Electric car - the new affordable segment (I wish)

As a passionate advocate for electric vehicles and the proud owner of a Tesla Model Y, I recently found myself engrossed in contemplation about the future of electric cars while witnessing Rivian's unveiling of their latest innovations, the R2 and the intriguing "one more thing" R3 and R3X. Rivian's bold leap forward marks a significant stride for the American car manufacturer, yet it also reignited my contemplation on the current state of electric vehicle availability, especially in Europe.

Reflecting on my extensive 6000 km European road trip from France to Romania and back in my Tesla Model Y (by the way, I'm planning a similar journey this summer, including a detour in the south of France, totaling over 6000 km, any potential sponsors out there?), I couldn't help but recognize the challenges posed by its substantial size.

With dimensions of 4.80 meters in length and 2 meters in width, navigating urban settings and narrower roads across Europe can sometimes prove impractical. This experience prompted me to envision an electric vehicle crafted to fulfill both practical and environmental needs, a vehicle I would eagerly trade my Model Y for.

Here's my vision:

Size Matters

Size is undeniably a pivotal consideration. I envisage a compact car, drawing inspiration from iconic models like the Volkswagen Golf, and the beloved Toyota Prius, with dimensions ideally falling between 4.20 to 4.40 meters in length and around 1.80 meters in width.

In advocating for this vision, I propose a departure from the dominance of SUVs and crossovers, favoring the return of space-efficient wagons or hatchbacks. These vehicles promise enhanced storage capabilities and maneuverability, catering to diverse markets and driving conditions.

Empowering Performance with Battery Innovation

At the core of every electric vehicle lies its battery, a critical component defining its capabilities. Consider a reference range of 250+ km, spanning from 80 to 10%, translating to approximately two hours of highway driving at an average speed of 130 km/h. With an average consumption rate of 200 Wh/km to sustain this speed, one would require approximately 65 kWh of usable energy, with an additional 10% buffer, totaling around 70 kWh. This configuration promises a WLTP range exceeding 500 km, achievable with current battery technology .

There's a compelling case for offering a smaller entry-level battery option, around 55 kWh including the buffer. This caters to individuals seeking to minimize weight, range, or cost considerations. While such a configuration may necessitate meticulous trip planning and more frequent stops for long road trips, it provides a viable alternative for budget-conscious consumers.

Considering the battery's significant weight, my optimism hinges on the continuous enhancement of energy density. This critical improvement not only promises to reduce vehicle weight but also enhances driving dynamics and potentially lowers costs. It's a pivotal step forward in the evolution of electric vehicles, offering a path towards greater efficiency and affordability.

Evolving Charging Infrastructure

The efficient development of charging infrastructure stands as a linchpin for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. In this regard, I underscore the critical importance of both density and speed within charging networks. A well-organized network, boasting multiple charging nodes within close proximity, not only ensures convenience but also enhances accessibility for EV owners, facilitating seamless travel experiences across vast distances.

An inclusive approach is paramount, wherein the charging network is open to all electric vehicle models, irrespective of make or brand. Reflecting on my own experience with purchasing a Tesla Model Y, the Tesla Supercharger network emerges as a global benchmark for deployment, maintenance, and operation—a remarkable achievement in its own right. Notably, in Europe, commendable efforts are made by networks like Fastned, Electra, Ionity, among others, in bolstering charging infrastructure. (Don't forget about my European road trip this summer, folks!)

The speed of charge, denoting the rate at which the battery assimilates energy from the charger, typically ranges between 2c and 3c, where 'c' represents the charge/discharge rate correlated to battery capacity. For instance, with a 70 kWh battery, the top charging rate would fall between 150 kW and 210 kW.

It's crucial to understand that charging is non-linear, a key point to consider. Charging does not progress in a straight line; thus, commencing a fast charge at the lowest battery energy level (usually around 5 to 10%) during road trips optimizes charging time. Beyond 80%, the charging rate diminishes significantly, necessitating a comparable waiting period as the initial charge.

A benchmark for charging performance is often gauged by achieving a 10 to 80% charge within sub 20 minutes. As technology advances, achieving charging times below 10 minutes (equivalent to a rate of charge of 5c to 6c) would signify crossing a significant threshold in EV charging capabilities, akin to crossing the Rubicon.

Crafting a Seamless Interior Experience

Interior design significantly influences driver comfort and satisfaction, making it a crucial aspect of the driving experience. While I admire Tesla's minimalist approach, I advocate for a broader range of material choices beyond vegan leather, including recycled plastics or textiles, to cater to diverse preferences. Enhanced ergonomics, augmented heads-up displays (HUDs), and intuitive control interfaces serve to elevate functionality and driving pleasure simultaneously.

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable shift towards replacing button interfaces with screens, a trend epitomized by Tesla and recently echoed by the latest Volvo EX30. This streamlined approach simplifies operations and reduces costs for automakers, suggesting its persistence in the future. However, I envision the integration of augmented HUD technology, overlaying essential information within the driver's line of sight, as a promising enhancement to traditional displays.

In an ideal scenario, vehicles would feature a heated/cooled wheel with haptic feedback for tactile control, a centrally positioned climate/volume control bar beneath the main screen, and a generously sized display ranging from 12" to 14". Additionally, incorporating a 360° camera bird's-eye view across all models, including Teslas, would significantly enhance safety and maneuverability (#keepthestalks, Elon!).

This comprehensive approach to interior design promises to redefine the driving experience, marrying comfort, functionality, and innovation seamlessly.

Performance and Drive Dynamics

From rear-wheel drive to all-wheel drive configurations, the ideal electric car offers versatility to accommodate diverse driving preferences. Whether prioritizing efficiency, performance, or traction, options abound without compromising range or practicality. Additionally, incorporating innovative features like a 360° camera bird's-eye view enhances safety and maneuverability, enhancing driver confidence on the road.

Price

I envision an entry-level configuration equipped with a 55 kWh battery, boasting a commendable WLTP range of around 450 km. This no-frills setup would offer a practical solution to meet the needs of budget-conscious consumers, priced competitively between 25,000 to 27,000€.

For those seeking extended range and additional amenities, the long-range version with a 70 kWh battery would be an ideal choice. Priced slightly higher, between 30,000 to 33,000€, this variant delivers enhanced mileage and supplementary features, catering to a broader spectrum of preferences and requirements.

In conclusion, let's make a 4m20 electric compact hatch with a minimalist yet pleasant interior, 4c charging rate, 500km WLPT and sell at it 25 000€, and you'll sell millions! (#easypeasy)