When Sono Motors entered the international arena of e-mobility July 2017, it was a sort of magic for me. What the company offers is often on an environmentalist’s wish list.
The project started in a garage with three enthusiastic students. Now, 10 months later, after millions have been invested in their dream by crowdfunding and powerful partners, a continuing presentation tour of the new Sion (that’s the cars name) is bringing the offer to more and more customers. With integrated solar panels generating up to 30 kilometers of reach per day, the company has made it clear that production of the Sion will start 2019.
The biggest step to start serial production is now documented by a multi-million-order and partnership with ElringKlinger, situated in Dettingen, Germany — a battery contract of several hundred million euros over 8 years for the Munich-based automotive supplier.
Sono Motors chose a domestic location for the production of the battery storage with climate protection and working conditions in mind, since they both play a main role for the company. Sono Motors will compensate for all unavoidable greenhouse gas emissions by supporting certified climate protection projects.
“The announcement of the partnership with ElringKlinger marks an important milestone on the way to series production,” says Laurin Hahn, co-founder and CEO of Sono Motors. “The battery market is currently a major challenge for the entire automotive industry. The nomination of the battery supplier is an important signal to our community and the many people who have already reserved a Sion,” adds Hahn. In selecting the partner, particular emphasis was placed on topics such as social standards and sustainability.
Thanks to a battery range of 250 km, it is suitable for everyday use, and it purchase price (without battery) of €16,000 and adequate interior space, the vehicle is intended to appeal particularly to families and city commuters. With integrated sharing functions included as well, it could serve growing demand for mobility as a service.
The battery will be offered on a rental basis or for a single purchase. The vehicle can be charged in either a conventional power outlet, a Type 2 plug, or a fast charging station within 30 minutes. So far, Sono Motors has just under 4,000 paid vehicle reservations.
As the company recently announced, it is going on a Germany-wide test drive tour from mid-May. In 17 cities, the family-friendly compact van will be available for test drives. You can register to join on the website of Sono Motors.
