Chinese automaker Geely has unveiled a new SUV, the Icon, which is claimed to keep microorganisms at bay
As various countries are taking extraordinary measures to contain the alarming corona virus epidemic, the number of cases are still on the rise. Now, one of the largest car maker in China, Geely has revealed that their new Icon Electric SUV can fight Corona Virus. While there is no scientific proof, the Geely Icon SUV’s N95-rated air filtration system is claimed to prevent micro particles and microbes (bacteria and viruses) including corona virus from entering the cabin.
Called the Intelligent Air Purification System (IAPS), the technology works in conjunction with the vehicle’s air condition system to isolate and eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses from the cabin. With the entire world panicking due to the corona virus outbreak, a vehicle will such a sophisticated air filtration system definitely sounds like the need of the hour. We just hope that it is not just a marketing gimmick and the system actually works as claimed.
With China as the primary market, the automaker who also happens to own Volvo and Lotus brands has been focusing on developing sophisticated air filtration system to tackle pollution. The impressive N95 certification of the Icon is an extension of this initiative.
Not surprisingly, the Geely Icon SUV has already received 30,000 pre-orders, mostly from its home market China. Based on the concept which premiered at the 2018 Beijing Auto Show, the Icon features a minimalist design with clearly defined lines and accentuated surfaces. The product-spec design has inputs from the automaker’s five design centers across the globe.
The modern interior features a pair of 10.25-inch displays to take care of instrument console and infotainment functions. The beige dashboard is upright and features low-set AC vents. We can help but notice the similarity of the interior design to that of modern Citroens.
The Geely Icon SUV is powered by a 1.5-liter petrol engine which is supported by a 48 V mild-hybrid system which adds 10 kw and 45 Nm to the overall tally of 140 kw (188 hp) and 300 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Performance on offer is more than adequate for a compact crossover. The Geely Icon is claimed to accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 7.9 seconds. The automaker says that its latest product has a fuel efficiency of 17.54 kmpl which is not bad considering the performance level.
The compact crossover is packed with enough gizmos to qualify for level-2 autonomy. The comprehensive ADAS suite includes active cruise control, lane-keep assistance, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian recognition, automatic parking, and 360-degree camera.
