Tag Archives: electric vehicles

Audi Unveils New EV Brand in China Without Its Iconic Four-Ring Logo

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A car’s identity can be attributed to two things – its overall design language, and the logo that sits on the front and back of it, allowing you to identify its ‘marque’. For decades, Audi’s identity could be traced back to the iconic four-ring logo on its front, coupled with its sporty-aggressive design language. Times, however, change, and Audi is embracing that change too. The company just unveiled its first China-specific EV brand in collaboration with SAIC Motor. Dubbed just ‘AUDI’, the brand eschews the four-ring logo for four capital letters, tying both to its German name as well as the way its partner’s name ‘SAIC’ is spelled.

The new brand was announced alongside an EV concept, built with a fast-charging 800V powertrain and two 760HP motors supplying energy to the car’s AWD platform. The car accelerates 0-60mph in just 3.6 seconds, despite its large frame, while, a 100 kWh gives the car a range of 434 miles on a full charge. Exclusive just to the Chinese market, the car is looking at an August 2025 launch, with a price of $42,000 USD.

Designer: Audi

Positioned as a fully electric Sportback, the AUDI E boasts a significant presence on the road with its dimensions: 4,870 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, with a generous 2,950 mm wheelbase. Two electric motors on the front and rear axles generate a thrilling 570 kW and 800 Nm of torque, ensuring the iconic quattro four-wheel drive feel. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the AUDI E’s 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.6 seconds, and the brand promises that it drives with all the comfort and dynamism that fans expect from Audi.

The vehicles will be built on an Advanced Digitized Platform, a joint effort with SAIC that combines Audi’s premium design and engineering with SAIC’s technological prowess and understanding of Chinese consumer needs. This platform underpins the upcoming lineup, which will hit the market starting in 2025, targeting mid-size to full-size segments. With this collaboration, Audi’s commitment goes beyond creating cars—it’s about creating a distinctly localized driving experience that merges Audi’s luxury touch with China’s fast-paced digital landscape.

At the core of the AUDI E is a 100-kWh battery that supports a range of 700 km (434 miles) on a full charge, measured according to CLTC (China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) standards. This EV comes equipped with an innovative 800-volt architecture, making charging speeds incredibly fast. Imagine gaining more than 370 km (230 miles) of range in just 10 minutes at a rapid charging station. For users in China, these speeds add significant convenience to daily commutes and long journeys, transforming how they experience charging times and range anxiety.

Stepping inside, the cabin introduces a level of interactivity that blurs the line between digital and physical. The AUDI Assistant, an AI-driven avatar, takes center stage, handling touch and voice controls with effortless finesse. This assistant doesn’t just respond; it interacts with an intuitive design that adds a layer of emotion and feedback, creating an experience that feels like a dialogue. Meanwhile, seamless smartphone integration enables users to bring their digital lives on the road with ease, a must-have for today’s hyper-connected audience.

While the new brand aligns itself with Audi’s established reputation, the rebranding feels like a conscious step into a future defined by both global standards and local resonance. The new, ring-less identity signals Audi’s awareness of the unique needs and preferences of Chinese drivers, opening up a pathway to engage a younger, tech-driven customer base. Personally, the four-ring identity had a unique iconic appeal that transcended language barriers. With the new logo in English, it’s difficult to say if it’ll imprint on the Chinese audience, although I’m sure the German marque’s done a fair bit of planning in advance!

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This 3D-Printed city car is AI-assisted emotional companion for city rides

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Automatic transmission cars were good, self-driving EVs even better, and now ones that can console you on a bad mood day are god sent. Yes, this is the future of mobility that’s upon us and the Robo-EV by PIX Moving Team is the living example.

The micro car envisioned for choked city mobility is completely 3D-printed out in one piece making it structurally strong and easy to manufacture for commercial use. The Switzerland-based company has crafted a prototype of this bold vision and we are impressed.

Designer: PIX Moving Team

The real-time manufacturing processes employed in manufacturing this four-wheeler make way for complex component manufacturing, ease of customization, and of course modularity of use. There are other benefits as well including lightweight yet robust chassis and frame. The team used basalt composite to make the suspension ultra-reliable minus any bells or whistles. Even the wheel arches are made from 3D-printed metal.

Its real USP lies in the smart technology embedded on the inside. Robo-EV comes with an AI system that can detect the mood and tone of the driver in real-time. Based on the data, the intelligent car can provide emotional support via its large language model. The interaction can be two-way as the car’s voice system also functions as a voice assistant. In a way, you won’t need a buddy on long trips when you’ll be driving this Swiss EV on the roads.

Robo-EV touts regenerative braking adding to its reserve of battery power, and extending the total range. PIX Moving Team tested the two-seater vehicle on the road and the results have not yet been shared with media houses. The electric vehicle of the future is targeted primarily towards ridesharing and public transport domains. More than that it gives a clear vision of what the future of city transportation will be like.

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Hyundai’s experimental EV Drifter is inspired by exoskeleton cars that leave nothing unexposed

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Hyundai introduced the sub-brand with the N line back in 2018, dedicated to building the future of powerful electric vehicles. Under this badge, the high-performance Hyundai N badged IONIQ 5 N electric hatchback impressed us with its performance and everyday practicality.

Now, the South Korean automotive giant has introduced the RN24 to showcase where the brand is heading with its vision of mass-adopted vehicles. The primary motive is to develop electric cars with a thrilling ride experience, and this lightweight experimental concept does it all right.

Designer: Hyundai

The short wheelbase RN24 based on the IONIQ 5 N powertrain was revealed as a part of the N Day 2024 online event. The vehicle combines an open-air roll-cage design with a WRC-themed chassis, making it a visually appealing prospect. It is the next installation in the “rolling lab” series which came with past makes like the RM19 and RN22e. The powertrain is 15 inches shorter than the IONIQ 5 N, purposefully to have a distinct appeal. The all-electric experimental vehicle comes with Hyundai’s WRC Powertrain Drive Control Logic system that allows drivers to precisely adjust the PE Power, Acceleration Sensitivity, Regenerative Brake Sensitivity, and PE Power Balance right from the steering wheel.

Since the EV doesn’t make any growling sound when the RPM hits the red mark, Hyundai has taken the IONIQ 5 N’s sound system and routed the two speakers through the rear fenders, acting as a loud soundbox. This all-wheel drive has a rally mode with an electronic variant of the i20 WRC’s torque control. The electrical hand brake makes sure this naked EV can perform stunning drifts. On the looks front, the RN24 adapts the motorsports frame since these machines have to face extreme conditions that require strength and structural integrity. Thus, the vehicle is reinforced with and exposed exoskeleton-styled roll-cage, 19-inch matte black forged wheels, and a large spoiler with 3D-printed gussets.

According to Manfred Harrer, Executive Vice President and Head of the Genesis and Performance Development Tech Unit, “Hyundai N is not just a brand but a representation of our commitment to innovation and high performance. RN24 is a testament to our bold ambitions for the future.” Truly we cannot agree more with this statement.

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Kia reincarnates the iconic old school Pride as a powerful electric car restomod we love

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The gas-powered Kia Pride was a successful subcompact hatchback from the 90s that was a rebatched Ford Festiva. For the 80th anniversary of the brand’s business in the UK, they have restored the 1996 Pride 1.3 LX into an all-electric restomod. This one-off electrified reincarnation of the classic family car gets a stellar EV powertrain conversion courtesy of a British manufacturer.

According to Kia, the electric hot hatch is one of the most powerful of its kind, and they playfully call it a “true socket rocket.”  All the combustion components have been replaced with a powerful EV powertrain and the only components retained from the original are the five-speed manual transmission and drive shafts. This brings maximum drivable engagement for motorheads who care.

Designer: Kia

The renewed avatar of the Pride boasts 107 bhp (80kW) and 173 lb-ft of torque, almost double the power of its older counterpart. On the inside, the electric motor, twin 10 kWh battery packs, and a charging port replace the older gas-powered engine, fuel tank and filler neck. All these core modifications lead to an acceleration of 0 to 62 mph in 8 seconds flat. Kia assures that the 20 kWh battery pack can stretch a total mileage of 120 miles on a single full charge in the Evo mode which is good enough for a city commuter like this one. In this drive configuration the engine shifts to producing 60 bhp with a maximum torque of 11 Nm. Talking of which, the Pride EV also has two other modes – Auto and Sport – the latter offering a max power output of 107 bhp and 173 lb-ft torque.

Sadly, this restomod version is going to be a one-off and not up for sale anytime in the future. That said Kia is launching many EVs like the latest EV3 as a part of the plan to have 15 electric vehicles by 2027. Nine of these will be available for sale in the UK.

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Scaled-up version of LEGO Technic 8810 café racer set by Matt Denton is a rideable electric monkey bike

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The LEGO Technic 8810 Café Racer traces its roots back to the early 90s when it was first released. The 80-piece set was a childhood buddy for kids of all ages and even adults into LEGO brick building on leisurely weekends. Also known as the Technic Alpha Racer, the model gains an average 3% yearly rise in value.

Going by its collectible worth, the LEGO café racer is a valid inspiration for animatronics creator Matt Denton who has developed a rideable LEGO Technic 8810 café racer made from 3D printed parts to preserve the attachable and detachable essence of the LEGO brick influence. Each of the individual parts is created from PolyLite and polycarbonate materials to emulate the snappable plastic blocks.

Designer: Matt Denton

Matt is known for his creations culminating from exposure to the engineering and design domain. The Star Wars BB-8 is one of them. Now the 33-year-old crafter has brought the LEGO café racer into a functional electric bike which is a monkey bike in its DNA. The two-wheeler can take the weight of an adult and like all monkey bikes is a handful when it comes to steering in tight spaces at low speeds. The specialist in Animatronics Control Systems had a different kind of challenge at hand in building this ride. So, he decided to use an e-bike kit that had a motor controller, screen, disc brakes, tires, and brake levers. Putting together the custom-built parts that resemble a LEGO brick and the kit’s components required more than a snap of two individual parts since the thing produced vibrations from the movement and engine noise.

To maintain visual aesthetics, Matt only used parts from the kit that were needed without breaking the LEGO-themed look. The 3D-printed handlebar and the position of the front wheel is determined to then move on to the headlights section. Then only he went on to finalize the frame and thereafter the foot pegs, suspension, axle and wiring were done. The final components on this LEGO monkey bike were the forks, seat, battery, water bottle and a bottle holder frame.

The only thing he then tests is the rideability and the ability to reverse. After making the final adjustments to the power, steering and brake balance, the LEGO Technic café racer is ready for the streets.

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DAB Motors unveils Transparent E-bike inspired by Retro Gaming Consoles like the Nintendo 64

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Back in the ’90s, transparency became a cool trend in tech, particularly with gaming consoles. Anyone remember the clear plastic of the Nintendo 64 controllers or the transparent Game Boy Color and Advance? Those see-through designs let you peek into the gadget’s inner workings, blending functionality with a futuristic aesthetic, and paving the way for Apple’s gorgeous iMacs and MacBooks, followed by Nothing’s transparent tech that has revisited the retro trend in its own unique way. Fast forward to today, and the French electric motorcycle maker DAB Motors (a Peugeot sub-brand) has captured that retro spirit in its stunning DAB 1α Transparent Edition. This motorcycle, though a far cry from gaming consoles, channels that same nostalgic vibe with modern elegance. It feels like it could have come straight out of an arcade racing game—if those games had ever been this sleek.

Designer: DAB Motors

DAB Motors’ 1α Transparent Edition is all about turning heads, and its translucent bodywork is the ultimate conversation starter. The bike’s frame and design are partially see-through, offering a glimpse at its high-tech components—reminiscent of those old gaming consoles where you could see the wires, circuits, and chips. This visual transparency gives the bike a light, almost futuristic vibe that pairs beautifully with the carbon fiber parts made from repurposed Airbus materials. Yes, you read that right—Airbus.

Beyond the cool see-through aspects, the 1α stays grounded with modern touches, like an Alcantara saddle for comfort and a sharp monobloc LED tail light that’s both translucent and futuristic. The front-end design isn’t shy either, featuring a 2.8-inch integrated LCD dashboard and a lenticular headlight that’ll look right at home whether you’re cruising through city streets or zooming down a highway.

Under the clear, see-through hood, a 25.5 kW brushless DC motor powers this electric motorcycle, allowing it to reach a top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph). With a torque output of 395 Nm at the wheel, this machine has more pull than many electric cars. The 150 km range is powered by a 72V Li-Ion battery that’s designed to be both repairable and recyclable.

DAB didn’t skimp on convenience either. The bike comes with an onboard charger that works with both home sockets and Type 2 charging stations, offering a full charge in just 3 hours. That’s right—no lengthy overnight charging sessions here. In terms of customization, the DAB 1α offers four ride modes: Eco, Standard, Sport, and a fun Nitrous Boost mode for when you really want to feel the power surge. It even has a reverse mode to help with tight parking situations, which can come in handy, especially for urban riders.

The steel double cradle frame ensures that the bike remains both sturdy and lightweight, tipping the scales at just 125 kg. For suspension, DAB teamed up with Paioli to equip the bike with a 46mm adjustable USD fork at the front and a spring preload adjustable rear—both offering a smooth, responsive ride. And let’s not forget those Brembo radial brakes with dual ABS for stopping power that inspires confidence whether you’re riding in the rain or dry conditions. The wheels on this transparent beauty are custom-made by DAB x FABA, paired with Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tires that are designed for performance and grip. Whether you’re navigating tight city streets or open highways, the wheels (17-inch front and rear) ensure excellent control and stability.

For all this innovation and style, the DAB 1α Transparent Edition starts at €14,900 ($16,651 USD) – and only 400 units will be made. If you’re already daydreaming about pulling up to your local café on this retro-inspired machine, you might want to act fast. Financing options are available, but once these limited editions are gone, they’re gone. And with worldwide delivery, it doesn’t matter where you are—you can still channel your inner gamer while cruising through the streets on this eye-catching piece of machinery.

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Renault revives the Estafette as electric cargo van tailored for urban scenarios

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Renault introduced the Estafette commercial drive van in 1959, and after two decades of success finally replaced it with the Trafic in 1980. The front-wheel drive van with the engine at the front was very practical and economical for its time. The interior was ultra spacious for all the cargo hauling needs.

Now the French automotive manufacturer has introduced an all-electric concept to cater to the needs of modern urban commuters. Dubbed the Estafette Concept, the last-mile vehicle sees a revival after almost 65 years from its initial launch. According to Renault, the concept is destined for the production lines in two years which makes it an even more compelling announcement.

Designer: Renault

Presuming the final production version will be mostly similar to this one, the improvements seem interesting. The roof height has been increased from 1.85m to 2.59m and the length from 4.6m to 4.87m to make even more space for hauling cargo. The width however remains more or less the same at 1.92m. Another major change is the transition from the sliding doors on the side to a roller shutter that opens to the full height and comes with a foldout step.

The cockpit has a zesty yellow theme which is contrasted with the backs of the floor and other side panels. A single swivel seat gives the driver complete freedom to glance over at the seven-inch telemetry display, 12-inch infotainment system and the 10-inch digitalized wing mirrors. A series of small screens display the customizable widgets to stay connected. As Philippe Divry, the CEO of Flexis said, “Estafette Concept is the first example of what electric utility vehicles will look like tomorrow: purpose-engineered to drive in cities, compact, connected and built for fully sustainable delivery services.”

There’s a lot of headroom for even the tallest of loaders and the bright cockpit interiors will expose any cleaning lapses. The Estafette EV is created under the brand name Flexis Group – a joint venture between Renault, Volvo and CMA CGM Group. Hence, the vehicle will ride on the new FlexEVan platform when it ultimately meets fruition. The platform is future-proof since it comes with Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture for real-time updates and predictive maintenance. This according to the automaker reduces the operating costs by 30 percent.

Visual DNA of its ancestral predecessor is present in the form of circular headlamps, the descending bonnet line and the large grille sandwiched between the retrofuturistic fog lamps. As a modern improvement, the taillights have arrow-like indicators and the contoured windscreen has wafer-thin pillars for improved visibility. The cargo area has foldaway shelves to arrange the goods for sorted loading and unloading. Also, there’s an automatic sliding door to separate the cargo area from the cockpit.

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Lotus Theory 1 EV sports car has centred driving position and disappearing haptic buttons

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Lotus is making a smooth transition towards the electric vehicle era with the Eletre Hyper SUV, and has not made much fuzz about EV concepts, that is until now. This is the Theory 1 EV concept by the UK-based automotive manufacturer that highlights the three core principles of the brand going into the future – Digital, Natural and Analouge.

The “Theory” manifesto entails the exciting future of limitless possibilities coming from the house of Lotus. To start with, Theory 1 underpins the choice of a compact EV sports car having a three-seater layout. Something right out of the McLaren F1 handbook, the concept car focuses on lightweight construction and innovative technology that puts sustainability at the fore.

Designer: Lotus

The main challenge for the design team was to adapt the Challenge of 10, wherein just 10 main A-frame elements were used. Compare that to a typical car frame construction that uses a hundred elements at best. Recycled material like aluminum is used to keep the overall weight down since battery power is at a premium when hauling long distances is concerned. The result is an all-wheel drive vehicle powered by a 987 hp electric drivetrain capable of hurling it from 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds and having a top speed of 200 mph. The EV weighs less than 1,600kg, and features a 70kWh battery pack. Range on the Theory 1 is touted to be 250 miles which is impressive for a performance EV.

The Performance of the sports car is enhanced by the active aero features like the rounded underfloor (That’s so Lotus) to feed the cooling system, side-pods to direct air into the rear diffuser and a cone-inspired front nose to reinstate the brand’s racing heritage. Doors in Theory 1 have the wrap, reverse-opening mechanism which demonstrates that Lotus is not holding back on its future design language.

The three-seater EV with the central driving position focuses on minimalism with its material choice and interface. The 3D printed headrests come with a KEF binaural sound system and active noise canceling tech for each of the occupants to have their private soundscape. One of the most interesting techs seated inside Theory 1 is the LOTUSWEAR developed in collaboration with wearable robotics company MotorSkins. The fluidic feedback of the system includes inflatable controls on the yoke-steering wheel that appear on demand for a tactile driving experience.

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This fusion of a hoverboard, e-scooter and skateboard is a PMD done right

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Hoverboards and electric scooters come with their own set of advantages and irks that influence the buying decision. While hoverboard is the preferred choice for short jaunts, e-scooters with an average range of 10-40 miles are well suited for extended trips in the city. E-scooters also come with the advantage of better top speeds and performance.

On the hind side, e-scooters are more expensive and less swanky when compared to hoverboards. Someone looking for hands-free freedom of commuting in cities once in a while over short distances is much better off with a hoverboard or a trusted skateboard. What if we could have the best of both worlds? Of course, anything is possible in the concept design realm.

Designer: Eojin Jeon, Sumin Park, Changyu Seo and Geunyeong Do

Craving urban freedom without compromising on style, comfort, or ease of navigating around without having to worry about running out of juice is what this Personal Mobility Device (PMD) aims to target. Dubbed Modi, the vehicle is a mix of a hoverboard and e-scooter, adapting the best features of both to appeal to every kind of city dweller. According to the designers, the motivation behind the design is to address modern-day transportation issues. Even the current league of PMDs has become a “nuisance on the roads due to their heavy weight, large size, and disorderly presence.”

Conventional personal mobility vehicles are heavy and securely parking them at random palaces can be a headache if you are already in the rush of things. Modi aims to get over these problems with a compact and lightweight design that can be easily carried or stored in your backpack when not in use. The PMD comes with retractable footrests for design integrity without compromising the function. These footrests provide stability and comfort while riding, and simply vanish away when not in use.

Although the designers have not detailed in about the working mechanism of the PMD, I assume it reacts to the pressure applied with your feet in either direction. The thing is much more stable than a self-balancing hoverboard that for some reason has never earned my confidence for its operating mechanism. That said, the personal commuter is also going to appeal to people who love skateboards, and always wanted a battery-powered alternative!

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We got an Electric DeLorean before we got GTA 6…

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A symbol of the 1980s and cinematic nostalgia, the DeLorean is making its comeback… not as a relic but rather as a forward-thinking electric vehicle. Lynx Motors, a brand known for its dedication to reviving classic sports cars, has announced the launch of the DMC-EV. This modern reimagining of the iconic DeLorean DMC-12 combines the car’s legendary design with the latest in electric vehicle technology, offering a unique blend of retro appeal and futuristic innovation.

Designer: Lynx Motors

The exterior of the DMC-EV stays true to the original design by Giorgetto Giugiaro, with sleek lines that instantly evoke memories of the 1980s classic. However, Lynx Motors has made several updates to bring the car into the modern era. The most noticeable changes include LED lighting at the front and rear, as well as larger, transparent panels that give the car a more contemporary look. The badging on the car has been updated to include both the Lynx and DMC-EV logos, signaling the car’s transition into the electric age. The vehicle also features larger wheels, and owners will have the option to customize the side skirts and bumpers, allowing for a personalized touch that departs from the stainless steel finish of the original DMC-12.

The interior of the DMC-EV, however, has been completely overhauled to meet modern standards. The centerpiece of the cabin is a large touchscreen display that spans the width of the dashboard, providing the driver with all the necessary information at a glance. The seats are upholstered in high-quality leather, adding a touch of luxury to the vehicle. The center console now features a wireless phone charger and a large rotary dial, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The steering wheel has been redesigned as well, featuring a sporty look with carbon fiber accents and perforated leather, further enhancing the driving experience.

Under the hood, the DMC-EV draws power from four high-output in-wheel electric motors, delivering all-wheel drive and ensuring optimal performance on the road. These motors are supplied by a 70kWh CATL battery pack, which provides a range of approximately 402 kilometers on a single charge. The DMC-EV is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds, a feat that underscores its high-performance capabilities. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with Tesla’s NACS charging port, allowing it to access Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network in the United States, making long-distance travel more convenient for its owners.

Lynx Motors has opened reservations for the DMC-EV, with a starting deposit of $2,500 USD. While the exact pricing of the vehicle remains somewhat ambiguous, with figures ranging between $249,999 and $299,500 USD, the demand for this reimagined classic is expected to be high. Deliveries are slated to begin next year, and the DMC-EV will join Lynx’s lineup alongside the GT1e, another electric restomod based on the 2005 Ford GT.

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