ZEV Archives

Nissan Ambition 2030 – a long-term vision towards sustainability for Japanese carmaker

Nissan will be stepping up its electrification strategy as it aims to be carbon-neutral across the lifecycle of its products by its fiscal year 2050. With its new long-term vision – Nissan Ambition 2030 – announced today, the carmaker will advance technologies to reduce its carbon footprint and pursue new business opportunities and become a sustainable company.

Having been a strong promoter of electric vehicles (EVs), starting with the LEAF, Nissan will continue to place electrification at the core of the company’s long-term strategy. In this respect, it aims to accelerate the electrification of its vehicle line-up and rate of technology innovation with investments of 2 trillion yen (about RM76.2 billion) over the next 5 years.

23 new electrified models to come
By fiscal 2030, the Nissan range will see 23 new electrified models, including 15 new EVs, to achieve an electrification mix of more than 50% globally across the Nissan and Infiniti brands. Within the next 5 years, 20 new EV and e-POWER equipped models will be launched and with these new models, more than 75% of sales in Europe will be electrified models by 2026. In Japan, the mix is expected to be more than 55% of sales, while in China, it will be more than 40% of sales.

“We are proud of our long track record of innovation, and of our role in delivering the EV revolution. With our new ambition, we continue to take the lead in accelerating the natural shift to EVs by creating customer pull through an attractive proposition by driving excitement, enabling adoption and creating a cleaner world,” said Nissan COO Ashwani Gupta.

Representing the next stage of Nissan’s electrified future, the company today also unveiled three new concept cars that offer enhanced experiences through sophisticated technology packaging. These concept cars are being developed under Nissan EV Technology Vision, a technology study that looks beyond the Ariya and next-generation crossover EV. The technology considers the direction of future EVs, and how advancements in battery technology, hardware and packaging can offer customers a wide variety of mobility solutions to match their needs and lifestyles.

All solid-state battery (ASSB) technology
At the core of Nissan EV Technology Vision is the integration of all solid-state battery (ASSB) technology that integrates with optimized components into a skateboard-like structure that allows for a variety of vehicle types. The optimum hardware structure will bring out the full potential of future complex software configurations and further realize the precision, performance, efficiency and versatility of EV offerings. Recharging time will be reduced to one-third, it is claimed.

ASSB, which offers innovative integration of the body, chassis and battery pack, has ideal geometry with electric drive. Motors are located at the front and rear and together with a very low centre of gravity and ultra light weight, optimal mass distribution can be achieved. To efficiently manage and operate the vehicle precisely, AI (artificial intelligence) will also be integrated and this includes technologies such as Advanced e-4ORCE and Advanced ProPILOT.

Nissan will also continue to advance its lithium-ion battery technologies and introduce cobalt-free technology to bring down the cost by 65% by fiscal year 2028. The proprietary ASSB will be installed in EV models by fiscal year 2028.

In addition to technology upgrades, Nissan will localize manufacturing and sourcing to make EVs more competitive. The carmaker will expand its unique EV Hub concept, EV36Zero, which was launched in the UK, to core markets including Japan, China and the USA. EV36Zero is a fully integrated manufacturing and service ecosystem connecting mobility and energy management with the aim of realizing carbon neutrality.

Preview of future models
For those who worry that electrification will mean the end of sportscars from Nissan, this seems unlikely to happen. Even in the EV age, there will be sportscars although they may have a different sort of feel from today’s musclecars with combustion engines. They will still offer impressive performance, thanks to the high torque characteristics of electric motors.

The Max-Out concept (above) is one idea which Nissan designers are looking at and it is a convertible. Technical details are not available at this time but there is the promise of ‘a new driving experience with superlative stability and comfort’. The low centre of gravity will provide dynamic cornering and steering response with limited body roll and the occupants will feel united with the car. The 2-seater has a unique ability to morph the seating, flattening into the floor for more interior space when needed. This would be ideal when the driver is out on the road alone.

The Max-Out will have Advanced e-4ORCE which offers powerful, smooth and high output, ride comfort, and independent brake control. This electric-drive 4-wheel-control technology integrates Nissan’s electric propulsion and 4WD control technologies with chassis control technology to achieve a huge leap in acceleration, cornering and braking performance on par with the latest sportscars.

The Surf-Out concept (above), as the name suggests, is more of an adventure concept with the bodystyle being that of a compact pick-up. It is all-terrain capable and could have a variety of power outputs to suit different conditions. The low and flat cargo space will make stowing gear convenient, while the vehicle can also supply electric power for other devices or equipment. Like the Max-Out, this concept vehicle is also engineered with Advanced e-4ORCE.

With the Hang-Out concept (above), the designers are exploring new ideas for interior layouts. This is possible as the floor is completely flat from front to rear. Thus, the cabin can be a mobile living room which travels off the highway. Theatre-style seating will make viewing movies on the built-in display enjoyable for everyone. Special effort is made to suppress vibrations and jolts so that the occupants are less likely to experience motion sickness.

The driver will have the support of Advanced e-4ORCE and Advanced ProPILOT to make journeys safer and more comfortable. ProPILOT technology is already available in some Nissan models as the carmaker was the first to introduce a combination of steering, accelerator and braking that can be operated in full automatic mode. This technology enables autonomous operation during highway driving in single-lane traffic.

Nissan aims to expand ProPILOT technology to over 2.5 million Nissan and Infiniti vehicles by fiscal year 2026. The company will also further develop its autonomous vehicle technologies, aiming to incorporate next generation LIDAR systems on virtually every new model by fiscal year 2030.

Besides the three models, a more advanced concept model is the Chill-Out (above), which shows some of the design language that we might see in future Nissan vehicles. It sits on the modular CMF-EV platform of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.

Designed specifically for electric vehicles, the CMF-EV platform is exceptional in its modularity. For example, it allows for the installation of batteries of different heights which means it can be used for low sedans as well as SUVs which have more ground clearance. The platform is variable in its length, making it applicable for more different types of vehicles.

Nissan to invest £1 billion in establishing Electric Vehicle (EV) Hub as a world-first EV manufacturing ecosystem

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.

Bermaz Auto takes over Kia business in Malaysia, with local assembly to commence in 2022.

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.

Older Hyundai models can now be covered under HSDM’s Extended Warranty programme

Toyota reveals details of production bZ4X EV to be launched in mid-2022 (w/VIDEO)

After pioneering the mass production of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in the late 1990s, Toyota is starting its big push into full electrification with a more extensive line-up of battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Until now, it has focussed on HEVs although it has had a small range of BEVs but now the carmaker is making the big leap towards larger models and aiming for higher numbers.

The first of the 7-model bZ range (by 2025) was previewed at Auto Shanghai in April this year in the form of the Toyota bZ4X concept. To be made in China and Japan, worldwide sales of the production version of the new BEV is expected to start by the middle of 2022.

Details of the new model, which will be a SUV, released today show that the production model is pretty much like the concept car. This is not surprising as Japanese carmakers have not wasted time and money on making too many fancy concepts to wow people but which never get built. They have instead previewed near-production concept cars as a final step to get last-minute feedback on designs and features.

e-TNGA architecture
The new model, to also be known as the bZ4X, sits on a BEV-dedicated platform (first for Toyota) based on e-TNGA philosophy. TNGA stands for Toyota New Generation Architecture, a flexible architecture used for all of the latest models. The one for the bZ4X has been jointly developed with Subaru Corporation which will also have its own BEV to be called the Solterra.

The platform has the advantages that TNGA provides such as a low centre of gravity and high rigidity, all of which will contribute to better driving dynamics and even good off-road performance since this is to be a SUV.

FWD or AWD
The powertrain is straightforward with one or two motors, the latter for the all-wheel drive version. System output is 150 kW for the front-wheel drive version and 160 kW for the AWD version. The E-axle integrates the electric motor, transaxle and inverter while the Electricity Supply Unit consolidates charging and power distribution functions.

Battery performance and safety
As with all BEVs, the key points that motorists will want to know are the performance of the battery pack. The 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (made by an affiliated company) is expected to provide a cruising range of about 500 kms’, even in cold regions.

Compatible with high-output chargers worldwide, an 80% charge is said to be possible within 30 minutes. Besides the usual methods of recharging, there is an optional solar panel on the roof that can also convert sunshine to electricity for the battery pack.

It is also targeting a top-class battery capacity retention ratio (90% after 10 years of use or 240,000 kms). More attention has been given to preventing battery failure by strengthening measures to prevent and detect abnormal conditions (eg overheating). There are also new technologies with a multiple monitoring system that ensures safety and security in case of emergency.

Toyota’s subsidiaries have been developing and making batteries for many years and have gained a lot of knowledge. They have now developed a production process that eliminates contamination, which is a cause of abnormal heating. There is also a high-resistance coolant which prevents fire from short circuits even if there is leakage of the battery’s liquid coolant.

Safety is not forgotten and this is new territory for carmakers. While the basic structure has similarities to combustion vehicles, the high-voltage systems require specific protection. To ensure a high degree of battery pack safety, the Toyota Safety Sense active safety package is used and the body structure has been adapted to withstand collision from any direction. The battery pack itself is also designed in a way that contributes to ensuring protective performance in a collision.

Toyota has also developed more proactive initiatives with regard to the end-of-life scenario for battery packs. The company has a Battery 3R – Rebuild, Reuse, Recycle – approach which will ensure a worldwide top-class battery capacity retention ratio. It proactively undertakes battery rebuild (inspection and reassembly) and reuse and promotes initiatives for battery recycling.

RAV4 size but more spacious
The bZ4X has an overall length of 4690 mm and overall width of 1860 mm, which is about the same size as a RAV4 but it is around 100 kgs lighter. Due to the entirely different powertrain and layout of components, the wheelbase is significantly longer than the RAV4’s – 2850 mm versus 2690 mm. This naturally means a more spacious cabin which is also extra wide. Toyota says that the tandem distance is equivalent to that of a sedan like a Camry.

As the pictures show, the cockpit area is futuristic with the meters positioned to be visible through the upper part of the steering wheel. This is the first time a Toyota vehicle has such an arrangement and it is emphasizes ease of viewing by reducing eye movement and enabling a distance point of focus.

This is the second time that Toyota’s interior designers have given more thought to viewing the meters. When the first Prius hybrid was designed, the meter display was located at the centre of the dashboard instead of its traditional place ahead of the steering wheel. This was to improve eye focus (especially for older drivers) by not having a short viewing distance to the meter and a longer one to see the road ahead. Positioning the display further away meant that the driver’s focus would be further away most of the time, reducing changes and improving safety.

2022 Toyota bZ4X EV — *Unique steering wheel will be initially available only on cars sold in China. Other markets will have a conventional circular steering wheel (below) which will be changed progressively.*

The modularized driving controls including a steering column with a wing-shape. The one-motion grip combining steer-by-wire system and uniquely shaped steering wheel will be first offered in cars sold in China and progressively added to those in other markets. Before then, the other markets will have a conventional circular steering wheel.

Different regions, different approaches
Clearly, Toyota intends to quickly move to the forefront of the EV market as it did with hybrid electric vehicles. It has different strategies for different markets and regions, depending on the supply of electricity and the recharging network. For Malaysia, the decision has been made that the first phase of electrification will be to assemble hybrid electric vehicles locally.

While the latest news today of full tax exemption for EVs does make it possible for models like the bZ4X to be sold, it is likely that Toyota’s production and marketing plans for the next few years have already been set. The major markets will already have given big numbers that will probably take most of the output from plants in China and Japan, so a smaller market like Malaysia may have to wait till later. At best, we may a small number of units imported more to gauge market response while UMW Toyota Motor focusses on growing HEV sales for which a RM270 million investment has already been made.

Toyota: “No customer is left behind” in quest for carbon neutrality

BMW iX3 SAV joins the BMW EV line-up in Malaysia; deliveries start in 2022

Following the launch of the new BMW iX in Malaysia two months ago, BMW Malaysia today announced the addition of the iX3. The iX3 is available in two versions with rather interesting names – Inspiring and Impressive – with pricing starting from at RM335,800 and RM354,800, respectively, without insurance. The prices include BMW Service & Repair Inclusive – a 5-year Extended Warranty and 6-year service package – as well as the Power Package which comes with the BMW i Wallbox and BMW Standard Charging Cable. Like the iX, the iX3 can be booked now but deliveries will only start in 2022.

Both versions have the M Sport package as standard which gives a more expressive appearance to the fully electric SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle). Besides M Sport specific items and High-Gloss Shadowline, the iX3 Inspiring has standard features like LED adaptive headlights with high beam assist and 19-inch alloy rims for the Inspiring version. The Impressive version has the more advanced BMW Laserlight and larger rims, along with a Head-Up Display, Harman Kardon 464W audio system with 16 speakers and the unique BMW IconicSounds Electric.

The 210 kW/400 Nm electric motor, located at the rear, is powered by an 80-kWh lithium-ion battery which is claimed to be able to provide a range of up to 461 kms. Like an internal combustion engine, range depends on how you drive and where you drive but even half that number would be sufficient for daily use. The range might be shorter if you constantly go from standstill to 100 km/h in the claimed 6.8 seconds or travel close to the top speed of 180 km/h (electronically limited).

When using DC fast charging at rates of up to 150 kW, 80% charge can be obtained within 32 minutes, while AC charging at up to 11 kW will require about 7.5 hours (typically overnight) for a 100% charge. The battery pack has a separate warranty of 8 years or maximum of 160,000 kms.

All the SAVs distributed by BMW Group Malaysia will have Vernasca leather upholstery and sports seats with various choices of colours and stitching as well as interior themes colour matched to the exterior finish. Different authorised dealerships will display different versions so if the one you see at the showroom is now what appeals to you, then you can go to BMW Shop Online to see the other choices available.

As with all BMWs, the safety systems are advanced with the Driving Assistant Professional suite as standard to help the driver avoid accidents. There’s also a Surround View Display and parking assistance systems to make parking easy and precise. Because an EV runs almost noiselessly, there are regulations in some countries that require some sort of noise to be generated to ensure pedestrians are aware. BMW has installed in its EVs an Audible Pedestrian Protection system which gives off a whining sound at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

“The arrival of the First-Ever BMW iX3 is made especially significant with these distinct variants that provide our loyal customers and fans of electric mobility in Malaysia the ‘Power of Choice’ – without compromising on power, performance or safety. Alongside our upcoming fleet of new BMW i vehicles, the First-Ever BMW iX3 is set to spur a new generation of Electric Vehicle owners in Malaysia, as the all-electric SAV presents a wealth of possibilities with its all-rounded qualities in innovation and design language to make the Electric Premium Ownership Experience even more enjoyable,” said Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia.

BMW Group Malaysia moves into next phase of electrification with new BMW i model range

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ZEV

Nissan Ambition 2030 – a long-term vision towards sustainability for Japanese carmaker

Second generation of Kia Niro debuts in Korea

Hyundai Kona Electric officially launched, priced from RM150,000

Toyota reveals details of production bZ4X EV to be launched in mid-2022 (w/VIDEO)

BMW iX3 SAV joins the BMW EV line-up in Malaysia; deliveries start in 2022

Nissan Ambition 2030 – a long-term vision towards sustainability for Japanese carmaker

Second generation of Kia Niro debuts in Korea

Hyundai Kona Electric officially launched, priced from RM150,000

Toyota reveals details of production bZ4X EV to be launched in mid-2022 (w/VIDEO)

BMW iX3 SAV joins the BMW EV line-up in Malaysia; deliveries start in 2022

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