Kia EV5: Electric Mobility for Millennial Families
Last month, Kia, the Korean brand that has been winning hearts and minds, and garnering international awards for its compelling line of EVs, unveiled the all-new Kia EV5, an electric SUV designed for millennial families.
As a dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) built on Kia’s E-GMP platform, it combines striking SUV design with various innovative features and advanced technology.
Offering powertrain options catering to different market demands, the standard model comes equipped with a 64 kWh battery and a 160 kW motor, offering an estimated 345 km per charge range. And for those who want to go the extra mile, the long-range model, powered by an 88kWh battery, is expected to achieve a reasonable 470 km per charge.
Designed to adapt to different climates with an advanced heat pump system, it also features regenerative braking and an i-Pedal system, allowing for single-pedal operation.
One standout feature is the EV5’s interior space. Inspired by the larger EV9 SUV, it resembles a cosy home lounge, offering a range of seating configurations with features like relaxation seats with massage functions, and even a full-flat folding second-row camping seat.
The cabin is packed with cutting-edge infotainment and connectivity technology, including a connected car Navigation Cockpit, over-the-air software updates, a Panoramic Wide Display, and an optional windshield Head-Up Display.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functions enable the vehicle to share surplus battery energy with external devices and even the grid, further contributing to sustainability.
Porsche’s Electric Nautical Marvel
Porsche’s latest venture isn’t a sports car but a sports boat. Teaming up with the esteemed Frauscher shipyard, Porsche has set sail into uncharted waters to create the Frauscher × Porsche 850 Fantom Air – an exceptional electric sports boat that could entirely transform the boating industry.
The mastermind behind this innovative vessel is Jörg Kerner, Head of the Macan Series at Porsche.
As with land-based EVs, the electric motor delivers an instantaneous power surge, propelling the boat to a cruising speed of 20.5 knots (38 km/h).
Apart from the instant torque and silent cruising, the key to this exceptional vessel lies in its design. The Frauscher × Porsche 850 Fantom Air has the drive unit and batteries positioned low in the hull, providing unrivalled stability and control. This design enables a smooth, horizontal glide over the water. There’s no roar, even at a top speed of 100 km/h, and the boat remains practically flat on the surface.
Nearly nine metres in length, with room for up to nine passengers, this is not just a prototype. A first edition can already be pre-ordered for delivery in 2024.
The Frauscher × Porsche 850 Fantom Air offers an unrivalled electric boating experience without compromising performance or design. With Porsche Engineering at the helm, this project has set sail into a new era of sustainable and silent cruising. Porsche has indeed brought electric performance to the water, redefining the expectations for an entire industry.
Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV: Pinnacle of Luxury and Sustainability
Mercedes-Maybach is setting a new benchmark in the luxury electric SUV segment with the unveiling of the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV.
The exterior design features iconic Maybach touches, such as a distinct chrome-trimmed front end, a star-studded hood, and black panels with integrated radar sensors. It offers a two-tone paint scheme and can be enhanced with the Night Series package, which adds dark chrome elements for a more progressive look.
The interior is a fusion of tradition and avant-garde, with the standard MBUX Hyperscreen for a sophisticated digital experience. The First-Class Rear option provides passengers with a luxurious lounge feel, with heated and ventilated seats and calf massages.
Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV prioritises air quality with a HEPA filter and active scenting, including a unique fragrance named No.12 MOOD ebony. The 4D surround sound system enhances the acoustic experience, including an interactive “Aerial Grace” driving sound.
The luxury SUV focuses on noise comfort with extensive NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) measures, ensuring a tranquil cabin. The suspension offers the highest level of driving comfort, and the MAYBACH driving program is designed to maximise comfort for rear passengers.
As for performance, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV, with its 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, boasts an impressive 484 kW and has an estimated range of up to 600 km.
Citroën ë-C3: Cosy and Affordable Electric Comfort
Citroën has unveiled its latest electric offering, the all-new ë-C3, marking a significant milestone in the race towards more affordable EVs. This versatile city car brings forth impressive features, making it an attractive option for urban and suburban driving.
Customers can choose from two well-equipped versions: ‘You’ and ‘Max,’ catering to different preferences and needs. Both options are powered by an 83 kW electric motor and equipped with a 44 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, offering an adequate range of approximately 320 km (WLTP cycle). Fast charging capabilities enable you to reach 80% capacity in just 26 minutes.
The ë-C3 introduces Citroën Advanced Comfort suspension with progressive hydraulic stops and new, more comfortable seats. The raised driving position enhances visibility, while the spacious interior offers more headroom and elbow room than the competition.
The ë-C3 boasts the “C-Zen Lounge” cabin concept, featuring a 10.25-inch colour touchscreen with smartphone mirroring (in the top-of-the-range “Max” series), a head-up display and integrated smartphone holder using NFC technology for easy access to essential information and seamless app usage. A wide range of driver assistance technologies ensures safety and peace of mind during every journey.
Citroën aims to make electric mobility accessible to all, pricing the ë-C3 starting from €23,300 (±R466,000), and they plan to release an even more affordable ë-C3 with a 200 km range, starting from €19,990 (±R400,000).
With a perfect blend of features and competitive pricing, this electric car could redefine the landscape for urban commuting.
