Tag Archives: electrified

Lexus

Toyota Motor North America Reports U.S. June and First Half 2023 Sales Results

  • 270,476 electrified vehicles sold in first half of 2023 represents 26 percent of total sales volume
  • Toyota and Lexus bringing more electrified powertrain options to their lineups. This diverse portfolio of electrified options will help propel Toyota toward its goal of carbon neutrality.
  • 24 electrified Toyota and Lexus vehicle options available at dealerships, the most among any automaker

PLANO, Texas (July 5, 2023) – Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) reported U.S. sales in June 2023 of 195,448 vehicles, up 14.9 percent on a volume and daily selling rate (DSR) basis versus June 2022. June 2023 sales of electrified vehicles totaled 51,535, representing 26.4 percent of total monthly sales.

For the first half of 2023, TMNA reported U.S. sales of 1,038,520 vehicles, down 0.7 percent on a volume and DSR basis. First half electrified vehicle sales totaled 270,476, representing 26.0 percent of total year-to-date sales.

Toyota division posted June sales of 168,680 vehicles, up 14.4 percent on a volume and DSR basis. For the first half of 2023, Toyota division reported sales of 889,108 vehicles, down 2.8 percent on a volume and DSR basis.

Lexus division posted June sales of 26,768 vehicles, up 18.1 percent on a volume and DSR basis. For the first half of 2023, Lexus division reported sales of 149,412 vehicles, up 14.0 percent on a volume and DSR basis.

“We continue to focus on customers’ needs with several new and refreshed products in the first half of the year, including the all-new Toyota Crown and the Lexus brand’s first fully electric vehicle, the RZ 450e,” said Jack Hollis, executive vice president, Sales, TMNA. “Our teams are working around the clock to get vehicles into customers’ hands and they can expect even more exciting and electrified products later this year, including the all-new Grand Highlander, Toyota Tacoma, and a new nameplate from Lexus, the TX.”

June and First Half 2023 Highlights

TMNA:

  • June electrified vehicle sales of 51,535, up 28.8 percent; represents 26.4 percent of total sales volume
  • First half electrified vehicle sales of 270,476, up 1.4 percent; represents 26.0% percent of total sales volume
  • 24 electrified Toyota and Lexus vehicle options available at dealerships
  • June sales of 195,448, up 14.9 percent (volume an DSR basis)
  • Passenger car June sales up 8.9 percent
  • Truck June sales up 17.8 percent; first half sales up 1.2 percent

Toyota Division:

  • Electrified vehicle June sales up 22.5 percent
  • June electrified vehicle ratio: 26.0 percent
  • First half 2023 electrified vehicle ratio: 7 percent
  • Passenger car June sales up 11.3 percent
  • Camry June sales up 23.8 percent; first half sales up 10.9 percent
  • Mirai June sales up 75.9 percent; first half sales up 26.8 percent
  • SUV June sales 17.5 percent
  • bZ4X June sales up 1,767 percent; first half sales up 1,477 percent
  • Corolla Cross June sales up 21.2 percent; first half sales up 27.0 percent
  • Sequoia June sales up 8,453 percent; first half sales up 1,908 percent
  • Pickup June sales up 9.4 percent; first half sales up 15.4 percent
  • Tacoma first half sales up 7.5 percent
  • Tundra June sales 37.7 percent; first half sales up 34.8 percent
  • Best-ever June sales:
    • bZ4X
    • Corolla Cross
    • Corolla Cross HEV
    • Corolla HEV
    • Crown
    • Mirai
    • Grand Highlander
    • Grand Highlander HEV
    • Sequoia
    • Tundra HEV
  • Best-ever first half sales:
    • bZ4X
    • Corolla Cross
    • GR Corolla
    • Corolla HEV
    • Mirai
    • RAV4 PRIME PHEV
    • Sequoia
    • Tundra HEV

Lexus Division:

  • Electrified vehicle June sales up 84.0 percent; first half sales up 67.7 percent
  • June electrified vehicle ratio: 28.4 percent
  • First half 2023 electrified vehicle ratio: 27.9 percent
  • IS first half sales up 1.9 percent
  • Luxury utility vehicle June sales up 17.8 percent; first half sales up 22.1 percent
  • UX June sales up 86.4 percent; first half sales up 14.7 percent
  • NX June sales up 85.3 percent; first half sales up 73.5 percent
  • RX June sales up 10.7 percent; first half sales up 6.7 percent
  • LX June sales up 29.1 percent; first half sales up 22.1 percent
  • UX HEV June sales up 401 percent; first half sales up 106.2 percent
  • NX HEV June sales up 123.3 percent; first half sales up 48.4 percent
  • NX PHEV first half sales up 33.9 percent
  • RX HEV June sales up 119.3 percent; first half sales up 126.3 percent
  • LS HEV June sales up 166.7 percent; first half sales up 258.8
  • Best-ever June sales:
    • Total electrified vehicles
    • Total luxury utility vehicles
    • IS 500
    • NX
    • NX HEV
    • Total NX
    • RX HEV
    • RZ
  • Best-ever first half sales:
    • Total electrified vehicles
    • Total luxury utility vehicles
    • IS 500
    • UX HEV
    • NX HEV
    • NX PHEV
    • Total NX
    • RX HEV
    • Total RX
    • RZ

Note:

HEV = Hybrid Electric Vehicle

PHEV = Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle

FCEV = Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle

BEV = Battery Electric Vehicle

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About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th 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 24 electrified options.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic, and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Cars

Best Electric SUVs Of 2023

The Genesis Electrified GV70 is an exceptional electric vehicle (EV) that unfortunately faces challenges in the American market. It is only available for purchase at Genesis dealerships in 23 states due to supply shortages of vital EV components. However, if you manage to find one, it is definitely worth considering. With a powerful performance of 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, it can outpace some sports cars off the line. Additionally, the interior of the GV70 is luxurious and sophisticated, comparable to Genesis’ gas-powered models.

Interestingly, the GV70 is also available in its internal combustion engine (ICE) form, which explains the slightly awkward name of the Electrified GV70. At a glance, it can be challenging to differentiate the gas-powered GV70 from the EV version. The main distinguishing feature is the large faux grille on the electric car. Concealed within the grille is a discreet cover for the charging port.

The appeal of the Electrified GV70 lies not just in its electric powertrain but also in being a superb premium SUV. However, one downside is its range, which is 236 miles and considered average compared to other EVs in its class. Another major drawback is the limited availability, as the car cannot be purchased in over half of the country.

VauxhallUk

VAUXHALL OPENS ORDERS FOR ASTRA SPORTS TOURER GSe

  • Pricing and specification confirmed for Astra Sports Tourer GSe
  • GSe is Vauxhall’s new electrified performance sub-brand
  • Astra Sports Tourer GSe comes with an uprated 225PS Plug-in Hybrid powertrain
  • Unique suspension and steering calibration provide improved handling
  • A 10mm lower profile and styling upgrades help GSe models stand out on the road
  • Prices for Astra Sports Tourer GSe start from £43,250

Vauxhall is now accepting orders for the Astra Sports Tourer GSe, which is the electrified performance version of the Astra Sports Tourer. The starting price for the Astra Sports Tourer GSe is £43,250.

The GSe stands for Grand Sport Electric, which is Vauxhall’s new sub-brand for performance vehicles that combine electric power with sharp handling and stylish design. At launch, there are three GSe variants available: Grandland GSe, Astra GSe, and Astra Sports Tourer GSe. All three models feature unique styling upgrades both inside and outside, as well as powerful electric drivetrains and improved handling due to suspension and steering enhancements.

Orders are already open for the Grandland GSe and Astra GSe models.

Astra Sports Tourer GSe – electrified performance

The Plug-in Hybrid powertrain in the regular Astra Sports Tourer has been upgraded for the GSe variants. The Astra Sports Tourer GSe is equipped with a 180PS 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine connected to an 81.2kW (110PS) electric motor, resulting in a total power output of 225PS and a maximum torque of 360Nm. This is an increase from the standard Plug-in Hybrid variants, which have 180PS and 250Nm. These upgrades enable the Astra Sports Tourer GSe to accelerate from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 146mph.

The Astra Sports Tourer GSe is equipped with a 12.4kWh battery, offering up to 39 miles of pure electric range. With emissions as low as 26g/km CO2, the Astra Sports Tourer GSe qualifies for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of 12%.

Enhanced driving experience

Vauxhall engineers have made adjustments to the suspension of the Astra Sports Tourer GSe to improve handling. The car now features 11% stiffer springs and Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) technology by KONI, which adjusts the damping characteristics to provide a smooth and balanced ride.

The steering of the Astra Sports Tourer GSe has also been recalibrated to deliver a sportier feel and better feedback. The steering response has been increased by 9% compared to standard models, improving the on-centre feel and feedback at speed. Additionally, the Sport mode on GSe models has been adjusted to engage the electronic stability control (ESC) slightly later.

Distinctive design and features

The Astra Sports Tourer GSe has several styling upgrades to make it stand out on the road. The revised suspension and damping profile contribute to a 10mm lower profile, while the 18-inch ‘Commodore’ wheels give the car a unique stance. The car also features a black roof and black Griffin logos.

All Astra Sports Tourer GSe models come with IntelliLux adaptive LED® Pixel headlights and dark tinted rear windows.

Inside the car, there are Alcantara®-trimmed performance front seats that are certified by Germany’s AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs), as well as a GSe-specific leather steering wheel. The car is equipped with a Multimedia Pure Panel Pro Navigation system that includes a 10-inch digital instrument display and a 10-inch touchscreen with Natural Voice Recognition. Other features include wireless smartphone charging and Intelli-HUD head-up display technology for an enhanced driving experience.

For improved safety and convenience, Astra Sports Tourer GSe models come with Intelli-Drive technology that includes Forward Collision Alert, Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Drowsiness Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Assistant, Cross Traffic and Side Blind Spot alert, and Automatic Speed Assistant with Stop Function. These features contribute to a safer driving experience for both the driver and passengers.

PeugeotUk

PEUGEOT REVEALS NEW 2008 WITH UPDATED DESIGN AND NEW ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAINS

PEUGEOT has revealed the new 2008, with a more assertive SUV design, enhanced technology and new electrified powertrains.

 

Launched at the end of 2019 and with nearly 700,000 units produced, the PEUGEOT 2008 has consistently been among the top three best-selling B-segment SUVs in Europe, topping the list in 2021. The success of this model is attributed particularly to the e-2008, which accounted for 17.4% of European 2008 sales in 2022.

 

The new 2008 features an updated, more assertive design, an enhanced i-Cockpit® and a new electric powertrain for the new e-2008 that offers up to 252 miles of range (WLTP). It will be open for orders in the summer with a choice of three trim levels – Active, Allure and GT.

 

Design

 

The new 2008 features an updated design which reflects its move upmarket and strengthens its SUV status. The model has a new, wider front end incorporating the new PEUGEOT shield and includes a specific lateral pattern that connects to the headlamps. On Active versions, the front end is enhanced with a horizontal pattern in gloss black, while on Allure and GT versions, the front end has a vertical pattern in the same colour as the bodywork.

 

The front of the new 2008 also adopts the latest PEUGEOT light signature first seen on the new 508 and 508 SW, which is characterised by three vertical light claws integrated into the gloss black inserts on the bumper. GT versions feature exclusive full LED headlamps made up of three light modules. This distinguishes the GT versions from the rest of the range by giving them an exclusive front-end signature.

 

At the rear, the new 2008’s distinctive three-claw light signature has also been redesigned. The LED rear lights are made up of three superimposed horizontal double slats, which help to visually widen the car’s stance. The reversing lights and indicators are also LEDs.

 

The front, side and rear badges of the new 2008 have been given a new typeface and are finished in a new Basalt Grey colour, while the new e-2008 has an “E” badge in Dichroic Blue and White. At the rear, the PEUGEOT monogram runs across the entire width of the boot lid.

 

The new 2008 is available with alloy wheels ranging from 16-18 inches, with a disruptive design in line with those introduced on the new PEUGEOT 408. Customers have a choice of six body colours: Selenium Grey, Cumulus Grey, Okenite White, Nera Black, Elixir Red and Vertigo Blue. All versions feature gloss black door mirrors, while GT models feature a black bi-tone roof.

 

PEUGEOT i-Cockpit®

 

PEUGEOT’s innovative i-Cockpit® has been updated for the new 2008, with a new design for the 10-inch digital instrument cluster, which features a 3D display on GT versions. The colour of the display, the order and the layout of the information can be fully adjusted to suit the driver’s preferences.

 

All new 2008 models now come with a 10-inch central touchscreen as standard. Under the central screen, the piano keys allow quick access to key functions.

 

Finally, the new 2008’s compact steering wheel displays the new PEUGEOT logo in its centre and houses controls for the infotainment system, as well as voice control. On GT models, steering wheels also feature a new GT badge on the lower part of its rim.

 

The interior of the new 2008 also benefits from new seat fabrics throughout, including new Alcantara® upholstery available as an option on GT versions.

 

Technology

 

On Allure trims and above, the new 2008 is available with PEUGEOT’s i-Connect® infotainment system, which offers full connectivity through wireless phone mirroring (Apple CarPlay™/Android Auto). The system can be controlled via the central 10-inch high-definition touchscreen or via natural voice recognition, activated by saying “Ok PEUGEOT.”

 

PEUGEOT i-Connect®  Advanced is available as an option across the range, which adds a high-performance TomTom® connected navigation system with over-the-air updates.

 

For easier and safer driving, the new 2008 comes with a range of driver assistance features, including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Automatic Emergency Braking, Extended Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Alert and Blind Spot Monitoring. For enhanced traction, Advanced Grip Control, together with all-season tyres, is also offered, which provides access to three additional driving modes: Sand, Mud and Snow.

 

Powertrains

 

The new 2008 will be available with a range of electric, hybrid (from 2024), and petrol powertrains, enabling each customer to choose the version that best suits their needs.

 

From launch, the new fully-electric PEUGEOT e-2008 benefits from a larger 54kWh battery and a new electric motor, with maximum power increasing by 18% to 156hp. The range also increases to 252 miles (WLTP mixed cycle), up from 214 miles.

 

Two types of onboard chargers are available on the new PEUGEOT e-2008: as standard, a single-phase 7.4kW charger and, as an option, a three-phase 11kW charger. The new e-2008 can be recharged from 0-80% in 30 minutes from a 100kW rapid charger, or 7 hours 30 minutes from a 7.4kW charger.

 

In 2024, the new 2008 will also be available with a new 48V HYBRID powertrain, which consists of a new-generation 136bhp 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine, coupled with a new six-speed dual-clutch electrified gearbox that includes an electric motor. Thanks to a battery that recharges while driving, this technology offers extra torque at low engine speeds and up to 15% lower fuel consumption. In urban driving, the new 2008 equipped with the HYBRID system can operate more than 50% of the time in electric mode.

 

PEUGEOT will continue to offer customers a choice of advanced 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engines. The PureTech 100 is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox featuring a new gearshift knob for improved ergonomics, while the PureTech 130 can be combined with either the EAT8 eight-speed automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual gearbox.

 

MyPEUGEOT® app

 

The launch of the new 2008 coincides with the introduction of three new features to the MyPEUGEOT® app, including a virtual maintenance book which stores all invoices and keeps a record of all work carried out on the car. Journey details can also be sent to the onboard navigation system in advance via the app. Lastly, MyPEUGEOT® can now assist with journey planning for electric vehicle drivers by predicting the level of charge available when you arrive at your destination. Drivers can continue to pre-condition the cabin and to check, schedule, start or defer charging remotely via the app.

 

 

Citreon

CITROËN INTRODUCES NEW Ë-SERIES EDITIONS ACROSS Ë-C4, Ë-C4 X AND ELECTRIFIED C5 AIRCROSS MODELS

  • New ë-Series versions add distinctive style and enhanced levels of technology to Citroën’s electrified model range.
  • Ë-Series follows on from Citroën’s earlier ‘C-Series Edition’ trim level, which delivered value and generous specification across the passenger car range.
  • Body colour options enhanced with the availability of a black bi-tone roof and special alloy wheels across each model.
  • New ë-Series variants are available to order now, with first deliveries expected in July.

 

Citroën UK has announced a new ë-Series line-up, available across its electrified C-segment models. The new cross-range ë-Series trim offers more style and technology, plus the use of additional recycled materials. Much like the earlier ‘C-Series Edition’ that enhanced the value-for-money offering across Citroën’s passenger car range, the new ë-Series editions add fresh styling cues and more technology across ë-C4, ë-C4 X and electrified C5 Aircross models.

 

All three models share key design elements, such as a Perla Nera Black bi-tone roof and black alloy wheels, as well as exclusive ë-Series exterior badging.

 

Ë-SERIES: NEW SIGNATURE FOR THE ELECTRIFIED C-SEGMENT RANGE

 

  • Sitting at the top of the range for both ë-C4 and ë-C4 X, ë-Series versions of both vehicles come with the new My Citroën Drive Plus infotainment system and keyless start, as well as heated front seats and an upgraded Citroën HiFi system. Ë-Series variants will be available with the existing 100kw (136hp) – 50kWh powertrain with a WLTP range of up to 222 miles, as well as the new 115kw (156hp) – 54kWh version with a WLTP range of up to 260 miles.

  • Based on the existing ‘Shine’ trim level, C5 Aircross ë-Series editions will gain Highway Driver Assist, an opening panoramic glass sunroof, and heated front seats. Ë-Series models will be available with the 225 Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, as well as the new Hybrid 136, which combines a specially developed 136hp PureTech petrol engine with 48V battery technology, alongside a new electrified dual-clutch ë-DCS6 gearbox and a 21kW electric motor – reducing CO2 emissions by up to 15%/

Across all three models, the use of electrified powertrains helps add to the sense of on-board serenity and well-being, with a smooth ride and reduced noise.

 

A DYNAMIC AND CONTRASTING VISUAL IDENTITY

 

All three model silhouettes share the same exterior identity based on shared elements, creating a look that is prestigious, elegant, and dynamic.

 

The first of these elements is the Perla Nera Black roof that is standard on ë-Series trim editions. Already a familiar option on C4 and C5 Aircross, this bi-tone roof design is a new feature on the ë-C4 X range. The entire roof is painted black – which is particularly in keeping with the dark-tinted rear window – giving a fluid feel, and an appearance that makes the car look more dynamic. With this two-tone combination, ë-C4 X takes on the air of a coupé, but without losing the practicality of its spacious rear seat and large boot.

 

In addition, each silhouette benefits from full-black alloy wheels, with 18-inch ‘Aeroblade’ black alloy wheels on ë-C4 and ë-C4 X that are new and specific to these ë-Series models, while C5 Aircross Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid ë-Series variants gain 19-inch ‘Art’ black alloy wheels. For added contrast, each vehicle is presented with tinted rear side windows, rear quarter windows and rear window.

 

The combination of the optional Pearl White body colour with the black roof is the signature look of this new ë-Series collection, although customers can also choose other colours available in the range.

 

Ë-Series versions also come with Citroën’s Dark Chrome colour pack, which is applied to the front bumper inserts and the Airbump® panels, giving each model a distinctive touch. This pack is exclusive to the ë-Series on ë-C4 and ë-C4 X (although already an option on C5 Aircross). Finally, all ë-Series variants come with an “ë-Series” monogram, a clever mix of glossy black, aluminium and white, positioned at the rear of the three vehicles.

 

A NEW LIGHT INTERIOR AMBIANCE FOR GREATER SERENITY

 

Comfort and well-being is a true differentiator for Citroën. Ë-Series versions of C5 Aircross take this commitment to heart by offering an exclusive light interior ambience. The choice of light and warm materials is intended to create a brighter interior harmony, offering a soothing atmosphere, while enhancing the sense of space inside the cabin. Ë-Series editions banish negative thoughts to help you relax in a cocoon of comfort.

 

This light colour is applied with a tone-on-tone contrast for an even more striking interior ambience. The light grey seats, backrests, and armrests are set off by the medium grey applied to the edge of the seat, contours, upper backrest and headrests, as well as the central and door armrests. The horizontal seat upholstery design, which extends into the door panels, helps to reinforce the perception of width on-board and gives great coherence to the passenger compartment.

 

An interior with a focus on detail adds value to the occupants. This is the case, for example, in the design of the seats, which feature the ‘bubble panels’ characteristic of Citroën style, providing the graphic signature of the seats and visually reinforcing the notion of comfort. The same goes for the band on the upper part of the seat, which features a herringbone pattern. To finish the look, ‘ë’ labels are added on the inside of the front seats, which act as the ë-Series signature.

 

For customers who want a more dynamic and darker interior, the C5 Aircross ë-Series trim is available with Alcantara® seats in the existing dark ambience.

 

All ë-C4 and ë-C4 X ë-Series versions feature the popular mid-grey Alcantara® ambience that has been well received on the ‘Shine Plus’ versions of these models.

 

A NEW WARM AND RESPONSIBLE ALCANTARA® UPHOLSTERY

 

Ë-Series versions choose quality materials such as Alcantara® for the seat, backrest and armrests. This fabric adds to the perceived quality and warmth of the interior. Soft to the touch, it also provides better support for occupants.

 

Specifically, on C5 Aircross ë-Series versions with the light grey interior ambience, the Alcantara® fabric is manufactured using an innovative process with 68% of its outer surface made of recycled fibres.

 

NEW CITROËN Ë-SERIES RANGE & PRICING

 

TRIM LEVEL

POWERTRAIN

CO2 g/km

MRRP OTR

ë-C4

ë-series

100kW with 50kWh battery

0

£36,295.00

 

ë-C4

ë-series

115kW with 54kWh battery

0

TBC*

 

TRIM LEVEL

POWERTRAIN

CO2 g/km

MRRP OTR

ë-C4 X

ë-series

100kW with 50kWh battery

0

£36,295.00

 

ë-C4 X

ë-series

115kW with 54kWh battery

0

TBC*

 

TRIM LEVEL

POWERTRAIN

CO2 g/km

MRRP OTR

C5 Aircross Hybrid 136

ë-series

PureTech 136 PureTech petrol + 48V hybrid

131

TBC*

 

C5 Aircross Plug-In Hybrid ë-series

PureTech 180 petrol + 80kW plug-in hybrid

29

£38,375.00

 

 

* New powertrains – prices to be confirmed imminently.