Currently reading: Seat to launch two electric models by 2020

Electric Mii will arrive in 2019, followed by Seat's first bespoke EV built on the VW Group's MEB architecture

Seat will launch two electric models within the next three years, including its first bespoke full EV built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB decided electric architecture.

Speaking at the launch of the Tarraco SUV, which completes the first wave of the firm’s ongoing model offensive, Seat's technical boss, Matthias Rabe, said the company is set to introduce a number of electric and electrified models into its range.

The firm has already confirmed that its first EV, which will likely be an electric version of the Mii, will arrive in 2019, alongside a new Seat Leon. The firm will launch a new product every six months for the next three years – including the first pure electric model, built on the MEB platform.

Race said the model “will show electric cars can be emotional, sport and demanding.” He described it as an "all-day car", adding: "That means affordable, suitable as a family car in terms of interior space, and with a range of around 500km [310 miles].

"We will have a very nice, very interesting offer for the customer in a price region where we are today. It will be a nice package: good technology, fun to drive and with the price will be somewhere between Leon and Ateca, it will be a good offer to market."

 

Rabe also said that the firm would introduce extensive use of hybrid and mild hybrid technology throughout the line-up of both Seat and new sub-brand Cupra.

The new Tarraco will launch with petrol and diesel engines, with Rabe confirming that a plug-in hybrid version would follow within the next two years. It will offer a total powertrain performance of 207bhp with 295lb ft of torque and a pure electric range of more than 30 miles. He also said the car would have a CO2 output of less than 50g/km.

Seat is also working on a number of other alternative fuel types, including Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). It showcased the technology at the launch of the Tarraco, although CNG-powered Seat models are unlikely to reach the UK due to limited demand for the fuel in this market.

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James Attwood

James Attwood, digital editor
Title: Acting magazine editor

James is Autocar's acting magazine editor. Having served in that role since June 2023, he is in charge of the day-to-day running of the world's oldest car magazine, and regularly interviews some of the biggest names in the industry to secure news and features, such as his world exclusive look into production of Volkswagen currywurst. Really.

Before first joining Autocar in 2017, James spent more than a decade in motorsport journalist, working on Autosport, autosport.com, F1 Racing and Motorsport News, covering everything from club rallying to top-level international events. He also spent 18 months running Move Electric, Haymarket's e-mobility title, where he developed knowledge of the e-bike and e-scooter markets. 

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Peter Cavellini 18 September 2018

Let’s have it then!

 Looks promising, will it get on the Road as is though...?