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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
The BMW Group is venturing into a new era of automotive manufacturing by exploring the use of humanoid robots in its production processes. During a recent trial run at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg, the company tested the latest humanoid robot, Figure 02, from the California-based company Figure. This cutting-edge robot demonstrated its capabilities by successfully inserting sheet metal parts into fixtures, a crucial step in chassis assembly that requires precise dexterity.
Advancing Production Efficiency and Ergonomics
The trial, which spanned several weeks, highlighted the potential of humanoid robots to perform complex tasks that are ergonomically challenging for human workers. By automating these tasks, BMW aims to enhance workplace safety and efficiency. The collaboration with Figure focuses on evaluating how these advanced robots can be integrated safely and effectively into existing production lines.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled a truly unique creation, the Spectre Semaphore, a one-of-a-kind bespoke commission set to make its global debut in the US at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, on August 16, 2024, during Monterey Car Week. This exceptional edition of the Rolls-Royce Spectre epitomises the brand’s evolving luxury standards, tailored for its discerning and youthful clientele.
The Spectre Semaphore stands out with its striking exterior, finished in a custom Bespoke Semaphore Yellow. This vibrant solid colour, which lends its name to the commission, is further enhanced by an exclusive bonnet artwork titled ‘Marbled Paint Spill’. This intricate design pays homage to the diverse beauty of California, capturing elements from the sunlit Southern coast to the silver-topped eastern mountains.
Rolls-Royce’s skilled artisans dedicated over 160 hours to perfecting this unique graphic, applying silver lacquer and multiple layers of clear coat to achieve a flawless finish.
The bold yellow theme continues inside the Spectre Semaphore. The cabin features a blend of Bespoke Lemon Yellow and Citrine Yellow, complemented by Grace White and Slate Grey hues. This vivid colour scheme is highlighted by Lemon Yellow stitching throughout the interior, including the seats, Starlight doors, and instrument panel.
Incorporating the latest in digital Bespoke technology, the SPIRIT operating system’s dials have been customised to match the vehicle’s color palette, showcasing Rolls-Royce’s commitment to personalised luxury.
The interior also features a high-polish Bespoke painted wood set in Cashmere Grey, imbued with silver mica flakes that sparkle under direct light, enhancing the car’s contemporary design.
Only one Rolls-Royce Spectre Semaphore will be produced, underscoring its exclusivity. It will be showcased at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, marking a highlight of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ participation in Monterey Car Week 2024.
Proton is preparing for a significant expansion of its global export operations, including a strategic return to the UK market, according to sources close to CEO Li Chunrong. The move will also target new right-hand-drive markets in Asia, South Africa, as well as a reentry into Australia and New Zealand.
This global push is closely linked to Proton’s development of the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim, a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility under construction. The AHTV represents a substantial investment from Geely and Malaysian industrial conglomerate DRB-HICOM Berhad, aimed at bolstering Proton’s production capacity and global sales potential.
Strategic Investments and New Facilities
The AHTV, with a reported investment of up to £7.9 billion, will significantly enhance Proton’s manufacturing capabilities. This facility is expected to play a crucial role in Proton’s strategy to re-enter previously exited markets and explore new ones. The investment is part of a broader effort to revitalise Proton’s global footprint, which had previously seen the brand selling models in the UK from 1989 until 2014.
