The 2024 Beijing Auto Show witnessed the unveiling of a concept car that sent ripples through the automotive industry – the Geely Galaxy Starship. This Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) promises a glimpse into the future of transportation, boasting not only exceptional efficiency but also a design and technology that feels like something straight out of science fiction.
A PHEV Powertrain Built for Efficiency
The Geely Galaxy Starship is a PHEV that combines a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor for a remarkable driving range. While exact figures haven’t been officially revealed, sources estimate the Starship to achieve over 2,000 kilometers on a single tank and charge. This significantly reduces reliance on gas stations, making it a compelling proposition for eco-conscious drivers who prioritize long journeys.
Futuristic Design that Turns Heads
The Geely Galaxy Starship isn’t just about performance; it’s a head-turner in the design department as well. The concept car features futuristic design elements that set it apart from anything currently on the road. Imagine gullwing doors (or scissor doors in some reports) that dramatically sweep upwards, granting a theatrical entry and exit. The vehicle’s rear is adorned with a translucent light bar, adding a touch of elegance and futurism.
An AI-powered Interior Designed for Comfort
Step inside the Geely Galaxy Starship, and you’ll be transported to a world of luxurious comfort. The spacious interior is designed to be a relaxing haven, featuring reclining seats that seem more suited to a first-class airplane cabin than a car.
But the Starship’s interior isn’t just about plush seating. Geely has incorporated a cutting-edge AI ecosystem that personalizes the driving experience. This system can anticipate driver and passenger needs, adjusting everything from climate control to ambient lighting for maximum comfort.
A Glimpse into the Future of Geely
The Geely Galaxy Starship is more than just a concept car; it’s a statement of intent from the Chinese automaker. With this futuristic PHEV, Geely showcases its commitment to innovation and its vision for the future of mobility. The Starship highlights Geely’s technological prowess in plug-in hybrid technology and artificial intelligence, paving the way for a new generation of efficient but intelligent and comfortable vehicles.
While the exact production timeline for the Geely Galaxy Starship remains uncertain, one thing is clear: this concept car has generated considerable excitement. It’s a sign of things to come from Geely, and we can expect to see some of the Starship’s innovative features trickle down to future production models from the Chinese automaker.
Renault has announced the prices and specifications of its updated Clio supermini, which features a new hybrid powertrain and a sporty Esprit Alpine trim. The new Clio is available to order now in the UK, with customer cars arriving by the end of the year.
The new Clio hybrid
The new Renault Clio is only offered with a single E-Tech hybrid powertrain option in the UK, which combines a 1.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and a battery pack. The hybrid system produces a maximum combined output of 143bhp and can run on electric power alone at speeds of up to 40mph for short distances.
Renault claims the new Clio has improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions compared to the previous Clio E-Tech. The official figures are 67.3mpg and 96g/km, which are 3g/km and 10g/km better than before. The performance data has not been revealed yet, but the new Renault Clio is expected to be slightly faster than the current model, which can accelerate from 0-62mph in under 10 seconds.
The hybrid system also comes with an automatic transmission and an e-CVT gearbox that simulates seven-gear ratios. The new Clio also features regenerative braking, which recovers energy from braking and stores it in the battery for later use.
The new Clio trim levels
The new Clio comes in three trim levels: Evolution, Techno, and Esprit Alpine. Each trim level offers different features, equipment levels, and prices.
Evolution
The entry-level Evolution model starts from $28,000 and comes with some standard equipment such as:
- 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
- Electric folding mirrors
- Keyless entry and start
- A 7-inch digital driver’s display
- A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Techno
The mid-range Techno model costs $30,000 and adds some more features, such as:
- Front parking sensors
- Wireless phone charging
- Interior ambient lighting
- Larger 17-inch alloy wheels
Esprit Alpine
The top-spec Esprit Alpine model costs $32,000 and adds some sporty touches such as:
- A unique bodykit inspired by Renault’s Alpine brand
- Sports seats with blue stitching
- Heated seats and steering wheel
- Adaptive cruise control
- An upgraded infotainment system with a larger touchscreen (10 inches) behind the steering wheel and another one (9.3 inches) for the digital driver’s display
The new Clio design
The exterior design of the new Clio has been updated to give it a more modern and aggressive look. The front end features a wider grille with a chequered pattern that resembles Renault’s logo, reshaped LED headlights that flow down into the lower bumper, slimmer LED daytime running lights, fresh color options and new wheel designs of up to 17 inches.
The rear end also gets some tweaks, such as revised tail lights with LED elements integrated into them, a silver airfoil in the lower bumper that adds some aerodynamic flair, and a spoiler on both ends that improves stability at high speeds.
The interior design of the new Renault Clio remains largely unchanged from before, but it has been improved with better quality materials such as leather-free upholstery made from recycled fabrics. The cabin also features digital displays showing various information such as speed, fuel level, navigation directions, and media playback.
Conclusion
The new Renault Clio is one of the most popular superminis in Europe, selling more than one million units since its launch in 1990. It competes with models such as the Peugeot 208, Volkswagen Polo, and Ford Fiesta. With its updated styling, technology and hybrid powertrain option, it aims to attract more customers looking for a stylish, efficient, and fun-to-drive car.