Neuron EV T.ONE
It looks like electric pickups are the new hot thing now that the likes of Rivian and Tesla have occupied the space front and center. Now, Los Angeles-based Neuron EV just pulled the covers back…
Bentley EXP 100 GT Concept EV
Bentley took us for a wild ride during its centenary celebration with a trio of stunning limited edition automobiles. This luxurious collection includes two Continental GT variants and one from the Mulsanne range. The first out of the gates is the Number 9 Edition, which was followed by the W.O. Edition, then by the Number 1 Edition. All three are unique homages to the British marque’s grand automotive history. It appears that the curtains are staying open this time for the Bentley EXP 100 GT.
It’s not often that we get a pleasant surprise such as this extravagant concept coupe. Thinking that the festivities are over, we were not expecting that the company was hiding another ace under its sleeve. Shortly after remembering its exceptional past, Bentley is teasing us with the future of transportation. The electric powertrain can generate up to 1,106 lb-ft of torque. This pushes the EV from standstill to 60 miles per hour in just 2.5 seconds with a top speed of 186 miles per hour. It’s no slouch when it comes to range either. We’re looking at up to 435 miles on a full charge.
The first thing the caught our attention was the front-end dominated by a grille with thousands of LEDs that meld with its headlights. The light show extends higher up as a strip of LEDs runs along the length of the bonnet and ends just the illuminated Flying B ornament. So far, we are loving the colorway combination of ash, copper, and silver. Step inside the lavish cabin to bear witness to the sheer opulence of the Bentley EXP 100 GT. It can seat up to four people but can adjust to give more space for two passengers in autonomous mode.
Images courtesy of Bentley Motors
Lightyear One Solar Electric Car
The automotive industry is marketing electric vehicles as zero-emission alternatives to raise environmental awareness. However, depending on how your local power grid generates electricity, it might not meet the qualifications. In concept, these models are indeed emission-free, but the need to plug it in will make you think otherwise. If you want to cast all doubt aside, the Lightyear One is the all-electric machine that rightfully earns the aforementioned classification.
To be clear, the Lightyear One can still charge using the outlet or charging stations, it has an ace up its sleeve. A closer inspection reveals the innovative approach that the EV takes to keep its batteries juiced up. State-of-the-art solar cells are covering the roof as well as the hood. There are 16.5 feet of these soaking up the rays under a durable sheet of safety glass.
The company claims that it is robust enough to support a full-grown adult. Likewise, these are not your standard solar cells, because each panel works independently. Moreover, these reportedly generate 20 percent more energy than traditional models. Although it can in theory fully charge the batteries, it will take way longer than plugging it in.
The Lightyear One can manage about 450 miles on a full charge but will be longer when the solar cells do their job. We believe that solar charging is its biggest feature that other EVs will eventually adapt later on. Each of the in-wheel motors reduces energy loss and provides exceptional handling during your drive. Pre-orders are now available with 500 examples available for the first run and a 2021 delivery date.
Images courtesy of Lightyear
Tesla Truckla
Given enough time, Elon Musk will eventually push Tesla to add more EV models to its lineup. Right now, we’re looking at the Model S, Model X, and Model 3 as its available offerings. Meanwhile, the Roadster, Semi, And Model 3 are on its way soon. So far, we have a sedan, a coupe, a crossover SUV, and a semi-trailer truck, but we know there will be more. On the other hand, if you have the skills, the time, the tools, and the willingness to destroy a perfectly good Model 3, then check out the Tesla Truckla.
What we’re looking at here is a custom all-electric single-cab pickup truck. To give credit where it’s due, this is one impressive work that showcases what Tesla can potentially offer in the future. The mad scientist behind this project is Simone Luna Louise Söderlund Giertz or just Simone Giertz for short. This Swedish mechanical maven loves to tinker around with robotics and also dabbles around as an inventor, TV host, and a YouTuber.
Her DIY masterpiece takes a brand new Tesla Model 3, an angle grinder, a welder, and some elbow grease to complete. In our opinion, the process is cringe-worthy because you’re seeing a pristine sedan getting cut up like it’s in a gory slasher movie. The part of the video where she starts to key the trunk makes us tear up. Anyway, her team started off by stripping off the interior of the vehicle then proceeded to remove the beams and the rear structure of the car. Thankfully, after installing the bed as well as the cargo rack, the Tesla Truckla becomes one awesome ride
Check out her YouTube channel here
[embedded content]Image and video courtesy of Simone Giertz
Citroën 19_19 Concept Car
With the exception of upcoming supercars and hypercars, it seems like futuristic car designs are on a whole new level. Don’t take it the wrong way, because we just love how designers are coming up with unique aesthetics. Not only are these concept models parading eye-catching looks, but the interior layout also blows us away. One recent model that best illustrates what we wrote is the Citroën 19_19. This concept car looks like it’s about to lift off and take flight with a switch of a button.
A closer look at the form factor of the vehicle reminds us of the Citroën RE2 helicopter, which was made in the 70s. The carmaker is showcasing this concept to celebrate its centenary year in the business. The space-age ride seems like it traveled back in time to join the festivities and we’re loving it. It’s about as big as a mid-size SUV that can accommodate up to four people including the driver. You might be wondering what it’s doing with all that extra space and the answer lies inside the cabin.
Citroën describes the interior of the 19_19 as a “true living room on wheels.” We’re nodding in agreement after seeing the seating configuration within. The driver’s seat appears to offer superior comfort and support, which serves its purpose. Meanwhile, the front passenger seat appears to be a luxurious recliner with a motorized footrest. Moreover, the read seats likewise look plush and inviting. This makes us think that whoever is driving is getting the short end of the stick when going on a trip.
Powering the Citroën 19_19 is a 100 kWh battery that operates two electric motors that generate up 456 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Finally, It can zoom from 0-62 mph in five seconds with a top speed of 124 mph. Owners will be getting an estimated mileage of 497 miles on a single charge.
Images courtesy of Citroën
Mandalaki Birò O2 Is An Eco-Friendly EV
Going all-electric is surely a novel approach that a lot of carmakers have in the pipeline. To be honest, we are looking forward to seeing more electric vehicles (EVs) in the coming years. In contrast, oil companies will be doing everything they can to keep conventional transportation alive. Meanwhile, the Mandalaki Birò O2 made its debut at the Milan design week with a pleasant surprise.
What makes this all-electric city car so remarkable is the choice of materials for its construction. The manufacturer reveals that the O2 is even more eco-friendly than the original model from Estrima. It appears that 80-percent of this two-seat four-wheeler is fashioned out of recycled plastics. It’s a brilliant move to reuse waste that normally just ends in the ocean or landfills.
Just like other applications, the company takes the reusable plastic waste and turn it into powder. These are then molded into parts that make up the EV. Interested buyers don’t have to wait long to be able to drive one. The Mandalaki Birò O2 will be available sometime in July, which is great for those willing to make the switch. We just wish that big-name manufacturers would eventually apply the same concept to their vehicles.
Other than its ecological advantages, the Mandalaki Birò O2 will have no problems with parking. Its compact design is just enough to let you park in a space made for scooters. On the flipside, those who already own the regular Birò won’t see much difference. However, it’s an attractive option for eco-minded individuals.
Electric Ford Bronco By Zero Labs
Zero Labs is officially developing the first-ever all-electric Ford Bronco. Ford has already confirmed that the iconic truck is coming back, but Zero Labs jumped the gun and announced its first production vehicle — “the world’s first 100 percent electric classic Ford Bronco.”
Zero Labs based it on the 1966 to 77 Ford Bronco, with a carbon fiber update on the body construction. You’ll also find an Atlas 2 two-speed transfer case, telematics, and all-digital display. The company says this marks the first in what will be yearly rollouts of limited-run, all-electric classics. Maybe a Porsche 911 EV is due someday? Sign us up, please.
Zero Labs will only make 150 units of this debut Ford Bronco restoration. There’s no pricing yet, unfortunately. But the company did say the price tag would fall within the top 10 to 15 percent of the high-end restomod market. That’s about $300,000, if you must know. That certainly puts the car out of most budgets. But it makes sense because Zero Labs is targeting purists.
“We realize, this isn’t for everyone. That’s OK because we could never make enough for everyone,” says Zero Labs. “We expect our customer has done their homework and knows pricing for these vehicles from premium builders can run $160,000 to 300,000.”
The all-electric Ford Bronco will be hand-built in Los Angeles. It will retain much of the styling lifted from the base model. However, it will come with over 1,000 newly designed components and parts. Underneath will be a lithium-ion battery boasting a capacity of 70kWh. That’s enough juice for a maximum range of 190 miles on a single charge.
Photos courtesy of Zero Labs
VW I.D. BUGGY Concept Is One Playful EV
The future of the automotive industry is clearly heading for something greener. The environmental impact of burning fossil fuels is reaching alarming levels. Therefore, carmakers are making a collective effort to reduce or even eliminate carbon emissions. We’ve already taken a big step with hybrid models, but electric motors are even better. Tesla proves that electric vehicles (EVs) are capable of replacing conventional types and carmakers are following suit. Last year, Volkswagen gave us a preview of its future EV lineup. Now, it seems that they’re adding another with the VW I.D. BUGGY.
The latest addition to Volkswagen’s I.D. series makes its debut at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. Just like the previous two, it sports an eye-catching coat of paint. The Buzz and the Buzz Cargo are flaunting bright yellow and blue colors respectively. Meanwhile, the BUGGY is flaunting a body that mostly neon green. They’re calling it Fern Green with a mix of Grey Tech Blue. It’s apparently using the same modular electric drive matrix platform as its two siblings. Nostalgic consumers will find it a wonderful homage to original dune buggies from the sixties.
This concept ride uses a rear-wheel drive configuration and promises a mileage of up to 155 miles. A floor-mounted 62 kWh lithium-ion battery supplies all the power it needs. Another interesting feature is the removable upper body, which opens it up for a lot of customization options. Just like its original source of inspiration, the VW I.D. BUGGY is devoid of windows or a roof, save for black tarp for cover. Each 18-inch wheel sports BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A off-road rubbers, that’s ready to handle various surfaces. We really hope that this fun and awesome ride does not stay in concept limbo.
Images courtesy of Volkswagen
The SONDORS EV IS An Affordable Three-Wheel Upstart
Ownership of an electric vehicle still generally commands a premium cost. However, that might soon change with the introduction of affordable offerings. One, in particular, is a three-wheeler from SONDORS that will reportedly sell $10,000 only. Despite, its budget-friendly price, we are looking at a marvelous EV that sports a mechanically-sound design.
It’s great to see that consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of conventional automobiles. Of course, Tesla continues to be at the forefront of EV technology. Nevertheless, the majority of other automakers are likewise switching over to all-electric models. For now, the technology is just steadily seeing adoption, but its components are still far from being cheap.
Therefore, the affordability is making the SONDORS EV nothing short of a gamechanger for the industry. Looking back at the company’s roots, we know that its engineers know a thing or two about battery-powered transport. In 2015, the release of its electric bike took the market by storm after a highly successful crowdfunding campaign. It’s great that the California-based manufacturer is moving on to something even bigger.
Personally, we think that the form factor of the SONDORS electric vehicle needs a little work. It can be mistaken for a supercar up front, but as you circle around to the rear, it tapers down to a single wheel. Nevertheless, apart from the unique aesthetic, this three-wheeler can carry up to three passengers. The seating arrangement accommodates two on the front and one at the back. Meanwhile, its 1,800-pound weight allows it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than eight seconds. Mileage on a single charge can range from 75 to 200 miles depending on the lithium-ion battery configuration.
Images courtesy of SONDORS
Go All-Electric With The 2019 Audi E-Tron SUV
Tesla is still the reigning carmaker when it comes to availability and sales of electric vehicles (EVs). However, the competition is about to get a little heated as more automotive companies make the switch from traditional engines. European badges such as Porsche, Volkswagen, Renault, and more are already working on their projects. Meanwhile, the 2019 Audi e-tron will apparently make its way into dealerships this spring.
It’s clear that burning fossil fuels have a detrimental impact on our environment. Researchers are urging various industries to cut back their usage in order to avoid an ecological disaster in the near future. That’s why EVs are steadily becoming more popular options for buyers.
This five-seater SUV, the first ever battery-powered model from the German brand. The dual AC induction motors draw power from a 95kWh lithium-ion battery. The setup manages to produce around 402 horsepower with 490 lb-ft of torque. It uses a single-speed direct-drive transmission to transfer power to its all-wheel-drive system. With a top speed of 124 mph, the EV can go from 0-60 in under six seconds.
According to the manufacturer, charging the 2019 Audi e-tron using the 150kW public charger can get you up to 80 percent in 30 minutes. Meanwhile, the supplied home charging capsule takes around 9 hours to completely charge the SUV. Tests claim that a full battery can drive you up to 160 miles before it needs to top up. To sum it all up, those who want to break away from Tesla’s shadow over the EV market now have alternatives in near future. Prices start at $74,800 for the Premium Plus version, while the snazzier Prestige edition goes for $81,800.
Images courtesy of Audi
All-Electric Volkswagen Microbus
Remember the Volkswagen I.D. Buzz microbus that was presented last year as a concept? Well, the German automaker is pushing through with it, taking the iconic microbus and reimagining it as two new fully electric vans, one of which will be released sometime in 2020. The two new vehicles are named I.D. Buzz and I.D. Buzz Cargo.
The former is a transporter van, while the latter a commercial one. The Cargo may hit the road before the I.D. Buzz concept, which might not come to showrooms until 2022.
The I.D. Buzz Cargo will come equipped with a battery boasting a range of up to 340 miles per charge, but it’ll also have a large solar roof panel that will supposedly extend its daily range by an extra nine miles. The vehicle’s top speed will be kept at a maximum of 99mph.
The van will also have fast-charging capabilities. Customers will be able to charge their I.D. Buzz Cargo up to 80% capacity in just 15 minutes when hooked up to a 150kW fast-charging system. Those are insane charging times; faster than most phones, even.
And if you’re going to buy the bus for haulage purposes, you’re in luck as the interior comes fully connected with a cargo tracking system that will let passengers track orders and manage online supply networks from inside the cabin.
All in all, it sounds like Volkswagen is preparing for a mighty comeback of its passenger and commercial van, which sounds perfect because it hasn’t had a van in the US market since 2014. We’re thrilled about this news and we’ll let you know as we learn more.
2018 Audi PB18 e-tron
The 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance not only unveiled several new offerings from automakers. It was also an event that hinted an upcoming and welcome change in the industry. Over the years, we’ve noted that manufacturers have begun to steadily shy away from fossil fuels in favor of greener technology. Therefore, the noticeable upsurge of electric vehicles (EVs). Several luxury and supercar brands have already pushed out exciting concepts that will likely see production soon. Another willingly jumps into the bandwagon with the 2018 Audi PB18 e-tron.
By comparison, Audi’s concept EV comes in a sporty and angular, albeit chunkier form factor. Their approach is unlike the others that attempt a sleeker and curvy façade. This single-seater uses three potent electric motors combined to produce 500 kW and 612.2 lb-ft of torque. Make sure that your three-point harness is on as you blast off from 0-62 mph in just 2 seconds.
To ensure a consistent driving experience, the coupe’s 95kWh solid-state battery is liquid-cooled to maintain its ideal operating temperature—the system is likewise configured to process 800 volts of charging voltage, which fully recharges the unit in just 15 minutes. Moreover, with Audi Wireless Charging built-in, you can keep the EV topped up minus the cables.
The radical design reportedly came from the brand’s new studio in Malibu, California, which uses a combination of carbon, multi-material composites, and aluminum—this gives the 2018 Audi PB18 e-tron a total weight of only 3,417.2 lbs not including the operator. The monochromatic tone of its cockpit receives some contrast from the red and metallic accents. We hope to see more EVs come out in the next few years as we move forward to a future that relies more on renewable energy.
Photos courtesy of Audi
Kalashnikov CV-1 Concept Electric Supercar
Get ready for a big surprise as the most unlikely manufacturer enters the electric vehicle (EV) market. We’re serious because the Kalashnikov CV-1 concept supercar comes from none other than the weapon maker. Yes, that’s right, move aside Tesla, because just like the infamous assault rifle from the same brand, it plans to take on whatever the competition throws its way.
Its quaint vintage appearance was reportedly inspired by the IZh 2125 Kombi that saw production from 1973 to 1997. We also understand that it’s difficult to take seriously due to its retro appearance and pale blue paintwork. Yet, sources claim that it has an ace up its sleeve. According to insiders, deep within the hood is a never-before-seen inverter tech. It apparently allows the hatchback to travel a range of approximately 350 km. Moreover, this is allegedly possible on just a single charge of its 90 kWh battery. Meanwhile, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h clocks in at around 6.0 seconds.
Kalashnikov kept most of the details away from the public and did not specify a timeframe as to when the CV-1 will hit local markets in Russia. We are genuinely interested to know how much it will cost to own this so-called electric “supercar” in the near future.
Photos courtesy of Kalashnikov
Moke Electric Beach Car
Moke America brings you an all-electric version of its popular Moke beach cruiser lineup, officially called the eMoke.
You might have heard of the name “Moke” before. The brand has an interesting history. It was first developed as an offshoot Austin Mini, rebodied specifically for military use, but its lack of off-road ability pretty much cut its military stint short.
But good things came out of the rubble. The Moke band saw resurgence among beachgoers and the yachting crowd, becoming the de facto grab-bag brand for beach-bound vehicles. That second calling endured for many decades. Now Moke is revamping its beach cruiser into a battery-powered low-speed vehicle in the United States.
Though Moke has swapped out the gas engine for an electric powertrain, the eMoke looks unmistakably just like its predecessors, with that signature dune buggy frame still in place, 4 long-back seats, and totally water and weather resistant interiors and exteriors. Yup, you can hose down this car inside and out and it’ll still work, which makes sense considering it’ll mostly be used in beach getaways.
The eMoke gets power from a 110V outlet, and fills up in just eight hours. Just note that max range on a full charge is only about 40 miles at a max speed of 25mph. No surprise there, Mokes weren’t made to be fast.
Inside you’ll find an optional stereo head unit that accepts Bluetooth and USB inputs. Between the seats is a simple console with one cupholder up front, a shift lever, and a handbrake.
Despite Moke’s British origins, eMokes are assembled in the United States, and most, if not all of its parts come from America as well.
Photos courtesy of Moke
All-Electric Jaguar E-Type Zero
Jaguar is giving Tesla a run for its money. Its just-unveiled Jaguar E-Type Zero is an all-electric retrofitting of the classic sports car from decades ago.
Tesla should really be scared. The carmaker has confirmed it will begin restoring and converting its legendary two-seater roadster to run on electric power. Deliveries are expected to commence in the summer of 2020.
Jaguar founder Enzo Ferrari once regarded the E-Type as “the most beautiful car in the world.” He was right. Plus, even if the E-Type wasn’t the most beautiful, it served as the epitome of elegance on four wheels at the time.
Now, the most beautiful car in the world returns 45 years after being discontinued. This time, without a 4.2-litre straight-six engine. The carmaker will also allow existing E-Type owners to have their cars converted into electric vehicles. Should customers change their minds, however, Jaguar claims the process is fully reversible.
The Jaguar E-Type Zero boasts an all-new carbon fiber and aluminum exterior. You’ll also find a a classic steering wheel and a huge digital touchscreen. Barring those upgrades, the iconic car remains largely identical to the original iteration. That means you get the same driving experience (albeit way less noisier, of course). The original DOHC six-cylinder engine and gearbox is out. In comes a 40kWh battery pack taken from Jaguar’s all-electric i-Pace SUV, and it fits perfectly where the original engine was.
Jaguar wants to keep mum on the finer details but says that the car will be nearly identical to the original — except, of course, when it comes to acceleration, which will certainly be higher thanks to the electric powertrain’s insane torque. Pricing is unclear at the moment, but color us intrigued.
Photos courtesy of Jaguar
Peugeot e-Legend Concept Electric Coupe
Like it or not, you cannot deny that automakers are already making the gradual shift to electric-powered vehicles. Conventional automotive purists might object and state that a gasoline or diesel-powered transport is the only way to go. Yet, we have to understand that environmental experts have conducted studies that reveal why fossil fuel is not sustainable.
We’re glad that an overwhelming number of manufacturers have opted to follow Tesla’s footsteps. Peugeot is the latest marque to join the fun and it does so in a flashy and exciting way. Now let’s jump right in and explore the nuances of the e-Legend Concept.
Right away, avid fans of the French carmaker might be at a loss for words regarding the design language flaunted by the e-Legend Concept. Don’t take it the wrong way, it actually looks amazing, but if you were expecting something with more of a European flair, then it might not be your cup of tea. We were stunned to discover that it exudes an aura of Americana with its pony car-inspired form factor. Just like us, we know some of you are impressed.
According to Peugeot, this sporty electric-powered coupe will boast advanced motor technology that generates up to 456 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Its acceleration is no slouch either with a 0-62 mph sprint completed in less than four seconds with a 137 mph top speed. Other than its looks and performance the e-Legend Concept is projected to deliver at least 373 miles on a single charge. It looks like the future is bright for EVs.
Photos courtesy of Peugeot
Mercedes-Benz EQ Silver Arrow
Car expos are great avenues for automotive geeks to enjoy the latest and greatest from carmakers all around the world. If you’re lucky, the event you are attending might even see the debut of something different. Manufacturers often rely on these annual gatherings to flaunt what they have planned for the future—this means that there are usually concept cars in abundance.
This year’s Concours d’ Elegance at Pebble Beach is no different and featured several jaw-dropping prototypes. We’ve narrowed down our favorites and by far, we are ensnared by the Mercedes-Benz EQ Silver Arrow. This single-seater oozes an aura that makes it look like a machine directly transported from a futuristic sci-fi flick. The designers and engineers from the German luxury automobile brand were reportedly inspired by past racing accomplishments. Coupled with a dash of ground-breaking tech, this speedster is poised to burn rubber minus the environmental impact.
Packing electric motors on each of its axles, the EQ Silver Arrow can muster up to 738 horsepower. We found it quite classy how Mercedes-Benz managed to combine a stylish distribution of blue accents all over its body. Other than the glowing LEDs both on the exterior and within the cockpit, the blue four-point harnesses and stitching on its brown leather upholstery lend a welcome contrast.
Moreover, the onboard system will actively alert the operator whenever a particular lane features inductive charging—a technology already in the planning stages to benefit electric vehicles moving forward.
Photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz