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7-Seat Hyundai Ioniq 7 Electric SUV To Go Into Production In July – Report

Hyundai Ioniq 7 will be the flagship electric car in the portfolio of the Korean carmaker. The Hyundai Ioniq 7 electric SUV will go into production by July this year, as per a report by The Korean Carblog. This report also captures some fresh spy images of the large electric SUV wearing a heavy camouflage on its exterior. However, the cabin is partially visible, revealing some key details. The EV will be unveiled at the 2024 Busan Motor Show on June 27, 2024, and the production will commence at Hyundai’s Asan plant in South Korea. For the US market, the manufacturing will occur at the Bryan County factory in Georgia in 2025. You might also like: Hyundai Plans To Launch A Mini Electric SUV And Electric Van Hyundai Ioniq 7 Electric SUV – Expected Specs Now, we know that the Ioniq 7 is Hyundai’s counterpart to the Kia EV9. The latter in already on sale in multiple markets across the globe. That provides a fair indication about the kind of specifications we can expect from the Ioniq 7. It will be based on the E-GMP architecture which also underpins the wildly successful Ioniq 5 electric crossover and Ioniq 6 fastback electric sedan. Also, it will bear slightly larger dimensions than the Kia EV9. The Ioniq 7 will offer both single-motor 2WD and dual-motor AWD configurations and two battery pack options. These will likely be 76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh. These can provide a decent range figures of 230 miles (370 km) to 304 miles (489 km), as per EPA estimates. Using a 350 kW DC fast charger, the EV can recover 10-80% SoC in about 25 minutes. In terms of output, we expect three configurations – a single-motor trim which could generate 215 hp (106 kW), a dual-motor variant good for 379 hp (283 kW) and a performance-focused dual-motor version which could belt out an impressive 576 hp (430 kW) of peak power. These numbers are what you get in the Kia EV9. Sure, we might see a marginal diversion from these numbers, but it won’t be too much. With such offerings, the Korean automaker aims to cater to all sorts of customers. You might also like: Hyundai To Launch New EV Brand In China; Plans 5 EVs In 3 Years Interior and Features When it comes to the interior of the Hyundai Ioniq 7, a few key details come to light via these spy images. The first thing that catches the eye is a colossal display which might be hiding two separate units – one for the infotainment and one for the driver’s instrument cluster. We have seen this layout with numerous modern EVs, particularly from Hyundai and Kia. But we specifically appreciate the availability of the physical buttons for HVAC and multimedia. This test mule also carries cameras instead of the orthodox door mirrors with screens relaying the camera feed on the A-pillars inside the cabin. Power controls for the driver’s seat are also visible in one image. There is a central tunnel between the front seats where a bottle of water is securely placed, indicating large space. All in all, the cabin will be spacious and ultra-modern. You might also like: Kia EV8 Could Replace The Iconic Stinger In Electric Avatar Learn Electric Cars Says Hyundai Motor Company is gearing up for exciting times with impressive electric cars. This is also true for its subsidiary brands including Kia and Genesis. Its Ioniq series has been particularly appreciated by the customers and critics alike. The Ioniq 7 will be yet another desirable addition to that series. Let us wait and watch how well the customers embrace it.

Tesla Has A Special Offer To Get Delivery Of Cybertruck In 45 Days

22 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Tesla Cybertruck created a resounding buzz in the automobile industry after the launch in December 2023. Tesla is offering a special offer which can accelerate the delivery process of the Cybertruck to just 45 days. Notably, there are a lot of Cybertruck enthusiasts who had booked it back in 2019 when it was first unveiled. However, they had to face utter disappointment for the next four years due to the delays in the launch. Now that the electric pickup truck is finally available, the delivery times are quite exorbitant. But there is a way to bypass the waiting period. You might also like: Tesla Cybertruck vs Porsche 911 Turbo S Drag Race – Guess Who Wins Tesla Cybertruck Delivery Offer As per the information relayed to the existing Tesla owners via its app, people can now redeem referral credits (30,000 credits) to fasten their Cybertruck delivery procedure. The offer was posted on the Cybertruck Owners Club forum by a certain Rodx. It read, “Be invited to configure and take delivery of your Foundation Series All-Wheel Drive or Cyberbeast within 45 days of redemption. If you miss your chance to claim, check back later— additional accelerated deliveries will be added.” Note that these credits are non-transferable. Moreover, these are just valid for the USA. Referral Credits are rewards to owners who successfully convince friends and family to buy one of the carmaker’s electric vehicles. When new buyers use a current owner’s referral code when they buy or test drive a car, both the owner and the new buyer get credits. However, not all netizens are amused by this announcement. Some of them are concerned about the already high price of the Foundation Series program which should repute a faster delivery process anyway. Others warned that the early adoption of the Cybertruck might result in people facing issues which are generally resolved later on. Some other users stated that this could lead to further delays in the deliveries of others who have reserved the futuristic-looking electric pickup truck recently. You might also like: Wheel Cover Of Tesla Cybertruck Has A Unique Problem Learn Electric Cars Says Tesla wants to ensure that it remains the biggest EV company in the world going forward. While the Cybertruck might not be a volume churner for the American EV giant like the Model Y, it would still contribute a great deal in enhancing the brand image. In fact, Tesla already claims hundreds of thousands of bookings for the Cybertruck. But it would be interesting to see how many of them actually convert to real sales. With offers like these, Tesla wants to create further excitement among the Cybertruck aficionados. In fact, it will ramp up the production as per the demand going forward. Such incentives for a quicker delivery could spur the demand further. We will witness how it affects the bookings for the electric pickup truck in times to come.

Chery Omoda E5 EV To Launch By Mid-2024, To Rival MG ZS EV

27 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Chinese domination across various international markets is becoming more pronounced with each passing day! Chinese automaker Chery will launch the Omoda E5 EV by the middle of this year (2024) in Australia. Note that Chery already offers the petrol variant of the Omoda 5 in the Australian market which retails for $32,990 AUD drive-away. Its electric counterpart will lock horns with the likes of the BYD Atto 3, MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. You might also like: Tesla Cybertruck vs Porsche 911 Turbo S Drag Race – Guess Who Wins Chery Omoda E5 EV Australia Launch In Mid-2024 All details about the specifications of the Omoda E5 are not available. Still, Chery already announced that the Omoda E5 will come with a single-motor configuration. It will generate a healthy 150 kW (201 hp) and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of maximum power and torque. The international model boasts a 61 kWh battery pack to offer a decent range of 430 km (267 miles) on the WLTP cycle. This configuration propels the EV from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.6 seconds. It is possible that the Australian variant will come equipped with this powertrain. Specs (exp.) Chery Omoda E5 EV Battery 61 kWh Range (WLTP) 430 km (267 miles) Power 150 kW (201 hp) Torque 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) Acceleration (0-100 km/h) or (0-62 mph) 7.6 seconds Expected Specs You might also like: Hyundai Plans To Launch A Mini Electric SUV And Electric Van Chery Omoda E5 EV Price While there are no official announcements from the Chinese automaker, we can make some logical guesses. For reference, we know that the petrol trim ranges between $32,990 AUD to $35,990 AUD. The electric versions of petrol cars generally command a significant premium over the ICE variants. Therefore, the prices will be considerably higher than these. Interior And Features Inside the cabin, we expect the electric version of the Omoda 5 to borrow components from the petrol avatar. This could include a 12.3-inch curved infotainment display, a panoramic sunroof, a digital instrument cluster, ambient lighting, soft-touch materials, plenty of storage spaces, premium door panels and more. All in all, it will offer the latest tech and convenience to pamper its occupants. You might also like: Nyobolt Battery Can Charge Fully In Just 6 Minutes Chery MD Australia Quotes Lucas Harris, MD of Chery Australia says, “We are excited to launch the OMODA E5 in Australia. With its combination of unique design, impressive range and advanced features, we are confident the OMODA E5 will be a popular choice for Australian consumers who are increasingly seeking sustainable vehicle options. The arrival of the OMODA E5 later this year is the next step in our local expansion strategy and underscores Chery’s commitment to providing Australian drivers with access to advanced electric vehicle technology without compromising on performance or style.” Learn Electric Cars Says The EV sales are on a sharp incline not just in Australia, but across the globe. This has particularly been the case in the last couple of years. Mass adoption of electric cars is faster than ever. More carmakers are announcing ambitious plans to go carbon-neutral in the coming years. At the moment, electrification seems like the only route to achieve it. Moreover, China is the biggest EV market in the world. Its carmakers have experienced immense success in domestic market. Now they are aiming to dominate the global landscape. This is yet another example of that strategy. Let us keep a close eye on what is to follow next.

Kia EV8 Could Replace The Iconic Stinger In Electric Avatar

27 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The iconic performance sedan from Kia is about to be electrified to carry on offering the thrill associated with the Stinger moniker. The upcoming Kia EV8 is most likely to be the electric version of the popular Stinger. Codenamed GT1, the electric sedan could be called EV8, in line with the nomenclature the Korean auto giant is adopting for its electric vehicles. At present, the EV6 and EV9 are on sale in various markets across the globe. Hence, EV8 will position itself for the performance enthusiasts. There are numerous details available for the EV8 on Korean Car Blog. Let us glance through this to know what to expect from the electric Stinger. You might also like: Hyundai Plans To Launch A Mini Electric SUV And Electric Van Kia EV8 Stinger Electric – Specs & Platform A few leaked documents have pretty valuable information regarding the new platform on which the EV8 will be based in addition to the kind of battery and electric motor setup it will utilize. Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) will showcase a new platform called eM. It will be the successor to the existing E-GMP available with pure EVs from HMG (including Hyundai, Kia and Genesis). In terms of powertrain options, Kia EV8 will have something to suit the need of every buyer. As per the leaked document, the Kia Stinger Electric could boast the biggest battery in any Kia car at 113.2 kWh. For reference, EV9 currently gets powers from a 99.8 kWh battery pack. Hence, we could expect the EV8 to boast a range of around 700-800 km as per WLTP (435-497 mi). This battery pack will power either a single motor (RWD) making 160 kW (218 hp), a dual-motor (AWD) generating 320 kW (435 hp) [160 kW front + 160 kW rear] or a performance-focused GT trim with a dual-motor (AWD) belting out a whopping 450 kW (612 hp) [200 kW front + 250 kW rear]. We might see the launch by the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026. Production will occur at Kia’s Hwaseong Plant 3 in South Korea. Specs Kia EV8 Battery 113.2 kWh Power (RWD) 160 kW (218 hp) Power (AWD) 320 kW (435 hp) [160 kW front + 160 kW rear] Power (AWD – GT) 450 kW (612 hp) [200 kW front + 250 kW rear] Range 700 – 800 km (435-497 mi) Platform eM Specifications You might also like: Rivian R1T Modified For Off-Road w/ 38-inch Tires, 350 mi Range Learn Electric Cars Says With legacy automakers transitioning into electrification vehemently, it is evident that we are about to experience almost every kind of vehicle with an electric heart. The industry is focusing on mass-market and efficient EVs to offer something attractive to most new car buyers. But there will always be that niche set of customers who want spirited performance from their cars. In the electric realm, products like EV8 could cater to those people. Hence, it would be interesting to see how well driving lovers embrace such EVs.

Hyundai Plans To Launch A Mini Electric SUV And Electric Van

30 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The Korean automaker is planning to expand its global electric portfolio with diversified EVs. Hyundai is planning to launch an electric mini SUV and Van in the coming months to expand its global footprint. The former is a Casper-sized electric SUV which would become the entry-level EV from Hyundai across many international markets. One of the biggest challenges with the mass adoption of electric cars is their initial prices. Hence, affordable EVs are in huge demand and will also create further demand. On the other hand, it will also launch an electric van for Iveco. It will be based on the global eLCV platform. This would cater to the commercial buyers all across the world. In fact, Hyundai will export it to many international markets. Iveco is a huge player in commercial van segment. This is an unequivocal indication that the Korean car marque wants to leave no stone unturned and offer electrification in all segments of the market and its portfolio. You might also like: Hyundai To Launch New EV Brand In China; Plans 5 EVs In 3 Years Hyundai Plans Electric Mini SUV And Van In its home market, Hyundai already sells Casper as a mini SUV. It is for those who are looking for a compact urban SUV. But it is available with an IC engine. As far as its electric counterpart is concerned, Hyundai could offer it with a length of around 3.9 m (153.5 in). That will be positioned under its current entry level EV, KONA electric. It will focus on being affordable rather than an EV with great performance and long range. Therefore, expect a humble range of around 200-300 km (125 mi to 187 mi) and LFP chemistry. On the other hand, Hyundai will develop the chassis for its upcoming electric van which will be based on the Global Electric Light Commercial Vehicle platform. This platform is capable of carrying loads upto 2.5 tons to 3.5 tons. The low-floor construction makes it ideal for loading and unloading. Iveco will customize the electric vans and distribute them via its network by September this year at the IAA Transportation. It will rival the likes of Ford E-Transit. You might also like: Hyundai Unveils ‘Active Air Skirt’ Tech To Increase EV Range And Power Learn Electric Cars Says Hyundai Motor is clearly aiming to establish its name among the pioneers of electric mobility. In fact, it also sells its Nexo Hydrogen car in the US. In addition, there are tons of hybrid models in its lineup for various markets. We don’t need to tell you about the IONIQ series. It has already gathered monumental laurels from the customers and critics alike. Going forward, Hyundai wants to offer EVs in every segment in most markets. We shall have to wait to see how that pans out.

Hyundai To Launch New EV Brand In China; Plans 5 EVs In 3 Years

17 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The South Korean auto giant is prepping a new electric car brand to grab a significant chunk of the burgeoning Chinese EV market. Hyundai is planning a new EV brand in collaboration with Beijing Motor Corp (BAIC) just for China. The Korean auto maker has been reeling under the aftermath of dwindling sales in the largest EV market in the world, China. For reference, back in 2017, Hyundai sold 1.6 million cars in China which was around 7% market share. This number now stands at just 250,000 units, or less than 1%. In fact, Hyundai even sold its Chongqing factory for $225 million after sustaining losses worth $598 million in 2022, as per The Korea Economic Daily. Almost on the brink of exiting the Chinese market, Hyundai has decided to deploy a different strategy. It will launch 5 new China-specific EVs within the next 3 years under the joint venture with BAIC. These will bear different components and design philosophy than the acclaimed IONIQ series from Hyundai. You might also like: MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Offers G-Wagon-Like Capabilities Based On Indian Force Gurkha New Hyundai EV Brand For China Interestingly, the partnership between Hyundai and BAIC dates back to 2002. At the time, the two companies established a JV to set up a car plant in China. Those cars were supposed to be produced under BAIC’s Arcfox brand. However, those plans fell through. Now, the two companies will adopt a new strategy to resurrect Hyundai in China with the project which is codenamed OE RE. As per the same report, Hyundai Motor Group’s Executive Chairman, Chung Euisun, wishes to grab a significant chunk of the largest EV market on the planet. He commissioned this project after riding the Zeekr EV. Zeekr is a luxury EV car marque under the Geely Holding Group. He asked Hyundai employees to learn from the success of Chinese players. Now, we know that cost plays the deciding role in the success of cars in China. As a result, Hyundai plans to equip its new EVs in China with LFP batteries. That will ensure a competitive price range to rival the Chinese EVs. You might also like: How Is Formula E Helping Legacy Carmakers Build Better EV Technologies? Learn Electric Cars Says Hyundai is a prominent global automotive player. Its EVs like IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 are instant hits across many international markets. Hyundai Motor Group is the parent company to Kia and Genesis. Even their EVs have achieved immense success in many parts of the world. That is what makes it so surprising that the South Korean carmaker is unable to crack the code for the Chinese market. Hopefully, with this new strategy of launching relatively affordable EVs in partnership with BAIC, it will be able to revive its depleting sales. We shall keep an eye out for further developments in this case.

Wheel Cover Of Tesla Cybertruck Has A Unique Problem

23 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Ever since the launch of the Tesla Cybertruck, the internet has been overwhelmed by all sorts of information about the wildly anticipated electric pickup truck. The wheel cover of the tire of the Tesla Cybertruck is posing an issue for the owners. Cybertruck is the futuristic electric pickup truck from the American EV giant. It was in development for over 4 years. First showcased in 2019, the Cybertruck was launched in December 2023. All this while, people who had reserved it since 2019 were evidently disappointed and frustrated. Now that it is finally here, Cybertruck owners are witnessing weird issues with it. You might also like: Is Edison Future (EF1-T) A Worthy Competitor To Tesla Cybertruck Wheel Cover Issue With Tesla Cybertruck We came across this video from T Sportline – Tesla Upgrades & Accessories on YouTube. The host has the Cybertruck with the stock wheel covers. These are aero wheel covers which aid the aerodynamic efficiency of the EV. You must have seen modern EVs with a slightly unusual tire design. That is because they are designed to maximize aerodynamic efficiency and reduce drag when the vehicle moves. Efficiency is ultra-crucial in maximizing the range of electric cars. Tesla offers these wheel covers with the Cybertruck. One could simply stick them on or remove them by hand. The issue is that the rubber component of these wheel covers comes in contact with the sidewall of the tire when it is in contact with the surface. Due to the weight of the EV, tires expand at the point where they touch the ground. That is common to all cars. However, because of this bulge, the sidewall of the tire is getting worn out a bit by brushing against this rubber element of the wheel cover. For instance, this particular Cybertruck has been driven for a couple of thousand miles. There is minor wear on the sidewall. Now, if the tire is getting worn out in just a couple of thousand miles, we can expect the situation to get exacerbated after tens of thousands of miles (which is the average life of tires). Hence, over time, it could become a huge problem. You might also like: Which EVs Use Tesla Superchargers? Tesla Offers New Wheel Covers Since the component which is coming in contact with the tire is already made out of rubber instead of plastic, we reckon that Tesla might have encountered this issue during testing already. In any case, now that the owners are reporting this issue, Tesla will officially equip the next lot of Cybertrucks with new wheel covers. Therefore, you don’t have too much to worry about. You might also like: Tesla Cybertruck Issues With CCS Adapter, Slow Charging Learn Electric Cars Says Now we understand that this might not be such a huge problem, still to have this on a $100,000 vehicle is not ideal. The image of Tesla was already taking a hit after recurring delays for the launch of the Cybertruck. But now that the truck is here in the flesh, such issues can cause the brand image to deteriorate. With immense competition from various new and established players from across the globe, Tesla wouldn’t want anything like this. That is the reason why it is acting fast to remedy this. Until then, we suggest you simply remove these wheel covers and get the new ones as soon as they become available.

MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Exterior Front Three Quarters

MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Offers G-Wagon-Like Capabilities Based On Indian Force Gurkha

34 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The Indian hardcore off-roader Force Gurkha lends multiple components to the Spartan EV from the Czech MW Motors. The MWM Spartan EV 2.0 possesses Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon like capabilities on the foundation of the Force Gurkha from India. It is fascinating to experience how carmakers halfway across the world are able to borrow and share components and technologies to develop capable vehicles. Force Gurkha is an established affordable and rugged off-roader with a diesel mill. The Czech startup borrows mechanical components from the Gurkha, while the battery is sourced from China. Note that the original inspiration stems from a Russian military 4×4 UAZ Hunter from 1971. You might also like: Munro MK_1 is an Electric SUV with Traces of Land Rover Defender MWM Spartan EV 2.0 With G-Wagon Traits – Specs The MWM Spartan EV 2.0 possesses a 57.4 kWh (usable) battery pack which can power a single or dual-motor setup for a 2WD or 4WD configuration. These electric motors are good for a decent 174 hp (130 kW) and a colossal 1,075 Nm (793 lb-ft) of peak power and torque. It contains manually locking differentials and a 2-speed transmission with a high and low-range transfer case. The certified range is a decent 262 km (163 mi) and the top speed is limited to 145 km/h. It takes 36 mins to charge the battery from 20% to 80% using a 90 kW DC fast charger. It has a kerb weight of 2,350 kg, a load capacity of 1,025 kg and a towing capacity of 3,000 kg. There are 16-inch wheels with 245/70 profile tyres. Its cargo capacity is a cavernous 1,718 litre with a ground clearance of 200 mm+. Specs MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Battery 57.4 kWh (usable) Drivetrain 2WD / 4WD Range 262 km (163 mi) Power 174 hp (130 kW) Torque 1,075 Nm (793 lb-ft) Charging (90 kW DC) 36 mins (20-80%) Kerb Weight 2,350 kg (5,180 lbs) Load Capacity 1,025 kg (2,260 lbs) Towing Capacity 3,000 kg (6,614 lbs) Ground Clearance 200 mm+ Specs You might also like: Mercedes Electric G-Wagon (EQG) to Get Silicon Battery Material MWM Spartan EV 2.0 With G-Wagon Traits – Dimensions Even though the Spartan EV 2.0 is based on the Indian Force Gurkha, it is slightly longer than the Gurkha. It measures 4,116 mm in length, 1,812 mm in width, 2,075 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,400 mm. Dimensions MWM Spartan EV 2.0 Length 4,116 mm (162 in.) Width 1,812 mm (71 in.) Height 2,075 mm (82 in) Wheelbase 2,400 mm (94 in) Dimensions You might also like: How EVs Perform 360-Degree Turns On The Spot? Design and Features On the outside, the Spartan EV 2.0 bears a sturdy silhouette with retro round LED headlamps with DRLs, a clamshell bonnet, a rugged bumper, large wheel arches, side steps to enhance the ingress and egress characteristics, a roof luggage carrier, and boxy appearance. In terms of the features, there is a tyre pressure monitoring system, hill descent control, Thatcham-approved CAT II immobiliser, electric windows, AC, infotainment system, regenerative braking, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, dual USB 5V port (1A and 2.1A), V2L, and more. You might also like: How Is Formula E Helping Legacy Carmakers Build Better EV Technologies Learn Electric Cars Says With a starting price of £49,995 ($63,700), the Spartan EV 2.0 costs less than half the cost of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. Being a Czech product, it is on sale in Europe at the moment. Still, for automobile enthusiasts like ourselves, it is intriguing to stay updated on the latest happenings from around the globe. Furthermore, vehicles like these offer new carmakers an opportunity to offer something truly impressive at a much more affordable price point in comparison to legacy carmakers. In any case, we are glad to keep reporting about such new vehicles.

Tesla Recalls 200,000 EVs Due To Reverse Parking Camera Issue

25 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

The largest EV maker on the planet is issuing another major recall after its million-unit recall last year. It looks like the recall season is not over yet for Tesla as it recalls 200,000 EVs for an issue with the reverse camera feed. Tesla is the largest EV maker on the planet. It was briefly overtaken by the Chinese auto giant, BYD, in the last quarter of 2023 by selling more EVs. But overall, Tesla sold the most EVs in the calendar year 2023. Last year, it recalled 2 million EVs due to Autopilot concerns after NHTSA report. This is yet another major recall affecting almost 200,000 EVs. You may also like: Tesla Model Y Facelift In China By Mid-2024, Other Markets To Follow Tesla Recalls 200,000 EVs For Reverse Camera Problem Starting in December last year, some Tesla EV owners were reporting a problem with the reverse parking camera. The camera refused to show what was behind the car. Now, we can very well imagine that it could create safety concerns in addition to hindering convenience for drivers. Thankfully, no accidents were reported due to this malfunction. The EV giant sprung into action and rolled out an Over-The-Air update to fix this issue. One great aspect of EVs with an insane amount of electronics in general, and Tesla cars in particular, is that most issues are comfortably resolved by simple software updates. Hence, car owners don’t have to swamp the service centres. Note that only the 2023 Model S, X and Y with full self-driving computer 4.0 and a few versions of Tesla’s software were affected by this recall. Tesla already commenced offering this software patch to the affected EVs. By January, all affected vehicles were fixed. You may also like: Tesla Cybertruck Issues With CCS Adapter, Slow Charging Learn Electric Cars Says Tesla is the biggest and the most prominent EV maker on the planet. It has always been tech-savvy and leverages all sorts of modern technologies to offer ultra-convenience and the latest amenities to make EV owners’ lives easier. However, these are prone to glitches and malfunction. Thankfully, most of these concerns go away with minor and swift software updates. Going forward, EVs are bound to be more inclined towards being electronic gadgets rather than mechanical assemblies.

Hyundai Unveils ‘Active Air Skirt’ Tech To Increase EV Range And Power

19 Comments / EV News / By LEC Team

Carmakers are coming up with innovative tech to reduce drag coefficient in order to enable EVs to travel farther on a single charge. Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation showcase ‘Active Air Skirt’ (AAS) technology to enhance the performance of EVs. As the name suggests, it is an active mechanical component which helps reduce drag and enhance the aerodynamics of electric cars. The role of aero in EVs is immense. Any reduction in resistance to motion can lead to a significant increase in acceleration and total driving range. You might also like: Stellantis Invests In Affordable Sodium-Ion Battery Technology Hyundai Unveils ‘Active Air Skirt’ As per the official press release from Hyundai, this new technology can reduce the drag coefficient of an EV by 2.8%. It could lead to a bump in range of around 6 km (3.7 miles) as tested on the Genesis GV60. The AAS remains concealed during regular operation, positioned between the front bumper and the front wheels. It activates when speeds exceed 80 km/h (50 mph), responding to increased aerodynamic resistance surpassing air resistance. It retracts again when the speed decreases to 70 km/h (43 mph). Considering the unique features of the E-GMP platform, it situates itself exclusively in front of the tires without completely enveloping the front end. This is because it is more effective in improving aerodynamic performance to only cover the tire part since the platform floor is flat. The technology’s aerodynamic improvements boost downforce, enhancing both vehicle traction and high-speed stability. You might also like: How Do Heat Pumps Function In EVs? AAS can function at speeds exceeding 200 km/h, made achievable through the incorporation of rubber material on the lower part. This material minimizes the potential for external objects to splash and cause damage during high-speed driving, thereby ensuring durability. In the Genesis GV60, this tech has resulted in a reduction of drag coefficient (Cd) by 0.008. Speaking on the occasion of unveiling this technology, Sun Hyung Cho, Vice President and Head of the Mobility Body Development Group at Hyundai Motor Group, said, “This technology is expected to have a greater effect on models such as SUVs where it is difficult to improve aerodynamic performance. We will continue to strive to improve the driving performance and stability of electric vehicles through improvements in aerodynamics.” You might also like: Tesla Cybertruck Issues With CCS Adapter, Slow Charging Learn Electric Cars Says Hyundai Motor Group has been working relentlessly in the development of EV technology. In fact, its IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 are already among the best EVs out there. Back in 2022, the IONIQ 5 even bagged the prestigious Cars Of The Year Award. The Korean auto giant constantly keeps innovating and its latest products embody those engineering and technological improvements. Going forward, it is clear that the development will be incremental, over a long period of time. These small steps will ensure that most challenges we face today will hopefully be eliminated in the coming decade and mass adoption will be the norm.

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