smell the rubber

THE NEW LAND CRUISER

2021-08-18T09:51:00.002+02:00

Toyota announced that it has launched its new Land Cruiser. But it has launched the original BJ in August 1951, it started with a four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with a powerful engine. In the 70 years since, it has sought to deliver safety and security to diverse customers and other people involved with the vehicle. All over the world, the Land Cruiser has supported lives, livelihoods, and more fulfilling lifestyles, and promised to take people anywhere and everywhere, and come back alive and safe. Now, the Land Cruiser's essence of reliability, durability, and off-road performance has further evolved, based on the actual usage situations of its global customers. A cumulative total of approximately 10.6 million units and more than 300.000 units a year are being cherished by customers in 170 countries and regions all over the world. The new Land Cruiser is available with a newly developed 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo gasoline engine, with a maximum output of 305 kW (415 PS) and a maximum torque of 650 Nm. It combines the TNGA philosophy with the traditional reliability of the Land Cruiser. The direct-injection 4-stroke gasoline engine superior version with turbo (D-4ST) has a multi-hole direct injector, a longer stroke, and optimized valve angle positioning for high-speed combustion, and the high-efficiency twin-turbo delivers powerful torque at low speeds and outstanding supercharger response. As for the 3.3-liter V6 twin-turbo diesel engine, it features various optimizations, such as to its piston combustion chambers, intake ports, and injectors. It combines a maximum output of 227 kW (309 PS) and a maximum torque of 700 Nm with outstanding fuel efficiency. From a driving perspective, the supercharger performance of the newly adopted variable-nozzle two-way twin-turbo promises thrilling acceleration in all manner of scenarios. The superb responsiveness of the single-turbo offers powerful acceleration at low speeds; at high speeds, the large intake volume of the twin-turbo contributes to smooth acceleration.

ELECTRIC CARS... FOR MASSES

2020-12-01T11:48:00.003+02:00

Berlin (Reuters) - Volkswagen is bringing forward the development of a small electric car for the mass market in anticipation of tougher climate regulations, according to plans seen by Reuters, as it seeks to boost sales in a new green era. Under the project dubbed “Small BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)”, engineers are racing to develop a purely-battery powered car around the size of a Polo which will be available for between 20.000 and 25.000 euros ($24.000-30.000). This would make it cheaper than Volkswagen’s ID.3 electric car, which went on sale in September. Volkswagen did not provide details on what the vehicle might look like, when it might be launched or where it might be built. The carmaker said the European Union’s more stringent emissions targets will force it to boost the proportion of hybrid and electric vehicles in its European car sales to 60% by 2030, up from a previous target of 40%. Earlier, it raised its planned investment on digital and electric vehicle technologies to 73 billion euros ($86 billion) over the next five years, of which around 35 billion will be invested in e-mobility. The VW brand currently plans to build 1.5 million electric cars by 2025.

TESLA... GERMAN BATTERY

2020-10-08T11:37:00.005+02:00

(Reuters) - Tesla Inc has agreed to acquire German ATW Automation, a supplier assembling battery modules and packs for the auto industry, a source familiar with the transaction said. ATW, a subsidiary of Canadian ATS Automation Tooling Systems Inc, was on the brink of liquidation due to a slump in orders, German media reported in September. ATS on Sept. 25 announced that certain assets and employees at one of its Germany-based units would be sold and transferred to a third party, without disclosing the name of the company. ATS and ATW did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Tesla plans to ramp up battery production significantly in the coming years and during a recent event presented innovations that it said would sharply reduce the cost of battery packs within the next three years. The company is currently building its third vehicle manufacturing facility near Berlin, which will also include a battery plant, and aims to start construction on a new vehicle factory in Texas this year. Tesla’s planned future lineup includes the light duty Cybertruck and the Semi truck, which require higher battery capacities. Tesla said it had delivered a record 139.300 vehicles globally in the third quarter. The company aims to deliver half a million vehicles by the end of this year.

HYUNDAI RECALL KONA IN SOUTH KOREA

2020-10-08T11:30:00.004+02:00

SEOUL (Reuters) - Hyundai Motor Co will voluntarily recall its Kona electric vehicles as a possible short circuit due to what may be faulty manufacturing of its high-voltage battery cells could pose a fire risk, South Korea’s transport ministry said. Starting on October 16, the recall, which includes software updates and battery replacements after inspections, involves 25.564 Kona electric vehicles (EVs) built between September 2017 and March 2020, the ministry said in a statement. The safety recall is a proactive response to a suspected defective production of high-voltage batteries used in the vehicles, which may have contributed to the reported fires, Hyundai said, adding that it will deploy all necessary measures to identify the cause of the fire and address customers needs. Some 13 incidents of fire involving the Kona EV, including one each in Canada and Austria, have been documented, the office of ruling party lawmaker Jang Kyung-tae said in a statement. In July, Hyundai Motor Group leader Euisun Chung said Hyundai Motor and sister company Kia Motors aim to sell 1 million battery-driven electric vehicles in 2025, targeting more than 10% of the global market share for such vehicles.

NEW... SORENTO

2020-02-28T12:31:00.000+02:00

Kia Motors Corporation has revealed details of the next-generation Sorento’s new platform and powertrains today.

The latest Sorento will be the first SUV to be based on Kia’s new platform when production commences later this year. With a compact engine bay structure, shorter overhangs and a longer wheelbase, the platform enables the car’s stylish new design and on-road posture, as well as its comfortable ride and satisfying handling traits.

The overall length of new Sorento has been extended by 10 mm than its predecessor, while the wheelbase is up 35 mm to 2.815 mm. The cabin now provides more room than in many other midsize SUVs, while intelligent packaging means the new Sorento will also offer class-leading cargo space.

When the first-generation Sorento was launched in 2002, it was underpinned by a robust body-on-frame chassis, maximizing space and all-road ability. The shift to a monocoque structure for the second-generation Sorento in 2009 marked a step change in the car’s on-road character and behavior. Kia’s new midsize SUV platform represents a similarly important leap forward for the next-generation Sorento, allowing the car to set new standards in its segment for space, practicality, efficiency and quality.

For Korea, Europe and North America, the structure and layout of the platform accommodates the Sorento’s potent new ‘Smartstream’ turbo hybrid powertrain. Representing the first application of electrified power in the Sorento line-up, the new powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine, 44.2 kW electric motor and 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. The engine and motor produce a combined total output of 230 ps power and 350 Nm torque, providing low emissions with high levels of performance from the new electrified powertrain. The intelligent packaging of the new platform means the battery pack can be located beneath the passenger cell, with no impact on cabin or luggage space.

Additional powertrains will be announced in future, including gasoline engines and a powerful new plug-in hybrid variant.

Korean and European customers can also specify the Sorento’s new four-cylinder 2.2-liter ‘Smartstream’ diesel engine, producing 202 ps and 440 Nm torque. This is paired with Kia’s new 8-speed wet double-clutch transmission (8DCT), developed to offer the smooth shifting characteristics of a conventional automatic while enhancing efficiency over dry clutch DCTs.

A powerful ‘Smartstream’ 2.5-liter T-GDi engine will also be available from launch in Korea and North America, developing 281 ps and 421 Nm torque. Matched with the new 8DCT, the 2.5-liter turbo engine combines direct injection and multi-point injection technology, enabling it to subtly adapt its combustion cycle at different engine speeds to enhance performance and efficiency in everyday use.

In addition to its new platform and powertrains, the new Sorento implements a range of high-tech safety and convenience features, differentiating it further from other midsize SUVs.

Kia’s first Multi-collision Brake system enables the Sorento to mitigate the severity of secondary collisions. It automatically applies vehicle brakes when the airbags have been deployed after an initial collision, further protecting occupants from secondary frontal or side impacts. The Multi-collision Brake system will be available depending on market with a total of eight airbags to further enhance collision safety, including front seat center side airbags and knee airbags.

Depending on market, the Sorento is also available with a remote smartphone Surround View Monitor. This allows users to check the vehicle’s surroundings with their smartphone in conjunction with the in-vehicle Surround View Monitor to maximize parking convenience.

Designed and engineered to take on everything life can throw at it, the new Sorento will make its debut on March 3 at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show.

MORE EFFICIENT i30

2020-02-28T12:23:00.000+02:00

Hyundai Motor has released new details of the new i30 before its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The new i30 will feature a new design, advanced connectivity features and offer an electrified 48-volt mild hybrid option, resulting in increased fuel efficiency.

Hyundai is also updating its i30 N Line range. For the first time, the company’s sporty-looking trim level will be available on the new i30 Wagon, starting in summer 2020. The i30 N-inspired design features will continue to be available on the i30 hatchback and fastback models.

“By listening to our customers, we’ve determined there is a need for a safe, reliable car in the C-segment that also offers modern features such as state-of-the-art connectivity and efficient powertrains - and that looks good,” says Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, Vice President Marketing and Product at Hyundai Motor Europe. “The new i30 covers our customers’ needs while still being available at an attractive price point. It really has a universal appeal.”

The new i30’s exterior design is both bold and sleek, giving it more emotional appeal. The front is characterized by a wider-looking, more modern stance. The wider grille features an accentuated 3D pattern that emphasizes the agile look of the car.

New, slimmer headlamps with optional multifaceted reflector (MFR) LED technology and new V-shaped signature LED daytime running lights (DRLs) complete the renewed, modern front end design.

At the rear, the new i30 5-door is enhanced with a new bumper design, which was developed to improve aerodynamic performance. The LED rear combination lamps create a V-shape for a symmetrical effect between the front and the back.

The new i30 is now available with new, redesigned diamond-cut 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels that round off the side view of the new i30.

The dynamic, motorsport-inspired N Line trim has undergone a comprehensive design update for i30 Hatchback and Fastback. Now, for the first time, it is available with the new i30 Wagon as well. This means there will be an N Line version of all three i30 body types.

The new i30 N Line features bold new design with an even sportier look. At the front, the new i30 N Line has a wider central grille and new headlamps. Taking inspiration from the design of aeronautic jets, the lower central grille has increased in size and dominates the bumper area, expressing its strong stance and performance. The side openings feature floating wings which improve aerodynamic performance.

The completely new design of the rear bumper underlines the dynamic N Line character. The wide diffuser makes a sporty statement and a gives the rear an impressive stance, while the repositioned fog lights focus the visual center of gravity closer to the ground.

The new i30 N Line comes with a new, 17-inch or 18-inch wheel design that adds to the excitement, expressing speed even when standing still. This contributes to a modern profile, which is full of motion.

In addition, the new i30 N Line Hatchback and Fastback features tuning updates for suspension and steering in combination with the 1.5 T-GDi 160 PS and 1.6 Diesel 136 PS engines for a more dynamic ride.

The new i30 features state-of-the-art connectivity. A new 7-inch digital cluster and a new 10.25-inch navigation touchscreen enable a more modern and individual driving experience. It also offers full compatibility with Android Auto and Apple Car Play. Starting in summer 2020, wireless phone mirroring will be introduced, meaning customers do not require a cable to connect their phone. Similarly, the new i30 offers wireless phone charging.

The new i30’s value is further enhanced by an improved Hyundai SmartSense advanced safety package, making it safer and more convenient than ever before. Lane Following Assist (LFA) automatically adjusts steering to help keep the vehicle centred in its lane. The Rear Collision-avoidance Assist (RCA) system can activate the brakes to avoid a collision when the car is in reverse. And also new to the i30 is LVDA (Leading Vehicle Departure Alert), a system which warns the driver when the vehicle ahead of them starts moving forward and they don’t react quickly enough - for example, at a traffic light.

The rear Blind Spot Detection (BSD) system has received an upgrade. BSD warns the driver if there’s another vehicle in their blind spot - and now, with Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), it can activate the engine brake in order to avoid a collision. Front Collision-Avoidance Assistance (FCA) has been improved to recognize bicycles on the road.

As with previous versions of the i30, the new i30 also comes with FCA with pedestrian detection, Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Intelligent Speed Limit Warning (ISLW), and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA).

The new i30 comes with an enhanced powertrain line-up to offer customers even more freedom of choice.

To start the lineup, Hyundai has introduced a newly-developed 1.5-liter engine with Dual Port Injection and 110 PS, which comes with a 6-speed manual transmission.

The 1.0-liter T-GDI petrol engine with 120 PS will be available with a new 7-speed dual clutch transmission, in addition the previously-available 6-speed manual transmission.

Also new, the 1.0-liter T-GDI engine with 120 PS is now available with optional 48-volt Mild Hybrid technology for better fuel efficiency, for the first time available with a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT).

iMT decouples the engine from the transmission after the driver releases the accelerator. This allows the car to enter into two possible levels of coasting, depending on the conditions. With the first level, the engine is idling. With the second level, the engine is additionally temporarily turned off to save even more fuel. For those who prefer to drive automatic, the 48-volt Mild Hybrid option is also available with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.

The 1.6-liter Diesel engine with 115 PS with a choice of a 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed dual clutch transmission will still be available.

The 1.6-liter Diesel engine with 136 PS now comes standard with a 48-Volt mild hybrid system. It is available with either a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission or a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.

And at the top of the range is the new 1.5-liter T-GDI engine with 160 PS, which comes standard with 48-volt Mild Hybrid technology. It is also available as a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission or a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.

SMART LOGISTICS

2020-02-28T12:11:00.001+02:00

Audi tested digital shelf labeling at the Audi plant in Győr, Hungary, for the first time last year. This new technology is equipped with what are known as e-ink displays, which are also used in e-book readers, and offers significant added value. When names, numbers, or the arrangement of the parts in the shelf change, the logistics specialists no longer need to update the labeling by hand. Information can also be displayed at short notice quickly, for example if a part is out of stock and is to be replaced with a different part. Another advantage is that the digital displays always stay clean, do not generate any waste paper, and consume only very little electric energy, even in continuous operation. The German/Hungarian project team is currently enhancing the technology. One of the goals is to implement fully automatic updates. Series production in the near future is conceivable, including at other Audi sites. With digital shelf labeling, Audi is taking another step toward paperless order picking. When gathering parts, Audi employees already usually work with tablets and hand-held scanners today.

Digital helpers like these are just one example of the use of smart technology in the automotive manufacturer’s Logistics division. “We are making targeted use of the advantages of digitalization at our production sites worldwide” says Dieter Braun, Head of Supply Chain. The driverless transport systems that have been in use at the Audi plants for many years are another example. They transport parts to the workstations automatically, for example in the electric motor production in Győr, where there is no assembly line. They use laser scanners to orient themselves in the production hall and find the optimum route. This highly flexible procedure is made possible by algorithms and machine learning, controlled by a smart IT system in the control station. This enables IT to keep track of all systems, all driverless transport vehicles, and the product, even without a fixed assembly line sequence.

At Pre-Series Logistics in Ingolstadt, Audi is currently the first automotive manufacturer to try out a new driverless transport system, which follows people around. The “Effibot” uses laser sensors to detect the employee’s legs and follows them automatically at low speed. All it takes is a touch of a button - the system requires neither complicated adjustments nor a special infrastructure. It also offers an autonomous driving function that allows the “Effibot” to head for previously defined destinations independently. The employees welcome the pilot project: They have an assistant that helps them with their work and they no longer need to push order picking trolleys by hand.

Another smart solution brings Audi employees worldwide together: They use virtual reality (VR) to work together group-wide and across locations in virtual spaces. In Packaging Logistics, for example, employees have been training with VR for several years. The training is designed like a video game and can be adapted to suit other activities as well - no programming skills are required. The company is also counting on VR technology in the production: As part of a pilot project, the logistics planners in Neckarsulm are currently testing how special containers can be planned and tested entirely in a virtual space and without any physical prototypes. These containers are used for particularly sensitive parts such as electrics, headlights, or the windshield. They are custom-made for this task and their planning takes a corresponding amount of effort. Developing the special containers with VR is less expensive and is also better for the environment.

The Smart Decisions team at Audi addresses even more complex planning processes. The experts “translate” a wide range of issues into mathematical models, and a high-performance computer uses these as a basis to find solutions for logistics-related problems, for example the external storage forecast. As part of the delivery process, certain models may have to be put into interim storage for a short time. But which of the storage areas is suitable? Numerous factors play a part in answering this question: For example, the distance between the respective parking lot, the plant and the delivery destination, the cost for transportation between these stations, or the capacity of the parking lots. The mathematical model created by the Smart Decisions team allows these vehicles to be distributed optimally among the storage areas. The prototype is finished and further development is underway - as is the case with numerous promising digital projects in Audi Logistics.

NEW CITROEN ELECTRIC MODELS

2020-02-28T11:46:00.001+02:00

(Reuters) - Citroen, one of French carmaker PSA’s brands, unveiled a mini electric car aimed at young city dwellers. The two-seater car, branded “AMI”, will go on sale by June and be priced at 6.900 euros ($7.500). The vehicle, which is 2 meters 41 centimeters long, is one of a number of new models that carmakers are launching to try to stimulate demand for electric models as they face tougher regulations on polluting vehicles. Citroen plans mainly to sell the car online. Two-seater cars can be driven without a license in major European markets.

THE NEW YARIS

2020-02-18T11:04:00.001+02:00

Toyota Motor Corporation announced that it launched its new model Yaris on February 10, 2020. The new Yaris will be available at Netz dealers nationwide, as well as Toyota Mobility Tokyo Inc. and Toyota NishiTokyo Corolla Co., Ltd. The new model Yaris was developed to combine the nimble handling characteristic of compact cars with high-quality ride comfort and the latest safety and security technologies that significantly exceed customer expectations. The new Yaris is the first model to adopt the TNGA platform (GA-B) for compact cars, and features a lightweight and highly rigid body with a low center of gravity. The car's next-generation hybrid system is based around a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine, and fuses powerful, seamless driving performance with world-leading fuel efficiency for a compact car of 36.0 kilometers per liter, according to WLTC test cycles. The new Yaris is the first Toyota compact car to feature the E-Four electric four-wheel-drive system.

The gasoline-powered grades are equipped with a newly developed 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine, with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission or a Direct Shift-CVT with 2WD or 4WD settings that provides smooth, direct acceleration. In order to provide customers with a greater variety of choice, there is also a grade that pairs an improved 1.0-liter engine with a lighter and more compact CVT.

The new Yaris is expected to become a highly popular compact car, and for this reason it is equipped with a wide range of advanced and convenient functions: it is the first Toyota car to be equipped with Toyota Teammate Advanced Park (including Panoramic View Monitor functions), Toyota's advanced parking support system; it features the latest Toyota Safety Sense, which is now capable of detecting oncoming cars when turning right at an intersection, and of detecting pedestrians crossing the street when turning right or left; and it comes with Turn Tilt Seats, which make it easier to enter and exit the vehicle. Display Audio, which can be connected to smartphones, is also fitted to all grades as standard.

The new Yaris also features a 1.500-watt accessory power outlet. This not only allows the use of electrical products using the same electrical outlets found in the home, but also enables the vehicle to be used as a power generator during blackouts and other times of emergency.

CITY OF THE FUTURE

2020-02-18T11:00:00.001+02:00

Toyota revealed plans to build a prototype city of the future on a 175-acre site at the base of Mt. Fuji in Japan. Called the Woven City, it will be a fully connected ecosystem powered by hydrogen fuel cells. Envisioned as a living laboratory, the Woven City will serve as a home to full-time residents and researchers who will be able to test and develop technologies such as autonomy, robotics, personal mobility, smart homes and artificial intelligence in a real-world environment. "Building a complete city from the ground up, even on a small scale like this, is a unique opportunity to develop future technologies, including a digital operating system for the city's infrastructure. With people, buildings and vehicles all connected and communicating with each other through data and sensors, we will be able to test connected AI technology... in both the virtual and the physical realms... maximizing its potential," said Akio Toyoda, president, Toyota Motor Corporation. Toyota will extend an open invitation to collaborate with other commercial and academic partners and invite interested scientists and researchers from around the world to come work on their own projects in this one-of-a-kind, real-world incubator. "We welcome all those inspired to improve the way we live in the future, to take advantage of this unique research ecosystem and join us in our quest to create an ever-better way of life and mobility for all," said Akio Toyoda, president, Toyota Motor Corporation.

For the design of Woven City, Toyota has commissioned Danish architect, Bjarke Ingels, Founder and Creative Director, Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG). His team at BIG have designed many high-profile projects: from 2 World Trade Center in New York and Lego House in Denmark, to Google's Mountain View and London headquarters.

"A swarm of different technologies are beginning to radically change how we inhabit and navigate our cities. Connected, autonomous, emission-free and shared mobility solutions are bound to unleash a world of opportunities for new forms of urban life. With the breadth of technologies and industries that we have been able to access and collaborate with from the Toyota ecosystem of companies, we believe we have a unique opportunity to explore new forms of urbanity with the Woven City that could pave new paths for other cities to explore." Bjarke Ingels, Founder and Creative Director, BIG.

The groundbreaking for the site is planned for early 2021.

DRIVING FUN

2020-02-18T10:48:00.002+02:00

Edition model of the open four-seater features exclusive design and equipment and provides fresh accents for individual style and spontaneous joie de vivre in urban traffic - three engine variants available - market launch in March 2020. Winter is upon us and next spring is already being awaited with great anticipation. MINI is doing its share in this respect and presents a particularly exclusive opportunity to enjoy driving pleasure without a fixed roof over your head. With its individual design and equipment features, the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk offers ideal conditions for making an extroverted appearance in urban traffic. The innovative and precisely coordinated color and material concept of the new edition model sets fresh highlights for individual style and spontaneous joie de vivre. The new MINI Convertible Sidewalk will be available worldwide from March 2020. There are three engine versions for the edition model of the open-top premium small car. Variants of the exterior paintwork, soft top design, rim styling and interior fittings developed especially for the edition model, as well as numerous specific design accents, give the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk its unmistakable charisma. The expressive exterior and the stylish ambiance in the interior make for a particularly emotional and hallmark MINI open-air experience. With the MINI Convertible Sidewalk, the traditional British premium car manufacturer has once again created an attractive combination of MINI typical go-kart feeling and exclusive flair to provide a unique open-top driving experience. An edition model of the same name of the first open-top MINI generation already heightened open-top driving fun considerably. The direct predecessor of the current open-top four-seater, the MINI Convertible Highgate, also ranks among the top model highlights of the British premium brand. In the current generation too, the MINI Convertible is the only open-top model in the premium small car segment. In addition to its exceptional position in the automotive market, the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk also offers an extra touch of exclusivity. Thanks to the Deep Laguna metallic body paint finish presented for the first time with the edition model, it is instantly recognizable. The expressive blue tone accentuates the powerful surfaces of the vehicle particularly intensively. The sporty character of the open four-seater is additionally emphasized by the model-specific bonnet stripes with contrasting color edges. On request, the exterior paintwork Midnight Black metallic, White Silver metallic, Enigmatic Black metallic, Moonwalk Grey metallic and Thunder Grey metallic are also available for the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk. The exterior mirror caps are always painted in body color.
The MINI Yours Softtop Sidewalk offers protection against precipitation or when the sun is simply beating down too strongly. The version of the fully automatic textile soft top, specially designed for the edition model, which can be opened or closed electrically and almost silently in 18 seconds, features an artistically woven-in arrow graphic in the particularly high-quality finish typical of MINI Yours. The 17 inch light-alloy Scissor Spoke 2-tone wheels of the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk are also a model-specific design feature. A further contribution to the model’s unmistakable appearance is made by the side indicator bezels, known as side scuttles, which bear the "Sidewalk" model designation. The edition model features brushed aluminium door sills bearing the "Sidewalk" lettering. Inside, the occupants sit on seats in the exclusive MINI Yours Leather Lounge Sidewalk variant. Their anthracite-colored leather surfaces are combined with contrasting seams in Petrol and Energetic Yellow. In addition, braided piping in Petrol and the "Sidewalk" logo add touches of individual style. The doormats have matching dark Petrol surrounds and Energetic Yellow seams. The interior surfaces of the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk also have a model-specific design. The backlit decorative trim on the passenger side in Piano Black is combined with accents in petrol and silver. In addition, the elliptical door trim is in Petrol. The sports leather steering wheel with its discreet "Sidewalk" logo at the bottom and contrasting seams is a further highlight in edition model’s interior. In conjunction with the Sidewalk Chili equipment package, the edition model also features LED headlamps, LED fog lamps, the interior lighting package as well as the MINI Driving Modes, automatic air conditioning, a height-adjustable front passenger seat and a storage package.

The drive range for the new MINI Convertible Sidewalk is made up of three petrol engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. The new MINI One Convertible Sidewalk (combined fuel consumption: 5.5-5.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 125-122 g/km) generates an output of 75 kW/102 hp from the 1.5 liter 3-cylinder engine. The new MINI Cooper Convertible Sidewalk (combined fuel consumption: 5.4-5.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 123-116 g/km) is also powered by a 1.5 liter 3-cylinder engine which produces 100 kW/136 hp of power. The 141 kW/192 hp 4-cylinder engine of the new MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk provides the sportiest fresh air experience (fuel consumption combined: 6.5-5.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 147-123 g/km. All engines are combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard. A 7-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch is optionally available for the new MINI Cooper Convertible Sidewalk and the new MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk. Alternatively, the new MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk can also be equipped with a 7-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with double clutch, which provides even faster gear shifts and can also be operated using paddles on the steering wheel. As a further addition to the standard equipment, a wide range of options is available for all engine variants of the edition model to provide extra comfort, driving fun and spontaneous open-air pleasure.

DELIVERED AS PROMISED

2020-02-18T10:39:00.001+02:00

As an e-mobility pioneer, the BMW Group has reached another electromobility milestone and already delivered half a million electrified cars to customers worldwide. Sebastian Mackensen, BMW Group Senior Vice President Market Germany, handed over the keys to a very special BMW 330e to its future owner at BMW Welt. "Half a million vehicles is the best proof: Our broad range of electrified vehicles is meeting exact customer needs. Now, we are stepping up the pace significantly: We aim to have one million electrified vehicles on the roads within two years. This is our contribution towards effective climate protection," said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG.

Next year, the BMW X3 will become the first BMW Group vehicle available with four different drive train variants: efficient diesel, petrol, plug-in hybrid and pure electric. The biggest market for the pure electric BMW iX3 is China, where it will also be produced for the global market.The BMW iX3 will be the first to benefit from the ground-breaking fifth generation of our highly efficient BMW electric drive trains, which provide a new balance between range and battery size. The key lies in making the drive train substantially more efficient.

Our technology flagship, the BMW iNEXT - which will also be available from 2021 - will combine electromobility with highly automated driving. The fully electric BMW iNEXT will be produced on the same assembly line in Dingolfing as vehicles with combustion engines and plug-in hybrids.This will be followed in 2021 by the BMW i4, a pure electric Gran Coupé in the premium mid-size segment with strong emotional appeal. The BMW i4 will be produced at the main plant in Munich. Thanks to its role as a visionary technology flagship and continuing sales success since its launch in 2013, the BMW i3 has acquired the status of an icon. The BMW Group will continue to further develop this vehicle and currently plans to extend production until 2024. Since late this year, the BMW Group’s electrified model line-up has also been joined by a further pure electric vehicle, the MINI Electric. The more than 90.000 registered prospects indicate the high level of customer interest in the first pure electric MINI.

With 12 electrified vehicles currently, the BMW Group is one of the world's leading providers of electric mobility. The company has been the market leader for electrified vehicles in Germany since 2016 and also occupies a leading position in Europe and worldwide. The company has formulated clear goals for sales of electrified vehicles for the years ahead: A quarter of all vehicles sold in Europe should be electrified by 2021. This should reach a third by 2025 and half in 2030.

The BMW Group model line-up offers highly efficient combustion engines as well as modern plug-in hybrids and pure electric drive trains. This “Power of Choice” enables the company to meet customers’ varied needs and wants in different regions of the world. Depending on the drive train chosen, all current and future models deliver brand-specific driving pleasure. No matter which type of drive train the customer decides on: They can always expect a high level of efficiency and lower CO2 emissions from the BMW Group.

Thanks to its years of e-mobility experience, the BMW Group has acquired extensive and sound knowledge in this area. This provides the basis for the company to develop eDrive technology in-house, including the engine, power electronics and also the battery as well as the battery cells. This ensures BMW and MINI electrified vehicles still deliver brand-typical driving characteristics.

STREET ART CRUISING

2020-02-01T14:41:00.001+02:00

On the occasion of Art Basel held in the Sunshine State, BMW accompanied artists Alexandre Arrechea and Spencer "MAR" Guilburt on their discovery tour through the city decorated with numerous world-famous murals - BMW was also official partner of Art Basel in Miami Beach in 2019. Miami Beach They are almost everywhere and yet not always easy to find. Large-format graffiti, also known as murals in their most artistic form, are an integral part of the street scene in Miami. The city in the south of the Sunshine State is regarded as the center of Street Art. On the occasion of Art Basel Miami Beach (5 - 8 December 2019), BMW accompanied artists Alexandre Arrechea and Spencer "MAR" Guilburt on a discovery tour to the most remarkable examples of modern mural painting in the metropolis on the Atlantic. The visual artist Arrechea and the street art specialist Guilburt completed their Mural Tour in a vehicle that is also suitable for adding a visual touch to the streets of any urban conurbation. The elegant BMW M850i xDrive Convertible (fuel consumption combined: 10.2 - 10.0 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 231 - 228 g/km) is a prime example of advanced automotive engineering and offers a perfect unobstructed view of the bright blue sky, the spectacular architecture of Miami and the many facades of the city embellished by street artists. As a long-standing global partner of the renowned Art Basel art fair, BMW once again involved in Miami, for example with a VIP shuttle service and as part of the joint initiative BMW Art Journey and the BMW 8 Series Mural Tour. Alexandre Arrechea and Spencer "MAR" Guilburt cruised the city in the BMW M850i xDrive Convertible in search of the most fascinating murals. In their conversations they exchanged artistic similarities and mutual inspiration for their work. In addition to the facades on which Guilburt has immortalised himself with his murals, one of the stops on their tour was an excursion to an exhibition of Arrecha's works shown at Art Basel Miami Beach by the Nara Roesler gallery. Street art fans can follow their discovery tour on the artists’ social media channels (@this_means, @alexandrearrechea) and the BMW Group cultural engagement (@bmwgroupculture). On the Mural Tour through Miami, the BMW M850i xDrive Convertible also shows off its impressive qualities. With its dynamic and elegant appearance, the open four-seater offers the most exclusive way to enjoy driving pleasure in a BMW 8 Series luxury sports car. 15 seconds are all it takes to open or close the classic textile soft top electrically. The luxurious ambiance in the interior, the impressive sportiness of the drive and the advanced operating and networking technology form a unique combination, the charm of which was also immediately apparent to the two artists on their journey through the streets of Miami. However, the performance characteristics of the open four-seater and its racing-inspired V8 engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and 390 kW/530 hp, are only hinted at, for example by the sonorous sound of the standard sports exhaust system and a few short intermediate spurts. The extroverted Sonic Speed Blue metallic paintwork highlighted the generous surface design and precise lines of the open-air sports car without any restrictions. Thus the BMW M850i xDrive Convertible turns into an attraction when the cruising was from the Wynwood Art District via South Beach to the Midtown Design District, which, like Miami’s murals, attracts attention on almost every street corner.

OUTSTANDING LIFE CYCLE

2020-02-01T14:29:00.001+02:00

Environmental balance study for the new BMW 745-Le receives declaration of validity from TÜV Rheinland - the lower global warming potential for the entire life-cycle is up to 58% lower compared to the conventionally powered model. The plug-in hybrid models of the new BMW 7 Series combine luxurious driving pleasure with forward-looking sustainability. This means that their progressive character are not only evident from recent innovations in control, networking and drive assistance systems, but also from their life cycle assessment. Just how great the advances in efficiency are that are enabled by BMW’s eDrive technology for luxury sedans is evidenced by the environmental balance study, which is now certified in accordance with the ISO 14040 and 14044 standards for the new BMW 745-Le (fuel consumption combined 2.3-2.2 l/100 km; electricity consumption combined 15.7-15.6 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 53-50 g/km). According to the analysis confirmed by the independent inspectors from TÜV Rheinland, the so-called global warming potential of the plug-in hybrid sedan is 33% below the corresponding value for a conventionally driven model of the BMW 7 Series with a comparable output. When exclusive use is made of electricity generated from renewable sources, the climate-relevant environmental impact throughout the vehicle’s entire life cycle is even 58% lower.

The ISO certificate for the life cycle assessment of the new BMW 745-Le is further evidence of the efficiency of the BMW eDrive technology in reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This is taken care of in the new BMW 745-Le and BMW 745-e models (fuel consumption combined 2.2-2.1 l/100 km; electricity consumption combined 15.5-15.1 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 51-48 g/km) and BMW 745-Le xDrive (fuel consumption combined 2.5-2.3 l/100 km; electricity consumption combined 16.2-15.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 57-52 g/km) by the intelligently controlled interaction between a high-efficiency, in-line six-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and an electric motor integrated into the extremely high-efficiency eight-speed Steptronic gearbox. The electrification of the drivetrain also makes it possible for luxury sedans to perform many typical everyday driving activities, particularly driving in city traffic, locally free of emissions. The range for purely electric driving is between 55 and 58 kilometers for the new BMW 745-e, from 52 to 55 kilometers for the new BMW 745-Le and from 51 to 54 kilometers for the new BMW 745-Le xDrive.

This means that exclusively electric mobility in a luxury sedan can now be enjoyed far beyond the city limits. In the standard HYBRID driving mode, the new BMW 745-e, the new BMW 745-Le and the new BMW 745-Le xDrive achieve speeds of up to 110 km/h with the power of the electric engine alone. Only at higher speeds or with particularly intensive load demands does the combustion engine come into operation. By pressing the eDrive button on the center console, the driver can activate the ELECTRIC mode, which raises the maximum attainable speed to 140 km/h, locally free of emissions. In SPORT mode, the electric motor is used to support the combustion engine. Together, the combustion engine and electric motor produce a system output of 290 kW/394 hp. The combined power and maximum system torque of 600 Nm are available for more spirited acceleration maneuvers. The new BMW 745-e is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, while the new BMW 745-Le achieves the same in 5.3 seconds The new BMW 745-Le xDrive attains a speed of 100 km/h from stationary in 5.1 seconds. The BATTERY CONTROL setting serves to raise the charge state of the high-voltage battery to a level determined by the driver or to maintain this level. On longer journeys, the stored electric power can thus be deliberately reserved for use in locally emission-free driving in urban road sections. The plan is to offer automated electric driving on the basis of e-zones defined by BMW by the spring of 2020.

Besides the intelligent driver system controller, the new high voltage storage system with the latest battery cell technology also plays a role in increasing the proportion of driving done on a purely electric basis, reducing consumption and CO2 values and attaining a favorable life cycle assessment in the new BMW 745-Le compared with conventionally driven models. In the environmental balance study, the BMW 740-Li (fuel consumption combined 7.4-7.2 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 170-164 g/km) with a 250 kW/340 hp in-line six-cylinder engine was used to enable direct comparison with the plug-in hybrid model. The values determined for both models and subsequently set in comparison with each other refer to a use phase comprising a driving distance of 250.000 kilometers. Besides pure fuel and electricity consumption, climate-relevant emissions associated with the production and provision of the respective energy source were also taken into account. The plug-in hybrid model already achieves a reduction in global warming potential of 33% compared with the BMW 740-Li when using energy from the EU-25 electricity mix, which considers all electrical energy generated in the European Union. When the electricity fed into the lithium-ion high-voltage battery of the BMW 745-Le originates solely from renewable sources such as wind and solar power systems, climate-relevant emissions fall by as much as 58% in comparison with the conventionally driven model.

BMW 7 Series with plug-in hybrid drive: Certificated life cycle assessment and privileged status as electric vehicle. The certification procedures conducted by TÜV Rheinland subjected both the methods and the findings of the environmental balance study to detailed inspection. Experts not only analysed the input data and environmental information, but they also considered the process of the study’s compilation. Their certificate confirms that the life cycle assessment of the new BMW 745-Le was issued in compliance with the requirements of the ISO 14040 and 14044 standards and that the methods applied correspond with the scientific state of the art.

Due to is long electric range, the new BMW 745-e, the new BMW 745-Le and the new BMW 745-Le xDrive meet the criteria which have been stipulated for the classification as an electric vehicle and the associated preferential treatment in public road traffic. In addition they also qualify for reduced company car taxation in Germany. Only half the gross list price is used as a basis when calculating the monetary benefit from private use of the company car. The specific series equipment of the three plug-in hybrid models of the BMW 7 Series also includes an acoustic pedestrian protection system. When driving solely on electricity at speeds of up to 30 km/h, a distinctive sound created especially for electric BMW models is emitted from a loudspeaker system. The sound design radiates a vibrant acoustic presence, though without impairing the acoustic comfort of vehicle occupants.

Auxiliary air conditioning system and hybrid-specific digital services as series equipment. The series equipment of the plug-in hybrid models also includes an auxiliary air-conditioning system. This can also be controlled remotely by smartphone using the BMW Connected App. New eDrive services help make it more attractive and convenient to charge the high-voltage battery when out and about. Digital services support the driver in his search and selection of public charging stations; they also enable control of the charging procedure via remote functions and transfer data relating to charge status, electric and combined range, and individual energy consumption to the driver’s smartphone or other personal terminal device. The standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional not only comprises a fully digital composite display and interconnected navigation system but also includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which, similarly, supports the search for parking and charging facilities as well the reservation of charging stations.

The exterior design Pure Excellence and the M sports package are available as options for new BMW 745-e, the new BMW 745-Le and the new BMW 745-Le xDrive. All driver assistance systems are likewise available, as is the full range of optional equipment items to enhance comfort and also, with the exception of the Executive Drive Pro option, all the suspension systems of the new BMW 7 Series.

BMW RECORD IN 2019

2020-01-14T17:15:00.000+02:00

(Reuters) - German carmaker BMW achieved record sales of 2.5 million vehicles in 2019, sales chief Pieter Nota said adding that he was upbeat about the company’s prospects in 2020. “We look at the coming year with confidence and aim to increase sales again in 2020”, management board member Nota said.

VW 2019 DELIVERIES

2020-01-14T17:08:00.001+02:00

(Reuters) - Volkswagen Group said its vehicle deliveries last year were slightly above the previous year’s level, revising up an earlier forecast which predicted 2019 sales would be level with the year before. In 2018, the multi-brand car and trucks maker, which owns the Scania, MAN, Lamborghini, Skoda, Audi, Porsche and Bugatti brands, delivered 10.8 million vehicles to customers. Volkswagen chief executive Herbert Diess issued the revised forecast during an investor presentation in New York. The group reiterated it expected an operating return on sales of between 6.5% and 7.5% before special items for last year. Volkswagen is due to release 2019 earnings on March 17. The group also said it would invest 7 billion euros ($7.8 billion)to create a dedicated software organisation to raise in-house software development to 60% from 10%. The new software organisation starts operation in January 2020, according to a presentation on Volkswagen’s website.

BUILD BRANDS WITH GEELY

2020-01-14T17:03:00.001+02:00

(Reuters) - Mercedes-Benz will build smart-branded electric cars with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group in the Chinese city of Xian from a base with annual capacity of around 150.000 vehicles, a senior official from its German parent Daimler AG said. Daimler’s Executive Vice President in China Leng Yan made the comments to Reuters on the sidelines of China’s EV100 forum in Beijing, an annual event where senior auto industry executives meet to discuss policies and the market. Geely and Mercedes-Benz said they would each invest 2.7 billion yuan ($388.8 million) in a China-based venture to build “premium and intelligent electrified” vehicles under the Smart brand. Like Mercedes-Benz, Smart is a Daimler marque. The firms said at the time that the venture, which will be based in the eastern Chinese city of Ningbo, will have manufacturing capacity in China and sales operations in China and Germany. Geely, which holds a 9.7% stake in Stuttgart-based Daimler, is building car plants in Xian, according to construction bidding documents on its website. Daimler, which partners with BAIC Group to make luxury Mercedes-Benz cars in Beijing, also builds trucks with BAIC’s unit Beiqi Foton Motor. Smart delivered about 116.800 vehicles worldwide in 2019, Daimler said in a statement.

MORE PREDICTABLE

2020-01-14T16:55:00.001+02:00

(Reuters) - F1 is likely to be more predictable this season after teams opted to stick with last year’s tire specification, according to Pirelli’s racing head Mario Isola. The 10 teams voted unanimously last month to reject new tires that the sport’s sole supplier had been developing for 2020. The sport is facing significant upheaval in 2021 with new regulations and teams were reluctant to devote more resources to modifying aerodynamics at a time when they were already stretched. Isola said all the teams were now very familiar with the 2019 tires and there would be no learning curve, as in the past, and nor should there be any struggle with the warmup phase. “The only negative side that I can see is that we take out a bit of unpredictability. That is something that sometimes is spicing up the show,” he told Reuters during a visit to the Autosport International show in Birmingham. “We see that every time there is something the engineers cannot predict, we have better racing, so without the element of the tires we are taking out a bit of unpredictability. “We know that teams are focusing on one stop strategies as much as possible. They have also some good data from 2019 so it will be probably slightly easier for the teams to make a strategy.” Isola expected cars to be quicker due to continued development, probably in the range of 1-1.5 seconds a lap on past trends, and Pirelli would have to raise starting pressures as a consequence.

F1 has two new races this season on the calendar, in Vietnam and the Netherlands, subject to circuit homologation. Isola said Vietnam’s layout, a street circuit with long straights, could be compared to Azerbaijan’s Baku race with obvious weather differences. The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort poses specific problems, with an 18 degree banked final corner putting more load on the tires, and Pirelli was still waiting for teams to provide simulation data. “I read many comparisons with Indianapolis. The circuit is different, the length of the corner with banking, so we need to see simulations and what we have to do to react to this new configuration,” said Isola. “Our first priority is to guarantee a product that is safe and reliable.”

F1 is switching from 13 inch to lower profile 18 inch tires in 2021 but the F2 feeder series is making the change this year. Isola said the feedback from a development test had been good. “Obviously they are a lot more reactive compared to 13 inches because of the reduced sidewall, they are more precise, the braking phase is very positive. They didn’t find an issue with the kerbs,” he said. “One question mark was what happens when they hit the kerbs like they do now with the 13 inch tire but that was positive. We are happy with the current situation.” He said all 10 Formula One teams had confirmed they were preparing a ‘mule’ car for testing the 2021 tires later in the season. Isola said work done on the scrapped 2020 tires was not all for nothing, with some of the ideas and concepts still useful for 2021.

DROPPING BY...

2020-01-14T16:47:00.001+02:00

(Reuters) - Deliveries of Volkswagen’s Skoda Auto dropped slightly in 2019 to 1.24 million vehicles, from 1.25 million in 2018, mainly due to weaker sales in China, the company said. Skoda said deliveries in China dropped by 17.3% while shipping to other markets were up 5.3% last year. In December alone, deliveries in all markets rose 9.1% to 114.700 units, it added.

EXPAND VIETNAMESE PLANT

2020-01-14T16:42:00.002+02:00

(Reuters) - Ford Motor Co said it is investing $82 million to expand its plant in northern Vietnam to boost production capacity. Ford Vietnam, established in 1995, said the expanded factory would boost the U.S. automaker’s annual capacity in Vietnam to 40.000 vehicles from current volume of 14.000 units per year. The company reported it sold 32.175 cars in 2019, up 31% from a year earlier. The additional investment, which will bring the company’s total investments in Vietnam to more than $200 million, will come in two stages over a two-year period starting this year. Deputy Trade Minister Do Than Hai said he expected the expansion would reduce Vietnam’s reliance on imported vehicles and therefore lower the country’s trade deficit. The construction will expand the facility across an additional 60.000 square meters of land, bringing the total area to 226.000 square meters.

LESS THAN 20.000 DOLLARS

2019-11-20T12:33:00.000+02:00

Toyota Motor Corporation announces that it commenced sales of the new Raize not raise as I mentioned in the title at Toyota dealers nationwide on November 5. The new Raize is a compact SUV small passenger car that measures less than four meters in length. It caters to the desires of customers who want to drive an SUV, who want to load their cars with a lot of luggage, but who also wish to have a car that is compact and easy to drive. The car was developed to be active, useful, and compact without any raise in any salary. Yes this car is affordable, the Raize is easy to use both for leisure on weekends and for everyday use, it provides daily support for customers in a variety of active scenarios. The new Raize or if you want to say it as if it was a raise is the first compact car produced by Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. to incorporate its next-generation car making platform, DNGA, which anticipates product development for both Toyota and Daihatsu brands. All aspects of the car - including its platform and powertrain unit - have been newly developed, with the goal of realizing outstanding levels of driving performance, luxury, safety, and peace of mind. The new Raize features a compact body just 3.995 millimeters long and 1.695 millimeters wide. It is equipped with impressively large 17-inch tires and protruding fenders, which provide the sense of power and stability unique to SUVs. The compact SUV boasts a class-leading 369-liter luggage capacity; the rear seats can also be folded to further increase the cargo space available, enabling particularly large or long items of luggage to be loaded. In addition, there are storage solutions located throughout the cabin, resulting in a highly convenient interior space. As for driving performance, the Raize's newly developed light-weight, highly rigid body and suspension contribute to outstanding handling stability and ride comfort. By combining a 1.0-liter turbo engine with D-CVT - used in a Toyota vehicle for the first time - the car achieves the torque and driving joy of a 1.5-liter engine, as well as outstanding fuel efficiency. D-CVT adds split gears to existing CVT belt drives and uses both belt and gear drives at high speeds for improved transmission efficiency. The gear-ratio range has also been expanded to provide powerful and smooth acceleration at low speeds and fuel-efficient and quiet performance at high speeds. The Raize comes equipped with the latest Smart Assist safety features, including the Crash Avoidance Braking Function, which is capable of detecting both vehicles and pedestrians, and the Erroneous Start Prevention Function with braking control.

Do you still need a raise to get the Raize?

A NEW CHAPTER IN RAV4

2019-11-20T12:20:00.002+02:00

The fifth-generation Toyota RAV4, on the market for barely a year, is going more places than it has ever gone before. The arrival of the first-ever RAV4 TRD Off-Road model was announced earlier this year, at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Toyota debuts a new premium, fun-to-drive RAV4 performance model with an estimated 302-horsepower, advanced all-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension and exclusive design features. It just happens to also be the first-ever RAV4 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). And so, in addition to an ability to do 0-60 mph in a projected 5.8 seconds, which is the second quickest acceleration time in the Toyota lineup, it can drive an estimated 39 miles on battery alone on a single charge, which is the highest EV range of any PHEV SUV on the market. The RAV4 Prime also has a manufacturer-estimated 90 combined MPGe. The Toyota RAV4 Prime, a 2021 model that will arrive in summer 2020, breaks ground as the most powerful and quickest RAV4 ever while also being the most fuel-efficient. The 2021 RAV4 Prime will be available in SE and XSE grades, both emphasizing athletic on-road performance and premium comfort and style. With its plug-in hybrid technology advancing, Toyota sees such vehicles as critical to an overall electrification strategy that will also include standard hybrids and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), along with fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) like the second-generation Mirai unveiled in October.

BMW 2 SERIES GRAN COUPE

2019-11-12T12:23:00.000+02:00

The first-ever BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe sees BMW bringing the four-door coupe concept that has already enjoyed great success in higher vehicle classes into the premium compact segment for the first time. The first-ever BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe brings the four-door coupe concept that has already enjoyed success in higher vehicle classes into the premium compact segment for the first time. It injects a fresh dose of individuality, aesthetic appeal and emotional engagement, backed up by innovative control/operation and connectivity tech, excellent everyday usability and the dynamic capability for which BMW is renowned. The world premiere is taking place at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2019 and market launch will get underway in March 2020. Prices in Germany will start at €31.950 for the BMW 218i, €39.900 for the BMW 220d and €51.900 for the range-topping BMW M235i xDrive. Standout features include the dynamically stretched silhouette, the four frameless side windows and the rear lights extending well into the center of the rear end, merging into a High-gloss Black band that runs up to and encircles the centrally located BMW badge. The 2 Series Gran Coupe measures 4.526 millimeters in length and 1.800 millimeters in width, and stands 1.420 millimeters tall. Despite its low-slung, sporty appearance, passengers are well catered for space-wise, thanks to the 2.670‑millimeter wheelbase. Plus, the 430‑liter load compartment can be expanded in various ways.

The slightly angled headlights (full-LED as standard) forming the prominent BMW four-eyed face draw attention to the familiar BMW kidney grille, which takes the form of a large and connected element. As its sporting looks imply, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe sets out to establish the dynamic yardstick in its class. The underpinnings for this are provided by the advanced BMW front-wheel-drive architecture, which the Gran Coupe shares with the new BMW 1 Series along with an array of other technological developments. One diesel and two petrol engines are available at launch: a three-cylinder petrol with 103 kW (140 hp) in the BMW 218i, a 140 kW (190 hp) four-cylinder diesel unit in the BMW 220d and the BMW Group’s most powerful four-cylinder engine - developing 225 kW (306 hp) - in the BMW M235i xDrive. All engines comply with the strict Euro 6d‑TEMP emissions standard. The BMW 228i xDrive with two-liter four-cylinder engine producing output of 170 kW (231 hp) is only available in the USA. The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe can be locked and unlocked from a smartphone if the optional BMW Digital Key is specified. The engine can be started as soon as the smartphone is placed in its tray. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is part of the control/operating concept. As a fully-fledged BMW expert, this digital character can learn routines and habits and subsequently apply them in the appropriate context. He can also provide casual conversation, throwing in the occasional joke or relating interesting stories. Connected Navigation services allow internal and external information to be factored into route planning. BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe drivers will be able to send destinations from various apps straight to their car’s navigation system, store and sync them.

THE FIT IS HERE

2019-10-30T16:00:00.000+02:00

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. held the world premiere of the all-new Fit at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show 2019. The all-new Fit will be exhibited at the Honda booth for the duration of the show, and it is scheduled to go on sale in February 2020. Without compromising the spacious cabin and excellent usability that has been a hallmark of each successive generation of Fit, this 4 fourth generation all-new Fit was developed with the intention of becoming the globally-accepted standard for compact cars suited to this new era. As a new concept in automobile development, the development team pursued an “emotional value” which cannot be expressed numerically and embodied four dimensions of comfort that enable this vehicle to be better able to support the daily lives of customers. Moreover, the all-new Fit will come in five different types so that customers can select the model that is right for them depending on their lifestyle and life stage. The hybrid version of the all-new Fit will be the first Honda compact car equipped with the 2-motor hybrid system Honda developed to realize both excellent environmental performance and a comfortable driving experience at the same time, and will be introduced to the market as a part of Honda’s e:HEV models.

NEW ERA FOR NISSAN

2019-10-30T15:55:00.001+02:00

The new Nissan Ariya Concept, was introduced at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show, signals the dawn of a new era for Nissan as the company embarks to redefine its brand philosophy for the next evolutionary phase of the automobile. The Ariya Concept features a spacious, premium cabin with high-tech features and a body that conveys the pure, clean nature of electric cars. It embodies the Nissan Intelligent Mobility vision of personal transportation - one where electrification and vehicle intelligence will offer seamless and adaptive travel experiences free of accidents or harmful emissions.

The Ariya Concept expands on design elements first hinted at by the Nissan IMx concept at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. They include the bold electrified V-motion signature “shield” and striking rear light blade, short overhangs, and an interior that feels more like a lounge than a conventional vehicle. Although it’s a concept vehicle, the crossover EV’s bold styling and unconventional interior and exterior elements could make it into production in the near future.