stationwagon Archives

A6 Avant e-tron concept previews Audi’s future electric stationwagon

Like many other carmakers, Audi too has firm plans on electrifying its range and within this decade, it will have a range of models running only on electric power. The models will come under the ‘e-tron’ umbrella which is the name Audi uses for its battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Some are already in the market, the first having been launched in 2018, and more are on the way.

Not just a design exercise
The A6 Avant e-tron concept shows what a future BEV stationwagon will be like and Audi says it is not just a simple design exercise. Its lines and proportions preview future Audi production models which Premium Platform Electric (PPE) platform developed jointly with Porsche. The lines are a consistent development in Audi’s contemporary formal language, and significant elements like the closed Singleframe and the continuous strip of lights in the rear link it to the other e-tron Audis.

The concept car appears monolithic, as if from a single mould – particularly when viewed from the side. The gently backward sloping roof arch with the slanted D-pillar is a typical feature of Avant window design; the D-pillar rises from the stable base of the vehicle’s back end in an especially streamlined manner. The eye-catching quattro wheel arches effectively accentuate the width of the body and are simultaneously integrated organically into the side surfaces.

The wheel arches are connected by the specially sculpted battery area above the rocker panel, which is highlighted with a black inlay – a design element that is now a hallmark of the Audi’s fleet of BEVs. Also typical of e-tron models are the sleek, camera-based virtual exterior mirrors at the base of the A-pillar.

Advanced lighting units
The lighting units at the front and rear are technologically advanced. Digital Matrix LED and digital OLED technology make it possible to achieve maximum brightness and a wide range of features even with a minimal surface area while, at the same time, offering customizable light signatures.

Three small, high-resolution LED projectors are built into each side of the body, transforming the ground beneath them into a stage when the doors are opened – small, extended, dynamic lighting effects greet the occupants with messages in their own language. The projectors also display warning symbols on the ground to warn a bike rider that the car door is about to open, for example.

Another four high-resolution LED projectors – inconspicuously integrated into the corners of the vehicle – generate turn signal projections. The design of these projections can be modified to address different markets and approval regions as required.

The Digital Matrix LED front headlights deliver almost cinematic quality. If, for example, the car is parked in front of a wall during a break to recharge the battery, the driver and passengers can pass the time playing a video game projected onto it. Instead of on a small screen in the cockpit, they’ll see their current game’s virtual landscapes projected onto the wall in XXL format – and all this via the Digital Matrix LED headlights.

The rear end of the concept car features a new generation of digital OLED elements that, as a continuous strip of lights, act as a display for various digital light signatures and even dynamic lighting displays. The 3-dimensional architecture of the digital OLED elements – adapted to the shape of the body – makes it possible to perfectly integrate the night design into the overall look. This makes it possible to experience the dynamic light show not only in two dimensions – as was previously the case – but with an impressive, 3D spatial effect.

Cd of 0.22
Aerodynamics have always played a key role in Audi’s designs. The cd value of the 100 (C3) sedan at 0.30 was the lowest in its day back in the early 1980s. Now the electrically-powered Avant e-tron concept has a value of 0.22, said to be unprecedented in the electrified C-segment. This means greatly lowered aerodynamic drag, which initially translates into lower energy consumption to help extend range.

As this is a concept car, performance numbers quoted can be taken as targets: 700 kms of range with an 800V system, with 2 electric motors are capable of delivering 350 kW (469 ps) of total output and 800 Nm of torque to go from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4 seconds.

High degree of variability inside
The Avant concept has the high degree of variability that has been a hallmark of this line of models since 1977. ‘Avant’ is a term derived from avant-garde and a 1995 Audi ad slogan. Measuring almost 5 metres in length and almost 2 metres in width, the A6 Avant e-tron is certainly a large and long car. It will not only provide comfortable accommodation but also take lots of cargo, just like the other Avant models past and present.

Audi grandsphere concept shows Audi’s future electric flagship and technology

Volvo V60 Recharge T8 – economy of a PHEV, versatility of a SUV and comfort of a sedan

Before SUVs appeared, the stationwagon was the ideal multi-purpose vehicle to haul a lot of stuff. Sedan-like but stretched a bit to have a big boot space, it was as low as a sedan and just as comfortable. Volvo, which had been making stationwagons since 1953 when it introduced the Duett, became a leader in the stationwagon segment in the 1980s, especially in Europe where its models were popular.

The Duett had been conceived as a vehicle which could be used for work as well as for family use, so it was the original dual-purpose vehicle (a term which came into use in the early 1980s when the first 4x4s like the Mitsubishi Pajero and Isuzu Trooper were introduced). The success of the Duett encouraged the Swedish carmaker to continue making such cars and in the years that followed, it would always have a stationwagon variant of the prevailing model series. Malaysian motorists will remember the police using Volvo stationwagons in the 1970s and then the 850 stationwagon in the 1990s for highway patrol work.

And although in the 21^st century, it has been selling more SUVs than sedans and stationwagons, the company has assured stationwagon fans that it will continue to offer such models in future. These will be alternatives to the SUV and crossover ranges and will eventually be fully electric. They are currently designated as S and V models although these may change as the future models will have more aerodynamic forms. Volvo had originally wanted to designate its stationwagons as ‘F’ – for ‘Family’ – when it launched the first V40. However, Ferrari sent a note of protest and said that a ‘F40’ would mislead people into thinking of the sportscar made by the Italian carmaker which had the designation. So Volvo switched to ‘V’, which it said meant ‘Versatility’.

In the US market, which has been a huge consumer of Volvo stationwagons for decades, some of the models are no longer being sold (which led to the rumour of Volvo stopping stationwagons altogether). However, the company will still sell some versions of the current models and in Malaysia, the latest V60 Recharge T8 has just gone on sale with a price of RM287,474 for the Inscription version (the only one available).

This is an electrified PHEV model with a plug-in hybrid Drive-E powertrain. There is a turbocharger and supercharger which boost output to 320 bhp/400 Nm, to which is added the output of an electric motor that can generate up to 407 ps/640 Nm. A lot of power to all 4 wheels which provides effortless cruising even when the 519-litre boot is fully loaded.

As a PHEV, the V60 Recharge T8’s battery pack can be recharged from an external power source rather than just being recharged while on the move. The time for recharging varies depending on the type of charging used. If from a normal household power socket, each hour of charging can provide 7 to 14 kms but if using DC fast-charging 150 kW station, then in 10 minutes, the battery pack can ‘fill up’ for up to 100 kms of range at a 150 kW station. Shell recently started operations of a DC fast-charging station at its station near Tangkak in Johor and will establish a network of 12 stations along the North-South Expressway.

With a fully charged battery pack, it can travel a claimed 49 kms on just electric power but in normal driving, the system will be continuously varying the use of the two power sources for optimum efficiency. Unlike a fully electric powertrain which will come to a standstill if the battery pack is empty, a PHEV like the V60 Recharge T8 will still be able to run using its petrol engine.

As for the design, the V60 Recharge T8 maintains the sleek form which has been around since the days when Peter Horbury, the company’s former design head, declared that ‘we kept the toys and threw out the box’ as he introduced the C70 coupe in 1996. Thereafter, Volvo stationwagons no longer looked like boxes on wheels and had a streamlined profile that added elegance.

The interior too is what you would expect of a Volvo with their Scandinavian ambience and focus on functionality. These days, the emphasis is on using sustainable materials and ensuring that the cabin air is as clean as possible. And although the environment is like that of a premium sedan, there is still the versatility of a SUV with rear seats that fold down and extend the length of the boot.

“The addition of the Volvo V60 Recharge T8 as a PHEV brings Volvo another step forward in our electrification strategy. We are one step closer to realising our aspirations in having a fully electric line-up by 2030 as we move further into a more sustainable future,” said Charles Frump, Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia.

Geely Holding and Volvo Cars to form joint-venture company producing powertrains

2022 Citroen C5 X – a multi-design SUV

While SUVs are still very popular around the world, the designs have settled on a few common forms, depending on the segment. For Citroen, which has long designed its cars with a degree of uniqueness, looking for a new styling concept was the challenge given to the designers. The new model would have to combine the modernity and appeal of an SUV, the elegance and status of a saloon, and the versatility and practicality of a station wagon.

SUV with alternative design concept
Their proposal is the new C5 X which meets the expectations of customers wanting large tourers and those who are also looking for a more modern and stylish alternative to more traditional SUV’s, saloon and stationwagon models. “With the all-new C5 X, Citroen is revisiting the spirit of touring – the ability to travel in an elegant, refined car and set off to discover the world with complete peace of mind,” said Vincent Cobee, CEO of Citroen.

The bodystyle of the C5 X is muscular with optimised aerodynamics to reduce fuel consumption, with a streamlined profile drawing inspiration from aeronautics. The fluidity of the bodystyle is emphasised by the car’s tight, muscular volume. The extended bonnet, the high beltline and the rear wheel flare give it distinction, dynamism and sturdiness, common among Citroen’s larger vehicles.

The streamlined profile combines with a raised ride height and large diameter alloy wheels to give a more commanding view than would be available in a saloon or stationwagon. Around the wheel arches, vertical surfacing detail enhances the vehicle’s character. They highlight the large-diameter wheels while ensuring that air flows along the length of the body.

Coupe-inspired roofline
The elongated coupe-inspired sloping roofline ends with a ‘floating’ aerodynamic spoiler to further enhance the dynamic silhouette. The impression of a ‘floating roof’ is further enhanced through gloss black a-pillars, door pillar trims and dark tinted rear. As an option, customers choose a bi-tone Perla Nera Black roof for a more stylish appearance.

The LED V-shaped lighting signature representing Citroen’s new identity echoes the 3D rear light signature for greater consistency. The upper chevrons highlight the end of the bonnet and stretch right up to the LED daytime running lights, highlighting the width of the front end. The lower chevrons stretch up to the LED headlights and daytime running lights for a high-tech look.

A close look at the lighting signature will reveal real attention to detail. Small light veins create a graphic chevron design in the headlights that highlight the car’s look and reinforce the signature, particularly from the front three-quarter view.

The bonnet is long and horizontal, and positioned fairly low with pair of large scalloped design details, reminiscent of the latest C4 and C5 Aircross SUV. The lower air intake, highlighted by a chrome strip, has a highly geometric design – one that draws inspiration from chevrons – and houses the main radar used for the car’s driving aids.

Stationwagon practicality at the rear
To the rear of C5 X, dual spoilers combine to give a very dynamic look. This, combined with the steeply raked tailgate window design, helps to continue the flowing silhouette. Further details – such as the crisp lines around the lower part of the tailgate and bumper coupled with the lower chevron pattern and the chrome decoration around the reflectors – emphasise the vehicle’s width.

The rear of the car is also designed to be practical and provide more volume for the driver, offering stationwagon levels of modularity. The tailgate provides a wide and functional opening with a low loading sill.

Plug-in hybrid powertrain
The powerful 225 ps plug-in hybrid powertrain is claimed to give a range of up to 55 kms. Combustion engines will still be available but Citroen is not providing information on them yet.

Other technical details available at this time include Citroen’s Advanced Comfort Active Suspension system, with the cabin having a lounge-like interior space and Advanced Comfort seats

Production of the C5 X will start towards the end of this year with first deliveries starting during the first quarter of 2022.

Electrogenic gives the iconic Citroen DS a new 21st century ‘heart’

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

Mercedes-Benz C-Class All-Terrain for those who don’t like SUVs

The term ‘dual-purpose’ vehicle started appearing in the late 1970s when 4×4 vehicles got more ‘civilized’ and people began to use them like passenger cars. Then came ‘SUVs’ in the 1990s, followed by ‘crossovers’ in the following decade. Now comes another type of dual-purpose vehicle for those who find a conventional stationwagon less than suitable off-road, but an SUV or crossover is too tall and bulky.

It’s the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class All-Terrain with extra ground clearance than a regular C-Class stationwagon. It’s not a new idea though as Volvo did the same thing with its stationwagon many years ago to create Cross-Country versions that could be used in rougher conditions.

More ‘off-roader’ look
The off-road C-Class is differentiated by a distinctive radiator grille, different bumpers, a simulated chrome guard plate at the front and rear and the wheelarch linings in matt dark grey. At the rear, there is a multi-section bumper with a chrome-plated load sill guard.

As the All-Terrain version has an AVANTGARDE exterior, the waistline trim, side window surrounds and roof railings are finished in polished aluminium. The trim on the B-pillars and the bars on the rear side windows are in high-gloss black. The Night Package is also available, changing many items to high-gloss black.

Compared to the regular C-Class stationwagon, the All-Terrain has marginally increased dimensions – 4 mm longer and 21 mm wider, the latter due to the exaggerated wheelarch linings. Of significance is the increased ground clearance of around 40 mm, which has also increased the car’s height to 1,494 mm. The standard tyres are 225/55 on 7.5J x 17 wheels, and customers can also opt to fit 18-inch or 19-inch wheels with wider tyres.

Intelligent DIGITAL LIGHT
The C-Class has LED High Performance headlamps as standard and the DIGITAL LIGHT system from the new S-Class can be chosen as an option. For the All-Terrain, it includes a special off-road light. When driving on light terrain, wide illumination ensures that the driver can see obstacles sooner, even when cornering. As soon as the off-road driving mode is activated, the off-road light switches on and remains active up to 50 km/h.

DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs in each headlamp, whose light is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle. This allows almost unlimited possibilities for a high-resolution light distribution that adapts to road conditions.

However, the deciding factor is not only the technology in the headlamp, but rather the digital intelligence behind it. An onboard camera and sensor systems detect other road users, with the data being evaluated by powerful computers in milliseconds. Depending on the conditions (including references to maps), the headlamps will have adjustments made to the light distribution.

Two electrified engine choices
Petrol or diesel engines are available. The 4-cylinder petrol engine has an integrated second-generation starter-generator (ISG) is used and can use electrical energy to briefly increased output by up to 20 bhp. The 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is part of a mild hybrid drive system. It too has an integrated second-generation starter-generator and uses a 48V electrical system. Electrification allows the use of an electric refrigerant compressor for the air conditioning system.

As would be expected, the All-Terrain has standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive that will provide more traction and driving stability when going on rough or slippery surfaces. Up to 45% of engine power flows to the front axle, and up to 55% to the rear axle, the ratio varying according to the grip of the wheels. Together with the 4MATIC drive system is a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Besides the usual modes in the DYNAMIC SELECT system that offers pre-determined driving programmes, there are two more modes for use when driving in off-road conditions. OFFROAD is programmed for easy terrain such as dirt roads, gravel or sand; OFFROAD+ with DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation) is recommended for somewhat rougher and steeper terrain. DYNAMIC SELECT adapts the characteristics of the engine, transmission, steering, ESP and 4MATIC, with the modes selectable even when on the move.

The new front-axle drive allows higher torque levels to be transferred with an ideal axle load distribution for driving dynamics. Moreover, this has a significant weight advantage compared to the corresponding component in the preceding series – a contribution to CO₂ reduction. The engineers were also able to reduce the friction losses in the new transfer case and a closed oil circuit is used with no additional cooling measures needed.

The suspension is basically the same as the regular C-Class, but the 4-link front suspension has slightly larger steering knuckles for addition robustness. A multi-link suspension mounted on a rear axle carrier is installed at the rear. The suspension has a passive damping system with the damping effect constantly adapting to the road surface, depending on the amplitude. Ride comfort can be improved by reducing the damping effect, and when the shocks are more severe, the full damping action ensures more stability.

Same interior as regular C-Class
The interior of the All-Terrain is similar to that of a regular C-Class stationwagon, with the occupants benefiting from the moderately increased exterior dimensions of the new model generation. Compared to the predecessor, the elbow width has been increased by 22 mm for the driver and front passenger and by 15 mm for the rear passengers. There is 11 mm more headroom in the rear, plus increased kneeroom of up to 35 mm.

In terms of digitality and quality, the latest C-Class interior now has highlights such as the display and operating concept adopted from the new S-Class, with a sporty interpretation. Compared to the previous C-Class generation, the latest one has a Driving Assistance Package with additional and advanced functions. These reduce driver workload in day-to-day situations, for more comfortable and safe driving.

The C-Class All-Terrain will have its official global debut at the International Motor Show in Munich, Germany next month, with the first cars reaching showrooms later this year.

Mercedes-Benz EQC 4×4² proves e-mobility can go further off-road

New 308 SW joins third generation Peugeot 308

Although demand for SUVs has surged over the past decade, European motorists have still had a love for the stationwagon. In fact, the C-segment stationwagon segment has remained constant since 2010. To Europeans, the stationwagon is considered a more ‘environment-friendly’ dual-use vehicle than a heavy and bulky SUV (though that argument no longer applies).

Joining the stationwagon offerings from the beginning of 2022 will be the new Peugeot 308 SW, a variant of the new 308 hatchback that was revealed in March this year. The 308 SW has the same new design language elements of the hatchback but isn’t just a 308 with more length. From the rear door line, everything is different with the rear lights deeper in the body. Like most stationwagons, the longer body helps in aerodynamic efficiency which, in the case of the 308 SW, is 0.277 Cd.

LED lighting across the range
Peugeot draws attention to the lighting units which, at the front, use LED technology across the range. They are supplemented by daytime running lights (DRLs) in the shape of fangs on the front bumper. On the GT/GT Pack levels, the Full LED headlights are even slimmer and have PEUGEOT Matrix LED Technology for greater efficiency and safety. At the rear, the lights have full LED technology displaying the 3 claws that identify the brand.

The EMP2 platform has been adapted for the longer 308 SW with an extra 55 mm of wheelbase. Apart from increasing legroom for the rear passengers, the boot capacity is also more generous, as would be expected. However, the maximum volume (with rear seats in use) of 608 litres is available only in models with combustion engines as the battery pack for the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant takes away 60 litres. Of course, the rear backrests can be folded down as well, allowing items of up to 1.85 mm to be loaded and extending maximum volume to 1,534 litres (1,574 litres for PHEV).

*Peugeot Enhanced Modular Platform (EMP2).*

Combustion engines and manual gearboxes still available
While it is steadily electrifying its range, Peugeot is not leaving out combustion engines yet – at least not for this generation. There are petrol and turbodiesel engines available, the former a BlueTech 1.2-litre 3-cylinder unit with 110 or 130 bhp and the latter a BlueHDi 4-cylinder with 1.5 litre displacement and 130 bhp output. 6-speed manual transmissions will still be available, along with automatic transmissions with up to 8 speeds.

*One of the two PHEV powertrains for the new 308 SW. Both use PureTech petrol engines and e-EAT8 transmissions.*

The most powerful engine in the new 308 SW range is the PHEV powertrain with an e-EAT8 transmission. This is offered in two versions – 180 and 225 bhp. The claimed range on a fully-charged 12.4 kWh battery pack is around 60 kms. Peugeot says that the battery pack can be fully recharged in just under 2 hours on a 32A wallbox but just a bit more than 7 hours with an 8A outlet.

Evolved Peugeot i-Cockpit
Like the new 308, the 308 SW also introduces an updated Peugeot i-Cockpit, with a new multifunction double-flattened steering wheel. The i-Cockpit is a centrepiece of the new Peugeots and has extensive levels of digitisation. With each generation, it has become more refined in terms of ergonomics, quality, design and technology and includes the PEUGEOT i-Connect infotainment system. The i-Connect Advanced option has an ‘OK PEUGEOT’ command system using natural language voice recognition to provide access to all requests related to the infotainment functions.

The 10-inch 3D display is positioned for comfortable viewing and can be fully customised with several display modes. The central infotainment HD display is a colour touchscreem, also 10 inches, with i-toggles. These are fully configurable to provide one-click access to the main functions of the infotainment system. Comprehensive connectivity options include 4 USB Type-C sockets, screen mirroring for smartphones and Bluetooth, with the possibility of connecting two devices at the same time.

The construction of the dashboard is based on a ‘high wind’ architecture which places the air vents directly in front of the occupants’ heads and provide optimal comfort. Other interior design highlights show a diversity and richness of the materials used. The LED mood lighting is hidden behind the central screen and glows over the main décor right up to the door panels which can be foamed, in fabric, in Alcantara, or made of real pressed aluminium parts.

The technology will also include the Drive Assist 2.0 pack, with driver assistance systems that are capable of semi-autonomous motoring. In addition to adaptive cruise control with Stop and Go and lane-keeping assistance, there is semi-automatic lane change (between 70 and 180 km/h), advance speed recommendation and automatic speed adjustment in curves.

Another one for BAASB?
Although the stationwagon market in Malaysia is small and most brands don’t bother with it, it has not discouraged Bermaz Auto (BAuto) from selling the attractive Mazda6 stationwagon. As BAuto now also handles Peugeot – via Berjaya Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd (BAASB) – it might well offer the 308 SW as well. And if the government can get together a coherent EV policy which gives incentives to hybrids to bring their prices down, we might see the PHEV too. Incidentally, BAuto has acquired an additional 35% stake in BAASB from Berjaya Corporation which its total stake is 55% and BAASB thus becomes a BAuto subsidiary.

3rd Generation Peugeot 308 makes global debut

Genesis reveals G70 Shooting Brake for European market

Genesis, like Lexus and Infiniti, was created as a sub-brand for Toyota and Nissan to more effectively enter the premium luxury segments. The parent brands, while having gained strong reputations for reliability, durability and quality over many decades, were not necessarily acceptable in the upper strata of the market. By creating new brands with no historic ‘baggage’ and even an ‘unknown’ origin, they stood a better chance of being more accepted.

Hyundai Motor used the same playbook with the Genesis brand, which had originally been used for its flagship models. It became a standalone brand in 2015, from which a more sophisticated design and product philosophy was developed so it could compete in the segment beyond what Hyundai’s models reached.

2021 Genesis GV70 Shooting Brake — *The Shooting Brake shares architecture and design language with the G70 Sedan (below) but its roof extends further back over the cargo area.*

Primarily for Europe
The Genesis line-up currently consists of 3 model lines, some with variants. For the G70 line, the brand will soon add a Shooting Brake which has been revealed recently. The primary market for this new variant is Europe, which will see the Genesis brand for the first time in July this year.

The G70 Shooting Brake is based on the G70 sedan revealed last year, adding enhanced practicality with its stationwagon form. The ‘Shooting Brake’ name refers to a bodystyle firmly rooted in European automotive history and favoured by customers in the premium luxury sector.

Though it looks long in the pictures as a result of its profile, the G70 Shooting Brake is actually the same size as the G70. It measures 4685 mm long, 1850 mm wide and 1400 mm tall, with a 2835 mm wheelbase. The dimensions are slightly smaller than those of the Hyundai Santa Fe SUV but the design offers a similar level of storage versatility.

Similar design language with sedan
Viewed directly from the front, the Shooting Brake would not be easily differentiated from theG70 Sedan as it has similar design language, including the signature Crest Grille. However, with a longer look, it will be seen that the grille is set lower than the Quad Lamps, which spread outward to evoke a sprinter’s pre-race posture and give the model an athletic image.

The athletic look is also communicated in the side view. This is achieved by the combination of the single-piece glass hatch extending to the rear. Basically, it is a variation of the sedan with the roof extended further back over the cargo area. The luggage space is maximised by moving the tailgate hinges forward.

Technical details are not revealed at this time although they can be expected to be similar to the sedan. A close look at the official pictures shows that the car has a 2-litre engine and AWD. The sedan is available with 3.3-litre and 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engines and a 2.2-litre turbodiesel, as well as rear-wheel drive.

Electric G80 for Europe in 2022
The G70 Shooting Brake will be part of the full line-up for the European market, and sales will start in Germany, followed by the UK and Switzerland. Besides the G80 and G70 Sedans and their SUV variants, Genesis also plans to offer electrically-powered models in 2022.

*Genesis will introduce the brand in Europe this year starting with the G80 and in 2022, it will also start selling the electric version of the same model (below).*

VW’s ID. SPACE VIZZION shows the stationwagon will continue to exist in the electric age

It’s been 3 years since Volkswagen announced its ID. family of all-electric models which will begin entering various markets and segments from 2020. As a group (including other brand such as Audi and Skoda), Volkswagen will forge ahead with the fundamental change of system in individual mobility and systematically aligning with electric drives.

The ID.3 will be the first model to go on sale from next year, assembled on the modular electric-car production platform known as ‘MEB’. At least 70 new electric models will be available by 2028 – instead of the 50 previously planned. As a result, the projected number of vehicles to be built on the Group’s electric platforms in the next decade will increase from 15 million to 22 million.

Production version in 2021
Besides the ID3, a compact model, other models have already been confirmed for production within the next 3 years. A fourth one has just been added and this will be based on the ID. SPACE VIZZION wagon concept revealed today. The study will be displayed at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show later this month but the production version will only be released in late 2021. Different versions are planned for North America, Europe and China.

Volkswagen describes the ID. SPACE VIZZION as ‘a wagon of tomorrow’ and we can presume it will be a stationwagon variant of the ID. VIZZION concept which was shown last year. But given the entirely ‘clean sheet’ that the engineers and designers can start from, the vehicle will likely be more functional that today’s stationwagons.

2018 VOLKSWAGEN ID. VIZZION CONCEPT — *The ID. VIZZION SEDAN concept shown in 2018*

A new ’crossover wagon’ segment?
Volkswagen says it will have a ‘completely independent and progressive character’ that combines the aerodynamic characteristics of a Gran Turismo with the spaciousness of an SUV. So we could see the birth of a segment called the ‘crossover wagon’ in future.

In fact, Klaus Bischoff, Head of Volkswagen Design, suggests that there will indeed be a new segment: “So far, with our ID. family, we have shown what is possible with electric vehicles in each known car category. With the ID. SPACE VIZZION, we create a new, fully electric segment.”

590-km range targeted
As for the design, the front and roof sections are particularly precise, with openings for the airstream for optimal aerodynamics. Powertrain details are not given but a range of 590 kms is targeted with the high-efficiency drive system.

Inside, the concept model defines a completely new paradigm of intuitive usability with its completely digitized cockpit. The materials are consistently made from sustainable raw materials, such as the new AppleSkin, an artificial leather with a proportion of residual matter from apple juice production.

Visit www.volkswagen.com.my to know more about models available in Malaysia today

Piston.my

stationwagon

A6 Avant e-tron concept previews Audi’s future electric stationwagon

Volvo V60 Recharge T8 – economy of a PHEV, versatility of a SUV and comfort of a sedan

2022 Citroen C5 X – a multi-design SUV

Mercedes-Benz C-Class All-Terrain for those who don’t like SUVs

New 308 SW joins third generation Peugeot 308

Genesis reveals G70 Shooting Brake for European market

VW’s ID. SPACE VIZZION shows the stationwagon will continue to exist in the electric age

A6 Avant e-tron concept previews Audi’s future electric stationwagon

Volvo V60 Recharge T8 – economy of a PHEV, versatility of a SUV and comfort of a sedan

2022 Citroen C5 X – a multi-design SUV

Mercedes-Benz C-Class All-Terrain for those who don’t like SUVs

New 308 SW joins third generation Peugeot 308

Genesis reveals G70 Shooting Brake for European market

VW’s ID. SPACE VIZZION shows the stationwagon will continue to exist in the electric age

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