Embodying a fusion of historical elegance and cutting-edge technology, the specialists at Lunaz have reimagined the distinguished Rolls-Royce Phantom V, converting it into a silent, electric-powered vehicle. This undertaking aligns remarkably with the early aspirations of Rolls-Royce's progenitors, Charles Rolls and Henry Royce, who envisioned an automobile characterized by its exceptional quietness, fluidity, and ample power, even foreseeing the electric future of motoring as early as 1900.
This exemplary restoration and electrification process, requiring over 5,500 hours of dedicated labor and incorporating more than 11,000 new or refurbished components, comes with a price tag exceeding £1 million. Every facet of the vehicle, from its re-upholstered, climate-controlled seating crafted from premium leather to the bespoke options for the rear console—including sophisticated cigar humidors or cocktail bars—reflects Lunaz's commitment to maintaining Rolls-Royce's foundational principles of luxury and refinement. Beneath its classic facade, the Phantom V is propelled by an 80 kWh battery system feeding a custom Lunaz electric drivetrain, generating 400 horsepower and 530 lb-ft of torque, enabling a swift yet serene acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in approximately seven seconds. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the revitalized Phantom V delivers an unparalleled driving experience, quietly merging the past with the future of automotive excellence.
The transformation of such a classic icon into a contemporary electric vehicle highlights a beautiful synergy between preserving heritage and embracing progress. It demonstrates that innovation doesn't necessarily mean abandoning the past but can enrich it, offering a renewed lease on life for magnificent creations. This endeavor inspires us to look beyond immediate limitations and envision how existing marvels can be adapted for a sustainable and more refined future, showcasing a pathway where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously for the greater good.
Hyundai is strategically advancing its electric vehicle ambitions in China with the upcoming introduction of the Elexio, an SUV specifically adapted for the local market. This new model, drawing inspiration from the globally recognized IONIQ 5, represents a pivotal moment for the automaker as it endeavors to strengthen its position in a fiercely competitive landscape dominated by domestic EV manufacturers. With advanced features tailored to Chinese consumer preferences and a strong emphasis on electrification, the Elexio is set to redefine Hyundai's presence and market share in the world's largest EV market.
The Elexio, a product of the Beijing Hyundai joint venture, was publicly revealed in Shanghai last month, signaling Hyundai's determined entry into the Chinese electric vehicle sector. Company officials have underscored the critical importance of the Chinese market, describing it as a 'must-fight place' for global automotive brands. This new electric SUV signifies a transformative shift for Hyundai, moving beyond its traditional fuel-powered vehicle heritage towards a future deeply rooted in electric mobility. Its design and technological integration are specifically tailored to resonate with local buyers, setting it apart from its international counterpart.
Underpinning the Elexio is Hyundai's E-GMP platform, a robust architecture also utilized by its acclaimed IONIQ series. This foundation enables the Elexio to boast an impressive CLTC driving range of 700 kilometers (approximately 435 miles). Furthermore, its advanced 800V electrical architecture facilitates remarkably quick recharging capabilities, allowing the vehicle's battery to replenish from 30% to 80% in just 27 minutes. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in China recently disclosed additional specifications, providing a more comprehensive insight into the Elexio's capabilities. Physically, the Elexio measures 4,615 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,673 mm in height, positioning it slightly more compact than the Tesla Model Y.
Prospective buyers will have the choice between a front-wheel-drive (FWD) and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration. The single-motor FWD variant delivers up to 160 kW (214 hp) of power, while the dual-motor AWD version provides a combined maximum output of 233 kW (312 hp). A notable highlight is the Elexio's integration of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology, sourced from BYD's FinDream division. Although precise battery capacity figures were not released by MIIT, the choice of BYD's battery technology underscores Hyundai's strategic partnerships within the Chinese supply chain. Industry analysts anticipate the Elexio's market debut in the third quarter of this year, with an estimated starting price point around 140,000 yuan (approximately $19,500).
In a significant development on June 13, the Elexio achieved a crucial milestone by becoming the first Hyundai vehicle to be awarded the 'CCTA Charging Compatibility Verification Certificate' in China. This certification attests to the vehicle's seamless compatibility and reliability across more than 500 AC and DC charging stations, demonstrating a flawless 100% success rate during rigorous testing. This achievement not only highlights the Elexio's robust charging capabilities but also reinforces Hyundai's commitment to ensuring a convenient and dependable charging experience for its Chinese customers. Such certifications are vital for building consumer confidence in the burgeoning EV market.
Hyundai's foray into the Chinese electric vehicle market with the Elexio underscores a determined effort to adapt and innovate within a highly dynamic landscape. This new SUV, a localized version of the IONIQ 5, incorporates tailored features and cutting-edge battery technology, aiming to carve out a significant niche and drive the company's electric transformation in the region.
In the recent 103rd Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, electric vehicles once again demonstrated their formidable capabilities, navigating a significantly truncated course due to severe weather. Ford's innovative Super Mustang Mach-E emerged victorious in its category, reinforcing the inherent benefits of electric powertrains in high-altitude racing environments where conventional internal combustion engines face limitations. This event not only highlighted the cutting-edge engineering of the participating EVs but also provided a compelling testament to their reliability and performance under pressure.
The race, known for its grueling ascent and unpredictable mountain weather, saw a reduced track length this year, posing a unique challenge for all competitors. Despite these adjustments, electric vehicles, including a specially prepared Hyundai Ioniq 5N, a Honda CR-V e:FCEV with a hydrogen fuel cell, and an electric conversion of a classic VW 'BugZappa', delivered impressive results. Their strong showings collectively emphasized the growing dominance of electric technology in motorsport, particularly in conditions that would typically disadvantage gasoline-powered vehicles.
\nElectric Dominance on the Mountain Ascent
\nThe 103rd Pikes Peak International Hill Climb served as a dramatic stage for electric vehicles to assert their superiority, especially as challenging meteorological conditions necessitated a shortened race path. Ford's Super Mustang Mach-E, a testament to electric innovation, brilliantly secured a class win. This victory was a clear indicator of the advantages electric powertrains offer in the rarefied atmosphere of high altitudes, where the oxygen scarcity severely impedes the efficiency of traditional combustion engines. EVs, unburdened by the need for oxygen for fuel combustion, maintain peak performance regardless of elevation, providing a consistent power delivery crucial for such an arduous climb. The Mach-E's triumph at this iconic event further solidifies the reputation of electric racing vehicles as serious contenders, capable of not just competing but excelling in the most demanding motorsport arenas.
\nThe Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has long been revered for its demanding nature, with its course spiraling upwards from a substantial initial elevation to a peak of over 14,000 feet. This year's event, the 103rd iteration, once again underlined these difficulties. High winds forced a drastic reduction in the race distance, limiting the competition to the lower sections of the mountain. While this adjustment might have slightly diminished the unique advantage EVs hold at extreme altitudes, they nevertheless showcased remarkable resilience and speed. The Super Mustang Mach-E, leveraging its robust electric propulsion, navigated the challenging turns and gradients with impressive agility, posting a leading time in its division. This performance not only celebrated Ford's engineering prowess but also underscored the enduring potential of electric mobility in overcoming environmental extremes and setting new benchmarks in automotive sports.
\nInnovative EV Contenders and Race Dynamics
\nBeyond Ford's standout Mach-E, the Pikes Peak event featured a diverse array of electric vehicle entries, each contributing to the narrative of EV advancement in motorsport. The Hyundai Ioniq 5N, meticulously prepared by Evasive Motorsports, demonstrated how strategic modifications can transform a production EV into a formidable race machine, achieving a highly competitive time. Similarly, the Honda CR-V e:FCEV introduced an intriguing blend of hydrogen fuel cell and plug-in hybrid technology, marking its historical presence as the first hydrogen-powered vehicle to tackle the hill climb. Furthermore, the charmingly named 'BugZappa', an electric conversion of a classic VW Fun Cup car by Electric Classic Cars, proved that innovation isn't solely confined to new models but can also rejuvenate beloved designs with sustainable technology. These varied entries collectively highlighted the adaptability and broad spectrum of electric powertrain applications in racing.
\nThe unexpected turn of events due to the mountain's capricious weather, particularly the high winds that led to a shortened course, impacted the overall race strategy and outcomes for all participants. Despite the race being confined to the lower sections of the climb, the electric vehicles continued to impress with their consistent power and performance. The Evasive Hyundai Ioniq 5N, driven by Robert Walker, set a rapid benchmark, showcasing its raw speed and the effectiveness of its race modifications. Even the hydrogen-powered Honda, while not aiming for record-breaking times, successfully completed the course, underscoring the viability of alternative clean energy sources in demanding competitive settings. Although Ford’s Super Mustang Mach-E ultimately missed the overall top spot to a lighter prototype in a less restrictive class, its class victory and strong showing against formidable gasoline rivals unequivocally cemented the significant presence and future promise of electric vehicles in the world of high-performance racing.