Lemac Power - Blog #Performance

BMW Electrifies Driving Dynamics.

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 14:27:24 +0000

Unlock BMW EV Thrills: Powered by the "Heart of Joy"

BMW, a name synonymous with driving pleasure, is electrifying its core mission. Their new “Vision Driving Experience” isn't just a concept; it's a rolling testbed showcasing “Heart of Joy,” BMW's next-gen EV tech designed to inject thrill into electric driving. This isn't just about going green – it’s about making EVs genuinely exhilarating, and that’s a game-changer. For EV enthusiasts, this leap forward underscores why reliable home charging, like Lemac Power provides, is essential to unlock the full potential of these dynamic electric machines.

What is this “Heart of Joy”? It's a revolutionary central computer for BMW’s upcoming “Neue Klasse” EVs, boasting processing speeds ten times faster than current systems. This isn't just about speed for speed's sake; it's about transforming the EV driving experience. BMW has unified control of key systems – powertrain, brakes, charging, energy regeneration, and steering – into this single, lightning-fast unit. Combined with advanced software, the “Heart of Joy” enables levels of driving dynamics coordination and precision previously unimaginable.

Beyond the revolutionary "Heart of Joy" system, the BMW Vision Driving Experience vehicle is packed with other fascinating, if perhaps less production-ready, technologies. Striking LED lighting elements integrated into the wheel rims themselves, visually showcasing when the car is accelerating (green), recuperating energy (blue), or using friction brakes (orange) – a dazzlingly clear demonstration of the "Heart of Joy" in action. Aerodynamic downforce impellers are also part of this experimental setup, hinting at future avenues for enhancing EV handling and stability. While these specific wheel features might remain in the realm of research, one technology destined for the road is BMW's Panoramic Vision. This head-up display, stretching across the entire width of the windscreen, will debut in the Neue Klasse, offering a revolutionary way for drivers to interact with information and further enhance that seamless, intuitive driving experience that BMW is so intent on perfecting in the electric age.

BMW's “Vision Driving Experience” and “Heart of Joy” signal a turning point. EVs are evolving beyond just eco-friendliness, becoming high-performance vehicles that deliver genuine driving pleasure. As EVs become more advanced and exciting, reliable home charging becomes even more critical. To truly tap into the potential of these next-gen EVs – to enjoy optimized charging and exhilarating performance – dependable home charging is no longer optional, it's essential. Lemac Power chargers are engineered to be that reliable, user-friendly link, ensuring you can effortlessly power up your EV at home and experience the thrilling, efficient electric future that BMW is helping to create.

For those familiar with BMW's heritage, the "Heart of Joy" might sound like an electric reincarnation of their famed "Hand of God" dynamics. BMW’s “Hand of God” is that almost magical, intuitive connection drivers feel – the car becoming an extension of your will. The “Heart of Joy” seems to be BMW’s ambitious project to digitally capture and amplify this signature feel in the EV age. They promise "precise cornering and the smoothest stopping process," aiming for a driving experience that’s both refined and deeply engaging. By minimizing driver input for cornering confidence and ensuring seamless transitions in varied driving, BMW is striving for an EV that feels both intuitive and thrillingly responsive.

Beyond the thrill, efficiency is also central to the “Heart of Joy.” The system dramatically improves energy recuperation by tightly integrating powertrain and braking. This means significantly more energy is captured when decelerating. BMW suggests that for most drivers, everyday braking will be handled entirely by energy recuperation, reserving friction brakes for emergencies. This smart energy management boosts efficiency and extends driving range by a significant 25%, tackling range concerns and enhancing EV practicality for daily life.

Electric Thrills Meet Italian Style

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 12:02:22 +0000

Introducing the Electrifying Abarth 600e

Abarth is turning up the heat in the EV world with the new Abarth 600e, a high-performance hot hatch that combines its racing heritage with electrification. Billed as the most powerful Abarth yet, it offers two versions: the standard 600e with 240 HP and the exclusive Scorpionissima, delivering an impressive 280 HP and just 1,949 units available. With acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in as little as 5.9 seconds and a max speed of 124 mph, this model is packed with the kind of thrills Abarth fans love—only this time, they’re electric

The Abarth 600e’s bold exterior is crafted for performance. With aggressive lines, a low-slung “shark nose” bumper, and aerodynamic enhancements like an aero spoiler and rear diffuser, this EV is as functional as it is fierce. Available in vibrant colors like Acid Green and Hypnotic Purple, the 600e cuts an impressive silhouette, especially on its striking 20-inch alloy wheels. The limited-edition Scorpionissima adds even more racing flair with unique decals and black accents.

Excited? UK orders for the Abarth 600e open in mid-November, starting at £36,975. To maximize your at-home EV experience, pairing the Abarth 600e with a Lemac Power home charger ensures reliable, efficient charging, while the Utility Warehouse EV tariff makes it even more affordable to keep your Scorpion charged and ready. With only a limited number of Scorpionissima units available, this hot hatch is poised to be a hit with fans of Abarth's electrifying evolution. Get ready to experience the ultimate fusion of speed, style, and sustainability!

Inside, the Abarth 600e is a sports car dream come true. The cabin is designed with racing in mind, featuring supportive Sabelt seats that wrap you in comfort and hold you tight through every turn. The Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel maximizes grip for precision driving, and high-end touches like aluminium pedals and a 10.25-inch infotainment system make every drive feel like a lap on the track. The Scorpionissima edition even includes a unique sound generator, providing an engine-like experience that complements its powerful electric motor.

Underneath its striking looks, the Abarth 600e packs serious power with three selectable driving modes, ranging from Turismo for smooth efficiency to Scorpion Track for maximum performance. With up to 345 Nm of torque, the Scorpionissima is always ready for action, while the standard model offers a still-impressive 207-mile range (WLTP combined). A battery cooling system keeps performance high, even under pressure, and advanced features like a limited-slip differential make cornering feel sharp and controlled.

Audi's New A6 e-tron launched

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:37:34 +0000

Audi's latest EV breaks cover, and details released ahead of September orders.

After announcing the A5 earlier this month as the replacement for the A4 starting the change Audi's use of model numbers as a way to show drivetrain options between EV and ICE vehicles, the new Audi A6 has moved from concept to reality. Experience the future of electric mobility with the Audi A6 e-tron—a perfect blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Whether you choose the elegant Sportback or the spacious Avant, the A6 e-tron promises to make every journey extraordinary.

Audi is redefining luxury and performance with the launch of the Audi A6 e-tron, available as both a Sportback and an Avant. This new model marks Audi's first all-electric A6, blending cutting-edge technology, outstanding aerodynamics, and an impressive range of over 450 miles. Here’s a closer look at what makes the A6 e-tron a standout in the world of electric vehicles.

The A6 e-tron’s exterior is a masterpiece of design, emphasizing elegance and progressiveness. Its dynamic roofline and sculptural quattro blisters give it a commanding road presence. The slim daytime running lights and wide grille further enhance its sophisticated look. The innovative panoramic glass roof, which can turn opaque at the touch of a button, adds a touch of futuristic flair. With a drag coefficient of just 0.21 for the Sportback, the A6 e-tron boasts the best aerodynamics in the entire Audi lineup and the VW Group. This exceptional design not only improves efficiency but also extends the vehicle’s range. The Avant variant is also a leader in its segment with a drag coefficient of 0.24. The Sportback model is a welcome addition to the overall EV market place, alongside the i5 Touring helping to bring back estates to the market place after being all but replaced by SUVs. It's an important move for users, as by providing load space without the aerodynamic penalties of the larger bodies typical of an SUV, it helps EV drivers carry more luggage with better range Audi continues to set the benchmark for automotive lighting with the A6 e-tron. The digital OLED rear lights and digital daytime running lights create customizable light signatures, enhancing both safety and personalization. The second-generation virtual exterior mirrors, now foldable, contribute to the car’s sleek profile and aerodynamic efficiency.

Inside, the A6 e-tron offers a spacious and ergonomic environment tailored to the occupants’ needs. The MMI panoramic display combines a 14.5-inch touch screen with the 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit, creating a seamless digital experience. The second-generation augmented reality head-up display projects essential information directly onto the windshield, keeping the driver informed without distraction.

Equipped with a newly developed 100 kWh battery, the A6 e-tron delivers a remarkable range of over 450 miles. Thanks to its 800-volt technology, the A6 e-tron can charge up to 192 miles in just 10 minutes at high-power charging stations. This ensures that long journeys are both convenient and efficient. The A6 e-tron offers a perfect balance between comfort and sporty handling. The optional adaptive air suspension system adjusts to road conditions and driving preferences, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. The S6 e-tron variant, with its rear-biased all-wheel drive and higher power output, delivers exhilarating performance. Safety and convenience are paramount in the A6 e-tron, which comes with a suite of driver assistance systems. Features like adaptive driving assistant plus, park assist plus, and a surround view camera make driving and parking effortless, enhancing overall safety.

The Audi A6 e-tron and S6 e-tron will be available to order in the UK starting September 2, 2024. Full pricing and specifications will be announced on this date. Of course with any EV our range of universal 7kW home chargers and 22kW commercial chargers, Lemac Power is happy to help power up EV drivers choosing the new Audi A6 range.

Ford brings back historic Capri

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 13:09:00 +0000

After nearly four decades, the Ford Capri returns to UK as EV SUV

The Ford Capri is a name that is iconic to drivers in the UK. With it being Ford’s coupe that was designed as the European alternative to the brand’s even more iconic Mustang, it seems fitting that their latest electric SUV joins the Mustang in Ford’s EV line up.

“Bringing back a legend as revered as the Ford Capri is a big deal. We’re excited that the new all-electric Capri is ready to bring some swagger to the world of EVs and introduce a whole new generation of drivers to the spirit of a cult classic” Jon Williams, General manager Ford Blue and Model E Europe

The original Capri was a 2 door fastback coupe with a classic long nose and short rear overhang with an almost instantly recognisable side window profile. With Ford’s move to reflect motoring trends means the new model is a fastback style SUV with two extra doors compared the classic shape. This move has disappointed some fans on the original fast Ford model, but as an overall package, this new Capri is likely to find a whole new generation of fans. The styling has retained a modern take on the classic side profile, with the window line still mirroring the immediately recognisable profile.

Underneath the new bodywork, the Capri is based on the continuing partnership between Volkswagen and Ford, meaning this new model shares the same MEB electric chassis as the Ford Explorer alongside a number of models in the VW group like the Skoda Elroq.

The Capri will launch with two power options, with a 3^rd standard range option to follow in the coming months. These Extended Range models both boast more power than all but the legendary Zakspeed Group 5 racing model of their predecessors. The RWD model will have 282bhp and close to 400 miles in range, with the AWD model trading some of this range for a dual motor 335bhp output. Recharging this new model can be done up to 185kW from fast charging stations, although this limit compared to other competition means the 20-80% time is 26 minutes. Overall as a balance this time comes after being able to travel further than some faster recharging rivals, so this longer wait at a recharge may comes as a welcome break for drivers.

Inside the Capri uses a 14.6in touchscreen that can be adjusted for viewing angle to help reduce glare and personalise the way you interact with the infotainment, and hides a wireless phone charger behind it. With the technology overall, it’s exactly what you would expect from a modern EV for smartphone integration, and driving aids.

Auto Express Awards highlights EV Choice

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 11:15:07 +0000

PHEV and EV options make up 61% of the New Car award categories, and Citroen e-C3 takes top award

The UK car market is revving up for an electrifying transformation in 2024, as highlighted by Auto Express in their latest awards ceremony. With the ZEV mandate pushing for 22% of new car sales to be fully electric, the automotive landscape is experiencing a wave of disruption with new brands entering the scene. It's an exciting time to be a car enthusiast, as the industry evolves towards a more sustainable future.

“2024 was one of the most competitive years for the New Car Awards, which makes the fact that the new Citroen C3 scooped two category wins on the way to the overall win an even more outstanding achievement,” said Auto Express editor Paul Barker. “Citroen’s Advanced Comfort tech, applied to its suspension and the seats inside a spacious cabin, give the C3 plenty of appeal on its own. However it’s the prospect of a fully electric version, priced from less than £22,000, that cements its place at the top of a very impressive list of shortlisted cars.”

Auto Express recognized excellence in 26 categories, with a notable trend towards electric and plug-in hybrid models dominating the winners' circle, with 16 of the categories going to EV's outright, or models where a PHEV option is available. The shift towards electrification is evident, with many traditional petrol and diesel-powered models being outshined by their eco-friendly counterparts. Korean manufacturers Kia and Hyundai emerged as frontrunners, showcasing their commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Hyundai's impressive performance in the awards, including the repeat success of the Hyundai Kona and the groundbreaking win in the Performance Car category with the Ioniq 5 N, demonstrates the brand's dedication to pushing boundaries in the EV market. The Ioniq 5 N is the first electric vehicle to secure the category typically dominated by Porsche, surpassing models from Alfa Romeo and McLaren. The Citroen e-C3's victory further solidifies the growing appeal of electric vehicles, offering a winning combination of style, performance, and affordability.

As Stellantis gears up for further growth in the UK EV market, the spotlight is on models like the Citroen e-C3 to drive the country towards a greener automotive future. With an increasing focus on zero-emission motoring, these award-winning electric vehicles are not just setting new standards in performance and design but also paving the way for a sustainable and eco-conscious driving experience. The future of the UK car market is electric, and these exciting developments are just the beginning of a thrilling journey towards a cleaner and greener automotive industry.

New BMW M5 packs PHEV punch

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 08:56:49 +0000

With the same V8 M Hybrid powertrain as flagship XM, the new M5 embraces low CO2 high performance.

The imposing power delivery and emotionally engaging performance experience served up by the new BMW M5 are accompanied by a new interpretation of the high-performance car design for which M is renowned. Prominent wheel arch and side skirt extensions, the sculptural front apron and model-specific surfacing around the C-pillar – including an embossed “M5” logo for the Hofmeister kink – give the car an athletic appearance that helps to differentiate it more clearly than ever from the BMW 5 Series Sedan. At the same time, an unusually high proportion of surfaces painted in body colour create a puristic appearance with stylish references to its superior dynamic talents.

As such, the exterior design – like the ambience of the luxurious interior, which is enhanced with M-specific features – accentuates the multi-layered character of the new BMW M5. Its sense of poise and assurance is fuelled by vast reserves of power that can be summoned at any time. Kept discreetly in reserve during relaxed, electric-only cruises, this performance comes vividly to the fore as the BMW M5 reveals the “sporty sedan” side to its personality over longer distances – and is unleashed in full during sessions on the track.

The power generated by the combustion engine and electric motor is channelled to the road via the all-wheel-drive system M xDrive, whose rear-biased setup is particularly pronounced in 4WD Sport mode. However, the driver can also select 2WD mode, sending drive exclusively to the rear wheels with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system switched off, which will appeal to experienced drivers who prefer a performance experience of the pure-bred variety. As yet there is no word if BMW plan to contest their own Guinness World records of "Longest continuous vehicle drift" and "Longest twin vehicle drift (water assisted) set by the previous generation of M5 which featured a similar 2WD mode. This further developed iteration of M xDrive – like the electronically controlled Active M Differential at the rear axle – is tailored specially to the performance characteristics of the M HYBRID drive system.

The M HYBRID drive system in the new BMW M5 brings a 4.4-litre V8 engine with classical high-revving character together with an electric motor, whose performance characteristics are tuned specifically for the BMW M5 and which is integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. This M HYBRID system, plus power transmission and chassis technology tuned to its specific performance characteristics. The new BMW M5 boasts figures of up to MPG 166.2 MPG and 37 g/km of CO2 combined according to WLTP, with a maximum output of 727hp/737 lb-ft. The combination of a high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor, plus power transfer courtesy of an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive, enables acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds. While that puts it slightly slower compared to the outgoing model in a standing start, having an M-car that returns just short of a potential 138mpg improvement in fuel economy, and sits in a road tax band of £0 a year, will probably make the trade off worth while!

In all-electric operating mode, the new BMW M5 can hit speeds of up to 140 km/h (87 mph). The high-voltage battery located low in the car’s underbody has 18.6 kWh of usable energy, enabling an electric range of 67 – 69 kilometres (42 – 43 miles) in the WLTP cycle, which is unmatched by any rival. The Combined Charging Unit of the new BMW M5 allows AC charging at up to 7.4 kW.

Together with its similarly outstanding elasticity, the new BMW M5 takes M performance into a new dimension. The worldwide market launch of the new BMW M5 will start in November 2024 and be accompanied by the introduction of the new BMW M5 Touring at the same time. This new M5 Touring ins the first time the model has returned to the M-car line-up since the V10 powered E60 model, and given the success in the M3 Touring sales, it's easy to see why the Touring has been brought back with this generation.

Are EV tyres important?

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 15:47:32 +0000

There are many factors to owning your EV you need to think about, tyres is the quiet one people don't always think of.

Among all the other questions and factors with making a change to an EV from an ICE vehicle, one you might not consider is that EV's use specialised tyres to help you get the most of all it's benefits. What does this mean, and why is it important?

A few basics on the way tyres work on your car. We all know that they are what keeps your car moving, and pointing in the correct direction. With weight and speed ratings, all round performance in any weather, noise profiles, efficiency, and tyre wear that all play a part in those black circles, they are more complex than they seem. The average contact patch for car tyres on a modern car is roughly the size of two sheets of A4 paper, holding all the forces your car generates to the road.

Specifics for EV tyres

One of the reasons that EV's can be fantastic to drive is down to the electric motor produces instant torque from a standstill. This means it's possible to walk into a dealership, buy an EV in 2024 that can seat a family in comfort with every convenience you can think of, that can give an F1 a close run to 60mph. The energy that tyres need to contain to be able to manage this are staggering. Not every EV will post figures like that - but when a Volvo family SUV can outpace a Ferrari Enzo, the demands are there across the board for EV tyres. This all adds up to tyre makers needing to produce tyres with construction and compounds to be able to manage these loads.

With the comparison to an F1 car carrying on, on the best wearing compounds, an F1 team would expect to get at most 200 miles from a set of tyres. As a road driver, we expect around 20,000 miles from a set of standard tyres. The compounds needed to help make sure that an EV can maximise grip in all seasons are another reason that it's important to make sure you are fitting the correct tyres to your new EV when needed. Grip and wear are a very fine line for tyres, a grippier compound may provide better driving feeling, but sacrifice the life of the tyre to do so, while having a harder compound means less traction, but a longer life.

Another defining feature of EV driving is the complete change in the sound of driving. While most electric cars will have some form of noise to give feedback that we are used to from ICE powered cars, their interiors are far more relaxed at any speed, with the wind noise whilst driving is likely to be the loudest sound outside of whatever is being played on the stereo. That means that the noise profile of the car's tyre becomes something that needs to be considered in making sure this experience continues. Excess noise from the tyres will be more obvious in an EV, and also can be a sign of inefficiency in the tread of the tyre.

This efficiency is another key part of EV tyre choice - you may not realise that something as simple as incorrect tyre pressures affects the overall range of every vehicle regardless of how it's powered, but to maximise battery range, having EV specific tyres that are correctly inflated is an important factor in the overall driving range per charge in your EV. For example when tested by tyre maker Michelin, having an EV specific tyre can extend the range of the car by almost 7% of the WLTP range of the battery.

Lastly - with the battery pack and weights of EV's being higher than an equivalent ICE vehicle, the tyres have to provide all of the above with a heavy load than other vehicles. This means that most EV's use XL rated tyres that are designed for heavier loads. So making sure any tyres you chose when it comes time to replace your current set, making sure the tyres match the demands of your EV driving experience is potentially more important than ever.

BMW 5-Series adds Touring to the range

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 13:55:08 +0000

EV Touring a first for BMW.

The BMW 5-series has been an important part of the brand range for over 50 years, and since 1988 the Touring models have been a key part of the range. The latest generation brings a new first to the over range of BMW vehicles with all electric models arriving to help increase the options within the brand for EV driving.

The BMW 5 Series Touring, the epitome of driving pleasure, sporty elegance and modern functionality in the premium upper mid-range segment, is entering a new era. The sixth generation of the BMW 5 Series Touring is more progressive than ever, featuring numerous digital innovations, pioneering systems for automated driving and parking, increased sustainability throughout the entire product life cycle and, for the first time, an all-electric drive in the form of the BMW i5 Touring. The new BMW 5 Series Touring is a sophisticated all-rounder for everyday driving and touring, offering stylish presence, superior sportiness, versatility and spacious comfort.

The exterior dimensions of the new BMW 5 Series Touring are slightly larger than those of its predecessor, emphasising its dynamically stretched proportions and increasing the amount of space available in both rows of seats. A flexible drive architecture allows model variants with highly efficient combustion engines, plug-in hybrid systems and purely electric drive systems to be produced on a single production line at the BMW Group's Dingolfing plant.

The new BMW 5 Series Touring will be available in four distinct trim levels in the UK, with the Sport Edition, M Sport, M Sport Pro and range-topping BMW i5 M60 models each providing a compelling offering unique to the segment. As one of the most important sales regions for the new BMW 5 Series Touring, the UK will be one of the first markets to launch the all-electric model in May 2024, with the plug-in hybrid offering coming later in the year. Priced from £59,455, the first BMW 5 Series Touring customer deliveries in the UK will commence from 25 May 2024.

Dynamically stretched proportions and generously designed surfaces characterise the exterior of the new BMW 5 Series Touring. Compared to its predecessor, the new BMW 5 Series Touring is 97 millimetres longer (5,060 millimetres), 32 millimetres wider (1,900 millimetres) and 17 millimetres higher (1,515 millimetres). The new BMW 5 Series Touring has the longest wheelbase in its class, increasing by 20 millimetres to 2,995 millimetres.

In the UK, the market launch of the BMW 5 Series Touring will also see the introduction of a Sport Edition across both the Saloon and Touring models. This new derivative provides an entry point into the BMW i5 range, which continues to boast a high-level of specification, with 19” light alloy wheels and Phytonic Blue Metallic paint as standard, alongside the comfort and sportiness expected of any BMW 5 Series model. The new edition offers unique exterior styling highlights, featuring satinated aluminium finishes, M Anthracite Headliner and Sun Protection Glass. The modern interior of the new model is finished to a high standard with a Veganza two-spoke steering wheel alongside the state-of-the-art Interaction Bar and Harmon Kardon sound system. Furthermore, the BMW i5 eDrive40 Sport edition is equipped with AC Professional Charging, allowing up to 22kW charging as standard.

The new BMW i5 Touring is the first all-electric premium model in its competitive field. It will be available in two versions from the outset. In the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring, two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles together form an electric all-wheel drive with up to 601 hp. With M Launch Control or M Sport Boost activated, the system torque is increased to 820 Nm (605 ft-lb). The top model accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds and its top speed is electronically limited to 143 mph. The electric motor of the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring is located on the rear axle (combined power consumption according to WLTP: 19.3 to 16.5 kWh/62 miles) and generates a maximum output of 340 hp and a maximum torque of up to 430 Nm (317 ft-lb) with Sport Boost or Launch Control function. The BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 6.1 seconds.

In both models, the high-voltage battery located in the underbody provides a usable energy content of 81.2 kWh. In addition to the efficient electric motors, adaptive recuperation and heat pump technology for heating and cooling the interior, drive and high-voltage battery contribute to the long-distance capability of the BMW i5 Touring. The range determined in the WLTP test procedure is 277 to 314 miles for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring and 300 to 348 miles for the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring.

As the top model in the series, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring (combined power consumption: 20.8 - 18.3 kWh/62 miles according to WLTP) comes as standard with exterior components that clearly express its outstanding driving dynamics. A Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, with up to 18 loudspeakers, is fitted as standard on the BMW i5 M60, and can be added as option to the other BMW 5 Series Touring models. The performance model also comes with 20” M aerodynamic wheels and Adaptive suspension Professional as standard.

All-New, All-Electric Jeep Wagoneer S launches

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 13:54:22 +0000

Jeep's first global EV announced, set to join Avenger in UK market later this year

The Jeep® brand is charging into the electrified SUV segment with the reveal of its first global battery-electric vehicle (BEV) – the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition (US only). The all-new, all-electric 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S will launch first in the U.S. and Canada in the second half of 2024 and later be available in markets around the world. The Jeep Wagoneer S is offered exclusively as a BEV with a range of more than 300 miles on a single charge, delivering 600 horsepower, lightning-quick 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.4 seconds and more than 800 Nm of instant torque. This 0-60 time overshadows the 707hp Hellcat powered Trackhawk from a standing start. Impressive performance credentials paired with the Jeep brand-exclusive Selec-Terrain traction management system, Jeep Wagoneer S instils driving confidence and traction for all weather and road conditions and offering a range set to be over 300miles (this data refers to US spec and US cycle only).

“The launch of the all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S marks a new chapter in the storied history of the Jeep brand,” said Antonio Filosa, Jeep brand CEO. “Building upon nearly a century of innovation and design, this first global EV will introduce a whole new generation of owners to an experience that is distinctly Jeep and 100% electric in every way. With new energy in the Jeep vehicle lineup, ranging from EV to V-8, customers have never had more freedom to choose their own adventure.”

To make charging of this first global Jeep brand BEV quick and easy for customers, the Jeep Wagoneer S carries an efficient 400-volt, 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack that allows owners to charge the vehicle from 20% to 80% in 23 minutes (with DC fast charger). The foundation for the segment-leading characteristics of the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S is the highly flexible, BEV-native STLA Large platform. Jeep brand designers and engineers flexed the STLA Large platform to adjust the length, width, suspension and powertrain configurations to tailor it specifically for the Jeep. Standard, all-electric, four-wheel drive delivers composed driving dynamics both on-road and in a variety of road conditions.

Stellantis-designed electric drive modules (EDMs) independently power the front and rear wheels for instant torque response, while the Jeep brand-exclusive Selec-Terrain traction management system features five distinct driving modes: Auto, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand. The Jeep Wagoneer S’s 3-in-1 EDMs combine the electric motor, gearing and power electronics into a single, compact unit that is both powerful and efficient. The front EDM is equipped with wheel disconnects to reduce energy draw when cruising and to help optimize range. The use of new technologies and techniques played a crucial role in the overall development of the Jeep Wagoneer S. To improve the driving experience and reduce the overall noise and vibration levels to create a quiet interior cabin and a smooth ride, the Jeep engineering team improved body torsion stiffness by 35% over previous midsize-segment Jeep brand SUVs for superior ride, handling and effective response to driver input.

When it comes to an all-electric vehicle, aerodynamics is a crucial component to the overall design equation. Jeep brand designers and engineers set aggressive goals to reach optimal aerodynamic performance for maximum efficiency, range and performance while maintaining its sleek, premium appearance. By utilizing state-of-the-art tools and a rigorous testing and development process, including state-of-the-art wind tunnels, the team achieved a coefficient of drag (C_D) of 0.29, which is the lowest C_D ever for a Jeep vehicle and approximately 15% better than the average SUV.

Structurally, the roof and rear liftgate spoiler are angled to minimize wake size. The vehicle’s flush pocket door handles, rear wing and integrated fins help guide air flow around the vehicle and control the separation point at the rear. Additionally, an integrated system of underbody shields, three-dimensional shaped front tire spats and unique side-sill design all direct airflow smoothly around the tires and to the rear of the vehicle for minimum drag. All of which contribute to the Wagoneer S being the most aerodynamic Jeep brand SUV ever.

The use of recycled resources and materials were consciously integrated into the Jeep Wagoneer S. The seating, console, doors and instrument panel surfaces feature a non-leather synthetic material. Additional appointments include a premium microfiber suede headliner and premium carpets comprised of recycled pre- and post-consumer materials.

Aimed at the same market place as the Tesla Model Y, and other premium BEV SUV's, the Wagoneer S is set to arrive in the UK market late this year. But arrives in a market that is lagging behind the average growth in registrations in the UK, and the demand has dropped slightly in the SUV sector. With the Ford Explorer having just been launched, the Wagoneer will have to offer something special to break into the UK market.

GTX joins the Volkswagen ID.7 model range

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:04:44 +0000

New models also boast longer ranges with 86kWh battery

Volkswagen is expanding its range of ID.7 models with the new ID.7 GTX – a fastback with 250 kW (340 PS) output and electric all-wheel drive that sits alongside the ID.7 GTX Tourer that was unveiled earlier this year. Also coming soon are the rear-wheel-drive ID.7 Pro S2 and ID.7 Tourer Pro S5 that develop a maximum output of 210 kW (286 PS). All four new ID.7 versions are equipped with an 86-kWh battery. and ID.7 Tourer Pro S5 that develop a maximum output of 210 kW (286 PS). All four new ID.7 versions are equipped with an 86-kWh battery. and ID.7 Tourer Pro S5 that develop a maximum output of 210 kW (286 PS). All four new ID.7 versions are equipped with an 86-kWh battery. and ID.7 Tourer Pro S5 that develop a maximum output of 210 kW (286 PS). All four new ID.7 versions are equipped with an 86-kWh battery.

Alongside the ID.7 GTX Tourer, the new ID.7 GTX is currently the most powerful electric vehicle from Volkswagen. This fastback powers from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. It’s a thrill to experience the punch with which the 250 kW become available from one second to the next. The ID.7 GTX effortlessly brings its power to the road thanks to the electric dual-motor all-wheel drive with an electric motor on the front and rear axles. And this performance model boasts a WLTP range of up to 595 km. The ID.7 GTX’s battery can be charged with up to 200 kW at DC fast charging stations. At its quickest, the 86-kWh battery charges from 10 to 80 per cent in just 26 minutes.

The new ID.7 GTX is recognisable thanks to the distinctive GTX design at the front and rear. In addition, the fastback now has a significantly improved range of standard equipment. Exterior features include the new 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels with diamond-cut surfaces and the IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights with illuminated Volkswagen logos at the front and rear. The vehicle has a unique light design thanks to the daytime running lights at the front, which have been designed specifically for the GTX.

he new ID.7 GTX Tourer is identical to the GTX fastback in terms of its technology. However, the two versions differ when it comes to their luggage compartments. While the ID.7 GTX Tourer can hold up to 605 litres of luggage with five people on board (with Tourer rear seat backrests in cargo position), the ID.7 GTX fastback has a maximum luggage compartment capacity of 532 litres. This means the GTX models offer the same generous luggage compartment capacity as the other vehicles in the ID.7 product line. The same applies to the maximum roof load of 75 kg. The new ID.7 GTX Tourer accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. The WLTP range of the most powerful Volkswagen estate ever built is up to 585 km

ntil now, the ID.7 models have been available exclusively as Pro versions with a 77-kWh battery on board. The new ID.7 Pro S versions – just like the new ID.7 GTX models – are now equipped with an 86-kWh battery as standard (gross capacity: 91 kWh). The ranges are thus noticeably longer: the WLTP range of the new ID.7 Tourer Pro S has been boosted to up to 690 km, while the ID.7 Pro S fastback’s range is up to 709 km. This means that both ID.7 Pro S versions have entered the range spectrum of models with combustion engines. In terms of equipment, the ID.7 Pro S and ID.7 Tourer Pro S take their lead from the Pro versions.