Volvo receives order for 100 electric trucks from DFDS
Volvo Trucks has received an order for 100 electric trucks from logistics company DFDS. With this latest order, DFDS has almost doubled its Volvo electric truck fleet to 225 trucks in total – the largest company fleet of heavy electric trucks in Europe.
DFDS, one of the largest shipping and logistics companies in Northern Europe, is seeing a growing demand for transport solutions with lower environmental impact. The company has now placed another order for 100 electric trucks from Volvo. Previously, DFDS has purchased a total of 125 heavy electric trucks from Volvo.
95 Volvo electric trucks are currently operational in Sweden, Denmark, Lithuania, Belgium and the Netherlands with the remaining 30 due to be delivered during 2024. Thanks to its growing electric truck fleet, DFDS had reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 1,516 tonnes by the end of 2023.*
“I am very proud to continue our close partnership with DFDS. This order for an additional 100 Volvo electric trucks is proof of their trust in our company. The big increase of DFDS’ electric truck fleet shows that zero-emissions transport is a viable solution here and now”, says Roger Alm, President Volvo Trucks.
The new electric trucks will be deployed in nine markets across Europe, including UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Sweden. The trucks will be of the updated and more energy-efficient models of Volvo FH Electric and FM Electric.
DFDS currently has the largest fleet of heavy-duty electric trucks in Europe and is well underway to reach its target of having at least 25 percent of the truck fleet electrified by 2030.
“We want to drive the transition to more sustainable road transport. Our expanding fleet of electric trucks will not only contribute to reducing the climate impact of our operations. It will also enable DFDS to support more companies that are looking to decarbonise their supply chains. The 100 new electric trucks underline our commitment to pushing the development forward”, says Niklas Anderson, EVP, Logistic Division at DFDS.
Some of the new electric trucks will be used to transport goods to and from the Volvo Trucks assembly plant in Gothenburg.
Since 2019, Volvo Trucks has sold electric trucks to customers in 45 countries on six continents. Volvo currently offers the industry´s broadest product line-up with eight electric models, catering to a very wide variety of transport assignments in and between cities.
2023 ended with electric vehicle (EV) repairable claims frequency at 1.97% in the United States and 2.86% in Canada. That represents an increase of more than 40% in both regions over the previous year. When compared to 2020, the frequency of claims for repairable EVs has more than tripled. Last year, Tesla’s share of total U.S. new vehicle sales reached a record high of 4.2%. However, lower priced EV alternatives like the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq and Volkswagen ID.4 experienced tremendous growth in 2023 (194%, 144% and 139% respectively) versus the previous 12 months—and, with the addition of other new EV models, will challenge Tesla’s market dominance.
In terms of claims severity, EVs continued to exceed automobiles with an internal combustion engine (ICE). Last year in the U.S., average repairable severity was $6,018 for all EVs and $4,696 for ICE alternatives, a difference of $1,322. However, year over year, severity was actually down slightly by about 5% for EVs while it increased by 3% for ICE-powered automobiles. In Canada, it was a similar story with average repairable severity of $6,795 (CAD) for all EVs and $5,122 (CAD) for ICE vehicles. However, unlike the U.S., those numbers rose by approximately 8% in both categories from 2022 to 2023.
In 2024, sales of new EVs are expected to increase, along with demand for electrified alternatives—resulting in more of these vehicles on the road and potentially in repair facilities. Kelley Blue Book reported that nearly 1.2 million EVs were sold in the U.S. in 2023—representing 8.1% of the gross new vehicle sales volume with an anticipated U.S. market share of 10% in 2024. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are approximately 2.5 million EVs registered in the country, accounting for just about 1% of the overall vehicle population. Across the border, one in 10 Canadians own an EV. While some note a decline in Canadian consumer interest, it is still expected that more than 10% of gross new vehicle sales in Canada will be for EVs—with the country outpacing U.S. EV sales on a percentage basis.
EVs epitomize vehicle complexity with their reliance on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and lightweight materials. For example, EV repair estimates are approximately 50% more likely to include some kind of operation associated with the sensors than those for 2020 model year and newer ICE automobiles based on 2023 data—increasing the likelihood that ADAS calibrations are required to safely return the vehicle to the road and damaged parts must be replaced versus repaired. In EVs, major component sheet metal replacement parts are identified as lightweight materials—those other than mild steel including aluminum, carbon fiber and composites—26.87% of the time compared to 23.42% for ICE vehicles. EV manufacturers rely on a mixed materials construction strategy to help offset battery weight, increase range and improve overall performance—requiring the use of these lightweight parts, which can affect repairability and costs. The fact that electrified automobiles are heavier, on average, than their ICE counterparts may be one of the factors to blame for a higher frequency of EV air bag deployments (3.62%) last year compared to ICE alternatives (2.45%). Collision repairs that involve an air bag deployment are typically three times more expensive than those without one—adding to the repair cost differential between EVs and ICE vehicles.
Volkswagen is expanding its range of sporty GTX models. As a double world premiere, the new ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer models are now the first to make their debut. The two highly dynamic Volkswagen models will be launched soon with an individual exterior design, including their own front and rear light signatures, sporty design details in the interior and powerful performance drives. The sportiest models from the all-electric ID. product line have already borne the GTX label since 2021 – based on the dynamic Volkswagen models with the designations GTI, GTD or GTE.
GTX success story. The sporty and dynamic GTX models offer a completely unique and particularly fascinating type of electric mobility. The fact that every fifth newly registered ID.4 and ID.5 in Europe is already a GTX model shows just how popular this is with customers. Volkswagen has now transferred the successful driving dynamics to the ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer – with an individual technical setup in each case.
The character of the ID.3 GTX. Volkswagen will launch the rear-wheel drive ID.3 GTX in two variants. The top-of-the-line model is the ID.3 GTX Performance01 – a snappy, compact sports car. Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, says: “With its spontaneous and superior power delivery, the new ID.3 GTX Performance is for me the electric counterpart to our sporty compact icon, the Golf GTI Clubsport04. Of course, an electric drive and a turbocharged petrol engine each have their own unique character. Yet the ID.3 GTX Performance and the Golf GTI Clubsport share the same fascinating lightness when they accelerate.” Grünitz continues: “With the ID.3 GTX, Volkswagen is transferring the almost 50-year tradition of its compact GT models into the world of electric mobility. Driving pleasure is guaranteed.”
ID.7 Tourer Pro – combined power consumption 16.8–14.5 kWh/100 km; combined CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 class: A.
The design and equipment of the ID.3 GTX. The ID.3 GTX stands out from all other models in the product line thanks to its individualised exterior design. The GTX-specific front bumper features a new independent black air intake in a diamond-style design and has new daytime running lights on the left and right. The black elements of the body have a high-gloss finish. This additionally applies to the newly designed side sills and the new lower area of the rear end with diffuser. Also new are the 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels fitted as standard. A host of GTX-specific features customise the vehicle interior. With their ergonomic design, premium sports seats (in fabric and leatherette) equipped as standard underline the sporty character of the most powerful ID.3 models. Another classic GTX design element: red decorative stitching on the seats and multifunction steering wheel. The high-quality cockpit surface is also GTX-specific. The more powerful ID.3 GTX Performance comes with DCC adaptive chassis control.
The character of the ID.7 GTX Tourer. Pre-sales of the new ID.7 Tourer05 started only last week – and now the new ID.7 GTX Tourer is already making its debut as the most powerful model in the product line. Like the ID.4 GTX and ID.5 GTX, it has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that can drive the front axle in parallel with the rear axle. Kai Grünitz: “The ID.7 GTX Tourer paves the way for a new type of sporty mobility by combining the spaciousness of a large estate with the performance of a sports car. What is fascinating here is the instantaneous punch with which the electric motors provide their maximum output and torque in fractions of a second.”
The design and equipment of the ID.7 GTX Tourer. The front of the ID.7 GTX Tourer is distinguished from the other models in the product line by a distinctive bumper with honeycomb grille and GTX-specific light graphics including illuminated badges. As with the ID.3 GTX, all black elements have a high-gloss finish. This additionally applies to the side sills and the lower area of the rear bumper in GTX design. As on the ID.3 GTX, 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels are fitted as standard on the ID.7 GTX Tourer. The interior is refined by features such as individualised seats (heated in the front) with perforated GTX lettering in the backrests, red piping on the seats, red seams on the dash panel and door trims as well as a GTX-specific multifunction steering wheel with red decorative stitching. The luggage compartment capacity of up to 1,714 litres is just as large as for the rear-wheel drive variants.
Electricity consumption combined: 17,4 – 15,7 kWh/100 km according to WLTP CO2 emissions combined according to WLTP: 0 g/km CO2 Class: A Electric range according to WLTP: 462 – 423 km
MINI Countryman SE ALL4
Electricity consumption combined: 18,5 – 16,8 kWh/100 km according to WLTP CO2 emissions combined according to WLTP: 0 g/km CO2 Class: A Electric range according to WLTP: 432 – 399 km
Electrification continues at BMW Group Plant Leipzig: Four months after launching production of the combustion-engined MINI Countryman, the all-electric version is now rolling off the lines at Leipzig as well. After phasing out production of the BMW i3, the birthplace of electric mobility at the BMW Group has welcomed another fully electric car to its range. It now manufactures four models with three drive types by two brands, all on a single production line: the BMW 1 Series, the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (including the plug-in hybrid version), the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and the MINI Countryman in both its fully electric and combustion-powered versions.
The MINI Countryman Electric represents a major step in the MINI brand’s transition to full electrification by 2030 and combines an electrified go-kart feel with zero local emissions mobility. It comes in two fully electric variants: the Countryman E (150 kW, 204 hp | electricity consumption 17.4 – 15.7 kWh/100 km | CO2 emissions 0 g/km) and the more powerful all-wheel Countryman SE ALL4 (230 kW, 313 hp | electricity consumption 18.5 – 16.8 kWh/100 km | CO2 emissions 0 g/km).
Consistent plant upgrades and flexible production system
To enable production of up to 350,000 units a year – 100,000 more than previously – Plant Leipzig has been continuously upgraded since 2018, with extensive additions and upgrades to the bodyshop, paintshop, assembly and logistics. “Our cars and components are very much in demand. In recent years the BMW Group has invested around 1.6 billion euros in the Leipzig site to produce additional vehicles and electric components, and now we’re increasing vehicle volumes too – which is great news for our plant,” said Petra Peterhänsel, Plant Director.
The main driver behind the volume increase is the MINI Countryman. During the course of 2024, output will rise to almost 500 units a day – on top of the 800 or so BMW vehicles the plant is producing. What’s more, thanks to its flexible production system, Plant Leipzig is in a position to respond quickly to customer demand, for example by increasing the share of fully electric vehicles.
Flexible assembly structures also meant the MINI Countryman Electric could be integrated seamlessly into production. The situation is similar with the different drive units, which are all produced on one and the same line in aggregate assembly and prepared for what’s known as “marriage” with the body. The e-drives, transmissions and control electronics (collectively known as the highly integrated electric drive topology, or HEAT) for the two all-electric models are connected directly in the plant. A new production line was required only for the control electronics.
More staff and nightshifts for increased production volume
Higher production volume means secure employment and up to 900 additional employees in vehicle production alone. By the end of 2024, Plant Leipzig will employ around 7,000 BMW staff. Working hours will need to be adjusted in all technologies, with nightshifts in assembly starting for the first time in September of this year and cars being produced round the clock in three shifts.
“Plant Leipzig first went on stream in 2005 with about 2,600 employees in production. 19 years later there are over 7,000. Over the years, the plant has grown steadily and considerably. The start of nightshifts in assembly represents another important milestone in the success story of our plant and is a clear show of confidence by our company in our site here in Leipzig,” emphasised Works Council Chairman Jens Köhler.
Made at Plant Leipzig: high-voltage batteries for the MINI Countryman Electric
With the production launch of the MINI Countryman Electric, all three stages of the Gen 5 high-voltage battery production process are now represented at BMW Group Plant Leipzig: cell coating, module production and battery assembly. Operations in all three are currently ramping up, with five cell-coating, three module-production and two high-voltage battery-production lines now in place.
“We are in the middle of the transformation to e-mobility,” said Markus Fallböhmer, Head of Battery Production at the BMW Group. “Starting this year, Plant Leipzig will carry out every stage of our in-house high-voltage battery production process. It’s our next great step forwards.”
Plant Leipzig’s e-component production capacity has been increasing since 2021. It will now manufacture not just the high-voltage batteries for the MINI Countryman Electric but also e-components for the BMW iX1, BMW iX2, BMW i4, BMW i5 and BMW iX made at other sites. The e-component production unit at Leipzig currently employs some 1,000 people.
To enable production of high-voltage batteries, spaces previously used for the BMW i3 and BMW i8 have been converted and new buildings added. One of them is a new hall with a footprint of about 61,000 m2. This houses two lines capable of producing up to 300,000 high-voltage batteries a year. The BMW Group has invested over 900 million euros in e-component production at Plant Leipzig to date.
Resource-saving painting processes
At launch, the fully electric MINI Countryman comes in three additional body colours: British Racing Green, Chili Red and Blazing Blue – and with MINI’s trademark contrast roof, if desired. This is painted using a new overspray-free method that saves resources and is currently being readied for series operation. The term “overspray” refers to the mist of excess paint particles that forms when bodies are painted the conventional way. With the new technique, this mist no longer occurs. This makes it easier to paint in multiple colours as the laborious process of masking is no longer required. Overspray-free painting also helps save CO2 emissions, as exhaust from the cabin requires less cleansing. In addition, it requires considerably less conditioned air, i.e. air that is brought to the exact temperature and humidity required for painting. As a result, less energy is needed to temper air and treat exhaust.
The burner technology used to dry the paint on contrast roofs was also converted for the start of MINI Countryman production and now consists of a bivalent system. The fuel-flexible burners can run on hydrogen (H2) as well as gas (methane, CH4) and even switch between the two while in operation. Five such bivalent hydrogen-capable burners are used to produce the contrast roofs for the MINI Countryman.
Further burners in the paintshop will also gradually switch to bivalent operations, with the next six hydrogen-capable burners just installed. This makes Leipzig a pioneer in the automotive industry and takes it ever closer to lower CO2 emissions. “Our vision at Plant Leipzig is to decarbonise production as far as possible by replacing fossil fuels with green hydrogen,” said Petra Peterhänsel, explaining the long-term focus of the facility. This will require sufficient green hydrogen from a grid. A regional hydrogen grid is currently in planning, with Plant Leipzig set to benefit.
Power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 18.9 - 15.9 kWh/100 km
Electric range in WLTP cycle: 497 – 582 km
The BMW Group presents a fusion of art and innovation at the Frieze Los Angeles art fair in the form of the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. The one-of-a-kind vehicle combines colour-change technology developed by BMW with the artistic language of South African artist Esther Mahlangu. The designer piece, with sections of attached film that can be electronically animated, embodies the latest development in colour-change technology for vehicle surfaces in cooperation with E Ink. The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA celebrates its world premiere at the fair opening on 29 February. The contemporary tribute recalls the BMW Art Car designed by Mahlangu in 1991. “The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA honours the history of the BMW brand and continues the story of our global cultural engagement in a unique way. It combines art and design through progressive technology. Here, technology itself becomes art,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design.
In 1991, Mahlangu designed the 12th BMW Art Car, based on a BMW 525i – becoming the first woman and first African artist to do so. “Her art inspired me years ago, back when the concept of colour change on a car was just an idea in my head,” says Stella Clarke, Research Engineer Open Innovations at the BMW Group. „Now, being able to realise this idea, and work with Esther Mahlangu, is absolutely surreal.” The 88-year-old artist’s signature colours and geometric patterns are perfect for bringing the innovative Flow technology to life in the BMW i5. The versatility of the electrophoretic colour changes makes the fully-electric sedan a dynamic work of art. “It is fascinating to me to see how modern technology can expand my art and make it accessible to a completely new audience,” says Mahlangu.
The BMW Group presents a fusion of art and innovation at the Frieze Los Angeles art fair in the form of the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. The one-of-a-kind vehicle combines colour-change technology developed by BMW with the artistic language of South African artist Esther Mahlangu.
Mahlangu’s art meets cutting-edge technology. In the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA, which is named after Mahlangu’s first son, sections of film that can be electronically animated are applied, with two strips each across the roof, bonnet and rear section, as well as the vehicle’s sides. Like an e-book reader, there are several million microcapsules in each E Ink film. The structure and arrangement of the colour particles they contain can be changed by applying an electric voltage. This allows the typical colours and patterns of Mahlangu’s art to be generated in constantly changing compositions.
The animations are also accompanied by an equally extraordinary sound, specially composed by Renzo Vitale, the BMW Group’s Creative Director, Sound, for the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA. To combine the soundscape of the BMW brand with that of the South African Ndebele culture, Vitale used sequences from Mahlangu’s voice, as well as the sound of the feather brushes she used for painting. These were combined with sounds produced by the colour pencils employed in the BMW design studio and the acoustic signal heard as feedback when operating the BMW i5’s touch display. This created a sound mix that starts off softly at the beginning of each colour change and increases in intensity as the animation progresses.
To accurately recreate every detail of the complex ornamentation, the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA has been fitted with 1,349 sections of film, each of which can be individually controlled. The laser cutting process used to trim the film and the electronic control design were developed in partnership with E Ink. The adaptation of the technology for curved surfaces, as well as the programmed animations, are all BMW Group in-house developments.
Overall, colour-change technology is developing rapidly. The BMW iX Flow featuring E Ink presented in 2022 had the ability to switch from white to black at the push of a button. This was followed just one year later by the first multi-coloured implementation. The 240 sections of film applied to BMW i Vision Dee were able to display up to 32 colours. This latest phase of development now enables even more colours and patterns. At the same time, the sections of the film are more robust – which could make potential future series production easier. However, for the time being, the BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA will remain one of a kind.
Tribute to a pioneering artist and her work. As a globally respected artist, Esther Mahlangu is known for her Ndebele paintings, whose ornamentation originally symbolised major events or festive occasions. Mahlangu separated the designs from their original meaning and transferred them for the first time to canvas, carpets and everyday objects, thus preserving them for the future. The BMW i5 Flow NOSTOKANA is now reinterpreting this artistic language.
In presenting this designer car at Frieze Los Angeles, BMW continues its long-standing cooperation with the renowned art fair. At the same time, the BMW Art Car that formed the basis for this tribute will also be on display in South Africa for the first time in over 30 years as part of the exhibition hosted by the Iziko Museums of South Africa and the BMW Group in Cape Town “Then I Knew I Was Good at Painting”: Esther Mahlangu. A Retrospective. The exhibition, which runs until 11 August 2024, honours the life’s work of one of South Africa’s most influential artists and cultural ambassadors.
In Los Angeles, BMW will once again be presenting Frieze Music in collaboration with Frieze. Since 2019, the joint initiative between the two partners has brought together a large group of musicians at the intersection of music and art. The event’s return to Los Angeles will be celebrated on 29 February with a live performance by Sudan Archives at the Hammer Museum.
CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.
BMW i5 eDrive40: Power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 18.9 – 15.9 kWh/100 km Electric range in WLTP cycle: 497 – 582 km
Battle Motors, a leader in electric vehicle innovation, is excited to extend an invitation to attendees to test drive their groundbreaking Battle Motors LNT (Low Narrow Tilt) EV Tractor at Work Truck Week 2024. This hands-on experience is part of the highly anticipated Ride + Drive event, taking place on Wednesday, March 6 and Thursday, March 7, 2024, in Indianapolis.
Test Drive Invitation: Battle Motors cordially invites dealers and customers to experience the efficiency, power, and innovation of the Battle Motors EV Tractor firsthand. Participants will have the unique opportunity to test drive this electric marvel, complete with a CTOS Load King 402 DFP Folding Trailer, to understand its capabilities in a real-world setting.
The Battle Motors EV City Tractor is a revolution in urban transportation, designed for urban and regional municipal services. The Battle Motors Tractor is a significant achievement reflecting the dedication to meeting stringent environmental standards and our commitment to playing a leading role in the transition towards a more sustainable transportation sector. The Truck to be test driven features:
Unmatched Maneuverability: A compact design and short wheelbase for superior handling and a tight turning radius.
Extended Range & Rapid Charging: A 120-mile range with fast charging capabilities.
Eco-Friendly Design: Minimal noise and carbon emissions, ideal for noise-sensitive areas.
Enhanced Safety & Comfort: A low cab forward design for better visibility and easier access.
“This Ride + Drive event is a fantastic opportunity for our customers to get behind the wheel of the Battle Motors EV Tractor,” says Stan Mikalonis, CRO at Battle Motors. “We believe that experiencing our EV Tractor in action will showcase its potential to revolutionize the work truck industry.”
Load King’s model 402 DFP folding trailer features a robust 25 Ton capacity (12 ft), 48 ft overall length, and 10’1” spread axle. This cutting-edge trailer is equipped with air ride suspension and height control, alongside a self-contained pony motor, reinforcing Load King’s legacy since 1956 as the pioneer of the E-Z Fold Mechanical Folding Gooseneck Trailer. With over 5,500 units in the field, Load King continues to set the industry standard as the premier builder of the most durable and sought-after Folding Gooseneck Trailers, maintaining its commitment to excellence and innovation more than five decades on.
Work Truck Week, the premier event for the work truck industry, has been a hub of innovation and collaboration for over 20 years. Here, industry professionals come together to highlight the latest in truck technology, share expertise, and shape the future of the sector.
Committed to innovation and sustainability, Battle Motors is at the forefront of electric vehicle technology. Our mission is to drive the transformation of urban and regional transportation with efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles.
Do not miss this chance to be among the first to test drive the Battle Motors EV Tractor at Work Truck Week 2024. This event will provide a glimpse into the future of sustainable urban transportation and the role of electric vehicles in reshaping our cities.
Oomph proudly presents POWERSTREAM – the first in what promises to be an exciting new range of mobile energy storage and charging solutions designed to bring the oomph to EV charging.
POWERSTREAM has been developed to bring a level of convenience to the charging of electric vehicles not seen before. An out of the box solution with zero installation requirements, this rapid charging solution is being aimed at sectors where fixed chargers are not the solution. It also provides an immediate and flexible solution to those facing long installation times for fixed charging infrastructure, high utility and groundwork costs and significant disruption to site. The Cambridge-based tech company boast that POWERSTREAM will deliver the ultimate in convenience and flexibility for the rapid charging of electric vehicles. POWERSTREAM can be mounted in the back of LCVs or can be wheeled around manually in workshops and on forecourts. The product is available both for temporary and permanent deployment.
All-in-one: Battery energy storage device and rapid EV charging station combined in a sleek integrated design
Battery Power on wheels: 30kWh of onboard energy with the power to deliver 30kW DC via CCS.
DC in – DC out: A mobile energy storage device that recharges as fast as it delivers a charge to EVs.
Safety First: Batteries are safely enclosed and are continuously monitored.
Zero installation: An out of the box solution for instant deployment wherever it is needed.
Marc Ottolini, Oomph CEO explains: “The driving experience with an EV is exhilarating until it’s time to recharge the batteries. Unless you are lucky to have your own driveway and your own wall charger, you depend on public charging stations. Many businesses cannot afford to spend working hours on recharging batteries. Mobile rapid chargers solve that problem. We see mobile rapid chargers and fixed chargers as complementary parts of the EV infrastructure. In a sector that is experiencing rapid growth and change, we believe it is vital that solutions exist that can be implemented quickly, with low risk and without breaking the bank”.
he operation of POWERSTREAM could not be easier. With an intuitive control panel and available in two different orientations, there is a solution to suit everyone. Delivered in a matter of weeks, the product simply needs unpacking, powering up and you are ready to get charging. One of the features that make POWERSTREAM stand apart from other mobile solutions is its ability to recharge as fast as it can discharge energy. Meaning that the product is ready for action many hours per day. And with real time GPS tracking and remote monitoring, users will be able to quickly locate their units, monitor performance and keep an eye on essential parameters.
Morag Hutcheon, Oomph founder said, “I am incredibly proud of what Oomph has achieved to date and excited that we are now ready to launch POWERSTREAM. Our mission has always been to improve the EV charging customer experience and following a very thorough product development Oomph Ventures Ltd | Beech Court | The Lakes Business Park | Huntingdon | Cambs | PE28 9RF | UK Company Reg 12440384 process and intensive market research, the output of our hard work is plain to see. POWERSTREAM is now ready for the users to experience firsthand.”
Oomph is setting up a UK-based manufacturing route to ensure product quality and short lead-times. Oomph is bringing much-needed new thinking to the industry, plugging the holes in the EV charging infrastructure with unplugged mobile chargers & cloud-connected batteries. Their ambition is to become the leading innovator in the EV charging sector.
Built on the all-new, highly flexible, BEV-native STLA-Large platform, the all-electric Jeep® Wagoneer S offers standard 4xe capability with all-terrain management, advanced Jeep brand-focused technology and impressive performance credentials, including 600 horsepower and a lightning fast 0-60 mph time of around 3.5 seconds. Driven by aerodynamic efficiency, its sleek exterior design is uniquely marked by a reimagined LED-lit class-exclusive seven-slot Jeep brand grille
The industry’s first modern SUV – the iconic 1963 Jeep Wagoneer – featured a luxurious interior, upscale materials and premium appointments. Today, the Jeep brand shares more details of its first global all-electric SUV, providing a first look at the interior of the all-new Jeep Wagoneer S.Built on the all-new, highly flexible, BEV-native STLA-Large platform, the Jeep Wagoneer S boasts impressive performance numbers. Its tech-focused interior is equally remarkable and radiates a seamless integration of art with technology.
The new Jeep Wagoneer S interior features premium technology seamlessly integrated with meticulously crafted artisan details. Mindful materials and design-focused features include a tailored driver control center with a unique Jeep brand-exclusive Selec-Terrain toggle and dynamic, color-selectable ambient lighting. The Jeep Wagoneer S will also feature a standard dual-pane panoramic sunroof and, expanding the Jeep brand’s exclusive collaboration with McIntosh, will offer a discerningly tuned, segment-exclusive, 19-speaker, premium flagship McIntosh audio system.
Jim Connelly, chief revenue officer at Bollinger Motors and Brian Frania, commercial and fleet director, LaFontaine Automotive Group, will work together to sell and service Bollinger products, beginning with the B4 chassis cab for commercial customers.
Bollinger Motors, Inc., an electric commercial vehicle (“EV”) manufacturer, has named LaFontaine Automotive Group as their first authorized dealer, with two locations, Lansing and Farmington Hills, Mich.
The Bollinger B4 Chassis Cab is an all-new, all-electric Class 4 commercial truck designed from the ground up with extensive fleet and upfitter input. Bollinger’s unique chassis design protects the 800V battery and components to offer unparalleled safety in the commercial market. The company anticipates deliveries of the B4 chassis cab to begin in the second half of 2024.
“We are thrilled to work with LaFontaine right here in Michigan where we designed, and will build, the B4,” said Robert Bollinger, founder and CEO of Bollinger Motors. Adding, “LaFontaine shares our commitment to quality and customer service.”
According to LaFontaine, the acquisition brings their portfolio to 54 retail franchises and 39 retail locations, with additional announcements planned later in 2024. Bollinger commercial vehicles will be sold at LaFontaine Bollinger Farmington Hills, 30250 Grand River Ave. in Farmington Hills and LaFontaine Bollinger Lansing, 3625 S Pennsylvania Ave in Lansing.
“Our partnership with Bollinger Motors is a true testament to the dedicated team we have and our commitment to providing our commercial customers a personalized experience that extends far past the sale of the vehicle. We focus not only on exceeding customer expectations during the sale, but providing service, repair, parts, and accessories for our customers as well,” said Ryan LaFontaine, CEO, LaFontaine Automotive Group. “As we expand our commercial vehicle offering, this partnership aligns with our long-term vision of growth and expansion, allowing us to serve a broader customer base and strengthen our strategically located presence across Michigan.”
“Our team has positioned themselves as a true commercial and fleet powerhouse,” said Brian Frania, commercial and fleet director, LaFontaine Automotive Group. “Our customer-first approach has really resonated with businesses and municipalities, and we have seen tremendous growth in both commercial units sold and serviced.”
“Our strategically developed plan to offer sales and service nationwide is being kicked off with LaFontaine,” said Jim Connelly, chief revenue officer at Bollinger Motors. “Additional dealer partners will be announced soon, showing our commitment to fleets in all 50 states.”
Today’s announcement follows a series of Bollinger Motors announcements in recent months, including partnerships with Our Next Energy in Novi, Mich. to supply the company with batteries and related components and Roush Industries in Livonia, Mich. to manage vehicle assembly operations. The company recently qualified for federal clean vehicle tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act of $40,000 per vehicle for the B4 chassis cab.
Jim Connelly, chief revenue officer at Bollinger Motors and Brian Frania, commercial and fleet director, LaFontaine Automotive Group, will work together to sell and service Bollinger products, beginning with the B4 chassis cab for commercial customers.
ABOUT BOLLINGER MOTORS
Founded in 2015 by Robert Bollinger, Bollinger Motors, Inc. is a U.S.-based company headquartered in Oak Park, Mich. Bollinger Motors is developing all-electric commercial chassis cab trucks, Classes 4-6. In September of 2022, Bollinger Motors became a majority owned company of Mullen Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ: MULN). Learn more at www.BollingerMotors.com and www.MullenUSA.com.
ABOUT LAFONTAINE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP
Founded in 1980 by Michael Sr. and Maureen LaFontaine, the award-winning and nationally recognized LaFontaine Automotive Group includes 54 retail franchises, 9 collision centers and 39 Michigan retail locations. The group employs nearly 2,700 individuals. It’s the mission of the LaFontaine Family to personalize the automotive experience by building lifelong relationships that connect families and strengthen communities. The LaFontaine commitment to customers, staff, and local communities is demonstrated by active participation and contributions to numerous non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and charities throughout southeast Michigan. The combination of both the mission and core values provides the basic foundation of our promise … to treat every customer like they are members of our family. From sales to service to parts, LaFontaine Automotive Group is able to meet any customer’s specific needs. LaFontaine represents the following brands: Buick, Bollinger, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Fiat, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jeep, KIA, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, RAM, Polestar, Sprinter, Subaru, Toyota, Volvo and Volkswagen. The LaFontaine Family Deal; it’s not just what you get, it’s how you feel. Visit www.familydeal.com for additional details.
Building on the success of the exclusive 1st Edition, the full-equipped launched version which received over 10,000 reservations online, orders can now be made on the entire Jeep Avenger range, the brand’s first 100% electric SUV. The first deliveries are expected in the second quarter of 2023.
The SUV is one of the seven vehicles on the shortlist of the prestigious “Car of the Year 2023”, which will be hosted on January 13 at the Brussels Motor Show. This is the first time Jeep is among the finalists in the European competition that awards Europe’s top cars.
The new Jeep Avenger is available in four trims – Avenger, Longitude, Altitude and Summit – which are packed with features and easily configurable thanks to a simple and intuitive lineup strategy. The entry trim already offers plenty of capability, technology, and connectivity, with an electric fuel range of up to 400 km in the WLTP cycle and more than 550 km in the city*. The simple and fast charge mode** guarantee 30 km of travel distance in just three minutes of charging.
With the expansion of the range and the success of the first pre-booking phase, Jeep is now focused on hitting new milestones knowing that it can count on the Avenger’s strengths. These include a generous electric fuel range and fast-charge mode which make the SUV perfect to go everywhere you want, in the city or outdoor, and guarantee a safe, fun to drive, comfortable, and dynamic driving experience.
Jeep Avenger is the first truly zero-emission vehicle and the new entry point into the Jeep range. Fun to drive and exciting, the new SUV is for active people who are looking for a vehicle with compact dimensions and state-of-the-art technological features. The model was designed to fit to the needs of European customers thanks to:
Functional design: it has been designed to offer 360° protection and full freedom of movement. To reduce damages caused by low-speed impacts, Avenger is equipped with protected headlights, front and rear skid plates and plastic cladding going all around the body and raising is the areas where damages are more likely to occur. The new skid plates on the front and rear bumpers are molded in color in a polymeric material; so, if they get scratched, they will never lose the paint and the damage is not visible. Avenger has been specifically designed to make it the ideal travel companion in urban and off-road driving.
Compact dimensions: despite maintaining all the trademark qualities and characteristics of a Jeep SUV, at 4.08 meters it is the most compact Jeep and can comfortably fit five people.
Roomy & versatile interiors, with lots of space for everyday objects. It offers 34 liters of interior storage, the equivalent of a carry-on bag. The trunk is also spacious and extremely versatile, with 380 liters of volume in the petrol version and 355 liters in the electric one and the rear hatch width which has been increased to over one meter.
State-of-the-art technologies: a complete series of ADAS features which in the electric version provide level-2 driving autonomy and a completely digital and connected on-board experience with a 20.5” digital displays in total, made up by 10.25” Uconnect radio and 10.25” digital cluster.
Fully Connected: thanks to the Uconnect™ Services and the Jeep® mobile app, customer can keep in touch with Avenger everywhere and everytime. The charging and climate schedule is very simple and fast using E-Control function on the app: the customer can choose the preferred time to recharge and manage the precondition of the vehicle. Moreover, it is possibile to check the residual battery level, to find the nearest public charging station verifying the availability, to have under control the history of the recharging and much more.
A pure expression of “concentrated Freedom”, the Avenger offers Jeep’s trademark performance in compact dimension to guarantee peace of mind in all atmospheric conditions. Agile, reactive, and enjoyable to drive, the Jeep Avenger offers dynamic performance levels thanks to its instant torque and stands out for its silence and fuel economy in the petrol version. The new Avenger is the first front-wheel drive Jeep vehicle equipped standard with Selec-Terrain® and Hill Descent Control, which, together with the 200mm ground clearance, the 20 degrees of approach angle, and 32 degrees of departure angle, make it a vehicle with unexpected off-road capability to the segment. Furthermore, its ground clearance and technical angles offer a safe driving experience in the city and ensure maximum protection in all weather conditions and on all surfaces.
A simple and lean range to order
The Jeep Avenger, which ushers in the brand’s portfolio of new electric, battery-powered vehicles in Europe, combines capability, style, functionality, and technology to satisfy the needs of the modern customer. To ensure a simple and intuitive customer experience, the entire range has been designed to reduce the level of complexity in the customer’s choices: there are four trims, 7 body colors, and up to maximum 5 packs to customize an Avenger to one’s specific needs.
All trims available on the Avenger are well equipped, starting with the entry level, and are as follows:
Avenger – The Jeep Avenger in its most pure form. The model includes 16” black wheels and full-LED headlights. Equipped with the latest technology in terms of security and capability, it boasts of cruise control and lane keep assist, and comes standard with a 10.25” radio and 7” full digital cluster. Moreover, the electric version provides automatic A/C, Hill descent control, Selec-Terrain, and the Connected Services.
Longitude – It provides additional style accents like 16” alloy wheels, body color door handles and gray skid plates. Hill Descent Control and Selec-Terrain®, which guarantee Jeep’s trademark capability, and the Connected Services come standard to provide a modern and constantly connected driving experience. On the electric version, the Longitude also offers rear parking sensors.
Altitude – A trim which combines superior elegance and comfort and provides 17” alloy wheels, silver skid plates, and premium cloth and vinyl seats perfectly matching the dedicated silver dashboard fascia and interior silver accents. Rear parking sensors, a 10.25” digital instrument panel, and power liftgate all come standard. The EV version also adds handsfree power liftgate and passive entry.
Summit – The top-of-the-line Jeep Avenger includes 18” alloy wheels, full LED headlights and taillights, handsfree power liftgate and passive entry. Plus, the cabin provides unmatched style and comfort thanks to its multicolored ambient light, yellow dashboard fascia, and wireless charger. The Summit trim offers state-of-the-art technology with Level 2 autonomous drive, 360° parking sensors and rear camera with top drone-like view.
Jeep Avenger is available in seven colors inspired by the Jeep world of adventure, freedom, and nature: three pastels (Snow, Volcano and Ruby) and four metallic colors (Sun, Lake, Granite and Stone), plus two-tone livery with a Volcano roof on the upper trims.
Lastly, for the Longitude, Altitude and Summit trims, up to five different packs are available which make it possible to further customize one’s new Avenger with exclusive accessories. A simple and modular offer which provides 4 levels of personalization: Infotainment & Functionality, Driver assistance, Style, and Comfort.
In order to be easily identifiable by the customer, each pack has its own specific and unique characteristics – in line with the range’s intuitive and consumer-centric lineup strategy.
On the Longitude and Altitude trims, the Tech & Style pack include among others a rear back up camera, adaptive cruise control, auto dimming rearview mirror and automatic high beams, privacy glass and LED fog lamps, while the Infotainment & Convenience pack offers wireless smartphone charger, 2nd row USB type C, Mopar storage compartment mats and central tunnel Pad Cover, and Traffic sign information. Finally, the Winter Pack include heated windshield, heated seats and moquette front and rear floor mats.
On the Summit trim, the ADAS pack offers Level 2 autonomous driving, 360 degrees parking sensors, blind spot monitoring and auto dimming rearview mirror. The LED & Style pack provides LED headlamps projector, LED rear lights, welcome/leaving lighting animation and ambient lighting. The Infotainment & Convenience pack include, in addition to the other, a rear camera.
Electric energy consumption Jeep® Avenger full-electric range kWh/100km: 15.9; CO2 emission g/km: 0. Values defined according to the WLTP combined cycle, measured by the manufacturer on pre-approval tests and which may be subject to change following final type approval. The values indicated are for comparative purposes. Important: the actual electric energy consumption values may be strongly different and may vary depending upon the conditions of use and on various factors such as: options, frequency of electric recharge per travelled kilometers, ambient temperature, driving style, speed, total weight, use of certain equipment (air conditioning, heating, radio, navigation, lights etc., tire types and conditions, road conditions, external climatic conditions, etc. Autonomy Jeep® Avenger full-electric range: 392-390 Km. Values defined according to the WLTP combined cycle, measured by the manufacturer on pre-approval tests and which may be subject to change following final type approval. Important: the actual autonomy may be strongly different and may vary according to: options, conditions of use of the car (driving style, speed, total weight, etc., use of certain equipment air conditioning, heating, etc., tire types, road conditions, external climatic conditions. Further specific and detailed information about electric autonomy of Jeep® Avenger and the various factors influencing such electric autonomy will be provided in this website as soon as the vehicle will be homologated and available for sales.
