SEAT’s electric future is on display at the Geneva motor show in the form of the brand’s first true EV, the el-Born.
The family car concept uses the same MEB platform as sister brand Volkswagen’s I.D. electric car range, and production versions are planned to be built alongside the VW in Zwickau, Germany.
It makes the most use of removing the bulk associated with an internal combustion engine and drivetrain. Interior space is maximised, SEAT quoting as one example the ability to store a bag between the two front seats in a car no wider than typical family hatches.
Powered by a 62kWh battery, the el-Born’s electric motor will have a power output of 204hp, translating to a 0-62mph time of less than 7.5 seconds.
A range of around 260 miles on a single charge is expected and the car will be able to be plugged in to a 100kW fast charger, recharging to 80% capacity in only 47 minutes. An onboard thermal management system will help boost the range in hot weather.
Observers regard the concept’s interior as near-production. It is dominated by a floating 10-inch infotainment touchscreen angled towards the driver as well as a digital instrument display. The el-Born will also be capable of Level 2 autonomy – allowing it to steer, accelerate and brake on its own, albeit with the driver monitoring progress at all times.
Unveiling the car, SEAT president Luca de Meo said that the el-Born is indicative of the way mobility is evolving and with it, the cars we drive. “SEAT is at the forefront of this change, and the el-Born concept embodies the technologies and design philosophy that will help us meet the challenges we face in the future,” he added.
A production version of the el-Born (the name comes from an upmarket neighbourhood in Barcelona) is expected to go on sale in 2020.
