Did you know that Volvo is among the earliest automotive manufacturers in the world to announce a strategy to offer a full-time EV portfolio by 2030?
In fact, by the end of May 2024, its CEO, Jim Rowan, explained that the target could still be achievable, and he also believes that Volvo can end the sales of internal combustion engine vehicles within the next five years.
However, in an event held with investors in late July, the CEO finally admitted that “it will take time to connect various parts of the world to achieve full electrification.”
In other words, the initial goal of becoming a pure EV brand by 2030 may be difficult to achieve.
Considering the latest developments, Volvo has decided to realign its sales targets, aiming for 90-100 percent of sales to consist of EVs and PHEVs by the end of this decade.
Meanwhile, non-plug-in hybrid vehicles will continue to be sold for a longer period than initially expected.
The Swedish manufacturer believes that several factors contribute to the slowing transition to EV usage, such as slow infrastructure development, reduced EV sales incentives, and the introduction of new tariffs for EVs in some markets.
In addition to Volvo, several other major global manufacturers are also reconsidering their aggressive electrification strategies, including Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Bentley, and Ford.
Toyota seeks to commemorate the 51st anniversary of its first World Rally Championship (WRC) victory by launching the limited edition GR Yaris model.
With a production limit of 51 units exclusively for the Italian market, the Toyota GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition comes with a unique specification package.
For example, it features a distinctive red decal graphic design inspired by the Corolla 1600 Coupe which won the Press On Regardless Rally championship in Michigan in 1973.
Moreover, this limited edition GR Yaris is adorned with TGR Italy emblems on both the exterior and interior, complete with production serial numbers.
Each of the four wheel arches is adorned with 18-inch forged rims in Heritage Gold color, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires.
Despite these cosmetic changes, no alterations have been made to the heart of the car, the 1.6-liter turbo G16E-GTS three-cylinder inline engine capable of producing 276 hp.
All 51 units of the GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition are offered with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Reservations for this limited edition model will commence on the Toyota Italy website on September 9, and each unit will be sold at €67,500 (RM325,917).
Interested buyers will need to pay a deposit of €2,000 (RM9,657), and notably, Toyota also provides a test drive session in a racing car, two VIP passes for the TGR Italy 2025 event, special car protection, and branded sportswear from Gazoo Racing.
In the Thailand market, Carryboy company has begun offering full-spec motorhome packages for owners of the Hilux Champ pickup truck model who prioritize comfort while traveling.
The same module can actually be fitted onto larger pickup trucks like the Toyota Hilux and Mitsubishi Triton.
Depending on the selected specifications, this motorhome is capable of accommodating up to six people at a time.
It provides a living area that can be transformed into a sleeping area, in addition to other amenities such as LED lighting system, storage space, 80-liter refrigerator, cooking area, 32-inch TV, and air conditioning unit.
On the exterior, Carryboy also installs electric-powered side steps, awning roof, and a pull-out cooking option.
There is a 100-liter fresh water tank for the bathroom and toilet use.
The motorhome also comes with a 9,600 Wh capacity battery that can be upgraded to 19,200 Wh or 28,800 Wh for those who wish to remain off-grid for longer periods.
Owners can also take advantage of hot weather by installing solar panels on the roof to extend the battery life.
The engine power remains standard, with the 2.4-liter diesel heart capable of producing up to 148 hp and 343 Nm of torque to drive the rear wheels through the automatic gearbox.
However, Carryboy also offers an upgraded suspension system option with new shock absorbers that can further increase the ground clearance of the Hilux Champ.
For those who prefer a more compact package, Carryboy offers the Touring Package, including a rear module with organized storage space, and a rooftop tent that can accommodate two adults.
The price for the Touring Package starts from THB 450,000 (RM57,298) for the rear module, and THB 32,500 (RM4,138) for the rooftop tent.
Those interested in the comprehensive motorhome package mentioned earlier can budget from THB 1,997,000 to THB 2,389,000 (RM254k-RM304k).
Despite carrying the Hilux name, the Hilux Champ actually has a smaller size and is positioned below the pickup truck model as a more compact and affordable alternative (priced from THB 459,000 or RM58,444).
Starting next year, motorcycles with a capacity of 150cc and above must be equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), as reported by Bernama.
According to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also chairs the Malaysian Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Traffic Congestion, ABS can reduce motorcycle rider fatalities by 31% in accidents, based on a report from the World Health Organization.
“I am confident that this initiative will reduce road user deaths in Malaysia and inspire other ASEAN countries to take similar steps, making motorcycles safer across the region,” he said during his speech at the Asian Road Safety Conference (CARS).
Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong were also present at the event.
Ahmad Zahid also proposed expanding the Motorcycle Assessment Program Malaysia (MyMAP) rating system beyond Malaysia to enhance motorcycle safety worldwide.
“Through this, we can identify which motorcycles from which companies are safer and vice versa,” he said.
The lifespan of the luxurious electric sedan Mercedes-Benz EQS may not last as long as expected.
This is because according to the latest report from Autocar, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius confirmed that the electric sedan will be replaced with an electric version of the S-Class.
“In the future, there will be two versions of the S-Class, namely ICE and electric,” he said.
Unlike the current approach, Mercedes-Benz will use the same design for both models, although they will not be based on the same platform.
According to the report, the electric S-Class sedan will be built on a specific EV platform, while the ICE version will continue to use the improved MRA architecture.
The approach of the same design for two different powertrain models has already been used by its competitor BMW in the new generation models of the 5-Series and 7-Series.
The name EQS is also likely to be dropped, referring to the long name used by the previously launched electric-powered G-wagen (G580 with EQ Technology).
In conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the first 911 Turbo model, Porsche introduces a lineup of up to 12 sneaker designs for enthusiasts to own.
All 12 sneaker designs are produced through a collaboration with the sportswear manufacturer Puma, with each model limited to 911 units.
In line with the theme, two models from the sneaker collection have historical significance and are inspired by iconic Porsche models.
For instance, the Turbo No. 1 sneaker design is based on the legendary Porsche model presented to Louise Piëch on her 70th birthday.
Crafted using full-grain leather, the Turbo No. 1 sneaker features a metallic silver exterior with a red/blue tartan pattern inside, reminiscent of the interior trim of the first 911 Turbo model.
On the other hand, the Turbo 930 sneaker design pays tribute to Dr. Ferry Porsche’s turbo model from 1976.
The Turbo 930 sneaker showcases nubuck leather in Oak Green Metallic color with a green tartan pattern on the interior lining.
For the local market, the Turbo No. 1 and Turbo 930 sneakers in the exclusive polar blue color will be available starting from August 29, 2024, at all Porsche Centers, limited to only 150 pairs.
Buyers will also receive additional shoelace sets and an exclusive black Porsche Puma sports bag.
If you’ve noticed, there are several car models in the Malaysian market that are already equipped with the option of side cameras to replace the role of side mirrors.
At first glance, cars equipped with side camera units do indeed look advanced. It’s futuristic, as if they come from the future.
There are also imported models like the Honda e, which comes standard with the side camera feature.
According to the manufacturer, the use of side cameras provides several benefits, especially for electric vehicles.
These include better aerodynamics and the ability to achieve a longer range of motion.
Furthermore, it also helps reduce the impact of wind noise and avoids larger blind spots as found in conventional cars.
However, does being more advanced mean it’s much better than side mirrors?
The author previously had the opportunity to test a car equipped with side cameras.
There’s no better way to test the effectiveness of this advanced system than by entering a parking space in reverse.
In contrast to models equipped with side mirrors, the author took quite a long time to get used to the car with side cameras.
One reason is the position of the display screen on the door panel, where it directly changes our viewing habits from the original position of the side mirrors to a new line of sight within the car.
Imagine having to gauge distance on the side of the vehicle, we have to look at the display inside the car instead of outside the car.
The field of view displayed on the screen is not as wide as the use of side mirrors.
Insufficient lighting conditions can also affect the image displayed on the screen.
Now, imagine if you’re driving on the road, and the side camera becomes a target for the actions of irresponsible motorcyclists.
Like it or not, you may need to allocate a large budget to replace a malfunctioning side camera, compared to replacing a conventional side mirror.
Not all technological advancements make things easier, but it’s up to each individual’s budget to determine which one is best for personal use.
Aside from a comfortable home, we also need a mode of transportation that can make enjoyable travel from point A to point B.
With technological advancements, modern cars are now much more comfortable and safer compared to the cars used by our fathers and grandfathers.
However, the rapid pace of technological advancement has also brought sudden changes to how we operate cars on a daily basis.
Here are some automotive trends that should be phased out from modern cars:
Troublesome minimalism
This is a trend that we can see in new cars.
Most manufacturers are reducing functional buttons and consolidating all essential operations into the infotainment screen.
As a result, the layout of the dashboard becomes ‘cleaner’, but it brings a significant problem – driver distraction occurs more frequently.
In the past, you only needed a single specific button to open the panoramic sunroof, but now you have to tap the central screen several times just to perform the same operation. Isn’t that bothersome?
Unfriendly voice commands
Another troublesome trend following the first point, is manufacturers racing to introduce their own voice command systems.
With this function, you can direct the system to open the windows, adjust the temperature, and various other tasks if the system comes with artificial intelligence (AI) features.
For users who have a soft accent, there is no issue in adapting to the voice command system.
What about other users? The writer can attest to the frequent use of this system while test driving various types of modern cars.
Too many screens in the cabin
In the past, we might have been presented with a small screen for displaying important information.
Over time, the vehicle’s infotainment screen has increased in size, and not only that, there are additional screens installed on the dashboard.
Cabin lights like a tom yum shop
This is also a trend that should be phased out, because ambient lighting systems resembling a tom yum shop can actually affect the driver’s focus, especially at night.
The reflection effect of the ambient lighting on the windows can confuse the driver’s attention.
Some manufacturers even intentionally place ambient lighting at the same level as the driver’s field of vision.
In the writer’s opinion, ambient lighting is a good feature to enhance the cabin at night, but it should be moderated. Don’t let it disrupt driving.
Not using turn signal at all
What is the purpose of creating turn signal lights? To alert other road users of our intention to change lanes or enter any intersection ahead.
So, what benefit do we gain if we never use this function to change lanes at all?
There is no benefit, and you might even receive continuous insults and honking from behind.
So, please do not belong to the group that enjoys inconveniencing others.
Section 1 of the West Coast Expressway (WCE), involving the stretch from Banting Interchange to SKVE Interchange, will officially be open to highway users starting at 12:01 a.m. tonight (August 31, 2024).
The opening of Section 1 of the WCE was officiated by the Minister of Works, YB Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, in an event held earlier at the Banting Toll Plaza.
This section involves a 12.5 km stretch connecting Dengkil-Banting Road (FT31) to the South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE), and is expected to benefit residents around Banting by providing connectivity to major towns in the southern Klang Valley such as Putrajaya, Bangi, and Kajang.
It will also link major ports such as Port Klang and Port Lumut to the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), which is expected to enhance travel efficiency for the freight transport sector and reduce operation costs for industrial companies operating within the highway’s reach.
In conjunction with the official opening, the Minister of Works also announced toll exemption for one month from August 31, 2024, until September 29, 2024, 11:59 p.m.
Due to difficulties in meeting safety and emission regulations, Jaguar Land Rover made the decision to cease production of the classic Defender in 2016.
The introduction of the new generation Defender model in 2019 brought about significant changes, as it now uses an aluminum monocoque chassis instead of the previous body-on-frame construction.
However, this technological change does not mean that Land Rover will forsake the classic Defender generation.
Through the Works Bespoke division, Land Rover has announced a project to bring back the classic off-road SUV with a V8 engine offering.
It is not a completely new model, but rather a restomod project based on donor models from 2012-2016 and is available in the practical short-wheelbase 90 or 110 versions.
The mentioned V8 engine is capable of producing a high power of 405 hp and 515 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.
The suspension has been upgraded with the use of Bilstein dampers, Eibach springs, and an anti-roll bar, while the braking system utilizes four-piston Alcon calipers with 335mm front rotors and 300mm rear rotors.
In the cabin, Land Rover still maintains the old-school dashboard layout, but with the addition of a small 3.5-inch touchscreen complete with satellite navigation and digital radio.
In addition, there are Recaro front seats, as well as a choice of leather trim with five single-tone colors or eight dual-tone trim options.
Land Rover also offers customization packages ranging from roof tent and ladder installations to transforming it into a camping vehicle.
The price for a Land Rover Defender 90 starts at £190,000 (RM1.08 million), while the 110 five-seat version starts at £199,000 (RM1.13 million).
There is a 110 variant with seven seats available, for which the price is stated as £204,000 (RM1.16 million).
If the stated cost is too high, there is a more affordable alternative.
In the UK, there is an off-road SUV called the Ineos Grenadier, inspired by the Land Rover Defender, with a starting price of £65,015 (RM398,875).
It is powered by a straight-six 3.0-liter engine with an output of 282 hp/450 Nm for the petrol version, or 245 hp/550 Nm for the diesel version, paired with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.
Despite an uncertain future for the electric vehicle (EV) segment, Hyundai remains steadfast in moving forward.
During the recently held CEO Investor Day 2024 event, Hyundai confirmed the launch of no less than 21 new EV expected by 2030, ranging from affordable models to high-performance ones.
Interestingly, Hyundai also plans to turn the N Vision 74 concept model into a reality.
The Hyundai N Vision 74 is a concept developed by Hyundai based on the 1974 Pony coupe model designed by the legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiario.
Unlike the Pony, the N Vision 74 presents a blend of retro and modern elements with a wedge-shaped body structure, a large rear spoiler, and digital light units at the front and rear.
At this stage, Hyundai has not disclosed the powertrain unit that will be used in the actual production version of the N Vision 74.
However, for your information, the N Vision 74 Concept is a hybrid vehicle combining a hydrogen fuel cell system and a battery electric powertrain.
The 800-volt electric propulsion unit includes two electric motors generating 670 hp/900 Nm powering the rear wheels.
A 62.4 kWh battery pack is utilized to supply the required power to these electric motors.
At the front, Hyundai incorporates a 114 hp hydrogen fuel cell system with two hydrogen tanks totaling 4.2 kg capacity that can be fully refilled in just five minutes.
Overall, the N Vision 74 can travel nearly 600 km and accelerate from 0-100 km/h in four seconds.
Apart from the official name, Hyundai has also not revealed a specific timeline for the production model launch of the N Vision 74.
As of now, the N Vision 74 is one of the 21 new EV models set to be released by Hyundai by 2030.
Hyundai is also aiming for total sales figures to reach 5.55 million units by the same year, with 2 million of them being EV models
Several months after the unveiling of the Concept #5 model, smart has finally introduced the new crossover model #5 2025.
At its core, the smart #5 is a mid-size premium SUV, sporting a boxy body shape with dimensions that rival those of the GLC-Class SUV.
Here’s what you need to know about the smart #5:
Dimensions
The smart #5 measures 4,705 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, 1,705 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,900 mm. In comparison, the smart #5 boasts larger dimensions than the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, but slightly smaller than the GLC-Class.
Storage Space
Due to its larger size compared to the smart #1 and #3, the smart #5 offers more storage space within the cabin, with a cargo capacity of up to 1,530 liters. Additionally, there is also a ‘frunk’ space at the front suitable for storing smaller items.
Premium Cabin
Luxurious features loaded into the cabin include zero-gravity seats, premium leather upholstery, oak wood trims, a Sennheiser audio system with 21 speakers, and ambient lighting system with 256 color options available.
The dashboard houses a 10.3-inch digital cluster screen, along with two 13-inch screens displaying the AI avatar Leo, and a 25.6-inch augmented reality heads-up display.
Furthermore, the rear seats come with heating and adjustable recline functions, power sunshades, first-class cabin-style LED reading lights, and a special comfort mode that provides extra legroom. The rear seats can also be folded down to provide a comfortable sleeping space.
Can travel up to 740 km
The smart #5 comes equipped with a 100 kWh battery pack, providing a driving range of 740 km (CTLC data). The 800-volt charging technology enables fast DC charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 10-80 percent within 15 minutes.
According to information from the Chinese ministry’s website, the smart #5 will be offered in RWD versions with 335 hp or 358 hp, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) version combines a front electric motor with 221 hp with options for rear electric motors of 358 hp or 416 hp.
Exterior Features
Unlike the more rounded appearance of the smart #1 and #3, the smart #5 presents a more rugged and robust look. The main headlights feature a more angular shape, complemented by body protection cladding, integrated door handles, and aerodynamic rims with floating center caps.
Owners seeking a more rugged version can opt for the Summit Edition, which adds roof-mounted light bars, side step boards, a ladder, underbody protection, more aggressive rims, a trailer hitch, and storage boxes that can be mounted on the C/D pillars.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, recently announced a significant milestone as the production of the seven-seater MPV, Xpander, has surpassed the 40,000 units mark.
The 40,000th Xpander owner, Puan Zaty Ewany, a teacher and mother of five children from Pasir Puteh, Kelantan, was honored at an event held at MMM’s authorized distributor, RIF Auto Sdn Bhd.
MMM’s CEO, Shinya Ikeda, personally presented a RM10,000 vacation voucher to Puan Zaty Ewany.
“When we launched the Xpander in late 2020, our vision was to create a vehicle that not only meets various customer needs but also enriches their lifestyle,” he stated.
The Mitsubishi Xpander was updated for ASEAN market in 2021 with a more aggressive look, while retaining the 1.5-liter 4A91 engine producing 105 PS and 141 Nm.
Earlier this year, a hybrid version was introduced in the Thailand market featuring a 1.6-liter 4A92 engine with 95 PS/134 Nm paired with an electric motor of 116 PS/255 Nm.
For specific markets like North America and Europe, the ninth generation D-segment sedan Toyota Camry is exclusively a hybrid model and no longer available with a conventional petrol engine.
However, this does not signify that Toyota is completely disregarding the traditional powertrain units.
In the Middle East, buyers can still obtain the new generation Camry with a pure petrol engine along with hybrid variants.
It is still powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine producing 201 hp and 240 Nm, similar to that used in the previous generation.
This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The exterior design of the Camry 2025 is not much different from what is offered in the U.S. market.
Base variants come with 16-inch steel rims, while the highest trim gets 18-inch alloy rims.
The cabin layout remains the same, with the base variant equipped with an 8-inch infotainment screen, while the 12.3-inch screen is reserved for the more expensive trims.
For your information, the new generation 2025 Toyota Camry retains the TNGA-K platform base used in the eighth generation Camry, with some changes made to comfort and handling aspects.
In the UAE, the 2025 Toyota Camry is sold starting from AED 109,900 (RM129,996) and from AED 123,900 (RM146,555) for the hybrid version.
Held at the Sepang International Circuit, a total of 370 units of Volkswagen Golf models were successfully gathered at the Golf Fan Fest 2024 event which took place on August 24th.
This achievement simultaneously places Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) in the Malaysia Book of Records.
The Golf Fan Fest 2024 was organized in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the Golf, which successfully gathered Volkswagen owners and enthusiasts from across the country.
The VW Golf is one of the most successful production cars ever produced, with more than 37 million units distributed in over 70 countries.
As part of the celebration, VPCM also showcased the exclusive Golf GT Edition 50 model, with production limited to only 50 units.
The VW Golf GTI Edition 50 is fully assembled at the Pekan factory, featuring unique features such as the Oettinger body kit, new 18-inch rims with dynamic center caps, side body graphics, exterior and interior 50 emblems, and a choice of Oryx White or Moonstone Grey colors.
In addition, Golf Fan Fest 2024 also offered various exciting activities including gymkhana driving challenges, ‘drift taxi rides’ in the Golf R, open track sessions, an exhibition of eight generations of Golf, test driving sessions, and workshops covering various aspects of owning a Golf model.
Bermaz XPeng Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Xpeng brand vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the electric SUV model 2024 Xpeng G6.
This mid-size crossover with a coupe body design is offered in two main variants, namely the 580 Pro with a range of 435 km and the 755 Pro with a range of 570 km.
Here are some interesting facts you need to know about the 2024 XPeng G6 Ultra Smart Coupe.
SEPA 2.0 Platform
The XPeng G6 is the fifth model introduced by Xpeng, but it is the first production model built based on the Smart Electric Platform Architecture 2.0 (SEPA 2.0) with an 800-volt electric architecture and a more spacious cabin.
Additionally, it also offers a lower center of gravity, contributing to better dynamic driving control. The body construction of the Xpeng G6 combines aluminum and steel materials.
Variants
Two variants are offered, the G6 580 Pro and G6 755 Pro.
The G6 580 Pro is powered by an electric motor generating 255 hp/440 Nm paired with a 66 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack. It can travel up to 435 km on a full charge, with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 6.6 seconds.
Meanwhile, the G6 755 Pro is equipped with an electric motor producing 282 hp/440 Nm paired with an 87.5 kWh Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery allowing a range of 570 km. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. Both variants have a maximum speed of 200 km/h.
20-Minute Fast Charging
The XPeng G6 supports fast DC charging up to 215 kW for the 580 Pro variant, or up to 280 kW for the 755 Pro variant. This means that battery charging from 10-80 percent can be completed in as fast as 20 minutes.
Safety
The XPeng G6 comes standard with XPILOT 2.5 safety features, including 7 airbags, and advanced safety features such as:
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go
Lane Centering Control (LCC)
Active Lane Change Assist (ALC)
Auto Parking Assistance (EAP 2.0)
Auto Exit Parking Assistance (AEP)
Driver State Monitoring (DSM)
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
High Beam Assistance (IHB)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK)
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Rear Collision Warning (RCW)
All these functions are supported by equipment such as millimeter-wave radar, ultrasonic radar, and a 360-degree HD camera powered by the Nvidia Orin-X processor.
Cabin Space
The XPeng G6 embraces the ‘Circle of Life’ concept in the cabin to ensure passenger comfort. Some of the loaded features include leatherette-wrapped driver and passenger seats with six-way adjustment, ventilation and heating functions, and four-way lumbar support, while the second-row seats also come with heating function.
In addition, there is wireless 50W smart device charging, dual-zone automatic climate control, XFreeBreath air filtration system, a 10.2-inch digital screen, a 14.96-inch entertainment screen with Xmart OS 5.0, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air (OTA) update support.
Completing the unique experience in the cabin is the XOpera 960W surround sound system with 18 speakers, panorama sound technology, and acoustics algorithm developed by XPeng.
Price
The XPeng G6 Ultra Smart Coupe SUV 2024 is a fully imported (CBU) unit from China with five color options: Midnight Black, Silver Frost, Arctic White, Graphite Gray, and Fiery Orange.
The selling price starts from RM165,000 for the G6 580 Pro variant, while the 755 Pro variant is priced at RM185,000.
The XPeng G6 comes with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty or a mileage limit of 120,000 km, as well as an eight-year high-voltage battery pack warranty or a limit of 160,000 km (whichever comes first).
A group of British OEM companies will join forces under the name Vision 148 to carry out a restomod project on a super saloon from the 80s, named the Carbon Piranha.
Using the chassis of the Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 numbered #148, Carbon Piranha will showcase showcase bleeding-edge manufacturing and materials technology.
The original condition of the car has not been disclosed, but based on the images, it appears that the classic vehicle may have long been neglected and unused for quite some time.
The car will be sent to ASM Auto Recycling for a dismantling process where each panel will be scanned using 3D technology.
The results of this scanning process will be used by Yasid Design to create a brand-new carbon fiber body framework template.
The iconic vehicle will then be constructed by the Digital Manufacturing Centre (DMC), a component supplier for the motorsport and aerospace industries, with a target weight of around 1,000 kg, which is 210 kg lighter than the original model.
Finally, the inline-four 2.0-liter turbo engine will be rebuilt by the original supplier, Cosworth.
The exterior design of the Carbon Piranha displays mastery in carbon fiber construction, followed by more modern light units and larger wheel arches.
It also retains the whaletail spoiler structure, along with a redesigned boot lid spoiler for a more aggressive appearance.
Tesla is no longer the dominant force in the electric vehicle segment, at least in the European continent.
Based on data obtained from JATO Dynamics, BMW has managed to sell a total of 14,869 EVs throughout July 2024.
In comparison, Tesla has sold a total of 14,561 units for the same period.
Despite the small difference, this indicates that the German manufacturer is now able to surpass Tesla’s EV sales, even while still offering options for petrol and hybrid vehicles to consumers.
JATO Dynamics analysis shows a decline in sales performance for two of Tesla’s crucial models (Model Y and Model 3) last month, with Model Y sales decreasing by 16 percent to 9,544 units, and Model 3 dropping by 17 percent to 4,694 units.
Tesla may still take pride in the fact that the Model Y remains the best-selling EV, surpassing the Volvo EX30 (6,573 units) and the Volkswagen ID.4 (5,295 units).
Despite holding the title for the best-selling EV, these numbers are still significantly behind the sales performance of the best-selling models in Europe, with the Dacia Sandero leading the way in July with 22,398 units sold, followed by the Volkswagen T-Roc (19,254 units) and the Toyota Yaris Cross (17,314 units).
Most modern cars equipped with Level 2 driver assistance systems already have automatic parking assist functions.
However, Chinese car manufacturer IM Motors has showcased a new technology that makes parking much easier.
A video uploaded to social media shows a woman getting out of the car with a bouquet of flowers at a parking spot.
After the driver’s side door is closed, the car maneuvers into the side parking spot.
The crab-like movement is achieved with an all-wheel steering system, where the front and rear wheels turn in different directions, along with precise control of the electric motor’s power to rotate the wheels in opposite directions.
This system also enables IM Motors’ cars to make U-turns with a radius as small as 4.99 meters.
The sedan, fully wrapped in camouflage decals, resembles the midsize sedan model IM L6, which was released in the Chinese market this year.
There is no information available regarding IM Motors’ plans to offer this parking solution to other models in the future.
The high-performance SUV genre is no longer an anomaly, considering many manufacturers are racing to produce their own unique products.
Not limited to producers such as Audi RS, Mercedes-AMG, and BMW M, there are also quick SUVs from premium automotive brands like Aston Martin, Bentley, and Lotus.
But what about Toyota?
For your information, Toyota still does not have a lineup of high-performance SUVs, but the manufacturer is said to be planning to produce a Gazoo Racing model in the near future.
During a visit to China to meet with Century SUV owners, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda disclosed plans to produce the Century SUV GRMN model so that “more people from around the world can enjoy the model.”
Built on the TNGA-K platform, the Century SUV is equipped with a V6 3.5-liter plug-in hybrid engine producing up to 406 hp.
At the launch of the Century SUV model, Toyota also unveiled a special build Century SUV GRMN model with a more sporty appearance and a sliding rear door design.
For this Gazoo Racing Meister of Nurburgring variant of the Century SUV model, we can expect significantly higher spec upgrades compared to the standard GR Sport and GR models (GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR Supra).
The Century SUV GRMN model is owned by Akio Toyoda, who also has a Century GRMN sedan with a much more radical appearance than standard Century sedans out there.
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