Maserati is gearing up for a grand reveal of its latest super sports car at one of the most prestigious automotive events of the year, “The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering,” on Friday, August 16, 2024. The event, part of the renowned Monterey Car Week, will showcase Maserati’s newest creation against the backdrop of California’s exclusive car culture festival, running from August 14 to 19.
This new Maserati super sports car promises to blend exceptional performance with cutting-edge technology and aerodynamic efficiency, drawing on the Trident’s extensive track experience. Designed for those who demand high performance without compromise, the car will feature innovative solutions and a striking design inspired by the world of racing.
Maserati MCXtrema
The vehicle builds on the legacy of the Maserati GT2, renowned for its racing prowess, and represents an evolution of the MC20, Maserati’s flagship model equipped with the distinctive V6 Nettuno engine. The MC20 project, a testament to Maserati’s commitment to performance, has been developed with a dual focus on both track and road versions, showcasing the brand’s technical expertise and synergy.
The Audi A6 e-tron concept debuted at the Auto Shanghai 2021 trade fair and now, the Audi A6 e-tron is making a significant debut as the first all-electric Audi available in both Sportback and Avant versions, showcasing the new PPE platform. The exterior design of the A6 e-tron features a sleek, dynamic roofline and a wide, expressive front with slim daytime running lights and a black mask that encloses functional elements. Aerodynamically, the A6 e-tron excels with a drag coefficient of 0.21 for the Sportback and 0.24 for the Avant, thanks to air curtains, a slim greenhouse, and optimised underbody components.
Inside, the A6 e-tron is equipped with innovative features such as a panoramic glass roof with switchable transparency, second-generation virtual exterior mirrors, and a highly advanced MMI panoramic display. It also includes an optional augmented reality head-up display (AR HuD). The car’s infotainment system features an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit, a 14.5-inch MMI touch display, and a 10.9-inch front passenger display. The integration of Android Automotive OS, over-the-air updates, and third-party apps enhances its technological appeal.
In terms of performance, the A6 e-tron offers a range of up to 756km for the Sportback and up to 720km for the Avant. It features 800-volt technology for rapid charging with a maximum capacity of 270kW. The S6 e-tron variant delivers even higher performance, with a top speed of 240km/h and a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds with a range of up to 675km. The advanced recuperation system and two-stage regenerative braking improve both efficiency and range, while the adaptive air suspension balances comfort and handling.
The A6 e-tron comes with a power output of 362hp and rear-wheel drive, whereas the S6 e-tron offers 496hp and quattro all-wheel drive. Both variants will be available in Sportback and Avant versions at launch, with further models expected to follow depending on the market.
For driver assistance and safety, the A6 e-tron includes comprehensive systems such as adaptive driving assistant plus, park assist plus, traffic sign recognition, and various other driver aids to enhance comfort and safety.
Pricing for the A6 e-tron starts at €75,600 (RM375,960) for the Sportback and €77,250 (RM382,524) for the Avant. The performance-oriented S6 e-tron34 is priced at €99,500 for the Sportback and €101,150 for the Avant. Orders for these models will open in September 2024.
The Audi A6 e-tron aims to combine high performance with advanced technology, aerodynamics, and a luxurious interior, making it a notable entry in the electric vehicle market.
Two years ago, Pagani Automobili unveiled the Utopia, a car that embodies the relentless pursuit of perfection. Now, the company is expanding its vision with the introduction of the Utopia Roadster, developed alongside the Coupé model from the start. This dual development approach allows enthusiasts to choose between the closed and open versions, each reflecting Pagani’s commitment to excellence.
A Dual Approach to Perfection
Traditionally, the Roadster versions of Pagani’s models, such as the Zonda and Huayra, were developed after their Coupé counterparts. The Utopia, however, was designed with both variants in mind from the outset. This approach allows Pagani to offer both closed and open cabin versions simultaneously, catering to the diverse preferences of automotive enthusiasts.
Innovative Design and Versatility
The Utopia Roadster features a design that harmonizes with its Coupé sibling. Both versions share elegant butterfly doors and a sophisticated hard-top mechanism. The hard-top can be stored on a stand, becoming a design piece itself, while a soft-top can be stowed in place of the vanity case. This versatility allows the car to transform into three different configurations, catering to different driving experiences and weather conditions.
Advanced Materials and Engineering
Pagani’s commitment to technological innovation is evident in the Utopia Roadster. Weighing just 1,280 kg (2,822 lbs) despite its large size and V12 engine, the Roadster features a redesigned monocoque chassis for optimal rigidity without heavy reinforcements. The car’s aerodynamic design, perfected in the wind tunnel, avoids protruding appendages while ensuring high downforce and efficiency.
Performance and Power
The Utopia Roadster maintains the same performance as the Coupé, thanks to the advanced Pagani V12 engine developed in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG. Producing 864hp and 1,100 Nm of torque, this engine delivers both smooth low-rev operation and explosive acceleration. The seven-speed manual gearbox, developed with Xtrac, and the lightweight triple-disc clutch ensure precise and responsive performance.
Sophisticated Interior and Design
Inside, the Utopia Roadster features floor mats with a texture reminiscent of outboard boats and a redesigned key reflecting the car’s open design. The cabin’s nearly endless color and material choices are highlighted by the unique visibility of the interior. Pagani’s attention to detail extends to bespoke luggage, including leather-covered carbon suitcases and garment bags, all crafted with meticulous care.
Technological Integration
Pagani has incorporated state-of-the-art technology in the Utopia Roadster, including Pirelli Cyber Tyres equipped with sensors to interact with the vehicle’s stability control systems. The Utopia is fitted with exclusive tires developed specifically for its performance needs, ensuring optimal safety and handling.
A Philosophy of Driving Pleasure
The Utopia Roadster delivers a unique driving experience, blending traditional analog controls with cutting-edge technology. The manual gearbox, a hallmark of Pagani’s design, is paired with an automated option for those who prefer quicker shifts. The steering wheel, crafted from a single block of metal, exemplifies the brand’s dedication to both aesthetic and functional excellence.
Exclusive Production and Pricing
Pagani will produce only 130 units of the Utopia Roadster, each priced at 3.1 million euros, excluding local taxes. This exclusivity underscores Pagani’s commitment to creating a masterpiece that combines engineering prowess with unparalleled driving pleasure.
The Porsche 911, an icon of sports car design, has consistently evolved over the years, with each new generation growing in size. However, Michael Mauer, Porsche’s chief designer for the past two decades, envisions a future where the 911 becomes more compact rather than larger. Here’s why a smaller 911 could be the next logical step for the brand:
1. The Appeal of Compactness
Mauer’s aspiration to downsize the 911 aligns with the desire to explore new possibilities in vehicle packaging. A more compact design could enhance the driving experience, preserving the agile and engaging nature that the 911 is renowned for. By focusing on compactness, Porsche could offer a more agile and responsive sports car, true to the original spirit of the 911.
Lamborghini is set to bid farewell to the Huracan, with production scheduled to end in December. The iconic supercar, known for its thrilling naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine, will be succeeded by Lamborghini’s third plug-in hybrid supercar, reportedly named the Temerario. The highly anticipated debut of the Temerario will take place at Monterey Car Week on August 16.
Performance Overhaul
The Temerario will mark a significant departure from its predecessor’s signature engine. Instead of the revered V10, it will feature a new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering an impressive 789hp and 729Nm of torque. This engine, capable of reaching 10,000 rpm, is adapted from the 3.8-litre unit used in Lamborghini’s SC63 LMDh prototype, designed for top-tier racing series including the Hypercar, GTP, and IMSA SportsCar Championships.
In addition to this potent engine, the Temerario will utilise an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission sourced from the Revuelto, ensuring rapid gear changes. The car’s hybrid powertrain will include a three-motor plug-in system, contributing an extra 147hp and 299Nm of torque, bringing the total power output to exceed 887hp. This marks a significant boost of nearly 250hp over most versions of the Huracan.
Stellantis, the multinational automotive conglomerate, is evaluating cost-cutting measures that could include the discontinuation of underperforming brands. This is especially relevant for Maserati, which has faced significant challenges recently. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Current Situation
Sales Decline: Maserati’s global sales have plummeted by 50% year-over-year, dropping from 15,300 units in the first half of 2023 to just 6,500 units in the same period of 2024.
Financial Losses: The brand has reported an operating loss of $88.6 million for 2024. The losses are attributed to the discontinuation of key models like the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans and the Levante SUV, along with sluggish sales of newer models like the GranTurismo and Grecale SUV.
MC20 Supercar Sales: Only 97 units of the MC20 supercar were sold in Europe last year, highlighting ongoing issues with the brand’s high-end offerings.
Volvo’s ambitious plan to become a fully electric automaker by 2030 has encountered scrutiny and potential revisions. Initially, Volvo aimed to phase out all internal combustion engines, including hybrids, and sell only fully electric vehicles by the target year. However, recent developments suggest that this goal might be adjusted.
Initial Commitment
In March 2021, Volvo committed to transitioning to a fully electric lineup by 2030, promising not to offer any vehicles with internal combustion engines beyond that date. This pledge marked a significant step in Volvo’s strategy to lead the automotive industry towards sustainable mobility.
Porsche is set to revolutionise its Cayenne SUV with the introduction of an all-electric model in its fourth generation. This move aligns with Porsche’s vision of blending exceptional performance with cutting-edge technology while maintaining its commitment to providing powerful hybrid and combustion engine options.
All-Electric Fourth Generation: The upcoming Cayenne will mark Porsche’s foray into all-electric SUVs, leveraging the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) with an 800-volt architecture. This advanced platform supports high-voltage systems and next-generation powertrains and chassis technologies, setting the stage for Porsche’s electric ambitions.
Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors is set to join the alliance between Honda and Nissan, forming a powerful partnership among the automakers, with combined sales exceeding 8 million vehicles, according to reports.
Strategic Partnership
Standardisation of Software: The collaboration will focus on standardising in-vehicle software that controls various car functions.
Current Alliances:
Mitsubishi Motors is already part of an alliance with Nissan and France’s Renault. This alliance was restructured last year to become more pragmatic and agile.
Nissan and Honda announced in March that they were considering a strategic partnership to collaborate on producing EV components and AI in automotive software platforms.
Honda Motor has announced significant changes to its manufacturing operations in China. This strategic move aims to increase electric vehicle (EV) production, responding to growing competition from Chinese brands in the world’s largest automotive market.
Major Changes in Production Facilities
Closure of Joint Venture Plant with GAC:
Honda will shut down a factory operated in partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC), a state-owned Chinese automaker.
This plant, primarily manufacturing the Accord sedan, has an annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles and has been operational for nearly 20 years.
The closure is scheduled for October.
Production Halt at Joint Venture Plant with Dongfeng:
Vehicle production will be suspended at another factory operated through Honda’s joint venture with Dongfeng, another major Chinese automaker.
This facility has an annual production capacity of 240,000 vehicles and will cease operations in November.
