In review: New fleet car models to look out for in 2023

Stay up to speed with Fleet Europe’s Monthly Review featuring new car and van models that will hit your fleet shortlist soon. For the last month of 2022, several car makers took the opportunity to update their EV models. And we witnessed the birth of an adventurous model from a... Scottish brand.

JAGUAR - F-Pace

The F-Pace dates back from 2016 but welcomes 2023 with an update. It can only be ordered as a sportier R-Dynamic. As a plug-in hybrid, still capable of 400 hp, the zero-emission range rises by 20% to 65 km (WLTP), to decrease the gap with the best-performing rival, the Mercedes GLC (up to 130 km). A voice-controlled navigation, a high-gloss black finish, 19-inch wheels and a wider multimedia screen are standard on almost all versions.

MERCEDES - EQT

After introducing the minivan T-Class Mercedes’ subbrand, EQ unveiled an all-electric version. With the charging port hidden behind the front logo, the exterior design is similar. The 45 kWh battery pack offers a range of 282 kilometres but reduces cargo space from 148 litres to 1.979 litres. Towing weight is 1.5 tonnes. A 10-80% SoC at a DC charger of max 80 kW takes 38 mins, all like its technical silhouette, the Renault Kangoo e-Tech Electric. 

OPEL - MOKKA ELECTRIC

Mokka-e becomes Mokka Electric, like its sibling Astra Electric. More interesting than the name change is that the electric range grows to 338 km (WLTP) thanks to a bigger battery pack. The purely electric cross-over now relies on a capacity of 54kWh instead of 50kWh. Indeed, just like the Astra.

VOLVO - XC40 & C40 Recharge

Not a new model but a major overhaul for the pure electric versions of the XC40 and C40. An entire new driveline now features an electric motor in the back (instead of in front), lowering overall consumption and improving range (533 km at best). The Swedish carmaker also upgraded the DC-DC converter, shortening fast charging to 27 minutes, while the AWDs get 3kWh more battery capacity.

SILENCE - S04

Well-known for its all-electric connected scooters, available in ownership and usership, Spanish mobility provider Silence moves into the car market with the S04. It’s a two-seater nanocar, featuring two swappable ‘trolley batteries’ for 149 km of range. With top speed governed at 85 km/h, no driver’s license is needed, while access and sharing are app-controlled. Only available in dedicated markets.

HYUNDAI - Kona

Hitting the popular fleet segment of compact crossovers, the Kona takes on a radically designed front, wider dimensions and the serene but high-tech dashboard from the Ioniq. The departure point for development was the electric version, but it will also be available with ICE engines, including a frugal hybrid. The technology and architecture are shared with its twin, the Kia Niro.   

MUNRO - Mk1

Scottish EV startup Munro aims at professionals with the Mk1, an all-electric modern take on the ancient Defender built in low volumes. A mechanical 4x4 system is retained, and customers can choose between the self-explanatory versions Utility, Range or Performance. There are two battery packs, ranges vary from 204 km to 306 km. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2024.     

Do you want to read the review from last month? Click here

Image Sources: Jaguar/Mercedes/Opel/Volvo/Silence/Hyundai/Munro