iPhone maker Foxconn just revealed two Tesla-rivaling EVs – here's why that could be a smart move

The Foxtron Models C, D and U have sights set on Tesla turf

News By Leon Poultney published 9 October 2024

You’ve probably never heard of Foxconn Technology Group, but it is a Taiwanese consumer electronics manufacturer that is perhaps best known for supplying the world with Apple iPhones – it also makes most of Amazon’s Kindles and Nintendo’s gaming consoles. 

Stopping short of actually producing the folklore legend Apple Car, the company has branched out into developing electric vehicles of its own under the Foxtron moniker, with its existing Model C five-or seven-seater SUV already licensed by the rapidly expanding Taiwanese automotive brand Luxgen and badged the n7.

While Foxtron isn’t exactly interested in becoming a recognized automotive name in its own right, it is keen to sell its designs and platforms to other, perhaps more established players in the EV market.

As such, it used its most recent Apple-esque Technology Day event to reveal two new models in the Model D and the Model U – a naming convention that might have folk at Tesla pulling a confused face.

The Model D is an absolutely massive, angular Lifestyle Multipurpose Utility Vehicle (LMUV), which measures 5.1m in length (think Ford Transit van size)  and almost 2m wide. Inside, there’s enough space for seven people to ride, although Foxtron is keen to point out that it can configure its cars to a B2B customer’s demands.

Powering the LMUV is a range of 100-120kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery packs, which would see an effective range of around 310 miles to almost 400-miles in the range-topping versions.

Designed with aerodynamics at the forefront, it features all manner of creases and ducts to improve airflow. Despite its blocky look, it was actually penned by Pininfarina, the designers behind numerous classic Italian sports cars. 

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