Lamborghini, known for its commitment to fully electrified models in other parts of its lineup, will hold off on producing battery electric vehicle (BEV) super sports cars until there are clear decisions about the future of synthetic fuels. According to Lamborghini Chairman and CEO Stephan Winkelmann, the company is willing to wait and see before making any commitments.
Winkelmann explained that while synthetic-fuelled sports cars would be a more feasible option for Lamborghini, they need to wait for legislative decisions and global agreement on their viability. The company operates globally and would require widespread acceptance. However, Lamborghini plans to have its everyday cars, such as the Urus SUV and new Lanzador GT, fully electric by the end of the decade. For the super sports cars, Lamborghini intends to go hybrid, with those cars expected to be in production until the early 2030s.
Winkelmann also noted a shift in the preferences of their younger buyers towards sustainability, which influences Lamborghini’s commitment to reducing the brand’s overall emissions. However, he emphasized that the brand’s social responsibility is a significant factor in their decision-making process.
Winkelmann admitted that the demand from their existing sports car customer base for a BEV alternative is currently unknown, as they have yet to broach the subject. Before considering electric options, Lamborghini believes it is essential to demonstrate credibility and prepare the market appropriately. The introduction of the Lanzador concept allows Lamborghini to gauge market readiness.
Despite potential challenges, Winkelmann remains confident about Lamborghini’s transition to electric vehicles, citing their successful decision to go hybrid several years ago when it was met with skepticism. He encourages considering public opinion as a continuous evolution rather than a static viewpoint.
Muscle car enthusiasts oppose the idea of electrified muscle cars, as they value big, loud engines and a bold attitude.
The 2023 COPO Camaro offers three engine options, with the most powerful being the 1,004 horsepower ZZ632 V-8 from Chevrolet Performance.
The COPO Camaro is a purpose-built race car that is not street-legal and cannot be registered or driven on public roads.
The era of muscle cars is undergoing a revival, with iconic models like the Dodge Charger, Challenger, and now the Camaro retiring their traditional internal combustion engines in favor of electrified alternatives. However, many muscle car enthusiasts believe that the American muscle car culture is defined by powerful engines and an unapologetic demeanor. The idea of electrified muscle cars doesn’t sit well with them.
Despite the mixed opinions from fans, automakers like Dodge and Chevy are considering electric or hybrid-powered versions of their popular muscle car models. Dodge has even hinted at an electric Charger inspired by the Charger Daytona SRT Concept. However, before Chevrolet delves into electric plans for the Camaro, they are giving us one last hurrah with the 2023 COPO Camaro, featuring a powerful 1,000+ horsepower engine from Chevrolet Performance. This car is meant to bid farewell to the traditional internal combustion engine era, alongside the upcoming Collector’s Edition model.
This article is based on information from Chevrolet, GM Authority, and Car and Driver.
The COPO Camaro features The Most Powerful Engine Ever Made By Chevrolet Performance
Chevrolet Performance
The COPO Camaro has a rich history that dates back to 1969, when Chevy dealers discovered a loophole in the Central Office Production Order (COPO) system that allowed them to outfit the Camaro with a powerful 427 V-8 engine. This created a high-performance, non-street-legal Camaro that ruled the drag strips. Throughout the years, COPO-branded Camaros have maintained a reputation for being track-focused, high-performance machines that surpass street-legal models of their time.
Like its competitors Dodge and Ford, Chevrolet has race-oriented models for its pony cars, such as the Challenger Drag Pak and Ford GT3 race car. The 2023 COPO Camaro aims to be a fitting farewell to the sixth-gen Camaro, and it will face tough competition from other race-focused models. The COPO Camaro offers three engine options, with the highlight being the 632 cubic-inch ZZ632 V-8. This engine, with an NHRA rating of 1,004 horsepower, is the most powerful engine ever offered by Chevrolet Performance.
ZZ632 Engine Specs
Displacement
632 Cubic-Inches
Bore X Stroke
4.60 X 4.75 Inches
Horsepower
1,004 @ 6,600 rpm
Torque
876 Pound-Feet @ 5,600 rpm
Max Recommended Engine Speed
7,000 rpm
Block
Tall Deck 632 Bowtie Sportsman, cast iron, four-bold main caps
Cylinder Heads
RS-X Symmetrical Port, CNC-Machined aluminum
Crankshaft
Forged Steel
Pistons
Forged aluminum
(Specifications sourced from Chevrolet)
The other two engine options, while not as powerful as the ZZ632, still offer respectable NHRA output ratings. The naturally aspirated COPO 427 V-8 produces 470 horsepower, while the supercharged 350 V-8 delivers 600 horsepower. All three engine options come with the standard TH400 three-speed automatic transmission and Hurst Quarterstick shifter, making for an impressive straight-line performance. It’s worth noting that the COPO Camaro is not street-legal, and its track-only nature is reinforced by the absence of VIN numbers and the inability to be registered in any state.
The COPO Camaro ZZ632 Big Block Package Upgrades Power And Aesthetic
The 2023 COPO Camaro’s exterior design resembles that of the current 2024 model. It features unique paint options, including the Vivid Orange Metallic ZZ632 package, which adds special graphics and engine accent coloring, as well as COPO-embroidered seat backs and black bowtie emblems. This purpose-built race car comes with standard weight box, dual batteries, carbon fiber intake, and an optional parachute.
The ZZ632 package includes large Hoosier drag tires mounted on Black Weld Racing wheels, enhancing the drag-racing characteristics of the COPO Camaro. Wheelie bars are also included to prevent front-end lift during acceleration. The two-piece carbon fiber hood reduces vehicle weight, and while the parachute is optional, it adds to the drag race aesthetic and serves as a deterrent for potential challengers.
It’s important to note that the 2023 COPO Camaro is not street-legal. Chevrolet emphasizes this fact and advises owners to exclusively showcase their dragster at the drag strip. The COPO Camaro cannot be registered in any state and is only sold with a bill of sale, without a title. Additionally, no VIN numbers are assigned to the COPO Camaros, solidifying their status as track-only vehicles.
The 2023 COPO Camaro currently holds the title of the most powerful factory-built race car, specifically with the 632 big block engine option. However, Dodge recently unveiled the Hellephant A170 supercharged 426 cubic-inch V-8 crate engine, which surpasses the ZZ632 with a staggering 1,100 horsepower. Although Dodge has not incorporated the Hellephant engine into a factory model yet, there’s a possibility that they may give the Challenger a massive engine boost as it nears the end of its production. Until then, the 2023 COPO Camaro remains the top dog in American Muscle.
The sixth-generation Camaro will reach its end with the 2024 model year, concluding a lineage that began in 2016. Chevrolet plans to bid farewell to the beloved internal combustion engine model with a special Collector’s Edition, expected to arrive in late 2023 or early 2024. Specific details about the 2024 Collector’s Edition Camaro have not been confirmed, but it will pay homage to the first-generation Camaro from the 1960s and its original codename, “Panther.”
The Collector’s Edition package will be available for the RS and SS models, as well as a limited number of ZL1 variants. There is currently no official release date or further updates regarding the Collector’s Edition or the future of the Camaro. However, Chevrolet has assured fans that the end of the sixth-gen Camaro does not mark the end of the Camaro journey, hinting at the possibility of a future return, potentially with an electric transformation.
Kia is aiming for an electrified future with the introduction of the innovative Kia EV3 and EV4 concepts. These electric vehicles were unveiled at Kia’s EV Day event in South Korea and provide a glimpse into Kia’s upcoming production EV lineup. With the goal of selling one million annual global EVs by 2026 and 1.6 million by 2030, Kia is pushing boundaries in the electric vehicle market.
The EV3 is a compact SUV that appeals to a wide range of drivers with its electric vehicle advantages and affordable starting price of around $30,000/$35,000. It features a stylish and functional design, including unique interior features like a slide-out panel for climate controls and the potential for an interior vehicle-to-load (V2L) outlet, allowing drivers to charge their e-bikes on the go.
The EV4 offers a fresh take on the traditional sedan typology, combining sedan, coupe, and wagon elements. It boasts an eye-catching design and innovative interior elements such as moveable air-con controls and ‘mind modes’ that adjust lighting and ventilation patterns. These concepts demonstrate Kia’s commitment to making electric vehicles more accessible and appealing to a wide range of consumers.
Information for this article has been sourced from Kia and other reputable sites like Car and Driver.
Kia Just Ate The Competition: Introducing The EV3 And EV4
At Kia’s ‘EV Day’ event in South Korea, the auto giant unveiled its two newest electric models: EV3 and EV4. The EV3 is a compact and stylish SUV with a sleek curve design, a space-ship-inspired interior, and various features for drivers. On the other hand, the EV4 offers a unique blend of sedan, coupe, and wagon elements. These new electric models from Kia indicate a potential rivalry with Tesla and showcase Kia’s dedication to enter the spotlight in the electric vehicle market.
Kia plans to release both the EV3 and EV4 in North America within the next few years, aiming for a debut around 2026. These electric vehicles will start in the mid-30s price range, providing an affordable option for drivers compared to Tesla’s Model 3, which starts at $40,000+. Additionally, Kia has a lineup of five EVs in the works, including the EV9, EV6, EV5, EV4, and EV3. The EV3 and EV4 are expected to be the standout models from this lineup and could potentially make a significant impact in the market.
Kia envisions becoming a global leader in the electric market by 2030, with the goal of selling over one million electric cars annually by 2026 and 1.6 million by 2030. The release of the EV3 and EV4 could play a significant role in achieving these targets. Kia’s extensive lineup of electric vehicles, including the EV3 and EV4, focuses on greener and cleaner manufacturing processes, utilizing natural fiber structures and alternative materials like mycelium for interior components. Kia is determined to make a mark in the electric vehicle industry and provide consumers with sleek, innovative electric vehicles.
The Electrified G80 captures consideration with its glossy and complicated exterior which is highlighted by the redesigned Genesis G-Matrix Crest Grille, which cleverly conceals the charging port. This is a seamless integration that ensures a clear and seamless look whereas nonetheless sustaining performance. The two-line LED head and tail lights make sure the Genesis stands out with out having to see the badge. It exudes an air of luxurious and class.
Its drivetrain contains an 87.2 kWh battery pack that may preserve the car on the highway for 282 miles on a full cost. It comes commonplace with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers 365 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, serving to the Electrified G80 speed up to 60 mph from ignition in simply 4.1 seconds. In addition to being outfitted with the award-winning 2022 Top Safety Pick+ best-in-class security options, making certain the utmost safety for occupants, it has an obtainable photo voltaic roof that harnesses the facility of the solar to recharge the car’s battery.
With a starting price of $79,825, being factory-fitted with know-how options like a 1.9 kW vehicle-to-load know-how that enables the Electrified G80 to function a cellular energy provide, a warmth pump, and a battery heater that ensures optimum efficiency in varied climate circumstances is reached, appears to be like like an ideal deal.
Information has been sourced from official automakers’ web sites, and credible publications like CarAndDriver, and IIHS.
The Genesis Electrified G80 boasts an executive and premium design that Genesis makes use of to mix cutting-edge know-how with elegant particulars. The glossy traces, refined surfaces, and complicated options, make the Electrified G80 a real murals. The signature G-Matrix Crest Grille on the Electrified G80 has been redesigned particularly to hide the electrical charger port, to make sure the car has an much more streamlined and cohesive look.
The grille consists of a matrix of small G-shaped models that create a dynamic and visually fascinating texture. The entrance and rear additionally characteristic two-line LED head- and taillights, which make its specific design distinctive and distinctive. The Electrified G80 is fitted with power-folding ECM outdoors mirrors which have Genesis emblem puddle lamps and 19-inch alloy wheels that contribute to aesthetics whereas making certain higher total efficiency and effectivity.
2Up To 282 Miles Of Range On A Full Charge
Genesis
At the center of the Genesis Electrified G80 is an 87.2-kWh battery pack with a mixed gasoline economic system score of 97 MPGe that may carry it as much as 282 miles on a full cost with 105 MPGe for metropolis driving and 89 MPGe for freeway driving.
In addition to well-designed aerodynamics, a wise regenerative braking system that helps to recharge the battery whereas driving by capturing kinetic vitality that’s usually misplaced throughout deceleration and changing it into electrical vitality and storing it within the battery, is vital to those outstanding effectivity figures. It extends the car’s vary and minimizes put on and tear on the brakes. The car additionally has DC fast-charging capabilities, making it able to charging from 10 to 80 percent in just 22 minutes using a 350 kW DC fast-charging station.
The Genesis Electrified G80 makes use of a dual-motor setup with entrance and rear motors that every generate 182.5 horsepower, for a combined output of 365 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque to supply a 4.1-second 0-60 mph acceleration time. A multi-link entrance and rear suspension balances consolation and efficiency, whereas its electronically managed suspension with highway preview adjusts the suspension settings in real-time to the particular highway circumstances.
Its rear-wheel-steering system additionally enhances dealing with by turning the rear wheels in the other way of the entrance wheels at low speeds, and in the identical path at larger speeds to enhance maneuverability and responsiveness. An digital parking brake with auto maintain replaces the normal handbrake lever with an digital change and routinely holds the car in place when it fully stops, with out repeatedly having to press the brake pedal.
4A 14.5-inch Touchscreen System Graces The Dashboard
Genesis
The Electrified G8 uses a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen display because the central hub for controlling the car’s navigation, multimedia, and different settings. It additionally includes a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster for important data like velocity, navigation directions, and car standing, with a 3D impact that provides depth and realism to the general expertise. Entertainment choices embrace AM/FM radio, SiriusXM radio, and HD radio, in addition to seamless smartphone integration, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
A Lexicon premium audio system with a number of audio system strategically positioned all through the cabin, envelopes the occupants in wealthy, high-quality sound. A head-up show tasks key data onto the windshield, energetic noise management reduces highway noise and vibration, and the wi-fi system charger within the entrance of the cabin, retains units powered up without having messy cables.
The inside has Nappa leather-based seating surfaces, with an total consideration to element extending to the leatherette-wrapped higher instrument panel and microfiber suede headliner and pillars. The energy entrance seats embrace four-way energy lumbar assist with the motive force’s seat together with energy cushion extension, energy bolsters, and ergo movement. There are heated and ventilated entrance seats for the hotter and colder months.
The heated energy tilt and telescopic steering wheel enable drivers to seek out the perfect steering place along with maintaining their fingers heat throughout chilly climate. There’s a three-zone local weather management for all occupants to regulate the temperature to their liking. Its energy rear home windows and handbook rear door sunshades add privateness and safety from harsh daylight, whereas the auto-dimming inside mirror with HomeLink permits for hands-free management of storage doorways and different suitable units.
6The Best Of Cutting-Edge Safety Features
Genesis
The Genesis Electrified G80 earned the IIHS 2022 Top Safety Pick+ rating, as a result of its distinctive security options. Engineered with collision-avoidance methods and different superior driver help applied sciences, Genesis prioritizes security within the Electrified G80 in each facet of its design.
Using a mixture of radar and digicam sensors, the car can detect and keep away from potential collisions, guarantee it stays in its lane, warn drivers of autos of their blind spots, routinely regulate velocity and place to maintain a secure distance from the car forward, learn velocity restrict indicators, and make parking and maneuvering in tight areas simple.
The Genesis Electrified G80 is a premium electrical sedan, and it has an MSRP of $79,825. While this value is steep, it sits within the luxurious electrical car section and is comparable with that of some of its rivals. The Electrified G80 has commonplace superior options and know-how mixed with its all-wheel-drive electrical drivetrain, spectacular vary, and fast acceleration.
How The Genesis Electrified G80 Compares With Competitors:
Genesis Electrified G80
$79,825
Tesla Model S
$74,990
Lucid Air
$77,400
Audi e-tron GT
$106,500
Porsche Taycan
$90,900
BMW i5
$66,800
Mercedes EQE
$74,900
(Prices sourced from Official Automakers’ Websites)
Premium luxurious rivals just like the Tesla Model S and Lucid Air, and German electrical autos just like the Audi e-tron GT, Porsche Taycan, BMW i5, and Mercedes EQE are either comparatively priced or considerably more expensive. For instance, the BMW i5 begins at $66,800 whereas the Porsche Taycan which has a significantly decrease battery vary begins at $90,900. The Tesla, Lucid, Audi, and Mercedes value $74,990, $77,400, $106,500, and $74,900 respectively.
8An Available Solar Roof Extends The Driving Range
Genesis
The photo voltaic roof of the Electrified G80 are high-efficiency photo voltaic panels seamlessly built-in into the roof of the car, equipped to generate up to 200W of power. The photo voltaic roof has the capability to generate sufficient electrical energy to have the ability to add an estimated 715 miles per 12 months to the car’s driving vary. This is crucial for drivers who have interaction primarily in short-distance commutes.
With the photo voltaic roof, the car continues to cost even whereas parked in a retailer, the workplace, at house, or driving on the highway, without having a charging station. It’s essential to notice that the photo voltaic roof can not absolutely substitute conventional charging strategies as 715 miles a 12 months is a measly two miles a day, however it serves as a supplementary energy supply, and enhances the primary battery pack to cut back the frequency of charging.
9Not The Most Spacious Electric Sedan On The Inside
Genesis
Being constructed on the identical platform because the common G80, the combination of the underfloor battery pack within the Electrified G80 mannequin has brought on some compromises to inside area. The commonplace G80 gives beneficiant headroom, passenger compartment area, legroom, shoulder room, and cargo capability, measurements which can be barely lowered within the Electrified G80. Although the headroom in entrance of the Electrified G80 is better than the gas-powered version, there is a discount within the headroom within the rear by one inch.
Legroom within the rear of the Electrified G80 loses virtually three inches in comparison with the gas-powered model. The distinction could appear comparatively small, however it may be noticeable for rear passengers, who expertise a barely extra confined really feel. Cargo capability within the Electrified G80 can also be lowered to 10.8 cubic toes, in comparison with the G80’s 13.1 cubic toes.
10Comes With Features Like Vehicle-To-Load Technology, Heat Pump, And A Battery Heater
Genesis
The Electrified G80 is fitted with a 1.9 kW inverter V2L technology, an modern characteristic that enables it to play the function of an influence supply the place it makes use of the car’s battery to energy exterior home equipment or tools. It’s notably helpful in distant areas and job websites in addition to emergencies.
The Electrified G80 addresses the environment friendly local weather management want with its warmth pump system which makes use of a extra environment friendly methodology to manage the cabin temperature by capturing waste warmth from the car’s motor and inverter, and utilizing it to heat the inside. EVs typically have vary limitations in chilly climates as a result of battery performances drop at decrease temperatures. The battery heater warms the battery pack within the colder climate, optimizing the efficiency and effectivity of the battery, and making certain the car maintains its vary in all circumstances.
Sources: Official Automakers’ Websites, and credible publications like CarAndDriver, and IIHS.
• Year-to-date electrified vehicle sales including battery, fuel cell, hybrid and plug-in hybrid top 455,142 representing 27.9 percent of total volume
• 26 electrified vehicle options between both Toyota and Lexus brands, the most among any automaker
• 2024 Lexus RX plug-in hybrid available in showrooms; all-new 2024 Lexus TX with available hybrid on sale this week; fourth generation 2024 Toyota Tacoma on sale in December
PLANO, Texas (Oct. 3, 2023) – Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) today reported U.S. September 2023 sales of 203,904 vehicles, up 13.9 percent on a volume basis and up 9.5 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis versus September 2022. September 2023 sales of electrified vehicles totaled 64,298, representing 31.5 percent of total monthly sales.
For the third quarter of 2023, TMNA reported U.S. sales of 590,296 vehicles, up 12.2 percent on a volume basis and up 10.8 percent on a DSR basis. Third quarter electrified vehicle sales totaled 184,666, representing 31.3 percent of total year-to-date sales.
Toyota division posted September sales of 177,654 vehicles, up 12.9 percent on a volume basis and up 8.6 percent on a DSR basis. For the third quarter of 2023, Toyota division reported sales of 515,400 vehicles, up 12.4 percent on a volume basis and up 11 percent on a DSR basis.
Lexus division posted September sales of 26,250 vehicles, up 20.9 percent on a volume basis and up 16.2 percent on a DSR basis. For the third quarter of 2023, Lexus division reported sales of 74,896 vehicles, up 10.9 percent on a volume basis and up 9.5 percent on a DSR basis.
“With the introduction of several electrified vehicles including the all-new Toyota Grand Highlander hybrid, Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid, Toyota Prius, and the Lexus RX plug-in hybrid, customers now have 26 Toyota and Lexus electrified vehicle options to choose from, the most among any automaker,” said Jack Hollis, executive vice president, Sales, TMNA. “We anticipate continued strong sales momentum as we close out 2023 as dealer stock improves and key new products like the fourth generation Toyota Tacoma and Lexus TX and TX hybrid hit showroom floors.”
September, Third Quarter and Year-To-Date Highlights
TMNA:
September electrified vehicle sales of 64,298, up 81.5 percent; represents 31.5 percent of total sales volume
Year-to-date electrified vehicle sales of 455,142, up 20.3 percent; represents 27.9% percent of total sales volume
26 electrified Toyota and Lexus vehicle options available at dealerships
Passenger car September sales up 10 percent
Truck September sales up 15.7 percent
Toyota Division:
Electrified vehicle September sales up 88.2 percent
Electrified vehicle ratio: 27.9 percent
Year to date 2023 electrified vehicle ratio: 3 percent
Passenger car September sales up 11.2 percent
Prius September sales up 68.7 percent
SUV September sales 20.7 percent
Venza September sales up 145 percent
Best-ever September sales:
bZ4X
Corolla Cross HEV
Corolla HEV
Crown
Grand Highlander
Grand Highlander HEV
Sequoia
Tundra HEV
Best-ever year-to-date sales:
bZ4X
Corolla Cross
Corolla HEV
Mirai
Sequoia
Tundra HEV
Lexus Division:
Electrified vehicle September sales up 84.0 percent
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 26 electrified options.
Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed $110 million to create innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved and diverse communities near the company’s 14 U.S. operating sites.
Munich. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan now offers a full range of electrified drive technology. Just a few weeks after the launch of the all-electric BMW i5 and the combustion engine variants with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, two plug-in hybrid models will be launched in November 2023. The BMW 530e Sedan and the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan can now be ordered. The prices start at 65,300 euros for the BMW 530e Sedan and 77,300 euros for the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan.
The plug-in hybrid models in the eighth generation of the BMW 5 Series Sedan offer improved power delivery, increased efficiency, and a significantly extended electric range. Both models feature the latest BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid systems and come with different engine variations.
Integrated Drive Unit with High Efficiency
The electric motor, specifically designed for the hybrid drive, is integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission along with its power electronics. This highly integrated drive unit is exceptionally efficient and contributes to the maximum system output of the two plug-in hybrid sedans.
The combination of BMW eDrive technology and the 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan generates a maximum system output of up to 360 kW/489 hp. The plug-in hybrid system has BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive and can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan has a maximum speed of 250 km/h and can operate purely on electric mode at speeds up to 140 km/h.
The BMW 530e Sedan is equipped with a 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol engine and can generate a maximum system output of 220 kW/299 hp. It can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 230 km/h.
Innovative Technologies for Improved Range and Agility
The new plug-in hybrid models utilize a patented BMW innovation to increase the power development of the electric motor. This results in improved acceleration and performance. The electric range of the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan is 83 to 90 kilometres, while the BMW 530e Sedan has a range of 93 to 103 kilometres. Both models have aerodynamic properties that help optimize their range and reduce CO2 emissions.
The lithium-ion high-voltage battery is positioned in the vehicle underbody, which positively affects the vehicle’s center of gravity and the luggage compartment. The battery has an increased usable energy content and can be charged from zero to 100 percent in about 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Enhanced Standard Equipment
The BMW 530e Sedan and the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan come with an extended range of standard equipment compared to the models with mild hybrid technology. Some of the notable features include 19-inch light alloy wheels and the BMW IconicSounds Electric system, which provides authentic acoustic feedback when driving in electric mode.
The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan also includes Adaptive Chassis Professional, which enhances driving comfort and agility. The BMW Interaction Bar, part of the ambient lighting equipment, combines functionality and design.
BMW 530e: Fuel consumption combined: 0.8 – 0.6 litres/100 km; Power consumption combined: 21.7 – 19.9 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 17 – 13 g/km
BMW 550e xDrive: Fuel consumption combined: 1.0 – 0.8 litres/100 km; Power consumption combined: 23.2 – 21.6 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 23 – 19 g/km
Toyota’s Electrified Diversified campaign focuses on Toyota’s widest selection of low and zero emissions vehicles in the market
PLANO, Texas (Sept. 18, 2023) – Toyota is introducing the 2023 Beyond Zero “Electrified Diversified” campaign, encouraging drivers to shift towards electrified vehicles. Beyond Zero represents Toyota’s goal to go beyond carbon neutrality through its products, services, and operations to make a positive impact on the planet and society.
Toyota’s electrified vehicles play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and driving towards the Beyond Zero vision. Toyota provides a diverse range of Electrified powertrains, including Battery EV, Hybrid EV, Plug-In EV, and Fuel-Cell EV, ensuring that there is an option for every consumer.
“Toyota offers the highest number of low and zero emission vehicles compared to any other automaker. We provide battery electric, hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and fuel cell electric offerings,” said Mike Tripp, Vice President of Vehicle Marketing & Communications. “Beyond Zero is about giving our customers choices, and we’re excited to offer a wide range of vehicles with various electrified powertrains to suit their lifestyles and reduce their carbon footprint.”
The comprehensive “Electrified Diversified” campaign was developed by Saatchi & Saatchi. It emphasizes the confidence and excitement of driving Toyota’s lineup of electrified vehicles, including the Tundra Hybrid, Sienna, Prius, bZ4X, and Mirai, among others.
In a 30-second commercial titled “Electrified Diversified,” viewers are taken through various moments of life that showcase the possibilities of Toyota’s carbon-emission reducing vehicles. The commercial captures activities such as off-roading adventures, beach barbeques, children’s birthday parties, and fun nights out, highlighting the inclusivity and freedom of choice offered by Toyota’s electrified vehicles, which excel in style, power, and durability. The campaign emphasizes that there is an electrified vehicle for everyone.
Media Placements
The “Electrified Diversified” Beyond Zero campaign is being promoted across various platforms, including digital video, digital content, streaming audio, programmatic advertising, paid social media, and paid search. High-profile sports programming such as Thursday Night Football on Amazon will feature the campaign. Partnerships with iHeart Media, Wired, Forbes, Hearst, and others have been established, and paid social media ads are running on Meta and Reddit.
The commercial can be viewed here. Images and credits are available here.
About the Beyond Zero Vision
Toyota is committed to reducing carbon emissions by offering 16 electrified vehicles for customers to choose from. This includes 12 hybrid electric models, two plug-in hybrid electric models, the bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric Mirai (currently available in California).
In addition to the electrified vehicle lineup, Toyota’s efforts to achieve the Beyond Zero vision involve various conservation and other initiatives. For more information, please visit: https://www.toyota.com/electrified-vehicles/.
While Lamborghini is looking towards the future with their upcoming electrified V12 Revuelto, they still have some surprises for us. Recently, automotive YouTuber Varryx captured footage of two mysterious Lamborghini models outside the company’s headquarters in Sant’Agata, Bolognese. These one-off supercars represent the brand’s V12 heritage and are believed to be the Invencible Coupé and Auténtica Roadster.
Lamborghini Centro Stile, the brand’s design studio, worked closely with the owners to create these bespoke vehicles. Although most of the body design is hidden under camouflage wraps, some key features are noticeable, including Sián-style taillights and an engine cover inspired by the Sesto Elemento. These unique models also introduce some new elements to Lamborghini, such as a fixed swan neck rear wing. The drive-by clips suggest that Invencible and Auténtica pay homage to Lamborghini’s iconic V12 engine.
As we look forward to the future of Lamborghini with models like the Revuelto, we now have even more to anticipate with the introduction of Invencible and Auténtica. To see all the current Lamborghini models available for sale, visit duPont REGISTRY.
When the UK’s commercial vehicle market becomes fully electrified, not many people may recognize the Maxus T90EV as one of its pioneers. The Maxus T90EV is Britain’s first electric pick-up truck, manufactured in Wuxi, China by SAIC, a car-industry giant from Asia. SAIC also owns brands like Roewe and MG Motor. The T90 is a mid-sized truck that has been modified to meet the UK’s registration requirements for a working flatbed. In the UK, it is classified as a ‘one-tonne’ truck by Maxus, even though it carries less than 1000kg in other markets. Maxus has enhanced its load-carrying capabilities to comply with the tax status and introduced it to the UK market in 2022.
If you’ve seen the Maxus badge on the grille before, it’s because SAIC acquired LDV, formerly known as Leyland DAF in the UK. The Maxus T90EV is available through a network of 60 UK dealerships, starting from just under £50,000 excluding VAT. Choosing an electric pick-up truck like the T90EV offers significant tax savings compared to conventional diesel trucks.
The T90EV is equipped with a 201bhp electric motor that provides sufficient power and acceleration. However, the interior of the truck is quite plain and sparsely fitted out, albeit modern. The ride and handling of the T90EV are rougher than the average pick-up truck, mainly due to Maxus’s efforts to strengthen its load-carrying capability. The real-world range of the T90EV is approximately 200 miles, which may decrease slightly when driven solely on the motorway.
Pros: The Maxus T90EV is an impressive and powerful truck.
Cons: It can be quite expensive, starting at around £150,000, and it may require frequent fueling.
If you’re willing to deal with the inconveniences of owning an imported, full-size, left-hand-drive truck from the American market, some might argue that you should go all out and get a proper one. And when it comes to a “proper” truck, the Hennessey Mammoth fits the bill.
Audi Sport, the renowned performance division of Ingolstadt, plans to have a fully electrified lineup by the end of this decade. This includes creating high-performance, pure-electric versions of their fastest combustion cars, such as the RS3 hot hatch and the RS7 grand tourer.
Audi aims to prioritize the RS brand in the coming years, building on the success of the current RS E-tron GT. They plan to incorporate sporty credentials and distinctive styling cues into their standard models.
The company is committed to ensuring that the RS badge remains more than just a trim level. Sebastian Grams, the managing director of Audi Sport, highlighted the popularity of the E-tron GT as an indication of changing target customers. As a result, Audi believes that electrification and high performance are a perfect match.
RS versions of the upcoming A6 E-tron electric estate and Q6 E-tron crossover will be the first Audi Sport EVs. Following closely behind will be strikingly styled and immensely powerful sporty variations of the electric replacements for the A3, A4, A6, and A7.
While plans for the electric A7 replacement have not been confirmed, chief designer Marc Lichte mentioned the Activesphere concept as a potential production model resembling an elevated A7. Audi is working on giving the exterior design of RS models a distinct character in the electric world.
“We believe that there should be a clear differentiation between a regular model and an RS model. This will be a unique selling point—something that defines the DNA of our electric RS models,” said Grams.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
Add to Cart
Print
Convert to PDF
