German automakers had the EV evolution on full display at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show and it was quickly apparent the target was Tesla. Maybe it shouldn’t be an “EV Evolution” but rather an “EV Revolution”. It will be interesting to see who comes out on top.
When you consider the evolution of automobiles over time, the electric vehicle (EV) seems a natural progression, or is it? It seems luxury automakers are finally taking the Tesla threat seriously and rolling out new lines of EV’s at record speed.
Let’s look at the Europeans and what they brought to the show. BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz all launched new EV’s to challenge the Tesla whose Model 3 is struggling. Although the Model 3 has issues, the Tesla Model S outsold the Mercedes-Benz S class and the BMW7 series in Europe for the first time this year. Ouch!
EV Evolution – The Audi E-Tron
One of the contenders in the EV evolution is the Audi E-Tron and this car is tricked out to the max! Starting production in 2019 this crossover SUV has an impressive 4.5 seconds from 0 to 50 and an impressive range of 300 miles.
Audi is a huge challenger in this game, committed to having a line up of three EVs by 2019. Read more here about the tech upgrade in the Audi E-Tron
EV Evolution – The Volkswagen Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo
Porsche is going big in the EV evolution unveiling on the Porsche Mission E Cross Turismo; the Mission E has the ability for 800 volt charging which allows for 248 miles of travel in just 15 minutes. Half the time of competitors. Porsche is installing these super charging stations at dealerships around the country. Slated to go into production the end of 2018, this is an EV to keep your eye on.
Read more about the Mission E here
EV Evolution – The Volkswagen ID Vizzion
Volkswagen brought their A-Game with their new concept EV the ID Vizzion. This sleek but sporty beauty turned some heads. If you’re in to the futuristic concepts, the ID Vizzion is for you. Going 413 miles on a charge with a digital chauffeur feature that will take full control of he car. You have to read more on this one to believe it.
EV Evolution – The Mercedes Benz EQC
Mercedes Benz brought the EQC to the EV evolution. Boasting two electric motors and 300 kW of all-wheel driver, the EQC can accelerate from 0-50 miles per hour in under 5 seconds. Range on the Mercedes EQC is expected to be about 310 miles.
EV Evolution – Here to stay
So there you have it, Tesla is finally going to have some major competition in the EV market. Question is, can Tesla outlast and outsell established competition? Let’s face it, with Elon Musk SpaceX missions to Mars, if it doesn’t work out here on Earth, they could have exclusive to dealerships for EVs on the first Mars colony. Dare to dream.
Have questions about the EV evolution, my friends at German Car Specialist in San Antonio can provide you with the expertise you need. Check them out on the web at www.mygermancarsa.com or give them a call at 210-399-1172 better yet, visit them at 15555 Tradesman Drive, Ste 500.