Volkswagen continues to make rapid progress with the transformation to e-mobility: at around 330,000 units, worldwide deliveries of all-electric vehicles (Battery Electric Vehicles – BEVs) grew 23.6 percent year-on-year. Overall, Volkswagen brand deliveries of all drive types were slightly down on the previous year due to the strained supply situation: 4.56 million vehicles (-6.8 percent) were delivered to customers worldwide in 2022. The order backlog remains very high. In Europe, around 640,000 customers have placed orders for Volkswagen models across all drive types (+18 percent).
Imelda Labbé, Board Member for Sales, Marketing and After Sales said: “We achieved a solid sales result in 2022 despite persistent supply bottlenecks. The pronounced growth in BEV models confirms that with our attractive product portfolio, we are on the right track to becoming the most desirable brand for sustainable mobility.” The roadmap is clear: with the ACCELERATE strategy, Volkswagen is stepping up the pace of its electric campaign with ten new electric models by 2026. Volkswagen already has the broadest portfolio of electric models. By 2026, the brand will have the right product in every segment, from the entry-level e-car with a target price of under €25,000 to the new flagship ID.7
.
ID.4 is Volkswagen’s top electric world car
Volkswagen’s all-electric ID. models are meeting with a positive response on global automotive markets. With around 170,000 units delivered to customers in 2022, the ID.4 is the Volkswagen Group’s top electric world car.
In China, the company’s largest sales market, Volkswagen more than doubled deliveries of the all-electric models from the ID. family: 143,100 ID.3, ID.4 and ID.6
were handed over to customers there in 2022 (+102.9 percent).
There was also a major boost in sales in North America: in total, the company delivered 22,700 ID.4 (+27.7 percent) in the region.
With deliveries of around 8,900 units, the ID.4 was the bestselling car in Sweden – across all drive types. That makes an ID. model the top-selling car in Sweden for the third year in a row (2020: ID.3; 2021: ID.4).
Electric mobility campaign: more than 580,000 cars based on the MEB delivered
Volkswagen has already reached a first milestone in its electric mobility campaign. Since the first ID.3 was handed over to a customer in September 2020, Volkswagen has delivered more than 580,000 models from the ID. family worldwide. The technical basis for the ID. models is the modular electric drive matrix (MEB). Last week, Volkswagen showcased the latest addition to the ID. family – a specially camouflaged ID.7 – at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. With the sedan, Volkswagen is expanding its electric portfolio into the upper middle class high-volume segment.
SUV trend continues
Despite a challenging market environment, Volkswagen delivered around 4.56 million vehicles across all drive types to customers in 2022 (-6.8 percent).
SUVs are the fastest-growing market segment. Volkswagen was quick to systematically adapt its portfolio to this trend. The share of SUVs in total deliveries has risen to 45 percent (+4 percent). In the USA, over 80 percent of Volkswagen’s deliveries are in the SUV segment. In Europe, the T-Roc is the best-selling vehicle in the SUV market.
Volkswagen expects 2023 to be another volatile and challenging year due to persistent semiconductor supply bottlenecks. The company nevertheless anticipates a gradual improvement in the supply situation, with production stabilizing as the year progresses. “We are doing our utmost to reduce delivery times for our customers still further and to lower the high order backlog as quickly as possible,” Board Member for Sales Labbé said.
THE THREE ENTITIES WILL WORK WITH FOURTEEN OTHER EUROPEAN ORGANISATIONS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE PIONEERING CONCEPT OF A GELLIFIED CELL FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
THE PROJECT HAS BEEN FUNDED WITH ALMOST 8 MILLION EUROS, OUT OF WHICH, AROUND 1 MILLION BELONGS TO THE SPANISH ENTITIES
Madrid, January 10, 2023 – SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS, UNIVERSITAT POLITÈCNICA DE VALÈNCIA, and CIC energiGUNE are the Spanish organisations that will be in charge of carrying out the NEXTCELL project, an initiative funded by the European Union (EU) within the framework of the research and innovation programme Horizon Europe with the aim of providing a new generation of lithium-ion battery cells for high capacity and high voltage applications through the development and validation of an innovative concept of gellified cells.
Currently, the cells on the market are composed of solid porous electrodes and filled with liquid electrolyte. For 48 months, NEXTCELL, made up of 17 partners from ten different European countries, will work on the gellification of the main components of the cell through the design and integration of various innovations in its materials. On the one hand, in the gellification of the electrodes and, on the other, the separator, combining this with a gellified electrolyte stable at high voltage, which will allow obtaining a complete concept of gellified cell. As a consequence, the cells prototyped in the project will offer a high energy density allowing excellent performance in high voltage applications.
In this sense, NEXTCELL will not only provide the European market with state-of-the-art cells but will also address three key aspects that currently hinder further market penetration of lithium-ion battery technology, such as costs, safety, and sustainability.
In this way, the technology developed by NEXTCELL will optimise, first, the manufacturing processes, reducing the capital and operating expenses of future factories, by avoiding the evaporation of polluting solvents in the electrolyte filling stage. Second, the project will produce intrinsically safe cells, avoiding the presence of low-boiling components in the electrodes and the separator. Finally, a reduction of around 50% in energy consumption will be guaranteed.
The pioneering cell concept of NEXTCELL will revolutionise different scientific disciplines thanks, also, to the development and use of physicochemical models of the cell and its gellified components, demonstrating how< the interaction between mathematical modelling, experimentation, and prototyping, provides a key methodology to optimise and accelerate the research and development process of new energy storage technologies.
Within the project, SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS is responsible for financial management, communication, and dissemination tasks, as well as the strategy for the future commercialisation of the technologies born as part of NEXTCELL. For its part, the Universitat Politècnica de València, through the CMT Research Institute, will be in charge of the performance and life cycle tests of the cell prototypes, as well as the security modelling. CIC energiGUNE leads cell design and production at the battery pouch level, as well as anode characterisation.
Europe as a future strategic world leader in the lithium-ion battery value chain
The EU has set an ambitious industry target to make Europe a strategic global leader in the lithium-ion battery value chain, financing and supporting the deployment of a sustainable and innovative industry that reduces dependency on external suppliers. In a context where international markets are influenced by production costs (energy, labour), the cornerstone of the European strategy lies in the knowledge-based economy. Make European industry a leader thanks to the quality of its cells and batteries.
If the private investments announced to date are implemented, Europe’s manufacturing capacity will grow from the current 26 GWh to approximately 500 GWh, with the support of the EU and national R&D investment programmes, in public-private partnerships. This means that Europe will get a 16% share of the battery market in 2029, up from 6% today. Recognising that the current global demand for lithium-ion batteries is 184 GWh and that this demand will increase by a factor of 14 by 2030 in the context of rapidly evolving lithium-ion cell technologies, it is urgent to ensure that that industrial production is inherently sustainable, safe, flexible, and profitable while offering state-of-the-art cells.
The BMW Group significantly accelerated its ramp-up of electromobility once more in 2022. As previously announced, the BMW Group was able to more than double its BEV sales from 2021 (+107.7%) with a total of 215,755 fully-electric BMW and MINI vehicles delivered to customers. A major milestone was reached when the BMW Group handed over its 500,000th fully-electric vehicle to its new owner towards the end of last year.
“Our strong product line-up is the best response to a challenging environment – and enabled us to more than double our sales of fully-electric vehicles again in 2022,” said Pieter Nota, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Customer, Brands, Sales. “We are confident we can build on this success in 2023, as we continue to see particularly high order intake for our fully-electric models,” Nota added.
The BMW Group delivered a total of 2,399,636 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles to customers worldwide in 2022 (-4.8%); a year in which all industries faced headwinds from supply bottlenecks, China’s pandemic lockdowns and the war in Ukraine. The main impact was felt in the first six months of the year, with deliveries down compared to the previous year. Sales increasingly picked up in the second half of 2022. In the fourth quarter, the BMW Group reported significant sales growth of +10.6%, with 651,798 vehicles delivered to customers.
The BMW Group is optimistic about the year ahead. “We will maintain our course for profitable growth in 2023. The clear focus will be on continuing to ramp up electromobility. The next milestone for 2023 is for 15% of our total sales to come from fully-electric vehicles. With the launch of the BMW i5 later this year, we are taking another important step on the road to electrifying our model lineup,” according to Nota.
The future of the BMW Group is electric, circular and digital. One highlight on the road to the NEUE KLASSE was presented at the CES in Las Vegas last week: BMW i Vision Dee represents the BMW Group’s vision of the future digital experience, both inside and outside the vehicle. The BMW Group will provide further insights and glimpses of the revolutionary vehicle concept of the NEUE KLASSE over the course of 2023.
At the same time, the company is pushing forward with further digitalisation of sales and marketing. In future, the BMW Group will rely on direct sales in 24 European markets, with agents acting as sales representatives – this creates the necessary conditions for a seamless transition between the online and offline customer experience. The clear aim of the new agency model is to enhance customer satisfaction and the premium brand experience and to reach out to new, online-savvy customer target groups. The BMW Group’s new agency model will also create price transparency and ensure customers experience the same, consistent offering across all sales channels. Conditions will be put in place this year that will allow MINI to start in 2024, with BMW to follow in 2026. Implementation will be in close cooperation with retail partners.
The My BMW/MINI app is a core element of the sales realignment. With its many features and intuitive user interface, it guides users through the industry’s best customer experience. The My BMW/MINI app serves as the interface for personalised customer dialogue, with about two million users in around 50 markets every single day.
BMW brand maintains No.1 position in global premium segment
The BMW brand sold a total of 2,100,692 units (-5.1%) worldwide last year and maintains its No. 1 position in the global premium segment. The BMW brand also saw strong growth in electrified vehicles. Sales of electrified vehicles (incl. plug-in hybrids) for the full year were up +35.6% on the previous year, at 372,956 vehicles.
The brand’s attractive product portfolio is proving extremely popular with customers. This is reflected in high new orders for models like the BMW X1, iX1*, i4, iX and i7* models. Later this year, the BMW Group will expand its electric lineup with the BMW i5.
BMW M marks 50th anniversary with record year
Despite the challenges of supply bottlenecks, BMW M GmbH ended its anniversary year with a new all-time high. BMW M reported growth of +8.4% compared to the previous year, with the sale of 177,257 units. At the same time, BMW M made substantial progress with electrification of its product portfolio. The launch of the first two fully-electrified BMW M Performance models, the i4 M50* and the iX M60*, the very first electrified high-performance model, the BMW XM*, and the new M240i Coupé* contributed greatly to this successful year-end. The new edition of the BMW M2 and the recently-released BMW M3 Touring also made a major contribution to sales growth last year.
In parallel with these new additions to the product lineup, BMW M also saw continuing strong demand in its 50th anniversary year for its top high-performance derivatives, the M3 and M4, and its long-established X models. As a result, the outlook for 2023 is very positive for BMW M GmbH, with the promise of further record results to come.
MINI Electric* remains best-selling MINI model variant
The premium automotive brand MINI sold 292,923 units last year (-3.0%). Sales of electrified MINI models developed positively: The number of electrified MINI models sold (incl. plug-in hybrids) climbed +14.3% to 60,839 vehicles and therefore accounted for around 21% of total MINI sales worldwide in 2022.
The fully-electric MINI Cooper SE* remained the brand’s best-selling model variant in 2022. A total of 43,744 MINI Cooper SE*s were sold worldwide last year – an increase of +25.5% compared to the previous year.
2023 will be a very important year for MINI. The brand is celebrating 110 years of automotive production at its main plant in Oxford and will be unveiling the first two fully-electric models of the new MINI family.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reported highest sales in its 118-year history
In the year in which Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled Spectre, the world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé, the company also reported the highest sales in its 118-year history, with 6,021 motor cars delivered to customers worldwide (+7.8%). Many regions achieved their highest-ever sales.
Each of those cars was Bespoke: made to the precise wishes of the client, down to the very last detail. The value generated by the marque’s unrivalled Bespoke offering was higher than ever before, with clients now paying around half a million Euros on average for their unique Rolls-Royce.
Global demand remains buoyant across the entire product portfolio, led by Cullinan and Ghost – the order bank across all models stretches far into 2023 with very strong pre-orders for the new all-electric Spectre, following a highly successful world premiere in October. The exceptionally positive client reaction to Spectre comes as the marque prepares to build only fully-electric cars by the end of 2030.
BMW Motorrad posts highest sales in company’s history
With a total of 202,895 motorcycles and scooters delivered to customers – an increase of +4.4% year-on-year – , BMW Motorrad reported its highest sales in the company’s history. The Europe, Americas and Asia regions, in particular, all posted new sales highs and made a vital contribution to BMW Motorrad’s record sales. The brand’s compelling lineup, with successful products that shape their respective segments, and the market introduction of popular new models, like the fully-electric BMW CE 04, were strong factors in the successful result for 2022.
BMW & MINI sales in the regions/markets
The BMW Group delivered a total of 791,985 BMW and MINI vehicles to customers (‑6.4%%) in China last year. 199,112 vehicles were sold in the fourth quarter – an increase of +12.7%.
BMW and MINI sales in the US between January and December totalled 361,892 units (-1.3%). Sales developed positively in the fourth quarter: BMW Group deliveries were up +11.1% year-on-year, reaching 112,057 units.
In Europe, the BMW Group sold a total of 877,369 BMW and MINI vehicles in 2022 (‑7.5%). In the fourth quarter, the company delivered 247,551 units to customers. This represents an increase of +10.9%.
In Germany, 252,087 BMW and MINI vehicles were registered in the full year.
BMW Group sales in Q4/YTD December 2022 at a glance
4th Quarter 2022
Compared with previous year %
YTD Dec. 2022
Compared with previous year %
BMW Group Automotive
651,798
+10.6%
2,399,636
-4.8%
BMW
566,826
+11.0%
2,100,692
-5.1%
– BMW M GmbH
52,801
+30.2%
177,257
+8.4%
MINI
83,652
+8.2%
292,923
-3.0%
BMW Group electrified1
150,511
+55.6%
433,795
+32.1%
BMW Group BEV
87,560
+98.3%
215,755
+107.7%
Rolls-Royce
1,320
+4.1%
6,021
+7.8%
BMW Motorrad
43,562
+15.7%
202,895
+4.4%
1BEVs and PHEVs
BMW & MINI sales in the regions/markets
4th Quarter 2022
Compared with previous year %
YTDDec 22
Compared with previous year %
Europe
247,551
+10.9%
877,369
-7.5%
Germany2
67,401
+6.9%
252,087
-6.0%
Asia
260,355
+12.1%
1,028,105
-3.5%
China
199,112
+12.7%
791,985
-6.4%
Americas
131,632
+8.9%
439,585
-2.3%
USA
112,057
+11.1%
361,892
-1.3%
2Provisional registration figures
The delivery figures reported in this press release are provisional and may change up until the BMW Group Report 2022 is published. Notes on how delivery figures are prepared can be found in the BMW Group Report 2021 on p. 97.
*Fuel consumption and emissions data:
MINI Cooper SE: Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 17.6-15.3 WLTP, 16.9-14.9 NEDC.
BMW iX1 xDrive30: Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 18.1-16.8 WLTP.
BMW i7 xDrive60: Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 19.6-18.4 WLTP.
BMW i4 M50: Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 22.5-18.1 WLTP.
BMW iX M60: Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 24.7-21.9 WLTP.
BMW XM: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 1.6-1.5 WLTP; Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 30.1-28.9 WLTP; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 36-33 WLTP.
BMW M240i Coupé: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 8.5-7.8 WLTP; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 192-177 WLTP.
Mercedes-Benz to launch global branded high-power charging network: The Mercedes-Benz charging hubs will be located in key cities and urban population centres, close to major arteries, convenient retail and service destinations, including Mercedes-Benz dealership sites.
All-electric strategy: High-power charging network supports going all electric by end of decade by ensuring effortless and rapid charging
Global reach: Establishment of more than 10,000 high-power chargers worldwide across North America, Europe, China and other main markets
Mercedes-Benz customers can pre-book a charging station from their car, but network will be open and accessible to all brands to encourage rapid uptake of electric vehicles
Sustainable operation: Focus on renewable energy, green charging via Mercedes me Charge
Focused investment: Leveraging capital, development and site management proficiency of partners, including support in North America by MN8 Energy, a leading renewable energy and battery storage owner-operator in the US
Technology partners: In North America Mercedes-Benz partners with expert partners such as ChargePoint, a leading specialist in charging network design and provision
Mercedes-Benz announces far-reaching plans to launch a global high-power charging network across North America, Europe, China and other key markets. It will begin to be built this year in the US and Canada, followed by other regions around the globe. The aim is to have the full network in place before the end of the decade, when Mercedes-Benz intends to go all-electric wherever market conditions allow. The Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network will greatly enhance customers’ charging experience, accelerate the journey towards the all-electric future and create a global infrastructure asset with future value-creation potential. The Mercedes-Benz charging hubs will be located in key cities and urban population centres, close to major arteries, convenient retail and service destinations, including participating Mercedes‑Benz dealership sites.
The company believes this strategic move will significantly enhance the usability and convenience of its new generation of electric vehicles, differentiate the Mercedes-Benz ownership experience and accelerate the EV transformation. The charging network will focus first and foremost on Mercedes-Benz customers, who will enjoy preferential access via a reservation function and other benefits. However, it will also be open to drivers of all other brands with compatible technology. This comprehensive initiative, alongside ongoing support for shared networks such as IONITY, also aims to drive global adoption of electric mobility.
Mercedes-Benz kicks off charging rollout in North America
At CES 2023 in Las Vegas, Mercedes-Benz announced that the rollout of its high-power charging network will start this year in North America. The collaboration partners here include MN8 Energy, one of the largest solar energy and battery storage owners and operators in the US, and ChargePoint, a leading EV charging network technology company. By 2027, a network totalling more than 400 hubs across North America with more than 2,500 high-power chargers is planned to offer a premium, sustainable and reliable charging experience.
“Mercedes-Benz already offers what we believe to be the finest EVs in the market. But to accelerate the electric transformation, we need to ensure that the charging experience keeps pace as well. Our customers deserve a compelling charging experience that makes electric vehicle ownership and long-distance travel effortless. We won’t take a wait-and-see approach for this to be built. That’s why we are launching a global high-end charging network. It’s designed to become another differentiator of Mercedes-Benz ownership for our customers and an asset with value creation potential for our company. We are excited to start right here in North America with strong and experienced partners like MN8 Energy and ChargePoint.” Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG
An elevated charging experience the Mercedes-Benz way – seamless and secure
For those traveling long distances, Mercedes-Benz Electric Intelligence navigation makes life easy by automatically optimising route planning, incorporating the best charging points and reserving spaces in advance. The system knows the capacity utilisation at the respective locations and ensures customers can gain immediate access to the reserved charging point at the required time. This means no waiting for Mercedes-Benz customers. The seamless experience will be further enhanced by the easy and convenient “Plug & Charge” function[1]. The charging station communicates directly with the vehicle via the charging cable. Manual authentication via card, app or head unit will not be required[2] but possible. Mercedes-Benz customers can use this function via the Mercedes me connect service Mercedes me Charge[3]. All other customers will have straightforward access to a wide array of payment functions. After a smooth, fast and relaxing charging experience, users will be able to continue effortlessly on their way.
Depending on region and location, the hubs will offer 4 to 12, and ultimately as many as 30, high-power chargers (HPC) with up to 350 kW of charging power. Intelligent charge-load management will allow each vehicle to charge at its maximum capacity keeping waiting times to an absolute minimum. The optimised station layout will ensure plenty of space around the vehicle as well as unhindered charging from either side. Where feasible, charging points will be covered for protection from the weather.
The locations and surroundings of the Mercedes-Benz charging hubs will be carefully selected with wider customer needs in mind. The best possible charging experience will therefore come with food outlets and restrooms situated nearby. Facilities will also be equipped with surveillance cameras and other measures to provide a safe and secure charging environment.
More sustainable with green charging
In line with its sustainable “Ambition 2039” business strategy, Mercedes-Benz strives to enable its customers to charge with green energy at its own charging network. Preferably ensured via green electricity supply contracts or by using renewable energy certificates from an accredited supplier. Selected Mercedes-Benz charging hubs will also be equipped with photovoltaic systems to provide electricity for lighting and video surveillance, for example.
Focused capital spending, paced over the remainder of the decade
The total investment cost for the North American network will be just over 1 billion Euros, deployed over the next 6-7 years. The capital for this will be provided by Mercedes and MN8 in a roughly 50:50 split.
The setup of the stations itself is favoured by the high degree of commonality in the network and a modular, scalable site design. The company believes the global reach and prime locations of its charging network means it is also likely to become an asset in its own right. This has the potential to create additional value for the company’s shareholders.
The Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network is the next essential step forward in the company’s electrification strategy. All business linked to its charging ecosystem will be bundled within Mercedes‑Benz Mobility.
Accelerating the expansion of the Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network with strong partners
By selecting MN8 Energy and ChargePoint as partners in North America, Mercedes-Benz is working with two of the leaders in their respective fields.
MN8 Energy is one of the largest solar energy and battery storage owners and operators in the US. By providing comprehensive, end-to-end project development, energy management, and exceptional maintenance and operations support to the Mercedes-Benz branded high-power charging network in the US, the company continues to focus on accelerating the transition to sustainable mobility. MN8 Energy is strategically well-aligned with the Mercedes-Benz “Ambition 2039,” and MN8 Energy supports Mercedes‑Benz’s aim to maximise access to green charging for its customers throughout the US.
“MN8 Energy is on a mission to provide enterprise customers, such as Mercedes-Benz, with renewable energy and related solutions on their journey to an electrified, decarbonized world. Supporting the development of this exceptional charging experience helps address one of the most significant barriers to EV adoption—range anxiety. With each party playing to their strengths, we are thrilled to embark on this collaboration to expand charging access with Mercedes-Benz and ChargePoint.” Jon Yoder, President & Chief Executive Officer, MN8 Energy
ChargePoint has powered approximately five billion electric miles so far. By leveraging ChargePoint’s expertise, Mercedes-Benz, a long standing shareholder, aims to deliver first-class convenience and reliability for its customers. ChargePoint already serves as the Mercedes-Benz backend provider in the US for Mercedes me Charge and has demonstrated a strong track record in software stability and hardware provision.
“Automotive leaders like Mercedes-Benz continue to lead the transition to electric mobility by bringing new EVs to market, and ChargePoint remains committed to enabling charging for all drivers whenever and wherever they want. With this partnership, we are expanding upon our existing relationships with Mercedes‑Benz and MN8 to deliver a seamless charging experience for drivers, and turnkey charging solutions at no upfront cost to site hosts. By establishing charging hubs in convenient locations across the U.S. and Canada, we’re able to provide a superior experience for more drivers who want to charge quickly and easily.” Pasquale Romano, CEO, ChargePoint
The establishment of the Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network marks an expansion of existing charging offers. Through Mercedes me Charge, the company already offers its customers access to around one million charging points worldwide, including the pan-European fast charging network IONITY, which is operated by Mercedes-Benz and other OEMs.
Ram 1500 Revolution Battery-electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept front three-quarters
The Ram Truck brand introduced a visionary road map today at CES 2023 with its Ram 1500 Revolution Battery-electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept, that provides a glimpse into the future and demonstrates how the industry’s leading truck brand will once again redefine the pickup truck segment. The leading-edge Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept showcases a truck-load of innovative features that will be seen in Ram trucks going forward and in particular on Ram’s electrification journey.
Ram will differentiate itself by offering a portfolio of fully electrified solutions to better meet customer needs, including a segment-redefining Ram 1500 BEV in 2024. The entire Ram lineup will offer electrified solutions with disruptive, leading-edge advanced technology in the years to come. The Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept is the first chapter that establishes how Ram will push past competitors’ future EV offerings.
“The Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept is our clearest signal yet that we’re on the precipice of something extraordinary at Ram and points directly to where we’re going on our electrified journey,” said Mike Koval Jr., Ram brand CEO – Stellantis. “At Ram, we’ve redefined what pickup trucks can be and will do so again by pushing past what competitors are offering by delivering the best electric pickups on the market.”
The Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept is part of Ram’s significant contribution to Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan to lead the way the world moves by delivering innovative, clean, safe and affordable mobility solutions.
“The Ram Revolution represents several important things to the Ram brand,” Koval added. “Of course, it’s our new Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept that serves as a roadmap to our electrified future. Yet Ram Revolution is also our philosophy as we redefine the pickup segment, with a steady drumbeat of announcements and initiatives as we embark on our electrified journey.”
Ram is committed to innovation and powertrain leadership with a lineup that consists of anything and everything truck buyers want and need, meeting real-world demands. Today Ram offers the most fuel-efficient 4x4s and the quickest, fastest and most powerful pickup truck straight from the factory.
Ram will once again redefine the pickup truck segment with its revolutionary Ram 1500 BEV production model in 2024. It will be the leader in a combination of areas customers care about the most: range, towing, payload and charge time. More news on the production version will be available in the coming months.
Segment-redefining Ram 1500 Revolution Battery-electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept demonstrates Ram’s commitment to electric vehicle (EV) leadership
Loaded with advanced technology and reinvents the customer experience by integrating leading-edge technology, a fully connected customer experience and advanced mobility features
Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept delivers seamless connectivity to transform the experience for driver and passengers
Stunning, ultra-modern exterior design represents the future of Ram trucks
All-new face of Ram includes animated and modernized “R-A-M” badging and animated full LED “tuning fork” headlight design
Doors have been reimagined in a grand saloon style opening that showcases a cavernous occupant space without a B-pillar
New interior layout offers even more flexibility with room to configure workspace with a removeable center console with fold-flat surface
Ram continues to build on its list of industry-shaping features with the 1500 BEV Concept ushering in an industry-first feature: third-row jump seats
Powered mid-gate features mounted jump seats with a removable lower section allows for multiple flexible seating configurations and enables a pass-through (and into the frunk) that can fit objects up to 18-ft. long
Built on new STLA Frame body-on-frame architecture designed specifically for full-size electric vehicles and incorporates the battery pack efficiently with full underbody aero panels and active diffuser
Powered by two electric drive module (EDMs) and features all-wheel-drive capability
Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept can add up to 100 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes with 800-volt DC fast charging at up to 350 kW
Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept features four-wheel steering with up to 15 degrees of articulation for greater vehicle maneuverability
Ram will once again redefine the pickup truck segment with revolutionary Ram 1500 BEV production model in 2024, to be introduced in the coming months
Ram 1500 BEV will be the leader in a combination of areas customers care about the most: range, towing, payload and charge time
Entire Ram lineup will offer electrified solutions with disruptive, leading-edge advanced technology in the years to come
Ram’s move toward electrification supports the Stellantis Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan to lead the way the world moves by delivering innovative, clean, safe and affordable mobility solutions
New DS 3 E-TENSE, the 100% electric version, has a new 115 kW (156 horsepower) drivetrain and a new 54 kWh battery enabling it to achieve a range of up to 404 km on the WLTP combined cycle.
New DS 3 E-TENSE’s upgraded architecture has completely new components, all manufactured or assembled in France for a significant improvement in efficiency and performance.
The new electric motor is manufactured in Trémery, Grand-Est in north-east France. With a power of 115 kW (156 horsepower) for 260 Nm of torque, this drivetrain introduces six-pole technology – for a better blend between power and efficiency – and a multi-stranded coil – for better efficiency and increased power density. The housing is made up of a bygone wax casting technology which enables a one-piece housing to include the cooling circuit for greater compactness and an absence of seams which improves reliability.
The battery has a total capacity of 54 kWh with a usable 51 kWh. Very compact and located beneath the seats and in the central tunnel, the battery uses more efficient technology with an NMC811 make-up (80 % nickel, 10 % manganese and 10% cobalt distributed across 102 cells and 17 modules. Cooling remains liquid. The battery is assembled in the Poissy factory in the Paris region.
The reduction gear is manufactured in Valenciennes, northern France. Through this optimised architecture with a heat pump and aerodynamic developments, New DS 3 E-TENSE gains 84 kilometres of range compared with DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE launched in 2019.
New DS 3 E-TENSE gets a completely new electric motor (assembled in Trémery-Metz), a reduction gear (produced in Valenciennes) and a new battery (assembled in Poissy) for increases in efficiency and range.
The new electric hybrid synchronous motor (HSM) benefits from the expertise acquired in Formula E to demonstrate high efficiency. It offers 115 kW (156 horsepower) of power and 260 Nm of torque at a voltage of 400 volts. The new 54 kWh battery (51 kWh usable) has thermal control through liquid circulation and a heat pump that enables rapid charging, better range and increased lifespan. As standard, the onboard charger takes 100 kW in direct current (10 to 80% in 30 minutes) and 11 kW in alternating current (0-100% in 5 hours 45 minutes).
The architecture has been optimised. With improved energy density, the battery is very compact and distributed beneath the front and rear seats and centre tunnel. Usability and driving position are absolutely identical to those of other drivetrains and impact resistance exceeds the most stringent requirements.
Unique in its segment, New DS 3 E-TENSE manages up to 404 kilometres of range on the WLTP combined cycle and more than 500 km in urban conditions because of the efficiency of the electric motor, its ability to recover energy, ancilliary equipment such as the heat pump, thermal pre-conditioning and the new LED headlamps as well as the aerodynamic optimisation at the front and wheels and lowering ground clearance by 10 mm on models with Tall & Narrow 17 and 18-inch wheels. All these factors together enable a gain of up to 7.6 % on the SCx.
PGT Trucking Inc., a multi-service transportation firm offering flatbed, dedicated, international and specialized services, announces the purchase of their first Nikola Tre battery-electric vehicle (BEV) semi-truck, becoming the first flatbed trucking company to actively grow its fleet with zero-emissions equipment. PGT will immediately utilize the Nikola Tre BEV on a select customer account, primarily operating on local, dedicated routes.
“Our customers have expressed a need for sustainable shipping solutions, and we are working to align ourselves with their green energy commitments. With the purchase of the Nikola Tre BEV, PGT is prepared to meet these demands,” stated Gregg Troian, PGT Trucking President. “PGT will continue to revolutionize the industry through the Future of Flatbed®, utilizing innovative technology and zero-emissions equipment to provide progressive transportation services for our customers, enhanced lifestyle benefits for our drivers and sustainable shipping methods for the environment.”
PGT’s new Research and Development Department, led by Laurence Cox, Vice President, Sustainability, has been tasked with analyzing and applying the company’s green fleet solutions, identifying additional short-haul usages for the battery-electric truck and exploring new initiatives to support its operation across multiple platforms.
Previously, PGT signed a letter of intent to lease 100 Nikola Tre fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) trucks, and PGT’s R&D Department will help prepare for the full integration of these units into PGT’s fleet, which are anticipated to arrive later this year. With the addition of the new zero-emissions equipment, PGT is on track to reach its sustainability goal, reducing carbon emissions from its company-owned fleet by 35% by the year 2025.
“This is a tangible example of how PGT is shaping the Future of Flatbed in the transportation sector, solidifying our commitment to our customers’ sustainability goals,” stated Cox. “We are excited to put our Nikola Tre BEV to work, further refining the application of this advanced equipment through our R&D department.”
PGT’s Future of Flatbed Fleet, which consists of the company’s most elite drivers, will be the first to drive the Nikola Tre BEV, working with PGT’s R&D Department, dedicated partners and customer representatives to haul flatbed loads in real world scenarios. The drivers were selected during an extensive application process and prepared for their roles by receiving advanced training on the equipment, attending product development meetings and participating in pilot programs.
“PGT’s decision to place a Nikola Tre BEV immediately into operation is telling of their commitment to drive forward their ambitious corporate sustainability initiatives today,” said Nikola Corporation President and CEO, Michael Lohscheller. “We are extremely proud to partner with another well-respected industry leader by providing progressive zero-emission transportation solutions that are intended to improve safety, reduce costs and CO2 emissions, and improve overall total cost of ownership.”
About PGT Trucking:
PGT Trucking, Inc. is a multi-service transportation firm offering flatbed, dedicated, international and specialized services. PGT is the leader in progressive freight transportation and fleet evolution, exceeding customer expectations with a strong focus on the Future of Flatbed®. At PGT Trucking, “Safety is Everyone’s Job – All the Time.” Visit www.pgttrucking.com.
The stage is set for the ID.7! At the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas between 5 and 8 January 2023, Volkswagen Group of America will showcase its first fully electric sedan based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB). It will be clad in smart camouflage, which uses unique technology and multi-layered paintwork to create light effects on parts of the vehicle. This is an interactive feature and symbolizes the next step in the digitalization of the future flagship model of the ID. family. The ID. AERO4 concept vehicle initially presented in China already provided a preview of the new model, which embodies an aerodynamic design concept and is able to achieve ranges of up to 700 kilometers2 (WLTP). After a six-year break, Volkswagen Group of America is returning to the CES – the world’s largest trade show for electronics – with a very special product.
“With the new ID.71, we are extending our electric model range into the upper segments. The sedan will offer top-class technology and quality. The ID.7 is one of ten new electric models that we are planning to launch by 2026. Our goal? To deliver suitable products for our customers in every single segment,” says Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars.
The ID.7 offers an innovative climate and comfort experience
With its latest model based on the MEB, VW has responded to customer feedback and improved the user experience in the relevant areas. A host of innovations come as standard in the ID.7:
the new display concept
the augmented reality head-up display
a 38-centimeter (15-inch) screen
new air conditioning controls integrated into the first level of the infotainment system
illuminated touch sliders
The new air conditioning concept with intelligent vents offers a number of functions. For instance, the ID.7 can detect when the driver is approaching based on their key and will already start to cool the interior on hot summer days or heat the interior on cold days before the driver gets into the vehicle. Newly designed “Smart Air Vents” control the flow of air and move dynamically to distribute the air over large areas as quickly as possible. If there are passengers in the car, the air can be directed straight to the body or ventilate the interior indirectly. These functions are visible at all times on the new large display and can be activated and saved individually for each user. Special requests can be activated using voice commands. If the user says “Hello Volkswagen, my hands are cold!”, the ID.7 responds by starting the steering wheel heating function. At the same time, warm air is directed towards the hands.
At the CES in Las Vegas, VW will show the intelligence of the ID.71 in a quite special way. The camouflaged sedan features a digital design with unique paintwork, which lights up the ID.7 interactively. 40 layers of paint have been applied, of which some are conductive while others have insulating properties. A total of 22 areas of the vehicle can be controlled separately and are electrified below the top layer of paint (electroluminescence) so that they light up. If all this is connected to a sound system, the rhythm is visualized by illumination of individual areas.
The QR codes on the hood and on both sides provide an interface between the physical and digital worlds. The entire camouflage also takes the QR code theme further and thus hides the contours of the final production vehicle.
MEB permits realization of an aerodynamic design and a generous interior concept
In terms of its style, the ID.71 follows the design language of the fully electric ID. model family. The characteristic features of the sedan include the aerodynamic front section and roof, which both help to reduce energy consumption and increase the range. Air intakes located in the front end guide the air flowing through them down the sides of the vehicle to the rear in a targeted way. They therefore form an air curtain, which calms the air flow at the sides of the vehicle. The roof slopes to the rear and thus contributes to the very good drag coefficient of the ID.7. The range is up to around 700 kilometers2 (WLTP).
Like all other models in the ID. family, the ID.7 is based on the MEB of the Volkswagen Group. The advantages of the modular matrix with short overhangs and long wheelbase (2.97 meters) provide benefits for the interior. In the ID.7, this results in the character of a luxury sedan with an especially spacious feel.
Volkswagen’s electric mobility campaign: 500,000 vehicles based on the MEB already delivered
With its ID.7 sedan, Volkswagen is expanding its successful fully electric ID. family into the upper middle class of the high-volume segment and advancing its electric mobility campaign with the ACCELERATE strategy. VW has already reached a first milestone: Since the first ID.35 models were handed over to customers in September 2020, Volkswagen has delivered 500,000 vehicles from its ID. family worldwide through its subsidiaries – around one year earlier than planned and despite the ongoing difficulties in the supply chain.
After the ID.35, ID.43, ID.5 and ID.66 (only in China) models and the new ID. Buzz7, the ID.7 will be the sixth model from the ID. family and is Volkswagen’s second global car to be based on the MEB after the ID.4. It is planned to launch the electric sedan in the three primary markets of China, Europe and North America. The ID.7 for the European market will be produced at the Volkswagen Emden plant. After the ID.4, it will be the second model based on the modular electric drive matrix to be built in Emden.
Where ranges are stated, the values for consumption and CO₂ emissions depend on the selected vehicle equipment.
1.Assessment – Deciding on the right number, size, technology and setup for the charging points requires careful analysis of your business’s needs, as there is no one-size-fits-all- solution. To build in operational efficiency, it is essential to take the time to specify your charging infrastructure carefully and ‘future-proof’ plans that allow for growth and changes within your business.
EV technology is constantly evolving, with more manufacturers entering the market and offering new solutions. While having more options to choose from does provide an advantage, it also demands additional research before investing. Designing an energy infrastructure strategy which balances long-term goals with interim objectives is also vital to planning ahead for future needs.
2.Investment – Electrical infrastructure requires both upfront and ongoing running costs, which can be financed in several different ways. Plus, securing a new or larger grid connection – which most businesses need to accommodate the increased load that EV charging requires – will incur added costs. If you choose to work with a Distribution Network Operator (DNO), there are costs for capacity reservation and grid reinforcement that may increase the Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) needed for your project.
For businesses with limited capital for large infrastructure investments, working with an Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) can reduce the cost of a new or upgraded grid connection. IDNO’s can provide businesses with cash-back in the form of an Asset Adoption Value (AAV) – a rebate which DNOs are not able to offer.
And by working with a specialised energy partner who can fund, build, own and operate the required on-site electrical infrastructure, businesses can remove CAPEX requirements completely. Instead, replacing them with predictable Operational Expenditure (OPEX) costs, and enabling businesses to move towards net zero sooner, which offers a distinct cashflow advantage.
3.Operations – Once you have installed EV chargers and all necessary electrical infrastructure, it needs management on a day-to-day basis. Operating high voltage electrical infrastructure is not straightforward, and requires specialist knowledge and experience.
To ensure equipment is legally compliant and operated safely, effectively and efficiently, owners must invest in trained and qualified in-house resources, or can outsource operations and maintenance. But legal responsibility for all compliance and safety will still rest with the business owner, unless they elect to divest the ownership of their electrical assets to an experienced energy partner.
A Power-as-a-Service model offers the unique advantage of having a specialist taking on full operational and legal responsibility for a company’s electrical infrastructure – not just the maintenance, but compliance with all legal, environmental and technical regulations too.
4.Upgrades and renewals – There will come a time when infrastructure needs to be upgraded and/or modernised. As it becomes older, efficiency wanes and the probability of failure becomes greater due to the electrical stress under which it operates. Even the best high voltage infrastructure is not immune to age-related faults; it is not a question of if upgrades or renewals will be required, but when.
Energy specialists can often detect – and correct – faults before they become a cause for concern, making it vital to have routine check-ups for all EV fleet infrastructure.
If you have opted for a service and asset-adoption model such as Power-as-a-Service, upgrades and replacements are part of the service; so if a transformer fails, it will be replaced free of charge and monthly fees will remain fixed. If you decide to own your own electrical infrastructure, then you will also need to plan for periodic CAPEX investments to keep your infrastructure safe and operational.
Electrify America and Kia America announced a charging agreement to provide first-time owners of the all-new Kia EV6 GT with 1,000 kilowatt-hours of complimentary charging—the equivalent of about 3,500 to 4,000 miles of electric driving for the EV6 GT, depending on factors such as driving style and external conditions.
Building on the existing relationship with Kia America and expanding upon the EV6 charging agreement announced earlier this year, the complimentary charging is redeemable at any Electrify America charging station across the country through the Electrify America app.
With 576 hp, up to 206 miles of EPA-rated range and a 77.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Kia EV6 GT is capable of charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 18 minutes on the Electrify America DC fast-charging network.
Kia EV6 GT owners will have three years from the date of purchase to use the 1,000 kWh of complimentary charging. New owners are encouraged to download the Electrify America mobile app to facilitate charging and payment, locate stations or check the status of chargers.
