The Geneva Motor Show is this week and there will be many new announcements. There are many electric cars, SUVs and concept cars. Here’s AUTO Connected Car News’ list of the best of autos at the Geneva Motor Show 2019
Alfa Romeo
This year’s Geneva International Motor Show will showcase the evolution of the Alfa Romeo brand. It will highlight the brand’s return to Formula 1 under the “Alfa Romeo Racing” name, and the introduction of Italian driver Antonio Giovinazzi alongside former 2007 world champion Kimi Räikkönen, with the Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio “Alfa Romeo Racing” limited editions. Alongside these high-performance models will be the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Ti, which sees the introduction of the historic “Turismo Internazionale” name to the Stelvio range, as well as the new MY19 Giulietta. More important news for the future will also be revealed during the press conference scheduled for Tuesday 5 March.
Audi
Audi is continuing its electric car offensive. At the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the brand is showing four all-electric drive vehicles, the series versions of which will celebrate their premiere by the end of 2020. In addition, four new plug hybrid versions as a world premiere and the fully electric Formula E race car Audi e-tron FE05 will be displayed on the Audi stand – which consists exclusively of electrically driven cars this year. The Audi Q4 e-tron concept and the European debut of the Audi e-tron GT concept will be unveiled at the press conference.
The first member of this new quartet of electric vehicles, the Audi e-tron*, will already be supplied to customers soon. The company will introduce the series-production version of its coupé equivalent, the Audi e-tron Sportback, later in 2019. Another electric car will be presented in a few weeks in China: the Audi Q2 L e-tron, which the first customers will also be able to take receipt of 2019. Two further series-production debuts will then follow in 2020: the Audi e-tron GT and Audi Q4 e-tron. Concept cars at the stand in Geneva provide a look at these two future models.
In addition, still in 2019, a brand plug-in offensive involving virtually all market segments will take place. New to the range are hybrid versions of the high-volume product lines Audi A6, A7, A8 and Q5 – they are also making their public debut at the Geneva Motor Show. Both of the established plug-in versions of the Audi A3 and Audi Q7 can also be available for order again – with revised technology – in 2019.
Bentley
Making its first ever appearance on the world stage in Geneva will be the new Bently Bentayga Speed. The world’s fastest production SUV features more purposeful styling to match its imperious performance credentials. Alongside the Bentayga Speed, the stylish, all-new Continental GT Convertible will be making its global public show debut.
Enjoying its European show debut, and celebrating Bentley’s centenary, will be the new Mulsanne W.O. Edition by Mulliner. This superbly crafted car, which includes a piece of W.O.’s personal 1930 8 Litre’s crankshaft, pays tribute to Bentley’s founding father and is restricted to just 100 examples.
BMW
The BMW stand at the International Motor Show 2019 in Geneva focuses on the company’s continuing model offensive in the luxury segment and the ongoing expansion of its range of vehicles with electrified drive systems. Just a few weeks after being unveiled to the world, the new BMW 7 Series luxury sedan is making its show debut. In addition, the premium carmaker presents its 4th generation of Plug-In-Hybrid powertrains, setting a clear mark for the importance of this technology aside from fully-electric cars:
BMW 745e, BMW 745Le, BMW 745Le xDrive
System-Power: 290 kW/394 hp; 0-100km/h: 5,3-5,1 s;
electric range: 50-58 km; fuel consumption: 2,6–2,1 l/100 km; electric power consumption: 16,3–15,1 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions from combustion engine: 52–48 g/km**
BMW 330e Sedan
System-power: 185 kW/252 hp; 0-100km/h: 6,0 s; electric range: 60 km; fuel consumption: 1.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions from combustion engine: 39 g/km**
BMW X5 xDrive45e
System-power: 290 kW/394 hp; 0-100 km/h: 5,6 s; electric range: 80 km; fuel consumption: 2.1 l/100 km; electric power consumption: 23.0 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions from combustion engine: 49 g/km**
Together with the new generation of Plug-In-Hybrid models, BMW Energy Services is piloting packages of free green electricity, as a future basic component of electrified cars.
And the presentation of the BMW Individual M850i Night Sky adds another unique highlight to the Geneva show line-up.
Fiat
The 2019 Geneva Motor Show will see Fiat present its new 500 “120th” family. Available on 500, 500X and 500L, the new range celebrates Fiat’s 120th birthday, a milestone that very few car manufacturers around the world have reached. The Swiss event will also witness the début of the new Panda Connected by Wind and 5-Door Tipo Sport, the result of the cooperation between Fiat and Wind, one of Italy’s leading telecommunications provider.
Visitors to the show can become familiar with Fiat’s idea of connectivity across the range: something that is always simple, democratic, safe and intuitive. These are the cornerstones of the Fiat tradition: offering technological solutions that are innovative but user-friendly, and just as capable of meeting modern daily mobility requirements as they are of accommodating the increasing focus of society on safety and communication.
Honda
Honda’s new urban electric vehicle will be previewed at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show in the form of the Honda e Prototype. This new model leads on from the brand’s highly acclaimed 2017 Urban EV Concept, and is a key part of Honda’s “Electric Vision” strategy for the European region.
Designed to meet the needs of the modern lifestyle, the Honda e Prototype combines unique design, advanced functionality and engaging driving dynamics. The vehicle delivers a package perfect for the urban environment.
Jeep
Jeep will showcase a collection of special edition models at the 89th Geneva International Motor Show. The new “S” range special edition Renegade, Compass, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee will make their European debuts alongside the new Cherokee Trailhawk, sporting the prestigious “Trail Rated” badge a symbol that signifies the ability to successfully tackle even the most challenging off-road trails, as well as a display of custom models created with Jeep Authentic Accessories by Mopar
Kia Niro and Concept Screenings
The all-new Kia Soul EV brings long-range, zero-tailpipe emissions power to the urban crossover class. The third globally-sold electric vehicle from Kia Motors will make its European debut at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show next month.
In its third generation, Kia’s pioneering urban crossover has become more distinctive, dynamic and innovative than ever. While the Soul EV embraces the iconic design and playful character of its predecessors, it will be powered in Europe exclusively by electric energy, with a choice of two long-range, zero-emissions powertrains. The new-generation battery packs powering the Soul EV are up to 30 per cent more energy efficient than Europe’s current best-selling electric vehicle.
Kia Motors has made a number of improvements to the Niro, its best-selling electrified crossover range of ultra-low emission vehicles. The upgraded Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models will make their global debut on 5 March 2019 at the Geneva International Motor Show.
The Niro, which combines crossover style practicality with ultra-low hybrid emissions, has been enhanced for 2019 with a new exterior design, a more upscale, high-quality interior, and new interior colour options. The Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models also feature Kia’s advanced new UVO CONNECT telematics system, which brings additional ‘connected’ functionality to the car.
Kia Motors Europe has unveiled new images of its bold new all-electric concept car, due to be revealed at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show.
A visual embodiment of its desire to move forward into the exciting world of electrification, this concept is the company’s first pure electric four-door passenger car. Intentionally designed to not sit within the industry’s predefined vehicle categories, it coherently draws together elements of a muscular sports utility vehicle, a sleek and athletic family saloon and a versatile and spacious crossover.
Intelligently reinterpreting Kia’s iconic ‘tiger nose’ grille, the concept features a bold new illuminated ‘tiger mask’ that encircles the headlamp units to create a distinctive and recognizable lighting motif, one which instantly marks this out as a Kia for the 21st Century.
A single sheet of glass is used for both the windscreen and roof, flowing from the base of the A-pillar and over the cabin to create a vast sky-window, before tapering into a double-bubble over the rear passenger compartment. The rakishness of the car’s high shoulders and narrow glasshouse is further enhanced by an illustrated dynamic streak that draws the eye from the A-pillar to the C-pillar.
Guillaume and his team fully exploited the chassis architecture of the powertrain’s all-electric layout to maximize cabin space and create an airy and spacious interior. In a humorous riposte to the industry’s current obsession with ever increasing dashboard screens, the concept features 21 individual ultra high-resolution screens. These curve their synchronised way across the top of the dashboard in a layout that’s at the same time both casual and coordinated.
“I believe that our unorthodox approach to electrification fired our collective imagination, ,” says Guillaume. “It enabled us to envisage a future where engaging and dynamic cars like this were an integral part of our transport requirements. And its message is clear,” says Guillaume “It’s time to free your imagination, to stop wondering and to start driving!”
Lexus
Lexus will introduce the Lexus LC Convertible Concept, Lexus RCF Track Edition,
Too exhilarating to forget
Too breathtaking to hide
Introducing the Lexus LC Convertible Concept
Next week at @GimsSwiss pic.twitter.com/pZjz8hrbeq
— Lexus News Europe (@Lexus_EU) March 1, 2019
Maserati
Maserati will show the Levante Trofeo SUV in the Launch Edition, a limited edition of 100 units, which will be the protagonist of the stand, along with the other models of the MY19 range. Another premiere of the Geneva Show are the new interiors in PELLETESSUTA™, an exclusive new material made by Ermenegildo Zegna exclusively for Maserati. To recall the Brand’s sporty DNA, Maserati will exhibit a GranTurismo MC (acronym for Maserati Corse), for the first time with an exterior in Grigio Lava Matte colour combined with interiors in carbon fibre. Maserati announced start of sales in Europe of the Levante Trofeo and Levante GTS.
Another new development will be revealed at the opening of the show, one that exemplifies Maserati’s ability to construct customized automobiles: an exciting one-off model, created according to the requests of a particular customer.
Mercedes-Benz CLA and EQV
Mercedes-Benz will reveal the CLA Shooting Brake and, for the first time, the Concept EQV and the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLC. Also on display to the public for the first time will be the Formula E showcar and the smart forease+. While the new V-Class will celebrate its show premiere.
With the world premiere of the CLA Shooting Brake, Mercedes-Benz is presenting a design counterpart to the CLA Coupé whose elegantly contoured, muscular rear end ensures substantial benefits in terms of practicality and stowage space.
The Concept EQV iis the world’s first SUV in the premium segment with purely battery-electric drive. The near-series concept vehicle combines locally emission-free mobility with impressive performance, maximum functionality and aesthetic design.
Mistsubishi
Mitsubishi Motors is famous for carving its own niche. Soon its latest creation will be revealed, bringing more SUV capability, EV efficiency, technology and style to the lineup.
Named after a beautiful; rugged Alpine town with a history of sporting success, the MITSUBISHI ENGELBERG TOURER will make its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on March 5, 2019.
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will globally unveil the 2020 model year Outlander Sport at the 89th Geneva International Motor Show*1 to be held March 5-17.
The Outlander Sport is a compact SUV designed for the city, offering wide-ranging versatility that makes it perfect for everything from everyday use to exciting adventures. Its lightweight, compact body combined with an SUV’s commanding driver sightlines give the Outlander Sport excellent handling and easy drivability.
The Outlander Sport delivers reassurance and safety, with features including the RISE impact safety body and a Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) braking system.
Nissan at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show for the reveal of the IMQ concept crossover, an all-new vehicle that embodies the future of Nissan Intelligent Mobility and gives a sneak peek as to what might be in your future driveway.
PininFarina
Automobili Pininfarina’s ground-breaking Battista luxury electric hypercar will be revealed in three differentspecifications at the Geneva International Motor Show 2019.
Automobili Pininfarina will present two examples of the ground-breaking Battista hypercar on its stand. Potential clients wishing to express interest in owning Battista are invited to meet the Automobili Pininfarina w
CUPRA is marking its first anniversary by taking the covers off its most stunning, dynamic and eye-catching vehicle yet; the concept-car CUPRA Formentor.
CUPRA’s first year of operations has proved its potential in the market, as sales in 2018 increased by 40% compared to last year, with up to 14,400 units sold. After releasing its first model, the CUPRA Ateca, now the brand’s plan to double sales within the next three to five years will materialize with the unveiling of the CUPRA Formentor.
The CUPRA Formentor is a concept-car full of character, one sculpted to emphasize its varied attributes and the last word in sophistication, one that exudes emotion.
The CUPRA Formentor is closer to the ground to highlight its sportiness, with a visual emphasis placed towards the rear of the vehicle while at the same time accentuating the length of the bonnet, underscoring its dynamic proportions.
Technology is at the forefront inside the vehicle with the integration of the digital cockpit putting all the necessary driving information right in front of the driver, and a 10” panoramic floating navigation system providing a near endless source of functionality and connectivity to the occupants.
Polestar
At the Geneva Motor Show, the Polestar 2 is the first electric car to compete in the marketplace around the Tesla Model .
Polestar 2 is a premium five-door fastback with two electric motors and a 78 kWh battery capacity that will enable a targeted range of 500 km3, based on Volvo Car Group’s adaptable Compact Modular Architecture platform (CMA). The 27-module battery pack is integrated into the floor and contributes to the rigidity of the chassis as well as improves the car’s noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels – road noise has been reduced by 3.7 dB compared to a traditional chassis.
For Polestar, performance underlies the entire driving experience. The all-wheel drive electric powertrain in Polestar 2 produces 300 kW (408 hp) and 660 Nm (487 lb-ft). This translates to a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of less than 5 seconds.
The standard dynamic chassis can be enhanced by the Performance Pack that improves driving dynamics with Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes and unique 20-inch forged wheels. Polestar’s signature gold seat belts, brake callipers and valve caps complete the performance visuals.
Highlighting the technology spearhead role that Polestar plays within the Volvo Car Group, Polestar 2 is one of the first cars in the world to embed an infotainment system powered by Android. The Android backbone provides a solid and adaptable digital environment for apps and vehicle functions to coexist, and brings embedded Google services to a car for the first time – including the Google Assistant, Google Maps with support for electric vehicles and the Google Play Store5. Natural voice control and a new 11-inch touch screen display bring the new interface to life.
Phone-as-Key technology enables car sharing and a more integrated ownership experience, as well as Polestar’s connected services such as pick-up and delivery. It also allows Polestar 2 to sense the driver upon approach. Smart features like enlarged graphics in the instrument cluster allow the driver to easily see the charging status and range before entering the car. Polestar 2 can also predetermine the driver’s next move to create a seamless experience with a prepared cabin and quick start sequence.
In common with all Polestar cars, Polestar 2 will only be available for ordering online.
Peugeot
Peugeot has announced a new brand signature to accompany its transition towards electrification: ‘MOTION & e-MOTION’, and will unveil a refashioned Lion emblem on a new model at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show.
Adapted from the brand’s familiar ‘MOTION & EMOTION’ signature introduced in 2010, the new ‘MOTION & e-MOTION’ wording signals the start of PEUGEOT’s plan to provide a fully electrified PEUGEOT range by 2023, as set out by Managing Director David Peel at the 2019 National Dealer Conference.
The new brand signature will be displayed alongside a revamped electrified version of the PEUGEOT Lion emblem at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, symbolising the electrification of the brand with green and blue dichroic light effects and reflections on its sculpted surfaces.
Created by PEUGEOT’s Design Lab to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the PEUGEOT emblem, the existing Lion debuted at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show to visualise the pride and strength of the brand. The green and blue sheen of the 2019 PEUGEOT Lion will be used as a central style cue on a new model, symbolising the bold move PEUGEOT is making towards electrification.
The MOTION & e-MOTION tagline has already been used to drive PEUGEOT’s electric ambitions with the PEUGEOT e-LEGEND concept unveiled last year, and will be instrumental to the PHEV technology introduced at the end of 2019 in models including the PEUGEOT 3008 SUV, all-new 508 Fastback and 508 SW.
SEAT
SEAT el-Born will make its first appearance in front of the world’s media at the Volkswagen Group night, before its public debut at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show. SEAT el-Born is a concept car that answers the varied questions posed by the electric revolution, and becomes a game changer in the process.
SEAT el-Born is the first 100% electric vehicle based on the Volkswagen Group MEB platform. A concept car named after one of the most iconic neighborhood of Barcelona. An inspiration for designers and engineers of SEAT who have created a sporty vehicle with the most advanced electric technology.
The vehicle is designed and developed in Barcelona and will be manufactured at the Zwickau plant in Germany; SEAT will be the second brand to introduce an all-electric vehicle based on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform. The car is expected to hit markets by 2020.
With a power and energy dense battery pack at its very center giving the SEAT el-Born a range of up to 420km on the WLTP official test cycle and the ability to reach 100km/h in only 7.5 seconds, the vehicle is as dynamic and practical as you are expecting it of a SEAT. Add to this the ability to recharge the battery in as little as 47 minutes and it starts to change the perceptions of electrification.
The SEAT el-Born isn’t just about the promise of usable electrification, but the integration of other technologies too. The vehicle incorporates autonomous functionality to support the driver as well as a host of assistance systems.
Volkswagen Dune Buggy
Volkswagen is bringing a legend back to life! At the beginning of March, the Wolfsburg-based company will reveal the first fully electric version of a new dune buggy. Taking its cues from popular American dune buggies, the concept vehicle is based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB), demonstrating how multifaceted the new platform is.
The concept of the fully electric buggy is based on the vehicles that were created in the 1960s in California. Back then, the Beetle chassis served as the basis for these buggies; now, the MEB is proving to be just as flexible. True to the original vehicles, this reinterpretation of a dune buggy has no fixed roof or conventional doors, while the large wheels and off-road tires and open side sills dominate the overall look.
The new MEB concept vehicle shows that this fully electric platform can be used for more than just large-scale series production models. Like the Beetle chassis of yesteryear, the MEB has the potential to facilitate the development of low-volume niche vehicles.
The history of recreational vehicles and Volkswagen technology is a long one. From the Beetle convertible and special bodies produced by companies such as Hebmüller and Rometsch to dune buggies like the Meyers Manx, the Beetle chassis allowed for creative custom solutions for decades. Globally, around 250,000 individual vehicles were built as one-offs or at low volumes through to the 1980s.