William Maley

Ford F-Series Marks Best February Results In 18 Years While All-New Ford Expedition Posts 41 Percent Retail Sales Increase; Lincoln Navigator Posts Gains In All Regions

Cadillac Sales up 14 percent in February Chevrolet and GMC Crossover Demand Surges Enclave, Cars Drive Buick Sales Increase Best February ever for GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse Double-digit growth for GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Suburban Commercial deliveries up 15 percent DETROIT — General Motors (NYSE: GM) today reported 220,905 car, crossover and truck deliveries in the United States in February. Cadillac saw a 14 percent sales increase versus a year ago, driven by the XT5, ATS and the Escalade. Since the beginning of 2018, the Cadillac Escalade has gained significant retail market share and posted large increases in average transaction prices (ATPs) despite new competition in the segment. Through February, Escalade retail sales are up 10 percent, retail segment share is up 3 percentage points and transaction prices are considerably higher, rising about $1,400 per unit to more than $82,700. Chevrolet’s crossovers were up 7 percent compared to a year ago, with the Equinox, Traverse and Bolt EV posting their best-ever February sales. The Chevrolet Suburban and Colorado also had very strong February sales, with deliveries up 28 percent and 7 percent, respectively. GMC crossovers were up 19 percent, with the Terrain posting a 17 percent year-over-year increase, and the Acadia was up 22 percent. A 6 percent gain for the Buick Enclave, which is all-new for 2018, and a 33 percent increase in Buick car deliveries drove a 1 percent increase for the brand. A strong mix of truck and crossover deliveries, a significantly higher mix of 2018 models compared with key competitors and sharply lower incentives year over year helped GM improve ATPs by about $750 per unit, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. Fleet sales were up 7 percent, driven by a 15 percent increase in Commercial deliveries. Calendar year to date, Commercial deliveries are up 33 percent, due to a combination of strong products, business confidence and tax reform. Much of the gain was in full-size pickup trucks, underscoring the strength of the U.S. economy. Small business deliveries also helped drive sharply higher sales of large vans. “Consumer confidence is at its highest level since 2000, the economy is strong, our newest products are selling very well and we have successfully managed the transition to the 2018 model year far better than most of our competitors,” said Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president, Sales Operations. “Customer demand, GM’s new products and upcoming launches are in perfect tune.” Later today, GMC will unveil its all-new 2019 Sierra and Sierra Denali light-duty pickups. On March 7, Chevrolet will unveil the all-new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD and 5500HD, which are chassis cab trucks designed for commercial and small business customers. Later this month, Cadillac will unveil its first-ever XT4 crossover. Other GM Highlights (vs. 2017) GM sales were down 6.9 percent in total and 10 percent on a retail basis compared to an exceptionally strong February 2017. Last year, GM had record sales of crossovers, large SUVs and pickups. The light vehicle SAAR was 17.5 million units, compared with about 17.1 million today. GM’s incentive spending as a percentage of ATP was 13.2 percent, down 1.7 percentage points. Incentive spending for GM was down more than $500 per vehicle, while the industry average was down $64. About half of major automakers increased spending.

FCA US Reports February 2018 Sales Jeep® Brand reports best February retail sales ever, up 10 percent Ram Light Duty reports best February retail sales ever, up 8 percent Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Renegade report best February total sales ever Fleet sales reduced by 3 percent March 1, 2018 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC today reported sales of 165,903 vehicles in February 2018, a 1 percent decrease compared with sales in February 2017 of 168,326 vehicles. Overall sales were bolstered by the Jeep® brand which posted a 12 percent total sales increase. The Jeep brand also reported the best ever February retail sales of 61,122 vehicles. Meanwhile, fleet sales for the month fell by 3 percent compared with February 2017. Fleet accounted for 26 percent of total sales. Jeep Brand Jeep brand total sales increased 12 percent in February to 70,020 vehicles The Jeep Renegade and Jeep Wrangler led the portfolio by reporting their best February sales ever. Wrangler sales increased 17 percent to 15,936 vehicles while Renegade rose 4 percent to 8,249 vehicles. Ram Truck Brand Ram Truck brand sales fell 14 percent to 36,737 vehicles compared with the previous year. Ram fleet sales were cut by 44 percent compared with the prior year. Ram Light Duty pickup retail sales increased 8 percent to 20,384 vehicles. The new 2019 Ram 1500 pickup truck is slated to begin production by the end of March in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Chrysler Brand Chrysler brand total sales declined 3 percent in February to 16,150 vehicles compared with the same month a year ago. The Chrysler Pacifica minivan posted a 27 percent sales increase to 11,482 vehicles. Dodge Brand Dodge brand total sales fell 8 percent to 40,187 vehicles. Sales of the Dodge Charger rose 9 percent to 7,568 vehicles. FIAT Brand Sales of Fiat declined 42 percent to 1,241 vehicles. Alfa Romeo Brand Alfa Romeo brand sales of 1,568 vehicles were up significantly compared with the same month a year ago. Giulia led the brand with 853 sales followed by Stelvio at 695. FCA US LLC Sales Summary February 2018 Month Sales Vol % CYTD Sales Vol % Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Compass 16,026 2,737 486% 26,218 5,901 344% Patriot 116 5,512 -98% 264 10,212 -97% Wrangler 15,936 13,641 17% 27,675 24,975 11% Cherokee 12,225 13,615 -10% 26,846 26,166 3% Grand Cherokee 17,468 18,925 -8% 33,832 36,226 -7% Renegade 8,249 7,915 4% 14,888 17,280 -14% JEEP BRAND 70,020 62,345 12% 129,723 120,760 7% Ram P/U 33,299 39,046 -15% 62,657 72,815 -14% Cargo Van 0 0 0% 0 0 ProMaster Van 2,235 2,648 -16% 4,006 5,999 -33% ProMaster City 1,203 1,091 10% 2,113 2,016 5% RAM BRAND 36,737 42,785 -14% 68,776 80,830 -15% 200 219 2,194 -90% 470 4,055 -88% 300 4,449 5,386 -17% 6,769 10,094 -33% Town & Country 0 108 -100% 2 246 -99% Pacifica 11,482 9,042 27% 19,493 15,712 24% CHRYSLER BRAND 16,150 16,730 -3% 26,734 30,107 -11% Dart 82 1,683 -95% 165 3,080 -95% Avenger 0 0 100% 1 0 Charger 7,568 6,930 9% 12,761 14,083 -9% Challenger 6,093 6,107 0% 9,498 9,500 0% Viper 1 54 -98% 3 107 -97% Journey 4,782 9,906 -52% 8,144 22,542 -64% Caravan 16,443 13,682 20% 26,852 24,452 10% Durango 5,218 5,516 -5% 10,363 10,223 1% DODGE BRAND 40,187 43,878 -8% 67,787 83,987 -19% 500 416 1,131 -63% 870 2,349 -63% 500L 118 72 64% 222 178 25% 500X 484 640 -24% 972 1,240 -22% Spider 223 302 -26% 406 542 -25% FIAT BRAND 1,241 2,145 -42% 2,470 4,309 -43% Giulia 853 411 108% 1,801 481 274% Alfa 4C 20 32 -38% 32 70 -54% Stelvio 695 0 New 1,383 0 New ALFA ROMEO 1,568 443 254% 3,216 551 484% FCA US LLC 165,903 168,326 -1% 298,706 320,544 -7%

Geely Automotive's chairman Li Shufu made headlines last week by dropping $9 billion for 9.69% stake in Daimler AG, making him the biggest shareholder in Mercedes-Benz's parent company. This follows a trend by Geely in buying automakers (Volvo in 2010, a 51 percent stake in Lotus last year). But a new report from Bloomberg reveals Shufu had his eye on a possible bigger prize. Last year, Shufu approached Fiat Chrysler Automobiles about "a potential takeover". According to people familiar with the matter, Geely and FCA held informal talks. Nothing would come to fruition however as the two disagreed on how much FCA would be worth after the completion of the current five-year plan - expected to end this year. At the time of Bloomberg's report, FCA had a market cap value of 27 billion euros (about $33 billion). FCA and Geely declined to comment on Bloomberg's report. Back in August, Automotive News broke the news that various Chinese automakers were interested in possibly acquiring FCA. In fact, one unnamed automaker submitted a bid, but was rejected by FCA for being to low. At the time, Automotive News didn't mention the automaker in question, but Bloomberg's report possibly puts Geely as the one. Later that month, Chinese automaker Great Wall said they were interested in purchasing Jeep, although plans for this would fall apart. Source: Bloomberg View full article

While SUVs and crossovers are dominating the headlines, automakers are continuing to update or introduce new sedans. Case in point is the 2019 Audi A6 which made its debut yesterday. The A6's design borrows a lot of from the recently redesigned A7 and A8. Up front resides a wider grille, large bumper vents, slimmer headlights, and sculpting on the hood. The side profile mostly mimics the A7 with a lower roofline and distinctive character line. Around back is the same trunk lid design and taillight setup as seen on the A8. Overall dimensions have increased very slightly - 0.3 inches longer, 0.5 inches wider, and 0.1 inch taller. Inside, the A6 mimics the A7 and A8 with a 12.3-inch screen with Audi's Virtual Cockpit system in the instrument cluster and the option of a 10.1-inch touchscreen featuring the latest version of Audi's MMI system. A smaller 8.6-inch touchscreen sits below and handles climate and convenience features. One feature that will be available on the European-market A6 will be the ability to use an Android smartphone to start the vehicle - no key required. Audi has only revealed two engine options for the A6. A 3.0L turbocharged gas V6 packs 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. There will also be a 3.0L TDI V6 featuring 286 hp and 457 pound-feet of torque. The gas engine uses a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the diesel makes do with an eight-speed automatic. quattro all-wheel drive comes standard on the two engines, but we expect front-wheel drive to become available as more engines are revealed. All powertrains will feature a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to help improve fuel economy. For ride and handling, Audi will be offering four different suspension setups - standard steel springs, sport suspension, one with adaptive dampers, and air suspension. Optional features include a variable steering ratio system and four-wheel steering. Numerous safety systems will be on offer for the new A6, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, parking assist, and Parking Pilot and Garage Pilot that allows the A6 to autonomously pull in or out of parking space. The 2019 Audi A6 goes on sale in Europe this summer. We expect Audi to provide details on the North American A6 possibly at New York later in March, with sales to begin towards the end of the year. Source: Audi Press Release is on Page 2 Upgrade in the business class: the new Audi A6 Sedan Digitalization: futuristic operating concept and extensive networking Comfort and convenience: wide range of driver assistance systems for even greater safety Sportiness: dynamic all-wheel steering for enhanced agility and outstanding ride comfort Design: sporty, elegant exterior and progressive interior with five trim lines With the new A6, Audi is presenting the eighth generation of its successful full-size Sedan and brings numerous innovations to the segment. Whether in terms of digitalization, comfort or sportiness – the elegantly sculptured Audi A6 is the multitalent in the luxury class. The all-digital MMI touch response system provides intuitive operation. The extensive connectivity and assistance solutions demonstrate networked intelligence. The interior systematically adopts digitalization and is groundbreaking in its segment. The suspension combines smooth ride comfort and high stability with enhanced sportiness. All engines have a mild-hybrid system as standard equipment for convenience and efficiency. MMI touch response operating system – customizable and intuitive The MMI touch response system of the new Audi A6 sets new standards in terms of intuitive operation and personalization. With extensive intelligent personalization options, the car is tailored to the driver: The all-digital operating system allows central vehicle functions to be placed in the required position in the MMI screen using drag-and-drop – similar to the user experience with smartphone apps. Shortcuts and favorites buttons form the ideal basis for individual preferences and superb ease-of-use. Ideal for frequent drivers and fleet customers: Up to seven drivers can store their preferred settings in individual user profiles and set up to 400 parameters. Thanks to its logical and flat menu structure, the system provides fast access to vehicle functions. The configurable favorites buttons help tailor the system to the user’s preferences. As an option, the lighting and multifunction buttons can be fitted with touch response technology. The natural-language control turns the new Audi A6 into an intelligent dialog partner and travel companion: It processes questions and commands in two ways, with onboard stored data and also – in conjunction with MMI navigation plus – with the detailed knowledge from the cloud. The MMI touch response operating system with haptic and acoustic feedback provides rapid, intuitive operation: Users hear and feel a click as confirmation as soon as their finger triggers a function. The driver manages the infotainment on the top display, which has a 10.1-inch screen diagonal if MMI navigation plus has been specified. The bottom 8.6-inch display, located in the console in the center tunnel, is used for the climate control and for the convenience functions and text input; the driver’s wrist can sit on the selector lever of the automatic transmission. In addition, the head-up display projects important information onto the windshield. MMI navigation plus also includes the Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch display. MMI navigation plus and Audi connect – more convenience in the business class The new Audi A6 offers an extensive range of connectivity solutions for superb safety, convenience and personalization. The standard specification includes MMI navigation, with MMI navigation plus – a media hub with a new design – available as an option. The top-of-the-line data transfer module uses the new LTE Advanced standard. MMI navigation plus also offers a host of new navigation features. These include a self-learning function based on the driven routes, which generates intelligent search suggestions. Route guidance is provided online on the servers run by service provider HERE; these servers factor in the traffic situation in the entire region. If the flow of data is interrupted, the navigation switches to the online route guidance that runs in parallel. Six free six-monthly updates are available as standard for the navigation map. MMI navigation plus is even more compelling with the optional add-on modules, including two sound systems. The top-of-the-line version, the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System, also delivers fascinating 3D sound to the rear thanks to its height information. Telephony is also taken to a new level in relation to operation as well as the sound and connection quality thanks to the Audi phone box. Audi connect online services also provide the car-to-X services traffic sign and hazard information. They use the swarm intelligence from the Audi fleet and network the Audi A6 with its environment. Shortly after the market launch, the on-street parking service will be added, which makes looking for a parking space easier. Using the myAudi app, owners of the new A6 can access the brand’s digital services via a smartphone. As an option, the Audi connect key replaces the conventional vehicle key. It makes using the business sedan even more convenient, and allows an Android smartphone to unlock, lock the car and start the engine. Near Field Communication transfers data to the car. The owner can pass the access data onto five people or smartphones. Driver assistance systems Even more comfort, poise and safety on long and short journeys – the new A6 with new and refined driver assistance systems sets new standards in the luxury class. These include the parking pilot and the garage pilot, which are set to extend the range of equipment during the course of the year: They autonomously maneuver the Sedan into and out of a parking space or garage. The driver can get out of the car before activating and monitoring the process using the myAudi app on their smartphone. To do so, the driver must continuously hold down the relevant function key. The parking pilot and the garage pilot form part of the Park assist package, one of three packages. The City assist package includes features such as the new crossing assist. The Tour assist package comes with the adaptive cruise assist, which supplements the adaptive cruise control by means of gentle steering intervention to keep the vehicle in lane, and the efficiency assist, which promotes an economical driving style. Behind the extensive assist systems lies a high-tech module from Audi: the central driver assistance controller (zFAS). It calculates continuously a detailed model of the environment from a fusion of sensor data. Depending on equipment, the sensor set includes up to five radar sensors, five cameras, twelve ultrasonic sensors as well as a laser scanner – another major innovation. Mild-hybrid technology – all engines electrified All engines in the new A6 come with Audi’s new mild-hybrid technology. Here a belt alternator starter (BAS) works together with a lithium-ion battery. The Audi A6 can coast between 55 and 160 km/h (34.2 and 99.4 mph). The start-stop function kicks in up to 22 km/h (13.7 mph). The engine is restarted from standstill predictively as soon as the vehicle in front of the Audi A6 starts moving. During deceleration, the BAS recovers up to 12 kW of energy. In real-world driving, the MHEV technology reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.7 liters per 100 kilometers. Body and dimensions – more legroom in the business class The body of the new Audi A6 also adds to the relaxed atmosphere onboard. One factor is the advanced aerodynamics: With a minimum drag coefficient of 0.24 (with an engine to be released subsequently) and thanks to sophisticated aeroacoustics, the Sedan remains pleasantly quiet, even at high speed. A second factor is the high body rigidity – it forms the basis for the top quality feel and the sporty handling. Audi uses an intelligent mixed construction of steel and aluminum in the body shell. Components such as the front suspension strut dome are made of aluminum, as are the doors, hood/trunk lids and fenders. The interior of the new Audi A6 is even larger than on the outgoing model. With regard to legroom in the rear, it beats the outgoing model and the core competitors. The headroom and shoulder room in the front and rear are also superior to the outgoing model. The luggage compartment offers more loading width – two golf bags can be accommodated horizontally. The capacity remains unchanged at 530 liters (18.7 cu ft). The trunk lid can be opened electrically with a kicking motion. The all-new seats underline the character of the Audi A6 as a poised long-distance sedan. With their numerous adjustment functions, the customized contour seats, front, optionally available with ventilation and massage, provide superb comfort. A good interior climate is likewise ensured: The optional air quality package improves the air with two subtle fragrances, an ionizer and an effective pollutant filter. With its large glass sections, the optional panoramic glass sunroof floods the interior with light. Additional convenience features include the windshield wipers with integrated washer jets and the optional heated windshield. The suspension – as agile as a sports car, as maneuverable as a compact model The new Audi A6 is noticeably sportier than the outgoing model – thanks especially to innovative solutions for the suspension. The already sporty ratio of the standard progressive steering becomes even more direct as the steering angle increases; a new damping concept also conveys intensive, finally differentiated feedback from the road. The new Audi A6 is maneuverable in town, agile on country roads, and poised and comfortable on the highway. The dynamic all-wheel steering is a key component in this agility and maneuverability. It combines direct, sporty steering response with unshakable stability, resolving this classic conflict of aims. Depending on the speed, the steering ratio varies between 9.5:1 and 16.5:1. This is thanks to a strain wave gearing at the front. At the rear axle, a spindle drive turns the wheels as much as 5 degrees. At low speed, the wheels steer in the opposite direction to the front wheels, thus enhancing the agility of the A6 and reducing its turning circle by up to 1.1 meters (3.6 ft) to 11.1 meters (36.4 ft). All of which makes maneuvering easy despite the almost five meter (16.4 ft) exterior length of the large Sedan. At high speed the wheels turn in the same direction, thus optimizing stability when traveling in a straight line or changing lanes. Thus the A6 not only offers the driver smooth straight-line stability at high speed. Passengers also enjoy more comfort since the steering movements seem much softer on the rear seats. The redesigned wheel suspension is also made out of lightweight aluminum in many areas. Despite the larger wheels, measuring up to 21 inches and tire sizes of up to 255/35, than on the outgoing model, the Audi A6 has improved ride and noise comfort. Brakes with fixed calipers made from aluminum are fitted to the front axle. Audi provides a choice of four variants for the suspension setup: the conventional steel spring suspension, the sport suspension, the suspension with damper control, and the adaptive air suspension, also with controlled damping. Drivetrain As part of the launch in the European markets, Audi offers the new A6 with two powerful, smooth engines – one diesel and one gasoline unit. The gasoline unit (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.1 – 6.7 (33.1 – 35.1 mpg)*; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 161 – 151 (259.1 – 243.0 g/mi)*) is a 3.0 TFSI. The V6 turbocharged engine accelerates the business sedan from 0 to 100 km/h (0 – 62.1 mph) in 5.1 seconds with 250 kW (340 hp) and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) of torque; the electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph) is a mere technicality. The 3.0 TDI with 210 kW (286 hp) produces similar performance (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 5.8 – 5.5 (40.6 – 42.8 mpg)*; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 150 – 142 (241.4 – 228.5 g/mi)*), it delivers 620 Nm (457.3 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft. While the 3.0 TDI is paired with an eight-speed tiptronic, the 3.0 TFSI is coupled as standard with a seven-speed S tronic. The two engines are equipped as standard with the quattro all-wheel drive, whose design varies depending on the specific setup. In conjunction with the tiptronic it comes with the self-locking center differential; in tandem with the S tronic the setup features even more efficient ultra technology, which always activates the rear-wheel drive instantly whenever needed. All gearshifts are automatic. In conjunction with the tiptronic transmission the optional sport differential lends the A6 even more dynamic handling by actively distributing the power between the rear wheels. Like the dynamic all-wheel steering, the controlled damping and the adaptive air suspension, it is integrated into the control function of the electronic chassis platform. These systems are closely networked for innovative precision. The driver can select various driving profiles via the Audi drive select system – the wide spread from comfort through sportiness is even more pronounced than in the outgoing model. The exterior design – technical and elegant Like the A8 and A7 Sportback models, the A6 is the expressive ambassador of the new Audi design language. With taut surfaces, sharp edges and striking lines, the business sedan unmistakably conveys its character: sporty elegance, high tech and sophistication. The exterior stands out with its balanced proportions – long hood, long wheelbase and short overhangs. The A6 is 4,939 millimeters (16.2 ft) long, i.e. 7 millimeters (0.3 in) longer than its predecessor. The width has been increased by 12 millimeters (0.5 in) to 1,886 millimeters (6.2 ft) while the height at 1,457 millimeters (4.8 ft) is now 2 millimeters (0.1 in) more than on the outgoing model. The wide, low-slung Singleframe grille, the flat headlights and the powerfully contoured air inlets exude sportiness. In the side view, three striking lines reduce the car’s visual height. The powerfully taut contours, which are drawn over the wheels, are testimony to Audi’s quattro genes. The taut roof line, which tapers into flat C-pillars, characterizes the silhouette. The short trunk lid ends in a curved separating edge for optimized aerodynamics. A striking chrome strip accentuates the three-dimensional sculpture of the rear and connects the rear lights. The paint range for the new A6 offers a choice of 14 colors, seven of which are new. In addition to the basic version, customers have a choice of the two sport and design exterior trim lines as well as the S line exterior package. They differ in many details, for instance with the Singleframe or the side air inlets. All lines and all colors use the play of light and shade on the outer skin, thus accentuating the sculptured impression. The lighting design – technology brought to life The lighting design emphasizes the technical character of the A6. Audi supplies the headlights in three different versions. With the top-of-the-line version, the HD Matrix LED headlights, five horizontal lines form the daytime running light signature; they emphasize the width of the front. Above them are the dipped beam modules that look like pupils. Optionally, the lighting signature of the tail lights is made up of a single horizontal line and nine vertical segments for each unit; the brake light fills the areas in between. The dynamic indicator is included with the top-of-the-line equipment. When unlocking and locking the doors, a pulsing coming and leaving home function brings to life the combination of design and technology that is the hallmark of Audi. Audi offers two different lighting packages for the interior: the ambient lighting package and the contour ambient lighting package. Both subtly animate the space, the volume and the materials. The ambient lighting makes the dashboard and center console appear to float. The contour lighting reproduces the clear lines of the interior architecture and can be set to 30 different colors. The interior – futuristic design The interior of the new A6 features a black-panel design – a cool look which expresses the technical competence and digital character of the business sedan. This creates a relaxed lounge atmosphere in a design language that comes across as reduced and matter-of-fact. The sleek instrument panel and the calm, continuous horizontal body line create an airy sense of spaciousness. The center console in the new Audi A6 is directed at the driver; the top MMI touch response display is also tilted slightly to the left. With its black-panel look, it almost disappears into an aluminum clip when switched off. The display is activated when opening a door; its graphical user interface appears reduced, matching the interior design. Colors and materials – a range of equipment for all tastes The wide range of colors and materials available for the new A6 deck out the interior design with very different characteristics, from elegant through sporty, from technical through futuristic. Five versions are available: basic, sport, design, design selection and S line sport package (with 19-inch wheels and sport suspension). Each variant is associated with different color concepts. The choice and use of materials – from the open-pore wood trim through the leather upholstery on the instrument panel – attest to the uncompromisingly high quality of the new Sedan. Audi offers the S line exterior package as an option for all equipment lines. The new Audi A6 is due to roll off the assembly line at the Neckarsulm site and will launch on the German market in June 2018. The basic price as the Audi A6 Sedan 50 TDI quattro (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 5.8 – 5.5 (40.6 – 42.8 mpg)*; combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 150 – 142 (241.4 – 228.5 g/mi)*) is 58,050 euros. View full article

When Hyundai unveiled the Kona subcompact crossover last year, they said an electric variant would be following. Today, the Korean automaker has unveiled the Kona EV before its official debut next week at the Geneva Motor Show. Styling for the large part is the same as the regular Kona. The only real difference is up front where the grille is closed off and features a little door hiding the charging point. Other design changes include a two-tone roof and 17-inch alloy wheels. For the interior, Hyundai has added a seven-inch digital instrument cluster and a push-button gear selector. Hyundai will be offering two versions of the Kona EV. The standard model uses a 133 horsepower electric motor and 39.2-kWh battery pack that will give a max range of 186 miles on the new Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP). A Long-range version packs 201 horsepower from its electric motor and 64-kWh battery pack. Max range is said to be 292 miles on the WLTP cycle. Recharging is said to take around 6 hours and 10 minutes for the standard model and 9 hours and 40 minutes for the long-range model. Hyundai doesn't say if this is when the model is plugged into a 240V charger or not. When plugged into a 100-kW DC fast charger, it will take 54 minutes for both models to get an 80 percent charge. No word on Hyundai is planning to launch the Kona EV in Europe. We expect Hyundai to make some announcement on the Kona EV for the U.S. at the New York Auto Show later in the month. Source: Hyundai Press Release is on Page 2 Highlights of All-New Hyundai Kona Electric With the launch of the All-New Kona Electric, Hyundai Motor is offering the first fully-electric subcompact SUV on the European market. The All-New Kona Electric is a car of no compromise, combining Hyundai’s progressive SUV style and a zero-emission electric powertrain. The new model in Hyundai’s eco line-up is available with two different powertrain versions, offering an outstanding range of up to 470 kilometres. The first fully-electric subcompact SUV features a unique exterior design with closed grille and a dedicated centre console in the interior for intuitive operation of the shift-by-wire module. The All-New Kona Electric carries the same expressive design and 'go-anywhere' attitude of the regular Kona. Thanks to its roominess, the All-New Kona Electric is a versatile car, making it suitable for everyday use. The new seven-inch supervision cluster provides relevant driving information, additionally the combiner head-up display projects it directly to the driver’s line of sight. The All-New Kona Electric offers a wide range of active Hyundai SmartSense safety features. 27 February 2018 - With the All-New Kona Electric, Hyundai Motor is offering the first fully-electric subcompact SUV on the European market combining the two hottest automotive trends - eco-mobility and SUV style. "Hyundai Motor is already leading in future mobility solutions. By launching our All-New Kona Electric, we are pushing our ambitious eco car strategy forward. It's a car of no compromise - combining an SUV body type with electric-mobility. It represents Hyundai's progressive character. With Hyundai Motor, the future is now!" Andreas-Christoph Hofmann Vice President Marketing and Product at Hyundai Motor Europe Established SUV brand with a progressive mind set The All-New Kona Electric is the latest addition to the successful family reinforcing the company’s leadership in the eco-car segment. It merges the strengths of SUV with the power of electric powertrains. Hyundai is the first automotive brand in Europe to make a fully-electric subcompact SUV available to everyone. By already offering the broadest range of powertrains, Hyundai is at the forefront of eco-mobility. The company marketed the first mass-produced fuel-cell vehicle, the ix35 Fuel Cell, and recently introduced its successor, the All-New NEXO. Additionally, the IONIQ is the first car available with three different electric powertrains in one body type. Winning several prestigious accolades from media and industry organisations, the IONIQ is one of the most awarded eco-cars in Europe. The success story of Hyundai’s SUV range began 17 years ago with the launch of the Santa Fe. Since 2001 Hyundai has sold more than 1.5 million units of Santa Fe, Grand Santa Fe, Tucson and All-New Kona in Europe. They all carry the dynamic, progressive style of Hyundai and make it an established brand in this still-growing segment. A car of no compromise The All-New Kona Electric enables customers to combine the two fastest growing automotive trends – electrification and SUV style. It carries the same expressive design and 'go-anywhere' attitude of the regular Kona. The fully-electric version reflects the individual lifestyle of modern customers who, benefit from great fun-to-drive and the low environmental impact of a fully-electric car. The completely new platform of the Kona enables a space-saving integration of the battery packs without compromising the roominess. The power of All-New Kona Electric: You define it. The All-New Kona Electric features two different powertrain versions, offering customers one of the most powerful electric motors. The long-range battery version provides driving range of up to 470 kilometres*, delivering a maximum output of 204 PS (150 kW). With a battery capacity of 39,2 kWh, the basic version drives up to 300km* on a single charge with the motor delivering 135PS (99 kW). With 395 Nm of immediate torque and an acceleration of 7.6 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, the All-New Kona Electric provides a real fun-to-drive experience. Progressive design The All-New Kona Electric adopts the expressive-looking and powerful front from the regular Kona. The key design differentiator is the closed grille which gives a clean and stylish appearance, while also enhancing aerodynamics. Another characteristic element of the front design is the Composite Light enhancing the visual impact, with the LED Daytime Running Lights positioned on top of the LED headlights. The Kona Electric’s two-tone roof and the choice of seven distinctive exterior colours underline the personal style of its driver. Electric drive feeling A special feature of the All-New Kona Electric is the shift-by-wire operation module which enables an intuitive operation of the electric powertrain. The adjustable regenerative braking system allows the driver to adjust the intensity of the regenerative braking by using the paddle shifts behind the steering wheel. The system recuperates additional energy when possible. Drivers also benefit from the large seven-inch supervision cluster, which displays key information about the car’s driving performance and, in addition, the combiner head-up display shows relevant driving information directly to the driver’s line of sight. Connected and caring The All-New Kona Electric offers a wide range of connectivity features, such as the infotainment system which integrates navigation, media and connectivity features, e.g. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as Wireless Charging. The new eco-model in Hyundai’s line-up is equipped with the company’s latest active safety and driving assistance technologies, called SmartSense: Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Collision Warning including Rear Cross Traffic Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Intelligent Speed Limit Warning and Lane Following Assist. View full article