This morning, an unexpected announcement from Volkswagen caught the attention of electric vehicle enthusiasts. The automaker has revealed plans for two compact and budget-friendly electric cars set to debut in Europe next year. While these vehicles promise to break away from the trend of oversized and expensive SUVs, there's no confirmation yet on their availability in North America. One of the models, the ID. 2all, is a small electric hatchback with a price tag under €25,000 ($26,671), while the other, the ID. EVERY1, offers a fresh design approach aimed at capturing the hearts of consumers.
The ID. 2all, though not entirely new, made headlines in September 2023 when Volkswagen showcased both standard and GTI versions of this concept. Now, the focus shifts to the ID. EVERY1, an all-electric entry-level car that stands out for its innovative design. Unlike retro-styled competitors such as the Mini or Fiat 500, the ID. EVERY1 embraces a modern aesthetic. According to Volkswagen, the design philosophy revolves around three key elements: stability, likability, and surprise features.
Andreas Mindt, Volkswagen's head of design, highlighted several distinctive aspects of the ID. EVERY1. He noted that the broad wheel arches over large 19-inch wheels contribute to a stable appearance, while the playful front grille adds charm. A unique feature is the centrally drawn roofline, reminiscent of sports cars, which gives the vehicle a charismatic identity. This compact car measures just 152.8 inches (3,880 mm) in length, significantly shorter than the Golf GTI sold in the U.S., which stretches to 168.8 inches (4,288 mm).
The ID. EVERY1 will be built on a new front-wheel-drive version of Volkswagen’s modular MEB platform, initially designed for rear- or all-wheel-drive electric vehicles. This platform supports models like the ID.4 crossover and ID. Buzz bus. By focusing on smaller, more affordable electric cars, Volkswagen aims to cater to a broader audience and offer a refreshing alternative to the dominance of large SUVs and trucks that have characterized recent automotive trends.
In a market increasingly dominated by larger vehicles, Volkswagen's introduction of these two compact electric models represents a significant shift towards affordability and practicality. The ID. EVERY1 and ID. 2all not only promise to bring style and innovation but also address the growing demand for sustainable transportation options that are accessible to a wider range of consumers. Despite the uncertainty surrounding their North American release, these vehicles signal Volkswagen's commitment to expanding its electric lineup with models that appeal to everyday drivers.
The upcoming electric vehicle from French automaker Alpine, known as the A390, is set to make waves in the automotive world. With its sleek design and advanced powertrain, this model promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. The A390, which will be officially revealed on May 27, has already garnered attention with its impressive concept version showcased last year. The production model, currently undergoing testing in Sweden, closely mirrors the striking aesthetics of the concept, maintaining a sporty and dynamic silhouette. Key features include a fastback roofline and distinctive lighting elements that add to its futuristic appeal. The exterior design integrates aerodynamic elements such as air channels and deep indentations, enhancing both style and functionality.
Inside the A390, the focus shifts to a blend of luxury and performance-oriented controls. A glimpse into the cabin reveals a steering wheel wrapped in premium leather, featuring motorsports-inspired buttons for drive modes and overtaking assistance. The interior layout, while more practical than the concept, retains elements of excitement with its innovative control setup. Alpine has confirmed that the A390 will be powered by a tri-motor system, complete with active torque vectoring, offering five distinct drive modes including a dedicated track setting. Measuring just over 181 inches long, the A390 strikes a balance between compactness and spaciousness, comfortably seating five passengers. Production of the A390 will commence at Alpine’s facility in Dieppe, France, with European sales expected to begin in 2026, followed by a U.S. market entry in 2027.
As Alpine prepares to enter the U.S. market, the A390 represents a significant milestone in the brand's electrification strategy. This vehicle not only showcases Alpine's commitment to innovation and sustainability but also highlights the company's ambition to offer cutting-edge technology and superior performance. The A390 sets the stage for future electric models, promising to bring a new era of eco-friendly yet powerful vehicles to consumers. Alpine's vision for expanding its lineup with larger SUVs and an electric successor to the A110 sports car reflects a forward-thinking approach to meeting the evolving demands of the automotive industry.
This summer, Kia is set to launch a groundbreaking bidirectional charger that transforms its electric SUV into a household generator. The Wallbox Quasar 2 will be available for preorder exclusively to owners and lessees of the Kia EV9. This innovative device not only charges the vehicle but also enables power to be drawn from the car’s battery to supply electricity during outages. To fully utilize this feature, a special Power Recovery Unit must interface with the home’s power system. Additionally, the charger supports solar panels and includes software to optimize energy flow between various sources.
Empowering Homeowners with Vehicle-to-Home Technology
Kia's new bidirectional charger opens up exciting possibilities for homeowners by leveraging the capabilities of the EV9. Scheduled for release in June, this charger allows users to tap into their vehicle’s battery as an emergency power source. The integration of a Power Recovery Unit ensures seamless connectivity with the home’s electrical infrastructure. Preorder availability is limited to EV9 owners on a first-come, first-served basis, requiring registration with Wallbox.
The introduction of this technology marks a significant advancement in sustainable living. During power outages, the EV9 can serve as a reliable backup generator, providing peace of mind and security. However, not all homes are compatible with this system. A minimum of 200-amp service is necessary, and local utility company approval may be required. This setup offers an innovative solution for managing household energy needs while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Optimizing Energy Management with Solar Integration
Beyond its primary function, the bidirectional charger introduces advanced energy management features. It seamlessly integrates with solar panels, enhancing the overall efficiency of the system. Owners can harness renewable energy from the sun to charge their vehicles or even sell surplus power back to the grid. The included software optimizes the flow of energy, ensuring maximum utilization of available resources.
The Quasar 2 charger represents a leap forward in smart home technology. By combining vehicle-to-home capabilities with solar integration, it creates a comprehensive energy ecosystem. Users can charge their EV9 during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower and then use stored energy to power their homes or sell excess capacity back to the utility company. This approach not only reduces dependency on traditional power sources but also promotes sustainability and cost savings. The potential for such systems to revolutionize residential energy management is immense, offering a glimpse into a future where vehicles play a central role in powering our daily lives.