All-electric Cupra Born hot hatch set for May 25th reveal
The model is a production version of the el-Born concept first revealed in 2019, and will be Cupra’s first hot EV
SEAT’s performance offshoot, Cupra, will launch its very first all-electric model next week, bringing more aggressive looks and improved performance to the table. Set to go on sale later this year, the Cupra Born is the production version of the SEAT el-Born concept uncovered at last 2019’s Geneva motor show.
Developed as part of Volkswagen Group’s (VAG) £7.2billion investment in electric vehicles, the Cupra Born is built upon the same MEB platform you’ll find underneath the skin of the more ordinary Volkswagen ID.3. This isn’t a bad thing, as Cupra quotes a class-leading 310-mile range for the hot hatch thanks to the use of a 77kWh (82kWh gross) battery. Adaptive chassis control, ‘sport’ suspension and more will also be included to help improve dynamics over its lesser Volkswagen relative.
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Details on the powertrain are yet to be announced. However, the Cupra el-Born will share the same rear-mounted motor, rear-drive set-up as the Volkswagen ID.3; though yet to be confirmed, it’s likely that the Cupra will match SEAT’s concept for power output, giving it around 201bhp. MEB utilises a skateboard set-up with the batteries mounted beneath the passenger compartment, ideal for weight management and increased cabin space.
Though a 0-62mph time or top speed aren't quoted, 0-31mph is said to come in a spritely 2.9sec – SEAT’s concept claimed a 0-62mph sprint of 7.5sec, however, a time we’d expect the Cupra to match. Not only is the hatch quick to accelerate from a standstill, should you find a suitable charging station it’ll accept 161 miles of range in just 30 minutes, thanks to its fast charging capabilities.
Overall design is similar to that of the ID.3. However, a larger front grille, lower ride height and performance-oriented styling elements such as side sill aero fins denote its hot hatch status. Also setting it apart from Volkswagen’s offering is the use of Cupra’s trademark bronze detailing throughout, on the new 20-inch wheels, front bumper and, of course, inside.
Well-bolstered sports seats, a new Cupra steering wheel and a bronze contrast-stitched Alcantara-esque material can be found in the cabin. A clever augmented reality HUD has been confirmed, and Level 2 autonomous driving and ‘Intelligent Park Assist’ are all likely to be carried across from its German sibling too.
Cupra CEO Wayne Griffiths said: ‘Cupra el-Born displays all the genes of the Cupra brand and we have taken the original concept to the next level, creating a new sporty and dynamic design and re-engineering the technological content. Cupra el-Born is the living proof that performance and electrification are a great match.’
The Cupra Born will be produced alongside the ID.3 at Volkswagen’s Zwickau facility in Germany, with order books opening later in 2021. Pricing is yet to be confirmed. However, expect it to set you back in excess of £30,000.
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