“Poland cannot produce a car named Milano (Milan), which is prohibited by Italian law.” Italian Industry Minister Adolf Urso said.

When talking about why the name Junior was chosen as the brand’s first mass-produced electric car, Alfa Romeo CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato said it was closely related to the brand’s history, citing the best-selling 1966 model at the time. Take the GT 1300 Junior as an example.

Junior is the first pure electric model under the Alfa Romeo brand. It is positioned as a small SUV, lower than the Tonale. The new car will be produced on the e-CMP2 platform together with the Jeep Avenger. It will be the first to launch a pure electric version, and will later add a plug-in hybrid version. It is planned to be launched in the European market in September.

Looking back at the appearance of the new car, the front face adopts a new design style, but the grille still retains the family characteristics and embeds the brand LOGO into it. The shape of the headlights on both sides has changed even more. The flat light group and the lower trim strip form a boomerang shape, creating a sharper visual effect. The lower enclosure adopts a through-type design, which can help lower the visual center, and is equipped with vents on both sides to help the brake system dissipate heat.

From the side of the body, you can see that the new car adopts a fastback design. Although it is a pure electric model, it does not use hidden door handles. The 20-inch wheels are equipped with front four-piston calipers for outstanding performance. The taillight design of the vehicle echoes the headlights, and is decorated in black to create a duck tail shape. The D-pillar is also equipped with an embossed brand LOGO, which is full of details.

In terms of interior, the new car also adopts a new design style. Two 10.25-inch displays provide the proper sense of technology. The instrument panel has a very unique shape. At the same time, the air-conditioning outlet is also equipped with a light-up LOGO to enhance the sense of sophistication. In terms of configuration, the new car will be equipped with the latest infotainment system. The seats will be wrapped in leather and Alcantara splicing materials. It will also be equipped with front-row mobile phone wireless charging and L2 driver assistance functions.

In terms of power, the entry-level model is equipped with a 156-horsepower motor and a 54kWh battery. The WLTP operating range is 410km. The maximum power of the motor is increased to 240 horsepower. The car is also equipped with a sports suspension and the body height will be lowered by 25mm. The hybrid version is expected to be launched in 2025. It will use a combination of a 1.2L engine and a 48V motor. The engine has a maximum power of 136 horsepower. The transmission system is matched with a 6-speed dual-clutch, and front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models are available.

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Designed by a team of engineers who have built cars such as the 4C, 8C and Giulia GTA, the team said the Milano will have “the best driving dynamics and handling in its class” and officially described it as “a fusion of… An SUV crossover with a sporty heart, compact dimensions and instantly recognizable Italian design.

The new vehicle is built on parent company Stellantis’ e-CMP platform, which also powers the Jeep Avenger. Milano is equipped with a 54kWh battery pack with a cruising range of up to 250 miles (Note: approximately 402.34 kilometers), and the cruising range can even reach 366 miles (approximately 589.02 kilometers) in urban conditions.

Milano is available in two configurations: ELETTRICA and VELOCE. The ELETTRICA model has 156 horsepower and a range of up to 250 miles, while the sportier VELOCE model has 240 horsepower.

Measuring 4.17 meters in length, 1.78 meters in width and 1.5 meters in height respectively, Milano is positioned as a small SUV, similar in size to the new Volvo EX30.

Alfa Romeo has retained its signature design elements on the Milano, such as the shortened front and rear overhangs and prominent wheel arches, and also adopted the brand’s signature “Kamm rear wing” as a tribute to the Giulia TZ. The front of the new car uses 3+3 adaptive full-LED matrix headlights with sharp styling.

Inside, the Milano features a “Cannochiale” cabin layout inspired by its classic models, with dual 10.25-inch TFT displays and infotainment system. Another cool feature is the four-leaf clover-shaped design of the air conditioning vents.

Despite its compact dimensions, the Milano has “the largest luggage compartment in its class of all-electric vehicles,” with a maximum cargo capacity of 400 litres. Alfa Romeo offers a number of driver assistance features, including an optional Level 2 autonomous driving system. Other optional features include 360-degree parking sensors and a 180-degree rear camera for semi-autonomous parking.

Alfa Romeo said that thanks to the most direct steering system in its class (14:1 for VELOCE models), Milano’s handling is more precise and its driving dynamics are better. VELOCE models are also 25mm lower than ELETTRICA models and feature “extra sporty” front and rear anti-roll bars and Torsen differentials. Alfa Romeo said the Milano will also be equipped with a D.N.A driving mode switching system, offering three modes: Dynamic, Natural and Advanced Eco.

The Milano supports 100kW fast charging, which can top up the battery from 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes. In addition, this electric SUV also integrates an electric vehicle route planning function into the navigation system to help drivers quickly find charging piles.

Alfa Romeo says the Milano will be available for ordering in early summer, with pricing expected to be announced closer to launch.

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“It’s true that plug-in hybrid sales are growing,” said Corey Cantor, an electric vehicle analyst at Bloomberg New Energy Finance. “These vehicles, which have both batteries and internal combustion engines, will see a staggering increase in sales from 2022 to 2023.” 48%. However, even such a fast growth rate cannot catch up with the 51% growth rate of pure electric vehicles. More importantly, the sales base of pure electric vehicles is even larger.”

It is noted that the report also showed that Stellantis Group’s products accounted for 46% of the total sales of plug-in hybrid vehicles in the U.S. market in 2023, of which models such as the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Chrysler Pacifica hybrid contributed a lot. Plug-in hybrids from Toyota and Lexus came in second, accounting for 15% of total sales. Models from Hyundai, Kia and Volvo (Geely) also occupy part of the market, but these brands all sell more pure electric vehicles than plug-in hybrids.

So is there no future for plug-in hybrids? Reports suggest otherwise, but sales figures suggest the future of plug-in hybrids remains unclear. Plug-in hybrids are often considered a solution to ease the range anxiety of electric vehicles, but in actual use, whether PHEVs can truly solve the problem and whether they are economical is still open to question. For example, Bloomberg New Energy Finance’s battery price survey shows that batteries for plug-in hybrids will cost nearly three times more than battery electric vehicles, at $343/kWh in 2023 compared with $128/kWh. While a $7,500 IRA tax credit can help offset some of the cost, models like the Toyota Prius Prime and RAV4 Prime, which are both made in Japan, are not eligible for the credit. In addition, considering that plug-in hybrid vehicles account for less than 2% of Toyota’s sales, it seems unrealistic to transform the production line into catering to this small part of the market.

Compared with pure electric vehicles and non-plug-in hybrid vehicles, the technology of plug-in hybrid vehicles also appears to be somewhat backward. For example, models such as the Jeep Wrangler 4xe have shorter range and poor fuel economy in non-electric mode. If more affordable plug-in hybrids with longer electric range could be introduced, they might be able to attract more buyers.

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▲ Hyundai Ioniq 5

A software error was found in the integrated charge control unit (ICCU) of 169,932 Hyundai and Kia vehicles. Affected models include:

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Genesis GV60

Genesis GV70

Genesis GV80

Kia EV6

The department said the software error could prevent the vehicle from receiving low-voltage charging, which could cause the vehicle to stop while driving. In addition to the recall of nearly 170,000 vehicles in South Korea, the fault will affect about 600,000 vehicles worldwide, and the recall will begin on March 18.

Hyundai Motor said that for the recalled vehicles, it will update the software and if any fault problems are found, the ICCU will be replaced free of charge.

This time, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of South Korea announced that a total of 232,000 models of Hyundai, Kia, Stratis and Tesla have been recalled due to production defects. In addition to the above 170,000 vehicles, Summary he remaining recalled models as follows:

61,131 Hyundai Avante (Elantra) vehicles recalled due to headlight durability issues

527 Jeep Cherokees: The reversing light installation position is higher than the standard

148 Jeep Wrangler PHEVs: High-voltage battery defective

136 Tesla Model 3s: Pedestrian siren does not activate when driving at low speeds or reversing

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The recall of Jeep Grand Cherokees produced between 2021 and 2023 is due to the risk of the steering device breaking, which may cause the wheels to fall off and make noise while driving. Jeep said the relevant parts may have been damaged during the manufacturing process, and it is estimated that about 1% of vehicles have the above-mentioned problem. Jeep will replace risky steering mechanism parts for owners free of charge through vehicle recalls.

The recall of Jeep Grand Cherokee produced between 2023 and 2024 is due to a problem with the vehicle’s high beam controller. If the light switch is set to Auto, the vehicle may not be able to turn on the high beams. Jeep will recall the affected vehicles and update the software to resolve the issue.

The reason for the recall of RAM Promaster models produced between 2022 and 2023 is that the vehicle may have a problem with the seat belt switch sensing magnet malfunctioning. Even when the driver fastens the seat belt, the vehicle may still prompt that the seat belt is not fastened. North American car owners can log in to www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter the vehicle identification number to check whether their vehicle is involved in the above problems, or call their local dealer for specific information.

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Judging from the leaked official pictures, the front face design of the new car continues the shape of the previous concept car, and the family-style 7-hole grille is conceptually interpreted and retained symbolically. Like many current electric vehicles, it also has a through-type light group and a simple front surround.

The side of the new car is more dynamic than the Wagoneer. The suspended roof and rice-shaped wheels are very fashionable. Its roof may look relatively straight from the front and side, but in fact, it has a large rear spoiler installed at the rear of the roof, which lengthens the visual effect of the roof.

According to previous news, the entire car series is equipped with dual motors as standard, with a maximum power of 600 horsepower, an acceleration of 0-96km/h in only 3.5 seconds, and a maximum range of 400 miles (approximately 644km).

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Stellantis’ upcoming D-Class, E-Class and other large vehicles will be based on the platform, which features embedded energy sources, high-performance power and charging efficiencies, and excellent off-road road ratings, according to the release. Products based on the platform will cover a full range of sedans, crossovers and SUVs, and will be launched this year.

The platform can choose 400V, 800V electrical architecture, the performance of the powertrain can be in the effective life cycle of the vehicle through the OTA wireless upgrade software updates, said to have assembly beyond the existing Hellcat V-8s (Note: corresponds to the Dodge “Hellcat” series of models, equipped with a V8 engine) power potential. The potential is there.

In terms of power, an early version of the power pack has the potential to accelerate the vehicle from 0-100 km/h in around 2 seconds, and a fast-charging feature adds 4.5 kilowatt-hours of power per minute to the 800-volt battery pack.

The platform also supports hybrid and fuel power without affecting the main performance of the vehicle. The platform’s main parameters are as follows:

Length range: 4764-5126 mm.

Vehicle width range: 1897-2030 mm

Vehicle wheelbase range: 2870-3075 mm

Vehicle ground clearance range: 140-288 mm

Maximum tire diameter: 858 mm

Jeep’s Wagoneer S, a classic full-size SUV positioned above the Cherokee, has also been unveiled as an all-electric model that will go on sale in the U.S. in the fall of this year. Not only does it have the ability to navigate all terrains, it also comes equipped with a 600-hp powertrain and accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. The car will go on sale in the U.S. this fall.

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From the appearance point of view, the Wagoneer EV overall continues the appearance design of the previous Wagoneer S concept car. The only difference is that the Wagoneer letter logo on the front of the car has been cancelled. The car is equipped with sharp headlights and a through-type LED light strip. The classic 7-hole grille shape has been retained, and it adopts a light-up design. Together with the metal decoration below, the entire front of the car is full of a sci-fi futuristic feel. .

“Wagoneer S concept car”

Looking back at the previously released Wagoneer S concept car, the car adopts a relatively smooth body line, which is more rounded than the current fuel version of the Wagoneer and can bring a lower drag coefficient. The car is equipped with large multi-spoke wheels and blue brake calipers to highlight its identity as an electric car. In addition, you can see from the roof that the car adopts a panoramic sunroof and a floating rear spoiler design.

In terms of power, Wagoneer EV uses pure electric drive with a maximum power of 600 horsepower, and is equipped with a four-wheel drive system and Jeep all-terrain driving mode selection system. The car’s 0-96km/h acceleration time is only 3.5 seconds, and its maximum cruising range is expected to reach 400 miles (approximately 644km).

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Toyota plans to launch a new range of cars starting in 2026 that will be based on the modular architecture unveiled last October and feature next-generation batteries that significantly improve range and efficiency. Andrea Carlucci, Toyota’s head of product development, said the boldly styled B-segment SUV concept “strongly signals Toyota’s position as a significant contributor to European electric vehicle sales in the coming years.”

Toyota will unveil the car’s full specifications in the first half of 2024 and take the wraps off the yet-to-be-named production version.

For now, Toyota has only confirmed the dimensions of the Urban Crossover: 4300mm long, 1820mm wide and 1620mm high. The car looks very similar to Suzuki’s recently announced eVX concept car. The two companies have a strategic partnership and collaborate on certain models, but Toyota executives did not disclose the specific relationship between the two cars.

It is understood that the Urban Crossover is built on a dedicated platform related to the e-TNGA platform used by the bZ4X SUV. The car will serve as an electric replacement for the current Yaris Cross hybrid model and will be the smallest electric car in Toyota’s lineup, “at least for the time being.” However, the car won’t be priced at the same price point as the Yaris Cross, with Carlucci hinting that there’s “a certain premium” for electric cars.

In order to strike a balance between affordability and practicality, the car will be available in two battery versions, of which the larger capacity battery is expected to provide a cruising range of approximately 250 miles (Note: approximately 402.34 kilometers), in line with the The city positioning of the car. The car will also be available with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive powertrains.

Carlucci stressed that the urban SUV segment is now the most popular in Europe, adding: “We have had great success with the Yaris Cross and we do not intend to leave any space for our competitors.”

The Urban Crossover, Compact Crossover and Sport Crossover concepts, together with the bZ4X, will make up four of the six electric vehicles Toyota will launch by 2026. Details of the remaining two vehicles have yet to be confirmed, but indications are that they will be SUVs similar to the RAV4 and seven-seat Highlander.

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According to the automaker Stellantis, due to potential battery problems that may cause vehicle fires, the company recalled more than 45,000 2021-2024 Wrangler 4xe models in overseas markets on the eve of the Thanksgiving holiday, of which 32,125 were recalled in the U.S. market. vehicles, 3,856 vehicles were recalled in the Canadian market, and 9,249 vehicles were recalled in other countries and regions.

The company said there have been eight vehicle fires caused by the problem. The vehicles were parked at the time of the fire and six of them were charging.

Stellantis said affected Jeep Wrangler 4xe models can still be driven normally during this period, but they must follow the above warnings, avoid charging, and maintain space when parking.

Car owners need to make an appointment with the dealer for repair, and the dealer will flash the diagnostic software on the vehicle to determine whether the vehicle belongs to one percent of the recall group (about 300 vehicles). Stellantis suspects that these vehicles are defective and need to be replaced with new battery packs. .

Stellantis confirmed the recall is not related to last year’s recall of some 2023 and 2023 Wrangler 4xe models due to a battery fuse assembly issue that could cause overheating.

There was also a recall of a larger batch of Wrangler 4xe models in November 2022. That recall was due to an issue that could cause the hybrid system to go into fail-safe mode and the engine to stop.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Wrangler 4xe can travel 22 miles (Note: approximately 35.41 kilometers) in pure electric mode.

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