Seat’s first all-electric model
SEAT used the opening of the Geneva International Motor Show last week to unveil its new Seat el-Born concept car which it describes as a gamechanger for the industry – a high performance vehicle which considers the necessities of real world driving.
Seat el-Born is the first 100% electric vehicle based on the Volkswagen Group MEB platform. This sporty concept car with advanced electric technology, was inspired by, and named after, one of the most iconic neighbourhoods of Barcelona: El Born.
The vehicle was designed and developed in Barcelona and will be manufactured at the Zwickau plant in Germany; Seat will be the second brand to introduce an all-electric vehicle based on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform.
With a power and energy dense battery pack giving the Seat el-Born a range of up to 420km on the WLTP official test cycle and the ability to reach 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds, the vehicle also remains dynamic and practical. Add to this its ability to recharge the battery in as little as 37 minutes, and it starts to shift perceptions of electrification.
The Seat el-Born isn’t just about the promise of usable electrification, but the integration of other technologies too. The vehicle incorporates autonomous functionality to support the driver as well as a host of assistance systems.
‘Seat is committed to being at the cutting edge of vehicle technology and we’re thrilled to be revealing our very first all-electric vehicle. The el-Born is an innovative yet practical concept car, that’s both technologically advanced and environmentally friendly.’ said Niall Phillips Brand Director at Seat Ireland.
The Seat el-Born is designed to drive. Its dynamic proportions are enabled by its electric powertrain, pushing the wheels to the four corners of the vehicle, creating a vibrant and energetic stance.
It embodies the future of vehicle design in a modern and integrated way, emphasised most acutely at the front of the vehicle. Aerodynamics are key to maximising the vehicle’s range, to this end the Seat logo on the front is flush to the body, where there is no need to take in air to cool the engine so no demand for a grille.
At the rear of the vehicle a double layer spoiler contributes to the aerodynamic performance too, ensuring air flow remains smooth and turbulence is minimal. It also provides an awareness of the vehicle’s dynamic and performance virtues.
Inside, space is maximised thanks to the all-electric powertrain, giving the opportunity to offer a completely new experience.
The sculpted cabin gives a feeling of lightness, but also technological advancement, with the integration of the digital cockpit, a 10” infotainment and connectivity screen perched in the centre of the dashboard.
The el-Born integrates an advanced thermal management system to maximise vehicle range in the most extreme of environmental conditions. The heat pump can reduce the electrical heating consumption, saving up to 60km in autonomy – useful in countries like Ireland where temperatures can drop and climate control systems are necessary.
The Seat el-Born benefits from autonomous level two systems, giving partial automation to the vehicle so it can control steering, acceleration and deceleration events.
Add to this amongst other Intelligent Park Assist and the Seat el-Born is a concept car that encapsulates the future of driving.