Global News Archives

Four Legendary Bugatti’s Connected to 1MDB Seized

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Rec Watches 98T/4: A Timepiece Tribute to Ayrton Senna and Lotus’ Iconic Formula 1 Era

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.

Nissan Unveils Four NEV Concepts Developed with Dong Feng

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.

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 Evija X: Fastest Production Chassis Around the Nürburgring

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 Unveils the Arata SUV Concept – EV and PHEV Options

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 EZ-6 Unveiled For China Market – Rear-Wheel-Drive, 600km EV Range

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.

Mini Unveils the All-New Aceman with Two Powertrain Options

Mini has unveiled the all-new Aceman, a fully electric crossover poised to compete in the subcompact SUV segment. As the high-riding counterpart to the Mini Cooper, the Aceman offers a spacious cabin while retaining the urban agility characteristic of the brand.

Distinctive design elements from the Cooper hatchback and Countryman SUV merge into the Aceman’s design, featuring matte black plastic cladding, skid plates, and roof rails for a crossover stance. The iconic Mini design traits, such as the wraparound greenhouse and floating roof, remain intact, with the octagonal grille at the front adding to its character.

The Mini Aceman lineup comprises four trims – Essential, Classic, Favoured, and JCW – each with unique design elements and alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches. The flagship JCW model stands out with Chili Red accents and exclusive styling cues.

Measuring 4,075mm long, 1,754mm wide, and 1,495mm tall, the Aceman positions itself between the Cooper and Countryman, offering a five-seater cabin with 300 litres of cargo space. The interior resembles the Cooper’s, featuring a 9.44 inch circular OLED touchscreen and Mini Operating System 9 infotainment, including the Intelligent Personal Assistant “Spike.”

The Aceman offers eight selectable Mini Experience Modes, each with distinct graphics and ambient lighting patterns. It comes equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, including twelve ultrasonic sensors and four Surround View cameras.

Power wise, the Aceman offers two electric powertrain options shared with the electric Mini Cooper. The entry-level Aceman E features a 40.7 kWh battery pack and a single electric motor producing 181hp, while the Aceman SE boasts a 54.2 kWh battery pack and a more powerful electric motor delivering 215hp.

The Mini Aceman is set to go on sale in markets such as China and Europe later this year, with production starting in China and expanding to Mini’s Oxford plant in the UK in 2026.

The New BMW i4 and 4 Series Gran Coupe Receive Minor Changes

BMW has introduced facelifted versions of the electric 2025 i4 and the petrol-powered 2025 4-series Gran Coupe, featuring restyled versions of the controversial kidney grille. Notably, the i4’s grille has a closed top half, reflecting its reduced cooling needs compared to the petrol-powered Gran Coupe.

Both models receive updated headlights and taillights, integrating low- and high beams into a single LED module. A special feature is the headlights’ animation upon detecting the key within 10 feet of the car, providing a welcoming gesture to the driver. M Sport package-equipped versions of both models now feature a gloss black-finished rear diffuser. New 19-inch M aerodynamic wheels and 20-inch BMW Individual aerodynamic wheels in double-spoke form provide more individualisation options.

While the mechanical changes are minimal, the Gran Coupe models receive a revised 48-volt hybrid system, newly available on the base turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder. The turbo four in the 430i model maintains its 255hp output, while the more potent M440i gains an additional 11hp from the 48-volt setup, bringing the total to 386hp.

The fully electric BMW i4 is now available in four model variants which are the new BMW i4 xDrive40 with electric all-wheel drive, maximum system output of 401hp and a range of 444 – 548km in the WLTP cycle. Also in the line-up are the range-topping BMW i4 M50 xDrive, the BMW i4 eDrive40 and the BMW i4 eDrive35.

Interior updates include BMW’s updated iDrive 8.5 software, which relocates climate control, heated seat, and heated steering wheel controls to the touchscreen. The cabin materials see enhancements, with new brushed aluminium trim and two open-pore wood options added to the list of available choices.

Standard safety equipment includes Speed Limit Info, Front Collision Warning, Parking Assistant, Reversing Assist Camera and the Reversing Assistant. Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant and Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function and Parking Assistant Plus are available as options.

The i4 introduces a unique plug-and-charge system capable of storing up to five contracts, facilitating direct payment for multiple public charging networks from the car itself.

Production for both models is scheduled to commence in July, with pricing details to be announced closer to their on-sale dates.

Lamborghini Urus SE: The First Plug-in Hybrid Super SUV

Lamborghini has electrified its best-selling Urus model with the introduction of the new Urus SE, boasting increased power and speed. Unlike typical plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) setups which often involve downsized engines, the Urus SE retains its potent twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine alongside an electric motor.

Integrated within the eight-speed automatic transmission, the electric motor contributes 189hp and 482Nm of torque, while the petrol engine delivers an impressive 612hp and 799Nm.

Compared to its predecessor, the Urus S, the new SE variant shaves off 0.1 seconds in the 0-100km/h sprint, achieving it in just 3.4 seconds. While the Performante variant remains the quickest in the Urus lineup at 3.3 seconds, the Urus SE clocks in at 200km/h in just 11.4 seconds, 1.1 seconds ahead of the petrol-only version and 0.1 seconds quicker than the Performante. Its top speed reaches 312km/h, edging out both V-8-only versions.

Equipped with a 25.7-kWh lithium-ion battery positioned below the cargo floor, the Urus SE boasts over 60km of pure electric range, reaching speeds of up to 130km/h in EV mode before the V-8 engine seamlessly takes over. Lamborghini highlights an 80 per cent reduction in emissions compared to the pure ICE model with the plug-in hybrid configuration.

Beyond its electrified powertrain, the Urus SE receives aesthetic updates including updated matrix LED headlights with a distinctive daytime running light signature inspired by a bull’s tail. The front section features discreet tweaks inspired by the Revuelto supercar, while the rear draws inspiration from the Gallardo, enhancing downforce by 35 per cent compared to the Urus S.

Buyers can choose from an array of customisation options, including new 23-inch wheels, over 100 body colour choices, and 47 interior themes. For those seeking bespoke configurations, Lamborghini offers the Ad Personam program for one-off builds.

The cabin has been updated to highlight Lamborghini’s signature “feel like a pilot” design DNA, featuring new solutions throughout the front section of the dashboard and accentuating the lightweight feeling already introduced on the Revuelto. The Urus SE features a pair of 12.3-inch screens and introduces four new selectable driving modes: EV Drive, Hybrid, Performance, and Recharge, alongside the existing driving modes.

With Lamborghini confirming that the second-generation Urus will be fully electric upon its release in 2029, the Urus SE offers enthusiasts the chance to experience a petrol-powered exotic SUV from the legendary Italian marque before the transition to electric mobility.

Mercedes-Benz Unveils the All-New Electric G-Class – 879hp, 1164Nm of Torque, 473km EV Range

Mercedes-Benz has finally revealed the details of its much-anticipated electric version of the iconic G-Wagon, introducing the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology. Departing from the typical EQ nomenclature, this model signals a new era for the G-Class, blending its legendary capabilities with electric propulsion.

The G 580 with EQ Technology retains the unmistakable design and ruggedness of the G-Class, featuring a ladder frame setup similar to the recently revised G-Class models. Its suspension layout, including an independent front setup and a redeveloped de Dion configuration at the rear, ensures formidable off-road performance while embracing electric power.

Unlike its ICE counterparts, the G 580 boasts four motors integrated into the chassis, delivering an impressive 879hp and 1164Nm of torque. This setup enables precise torque distribution to each wheel, enhancing off-road capabilities with features like the G-Turn mode and G-Steering assistance.

Innovative technology, such as individual-wheel drive and virtual differential locks, further elevates the G 580’s off-road prowess. Additionally, the vehicle offers impressive on-road performance, with a 0-100km/h time of 4.7 seconds, although its range may be somewhat limited, with an estimated 473km on the WLTP test cycle.

Aerodynamic enhancements, including air curtains and a rear lip spoiler, contribute to improved efficiency, with a coefficient of drag reduced to 0.44. The vehicle also features a robust battery protection system, ensuring durability in rugged terrain.

Inside, the G 580 offers luxurious amenities and advanced tech features, including an optional light band integrated into the grille and various storage solutions. It has the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system and a 12.3-inch driver and media display with touch controls are included as standard. The display and operating concept uses adaptive software to make personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. Smartphone integration via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay enables occupants to make optimum use of their mobile phone functions.

While pricing details are yet to be disclosed, the Mercedes-Benz G 580 with EQ Technology promises to set a new standard for electric SUVs, blending performance, capability, and luxury in true G-Wagon fashion.