electric

BMW is retooling its factories in Germany to focus on electric vehicles (EVs). All petrol and diesel combustion engines will be produced at the company's plants in England and Austria, while its German factories are converted to build EVs and related components, news outlet Reuters reports. In July 2020, BMW announced it was shifting towards an electric future, with 25 electrified models to be rolled out over the next three years.

Hyundai Australia has issued a recall on 796 examples of its Kona Electric SUV, citing a potential fault with the lithium-ion battery and battery management system (BMS). The affected vehicles are Model Years 2018-2020, and were sold between 1 December, 2018 and 29 February, 2020

BMW Motorrad has launched its Concept Definition CE 04 all-electric scooter at the #NEXTGen 2020 conference. The two-wheeler is based on BMW’s 2017 Concept Link design, and features an integrated 10.25-inch smartphone connective display system. The flat battery – packaged in the base of the frame – allows for a low centre of gravity and “playful handling." The design also incorporates extensive storage space, with a focus placed on ergonomics over comfort.

The all-electric 2021 Hummer EV has been officially launched by GMC, and the vehicle could be a game-changer. While it may not be planned for Australia at this stage, the Hummer EV marks a massive shift in one of the world’s biggest automotive segments by bringing pure electric power to a category traditionally dominated by petrol and diesel V8s. Available in both dual-cab pick-up or SUV configurations, GMC claims the flagship models will produce a mammoth 735kW and 2033Nm.

Amazon has unveiled the first functional example of its upcoming all-electric delivery van. Built in collaboration with California-based start-up Rivian – which is, itself, part-owned by Amazon – the vehicle features semi-autonomous highway and traffic assist technologies, 360-degree exterior cameras linked to an internal digital display, three levels of storage shelving, and Alexa integration. Powertrain and performance details are yet to be released.