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With a sporty and dynamically styled body
that defies the conventional image of eco-cars, this next generation
compact EV is loaded with a newly developed battery and has achieved
more than double the range of the current advanced EV “R1e”
Aim of Development
With an innovative compact body suggestive
of the near future, the G4e Concept is a new eco-car from Subaru
equipped with zero-emission technology. Subaru is actively researching
and developing EV, such as the R1e being developed jointly with Tokyo
Electric Power Company. Noteworthy among developments by Subaru is a new
battery using vanadium that makes it possible to significantly increase
range by increasing energy density.
Design
Amidst diversifying lifestyles, we aspire
for a lifestyle with automobiles to become more accessible and exciting.
Our aim is to combine a spacious interior with a sporty exterior look
while maintaining the compact size.
Exterior
The triangular shape in its silhouette is
representative of the image of high performance and moving toward the
future. Functional parts such as the headlights were also coordinated
with a mechanical design, to suggest excitement toward the future. The
triangular shaped body that is suggestive of motion is also functional,
achieving coefficient of drag (Cd) value of 0.276 to reduce energy loss.
The rear view camera integrated with the metallic trim of the A-pillar
is designed as a wedge that takes and stops the flow of the trim for a
look of momentum.
A charging connecter that can be used both
at home and for fast-charging is positioned on the bottom center of the
front bumper.
Interior
The trim and seats are based in red and
white to create a colorful and uplifting atmosphere. The space is
suggestive of VIP box seats in an opera theater. We have designed this
with the image of two friendly couples freely maneuvering the
surrounding environment from the various situations unfolding in front
of them and information conveyed through a large display screen. The
display linking the front window and the floor via the center of the
instrument panel is the image of a dynamically flowing waterfall,
symbolizing the exciting interior of this car.
Main Features
Packaging that is beyond the expectation
to an EV and good driving performance While the G4e Concept is designed
to fit within the Japanese compact segment, we have secured the largest
wheel base of its class (2,650mm) and succeeded in creating flat and
spacious floor space by storing the battery completely underneath the
floor. Despite being an EV, the interior is roomy and comfortable
and can seat five people. Loading the
heavyweight battery under the floor also offers the benefit of lowering
the center of gravity. Combined with a lighter exclusive aluminum
chassis, the weight is well balanced in the front and back so that
drivers have full control of the vehicle.
A new battery that dramatically extends
range The source of power for the G4e Concept is a new Next Generation
lithium-ion battery developed exclusively by Subaru. With technology to
efficiently load our original high-capacity vanadium material that can
store two to three times more lithium ions than conventional materials
onto the positive terminal, energy density is about double that of
manganese lithium-ion batteries of the same weight. Combining this with
a lighter vehicle body and improved electricity efficiency technology,
about 200 km of travel is possible with one battery charge. There is
also no maintenance involved.
A 15-minute quick charge is possible at
charging stations Batteries can be charged fully in about 8 hours from a
home AC power source. The cost of electricity is approximately one-third
of gasoline. If it is charged only in the night while discount rate is
offered, it would cost just one-tenth, making this very economical. With
charging stations installed in urban locations such as supermarkets,
hospitals, and public facilities, an 80% quick charge would be possible
in 15 minutes, so the battery can be charged during a quick shopping
trip or while taking a break. Your range of activities can expand with
everyday driving using the air conditioner as well as day-trip drives
with family and friends. |
