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Karma Reveals SC2 Concept at LA Auto Show

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  • Karma’s SC2 Concept Car Previews Future Design Direction and Company’s Emergence as Technology Incubator
  • SC2 to Deliver 1,100 HP and 0-60 mph in less than 1.9 Seconds
  • Karma’s Drive and Play® Technology Integrates Racing Simulation and Gaming Experience into SC2

IRVINE, Calif. (November 19, 2019) – Karma Automotive today launched its SC2 concept car during AutoMobility LA and the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show. Featuring cutting-edge technology and design, SC2 is a bold demonstration of Karma’s emergence as a high-tech mobility incubator, embodying world class luxury design and Karma IP.

“Karma’s SC2 is a signpost to our future as a technology-driven brand. More than that, it previews our future design language, and is a thought-provoking expression of Karma’s future Intellectual Property and product offerings,” says Karma Automotive CEO Dr Lance Zhou. “Our open platform serves as a test bed for new technologies and partnerships, where we are to provide engineering, design, technology and customization resources others.”

A striking full BEV concept, SC2 delivers an impressive 1,100 HP and advances from 0 to 60mph in under 1.9 seconds. Front and rear mounted twin electric motors deliver 800 kW peak power, with 10,500 lb.-ft (14,000 Nm) wheel torque. SC2 provides 350 miles of pure electric range, and is equipped with carbon ceramic brakes, a push-rod operated racing suspension and a Karma torque vectoring gearbox. An ultrasonic dynamic regenerative panel gives SC2 high performance handling and hand braking expected in an electric hyper car. The result is a vehicle as adept at navigating the tight curves and adrenaline-inducing straights of California’s mountain, canyon and coastal regions as it suited to stun Hollywood’s elite along Los Angeles’s famed Rodeo Drive.

“SC2 presents an optimistic and bold message about Karma’s future as we enthusiastically accept the challenge of elevating experience-driven mobility,” says Karma VP, Global Design and Architecture, Andreas Thurner. “In creating SC2, we have enhanced the thrill of the open road through connected, interactive patented technology, beyond that of a traditional high-performance luxury vehicle.”

Through Karma’s one-of-a-kind Drive and Play® technology incorporated in SC2, automotive and gaming enthusiasts can re-live their previous drives through simulated driving experiences in their own vehicles. A triple high definition camera under the windshield and frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) lidar sensors provide 360 capture of the car in motion, within a 3D environment. Simultaneously, SC2’s intelligent technology captures the entire driving experience in real-time; turns, braking, acceleration, light simulations, sounds, air temperature and audio playlist. After the drive, SC2’s adaptive laser projector replays the journey while the vehicle is parked, while a mounted smartphone acts as the cabin’s rear-view mirror; transforming SC2 into a driving simulator where the user can re-experience their drive and fine-tune their skills. Drivers can then share their Drive and Play® experience with others, and also stream drivers’ routes from around the world within their own vehicles, experiencing driving simulations at world-famous roads and race tracks.

“SC2’s extreme design and proportions are expressive of Karma’s unique intersections of technology, performance and luxury,” says Thurner. “We challenged ourselves to design a street-ready hypercar concept, using Karma’s in-house IP and components. Now, through Karma’s open-platform, SC2’s technology can be integrated into a variety of future vehicles.”

SC2 embodies Karma’s distinct design identity in its stance and surface. A bespoke Vapor Gray hand-painted body draws inspiration from the brand’s sleek, technology-focused future, while optimized aerodynamics leads the exterior design. Generous length from front axle to windscreen remains a distinct Karma design characteristic, while patented articulating hinge winged doors gently rising upward and forward to reveal a fiber optic headliner and stunning silhouette. Inside SC2, an I-shaped 120kWh battery is housed in the center tunnel beneath the dashboard and seats.

Long-range radars, cameras, and FMCW lidar sensors throughout ready SC2 for a safe and realistic autonomous future, while Karma’s Ultra Sonic Sensor Stalk technology supports launch control and regenerative braking, lending itself to a harmonious blend between regeneration and friction brakes. Vehicle entry is through fingerprint and facial recognition sensors. Inside the cabin, intelligent technology enhances the user experience: Biometric seats and steering wheel provide both control and comfort, 3D audio creates individual sound zones for driver and passenger, and electro chromatic glass shifts from clear to opaque for privacy and light sensitivity.

Beyond its growing technology story, Karma’s current momentum is also driven by a period of rapid product introduction, including the U.S. launch of its 2020 Revero GT luxury electric vehicle, to be followed by a new Karma global platform in 2021 and supported by a rapidly increasing retail footprint.

Media and industry professionals can register for 2019 AutoMobility LA (Nov. 18 – 21) at http://automobilityla.com/register/; tickets to the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show (Nov. 22 – Dec. 1) are available at https://laautoshow.com/tickets/.

Meet Karma Group and the 2020 Revero GT

As our name implies, Southern California-based Karma Group is more than just a car company. Although we are best known as a creator of soul-stirring luxury electric vehicles, Karma has emerged as a high-tech incubator offering innovators a perfect platform to prove their emerging technologies. Founded in 2014, Karma is reinventing the traditional retail-based automotive business model to create non-traditional value by opening its engineering, design, customization and manufacturing resources to other companies looking to speed product development, access new technology, or make their products more luxurious. The Revero GT is a luxury electric vehicle powered by dual electric motors that embodies Karma’s goals of offering leading automotive design, technology, customization and an outstanding customer experience. Our growing number of retail partners in North America is accepting pre-orders of the Revero GT now with first deliveries expected during the fourth quarter of 2019. Every Revero GT is created with great individual care and world-class craftsmanship at the Karma Innovation and Customization Center in Moreno Valley, Calif.

Learn more about Karma Automotive and Revero at www.karmaautomotive.com or visit the password-free Karma Newsroom at www.karmanewsroom.com for the latest press releases, videos and images — there you will learn why Karma is attracting innovators, entrepreneurs, engineers, designers and others looking for new ways to build a different kind of car company and a better future.

Karma Group Unveils Business Strategy at LA Auto Show

By
George Achorn
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  • Karma Group Assigns Five Dedicated Business Units to Grow Business and Brand Value Beyond Retail Sales Alone
  • Performance Oriented Revero GTS On Sale Q1 2020; SC2 Concept Previews Future Karma Design Direction
  • Karma Demonstrates EREV Conversion Opportunities in Larger Vehicle Platforms

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 19, 2019) – Karma Group, the Southern California-based high-tech mobility incubator and creator of luxury electric vehicles, used its first major North American auto show presence to showcase its technology, design and product story, during AutoMobility LA and the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Karma Group Builds Brand Value Beyond Retail Sales Alone

“Our company is at a time of emergence where our path forward can be explained in greater detail,” said Karma CEO Dr. Lance Zhou, emphasizing that Karma is Southern California’s creator of luxury electric vehicles and the only brand building cars in this region.

“However, Karma is more than just a car company,” he added. “Karma is a high-tech incubator, and a supplier to others who need our engineering, design, customization and manufacturing resources to speed their product development or make use of our ability to apply luxury touches.”

Zhou used AutoMobility LA, the Los Angeles Auto Show’s annual media and industry event, to highlight Karma Group’s five dedicated business tasked with growing long-term brand value, through a combination of retail sales, partnerships, investments, and licensing its engineering, design, customization and contract manufacturing resources.

Karma Group is comprised of:

  • Karma Automotive – Creates luxury electric vehicles and builds Karma’s existing value chain.
  • Karma Technology – Develops technology for Karma vehicles and sells its engineering expertise to others.
  • Karma Design – Drives a clear design identity unique to Karma Automotive and sells design services to others.
  • Karma Innovation and Customization Center – Builds Karma vehicles, grows the company’s customization capabilities and provides contract manufacturing opportunities.
  • Karma Capital – Invests in technology companies and establishes key partnerships to help speed product development.

Karma’s Path Forward = Two Platforms + Two Core Technologies + Five Tech Ecosystems

“Karma’s path to future success combines two platforms with two core technologies and five intelligent ecosystems,” Zhou explained, pointing to its family of Revero vehicles as one platform, and Project e-Klipse, an all-electric global platform that will produce several different models starting in 2021 as the second.

“Our two core technologies include both full-electric vehicles, BEVs, and extended range EVs, or EREVs,” Zhou said. “While we fully embrace an all-electric future, we cannot ignore the great benefits extended-range powertrains offer in parallel.”

Karma’s path forward also relies on five intelligent technology ecosystems:


  • Karma Skateboard     – a modular platform for both BEV and EREV propulsion systems.
  • Karma Cockpit – an immersive and personalized traveling environment.
  • Karma CarNet – Securely connected vehicles with the power of 5G technology.
  • Karma Drive – Passive, active and intelligent safety features and growing autonomous technologies
  • Karma Cloud — Cloud computing, data integration, analytics, and artificial intelligence.

“These ecosystems will be where we plant our competitive flag to achieve our business goals and establish our long-term value proposition,” Zhou explained. “We will use partnerships with startups, academia, companies, service providers, and developers who can benefit from Karma’s five technology ecosystems.”

Karma’s technology-focused ecosystems are supported by fully certified products already on the road that can serve as technology test beds, a fully-operational manufacturing facility, and a complete line of engineering and design resources and key components that can be used by other OEMs and start-ups to bring their products to market faster and with less cost.

Global Product Reveals

To reinforce its continued commitment to it soul-stirring luxury electric vehicles, Karma unveiled two new products at AutoMobility LA — the 2020 Revero GTS, a performance version of its current 2020 Revero GT, and the SC2, a new concept car and evolution of the dramatic SC1 Vision Concept unveiled earlier this year.

The GTS has a completely reengineered all-electric powertrain, and a more refined, more efficient three-cylinder range extender from BMW. Dual electric motors generate 536 HP taking this car

from 0 to 60 in under four seconds with a top speed of 125 mph. Electronic torque vectoring uses the GTS’ traction motors to provide improved performance, grip, handling and stability, and delivers industry-leading wheel torque. The Revero GTS, along with the Revero GT, which is currently available for sale at Karma’s growing list of North American retail partners, is handcrafted at the $100-million-dollar Innovation & Customization Center located in Moreno Valley, Calif.

Featuring cutting-edge technology and design, SC2 is a bold statement to Karma’s emergence as a high-tech mobility incubator, embodying world class luxury design and Karma intellectual property. A striking full BEV concept, SC2 delivers an impressive 1100 HP and advances from 0 to 60mph in under 1.9 seconds. Front and rear mounted twin electric motors deliver 800 kW peak power, with 10,500 lb-ft wheel torque. SC2 is equipped with 350 miles of pure electric range, carbon ceramic brakes, push rod operated racing suspension and a Karma torque vectoring gearbox.

Karma’s EREV Conversion Project

Karma also announced its plan to demonstrate the flexibility of its EREV extended range powertrain technology through a conversion “proof of concept” project developed at its Global Headquarters in Irvine, Calif. The EREV conversion project will prove the viability of EREV systems across a wide range of vehicles beyond light-duty passenger cars and will demonstrate what Karma Technology can do for other companies.

“Extended-range powertrains represent a smart alternative to full battery systems, especially in larger vehicles used by businesses and fleets,” Zhou said.

More information about Karma’s AutoMobility presence can be found on the company media site at www.karmanewsroom.com.

Petersen Museum’s New Exhibit Explores Rise of Electromobility

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petersenmuseum
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Part of the museum’s three-part series of electric vehicle-themed exhibits which opens November 20, 2019, “Alternating Currents: The Fall and Rise of Electric Vehicles” explains the evolving historical circumstances that led to today’s renewed interest in electric vehicles with 13 examples of electric vehicles made for road, trail and track

LOS ANGELES (November 19, 2019) — On Wednesday, November 20, 2019, the Petersen Automotive Museum will debut a new exhibit that explores the history, development and resurgence of electric vehicles. Titled “Alternating Currents: The Fall and Rise of Electric Vehicles,” the display presents 13 classic and contemporary electric vehicles that showcase the adaptability of electric power for various transportation uses.

Located in the museum’s Propulsion Gallery, key vehicles on display include:

  • 1915 Detroit Electric, an early electric car powered by a lead-acid battery
  • 1960 Electric Shopper, a small errand-running car designed for urban consumers
  • 1962 Henney Kilowatt, an electric adaptation of the gasoline-powered Renault Dauphine Sedan
  • 2017 Bollinger Motors B1 prototype, a Class-3 sport utility truck for on-and-off-road hauling
  • 2020 ElectraMeccanica Solo, a single-person vehicle inspired by the Corbin Sparrow

“Electric-powered vehicles represent the future of the automotive industry,” said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges. “This exhibit calls attention for museums and other cultural institutions to document the history of alternative power technologies and preserve examples of this rapidly changing aspect of transportation culture.”

The “Alternating Currents” exhibit will open simultaneously with the museum’s “Building an Electric Future” and “Shifting Paradigms” exhibits in the Production and Chuck Wegner Family Galleries, which explore the history of Volkswagen and its quest to become the world’s foremost electric vehicle manufacturer through the development of its ID series and MEB modular electric platform.

“Alternating Currents” will run through October 2020. For more information about the exhibit, please visit www.Petersen.org/alternating-currents. To learn more about the Petersen Automotive Museum, visit www.Petersen.org.

About Petersen Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charity. The museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Blvd. (at Fairfax) in Los Angeles, 90036. Admission prices are $16 for general admission adults, $14 for seniors and $11 for children ages 4 to 17. Active military with ID, personal care attendants and children under age 4 are admitted free. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For general information, call 323-930-CARS or visit www.Petersen.org.

Electrify America and Lyft Collaborate on Electric Vehicle Rideshare Charging

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electrifyamerica
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LOS ANGELES, CA (November 19, 2019) – Electrify America announced today an agreement with Lyft to provide the rideshare company’s Express Drive program renters of electric vehicles (EV) with convenient and included charging on its DC fast charging network.

Express Drive is Lyft’s short-term car rental program that gives people wanting to drive on the rideshare platform access to an electric vehicle through its rental providers. The ultra-fast DC charging on Electrify America’s network is automatically included with the vehicle’s weekly rental and helps ensure that Lyft’s Express Drive EVs spend less time charging and more time giving rides.

Starting next month in Denver, Colorado, the electric vehicle fleet which was newly introduced to Lyft’s Express Drive program will begin to charge at Electrify America’s seven DC fast charging stations with 30 chargers. The company plans to add approximately 19 additional stations and about 75 more DC fast chargers by the end of 2021 in Denver.

As more electric vehicles are introduced into Lyft’s Express Drive program nationwide, the collaboration with Electrify America will grow to include these DC fast charger benefits in new markets. 

“This unique relationship with Lyft will be a game changer in helping us advance EV adoption and in reaching new consumer audiences through infrastructure, education and awareness initiatives,” said Brendan Jones, chief operating officer at Electrify America. “With this agreement, Lyft drivers will enjoy the advantages of Electrify America’s ultra-fast and convenient charging network to ensure that they can get back on the road quickly to transport riders to their destinations.”

“Lyft’s mission is to improve lives with the world’s best transportation, and part of that commitment is taking action to put more clean vehicles on the road,” said Cal Lankton, Vice President for Fleet and Global Operations at Lyft. “However, we can’t have an impact without providing our drivers with fast, convenient access to charging, which is why we are thrilled to be working with Electrify America.”

About Electrify America

Electrify America LLC, the largest open DC fast charging network in the U.S., is investing $2 billion over 10 years in Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) infrastructure, education and access. The investment will enable millions of Americans to discover the benefits of electric driving and support the build-out of a nationwide network of workplace, community and highway chargers that are convenient and reliable. Electrify America expects to install or have under development approximately 800 total charging station sites with about 3,500 chargers by December 2021. During this period, the company will be expanding to 29 metros and 45 states, including two cross-country routes, delivering on its commitment to support increased ZEV adoption with a network that is comprehensive, technologically advanced and customer friendly. For more information, visit www.electrifyamerica.com. For media, visit www.media.electrifyamerica.com.

About Lyft

Lyft was founded in 2012 by Logan Green and John Zimmer to improve people’s lives with the world’s best transportation, and is available to 95 percent of the United States population as well as select cities in Canada. Lyft is committed to effecting positive change for our cities by offsetting carbon emissions from all rides, and by promoting transportation equity through shared rides, bikeshare systems, electric scooters, and public transit partnerships.

Lyft was founded in 2012 and has over 30 million riders and over 2 million drivers. We are singularly focused on improving people’s lives with the world’s best transportation and committed to building reliable, affordable and sustainable transportation.

Audi RSQ e-tron in Latest ‘Spies in Disguise’ Trailer

By
George Achorn
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Movie product placement is a regular play from Audi. Though more known nowadays for its participation in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the tradition goes back much further. So, when you consider the RSQ e-tron for the upcoming animated Spies in Disguise, it’s crazy to think it’s the second time a made-for-movie-only model named RSQ came to pass not just for a film, but specifically for a Will Smith movie.

The first of course was the Audi RSQ of iRobot. This time around, it’s an animated only version of the car, and notably branded e-tron. Obviously, it’s a lot easier to create a concept car for an animated film, but it’s interesting to consider how much this RSQ could hint at the future of the Audi R8 model line. After all, the first iRobot RSQ hinted strongly at the first-generation R8.

Spies in Disguise hits theaters around Christmas. For now, check out the latest trailer in which the RSQ e-tron figures prominently.

Electric BMW 7-Series Mule Spied

By
George Achorn
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Eagle-eyed spy photographers caught this most interesting looking 7-series on a flat bed near BMW’s own production facility. Though specific spec, BEV or PHEV remains unknown, this BMW 7-series sedan is clearly an electric test vehicle as marked. Also unknown is whether or not this current-generation “7er” is testing a drivetrain planned for it, or it’s successor.

End of production for the current-generation 7-series is June 2022, so theoretically there is still time for BMW to launch an electric 7er or “i7”. Whether this generation or next, there’s no doubt BMW will likely step up to compete with the upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQS.

See more photos below.

Mustang Mach-E Reservation Site Now Live

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ford
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Ford Motor Company Executive Chairman Bill Ford, left, and actor Idris Elba next to Ford Motor Co.’s all-electric Mustang Mach-E GT SUV at Jet Center Los Angeles in Hawthorne, California on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019. Elba, who previously worked at Ford Motor Co. in the 1980s, helped introduce the vehicle to the public. Launching in late 2020, Mustang Mach-E will be available in several variations, including an extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive option that has a targeted EPA-estimated range of at least 300 miles.

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 18, 2019 – Ford customers can now visit the Mustang Mach-E reservation site to reserve their spot in line for the latest addition to the Mustang family.

Launching in late 2020, the all-electric Mustang Mach-E will be available in several variations, including a limited quantity First Edition. A special GT Performance Edition will also be available starting in Spring 2021. Customers can reserve their spot in line for the Mustang Mach-E by making a $500 refundable reservation deposit.1

Customers in the U.S. and Europe who wish to reserve a vehicle can select their desired specification of the Mustang Mach-E, create a Ford account, select their preferred Ford dealer, and enter their credit/debit card details and address.

Those who reserve a vehicle will be able to finalize their configuration next year when the ordering window opens.

1Deposit only allows configuration of a vehicle. Reservation Process is not an order or purchase of vehicle. Deposit does not guarantee delivery of a vehicle. Refunds will be received in 7-10 business days and will be credited. Terms and conditions apply.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan. The company designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, electrified vehicles and Lincoln luxury vehicles, provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company and is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. Ford employs approximately 191,000 people worldwide. For more information regarding Ford, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company, please visit corporate.ford.com.

Volkswagen ID.3 to be Assembled in the Gläserne Manufaktur in Dresden from Fall 2020

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volkswagen
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  • Volkswagen is stepping up the pace for e-mobility
  • Manufaktur is being developed into a hotbed for innovation, new areas of employment are being intensified
  • Gunnar Kilian, Volkswagen AG Board Member for Human Resources: “The location in Saxony has a solid foundation for the Employment levels remain stable.”

Dresden – Volkswagen continues to step up the pace of its electric offensive: The ID.31 will be assembled at the Gläserne Manufaktur in Dresden in addition to the Zwickau plant. This was announced today by Gunnar Killian, Volkswagen AG Board Member for Human Resources, at a works meeting in Dresden. The ID.3 is the first model in the latest generation that Volkswagen is putting on the road under its global electric offensive. The Gläserne Manufaktur is to evolve into a Center of Future Mobility where innovative technologies are developed and tested in collaboration with industry partners and startups. Efforts to pursue new areas of business such as the function testing station are to be intensified. Vehicle collection is to be significantly expanded, and the location is to be made even more attractive as a destination for visitors and customers.

Group Board Member, Gunnar Kilian, underscored: “The decision to bring the ID. family to Dresden lays a solid foundation for the future of this location in Saxony. Employment levels remain stable. And at the same time, we are stepping up the pace for e-mobility. We need the Manufaktur as an important showcase to take our customers on board for e-mobility and  digitalisation.”

The Manufaktur’s site manager, Lars Dittert, commented: “We are building one of Volkswagen’s models for the future with the ID.3 – that is great news for Dresden and Saxony. We will intensify our showcase function for e-mobility and forge ahead with technological developments at the Manufaktur.”

The Chairman of the Manufaktur’s Works Council, Thomas Aehlig, underscored: “Assembly of the ID.3 from fall 2020 is very good news for the team. We have thus safeguarded long-term employment for the core workforce and a positive future perspective for the location. Attention over the coming weeks must now turn to a comprehensive qualification program for the team.”

Jens Rothe, Chairman of the General Works Council at Volkswagen Sachsen, commented: “The uncertainty following the end of Phaeton production is now over. The temporary assembly of the e-Golf means the team in Dresden is extremely well prepared for the future of e-mobility and well equipped for our ID. family. Capacity at the site is efficiently managed and jobs are secure. The General Works Council has always made a great effort to achieve this over the past years.”

Following on from Zwickau, Dresden now becomes the second assembly plant in Germany for the ID.3. The first vehicles from the MEB family are scheduled to leave the assembly line in Dresden from fall 2020. The plant could possibly also assemble further models from the ID. family at a later point in time.

Moreover, in order to lay a solid foundation for the future of the Gläserne Manufaktur there are also plans to establish or expand new areas of business in the fields of vehicle collection, insourcing and vehicle function testing in the border tripoint of Poland, the Czech Republic and Germany. In particular, the function of the location in Dresden as a vehicle collection point is to be expanded, with a specific focus on electric vehicles. Currently, some 1,300 vehicles per year are handed over to customers in Germany. This number is to be significantly increased, thereby providing secure jobs for some 380 employees.

Series production of the ID.3 in Zwickau began exactly two weeks ago at a ceremony attended by Federal Chancellor Dr. Angela Merkel and Group CEO Dr. Herbert Diess. The Group plans to launch up to 75 all-electric models and some 60 hybrid vehicles in the marketplace through 2029. The Volkswagen Group is aiming to sell some 26 million electric vehicles by 2029, thus helping e-vehicles make the breakthrough. The Group is to spend some €33 billion on e-mobility alone.

The Gläserne Manufaktur has been placed on a solid footing for the future in recent months with innovative areas of business such as the “Future Mobility Incubator” and “Future Mobility Campus”, expansion of vehicle collection, the testbed for Production 4.0 and the “Software Development Center Production”. This successful transformation is now being accelerated and intensified even further.

1) ID.3: The vehicle is not yet available for sale in Europe.

2) e-Golf: power consumption, kWh/100 km (NEDC): combined 13,8-12,9; CO2– emission combined in g/km: 0; efficiency class: A+

About the Volkswagen brand:
The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand is present in more than 150 markets throughout the world and produces vehicles at over 50 locations in 14 countries. In 2018, Volkswagen delivered 6,2 million vehicles including bestselling models such as the Golf, Tiguan, Jetta or Passat. Currently, 195,878 people work for Volkswagen across the globe. The brand also has over 10,000 dealerships with 86,000 employees.

Volkswagen is forging ahead consistently with the further development of automobile production. E-mobility, smart mobility and the digital transformation of the brand are the key strategic topics for the future.

The New BMW i4: The Future of Hallmark Brand Driving Pleasure

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bmwag
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With the first purely electrically powered model for the premium mid-range, BMW is transferring the brand’s characteristic core features to the age of locally emissions-free mobility – Fifth-generation BMW eDrive to be introduced for the first time in the BMW iX3 in 2020 and will also be used in the BMW iNEXT and the BMW i4 in 2021 – Advanced battery cell technology enables sporty performance and a range of around 600 kilometres in the BMW i4.

Munich. The heart of the BMW brand beats in the premium segment of the mid- range category. Along with the BMW 4 Series Coupé, BMW 4 Series Convertible and BMW 4 Series Gran Coupé models, it is the BMW 3 Series that brings out the qualities that are key to hallmark brand driving pleasure in a particularly concentrated form. Now BMW is transferring the brand’s characteristic core features to the age of electric mobility – the central purpose in developing the BMW i4. The BMW Group’s first purely electrically powered model for the premium mid-range combines driving dynamics, sporty and elegant design, premium quality and the spacious comfort and functionality of a four-door Gran Coupé with locally emissions-free mobility. This heralds a new era of driving pleasure.

The future of electric mobility will be shaped by fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology, for which the BMW iX3 – to be produced from 2020 onwards – will act as a pioneer, followed by the BMW iNEXT and the BMW i4. With fifth- generation BMW eDrive technology, which also includes the latest innovations in the field of battery cells, the BMW i4 sets new standards in sporty performance, achieving a range of some 600 kilometres.

The development of the BMW i4 is part of a comprehensive product offensive by the BMW Group in the field of models with electrified drive. The company currently has the biggest range of all-electric and plug-in hybrid models within the competitive field. By 2023, the BMW Group will have 25 models with electrified drive in its program. With a model portfolio that includes efficient combustion engines as well as modern plug-in hybrid and purely electric drive, the BMW Group as a globally operating company is taking into account the varying requirements and preferences of its customers in different regions of the world. Irrespective of the type of drive selected, all current and future models feature hallmark brand driving pleasure as part of their specific characteristics.

Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology for optimised dynamics, efficiency and range.
The drive technology of the BMW i4 sets new standards in terms of power density, efficiency and range in locally emissions-free driving. The electric motor, power electronics, charging unit and high-voltage battery have been entirely newly developed. Together they form the BMW eDrive technology of the fifth generation, with which the BMW Group has made further significant advancements in the field of electrified drive. From 2020 onwards, fifth- generation BMW eDrive technology will be introduced first in the BMW iX3 and then in the BMW iNEXT and BMW i4. The electric motor developed for the BMW i4 delivers a maximum output of around 390 kW/530 hp, reaching the level of a V8 engine in current BMW models fitted with a combustion engine. Its spontaneous power delivery gives the BMW i4 outstanding performance characteristics and exceptionally high efficiency.

The fifth generation of BMW eDrive also includes a newly designed high-voltage battery featuring the latest battery cell technology. The design of the high-voltage battery developed for the BMW i4 is characterised by its extremely flat design and optimised energy density. With a weight of some 550 kilograms, it has an energy content of around 80 kWh. This gives the BMW i4 a range of approximately 600 kilometres.

Gran Coupé with characteristic design and performance features.
The all-electric BMW i4 will be produced from 2021 onwards and subsequently launched on the global automotive markets. The new model will be manufactured at the company’s main plant in Munich, where other vehicles produced include the BMW 3 Series Sedan with conventional combustion engine and plug-in hybrid drive, the BMW 3 Series Touring with conventional drive and from summer 2020 also with plug-in hybrid drive, the BMW 4 Series Coupé and the BMW M4 Coupé (fuel consumption combined: 10.0 – 9.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 227 – 213 g/km). In addition to the sporty, elegant design that is typical of a 4-door coupé of the brand, the BMW i4 is characterised by impressive performance features. The BMW i brand’s first Gran Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in around 4.0 seconds, achieving a top speed of more than 200 km/h.

A flexible vehicle architecture, the flat, low-positioned high-voltage battery and the compact drive technology create a high degree of freedom in realising a model- specific design. The BMW i4 combines the characteristic proportions of a 4-door coupé with the typical design features of a BMW i model. Dynamically stretched lines and a precise surface design go hand in hand with aerodynamically optimised exterior features as well as sustainability accentuations that are specific to BMW i. High entry and exit comfort for the rear passengers and a spacious, variable interior ensure high suitability for both day-to-day trips and long-distance travel. As such, the BMW i4 can be clearly identified as a BMW Gran Coupé – and equally clearly as an electrically powered vehicle.

Modular, flexible drive and battery storage technology.
The electric drive component of the BMW i4, its charging unit and high-voltage battery are all developed in-house by the BMW Group. Production is carried out in-house or according to BMW Group specifications. Here, the experience gained from development of the previous generations of BMW eDrive technology is consistently tapped into with the aim of optimising all components on an ongoing basis.

The BMW Group’s comprehensive expertise in the field of electrified drive systems forms the basis for a scalable modular system whose components can be integrated into different vehicle concepts with great flexibility. Fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology comprises a highly integrated drive system in which the electric motor, transmission and power electronics are accommodated in a single housing. This drive system is compatible with all vehicle concepts and will be available for different models in a range of output levels. The highly integrated design of the system allows a significant increase in power density as well as a reduction in weight and manufacturing effort. Production of future-generation electric motors will no longer require materials categorised as rare earths.

The next generation charging unit is characterised by a uniform package suitable for all future vehicle architectures. It can be used in plug-in hybrid models as well as in purely electrically powered vehicles and is designed for a charging capacity of up to 150 kW. This allows the high-voltage battery of the BMW i4 to be charged to around 80 per cent of its full energy content in around 35 minutes. This results in a charging time of around six minutes for a range of 100 kilometres.

In the field of high-voltage batteries, too, the advancements introduced with the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology are based on the BMW Group’s in- depth expertise and years of experience. The company has an exceptionally high level of know-how both in the field of battery cell technology and in the manufacture of model-specific high-voltage batteries. This lays the foundation for continuous optimisation of the batteries – both in future plug-in hybrid models and in purely electrically powered vehicles. The BMW Group has been manufacturing modules and model-specific high-voltage batteries for vehicles with electrified drive systems since 2013. An independently developed modular system with a flexible arrangement of the modules enables integration of batteries developed in-house into various vehicle concepts. Consistent ongoing development work is dedicated to optimising the basic characteristics of the battery cells as well as the structure of the modules and their arrangement in the respective model-specific storage unit. For example, the batteries used in the BMW i4 and other future electric vehicles have a higher number of cells per module, a reduced number of components, a more compact design and increased flexibility with regard to their geometry.

With the establishment of the Battery Cell Competence Centre in Munich, the BMW Group has further expanded its research and development expertise in this area, which is crucial to the future of electromobility. The focus is on fundamental research in areas where there is an impact on customer-related factors such as energy density, accessible peak output, service life, safety, charging characteristics, response at different temperatures and manufacturing costs. At the new Battery Cell Competence Centre, research is being conducted in particular into the potential for further optimisation of cell chemistry and cell design. The selection and composition of materials for the anode, cathode, electrolyte and separator as well as the format of the battery cells made of these materials will have a key impact on the quality of high-voltage batteries used in future models with electrified propulsion.

Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

The figures have already been calculated based on the new WLTP test cycle and adapted to NEDC for comparison purposes. In these vehicles, different figures than those published here may apply for the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related duties which are (also) based on CO2 emissions.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the “Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars”, available free of charge at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.

Audi e-tron Receives ALG Residual Value Award

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  • Industry analytics company ALG announced the Audi e-tron retains its value better than any electric vehicle
  • All-new Audi Q3 is anticipated to carry a higher residual value than any other vehicle in the Premium Subcompact Utility class 
  • ALG’s Residual Value Awards (RVA) recognize vehicles in 27 segments forecasted to retain highest percentage of their MSRP after a three-year period

HERNDON, Va. – The Audi e-tron midsize SUV, the first fully electric Audi model, and new Audi Q3 compact-premium SUV, have both earned ALG Residual Value Awards for 2020. ALG’s Residual Value Awards (RVA) recognize vehicles in 27 segments that are forecasted to retain the highest percentage of their manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) after a three-year period. The e-tron earned the designation for the electric category, while the Q3 won in the Premium Subcompact Utility segment.

For more than 50 years, ALG has used its market insights, industry expertise and leading analytics to become the benchmark for forecasting vehicle values. In 2000, ALG launched its first program recognizing the automotive brands and products that provide best-in-class value to consumers.

The Audi e-tron and Q3 were selected through an analysis of used vehicle performance, brand outlook and product competitiveness. Eligibility for the award requires a manufacturer to have vehicle entries in at least four different segments. To account for differences across trim levels, model averages are weighted based on percentage share relative to the entire model line.

Audi will be among the winning automakers honored during the Los Angeles Auto Show on Nov. 20, 2019, in Los Angeles.

For more details on this year’s ALG Residual Value Award winners visit http://www.alg.com/.

ABOUT AUDI OF AMERICA
Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands, delivering about 1.812 million vehicles globally in 2018. In the U.S., Audi of America sold nearly 224,000 vehicles in 2018. 2019 marks 50 years for the brand in the U.S. Visit audiusa.com or media.audiusa.com for more information regarding Audi vehicles and business topics.

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