In this week's round-up of motoring murmurs, we learn more about what form Bentley's first EV could take, what Chinese brand Aiways has planned for Europe beyond the U5 electric SUV and more...
Merc’s no budget brand
Mercedes-Benz powertrain strategy boss Claus Ehlers said making electric cars more affordable is a key part of building their market appeal. But he added: “Mercedes is a luxury brand and we have a mindset for technology that fits the brand which is not necessarily low cost. But it needs to be cost-efficient for what you get.”
Bentley eyes batteries
Bentley is looking to launch its first electric model by 2025, according to CEO Adrian Hallmark. The firm is undecided about whether a battery electric Bentley should be an entirely new model (possibly a sub-Bentley Bentayga SUV) or an adaptation of an existing model. Anticipated developments in battery efficiency will suit its bigger, heavier models.
Aiways moving forward
Chinese start-up Aiways is looking to increase its offering of Europe-destined SUVs beyond the U5 Ion, according to product strategy boss Alexander Klose. “We have a schedule that will deliver one new model per year. We are looking at other SUVs – smaller and larger,” he said.
Volvo says bye to buying
Volvo’s Europe boss Lex Kerssemakers has described the future of the car industry as “cake being cut into a number of smaller pieces”. Rather than just straight car ownership, there will also be subscription services such as its Care By Volvo, plus other offerings such as short-term rentals, a service that Volvo is set to launch later this year. “We need to offer different models for different needs of different customers,” he said.
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Chinese car maker Aiways to bring electric SUV and supercar to Europe
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There is NO sub bentayga
There is NO sub bentayga Bentley, the all new car will be a sub Continental car, a plain two seater, with amazing power, kit, and luxury.
Electric Bentley
Likely to be a sub- Bentayga SUV, so that will probably be a version of the Audi Q4 e-tron. Its fairly obvious really. Then Perhaps they will make a Benleyfied Taycan/e-tron GT.
Well, I guess it was always
Well, I guess it was always going to happen sometime, but its sad to see Bentley going electric.
I mean, how many Bentleys are there on the roads? Who really cares if a couple of cars are still producing emissions? Could we not reserve internal combustion for the premium segment?