. torque* mated to the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission and feature a H.O.S.S. system with increased ride height, uniquely tuned front struts with hydraulic rebound stops designed to provide a quiet, less jarring off-road experience. In addition, 46-millimeter-diameter monotube rear shocks, anti-roll bars and uniquely tuned springs help provide off-road comfort. The Terrain Management System™ offers five G.O.A.T. Modes™ because Bronco “Goes Over Any Type of Terrain” and in various conditions. Standard modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Sand. So these special editions can be well-equipped and a value for your off-road dollars. Plus they look cool too. Click on "read more" below to view the media release, a Bronco Sport pic, and a brief intro video. It you like what you see, get thee to your local dealer or go online to order...now.

Source: Ford - Media release, pics, video

Acura previews future EV plans with the Precision EV Concept

Honda and therefore Acura got into the EV marketplace a little late following Toyota's lead into Hydrogen Technology. (Toyota's chairman famously derided EVs in an interview. Google it if the interview still exists online.) The rest of the world skipped the hydrogen-fueled step and went straight into EVs. So the Japanese automakers are a bit of a step behind. In fact Honda's first EV will be built on GM's Ultium platform. Not a problem, just a statement. Who knows, Honda may decide to outsource it's EV technology for some time until the engineering types at Honda catch up or even move ahead of the competition. However this vehicle is sourced, the Precision EV Concept is a looker with typical Acura styling cues. I apologize for the interior rendering, but that was all that was available. Many Concepts don't have interiors at all which explains the often darkened windows. “The Acura Precision EV Concept is a look into our future direction and continues Acura’s Precision Crafted Performance design language with a modern expression of performance” said Dave Marek, Acura executive creative director. “The Acura Precision EV Concept will be our North Star as we move into an exciting electrified future, and you will see these design cues translate over to future production models.” Not a lot of specifics are available now, but a Precision EV is at least about two years out. Too bad, cuz a Precision EV would do well know. Who knows what styling trends will be popular in the future. We shall see. Click on "read more" below to view the media release, two more pics and a brief styling video. Enjoy...btw, I wouldn't count on the driver modes discussed in the release.

Source: Acura - Media release. pics, video

Model L100 Concept showcases Lincoln's design future

If you squint, this concept could be at your local dealership (if they still exist) in about ten years. Lincoln's new aerodynamic design was first showcased on the brand's Star EV Concept complete with the prominent Star logo, the light bar, grille-less front fascia, not to mention the "ducktail" rear treatment. It's a good look that doesn't copy anyone. If you click on the Star Concept link (above) you can see where this design philosophy is headed in the near term with a more production ready design. I'm not saying Lincoln can't produce something like this, it would be prohibitively expensive not to mention require advances in EV mechanics and technology. So let's say ten years, shall we? The Model L100 would need to be taller (the lift-up roof notwithstanding) for ease of entry and exit and the interior would need to handle more folks inside. The giant wheels are a bit much, but not impossible along with the tight wheel fairing. Also the rear bumper would need to be more prevalent. Overall this is a very nice concept whose aspects will (should) see production. Can't wait to see what becomes of this. “We are at a special moment in our history. Over the last 100 years, Lincoln has pioneered multiple innovations and pushed the boundaries of design that have come to define our brand as we know and love it today,” says Joy Falotico, president, Lincoln. “With the Model L100 Concept, we reimagine what the Lincoln sanctuary might look like for our clients of tomorrow moving us forward to define the next chapter of the Lincoln story.” Indeed. For more info, click on "read more" below to view the media release, one pic, and a short video.

Source: Lincoln - Media release, pics, video

Genesis announces Electrified G80 sedan pricing and availability

Hyundai and therefore the Genesis division have been making EVs or battery-electric vehicles for sometime. Some of their offerings are on dedicated Ev platforms like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6 and their GV60 sibling. But others take an existing model like the Kia Niro and Soul and convert the existing platcore for EV duty. Since there is a G80 with an ICE engine, the Electrified G80 seems to fall into the latter category. But many automakers develop platforms for double duty allowing for better efficiency in EV guise. The Electrified G80 is a large(ish) sedan that enters the luxury EV sedan market against various Mercedes, Audi, and BMW models not to mention the Tesla Model S. Despite the garish grille (a little gloss black paint never hurt anyone), the E G80 is an attractive conveyance that is only available in one configuration with all the goodies for the price of $79,825 (plus taxes, license, fees, and destination). Three years of free charging (30 minutes a day) at Electrify America is also part of the deal. The E G80's 87.2kWh battery is capable of Rapid Charging from 10-80% in 22 minutes when utilizing 350kW (800V) DC fast charging when available. For more information (standard features, etc.) click on "read more" below to view the media release. If you like the styling and you're looking for a new EV sedan Genesis has given you another choice...which is a good thing. Hyundai knows how to build EVs so the Electrified G80 should be on any EV shopper's list as long as the live in California, New Jersey, Connecticut, New York, and in Arizona, Nevada, Utah and Washington within days of this post.

Source: Genesis - Media release, pics

Dodge unveils all-new Hornet compact CUV for 2023

The 2023 Dodge Hornet will have several claims to fame. First, the Hornet is Dodge's first entry in the large compact crossover/CUV segment. The Hornet will maintain Dodge's performance mantra with class-leading standard ICE and plug=in hybrid drivetrains. Muscular Dodge styling and access to parent company Stelantis' large portfolio of platforms, equipment, and safety and tech features continue the Hornet's bonafides. Did I mention that it looks good too? I believe that the new Hornet shares its platform with the all-new Alfa Romeo Tonale which is obviously a good place to start. The "base" GT model will come standard with a 2.0-liter turbo four that is good for 265-plus horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque hitting 60 mph in 6.5 seconds all for under $30k. Step up to the Hornet R/T and you get a 1.3-liter turbo engine mated to a plug-in hybrid rear end system that is good for 285-plus horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque with expected fuel-efficiency numbers in excess of 30 mpg. Extra power is on hand with the Dodge Powershot system that provides a brief boost in available power (hence the plus hp figures). The Hornet dips heavily into the Stellantis (and Mopar) bag-o-tricks to give you just about anything you might want or need except an electric drivetrain...for now. If the new 2023 Dodge Hornet might look good in your driveway, click on "read more" below to view the comprehensive media release, one additional pic, and a brief intro video. Specific pricing will be announced closer to the Hornet's introduction. Enjoy...choices, choices, choices.

Source: Dodge - Media release, pics, video

Mini Aceman Concept previews upcoming EV

What you see here is a new Mini model that will slot in between the Mini Cooper small car and the larger Countryman crossover. The design is clearly Mini with accents that put focus on the vehicle's athleticism (see the side flanks above). Since Mini intends to be all-electric by the end of the decade, the Aceman Concept is the first salvo in this product offensive. No EV specifics were given, but expect the Aceman (or whatever it ends up being called) to be class competitive since it shares a platform with a BMW model. “The Mini Concept Aceman provides an initial glimpse of a completely new vehicle, bridging the space between the Mini Cooper and the Mini Countryman in the model family’s future,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of the Mini Brand. “This concept car reflects how MINI is reinventing itself for its all-electric future and what the brand stands for: an electrified go-kart feel, an immersive digital experience and a strong focus on a minimal environmental footprint.” The extensive media release focuses mostly on the concept's design but does talk about interior modes that who knows if they will see productions, so... Click on "read more" below to view the media release, additional pics, and the intro video. This is a cool-looking vehicle (crossover?) that looks more like a tall Mini Cooper than an SUV.  Can't wait to see this one in the flesh. Hopefully the Aceman will hit the road sometime in 2023. Enjoy!

Source: Mini - Media release, pic, video

Ford unveils the F-150 Lightning EV Special Service Vehicle for law enforcement use

They say that if you count slowly after a lightning strike and wait for the thunder, you'll know how close the storm is to you. Course if you see this Lightning in your rear-view mirror, it may be too late...the storm has arrived. What you see here is Ford Pro's first F-150 Lightning Special Service Vehicle (SSV) built for law enforcement duty. The Lightning SSV is equipped similarly to Ford's other police duty vehicles with special interior fitments like special cloth seats with reduced side bolsters for ease of entry/exit, dash top mounting points for equipment, seat steel intrusion plates, available roof-mounted LED warning beacons, and much more. One cool feature of the Lightning SSV is the adaptation of the frunk to hold additional police equipment, you know, like the trunk on a traditional sedan. Power can be anywhere from 452 hp to 580 hp depending on battery size. Zero to sixty is expected in around four seconds. Range estimates have not been released, but they should be less than the standard Lightning...all that extra weight don'tcha know. The Lightning SSV is expected to tow more than 7,700 pounds. The new F-150 Lightning SSV gives law enforcement everywhere new choices that can save departments money. Departments that have introduced EVs into their fleets have seen lower costs and increased efficiency. So, keep your eye out for this one. For more info and an intro video click on "read more" below.

Source: Ford Pro - Media release, pics, video

Volkswagen begins iD4 EV production in Tennessee

Volkswagen began production of its iD4 EV at their factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee recently with the first US-produced models hitting dealers as early as October (there is a ramp-up period checking for quality, etc.). Initially, VW expects to produce about 7,000 vehicles per month with production increased in 2023. "There has been a tremendous effort by thousands of VW Chattanooga employees to bring this vision to life,” said Chris Glover, President and CEO, Volkswagen Chattanooga Operations, LLC. “I’d like to thank all our highly motivated team members and the extended community of Chattanooga for supporting us as we begin assembly of the ID.4 for the North American market.” Also more than 3,000 jobs were added by VW suppliers which includes materials and components assembled in 11 U.S. states, from steel in Alabama and Ohio, to interior parts in Indiana and South Carolina, and electronics components in Kentucky and North Carolina. The EV battery will be supplied by SK Innovation located in Georgia. It is anticipated that other models that share the iD4 platform will be added later like the iD5 coupe/SUV and the iD Buzz van. While you're at it VW, how about the iD3? Click on "read more" to view the media release.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, pics

TA.b Quickie - Bank of America to increase charging stations at financial centers with Electrify America

Just think. while waiting in line at the bank, you can now be charging your vehicle as you run your errands. This is how EV acceptance will grow (can you buy gas while waiting in the bank?). BofA (Bank of America) and Electrify America recently agreed to more than double the number of EV charging stations at BofA financial centers to more than 350 by the end of 2023. BofA also has chargers at non-banking sites for employee use only as part of the EV100 coalition of businesses. BofA’s collaboration with Electrify America began in 2019 and in the first five months of 2022, the number of chargers has expanded to 192 EV chargers across 51 centers in California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Virginia and Washington. The companies plan to expand the number of EV charging stations in existing states, as well as add charging stations in several new states including Colorado, Connecticut, Indiana, North Carolina, New York, Oklahoma, and Texas. “Electrify America is expediting the electric future by providing ultra-fast charging to customers in convenient locations,” said Anthony Lambkin, senior director of operations at Electrify America. “Collaborating with companies such as Bank of America – who share our goals for a more sustainable future – helps to accelerate the transition to electric transportation and meet customers’ needs.” This is good news indeed for our electrified futures (you know it's coming). Click on "read more" to view the media release.

Source: Electrify America - Media release, pic

TA.b Quickie - Walmart to purchase 4,500 EV last-mile delivery vehicles from Canoo

Whenever I hear about a new EV start up beating the odds I let out a little cheer. Hooray. While Canoo has shown variations on its basic Lifestyle Electric Vehicle, there were rumors that everything wasn't so sunny (Yes, I resisted the whole up the creek metaphor). But Walmart has recently signed an agreement with Canoo to purchase 4,500 electric delivery vehicles for last mile deliveries with an option to purchase up to 10,000 units. Last-mile deliveries are those from the warehouse/store to your home or office. Canoo has adapted their Lifestyle Delivery Vehicle (LDV) for Walmart. “We are proud to have been selected by Walmart, one of the most sophisticated buyers in the world, to provide our high-tech, all-electric, American made Lifestyle Delivery Vehicle to add to their impressive logistics capabilities. Our LDV has the turning radius of a small passenger vehicle on a parking friendly, compact footprint, yet the payload and cargo space of a commercial delivery vehicle. This is the winning algorithm to seriously compete in the last mile delivery race, globally,” said Tony Aquila, Investor, Chairman and CEO of Canoo. “Walmart’s massive store footprint provides a strategic advantage in today’s growing ‘Need it now’ mindset and an unmatched opportunity for growing EV demand, especially at today’s gas prices.” And let's not forget that EVs require little maintenance, are more efficient and cheaper to run. Sounds like a winner all around. Early testing will begin soon in the Houston area with deliveries to Walmart starting in 2023. Click on "read more" below to view the media releasee and a brief delivery vehicle video (not specific to Walmart).

Source: Canoo - Media Release, pic, video

Chevrolet takes the wraps off of the 2024 Blazer EV set to challenge the Mustang Mach-e

The stunning vehicle you see here is the new 2024 Chevy Blazer EV that will start hitting the streets near you in the summer of 2023. Some might think the design is a little overdone but then you could buy it in black and let the light accent the Blazer's curvaceous flanks. I think Chevy might have a hit on its hands. The new Blazer EV will be built on GM's Ultium platform that is underpinning the automaker's newest EVs. The Blazer is a five-passenger crossover with lots of room for people and stuff. Blazer will come in four flavors, 1LT, 2LT, RS, and SS with most models offering AWD (standard in the SS). GM's Ultium batteries will provide the go and allow for fast charging. Power numbers weren't quoted for all variants but the SS is expected to hit 60 in 4 seconds utilizing almost 560 hp,  Expect competitive all-around performance for all Blazer models with range estimates expecting to top out at 320 miles (RS), although by the time the Blazer is produced, technological breakthroughs could provide even more...of everything. All of GM's safety and tech is available either as standard by model or in optional packages. Prices are expected to start at $47k for the 1LT and head north of $65k for the SS. More to come when it is made available. For now, Click on "read more" below to view the extensive media release, infographics (click on the image for an easier read), a side pic, and an intro video. Can't wait to see this one in the "flesh." There is even going to be a Police Pursuit Vehicle version. "The 2024 Blazer EV sets a new tone for electric SUVs, with options and intuitive technologies that help position Chevy for leadership in one of the fastest-growing EV segments,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Chevrolet. “Along with the all-new Silverado EV and Equinox EV coming next year, we are making great strides in offering more choices for zero tailpipe-emissions vehicles — choices that make switching to an EV easier than ever.” Wanna switch?

Source: Chevrolet - Media release, pics, video, infographics

Ford's Raptor super-off-roader gets an even more powerful R version for 2023

I've always felt that if you needed one vehicle to get around and to survive the apocalypse, this would be the one...the Ford F-150 Raptor. The Raptor was originally developed and tested racing in the grueling Baja 1000 off-road race (in standard trim I might ad), so the trucks bonafides are real (the Raptor completed the arduous rally). For 2023, the Raptor gets a new R model that boasts a 700-hp V-8, a long(er) travel suspension, special badging and graphics, and most of the good stuff available. Let's not forget that the F-150 is a full-size truck so the nimbleness and maneuverability of these Raptors is amazing. Plus when you're not dodging zombies or what not, the Raptor (and the R model) are very nice places to be. There's even room for five comfortably with storage nooks everywhere and that giant truck bed out back in case you need to run errands and haul stuff like zombie spray or flowers. I normally only write about EVs and hybrids, but this one is an exception since well the world is...  For all the information and a cool video, click on "read more" below and enjoy. BTW: This one won't be cheap (inexpensive). If this is what's missing in your driveway, order yours today.

Source: Ford - Media release, pics, video

Mini tries out a Cooper EV convertible during Mini takes the States

This one's just for fun. Mini is doing a product roadshow called "Mini takes the States," and the automaker created a one-off Mini Cooper SE Convertible for the event. Is Mini asking the questions, "Should we offer this?, and will folks buy them"" If you enjoy convertibles the answer would be a resounding, "Yes!" The question is can Mini produce the open-air runabout for a reasonable price. In the coming years, all new cars will be electric, so somebody needs to make an open-top convertible and it might as well be Mini. Since the next-gen Mini Cooper is due for a complete redesign very soon, this on-off fun machine was created using bits and piece from the current Mini Cooper SE EV and the current convertible. It uses the SE model's EV drivetrain that creates about 187 hp and hits 60 from a standstill in around 7.7 seconds. Not fast, but quick. Current range is under 200 miles, but if Mini decides to go forward with this model on the new EV platform, numbers and efficiency should go up. Lets hope this one gets the greenlight. For  more info, click on "read more" below to view a Mini video downloaded by another site, an additional pic and the media release. Enjoy. BTW: if this looks like something you might purchase, let Mini know.

Source: Mini - Media release, pics, video, previous Cooper SE post.