Taiwanese technology giant Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) has taken the covers off two all-new electric vehicles at the fifth annual Hon Hai Tech Day (HHTD) on October 8.
Expanding its automotive portfolio, the Foxtron Model D is a versatile lifestyle multipurpose utility vehicle (LMUV) designed in collaboration with Italian styling house Pininfarina, and the Model U, a mid-sized electric bus aimed at urban mobility solutions.
High on connectivity and aerodynamics, the Foxtron Model D is 5.13 metres long and 1.99 metres wide.Foxconn claims that it will achieve a range of more than 410 miles / 656 kilometres on the WLTP test cycle using a 100-120kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery.
The car’s platform has been developed by ZF Chassis Modules, which Foxconn acquired a 50% share of earlier this year.
“We are incredibly proud to showcase a new model that embodies the best of Pininfarina’s design expertise, further cementing our strategic collaboration with Foxconn,” said Silvio Angori, CEO of Pininfarina. “For nearly 95 years, Pininfarina has been at the forefront of merging art and technology, and this partnership with Foxconn represents a natural alignment of our shared culture of perfection and innovation. Foxconn excels in every aspect of its product portfolio, and we are excited to contribute to its growing range of electric vehicles.”
Multifunctional hybrid model
The Model D is based on the design concept of LMUV (Lifestyle Multipurpose Utility Vehicle) and combines the advantages found in SUV and MPV segments. It is a multifunctional hybrid model, equipped with an 800V powertrain, and adopts Foxconn’s latest generation platform technology.
Inside, the Foxtron Model D is designed to make the most of other products manufactured by Foxconn: the armchairs in the six-seat version have charging pads that fit an iPhone and each front seatback has a slot for an iPad.
The active suspension allows the height to be adjusted by 15 mm to 25 mm. The body design incorporates S-ducts and air curtains specially designed to reduce wind resistance, bringing the drag coefficient to a low 0.23. The Model D’ is the latest in the family of electric vehicles that have been a collaborative work of between Foxconn and Pininfarina.
Foxconn and Pininfarina’s collaboration dates back to 2021, with the introduction of the electric Model E, a luxury sedan featuring cutting-edge technology. This was followed by the Model B in 2022, a stylish urban crossover that combines beauty with high performance. All vehicles, including the new Model D, have been meticulously crafted at Pininfarina’s atelier in Cambiano, Italy, where the team has a long tradition of building bespoke models, small series, and prototypes for some of the world’s most prestigious automotive brands.
“Our design team took great care in creating the Model D from the inside out, focusing on maximizing interior space while maintaining a sleek, aerodynamic exterior,” explained Felix Kilbertus, Chief Creative Officer of Pininfarina. “This approach provides exceptional visibility and a modern, athletic feel that appeals to today’s drivers. The Model D is a significant evolution from traditional SUVs, offering a spacious cabin wrapped in a monolithic, aerodynamic body. We are thrilled with the deep collaboration we’ve had with Foxconn, enabling us to create a cohesive family of electric vehicles that includes the Model E, Model B, and now the Model D.”