The el-Born is Seat's first proper EV

Say hello to Seat’s first proper EV. Named for a neighborhood in Barcelona, the el-Born Concept previews an electric family hatchback that’s set to go on sale in 2020.

Based on the same VW Group ‘MEB’ electric car platform as the Volkswagen I.D, which will go on sale later this year, the el-Born has a 62kWh battery that can be charged from 0 to 80 per cent in just 47 minutes using a 100kW DC charging station. It gives as much as 260-miles of range, while the 201bhp motor allows for 0-62mph in around 7.5 seconds. Slower, less-rangey versions might also be in the pipeline.

Aerodynamics are central to el-Born’s design, which looks similar to what we've seen of the VW I.D. Not like a conventional family hatch, by any means, with the A-pillar pushed as far forwards as it’ll go to maximise interior space.

There is no big radiator grille because there’s no engine to cool - just a few air intakes to send cool air to the batteries. Even the Seat badge is flush with the bonnet, so the car’s front end is as slippery as possible. An “air curtain” has been incorporated into the design, while the 20in wheels not only give aero benefits, but channel cool air to the brakes, and hot air away from them.

The interior looks almost production-ready - most of the controls seem to be integrated into a central 10in infotainment screen, while the dashboard itself is canted towards the driver. No doubt some of this architecture will be shared with the car’s German cousin - the I.D.  

We’ll see the el-Born for the first time at next week’s Geneva Motor Show. But in the meantime, how do you reckon it compares to Honda’s E Prototype?