The future belongs to electric vehicles. That couldn’t be further from the truth as cities across the globe embark on their plan to ban gasoline-powered vehicles. Britain is looking to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030. Singapore is also planning to phase out petrol vehicles by 2040.
With the end of combustion cars in sight, auto manufacturers are already rolling out electric vehicles (EV) to cater to the rising demand. It is projected that the market will reach over 26 million units by the end of the decade.
The EV market is clearly heating up. Even more so in the coming year with several new models due to arrive. Here are some that will not just positively charge your commute and provide a jolt of excitement in the progress.
AUDI E-TRON GT
The electric grand tourer is a stunning piece of machinery with a reported range of 400km. It is also expected to feature twin electric motors, producing 637bhp. The century sprint is achieved in 3.5 seconds and it can go flat out at 240kmh. Coming off the same assembly line as the Audi R8 at the Böllinger Höfe facility, the new electric sports car will feature a combination of cutting-edge production technology and skilled craftsmanship. Since the dynamic work of art must also sound good, this fully-electric Gran Turismo will also feature its own distinctive e-sound, with over 30 individual sound elements.
HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC
Hyundai has been making waves in the EV circuit with its intent to launch three new electric models this year. It is also constructing a new innovation centre in Singapore, which will act as an R&D lab and manufacturing facility for its new electric vehicles. Immediate off the blocks though is the new Hyundai Kona Electric, which has been given a stylish redesign. The fully-electric subcompact SUV features a choice of a 64kWh or 39.2 kWh battery delivering 204Ps and 136Ps respectively. Both powertrains offer 395Nm of torque, ensuring zero compromise on performance.
FIAT 500
Fiat has electrified its iconic 500, providing EV enthusiasts with an electric car that exudes retrospective appeal. Cool looks aside, the model boasts an interior filled with the latest tech and an impressive usable range of 320km. The Italian city car is equipped with a 42kWh battery with an 85kW charging system with rapid charging capabilities. The Fiat 500 goes from 0-100kmh in nine seconds, which is impressive for what is essentially a city-centric commuter.
BMW iX
The boys at BMW have been in the e-mobility game longer than most. This is evident by its success in producing stunning electric vehicles such as the i3 and i8. This year, the premium German marquee will release the new BMW iX, which is poised to redefine the EV driving experience. The new Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), arrives with an all-wheel drive train powered by a pair of electric motors, producing over 500hp. The interior has been designed to offer a lounge-like ambience with displays and controls stripped down to the essentials to produce an uncluttered cabin.
VOLVO XC40 RECHARGE PURE ELECTRIC P8
Despite being Volvo’s first all-electric car, the XC40 P8 is pretty impressive. It is also the first of five electric vehicles the Swedish company intends to launch over the next several years. Volvo’s first EV is based on the hot-selling XC40 compact premium SUV and is rated with a 400km range. A fast charge feature is also able to fill its battery up to 80 percent in as little as 40 minutes. The XC40 P8’s long range does not come at the expense of performance as its twin electric motors is able to produce a total of 408hp.
FORD MUSTANG MACH-E
It’s a Mustang but not quite the type you are familiar with. Ford is using the beloved nameplate of its iconic muscle car for its new electric SUV, which will hit roads later this year. The model features a driving range of over 590km according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Ford will also option a range-extended battery for customers to undertake longer journeys more confidently. Inside, Ford has kitted the Mustang Mach-E with the next-generation SYNC communications and entertainment system. It will also feature a FordPass Connect on-board modem, which will continuously deliver secure over-the-air updates, in order to enhance vehicle performance.