High-performance vehicle manufacturer, Cupra, pushes boundaries with a 489 horsepower range-extender sports SUV.

The Tindaya concept car, unveiled by Spanish automotive brand Cupra, is not a direct successor to the Formentor, but rather a glimpse into the future of the brand's next-generation line-up. The Tindaya serves as a testament to Cupra's commitment to innovation and radical design cues.

The Tindaya concept car offers a unique proposition: the choice between pure-electric power and a new range-extender (REx) system. This REx technology, which is also being experimented with by manufacturers such as Mazda, Hyundai, Leapmotor, Ford, and Cupra's parent company Volkswagen, is gaining traction, particularly in Europe and China.

The Tindaya REx's electric motors combined produce an impressive 489bhp, while its battery offers a range of 186 miles. With the petrol engine engaged, the car's potential range can be extended to a staggering 620 miles. The combustion engine for the range extender system is a 1.5-liter TSI engine from the Volkswagen Group.

The Tindaya concept car is built on the SSP platform, a versatile architecture that can accommodate a variety of powertrains, including combustion engines. This platform is hypothetically set to underpin other Volkswagen Group EVs as well.

The focus of Cupra's next-generation line-up, according to head of UX/UI design Ruben Rodriguez Bosch, is on emphasizing emotional appeal. The Tindaya concept car is no exception, designed to demonstrate the direction in which Cupra is heading with its next cars, with a strong emphasis on driver engagement.

The Tindaya concept car is also the largest car built by Cupra to date, showcasing futuristic technology and bold design elements that provide clues about the styling of Cupra's upcoming models. With a 0-62mph time of 4.1 seconds, the Tindaya is also the quickest car built by Cupra, further emphasizing its sporty credentials.

Interestingly, Volkswagen has suggested a potential market for REx alternatives due to wavering uptake of pure-EVs in Europe. Other brands, such as Scout, a Volkswagen-owned SUV brand, are also set to offer REx technology in their electric 4x4s.

In conclusion, the Tindaya concept car is a significant step forward for Cupra, demonstrating the brand's commitment to innovation, performance, and design. As REx technology continues to gain traction, it will be interesting to see how it is integrated into future production models across the automotive industry.

High-performance vehicle manufacturer, Cupra, pushes boundaries with a 489 horsepower range-extender sports SUV.