Lexus previews their first EV crossover: the RZ 450e

Lexus has taken the wraps off of their first fully electric vehicle, the RZ450e. You may remember that Toyota's Chairman was upset over questions about Toyota's late arrival to the EV party since he felt  that hydrogen-power would be the next big thing. And then most other automakers skipped that step and went to true battery-electric vehicles (no ICEs), As a result of this delay, the Lexus RZ shares its underpinnings with the Subaru Solterra EV so expect all-wheel drive (DIRECT4 in Lexus speak) and other similarities at least in the beginning. The RZ also shares the Solterra's meager (in today's world) range of about 225 miles. Power is also middling with just over 300 hp to motivate what should be a heavy vehicle. The RZ is an attractive crossover with various lines and multiple curves whose appearance, I suspect, is accentuated by body color. Expect Lexus levels of luxury and features. Expect more variations on this theme in the future. Toyota is hard at work developing their next EV chapter so stay tuned. CLick on "read more" below to view the informative media release, more pics, and a reveal video (after the release). More choices are good and this one should end up on quite a few car-shopping lists. More to come when pricing is released...

Source: Lexus - Media release, pics, video

CNET tells you about home charging

 

CNET has put together a simple video (with ads, sorry) that shows you how simple it is to charge your EV at home. For those that like to "read about it." here's a link to the article. Enjoy and thank you CNET.

Source: CNET/YouTube

Kia debuts all-new 2023 Niro models for eco-conscious drivers on a budget

Kia has redesigned the Niro line-up for the 2023 model year with three versions for various budgets and eco-consciousness: the "base" Niro Hybrid, the Niro Plug-In Hybrid, and the Niro EV. Since the Niro EV shares its platform with its hybrid siblings, the design cannot be maximized for battery placement, etc. but it could make the EV model more affordable. The 2023 Niro has new styling including the "Aeroblade" on the rear flanks that is said to aid aerodynamics and can be ordered in body-color or in a contrasting hue. The interior is a nice upgrade and a full list of standard and optional safety equipment are available, including Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, and much more. Kia has provided the three versions for every budget with the starter Niro Hybrid expected to achieve around 53 mpg. The Hybrid won't be a stormer, but it comes with a hybrid system with a combined 139 hp and 185 lbs./ft. of torque. The Plug-In Hybrid produces a combined 180 hp and 195 lbs./ft. of torque and can travel for 33 miles on electric power only. The Niro EV's system is powered by a 64.8 kWh battery and a 150kW (201-horsepower) motor with DC fast-charging capability as standard. Plugged in to a Level 3 fast charger, the Niro EV can replenish 10 to 80 percent in under 45 minutes. Range for the Niro EV is expected to hit 253 miles. An optional EV heat pump and battery warmer will be available for when the weather turns cold. The new Niro models are slightly larger than the last generation, but are lighter for better efficiency. Prices weren't announced but should be released closer to the new models' availability later this year. Click on "read more" below to view the media release for more info and b-roll videos for each model. Enjoy!

Source: Kia - Media release, pics, videos (3)

Subaru debuts production Solterra EV at New York Auto Show

Okay. I know I ran most of this when the Solterra EV was unveiled at the LA Auto Show, but the production version debuted at the New York Auto Show recently and since this is Subaru's initial foray into the world of EVs, I thought it deserved a second look. Since Toyota owns a chunk of Subaru, Toyota's recently shown EV, the bZ4X, is actually a re-skinned version of the electric Subie. The more choices the better I say. There may be subtle differences in the two EVs but that will have wait to be seen. The Solterra is typical Subaru right down to the familial styling and the all-wheel drive. (Am I the only one that sees a little Mustang Mach-e in the front end?) It's a good looking entry that will probably find many new owners in the homes of the Subaru-faithful and others will probably wait for the batteries to allow for more than a 220-mile range. Pricing will also be important when the vehicles start arriving at your local dealers very soon. Did I mention that it's a good-looking Subaru EV? Anyway, click on the "read more" jump below and view the media release and a brief video for more info.

Source: Subaru - Media release, pics, and video/ Previous posts 1,2

UPS testing Fernhay eQuad EVs for "last-mile" deliveries

 
This is an interesting one. As more businesses and regular folk order and purchase items online, receiving your purchases has become a more important aspect of our daily lives. UPS, working in conjunction with Fernhay, are testing Fernhay's eQuad (and eWalker) electric vehicles as a solution for "last-mile" deliveries. Last-mile deliveries are those that take place from the warehouse or store to a home or business. In congested and dense urban areas, delivery vans don't often fit (easily) and their ICE engines reduce air quality and are, in some places, banned from entry. Fernhay's eQuad EVs are one solution. The eQuad is only 33 inches wide and can be used in urban bike lanes. The eQuad can travel about 40 miles on each charge and top speed is limited to 15 mph. Each eQuad can carry over 450 pounds. Parcels can be picked up at warehouses, stores, and using Fernhay's EcoDelivery Hub Cube system (below) for eventual delivery. The eQuads have been proven in Europe where space to maneuver can be very tight and the video after the "read more" jump is from the City of Dublin extolling the virtues and uses of eQuads (and eWalkers). If you live in a large city, you could be seeing these little EVs downtown real soon.

Source: Fernhay/UPS - Media release, pics, and City of Dublin video