BYD unveiled official interior images of its Sea Lion 07, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y. With its listing by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) months ago, the car is likely poised to commence sales, potentially with an announcement at this week’s Beijing Auto Show.
The Sea Lion 07 appears to be a refined iteration of the BYD Song L, albeit now categorised into the Ocean and Dynasty series and marketed separately. Slightly smaller than the Song L, the Sea Lion 07 measures 4830mm in length, 1925mm in width, and 1620mm in height, riding on a wheelbase of 2930mm.
Interior snapshots reveal a surprisingly opulent cabin, echoing the design language of the Qin L. While the instrument screen seamlessly integrates into the flowing dashboard, BYD’s distinctive floating rotatable screen remains a focal point in the centre of the dash. The four-spoke steering wheel is adorned with an array of buttons, and the centre console features a crystal gear lever surrounded by additional controls.
Luxury abounds in the Sea Lion 07, with leather perforated seats complemented by leather-wrapped door panels, steering wheel, and other touch points. The seats boast heating, ventilation, and massage functions, and a Dynaudio sound system enhances the audio experience.
Buyers can opt for either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive variants. Base models are equipped with a 227hp peak power motor, offering a top speed of 210km/h. Higher-spec versions feature a more potent motor, delivering 308hp peak power and enabling a top speed of 225km/h. The 4WD model likely incorporates a 214hp motor on the front axle alongside the 308hp motor, maintaining a top speed of 225km/h while potentially achieving sub-4-second acceleration.
While battery capacities remain undisclosed, the Sea Lion 07 is expected to utilise BYD’s blade battery technology, benefiting from CTB integration. The vehicle is equipped with front double wishbone suspension, rear five-link suspension, and the DiSus-C intelligent damping control system. Additionally, it is anticipated to feature BYD’s ‘Eye of the Gods’ intelligent driving system, adding to its allure.
Like a number of automakers, China’s Dongfeng Motor has a constantly growing range of models and to provide more differentiation, sub-brands are created to cater for specific niches. In July this year, the company launched VOYAH, its new premium brand which is dedicated to EV products.
It aims to introduce a new model each year over the next 3 – 5 years, creating a line-up of at least 9 models in the various bodystyle segments. The first of these is the i-LAND, a sportscar that will go on sale in July 2021.
In collaboration with ItalDesign
The i-LAND prototype was unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show recently and the project is being undertaken with Italdesign. The Italian studio has been given the responsibility to develop the interior and exterior styling as well as the on-board human-machine interface. Additionally, it is also providing engineering development services and the concept construction.
The approach taken by the designers and engineers at Italdesign for the i-LAND is to combine ergonomics and cutting-edge technology with innovative aesthetic solutions, blending form and function.
GT styling
The i-LAND exterior styling follows the Italian tradition of Gran Turismo (GT) cars. For the prototype, there are typical exotic features such as large gull-wing doors with eye-catching front and rear light clusters and a LED-illuminated front grille. Viewed from above, the sculpted form of the bonnet can be seen to be coordinated with the design of the grille.
The front lights, referred to as ‘winged headlights’, provide a characteristic signature for the i-LAND, which makes it recognizable even in the dark. It generates directly from the centre of the grille where the Voyah logo, created by ItalDesign, is embedded.
The rear of the car also has a form inspired by GT models with a classic truncated tail that combines both aesthetic elements with aerodynamic functionality.
3-seater cabin
Sitting on an ESSA (Electric, Smart & Secure Architecture) electric platform developed by the company, the i-LAND has a 3-seat layout. One position at the rear right end is for relaxing or smart working, with the seat next to the driver replaced by an element that can become a table or footrest if necessary.
A series of floating screens provide infotainment services as well as driver assistance. Some aesthetic elements enhance the general feeling of luxury experienced within the i-LAND. Examples are the vanes positioned in the central tunnel, along with the start/stop button, gear selection and the air conditioning switches.
The platform is set on EIC technology and integrates the WindLink 4.0 intelligent network connection, L3 and higher-level intelligent driving and other core configurations. In terms of power and battery runtime, MVP (Multi-choice important power) solutions are said to be provided, according to Voyah.
With the way electrification of cars is going, there will come a time when electric power replaces combustion power in racing cars. In fact, it’s already started with the Formula E series for single-seaters and the electric version of the TCR.
Manufacturers like Hyundai Motor are preparing for this change and one project that the company’s high-performance N division has revealed its next-generation electrified RM20e Racing Midship Sports Car. ‘RM’ refers to the prototype model’s ‘Racing Midship’ rear-drive, midship powertrain configuration, a fundamental design differentiator that yields ideal handling balance and agility from a low polar-moment of inertia.
“Our new electrified RM20e pushes the proven RM platform forcefully into a new, environmentally-focused decade of the 21st century, stretching the performance envelope of electrification on normal road environments,” said Albert Biermann, President and Head of Research and Development Division at Hyundai Motor Group.
“RM20e represents a revolutionary new chapter of electrified performance for the Racing Midship series, and our N engineers continue to garner valuable insights in the arena of zero-emission performance dynamics,” he declared.
Testing high-performance technologies
The RM platform is an engineering ‘rolling lab’ for testing high performance technologies at all speeds and driving conditions. The testing is especially important to ensure that the RM20e’s copious 596 kW/810 hp and 960 Nm output can be effectively transmitted to the ground on all types of surfaces.
Performance times are expected to be less than 3 seconds from 0 – 100 km/h and less than 10 seconds from 0 – 200 km/h. The positioning of the motor in the middle and the rear-drive layout provides optimal traction required for this level of acceleration. While having racing car-like levels of performance, balance, braking and grip, the engineers have been working to also provide quietness, responsiveness and road-going capability for daily drivers.
Variety of powertrains available
The electrified powertrain has zero-emissions, of course, and as Hyundai has developed a variety of electrified-propulsion solutions. Therefore a full spectrum of electrified powertrains is available for testing with this high-performance sportscar platform.
Hyundai’s recent investment and strategic partnership with Rimac Automobili has facilitated co-development of both BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) and FCEV (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle) prototypes. The electrified RM platform will continue to evolve along with the growth of this RIMAC partnership.
44 eco-friendly models by 2025
The Hyundai Motor Group, which includes Kia Motors, has set a strategic plan to deploy 44 eco-friendly models by 2025, which will include products from the N brand as well.
“The RM20e sports car prototype clearly signals future electrified brand aspirations for Hyundai’s performance N brand, moving N into the prestigious genre of supercar-level performance. RM20e proves that N driving excitement will not be compromised, even in electrified model variants.,” said Thomas Schemera, Executive Vice-President and Head of Product Division at the Hyundai Motor Group.”
The history of the RM project goes back some 8 years and has served to develop and connect new high-performance motorsports technologies with future N models. Since the initiation of project RM, there has been a progressive evolution of the RM series with prototypes RM14, RM15, RM16 and RM19. In 2019, Hyundai’s first electric racing car – the Veloster N eTCR (pictured above) – was developed for the eTCR electric touring car series.
In the past, a concept model was mostly a work of fantasy intended to wow crowds at motorshows but which the company would not be able to make for showrooms. Perhaps the excitement of seeing something futuristic has worn off and these days, manufacturers often show concept models that are close to what they will launch in a year or in a few years.
Displaying a future production model as a ‘concept’ allows the designers to get last-minute feedback from the public on certain ideas they may want to use. They may learn that people don’t appreciate a certain styling element and omit or modify it before production starts.
Future 3-row SUV
Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury brand, is displaying the QX60 Monograph this weekend at the Beijing Auto Show and it confirms that the concept model previews some of the proportions and design elements for the brand’s future three-row SUV.
“In crafting this concept, we wanted to change the tonality of the QX60 and transform the nameplate from a sculptural and architectural point of view. We raised the visual centre of gravity, giving it a strong, straight shoulderline that carries through to the bonnet, with a higher, more prominent grille, and longer-looking cabin to deliver a sense of muscularity and a commanding presence,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice-President, Global Design at Nissan Motor.
Japanese inspirations
“The QX60 Monograph embodies the Japanese concept of ‘Ma,’ a sense of minimalism where designers seek harmony, adding just the right number of elements with very specific meaning to create something special. This is evident on the body, where at a glance it is simple, but when you get closer, you see that there are elements that are playing against each other in a sense of harmony,” Albaisa explained.
Focused solely on the exterior, the designers imagined the QX60 Monograph as a sophisticated yet functional solution for a busy, modern family. The proportions include a wide stance, sleek greenhouse, horizontal shoulder line and muscular wheel arches. The combination of which creates a commanding posture and defined SUV persona.
Advanced lighting appearance
Intricate ‘Digital Piano Key’ lighting at the front and rear projects a futuristic appearance and showcases how Infiniti blends human artistry with the latest technology. The inner structure of the headlamp features a shape and pattern of lines inspired by an electrical heatsink device.
Bright white at the front, and ultra-red at the back, the QX60 Monograph’s lamps are accompanied by the glowing ‘infinite road’ brand emblem. Combined, the opening light sequence begins at the logo and fans out to the headlamps in a dynamic welcome for drivers.
Viewed from the side, the Monograph shows off its horizontal bonnet, muscular fenders and long wheelbase. Paired with the gentle rake of the A-pillar and tapered, teardrop-like glasshouse, the result is a long sweeping, sophisticated profile. The roof flows into a subtly integrated rear roof spoiler — also in gloss black — to further enhance the car’s aerodynamic appearance.
At the rear, the wide body and track, complementing the horizontal window line give the QX60 Monograph a sense of poise and stability. Embossed with the INFINITI name, the SUV features large alloy wheels that fill the pronounced fenders and reinforce the performance-inspired aesthetic.
The rear lamps are tinted and, when turned off, appear to wrap around the back of the vehicle and into the rear flanks in one continuous shape. Illuminated, the piano key lighting shines through to form a beautiful, futuristic light signature.
Platinum paint and black roof
“The platinum paint on the QX60 Monograph projects a sense of warmth. The highly reflective nature mimics the qualities of liquid metal, allowing the surface of the body to capture the shadows and lights of the environment in which it is displayed creating a sense of dynamism,” said Taisuke Nakamura, Senior Design Director, Infiniti Global Design.
A large panoramic roof features a ‘kimono fold’ pattern. This geometric feature, a series of intricate perpendicular lines, draws inspiration from the folds of a silk kimono and the structures of Japan’s modern architecture.
He explained that the black roof creates a strong contrast to the rich body colour for a dramatic visual statement. The pillars, roof, front, side and rear glass all seamlessly connect — giving a panoramic feel to the cabin and promoting a sense of openness. Slim-line roof rails provide a practical counterpoint to the QX60 Monograph’s sleek, sporty proportions.
“We commenced the design of the Monograph knowing this was an opportune time to start a discussion about where we are planning to take the QX60 in the future and more broadly, where we are heading as a brand with our design language,” said Albaisa, adding that the production version of the next generation QX60 can be expected in 2021.
Current QX60 has been around since 2012 (known as JX35 at the start) and was Infiniti’s first 3-row SUV.
Lynk & Co, the global premium brand created in the Geely Auto Group, clearly has its eyes on the future and the future is going to be all about electric vehicles (EVs). Its ideas for the future therefore focus on pure electric vehicles and Geely Holding has even developed Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) for this.
Pure electric architecture for all
SEA is a pure electric architecture that will be used as the basis for all new EVs within the Geely Holding Group portfolio. It is the world’s first open-source electric vehicle architecture, and ‘open-source’ means that other third-party vehicle manufacturers will be able to use it for their own EV development. In this way, EVs can more quickly grow in numbers and enable manufacturers to reach efficient economies of scale for production costs to start dropping.
It’s like the architecture for the first Personal Computer (PC) that IBM developed in the early 1980s. This was open-source architecture that was freely available to everyone and very quickly, the availability of the PC from numerous companies led to it becoming the dominant system in what had been an industry fragmented by many different architectures and operating systems.
Next production model previewed
The Zero Concept model that Lynk & Co will display at the coming Beijing Auto Show will be the first model to be based on the SEA architecture. It will be the basis for a new model to go into production next year and also enter the market before the end of 2021.
The Zero Concept was designed in Lynk & Co’s Gothenburg design studio in Sweden. It is the second concept car from the brand after the CCC Concept Car which was unveiled in 2016. It set the design direction for the Lynk & Co brand as it grew from one model, the 01, to encompassing 5 different variants – SUV, crossover, coupe SUV and sedan.
CCC concept model displayed in 2017.
The Zero Concept is an extension of the original CCC Concept in its execution, utilizing Lynk & Co’s unique design language that has a clear expression. Clear graphical lines push boundaries and work to highlight the technological aspects of the Zero Concept’s design language.
“The dedication that went into the Zero Concept was incredible, and the result has been first class design with state-of-the-art technologies that allow for a zero-emission future. We have encompassed passion, performance and pure electrification into the Zero Concept,” said Peter Horbury, Senior Vice-President of Geely Design.
Positioned as performance touring coupe
The SEA architecture has given the designers the possibility to create a vehicle with perfect proportions with low overhangs both front and rear, with a wheelbase that is just under 3000 mm. Its dynamic sporting profile positions the Concept Zero as a technology-orientated performance touring coupe.
Sustainability has been placed at the forefront of the Zero Concept with the use of high-tech sustainable materials being used throughout the design strategy that will further enhance the production variants zero emission credentials.
Drivers can expect the range of the production model to be in excess of 700 kms with a fully charged battery pack, according to Lynk & Co. Like many EVs, it will also off brisk and zippy performance with a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of under 4 seconds.
About Lynk & Co
Although the brand is already 4 years old, it is still not well known globally as much of its marketing focus has been in China. The company was formed as a joint venture between the Geely Auto Group and the Volvo Car Group as ‘a challenge to the established automotive industry with an offering that meets the needs and requirements of a new generation of globally connected consumer’.
It developed a new business model, an open API, personalized services, sharing possibilities and the first dedicated app store for cars.
Since entering the market with the 01 SUV in 2018, Lynk & Co has sold over 300,000 cars. The tech-laden SUV is built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) that was co-developed between the Geely Auto Group and Volvo Cars.
Lynk & Co’s first model
The brand has planned a roll-out of products in the Netherlands, Sweden, Germany, Belgium, Italy, France and Spain towards the end of this year, with the North American market to follow.
