The global automobile industry has experienced a revolution over the last five years with the conceptualisation and mass-production of hybrid vehicles and electric cars, also known as EVs.

Offering a plethora of benefits, from being more cost-efficient to reducing noise pollution, more and more consumers are opting to purchase EVs and the world’s leading car manufacturers are paying attention to the increase demand. In 2022, the industry saw the launch of several cutting-edge vehicles. Here are five that top the list.

[Featured image credit: Mercedes-Benz Model EQS]

The best sustainable luxury cars of 2022

The Mercedes-Benz Model EQS

The landmark Mercedes-Benz 2022 Model EQS was launched with the aim to redefine the DNA of electric vehicles as the world’s most technologically advanced luxury sedan that combines all-electric propulsion with an all-engaging cockpit to deliver both unparalleled performance and luxury.

The visual code of the Mercedes-Benz Model EQS features a sleek, modern ‘one bow’ design that aids with its advanced aerodynamics, which in turn aids with optimising energy. This unique design ensures the Model EQS can deliver on sportiness and power, with the all-wheel-drive car able to reach a top speed of 210km/h and have the ability to accelerate from 0-60km/h in only 5.9 seconds.

Advanced tech is at the heart of the development of the Model EQS.

Some of the standout features include an interior lined with high-quality materials, the in-built EQS Sound Experience, 64-colour LED ambient lighting settings, Mercedes-Benz’ new, signature 56” Hyperscreen –a wall-to-wall panel of glass that functions as the instrument panel and infotainment system – and over 350 exterior sensors to maintain vigilance when on the move.

The interior also features a panorama roof, headrest pillows, adjustable seats with massage functions, and extensive climate control settings.

The Mercedes-Benz Model EQS is available in several different configurations, each prioritising different driving elements such as speed and control. The carmaker has also introduced a range of trim packages that encompass additions such as ventilated power seats and wireless charging.

For more information about the Mercedes-Benz Model EQS, click here.

The Ferrari 296 GTB

The sleek Ferrari 296 GTB –which stands for ‘Grand Turismo Berlinetta’—ushers in a new era for the famed Italian carmaker as it is an exciting new iteration of Maranello’s mid-rear engined, two-seater Berlinetta concept.

The Ferrari name is synonymous with speed and luxury and the vehicle offers all the power one would require for utmost fun behind the wheel.

The first Ferrari with six cylinders, the car features a mid-mounted turbocharged 120° V6 engine that is paired with an electric motor that sits between the engine and an eight-speed dual clutch automatic transmission. All of these inclusions make the car capable of delivering a staggering 830 horsepower, it can reach 100km/h in only 2.9 seconds, and hit top speeds of over 330km/h.

Beyond speed, the car is also prioritises drivability, offering four drive modes –eDrive, Hybrid, Performance, and Quality, each providing different degrees of electric motor involvement for a tailor-made driving experience.

Its power under the hood is amplified thanks to the Ferrari 296 GTB’s lightweight and stylish construction. In terms of its visual design DNA, Ferrari keeps focus on modernity and aerodynamics for the 296 GTB, with the car boasting a clear bonnet, clean hood, a simple yet effective bumper, and a less-is-more spoiler design that blends seamlessly with its elegant taillights.

Ferrari also decided to go minimal for its cabin architecture to emphasise the car’s sporty attitude. Highlights from the interior include a digital dashboard interface, discreet head-up display, and seats covered in Italian leather for a touch of finesse.

For more information about the Ferrari 296 GTB, click here.

The Rolls-Royce Spectre

The Spectre is the embodiment of the next generation of Rolls-Royce vehicles. Touted as the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever, it is the carmaker’s first electric vehicle, and upon its official launch, will be the world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé.

A result of the brand’s 120 years of experience in craftsmanship and high-end sleek design, Spectre’s look is similar to the iconic Rolls-Royce Wraith coupé, complete with its signature suicide doors. Decadent in nature, the four-seater Spectre is almost 5.5 metres in length and is a very powerful, heavy car.

Standout design features of the Spectre include the widest Greek Temple grille of any Rolls-Royce car, the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot that emerges stylishly from its hood, split headlights, and downlit vanes that reduce drag, all of which give the vehicle its remarkable profile.

Its interiors are crafted from only the finest fabrics and leathers that the buyer chooses during the consultation stage and boasts a stunning ‘starlight door and canopy’ concept with almost 5,000 illuminated stars. For the first time ever, the car’s instruments are rendered on a screen, but simulate the classic-nature of Rolls-Royce’s analog dials.

The car also features Rolls-Royce’s renowned Planar suspension system, an orchestra of systems that reacts intelligently to a driver’s specific inputs and surrounding road conditions. The brand’s latest software and hardware developments have been embedded into the design of the Spectre in order to fully deliver the carmaker’s hallmark ‘magic carpet ride’ driving experience.

Despite its considerable size and mass, the Spectre has an all-electric range of 520 km, offers 900 Nm of torque from a 430kW powertrain, can reach an impressive top speed of 250km/h, and can accelerate to 100km/h in an impressive 4.5 seconds.

Read more about the Rolls-Royce Spectre, here.

The Bentley Bentayga Hybrid

The Bentley Betayga Hybrid is the perfect marriage of sophistication and muscle. Designed around pillars related to practicality and luxury, the car aims to be the market’s ultimate everyday vehicle.

Introduced as part of Bentley’s long-term plan to promote sustainable vehicles, the Bentayga Hybrid is equipped with a 3-litre single-turbo V6 engine, and its eight-speed automatic transmission is split by a 126bhp e-motor that draws power from a 13kWh battery.

Offering all-wheel drive and three E Modes – EV Drive, Hybrid Mode, and Hold Mode that provide manual management over the battery for a more personalised drive, the car can reach a top speed of 254km/h, delivers an impressive 700 Nm of torque, and can go from 0-100km/h in just 5.5 seconds.

The design of the Bentayga Hybrid brings to life the essence of a Bentley vehicle, transforming signature design elements into SUV fitting forms. The car features an elegant, sculpted exterior complete with Bentley’s famous matrix grille, LED headlights, large wing vents, sculpted sills, and 3D-style taillights.

The vehicle boasts handcrafted interiors that combine natural hides and veneers to create a luxurious and comfortable cabin that can be completely customised from ‘Seat Comfort Specification’ to mood lighting, choice of natural woods, choice of stitching, piping, embroidery, and so forth.

A true feat of engineering, the Bentayga Hybrid boasts a plethora of amenities that can help make any journey an exceptional one. The car is fitted with a suite of advanced technologies, including a cutting-edge navigation system, wireless touchscreen remote for rear cabin control over heating and ventilation, night vision tech, and a state-of-the-art audio system, just to name a few.

Those who decide to purchase the Bentayga Hybrid can also benefit from extensive options for customisation, from standard exterior colours to choosing a carbon fibre body kit, duo-tone options, and much more.

Read more about the Bentayga Hybrid, here.

The Maserati Grecale GT

The Maserati Grecale GT is the manufacturer’s newest mid-size SUV that combines hybrid solutions with the carmaker’s celebrated craftsmanship. Conceptualised under the concept of ‘Everyday Exceptional,’ the vehicle has been designed to prioritise versatility, making it a fitting choice for every driver on all types of roads.

The Grecale GT is powered by a four-cylinder, two-litre turbo petrol engine with a 48-volt hybrid system and electronic booster (e-Booster). This cutting-edge system allows the car to perform at exceptional levels, featuring 450Nm of torque, a top speed of 240km/h, and the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.3 seconds.

The Grecale GT also features a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission system that adjusts to the driver’s shift patterns and driving style. This coupled with an auto-adaptive internal software creates a unique driving experience that is tailored to one’s driving preferences. This adaptability also lends itself to the ‘Vehicle Domain Control Module’, which adjusts to external factors including the road.

The car also boasts a patented system complete with four driving modes that include ‘Sport’ and ‘Off-Road’ options. Regardless of the choice of mode, the Grecale GT features an all-wheel drive system for maximum control on any surface.

With a focus on aerodynamics, the car’s body is crafted from an array of lightweight materials including carbon fibre. Its design boasts the brand’s iconic front grille and plenty of elegant, curved lines inspired by the luxury interior design and jewellery industries.

The Grecale GT offers several standout design elements encompassing 44mm more legroom than the segment average, more than 33” of digital display surfaces, sports car-inspired LED headlights, triple side air vents, boomerang-style taillights, and a powerful 21 speaker Sonus Faber audio system.

Read more about the Maserati Grecale GT, here.

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand.