Electric mobility improvements akin to e-scooters, e-bikes, and electrical bikes have reworked the best way individuals transfer in all components of the globe. And whereas some of these autos are seen principally as toys within the US market, broadening our perspective rapidly reveals that there is a lot occurring within the growth of light-weight, two-wheeled machines.
Take, for instance, Ghanian agency Kofa which simply partnered with Chinese e-mobility firm TAILG, to launch this: the Jidi, a compact and sturdy electrical bike designed particularly to deal with the pains and harsh local weather in Africa. It seems superior.
TAILG Jidi Powered By Kofa
“Designed in Ghana. Built for Africa,” is the companys’ tagline for the Jidi, and it guarantees spectacular efficiency, vary, and security, all whereas being a utility-focused machine.
When it involves expertise, the Jidi is powered by Kofa’s Kore2 battery. With a mixed vary of 100 kilometers (62 miles), these batteries are designed to be rapidly swapped out within the firm’s Swap & Go stations which, based on the corporate, takes simply 30 seconds. And from our understanding, Kofa’s Swap & Go tech works equally as Gogoro’s battery-swapping infrastructure for its Smartscooters.
On the efficiency aspect of the spectrum, the TAILG Jidi Powered By Kofa (that’s what they’re calling it on their official web site), is powered by a 72V mid-mounted motor propelling the two-wheeler to a high pace of 85 KPH (about 53 miles per hour). Given these efficiency figures, it appears as if the Jidi has related efficiency as a 125cc gas-powered bike or scooter. Furthermore, the Jidi boasts adjustable drive modes, permitting riders to optimize efficiency relying on the terrain and their preferences.
TAILG Jidi Powered By Kofa – Battery Compartment
According to Kofa, the Jidi reduces operating prices by as much as 30 % (presumably when in comparison with a daily gas-powered bike), and considerably reduces carbon emissions. Meanwhile, from a styling perspective, the Jidi is clearly rugged, with dual-sport tires, an uncovered metal body, and its easy suspension system which consists of a regular telescopic fork with gaiters and twin rear shocks.
Other sensible options embody an extended bench saddle that can be utilized for both carrying a pillion or hauling cargo, in addition to USB charging ports for added comfort, LED lights throughout, and a CBS (mixed braking system) for added security. Last however not least, the Jidi was engineered for longevity and ease of upkeep, permitting customers to hold out fundamental upkeep with fundamental instruments, which I want was extra prevalent in immediately’s bikes.
As of this writing, Kofa has but to announce pricing for the Jidi electrical bike, and as a substitute asks guests to its web site to contact them for pricing data. The firm does, nevertheless, declare substantial price financial savings “of up to 30 percent” when in comparison with gasoline-powered alternate options, so chances are high the Jidi is priced fairly competitively.
Given the endless want for mobility in Africa and different components of the world, improvements just like the Jidi stand to problem the norm, making electrical mobility extra accessible to a wider viewers.
Electric cargo bikes have remodeled the best way folks transfer round city. Designed particularly to exchange vehicles on sure journeys, e-cagro bikes are able to carrying a stunning quantity of cargo, all whereas being nimble and straightforward to experience. UK-based e-bike model Gocycle needs to vary the picture of the cargo e-bike from that of utility to one in every of enjoyable and pleasure. To do that, it launched the CX sequence.
Gocycle is understood for its light-weight, foldable e-bike designs, and it makes use of this tech within the CX. On the CX Plus mannequin, it includes a distinctive handlebar known as the Flofit, promising elevated consolation and management. To do that, the Flofit may be adjusted to the particular wants of riders together with attain and grip angle. The handlebar can be folded for added comfort for storage or transport.
Electric cargo bikes are typically heavy and ponderous, however Gocycle goals to vary that with the CX sequence. It’s constructed out of a light-weight body that makes use of aluminum up entrance and carbon on the again to vow a light-weight setup. The bike’s fork and wheels are additionally made out of carbon. The handlebar and body may be simply folded, and the seat submit may be eliminated to cut back the bike’s dimensions. As such, the Gocycle CX can simply be transported behind a van, and on the prepare or bus.
On the technology facet of the equation, the Gocycle CX is powered by a 375-watt-hour battery pack which is detachable for handy charging. Power is distributed to a front-wheel hub outfitted with traction management, and the bike is proscribed to a high pace of 15 miles per hour in compliance with Europe’s strict e-bike rules. For added security, the bike involves a cease with hydraulic disc brakes. Riders can simply pedal together with the powertrain by way of a Shimano Nexus hub and a Gates CDX carbon belt drive.
The Gocycle CX includes a folding body and folding handlebars.
The Gocycle CX has an aluminum entrance body, whereas the rear a part of the body, in addition to the fork and wheels, are made from carbon fiber.
When it involves pricing and availability, Gocycle’s bikes had been by no means low cost, and the identical is true with the CX. It’s supplied in two fashions – CXi and CX Plus, with the Plus coming outfitted with a couple of upgrades such because the Flofit handlebars and wood rear rack. The base mannequin CXi carries a beginning value of £5,999, or about $7,651 USD, whereas the CX Plus will set you again £6,999, or roughly $8,927. Note that availability has but to be introduced outdoors of the UK, however deliveries within the UK are anticipated to start out in September of 2024.
Hybrid minivans have significantly transformed the landscape of family transportation in the United States. These vehicles seamlessly merge the inherent spaciousness and practicality of traditional minivans with the fuel efficiency and environmentally conscious features of hybrid technology. Among the notable contenders in this category stands the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan, a vehicle characterized by its sleek esthetics, accommodating seating capacity for up to seven occupants, and impressive travel range.
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has garnered widespread acclaim and interest from families nationwide. Whether embarking on extensive road trips or conducting daily errands within city limits, this vehicle consistently delivers a seamless, efficient, and gratifying driving experience. In doing so, it caters to the evolving expectations and preferences of modern families, setting the standard for the future of family transportation. Here’s how the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid could be even better than an SUV.
Note: Specifications, data, and information related to the cars on the list have been sourced from the Chrysler, NHTSA, IIHS, fueleconomy.gov, and Car and Driver.
The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers more value for your money compared to typical American SUVs in its price range. Starting at $51,095 for the Touring L base model, it provides superior performance, efficiency, spaciousness, and advanced technology. Upgrading to the Limited trim at $55,840 and the top-tier Pinnacle trim at $60,990 further solidifies its position as a superior choice.
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan Trim Pricing
Model
Price
Chrysler Pacifica Touring L
$51,095
Chrysler Pacifica Limited
$55,840
Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle
$60,990
(Figures sourced from Chrysler)
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers a top-performing hybrid powertrain, a range of 520 miles, top Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features, a 10.1-inch infotainment system, and more, all at a comparable or lower cost than luxury hybrid SUVs offered by other manufacturers. Luxury hybrid SUVs, such as the Lexus NX 450h+ with a range of 550 miles, have a minimum starting price of $62,765. The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan represents excellent value for its cost and provides a compelling alternative to SUVs in the same price range.
2Twice The Cargo Capacity
Chrysler
The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid can accommodate up to seven passengers in its three rows of seats. The second row has two captain’s chairs that can be removed to create more space, and the third row has a 60/40 split-folding bench seat that can be folded into the floor. The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica hybrid minivan comes with all the amenities of a luxury SUV but with more space.
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan Interior Dimension Comparison
Model
Seating Capacity
Cargo Capacity (with all seats in place)
Front Leg Room
Front Hip Room
Rear Leg Room
Rear Hip Room
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan
7 Passengers
32.3 cubic-feet
41.1 inches
59.0 inches
39.0 inches
64.8 inches
Acura MDX Hybrid
6 passengers
15 cubic-feet
41.4 inches
57.5 inches
35.6 inches
57.8 inches
Volvo XC90 Recharge
7 passengers
15.8 cubic-feet
40.9 inches
56.0 inches
37.0 inches
56.5 inches
(Specs sourced from Chrysler)
The Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers more cargo capacity compared to hybrid SUVs like the Acura MDX Hybrid and Volvo XC90 Recharge. With 32.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 140.5 cubic feet behind the first row, the Pacifica Hybrid provides twice the cargo capacity of many hybrid SUVs. This makes it a more practical choice for families who need to carry large amounts of cargo.
3An All-Electric Range As Extensive As Top Hybrid SUVs
Chrysler
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan achieves an impressive all-electric range of 32 miles, thanks to its 16 kWh 360 Volt lithium-ion battery pack. This extensive electric range allows for shorter trips to be completed solely on electricity, reducing the need for gasoline consumption. When the battery charge diminishes, the vehicle seamlessly transitions to its gasoline engine, resulting in a total driving range of up to 520 miles. This places the Pacifica Hybrid minivan alongside hybrid SUVs with the longest electric ranges. It is a remarkable feat for a vehicle as long, spacious, and heavy as the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica minivan.
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan All-Electric Range Comparison With Longest Range Hybrid SUVs
Model
All-Electric Range
Battery
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan
32 Miles
16 kWh
Dodge Hornet R/T
30 Miles
15.5 kWh
Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid
31 Miles
13.8 kWh
Kia Sorento PHEV
32 Miles
14 kWh
(Specs sourced from respective automakers)
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan’s all-electric range competes with some of the longest range hybrid SUVs available, such as the Dodge Hornet R/T, Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid, and Kia Sorento PHEV. This impressive electric range allows for eco-friendly driving and reduces the overall environmental impact of the vehicle.
4Most Awarded Minivan Six Years In A Row
Chrysler
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan has been recognized and awarded by industry experts for its outstanding features and performance. It has been named the most awarded minivan for six consecutive years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded the Pacifica Hybrid minivan an overall safety rating of 5 stars, further highlighting its commitment to safety. This vehicle is highly regarded in the industry and has received over 170 accolades, making it one of the most decorated hybrid minivans in the U.S.
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan achieves an impressive fuel economy, with a combined efficiency of 30 mpg. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Pacifica Hybrid offers an electric range of up to 32 miles and boasts an 82 MPGe combined rating. Compared to other hybrid SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid performs exceptionally well. For instance, the 2023 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge has a combined MPGe of 63 and a combined MPG of 28, while the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV has a combined MPGe of 74 and a combined MPG of 26. The Pacifica Hybrid’s advanced hybrid powertrain reduces fuel consumption and emissions, making it a more efficient choice for eco-conscious families.
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Efficiency Figures vs. SUVs
Model
Combined MPGe
Combined MPG
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
82 MPGe
30 MPG
2023 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge
63 MPGe
28 MPG
2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
74 MPGe
26 MPG
2022 Audi Q5 TFSI E Quattro
61 MPGe
26 MPG
(Specs sourced from EPA)
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan outperforms many hybrid SUVs in terms of fuel efficiency. Its advanced hybrid powertrain, electric range, and efficient design contribute to its impressive efficiency ratings.
6A Smooth And Responsive Drive
Chrysler
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers a smooth and responsive driving experience that distinguishes it from SUVs. Thanks to its electric drive, it provides quick throttle response and smooth and powerful acceleration, comparable to that of top-ranked hybrid SUVs. Additionally, its smooth suspension and weighted steering system enable easy maneuverability and comfortable driving. The Pacifica Hybrid’s larger weight also allows it to tow up to 3,600 pounds, providing additional versatility for families.
2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan Exterior Dimensions
Gross Vehicle Weight
6,300 pounds
Curb Weight
5,010 pounds
Length
204.3 inches
Width
79.6 inches
Height
69.9 inches
Wheelbase
121.6 inches
(Specs sourced from Chrysler)
The Pacifica Hybrid minivan offers a smooth and responsive drive, thanks to its quick steering response and smooth suspension. Despite its larger size and weight compared to SUVs, the Pacifica Hybrid is easy to maneuver and provides a comfortable driving experience for families.
7Better Equipped With Technology To Keep Your Family Safe
Chrysler
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan is equipped with advanced technology to enhance safety and convenience for families. It seamlessly integrates with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto, allowing easy control of your smartphone through the Uconnect touchscreen or voice commands with Siri. The minivan is also equipped with a FamCAM that allows you to monitor your children with automatic day and night modes and a split-view screen, even when they are seated in rear-facing child seats. Additionally, the rear dual-screen entertainment system with Amazon Fire TV built-in ensures that your family remains entertained throughout the journey. These advanced technologies make the Pacifica Hybrid minivan an exceptional choice for families and elevate its safety features beyond those found in most SUVs.
8A Design Remarkable Enough To Compete With The Muscular Silhouette Of An SUV
The Fiat 500 has undergone a transformation to become “the world’s smallest, zero-emission gelateria” in response to stricter emissions regulations for diesel ice cream vans in cities.
This development is a response to the introduction of clean air zones in and around most UK cities. By the end of next year, 14 clean air zones are expected to be operational.
Many existing ice cream vans are outdated commercial vehicles equipped with non-compliant diesel engines. This has resulted in a demand for cleaner alternatives.
Several London boroughs, including Camden, Greenwich, and Westminster, have either banned or restricted the use of combustion-engined ice cream vans due to excessive air and noise pollution. Additionally, the Ultra Low Emission Zone will expand to cover all 32 boroughs, effective August 29. Non-compliant vans within the M25 will incur a charge of £12.50 per day.
According to Fiat UK boss Damien Dally, the Fiat 500e Gelateria Edition is a one-off concept car based on the 500e Convertible that showcases the vehicle’s versatility in city environments. It is small, compact, and electric, designed with the brand’s Italian heritage in mind.
Fiat’s one-off modification of the 500 is inspired by a 1950s local Italian gelateria.
The rear seats have been replaced with a pair of battery-powered freezers. The van is adorned with blue-and-white paintwork and features a folding roof and canopy, adding to its cheerful appearance. Furthermore, it sports a bronze ‘Gelateria’ badge on the front wheel arch, signifying its uniqueness as a one-off creation.
Fiat has also developed a custom chime that takes inspiration from the “operatic sounds of Italy”.
A group of 12 Audi apprentices has transformed a classic NSU Prinz sports coupé into a stunning electric vehicle (EV) in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the German firm’s factory in Neckarsulm.
The EV, named EP4 after the Prinz 4, features a rear-mounted 236bhp electric motor derived from the 2020 Audi E-tron, with power supplied by a front-mounted battery from the Audi Q7 TFSIe plug-in hybrid. The battery is located under the carbon fiber hood, replacing the Prinz’s fuel tank.
While the car, a 1971 NSU Prinz 4 that had been inactive, underwent substantial modernization, it still retains its original front and rear lights, as well as its distinctive shoulder and roof lines.
Modifications were made to accommodate the new powertrain, which is 207bhp more powerful than the Prinz’s original two-cylinder petrol engine.
The primary modifications were made to enhance cooling. The car features large green intakes at the bottom of the bumper to allow air circulation, with hot air escaping through an opening in the hood. The tailgate can even be partially open to prevent the electric motor from overheating.
In addition, the Audi A1 provided the floorpan, brakes, and axles, while the EP4’s body was substantially widened and fitted with wide wheels and performance tires.
At the back, a bright yellow wing is attached to the roll cage instead of the bodywork. The body itself is coated in Suzuka Grey and Brilliant Black paintwork, Audi’s signature colors, with the number ‘150’ displayed on the doors.
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