The 2008 is a beautifully designed, smaller SUV with typical French flair both inside and out. Its packed with luxury, comfort and safety features.

At the heart of the e-2008 is a 50 kWh lithium ion battery pack. This provides power of 100kW and torque of 260Nm.

The e-2008 has a relatively small capacity and that reflects in a WLTP range of only 328km. Range is obviously a subjective thing. It differs with driving styles and road conditions.

It also depends on perspective. If you only drive 50km a day and charge the car every few days, then its sufficient. If you want to do a longer drive of 600 or 700km then its problematic.

One good thing about the e-2008 is that PEUGEOT states that you can fast charge the battery all the time with no degradation. Many other brands don’t recommend that.

Driving the e-2008 was pleasant and engaging, on a drive through city traffic to Akuna Bay the national park.

Its relatively light weight, and with the weight down low the ride and handling were crisp and responsive. Electric cars provide instant torque and that also makes for a sporty drive.

One thing I liked was that PEUGEOT are offering a five year discounted service plan of only $1000. That’s an awesome deal and a reminder that electric cars still need regular servicing.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

Everything you need to know about the Peugeot e-2008 can be FOUND HERE 

TO LISTEN TO PEUGEOT E-2008 RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

Some more Peugeot e-2008 articles

• PEUGEOT e-2008 SUV now available
• PEUGEOT e-2008 confirmed for 2023 Australian arrival
• Pre-orders commence for PEUGEOT e-2008:
• Peugeot e-2008 SUV coming soon

Also Look at:

Small to mid-sized Electric SUVs are becoming more common now.

Buyers could look at siblings, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ionic 5. Polestar 2, Kia Niro GT Line EV, Hyundai Kona EV.

Other options include:-  Volvo C40 Recharge, Mercedes Benz EQE,

Peugeot e-2008  Final thoughts

Peugeot build quality and interesting cars.

The 2008 is an elegant, stylish and slightly quirky smaller SUV.

The electric version e-2008 brings an all electric choice for buyers.

Ideal as a city runaround. Its relatively light for an EV and while it has a smaller battery capacity and range, the ability to fast charge every time without battery damage is a bonus.

The range may be an issue, but range is subjective. People will buy the Peugeot for its looks, style and quality and the range is accepted.

The fixed and pre paid service deal is also a bonus.

If you have to go EV this is a good way to go. Peugeot is for buyers that want something just a little different.

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Radio Segments Motoring Minute

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners. They are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program on the Community Radio Network across Australia.

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The UK government is allowing trials of rental e-scooters on public roads.

Whether commuting to work or riding for leisure, local residents will be able to test the benefits of e-scooters on roads, cycle lanes and tracks.

The trials are designed to help understand whether the devices reduce motor traffic, as well as their impacts on safety for their users and others. They will be strictly prohibited on pavements, will be limited to 25km/hr and riders are recommended to wear helmets.

Users will need a full or provisional car, motorcycle or moped licence to take part in the trials, and must be 16 or over. To avoid a flood of poor-quality scooters onto the streets, the regulations only cover rental schemes.

Individually owned scooters will still be illegal on public roads.

The trials are due to last for 12 months.

Motoring Minutes are heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. Motoring Minutes have an average daily audience of over 150,000 listeners. Motoring Minutes are also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia and has a weekly audience of over 450,000. 

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 Nissan’s pioneering vehicle-to-grid technology has arrived in Australia. With a new major government trial set to showcase the Nissan LEAF’s ability to supply energy needs, and even deliver power back to the grid, thanks to its factory-delivered bi-directional charging capability.

• First vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology to be introduced in Australia through Nissan’s support of Realising Electric Vehicle Services (REVS) 
• Working collaboratively with REVS partners, new trial will allow Australians to see real-life demonstrations and the benefits of V2G technology for the first time
• The first-of-its-kind technology means the Nissan LEAF is more than a vehicle, it’s a mobile energy solution and the only battery electric vehicle with full bi-directional charging capability
• Nissan’s V2G charging technology will be introduced to Australian Nissan LEAF owners this year

V2G technology transforms the Nissan LEAF into a total energy solution, ensuring the batteries don’t just store power for driving, but can also use that energy to run a home or commercial site, or to feed power back to the grid. The Nissan LEAF is the only factory-delivered and warranted V2G-capable electric vehicle on the market today.

And now V2G technology will be introduced to the Australian market through Nissan’s support of the Realising Electric Vehicle Services (REVS) project, which has been supported by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of its Advancing Renewables Program.

The new trial, a precursor to the customer launch of the LEAF’s V2G technology in Australia this year, will see 51 Nissan LEAF EVs deployed across the ACT. They will form part of the ACT Government fleet, and will provide Frequency Control Ancillary Services (FCAS) to the National Electricity Market.

The FCAS system refers to the energy used to keep a power grid operating at its optimum levels at times of fluctuating demand. It’s this injection or reduction of power that prevents instability in the grid that can lead to blackouts. The trial will focus on the Nissan LEAF’s ability to provide energy to the grid to help stabilise the load in peak and off-peak periods.

“As the brand with the only V2G-capable vehicle from factory on the Australian market today, we are exceptionally proud to support this project, and to introduce this technology to Australia,” says Nissan Australia Managing Director, Stephen Lester.

“The Nissan LEAF not only offers an exciting EV driving experience, it goes so much further by integrating into the energy system. Nissan has been a global leader in this space, with several successful trials conducted in overseas markets, realizing it in Australia is an important milestone.”

The trial previews a near future in which Australian homes can essentially be off the grid, transforming electric vehicles from vehicles to mobile energy solutions. For customers with solar panels, the LEAF’s 40kWh battery is able to store solar energy during the day, and then use that energy to supply a home’s power needs at night, unlocking both zero-cost mobility and zero-cost home energy.

Alternatively, customers who use a workplace or public site to charge their vehicles can then use that power to supply their homes. A parked car could even become a revenue-generating asset for its owner by providing support to the energy grid by feeding power back into the grid and providing ancillary services.

“With more people working from home currently, with a Nissan LEAF in the driveway, a household could significantly reduce their power bills by using their vehicle as a battery. And if they have solar panels, they can maximise their use of renewable energy, and still have an exciting zero-emissions car to drive.”

The REVS project brings together a consortium of academic, transport and electricity-system partners to deploy the V2G service, including ActewAGL, the Australian National University (ANU), JET Charge, Evoenergy, SG Fleet and Nissan.

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We have reviewed XV many times. Here are those, and other Subaru stories:

• Subaru XV in the snow  Part 1
• 2020 Impreza
• Impreza and Levorg in the snow
• Subaru XV  in Perisher Part 2
• Subaru XV Launch Review
• XV Mild Hybrid Launch
• XV Mild Hybrid Review 

XV Outside:

XV is handsome. Big, bold, light clusters include automatic halogen headlights with high beam assist.

There are built in roof rails, and deep body carving to add a play of light under the doors and on the front and rear facades.

The lower body and wheel arches have sacrificial black plastic trim.  Better to scratch that than the duco.

Measurements:

• 220mm ground clearance
• 4465mm long, 1800mm wide,
• 1595mm high (20mm lower than petrol models), and has a
• wheelbase 2665mm
• Cargo volume is 345L/919L (petrol models at 310L/765L)

Subaru has no spare tyre. Instead, that excess space is split between battery and cargo volume. There is a puncture repair kit so if you’re heading to your country cottage high on a remote peak, put a spare on the roof.

The only hint of the hybrid drivetrain is a discrete Eboxer badge on the front guards and rear hatch. One doesn’t want to be too ostentatious.

XV Cabin:

All XVs have Smart Key entry, and push-button start. Inside, a clever identification system scans and welcomes the driver, and sets the profile accordingly.

Subaru covered the seats premium cloth, which has a slightly industrial feel. The dash has a similar sturdiness to it. The lines are complex, and the materials soft. Everything is where you expect it to be.

XV Hybrid has one trim level, a mix of the various trim levels in the other models.

Uou get single zone climate control, but all the EYESIGHT safety features. Only the Premium and S XVs have built in navigation. On all other XVs, you can use Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and the maps contained therein.

This phone mirroring gives you full control via the 6.5” touch screen, and there is voice control too. Use Siri for full voice control, but if you prefer radio, DAB/FM/AM stations can be stored as favourites.

Displays:

Functions are cleverly split, and in some cases duplicated. Driver displays have twin dials, and a 4.2” MFD (multi-function display).

On the centre stack, another MFD is set above the touch screen. Both MFDs are shielded by deep visors to prevent excess glare from the sun. Other surfaces are matte to stop the afternoon sun from blinding the driver. Only the touch screen and gear knob have shiny piano black. That’s a fashion I hope soon will pass.

You get 2X 12v sockets, a AUX socket, and a USB jack, as well as a bin to rest your phone while plugged in. There are a further 2 USB charging points trussed up in the centre console armrest bin.

There are 2X cupholders in front of the gear selector, large bin/bottle holders in all 4 doors, a cargo blind, and some neat hooks for bags and so forth.

XV Driving:

XV has supportive seats and a perfect driving position. There is plenty or room. Even the rear passengers find more than enough room even with all occupants being adults.

Although the XV Hybrid misses power adjustment and heating, the driver can still lift the seat manually. The steering wheel adjusts for reach and height, and all controls fall easily to hand.

There are driver aids and safety gizmos galore. EYESIGHT’s twin cameras work with radar and parking sensors to provide:

• Active lane control
• active cruise control
• active blind spot monitor
• AEB forward/reverse
• Brake light recognition
• Lane sway warning
• Lead vehicle alert
• Pre-collision braking/brake assist
• Pre-collision throttle management
• Rear cross traffic alert
• High beam assist
• Lane change assist
• Reversing camera

Kids are forgotten either. There are 3 child anchor points and 2 ISOFIX points along with rear door child locks.

The Ride:

The ride is brilliant. XV has sophisticated suspension: stabiliser bars front and back, Macpherson struts up front, and double wishbones at the back.

In the bends, that smooth ride morphs into sporty grip. You dart into corners with the clever electronics working to brake wayward wheels. It makes good drivers even better. Bad drivers should just stay off the road for everyone’s sakes.

XV Hybrid Engine and Transmission:

XV Hybrid has 110kw/196Nm, with the electric motor adding a further 12.3kw and 66Nm. Like all Subarus (except for BRZ) XV Hybrid has AWD. The power gets to the wheels via a CVT automatic. The CVT has no physical gears but will simulate gear rations when pushed. There are manual gear paddles on the steering wheel to suit sporty drivers.

As you get to cruising speed, or simply beetling about the town, revs go up and down to find the perfect match of performance and economy.

There are slight fuel savings over the petrol-only XV models. 6.5L/100 vs 7L/100k and CO2 of 147g/km vs 159g/k may not sound like much, but it adds up. Forester is slightly better with a 19% fuel saving around town.

XV Hybrid will run for short periods in EV mode, using only the electric motor as long as the batteries are charged up. The hypnotic display above the touch screen tells you battery charging, and what engine is driving the wheels..

You do not need to plug in to a socket. XV Hybrid charges as you drive.

XV Hybrid differs from full hybrids. The motor and batteries are much smaller than Prius for example.

Conclusion:

XV Hybrid uses Subaru’s new platform that can take petrol, hybrid, or electric drive trains. It has the symmetrical AWD system Subaru is famous for. That alone puts it ahead of most other brands in the segment.

It comes with a 5 year warranty, 5 year/62,000km capped price servicing,  batteries have a separate 8 year/160,000km warranty. With most electric cars, the batteries will outlast the car. Warranty usually kicks in if the batteries are at 70% or less efficiency, but check with you dealer when you have a service..

The important thing is you can drive this car just like any other car. You can go as far as the 48L petrol tank will get you, then you just fill up again.

Subaru XV Hybrid

Price: $35,580 (plus onroads)

Engine:

• petrol – boxer, 2.0L, 91ron
• Electric – Permanent magnet AC synchronous motor

Power:

• petrol – 110kw
• Electric – 12.3kw

Torque:

• petrol – 196Nm
• Electric – 66Nm

Econ: 6.5L/100k (7.5 city, 5.9 highway)

CO2: 147g/km

The post 2020 Subaru XV Hybrid Small SUV Video Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

The Jaguar I-Pace, the world’s first luxury electric SUV has a big battery but it can be slow to charge at your home.

The i-Pace has a 90kw/hr battery compared to the current 40kw/hr battery in a Nissan Leaf which is, of course, a smaller car.

Now with the latest i-pace they say that will a 3-phase system and a wall box you can charge the car in 8.5 hours. With a single-phase system and wall box it will take 12.75 hours.

In the past with a single phase and no wall box it could take nearly 50 hours.

There’s also self-learning navigation that can show you the nearest available charge station and wireless phone charging, embedded Spotify, and Bluetooth for two phones at the same time

And there is remote updating so the I-PACE can get improvements over time

Motoring Minutes are heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. Motoring Minutes have an average daily audience of over 150,000 listeners. Motoring Minutes are also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia and has a weekly audience of over 450,000. 

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The latest step in Mazda’s multi-solution approach to reducing emissions, the new Skyactiv-X M Hybrid is based on the flagship Astina grade on both models.

The new Mazda3 X20 Astina will be available on both manual and automatic models with pricing starting at $40,590^, while CX-30 X20 Astina AWD will be priced at $46,490^.

The ground-breaking new 2.0-litre Skyactiv-X M Hybrid is the world’s first production petrol unit to exploit the benefits of diesel-like compression ignition, achieving the high-revving performance of a petrol engine with the fuel efficiency, torque and response of a diesel.

Skyactiv-X M Hybrid follows the launch of the highly efficient Skyactiv-G and Skyactiv-D engine technologies in 2012 and represents the first electrification technology in Mazda’s multi-solution approach to emissions reduction and Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030*.

Mazda Australia Managing Director, Vinesh Bhindi said Mazda takes a real-world approach to reducing emissions and Skyactiv-X offers more choice to customers looking to do the same.

“Mazda is committed to reducing real-world emissions by looking at every part of a vehicle’s emissions footprint, from its production through to where the fuel that powers it comes from, and how a vehicle is disposed of at the end of its life,” said Mr. Bhindi.

“With every customer’s circumstances being unique, we need to offer a variety of ways to reduce vehicle emissions to suit individual needs and lifestyles. Skyactiv-X offers customers a lower emission engine option, while retaining the same joy of driving that Mazda vehicles have always offered.”

Skyactiv-X is characterised by Mazda’s revolutionary Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI). This new engineering concept allows the engine to switch seamlessly between conventional spark ignition and compression ignition combustion by using a spark to trigger both types of combustion in different ways.

In SPCCI mode, a split injection process creates separate zones of fuel-air mixture inside the combustion chamber. First, a very lean fuel to air mixture is injected into the combustion chamber during the intake stroke, then a zone of atomised fuel is precisely injected directly around the spark plug during the compression stroke.

The small injection of atomised fuel directly around the spark plug builds a richer core. When the spark fires, it ignites this core of fuel and air. This increases pressure in the combustion chamber to the point where the lean mixture rapidly combusts.

Skyactiv-X also features the Mazda M Hybrid system. Compact and efficient, the mild hybrid system features a belt-driven integrated starter generator (ISG) and a 24V lithium-ion battery. It supports greater gains in fuel economy by recycling energy recovered during deceleration and powering the ISG, functioning as an electric motor, to assist the engine.

Skyactiv-X will debut in Australia with Mazda3, set to go on sale in August, and will be offered with Mazda CX-30 later in th

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Audi is continuing with its electric offensive – with the new Audi e-tron S and the new Audi e-tron S Sportback. Both of the S models with fully electric drive use three electric motors, two of which operate on the rear axle.

•  world first in mass production: Drive with three electric motors mobilises up to 370 kW of power and 973 Nm of torque
• New quattro generation with electric torque vectoring
• Outstanding aerodynamics thanks to intelligent technology

Their intelligent drive control raises vehicle safety, and dynamic handling in particular, to a new level. In addition to the electric all-wheel drive, the vehicles are equipped with electric torque vectoring with active and fully variable torque distribution on the rear axle.

Australian information

The new Audi e-tron S and e-tron S Sportback are expected to arrive in Australia in the second-half of 2021. Further information on pricing and specification details will be announced closer to launch

Global Information

Handling 2.0: the driving experience

The new Audi e-tron S and the new Audi e-tron S Sportback deliver dynamics in a new dimension. In S gear, they provide their full boost performance for eight seconds – 370 kW of power and 973 Nm of torque. The standard sprint takes just 4.5 seconds and acceleration ends at 210 km/h.

The new S models have two electric motors on the rear axle and one on the front axle, making them the first mass-produced electric cars in the world to have three electric motors. Their drive layout is based on the modular construction principle: An adapted design of the more powerful electric motor that powers rear axle in the Audi e-tron 55 is now installed on the front axle.

The front electric motor from the e-tron 55 operates together with a structurally identical counterpart and individual modifications in the rear. The high-voltage battery has a gross energy capacity of 95 kWh, of which 91 percent (86 kWh) is usable. With one battery charge, the Audi e-tron S and the Audi e-tron S Sportback achieve ranges of up to 360 km and 365 km respectively  in the WLTP cycle (preliminary values).

e-tron quattro reloaded: electric torque vectoring

In order to improve efficiency, only the rear electric motors are engaged as long as the Audi e-tron S and the e-tron S Sportback are operating in normal driving mode. The front electric motor flashes into action when the driver demands more performance, or predictively before traction subsides.

Electric all-wheel drive is now enhanced with electric torque vectoring: Each of the rear electric motors sends the drive torques directly to the respective wheel via a single-speed transmission; there is no more mechanical differential. Need-based regulation takes just milliseconds and can manage very high drive torques.

Drivers experience the excellent agility and traction of the electric S models in particular when challenging them on curvy roads. Their character has a stronger emphasis on the rear end and is even sportier than that of the technical basis. If the ESC stabilisation control is set to “sport” and the Audi drive select dynamic handling system is set to maximum performance in “dynamic” mode, the drive layout facilitates a high level of transverse dynamics and, upon request, controlled drifts as well. When approaching the physical limit, the unloaded front wheel on the inside of the curve is decelerated slightly via the wheel brake to prevent slip and further refine handling. The sharp dynamism, high level of precision, and uncompromising safety are based on the close networking between all control units that manage the drive and suspension systems.

Networking: the suspension of the electric S models

The large high-voltage battery ensures a balanced distribution of the axle loads and is installed in a low position comparable to that of the three electric motors. This lowers the car’s centre of gravity, which offers great advantages in terms of handling. The progressive steering, whose ratio becomes increasingly direct as the steering movement increases, emphasises the sporty character. The suspension has S-specific tuning. The Audi drive select system offers seven driving profiles. For example, it accesses the adaptive air suspension sport – the air suspension with regulated damping can vary the level of the body by up to 76 millimetres depending on the driving situation and settings.

The electric S models are equipped with 20-inch wheels as standard and come with tyres measuring 285 millimetres wide. 21-inch wheels are available upon request and even sportier 22-inch wheels will follow at a later time. Fixed calipers with six pistons each are installed in the front above the large brake disks; sliding caliper are installed in the rear. The brake calipers are painted black as standard and feature the S logo. Upon request, they can be painted in a bright orange and decorated with the e-tron logo.

The brake is actuated and regulated via a compact module that controls the pressure build-up electronically (by wire), reinforces it electrically, and actuates the brakes hydraulically. An electric spindle drive actuates the displacing piston in a flash: The brake pads are in full-pressure contact with the disks after just 150 milliseconds. Depending on the driving situation, the brake control system decides individually for each axle whether the car will decelerate with the electric motors, the wheel brakes, or a combination of both systems.

Innovative solutions: aerodynamics.

Thanks to the optional virtual exterior mirrors (cameras that send their pictures to high-contrast displays in the interior) in particular, the Audi e-tron S models achieve very good drag coefficients.

Flow-optimised wheel arch extensions also make a considerable contribution to resolving the conflict of objectives between outstanding aerodynamics and a sporty look. The innovative technology was developed by Audi and is now patented. The brand with the four rings is introducing it to large-scale vehicle construction for the first time. This allows the Audi e-tron S Sportback to achieve a drag coefficient of just 0.26, despite the widening of its wheel arches; in the Audi e-tron S, the drag coefficient is 0.28.

A second major element in the aerodynamics concept is the controllable cooling-air inlet with ducts to cool the front wheel brakes. It remains closed as often as possible so that the airstream flows over the hood with almost no turbulence. As part of efficient thermal management, each e-tron is equipped with a heat pump as standard. It draws heat energy from the waste heat of the drive components, thereby increasing the range by up to ten percent.

The sophisticated recuperation concept also contributes to the vehicle’s efficiency. Drivers can select between three recuperation levels, the highest of which allows them to experience a noticeable one-pedal feeling. When braking, the electric motors decelerate alone up to the area of 0.3 g, i.e. in most everyday situations. The hydraulic wheel brakes only come into play beyond that level. However, the electric motors remain active and can convert up to 270 kW of peak performance when braking from a speed of 100 km/h.

e-tron Five centimetres more width: the exterior design

The Audi e-tron S and the Audi e-tron S Sportback reveal their electric power at first glance. Their front and rear bumpers have strong contours, and the air curtains are particularly large and expressive. The diffuser insert at the rear end extends almost across the entire vehicle width. The fact that the wheel arches on both sides are 23 millimetres wider makes the cars appear very powerful. Silver attachments at the front and rear end add highlights. This, as well as the aluminium exterior mirror housings are exclusive features of the S models Large parts of the body’s lower section can be painted in a contrasting colour upon request.

Both cars can be equipped with Matrix LED headlights as an option – another world first in mass production that Audi introduced with the e-tron Sportback in the fall of 2019. Each light is divided into 1.3 million pixels and can be controlled with great precision, which opens up many new functions. In narrow areas, for example, it shows the car’s position in the lane and thus helps the driver to remain safely in the centre.

Progressive: interior and equipment

The interiors of the Audi e-tron S and Audi e-tron S Sportback are designed in dark colours. Electrically adjustable sport seats come as standard. Their leather/Alcantara upholstery as well as the gear selector lever feature S embossing with a rhombus. The decorative trims are made of brushed aluminium and are available in two versions. They are also available in carbon upon request. The contour/ambient lighting package adds progressive highlights in the dark.

Fully digital: controls, infotainment, and assist systems

Like all premium range models from Audi, the Audi e-tron S and the Audi e-tron S Sportback are equipped with the digital MMI touch response control system with the two large central displays. On the third display, the Audi virtual cockpit, the driver can select a special e-tron screen that moves the electric drive to centre stage. An optional head-up display complements the displays. The MMI navigation plus control and infotainment system is included as standard. Behind its many functions is the third generation modular infotainment toolkit (MIB 3), which completes all tasks with a high processing power. It cooperates with the communication box, which connects the car with the environment and the passengers’ smartphones.

Audi connect’s online services complement the navigation system, especially the expanded e-tron route planner. It calculates the fastest route including optimum charging stops, taking into account traffic data, the driver’s driving profile, and the duration of the charging stops. In some cases, this strategy may result in the system suggesting an alternative route. The directory of charging points, which includes appropriate additional information, is updated online every day. Upon request, charging stations where the driver can pay using the e-tron Charging Service can be preferred when planning the route.

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Now, with the introduction of New C4 launched globally online on 01/07/2020, the brand continues its electrification offensive and writes a new chapter in its history with the compact hatchback.

Citroën reinvents the compact hatch and exceed expectations in the segment with a new all-Citroën identity:

• Strength of concept: a significant step forward in terms of Citroën design, offering a raised stance on large diameter wheels, with an energetic and aerodynamic silhouette incorporating SUV themes.
• Choice of powertrain: New ë-C4 is part of Citroën’s electrification offensive and includes electric, petrol or diesel powertrains as part of the global launch.
• Comfort on-board: all the benefits of the Citroën Advanced Comfort® programme, including suspension with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions®, Advanced Comfort seats – and Smart Pad Support Citroën in a World Premiere. The comfort experience is enhanced with 20 driving aids, including Highway Driver Assist (a level two semi-autonomous driving system) and six connectivity technologies. Comfort is amplified in the 100% electric New ë-C4, giving customers the silent ë-Comfort experience.

New ë-C4 and New C4 represent the 10th generation of Citroën compact car, providing comfort and character in each era.

The new C4 is being evaluated for Australia and is currently unconfirmed. Technologies and specification available at launch may not be available locally.

The post New Citroen C4 Global Launch appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

   Toyota Corolla Accent Hybrid sedan – To prove just how good Toyota Corolla is, in this video, we put a body in the boot. In fact, you could put 2 bodies in the boot, with bits sawn off of course.

The rear seats go down, so with a blanket, you could cover even more foibles.

Corolla is the mainstay of the Toyota fleet for over 4 decades. 2020 Corolla sedan comes in either full petrol or full hybrid drivetrains.

Corolla has man many extras as standard equipment.

Arguably the most important is the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It really has made Corolla something people want to buy, as opposed to being the go-to for someone wanting a cheap reliable car.

Corolla Safety:

There is a ton of included Toyota Corolla safety gear, even in this base model.

Active Blind spot monitor keeps you from changing lanes if someone is beside you. I will also warn you if someone is coming up fast with a beep and light, even if you are parked. If you try to change lanes, it will steer you gently back into your current lane.

Lane Keep Assistance centres you in the lane. Although, it seems to favour the lefthand side of the lane.

AEB is Autonomous Emergency Breaking works at all speeds to prevent, or mitigate the effects of an accident.

Airbags deploy along the dash, over the tops of the doors, and from the sides of the front seats.

Reversing Camera comes on when you select reverse.

We do a full list of gadgets HERE.

See above for more Corolla Details.

With low rolling resistance tyres and a body designed for efficient aerodynamics, the Corolla sedan hybrid offers outstanding fuel efficiency with an official combined cycle fuel consumption of 3.5l/100km² and low CO₂ emissions of just 81g/km⁵.

The new Toyota hybrid powertrain drives the front wheels through an e-CVT and uses a 1.8-litre petrol engine complemented by a pair of motor-generators to generate a combined maximum output of 90kW.

Also Look At

• Honda Civic
• Subaru Impreza
• Hyundai Elantra
• Kia Cerato
• Mazda3

Price

Engine: 1.8L Petrol – hybrid

Power: 90kw

CO2: 81g/k

Economy: 3.5l/100k

More Toyota Corolla BELOW:

• 2020 Toyota Corolla SX Hybrid Sedan 
• 2019 Toyota Corolla Video Launch Review 
• 2019 Toyota Corolla hatch Driven at Launch Review
• 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatch Specifications
• 2018 Toyota Corolla ZR Review

The post Toyota Corolla Accent Hybrid Sedan Video Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

The Hyundai motor group has been developing eco friendly vehicles for 30 years. Their experience shows just how far alternative fuel cars have come.  David Brown has some figures.

Hyundai’s first electric concept vehicle released in 1991 was based on the Sonata sedan, it featured a lead-acid battery and offered a range of just 71km, and a top speed of only 60km/h.

Getting the most out of an electric vehicle needs good batteries but also managing the power situation of the whole car.

A concern with electric vehicles is that energy used to heat the interior in cold weather reduces the range of the vehicle, but Hyundai’s system, to be part of all their EVs, uses the heat from the batteries; a similar principle to a fossil fuel car using heat from the radiator.

The latest Hyundai Kona SUV electric vehicle has a range, rated at 449km.

Motoring Minutes are heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. Motoring Minutes have an average daily audience of over 150,000 listeners. Motoring Minutes are also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia and has a weekly audience of over 450,000. 

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