Audi A6 E-Tron concept shows what we can expect from company's future electric sedans

Concept Cars

Photo courtesy of Audi AG

Audi is going all-in on electric vehicles and the latest concept car, the Audi A6 E-Tron concept, showcases much of what we can expect from the forthcoming electric Audi car lineup.

That all starts with the Premium Platform Electric (PPE), the architecture that the future vehicles will ride on. The battery size and wheelbase of PPE vehicles are scalable. B- and C-segment SUVs that are underpinned by the components will begin arriving in late 2022. These first vehicles will be re-launches of the original E-Tron lineup models. Smaller subcompact SUVs will come later.

According to the automaker, the only thing that the Audi A6 E-Tron has in common with the current gasoline version of the model (and its many variants) is its dimensions. Designated a Sportback, the hatchback version of the A6 is a combination of looks between the Audi A6 and A7, with a fresh grille design.

Audi A6 e-tron concept

Audi A6 e-tron concept
  

Photo courtesy of Audi AG

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Audi has confirmed that future models will deliver dynamic driving performance that is suitable for daily use. This means that a variety of drive systems will be available. The automaker says that the A6 E-Tron is expected to have a range of more than 700 kilometers (434 miles) using WLTP standards when it debuts. Audi brags that the most powerful members o the A6 E-Tron family will go from zero to 62 mph in under four seconds.

The A6 E-Tron concept rides on 22-inch wheels, has short overhands and a flat cabin, and a ride coupe-like roof arch that play together to give the car a sporty appearance. Side mirrors on the concept are replaced by cameras, a tech that U.S. regulators have yet to embrace.

There is a battery area above the rocker panel that is accepted with a black inlay, a feature that is common in E-Tron models. There's a fresh Singleframe grille with deep air intakes below that cool the drivetrain, battery, and brakes. Headlight bezels, surrounding the slim Digital Matrix LED and digital OLED lights, are design to wrap around the car and underscore the shape of the car's body.

At the rear of the car, the influence of Audi's aero tunnel is evident with a diffuser making a strong statement.

Audi's design team has given the car a Heliosilver paint job that is designed to show off the shapes of the vehicles with three-dimensional depth.

Safety warnings can be displayed on the ground via high-resolution projectors. These new safety features can do things like warn a cyclist that a car door is about to open.

A battery module between the axles of the car holds around 100 kilowatt-hours of energy. Tesla and Chinese carmaker Niro already offer vehicles with that size battery pack. The Audi A6 e-tron concept's two electric motors are capable of delivering a total output of 350 kW (469 horsepower) and a torque of 800 Newton meter (590 pound-feet). All-wheel drive is avialable on demand.

The Audi A6 e-tron concept's battery can be charged with up to 270 kW in a very short time at fast-charging stations. At these stations, just 10 minutes of charge time is enough to charge the battery to a level that will power the car for 300 kilometers (186 miles). In less than 25 minutes, Audi says that the car can charge from five to 80 percent.

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Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

2022 Mercedes EQB is an all-electric version of the GLB SUV

New SUV

The formula is simple enough. Take the Mercedes-Benz GLB and add electric power making it a battery electric vehicle (BEV). Meet the 2022 Mercedes EQB (which may not come to the U.S. until the 2023 model year).

This take on the GLB is the same size as the traditional GLB. It is a subcompact SUV that, like the EQC before it, adopts the last letter of its "GL" name and adds it to the electric lineup's "EQ" nomenclature.

Shown first in a spec for China's customers, the EQB changes out the grille of the GLB for the typical Mercedes-EQ black panel with a central star. There is a continuous light strip at the front and rear of the car, bordered by full-LED headlights with blue highlights within the lamp housing. At the top are studded roof rails.

2022 Mercedes MQB: Exterior

2022 Mercedes MQB: Exterior
  

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

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Each EQB rides on light-alloy wheels in a bi- or trim-color design, up to 20 inches in size. A rose gold-colored wheel and wheels with decorative blue trim will be available in some markets.

Customers in China will get the EQB with AMG Line styling. It will have an output of 288 horsepower. In Europe, customers will be able to choose between front- and all-wheel drive versions of the EQB, and have the opportunity to pick the right power level for them. Some of the outputs are rated over 268 horsepower.

Usable battery capacity for Europe is 66.5 kilowatt-hours. A long-range version is also planned.

Mercedes says that the EQB can be charged at up to 11 kilowatts with alternating current using the onboard charger. Charge time will vary by infrastructure and country-specific vehicle equipment.

At DC fast-charging stations, the EQB can charge at a rate of up to 100 kilowatts. When that happens, the charging time to get from 10 to 80 percent charged is a little over 30 minutes. The car's CCS connector is on the right-hand side.

2022 Mercedes EQB: Interior

2022 Mercedes EQB: Interior key fob
  

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

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Mercedes me Charge technology is available in Europe and the U.S. allowing plug-and-charge.

The cabin of the GLB is designed to seat up to seven. The car's available two third-row seats are capable of fitting people up to 5 feet 4 inches tall, and can accommodate child seats. Altogether, up to four child seats can be placed inside the GLB.

Headroom for occupants of the first two row of SUVs is average for a compact SUV (about the same as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester). It has up to 60 cubic-feet of cargo space.

The interior of the EQB is straight out of the GLB playbook with some design accents to jazz it up a bit. Depending on the design and equipment line chosen by the buyer, a backlit trim piece and rose gold-colored decorative elements can be featured on the air vents, seats, and vehicle key. The instruments, with their electric car-specific displays, pick up on the same color scheme with rose gold-coloring and blue highlights.

The car comes with navigation with electric intelligence, an algorithm that incorporates navigation data, traffic sign recognition and information from the vehicle sensors into its efficiency strategy, calculating the fastest route including any necessary charging stops. Additionally, the tech ensure that the battery is brought to the proper charging temperature before a planned charging stop.

2022 Mercedes EQB: Seating

2022 Mercedes EQB: Seating five recline
  

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

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The EQB features active lane keep assist and active brake assist as standard. An Assistance Package includes pedestrian and cyclist detection when turning corners.

The EQB will be built at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Germany. Look for it to arrive arrive at U.S. dealers in 2022.

Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota commits to 70 electrified products by 2025; here's what's coming

Electric Vehicles

Today Toyota committed to expand their company portfolio by around 70 models globally by 2025. That's just four years from now. The company has said that of those 70-ish, 15 will be new battery electric vehicles and seven will be Toyota bZ models.

They're not just talking about cars and SUVs. Toyota also says that it's bringing electrification to its truck lineup including hybrid and BEV powertrains.

So, what exactly is coming? A little sleuthing and some educated guessing tells the story. It's important to note that all the information below is of a speculative nature as Toyota, like every other automaker, is not in the habit of commenting on future product. It's also important to remember that just because a product name has made the list, that doesn't necessarily mean it will for-sure come to market.

Lexus RZ450e

A trademark application for "RZ450e" has already been filed. It would follow in line with Toyota company nomenclature if an all-electric version of the Lexus RX 450h became the Lexus RZ450e (or Lexus RZ 450e). The RX450h name is already used on the hybrid version of the popular Lexus SUV (sold also as the RX 350).

Toyota bZ5

If they're committed to using "X" to denote all-wheel drive-capable SUVs, then it stands to reason that the Toyota bZ5 will be an electric car. When it comes to guessing size, look to the fact that other automakers (BMW, Mercedes, etc.) use "5" to denote a midsize sedan. This could possibly be an all-electric version of the Camry.

However, it's also a possibility that the bZ5 could be an all-electric version of the Toyota Avalon given how the current lineup sits and figuring that "5" is as high as Toyota has worked to trademark.

Toyota bZ3X

If the Toyota bZ4X is a compact SUV, perhaps the bZ3X is a subcompact, a little larger than the Toyota C-HR. This would fit with the nomenclature used in the scenario played out by the Toyota BZ5 hypothesis and fit into other brands' (Audi, BMW, etc.) naming schemes.

Toyota bZ5X

If the Toyota bZ3X is a smaller SUV than the bZ4X, then the bZ5X must be larger. Perhaps this model is a midsize SUV with a third row of seating that's comparable to what is currently in the Highlander. It could also be the name given to the all-electric version of the Highlander.

Toyota GR 010

Toyota uses GR in its naming scheme to denote models that are tuned by Gazoo Racing. The GR Supra and GR 86 are both proof of that. A Toyota GR 010 could be a small, performance-focused electric car.

Lexus TX350 & Lexus TX500h

The Lexus LF-1 Limitless concept was so loved by the press and public, word was that Toyota wanted to put it into production as soon as possible. It's likely that the TX350 and TX500h are three-row crossover versions of that concept. The naming structure would fit with the current UX, NX, and RX nomenclature while the TX500h is a nod to a higher-performance model with a larger engine than the RX 450h's that is also a hybrid.

Toyota bZ4, Toyota bZ3, Toyota bZ2, Toyota bZ1

If the Toyota bZ5 is an all-electric car about the size of the Camry or Avalon, it would make sense that the Toyota bZ4 and bZ3 are smaller all-electric cars. It would then follow that the bZ2 and bZ1 would be even smaller. From largest to smallest, the current Toyota lineup includes Avalon, Camry, and Corolla. Yaris is sold elsewhere in the world but a car that size could make a comeback as one of the bZ2 or bZ1 models.

Toyota bZ2X & Toyota bZ1X

With the bZ4X being about the size of the RV4, it stands to reason that the bZ2X may be about the size of the current Toyota C-HR. There's also a possibility that either the bZ2X or bZ1X could be an electric version of the Toyota Corolla Cross, a model that has been said to be likely to come to the U.S.

Remember, Toyota still owes us the identity of the product they'll be co-producing with Mazda at the plant in Alabama.

Toyota Trailhunter

There's a lot of people expecting Toyota to release a rugged small SUV in the spirit of the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Some expect it to be able to go head-to-head with the Jeep Wrangler while others just hope for something more rugged than the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road. Only time will tell.

Toyota Grand Highlander

There's a Jeep Wagoneer and a Grand Wagoneer. Could there be a Toyota Highlander and a Toyota Grand Highlander? With the Toyota Land Cruiser leaving the company's U.S. lineup, there's a hole up top that a fancy version of the Highlander could fill. Fancier and more rugged? That could be a win-win.

Photo courtesy of Genesis Motors

2022 Genesis Electrified G80 debuts as company's first electric vehicle

New Car

Genesis is launching its first electric vehicle (EV). The 2022 Genesis Electrified G80 takes the typical parts of the G80 sedan and combines it with an electric powertrain.

"Today is very special because it represents a variety of firsts for the Genesis brand, not only because this is Genesis' very first appearance at Auto Shanghai, but also as the first time we are unveiling a new product outside of Korea," said Jay Chang, Global Head of the Genesis brand. "The Electrified G80, the perfect balance of athleticism and elegance, marks the beginning of our journey into the EV market, representing Genesis in the era of electrification."

The exterior of the Electrified G80 is nearly the same as the traditional G80. The car's Crest Grille features an inverted G-Matrix pattern. It houses the car's charging door, which is located in the grille's upper right corner. The charging door features a two-line design. The two lines mimic the design that features in the lighting of the vehicle.

2022 Genesis Electrified G80

2022 Genesis Electrified G80
  

Photo courtesy of Genesis Motors

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Nineteen-inch wheels are available.

Specifics for the U.S. market version of the car will be revealed closer to its arrival stateside. Until then, we'll have to make do with what is already confirmed.

The 2020 Electrified G80 offers an estimated maximum range per charge of more than 500 kilometers (310 miles) as measured using Korean EV certification. However, the company estimates far less range, just 427 kilometers (265 miles). That number pales in comparison to the Mercedes EQS's 770-kilometer (478-mile) estimated range and the Tesla Model S Long Range Plus gets 402 miles of all-electric range.

Charging happens at a rate of up to 350 kilowatts, getting from 10 to 80 percent of a charge in just 22 minutes.

Every Electrified G80 comes standard with all-wheel drive. Drivers who put the throttle down can get from zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds when the car is in its Sport driving mode.

Drivers can connect or disconnect motor and drive shaft based on different driving conditions, enabling the car to switch from rear- to all-wheel drive on demand, and enabling fuel savings when desired.

Genesis has given the car Active Noise Control - Road, a feature that was first available on the GV80. There's also Electronic Control Suspension with Road Preview tech, which reads the road ahead and adjusts the suspension accordingly ahead of the vehicle encountering a disturbance.

The Electrified G80 also provides a V2L (Vehicle to Load) feature that enables customers to use 3.6 kilowatts of electric power, half of what the Ford F-150 PowerBoost's Pro Power OnBoard delivers, making it possible to use electric appliances outside the vehicle with ease.

The cabin of the EV features recycled materials - natural dyes for leather that is upholstered on the seats, console, and rear-seat armrest; natural recycled wood trim; and recycled PET fabrics.

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Automotive Map is moving to Your Test Driver

New website

Big news! Automotive Map has moved to a new site and has changed its name to Your Test Driver. You'll notice the same format, writing style, and content on the new site. That's because Your Test Driver is run by Chris Teague, the former editor of Automotive Map. We hope to see you there for continued coverage of news, reviews, and features from around the automotive industry.

2023 Nissan Leaf pricing announced

Updated EV

Nissan is nearing the release of the Ariya, its first new EV in several years. Even so, the brand hasn't forgotten about its first mass-market EV, the Leaf. It was an early entrant in the space, and has been an efficient, affordable, commuter car for over a decade. The car got a mild facelift for 2023, with updated wheels and exterior styling accents. Today, Nissan announced pricing for the Leaf, which starts at just under $29,000.

2023 Nissan LeafThe Leaf feels lively, despite middling power numbers.Nissan

The base Leaf comes with a 40-kWh battery capable of delivering a 149-mile range. Its 110-kW electric motor produces 147 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The Leaf SV Plus features a 60-kWh battery for a range of 212 miles. It comes with a 160-kW motor that makes 214 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. Nissan backs all Leaf models with an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.

ProPilot Assist comes standard for the Leaf SV Plus, and brings a full suite of advanced driver aids that include adaptive cruise control, driver alertness features, and a surround-view monitor. All Leaf models get Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warnings, blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, automatic high beams, and rear automatic braking.

2023 Nissan LeafThe Leaf SV Plus offers up to 212 miles of range.Nissan

The new Leaf starts at $28,895, which includes a $1,095 destination charge. The Leaf SV Plus starts at $36,895. The 2023 Nissan Leaf is on sale now, and may be eligible for federal tax credits of up to $7,500. Depending on where you live, you may also be able to receive a state tax credit or other incentives.

2022 Nissan Altima: Three things to know

Comfortable midsize sedan

The Nissan Altima may not get the attention or the praise that the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord get, but it's a solid entry in an ultra-competitive segment. It's also one of few options in its class with available all-wheel drive. We spent a week with the 2022 Nissan Altima SR Midnight Edition with AWD and came away from the experience impressed. Here are three things to know about the car.

The 2022 Nissan Altima is a Good Value

With a starting price in the mid-$20,000 range and available all-wheel drive, it's hard to complain about value here. The Altima is still reasonably priced at the top end, where it maxes out at around $35,000 before options and fees. That's a great value for a spacious, comfortable car like the Altima, and with all-wheel drive it's a great all-weather commuter.

2022 Nissan AltimaNissan offers the Altima in several configurations.Nissan

2022 Altima Interior Space and Comfort are Generous

It's easy to ignore Nissan's Zero Gravity seats as another marketing buzzword, but they are legitimately comfortable and supportive in a way that not many others are. Available leather upholstery and contrast stitching give the interior an upscale feel, but even lower trims' cloth upholstery feels nice and works well from a visual standpoint. Up front, there's room for both passengers to stretch out, and the driver won't feel cramped on leg or headroom. Back-seat passengers get a similar treatment, as there's plenty of space for adults and kids. Parents will find an easy time loading and unloading car seats as well.

2023 Nissan AltimaThe Altima gets an update for 2023 with fresh styling and more tech.Nissan

The 2023 Nissan Altima Gets an Update

Nissan is refreshing the Altima for 2023 with a facelift, new tech, and better safety features. The new car will go on sale in the fall of 2022 and will come in several trims, including one with Nissan's truck VC-Turbo engine. The Altima's most noticeable update will be its front fascia, which is all-new for 2023. Nissan gives the car a fresh grille design that varies depending on the trim, and LED headlights will be standard. Nissan Safety Shield 360 is standard, and the Altima is available with all-wheel drive, ProPilot Assist, and more.

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