It’s indeed a significant shift for BMW to drop the iconic “i” from the end of its internal combustion engine model names, marking the end of a tradition that dates back to the early 1970s. Originally denoting the use of fuel injection, the “i” became synonymous with BMW’s lineup, indicating models that featured the latest automotive technology.
However, as BMW expanded its range to include SUVs, roadsters, and electric vehicles, the significance of the “i” began to blur. With the introduction of electric cars, where “i” stood for “innovation,” the distinction between petrol and electric models became less clear.
The decision to simplify the naming structure by dropping the “i” from internal combustion engine models reflects BMW’s commitment to clarity and consistency. By using a format where the first number indicates the model and the last two numbers represent the engine, BMW aims to streamline its lineup and make it easier for customers to understand.
The transition will occur gradually, with the next-generation X3 being the first to drop the “i,” followed by other models such as the 1 Series and possibly the 2 Series Gran Coupe. The facelifted 7 Series may also undergo this change.
Although the decision may disappoint some fans who have grown accustomed to the “i” designation over the years, it reflects BMW’s commitment to adapting its brand identity to evolving market trends and technological advancements.
Aston Martin has unveiled a groundbreaking new V12 engine, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s storied history of producing powerful and luxurious vehicles. With a staggering 835PS and an extraordinary 1000Nm of torque, this new engine sets a new standard for performance and efficiency in its class.
The development of this new V12 engine represents a meticulous process of optimisation and improvement, with every aspect of the internal combustion process refined to deliver unparalleled power and efficiency. Key hardware highlights include a strengthened cylinder block and conrods, redesigned cylinder heads with reprofiled camshafts, and new intake and exhaust ports.
Additionally, repositioned spark plugs and higher flowrate fuel injectors ensure optimised combustion, while new higher-speed, reduced-inertia turbochargers enhance performance and throttle response.
The new V12 engine will be featured exclusively in Aston Martin’s most exclusive and limited availability models, underscoring its status as a symbol of luxurious sporting intent. Handcrafted in strictly limited numbers, it will debut in a new flagship model later in 2024, further solidifying Aston Martin’s reputation for dynamic excellence and innovation. Further technical details about the new flagship model will be revealed closer to its launch date.
Bentley Motors is introducing the Apex Edition, a limited 20-car collection under its Mulliner bespoke division, to enhance both the visual impact and dynamic ability of the Bentayga luxury SUV. This exclusive collection features ultra-strong, lightweight 22” Mulliner carbon wheels paired with carbon ceramic brakes and is offered in six unique specifications curated by Mulliner’s design team.
A central painted livery stripe extending over the bonnet and roof, a first for the Bentayga, adds to its distinctive appearance. Additionally, owners of the Continental GT Le Mans Edition will have the opportunity to commission an Apex Edition Bentayga in matching trim and livery.
Based on the Bentayga S, which boasts Bentley’s potent 4.0-litre, twin-scroll turbocharged V8 petrol engine producing 550PS and 770Nm of torque, the Apex Edition delivers enhanced agility and braking performance. With Bentley Dynamic Ride active anti-roll control and rear-wheel steering as standard, the Bentayga S offers exhilarating performance complemented by the sound of its free-flowing sports exhaust.
The Apex Edition’s 22” Mulliner carbon wheels, developed in collaboration with specialists Bucci Composites, save 24kg in unsprung mass, providing increased steering agility and more responsive braking. Carbon-Silicon-Carbide (CSiC) discs further enhance braking performance, offering a weight saving of over 20 kg compared to iron disc brakes.
Six curated themes by Mulliner offer a range of exterior finishes, livery stripes, and interior color combinations, allowing customers to personalize their Bentayga Apex Edition. Additionally, owners of the Le Mans Edition Continental GT can specify an Apex Edition Bentayga in matching livery, further enhancing exclusivity.
Each Bentayga Apex Edition comes comprehensively equipped with bespoke exterior and interior features, including the Styling Specification’s aerodynamic components in satin carbon fibre, Naim for Bentley audio system, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) with Touring specification.
With production limited to just 20 examples worldwide, the Bentayga Apex Edition offers exclusivity and the opportunity for customers to further personalize their vehicle through the bespoke co-creation process with Mulliner designers, ensuring each Bentayga is a true one-of-one expression of luxury and performance.
Bentley Motors is set to unveil its third coachbuilt creation on May 7, 2024, following the remarkable Bacalar Barchetta and Batur coupe. Crafted by Mulliner, Bentley’s renowned in-house bespoke division with a rich heritage in coachbuilding, this new addition to the exclusive family of Bentleys will uphold Mulliner’s tradition of creating truly unique cars tailored to the desires of its discerning clientele.
Limited to just 16 units, this new coachbuilt Bentley will be among the final units to be powered by Bentley’s iconic W12 engine, featuring its most potent iteration.
While specifics on the power output of this new creation have not been revealed, it’s anticipated that it may not match the 730hp and 1,003Nm of torque seen in the Batur coupe. Instead, output could align more closely with the 650hp of the Speed Edition 12 model.
Bentley first introduced the W-12 engine in 2003 with the debut of the first-generation Continental GT. With production coming to a close this year, Bentley estimates that over 105,000 examples of this engine will have been produced. While Bentley has yet to announce the powertrain that will succeed the W-12, speculation suggests a plug-in hybrid configuration featuring a turbocharged V-8.
Looking towards the future, Bentley envisions a transition from plug-in hybrids to electric vehicles (EVs), albeit with a revised timeline after postponing its previous goal of completing this shift by the decade’s end. The automaker now aims to debut its inaugural EV in 2026. Given the resounding success of past offerings like the Bacalar and Batur, which sold out swiftly, there’s ample potential for coachbuilt Bentleys to thrive in the forthcoming EV era.
The excitement of Munich’s Motorworld was shattered by a Friday morning raid, as law enforcement descended on the luxury event space to seize four legendary hypercars. These weren’t your ordinary cars but rather part of Bugatti’s ultra-exclusive “Les Legendes de Bugatti” series, each fetching a hefty price tag of $12 million (RM57,234,000) when they first hit the market.
Rembrandt
The raid, conducted by a dozen officers and investigators, is believed to be connected to the infamous 1MDB scandal. This scandal involved the embezzlement of billions of dollars from a sovereign wealth fund, leading to the conviction of former Prime Minister Najib Razak in 2020.
Black Bess
Specifically, the four Bugatti Veyrons seized represent rare editions: Rembrandt, Black Bess, Jean-Pierre Wimille, and Meo Constantini, with only three units of each produced. In total, Bugatti crafted just 18 cars in this exclusive series, all based on the Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse. While their original value was around $3 million each, their current worth is difficult to determine.
Jean-Pierre Wimille
The ownership of these cars remains a mystery, as authorities have been tight-lipped about revealing any details. The raid was conducted as part of ongoing criminal proceedings, and further information is not available at this time.
Meo Constantini
The fate of the seized hypercars is uncertain, but it’s unlikely that owners will be allowed to ship them out of the country, as has been permitted in previous seizure cases unrelated to criminal activity.
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.
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.
Hyper Force Concept
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 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 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 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.
