The gradual but inexorable move toward “green” technology is having a transformative effect on the automotive industry. Some of the latest outcomes of this worldwide trend happen to be among the coolest vehicles rolling off production lines for 2022.
GMC Hummer
The new GMC Hummer EV is a much sleeker version of the classic Hummer design. Unlike its predecessor, the new version doesn’t look like it belongs on a dusty, bumpy road heading a military convoy. In fact, the revamped Hummer is nothing less than a reinvention of the road-hogging vehicle that was discontinued more than ten years ago.
Its combination of efficiency and power is boggling – the new GMC Hummer’s top drivetrain can generate up to 1,000 hp with three electric motors, which give you an approximate per-charge driving range of 350 miles. GMC is offering the new Hummer as an SUV or a pickup truck.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 EV is a strong enough entrant into the field that Motor Trend questioned why anyone would pay for a more expensive electric vehicle when the Ioniq 5 EV is available for less. It’s a powerful SUV that can churn out 320 hp and travel more than 250 miles on a charge.
A remarkably quiet vehicle inside and out, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV handles very well for such a powerhouse. Its handling is smooth and direct, and its tech includes a feature that enables you to coast, then automatically reengage when the vehicle in front speeds up. Head over to your local Hyundai dealer and check out this remarkably well-designed EV.
Nissan Leaf
Some EVs classify as “cool” because of the sticker price as well as what they can do on the road. That’s true of the new Nissan Leaf version, which costs more than $4,000 less than its previous iteration. Despite a number of tech upgrades, it’s less expensive, another factor worth a hearty “Cool!”
The higher trim model is a bit more expensive but a worthwhile investment if you like being able to travel 226 miles on a single charge while enjoying zippy acceleration and super-responsive maneuverability. The Leaf’s new upgrades include a quick-charging port and a portable charging cable.
Cadillac Lyriq
It’s a sure sign of the times that Cadillac, once the prototypical big boy gas guzzler, has gone all-electric. Its first EV model, the Lyriq, hits the streets in 2022. The Cadillac Lyriq is an SUV with a look and price (base is $59,995) designed to go head-to-head with the likes of Tesla and Jaguar. Cadillac has even given the Lyriq a svelte, elegant design that symbolizes the carmaker’s new design ethos.
The Cadillac Lyriq can do more than 300 miles on a charge. It also comes with the tech bells and whistles that GM is rolling out, including its hands-free “Super Cruise” feature and a whopping 33-inch driver display.
Volvo Polestar3
Volvo’s Polestar EV is designed to take on the popular Tesla Model 3, a bold move by Volvo in such an increasingly competitive market segment. Its range is competitive with other EV models, and the Polestar offers a robust infotainment system powered by Google Android. You also get the full slate of Google services, along with Apple CarPlay.
New Wave
The newest wave of EVs represents an exciting new design trend – nothing less than a total reimagining of what a consumer vehicle should be. Even if you’re not ready to go electric, it’s worth a trip to a local dealership for a test drive. At the very least, you’ll get a “Wow!” out of the experience, and who knows? You may end up driving away in the vehicle of your dreams.
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