Electric vehicles future: Rear window exclusion

author: FutureCar Staff    

The automotive industry is set to undergo major changes in the next five years, with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) leading to significant design transformations. According to a leading designer at Polestar, new vehicle technology will allow automakers to revolutionize the appearance and performance of cars, as well as eliminate certain features altogether.

One of the notable design changes is the disappearance of a car's rear window in a future Polestar model. Additionally, the front grille, which has already been eliminated in some vehicles, will be scrapped completely. These modifications are expected to bring several benefits, including enhanced vehicle efficiency, improved handling, and increased space for occupants and cargo.

Nahum Escobedo, the exterior design manager at Polestar, recently showcased a prototype of the company's first SUV, the Polestar 3, during a visit to Sydney. Escobedo emphasized that electric cars have presented designers with fresh challenges and opportunities, as they no longer need to accommodate traditional features like engines and front air vents.

With the advent of electrification, designers now have a "very creative outlet" to experiment and generate innovative ideas. The Polestar 3, scheduled for release in 2024, will feature a lower wheelbase, a larger interior space, and a minimalist facade. However, the Polestar 4, expected to launch next year, will undergo a more radical redesign, including the removal of the rear window to reduce weight and increase the vehicle's range.

In addition to these changes, electric vehicles are also introducing other significant transformations. This includes the introduction of storage space under the bonnet, known as a "frunk" or a "froot," seat-detection ignition, regenerative braking, and larger interiors due to flat, skateboard-like platforms. Furthermore, touchscreen controls, similar to the redesigned Tesla Model 3, are becoming more prevalent, even featuring screens for back-seat passengers. However, due to weight considerations, many EVs are unable to accommodate a spare tire.

The rise of EVs has also prompted a greater focus on aerodynamics within the automotive industry, aiming to reduce drag and enhance efficiency. According to Chris Jones, the national president of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association, every EV possesses a unique low center of gravity, resulting in improved handling dynamics. Jones expressed hope for the future development of smaller, lighter, and more aerodynamic electric vehicles that prioritize efficiency rather than solely relying on oversized batteries.

In Australia, the adoption of electric vehicles has been steadily increasing. From the year leading up to August, more than 56,000 EVs were purchased by Australian motorists, as reported by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries. This figure represents a significant rise from the over 14,000 EVs sold during the same period in 2022.

FutureCar Staff