Global News Archives

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series: The Sportiest Maybach – 4.0 litre, 585hp

The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series, the sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s history, introduces a refined blend of luxury and performance. This open-top two-seater debuts with two curated design concepts: the Red Ambience, featuring an obsidian black metallic and Manufaktur garnet red metallic finish, and the White Ambience, with obsidian black metallic contrasting against Manufaktur opalite white magno.

The exterior and interior of the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 are meticulously crafted with the Maybach pattern as a cohesive design element. The car’s interior is adorned with sustainably tanned, crystal white Manufaktur Exclusive Nappa leather and gleaming silver chrome trim.

This luxurious ambience is complemented by the illuminated brand-specific chrome-finished radiator grille and Maybach lettering, along with a distinctive bonnet featuring a chromed fin.

The car’s performance is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo engine delivering 585hp, paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive. Enhanced driving and acoustic comfort are ensured through noise-optimised exhaust systems, extensive insulation, and a comfort-oriented suspension setup.

In conjunction with the launch, Maybach Icons of Luxury will offer an exclusive collection inspired by the vehicle’s materials and colours. This collection, available in boutiques and online, includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a tote bag, and a dog bag, all designed to complement the opulent style of the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series.

The market rollout of this luxurious model begins in Europe in the spring of 2025, with other markets to follow.

BMW Introduces the New M5 Touring: A High-Performance Wagon with Everyday Usability

BMW is expanding its lineup with the introduction of the new BMW M5 Touring, a car that promises to deliver a blend of high performance and everyday practicality, making it a standout in the high-performance wagon segment.

At the heart of the new M5 Touring is the M HYBRID drive system, which integrates a 4.4-litre V8 engine with an electric motor. This combination produces an impressive total output, delivering 585hp from the V8 and an additional 197hp from the electric motor. Together, they generate a combined torque of up to 750Nm from the engine and 450Nm from the electric motor. This powertrain allows the M5 Touring to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds. The standard top speed is set at 250km/h, but this can be increased to 305km/h with the optional M Driver’s Package. Additionally, the vehicle boasts an electric range of 61–67km, made possible by an 18.6 kWh high-voltage battery.

The exterior of the M5 Touring is both athletic and muscular, featuring a high proportion of surfaces painted in body colour, complemented by a Black solid finish for the roof. The front of the car is marked by large air intakes and a new BMW M kidney grille, while the rear showcases slim lights, vertical reflectors, and a split diffuser, enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic and aggressive look.

Underpinning the car is a sophisticated chassis setup that includes a double-wishbone front axle and a five-link rear axle, both of which have been tuned specifically for this model. The adaptive M suspension and Integral Active Steering contribute to the car’s exceptional handling and ride quality. The M5 Touring also comes standard with M Compound brakes, though M Carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option. The car rides on M light-alloy wheels, measuring 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear, and is fitted with high-performance tires.

Inside, the M5 Touring features an M-specific, driver-focused cockpit, which includes a newly designed M leather steering wheel and M multifunction seats. The cabin is adorned with Merino leather trim and equipped with four-zone automatic climate control and a Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, providing a luxurious and comfortable environment. The vehicle also offers a generous cargo space, with a load capacity ranging from 500 to 1,630 litres, and includes features such as Comfort Access and automatic tailgate operation.

In terms of driving assistance and safety, the M5 Touring is equipped with a range of standard features, including front collision warning, Lane Departure Warning, Evasion Assistant, and Speed Limit Info. For those seeking even more advanced capabilities, options such as Driving Assistant Professional and Parking Assistant Professional are available.

The infotainment and connectivity systems are anchored by the latest BMW iDrive system, which is based on Operating System 8.5. This system offers enhanced touchscreen and voice control capabilities. The M5 Touring also features 5G compatibility, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various personalisation options through the BMW ID and My BMW App.

The BMW M5 Touring is set to make its world premiere at Monterey Car Week in mid-August 2024, with the market launch scheduled for November 2024 following the production start at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing. Designed to cater to drivers who demand both a thrilling driving experience and the versatility of a practical and luxurious daily driver, the new BMW M5 Touring is poised to be a significant addition to the BMW lineup.

Pininfarina Unveils Exclusive Open-Top Battista Targamerica

Italians have long been renowned for their mastery in crafting convertibles, and the new Pininfarina Battista Targamerica is a testament to this legacy. Debuting at Monterey Car Week, this bespoke open-top version of the electric hypercar is a stunning addition to Pininfarina’s illustrious portfolio.

The Targamerica is a one-off creation commissioned by a discerning client who already owns a Battista coupe. While the B95 Speedster was Pininfarina’s first convertible, the Targamerica marks the inaugural open-top version of the Battista. This special edition raises questions about why the Battista wasn’t initially offered as a convertible.

Remarkably, the Targamerica went from concept to reality in just one year, following the client’s commission at last year’s Monterey Car Week. Its striking silver with blue accents pays homage to the Ferrari Testarossa Spider—a unique convertible created in 1986 for Fiat heir Gianni Angelli. Noteworthy features of the Targamerica include a custom rear decklid and distinctive doors, as well as an integrated cigar humidor between the seats, catering to the client’s appreciation for cigars.

The Battista, the flagship model of Automobili Pininfarina—a division of India’s Mahindra based in Germany—is built on the Rimac Nevera’s platform. It boasts a staggering 1,900hp from its four electric motors, making it a formidable contender in the hypercar arena.

The Targamerica will be showcased at The Quail on Friday, with the client set to take delivery afterward. While Automobili Pininfarina has not disclosed plans for additional Battista convertibles, the Targamerica’s debut suggests that this may not be the last of such exclusive models.

The Refreshed Toyota MR2 to Have Porsche-Like Power?

Toyota is reportedly preparing to reintroduce the iconic MR2 with a fresh, modern twist. According to Japan’s Best Car, Toyota is developing a new “mid-engined 4WD” vehicle that could bring back the MR2 nameplate, renowned for its sporty performance and distinctive design.

The upcoming MR2 is expected to feature a robust 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering approximately 400hp and 542Nm of torque. This powertrain will be paired with an all-wheel-drive system reminiscent of the GR-Four in the GR Corolla, marking a notable departure from the MR2’s traditional rear-wheel-drive configuration. Historically, the “R” in MR2 stood for “Rear,” reflecting its original rear-drive layout.

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Toyota Brazil Offers Bulletproof Armour for Added Protection

In Brazil, Toyota is offering an unusual but intriguing option for customers looking for added protection: armoured Corollas.

Through a new partnership with local armouring experts Avallon, Carbon, Evolution Blindagens, and Parvi Blindados, customers can now have their Corolla sedan, Corolla Cross SUV, Hilux pickup, or SW4 (Fortuner) SUV armoured. This service is available for both new and used models (from the 2020 model year onward) before delivery.

Customers can arrange for their vehicle to be sent to their chosen armouring company via their local Toyota dealership. The armouring process involves reinforcing the bodywork with specialised materials and installing thicker windows to provide protection against small firearms, bats, and metal pipes.

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Zeekr Unveils Record-Breaking Fast-Charging Battery Technology

In a major leap forward for electric vehicle (EV) technology, Zeekr, a spin-off from Geely, has announced a groundbreaking upgrade to its super-fast-charging LFP battery. At its recent Tech Day event, the company showcased its 2025 model lineup, featuring a new version of its battery technology that promises to set a new industry benchmark.

The latest iteration of Zeekr’s LFP battery can charge from 10% to 80% in just ten and a half minutes, outpacing its predecessor, which took 13.5 minutes for the same charge. This significant improvement is attributed to advancements in the battery management system (BMS), which now includes enhanced capabilities for maintaining high charging speeds for extended periods.

Zeekr’s demonstration highlighted the new battery’s performance. Although the maximum charging speed was not disclosed, comparisons with the previous generation indicate that while peak speeds may not be higher, the new system sustains these speeds more effectively. The upgraded BMS also enhances performance in adverse weather conditions, enabling the battery to achieve the 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes even in temperatures as low as -10 °C

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Mercedes-Benz Korea Faces Backlash Over EQE Fire Incident

Mercedes-Benz Korea is under intense scrutiny following a devastating fire caused by its EQE electric vehicle (EV) earlier this month. The fire, which erupted in an apartment complex parking garage in Incheon, resulted in the destruction of over 40 vehicles and significant damage to hundreds more. The incident has ignited growing public concerns about EV safety and has led to criticism of Mercedes-Benz Korea’s handling of the situation.

Key Issues:

Incident Details: The fire involved a Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan equipped with a battery from China’s Farasis Energy. While the investigation into the exact cause is ongoing, the possibility that the battery was responsible remains a significant concern.
Company Response: Mercedes-Benz Korea has faced criticism for its defensive stance and lack of transparency. Despite deciding to donate 4.5 billion Won to affected residents, the company has not issued a public apology or detailed its countermeasures. It has also been reluctant to disclose information about its battery suppliers, unlike other car manufacturers who have been more open about their sources.

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BMW CEO Criticises EU’s 2035 Combustion Engine Ban, Advocates for E-Fuels

BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has voiced strong opposition to the European Union’s plan to ban sales of new combustion-engine cars by 2035, labelling it as the “wrong approach” and advocating for a faster rollout of e-fuels.

Key Points:

EU 2035 Legislation: The EU plans to ban the sale of new non-zero-emission cars starting in 2035. This includes a prohibition on new combustion engines unless they run on carbon-neutral fuels like e-fuels.
Zipse’s Critique: Zipse argues that the European Commission needs to accelerate e-fuel availability to make their use practical by the deadline. He contends that without significant progress, the legislation could effectively amount to a ban on combustion engines, which he refers to as a “bogus solution.”

E-Fuel Viability Issues:

Production Challenges: The production of e-fuels is energy-intensive, relying on ‘green’ hydrogen created through the electrolysis of water using renewable electricity. A 2019 International Energy Agency report highlighted that meeting today’s hydrogen production needs from electricity alone would require significantly more energy than the EU’s current output.
Energy Allocation: Critics, including Zipse, suggest that the immense energy required for e-fuel production might be better utilised directly powering electric vehicles rather than supporting the production of e-fuels.

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Ukrainian Fighters Turn Toyota Mirai Into a Hydrogen Explosive Device

In a remarkable display of ingenuity, Ukrainian fighters have repurposed a component from a Toyota Mirai hydrogen vehicle to create an explosive device, playing a pivotal role in a recent counteroffensive against Russian forces. This unconventional use of technology highlights the evolving nature of warfare and the innovative approaches being employed on the battlefield.

The incident occurred in July during a counteroffensive operation in Vovchansk, Ukraine. Ukrainian forces were engaged in a strategic struggle to penetrate a fortified aggregate plant held by Russian troops. With conventional military support limited and foreign aid restricted, Ukrainian fighters turned to salvage parts from electrified vehicles, including the hydrogen-powered Toyota Mirai.

The Toyota Mirai, designed as a clean energy vehicle, utilises a hydrogen fuel cell to power its electric motors. The vehicle’s high-pressure hydrogen tank, which can store over 5kg of hydrogen at 10,000 psi, became a critical component in the creation of an improvised explosive device (IED). The tank, which weighs approximately 52kg, possesses an enormous energy potential—equivalent to 162kg of TNT when combined with plastic explosives.

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Tesla Fire in Mexico Linked to Unauthorised Power Connection

A Tesla Model S in Tijuana, Mexico, caught fire after being plugged into an unauthorised power connection, leading to significant damage to the vehicle and a neighbouring house. The incident underscores the risks associated with illegal electrical hookups, known locally as “diablito” or “little devil.”

Incident Details:

Cause of Fire: The Tesla Model S was reportedly connected to a stolen power line, a common practice in Mexico where unauthorised connections to the national grid result in substantial financial losses for the power company, totalling over $2 billion annually. These illicit connections are often used at construction sites and can pose serious fire hazards.

Fire Response: The Tijuana Fire Department responded swiftly to the blaze. Arturo Sánchez from the department indicated that while this was their first encounter with a Tesla fire, local fire crews have been trained to handle EV-related fires. The fire was contained before it could cause further damage, but it did spread to a neighbouring house. Fortunately, the house was unoccupied, and no injuries were reported.

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Global News

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series: The Sportiest Maybach – 4.0 litre, 585hp

BMW Introduces the New M5 Touring: A High-Performance Wagon with Everyday Usability

Pininfarina Unveils Exclusive Open-Top Battista Targamerica

The Refreshed Toyota MR2 to Have Porsche-Like Power?

Toyota Brazil Offers Bulletproof Armour for Added Protection

Zeekr Unveils Record-Breaking Fast-Charging Battery Technology

Mercedes-Benz Korea Faces Backlash Over EQE Fire Incident

Key Issues:

BMW CEO Criticises EU’s 2035 Combustion Engine Ban, Advocates for E-Fuels

Key Points:

E-Fuel Viability Issues:

Ukrainian Fighters Turn Toyota Mirai Into a Hydrogen Explosive Device

Tesla Fire in Mexico Linked to Unauthorised Power Connection

Incident Details:

The BMW Skytop: A Collector’s Dream with Legendary Roadster Inspiration

Honda’s Future Electric Vehicles to Mimic Sounds from Iconic Petrol-Powered Cars

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Leapmotor International Marks Milestone with First Shipment of C10 SUVs to Asia Pacific Region

2025 Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II Unveils Subtle Yet Elegant Updates

Honda Explores Manual Gearbox Feel for Its Future Electric Vehicles

EV Market Faces First Decline as Hybrids Gain Ground in 2024

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