EV Archives

Project MAYBACH – a tribute to the late Virgil Abloh

With Project MAYBACH, Mercedes-Benz pays tribute to the late Virgil Abloh who passed away recently. Designed as a showcar to inspire the next generation, it is being revealed at the wishes of Abloh’s family.

The artist, architect, creative director, fashion designer and philanthropist, who was also artistic director of Louis Vuitton menswear, had collaborated with Gordon Wagener, design chief of Mercedes-Benz, for this design study. It interprets Mercedes-Maybach’s luxury identity with a new design language and pushed the boundaries of function, style, and collaborative creativity.

Inspired by the great outdoors and recontextualizing a traditionally urban brand within a distinctly off-road environment, the 2-seater, fully-electric off-road coupe combines huge Gran Turismo proportions (almost 6 metres long), large off-road wheels and distinctive attachments. Under the transparent surface of the showcar’s bonnet are solar cells that increase the imagined range of the Project MAYBACH.

Like Project Gelandewagen in 2020, Project MAYBACH is a design unlike anything that has been developed by Mercedes-Benz, with every element built from scratch. Key for both Abloh and Wagener was a responsible vision of future design. Complete creative freedom – unlimited by production requirements – enabled the design teams to conceptualize what the future of electric travel could look like.

The X-Factor nature of Project MAYBACH results not only from its imposing – almost 6 metres long – and characteristics, but also from its unique contrasts. ; most notably through how naturally authentic Mercedes-Maybach design elements are harmoniously combined with a new Outdoor Adventure design motif.

Project MAYBACH channels Abloh’s passion to challenge the status quo and re-write the rulebook of aspirational design. The power of his work is not only from the product design, but also the exploratory conversations that his work ignited. Whilst the showcar was inspired by how one could explore nature within a uniquely luxury context with Maybach, the Mercedes-Benz teams thank Virgil Abloh for the inspiration to explore every day the power of cross-industry dialogue to imagine a better, more inclusive future.

*Project Gelandewagen, another car from Virgil Abloh, which was inspired by the G-Wagen.*

Vaccination does not make you immune to COVID-19 infection. You can still get infected and although you may not show symptoms, you could spread the coronavirus to others. Do not stop taking protective measures such as wearing a facemask, washing hands frequently and social distancing.

Hennessey Performance’s Project Deep Space is a 6-wheel drive Hyper GT!

John Hennessey, the founder and CEO of Texas-based Hennessey Performance, is a man who loves powerful cars and his company has been ‘making fast cars faster’ since 1991. His work covers not only musclecars but also trucks and SUVs, with notable recent models like the 700-bhp Velociraptor F250 and a ZL1 Camaro nicknamed ‘The Exorcist’ with 1,000 bhp.

In 2017, he started Hennessey Special Vehicles to develop even faster cars, with the Venom F5 being of hypercar status and the first road car capable of achieving more than 480 km/h. The Hennessey team developed an all new, twin turbo V8 engine that can deliver 1,817 bhp which sits on a lightweight chassis enclosed by an all carbonfibre body.

*The Exorcist, a Camaro ZL1 with 1,000 bhp (above) and the Venom F5 are just some of the superfast cars from Hennessey.*

The F5’s combination of light weight, low drag and massive horsepower is claimed to enable an acceleration time from 0 to 300 km/h in less than 10 seconds, making the new Venom quicker than current Formula 1 racing cars.

Project Deep Space

Now Hennessey Special Vehicles is taking things further with a strategic product plan to introduce 3 all-new vehicles over the next 10 years. Project Deep Space, the codename for one of the vehicles, will be the world’s first 6-wheel drive Hyper-GT.

During the next 10 years, electrification will be permeating through the industry and Hennessey is going with the change by making the hyper-GT run only on electric power, generated by 6 motors. With a 50% increase in surface contact over traditional 4-wheeled vehicles, the performance of the hyper-GT will be astonishing.

Fitted with dramatic gullwing doors, Project Deep Space will be constructed with an ultra-lightweight carbonfibre chassis and body panels. The car will be a unique, ultra-luxurious, Grand Tourer that can transport 4 adults in comfort along with 4 sets of golf clubs, plus luggage.

Diamond=shaped seating layout

The distinctive diamond seating arrangement places the driver in a central position and the rear offers lie-flat seating. The interior will be fitted with the highest quality materials and for the asking price, customers will be able to add whatever they want to personalize their hypercar.

“I’ve been building some of the world’s fastest accelerating vehicles for decades, yet they have always been performance-limited by mechanical grip. Six-wheeled electric propulsion is the solution. The technology is unprecedented in this segment – both forward-thinking and innovative. Our design and engineering team is excited about embracing the future,” said John Hennessey.

World’s most expensive EV

Full specifications for Project Deep Space are yet to be announced, but Hennessey has confirmed that pricing will start at US$3 million (RM12.6 million at today’s exchange rate) which will make it the world’s most expensive EV (unless Bugatti or someone else comes out with a rival model). Only 105 hypercars will be built with production planned to begin in 2026.

Second generation of Kia Niro debuts in Korea

Although the first concept was shown back in 2013, the production Kia Niro only went on sale in 2016 so it is a fairly young model in the Korean carmaker’s range. However, it is one of the earlier electrified models and its BEV (battery electric vehicle) version uses the same electric powertrain as the Hyundai Kona Electric.

With increased emphasis on electrification, Kia has now updated the Niro with a second generation which has just made its debut in Korea. Completely redesigned, the new Niro has been developed under the company’s Opposites United design philosophy, fulfilling ‘Joy for Reason’ ethos. It takes inspiration from nature in design and the choice of colour, material, and finish strike a balance between an environmentally responsible approach and a future-oriented outlook. Efficient aerodynamics and sustainable materials are united through the cohesive design

Influenced by Habaniro concept
The strong influence of the Habaniro concept, shown in 2019, is evident in the shape with bold crossover looks and a high-tech 2-tone finish. A wide pillar at the rear enhances airflow to improve aerodynamics and blends into the boomerang-shaped rear taillights.

Being a Kia, it does of course have that signature ‘Tiger Face’ which is constantly evolving. For the Niro, it extends from the bonnet right through to the rugged fender below. The contemporary front design is finished with striking ‘heartbeat’ LED DRLs (daytime running lights) for a striking look and visual signature.

The rear design blends simple surface treatments with dynamic sections to emphasize modernity. The unique vertical taillight design highlights aerodynamics and technology. It traces the vehicle’s wide and stable stance with its strong shoulders and upright windows.

Greenzone Drive Mode
With this new model, Kia introduces the ‘Greenzone Drive Mode’ which automatically transfers the (P)HEV into EV drive mode to meet the demand for sustainable mobility solutions. When driving in green zones such as residential areas, or nearby schools and hospitals, the vehicle automatically uses electric power based on navigation cues and driving history data. It also recognizes a driver’s favorite places, including home and office registered in the navigation system as a green zone.

Commitment to sustainability
Inside the new Niro, Kia shows its commitment to sustainability and the way it will carry out future model development. Many of the materials used are recycled materials, eg the headlining is made from recycled wallpaper, while the seats are made from Bio PU with Tencel from eucalyptus leaves. BTX-free water-based paint is used on the door panels to minimize the impact on the environment and reduce waste.

The off-centre dashboard curves around the front occupants with horizontal and diagonal lines opposing each other to create a calming, yet irregular aesthetic. The centre console is easy to operate and has an electronic dial-type shift lever. It is positioned on the wide high-gloss black surface for a simple and modern look.

The audio-visual screen and air vents are incorporated within the diagonal gaps of the modern dash design, while ambient mood lighting heightens the senses and creates a welcoming interior. The slim, contemporary seats enhance roominess, comfort and style by applying a high-tech lightweight seat mechanism. The headrests’ back cover incorporates a convenient coat hanger, while the slim dimensions of the headrest helps to increase the feeling of space.

Hyundai Kona Electric officially launched, priced from RM150,000

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has certainly been quick to start the EV (electric vehicle) ball rolling. Of course, this is not the first EV to be sold in Malaysia. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia sold the i-MiEV in 2008 and Edaran Tan Chong Motor has already sold two generations of the Nissan LEAF, while Porsche, BMW and MINI have also introduced EV models in recent years.

However, this time things are different as there is exemption of all taxes for such vehicles which was announced during the proposed Budget 2022. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs), ie fully electric and not hybrids, will be allowed to be imported and sold duty-free for a limited period and then those that start assembling them will also enjoy the duty-free incentive a bit longer. Exemption from paying roadtax has also been include in the proposed Budget 2022.

As Malaysians have long complained about taxes bumping up prices and making cars too expensive, the thought of not having to pay any tax would be exciting. Lower prices would be expected, and this was the case when the government gave the same exemption 10 years ago for hybrids and EVs.

However, the new Kona Electric is not exactly within the ‘affordable’ bracket for most people as even the cheapest of the three variants has prices (excluding insurance) starting from RM149,888. That’s for the e-Lite version and for the better equipped Kona Electric e-Plus, it will be RM169,888. A third variant is the e-Max which is priced at RM199,888.

In the UK, prices of the Kona Electric start from £27,950 which is about RM157,000 at today’s rates. Of course, those are retail prices which include applicable taxes over there. However, like many governments, the UK government also provides incentives to those who buy EVs and currently, purchasers can get a grant up to £2,500 (about RM14,000) on vehicles costing up to £35,000 to offset the cost. Additionally, EV owners can also get a grant of up to 75% (or maximum of £350) to pay for installing a charging point at their home.

The point here to note here is that EVs are not cheap at this time, so don’t expect ‘duty-free’ to bring prices down to the levels of models sold by the Malaysian brands. Wherever they are sold, EVS have high pricetags and manufacturers hope that governments will provide incentives to offset the high cost of purchase and help accelerate increase in numbers sold. The technology is still expensive but if volumes can quickly rise, then economies of scale will kick in and production costs can start to drop, with retail prices also being reduced.

Anyway, back to the Kona Electric in Malaysia which was officially launched today (but deliveries will only be in 2022). The difference in the prices of the three variants are largely related to their battery pack capacities and equipment levels. The e-LIte and e-Plus share similar lithium-ion polymer battery packs which have a capacity of 39.2 kWh whereas the e-Max at the top of the range has a battery pack with a greater 64 kWh.

The different battery capacities have implications on range with the lower-capacity pack having a range of up to 305 kms while having more energy on board can take the e-Max up to 484 kms. Like fuel consumption, range figures depend on driving style and conditions. Faster speeds will draw more electricity faster as the motor needs more power. Regenerative braking helps to reclaim some wasted energy during braking which goes to the battery pack.

Besides range, the other thing that those planning to own an EV would want to know is the time it takes to recharge a battery pack. At this time, it is not as quick as refuelling petrol in a car though continuously advancing technology has been bringing the times down. But having to recharge will be something you need to get used to, just like recharging your phone every night.

In the case of the Kona Electric, the recharging time can take between 4.5 hours and 7.5 hours, depending on the type of charging outlet used. You can use the standard outlet at home but it will be slow (up to 31 hours) but if you have access to a high-powered DC fast-charging station, then the time to ‘refuel’ from 0% to 80% can be less than an hour. HSDM offers charging station installations for customers who have homes where a charging station can be installed.

There are differences in power output from the motors in the different variants. The e-Lite and e-Plus, with the 39.2 kWh packs, generate 136 ps/395 Nm to give a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 9.9 seconds and top speed of 155 km/h. Th e-Max has a more powerful motor generating 204 ps but also 395 Nm and this variant can go from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 167 km/h.

The nice thing about electric motors is that maximum torque is available from standstill so the car accelerates strongly off the line. However, deceleration characteristics are different as there is no conventional gearbox. To enhance braking, it is also possible to use the paddle on the steering wheel to slow down.

The other aspects of the Kona Electric are generally like the Kona with a petrol engine. But the Kona Electric also stands out with its EV-specific elements. The bumper, wheel and headlight designs are different and with no need for a traditional grille for cooling purposes, the front end is ‘sealed’.

The interior has a similar horizontal layout as the other versions with new ambient lighting. The instrumentation reflects the EV-nature of the vehicle, with the tachometer space occupied by a meter showing the battery charge and power levels. There’s also a gauge to let the driver know how much range is left with the energy in the battery pack.

For the money asked, it’s only to be expected that HSDM will provide a comprehensive safety features as standard. The e-Lite has a few less systems (hence the lower prices) while the e-Plus and e-Max are similar. Hyundai’s active safety systems are packaged as the Smartsense suite which helps the driver to avoid accidents or reduce the severity when accidents (mainly collisions) do happen.

Besides a 2-year/50,000-km warranty on the vehicle, there is also a separate warranty of 8 years/160,000 kms for the battery pack. This is to give owners peace of mind as the battery packs are expensive – much more expensive than those small black ones in the engine bay of your car. HSDM also offers optional warranty extension for another RM10,000. This will extend coverage to 5 years or a maximum of 100,000 kms and they even include free service maintenance for 3 years or a maximum of 50,000 kms.

GM’s Factory ZERO starts production of only electric vehicles

Roger Smith, the former General Motors Chairman and CEO from 1981 to 1990, introduced huge amounts of technology into the company in the 1980s to gain what he believed would be an advantage in vehicle production. He fantasized about a ‘factory of the future’ which would work 24 hours non-stop without needing lights as there would be no human workers. Everything would be automated so no worries about unions and strikes.

But total automation and high-tech have not proven to be the way to become an efficient and productive carmaker. In later years, after Smith had retired and GM formed a joint-venture with Toyota to operate a factory in California making cars of both brands, it would be discovered that the Japanese ‘secret weapon’ was not some advanced manufacturing equipment but something more human like training and having the right culture.

Three decades later, the new General Motors has created another high-tech factory though ‘future’ is no longer mentioned. It is actually the old Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant which received a massive US$2.2 billion investment to be fully renovated for building a new generation of battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

General Motors Factory ZERO — *The signboard on the 110-year old General Motors Detroit-Hamtramck factory being taken down in September 2020 as work was underway to renovate it into Factory ZERO to build only electric vehicles.*

The various meanings of ZERO
Recently opened, the factory is known as Factory ZERO and while ‘zero’ is today associated with ‘zero emissions’ from vehicles, the name also reflects the significant role the facility plays in advancing GM’s vision of a world with zero crashes and zero congestion. It will make models such as the GMC HUMMER EV Pickup and HUMMER EV SUV, Chevrolet Silverado EV and Cruise Origin, an all-electric, self-driving, shared vehicle.

All Factory ZERO EVs will be built on GM’s Ultium Platform which is the core technology for the company’s EV product strategy. The Ultium Platform encompasses a common vehicle architecture and propulsion components like battery cells, modules, packs, drive units, EV motors and integrated power electronics, and is fundamental at plants where EVs are produced.

*GM’s Ultium platform which will be used for the EV models of its different brands.*

*The GMC HUMMER EV SUV is one of the models to be built at Factory ZERO and will go on sale in 2023.*

Through the Ultium Platform, GM can realize a strategic value chain shift across its network of vehicle assembly plants as the company is able to commonize and streamline machinery, tooling and assembly processes. This gives the company flexibility which huge corporations sometimes lose, and enables lower capital investments and greater efficiencies as additional assembly plant transformations occur.

GM’s competitive advantage
GM retooled Factory ZERO for BEV production for two-thirds the capital required to build a greenfield (brand new) plant, making the facility a model for future GM facility renovations. Some of the approaches taken during construction include reuse or recycling of almost every material that came out of the old facility during conversion. This included crushed concrete from the floor, which was repurposed for temporary roads around the facility. Storm water will be recycled and of course, solar power will contribute to the electrical needs.

As the company continues its transition into an all-electric future, GM will avoid up to US$15 billion in capital costs by 2030 through the renovation of existing manufacturing facilities versus ground-up construction. The figure grows to US$20 billion to US$30 billion at 100% transition of all manufacturing facilities to support EV production. That capital can be redeployed more strategically for additional customer-facing products, services and technologies.

“To meet our ambitious EV transition, GM’s North American EV vehicle assembly capacity will reach 20% by 2025, and then 50% by 2030,” said Gerald Johnson, GM’s Executive Vice-President of Global Manufacturing and Sustainability.

Shortened launch time
Using virtual tools and working in parallel with production engineering teams, GM cut the manufacturing launch time in half – from two years to less than one – also gaining a competitive advantage. By comparison, a brand new factory, with planning and construction, could take up to 4 years from site selection to vehicle production.

Along with the capital advantages, GM’s commitment to renovating its existing network of manufacturing facilities during the EV transition also saves time. An accelerated launch and production start allow the company to get new-generation EVs to customers sooner. The first vehicles from Factory ZERO will be delivered to customers by the end of this year.

GM estimates that 80% of the assembly process for an EV is the same as that for conventional vehicles. This is another driver of speed for GM. The company has refined and perfected its own standardized manufacturing processes over many decades, and will launch its expanding portfolio of BEVs faster, with superior quality and a lower cost.

People still matter in manufacturing
Roger Smith imagined a factory with robots and almost no human workers but Factory ZERO, when fully operational, will employ more than 2,200 people. “Our people are GM’s true competitive advantage — an advantage you simply can’t buy or quickly build,” said Johnson, echoing what Japanese carmakers have often said.

As a BEV factory, Factory ZERO plays a direct role in GM’s commitment to eliminate tailpipe emissions from new light-duty vehicles by 2035 and become carbon-neutral in its global products and operations by 2040. The company has already made a commitment to invest US$35 billion in electric and autonomous vehicles, with plans to introduce more than 30 BEV models by 2025.

Taycan GTS Sport Turismo joins Porsche’s all-electric range as third variant

Henry Ford may have forced the colour black on all his Model T customers but even he knew that there was a need to offer different bodystyles to suit different tastes and purposes. The auto industry has continued to provide customers with a wide variety of shapes and sizes for cars, with designs evolving over different periods.

So it’s not surprising that Porsche’s all-electric Taycan family is growing with additional bodystyles. The original model was joined earlier by the Taycan Cross Turismo, and now comes a third body variant in the form of the Taycan GTS Sport Turismo.

“The Taycan model range has grown steadily since its world premiere in 2019. Three body variants with up to 5 engine options offer something for everyone,” said Kevin Giek, Vice-President Model Line Taycan. “I am particularly pleased that we now also have a Taycan with the legendary GTS moniker. It is positioned above the Taycan 4S and below the Taycan Turbo derivatives, so it represents a real sweet spot in the range.”

*The new Taycan GTS and Taycan Cross Turismo (right).*

The newcomer has a similar front end as the Taycan, but the rear half of the body and the silhouette with rearward-sloping roof line are similar to the Taycan Cross Turismo. There are numerous black or dark details on the exterior, such as the front apron, the bases of the exterior mirrors, black alloy wheels, and the side window trims – as is traditional on a GTS. However, the Taycan Sport Turismo does not have off-road design elements.

The electric powertrain generates up to 440 kW (598 ps) which goes to all four wheels. With Launch Control, this can send car from 0 to 100 km/h in a claimed 3.7 seconds, and reach a top speed of 250 km/h. A fully charged 93.4 kWh battery pack is said to be able to provide a range of up to 625 kms in town, with a combined range of up to 504 kms. It is the first Taycan to break the 500-km mark, thanks to a new more efficient drive strategy. The richer sound pattern of the modified Porsche Electric Sport Sound also underscores the character of the new model.

The adaptive air suspension, including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), is specifically adapted to the GTS, to the benefit of the lateral dynamics. A sportier set-up is available for the optional rear-axle steering.

The new variant is aimed at those who want a similar level of everyday practicality as offered by the Taycan Cross Turismo, but who also want the on-road performance of the Taycan sports saloon. The headroom in the rear is more than 45 mm greater than that in the Taycan, while the cargo capacity under the large tailgate is more than 1,200 litres.

Numerous Black Race-Tex features in the interior underscore the elegant, dynamic ambience, as does the standard brushed aluminium interior package with Black anodised finish.

The first deliveries start in early 2022, with Taycan GTS Sport Turismo prices starting from 132,786 euros in Germany.

Hyundai SEVEN concept SUEV – a lounge on wheels

The Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) has many new models in the pipeline, virtually all electrified either as battery electric (BEV) or hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). It seems that HMG – which consists of Hyundai, Kia and Genesis – can’t wait to show the world what’s coming and throughout this year, we’ve seen production models being launched as well as concept cars that preview what’s to come.

The Hyundai SEVEN is one of those that will be coming and is described as the brand’s future sport utility electric vehicle (SUEV). It is likely to be a product in the IONIQ EV sub-brand and ‘SEVEN’ suggests that it would be somewhere at the top of the range, the same way the Kia Concept 9 is likely to be a flagship model.

Next-generation customer experience
HMG has developed the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that will be used by all three brands and is optimised for EVs. This includes the SEVEN which has interior architecture to provide greater freedom and comfort for passengers. Following the 45 concept in 2019 and the Prophecy concept in 2020, the SEVEN concept opens a new chapter for the IONIQ brand. It promises a next-generation customer experience with the most advanced technologies within a vehicle that is designed as an innovative living space on wheels.

“The SEVEN concept demonstrates Hyundai’s creative vision and advanced technological development for our electrified mobility future,” said Jose Munoz, President & CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “Its innovative interior space, eco-friendly powertrain and cutting-edge safety and convenience technologies reveal an exciting future for Hyundai SUV customers.”

Aerodynamically redefining the SUV
The SEVEN concept makes full use of the flexible E-GMP to have a long wheelbase and flat floor beneath its an aerodynamically pure silhouette. The low, leading edge of the bonnet, a single, streamlined roofline and elongated wheelbase communicate a clear break from traditional SUVs powered by internal combustion engines. The pure volume of SEVEN’s minimal forms contrast with the powerful stance and commanding, rugged presence.

Aerodynamic efficiency and minimum wind resistance are vital for BEVs to go further, and the SEVEN is claimed to have a 480-km range. Thus every area on the bodywork is carefully shaped to allow air to flow smoothly. Even the wheels have integrated Active Air Flaps, which deploy or retract depending on brake-cooling or low-drag requirements.

At night, the SEVEN is easily identified by IONIQ’s signature Parametric Pixel lights that deliver a Welcome Light Sequence on start-up. Parametric Pixels provide a common design thread, linking digital and analog styles, a reminder that its designers considered every aspect of SEVEN’s design, down to a single pixel.

Welcoming premium lounge
The concept SUEV’s interior design priority lies in the innovation of space and makes full use of the 3.2-metre wheelbase. With the flat floor, the designers have explored an alternative to the traditional row-based seat arrangements, creating a more fluid interior layout. The Pillarless Coach Doors offer a grand entrance to reveal a welcoming interior with a completely new dimension of space. The streamlined roofline, long wheelbase and flat floor that extends to the third row opens new opportunities to furnish the interior like a premium lounge.

The SEVEN also embodies Hyundai’s future vision of autonomous mobility. The driver’s seat features a retractable control stick that hides away when not in use. Without the need for the usual driver’s equipment, the ultra slim cockpit and integrated screens create a lounge-like experience. The seat arrangement is unlike traditional SUVs, with swivelling lounge chairs and a curved bench seat. This seat arrangement can be customized depending on driver-controlled or autonomous driving modes.

Highlights of the vehicle are the Universal Island console, specially designed home appliances and a multi-functional Smart Hub graphic user interface. When the Smart Hub and front seats combine with the rear chaise-lounge seating, the SEVEN has an environment where the occupants can experience quality time alone or together in the glow of side-door ambient light. In transit, SEVEN’s built-in mini fridge provides chilled refreshment on the go and there are even shoe-care compartments to refresh passengers’ footwear.

The vision roof features a panoramic screen that not only displays various content based on passengers’ tastes, but also changes the overall interior atmosphere to guarantee maximum relaxation and pleasure during the journey.

Eco-friendly materials
The SEVEN uses various eco-friendly materials while offering segment-leading hygienic features, such as Hygiene Airflow System and UVC Sterilization. The Hygiene Airflow System takes inspiration from the sophisticated airflow management of passenger aircraft. In its vertical mode, air is taken in through built-in air intakes in the roof rails from which the air travels inwards from above, and extracted through the exterior vent behind the rear wheels. In its horizontal mode, the air flows from the slim dashboard to the rear vents.

Most importantly, this system can activate independently whether the vehicle is in motion or not to reduce cross-contamination among passengers and isolates the airflow between front and rear occupants.

Bio-paint is used for the exterior and hygienically-recycled and renewable materials throughout the interior. Mineral plaster, bamboo wood and carpet, bio resin and interior paint are based on renewable sources that can reduce pollution from the production process. Extensive use of copper and hygienically treated fabric with proven antibacterial functions ensure all surfaces inside the SEVEN remain clean at all times.

UV-C Sterilization activates once the vehicle is vacated of its passengers. The control stick, first-row storage drawer and speakers pop up and then, integrated sanitizing UV-C lights help clean the living space of bacteria and viruses. In addition, there are sanitizing storage compartments in the bench and Smart Hub console for personal belongings.

“SEVEN paves the way forward for what an SUV needs to become in the EV era with a unique aerodynamic pure form that does not compromise on its rugged personality. The interior opens up a new dimension of space that cares for its passenger as a family living space,” said SangYup Lee, Senior Vice-President, Head of Hyundai Global Design.

Audi aims to be first carmaker to win Dakar Rally with fully electric rallycar

Although Audi can lay claim to having been dominant in the World Rally Championship (WRC) with its Group B Quattro rallycar, the German carmaker has never taken up the challenge of the Dakar Rally. But for the 2022 edition of the world’s toughest off-road event, Audi will be there and it will be the first car manufacturer to use an electrified drivetrain to compete for overall victory against conventionally-powered competitors.

The car that the Audi Sport team will use will be the RS Q e-tron and it’s been undergoing an intensive test program since the first prototype fired up in July this year. After overcoming the challenges posed by the pandemic, the engineers now face the special challenges that the characteristics of the Dakar Rally present. The annual marathon event lasts 2 weeks and the daily stages are up to 800 kms in length. “That’s a very long distance,” said Andreas Roos who is responsible for the Dakar project at Audi Sport. “What we are trying to do has never been done before. This is the ultimate challenge for an electric drivetrain.”

Because there are no charging opportunities in the desert, Audi has chosen an innovative charging concept. On board of the car is the highly efficient TFSI engine from the DTM. It is part of an energy-converter that charges the high-voltage battery while driving. Since the combustion engine is operated in the particularly efficient range of between 4,500 and 6,000 rpm, the specific consumption is well below 200 grams per kWh.

A third motor-generator unit (MGU) is part of the energy converter and serves to recharge the high-voltage battery while driving. In addition, energy is recuperated during braking. The battery weighs about 370 kgs and has a capacity of around 50 kWh. The maximum system power of the e-drivetrain is 500 kW. The electric drivetrain offers many advantages. The electric motors can be controlled extremely precisely and can thus ensure good drivability. In addition, braking energy can be recovered.

The most recent testing was done in Morocco as crews Mattias Ekstrom/Emil Bergkvist, Stephane Peterhansel/Edouard Boulanger and Carlos Sainz/Lucas Cruz took turns in the cockpit of the RS Q e-tron which can now handle daily off-road distances in testing equalling the length of a Dakar stage.

The entire team is focusing its energy on continuing the development under the toughest conditions,” said Arnau Niubo, Head of Test Engineering. “It was impressive how important findings flowed back to the factory from Morocco at a daily pace. As a result, our 3 rallycars currently under construction for the Dakar Rally will have the latest technical status. At the same time, logistical preparations are in full swing.”

The three crews subjected the prototype to a total of more than 2,500 kms over the toughest terrain. The various system tests included the engineers imposing artificially high temperatures on the RS Q e-tron. Peterhansel drove the rallycar through a dry riverbed with the cooling air intakes deliberately taped off to simulate high outside temperatures – and the electric drive didn’t fail or falter.

However, the testing was not without difficult moments. Tyre damage on the rocky tracks caused Ekstrom and his partner repeated interruptions. A suspension wishbone bent by a rock, a leaking driveshaft sleeve and other components required replacement, and the bodywork needed minor repairs. But the prototype was spared nothing during its testing.

Long before Audi unveiled the RS Q e-tron to the public in mid-2021, the racing engineering team was already intensively involved in the Dakar Rally. The risks in off-road racing were at the centre of the considerations for a sophisticated safety concept. From the electrical safety of the high-voltage system to optimum passenger protection in the event of accidents, the design department had many challenges to overcome.

The protective and load-bearing basic structure of the RS Q e-tron consists of a tube frame. The regulations stipulate that this structure be made of metallic materials. Audi has opted for a heat-resistant, alloyed quenched and tempered steel from the aerospace industry that contains the alloying elements chromium, molybdenum and vanadium. The tube frame complies with the geometry defined in the regulations and fulfils the required static pressure tests.

Additional protection for the crew is provided by panels made of composite materials in the spaces between the frame. These components made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) – in some cases supplemented by the tear-resistant Zylon – prevent the penetration of sharp and pointed objects from outside.

Likewise, they protect the drivers and co-drivers from any problems with the high-voltage system. The high-voltage system of the electric drive with its energy converter itself also requires multiple protection. The encapsulation of the centrally located and thus particularly safe high-voltage battery comprises CFRP structures, some of which are reinforced by Zylon.

The protection at the bottom is very complex. In off-road sports, the underbody is the assembly subjected to extreme stresses, including metre-high jumps, whirled-up stones and large ramp angles. Its lowest layer consists of an aluminium plate that resists abrasion by hard objects and partially absorbs impact energy. The energy-absorbing foam above absorbs the impacts and distributes them to the sandwich structure above. This third structure protects the high-voltage battery and the gasoline tank of the energy converter. In the event of excessive damage, the assembly can be easily replaced during the evening service in the rally bivouac.

Optimum insulation of the system against water during river crossings and an electrically insulating extinguishing agent in the on-board fire extinguishing system protect passengers in extreme physical situations. The entire team, including drivers and co-drivers, also underwent high-voltage training in advance, as did rescue teams from the organizer.

Other regulations and devices provided by the organizer round off the overall safety concept. For example, the occupants can make an emergency call via a safety tracking system including an SOS switch and be found quickly. An accident data recorder records the most important measured variables for later analysis. An onboard surveillance camera shows what is happening in the cockpit. The Sentinel system makes overtaking safer in the dust typical of the desert. And finally, the regulations limit the top speed in the T1 category to 170 km/h.

ID.5 e-SUV Coupe will bring Volkswagen into new market segment in 2022

Volkswagen aims to launch at least one electric vehicle (EV) every year to meet various goals of increased sales of such vehicles. By 2030, at least 70% of Volkswagen’s sales in Europe are expected to come from electric-only vehicles. In North America and China, the goal is that electric vehicles will account for at least 50% of sales. The actions taken by the carmaker are expected to decrease CO₂ emissions per vehicle by up to 40% as soon as 2030.

With the ID. family, Volkswagen has been advancing its electric offensive in all vehicle classes in the framework of its ACCELERATE strategy. This is a brand new family of fully-electric models (also referred to as Battery Electric Vehicles or BEVs) which began with the launch of the ID.3 and ID.4 since 2019. The range will progressively expand and all models will use the VW Group’s Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB) which is a platform designed specifically for EVs.

*ID.3 and ID.4 – the first two members of Volkswagen’s fully-electric ID family*

The next model will be the new ID.5 which will bring the brand into a new market segment. This member of the ID. family is an e-SUV coupe and will go on sale in 2022. The 4599 mm long vehicle will be offered with three engine options and also come with a new ID. software version for better performance and functionality.

The new e-SUV coupe has light strips on the front and rear styled with visual signatures of the ID. family. Of note are the IQ.Light LED matrix headlights with intelligent high beams and 3D LED rear lights as standard to give an even more dynamic appearance (ID.5 GTX version). Many features – including the striking bumper, painted door panelling and new roof line – set the e-SUV coupe apart from the ID.4, e-SUV which was picked as the 2021 World Car of the Year.

The Vehicle Dynamics Manager networks the drive and chassis control systems, while an optional adaptive DCC chassis can provide optimal driving dynamics. Volkswagen claims that the driver will experience an entirely new level of sporty driving pleasure, traction and driving safety.

Despite its coupe-type shape, the ID.5 has just 12 mm less headroom in the back than the ID.4. The long 2766 mm wheelbase facilitates interior spatial conditions comparable to those of SUVs in higher vehicle classes.

The ID.5 will be powered by an electric motor in the rear and for the sportier GTX version with all-wheel drive, there will be another motor powering the front wheels. All versions have a large-capacity, long-range battery pack. Using a standard Mode 3 cable, recharging with up to 11 kW of alternating current (AC) is possible and charging performance can reach up to 135 kW to be compatible with fast-charge stations. While range is important to EV owners, so is charging time and the new software 3.0 improves charging performance.

The driving performance is enhanced by a low drag coefficient of 0.26 (0.27 in the ID.5 GTX) which also boosts the vehicle’s range. This capability is further extended by the integrated spoiler in the wide-opening, aerodynamically shaped tailgate. Electric cooling air vents in the front of the vehicle open only when necessary, so as to keep wind resistance low as much as possible.

The new software generation allows for over-the-air (OTA) updates and activation of additional functions, so that the ID.5 can stay up-to-date and perform optimally for a long time. Innovative assistance systems such as Travel Assist with swarm data and latest-generation driver assistance systems help further advance towards automated driving. Park Assist Plus with memory function will take care of personalised parking processes on request.

The digital cockpit offers a new operating concept with a high-resolution multimedia system delivering brilliant visuals. An innovative augmented reality head-up display within the driver’s field of vision presents additional information. The new software 3.0 features various improvements including natural voice control (Hallo ID) and is learning-enabled. It can also go online to access information from the Cloud. Where the services are available, We Connect provides the driver with real-time online traffic information, online map updates, information about charging stations, web radio, etc.

With Car2X communication, data from compatible vehicles in the Volkswagen fleet and signals from infrastructure within a radius of up to 800 metres can be locally interpreted in a fraction of a second. This means the driver can receive alerts about dangerous areas, accidents and stationary traffic.

Now that the Malaysian government is allowing importation of BEVs with no tax imposed, many people are excited at the prospect of seeing a whole new range of cars in showrooms. Perhaps Volkswagen’s ID. models might come but the exemption is a short-term thing and companies like Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia would be looking at the investment they will need to make in order to sell BEVs.

As the official marketing company for the brand, they are obliged to ensure full aftersales support for whatever they sell. Unless there are long-term plans to assemble locally – which has a slightly longer tax-exemption period – the volumes they may be able to sell may not justify the investment they need to make. In any case, Volkswagen would be occupied with meeting demand in the major markets of Europe, North America and China so the incremental volumes possible in the Malaysian market may not be of significance.

SUITE N°4 – the original hatchback reinvented as a 21st century EV

The Renault 4 was unveiled right at the start of the 1960s, a time when people in France were beginning to leave their country lives behind them and move closer to urban areas. However, public transport links left much to be desired, particularly on the outskirts of towns and cities. People began to feel the need for a car suitable for rural and urban areas alike, a car they could drive to the shops or to work. It was also a time when increasing numbers of women were in employment and households’ purchasing power began to expand.

Against that backdrop, the car that would soon come to be known as the ‘4L’ provided a 24/7 solution for both urban and rural living – all thanks to the humble hatch at the back. The fifth door – which is in cars we call ‘hatchbacks‘ – meant that the new Renault 4 quickly became a ‘social phenomenon’.

*The Renault 4L launched in 1961 and (below), a 21st century version of the car that started the hatchback bodystyle.*

The man behind the project, Pierre Dreyfus, CEO of Renault from 1955 to 1975, explained to his teams that he wanted to see ‘a high loading volume’ for a ‘blue jean’ car – meaning a car that would suit people of all ages and social classes around the world. Over 8 million units would be sold in more than 100 countries during a period spanning more than 30 years, so it is safe to say his wish was granted.

“The hatch on the 4L gave rise to a new car model and a new car feature,” said Hugues Portron, Managing Director of Renault Classic. “This wonderful invention resulted in a vehicle that was a saloon car, an estate car and a utility car in one. Hatchbacks revolutionised the automotive industry by offering greater interior modularity.”

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Renault 4, the French brand decided to reinvent the model to show what it would be like as a 21^st century product. The company teamed up with designer Mathieu Lehanneur to create the SUITE N°4, an original concept car inspired by a nomad hotel suite.

“The collaboration with Lehanneur was a natural fit,” said Arnaud Belloni, Renault Brand Global Marketing Director. “We asked him to come up with a concept car showcasing his vision for the 4L. The finished product is extraordinary. A car which really encapsulates everything the brand has set out to achieve through the Renaulution strategic plan: create modern and innovative cars that provoke emotions.”

Lehanneur’s vision was fuelled by the parallel worlds of automobile and architecture. SUITE N°4 is a tribute to the 4L, channelling the same pure, understated and simple spirit while prioritising efficiency and spontaneity. On top, this concept car projects the model into the designer’s contemporary aspirations.

SUITE N°4 suggests a new mobility and travel experience. “I wanted to merge the worlds of cars and architecture to create an open-air hotel room. Even better than the finest palatial suite, the car is exactly where you want it to be, whether that’s by the sea, in the middle of a field or driving around the city you’ve always dreamed of,” Lehanneur explained.

The concept car maintains the same exterior dimensions (about 3.65 metres long, 1.5 metres wide) and lines as the iconic model but comes with a radical twist. The rear section and the hatch have been replaced with polycarbonate windows that provide transparency and lighting on a par with that of architectural glass. The transparent solar panels on the roof let light through while helping to charge the battery of the car as it is fully electric and emission-free.

The front of the car sports the same iconic lights, lines and silhouette as the original. The front grille in polished aluminium is both the designer’s signature and an ode to evasion. It creates waves and gives the car an effect of fluidity, dynamism and movement. The architectural inspiration can also be found on the body of the car, which is coated with three layers of paint that give it the mineral aspect of cement.

Inside, Lehanneur decided to let in the ambience and materials typical of residences, and combine the automobile technical requirements and the sophistication of the French art de vivre. The seats and the dashboard are upholstered with an energetic yellow velvet. In contrast, the space on the back is finished with a thick, ribbed chenille fabric and accessorised with two laps, for a robust look.

Bolsters and pillows complete the boot, transformed in a moving room. The experience is finalised by a wooden bench which slides like a drawer and can be extracted to provide sheltered seating when the hatch is open. Like for the original 4L, all of the materials are ‘Made in France’ and supplied by Paris-based artisans.

The 4L’s anniversary is to be a year-long celebration with different initiatives. These include a global social media campaign, posting a variety of content each month. International media have had the opportunity to take a ride in different historic Renault 4L models, some of which have been retrofitted with an electric powertrain. A collection of 30 different editions of the iconic French model is also on display at the Atelier Renault in Paris.

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