Tag: electric SUV

May 26, 2025

Xiaomi YU7 SUV Lava Orange Spotted, Launch Set for July

Key Takeaways

1. The Xiaomi YU7 electric SUV features a striking lava orange color and will also be available in emerald green and titanium.
2. It includes advanced design features such as a closed grille, triangular vents, and a full-width C-shaped taillight.
3. The SUV is powered by the NVIDIA Thor platform, with advanced sensors and cameras for assisted driving technology.
4. Interior comfort includes zero-gravity massage front seats, electrically adjustable rear seats, and a 6.68-inch rear control screen.
5. The YU7 offers three powertrain options with varying performance, ranges, and acceleration times, catering to different driver needs.

Xiaomi has just revealed its new electric SUV, the Xiaomi YU7, showcasing its striking lava orange color for the first time. This confirms one of the three color choices announced earlier, which also includes emerald green and titanium. The YU7 is set to hit the market in July, and it will come in three models: YU7, YU7 Pro, and YU7 Max.

Design Features

At the front, the YU7 features a closed grille design that highlights a silver Xiaomi logo. The design includes triangular vents on each side and a central trim piece that matches the color of the body. The headlight setup is integrated into a hollow air duct and offers 180-degree wide-angle illumination.

Dimensions and Aesthetics

The SUV sports a fastback design, and at the rear, it boasts a full-width C-shaped taillight with a clear cover. The dimensions of the car are 4999 mm in length, 1996 mm in width, and 1600 mm in height, with a wheelbase measuring 3000 mm. The lava orange variant also features white decals and wheels that are semi-enclosed and color-matched.

Performance and Technology

All versions are powered by the NVIDIA Thor platform, delivering 700 TOPS of computing power. The standard configuration includes 1 lidar, 1 4D radar, 11 high-definition cameras, and 12 ultrasonic sensors to support Xiaomi’s assisted driving technology.

Inside, the YU7 is designed with a wraparound cockpit and features a large floating central screen. Xiaomi has replaced the flip-up display from the SU7 with the new Sky Screen panoramic display. It comes with a handheld gear shifter, dual wireless phone charging spots, and a fresh horizontal cup holder design.

Comfort and Convenience

The front seats are equipped with zero-gravity massage functionalities, featuring a one-touch recline and a recovery mode. The rear seats can adjust electrically up to 135 degrees, and there’s a 6.68-inch screen located behind the center armrest for controlling media, navigation, and vehicle settings. Additionally, a built-in fridge and 4/6 split rear seats are also part of the package.

Powertrain Options

The YU7 offers three powertrain choices. The base model is equipped with a single motor delivering 235 kW and 528 Nm of torque, achieving 0–100 km/h in 5.88 seconds, with a 96.3 kWh battery that offers an 835 km CLTC range. The YU7 Pro has dual motors, producing 365 kW and 690 Nm, reaching 0–100 in 4.27 seconds, with a range of 770 km. Finally, the YU7 Max delivers 508 kW, 866 Nm, going from 0–100 in 3.23 seconds, and is powered by a 101.7 kWh battery providing a 760 km range.

Tags: electric SUV, lava orange, Xiaomi YU7
May 26, 2025

Mazda EZ-60 Electric SUV Specs Revealed; 2025 Tesla Model Y Rival

Key Takeaways

1. Mazda is entering the Chinese electric SUV market with the launch of the Arata Concept and EZ-60 in August 2025.
2. The Mazda EZ-60 is built on the EPA platform, designed for efficient production with a modern design featuring unique front and rear lighting elements.
3. The EZ-60 measures 4,850 mm in length, 1,935 mm in width, and has a 2,902 mm wheelbase, with a simple interior design highlighted by a 26.45-inch screen.
4. The BEV variant of the EZ-60 generates 255 hp with an LFP battery, while the EREV model includes a 1.5 L gasoline range extender for added distance.
5. Mazda has received 20,000 orders for the EZ-60, with expected pricing between RMB 150,000 and RMB 300,000, targeting competition with the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 6.

More electric vehicle manufacturers are eager to enter the Chinese electric SUV market. Mazda is also joining the competition, as per insights from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) database in China. The automaker plans to launch the Arata Concept along with the EZ-60 in August 2025.

Design and Platform

The Mazda EZ-60 is constructed on the EPA platform, designed to streamline production by stacking essential parts like the battery pack, electric motor, and chassis to maximize efficiency. This platform was created in collaboration with Chinese company Changan.

Mazda opted for a modern design for the front, featuring a noticeable lip, thin headlights, and an LED daytime running light strip. The rear showcases an LED light bar that serves as a taillight above the classic MAZDA branding. An “EV” badge clearly marks the fully electric version, setting it apart from hybrid or range-extender electric vehicles (EREV).

Dimensions and Interior Features

According to the database, the EZ-60 measures 4,850 mm in length, 1,935 mm in width, and 1,620 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,902 mm.

Inside, Mazda has taken a simple approach. A 26.45-inch screen takes center stage, allowing drivers to access various settings and functions. The cockpit features a flat-bottom steering wheel, adding to the sleek design.

Additional features include heated front seats that can provide massages. The center console offers wireless phone charging and has storage space underneath.

Performance and Pricing

Regarding performance, the battery electric vehicle (BEV) variant generates 255 hp, powered by a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, although the specific capacity and range remain unknown. The EREV model includes a 96.6 hp 1.5 L gasoline range extender, enabling it to travel nearly 100 miles on battery power alone.

Mazda has racked up 20,000 orders for the EZ-60, despite the absence of official pricing details. However, it is anticipated that the SUV will be priced between RMB 150,000 ($20,820) and RMB 300,000. It will compete with vehicles like the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 6. It is unlikely that the EZ-60 will be sold outside of China.

Source:
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Tags: China EV market, electric SUV, Mazda EZ-60
May 23, 2025

Xiaomi YU7 Beats Tesla Model Y with Largest Battery in Class

Key Takeaways

1. Design and Launch: The Xiaomi YU7, a luxury performance SUV, features design elements from the SU7 sedan and will be launched in July in China.

2. Competitive Pricing: The YU7 is priced around $35,000, making it slightly cheaper than the Tesla Model Y while offering superior specifications.

3. Performance and Battery: The YU7 boasts the largest battery in its class (up to 101.7 kWh) and outperforms the Model Y in charging speed and range, with the Standard RWD version achieving 518 miles on a single charge.

4. Acceleration and Features: The powerful YU7 Max variant accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds and includes advanced features like air suspension and a HUD projection for the driver’s display.

5. Self-Driving Technology: The YU7 will utilize a specialized Nvidia Thor chip for self-driving capabilities, with more details to be revealed closer to its release.

After revealing the design and interior of its very first electric SUV, Xiaomi has introduced the YU7 crossover, which aims to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y.

Design and Features

Called a “luxury performance SUV,” the Xiaomi YU7 borrows design elements from its SU7 sedan predecessor, highlighting distinctive headlights and sleek body lines.

Xiaomi plans to launch the YU7 in July, making it available for purchase to the public in China.

Competitive Pricing

The pricing is set to be quite attractive, as the company’s founder and CEO Lei Jun has built a strong reputation as an entrepreneur, often being compared to Elon Musk of China due to his dedication and affordable products, like the Redmi phone and smartwatch series.

For example, the Redmi Watch 5 costs less than $50 on Amazon, offering an impressive 18 days of battery life, over 140 workout modes, and Bluetooth calling with dual-mic noise cancellation.

The Xiaomi YU7 will reportedly start at around $35,000, slightly under the Model Y in China, while outperforming it in various specifications.

Performance and Specifications

As anticipated from a contemporary electric SUV from a Chinese brand, the Xiaomi YU7 outshines the Model Y in charging speed by a factor of two, thanks to its 800V powertrain. However, that’s not the only area where it surpasses Tesla’s popular model.

The YU7 features a much bigger, 96.3 kWh LFP battery for both the Standard RWD and Pro AWD variants, while the top-tier Max version includes a performance ternary battery with a capacity of 101.7 kWh. Lei Jun has stated that the YU7 holds the title of the largest battery in its class, all while being priced competitively.

Moreover, the Xiaomi YU7 provides a longer range on a single charge compared to the Tesla Model Y, with the Standard RWD version boasting an impressive 518 miles. In contrast, the single-motor Model Y is rated for only 446 miles according to China’s CLTC cycle, as it has a smaller battery.

The CLTC rating is about 25% more generous than the EPA rating, so a range of 390 miles is a more accurate comparison, which would still exceed the Model Y RWD available in the US. Similarly, the YU7 Pro dual-motor AWD version is rated for 479 miles per charge, while the YU7 Max is equivalent to the Model Y Performance trim.

Acceleration and Interior Features

The powerful 690 HP Xiaomi YU7 Max matches the anticipated performance of the 2026 Model Y Performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, comparable to the new Performance trim that has recently been spotted on a racetrack.

Additionally, the first Xiaomi SUV is larger than the Model Y and comes equipped with air suspension for enhanced comfort. Inside, the company has eliminated traditional gauge cluster displays, opting for a HUD projection that spans the entire driver’s field of view.

The self-driving capabilities are managed by a specialized Nvidia Thor chip with 700 TOPS performance. Xiaomi has indicated that they will disclose the full capabilities of the YU7 as the July release date approaches, along with the final pricing for the Standard, Pro, and Max trims.

Source:
Link

Tags: electric SUV, Tesla Model Y, Xiaomi YU7
May 16, 2025

Toyota Launches 2026 bZ Woodland SUV: A Rugged Electric Adventure

Key Takeaways

1. Toyota introduced the 2026 bZ Woodland SUV, its third electric vehicle for the US, designed for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. The bZ Woodland features all-wheel drive and dual electric motors providing 375 hp, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
3. It includes a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, allowing access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, with a charging time of 10 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes and a range of 260 miles.
4. The SUV is six inches longer than the standard bZ model, with increased ground clearance of 8.3 inches and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.
5. Toyota plans to release the bZ Woodland in early 2026, but pricing details are yet to be announced.

Toyota is making big strides in electric vehicles, showing off its third EV for the US this week. The company has revealed the 2026 bZ Woodland SUV, which is a tough, all-terrain variant of the bZ model. This new bZ is an upgraded take on the bZ4X SUV, a model that Toyota found challenging to sell.

Aimed at Outdoor Enthusiasts

The bZ Woodland is built on the e-TNGA platform, much like the Subaru Outback, and is designed for the outdoor enthusiasts. Toyota includes all-wheel drive as a standard feature, and the vehicle boasts 375 hp from its dual electric motors, providing it with more power than its suburban counterpart.

Charging and Range Details

One of the notable features is the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, which enables the bZ Woodland to utilize Tesla’s Supercharger network. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in roughly half an hour and has a range of 260 miles on a full charge.

Enhanced Dimensions and Features

The bZ Woodland measures six inches longer than the standard bZ model, giving off-road fans extra space for gear in the trunk. Toyota has increased the ground clearance to 8.3 inches as well. For those who love adventure, it comes with standard roof rails, a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, and optional all-terrain tires. The Toyota X-Mode system is available for drivers wanting better grip on less traveled paths.

As for the price, there are no details yet, but Toyota anticipates that the bZ Woodland will hit the market in the early months of 2026.

Source:
Link

Tags: e-TNGA platform, electric SUV, Toyota bZ Woodland
May 14, 2025

Toyota Launches First EV with NACS Port for Tesla Supercharger Access

Key Takeaways

1. Toyota plans to implement Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its electric vehicles starting in 2025, beginning with the 2026 bZ SUV.
2. The 2026 bZ SUV features a built-in NACS port, achieves over 300 miles per charge, and has a 25% improved range compared to the previous bZ4X model.
3. Manufacturing costs for the bZ SUV have been reduced by 40% through advanced techniques and the use of LiFePO4 EV batteries.
4. The 2026 bZ offers enhanced performance with all-wheel-drive variants delivering up to 338 HP, improved interior comfort, and upgraded technology features.
5. The success of the bZ line in the US market will depend on the pricing details, which will be announced after June.

Back in 2023, Toyota shared its plans to implement Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its electric vehicles in the US, set to begin in 2025. Now, we see the results in the form of the 2026 bZ SUV.

Improved Specifications

The new bZ series comes with a built-in NACS port and boasts significant improvements over the previous bZ4X model that was available in the US.

With the XLE FWD Plus trim, the latest Toyota bZ can achieve over 300 miles per charge, thanks to its 75 kWh battery, representing a notable 25% enhancement in range.

Pricing and Manufacturing

Although Toyota plans to announce the pricing for the 2026 bZ SUV closer to its release in the US, the automaker hinted that it has successfully reduced manufacturing expenses by 40% by utilizing advanced gigacasting techniques and its LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate) EV battery.

In addition to the NACS port granting the bZ access to the entire Tesla Supercharger network in the US, it also features Level 1/2 AC charging through an upgraded 11 kW onboard charger and a dual-voltage charging cable.

According to Toyota, charging from 10% to 80% now takes just 30 minutes, and new battery preconditioning technology has been introduced to enhance charging efficiency in colder temperatures.

Performance and Comfort

The all-wheel-drive variants can deliver up to 338 HP, allowing for a maximum range of 288 miles per charge. The 50% performance boost is accompanied by a more aggressive design.

Toyota has also focused on the comfort of the interior, providing heated seats and steering wheels as standard features, with vented seats available as an option. A redesigned dashboard includes a larger multimedia display, two wireless charging pads, and a 64-color ambient lighting system to enhance the experience for both drivers and passengers.

The 2026 bZ addresses concerns from its predecessor by offering increased space for both passengers and cargo. It comes with 42 inches of front legroom and 35 inches in the rear, along with 28 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the trunk.

Toyota claims that the new bZ line now provides a much improved throttle feel and dynamic suspension performance, featuring its patented Grip Control and X-Mode driving functions that adapt automatically to varying road conditions.

In summary, Toyota appears to have a strong contender in the electric SUV market in the US with a direct connection to Tesla Superchargers, but its overall success will hinge on the pricing details for the bZ line, which are expected to be revealed after June.

Source:
Link

Tags: electric SUV, Tesla NACS, Toyota bZ
May 4, 2025

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 9: Long-Range Electric SUV, 335 Miles, $60,555

Key Takeaways

1. Impressive Range: The Ioniq 9 offers up to 335 miles of range for the rear-wheel drive (RWD) base model, with a slight decrease in range for more powerful versions.

2. Fast Charging: The vehicle’s 110.3 kWh battery can charge from 10% to 80% in about 24 minutes and features Tesla’s NACS port for access to many Superchargers.

3. Powerful Performance: The base RWD model has 215 hp, while the Performance Limited trim boasts 422 hp, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds.

4. Spacious Interior: The Ioniq 9 has three rows of seating, ample legroom, and a cargo capacity of 21.9 cubic feet, along with advanced tech features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen.

5. Safety Features and Pricing: Standard safety features include lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Pricing starts at $60,555 for the base model, with higher trims going up to $78,090.

Hyundai USA is getting ready to launch the Ioniq 9 at local dealerships, and here’s what you might wanna know about this electric SUV.

Range and Charging

A key aspect of any electric vehicle is how far it can go on a single charge. The Ioniq 9 has an impressive range of up to 335 miles for its rear-wheel drive (RWD) base model, making it an excellent option for those long trips. However, if you opt for the more powerful versions, you might see a decrease of about 25 miles in range.

The vehicle is powered by a 110.3 kWh lithium-ion battery that can charge from 10% to 80% in around 24 minutes. Finding a public fast charger shouldn’t be too hard, as the SUV features Tesla’s NACS port, giving it access to thousands of Superchargers across North America. Additionally, Hyundai will include a CCS adapter to ensure compatibility with other charging stations.

Performance Specs

The electric motor’s power varies depending on the trim you choose. The Ioniq 9’s base RWD variant produces 215 hp, while the highest Performance Limited trim delivers a robust 422 hp thanks to its dual-motor setup. The fastest version can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in less than 5 seconds, making it quite exciting to drive.

Interior and Features

Inside, the Ioniq 9 is roomy with three rows of seating, making it perfect for families. There’s plenty of legroom and headspace, so even taller passengers can enjoy comfortable rides in the third row. The spaciousness also extends to its cargo area, which offers a capacity of 21.9 cubic feet.

Among the interior highlights are a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a similarly sized touchscreen for controlling settings and entertainment. Hyundai has included features such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, seven USB ports, wireless phone charging, and a premium Bose audio system.

Safety and Pricing

Standard safety features come with lane-keeping assist, a driver attention monitor, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and rear occupant alerts.

The starting price for the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is $60,555 for the S RWD trim. The SE AWD, SEL AWD, and Performance Limited trims are priced at $64,765, $67,920, and $72,850, respectively. Hyundai will also offer the Performance Calligraphy and Performance Calligraphy Design at $76,590 and $78,090, respectively.

Source:
Link

Tags: electric SUV, Hyundai Ioniq 9, long-range driving
April 30, 2025

Xiaomi YU7 Long-Range Edition Leaks Featuring Panoramic HUD Tech

Key Takeaways

1. Xiaomi plans to disrupt the e-SUV market with the YU7, set to launch by July 2025.
2. The YU7 is expected to have a single-motor setup offering a driving range of up to 835 km (519 miles).
3. Interior features will include a steering wheel with physical controls and a “Panoramic” heads-up display.
4. The YU7 may utilize materials like carbon fiber and Alcantara, with a distinctive burgundy and beige color scheme.
5. The YU7 may only be available in China, though similar features can be found in aftermarket products.

Having made a strong entrance into the electric sedan market in its home country of China, Xiaomi is set to disrupt the e-SUV segment with the YU7, expected to launch by July 2025.

Confirmation of Specifications

To support this speculation, the company has apparently received certification for a version of the vehicle from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), featuring a single-motor setup that can provide as much as 835 kilometers (km, or around 519 miles) of driving range.

It’s unclear if this will be a premium version of the YU7, as other configurations are rumored to offer a range of 820 km (approximately 510 miles) on a single charge.

Interior Features

Reports suggest that the YU7 will come with an interior that includes a steering wheel equipped with physical controls, along with a central console that has more switches leaning toward the driver’s side.

Additionally, there seems to be a “Panoramic” heads-up display that may show the time, date, and the status of the car’s systems and infotainment features.

Material Choices and Design

There are discussions about using materials like carbon fiber and Alcantara for certain versions of the YU7. Photos of the interior have surfaced, showcasing a burgundy color scheme with beige highlights; it’s yet to be determined if this color will vary based on the car’s exterior design.

The anticipated YU7, as described, might not be sold to buyers outside of China. Nevertheless, enthusiasts can find similar features, such as Alcantara steering wheel grips, available on Amazon.

Source:
Link

Tags: electric SUV, Xiaomi, YU7
April 23, 2025

Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition Revealed with Boost Feature

Key Takeaways

1. The 2026 Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition features a stylish design with Gloss Black accents and unique 20-inch wheels.
2. It includes a performance upgrade, boosting torque to 516 lb-ft and enabling 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds.
3. The EV9 Nightfall Edition adopts the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for access to the Tesla Supercharger network.
4. The vehicle is produced at Kia’s West Point facility in Georgia and qualifies for a $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
5. The EV9 Nightfall Edition is expected to be available in the US by the end of June, with a starting price estimate of around $69,900.

The 2026 Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition has been launched at the 2025 New York International Auto Show. This edition of the three-row SUV is claimed to present a notably chic design and features a performance boost.

Stylish Features

The EV9 Nightfall Edition is offered in the dual-motor Land all-wheel drive (AWD) trim, available in configurations of either six or seven seats. It showcases Gloss Black accents on the front grille, skid plates, and roof rails, along with unique Gloss Black 20-inch wheels fitted with 275/50R-20 all-season tires. Additional unique features include the Roadrider Brown paint and a black interior adorned with real stitching.

Performance Upgrade

Furthermore, the new EV9 Nightfall Edition is equipped with the Boost feature, which enhances torque from 443 lb-ft (~600 Nm) to 516 lb-ft (~700 Nm). When combined with the 379 horsepower from the motors, it enables acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (~100 kph) in just 4.5 seconds. This Boost feature is included at no extra cost in this package but can also be bought separately for other EV9 Wind AWD and Land AWD trims. Additionally, the 2026 EV9 adopts the North American Charging Standard (NACS), allowing access to the Tesla Supercharger network for recharging. You can also use Combined Charging System networks, but this will need an optional adapter.

Manufacturing and Pricing

Kia mentions that the EV9 sold in the US is produced at its West Point facility in Georgia and qualifies for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. The 2026 EV9 Nightfall Edition is anticipated to be available in the US by the end of June, although the price hasn’t been disclosed yet. As a ballpark figure, the starting price for the 2025 Kia EV9 Land AWD is set at $69,900.

Source:
Link

Tags: 2026 Kia EV9, electric SUV, Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition
March 29, 2025

Lucid to Boost Electric Gravity SUV Deliveries by April 2025

Key Takeaways

1. Lucid will start shipping Gravity SUVs to more reservation holders by late April 2025.
2. Public test drive and showroom display vehicles for the Gravity are nearly ready, with regular deliveries expected to begin in April.
3. Production of the Gravity SUV began in 2024 in Arizona, with initial deliveries to employees and close contacts.
4. The Gravity SUV features seating for seven, starts at $96,550, offers up to 828 hp, and has a driving range of 450 miles.
5. A more affordable Touring version of the Gravity SUV is planned for release before the end of 2025.

Customers who are not linked to Lucid will soon begin receiving their orders for the Gravity SUV. Interim CEO Marc Winterhoff shared on LinkedIn that the electric vehicle startup plans to start shipping units to more reservation holders by late April 2025.

Update on Gravity Program

Winterhoff gave an update regarding the Gravity program, mentioning that public test drive and showroom display vehicles are nearly ready. Regular deliveries are expected to start in April. “We have almost finished building vehicles for studios and test drives, and we anticipate they will start arriving at our locations throughout the US in April. For those early customers eagerly waiting for their Lucid Gravity delivery, we intend to begin delivering more vehicles by the end of April.”

Production and Launch Details

The electric SUV began production in 2024 in Arizona, with the first deliveries going to employees and others closely connected to the company. Lucid is set to hold a press launch for the vehicle in April.

The Gravity SUV, which seats seven, is Lucid’s second model following the Air sedan. It comes in the Grand Touring trim, starting at a price of $96,550, and offers impressive specs with up to 828 hp and a driving range of 450 miles. The SUV will be equipped with Tesla’s NACS port, allowing it to utilize the Supercharger network across the US. Additionally, the automaker plans to introduce a more affordable Touring version before the end of 2025.

Source:
Link

Tags: electric SUV, Lucid Gravity, Marc Winterhoff
March 7, 2025

Honda Launches S7: Repairable Battery, Phone Parking, S2000 Design

Key Takeaways

1. Strong Market Performance: Honda’s Prologue SUV has outperformed all other EVs on GM’s Ultium platform and traditional gas-powered models in the U.S., indicating growing traction in the EV market.

2. Direct Competition with Tesla: The newly unveiled Honda S7 directly competes with the refreshed Tesla Model Y, featuring competitive pricing and innovative drivetrain technology.

3. Enhanced Driving Dynamics: The S7’s 50:50 rear-wheel-drive configuration and adjustable damping system improve cornering capabilities and overall driving performance.

4. Safety Innovations: The S7 is designed with high-strength materials and advanced structural integrity features to enhance safety during collisions, including a robust battery design to prevent thermal runaway.

5. Convenience and Comfort Features: The S7 offers advanced features like a Level 2 self-driving system, a spacious cabin, and a premium audio experience, all while significantly reducing maintenance costs through easily replaceable battery modules.

Honda’s electric vehicle (EV) initiatives are gaining unexpected traction, highlighted by the impressive sales of its inaugural electric SUV in the United States, the Prologue. This model not only surpassed all other EVs utilizing GM’s Ultium platform last year but also outperformed the traditional gas-powered Passport.

Compelling Competitor

Whether it’s due to strong brand recognition or the ability to deliver a great value electric vehicle, Honda is clearly on the right track. Recently, they’ve unveiled the S7, a direct rival to the refreshed Tesla Model Y Juniper.

The pricing for this SUV is closely aligned with the new Model Y in China, and it showcases some distinct Honda drivetrain innovations. Notably, this is Honda’s first model with a 50:50 rear-wheel-drive configuration since the iconic Honda S2000, which has since become a cult classic.

Enhanced Performance Features

“This setup enhances the vehicle’s cornering capabilities,” notes Honda, “reducing the chances of understeering or oversteering during spirited driving. Furthermore, the double wishbone suspension effectively manages the vehicle’s pitch angle during both acceleration and braking.”

Switching gears to suspension, the Honda S7 is fitted with an adjustable damping system that responds in mere milliseconds. Honda made significant efforts to ensure that the smooth acceleration and braking experience characteristic of their vehicles is also present in this electric model.

Safety and Design Innovations

The S7’s body and battery are crafted to prioritize safety during collisions. The vehicle incorporates “1500MPa hot-formed steel that can endure pressures up to 15 tons per square centimeter, comprising 25% of the structure—equivalent to a submarine’s pressure compartment. Additionally, 68% of the core area consists of high-strength steel, boasting an anti-twisting capability of over 40,000 Nm/degree, enabling it to withstand severe deformations during heavy impacts. It also features a unique five-layer A-pillar structure, combining 1500MPa hot-formed steel with 980MPa high-strength steel, enhanced by Honda’s proprietary resistance welding technology to maintain body integrity during extreme collisions.”

The vehicle is powered by a 90 kWh battery that delivers a range of 650 km on the CLTC cycle. This battery is specifically engineered by CATL, encased in a gigacast shell with 15 layers of protection and a dual high-voltage switch to prevent thermal runaway.

Advanced Features for Convenience

One of the standout features of the Honda S7 is its battery, comprised of 13 easily replaceable modules, which significantly reduces maintenance and repair costs by 80%. Additionally, Honda includes a Level 2 self-driving system as standard, enhanced with features like remote parking via phone to assist in navigating tight spots.

With a generous axle length ratio of 61.7%, the cabin offers ample space, providing a lounge-like experience for rear passengers. A BOSE sound system with speakers integrated into the headrests delivers an impressive audio experience, while a diffuser disperses one of seven selectable fragrances within the vehicle.

Honda emphasizes that the S7 is built around its seven pillars of comfort: “high-end, space, zero pressure, thoughtfulness, immersion, interaction, and convenience.” To encourage early adopters, the vehicle, priced at $35,840, comes with several attractive incentives.

Source:
Link

Tags: electric SUV, Honda S7, Prologue Sales