ALL-ELECTRIC LAMBORGHINI LANZADOR CONCEPT
Image © AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI
Lamborghini made a silent but impressive entrance at the 72nd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance with a stunning revelation – the Lanzador, the brand’s inaugural all-electric concept. The Lanzador embodies a groundbreaking Gran Turismo with 2+2 seating and a commanding ground clearance. Blending the prowess of the flagship Revuelto and the versatility of the Urus, this concept also introduces cutting-edge infotainment innovations.
Embracing all-wheel-drive prowess, the Lanzador boasts electric motors on both axles, guaranteeing seamless all-electric performance regardless of conditions or terrain. The concept wields an astounding peak power of over one megawatt, energised by what Lamborghini says will be a state-of-the-art high-performance battery to ensure power and range. The cabin seamlessly marries Lamborghini’s sustainability philosophy with luxury, quality, and durability.
Breaking new ground with its elevated ground clearance and distinctive 2+2 seating configuration, the Lanzador initiates an Ultra GT category for Lamborghini. Melding typical electric performance with a lively driving experience, Lamborghini predicts this concept to fulfil dual roles as a dynamic super sports car and a practical daily driver.
Complementing the Lanzador’s reveal, Lamborghini also showcased the 750 kW plug-in hybrid Revuelto with a new V12 mid-engine.
The first all-electric Lamborghini will likely be built on the new SSP Sport platform, with development being led by Porsche. However, Lamborghini does not seem to be in any hurry to launch the production version as the brand aims to release the Lanzador in 2028, thus aligning with the 60th anniversary of the Lamborghini Espada, its iconic 2+2 GT.
THRIVING JOURNEYS BEGIN AT WORLD’S FIRST PORSCHE CHARGING LOUNGE
Image © PORSCHE AG
An emblem of modernity, power, and opulence on the open road, the groundbreaking Porsche Charging Lounge is a haven designed exclusively for Porsche EV owners on the move. Nestled strategically along bustling routes with continuous traffic, these 24/7 havens offer high-speed charging and a luxurious ambience, seamless billing, and ultra-comfort for those embarking on long expeditions.
A glimpse of the future is presented at the pilot locale in Bingen. Presently boasting 300 kW charging capability, the stations are poised for an upgrade to a robust 400 kW per charging point by early next year. Vital green touches are incorporated, including harnessing power solely from certified renewable sources, and heating and cooling via a fossil fuel-free heat pump, partly powered by rooftop photovoltaic solar cells. Crafted for an enjoyable sojourn, modern restroom facilities are at hand alongside an array of refreshments.
These cutting-edge Porsche Charging Lounges are seamlessly integrated into the Porsche Charging Service, even appearing on the navigation system. The convenience of centralised billing is handled by Porsche, maintaining a competitive price of €0.33 per kilowatt-hour in Europe.
KIA CONCEPT EV9: REDEFINING THE SUV FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Image © KIA
Kia is charging forward in the era of sustainable mobility with the groundbreaking Concept EV9. More than just a showpiece, this visionary concept reimagines the SUV landscape, combining captivating aesthetics, revolutionary interiors, and a cutting-edge all-electric powertrain.
Scheduled to debut in Europe in 2023, the production version of the Concept EV9 builds on the success of the acclaimed EV6 crossover launched last year. Powered by Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and marrying a striking exterior with a visionary interior space, the Concept EV9 epitomises an eco-friendly and future-conscious SUV.
This three-row SUV is 4,930 mm long, 2,055 mm wide, 1,790 mm tall, and has a 3,100 mm wheelbase, creating an imposing on-road presence. The innovative Digital Tiger Face, replacing the traditional grille, is as innovative as the roof incorporating solar panels for added energy.
An interactive 27” ultra-wide display acts as a nerve centre for media, climate, and comfort control, and the steering wheel, reimagined as a pop-up steering pad, seamlessly integrates into the cabin’s futuristic layout.
The Concept EV9 introduces three interior modes that adapt to various journey situations. Active Mode is when the Concept EV9 is on the move. Pause Mode transforms the cabin into a first-class lounge, enabling face-to-face interactions among occupants. Enjoy Mode provides a downtime space, allowing passengers to connect with the outside environment while basking in comfort.
HYUNDAI SHOWS OFF HIGH-PERFORMANCE ALL-ELECTRIC IONIQ 5 N
Image © HYUNDAI
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, the N brand’s first high-performance, all-electric model, took to the world stage at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed. Amalgamating the standard model’s E-GMP with N’s racing-inspired technologies, the IONIQ 5 N is engineered to excel under N’s three performance pillars: ‘Corner Rascal,’ ‘Racetrack Capability,’ and ‘Everyday Sportscar.’
Corner Rascal prowess is achieved through a strengthened body-in-white structure, enhanced motor and battery mounting, and optimised subframes. Rally-inspired integrated drive axles and performance-focused steering components ensure responsiveness and precision on the road. N Pedal software and N Drift Optimizer enhance dynamic driving, while N Torque Distribution and electronic limited-slip differential elevate performance.
For enhanced Racetrack Capability, IONIQ 5 N showcases a 478 kW power output with N Grin Boost activated, equipped with a two-stage inverter for amplified energy efficiency. N Grin Boost and N Launch Control optimise acceleration, while advanced battery thermal management systems and N Brake Regen elevate endurance and braking efficiency on the track.
The IONIQ 5 N experience introduces Everyday Sportscar exhilaration, integrating N e-shift and N Active Sound+ for what Hyundai believes to be a more engaging driving experience. N e-shift simulates the sensation of shifting gears in ICE vehicles, while N Active Sound+ augments EV sound with ICE-inspired engine and exhaust notes.
Report by WILHELM LOOTS
