Porsche will launch a new range of branded EV chargers alongside its new Taycan
Our reporters empty their notebooks to round up a week in gossip from across the automotive industry
In this week’s summary of motoring meetings, we hear about Porsche’s plans to develop new electric vehicle infrastructure, Ssangyong’s difficulties as a low-volume value car maker, and more.
Porsche is Taycan EV infrastructure up a notch
Porsche will offer branded fast-charging points at destinations such as hotels when the Taycan EV is launched, according to Porsche UK boss Marcus Eckermann. The chargers will be open to users of other makes of EV and Porsche will also tap into the Ionity network, part-funded by the Volkswagen Group.
Seat’s glass is half full
The pressure to cut emissions and switch to EVs will prove tough not just for Seat but also the industry as a whole, according to CEO Luca de Meo: “It will be a hard proving ground before a new era of automotive can blossom again. The next two or three years will be challenging, but the next 10 will probably be fantastic, for the whole industry.”
Europe’s getting in estate
The BMW 3 Series is best known as a saloon, but buyers in Germany – where more than a third of 3 Series are sold – prefer estates. The firm says 67% of the models sold in Germany to date have been Touring versions. Italian buyers are most keen on the estate, with 73% choosing it over the saloon. By contrast, 73% of UK buyers opt for the saloon.
The cost of compliance
The growing need for advanced safety systems means it’s not credible for smaller brands to be entirely focused on value, according to Ssangyong UK managing director Nick Laird. “Small brands can’t also be cheap brands, unless you under-invest in the long term,” he said. “That’s going to require niche brands to go more upmarket. Ssangyong has always been SUV-focused – which more brands are becoming – but we need to work hard to be different to the others.”
Read more
New BMW 3 Series Touring launched with focus on sharp handling
Electric Porsche Taycan makes dynamic debut at Goodwood
Ionity to expand EV fast charger network at Extra services
Source: Autocar
