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Hyundai Expands IONIQ Lineup with the Innovative IONIQ 9: Big on Space, Bigger on Tech

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Hyundai has taken another bold step in redefining electric vehicles with the unveiling of its newest flagship, the IONIQ 9, a three-row electric SUV. This addition to Hyundai’s IONIQ lineup prioritizes expansive space and cutting-edge technology, pushing the boundaries of what customers can expect from an electric SUV. The IONIQ 9 was recently revealed at the iconic Goldstein House in Los Angeles, reflecting Hyundai’s commitment to innovation and progress in the EV market, as well as the company’s goal of a full lineup of 23 EV models by 2030. This venue represents the harmony between timeless architecture and futuristic automotive design, aligning with Hyundai’s vision for an electrified future.

Designer: Hyundai

The IONIQ 9 represents Hyundai’s determination to combine aesthetics, functionality, and electric performance in one sophisticated package. Focusing on the needs of modern drivers, it is designed to offer an unparalleled driving experience that integrates state-of-the-art technology, environmental consciousness, and innovative design language. Its unveiling at the Goldstein House emphasizes the harmony between timeless architecture and futuristic automotive design, encapsulating Hyundai’s vision for an electrified future.

Exterior Design

Hyundai’s ‘Aerosthetic’ design philosophy is prominently displayed in the IONIQ 9, combining aerodynamic innovation with futuristic styling to enhance both form and function. The IONIQ 9’s exterior design is built on the concept of blending form and function to enhance performance and aesthetics. A smooth, curved roofline creates a streamlined silhouette, aiding in the vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency. Integrated digital side mirrors and a carefully sculpted 3D-shaped underbody cover contribute to the vehicle’s low drag coefficient of just 0.259 Cd. This improves the vehicle’s efficiency and presents a distinct, forward-looking aesthetic.

The Parametric Pixel lamps—a hallmark of the IONIQ series—add a futuristic flair, seamlessly merging into the bodywork to create a unified and distinctive front profile. The vertical headlights accentuate the bold character of the SUV, while the sculpted rear haunches emphasize the strength and solidity of its stance. With its graceful curve and smooth body panels, the roofline contributes to a minimalist yet sophisticated appearance that aligns with Hyundai’s broader design ethos of sleekness and innovation. Incorporating flush door handles further enhances the vehicle’s clean lines, reducing drag and adding to the overall aerodynamic integrity.

Attention to detail in the exterior extends to functional elements like the 3D underbody cover and aerodynamic wheels designed to minimize drag and improve overall efficiency. The hidden antennas contribute to the smooth roofline, ensuring there are no protruding parts that might interrupt airflow. The design also includes a dual-motion active air flap (AAF) system that enhances air sealing, optimizing aerodynamic performance while adding to the sleek visual appeal of the vehicle. The fenders and quarter panels are made of lightweight aluminum, which contributes to overall efficiency but also aids in balancing performance with structural strength.

Interior Design

The interior of the IONIQ 9 is designed to redefine comfort and spaciousness. Featuring a fully flat floor, the interior maximizes available space, making it perfect for families or groups. Hyundai has utilized its Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) to ensure that the floor remains unobstructed, allowing passengers to move freely within the cabin and making it easier to configure seating arrangements according to specific needs. The cabin is characterized by elliptical design elements and calming tones, which create a lounge-like, serene environment. This emphasis on a calming atmosphere is further accentuated by the expansive Panoramic Sunroof, which floods the cabin with natural light and enhances the open feel of the space.

The IONIQ 9 features Relaxation Seats in the first and second rows, which can fully recline and are equipped with integrated leg rests. These seats are designed to provide comfort during long journeys or while charging, turning the interior into a rest area. s The slidable Universal Island 2.0 console is another standout feature, allowing passengers to easily access storage from different rows and enhancing the versatility of the cabin.

Hyundai has carefully selected materials to emphasize sustainability without compromising on luxury. Using Eco Process Leather, Recycled PET Fabric, and Bio Paint made from recycled tire waste showcases Hyundai’s commitment to eco-friendly material choices. The interior trim options include calming color palettes such as Obsidian Black and unique two-tone combinations like Cognac Brown with Creamy Beige, adding to the cabin’s upscale yet inviting feel. Ambient lighting and slim air vents further enhance the futuristic yet warm atmosphere, blending functionality with a soothing aesthetic.

Special Features

The IONIQ 9 introduces several unique features that enhance its functionality and the overall user experience. One of the most significant elements is the Dynamic Body Care system integrated into the Relaxation Seats. This system uses targeted vibration and pressure to stimulate blood circulation, effectively reducing fatigue on long drives. This feature is particularly useful during charging breaks, allowing passengers to relax and rejuvenate before continuing their journey. The IONIQ 9 also incorporates Hyundai’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing users to power external devices using the vehicle’s high-capacity battery—an ideal feature for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy car camping.

The second-row Swiveling Seats are another unique aspect of the IONIQ 9, offering an uncommon interaction level in SUVs. By allowing passengers to face each other, the Swiveling Seats transform the cabin into a space for socializing, whether during a long trip or when parked. The North American market will not have this option available. This focus on communal space is complemented by the slidable Universal Island 2.0 console, which provides ample storage space and is accessible from both the front and rear rows. This console enhances the vehicle’s functionality and ensures that items are within easy reach for all occupants, emphasizing Hyundai’s focus on user-centric design.

Another innovative feature is the Hyundai AI Assistant, an AI-enabled voice recognition system that intuitively controls various in-car functions. By incorporating AI-driven voice commands, Hyundai aims to create a more seamless and convenient driving experience where drivers can manage climate settings, navigation, and infotainment without needing to take their hands off the wheel. The climate control system features a rear-independent function, allowing rear passengers to customize their climate settings. This ensures that everyone in the vehicle remains comfortable, regardless of seating position.

Focus on Ergonomics

Ergonomics have been central to the design of the IONIQ 9, with every aspect of the cabin optimized for comfort and convenience. The Relaxation Seats in the first and second rows provide full recline functionality and integrated leg rests, allowing occupants to relax during charging stops or extended drives truly. The seats are designed with the contours of the human body in mind, providing support where it’s needed most and ensuring comfort over long periods. The Dynamic Body Care system adds another level of ergonomic consideration by actively reducing muscle fatigue and enhancing comfort during drives.

The slidable Universal Island 2.0 console is another example of Hyundai’s ergonomic approach. It is positioned to be accessible from multiple rows, allowing passengers to easily reach items stored within without straining. This enhances the vehicle’s usability and comfort, particularly for passengers seated in the second row. The console’s bidirectional opening design means it can be accessed from both the front and rear, adding to its practicality and underscoring Hyundai’s commitment to a user-centric experience.

The panoramic curved display is strategically positioned to provide the driver with all necessary information without obstructing their line of sight. This contributes to overall driving safety while ensuring that vital data is always within view. The positioning of controls within the cabin is also designed to reduce driver distraction, with intuitively placed buttons and dials that are easy to reach. Hyundai has also integrated a shift-by-wire system positioned on the steering column, freeing up additional space in the center console and improving overall ergonomics.

The climate control system, which includes a rear-independent air conditioning function, is designed to maximize comfort for all passengers. By allowing rear passengers to set their climate preferences, Hyundai ensures everyone in the vehicle enjoys a comfortable ride. This system is particularly beneficial during family trips or long journeys, where individual comfort needs vary. The slim roof air vent works with the Panoramic Sunroof to provide a well-ventilated, comfortable cabin environment that feels open and airy.

Material Choices

Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the material choices for the IONIQ 9. The vehicle’s interior features Eco Process Leather, which is treated using a reduced chemical process to minimize environmental impact while retaining the luxurious feel expected in a high-end vehicle. Recycled PET Fabric is used extensively throughout the cabin, giving a second life to plastic bottles and other materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill waste. The use of these recycled materials aligns with Hyundai’s vision of creating a sustainable future without sacrificing quality or comfort.

Bio Paint, made from recycled tire waste, is used on interior trim pieces, adding another layer of sustainability to the IONIQ 9’s design. This innovative paint reduces waste and contributes to a cleaner production process. Hyundai has also utilized Bio TPO/PU Skin and Bio PET/SUEDE Fabric, highlighting its commitment to reducing environmental impact through material innovation. The interior trim options are designed to evoke a sense of tranquility, with a range of colors that promote a calming atmosphere, such as Mud Gray with Creamy Beige and Dark Teal with Dove Gray. These color choices enhance the interior’s aesthetic appeal and create a soothing, lounge-like environment perfect for long journeys.

The emphasis on sustainable and premium materials extends to the exterior as well. The aluminum fenders and quarter panels are not only lightweight, helping to improve overall efficiency, but are also durable, ensuring the vehicle can withstand the rigors of daily use. The exterior paint options include several new hues, such as Celadon Gray Matte and Ionosphere Green Pearl, contributing to the IONIQ 9’s sophisticated and distinctive appearance. These carefully selected materials and finishes reinforce Hyundai’s commitment to sustainability while offering customers a premium, thoughtfully designed vehicle.

Have you been waiting for a big, bold, and practical EV?

The IONIQ 9 might be it. Combining advanced ergonomic features, sustainable material choices, and a sleek, aerodynamic exterior, the IONIQ 9 offers a unique blend of technology, comfort, and performance, perfect for modern consumers who value style and sustainability. Hyundai continues to push the boundaries of electric mobility, and the IONIQ 9 stands as a beacon of what the future holds in electric vehicle design and functionality. It offers a unique blend of technology, comfort, and performance, catering to modern consumers prioritizing style and sustainability. As Hyundai continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in electric mobility, the IONIQ 9 stands as a symbol of the future—a future where design and functionality coexist to create truly exceptional vehicles.

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2025 Ford Bronco Stroppe Edition honors the legacy of Baja legends

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Bronco is Ford’s iconic model that’s changed the perception of off-road racing vehicles. Bill Stroppe prepped this performance off-roader for the Baja 1000 and NORRA Mexican 1000. The Bronco modded by Stroppe in 1969 is the only stock 4×4 to claim an outright win to date. Ever since, the automotive giant has built on the success of the Bronco in all its formats, since its first model in 1966. He has had a major influence in the world of motorsports as well as the exciting world of hot rods, NASCAR, Le Mans and Pikes Peak races.

To celebrate the legacy of the Baja Broncos created by the man, Ford has created a modern-day limited edition version that’s aptly named the 2025 Ford Bronco Stroppe Special Edition. Each one of these models will come in a two-door format (like the Wildtrak) with color theme done beautifully in Atlas Blue, Oxford White, and Ford’s special Code Orange paint. This is honed by the Stroppe badging on the front and rear fenders, along with the squared-off wheel arches.

Designer: Ford

The limited edition Bronco Stroppe is a desert racer at its heart with the standard EcoBoost 2.7-liter V-6 engine that churns out 330 horses and 415 pound-feet of torque. All this power on the all-wheel drive goes through the 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford has the G.O.A.T mode in this one for even more power. The hunk rides on 35-inch Goodyear Territory RT tires wrapping the black 17-inch beadlock capable wheels. The setup is aided by the HOSS 3.0 suspension with Fox internal-bypass dampers.

Coming back to the exteriors, the Bronco has a white grille with “BRONCO” script in Code Orange. This contrasts strikingly with the matte black hood and tailgate. The steel front bumper has tow hooks in Code Orange. On the inside, you’ll get the special edition white dash panel with “BRONCO” in (you guessed it right) Code Orange. This hue is found on the G.O.A.T drive mode selector, stitching, dashboard, seats and grab handles. The “Stroppe Edition” badge marks its presence on the center console.

Ford has not yet revealed the pricing of the new model, and the SUV will be available in January 2025. We can expect some word about the pricing to come in the coming months between that time.

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Callum Skye is a boxy crossover SUV coupe with impressive off-roading capabilities

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Ian Callum, the legendary designer of sports cars like Jaguar C-X75 and Aston Martin Vanquish is bringing his first ever vehicle under the brand name Callum to the world. The lightweight and stylish off-road electric vehicle prototype finally got revealed at the Concours on Saville Row, London and it doesn’t disappoint.

Unlike his earlier creations, the Callum Skye has a Baja off-road vehicle influence with a distinct form that’s bound to put the Tesla Cybertruck in a tough spot. This maiden electric vehicle will be powered by four independent motors on each axle for better control on tough terrains. The ultra-fast charging 42-kWh battery pack will feed the drivetrain that can manage a range of 170 miles on a single charge. The tough EV can be charged in just under ten minutes which is mind-boggling.

Designer: Callum Designs

According to David Fairbairn, managing director, Callum, “The CALLUM SKYE is bold, beautifully engineered and crafted with refinement and craftsmanship. The same can be said for the world-leading bespoke tailoring that exists on Savile Row. Compact, capable and extremely beautiful, we’re confident that this representation of the SKYE exterior will turn heads.” Measuring 4,047mm in length and 1,900mm in width, and weighing just 1,150kg, the performance-oriented off-roader is capable of going from zero to 60 mph in just under four seconds. The lightweight chassis and electric motors make the vehicle have 247bhp and 221 lb-ft of torque.

The fact that Skye has the ground clearance of a SUV and the form of a coupe with the semblance of a beach buggy, makes it stand out from the rest. On the inside, it is equally impressive with a 2+2 layout with sporty seats for the front passengers and a rear bench seat for smaller riders or to store essentials. There’s a three-spoke steering wheel, big infotainment touchscreen (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible) and a vertical arrangement of other small touchscreens on the central stack. The latter will house the tactile dials to control the HVAC and other key features.

Callum is taking orders for the Skye with prices ranging from anywhere between $101,000 to $127,000. To start off the production numbers will be limited and more variants will come in by the end of 2024. Some of them will be more focused on off-road capabilities while others are going to be more oriented towards normal city driving with tuned on-road dynamics. The deliveries for the sporty off-road EV will commence in summer 2026.

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The Polestar 8 is a rugged SUV concept that brings automotive aggression out through minimalism

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This might not be Polestar’s first SUV, but it’s surely the first to have an attitude…

Meet the Polestar 8, an SUV concept from the mind of Turin-based Salvatore Ville. A subsidiary of Volvo, Polestar is best known for its pure and minimalist ethos, which reflects in its choice of zero-emission drivetrains, clean designs, and even the use of recycled materials in its construction – however, minimalism has never really been a defining visual language for any car brand. Automotive minimalism is somewhat of a misnomer because people usually like their cars to offer more value for money. Sure, that’s a reductionist way to go about designing a car, but the cleaner a car looks, oftentimes the less eye-catching it tends to be around other cars. Keeping this in mind, Ville designed the Polestar 8 as an SUV that embraces minimalism with a twist – instead of simply opting for clean surfaces, Ville amped up the aggression by giving the car a dominating silhouette. The Polestar 8 looks like the Polestar 3 that went to the gym. It has a wider more brutish stance, a clean design that still manages to look roguish, and an interplay between metallic surfaces and black trims to create a dual-tone effect that gives the car dynamism without being overtly distracting.

Designer: Salvatore Ville

What Ville does really well with the Polestar 8’s design is balance aggression with automotive DNA. The SUV captures the essence of the Polestar brand with its headlights and taillights, the strategic placement of the Polestar logo, and the use of clean surfaces without any major detailing like air intakes. The car’s aggression manifests in the form of large tires, a dominating stance, and those razor-thin rear-view cameras on the side that could cut through wind like a sword.

Around the back, the Polestar 8’s design remains faithful to the futuristic motif. The taillights stretch across the vehicle’s width and height, creating a luminous signature that could double as a motif in a sci-fi film. Here, form follows function in a dance of light, giving the SUV a presence that’s hard to miss when night falls.

The profile of this conceptual Polestar is where the narrative of modern sculpture on wheels truly unfolds. It carries an athletic stance, with a roofline that sweeps back in a coupe-like descent. The absence of traditional door mirrors—replaced, perhaps, by cameras—stays true to the ethos of creating a seamless profile that’s as wind-friendly as it is eye-catching. Large, imposing wheels fill the arches, grounded yet ready to propel this vision into motion at a moment’s notice.

The use of color and materials appears meticulously chosen to reflect light and shadow in a dance that changes as the day grows old. The Polestar 8, with its combination of metallic hues and carbon fiber accents, looks just as much at home in the heart of a bustling metropolis as it does against the backdrop of a futuristic skyline. One can only imagine the interior, likely a cocoon of advanced technology and minimalist luxury—a space where the outside world is both present and pleasantly held at bay.

While the Polestar 8 concept SUV may not be a blueprint for a production model, it stands as a canvas for the imagination.

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The M-Hero 917 is a Military-Inspired SUV with a 1000hp Engine, Steer-By-Wire, and a Companion Drone

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For an extra $14,000, the manufacturer will also sell you a companion drone to go with your mammoth SUV.

Meet the Meishi 917, also fondly dubbed the M-Hero 917 from Dongfeng – China’s first off-road automotive brand. Drawing inspiration from the robustness of military vehicles, the M-Hero 917 boasts a design characterized by sharp lines and a commanding presence. Its black matte finish and robust bumper lend it an unmistakably aggressive demeanor, reminiscent of a machine ready to conquer any terrain it encounters. However, despite its formidable appearance, it’s essential to recognize that beneath its rugged exterior lies a meticulously engineered chassis and a formidable powertrain.

Designer: Dongfeng Motor Corporation

The M-Hero 917 offers a choice between two powertrain options tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern drivers. For those inclined towards embracing sustainable mobility, there’s a fully electric variant equipped with four electric motors and a substantial 140-kilowatt-hour NMC battery. Alternatively, there’s a range-extender hybrid model featuring a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine serving as a generator, coupled with a 66-kWh battery pack and three electric motors, delivering an impressive output of 816 horsepower. Such capabilities translate into a blistering 0-62 miles per hour acceleration in a mere six seconds, reaffirming the SUV’s prowess on and off the beaten path.

However, what truly sets the M-Hero 917 apart are its standard and optional features, which elevate the driving experience to unprecedented heights. Inside the cabin, attention to detail reigns supreme, with interior door handles reminiscent of the iconic Desert Eagle pistol, and aircraft throttle-inspired levers adorning the center console, granting intuitive control over the vehicle’s transmission and driving modes. Complementing these design elements are three strategically positioned screens, comprising a digital instrument cluster, a navigation display, and a passenger infotainment screen, ensuring occupants are seamlessly connected and informed throughout their journey.

Yet, perhaps the pièce de résistance lies in the SUV’s optional drone package, a testament to the convergence of automotive and aerial technologies. Priced at $14,000, this package includes a state-of-the-art drone that can be effortlessly controlled via voice commands from within the vehicle, offering a unique perspective and enhancing the overall driving experience. Furthermore, the inclusion of a switchable rear steering system grants the M-Hero 917 the ability to execute the elusive crab walk maneuver, further showcasing its versatility and agility in navigating challenging terrains.

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FIAT unveils bold Panda concepts dressed as a pick-up, SUV, camper, fastback and city car

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At the Geneva Auto Show FIAT has revealed its plans to launch a Panda-based vehicle every year until the year 2027. The initiative kicked off at the show with the reveal of five concept cars in line with this vision of a next-generation Panda family that’ll grow bigger with time.

For those who don’t know, the Panda is FIAT’s minicar that’s been in production ever since 2011. The vehicle comes in a basic hatchback form and a much tougher Panda Cross version that’s called the Panda Cross. For the future, FIAT wants to expand the basic body styles to the pickup, campervan, SUV and coupe crossover with the Panda concepts that’ll eventually take shape as production cars. The concepts in question for the global market here are all based on the platform by Stellantis, the parent company.

Designer: FIAT

At the time of writing, FIAT hasn’t given any insight into the technical details but has confirmed that all these variants will be bigger than the original Panda. Also, they’ve confirmed that the production version (sometime in the future) of these concepts will come with the option of gas, hybrid or electric powertrain. Other than that, around 80 percent of the components will be common to all the versions. So let’s have a look at all of them in detail right away.

City Car Concept

As clear from the name, the City Car will be a glimpse into the general direction of the brand in the future. This one is similar to the Panda in more ways than not. There are eye-candy square doors and peculiar pink tires (inspired by the Barbie, maybe). The car is inspired by the iconic Lingotto building in Turin known for its rooftop test track. Reminiscences of the structure are apparent in the design of the concept including things like the structural lightness, overall bright theme and the space optimization on the inside. Talking of the interiors, they are made from sustainable materials including bamboo and recycled plastics.

 

Pick-Up Concept

FIAT already has a foothold in the Brazilian pickup market in the form of the Strada. The second concept wants to build on the success by inculcating fun and functionality with this concept. The perfect amalgam of a pick-up with the functionality of an LCV and the comfort of an SUV, the vehicle is fit for urban lifestyle. For people who like an outdoorsy lifestyle, the FIAT pickup concept sets the tone for the future.

Fastback Concept

This concept is an ode to the success of FIAT Fastback in Brazil and the FIAT Tipo in the Middle East and Africa. Created on the same modular platform and bearing a very sporty look, the Fastback concept builds on the sustainable commitment of the brand without compromising on the performance quotient. This comes courtesy of the aerodynamic performance for lower fuel consumption.

SUV Concept

This is a more muscular version of the Panda resulting in a more spacious interior for a family to ride in comfort. On those lines, the car is loaded with all that a family would desire in a performance SUV. Top that off with the safety, versatility and attractive design of the concept and FIAT lovers will have enough reason not to go elsewhere.

Camper Concept

Lastly, FIAT has created the ultimate all-terrain vehicle that brings adventure seekers close to nature without much fuzz. According to FIAT, the concept pays homage to “Fun-ctionality” of the 80s Panda. It has the versatility of a regular car for urban commutes and the toughness of an SUV to go adventuring anytime, anywhere.

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Olympian Motors’ electric SUV slated for Q2 2024 release, teases Cybertruck with AR windshield and a retro-futuristic design

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Fusing the past into the future sounds like the best prospect for an electric vehicle in a landscape filled with ultra-futuristic EVs is a refreshing change. Olympian Motors is set to achieve what most motorheads will appreciate down to the core. Their Model 84 electric vehicle is the first ever rear-wheel electric convertible in the United States with an augmented reality heads-up display.

While you won’t get that first impression of tech-infused features in this retro-futuristic vehicle, you’ll be proved wrong. The projector on the windshield gets rid of the contemporary 2D digital screen and replaces it with an advanced HUD interface. According to the New York-based company, they’ll start deliveries by Q2, 2024 and only 310 units of this four-seater roofless EV will be produced in the first phase.

Designer: Olympian Motors

The car targets a niche segment of users who want to go beyond the limits of owning a performance electric SUV. That I say because Cybertruck has been all over the internet these past few months (years I should say) revealing its unparalleled pros but also exposing what’s not that impressive. The Model 84 is boxy and a little less sharp in its aesthetics, evoking the inspirational design of the iconic Land Rover that has been the definition of safari vehicles for decades.

The body is made out of forged titanium and military-grade carbon fiber which both provide security assurance in case of an accident. The use of the former means the vehicle is lightweight enough to not stress the electric drivetrain which will need every possible battery-conserving feature it could benefit from. Another safety feature is the inclusion of nine airbags.

The SUV can go from 0-60 miles per hour in a mere 8.1 seconds courtesy of the 340 HP engine, meaning it has loads of torque for that initial kick. The top speed of the Model 84 can hit 160 miles per hour and a figure of 335 miles on a single charge is also achievable thanks to the 89 kWh motor.

While the convertible safari vehicle is best utilized for four travelers, the two back seats can be removed for carrying luggage. It also comes with a glass canopy and laminated windows keeping in mind the possibility of windows shattering in shards which could prove fatal. On the inside the boxy EV gets exotic woods, cashmere and silk materials instead of the usual cheap plastics and veneer made out of toxic chemicals.

Even though it uses luxurious materials and high-tech features, the Model 84 favors minimalism more than anything else. Remember that AR heads-up display, in a way gets rid of those chunky dashboard buttons and switches. The focus here is on hands-free operation via voice commands to control everything from HVAC, seats and doors to the lighting systems.

As per Olympian Motor, the EV will be initially only sold in the US without any confirmation of any plans to export or produce it elsewhere. An asking price tag of $70,000 is right there competing with the Cybertruck, so it’ll liven up the competition once we see it going toe-to-toe with the Tesla monster in real-world conditions. Will it be better at tackling the snowy roads, well only time will tell. Pardon me, for that pun, but I had to tease Tesla for all that’s worth it!

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Lexus unveils the futuristic and functional LX 600 overlander for adventure junkies at SEMA 2023

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Lexus has once again captured the spotlight at the 2023 SEMA Show with the customized Lexus LX 600. This luxurious, full-size SUV is designed to redefine the boundaries of automotive innovation, showcasing cutting-edge features that make it a standout in the competitive world of SUVs.

One of the most attention-grabbing aspects of the Lexus LX 600 is its stunning color-shifting exterior, a design element that sets it apart from the crowd. This unique feature allows the Overlander SUV to change colors depending on the angle and lighting conditions, giving the vehicle an air of mystique and elegance. It’s a testament to Lexus’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and aesthetics.

Designer: Lexus

The LX 600’s interior is where the innovation truly shines. It’s not just an off-roading beast, it’s a mobile luxury kitchen on wheels. Lexus has seamlessly integrated a fully functional kitchen into the rear of the vehicle, making it the perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The kitchen boasts top-notch appliances, a spacious countertop, and ample storage space, ensuring that every journey is a culinary adventure waiting to unfurl.

This kitchen setup is an unprecedented addition catering to those who love to embark on road trips and enjoy fine dining while on the go. It transforms the LX 600 into a home away from home, allowing you to prepare gourmet meals without ever leaving the comfort of your vehicle. Under the hood, the Lexus LX 600 doesn’t disappoint either. It’s equipped with a powerful and efficient engine that delivers robust performance and a smooth, comfortable ride. Whether you’re driving on the highway or tackling off-road adventures, the LX 600 offers the versatility to handle any terrain with ease.

In addition to its luxurious features, the LX 600 also offers advanced safety and technology-laden features. It comes with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems that prioritize your safety and the safety of your passengers, making each journey as secure as it is enjoyable. Lexus has truly outdone itself with the LX 600, combining the brand’s renowned commitment to quality with innovative features that set it apart from the competition. The color-shifting exterior and the rear kitchen are not only conversation starters but also practical additions that make the LX 600 an exceptional choice for those seeking luxury and convenience.

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These wild Bugatti SUV concepts are the perfect fusion of sporty luxury and rugged utility

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In Greek mythology, ‘Chiron’ was the name of a wise centaur – a half-human, half-beast entity. These Bugatti Chiron SUV concepts are pretty much the same thing – they’re half sleek Bugatti supercars, half otherworldly Mad Max-style monster vehicles. Generated by AI artist Flybyartist, these customized Bugatti Chirons aren’t meant for garages… they’re meant to brave zombie apocalypses, endure the elements, and get you from A to B regardless of what’s in between. In style, of course!

Designer: Flybyartist via Midjourney

These images were created in Midjourney, proving that AI has an absolutely wicked imagination, and that if Bugatti were to ever venture into SUV territory (or if someone were enthusiastic enough to modify a Chiron), the results would be thrilling. These images scream Mad Max a little too loudly, but then again, you don’t see me complaining. If the 2019 Chiron Super Sport 300+ was the fastest car on land, these Chiron Utility Vehicles would be the fastest car on sand.

Each concept has the characteristics of a Chiron, with those super-sleek headlights, the C-shaped pillar, and a semblance of that horseshoe cutout grille on the front. However, the Chiron’s audacity gets amped up with those angular panels, aggressive air-intakes on the front, and conquer-everything tires. The ground clearance gets a bump too, given the need to be able to drive comfortably on rough terrain, and in a few concepts, you’ve also got the hint of a truck bed at the back. Finally, a few fog lights on top of the roof give the Chiron its off-road persona, and that black-and-red paint job ensures the Chiron blends right into its sandy home, while also screaming for attention when it’s hurtling towards you at those high speeds that only the quad-turbocharged W16 engine is capable of!

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Futuristic crossover SUV explores a new design aesthetic with a staggered cockpit and headlights

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Although it doesn’t really appear traditionally aerodynamic at first glance, the DKM 2.0 has an aesthetic that feels minimal yet complex, and builds on the future of automotive design by having a radical visual approach.

Designed as a fully autonomous vehicle, the DKM 2.0’s visual aesthetic immediately stands out as unique. Its silhouette looks nothing quite like any other car. It isn’t as maximal as a sports car, or as minimal as today’s electrified SUVs. Instead, it’s a fusion of the two, relying on multiple forms stacked on one another that have been merged and simplified. The car features a unique interior with seating designed more like a room than a car. Seats face each other, creating a cabin on wheels that allow passengers to socialize with each other as the car autonomously moves forward. The concept ditches the steering wheel and dashboard entirely too, in a bid to imagine what fully-autonomous vehicles can and should look like.

Designer: Vladislav Semenov

The car’s design comes from Kazakh automotive stylist Vladislav Semenov. As far as its references go, it seems like the DKM 2.0’s most notable inspiration comes from vision conceptual automobiles, combined with the realistic design of companies like Rivian, Canoo, and Polestar. There’s a level of purity in the use of silver and black, and those headlights look clean and futuristic as heck. However, the upper and lower halves of the car are designed in a staggered way that instantly draws the eye. The front of the car features a flat-ish panel where you’d expect the radiator grill, with the front fender emerging outwards, almost like shoulder blades. This probably helps guide air into the car’s intakes on each side, while the top has that razor-thin headlight, and then the ‘windscreen’ that emerges almost like an independent entity.

This unique stepped design provides an interesting visual, since it causes an obvious break in the surface, but it’s also where I suspect all the car’s sensors are housed. The stepped/staggered design can be viewed on both the front and the back, housing all the sensors, while the cockpit sits in between, and has what I imagine is a glorious view on both the sides as well as the top thanks to panoramic windows that extend all the way from the middle of the doors right to the top. Alternatively, the top can be used to place a cargo box (given that the amount of boot storage in this car hasn’t quite been made clear yet), which may obstruct your view a tad bit, but it’s a small price to pay for extra cargo.

The DKM 2.0 wasn’t designed for city roads. Its large build, high ground clearance, and rugged tires indicate that the car’s made for all sorts of terrain, be it urban or otherwise. As most SUVs and pickups go, the DKM 2.0 probably boasts a large range too, allowing families, friends, and colleagues to go on road trips without worrying about how to get places. The fully autonomous feature makes road trips easy and more fun, also giving you the possibility to break open a few beers on the way without worrying about having a designated driver!

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