New model announcements aren’t anything new for the automotive industry as carmakers continuously attempt to keep their livery fresh. In recent weeks, the announcements are increasingly geared toward a tiny segment of the industry with the intent to take it mainstream; electric vehicles. Ford has partnered with Nikola to build their pickup truck, estimated to arrive on the market by the end of 2022.
There are, however, many other carmakers slated to release an EV sooner than that. A range of models from mid-range to luxury persformance are coming in the next several months, and it’s an opportunity to redefine the automotive market.
Volkswagen ID.3 –Coming Fall 2020 in US, Released in Europe
The world’s largest carmaker, Volkswagen, is set to release their first production model of the new ID range. The ID.3 is a compact car with a 58-kWh battery that has been rated for a range of 259 miles but has recently been tested in Europe with an actual distance travelled on a single charge of 328 miles. At that distance, range anxiety can be quelled in many EV buyers, and in a car that should enter the market at under $40,000.
Elon Musk has recently been seen test driving the VW ID.3 with VW’s CEO Diess and remarked that it was pretty good for a non-performance model.
Audi e-tron SUV – Now Available
In Volkswagen’s stable, the Audi e-tron SUV follows their image of luxury, performance, and utility perfectly. The 95kWh battery offers range of up to 204 miles and 402hp with Boost Mode engaged. While the range seems short compared to gas models, it’s still sufficient for most commuters and SUV owners.
The e-tron SUV has just arrived at dealers at a price point starting around $75,000, keeping the Audi model exclusive.
Rivian R1T/R1S – Coming Mid-2021
One name that has been in the headlines often in recent months is Rivian, an all-electric truck and SUV startup. After billions of dollars in investments, the carmaker is set to start pre-selling this fall with deliveries mid-2021. Using a unique skateboard platform and independent-motor 4×4, models are expected to have a range of between 230 miles and 410 miles, up to 700hp, and a starting price tag of $70,000.
Related: Rivian R1T Tops List of Most Anticipated Electric Trucks
Volvo XC40 Recharge – Late 2020
A compact SUV is coming from Volvo, the XC40 Recharge, that will be the first all-electric SUV in their stable as well. Appealing to the purist, the XC40 recharge has a 78kWh battery and more than 200 miles of range under normal use.
What makes the Volvo XC40 Recharge intriguing is the price point. Relatively comparable to a non-EV model, it will enter the market under $50k for a premium SUV with federal EV tax credits applied.
Ford Mustang Mach-E – Late 2020
One of the most anticipated releases is the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Configurations start with RWD-only but can include all-wheel drive. Tech including SYNC and Ford Co-Pilot360 in all models is set to appeal to prospective Tesla buyers, but at a significantly lower price.
Ford is releasing the Mustang Mach-E later in 2020 and will start at under $40,000 after federal credits.
The Jaguar XJ Electric as also set to release in early 2021 but has been pushed back to later next year. Hybrid models like the Jeep Wrangler 4xE are also on the horizon as electrification is taking hold. Manufacturers are beginning to emphasize the importance of enhancing dealership infrastructure to accommodate EVs, both in sales and service. It will be interesting to see how quickly EV adoption occurs or if electric car manufacturers are over-saturating a niche market.
Related: CARB Issues New Rules for Mandatory Electric Trucks by 2024
Did you enjoy this article from Jason Unrau? Read other articles from him here.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date or catch-up on all of our podcasts on demand.
While you’re here, don’t forget to subscribe to our email newsletter for all the latest auto industry news from CBT News.
