In the eyes of many people, Elon Musk is often portrayed as an unpleasant figure. Nevertheless, the world technology industry owes a lot to him, especially in the field of automotive electrification. One of them was when Tesla decided to open wide the access to its patents in 2014.
This fully electric-powered Xpeng G3 inspired by Tesla Model X. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2ORxPWB)
In fact, it is difficult to designate which auto manufacturers utilize the patents held by Tesla in the development of electric cars. But some did not hesitate to reveal to the public that Tesla was his biggest inspiration. One of them is Xiaopeng Motors, a Chinese startup company that was founded shortly after Tesla published its patent rights above.
Right side view of fully electric-powered Xpeng G3. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2ORxPWB)
Four years later precisely in 2018, Xiaopeng finally officially unveiled the figure of its first fully electric-powered car named Xpeng G3. From the exterior appearance is still not too similar to the Tesla Model X even though they are both SUV types. However, when entering into the cabin, then immediately seen the resemblance.
Dashboard view of fully electric-powered Xpeng G3. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2ORxPWB)
Starting from a minimalist look dashboard with a large vertical-oriented screen in the center, up to the display of the digital instrument panel, everything is almost identical as made by Tesla. Even the panoramic windshield of Xpeng G3 is also is also one of the features of the Tesla Model X.
Interior view of fully electric-powered Xpeng G3. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2ORxPWB)
But the similarity stopped in the interior. Even though Xiaopeng uses almost the same battery technology as Tesla, but the Xpeng G3's mileage efficiency is still less than the Tesla Model X, from the two electric SUV variants offered are estimated to be able to cover a distance of ± 351 km and 365 km in a single battery charges.
Likewise, the performance of this electric SUV is also far from impressive, for example its ability to accelerate from 0 - 50 km/h (not 100 km/h) is done in 3.8 seconds. The maximum power output only reaches 145 kW from its permanent magnet synchronous motor, while the torque is around 300 Nm.
A little surprising, Xiaopeng apparently did not forget to embed a series of sensors to realize the autonomous driving tech features on the Xpeng G3. Not only that, the person who was appointed to be the leader of the autonomous division was Junli Gu, who used to be the machine learning lead on Tesla’s Autopilot team who took part in developing those car's autonomous driving program.
Furthermore one of the Xpeng G3 mainstay features is its ability to park without a driver by only relying on its autonomous driving technology. Look at the video below;
All of these can be obtained by the China's automotive consumers at very affordable prices, starting from 227,800 yuan, or around Rp.480 million, before being subsidized by the government. Yes, because in China there're subsidies policy for those who buy an electric car, so after subsidies, the price of the Xpeng G3 is only around 136,000 yuan, or ± Rp. 287 million. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ELEKTREK | INSIDEEVS] Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
As was stated In the previous article, there's an American startup company wants to launch an electric-powered supercar. This zero emissions supercar will be launched at the Monterey Car Week 2019 in Pebble Beach, California.
Drako GTE is an all-electric, 1200-horsepower sedan with a claimed top speed of 206 mph. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/30fabV5)
And the company, named after its co-founder Dean Drako, turned out to be on time to fulfill its promise. On Friday morning at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering during Monterey Car Week 2019, the company unveiled its striking new all-electric supercar which is given the simple name Drako GTE.
Drako GTE has made its debut at Monterey Car Week 2019 in Pebble Beach, California. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/309d2iI)
And whatever your feelings regarding its exterior styling, the GTE is a supercar powered by four electric motors, which altogether able to spew out 1,200 horsepower and 6,490 lb-ft of torque. With a maximum torque differential between each wheel set to 3245 lb-ft, the company brags the GTE is able to precisely rotate and corner like no other car.
Drako GTE, a sleek four-door with an aggressive stance, uses four individual permanent-magnet hybrid synchronous motors paired with their own direct drive gearboxes. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/309RJxi)
Yes, the car uses four permanent-magnet hybrid synchronous motors (225 kW/302 hp each) to produce that 1,200 hp of power so able to make the car speeding up to reach top speed of 206 mph. Beside that on the car also has Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires to support its extreme performance.
The car's performance figures mentioned above were made possible by the incorporation of Drako DriveOS, a software system that that replaces conventional mechanical axle differentials with computer-managed four-wheel torque vectoring; so that the motors mounted on each wheel can be controlled instantly and independently for maximum traction, stability, and handling responsiveness. The entire system is controlled by a single ECU, making it far less complex than computer networks in most modern vehicles today.
Drako Motors plans to build GTE only 25 examples starting at $1.25 million apiecewith deliveries expected to begin in 2020. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/309RJxi)
That car unveiled after roughly six years of development, is based on a Fisker Karma platform, but every panel except the doors is new. Indeed, the sensuous lines of the carbon-fiber bodywork were penned by Lowie Vermeersch (ex-Pininfarina design director) who has been owned a design house in Turin, named GranStudio. But what lies underneath—namely, an innovative battery, four electric motors, and that proprietary Drako DriveOS software to run it all—truly sets this new supercar apart.
At this point, this road-going hypercar with accommodations for four people uses a 90 kWh battery holds the power, and it’s capable of fast recharging through 150 kW outlets. Drako, however, seems more interested in sharing the GTE's admittedly impressive track performance, because we aren’t given stats on range or recharge time.
Honestly, such things probably won’t matter to GTE buyers. The company plans to build just 25 models at $1.25 million each, with deliveries expected to begin in 2020. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRAKO MOTORS | RIDE | MOTOR1 | MOTORTREND | FORBES]
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Who does not know the name of Ken Okuyama? He is a world-famous car designer, who worked for Pininfarina until 2006 and many other world's car companies. And Now through his own automotive design company called 'Ken Okuyama Design,' looks actively giving birth to many unique concept cars.
Ken Okuyama's electric-powered car named Kode 8 as shown at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2H815Cb)
Among the many automotive works that he has been designed and made, it turns out that Ken Okuyama also ever made an electric-powered car design.
This car named Kode 8 or k.o 8, an electric-powered vehicle equipped with a lithium-ion battery. It was introduced as a prototype at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show along with its predecessor, Kode 7.
Front side view of Ken Okuyama's electric-powered car named Kode8. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2YSeOIg)
According to the company, its electric-powered car model performed with “Modern, simple, timeless” as Ken Okuyama's concept. In the form of the sleek beauty as you see pictured above, the Kode 8. The EV has a lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum chassis and it is not surprising the car's overall weight is low.
Ken Okuyama's electric-powered car named Kode 8 being prepared at the company workshop. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2YSeOIg)
The Kode 8 is a coupé with a length of 3.71 meters, featuring traditional fenders enclosing the wheels and also has a removable targa top. It is a pure electric vehicle and powered by lithium-ion batteries and has a range of about 100 miles.
Ken Okuyama's electric-powered car named Kode8 with its scissor-typed doors open. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2YSeOIg)
To drive its all four wheels, the car uses three-phase electric motors that capable spewed power of 100 kW. Even though it's a small power numbers, it contrasts with high torque and is instantly used to make significant acceleration.
Technical specification of Ken Okuyama's electric-powered car named Kode 8. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/31EGMUL)
From the exterior look, at a glance the car will remind us of the IFR Aspid model from Spaniard auto manufacturer. Of course with the use of a powerful drivetrain, lightweight body and the real speed will be the characteristics of this model.
Interior and steering wheel view of Ken Okuyama's electric-powered car named Kode 8. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2Z9oFZu)
The Kode 8 EV will be built in Japan for worldwide export and in limited numbers (some said 99 units). When these EV lands on the market, with an alternative drivetrain for petrol-fueled car products, and also it will offer an alternative to the famous Testa EV Roadster.
Rear view of Ken Okuyama's electric-powered car named Kode 8 or k.o 8 as shown at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2OWteTn)
As quoted of Autoblog, shortly after the Geneva auto expo those Japanese auto design company said that the Kode 8 lacked both battery and motor which is not to say it won't be built but will likely take some more time to get the electric drivetrain together.
From
the company statement above arouse a big question, whether the Kode 8
EV production stalled due to lack of materials or zero demands? And until the 2009 Geneva Motor Show was held a year after, the Kode 8 EV never shown up and never been heard since then.
*** (If the info was not valid, tell us via comment box below completed with the source infos of yours. We will make an approriated revision shortly after that.) *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KEN OKUYAMA DESIGN | AUTOBLOG | ROAD&TRACK | CAR BODY DESIGN | DIARIMOTOR]
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Elon Musk is planning to bring pickup as an additional model into the Tesla line of car productions. But a woman who loves electric cars can't wait, so she turned her Tesla Model 3 into a pickup model.
YouTuber Simone Giertz turned her Tesla Model 3 into a dash-looking pickup and dubs it 'Truckla.' (Picture from: http://bit.ly/31CouDT)
As quoted from The Verge, there's a creative woman named Simone Giertz who also known as a YouTuber was tired of waiting for Elon Musk to leak his latest Tesla pickup model, so she decided to make it by herself.
Then she invited her friends to give birth to her Tesla dream pickup. And then the car result dubbed Truckla. And she said, "It took me a year to design up to the finished pickup."
She said that took a year to design up to a finished 'Truckla' pickup model. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/31CouDT)
From the second row of of Tesla Model 3 up to the rear section was cut then made such a way into a pickup shaped. Imagine, Giertz was willing to build these Truckla because of her love to electric cars.
"My goal is to never own a gas car," Giertz said. "I'm a part of a new generation of drivers that will only drive electric. I feel like I should pad this a little bit, but I'm not going to. Fuck oil companies. Seriously, fuck them."
Giertz was willing to build these Truckla because of her love to electric cars. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/31CouDT)
Not much change was revealed, Giertz said for roof racks and roofs using parts from the Ford and Chevy older trucks. But to run this project is not without obstacles. After removing the back seat and trunk of its many parts, the modified Model 3 refused to start.
Luckily, Giertz was accompanied by a team of mechanics and DIY car modifiers to tackle the project such as Marcos Ramirez, a Bay Area maker, mechanic and artist; Boston-based Richard Benoit, whose YouTube channel Rich Rebuilds is largely dedicated to the modification of pre-owned Tesla models; and German designer and YouTuber Laura Kampf, and obviously the problem was resolved soon.
Giertz said the project was not meant to mock Elon Musk that she was one step ahead. "This process has destructive steps in the beginning but the ultimate goal is constructive. And I did it because I really wanted this car. This was really my dream car," Giertz said. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THE VERGE]
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Entering the era of vehicle electrification as it is today, various world's automotive manufacturers are competing to make electric cars, ranging from Hybrid, Plug in Hybrid, Battery Electric Vehicles up to Fuel Cells.
One of them is Hyundai, one of South Korean auto manufacturers through its Hyundai Sonata brand which is then transformed those conventional-engined four-door sedan into a hybrid car combined with solar panels mounted on the roof.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid with roofted solar panel and new transmission tech be able to increase the distance up to 1,300 km per year. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2KgarxF)
With the application of solar panel technology, it means that the Sonata Hybrid no longer depends on deceleration when braking to recharge the batteries. Hyundai further said that with the solar panels making the vehicle batteries can be recharged within 6 hours. So the car is estimated to be able to increase the distance up to 1,300 km per year.
The difference between the Sonata's moderately-electric model, and those only with an engine, is that the Sonata Hybrid has a solar panel on the roof.. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2GMUxZI)
And by using the hybrid technology, the Sonata can be felt its efficiency while the engine is in low speed. For example, when the car is dealing with traffic congestion, due to the power used is sourced from its battery.
The new Active Shift Control technology on Hyundai Sonata Hybrid promises to deliver smoother gear changes despite quicker shift times. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2KgarxF)
Hyundai also uses the new Active Shift Control technology on the Sonata Hybrid. It was also mentioned that the technology is able to control the electric motor so as to make the engine's rotation and transmission system become aligned and can reduce gearshift time by up to 30 percent.
Hybrid drive system scheme on the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2KgarxF)
These South Korean auto manufacturer says that its mid-size green sedans have fuel efficiency of up to 20.1 kilometers per liter if equipped with 16 inch smaller alloy rims. On 17-inch larger wheels, the figure slightly drops to 19.1 kilometers per liter.
What about the performance? the Sonata Hybrid uses a 2.0 liter Smartstream engine with continuous variable valve timing, which can produce the power up to 152 PS. Those engine then paired with a single electric motor that can produce power of 38 kw, or about 52 PS. So that the total power output from a combination of Sonata Hybrid's engine and electric motor is 195 PS..
As for the transmission system, Hyundai does not use an ordinary Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). Instead, they developed a six-speed automatic transmission system specifically made for the Sonata Hybrid. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HYUNDAI USA | WHEEL.AE]
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After waiting for a long time, finally the latest Corvette figure is finally released. Yes, since 3 years ago when all of us for the first time saw a glimpse of the car.
And now, so far the curiosity of us has finally paid off because Chevy recently on July 18. 2019 has been launched the 8th generation Corvete car named Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray.
This car is also reportedly going to be released in 2020. And from its current appearance there is no change that is more than just a paradigm for the most iconic sports car in America.
Front three quarter view of All-new 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/30EBl7K)
Likely the American automotive manufacturer wants to turn back 'on' their mid-engined Corvette that first was initiated by Zora Arkus-Duntov in more than half a century ago. And for decades, many mid-engined car prototypes have begun to be shown to public. Some of them almost get the green light to enter the production line.
Interior view of All-new 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2JVgHtm)
As quoted of Motor1, the new mid-engine cabin layout gives the Corvette a completely fresh greenhouse with a pair of digital displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. The wraparound arrangement looks quite cozy and driver-centric, with a beefy center console separating the driver from the passenger.
Left side view of All-new 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/32ylLwt)
And something of a surprise in this age of clean lines – fans of buttons will love the veritable drag strip of manual controls nestled in the C8’s center spine. Some might find the buttons – which operate the Corvette’s climate functions for the dash and seats – to be unsightly. However, there is something to be said for simply pressing a switch as opposed to navigating a display.
Rear three quarter view of All-new 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/30EBl7K)
As quoted from Road Show, the company said the car designed with potential electrification in mind. And when asked more about that, the manufacturer did not elaborate further. So there is speculation that the possibility of the car will using a mild-hybrid powertrain or use a front-axle electric motor to add all-wheel drive.
As far as is known, this car will use a LT2 6.2-liter pushrod V8 engine able to make 495 horsepower of power and 470 pound-feet of torque. Then those power is handled exclusively by the latest eight-speed automatic double clutch system, so that enough to shove the mostly aluminum C8 Corvette to 60 miles per hour in less than 3 seconds (when equipped with the optional Z51 performance package).
And with a starting price tags of $60,000, it sounds like an absolute bargain. How's that? Do you want to have it later? *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ROAD SHOW | AUTOEVOLUTION] Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Not everyone knows the Lotus name in the automotive world, but those who know for sure have no doubt about the reputation of those British manufacturer in the racing world. That's why when circulated news about Lotus's plan to make an electric-powered car, many were impatient waiting for proof of its ferocity.
That day is approaching. Lotus has just officially unveiled its first electric car. The super car was named Lotus Evija, it sat in the electric hypercar category and was in the same class as the Pininfarina Battista which was introduced last March.
The first Lotus electric-powered hypercar called Evija previous known as Type 130. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2YXh5hh)
In terms of appearance, Evija was no less exotic, mainly thanks to a series of curves and air holes sculpted in its body, and it said was inspired by Le Mans racing cars. The use of carbon fiber monoque chassis also makes the Evija can be said the lightest electric-powered hypercar, with weights ranging from 1,680 kilograms.
Likely we can expect the performance factor from Lotus, due to Evija's performance is the main selling point. And its four electric motors are believed to be the four-wheel drive, with power output of 1,972 horsepower and 1,700 Nm of torque. Its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h reached easily in less than three seconds.
Lotus also claims Evija can reach speeds of 300 km/h in less than 9 seconds, which also the company claimed is an outstanding achievement among other cars in the class. The car's top speed itself is said can be reach the figure of 320 km/hour.
All-new Lotus Evija uses four electric motors are believed to be the four-wheel drive. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2YXh5hh)
Though the Evija's speeding ability was extraordinary, Lotus apparently did not forget the efficiency factor. The 70 kWh battery which is embedded behind Evija's backs - is intentionally positioned like that to maintain the hallmark of Lotus's middle engined cars - so it able to supply enough energy to travel up to 400 kilometers.
Not only that, Lotus had even designed so that the battery can be charged with an output of 800 kW, so the recharging process only takes 9 minutes from empty to full. But keep in mind, so far the charging technology of electric cars as fast as that is still not publicly available.
All-new Lotus Evija holds 70 kWh battery which is embedded behind Evija's backs. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2YXh5hh)
By using the fastest charger unit that is available today(350 kW), Lotus claims Evija only takes 12 minutes to fill 80% of its battery capacity, or 18 minutes for full charging. Yes, the fast definition for Lotus doesn't seem to stop at the car's speeding capability, but also includes its battery charging speed.
Entering the cabin, we can see the combination between modern style and racing style, both of which lead to the principle of minimalism. The instrument panel behind the steering wheel is the only screen that we can find on Evija's cabin, and the steering wheel itself further strengthens the overall racing aura.
All-new Lotus Evija electric motors able to spew out the power of 1,972 horsepower and 1,700 Nm of torque. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2YXh5hh)
Nevertheless, Evija is also designed to be suitable for daily use. This can be seen from a colored knob on the steering wheel, which gives the driver access to five driving modes with different performance characters: Range, City, Tour, Sport, and Track.
From a digital perspective, Lotus ensures Evija will continue to be connected to cloud networks thanks to its integrated modem. This means that Evija will receive a number of updates and improvements through updated software like Tesla cars; and car owners can also access a number of settings, such as turning on the cooling system before entering the car, through the Evija companion application on the smartphone.
When is this car ready to roll? Don't know yet, but certainly the production phase of Lotus Evija will begin next year. Lotus plans to produce Evija in limited numbers, ie only 130 units. And each unit is priced starting at £1.7 million, or approximately equivalent to Rp.29.5 billion. WOW! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOTUS | ELECTREK]
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In order to commemorate its centennial anniversary, Bentley is looking forward to the future with the electric autonomous concept car rather than revisiting the past. The British company launched a prototype electric-powered car called the Bentley EXP 100 GT which is claimed to be a zero-emissions transformative concept car. The one-off concept car was unveiled on July 10, 2019, at Bentley's headquarters in Crewe. The concept car imagines an ultra-posh grand tourer for the year 2035. And it's stunning from every angle.
Bentley EXP 100 GT concept car was unveiled at the company's headquarter in Crewe on July 10, 2019. (Picture from: https://cnet.co/2XPiObp)
How's not, the concept of this car is equipped with a ton of luxury on the outside and inside. The carbon fiber and aluminum built low-slung GT resembles a car out of Batman: The Animated Series.
The
Bentley EXP 100 GT is a battery-electric vehicle with four motors enabling torque vectoring to make the most of the system's peak torque output of 1,100 lb-ft. These motors allow for a zero-to-sixty mph run of
2.5 seconds, and a top speed of 186 mph (299.34 kph). A horsepower figure hasn't been given yet.
Bentley EXP 100 GT is the future of the luxury marque. (Picture from: https://yhoo.it/2NIkZt9)
Besides that, there're many unique and sophisticated features that are also installed on this car, such as the headlights are very attractive because of looks as they blend with the front grill design. And the company said that those massive front grill made of 6,000 LED bulbs, separated by a slim piece of copper, gives the front fascia an unmistakable expression.
Actually, the Bentley EXP 100 GT is not Bentley's first all-electric concept car. The automaker has previously launched the Bentley EXP 12 Speed 6e convertible at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. As reported by Engadget, July 10, 2019, even the interior design combines a spaceship with natural materials including 5,000-year-old copper-infused Riverwood. Bentley stated that all car materials were present to help create a sustainable luxury future. It even has its own 'ethically-aware' fragrance.
Left side view of Bentley EXP 100 GT concept car with its door open. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/2LjdMOm)
One of the attractions of the Bentley EXP 100 GT is its battery's ability to carry the car running up to 435 miles (700.07 km). The car also has a promising fast charging time, which is only 15 minutes for charging from 0 to 80 percent of the battery capacity.
Then there is also the sophistication of the future that is installed on this car is the application of Artificial Intelligence/AI technology, which is named Bentley Personal Assistant which has many tasks like a butler to serve his master in the mansions. Its tasks such as charging vehicles, adjusting seats, and curating the experience of passengers through biometric information, environmental conditions, etc.
Even it offers several different driving modes for passengers such as Enhance, Cocoon, Capture, Re-Live and Customize. In Enhance mode it is intended to resemble open-air driving with a glass roof. Cocoon creates a protective space by blocking other people from seeing inside. While Capture records a trip, and Re-Live plays a trip highlight.
In order to feel the luxury, the Bentley EXP 100 GT is equipped with an autonomous mode. So, when Cocoon is activated, the driver can take a nap without being seen from the outside. Again, this is still a concept. So it's possible there are still design changes or features in the future.
The Bentley EXP 100 GT will probably be able to preview Bentley's first all-electric production model, which has the due date in the year 2025. Bentley also plans to add hybrid powertrain options to each of its models by 2023. The process will begin later this year with the launch of Bentayga Hybrid. It is not yet clear whether Bentley will use the same powertrain in other hybrid models, or something different. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BENTLEY | ENGADGET | CNET | FINANCE-YAHOO | SLASHGEAR | MOTOR1]
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