Cupra Lifts Veil on BEV Performance Concept

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

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2nd September 2019

Cupra, the performance sub-brand of Spanish carmaker Seat, has lifted the covers from its BEV concept making its world debut at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA).

While, in truth, the now pedestrian mash-up of coupe styling for a muscular crossover vehicle won’t wow the show’s critics, the Cupra Tavascan Electric Concept does boast a twin motor powertrain providing a claimed 303bhp to all four wheels with a 0-62mph sprint capability of 6.5 seconds. It employs a 77kWh lithium-ion battery pack that, the carmaker claims, can offer a range between charges of up to 280 miles based on the WLTP test cycle. The vehicle is based on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform with the battery pack housed in the floor.

Cupra CEO Wayne Griffiths, said: “Besides the Cupra Formentor, which will be launched in 2020 alongside two other high-performance plug-in hybrid models, we have already proved our technological capabilities by developing the world’s first 100% electric touring car, the Cupra e-Racer. With the presentation of the all-electric Cupra Tavascan concept, we are translating this vision into the streets and proving that performance can be electrified.”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_