Tag Archives: reveal

Rivian’s Affordable Small SUV Will Be Revealed March 7

Rivian introduced Monday it plans to disclose a brand new automobile known as the R2 on March 7. Expected to fit under the corporate’s R1S SUV and R1T pickup, it ought to occupy a smaller footprint and are available at a extra reasonably priced value.

 

Rivian hasn’t launched any data concerning the R2 except for an Instagram story video revealed in May 2023 displaying a coated clay mannequin of the automotive (above). We know it will be a small SUV set to compete in opposition to vehicles just like the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV6, and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

CEO RJ Scaringe steered in a December interview the R2 will have a starting price of around $45,000 to $50,000, or round half the worth of its now-cheapest automobile, the $80,800 R1T pickup. The automobile is predicted to go on sale someday in 2026.

Scaringe says the Rivian R2 would be the model’s “Model 3 moment,” pointing to all the challenges that’ll include increasing manufacturing to fulfill the calls for related to a extra reasonably priced mannequin line. 

Tesla CEO Elon Musk mentioned in a 2018 CNBC interview the corporate “faced a threat of death” throughout its ramp up of manufacturing for the Model 3 in 2017. “The company was bleeding money like crazy,” he mentioned. “If we didn’t solve these problems in a very short period of time, we’d be dead.”

Rivian is seeking to get forward of the problems with a new $5 billion manufacturing plant, set to be constructed in Georgia main as much as the R2’s begin of manufacturing. The advanced will cowl roughly 1800 acres and create 7,500 direct jobs and eight,000 oblique jobs, in accordance Clayco, the true property agency liable for the venture. 

Autocar journal 24 January: on sale now

This week in Autocar, we reveal the model new Volkswagen Golf, drive the the oblique successor to the Ford Fiesta, and why the 3D-printed Czinger 21C might rework the automotive business.

News

The overhauled Volkswagen Golf has been given massive ergonomic , powertrain and design revisions aiming to invigorate the hatch’s attraction – and it will be topped by a GTI that is extra highly effective than ever earlier than.

Over at Honda, the enduring NSX is about to return because the model’s halo EV, with its boss confirming the electrical sports activities automotive might be launched because the flagship to its 0 Series of EVs.

Staying in Japan, we’re reporting on Lexus teaming the LBX with the Toyota GR Yaris to create the Morizo RR – a 300bhp crossover full with go-faster aero.

Reviews

Ford has renewed the Tourneo Courier, its smallest van and MPV, to create what might be the successor to the Fiesta. We learn how it performs with new Puma underpinnings.

The Lexus LM is a newcomer within the luxurious MPV class, nevertheless it’s a lot greater than only a van with seats. Matt Saunders finds out why limousines ought to be fearful.

The beloved Suzuki Jimny has been given a lift in practicality with an additional pair of doorways, however solely in sure markets. We discover out what we’re lacking out on.

Ford street take a look at 5658, we’re testing the 2023 World Car of the Year – the Jeep Avenger. Does this maiden EV for Jeep have what it takes to crack Europe?

Features

The new Kia EV9 finds itself rubbing shoulders with luxurious massive SUVs from established manufacturers, so we have determined to search out out if patrons pays for Korean luxurious by pitting it in opposition to the Land Rover Defender 110 and Audi Q8 E-tron. 

Bicester Scramble, in the meantime, is swapping panama hats for crocs – Murray Scullion finds out why a brand new technology is flocking to the main automotive occasion.

Designed by synthetic intelligence and 3D-printed by robots, the Czinger 21C has the potential to remodel the automotive business, in keeping with these behind it. We head to their US base to search out out what’s what.

Opinion

Matt Prior riffs on automotive prejudice and the way it can have an effect on us all, and why there could quickly be an enormous shift in how we view producers.

Steve Cropley, in the meantime, has change into obsessive about a uncommon 1973 Range Rover, describes an expertise with EVs that we do not worth sufficient, and why he is change into irritated with Zap-Map.

Used

2024 Triumph TF 250-X Motocross Machine Is Finally Here

If you’ve been eagerly anticipating Triumph’s full reveal of its first-ever dedicated motocross machine, then we’ve got news for you. As of November 28, 2023, the wait is officially over. While the team from Hinckley has clearly been hyping up the build for some time, now it’s finally laying the cards on the table so the world can see what it’s been building: The all-new Triumph TF 250-X.

The details, we have to say, look pretty intriguing. In addition to Triumph’s ground-up frame and engine design (which we’ll get to in a bit), it also sourced a number of high-spec components to add to the overall serious impression it wants to make. Brembo brakes, Galfer discs, Pro-Taper handlebar, and Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires are just some of what’s included.

Engine

2024 Triumph TF 250-X - Outside - Engine Closeup

While Triumph gave us glimpses of what the engine looked and sounded like in its teaser video series leading up to the big reveal, no specs were available until now.

The new TF 250-X is powered by a four-stroke, dual overhead cam, 249.95cc single-cylinder engine. It uses Dell’Orto electronic fuel injection and is mated to a five-speed gearbox. No official power or torque figures are given.

Chassis

2024 Triumph TF 250-X - Front Left Closeup

The Triumph TF 250-X uses an aluminum spine frame design, along with an aluminum swingarm.

Suspension consists of a KYB 48mm coil spring fork up front offering 310mm (about 12.2 inches) of travel and full adjustability. In the rear, there’s a KYB coil with 305mm (about 12.0 inches) of travel and compression and rebound adjustability. 

Braking duties are performed by a Brembo twin 24mm piston front brake caliper and a 260mm Galfer front disc. In the rear, there’s a Brembo single 26mm piston rear brake caliper and a 220mm Galfer rear disc. 

The TF 250-X rides on a 21-inch front and a 19-inch rear wheel, both wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires. 

Dimensions

2024 Triumph TF 250-X - Outside - Riding 9

The Triumph TF 250-X has a 1,492mm (about 58.74 inch) wheelbase. Handlebar width is 836mm (about 32.9 inches). The height without mirrors is 1,270mm (about 50 inches). Rake and trail are 27.4 degrees and 116mm (about 4.6 inches). 

Seat height is 960mm (about 37.8 inches). Fuel tank capacity is seven liters. 

Wet weight is 229 pounds.

Price and Availability

In addition to revealing full details of the 2024 Triumph TF 250-X, the company also announced its plan to open around 300 new Triumph Motocross and Enduro centers across Europe, Australia, and the US by the

Electric Vauxhall Grandland successor primed for 2024

New photos of a Grandland being tested in Germany show that it’s similar to the current car, with a family-friendly size and a sloping roofline.

The front end’s ‘Vizor’ design seems to have been updated to match the sleek design on the Astra.

This prototype features a new take on the ‘Compass’ motif from Vauxhall’s innovative Experimental concept, with creases on the bonnet and bumper representing north and south, and LED daytime running lights forming east and west.

The Grandland will be manufactured in Eisenach, Germany, after a €130 million (£110 million) investment to prepare the Opel factory there for producing electric cars.

2024 Vauxhall Crossland – camouflaged rear quarter tracking

Opel and Vauxhall CEO Florian Huettl confirmed at September’s Munich motor show that the STLA Medium will be one of two architectures used for future electric models

He also suggested that the Grandland – as well as the smaller Crossland – might receive a new name.

The new Grandland is expected to be released in late 2024, seven years after the original model was launched and three years after it was facelifted.

Renault set to reveal compact electric car for Europe

According to Automotive News Europe, Renault is preparing to introduce a small, budget-friendly electric supermini that will be positioned below the 5 and act as a modern successor to the Twingo.

The new model is expected to be launched in 2026 and will be unveiled on November 15 as part of the company’s capital markets day. This move is aimed at reassuring investors as Renault plans to list its electric vehicle division, Ampere, on the stock market. Ampere aims to introduce six electric vehicles by 2030 and produce one million cars by 2032.

Despite the city car being produced under the Renault brand, it is projected to be manufactured at Renault’s facility in Novo Mesto, Slovenia. This approach is likely taken to reduce operational expenses and minimize the impact of trade tariffs by producing a European-focused, affordable supermini locally.

The new Renault supermini is set to fill the void left by the aging Twingo, and it’s expected to be priced lower than the 5. Renault CEO Luca de Meo previously expressed his desire to “democratize” electric car ownership in Europe and hinted that the new model could be priced at around £20,000.

De Meo emphasized that the new model will play a significant role in making electric cars more accessible and increasing their sales volume in the UK and mainland Europe. He also mentioned that the design of the new car draws inspiration from Japanese kei cars, which are known for their strict size and power regulations and accounted for a significant portion of new car sales in Japan last year.

Honda n box front three quarter

Volkswagen ID 7 Tourer previewed as brand’s first electric estate

Volkswagen has given a sneak peek of the upcoming estate version of the ID 7 saloon, set to be officially revealed in the coming months. Called the ID 7 Tourer, this electric estate is based on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, which is also used for the ID 3, ID 4, and the recently unveiled ID 7 saloon. The MEB platform allows Volkswagen to maximize interior space by offering a long wheelbase and short overhangs.

The ID 7 Tourer is designed to be highly practical, featuring 545 litres of boot space with the rear seats up and 1714 litres with the seats folded down – larger than the current Volkswagen Passat. The boot itself is an impressive two meters in length.

Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the development of the ID 7 Tourer, with features like a smooth front bumper, rear lip spoiler, and flush door handles that help achieve a drag coefficient of 0.24cd – slightly higher than the saloon.

An exact range for the ID 7 Tourer has not been disclosed, but considering the ID 7 saloon can cover 435 miles on a single charge, it is expected that the estate version will offer a similar range.

The ID 7 saloon made its debut earlier this year as Volkswagen’s first electric saloon, aiming to rival the Tesla Model 3. It boasts new infotainment software, driving dynamics specifically designed for long-distance travel, and a range of 435 miles.

The ID 7 Tourer will be available in Pro and Pro S trims. In Germany, customers can currently pre-order the Pro version starting from €56,995 (£48,844). For comparison, the ID 4 starts from £38,845, with the more powerful GTX variant priced at £52,865.

The regular ID 7 saloon will launch in Europe and China this autumn, followed by the US in 2024. The electric estate will come with a choice of two batteries: a 77kWh pack, which offers a range of 382 miles and 170kW charging, and a new 86kWh unit that allows up to 435 miles of range and can be charged at up to 200kW. The Pro S version of the ID 7 Tourer is expected to achieve a 0-62mph time of around 6.0 seconds.

Exclusive: New Toyota Prius to be Released in the UK

The latest Toyota Prius will soon be available for purchase in the UK, according to Autocar. Previously, the release of the fifth-generation Prius in the UK was postponed due to the high demand for SUV models.

Last year, Toyota explained that the decision not to offer the new Prius in the UK was due to changes in market conditions and their evolving product strategy. The company noticed a shift in UK consumer demand towards SUV-style vehicles.

Toyota also mentioned that Prius sales in the UK were not as strong as their other hybrid models, such as the C-HR crossover and Corolla hatchback.

However, Autocar has learned that the Prius hybrid hatchback will now be introduced in the UK, with an official announcement expected soon. The sales of parallel- and plug-in hybrids have likely contributed to the strengthened business case for this model. In the UK, both types of hybrids saw an increase in market share compared to the previous year, as of September.

2023 Toyota Prius rear tracking

The latest Prius is built on the updated version of the TNGA platform, which was used for the previous generation. However, the new model features significant modifications to enhance its stiffness, refinement, and stability.

Globally, the new Prius offers two powertrain options: a front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter parallel hybrid with 191bhp, and a four-wheel-drive 221bhp plug-in hybrid. The plug-in hybrid version can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 6.7 seconds, making it the fastest Prius to date.

The plug-in hybrid also comes with a 13.6kWh lithium-ion battery, capable of providing an electric driving range of 53 miles, according to official figures.

While the roof of the Prius is equipped with a solar panel that can contribute energy for approximately 777 miles of electric driving per year, it is uncertain whether this feature will be available in the UK.

The interior of the Prius has been redesigned with an emphasis on material quality and driver comfort. It comes with a standard 7.0-inch digital driver display, strategically positioned to minimize distraction while driving. The central infotainment screen is a new-generation version based on the one found in the latest Corolla and Toyota RAV4 models.

CITROËN REVEALS THE ALL-NEW Ë-C3: THE FIRST EUROPEAN AFFORDABLE ELECTRIC CAR

Citroën has unveiled the fourth-generation C3, which challenges the norms for European-designed and built B-segment cars. The all-new ë-C3 is an affordable electric vehicle that offers best-in-class comfort, easy electric experience, a high level of equipment, and great value for money.

The ë-C3 is the flagship model of Citroën’s fourth-generation C3 line-up and has sold over 5.6 million units since the first generation launched in 2002. The C3 is Citroën’s most popular model, accounting for 29% of their European sales volume and 11% of the European B-segment market in 2022.

The ë-C3 marks a new chapter for Citroën as the brand reinvents itself to make electric mobility accessible to everyone. It is the first European-designed and European-built all-electric B-hatchback, offering zero-emission mobility at an affordable price. The on-the-road prices start from under £23,000 in the UK.

The all-new ë-C3 prioritizes comfort and features Citroën Advanced Comfort® Suspension as standard. This innovative suspension system provides a unique feeling of comfort on the road by using progressive hydraulic bump stops to give the impression of gliding over uneven surfaces. It offers best-in-class comfort, spacious interiors, and ample storage space.

The ë-C3 is equipped with an 83kW/113hp electric motor and a 44kWh battery pack, providing a WLTP driving range of up to 199 miles. It offers fast charging capabilities, with 100kW DC fast charging from 20% to 80% capacity taking as little as 26 minutes.

The ë-C3 is fully equipped with a range of features, including connected navigation with the ë-ROUTES app, which optimizes journey times and provides access to a reliable charging network. It also offers a range of driver assistance features for comfort, support, and safety.

Citroën aims to make electric mobility accessible to all with the ë-C3. It follows a fair pricing strategy, with prices starting from under £23,000 in the UK. The line-up includes three well-equipped versions: ‘YOU!’, ‘PLUS’, and ‘MAX’.

With its distinctive and bold design, incorporating the new Citroën brand signature, the ë-C3 stands out on the road. It is the first European affordable electric car designed in Europe and built in Slovakia.

Why The Compact 2026 Tesla Model 2 Is Definitely Worth Waiting For

Tesla surprised everyone with the groundbreaking Model S and followed it up with the more affordable Model 3. However, the Model 3 is still out of reach for many drivers, and it’s not suitable for short-distance commuting. Most drivers within city limits only need about 50 miles of range, which is far less than what the Model 3 offers. This is where the Model 2 comes in. With the Model 2, Tesla has the opportunity to create a compact, affordable, and energy-efficient commuter car with the necessary features for urban environments.

Please note that information on future Tesla products is not official and is based on available information from sources such as Tesla, Kelly Blue Book, Motor Trend, Car And Driver, and Cars.com.

A Low Entry Price To The EV Market

2024 red Tesla Model 3
Tesla

The Model 3 is priced aggressively for its performance capabilities. However, it may still be too expensive for the average city dweller. There are compact SUVs and eco-conscious cars available, but most of them are still powered by internal combustion engines. A truly affordable electric vehicle (EV) with fast charging capabilities has not been developed yet. A compact Tesla Model 2 priced at or slightly below $25,000 could convince a significant number of drivers to switch to electric, especially with quick public charge times.

A Clean-Sheet Tesla Design

2021Tesla Model Y silhouette
Tesla 

It’s been a while since Tesla introduced a completely new design. The current lineup, including the Model S, dates back to 2012. It’s time for Tesla to bring fresh models and designs to the market. The Model 2 provides an opportunity for Tesla to set new design standards for compact electric vehicles. As compact cars require special packaging, it will be interesting to see how Tesla handles this challenge on an electric platform, especially since most electric vehicles have long wheelbases to accommodate large battery packs.

Teslas Have Become More Reliable

2021 Tesla Model S interior
Tesla 

A compact and affordable Tesla Model 2 would be relied upon as a primary mode of transportation. Fortunately, Tesla has improved its reliability and fit and finish over the years. This is the right time to introduce a reliable compact car for large cities. Drivers would spend more hours in their vehicles, and they would want to avoid maintenance and quality issues. Tesla’s advanced manufacturing processes and experimentation with construction materials could result in a more streamlined lineup of models, starting with the Model 2. A simplified design would contribute to a more robust vehicle that can withstand challenging environments.

Tesla Proved That People Like Minimal

2021 Tesla Model S silhouette
Tesla

Tesla has embraced minimal design, and it has resonated with owners. The Model S initially showcased various tech features, but Tesla has shifted towards a minimalistic approach. A more affordable Model 2 could further emphasize this minimalistic trend and attract potential buyers who can’t afford Tesla’s current premium offerings. This design trend has also influenced other automakers to simplify their interiors. It has changed how drivers interact with their vehicles and perceive transportation. Vehicles are becoming more product-oriented, resembling appliances rather than transportation devices. A budget-friendly Tesla Model 2 is likely to feature a sleek design and innovative solutions that cater to its target demographic.

Tesla’s Charging Network Is The Best In The Business And Is Only Getting Better

White Model X Charging
Tesla

Tesla’s extensive charging network makes the transition to compact EVs even smoother. Supercharger stations are prevalent in urban areas, where the Model 2 is likely to be popular. An efficient and compact electric vehicle would require a smaller battery pack and benefit from faster charging times. While the current Model 3 and Model Y can supercharge at a rate of 175 miles of range within 15 minutes, a Model 2 with a smaller and more efficient battery could offer a similar range in less time. This would be sufficient for daily city commuting.

New Lotus Emeya electric ‘hyper-GT’ to be revealed on 7 September

Lotus’s highly anticipated electric super-saloon has now been given the official name Emeya. The Emeya will have its full reveal on September 7th.

Previously referred to as Type 133 and mistakenly associated with the Envya name, this new electric car will rival the Porsche Taycan. A preview video has shown that the Emeya will feature a wraparound LED rear light bar, a movable rear wing, and distinctive LED headlights that resemble those on the Lotus Eletre SUV.

Described by Lotus as a hyper-GT, similar to how the Eletre is referred to as the world’s first hyper-SUV, the Emeya is expected to have power and performance figures that rival some of the fastest supercars. This marks Lotus’s return to the performance saloon segment, which they haven’t been a part of since the Vauxhall-based Carlton in the early 1990s. The company believes that the Emeya will be particularly popular in China and the US, two crucial markets for Lotus. According to Autocar, the Emeya, measuring five meters in length, will also be the most luxurious car ever produced by Lotus.

The confirmation of the Emeya’s name came shortly after prototypes in promotional camouflage livery were spotted on the road. Late prototypes have already begun production at the Lotus Technology facility in Wuhan, China.

The Emeya will be similar in size to the upcoming Polestar 5 grand tourer, set to be released next year. However, Lotus has emphasized that there will be distinct differences between the two models, as Geely, the parent company of Lotus and Polestar, allows each brand to independently develop their own technologies.

From spy shots, it’s clear that the Emeya will have sleek styling, a sloping roof, and design elements inspired by the Evija and Eletre models. Lotus has placed a strong emphasis on the Emeya’s dynamic development, as it will be competing with the Porsche Taycan and Audi E-tron GT. The Emeya will share some chassis technology with the Eletre, including air suspension, rear-wheel steer, active roll control, and active aerodynamics, but it will be engineered to meet its own specific requirements.