JUICED UP ON ELECTRONS: PORSCHE MACAN 2.0
Porsche, the epitome of automotive excellence, is rewriting the SUV narrative with the launch of its second all-electric model, the Macan. The Macan is reborn a decade after its inception, shedding its combustion skin for an all-electric makeover. This groundbreaking SUV, available in Macan 4 and Macan Turbo variants, is not just a paradigm shift; it’s a seismic leap into the future of electric performance.
The Macan’s E-Performance is a symphony of power and efficiency, boasting up to 470 kW and a WLTP range of up to 613 km. The numbers alone tell a tale of electrifying acceleration, with the Macan Turbo hitting 100 km/h in a mere 3.3 seconds. The Macan 4 hits 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. Top speeds are 260 km/h for the Macan Turbo and 220 km/h for the Macan 4. Hell yes!
Under the hood – or, in this case, the underbody – lies a lithium-ion battery with a gross capacity of 100 kWh, with 800-volt architecture. Fast charging is a breeze. Drawing electrons at up to 270 kW from a suitably equipped public charger, a 10 to 80% state-of-charge is achieved in just 21 minutes.
The design is quintessentially Porsche, featuring sharp proportions, up to 22” wheels, and optional matrix LED technology. Active aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of 0.25, make the Macan one of the most streamlined SUVs, enhancing both range and efficiency.
Step inside, and the Macan transforms into a tech haven. Up to three screens, including a 12.6” curved instrument cluster with Android Automotive OS-based infotainment. The optional head-up display with augmented reality is akin to Iron Man guiding you through any landscape imaginable.
The Macan is like Mary Poppins’ bag on steroids, with up to 540 litres behind the rear seats, a “frunk” with 84 litres, and, if you fold down the back seats, 1,348 litres of luggage space. In addition, the Macan boasts a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 kg.
The new Macan also introduces rear-axle steering, delivering a compact turning circle and unwavering stability at high speeds.
With over 800,000 Macans delivered worldwide since 2014, Porsche’s all-electric successor is set to continue this success story, providing a thrilling yet sustainable driving experience. The future of SUVs is here, and it’s electric.
ADVENTURE MEETS INNOVATION: AUDI Q8 E-TRON EDITION DAKAR
The new Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is a thrilling blend of innovation and adventure inspired by the iconic Dakar Rally. Rooted in the Q8 advanced 55 e-tron quattro, the SUV boasts a robust 106 kWh battery and 300 kW power in boost mode, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. Its off-road prowess, aided by General Grabber AT3 tires, is showcased with a higher chassis, adaptable ground clearance, and impressive approach angles (20 degrees at the front, 26 degrees at the rear, and a 19-degree ramp angle).
The exterior exudes style in Siam Beige metallic, Mythos Black metallic, and Magnetic Gray, with LED lights projecting “edition Dakar” upon door opening. The interior features S line aesthetics, red Audi Sport stitching, and a Dakar-themed MMI display. Practicality meets style with Matrix LED headlights, tinted sun visors, a head-up display, and storage solutions.
Limited to 99 units, the edition Dakar stands out with a unique decal package inspired by the RSQ e-tron and optional features like ambient lighting and a Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System. Beyond aesthetics, it incorporates functional elements like a storage and luggage compartment package, a roof rack, and an additional charging socket. With features like four-zone automatic air conditioning, the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar transforms every journey into an adventurous symphony.
Hyundai’s Aerodynamic Revolution: Unveiling the Active Air Skirt
In a bold leap toward enhancing the efficiency and stability of EVs, Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have unveiled the groundbreaking Active Air Skirt (AAS) technology. This innovative system, strategically positioned between the front bumper and front wheels, dynamically controls the airflow beneath the vehicle during high-speed driving, reducing aerodynamic resistance and significantly improving EVs’ driving range and stability.
AAS is an invisible force at lower speeds, tucked away between the front bumper and wheels. It comes alive when the vehicle hits speeds over 80 km/h, precisely when aerodynamic resistance surpasses rolling resistance, and it can operate seamlessly at speeds exceeding 200 km/h. The technology is cleverly stowed away again at 70 km/h, avoiding unnecessary activation in specific speed ranges. The system improves aerodynamics and enhances downforce, thereby improving vehicle traction and high-speed stability.
The Korean manufacturing giant is weaving a tapestry of technologies, from rear spoilers to active air flaps, wheel air curtains, wheel gap reducers, and separation traps. The Hyundai IONIQ 6, embodying these advancements, proudly claims a global leading Cd of 0.21.
Kia Goes Beyond Mobility
Kia’s vision for the future unfolds with the Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) showcased at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), presenting a total mobility solution that merges purpose-built electric vehicles (EVs) with advanced software. This strategic move aligns with Hyundai Motor Group’s exploration of robotics, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), and autonomous driving.
Kia’s PBV strategy extends beyond vehicles, offering a comprehensive approach that combines EVs with advanced software rooted in Hyundai Motor Group’s software-to-everything (SDx) strategy. This paradigm shift aims to redefine space through customisable interiors, offering flexibility through modular design. “Easy Swap” technology allows a single chassis to serve various mobility needs, transforming the PBV into taxis, delivery vans, or recreational vehicles with “Dynamic Hybrid” weldless body structure assembly.
Kia’s PBVs are enablers of business innovation with a three-phase roadmap that unfolds as follows:
Phase One introduces the versatile Kia Concept PV5, an EV optimised for hailing, delivery, and utilities. It focuses on creating custom business fleets and PBV-specific solutions, maximising cost-effectiveness through data connectivity.
In Phase Two, PBVs evolve into AI-based mobility platforms, interacting with users through data and ensuring constant updates. This phase introduces new businesses linked with robotics and future technologies.
Phase Three marks the hyper-customisation stage, with PBVs becoming highly customisable, bespoke mobility solutions. They integrate with the future mobility ecosystem, transforming into life platforms within a smart city operating system.