Volkswagen’s MEB platform is
set to underpin an assortment of models including an all-new electric vehicle
from SEAT. Previewed by last year’s el-Born concept, the production model will
be introduced later this year and be a sportier take on the ID.3.
Spy photographers recently
caught up with the el-Born and it appears the production model will remain
pretty faithful to the concept. While the hatchback is heavily disguised, we
can see it will feature angular headlights with integrated LED turn signals.
The model also has a large air intake with a mesh insert. Moving further back,
we can see a rakish windscreen, a gently sloping roof and an aerodynamic rear
spoiler. The model also has an upward sweeping character line and slender taillights.
A number of details are hidden
by camouflage, but the production model may have been inadvertently revealed
thanks to a video posted by SEAT Sweden. As we reported last month, the el-Born
is the clip is noticeably different than the concept as it features a modified
front bumper and more conventional headlights. The model also has modified side
skirts and different wheels. Regardless of what the production model looks
like, it will share a number of components with the ID.3. Chief among them is
an electric motor that develops up to 201 hp.
The electric motor should be
powered by battery packs with capacities of 45, 58 and 77 kWh. The smallest
allows the ID.3 to travel up to 330 km on a single charge, while
the largest increases that range to 550 km.