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Isuzu Motors Limited has officially launched the updated D-MAX 1-ton pickup truck and MU-X 7-seater passenger vehicle in Thailand. Both models are powered by the newly developed RZ4F 2.2L diesel engine paired with an advanced 8-speed automatic transmission (AT). These new vehicles, which promise improved start-up capability, acceleration, and fuel efficiency, will be available for sale in Thailand starting November 28, 2024.

The D-MAX and MU-X are well-regarded globally for their robust design, off-road capability, and fuel-efficient diesel engines. The addition of the RZ4F engine and 8-speed AT marks a significant upgrade, offering enhanced driving dynamics and performance. These improvements come in response to market demands and are expected to further strengthen the vehicles’ appeal to customers looking for dependable, efficient, and powerful vehicles.

In line with its mid-term business plan, “ISUZU Transformation – Growth to 2030,” Isuzu is pursuing a multi-pathway approach to vehicle power source technologies. This approach includes offering various powertrain options, such as internal combustion engine vehicles like the new RZ4F-powered models, as well as exploring the future potential of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs).

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Ahead of the much-anticipated reveal of the updated Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Manthey Racing, a German auto racing team, has introduced a factory-approved aerodynamic upgrade kit for the outgoing model. Backed by Porsche, which owns a 51% stake in Manthey, the package offers significant performance enhancements while maintaining the vehicle’s warranty.

The most noticeable change is the replacement of the rear window with a lightweight carbon fibre panel, which is 25% lighter than the original. The new panel integrates a shark fin antenna, inspired by the Porsche 963 endurance racer, and works in tandem with six smaller fins mounted on the roof. These fins direct hot air from the front radiators away from the rear intakes, allowing for cooler and more efficient airflow.

In the rear, the 911 GT3 RS is equipped with a redesigned carbon rear wing featuring modified endplates to boost downforce. A larger diffuser enhances stability, while carbon fibre aerodisc wheel covers reduce air resistance. These combined modifications enable the car to generate over 1,000kg of downforce at speeds of 284km/h.

Beyond its aerodynamic tweaks, the Manthey kit also includes mechanical upgrades. The front axle receives a 30% increase in spring rates, while the rear benefits from a 15% improvement. Additional components include new shock absorbers and racing brake pads, specifically designed for models equipped with ceramic-composite brakes. The package also features aesthetic touches such as carbon fiber decals, illuminated door sill guards, LED door projectors, and a towing eye for track use only.

Manthey’s engineers spent two years developing the kit, subjecting it to extensive testing across European racetracks. The company has hinted at plans to showcase its performance with a timed lap at the Nürburgring. The goal is to improve upon the stock GT3 RS’s lap time of 6 minutes and 49.32 seconds, set in October 2022, and approach the 6:43.30 record achieved by a previous-generation GT2 RS fitted with Manthey components in 2021.

For GT3 RS owners eager to upgrade, the new kit is already available for order. It will be delivered to European Union markets starting in January 2025, with availability in non-EU regions following in March. The price for this specific kit has not been disclosed.

With this latest offering, Manthey reaffirms its commitment to pushing the boundaries of Porsche’s engineering excellence, ensuring that the 911 GT3 RS remains at the forefront of track performance.

Lotus, the iconic sports car manufacturer renowned for its dedication to lightweight engineering, has shifted gears yet again. Under Geely’s ownership, the British automaker previously announced an all-electric future, including plans for an electric SUV. However, at the recent Guangzhou Motor Show in China, Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng confirmed a dramatic change: the brand is moving away from a fully electric lineup and will instead focus on hybrid technology, specifically “Super Hybrids” that promise exceptional performance and efficiency.

This pivot stems from reluctance among high-end customers to transition entirely to electric vehicles (EVs). According to Feng, while EVs offer distinct benefits, such as quiet cabins and minimal noise or vibration, these advantages are already present in luxury internal combustion engines (ICE). For high-performance and luxury models, the appeal of traditional V8 and V12 engines remains strong, as these powertrains deliver robust performance and an engaging driving experience.

Lotus’s new hybrid strategy aims to address concerns often associated with plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), including added weight from large batteries, daily charging requirements, and limited power when the battery depletes. The “Super Hybrid” approach integrates a turbocharged combustion engine with ultra-fast charging capabilities, enabling a driving range of up to 680 miles without relying solely on ICE power.

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Mini Plant Oxford, the historic home of the Mini brand, has resumed production of the Mini Cooper Convertible for the first time since 2015. The convertible now joins the Mini Cooper 3-Door and Mini Cooper 5-Door, establishing Oxford as the production hub for the entire Mini Cooper family.

A New Era for the Mini Convertible

The relaunch of the fourth-generation Mini Cooper Convertible, announced last month, brings a refreshed design inside and out alongside an advanced digital experience. 

Integrated UK Manufacturing

Production of the Mini Convertible involves contributions from three UK-based BMW Group facilities:

  • BMW Group Plant Swindon: Responsible for body pressings and sub-assemblies.
  • BMW Group Plant Hams Hall (North Warwickshire): Manufactures the advanced four-cylinder petrol engines.
  • Mini Plant Oxford: Handles body shell production, paintwork, and final assembly.

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BYD, the global leader in new energy vehicles (NEVs) and power batteries, achieved a monumental milestone by rolling off its 10-millionth NEV from its Xiaomo Production Base in the Shenzhen-Shanwei Special Cooperation Zone. This achievement, marking the company’s 30th anniversary, highlights BYD’s commitment to sustainable transportation and reinforces its standing as a global automotive leader.

Pioneering NEV Production

BYD is the first automaker globally to produce 10 million NEVs, a feat achieved through a rapid acceleration of production. The company took 15 years to manufacture its first 5 million NEVs but achieved the next 5 million in just 15 months. This milestone underscores BYD’s strategic focus on NEVs and its leadership in sustainable development.

The 10-millionth vehicle, a DENZA Z9, was ceremoniously presented to Mr. Feng Ji, the Founder and CEO of Game Science, known for the critically acclaimed game Black Myth: Wukong.

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Robin Zeng, founder and chairman of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL), the world’s leading battery manufacturer, has expressed openness to building a U.S. plant if the political climate under President-elect Donald Trump allows for Chinese investment in the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain.

Barriers to Entry for Chinese Battery Makers

Zeng highlighted that Chinese EV and battery manufacturers, including CATL and BYD, have faced significant trade restrictions in the U.S., including high tariffs, protectionist policies, and national security concerns. The Biden administration’s policies excluded Chinese-made batteries from EV subsidies, while a Republican-backed bill seeks to limit EV incentives for vehicles using Chinese battery technology, even when licensed by American firms like Ford and Tesla.

Despite these challenges, Zeng noted Trump’s potential openness to allowing Chinese automakers to set up U.S.-based manufacturing plants under conditions that benefit American workers. “I do hope that in the future they are open to investments,” Zeng said.

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Hyundai Motor Company has introduced the Elantra N TCR Edition, a high-performance sedan designed to bring the thrill of motorsport to everyday driving. Known as the AVANTE N TCR Edition in its home market of South Korea, the vehicle is directly inspired by Hyundai’s success in the Touring Car Racing (TCR) World Tour, blending race-proven engineering with production-car practicality.

Motorsport-Inspired Performance

Drawing from its rich motorsport heritage since joining the TCR World Tour in 2017, Hyundai has equipped the Elantra N TCR Edition with advanced features developed through years of competition and championship victories. Key upgrades include:

  • Carbon Swan Neck Spoiler: Lightweight and adjustable for optimised downforce across varying driving conditions.
  • 19-inch N TCR Forged Wheels: Highly rigid and lightweight for enhanced performance.
  • N Performance Braking System: Four-piston brakes standard for superior stopping power.

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Lexus has officially unveiled the facelifted ES sedan in China, showcasing a refreshed design, updated lighting elements, and a more advanced infotainment system. The updates enhance the sedan’s premium appeal while incorporating the latest technology and styling cues from the brand.

Exterior Enhancements

The most noticeable changes to the ES sedan are at the front, where the signature spindle grille now features horizontal slats, replacing the previous vertical design. The headlight internals have been reworked, incorporating double L-shaped daytime running lights for a sharper look, while larger faux side air intakes add a touch of aggressiveness.

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Bugatti has once again etched its name into the automotive history books with the W16 Mistral World Record Car setting a new top-speed world record for an open-top vehicle at 453.91 km/h. The achievement, realised at the world-class ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg GmbH facility, underscores Bugatti’s relentless pursuit of innovation and engineering excellence.

A Legacy of Speed and Innovation

The W16 Mistral’s accomplishment is the latest chapter in Bugatti’s storied history of speed records, following iconic milestones set by the Veyron and Chiron models. In June 2010, the Veyron 16.4 Super Sport achieved a top speed of 431.07 km/h, solidifying Bugatti’s reputation as a leader in high-performance engineering.

Building on this foundation, Bugatti shattered the closed-cockpit record in 2019, with the Chiron Super Sport 300+ reaching 490.48 km/h. In 2013, the marque turned its attention to open-top vehicles, with the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse reaching 408.84 km/h – a record for convertibles that remained unchallenged until now.

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Porsche has celebrated the conclusion of its 911 Dakar production run by delivering a bespoke Sonderwunsch edition to an Italian sports car collector. The ceremony took place at the Porsche Museum, where the final unit of the 2,500 limited-production series was handed over, marking the end of the line for this distinctive off-road-capable sports car.

A Unique Sports Car for On- and Off-Road Performance

Introduced in November 2022, the 911 Dakar was designed to perform equally well on rugged terrains and country roads. The model stands approximately 50mm taller than the 911 Carrera with sports suspension, offering increased ground clearance. Its off-road credentials are further bolstered by red, forged aluminium recovery eyelets at the front and rear, along with widened wheel arches and sills.

Under the hood, the 911 Dakar features a 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine that delivers 480PS and a peak torque of 570Nm. This robust powertrain ensures dynamic performance, complemented by the unmistakable sound of a boxer engine.

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