The class of 2022/2023. EVs we're looking forward to.

The evolution of the automotive drivetrain is well and truly underway and we’re seeing a wave of exciting new electrified models on our roads. Kiwis are by-in-large more accepting of EVs too with a very strong adoption curve and a rapidly advancing charging infrastructure, well ahead of our Australian neighbors all things considered.

That bodes well for some of the cars we’re most excited about for the next 12 months or so. While this is not a complete list of the new EVs Giltrap Group dealerships will be selling, with some of the industry’s most exciting styling, technology or performance, they all represent a significant step forward for electrified motoring in New Zealand. In no particular order, we can’t wait to see these game changing new models!

Kia EV9

Embodying an adventurous and recreational form with a rugged, upright stance, the all-electric Kia EV9 will become the brand’s flagship model and, says Kia, will revolutionise the large electric SUV segment. From the outside, the generous proportions outline a three-row SUV footprint, signifying a vehicle that is highly capable and practical. Developed over a period of 44 months to set new standards in design, performance, range, driving dynamics, technology and comfort, every facet of the EV9 is currently being pushed to the limits of durability at Kia’s global Namyang R&D center in Korea.

During the final testing phase, the EV9 is relentlessly subjected to a grueling verification program on a 4WD climbing hill and a rough terrain track, as well as a deep-water wading test, to ensure maximum reliability even in the most challenging conditions. Kia’s high-speed, handling, and low-friction tracks place every element of the EV9’s performance and roadholding under the strictest scrutiny. Expect a driving range of up to 480km as well as next-generation ultra-fast charging technology with a 350kW charger that allows its advanced battery electric powertrain to replenish energy from 10% to 80% in 20-30 minutes. The Kia EV9 production model will be revealed at the LA Motor Show in November and is expected for New Zealand release later in 2023

Polestar 3

Also due in 2023 is the Polestar 3. The highly anticipated follow up model from the runaway success, the Polestar 2. The Polestar 3 will be built on the new SPA2 platform. This platform – which is designed to carry bigger vehicles than the CMA platform upon which cars like the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Polestar 2 ride on – will also form the underpinnings of the next-generation Volvo XC90 full-size SUV, which will be available as a dedicated electric vehicle in many markets.

Polestar 3 launches with a dual-motor configuration and a power bias towards the rear. The standard car produces a total of 360 kW and 840 Nm of torque. With the optional Performance Pack, total output is 380 kW and 910 Nm. Adjustable one-pedal drive is included, as well as an electric Torque Vectoring Dual Clutch function on the rear axle – an evolution of what was first developed for Polestar 1. A decoupling function is also available for the rear electric motor, allowing the car to run only on the front electric motor to save energy under certain circumstances.

Over time and in select markets, the Polestar 3 will offer autonomous highway piloting powered by the best-in-class LiDAR sensor from Luminar and centralized NVIDIA computing power. A 111 kWh battery pack provides Polestar 3 with generous driving range of up to 610 km WLTP.

Production starts in 2023, order books are open now and Polestar 3 will be landing in New Zealand Q1 2024. We’re expecting the demand for the Polestar 3 to be incredibly strong.

CUPRA Born

The launch of the new Cupra Born will bring sustainable mobility with the character and dynamism that car enthusiasts desire. The performance and dynamics of the car have been a clear focus during the development, and you can expect the wee hatch to be suitably nippy. Acceleration from 0-50km/h takes only 2.9s and 0-100km/h in around 7 seconds. The Dynamic Chassis Control Sport (DCC Sport), which has been exclusively developed within the MEB platform for the Cupra Born, combines the sporty driving height of the car with a system that is adapting automatically to any conditions, offering a superior level of driving dynamics.

We can’t wait to sample the state-of-the-art technologies such as a Head-up Display with Augmented Reality. It will be able to travel up to 500km on a single charge thanks to its high-efficient 77kWh battery (gross: 82kWh). Its fast-charging capabilities will give the CUPRA Born enough energy to travel at least 260km in only 30 minutes. The CUPRA Born is expected to arrive in New Zealand in the second half of 2023.

ŠKODA Enyaq iV

Another vehicle developed on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform arriving in 2023 is the Škoda Enyak iV. The MEB consists of what is known as the skateboard platform, in which the battery is incorporated into the floor to save space. Three battery sizes, five power outputs ranging from 109 to 225 kW and rear- or all-wheel drive cater to many different requirements and uses. With ranges of up to 510 km in the WLTP cycle, the Enyaq iV is an ideal everyday companion. Furthermore, it can tow trailers weighing up to 1,400 kg (8% gradient) or 1,200 kg (12% gradient).

All that electric technology is packaged within the Enyaq iV’s emotive and dynamic exterior styling. The new SUV is characterised by perfect proportions and extraordinary spaciousness. It offers a similar amount of interior space as a Škoda Kodiac, despite being shorter in length than a Škoda Octavia.

Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen ID.5

The ID.4 and ID.5 models signify an exciting shift for Volkswagen, not just in power delivery with the electrified platform, but also aesthetically. The contemporary Coupe / SUV styling offer an interesting divergence from the traditional mid-size SUV styling with a high waistline, sleeker glasshouse and purposeful wheel arches.

The flat skateboard MEB platform also ensures benefits from an internal packaging point of view the interior space belies the sleek appearance.

Every red traffic light becomes a new opportunity to have some fun. The 150kW/310Nm electric motor of the ID.4 will accelerate the car dynamically from a standstill with instant torque and importantly for Kiwi conditions, they’re SUVs that will take you where you need to go with an estimated range of 450-500kms.

Audi Q4 e-tron and Q4 etron Sportback

Another example of the versatility of VW Group’s MEB platform will be the Audi Q4 e-tron and Sportback variatnt. The Q4 is a perennial Kiwi favourite for its handy dimensions, sporty driving characteristics and premium look and feel. The Audi Q4 e-tron will allow Audi to talk to a new, and a wider variety of customers about its vision for the future of mobility.

The top-of-the-range Q4 50 e-tron quattro has two electric motors for the electric all-wheel drive, generating a maximum output of 220kW – delivering a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The Q4 40 e-tron and Q4 35 e-tron each have an electric motor that drives the rear wheels, with an output of 150kW and 125kW respectively.

The compact battery for the Q4 35 e-tron has a net energy content of 52kWh (55kWh gross), while the figures for the large battery in the Q4 40 e-tron and Q4 50 e-tron quattro are 77kWh (82kWh gross).

Audi’s two new electric SUVs can be charged with different outputs using alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) depending on the battery. The compact battery can get up to 7.2kW with AC charging and up to 100kW when using HPC charging (high-power charging) with direct current. As standard, the larger battery allows for up to 11kW with AC and up to 125kW with HPC.

Another strength for everyday use is the high range – the Q4 40 e-tron travels up to 520 kilometres* (WLTP) on a single battery charge, while the Q4 50 e-tron can achieve up to 497 kilometres* (WLTP) in range in Sportback guise. The city-focused Q4 35 e-tron, with its lower battery capacity, can travel up to 349 kilometres* (WLTP) before recharging.

Lotus Eletre

As Lotus transitions into their fully electric future, the Eletre will the mould for brand as the company’s first five-door production car and first SUV – but at the same time it promises to continue Lotus’ trademark level of innovation and sporting character.

The numbers are as segment defining as the Eletre’s styling: 600bhp and 600km of range thanks to a battery capacity of more than 100kWh. The on-road performance is matched by the charging speeds, with 400km of range available in 20 minutes through a 350kW charger.

Inside the Eletre also takes Lotus interiors to an unprecedented new level. The performance-oriented and technical design is visually lightweight, using ultra-premium materials to deliver an exceptional customer experience. Shown with four individual seats, this is available to customers alongside the more traditional five-seat layout. Above, a fixed panoramic glass sunroof adds to the bright and spacious feeling inside.

The Lotus Eletre is set to arrive in New Zealand late 2023.

Click here to explore our EV range - https://bit.ly/3CT6rP0