Volkswagen expands the ID. family with the sporty GTX product brand
The ID.4 GTX1 brings dual-motor all-wheel drive to the ID. family
Electrification campaign: Volkswagen wants to increase the sale of purely electric vehicles in Europe to 70% by 2030
At the digital world premiere held at Berlin Tempelhof Airport, Volkswagen presented its first fully electric high-performance model: the ID.4 GTX.
The new product brand is bringing new and intelligent sportiness to the world of electric mobility. The ID.4 GTX is the first model based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) to feature dual-motor all-wheel drive and also offers attractive, high-quality design elements.
“Electric driving is simply great fun – and with the ID.4 GTX we are adding a new dimension of sportiness and dynamics,” explained Ralf Brandstätter, CEO of the Volkswagen Brand. “The most emotional member of the ID. family to date shows that electric mobility and top sporty performance are not mutually exclusive.”
The ID.4 GTX has one electric drive motor on both the front and rear axle. Together, they deliver a maximum electrical output of 220 kW (299 hp)* and can work together as an electric all-wheel drive – a first for the ID. family. Holding the world premiere in an aircraft hangar at the former Tempelhof Airport in Berlin allowed the new model to show just what the intelligently controlled all-wheel drive is capable of: the ID.4 GTX effortlessly climbed a ramp at an incline of 37.5%. Thanks to the dual-motor all-wheel drive, the flagship model of the ID.4 product line is able to accelerate from 0 to 60 km/h in 3.2 seconds and from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The vehicle’s top speed is electronically limited to 180 km/h.
“The full torque of the electric powertrain is immediately available and you can feel the excellent vehicle handling in every bend,” says Thomas Ulbrich, member of the Board of Management for Development. “What’s more, the innovative operating and safety concept is just as intelligent as the drive train! For example, the driver is supported by the unique augmented reality head-up display and comprehensive assist systems.”
The design of the ID.4 GTX underscores its extraordinary character, combining driving fun with a robust look. The familiar light strip has been combined with powerful, dynamic elements – in particular, the three honeycomb elements that form the daytime running lights. They convey the vehicle’s sporty character even when it is stationary and, at the same time, establish a connection to the Golf GTI2. Alongside the newly designed bumpers, the eye-catching elements at the rear include the 3D LED tail light cluster with brake lights that form an X.
The body colour is more dominant than on rear-wheel drive models. The roof and rear spoiler are black, while the roof frame bar is a high-gloss anthracite. The interior also boasts a new colour scheme. The upper section of the dashboard and leatherette inserts in the doors come in the dark shade of X-Blue, which represents sustainability. Red contrasting seams – a classic symbol for sportiness and strength – add accents to the seats. The GTX logo appears on the steering wheel, sill panel trims and – in perforated form – at the top of the front seat backrests.
The new GTX product brand is a booster for both the ID. family and the ACCELERATE corporate strategy, with which Volkswagen aims to become the most coveted sustainable mobility brand. It has set itself the target of increasing the proportion of sales of purely electric vehicles in Europe to 70 percent by 2030. Volkswagen intends to become climate-neutral by 2050 and by 2025, Volkswagen will have invested around 16 billion euros in electric mobility, hybridisation and digitalisation.
The ID.4 GTX will be launched in Europe in summer 2021. In Germany, it will start at an entry-level price of 50,415 euros, with customers being able to apply for a (net) grant of 7,500 euros.
1ID.4 GTX – Power consumption in kWh/100 km (NEDC): 19.1–18.1 (combined); CO2 emissions in g/km: 0; efficiency class: A+.
* Maximum electrical output 220 kW: Maximum output that can be accessed for a maximum of 30 seconds, calculated in accordance with UN GTR.21.
The amount of power available in individual driving situations depends on various factors, such as ambient temperature and the charge status, temperature and condition or physical age of the high- voltage battery. In particular, the availability of the maximum power requires the high-voltage battery to be between 23°C and 50 °C and have a charge level of > 88%. Deviations from the aforementioned parameters in particular may lead to a reduction in power, through to the complete unavailability of the maximum power.
The battery temperature can be indirectly influenced by the auxiliary air conditioner to a certain extent and the charge level can, for example, be adjusted in the vehicle. The amount of power available at a particular time is shown in the vehicle’s power display.
To maintain the high-voltage battery’s usable capacity as effectively as possible, a battery charging target of 80% is recommended if the vehicle is used daily (to be switched to 100% prior to long- distance journeys for example).
esco Grocery Home Shopping fleet to save 7,346 tonnes of CO2 in just one year
Carbon saving is equivalent to powering 1,334 family homes for a year
Ingenious Made-in-Britain Lightfoot driver technology is behind the improvements
Tesco Grocery Home Shopping, the home delivery service from Britain’s leading supermarket, will cut its CO2 emissions by more than 7,000 metric tonnes in just one year thanks to the introduction of Lightfoot, a unique and innovative driver improvement technology, across its fleet of delivery vehicles.
Tesco turned to Lightfoot – a UK-based clean technology engineering company, backed by Innovate UK – to proactively manage emissions as demand for its home delivery services soared during the COVID-19 pandemic, with more vehicles covering more miles.
Now, within a year of the new technology deployment, Tesco will deliver a saving of 7,346 tonnes of CO2 across the UK and ROI. These savings are the equivalent to*:
Powering 1,334 family homes for a year
Removing 1,598 passenger vehicles from the roads
Charging 893,586,881 smartphones
Recycling 312,569 bags of rubbish
It is predicted that the fleet will achieve even greater savings year-on-year as more Tesco Grocery Home Shopping drivers engage with Lightfoot’s tech.
This technology has taken Tesco Grocery Home Shopping’s already advanced driver efficiency and safety programme, which includes in-vehicle cameras and driver trainers, to the next level. The gains that have been made are the result of Lightfoot’s unique approach – engaging drivers and encouraging them to drive more smoothly, safely and efficiently through fun app-based tech which rewards better driving. These improvements have all been realised with Tesco’s existing fleet of vehicles, and best of all, its employee engagement is set to rise as emissions fall**.
Matt Rhind, Distribution and Fulfilment Transport Director for Tesco said “At Tesco we’re committed to reducing our environmental impact across our operations, from energy and waste, to food production and distribution. We make 15,000 delivery journeys every day. The Lightfoot app gives every one of our home delivery drivers real-time feedback on their driving style so they can make immediate improvements and reduce their emissions on every trip they make.”
At the end of each journey, a “Lightfoot Score” is given and can be seen by the driver on a fun smartphone app. Using this app, drivers can see how their performance changes over time, enter leagues and compete with their colleagues.
Best of all for drivers, anyone who reaches ‘Elite Driver’ status with a Lightfoot Score of 85% or higher can enter themselves for free into the Lightfoot Drivers’ Lottery, giving them a chance of winning weekly cash prizes, while taking advantage of special offers and giveaways.
Lightfoot MD Rupert Lyon Taylor, said: “The ethos behind Lightfoot is that by rewarding good driver behaviour, our technology can provide huge real-world savings in carbon emissions and fuel consumption, at the same time as rewarding hard-working drivers. Our data has shown that the person behind the wheel has as much responsibility for the performance and efficiency of their vehicle as what’s beneath the bonnet. If a driver is inefficient, their vehicle will be too. We also know that driver engagement with efficiency improvement is the key to long-term success, so we designed our technology around this.”
He added: “Over the last year delivery drivers have stepped-up to deliver millions of groceries at a time of need, and so rewarding these hard-working heroes while also saving over 7,000 tonnes of Co2, is something we are proud of helping Tesco achieve.”
Three Aston Martin Racing partner teams vie for glory in WEC GTE Am
Aston Martin champion Paul Dalla Lana returns to series with his own team
D’station Racing make the step up to world championship level
Le Mans-winners TF Sport aim for title after coming so close in 2020
Three Aston Martin Vantage GTEs will compete for FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) GTE AM honours as D’station Racing, NorthWest AMR and TF Sport all vie to give the car its first world title in the class when the 2021 series begins at Spa-Francorchamps, in Belgium, on Saturday.
The Vantage GTE, powered by a version of the four-litre, twin-turbo-charged V8 engine found in the road car from which it derives, was all-conquering in the WEC GTE Pro category during the 2019/2020 season. Recording five wins from eight races, including both Pro and Am classes at the 2020 24 Hours of Le Mans, the car took Aston Martin to the FIA GT Manufacturers’ World Championship title and carried Danish duo Nicki Thiim and Marco Sørensen to the drivers’ crown.
It also helped TF Sport come within a hair’s breadth of winning the GTE AM crown, as the Le Mans class winners and long-time Aston Martin Racing partners finished runners up in the championship with four class victories – the most of any team. This year TF Sport aims to go one higher with a new driver line-up and a fresh resolve as GTE Am race-winner Ben Keating (USA) joins the squad along with co-drivers Dylan Pereira (LUX) and Felipe Fraga (BRA).
The last driver to win the GTE Am world championship with Aston Martin, Paul Dalla Lana (CDN) – in 2017 – also returns with his Vantage GTE, this time with his own team NorthWest AMR. Dalla Lana, embarking on his eighth season of WEC, is the most experienced Aston Martin driver in the field, and the most decorated having won 16 class victories during his stint with the works team. He is joined by two-time Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona winner and Intercontinental champion Augusto Farfus (BRA), and the 2020 Asian Le Mans Series champion Marcos Gomes (BRA).
TF Sport will also play an assisting role in D’station Racing’s first full foray into WEC, as the Japanese team enters a Vantage GTE for the first time at world level. No stranger to the famous wings – D’station leads the Super Taikyu Championship in Japan with its GT3 variant of Vantage – Satoshi Hoshino (JPN) is joined by regular co-driver Tomonobu Fujii (JPN) and rising British GT star Andrew Watson.
David King, President of Aston Martin Racing, said: “The Vantage GTE set the standard in FIA WEC last season, ensuring that Aston Martin is the reigning FIA GT Manufacturers’ World Champion. The car was equally competitive in the GTE Am class, and only missed out on the title at the last round. This year our aspirations lie in the hands of our world class partner teams, and I am confident they will be front runners in a very competitive class.”
The WEC will be contested over six rounds in 2021, beginning with the Total 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps on 1 May. New rounds in Portugal (8 Hours of Portimão) on 13 June, and Italy (6 Hours of Monza), follow before the 24 Hours of Le Mans takes place on its non-traditional date of 21-22 August. The championship then concludes with the 6 Hours of Fuji, in Japan on 26 September, and finally the 8 Hours of Bahrain on 20 November.
The WEC action begins on 26-27 April with the official two day Prologue test, also at Spa. Free practice for the Total 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps will begin at 1530 CET on Thursday, 29 April, with the race taking place from 1330 CET on Saturday, 1 May.
The all-new KONA N will be the first SUV to join the Hyundai N family
The ‘hot SUV’ will deliver the fun-to-drive feeling of Hyundai N models with the uncompromising versatility of an SUV
KONA N is the second Hyundai N model in Europe to be equipped with N DCT, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission
KONA N incorporates several high-performance driving features dedicated to Hyundai N models, including Launch Control and N Grin Control System
Hyundai Motor has unveiled the all-new KONA N, an urban compact high-performance ‘hot SUV’ that combines exhilarating performance with a balanced day-to-day driving experience.
It is the first SUV model to join the N brand line-up and is set apart by its SUV body type paired with powerful, N-specific driving features.
The all-new KONA N combines the fun-to-drive experience of a hot hatch with the versatility of an SUV: Drivers will appreciate its powerful engine and emotional sound experience, while also benefitting from the perfect size and practicality for urban life, including an extensive list of safety features. The all-new KONA N will appeal to active customers looking for a high-performance vehicle that suits the various needs of different lifestyles, including an exhilarating experience on the racetrack.
The ‘hot SUV’ was developed to offer customers uncompromising performance alongside the fun-to-drive philosophy of N brand, together with core SUV values of comfort, convenience, and safety. The latest member of the N brand comes with a four-cylinder 2.0 T-GDI 280 PS flat power engine and a highly distinctive, sporty design. Various motorsport-inspired features contribute to an all-around dynamic driving experience. These include lightweight, 19-inch forged alloy wheels, special sports seats, and an emotional sound experience. The 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (N DCT) allows for an even more sporty, high-performance character.
“KONA N is a true ‘hot SUV’ with the performance level of a hot hatch. It breaks the rule that SUVs cannot be fun to drive. As an N model, it goes beyond the limits of an ordinary SUV,” says Albert Biermann, President and Head of R&D Division at Hyundai Motor Group. “KONA N can carve corners on the racetrack and bring excitement to everyday driving.”
To embody the N philosophy with its three pillars corner rascal, everyday sports car, and race track capability, the all-new KONA N comes with a range of high-performance functionalities: Electronic Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD) and its various Electronic Stability Control (ESC) modes have been optimised to improve cornering. Traction Mode ensures that traction can be established across a variety of road conditions while N Grin Control System offers five drive modes across all N models (Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom) contribute to its everyday sports car character. Finally, features such as Launch Control or Creep Off ensure full racetrack capability.
KONA N design makes for a powerful presence on the road The all-new KONA N is a ‘hot SUV’, whose look clearly speaks about a powerful presence and driving fun. It combines the modern design of the new KONA base car with the bold and dynamic language of N models. With a 4,215-mm length, 1,800-mm width, and 1,565-mm height, the all-new KONA N is 10 mm longer than the new KONA and just as long as the new KONA sporty N Line trim. At 2,600 mm, the wheelbase, compared with the base car, remains unchanged. A total of 361 litres of storage space supports a range of outdoor activities. Designed with a focus on maximum weight reduction and high strength, the lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels add to a great stance and very sporty appearance.
Exterior design The exterior design features understated, body-coloured design elements with N-exclusive red accents. At the front, the iconic KONA “shark nose” front end is complemented by large air openings that fulfil the cooling needs of the powerful N-tuned engine. The front splitter of the bumper has been increased in size by 10 mm to improve aerodynamic drag and balance. The lower grille was inspired by aeronautic fuselage and conveys a message of aerodynamic efficiency and speed. Body-coloured claddings emphasise the width and bring the vehicle closer to the ground. An exclusive front grille design, with its dedicated mesh, an integrated N logo, and the aggressive light signature of the new KONA, complete the vehicle’s powerful front-on appearance. The Hyundai emblem in dark satin grey was moved down from the bonnet to lower the front focal point.
To the side, customers will notice how the all-new KONA N’s sporty silhouette is emphasised by a low ride height. Several other design cues indicate that this is a high-performance Hyundai N model, including N‑exclusive alloy wheels with a dark satin grey finish and red callipers, an N logo on the wheel cap, and an exclusive side sill in red with an engraved N logo.
At the rear, the large, double-wing roof spoiler dominates the view, providing the necessary balance to keep the car on the road. Customers will also notice the iconic triangular third brake light. Lower down on the rear bumper, a large diffuser enhances the airflow departure and minimises turbulence. Its red accent line and two large exhaust mufflers further emphasise the performance spirit.
For the launch of the all-new KONA N, Hyundai developed a new exterior colour: Sonic Blue. Sonic Blue is set between white and light grey, tinted with Performance Blue. It has been developed to be suitable for an SUV body type while still referencing the dedicated Hyundai high-performance colour Performance Blue. The exclusive new N SUV colour complements and contrasts with the other red, dark grey, and glossy black exterior design elements, giving the all-new KONA N a sporty new look. KONA N is also available in Performance Blue, which is exclusive to N models.
All-new KONA N exterior colours:
Sonic Blue – the new N SUV dedicated colour – with Tomato Red accents [launch colour]
Phantom Black Pearl
Atlas White
Cyber Grey Metallic
Dark Knight Grey Pearl
Ignite Red
Performance Blue
Interior design Inside, the all-new KONA N offers a performance-oriented look and feel optimised for high-performance driving. It is equipped with high-quality Alcantara materials. One feature that stands out is the N-exclusive sport steering wheel, which features a design optimised for the perfect grip and button layout necessary for dynamic driving. Two customisable N buttons on the steering wheel allow for any type of pre-set to be mapped according to individual needs for even more ease of operation, and paddle shifters make it possible for the driver to switch gears without taking their hands off the wheel.
The N-branded handbrake features non-slip perforated leather and a thicker grip area for a more secure braking performance. Customers will also notice the exclusive Performance Blue stitching and high-quality metal pedals, and exclusive sports seats. N logos on the gear shift, hand brake, door scuff, and seats allow customers to “feel the feeling” whenever they are inside the car.
The all-new KONA N is available with an exclusive N colour package featuring one-tone Black with cloth, leather, or suede seats.
Interior colour:
One-tone Black interior with Performance Blue accents and cloth, leather or suede seats
Powertrain: 280 PS of flat power paired with N DCT The all-new KONA N is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre T-GDI engine with a power output of 280 PS and a maximum torque of 392 Nm. It features flat power that provides more torque and power at mid and high-range RPMs. The new higher amount of torque utilises more of the engine’s potential in everyday driving situations. The new engine power characteristic also improves acceleration in the mid and high-speed range and delivers high performance consistently, even in a variety of outside temperature conditions.
The all-new KONA N is available with N DCT, an 8-speed, wet-type transmission with two separated clutches for better acceleration and a faster upshift. The wet type clutches further provide for better cooling. Hyundai’s N DCT technology was first offered in the VELOSTER N, a model available in North America and Korea, and came to the new Hyundai i30 N because of the valuable feedback of the Hyundai N community. In the case of the all-new KONA N, Hyundai has specified all units with N DCT.
The N DCT enables three exclusive high-performance functions that are sure to bring a grin to the driver’s face: N Power Shift, N Grin Shift, and N Track Sense Shift. These features enhance the car’s capabilities by using dedicated shift logic management.
N Power Shift (NPS) engages when the car accelerates with more than 90 per cent of throttle, thereby mitigating any reduction in torque during upshifts to deliver maximum power to the wheels. This enhances driving fun by giving a “push feel” when upshifting. The accompanying bang sound, coming from the partial cylinder cut of the exhaust, underlines the sporty performance. When NPS is used while the Launch Control function is active, the all-new KONA N can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds. NPS activates exclusively on N or Custom mode.
N Grin Shift (NGS) maximises engine and DCT performance for 20 seconds. To achieve maximum acceleration, the car will directly shift down to the most appropriate gear. To activate, the driver pushes a dedicated button on the steering wheel, and a countdown begins on the cluster showing the remaining seconds for this function. After the “boost” has ended, drivers must wait at least 40 seconds to use it again. This feature allows the driver to use the full potential of the car with only one button – for example, when chasing for the best lap time. It can also be a benefit when overtaking or merging on a highway.
Meanwhile, N Track Sense Shift (NTS) optimises adaptive shift for racetrack driving, helping the driver to focus more on steering. It recognises when the conditions are optimal for dynamic driving on a racetrack and activates automatically. Based on motorsport data combined with the driver’s behaviour, the car selects the right gear and shift timing in sport driving conditions to provide optimal performance, just like a professional race car driver.
Unlike with a traditional automatic transmission vehicle, in Hyundai vehicles with N DCT, the driver can choose to turn the Creep off. When the creep function is turned “OFF” and the car is in gear D, the car does not automatically roll when the brake pedal is released. Depending on the driver, this racetrack feature can also be useful to enhance comfort and convenience. Creep Off mode can be activated or deactivated via the N custom settings.
The all-new KONA N with N DCT also offers drivers the option to switch to manual mode using the paddle shifters or the gear knob. The memory logic will prevent the transmission from automatically upshifting when the RPM limit is reached. That way, manual control allows the driver to sustain high revs when needed for an even sportier driving experience.
High-performance driving features The all-new KONA N introduces the N brand into the SUV line-up without compromising on driving pleasure or performance. The ‘hot SUV’ includes a range of N dedicated functions previously introduced by other N models. KONA N is, furthermore, the first Hyundai high-performance vehicle to be equipped with a Performance Head-Up Display (HUD). When turned on in Sport or N mode, information such as RPM, speed, or shift indicator appear.
The N Grin Control System offers customers a high level of customisation, with five distinct drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, N and Custom. These drive modes change the character of the all-new KONA N by adjusting the operating parameters of the engine, Electronic Stability Control, exhaust sound, and steering to optimise them for a variety of driving conditions. In the Custom mode, drivers can select settings from a variety of other driving modes (Normal, Sport and Sport+) to match their driving preferences and the road conditions. Dedicated N keys on the steering wheel of all-new KONA N flexibly allow any type of pre-sets to be mapped according to individual needs.
For a more emotional driving experience, a sporty engine sound from the exhaust and intake noise is supported by the Electronic Sound Generator (ESG) in the body panel. In the cabin, at the base of the windscreen, an engine sound generator provides some extra acoustic drama to match the mood of the driver. Variable muffler control also contributes to the perfect exhaust sound to provide the perfect driving experience. The Variable Exhaust Valve System comes standard with the all-new KONA N.
As with other Hyundai N models, the all-new KONA is equipped with Launch Control, which helps the car take off from a standing start on dry conditions like a professional race driver. It does this by controlling the engine torque at take-off.
Improved ride and handling features for uncompromised SUV driving In addition to its racetrack capabilities, the all-new KONA N is at heart still an SUV. An extensive list of ride and handling features result in uncompromised SUV driving abilities. With specially developed 235/40R19 Pirelli P-Zero high-performance tyres that deliver maximum grip mounted on lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels, the ‘hot SUV’ is ready to tackle rough roads and a variety of terrain. A high-performance braking system delivering stability in changing driving conditions has been added for additional safety. In it, the increased front and rear disc brakes take in extra air through the enlarged intakes on either side of the car’s front bumper for an enhanced cooling function. The application of high friction calliper material, a lower arm guide, and a heat shield maximise brake performance through better cooling and high heat endurance capacity.
Passive safety is increased thanks to the all-new KONA N’s enhanced body rigidity. The body’s extra welding points, improved strut ring structure, and reinforced skeleton protect passengers in the event of a collision. Additionally, the all-new KONA N’s body rigidity also minimises body roll during manoeuvres.
Hyundai N models offer a new level of precision and responsiveness in its steering, delivering great value to the driver: The all-new KONA N enhances its base car with a specific Rack-mounted Motor Driven Power Steering system (R‑MDPS) with higher capacity, increased rigidity, and lower steering ratio. The electric steering assist system located in the steering gear provides direct and accurate steering with a good level of feedback as required by a high-performance vehicle. The driver can choose between three different steering settings (Normal, Sport and Sport+) to provide ideal steering efforts for different experiences, such as urban driving, country roads, or racetracks.
The all-new KONA N is also equipped with an Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) to control the dampening force, which further enhances handling and stability. Drivers can influence the stiffness of the suspension with the push of a button to optimise the vehicle’s response for a variety of driving situations, whether on the road or at the racetrack.
For a maximised racetrack feel, the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be switched off. ESC typically stabilises the vehicle during cornering manoeuvres by detecting any loss of traction and applying the brakes to individual wheels. This ensures better handling and vehicle stability in unexpected road conditions or difficult terrains. The ESC of the all-new KONA N comes with three modes for a customisable driving experience. “ESC – ON” provides full stability and is optimised for dry, wet, or snowy conditions and provides more safety during everyday driving. “ESC – SPORT” is optimised for racetrack driving. When the ESC is switched off completely, the vehicle does not implement any engine or brake interventions for stabilisation. Rather, it allows for dynamic torque vectoring, creating more dynamic vehicle behaviour. “ESC – OFF” is optimised for experienced racetrack drivers.
Additionally, a Traction Control System (TCS) controls the driving force behind the wheels according to driving conditions to maximise traction and minimise slippage under off-road conditions. If the system detects that a wheel is spinning faster than the detected speed of the vehicle, the TCS adjusts the engine output through continuous feedback. By pushing the Drive Mode button, the driver can select from four different Traction Modes for better handling over a variety of road conditions using the front-wheel-drive: Snow Mode provides maximum stability in slippery or icy roads. Deep Snow enables more wheel spin, enabling more traction to avoid being stuck in deep snow. Mud Mode features medium wheel spin to allow the car to launch on muddy surfaces. Sand Mode enables a higher wheel spin for launch on sandy surfaces. Traction Modes are active between 0 and 60 km/h.
Meanwhile, the all-new KONA N’s N Corner Carving Differential, an Electronically-controlled Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD), enables excellent performance while cornering. This feature allows the wheels to turn at different speeds by applying different amounts of torque, depending on the load transfer from the inner to the outer front axle wheel. This reduces wheel slip in specific conditions and minimises understeering while cornering. N Corner Carving Differential also allows drivers to round corners at higher speeds, making the all-new KONA N even more fun to drive.
In addition, the N Power Sense Axle at the front combined with a multi-link type rear suspension provides enhanced stiffness for improved ride and handling performance.
Advanced safety features for everyday driving As with the new base car, the all-new KONA N is available with an extensive list of Hyundai SmartSense active safety and convenience features for added peace of mind. This is an important aspect of the everyday sports car pillar of KONA N as it makes the model safer and more convenient in everyday driving situations. Systems such as Rear Seat Alert and Safe Exit Warning specifically contribute to the protection of all passengers.
All-new KONA N Hyundai SmartSense active safety features:
Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) – sounds a warning and applies differential braking to prevent the vehicle from colliding into another vehicle in the adjacent lane
Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist (RCCA) – sounds a warning and applies the brakes to prevent a rear-end collision when the car is backing up and another car comes from the side, for example when exiting a parking space
Smart Cruise Control (SCC) – maintains vehicle speed and following distance
Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) – if the car is stopped, the car ahead of it starts moving, and the driver does not react quickly enough, this system sounds an alert to gently direct the driver’s attention back to the road
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) – automatically keeps the car centred in the lane, corrects course if the car reaches the lane markings by using a front-view camera
Lane Following Assist (LFA) – automatically adjusts the steering wheel to keep the vehicle centred in its lane
Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW) – recognises road signs and displays the speed limit and no-passing signs in real-time in both the AVN and cluster
Safe Exit Warning (SEW) – works to prevent an accident when the car is parked, another car is approaching from the rear side, and a passenger attempts to open the door. A warning light also appears on the cluster to alert the driver of the potential danger
Rear Seat Alert (RSA) – automatically alerts the driver if someone or something is in the back seat if they attempt to leave the vehicle
Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist detection (FCA) – sounds an alarm and, if necessary, applies the brakes if a collision becomes imminent. Using radar and a camera, the system has been updated to better detect pedestrians and cyclists, in addition to other vehicles
High Beam Assist (HBA) – detects both oncoming vehicles and vehicles ahead in the same lane and adjusts to low-beam lights as appropriate
Driver Attention Warning (DAW) – continuously monitors and analyses driving patterns through data inputs to detect fatigue or distraction. The driver is alerted with an audible warning and pop-up message to suggest when it is time to take a break
Other safety features:
eCall – allows passengers to easily contact emergency services at the press of a button; also, automatically alerts first responders if the vehicle’s airbags are deployed
Tech and connectivity The tech and connectivity equipment in the all-new KONA N focuses on enhancing all driving experiences. The Performance Head-Up Display (HUD) projects vehicle information onto a transparent screen. It allows the driver to see relevant navigation, safety, and driving information while keeping their eyes on the road. It can be activated and deactivated with a button on the dash panel.
The all-new KONA N additionally comes with a 10.25-inch digital N cluster with a sporty design and a 10.25-inch AVN touchscreen. A Performance Driving Data System monitors and improves racetrack driving skills. The feature saves and displays driving data, such as PS, torque, and turbo boost, during racetrack driving via AVN touchscreen. The system also comes with a lap and acceleration timer. When driving in Sport or N mode, the N graphics will also be shown at HUD.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluelink® Connected Car Services make the everyday driving experience even in a high-performance vehicle more convenient. The all-new KONA N is also equipped with additional voice recognition features. Drivers can activate and control features like climate, rear window and side mirror heating, as well as steering wheel heating through a simple voice command.
The all-new KONA N benefits from Hyundai’s comprehensive five-year unlimited mileage warranty.
Technical specifications
Dimensions (mm) (LxWxH) (WB)
4,215 x 1,800 x 1,565; 2,600
Engine
Smartstream 2.0-litre T-GDI w/ flat power
Transmission
8-speed wet-type DCT (N DCT)
Weight (kg)
1,510
Power (PS) / Torque (Nm)
280 / 392
Top speed (km/h)
240
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.5s with Launch Control
– End –
About Hyundai Motor Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is present in over 200 countries with more than 120,000 employees dedicated to tackling real-world mobility challenges around the globe. Based on the brand vision ‘Progress for Humanity,’ Hyundai Motor is accelerating its transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider. The company invests in advanced technologies such as robotics and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) to bring about revolutionary mobility solutions, while pursuing open innovation to introduce future mobility services. In pursuit of sustainable future for the world, Hyundai will continue its efforts to introduce zero emission vehicles equipped with industry-leading hydrogen fuel cell and EV technologies.
About Hyundai Motor Europe HQ Hyundai Motor Europe HQ was formally established in 2000 with its main office in Offenbach, Germany. It is the regional headquarter responsible for over 40 markets with more than 3,000 outlets, taking 3.6 per cent market share in 2020 (ACEA data).
About Hyundai Motor UK Hyundai has sold vehicles in the UK since 1982. In 2005, Hyundai opened its own UK subsidiary, Hyundai Motor UK Ltd, which is now based in Leatherhead, Surrey. As of January 2021, Hyundai has one of the youngest product ranges of any manufacturer, with almost all models younger than 1 ½ years old. More than 75 per cent of the Company’s line-up is now available as an electrified version, and the company plans to electrify its entire range by 2025. Furthermore, Hyundai is a pioneer in zero-emission mobility, including its fully-electric 300-mile range Kona Electric, its second-generation fuel cell electric vehicle NEXO, and the soon-to-be launched battery-electric IONIQ 5, the first model in its new IONIQ line-up brand. All passenger cars come with Hyundai’s unique Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty package, providing customers with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage, five years of roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks. The High Voltage battery warranty is 8 years or 100,000 miles.
Further information about Hyundai and its products is available at www.hyundai.co.uk
Regarded as one of the automotive highlights of the year, the Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional has enjoyed sell-out success since its launch.
Today ticket availability for the 2021 Festival of the Unexceptional, the seventh event of its kind, goes live.
As with previous years, tickets to Festival are strictly limited and highly sought after. A first batch of 1000 tickets will be offered completely free of charge, with a further 1500 tickets available at just £5.75. Children up to the age of 12 go free.
Taking place on Saturday 31st July at Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire, Festival showcases much maligned and long forgotten ‘ordinary’ classic cars and commercial vehicles of the late 1960s, 70s, 80s and 90s, and remains the only concours to give merit to a Merit, sees a Popular as a plus and has a brim-full of passion for a (Yugo) 45.
Grimsthorpe Castle is a 1516 architectural masterpiece, showcasing a mix of Tudor and Baroque splendour, originally given as a wedding gift by Henry VIII to William, 11th Lord Willoughby de Eresby. In addition to providing space for a large number of unexceptional cars, Grimsthorpe also offers expansive grounds to enjoy with lakeside walks, formal gardens, and a children’s play area, ensuring the 2021 Festival of the Unexceptional will be a great day out for all the family.
2021 will also introduce improved show facilities with a wide range of food and beverage outlets, more display cars, comfortable seating areas, increased interaction, and entertainment as well as entertaining judging and award ceremonies.
Once again, Hagerty’s annual Concours de l’Ordinaire is open to classic cars, motorcycles and light commercial vehicles built between 1966 and 1996, but spaces on the coveted concours lawn are limited, and owners of eligible vehicles are encouraged to nominate their entry at the earliest opportunity.
Potential entrants are reminded the Festival, as its name suggests, celebrates the unexceptional. Spaces on the concours lawn will be awarded to a cars with more blanking plates than buttons and to cars with the lowest levels of frippery. Hagerty seeks the cars few would see benefit in saving, and while many luxury or sporting models from the past still have a strong following, it’s the lower trim levels that will catch the judges’ eye.
For tips on how to win the 2021 Festival of the Unexceptional, watch
Hagerty’s Festival of the Unexceptional is a classic car show concept utterly unique in the UK that for the past seven years has successfully showcased the best examples of some of the most mundane cars ever built.
Hagerty is an automotive lifestyle brand. Our mission is keep driving alive for car lovers and drive positive change in the world. Hagerty is home to Hagerty Drivers Club (US), Hagerty Drive Share (US), Hagerty Drivers Club Magazine, Hagerty Media, Hagerty Data and more. Hagerty is the world’s largest provider of specialty insurance for enthusiast vehicles and supports keeping car culture alive through youth programs, the Historic Vehicle Association (HVA), the RPM Foundation and more.
Hagerty offers a comprehensive range of insurance options to classic vehicle owners. Our policies include features designed for classics such as, UK and EU Roadside assistance and recovery, agreed value, salvage retention and more as standard. Hagerty is rated excellent on TrustPilot with a score of 4.9 out of over 7400 reviews.
Hagerty provides a comprehensive valuation tool for owners of classic cars
Make Beaulieu your destination for Father’s Day, as the Hot Rod & Custom Show on Sunday 20th June brings retro motoring fun to the grounds of the National Motor Museum for a packed day out.
Always a family favourite summer event, Hot Rod & Custom Show will bring together impressive customised cars and hot rods, American motors, awesome motorbikes and trikes and pre-1980 classics to form a vibrant display, held in association with the Solent Renegades club.
Solent Renegades Chairman Dan Potter said: “Whenever people ask me what great shows there are to look forward to this year, I always mention Beaulieu’s Hot Rod & Custom Show first. We’re so excited to be returning for this year’s event, which is always a favourite with our club members and one that we’re always delighted to be involved with. As always, there are sure to be stunning cars on show.”
The show has always gathered some of the most eye-catching cars on the roads, from cool, colourful customs, stripped-back hot rods and monster-engined trikes, to immaculate Stateside classics, with 2021 sure to bring together an equally impressive selection. Prizes will be awarded for top machines at the Covid-secure show, with trophies for Best Custom, Best American, Best Hot Rod, Best Bike and Best in Show.
The retro experience at the Covid-secure show extends beyond the amazing motors. Head over to the Vintage Pop-Up, a selection of retro traders offering high-quality wares, from vintage fashions to homewares of the past, while motoring trade stands will be the place to browse automotive accessories.
Get your feet tapping to brilliant music throughout the day, with The Bandits and Company B performing rousing retro tunes on stage, while also returning for 2021 will be Mariachi el Mexicano, delighting showgoers with their upbeat renditions as they stroll around the event. Then get dancing, as show favourites Jitterbug Jive return to get people dancing in a socially-distanced way.
With Beaulieu’s beautiful grounds and gardens open to visitors once again, followed by the planned reopening of the attraction’s indoor spaces on 17th May, there will be plenty for event-goers to explore for a packed New Forest day out.
All tickets must be bought in advance, with carefully-managed capacity limits in place. Event participants, planning to take part in the show with their qualifying vehicle, can book their tickets with confidence thanks to Beaulieu’s Covid-19 refund policy*. Visit www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/hot-rod-and-custom for further details and to buy your participant or visitor tickets.
With plenty for all the family to do at Beaulieu, together, Hot Rod and Custom is just one of the exciting motoring events planned for 2021. Rescheduled are Simply Vauxhall on 17th July, Simply Audi on 1st August and Simply Aston Martin on 21st August, while coming soon are Simply Jaguar on 27th June, Simply Land Rover on 11th July and Simply Ford on 18th July.
Visitor and participant tickets include entrance to all that Beaulieu has to offer, including the National Motor Museum, Little Beaulieu, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, the ancestral Montagu home Palace House, Secret Army exhibition, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and the stunning grounds and gardens. Visit www.beaulieu.co.uk for more information.
* Book with confidence, knowing that we’ve got you covered with our Covid-19 refund policy. If the event is unable to take place due to Government guidance, we will happily transfer your ticket to a future event or issue you with a full refund.
An original, right-hand drive 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Mk1 Volante to Vantage Specification
1999 Subaru 22B-STi Type UK – one of just 16
The May Sale will showcase a variety of exceptional modern cars and iconic classic cars, all of which will be offered on Saturday 22nd May.
One striking supercar going under the hammer, with just 1,000 miles from new is this 2018 Ford GT. This UK-supplied left-hand drive is offered from single ownership and is superbly finished in a subtle shade of Liquid Grey with Ingot Silver stripes. This is number 2 of the first 11 production cars which were allocated to the UK-market. This striking example was ordered from new and registered to Alan Mann Racing – a legendary name that’s synonymous with racing GT40s and Le Mans.
Believed, but not confirmed, to be possibly one of eight produced by ATL on the shores of Lake Como is this beautiful 1965 Alfa Romeo 1900 ATL Sport Coupe. The stunning handmade Aluminium bodywork is laid over the top of a ‘Superleggera’-style steel tubing framework. Silverstone Auctions are offering an unmissable opportunity to acquire an artisan-built sports Coupe created to celebrate Italian styling at its very best.
Gary Dunne Sales Controller for Silverstone Auctions added “We are delighted with our superb, confirmed line-up with more going live on our website in the coming days. The countdown to our catalogue closing has begun; to be a part of our printed catalogue which reaches thousands of customers, entries need to be submitted by the 4th May. Entries submitted after this date will still be a part of our e-catalogue if they are submitted prior to the 10th May.”
Also confirmed for the sale is this 1967 Aston Martin DB6 Mk1 Volante to Vantage Specification. The very pinnacle of British open-top motoring in the 1960s, this beautiful DB6 Volante has, at some point, been fitted with a manual gearbox and upgraded to ‘Vantage spec’ ensuring that, once returned to the roads, this will be a real driver’s car to use and enjoy. This original right-hand drive Mk1 was originally delivered in Sierra Blue with a lovely grey interior and a matching convertible roof, specified from new with Borg-Warner automatic transmission.
Also going under the hammer in The May Sale is this 1999 Subaru 22B-STi Type UK. One of just 16 of the Subaru UK officially imported examples, this is believed to be the 16th car; with just 10 or so still remaining – this really is the ‘Holy Grail’ of the 22Bs. This exceptional example has been owned by Silverstone Auctions’ vendor for the last 18 years with two previous owners and just 49,000 miles. This specific car is very well-regarded within Subaru circles, appearing in ‘Car’, ‘Auto Express’ and ‘Modern Classics’ magazine. The car won Best OEM example of the day at JapFest/TunerFest at Brands Hatch last September. Silverstone Auctions are privileged to offer for sale such a rare and special car, considered by many as the ‘ultimate Subaru’ for the road.
Silverstone Auctions are offering in person viewings of the cars by prior appointment, contact the team to book your inspection. The Silverstone Auctions team can be contacted on 01926 691141, by emailing enquiries@silverstoneauctions.com or via their website if you would like to join their growing lot list.
“The thrill of immediate torque, coupled with a lively rear axle and recognisable Lotus agility, makes Evija an unbelievable package already, and that’s just a prototype” – Matt Windle summarises his driving impressions during Evija prototype testing
“We’re now 80% through the development programme, and the last 20% is where the magic happens! Refining attributes like ride, handling, steering feel and ultimately, full power. It’s an amazing machine at 80%, at 100% it is going to be truly mind-blowing’ – Gavan Kershaw
As the Evija hypercar programme approaches the final straight before entering production, the Lotus testing team and Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars, give their impressions on EP1 – one of several prototypes and the most developed in terms of performance attributes.
Matt Windle said: “We have different prototypes focusing on different areas of development. One for build and tech, another for battery management, the other for motors and so on. EP1, which I have driven most recently, is the performance prototype and it does not disappoint. We are still some months from entering series production, but already EP1 has that unmistakable Lotus ‘feel’. Unquestionably a unique and extreme hypercar, but still, somehow, a Lotus. I’m so excited and extremely proud of what the team has achieved.”
Gavan Kershaw, Director of Product Attributes and Lotus’ legendary chief test driver, said: “We’re 80% there – in terms of power, in terms of batteries, motors, body. Now, the remaining 20% is about adding the magic, for everything to work in harmony in that unique Lotus way, to deliver the driving experience that we want and that we can be super-proud of. And by proud, I of course mean, mind-blowing. It is a hypercar.”
James Hazlehurst, Lead Vehicle Dynamics Engineer, added: “As we enter the final straight of the development programme and start to unleash full power and torque, we are fast-completing the base vehicle dynamics and turning on the active systems one by one – torque vectoring, active aero, traction control and so on – to confirm everything behaves and works together as expected. Then we start to tune the drive modes, delivering the distinctive characteristics for each of the settings. We’ve been doing some of this virtually, working with a simulator partner, and now, as the world is beginning to slowly open up, we’re able to put these learnings into practice in the physical world.”
Louis Kerr, Chief Platform Engineer “We’re lucky in that we have our very own 2.25-mile test track, FIA compliant, literally 50 yards from where I’m sat in the all-new Evija assembly hall. I’m not sure many other manufacturers in the world can say that. The car has been designed without any constraints. We have pushed the boundaries of technology and materials at every opportunity, used the best technical partners, applied the latest technology – some of which is only currently available on a Formula One car – and on top of all that we have the most power-dense powertrain in a car. Already it is the fastest road car around the Hethel track, and some legendary cars and drivers have been setting records around here for many years. We’re already going quicker than expected, and in addition we’re looking to exceed the targets we’ve set ourselves on the project in terms of power and torque capacities to absolutely maximise the performance envelope of the car.”
Concluding, Gavan Kershaw said: “The Evija is an absolutely phenomenal drive. It has Formula One accelerations but in a closed cockpit, so it’s like a little Group C racer but with the torque and instant delivery of all the power, all the torque and the very latest toolbox of electronic aids. You genuinely start to believe you can defy physics – it fires you around corners like a catapult.”
Emira means ‘commander’ or ‘leader’ – highly appropriate for this new Lotus sports car
Name had been ‘hidden in plain sight’ in social media teaser film in recent days
All-new Lotus design language inspired by the Evija all-electric hypercar
World debut of Lotus Emira on Tuesday 6 July
Lotus has today confirmed the name of its eagerly anticipated all-new sports car will be EMIRA.
The news was confirmed during the Driving Tomorrow global digital conference broadcast. To date it has been known only by its codename, the Lotus Type 131.
The name had been teased by Lotus in a film on social media in recent days. It was ‘hidden in plain sight’ as part of a pattern of dots and dashes designed into the central line on a road. Those with knowledge of Morse Code could have spotted that it spelled Emira. Today, 27 April, is the anniversary of the birthday of Samuel Morse, inventor of Morse Code.
Pronounced ‘E-meer-a’, the word features in numerous ancient languages and often translates as ‘commander’ or ‘leader’. It’s highly appropriate as this is the exciting new sports car leading Lotus on a journey to a thrilling new future.
The Emira will be unveiled on Tuesday 6 July at Hethel, Norfolk – where the Emira will be built – and will make its public dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on 8-11 July.
Lotus has also confirmed that, contrary to media speculation, the car will not be a hybrid. The Emira will be powered by a choice of internal combustion engines – the last time Lotus will launch an ICE car – with an exciting new powertrain partnership. The additional powertrain option will be new to Lotus, highly efficient, use cutting edge technology and be tuned to help deliver that distinctive Lotus experience.
With a distinctive new sports car design influenced by the Lotus Evija hypercar, Emira marks the acceleration of the brand’s product-led offensive into a new era of contemporary design, highly efficient powertrains, and everyday usability coupled with explosive performance.
Speaking about the Emira, Matt Windle said: ”It’s the most accomplished Lotus for generations – the perfectly packaged, powered and formed sports car. Beautifully proportioned, shrink-wrapped, but with comfort, technology and ergonomics built in. With a design inspired by the Evija all-electric hypercar, it’s a game-changing Lotus sports car.”
More details on the Lotus Emira will follow in July when the car is revealed.
“Results to date have seen the expansion of our global landscape, while remaining true to the original intention and foundation of the brand, namely that we are ‘For the Drivers’. Now it’s time for more people to enjoy more products and more services from Lotus.” – Mr. Feng Qingfeng, CEO, Group Lotus
“Now in its fourth year, our transformational Vision80 plan is very much on track and we are making great progress” – Matt Windle, MD, Lotus Cars
Lotus reveals further details on transforming the business, revolutionising the product range and delivering results every year
Eagerly anticipated new Lotus sports car, codenamed Type 131, is named and will be unveiled on 6 July
Thrilling new Lotus performance cars will be built on four new platforms – Hypercar, Sports, Premium and E-Sports – as brand’s product-led offensive accelerates
Performance, Intelligent Technology and Sustainability are core values driving the business forward
Lotus Engineering consultancy revitalised with new HQ, new collaborations and all-new technology roadmap – EAS-IP –revealed
Four new vehicle architectures, a technology roadmap, a fresh global retail identity and the name of an all-new car.
Lotus has delivered a series of major news announcements about the ongoing transformation of its business and brand.
Heralding a new dawn for Lotus Cars and Lotus Engineering, the news was broadcast across the world via Driving Tomorrow, a global virtual conference from Lotus at www.DrivingTomorrow.LotusCars.com.
Outlining strategic direction and including new product announcements, it is a status update on Vision80, the plan launched by Lotus in 2018 soon after the company’s 70th anniversary. Based on three key pillars – transforming the business, revolutionising the product range and delivering results every year – Vision80 commits Lotus to meet its transformational targets by the time of its 80th birthday in 2028.
And the verdict could not be clearer. As Lotus enters the fourth year of that plan, the transformation is on track and the company has emerged from a challenging 2020 intact and making great progress.
Matt Windle, Managing Director of Lotus Cars: “Our ongoing Vision80 plan to transform Lotus is on track. This year is a pivotal one for Lotus, particularly with our sports cars we reach the end of one era and begin another. The spirit and passion that gave the world the Elise, Exige and Evora will live on in the next generation of cars – cars like the all-new Lotus Emira.”
Lotus Emira: making its world debut on 6 July
Lotus has confirmed more details of its all-new sports car, to date known only by its codename Type 131 and now confirmed to be the Lotus Emira. Pronounced ‘E-meer-a’, the word features in numerous ancient languages and often translates as ‘commander’ or ‘leader’. It’s highly appropriate as this is the exciting new sports car leading Lotus on a journey to a thrilling new future.
The Emira will be unveiled on Tuesday 6 July at the Lotus Advanced Performance Centre, Hethel, Emira’s production home, and will make its public dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on 8-11 July.
Lotus has also confirmed that, contrary to media speculation, the car will not be a hybrid. The Emira will be powered by a choice of internal combustion engines – the last time Lotus will launch an ICE car – with an exciting new powertrain partnership. The additional powertrain option will be new to Lotus, highly efficient, use cutting edge technology and be tuned to help deliver that distinctive Lotus experience.
With a distinctive new sports car design influenced by the Lotus Evija hypercar, Emira marks the acceleration of the brand’s product-led offensive into a new era of contemporary design, highly efficient powertrains, and everyday usability coupled with explosive performance.
More details on the Lotus Emira will follow in July when the car is revealed.
Four new Lotus architectures to deliver thrilling new Lotus cars
The Emira is being built on one of four new Lotus architectures. Working collaboratively with colleagues in Europe and China, Lotus engineers have developed a dedicated family of structural platforms for the brand. Exclusive to Lotus within the Geely group but available to other OEMs through the Lotus Engineering consultancy, these four architectures will underpin the eagerly anticipated next generation of Lotus performance cars.
1) Sports car architecture: Referred to internally as the Elemental architecture, this is the platform on which the all-new Lotus Emira will be built. Flexible, lightweight and featuring the signature Lotus extruded aluminium technology, this sports car platform is a massive step-change technically. Every dimension is different to previous generations of Lotus sports cars.
2) Hypercar architecture: The Lotus Evija is the first vehicle to be built on this Extreme platform and goes into production later this year at Hethel. Despite travel restrictions limiting testing opportunities around the world, progress on the car has not stopped. Several thousand kilometres of engineering development and validation testing have taken place in the UK. Lotus is also working with an advanced simulator company, allowing the Evija team to run endless simulations in the virtual world. This enhances confidence in passing project milestones with real-world development vehicles and creates programme efficiencies.
James Hazlehurst is the lead dynamics engineer on the Evija and said the team has been focused on making this most extreme and unique of cars feel like a Lotus. James explained: “A key marker for any Lotus is the ’50-metre test’, where within the first 50 metres of driving any of our cars you can feel the immediacy of the steering response and the connection to the road. Damping that’s perfectly balanced between handling and ride comfort, and a powertrain that responds directly and proportionally to your throttle demand, are key elements of this. All of this should be before you’ve travelled faster than 30mph or above 0.1g acceleration in any direction.”
Evija owners will be the first Lotus customers to benefit from what3words (W3W) technology available on the car. W3W divides the world into 3 metre x 3 metre squares and gives each a unique combination of three words: a W3W address. For example, ‘hotspots.punters.race’ is the W3W address for the entrance to Lotus HQ at Hethel. The Lotus Emira will also benefit from this system, which is a far more accurate location system than the traditional postcode.
3) Premium architecture: The first ever truly global automotive architecture from Lotus, the Evolution platform will be the basis for an all-new range of lifestyle vehicles from the company. Building on the launch of the Emira, these cars will catapult Lotus into a new era of higher retail volumes and significant revenues. The architecture has been defined and designed in the UK, supported by collaborative work with teams in China, Sweden and Germany. It is ‘born British, raised globally’.
4) Electric sports car architecture: In January this year Lotus and Group Renault’s Alpine brand announced a new partnership. The Lotus Engineering consultancy is leading development work on a new vehicle platform – known internally as E-Sports – and from that will come new products for Lotus and Alpine.
Matt Windle commented: “The E-Sports architecture will be flexible and modular, and will generate an exciting new sports car for the Lotus brand, with contemporary styling, class-leading ride and handling, explosive performance and that unmistakable Lotus character – a pure dynamic experience that is ‘For The Drivers’. I have challenged our teams to target the same weight as our latest combustion engine sports cars.”
Lotus in 2021: Performance, Intelligent Technology and Sustainability The ongoing transformation and expansion of Lotus under Vision80 comes from a position of confidence in Lotus’ identity as a vital brand with its eye firmly on the future and global growth. In 2021 there are three core values driving the business forward – Performance, Intelligent Technology and Sustainability.
Performance The heart and soul of Lotus has always been driven by a dedication to class-leading performance, proven wherever possible in the motorsport arena. It is part of the Lotus DNA and will always guide the company’s progress in developing new technologies for its cars and for those of other brands. Performance of Lotus cars has always come from the first principles set down more than 70 years ago – innovative thinking around light weight, exceptional ride and handling, and advanced aerodynamics.
Intelligent Technology Consumer demand for technology is a fact of today’s automotive landscape, and Lotus is embracing that completely. Richard Moore, Executive Director, Engineering, Lotus, commented: “Technology is the currency of luxury and desirability in today’s new cars. Lotus will re-set what it means to be a British premium automotive brand through development and adoption of innovative and intelligent technology.”
An all-new technology road map of five principles – dubbed EAS-IP – has been created by Lotus to guide this work:
Electrify: A pure electric future for Lotus, as first demonstrated by the Evija hypercar, has been part of the Vision80 strategy from the start. After the Lotus Emira, every new Lotus car will be electric.
Amplify: Lotus is committed to delivering innovative and engaging technologies. It will dial up the importance and prevalence of technology in its new product range. In tandem with performance, this will drive the desirability of future models.
Simplify: It was Lotus founder Colin Chapman who famously said the key to performance was to ‘simplify and add lightness’. Nothing has changed. Lotus technology will be an enabler, and will simplify the driving and ownership experience for customers.
Intensify: Lotus is fast developing a reputation as a world leader in Human Machine Interface (HMI), User Interface (UI), and User Experience (UX). With every new product launch, the role of innovative new technology will be intensified.
Personify: Lotus will use technology to give its new models an identity, a brand character that will become part of the company’s DNA. Lotus cars will be customisable through technology, mirroring and adapting to each customer’s tastes.
Sustainability In addition to the principles of sustainability in terms of environmental and corporate responsibility, in which Lotus is making great strides through accelerated electrification and a journey to net-zero underway with energy partner Centrica, sustainability as a business is also a critical part of the strategy.
Thanks to Vision80 and the progress made since its launch, and the support of its shareholders Geely and Etika, the long-term foundation and sustainability of the Lotus business is taking shape. As the company progresses towards its 80th anniversary in 2028, the health, stability and sustainability of Lotus will successfully deliver the three key priorities of Vision80. Lotus will transform its business, revolution its product range and deliver results every year. The growth of Lotus is already sparking a new generation of Lotus cars, which will lead to an increase in vehicle sales worldwide.
Being part of the Geely group of companies gives Lotus access to a vast range of skills and expertise. Hubs spread across the globe create the new Lotus map of the world, allowing the company to draw upon deep resources and skill bases as part of the Geely group:
Hethel: The Norfolk site in England is the home of Lotus, the heart and soul of the business. It is the location of the Lotus Advanced Performance Centre, where the brand’s sports cars are designed, engineered and manufactured.
Wellesbourne: Announced last year, the Lotus Advanced Technology Centre is on the Wellesbourne campus of the University of Warwick. The UK’s Midlands region is a focal point for automotive and engineering innovation, and is the perfect location for Lotus’ high voltage development and testing centre and the home of the Lotus Engineering consultancy.
Gothenburg: Home of the Geely Innovation Centre Sweden – Uni3 by Geely Campus, CEVT and of Geely Design.
Frankfurt: Geely Auto Technical Deutschland (GATD) research and development facility focussing on new propulsion systems and next-generation mobility technology.
USA: The world’s largest market for sports cars, with strategic bases for Lotus in Detroit and Los Angeles.
China: The home of Geely, the operational headquarters of the entire group of companies and the world’s leading market for vehicle electrification.
A new Lotus retail strategy and enhanced multi-channel customer journey In addition to the development of new Lotus models and technologies, Lotus is also transforming how it takes its innovations to market.
The most obvious example of this is the launch of a stunning new Lotus retail identity programme, now being rolled out in showrooms across the world. The first location to feature this exciting new Lotus look and feel is complete and open for business in Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, in the Middle East.
Uniquely Lotus and defiantly disruptive, the new retail identity draws directly on the brand’s design and engineering prowess to create a bold and original new showroom environment that’s sculptural and artistic in its execution.
The new retail identity is integrated into a 360-degree Lotus digital brand experience for customers, part of a seamless multi-channel retail strategy. Working with new retail partners, it will take Lotus to more global markets than ever before.
Geoff Dowding, Executive Director, Sales and Aftersales, said: “Launching an all-new visual identity for our retail partners is another hugely exciting step in our transformation of the Lotus brand. The inherent flexibility of what we have created will be perfect for all environments, whether they’re solus or multi-franchise, urban or out-of-town, high street or shopping mall, single or multi-storey, pop-up, seasonal or permanent.”
By adopting a multi-channel approach in its new retail strategy, Lotus will embrace the full spectrum of interactions and transactions with the brand, from the traditional and physical to the modern and digital.
Geoff Dowding explained: “It’s about offering a combination of online and offline retail experience. Looking, feeling, seeing, interacting and at the same time having the ability to do this 24 hours a day and maybe even conclude a transaction in the middle of the night, anywhere in the world. New generations of buyer and different models of ownership are bringing about this change and fast, particularly in some of the newer markets for Lotus such as in China. It’s about layers of choice, over and above what we are offering today – in different markets, in different cities, in different stores. Our customers will have their relationships with the brand, and they will have their relationships with the retailers – multi-channel and all about choice.’
Concluding the Driving Tomorrow conference, Matt Windle said: “Our transformation is well under way, and this year it really begins to accelerate through a product-led offensive. Evija goes into production, Emira is launched, and a new suite of four dedicated vehicle architectures is confirmed to further catapult Lotus into new markets, new segments and new volume territory. Our global expansion is continuing at pace, with Hethel still very much the heart and soul of the brand, but with a whole new Lotus map of the world to draw upon and to capitalise upon. And finally, new relationships with customers old and new get underway through the evolution of our retail strategy as we embark on volumes, markets and segments never seen before in the Lotus business. Lotus has a famous history of fast-paced exploits and successes on the racetracks. In the future, that fast pace of change is translated to the roads and to the global automotive market of tomorrow.”
