IAA 2019: All-electric Cupra Coupé
AND IT'S GOING ON With the Cupra Tavascan, the Spanish company is presenting its vision of an all-electric SUV coupé. The world premiere is at the IAA in Frankfurt from September 12 to 22. With the concept vehicle, the brand combines state-of-the-art drive technology with the elegant, sporty and expressive design of a four-door crossover SUV. Technical expertise and development Cupra boss Wayne Griffiths: [...]
With this concept vehicle, the brand combines state-of-the-art drive technology with the elegant, sporty and expressive design of a four-door crossover SUV.
Technical competence and development
Cupra CEO Wayne Griffiths: "In addition to our first self-developed hybrid SUV, which we will launch in 2020 together with two other high-performance plug-in hybrid models, we have already demonstrated our technical expertise with the development of the e-Racer (AutoSprintCH reported). With the presentation of the concept car, we are making our vision of an all-electric sports car come true."
Dynamics, elegance and efficiency
The exterior of the Tavascan combines dynamism and elegance with efficiency: the front end emphasizes the electric heart of the concept car and features a real eye-catcher in the form of the low-set, illuminated logo.
The air vents are by no means just for show: they increase efficiency by allowing air to flow evenly over the body or directing it inward to cool the battery.
Aerodynamics essential component
Beneath its striking wheel arches are 22-inch turbine-design alloy wheels that ensure cleanly diverted airflow and improved drag. At the rear, the diffuser ensures optimum aerodynamics and at the same time creates an expressively sporty and equally elegant look. The continuous light strip leading into the illuminated logo underscores the character of the Tavascan.
Materials fusion
The contoured lines of the exterior are echoed in the interior of the Tavascan. The perfect fusion of tomorrow's materials and technology creates an interior with ambience that perfectly balances driver orientation and occupant comfort. Thanks to contrasting colors and carbon elements, the designers have created a dynamic interior.
Interior as needed
The bucket seats with 3D leather relief offer comfortable safety with their perfect synthesis of form and function. The wing-shaped dashboard is not only a real eye-catcher, but also ensures a generous feeling of space. The driver receives all the information he needs via a fully digital 12.3-inch display, which is complemented by a further 13-inch infotainment display. If required, the interior of the concept car even adapts: For example, the larger screen can rotate to face the front passenger. Thanks to speakers and smartphone connections integrated into the bucket seats, the Tavascan offers a new automotive experience.
Unexcited performance
Two engines - one each on the front and rear axles - put a total of 225 kW (306 hp) on the road. This enables the Tavascan to accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in less than 6.5 seconds. Its 77 kWh lithium-ion battery stores enough energy for a range of up to 450 kilometers, measured according to the strict specifications of the WLTP driving cycle test. The floor-mounted battery of the concept vehicle based on the MEB platform ensures a low center of gravity and very dynamic handling.
Prices, equipment and the Swiss market launch have not yet been determined.