‘Right-sized’ crossover SUVs are clearly a hot trend these days, as evidenced by the many downsized models that proliferate on our highways. Happily, gone are the days when legions of massive SUVs with single drivers jammed roadways and parking lots.
Electrification is spreading rapidly across the automotive spectrum in ways that are, if not surprising, pleasantly quicker than expected. One example is Jeep’s Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid, a model that enables zero-emission on- and off-roading as part of everyday life.
The long-awaited Volkswagen ID.4 electric crossover SUV is the German uber-brand’s initial deep dive into mass-market electric vehicle production. Given the model’s appealing features, along with its immediate pre-order popularity, we expect this to be a breakthrough for the brand.
BMW’s second-generation 330e plug-in hybrid sport sedan is better, faster, and goes farther on battery power than its predecessor of just a few years back, delivering the benefits of electrification while remaining true to the racing heritage of the brand.
Hyundai’s Elantra sedan has been an important model for the automaker since its introduction. Now, an all-new generation is poised to hit the streets featuring Hyundai’s ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ Parametric Design directive, which comes screaming through with a compelling coupe-like profile.
Toyota’s new 2021 Sienna hybrid minivan targets sales leaders Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and Kia Sedona with a fresh and dynamic design, much improved drive characteristics and cabin environment, an array of important technology innovations, and arguably best-in-segment convenience features.
Polestar 2 features an excellent combination of high-performance horsepower and torque without carbon emissions. This electric hatchback brings mainstream good looks, Swedish engineering sensibilities, and Volvo style to a segment crying for quality, choice, and a broadened vehicle service network.
The crossover SUV market is hot, to the point where these highly-functional vehicles have become one of the most desired of all models on the highway. Joining the ranks is Toyota’s stylish and new Venza Hybrid that definitely rates consideration.
Ford has redesigned its F-150 pickup for the 2021 model year and it will be easy to spot thanks to a tougher, bolder look. Among its new design features are a power dome hood, higher front fenders, and wrap-around bumpers.
Can you build cars with advanced 3D printing? A demonstration 3D printed car was created at the SEMA Show, then students at NTU in Singapore created a race car. Now a California company is building a production hybrid supercar. Wow!
Today, we take the advanced batteries that power electric vehicles for granted. Lithium-ion batteries, which followed advanced lead-acid and nickel-metal hydride, is mainstream. Many exotic EV battery technologies were tried over the years, including the sodium-sulfur battery in Ford’s Ecostar.
The auto industry is in transition. This is evidenced by the high-profile move toward electrification by nearly all international automakers, motivated by increasingly tighter government regulation, concern about market share, and the need to craft long-term carbon mitigation strategies.
