Volvo Introduces the 2025 EX30
Volvo’s 2025 EX30 might just be the bite-size electric crossover that catapults Volvo’s sales into new territory. In addition to a trove of pictures and details, we also have the…
After showing a smorgasbord of electric bZ models last year, the bZ SDN being one of them, Toyota was caught testing the production model a few weeks ago. Now, thanks to Dutch Autoweek, the production patent drawings have been uncovered. For the first time, we can see the rear end of the car, which appears to draw some inspiration from the current Lexus IS. A full-width light bar with a subtle crab-claw look to either end is very reminiscent of the Lexus, while the rest of the car is very close to the prototype from the bZ buffet. The wheels are also on the large and traditional side for an electric vehicle. Overall, it is actually a pretty attractive design!
Stellantis’ new ‘Hurricane’ inline 6-cylinder engine will make its debut in the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer/Wagoneer as an upgrade engine over the 5.7/6.4L V8. Today, we have its official EPA fuel economy figures. Not only can this engine be much more powerful than the V8s it supersedes, it is also a tad more efficient when compared to the larger of the two. In regards to the higher output version going in the ‘Grand’ models with 510 horsepower, rear- and four-wheel drive models get 17 mpg combined (+2). The Wagoneer and Wagoneer L’s version of the engine, which produces 420 horsepower, hasn’t received its ratings yet, but they should still be improvements over the 5.7L V8. More on this here.
BMW has announced that it has a new EV platform on the way dubbed ‘Neue Klasse’ that will debut on what will likely be the next-generation i3 or i4 sedan. That won’t be until at least 2025, but we know the BMW’s goal with this platform is to sell two million fully electric vehicles in that timeframe. The company’s CEO has also recently stated that the platform will offer “more output, new cell chemistry, and new cell formats.” More on this development here.
For the first time, BMW is officially teasing the second-generation M2. The current M2 Competition, which replaced the M2 after a few years in its current form, is widely considered to be one of the best M cars of all time. In a post on Instagram, BMW showed two images, both of the side profile only. You can see the larger wheels and brakes, as well as the rear spoiler. The new M2 is expected to be powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L inline-6 making at least 450 horsepower. Whether or not it is offered with a manual transmission remains to be seen. The new M3 offers one, so it is likely.
Illustration: Hitekro
While no official announcement has been made, multiple sources have told Reuters that Hyundai Motor Group plans to work with the State of Georgia to build a new EV factory there. Kia already has a manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia, where most of their American crossovers are built. It will produce electric models like the Kia EV9, Hyundai IONIQ 7, and other upcoming EVs. That does not, however, include the imminent Genesis Electrified GV70, which the company already announced will be built in their Alabama plant. This factory is expected to be located nearby the West Point Kia plant and will bring 8,500 new jobs to the state.
Alfa Romeo’s future is going to be electrifying, with both the next-generation Giulia and Stelvio going in that direction. The upcoming Tonale will be offered with gas engines and PHEV options, but it will also make the transition before the brand’s 2028 goal of going all-electric. Two other new nameplate will join these three as part of the plan, including a flagship sedan. More on this news here.
