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Mattel, Inc. has unveiled the Hot Wheels Flippin Fast die-cast vehicle, a new addition designed to promote an open-ended play experience, just ahead of Autism Acceptance Month in April. The Flippin Fast die-cast car sparks the challenger spirit as one of Hot Wheels’ most versatile vehicles, offering kids a wide range of motion reminiscent of a fidget toy. Children can enjoy rolling it forward, backwards, and even flipping it upside down.

In collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), a nonprofit organisation led by individuals on the autism spectrum, Hot Wheels ensured that the design and features of the Flippin Fast die-cast meet the needs of all Hot Wheels fans, including those who may benefit from an open-ended, soothing, and sensory play experience.

While the Flippin Fast die-cast vehicle is suitable for children ages three and up, ASAN’s seal on the packaging indicates that it meets the unique play needs of the autism spectrum community.

Mattel has a longstanding partnership with ASAN, collaborating to validate and inform the development of various toy products and characters across its portfolio of brands. This partnership aims to create more inclusive and accessible products that engage consumers more intentionally.

The Hot Wheels Flippin Fast is now available at retailers nationwide for $1.25 (RM5.90), offering children of all abilities a fun and engaging play experience.

In February, Toyota Motor experienced a 7% drop in global sales compared to the same period last year. This decline was primarily attributed to a significant decrease in sales in China, the largest auto market globally, where sales plummeted by 36%. The decline in China was influenced by several factors, including the timing of the Lunar New Year holiday and intense competition in the market, leading to a price war.

While the Lunar New Year holiday fell in February this year compared to January last year, contributing to the decline in sales, Toyota also faced challenges from fierce competition in China’s auto market. However, for January and February combined, the sales decline in China was less severe at 0.7%.

Despite the challenges in China, Toyota saw a 16% surge in U.S. sales and a 14% increase in European sales for February. However, domestic sales in Japan plummeted by a third due to production stoppages at Daihatsu, a small car unit of Toyota, which also faced reputational damage from a safety test scandal reported almost a year ago.

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Citroën has unveiled the Citroën Basalt Vision, a new compact SUV Coupé concept set to join the brand’s range in India and South America in the latter half of 2024. This innovative model blends various automotive codes to offer customers a unique driving experience, combining the fluidity and dynamism of a coupe, the ruggedness of an elevated SUV, and the spaciousness of a 5-door saloon.

Developed with input from teams both at headquarters and in each region, the Basalt Vision will support Citroën’s international growth alongside the C3 and C3 Aircross models in major markets. These models are part of a program aimed at bringing to market vehicles with strong character and distinctive onboard comfort.

The Basalt Vision concept represents a daring approach to the compact SUV Coupé segment, incorporating elements from different automotive styles. Its SUV character exudes modernity, robustness, and reassurance, with a confident stance on the road thanks to features like high ground clearance, a high bonnet, and protective wheel arches. Its coupé-like rear design adds fluidity and dynamism, while the overall silhouette suggests aerodynamic efficiency.

Named after the volcanic rock known for its robustness and serenity, the Basalt promises endurance and reliability, providing a sense of safety and security for drivers. With ample space and protective features, the Basalt offers a comfortable and secure driving experience even in challenging conditions.

As the third model in Citroën’s C-Cubed program, alongside the C3 and C3 Aircross, the Basalt Vision is designed to cater to the needs of customers in India and South America. Based on the Smart Car platform, these models aim to deliver a unique design and ease of use tailored to these markets, enhancing the ownership experience for customers.

Set to be launched in the latter half of 2024, the Citroën Basalt Vision previews a compact, powerful, and muscular SUV Coupé that promises unrivalled onboard comfort and will appeal to young professionals and families alike.

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV has been made available in Germany and across European markets, setting a new benchmark in electric mobility. With its elegant design, featuring iconic Maybach elements like the emblem and radiator grille, this SUV presents a distinctive appearance. Customers can personalise their vehicles with signature two-tone paintwork options and the Night Series package for a darker aesthetic.

Upon unlocking, passengers are greeted by meticulously designed lighting elements, while automatic comfort doors enhance convenience. Inside, the atmosphere resembles an upscale lounge, offering customised lighting, Maybach-specific fragrances, and a Burmester 4D surround sound system for a tranquil experience. Acoustic comfort is maximised, especially in the rear, and the suspension is tailored for exceptional comfort, including a special MAYBACH driving program.

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV features a digital vehicle key compatible with select Apple devices, allowing key sharing with up to 16 individuals. Pre-installed in markets with Mercedes me Connect services, this key requires a personal Mercedes me ID.

Performance-wise, the EQS 680 SUV boasts an impressive 649hp with 950Nm of torque. This allows the SUV to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.4 seconds. According to the WLTP, it has a range of up to 612km. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive ensures optimal traction while charging times for a 10-80% charge at DC fast-charging stations are provided.

The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV combines luxurious design, advanced technology, and exceptional performance, offering discerning customers an unparalleled electric vehicle experience.

Nissan enthusiasts can rejoice as the iconic GT-R and Z sports cars are set to continue into the next generation, according to announcements made at the 2024 New York auto show by Nissan executives Ponz Pandikuthira and Alfonso Albaisa.

The R35 GT-R, which has been in production for 16 years, is nearing the end of its lifecycle with special editions marking its departure. Pandikuthira confirmed that the next-generation GT-R will prioritise authenticity, remaining true to its roots as a high-performance track-bred vehicle. While details on the powertrain for the next GT-R are yet to be finalised, Formula E serves as a testing ground for its development, showcasing Nissan’s commitment to electric vehicle technology.

Albaisa hinted at the design direction for the upcoming GT-R, suggesting that it will retain key elements like seating for four and a menacing aesthetic, while also exploring innovative styling cues. The design team at Nissan is currently exploring various concepts for the R36 GT-R, including reimagining signature features like the quad-taillight design.

Regarding the Z lineup, Pandikuthira assured that the current model will continue to meet emissions regulations for the foreseeable future, allowing Nissan time to develop the next iteration. Albaisa emphasised the importance of breaking from tradition with the new Z, either by embracing the spirit of the original 240Z or by introducing a progressive design that sets it apart from its predecessors.

Nissan remains committed to evolving its sports car lineup, ensuring that future generations of the GT-R and Z stay true to their heritage while embracing innovation and performance.

Kia has taken the wraps off its latest offering, the all-new 2025 K4 compact four-door sedan, at the 2024 New York International Auto Show. As the fourth-generation compact sedan from Kia, the K4 is poised to deliver a blend of sportiness, advanced technology, and enhanced performance to global markets.

Under the hood, the K4 offers two powertrain options to cater to diverse preferences. The standard configuration boasts a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 147hp and 178Nm of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission. For those seeking more exhilarating performance, an optional turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine is available, delivering 190hp and 264Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission featuring paddle shifters.

Despite its compact classification, the K4 sets itself apart by offering generous interior space, making it the largest sedan in its segment. With dimensions measuring 4709mm in length and 1849mm in width, the K4 provides ample rear legroom of 38.0 inches and rear headroom of 37.3 inches, along with a capacious trunk offering 413 litres of cargo space. For comparison, the eleventh-generation Honda Civic has a length of 4674mm and a width of 1801mm.

Embracing Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, the K4 showcases bold styling cues, including a fastback roof design and distinctive vertical LED headlights and taillights inspired by the EV9 concept. The GT-Line variant further enhances its visual appeal with unique styling elements and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the GT-Line Turbo model elevates the experience with additional premium features.

Inside the cabin, the K4 boasts a modern and tech-centric environment, highlighted by a sprawling 30-inch screen dominating the dashboard. Standard features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, and Kia’s Digital Key 2.0 with Ultra Wideband technology. The sedan offers a range of interior colour options and upgrades, including a Harman Kardon audio system for audiophiles.

On the safety front, the K4 prioritises occupant protection by offering a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including rear side airbags, lane-keep assist, forward collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional safety enhancements, such as upgraded forward collision warning, further underscore Kia’s commitment to passenger safety.

While the starting price of the K4 remains undisclosed, Kia’s latest offering is poised to make waves in the compact sedan segment, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and advanced technology.

The BMW 5 Series has clinched the prestigious title of World Luxury Car 2024 at the World Car Awards, reaffirming its position as a leader in the premium executive class. The announcement was made during the New York International Auto Show 2024, where the BMW 5 Series stood out among a competitive field of luxury cars that debuted in global markets over the past year.

The award-winning status of the BMW 5 Series was established through rigorous evaluations conducted by approximately 100 automotive journalists from 30 countries, forming the expert jury of the World Car Awards. The car impressed the jury with its blend of electrified powertrains, luxurious comfort for long-distance journeys, and cutting-edge digital innovations.

The BMW i5, a fully electric variant integrated into the BMW 5 Series model range, epitomises emission-free driving pleasure with its fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology. Equipped with highly integrated drive units and high-voltage batteries, the BMW i5 achieves an impressive range of up to 582km in the WLTP cycle, supported by rapid charging capabilities.

Notably, the BMW 5 Series lineup encompasses a range of electrified options, including plug-in hybrid systems and efficient petrol and diesel engines, all featuring the latest 48-volt mild hybrid technology. This versatility underscores BMW’s commitment to offering sustainable mobility solutions while maintaining exceptional performance and driving dynamics.

With this ninth title win at the World Car Awards, BMW continues its legacy of automotive excellence, adding to a distinguished list of accolades earned by the new BMW 5 Series. The recognition reflects BMW’s dedication to innovation and its ongoing pursuit of automotive advancement on a global scale.

Lotus has unveiled a new bespoke service called Lotus Chapman Bespoke, catering to the growing demand for personalised automotive experiences worldwide. This service offers customers the opportunity to customise their Lotus vehicles extensively, ranging from unique badges and trims to complete one-off personalisation of entire vehicles.

Initially launching in China on April 25, 2024, Lotus Chapman Bespoke will subsequently roll out globally over the following months. Clive Chapman, son of Lotus founders Colin and Hazel Chapman and Director of Classic Team Lotus, expressed enthusiasm for the service, stating that it allows drivers to create their own innovations while honouring his parents’ extraordinary legacy.

The name Lotus Chapman Bespoke pays tribute to Colin and Hazel Chapman, who founded Lotus in 1948 in London, UK. Renowned for his pioneering spirit and innovative designs, Colin Chapman’s legacy continues to inspire the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.

Qingfeng Feng, CEO of Lotus Group, emphasised Lotus’s heritage as a bespoke carmaker, highlighting Colin Chapman’s hands-on approach to crafting cars from scratch. Lotus Chapman Bespoke aims to uphold this tradition by empowering customers to personalise their vehicles according to their unique preferences.

The bespoke service offers three levels of personalisation:

  1. Tailor-made: Customers can select their own combination of colours, designs, and exclusive details to create a truly unique vehicle.
  2. Collection: Limited-edition designs developed in collaboration with partners, artists, and luxury brands provide customers with curated options for personalisation.
  3. One-off: Customers have the opportunity to build a completely unique car tailored to their individual tastes and preferences.

Lotus invites enthusiasts to explore the possibilities of Lotus Chapman Bespoke through its online platform or by contacting their local Lotus Centre for more information. With three levels of excellence and endless combinations, Lotus Chapman Bespoke promises to elevate the ownership experience for Lotus enthusiasts worldwide.

Aston Martin is revolutionising its interior design approach with a focus on simplicity and ease of use, aiming to minimise the “piss-off factor” for its discerning clientele. What does the “piss-off factor” mean? It basically means that don’t do something if it irritates people. This innovative metric evaluates the frustration level associated with interior controls, ensuring that every button, switch, or touchscreen feature is intuitive and readily accessible.

In contrast to the trend of touchscreen-heavy cabins adopted by some automakers, Aston Martin remains committed to physical controls that offer tangible feedback and immediate functionality. Design Director Miles Nurnberger emphasised the importance of prioritising customer experience, citing examples where touchscreen-based settings proved cumbersome and unsafe for on-the-fly adjustments.

The new Vantage epitomises Aston Martin’s design philosophy, blending a touchscreen interface with a plethora of physical buttons, switches, and knobs. Despite considering touchscreen integration for certain functions, Aston Martin heeded customer feedback regarding the need for instant access to essential controls like seat adjustments, volume, and HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) settings.

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The all-new Mercedes-Benz G-Class continues the success story of the model series that was established in 1979. The off-road icon continues to rely on tried-and-tested ladder-frame construction, three mechanical differential locks and Low Range off-road reduction as well as a rigid rear axle and independent front suspension.

While retaining its iconic boxy design, the new G-Class receives mild electrification and a host of enhanced features, setting the stage for the upcoming EQG EV slated for release later this year.

At the heart of the base G550 lies a new turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the traditional V-8 powertrain. This configuration delivers 443hp and 560Nm of torque, with an integrated starter generator contributing an additional 20hp and 200Nm. Despite the downsized engine, the G550 maintains formidable off-road capabilities, aided by standard all-wheel drive with a 40-60 torque split and three mechanical differential locks.

Mercedes introduces an Off-Road Cockpit function within the MBUX infotainment system, offering vital off-road information such as vehicle positioning, altitude, and steering angle on the 12.3-inch touchscreen. Additionally, the “Transparent Hood” feature allows drivers to visualise obstacles with the help of a 360-degree overhead camera.

The base G550 also boasts a suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition, while the Parking package enhances manoeuvrability with a 360-degree overhead camera. For those seeking even more performance, the G63 variant retains its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V-8 engine with 577hp and 850Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds.

Visually, both the G550 and G63 receive subtle updates for 2025, with the latter offering a new paint option, adaptive LED headlights, and refreshed bumper design. Optional features include the AMG Active Ride Control, enhancing on- and off-road performance with hydraulic roll stabilisation and adjustable adaptive damping.

Mercedes has not disclosed pricing details for the 2025 G-Class lineup.

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