Faraday Future (FF) has revealed the new 'FF 91' - its first production car.
The new US-based electric car company revealed the 91 at an exclusive event prior to the 2017 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The new car represents what Faraday Future says is a bold new breed of electric mobility that combines ‘supercar performance, precise handling, the comfort of an ultra-luxury passenger vehicle, and a unique collection of intelligent internet features’.
FF’s Variable Platform Architecture (VPA) utilises a flexible powertrain system featuring a monocoque vehicle structure in which the chassis and body are a single form. An available all-wheel drive system offers greater traction, control and precise power distribution, while the VPA also houses ‘class-leading’ battery technology, multiple motor and battery configurations, as well as the company’s patented FF Echelon Inverter. This power inverter can transform energy more efficiently, while encompassing less space. Faraday Future say the Echelon Inverter achieves 20-30% greater power density over competitors.
The powertrain features a multi-motor setup, enabling real-time torque vectoring to the rear wheels, delivering ‘superior acceleration’ safety, while leveraging rear-wheel steering for agile cornering. Peak power is 783 kW, equating to 1050 HP delivering a 'record-breaking' 0-60 mph time of 2.39 seconds.
The 130 kWh battery achieves an estimated range of between 378-434 miles, depending on driving conditions and also has what is claimed as the fastest charge speed currently available, with the ability to charge at more than 500 mile-range per hour. The home charger, included with the vehicle, achieves 50 percent to full charge in under 4.5 hours at 240V.
The sleek, rounded front fascia and angular rear create a striking form that improves aerodynamic efficiency to increase range. A signature ‘UFO line’ runs around the mid-section of the vehicle. Gateway doors blend form and function by providing a 'stylish' entry system with easier accessibility. Each door can open automatically and independently, with sensors preventing the doors from opening too wide and making unwanted contact with the surrounding objects.
The FF 91’s exterior lighting is focused on communication. When users approach, the vehicle’s rocker panel illuminate with an owner confirmation sequence that brightens based on proximity – the FF 91 recognises and welcomes you and is able to communicate messages such as current charging states and autonomous driving modes.
NASA-inspired zero gravity seats deliver industry-leading rear-seat reclining angles, says FF, putting passengers in the biomechanically and ergonomically optimal position for comfort. This first class rear seating experience provides lower leg, lumbar, and upper back adjustments and support. The seats also offer massage, heating, and ventilation for cooling. The panoramic roof includes smart dimming glass technology (along with the rear and side windows) which all feature PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) glass, which is operated by users tapping on it, resulting in instant privacy and shade from the exterior environment.
Owners can create an ‘FFID’ online account meaning a global profile can travels with users through an ‘FF EcoSystem’ which remembers personal preferences, such as seating positions, favourite music and movies, ideal temperatures, and driving style, ensuring users have a consistent experience across the FF EcoSystem powered by multiple in-car modems. The FF also introduces an advanced facial recognition technology system – called Arrival Interface – allowing drivers and passengers to unlock the car without a key. A camera installed in the B-pillar between front and back seats can accurately identify the user’s face to grant vehicle entry. Similarly, interior cameras use this technology to recognise users and automatically adjust interior settings to their preferences. Facial expressions and moods can also be detected to auto-prompt an experience to match, using music, temperature, scent, content, massage and more. Users’ facial recognition data is saved natively and securely in the vehicle.
A complex sensor system called Lidar includes 10 high definition cameras, 13 long and short range radars and 12 ultrasonic sensors to aid future autonomous driving. The standard rearview mirror has been replaced by a high definition display that merges the live feed from the side mirrors and rearview camera into a single image.
A Driverless Valet parking feature enables the car to park itself after the driver has exited. Powered by an app, drivers can also summon the vehicle from its parking spot or schedule a pick up at a desired time and location. Today, the system is capable of parking FF 91 in private parking spots and roads. As legislation advances to allow for public use of this technology, the FF 91 will be able to park itself anywhere users go.
Reservations of $5,000 are being taken through the company website FF.com. The first 300 orders will have the opportunity to upgrade to an exclusive launch series, the Alliance Edition, in March 2017. A portion of the sales proceeds for each Alliance Edition sold will be donated towards an environmental fund which closely aligns with FF’s sustainability efforts.
Additionally, the first model from the FF 91 Alliance Edition will be auctioned at a gala event in March. All proceeds from the first Alliance Edition’s auction will also be donated to the environmental fund.
Production of the FF 91 is planned to start in 2018, with full pricing yet to be announced.