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The Independent
17-03-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
BMW confirms new iX3 will be first of its new generation of electric cars
SPONSORED BY NEXT The Independent's Electric Vehicles Channel is sponsored by Next. It may be one of the world's worst-kept secrets, but BMW has finally confirmed that the first of its new generation electric cars will be the replacement for the current iX3 SUV. BMW's Neue Klasse technology has previously been previewed by two concept models: the Neue Klasse Vision X concept (clearly X3 in size and proportions) and the original Neue Klasse concept, which will morph into the next all-electric 3 Series. Speaking at BMW's Annual Press Conference, CEO Oliver Zipse confirmed that the new iX3 would be unveiled at this year's Munich Motor Show in September, stressing how important the new technology is to the BMW Group. 'It's a project that is unprecedented in both form and significance in the history of the BMW group. With the Neue Klasse we will be turning the mobility of the future into reality.' Zipse was standing next to a camouflaged version of the iX3 saying, 'It will be a typical X model and a BMW through and through.' After the reveal of the iX3 in September, Zipse said the roll out of new models based on Neue Klasse tech would, 'Continue in rapid succession including a sporty sedan at the core of the BMW brand in 2026.' Over the next couple of years, Zipse said that BMW will launch more than 40 new or updated model – electric, plug-in hybrid and combustion – all with the DNA of the Neue Klasse, which includes a bold new look previewed by the concept models. 'The Neue Klasse is BMW and BMW is the Neue Klasse,' said Zipse. 'It marks the beginning of a completely new generation.' All-electric models Neue Klasse models will get 800-volt technology that promises up to 30 per cent more range, 30 per cent faster charging with up to 186-miles of range added in just 10 minutes. Bi-directional charging will enable new BMWs to power your home, while costs are also coming down on a comparable range-to-range basis, according to Zipse. The new BMW Panoramic iDrive infotainment system with head-up display broadcasting across the whole windscreen will also feature on new models, powered by new on-board supercomputers that will have new AI features and over-the-air updates. With 600 meters less wiring and a 30 per cent reduction in weight, new Neue Klasse-based models will boast levels of efficiency to rival that recently announced by Mercedes with the new CLA model and its five miles per kWh claim. The new generation of BMWs are said to be even better to drive. 'We're taking driving dynamics to a whole new level,' said Zipse. 'We're pushing driving dynamics to its physical limits.'
The Independent
14-03-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
New Mercedes CLA is a game changer for electric cars
SPONSORED BY NEXT The Independent's Electric Vehicles Channel is sponsored by Next. Mercedes has leapfrogged its EV rivals with the launch of Europe's longest-range new EV – the CLA saloon. The new CLA also marks a change in strategy for Mercedes. Rather than have different line-ups for electric cars – badged EQ – the CLA is available as an EV with two versions and a full hybrid with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and small battery. In a further twist, Mercedes has said that both petrol and EV models should be priced similarly. Mercedes says the new CLA is the first in a new family of vehicles that will offer electric and hybrid versions and says it's the cleverest car the brand has ever made – it comes with a new in-house operating system powering an in-car supercomputer, linked to Mercedes' Intelligent Cloud. The star of the show is the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology, which promises hugely impressive energy efficiency figures of 5 miles per kWh of power used. That means a potential range of just under 500 miles, which should make it the longest-range car on sale when it arrives in showrooms later this year. The new model's efficiency means a relatively small battery of 85kWh can be fitted, while 800v technology also means fast charging at speeds up to 320kW allowing the CLA 250+ to add over 200 miles of range in just ten minutes. The lithium-ion batteries have the latest technology to improve energy density, while the usual single-speed automatic gearbox is replaced by a two-speed unit – again allowing for greater efficiency at higher speeds and in urban traffic. A new form of heat pump also improves efficiency in cold weather. The new Mercedes-Benz operating system features over-the-air updates that can improve the entire car, including the vehicle software and driver assistance systems. Mercedes has also worked with Google and Microsoft on AI support as part of the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), with a new MBUX Virtual Assistant said to be easier to talk to and even empathetic. It'll not only activate car functions but also answer random questions. The Mercedes Superscreen extends across the entire width of the cabin, with a 10.25-inch driver display, a 14-inch central infotainment screen and an optional 14-inch screen in front of the passenger with streaming apps built in for entertainment. MBUX is said to offer a new level of personalisation in the car, while Surround Navigation – based on Google Maps – can provide a 3D representation of the car in its surroundings and also show other road users. The very latest driver assistance features are on board, too, including Assist at different levels with the latest autonomous driving and parking technology, which can be updated over the air. As well as the CLA 250+ with its potential 492-mile range and 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds, a CLA 350 4Matic with four-wheel drive will also be available, cutting the 0-62mph time to 4.9 seconds and the range down to a still impressive 479 miles. Although the CLA 350 comes with four-wheel drive, it runs in two-wheel drive mode for most of the time, activating the motor on the front axle when more grip or more performance is needed. A new brake-by-wire system with different levels of energy recuperation also helps to boost efficiency. Bi-directional charging will also become available, enabling the CLA to put power back into the home if needed. The slippery shape of the new CLA has an ultra-low drag efficient of just 0.21 with particular work done to make the wheels more aerodynamic, both in terms of their shape and the air flow around them. Similarly joints around the headlights and grille have been partially sealed, while the underbody is almost completely closed. The grille itself does without harmful chrome, using lighting to gently illuminate the Mercedes-Benz star pattern with 142 separate stars to reinterpret a traditional grille. Mercedes is also promising new levels of safety with the first centre airbag in this size of car, a new high-voltage protection system with additional structural protection for the battery, plus the expected plethora of advanced driver safety systems. Inside the new CLA there's more room than before despite the slippery fastback shape, while there's a 405-litre boot and an additional 'frunk' under the bonnet with 101 litres of space. And as you'd expect, the interior is packed full of sustainable materials, including seats made from recycled fabrics. As usual, there will be plenty of options, including a 3D Burmester audio system with 16-speakers and Dolby Atmos. The 'Sound Experience' offers a number of different noise themes to cover everything from starting to driving and parking. There's no word yet on pricing or exact on-sale dates, but we'd expect the CLA to have to be competitive with its biggest rival – the Tesla Model 3 – with a price starting somewhere in the mid £40,000s.
The Independent
12-03-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
Lexus reinvents the steering wheel with updated all-electric RZ SUV
SPONSORED BY NEXT The Independent's Electric Vehicles Channel is sponsored by Next. Lexus has reinvented the steering wheel in its updated Lexus RZ all-electric SUV. The revised model is the first to get the Lexus steer-by-wire technology that does away with a mechanical link between the steering wheel and the front wheels. In the case of the new RZ, it also gets an aircraft-style 'yoke' rather than a traditional circular wheel. The new steering system is said to reduce unwanted vibrations through the steering wheel, but claims to still give the driver feedback via electronic signals. The steering is also dynamic, adjusting according to the RZ's speed making it more manoeuvrable at low speeds and feel more dynamic on twisty roads. The maximum turning radius is only 200 degrees from lock to lock. The new RZ also gets a welcome range boost thanks to a 77kWh battery and more efficient electric motors – Toyota claims that the car will go 60 miles further on a full charge than before, so a maximum range of around 350 miles can be expected. Like it's new electric Toyota siblings which share the same EV tech as the Lexus, there's a boost to charging time if not speed. The fastest charge rate remains at 150kW, but battery pre-conditioning will speed the charging process. A new 22kW on-board AC charger will also speed charging on AC chargers. As well as the steer-by-wire tech, the new RZ gets what Lexus calls Interactive Manual Drive, in effect paddle shifters behind the steering wheel allow the driver to shift up and down through eight virtual gears, with feedback through the throttle and with sound to mimic manual gear changes. Lexus' pursuit of quietness in the car has been boosted by additional soundproofing, including in the boot area. New sustainable materials and ambient lighting also feature inside. The new RZ comes in three different power configurations with 221bhp in the RZ350e, 376bhp in the RZ500e and 402bhp in the RZ550e which is only available in F Sport trim. Potential new RZ buyers will have to wait until early 2026 before they can get one of the new models, although it will be the first of three new all-electric models coming to the UK. Following the RZ it's expected that an all-electric ES saloon and an electric version of the smaller NX SUV will arrive.
The Independent
12-03-2025
- Automotive
- The Independent
Three (and a half) new all-electric Toyotas coming soon
SPONSORED BY NEXT The Independent's Electric Vehicles Channel is sponsored by Next. The world's biggest car maker, Toyota, has revealed three new all-electric models set to arrive in the next twelve months at its annual Kenshiki Forum. We've already seen the new Toyota Urban Cruiser, the first of the three new cars to arrive later this year that's set to go into the fiercely-contested small electric SUV sector to rival the upcoming Ford Puma Gen-E. However, this is our first look at the revised bZ4x model – although you'd have to put old and new models side-by-side to spot the difference – while the C-HR+ is all-new and makes the bigger bZ model look a little superfluous. There was also a surprise at the Kenshiki Forum – Toyota's annual show and tell event – in the small shape of the FT-Me electric quadricycle, although Toyota would rather we call it a micromobility car. The FT-Me is currently only a concept, but if it makes production it's set to rival the likes of the Citroen Ami. Toyota Urban Cruiser First to arrive will be the new Urban Cruiser, the first of a new wave of Toyota models to bring back cherished names rather than odd mixtures of letters and numbers. The Urban Cruiser is a compact SUV expected to get a starting price in the region of £32,000 – it'll rival the all-electric Ford Puma Gen-E, Kia EV3 and the forthcoming Suzuki e-Vitara, which shares much with the new Toyota. It sits just above the Toyota Yaris Cross in terms of size in the Toyota range. Two battery sizes will be available in the Urban Cruiser, 49kWh and 61kWh, giving maximum claimed ranges of around 186 and 250 miles, while there will be a choice of Icon, Design and Excel trims. The design of the Urban Cruiser is what Toyota calls 'Urban Tech' featuring a 'hammerhead' design at the front of the car with slim headlights in keeping with the rest of the Toyota range. At the back there's the now familiar full-width light bar that wraps around to the side of the car. Inside there's the equally familiar combination of a digital driver and central infotainment screen, both measuring just over 10-inches in diameter. There'll be the usual Apple and Android smartphone integration, plus a host of driver assistance and safety features. Expect the Urban Cruiser to arrive in UK Toyota showrooms in the late summer of this year, just before the second of the three new all-electric Toyotas, the revised bZ4x. Toyota bZ4x Toyota's biggest EV has sold well in the UK, but its range and charging speeds have been criticised. Both have been addressed, while the exterior gets a mild makeover with a sleeker look at the front and improved aerodynamics. The interior has also had a tweak with new instruments for the driver, a larger 14-inch infotainment screen, a new centre console with twin wireless chargers and improved materials. Changes to the suspension are also said to improve the ride quality and refinement, as well as the driving dynamics, while the bZ4x remains capable of some reasonable off-roading with its four-wheel drive system. The battery line-up of 57.7kWh and 73.1kWh remains unchanged, although software tweaks and the aerodynamic improvements means a slight improvement in range – up to a likely claimed maximum of 356 miles. Pre-conditioning of the battery before charging – which is linked to the cars navigation system to know when you're heading for a charger – allows for higher charging power, although the peak of 150kW DC charging is the same as before, although AC charging at up to 22kW is an improvement. There's no word on what will happen to the pricing of the bZ4x, but we'd expect a slight increase over the current starting price of £42,860. First cars should arrive before the end of this year. Toyota C-HR+ The star of the show at Toyota's grand unveiling was the new all-electric C-HR+, which shares part of its name with one of Toyota's most popular models (the C-HR) and it's coupé SUV style, but nothing else. The new C-HR+ sits in Toyota's EV range between the Urban Cruiser and the bZ4x, with prices expected to start at around £37,000. We won't be seeing the newest member of Toyota's EV family until around March 2026. The + name not only refers to the new model's electric powertrain, but also its extra space and practicality over the standard C-HR model, which is available as a full or plug-in hybrid model. It sits on Toyota's e-TNGA platform and comes with two battery options: 57.7 and 77kWh – both bizarrely bigger than those available in the larger bZ4x model. The likely claimed maximum range of 373 miles is greater than in the bZ4x, too. Sitting inside the C-HR+ also reveals decent space in the front and the back, with Toyota saying that it's the larger bZ4x's off-roading ability and more SUV-like stance that marks it out from what looks like the more appealing smaller car. The C-HR+'s 416-litre boot isn't that far from the bZ4x's 452-litre luggage space, either. Both front- and all-wheel drive is available with the C-HR+, with the larger of the two batteries promising 338bhp of power and a 0-62mph time of 5.2 seconds – that makes it the most powerful Toyota outside of the brand's GR sports line-up. Like the bZ4x, the C-HR+ gets fast DC charging at speeds up to 150kW, helped by the same battery pre-conditioning tech, while 22kW AC charging is also available. Also the same as in its bigger brother, the C-HR+ gets a 14-inch infotainment screen with a similar digital display in front of the driver. However, there's no word yet on whether Toyota will be bringing software-over-the-air updates to the latest EV models. What Toyota will offer is the promise of an extended guarantee on its EV's batteries. If you undertake an annual battery health check, Toyota will guarantee that the battery will retain up to 70 per cent of its original charging capacity for up to ten years or 650,000 miles – well ahead of most other EV's eight-year coverage. The three new Toyotas are part of a promise of six new all-electric Toyotas through 2026, likely to include another two SUVs and an all-electric pick-up model. Toyota FT-Me Also unveiled at the Kenshiki Forum was the Toyota FT-Me micromobility concept. This two-seat 2,500mm-long car has been developed to meet Europe's L6E quadricycle regulations and rival the likes of the Citroen Ami. Although strictly a concept, Toyota UK boss Scott Thompson told us that he'd love to see the FT-Me in the UK, but wasn't sure whether that would happen. In markets where allowed, the FT-Me can be driven by teenagers as young as 14 without the need for a full driving licence. The vehicle has been designed with simplicity, sustainability and budget in mind, and was inspired by some of the mobility solutions developed by Toyota specifically for the Paris Olympics in 2024. The small battery can be topped up by the integrated solar panels on the top of the vehicle, adding 12 to 18 extra miles to the claimed 62 mile maximum range. Top speed, like all quadricycles, is limited to 28mph.
