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