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Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled “The Arc,” its comprehensive new business plan aimed at driving value and strengthening competitiveness. Positioned as a bridge between the Nissan NEXT transformation plan and Nissan Ambition 2030, The Arc focuses on key initiatives such as a broad-based product offensive, increased electrification, new engineering and manufacturing approaches, adoption of new technologies, and strategic partnerships to bolster global unit sales and profitability.

Nissan President and CEO Makoto Uchida emphasised that The Arc plan reflects the company’s continuous progression and ability to navigate changing market conditions. Through decisive actions outlined in the plan, Nissan aims to achieve sustainable growth and profitability amidst extreme market volatility.

The plan comprises mid-term imperatives for fiscal years 2024 through 2026 and mid-to-long-term actions extending through 2030. One of the key objectives is to ensure volume growth through a tailored regional strategy and accelerate the transition to electric vehicles (EVs). By fiscal year 2026, Nissan targets an increase in annual sales by 1 million units and aims to achieve an operating profit margin of over 6%.

To support its growth objectives, Nissan plans to launch 30 new models globally over the next three years, with 16 being electrified and 14 internal-combustion engine (ICE) models. The company aims for electrified vehicles to represent 40% of global sales by fiscal year 2026 and 60% by 2030.

The plan includes region-specific strategies, such as increasing sales across regions, launching new models, and enhancing EV competitiveness. Notable initiatives include the launch of seven all-new models in the U.S. and Canada, refreshment of 73% of Nissan-brand models in China, and the introduction of six all-new models in Europe.

In addition to product development, Nissan plans to leverage new development and manufacturing approaches to make EVs more affordable and increase profitability. These initiatives include reducing the cost of next-generation EVs by 30% and achieving cost parity between EVs and ICE models by fiscal year 2030.

Strategic partnerships will play a crucial role in Nissan’s global portfolio expansion and technology development. The company aims to collaborate with partners to develop batteries and increase global capacity to 135 gigawatt hours.

Financial discipline is another cornerstone of The Arc plan, with Nissan aiming to maintain stable investments in research and development (R&D) and achieve a positive free cash flow. The company plans to invest over 400 billion yen in battery capacity and increase electrification investments progressively.

Uchida concluded by expressing Nissan’s confidence in executing The Arc plan, which will provide a solid foundation to realise the company’s long-term vision outlined in Nissan Ambition 2030.

Genesis, the Korean luxury brand, has announced its foray into the performance segment with the introduction of the GV60 Magma concept, unveiled ahead of the New York auto show. This marks the debut of Genesis’ performance-focused subbrand, with the GV60 Magma set to potentially become the first production vehicle under this banner.

Derived from Genesis’ first EV, which shares its platform with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, the GV60 Magma concept showcases a striking design that emphasises its performance-oriented nature. While technical details were not provided, it’s speculated that the GV60 Magma could share components with the high-powered EV6 GT and Ioniq 5 N models, boasting impressive power outputs of 576hp and 641hp, respectively.

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Nissan has set its sights on a transformative journey with the revelation of a dynamic three-year business plan, placing electrification at its core while spotlighting the North American market. This ambitious roadmap aims to reinvigorate its model lineup and expedite the shift toward electrified vehicles, coupled with a substantial focus on enhancing the customer experience, specifically in the United States.

Central to Nissan’s strategy is the introduction of seven fresh models in North America and a sweeping revitalisation of 78 per cent of its current U.S. portfolio. Moreover, the company plans to infuse $200 million into refining its integrated customer service offerings, demonstrating a commitment to not just innovation but also customer satisfaction.

Key pillars of Nissan’s strategy include a robust push towards electrification, featuring the introduction of plug-in hybrid models and the innovative e-Power system into the American market. The e-Power technology, leveraging a petrol engine as a generator for electric motors, promises heightened efficiency sans the necessity for plug-in charging, a move likely to resonate with eco-conscious consumers.

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Motor insurer AIG has announced that it will not provide insurance coverage for McLaren sports cars when driven across the Causeway into Malaysia. This decision follows a recent crash involving three McLarens in Johor on Oct 29, 2023, prompting AIG to cite an increase in severe accidents involving McLaren models in Malaysia.

According to The Straits Times and reported by The Star, starting April 1, 2024, AIG stated that it will not be liable for losses arising from accidents outside of Singapore. The decision has left McLaren owners shocked and puzzled, with some expressing confusion over why McLaren vehicles are being singled out.

Marcus Luah, one of the drivers involved in the Johor crash, expressed bewilderment at the decision and mentioned that AIG quoted him a premium that was significantly higher than his current one, prompting him to seek alternatives.

While rare, such decisions are not unheard of for high-end cars, according to insurance broker Eazy CEO Douglas Chia. However, AIG’s move has raised concerns among McLaren owners, leading dealerships like Eurokars to explore alternative insurance partners to mitigate the impact on existing customers.

The General Insurance Association of Singapore (GIA) refrained from commenting on individual members’ practices, stating that insurers determine their risk acceptance criteria. Meanwhile, legal experts have pointed out that insurers generally have the right to decline coverage for certain risks upon policy renewal, but unilateral changes mid-stream may not be permissible without policy provisions.

The decision by AIG comes amidst incidents involving McLaren vehicles, including a crash on Keppel Road in Singapore in May 2023. Despite such occurrences, McLaren remains a popular choice in Singapore, with approximately 200 McLarens registered in the country, according to Land Transport Authority statistics.

A Canadian resident of China has been arrested in the United States for allegedly stealing trade secrets from electric car manufacturer Tesla and conspiring to sell them to undercover law enforcement officers.

Klaus Pflugbeil, the operator of a China-based business selling technology used in electric vehicles, was apprehended in New York after travelling for a meeting with undercover agents posing as Long Island businesspeople.

Pflugbeil, along with business partner Yilong Shao, allegedly built their enterprise using trade secrets belonging to “a leading U.S.-based electric vehicle company,” although prosecutors did not explicitly name Tesla. Both individuals are former employees of a Canadian company that Tesla acquired in 2019, fitting the description of Hibar.

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Mate Rimac, the visionary founder of the Rimac Group, has stirred excitement among enthusiasts with a recent social media teaser hinting at a new model set to be unveiled on June 26. The glimpse suggests a hatchback-like model, shrouded in mystery and urban allure, accompanied by futuristic music evoking a sense of innovation.

While Rimac has made waves in the realm of high-performance electric vehicles, such as the acclaimed Nevera electric hypercar, the teased model appears to deviate from the traditional hot hatch concept exemplified by Rivian’s R3 and R3X models. Speculation swirls around the possibility of this unveiling being linked to Rimac’s ambitious robotaxi project, known as Project 3 Mobility, which has been in development for the past five years.

Initially announced in 2021 and supported by automotive giants Kia and Hyundai, Project 3 Mobility aims to revolutionise urban transportation by introducing autonomous robotaxis. The project is slated to debut in Rimac’s home city of Zagreb, Croatia, with plans for expansion to 20 cities across Europe and the Middle East by 2026. The teaser’s windshield angle, reminiscent of the iconic Johnny Cab robotaxi from the film “Total Recall,” further fuels speculation regarding the model’s design and purpose.

As Rimac Group prepares to unveil its latest innovation on June 26, anticipation mounts for the potential debut of a futuristic, hatchback-inspired vehicle poised to redefine urban mobility through cutting-edge technology and visionary design.

Expanding its successful high-performance EV lineup, Volkswagen unveils the ID.Buzz GTX, a sporty electric van designed for families who are in a hurry. Following the footsteps of the ID.4 and ID.5 GTX models, as well as the recent ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer, this latest addition from VW’s Commercial Vehicles division promises a more potent iteration of the iconic Microbus for European markets.

The ID.Buzz GTX comes standard with all-wheel drive, powered by two electric motors. Customers can opt for either a standard-wheelbase version with a 79.0-kilowatt-hour battery or a longer-wheelbase model featuring a higher 86.0-kilowatt-hour usable energy content.

With dual motors, the ID.Buzz GTX delivers a combined output of 335hp, enabling a swift sprint to 100km/h in just 6.5 seconds for both versions. The van boasts an electronically limited top speed of 160km/h.

For towing capabilities, the standard ID.Buzz GTX can tow up to 1,799kg, while the longer-wheelbase model with the larger battery is slightly less at 1,599kg. Although specific combined torque figures are not provided, Volkswagen mentions that the rear-mounted motor delivers 560Nm, while the front motor provides 134Nm.

Charging power varies depending on the battery size, with the smaller pack supporting 185 kilowatts and the upgraded pack capable of accepting 200 kilowatts. Charging times are efficient, with the base battery requiring approximately 25 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 per cent, while the larger one needs less than 30 minutes.

The ID.Buzz GTX receives various styling enhancements, including redesigned bumpers, a honeycomb grille, and striking Cherry Red paint. It also features standard 19-inch wheels, with two optional sets of 21-inch alloys available. Unique boomerang-shaped lower lights, dark accents, a black headliner, and sporty seats further distinguish the ID.Buzz GTX.

Inside, the van boasts a slightly larger touchscreen which is 12.9 inches, a new optional head-up display, and illuminated touch sliders for the AC and volume controls. The long-wheelbase model offers an optional panoramic sunroof that transitions from opaque to transparent at the touch of a button.

Set to go on sale in Europe this June, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX promises a blend of performance, versatility, and modern design tailored to today’s discerning families.

Kia Corporation has revealed full images of the exterior and interior design of the Kia K4. Its next-generation compact sedan represents a bold leap forward in design, innovation, and driving appeal. Inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, particularly the ‘Power to Progress’ pillar, the K4 embodies the brand’s commitment to continuously pushing boundaries and delivering superior design values.

The Kia K4 showcases a modern and unique body shape achieved through Kia’s innovative ‘Twist Logic’ design approach. By twisting the connections of logically aligned squares in an apparently illogical manner, Kia’s designers have created an organic flow of light that emphasises the vehicle’s dynamic body design.

The side profile features a sweptback fastback style, resonating perfectly with the Kia brand’s bold and progressive nature. At the front, vertical headlamps and sophisticated Daytime Running Light (DRL) elements contribute to a wide, ultra-confident stance, while the rear exudes strength and dynamism with vertical lamps and a graphical air diffuser incorporated into the bumper.

The interior of the Kia K4 seamlessly fuses innovative technology with exceptional comfort, all while embodying the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy. Challenging the traditional concept of driver-oriented design, the K4’s interior features a bold graphic split that separates the driver cockpit from the passenger cabin.

This division creates distinct spaces – a technical, machine-like cockpit for the driver and a comfortable, human-centric cabin for passengers. The interior design focuses on both the feel of the cabin and its functional attributes, striking a balance between the rational and the emotional.

Occupants can choose from various lighting options to illuminate the sophisticated cabin, while the dashboard features a large central screen and elegantly designed central console. Physical buttons and controls are kept minimal, ensuring intuitive interaction with the car’s functions. A range of seating trims, materials, patterns, and colors further accentuate the luxurious feel of the K4’s interior.

The Kia K4 will make its global premiere at the New York International Auto Show on March 27, 2024. The live broadcast of the event will be available for everyone to join at worldwide.kia.com. As Kia introduces new standards for design, innovation, and driving appeal to the compact sedan sector, further updates will be released ahead of the event.

The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X marks an exhilarating stride forward for the renowned German automaker, presenting a glimpse into the forthcoming evolution of BMW’s X models, underpinned by a blend of aesthetics, technology, sustainability, and the core ethos of the Neue Klasse.

Positioned as the inaugural fully-electric raised derivative constructed on the new architecture, the Vision Neue Klasse X epitomises BMW’s steadfast dedication to electrification and sustainability. Slated for series production at Plant Debrecen in Hungary in 2025, this visionary vehicle harmoniously combines the dynamic essence of an SAV with efficient dynamics and a poised demeanour.

The BMW Vision Neue Klasse X embodies a distinct exterior language intertwined with a luminous and expansive interior. Pioneering lighting and sound effects, empowered by the next generation of BMW iDrive, enrich the intuitive digital user interface. Embracing the trio of Neue Klasse characteristics – electric, digital, and circular – the vehicle adds a fourth dimension centred on driving exhilaration.

A revolutionary drive and chassis control system, meticulously crafted in-house by the BMW Group, promises a superlative driving encounter tailored to individual preferences. Integration of new super-brains and cutting-edge software ensures seamless manoeuvrability under all circumstances, catapulting the driving experience to unprecedented levels of refinement.

Externally, the design of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X signifies a quantum leap forward in both exterior and interior aesthetics. Elevated ground clearance and a fully-electric framework afford a capacious interior endowed with quintessential BMW proportions and expansive window areas. Iconic BMW elements, including the kidney grille and LED headlights, contribute to the vehicle’s commanding presence.

Within the cabin, revolutionary features such as BMW Panoramic Vision and the HYPERSONX WHEEL engender an immersive and instinctive user engagement. A revamped steering wheel, Central Display, and advanced voice command system facilitate effortless communication between the driver and the vehicle.

Beneath its sleek facade, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X harnesses the latest sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, epitomising enhanced efficiency and performance. Powered by state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery cells and an 800-volt system, the vehicle delivers expedited charging intervals and extended range capabilities. Augmented aerodynamics and efficiency enhancements further amplify the vehicle’s overall prowess on the road.

Ferrari’s venture into the realm of electric vehicles signifies a notable shift for the iconic automaker, with its first electric vehicle scheduled for a late 2025 debut. While specific details remain under wraps at the company’s headquarters in Maranello, CEO Benedetto Vigna has shed light on Ferrari’s approach to electrification.

Vigna underscores Ferrari’s commitment to preserving its hallmark styling and performance, assuring enthusiasts that the brand’s electric vehicles will retain the distinctive “feel” that defines Ferrari’s identity. Notably, Ferrari is actively developing unique “sound signatures” for its electric models, challenging the notion that electric cars are inherently silent. This focus on sound engineering is exemplified by Ferrari’s patenting of an EV exhaust note in 2023, underscoring the brand’s dedication to maintaining its characteristic auditory experience.

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