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Rec Watches 98T/4: A Timepiece Tribute to Ayrton Senna and Lotus’ Iconic Formula 1 Era

The Rec Watches 98T/4 timepiece is a stunning tribute to the iconic black and gold John Player Special Formula 1 cars campaigned by Lotus, particularly the Lotus 98T chassis number 4 driven by Aryton Senna in the 1986 season. Crafted in collaboration with Classic Team Lotus, this limited-edition watch encapsulates the spirit of that legendary era in motorsport.

The watch features a striking black and gold colour scheme reminiscent of the iconic JPS livery. Constructed primarily from stainless steel, it incorporates reforged aluminium from the car’s original plenum tubes into the Chapter Ring surrounding the dial, adding a tangible connection to the historic F1 machine. The top glass is crafted from sapphire crystal for durability, while the leather strap ensures comfort and style. With a water resistance rating of 100 meters, it’s a timepiece designed for enthusiasts both on and off the track.

Limited to just 989 examples, each watch is priced at $3,995 (RM19,048), with pre-order buyers receiving a discounted price of $3,195 (RM15,233). However, eager collectors will need to exercise patience as the watches won’t be available until March 2025. Despite the wait, the demand for these pieces of F1 history is high, with the majority of the limited production already spoken for. As of April 26, only 173 pre-orders remain available, making it imperative for enthusiasts to act swiftly to secure their piece of racing heritage.

Nissan Unveils Four NEV Concepts Developed with Dong Feng

At Auto China 2024, Nissan made a significant splash under the theme “A new Nissan for a new era in China,” unveiling four new energy vehicle (NEV) concepts and showcasing a robust lineup of electrified models. This move underscores Nissan’s latest achievements and future direction in electrification, aligning with its commitment to sustainable growth in the rapidly evolving Chinese market.

The four NEV concept models, developed in collaboration with local partner Dong Feng, cater to various future mobility needs in China:

Nissan Epoch Concept

An EV sedan designed for urban and suburban lifestyles, featuring an AI-expanded Internet of Things and a virtual personal assistant for enhanced comfort and convenience.

Nissan Epic Concept

An EV SUV tailored for adventurous city couples, equipped with autonomous driving capabilities, mobile power source functionality, and advanced onboard technologies for a relaxing driving experience.

Nissan Era Concept

A plug-in hybrid SUV catering to urban lifestyles, particularly appealing to young businesspeople. It offers an interconnected entertainment system, zero-gravity seats, and advanced driving technologies for comfort and confidence.

Nissan Evo Concept

A plug-in hybrid sedan ideal for weekend getaways and family moments, featuring advanced driver support functions and an AI-enhanced virtual personal assistant for a tailored driving experience.

Additionally, Nissan showcased the Nissan Hyper Force Concept and Nissan Hyper Punk Concept, previously premiered in Tokyo. The Hyper Force Concept offers ultimate driving pleasure with high environmental performance, targeting racing enthusiasts and eco-conscious individuals. The Hyper Punk Concept aims to inspire self-expression with AI and biosensors for mood detection, enhancing energy and creativity.

Further underscoring Nissan’s commitment to electrification, the displayed Formula E Gen3 race car represents the Nissan Formula E team’s participation in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

Nissan’s China strategy focuses on corporate value and overall competitiveness, with initiatives like the “Excitement by Ni” brand campaign embodying the commitment to innovation and enriching lives. Nissan aims to lead in providing exciting mobility experiences, leveraging intelligence and AI-based services through strategic partnerships.

Amidst rapid market changes in China, Nissan remains dedicated to driving innovation, enriching lives, and delivering exciting future mobility experiences in collaboration with local partners.

Lotus Evija X: Fastest Production Chassis Around the Nürburgring

Lotus has unveiled the Evija X, a track-focused, record-chasing version of its all-electric hypercar. Designed as a one-off technical showcase rather than a production vehicle, this remarkable machine boasts an impressive Nürburgring lap time of 6 minutes and 24 seconds.

This achievement positions the Evija X as the third fastest non-homologated racing car around the Nürburgring, trailing only the Volkswagen ID.R (6:05) and the Porsche 919 Evo (5:19), the current record holder. Lotus claims that this lap time makes the Evija X the fastest car around the Nürburgring with a production car chassis. Moreover, Lotus suggests that this record-setting performance is just the beginning, as it was achieved in less-than-optimal damp conditions in October.

Visually, the Evija X stands out with its extreme aerodynamic package, reminiscent of Pikes Peak rather than traditional Nürburgring styling. The front features a massive splitter and canards, while the rear sports an enormous wing with DRS (Drag Reduction System) atop a minimalistic diffuser. Other aerodynamic enhancements include openings above the front wheels to dissipate turbulent air and revised side skirts. Additionally, the Evija X boasts new suspension components, carbon brakes, and special Pirelli race tyres.

Powering the Evija X are four electric motors, which together produce an impressive 2,000PS at full throttle. However, details about the range provided by the 70 kWh battery during flat-out Nürburgring runs have not been disclosed.

Mazda Unveils the Arata SUV Concept – EV and PHEV Options

Mazda made a splash at Auto China 2024 in Beijing with the debut of the rear-wheel-drive EZ-6 sedan, stealing the spotlight at their stand. However, another notable premiere was the introduction of the Arata, a sleek electric SUV concept destined for production by the end of the following year.

Developed by Changan Mazda, a joint venture between Changan Automobile and Mazda, the Arata is likely to receive a different name for its production version, possibly an alphanumeric designation echoing Mazda’s other SUVs. The “EZ-60” nameplate has already been trademarked in China and could be a potential choice.

The Arata, meaning “new” or “fresh” in Japanese, offers a glimpse of an attractive electric SUV that may share a platform with an existing model. While the EZ-6 sedan is expected to be based on the Changan Depal SL03, the EZ-60 could derive from the Changan Deepal S7. However, significant design differences suggest that Mazda’s versions will appear more upscale and justify a potentially higher price tag.

As a concept, the Arata is an all-electric vehicle which will also offer a plug-in hybrid variant just like the EZ-6. It features Mazda’s signature Kodo design language, with sleek lines, illuminated grille, and distinct lighting elements front and rear. The concept incorporates cameras in place of traditional mirrors, eliminates door handles, and foregoes a rear wiper for a cleaner aesthetic. A spoiler with a vertical third brake light extends to the roof panel, while the quarter panel design creates the illusion of flying buttresses.

While Mazda has not confirmed plans to sell the sedan and SUV outside of China, where they will be manufactured, the vehicles are sure to generate excitement with their innovative designs and electric powertrains.

Mazda EZ-6 Unveiled For China Market – Rear-Wheel-Drive, 600km EV Range

Mazda has unveiled the EZ-6, marking the return of the mid-size sedan to the Chinese market under a new electric guise. Developed through the Changan Mazda joint venture, this sleek sedan comes in purely electric and plug-in hybrid variants.

While retaining the signature Kodo design language, it introduces new elements such as a partially illuminated grille and pop-out door handles. The taillights and headlights draw comparisons to Jaguar designs, while an unexpected active spoiler adds a touch of sportiness. Measuring 4919mm in length, 1889mm in width, and 1483mm in height, the EZ-6 is slightly larger than its predecessor.

Sporting 19-inch aero wheels, the Mazda EZ-6 features a large panoramic glass roof and frameless doors, enhancing its premium appeal. Reports suggest it shares its platform with the Changan Shenlan SL03 but offers a more upscale interior design. While diverging from Mazda’s global offerings, the cabin boasts an appealing aesthetic, highlighted by a full-length “floating” centre console.

Early specifications reveal that the Mazda EZ-6 boasts a rear-wheel-drive setup for the electric model, achieving a perfect 50:50 weight distribution and employing a multi-link rear suspension. The battery pack, while unspecified, offers an impressive range of 600km per the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC). Meanwhile, the plug-in hybrid variant can cover 1,000km on a combined petrol and electric powertrain.

Scheduled to go on sale in China following its debut at the Beijing Motor Show, this electric/plug-in hybrid mid-size sedan is not expected to be exported to other markets.

All-New Toyota Yaris G Limited: RM99,600 With Only 600 Units Available

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has introduced the Toyota Yaris G Limited, aiming to raise the bar in the non-national B-segment hatchback market. This new addition to the Yaris lineup showcases automotive innovation, offering improved performance upgrades, enhanced handling, and a stylish design.

The Toyota Yaris G Limited will be a limited-run variant, with only 600 units available. Priced at RM99,600.00 (On the road, without insurance), the G Limited comes with a full 5-year unlimited mileage warranty. Additionally, performance parts are covered for 1 year/20,000km warranty, providing extra assurance for your driving experience. It is available in various colours, including the Sporty 2-Tone Exterior package, catering to both lifestyle and performance preferences.

The Yaris G Limited is designed to be the ideal companion for every journey, whether on city streets or weekend getaways. Its performance-tuned suspension system enhances cornering ability and responsiveness, providing a sportier driving experience. The agile chassis with better tyre grip and precise steering ensures accurate handling and control, allowing drivers to feel fully connected to the road.

Equipped with a range of performance enhancements, the Toyota Yaris G Limited delivers a thrilling ride with flexible handling and improved power, providing a fun-to-drive experience for customers. A throttle controller and cold air intake elevate its performance, ensuring swift acceleration and an exhilarating driving experience.

Inspired by Toyota’s extensive history in motorsports, the Yaris G Limited proudly wears its ‘LIMITED’ emblem, symbolising its exclusive status and performance pedigree.