Tag Archives: ev

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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Polestar Fenrir is a sophisticated electric hot rod straight from the Hot Wheels universe

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Polestar as an electric car manufacturer has taken the heat to Tesla in the last few years. The Swedish brand has proved its metal with the Polestar 2 EV, even when stacked against the Tesla Model 3. There’s a whole lot to like and the brand is evolving in the right direction.

The Polestar 6 slated for production in 2026 as an open-top grand tourer has got the challenge very well accepted for future dominance, at least in the electric roadster domain. We though, are always on the hunt for something larger than life in the concept world. Just like this Hot Wheels-inspired Polestar hot rod that would be perfect for the Japanese street racing scene.

Designer: Henrique Alves

This electric concept named Polestar Fenrir imagined for the 2024 Polestar design contest hits the nail right on its head with the Hot Wheels theme. That’s because the contest is done in collaboration with Hot Wheels. The only doubt in Henrique’s mind was if the vehicle should be a Monster Truck, Surf Van or Dune Buggy. Ultimately he went for the obvious choice of a hot rod, since Hot Wheels is all about cool street racers. The idea was to fuse the Hot Rod DNA to a modern electric car aesthetic that the designer creatively achieved with the form.

The contours are maintained at the right places while the heavy influence of an EV is not ignored at all. Muscular element also follows in with a forward-leaning stance that’s exemplified by the fat rear, both in the body and the size of the wheels. This broadening stance from the front to the back makes space for a unique two-seater configuration. The low ride height barely enough to slip through a sheet of paper means the hot rod will have to avoid any bumps or speed breakers.

The designer expresses the creation as a 2-seater hot rod with some goofiness and playful feelings. He adds that the Polestar Fenrir is a well-proportionated EV racer with minimal lines and shapes that complement the Polestar’s visual identity. Surely we second that thought and a Polestar concept of the future could draw inspiration from this model.

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This hybrid adventure motorbike with balloon tires can take on any tough terrain with ease

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There’s something about motorbikes with fat tires that makes them exceptionally interesting. Either it’s a perceived notion that they are more suited for all-terrain adventures or their beefy tire set makes them seemingly more durable than the rest. Either way, it’s a fact that fat-tire bikes are more suited for slippery, sandy or snowy terrain. The Arsenale have reincarnated their 2×2 Ultrabike in a new avatar because the two-wheeler somehow failed to capture attention at its maiden attempt. The improved and rebranded Plan B (the name says it all) is a second strive to pique interest in the cross-country off-road adventure bike genre.

What’s not going to go down well with prospective buyers is that the 2×2 bike costs $2,000 while the Plan B motorbike is priced at $15,000. That’s an exorbitant inflated value even though this newer version comes with added upgrades and tech improvements. Tough, we’re hoping for a lauded set of improvements, and a more affordable price tag in consequent versions.

Designer: The Arsenale

The balloon-tired motorbike retains its electric powertrain DNA in a low-power hybrid gas/electric format, powering the 2WD system. The bike touts an ultra-long range of more than 200 miles (depending on driving style and terrain) as it is more lightweight now. Even though it doesn’t look production-ready compared to the likes of Rokon, if everything goes well, it could lure buyers who are seeking a reliable adventure bike that’s easy to maneuver and promises a long range. But that price tag when compared against the $10,250 MotoTracktor by Rokon still is a deal breaker.

The form, as seen in the pictures looks impressive and we’re eager, as to how the thing will look in real life. That ride height is quite assuring of its capability to take on any rough surface, and the chunky tires look good to take on any abrasive surface without suffering multiple punctures. The on-board batteries sit right beneath the rider’s sitting position and the electric motor. For the hybrid function when the batteries are short on charge and there’s no charging station in sight, the hybrid drivetrain kicks into action.

In its current state, the e-bike is still raw compared to other offerings that have proven their mettle for some years now. The reliability for first mover advantage is also going to factor in as the Plan B is factually still a “Plan B” by the brand with little proven testing.

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Koenigsegg Envera portable EV charger sets new precedence for convenience, versatility and luxury

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The number of electric cars on the roads is increasing exponentially, and so is the need for charging stations required for them. Options for personal charging stations that can be installed in your garage are also rising. Not only the conventional manufacturers, but the supercar makers also have the transition to electric vehicles as their long-term agenda. Mercedes Vision EQXX Concept, Maserati GranTurismo Folgore, Ariel Hipercar, and of course the Tesla Roadster are some good examples.

Along the same lines, a pair of designers have proposed a portable battery charging station for the Koenigsegg brand known for its high-performance vehicles. The reason is, to enhance the whole experience of buying an electric supercar and the premium experience of plugging it into a portable charger.

Designer: Aditi Aagrwal and Harsh Ambarkar

Just like the Koenigsegg brand known for its groundbreaking engineering innovations like the Direct Drive transmission and Freevalve engine technology, this concept charger also boasts innovative features including dihedral synchro-helix doors. The use of advanced materials like aerospace-grade alloys and carbon fiber further adds to the exclusivity. The form is important to make it distinct from other similar products, hence the aggressive design honed by the sleek and aerodynamic lines.

Dubbed the Envera, this portable EV charger is tailor-made for on-the-go charging of your power-hungry hypercar or supercar. Capable of supplying 7.2 kW of power it supports Level 2 charging with voltage compatibility from 100 – 400 volts AC. It has Type 1 and Type 2 AC charging ports too and an optional DC rapid charging adaptor. The designer is also mindful of safety, hence the inclusion of overcurrent, over-voltage, short circuit and ground fault protection. In case the charger overheats, there is an automated shutdown in place.

The sleek body of the charger is inspired by the Koenigsegg Agera, and is not limited to just charging this speed beast. It can charge any other Koenigsegg supercar, or any other electric car from other brands. It is built from an IP65-rated shell for premium protection against wear and tear with the ability to operate in temperatures from -20 Degrees Celsius to 50 Degrees Celsius. To make charging the least of the hassles, it comes with a 20-foot flexible charging cable. Just like other portable chargers, this one gets an LCD to show the real-time charging status and diagnostics.

Truly, the Koenigsegg Envera sets new standards for portable EV chargers, giving us a glimpse of how cool the future is going to be. Of course, the unparalleled convenience, versatility of use, and luxury quotient of using a premium brand’s product will always be there.

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Modular electric minivan is inspired by puzzles for a more sustainable design

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Although electric cars are becoming more common, we’ve barely scratched the surface of what they’re capable of. Removing the need for traditional fuel and relying on batteries opens up new possibilities, and not just in terms of power sources. It can offer a bit more flexibility when it comes to the form and function of the vehicle, like cars with completely digital interfaces or screens all around. There might even be room for a modular design, as this concept for a tiny Japanese electric van tries to show, allowing the manufacturer or even the owner to switch out certain parts both outside and inside to match their needs, just like pieces of a puzzle.

Designer: HW Electro

To be fair, a modular car might be a bit far down the road considering the industry is hyper-focused on standardizing electric vehicles and making self-driving features more acceptable to the masses. That’s not to say that the design is a distant possibility only, especially when the features are made to be more practical rather than fantastical. Switching out panels is probably more feasible than switching out whole car parts or components, which is the kind of modularity that the Puzzle concept embodies.

At first glance, the boxy shape of the Puzzle will already look strange to those not used to so-called “Kei cars,” but this kind of van design is popular in Japan for striking a balance between large interior capacity and small compact size. It’s a design that screams practical efficiency, and making it modular is taking it to the next level. But unlike what you might be imagining, the Puzzle’s pieces, pardon the pun, are limited to swapping out certain panels at the sides, corners, and even inside. It’s a bit of a generic system that opens up quite a number of possibilities but, more importantly, it also doesn’t tie them down to a specific design or part. It also makes replacing damaged panels easier and more economical, something that you can only dream of with regular cars.

The Puzzle van also has secrets to reveal inside its extremely spacious cabin. The interior door panel has slots that make it possible to add and remove different modules, such as containers, cup holders, and the like. Even the dashboard has this kind of design, yielding a clean yet flexible space for expanding the van’s capabilities, especially in the infotainment aspect. The cargo space, which is practically a cube, is also more space-efficient for storing boxes and all sorts of large objects, making the EV a potential delivery vehicle.

Thanks to the boxy form of this Kei car, it’s possible to put a solar panel on the roof to really maximize its battery mileage. Modular and sustainable, the Puzzle minivan concept offers an extremely simple yet effective solution to the future of electric vehicles, one that espouses the Japanese spirit of minimalism and practicality where form clearly follows function.

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Top 5 Trailblazing Electric Pickup Truck Concepts To Rival The Cybertruck

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If you’re someone who wants to own an electric pickup truck, then you’ve probably been eyeing the Cybertruck since it was unveiled, and waiting for its launch. Electric pickup trucks are the epitome of function, form, and utility. They are ideal for work on the weekdays, and some off-roading on the weekends. They’ve been designed to maneuver all kinds of terrains. If you’re tired of waiting for the Cybertruck and want to have a look at other menacing electric pickups then you’ve reached the right spot. From an insane Hondo pickup truck concept to a compact Mini Cooper-sized pickup with the practicality of a Toyota Tacoma – these innovative pickup designs are trailblazers in the arena of EVs.

1. Honda Ridgeline EV

Dubbed the Ridgeline EV, this conceptual design by Rene Garcia was initially intended to be a Dakar rally truck, but slowly it transformed into a pickup truck for Honda. It can handle pretty much anything thrown at it!

Why is it noteworthy?

The conceptual EV features a winch hook on the front, a frunk at the back, and suicide-style rear doors that allow you to enter the car’s spacious and comfy interiors. It also boasts an expandable truck-bed on the back, that is equipped with tools and emergency medical kids.

What we like

  • The back of the car can be opened up, allowing the rear seats to flip 180° and face backward

What we dislike

  • Quite bulky to look at

2. Hyundai ECG

Called the Hyundai EGG, this compact off-roading automotive is a mixture of a buggy and a compact hatchback. It is a reliable electric mini pickup car that has great mileage even at higher speeds when traveling to another city.

Why is it noteworthy?

The EGG’s electric drivetrain is quite efficient, allowing the car to maintain a great range even when treading the off-roading trails. It features a 360-degree panoramic windshield to offer clear visibility for a safer drive.

What we like

  • The rear can hold a good amount of cargo for trips

What we dislike

3. The IBO

The IBO is inspired by the Avant-garde architecture of Frank Llyod Wright, specifically the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. It breaks down the perception that a great pickup should look edgy like a Cybertruck and instead adopt slick curved surfaces.

Why is it noteworthy?

The seats are adjustable, allowing the interiors to be flexible for a wide range of use cases. There’s also storage for a spare tire right under the bed’s surface.

What we like

  • Unique endearing aesthetics that are a good break from the typically seen edgy aesthetics of pickup trucks

What we dislike

  • The truck’s bed is on the shorter side, which may not be preferred by everyone

4. TELO

Designed by Yves Béhar and TELO, the TELO pickup truck is created for urban riders and combines the capabilities of a full-sized pickup truck and a compact size.

Why is it noteworthy?

The TELO is said to be as compact as the Mini Cooper but showcases the capabilities of a Toyota Tacoma. If you stash the 152-inch truck against the 231-inch Cybertruck, you know it’s going to be way more suited for the crowded city streets.

What we like

  • Features a sloping nose section to decrease the front profile without sacrificing interior space

What we dislike

  • Currently not available for sale, so we’re unsure whether the final design will live up to the renders

5. The Canoo Anyroad

The Canoo Anyroad is the perfect mix between a city car, a pickup, an ATV, and a recreational vehicle. It is the ideal vehicle for those living in a city apartment, suburban home, or even the great outdoors!

Why is it noteworthy?

It comes with an incredibly minimalist design (in signature Canoo style) and even boasts of those iconic shaped headlights and taillights. The automobile exists in two parts that separate into a car on the front, and a collapsible tent at the back.

What we like

  • Features modern aesthetics that are perfect for urban roads

What we dislike

  • The bed is much shorter than the ones found on traditional pickup trucks

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These dome-shaped solar trees use AI to charge electric vehicles and combat the issue of EV charging

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Slowly and surely the world has been moving towards clean energy alternatives. People have been abandoning dirty energy, especially petrol and diesel-ridden vehicles, for smarter and cleaner EVs, and other solar energy products. However, an issue that EVs often pose, is the issue of charging them. It can be challenging to find charging stations frequently and in convenient locations, but this is where these intriguing ‘Solar trees’ come into the picture. London-based SolarBotanic Trees created these sleek innovative trees designed to power EV Charging stations!

Designer: SolarBotanic Trees

The London-based company launched the prototype for the trees in September 2022, and its first generation of solar trees will finally be available in the coming few months! SolarBotanic developed these trees in collaboration with a London-based business support program Co-Innovate. The two teamed up and used academic and innovation resources from the surrounding universities and facilities. The unique-looking trees have been equipped with solar panels. These solar panels or nano photovoltaic ‘leaves’ form the dome or the canopy of the trees. They absorb energy from sunlight and transform it into electrical energy.

That collected electrical energy is then stored in the trees’ AI-driven energy storage and management system, which releases this power and manages it. There are other simple solar trees on the market, for example, Smartflower – a rather large daisy-shaped solar energy solution. But there are certain features that set the SolarBotanic Trees apart from similar designs on the market. First and foremost, the Smartflower has a four-kilowatt system, while the SolarBotanic Trees have been equipped with a five-kilowatt capacity, a larger capacity than other trees available today. Also, the SolarBotanic Trees will have a lower and more economical price point, which will make the product more accessible to the masses.

The SolarBotanic Trees will provide solar energy solutions for homes, businesses, and commercial parking spaces. The commercial version or the SolarBotanic Tree “v01” will be available in mid-2023 and version “v02” with an energy management system (EMS), battery storage, and rapid EV-charging system will be available later in the year. A third version the “v03” will be available in 2025 – it will use an advanced combination of wind and solar power generation modules.

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