Geneva Preview: Magna debuts new EV concept
by Jeremy Korzeniewski on Mar 2nd 2009 at 12:48PM 
Click above for high-res image gallery of the Magna Steyr mila ev concept
Auto supplier Magna Steyr has chosen the Geneva Motor Show to unveil its new mila ev concept vehicle. You may recall that Magna is currently working with Ford on a production version of the Focus-based electric car that the Blue Oval is expected to launch as a production model in 2011. Like the proof-of-concept EV from Magna that we got the chance to drive at the Detroit Auto Show, the mila ev uses a lithium ion battery pack that's capable of providing a range of around 100 miles (150 kilometers) after a charge of about 2.5 hours.
Though it's clearly possible to convert a gas-guzzler to an electric machine, the mila ev highlights the advantages of designing a purpose-built electric vehicle with a spacious five-door hatchback bodystyle and the ability to accommodate a natural gas, hydrogen fuel cell or hybrid powertrain in addition to the fully electric version currently being shown. Integrated rooftop solar panels provide an extra jolt of power and could possibly allow for a climate control system that doesn't drain the batteries.
Magna says that the mila ev concept is ready for production and that it can assemble the modular vehicle for any manufacturer at its own flexible manufacturing plants. Check out our gallery below and see the official press release after the break.
Gallery: Geneva Preview: Magna Steyr mila ev
[Source: Magna Steyr]
PRESS RELEASE:
mila ev: Uncompromising, forward-looking, universal, suited to daily use
Magna is presenting the latest member of the MILA innovation family at the Geneva Motor Show 2009: mila ev – a forward-looking automotive concept, uncompromising, universally applicable and suited to daily use in every way. The outstanding element and centerpiece of the mila ev is its fully integrated
electric vehicle platform which can be used by every OEM to realize their own product, drive and design strategies in the shortest of time.
A new vehicle concept
A new vehicle concept has been developed in the shape of the mila ev in which the electric drive represents both the starting point and end point of development. In other words, a vehicle concept optimized for an alternative, forward-looking drive technology in all the developmental steps and thus representing no subsequent modification, retrofitting or conversion of an already existing concept. Without compromise, as only can be expected from a complete-systems provider proficient in understanding complete vehicle systems and outstanding expertise in system integration built up over many years.
Direct from concept to series production
The novel platform on which the mila ev is based is a completely developed concept which can be used for production-vehicle development immediately and thus for series production in the shortest of time – as a genuine electric vehicle or, thanks to the intelligent design, with natural gas, fuel cells or hybrid drive.
Advantages
1. No modification of classical vehicle concepts, but rather a functionally optimized platform for all vehicle features (weight, strength, NVH, crash, etc.)
2. Full flexibility and adaptability to the strategies, needs and designs of all OEMs.
3. The expertise advantage from Magna: one-stop provision from components to the complete vehicle, including a business model for production.
4. Cost advantage: common utilization by a variety of OEMs and/or for different drive versions means higher production runs and thus lower costs.
5. Magna Steyr as ideal manufacturing partner: with the well-proven Flex Plant concept, all versions can be made on one single production line.
Design and Engineering
The concept study of the mila ev, which will be presented in Geneva as show car, is a five-door version with a length of about 4 m and a wheelbase of 2.5 m. The rolling lines of the body provide for graceful esthetics. At the same time, the connecting line between headlights and side windows lends the vehicle a futuristic and elegant look. The lateral running sensor strip is at one and the same time design element, door opener and "fuel gauge" which shows, clearly visibly, the current battery charge. Additionally, the integrated door opener is activated by an electronic key. The solar cells integrated in the glass roof serve as additional energy generation; the usually large wing mirrors of conventional vehicles have been replaced in mila ev by aerodynamic reverse-view cameras.
The mila ev is driven by a 67 hp electric motor supplied by one of the lithium-ion batteries developed by Magna Steyr. At an average charging time of 2.5 hours, ranges of up to 150 km can be achieved.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
giyad 1:07PM (3/02/2009)
wow a good looking EV, its like a needle in a hay stack...
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Randy 2:26PM (3/02/2009)
I like it.
It looks like the Toyota Matrix which I own and love.
Good work Magna!
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fnc 1:26PM (3/02/2009)
I like the cool looking exit for the side exhaust.
Wait a minute...
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oldraven 1:36PM (3/02/2009)
Magna Motor Company FTMFW!
I've been saying it since Magna lost the bid for Chrysler (thankfully), and now it's a real possibility. They should build it in conjunction with one of the companies they supply and brand it their own (ie, on a GM, Ford, or Chrysler chassis with Magna powertrain and badges). I would buy a truly Canadian car, if given the chance.
Please make the leap, Magna, and become an auto company. You already make most of the parts.
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scammer-killer 5:16PM (3/02/2009)
We need performance data and different colors. Still looks WAY too much like a concept to be production ready. Also, no mention of price. Wonder why not. [/sarcasm]
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oldraven 7:55AM (3/03/2009)
Because this isn't a production planned car. Magna designed it as a showcase for manufacturers who might want to produce it. It would be up to the automaker what the price and final design would look like.
Nick 4:04PM (3/02/2009)
Im intrigues by the other comments, I'm the only one who thinks this is looking horrendously ugly from shape to details to color. Everything looks outdated.
Sorry.
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oldraven 4:47PM (3/02/2009)
It does look like a Citroen concept from two years ago. I've just been pushing the idea of Magna becoming an auto company for a couple of years now, and this is as close to them having a complete vehicle that I've seen yet. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if this was a design exercise to see if they can do it, and if they get any response from car buyers directly. They put it up for offer to anyone out there, but their main clients don't build anything that looks remotely like these. See if people like it, if they do maybe start working on a viability plan for becoming a startup. Talk about easy contract negotiations. They're their own supplier.
mister nomer 4:50PM (3/02/2009)
They should call it the Manga. Think of it: The new Manga by Magna.
= ))
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scammer-killer 9:18AM (3/03/2009)
and I quote , "Magna says that the mila ev concept is READY FOR PRODUCTION and that it can assemble the modular vehicle for any manufacturer at its own flexible manufacturing plants."
That to me says this is final spec pending someone foot the bill.
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DJGrizzlyPaws 10:47AM (4/01/2009)
It's a really impressive design, sleek and futuristic looking. Will it be presented at the UK motor show?
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