The electric hot hatch is here: VW will electrify the GTI
VW has shown an electric version of its classic GTI hot hatch. It’s just a concept so far, but VW says the all-electric ID. GTI is planned for eventual production.
The electric VW ID. GTI concept was unveiled today in advance of the IAA auto show in Munich, Germany.
The original Golf GTI, released in 1976, was the first VW to use fuel injection, thus the model name which stands for Grand Touring Injection. VW expanded the GTI designation to other performance-oriented models, and the VW Golf GTI has been popular as an affordable but quick hot hatch, defining the segment.
So lending this designation to a future electric model is a big deal, showing that VW thinks the coming electric ID. GTI will be worthy of that heritage (especially since it said it wouldn’t use the GTI designation for the ID.3 hot hatch version).
VW said that the new ID. GTI will use this classic naming convention, despite the lack of a fuel injection system, replacing “injection” with “intelligence.” The “I’ now stands for “intelligent thinking in the sports-car world,” says VW.
The ID. GTI concept is based on the ID. 2all, a small and inexpensive electric hatchback. The 2all is expected to start under 25,000 Euros (~$27k USD), but VW doesn’t have a price yet for the ID. GTI. We’re sure it will be more, but if it’s starting from an inexpensive platform to begin with, that’s a good sign.
Other than that, we don’t have a lot of specs. It’s an inch taller than the Golf GTI, two inches wider, and seven inches shorter in length (though with just 1 inch shorter wheelbase). Due to this shorter length, it has slightly less rear cargo space than the Golf GTI, but more cargo space with the seats folded down, and it sits on slightly larger tires and wheels. And those are about all the specs that VW shared – nothing powertrain-related, yet.
We do know that the ID. GTI concept is planned to be front-wheel drive, like the 2all is. And it will have what VW is calling “GTI Experience Control,” a new system that VW says will allow drivers to adjust various aspects of vehicle dynamics. This includes adding sounds and simulated shift points – allowing you to pretend that your car is running on a noisy gas engine with a narrow power band instead of a superior electric one, if that takes your fancy for some weird reason.
The exterior has various sport-oriented touches, like a spoiler and big rear diffuser, front tow hooks, and black side skirts.
While it’s only a concept, everything about the exterior looks pretty realistic. We can imagine the final version will look somewhat like this.
On the interior, however, things get a little different. VW says it wants to incorporate an extensive augmented-reality heads-up display.
VW hasn’t released photos of this interior, but has released concept renderings of it. It looks quite futuristic – perhaps excessively so.
But then, these are renders, so who knows what the real thing will look like. We can imagine the sport seats and 12.9-inch touchscreen display will make it to production, and perhaps some sort of HUD, but maybe a little less extreme than these concept drawings suggest.
VW has said that “the decision has been taken that [the ID. GTI] will go into production,” but so far we have no date for when this will happen. The concept looks fairly far along, in terms of external design, but the interior is obviously not finished, nor can the powertrain be finished since we have no details on it (other than that the battery with be low-slung in the vehicle, helping lower the center of gravity, as has become the standard in EVs). So we don’t know when to expect it, but it will happen, eventually, says VW.
Electrek’s Take
We were all pretty excited when we saw this hit the newsroom, especially with this year’s proliferation of gigantic 3-row electric land yachts which seem to be taking the place of anything reasonably-sized. It’s nice to see a company offering something in the opposite direction, and especially in a segment, hot hatches, that is renowned by enthusiasts for offering little compromise between fun and practicality.
A few years ago Mercedes announced an electric EQA hot hatch, but later stole the EQA name and gave it to yet another bland crossover SUV that looks like literally every other car on the road, and we’ve heard nothing more about the awesome electric hot hatch concept. As you can tell, we’re still miffed about that.
So here’s a chance to get a real electric hot hatch, from the brand that defines the segment, at what seems like it might be a reasonable price, and with a production commitment – but with an unspecified date, and few details otherwise.
It’s good news on balance, and we can’t wait to hear more. As long as this one doesn’t go the way of the EQA.
Though I will say that one odd thing about this is the front-wheel drive layout. Many hot hatches use front-wheel drive, but this is because a gas engine can go under the hood and drive the front wheels, meaning no need for a driveshaft to transfer torque to the rear wheels, saving space and complexity in a small vehicle.
With an electric car, smaller electric motors can be put anywhere, and a driveshaft isn’t necessary. So a rear- or all-wheel drive version would be quite easy to do, and would give performance benefits as well (driving the rear wheels makes a car quicker, because weight transfers to the rear under acceleration).
Front-wheel drive has benefits for less-experienced drivers and in low-traction scenarios, but for a performance-oriented enthusiast vehicle like the GTI, we’d love to see rear- or all-wheel drive options at some point.
But there’s still time to go before this car hits the road, and we don’t really know any specs yet, so maybe this is in the plans. We’re certainly looking forward to hearing more about this, because we need some more fun, affordable hatchback EVs, especially with the Bolt EV going out of production this year (though Chevy says it will come back eventually).
What do you think of the GTI concept? Let us know in the comments.
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Japanese equipment giant Komatsu dropped its new, 320-ton Power Agnostic 930E mining truck at MinsExpo trade show in Las Vegas, calling it a future-ready solution that can run on diesel, hydrogen, or pure electric power.
Komatsu continues to develop alternative engine technology with the release of its first commercial rigid-frame dump truck with a “power agnostic” platform for running on diesel, hydrogen, or even battery electric power.
That’s because the platform is designed around the concept of a modular powertrain. The design not only gives the Komatsu assembly line an easy way to build diesel, BEV, and hydrogen fuel cell rigid haulers on the same line, but also enables customers to upgrade from diesel to battery electric or hydrogen down the road, if and when whatever logistical obstacles that are preventing them from running an electric or hydrogen solution today are overcome.
“This platform enables mining companies to start with conventional diesel engines and gradually transition to cleaner energy sources as needed, including utilization of trolley assist for diesel or as one of the future dynamic charging solutions for battery trucks to reduce fuel consumption and emissions,” reads Komatsu’s press material. “Whether adopting battery technology, hydrogen fuel cell technology or a combination of energy systems, the Power Agnostic 930E provides the infrastructure and adaptability necessary to meet evolving sustainability goals.”
Potential customers got a sneak peek at the concept truck, which they were apparently allowed to test at Komatsu’s Arizona proving grounds ahead of MineExpo (I wasn’t invited). The first pre-production Power Agnostic 930E prototype will make its way to Sweden in the coming months, where it will be put to work alongside other electric Komatsu machines in Boliden’s Aitik copper mine, one of the largest such operations on the European continent.
Electrek’s Take
Converting gas and diesel-fueled cars to electric at scale is a concept that’s fraught with problems. Far too many to list here, in fact. But heavy equipment?
Everything from excavators to loaders to heavy trucks are already built to be powertrain agnostic, and manufacturers will often offer the same basic vehicle with Cummins, Detroit Diesel, or Volvo Pentapower, so there’s a degree of openness baked into those systems already. Komatsu is just taking that to the next level by adding a modularity of energy storage (fuel tanks, hydrogen cells, or battery packs) to the mix. And, if the project is successful, it could be the first of many.
SOURCE | IMAGES: Komatsu; Equipment World.
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isinwheel’s terrific personal EVs “bring all the things you want closer to you.” Whether it’s an electric scooter, an e-bike, or an e-skateboard, the three things you’re guaranteed to get no matter which you choose are fun, safety, and affordability.
We’re taking a closer look below at six of isinwheel’s personal EVs – could one of these be your next electric ride?
Table of contents
isinwheel S9Pro commuting electric scooter
Meet the isinwheel S9Pro, the best value-for-money electric scooter that zips you through your day at speeds up to 19 mph with a range of 19 miles – perfect for your daily commute.
The S9Pro‘s powerful 350W motor delivers a smooth, efficient ride without breaking the bank. With a lightweight, foldable aluminum frame, it’s easy to carry, store, and even pop into your car trunk or onto public transport. Plus, the quick one-step folding mechanism makes it the ultimate on-the-go companion.
You can find the S9Pro on Amazon here.
isinwheel S10Max long-range electric scooter
The isinwheel S10Max is your ultimate high-performance ride, powered by a beastly 1000W motor that conquers any terrain with ease. With an impressive range of up to 37 miles, you can enjoy long-distance adventures without worrying about recharging.
The S10Max‘s all-terrain 10-inch off-road tires, paired with dual shock absorption, provide unbeatable grip and stability whether you’re cruising through city streets, on country paths, or on muddy trails.
You can find the S10Max on Amazon here.
isinwheel GT2 off-road electric scooter
Unleash your adventurous side with the isinwheel GT2. With a powerful 1000W motor, it rockets up to 28 mph, effortlessly conquering steep hills and challenging landscapes for a thrilling ride every time.
Its 11-inch off-road tires are built for all terrains, whether you’re cruising through the city or tackling rugged countryside paths. Plus, with four advanced shock absorbers, every ride is smooth and stable, no matter where your journey takes you. Get ready to ride the GT2 and experience performance like never before!
You can find the GT2 on Amazon here.
isinwheel M10 electric commuter bike
The isinwheel M10 electric commuter bike blends style with power. Crafted from lightweight, rust-resistant aluminum alloy, this sleek ride weighs just 47 pounds, making it easy to carry and tough enough to last.
With a professional 35-speed transmission, the M10 adapts to your every need, whether you’re accelerating, cruising downhill, or conquering steep inclines. With a 500W motor capacity, a top speed of 20 mph, 374 Wh battery capacity, and four hours of charging time, it’s the perfect blend of performance and convenience for your daily commute!
You can find the M10 on Amazon here.
isinwheel U1 folding electric bike
Say hello to the versatile isinwheel U1! With folding handlebars, pedals, and a height-adjustable seat, it’s perfect for easy storage and transport. The U1’s 500W motor comes with a smart chip that instantly adapts to give you that extra boost when you hit an incline, face a headwind, or carry more weight.
The U1 has a top speed of 18 mph, 280 Wh of battery capacity, and three hours of charging time. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or tackling hills, the U1 has you covered with power and portability.
You can find the U1 on Amazon here.
Check out isinwheel’s V8, V6 and V10 electric skateboards
The isinwheel V8 electric skateboard is your ticket to thrilling rides, featuring a top speed of 28 mph and a range of up to 12 miles. Its removable, detachable batteries allow for quick swaps, so you can extend your adventure with ease. Choose from four riding modes and let the gorgeous ambient lights make you stand out, whether you’re cruising in daylight or lighting up the night. With its powerful dual 540W motors and regenerative braking system, the V8 delivers a ride that’s as exhilarating as it is stylish.
The V8 is isinwheel’s first-gen electric skateboard, and we’ve also taken it to the next level. The V6 is perfect for teens and beginners, and the high-performance V10 is for those who crave more power. But we’re not stopping there – this September, we’re launching the V6 PRO, the ultimate cool ride for young skaters and newbies. Stay tuned; it’s going to be epic!
You can find the V8/V6/V10 on Amazon here.
Follow isinwheel on Instagram here, on X here, on YouTube here, and on Facebook here.
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It’s no Ferrari, but owning a sporty little Fiat 500e is about as close to putting a cavallino rampante in the garage as most of us will ever get. And if we act soon, we could do just that for 30% less money than before.
Fiat parent company Stellantis is giving dealers the ability to offer buyers up to $3,000 in coupons and incentives to help move its slow-selling 2024 FIAT 500e coupes. When paired with a $7,500 factory lease credit through Stellantis Financial, those coupons lead CarsDirect analysts to call the 500e one of the most affordable new EVs on the market.
The math maths
Between coupons and Stellantis Financial cash, that’s $10,500 in potential discounts before negotiations even begin. With a base MSRP of $34,095 with destination for a 2024 500e, that’s a JC Penney-style 31% off, with an additional 2% (presumably) within easy reach.
According to CarsDirect, the biggest downside of the coupon program is that it’s still unadvertised, which means there’s no way of telling how much of the allowable discount dealers are actually including in prices. But (as GI Joe taught us) knowing is half the battle, so click here to find deals on a new Fiat 500e near you, and make “are you applying those $3,000 in Stellantis coupons” one of your first questions.
Electrek’s Take
Small cars have never sold well in America. Not even great ones like the OG Honda CRX or Suzuki Swift GTi. Americans tend to buy for low use case scenarios, which is a fancy way of saying that, if an American thinks they’ll need a pickup 2-3 days/year, they’ll convince themselves to drive a pickup for the other 362 days. The British want more taxes than Americans wanted to pay in 1775, and today we have more gun shops than McDonald’s … just in case.
The little Fiat, in other words, was never going to be a volume player in the US. And that’s too bad, because the little 117 hp microcar is, by all accounts, fun to drive, zippy, and unquestionably cool. The media at large, though, has complained about the 37 kWh battery and 149 miles of EPA range – calling both “inadequate,” despite the fact that the first-generation Nissan LEAF had objectively inferior specs and sold 200,000 examples before getting its first significant upgrade in 2016. And, frankly, that Nissan had about as much style as a hospital gown.
So, while it may not offer what most car buyers think they need – as a second car, or a fun, urban runabout for lighthearted singles, the little Fiat is tough to beat (especially in red).
Click here to see what it will cost to put one in your garage.
SOURCE | IMAGES: Stellantis, via CarsDirect.
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