Global News Archives

BMW 5 Series Touring Expands Variety with the First BMW i5 Touring

The new BMW 5 Series Touring has officially made its debut, with the first vehicles delivered to customers in Europe and Japan. This sixth generation of the 5 Series Touring introduces the all-electric BMW i5 Touring for the first time, alongside traditional internal combustion engine models, reflecting BMW’s ongoing commitment to electrification and innovation.

The all-electric BMW i5 Touring leads the lineup, featuring two models. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring boasts an impressive output of up to 601 horsepower, while the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring offers up to 340hp and a range of up to 560km as determined by the WLTP test cycle. These models mark a significant step in BMW’s efforts to expand its electric vehicle offerings.

For those who prefer diesel engines, the BMW 520d Touring and BMW 520d xDrive Touring are also available. These models are particularly popular in Europe and are equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine combined with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, delivering a maximum output of 197hp. This technology enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, aligning with modern environmental standards.

Looking ahead to summer 2024, BMW plans to introduce plug-in hybrid versions of the new 5 Series Touring. The upcoming BMW 530e Touring and BMW 530e xDrive Touring will feature a powertrain that combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor integrated into an 8-speed Steptronic transmission, collectively generating 299hp. These models will offer substantial electric-only ranges, with the 530e Touring capable of traveling 83 to 95km on electric power alone, and the 530e xDrive Touring achieving 82 to 89km. The BMW 530e xDrive Sedan will also join the lineup, offering similar performance and efficiency.

Additionally, the range of the new BMW 5 Series will expand to include a six-cylinder diesel engine by summer 2024. The BMW 540d xDrive Sedan and BMW 540d xDrive Touring will feature a straight six-cylinder diesel engine paired with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. This combination produces 303hp and 670Nm of torque, enabling both models to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds. The intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system ensures optimal traction and driving stability across various road conditions.

BMW’s electrification strategy is evident in the new 5 Series Touring, particularly with the introduction of the all-electric i5 Touring and the upcoming plug-in hybrid variants. These models are designed to deliver both performance and efficiency, offering substantial electric-only ranges and impressive system outputs. The integration of mild hybrid technology in the diesel variants and the sophisticated powertrain in the hybrid models underscore BMW’s commitment to cutting-edge automotive technology.

Practicality remains a key feature of the new 5 Series Touring, including the plug-in hybrid models. The innovative packaging of the high-voltage battery under the vehicle’s floor allows for a flat luggage compartment without compromising cargo space. The Touring model offers 570 litres of luggage capacity with all seats in use, which can be expanded to 1,700 litres when needed, ensuring versatility for various needs.

The launch of the new BMW 5 Series Touring, including the all-electric i5 Touring and upcoming plug-in hybrids, signifies a major advancement in BMW’s journey towards electrification and carbon neutrality. These models blend traditional BMW performance with modern, sustainable technologies, making the 5 Series a top choice in the premium upper mid-range segment. The combination of innovative powertrains, practical design, and BMW’s signature driving dynamics ensures that the new 5 Series Touring will appeal to a wide range of customers seeking performance, efficiency, and luxury.

Subaru, Toyota and Mazda Are Developing New Engines For Carbon-Neutral Fuel Compatibility

Subaru Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Mazda Motor Corporation are taking significant steps towards carbon neutrality by developing new engines tailored for electrification and compatibility with carbon-neutral (CN) fuels. This collaboration underscores their commitment to innovative solutions that optimise integration with electric drive units, motors, and batteries, while also focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of internal combustion engines (ICEs).

Key Initiatives and Goals

Development of Compact, Efficient Engines:

– Integration with Electric Drive Units: The new engines are designed to work seamlessly with electric motors and batteries, enhancing overall vehicle performance and efficiency.

– Smaller, More Compact Design: These engines will revolutionise vehicle packaging by being more compact, allowing for design improvements such as lower hoods and better aerodynamics. This contributes to enhanced fuel efficiency and compliance with stricter emissions regulations.

Decarbonisation Efforts:

– Carbon-Neutral Fuels: The engines will be compatible with a range of carbon-neutral fuels, including e-fuels (synthetic fuels), biofuels, and liquid hydrogen. This shift away from fossil fuels aims to make ICEs more sustainable.

– Broadening Powertrain and Fuel Options: Under racing conditions, the companies are exploring various powertrain and fuel options to ensure robust and versatile engine performance that aligns with carbon neutrality goals.

Shared Vision and Collaboration

Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda are driven by a deep understanding of their customers’ diverse needs and lifestyles. This has led them to develop engines that not only embody their respective brands but also cater to unique customer preferences. Their joint efforts focus on:

– Acting with Passion and Purpose: The companies are united in their approach to tackling carbon emissions, focusing on carbon as the primary enemy rather than the engines themselves.

– Maintaining Supply Chains and Jobs: By advancing engine technology and expanding fuel options, they aim to sustain the supply chains and jobs that support the automotive industry.

Practical Implementation and Future Outlook

– Innovative Vehicle Design: The compact nature of the new engines allows for more flexible vehicle designs, enhancing both aesthetic and functional aspects of future vehicles.

– Compliance and Performance: Emphasis on meeting stringent emissions regulations while maintaining high efficiency and performance standards ensures that these engines will be both practical and eco-friendly.

Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda’s collaborative approach reflects their shared dedication to achieving carbon neutrality through multiple pathways. By working together with like-minded partners, they aim to create a sustainable future for Japan’s automotive industry, balancing innovation with environmental responsibility. This initiative highlights their commitment to pioneering technologies that support a broader adoption of carbon-neutral solutions while preserving the essence and performance of traditional ICE vehicles.

The New Porsche 911: First Street-Legal 911 With a Super-Lightweight Performance Hybrid System

Porsche has ushered in a new era for the iconic 911 sports car with the introduction of the new 911 Carrera GTS, marking the debut of a street-legal 911 equipped with a super-lightweight performance hybrid system.

The 2025 Carrera GTS model combines the classic rear-mounted flat-six engine of the 911 with an electric motor and an electric turbocharger, resulting in an impressive output of 532hp and 608Nm of torque. Scheduled for release before the end of the year, this hybrid setup represents a significant upgrade from previous iterations.

Under the hood, the Carrera GTS features a new 3.6-litre flat-six engine, offering 478hp and 569Nm of torque—an increase of five hp compared to its predecessor. The hybrid system enables Porsche to replace the twin-turbo setup with a single electric turbocharger, equipped with a 14.7hp motor for rapid response and minimal turbo lag. Additionally, a 32.6hp traction motor and a small 1.9-kWh battery contribute to enhanced performance across the rev range while maintaining optimal air-fuel ratio.

Despite a weight increase of 46kg, attributed partly to added standard equipment such as rear-wheel steering, the Carrera GTS delivers remarkable acceleration, clocking a sub-3-second 0-100km/h time of 2.9 seconds—a first for a Carrera model. New active aerodynamic flaps at the front, along with styling tweaks to the fascias and updated wheel options, further enhance performance and aesthetics.

Meanwhile, the base Carrera model receives updates including turbos and intercoolers from previous GTS and Turbo models, resulting in a nine-hp increase in power.

Inside, the Carrera GTS boasts an all-new, all-digital gauge cluster, replacing the analog tachometer, while still prioritising essential driving information. For the first time, the 911 has a fully digital instrument cluster. The 12.6-inch curved display fits seamlessly into the new control and display concept and can be extensively customised. It offers up to seven views, including an exclusive Classic display inspired by the traditional five-tube Porsche dial design with a central tachometer. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system is still operated via the high-resolution central display with a 10.9-inch screen.

Both the base Carrera and Carrera GTS models receive facelift updates for 2025, with pricing increases across the board. The base Carrera starts at $122,095 (RM573,571), while the Carrera GTS is priced at $166,895 (RM784,030), reflecting the enhanced performance and advanced technology offered by these revamped models.

Toyota Gazoo Racing Doubling Down on ICE Investment

Toyota’s motorsport and sports car division, Gazoo Racing, is doubling down on its investment in internal combustion engine (ICE) technology, reaffirming its commitment to maximising the potential of combustion engines. GR President Tomoya Takahashi emphasised the division’s stance, asserting that ICE vehicles can coexist with efforts to reduce carbon emissions. “The enemy is carbon, not internal combustion engines,” Takahashi remarked, encapsulating Toyota’s perspective on ICE vehicles.

Despite the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), Toyota has no immediate plans to introduce a performance EV under the GR brand. This decision raises questions about the fate of the FT-Se concept car, which boasted impressive performance figures but remains without a clear production path.

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2025 Honda Civic: Most Powerful Non-Type R Civic – 200hp, 325Nm of Torque

Expanding upon the success of the 11th generation Civic, crowned the 2022 North American Car of the Year, the refreshed 2025 Honda Civic introduces more style, enhanced technology, and significantly more power, particularly with the available two-motor hybrid powertrain. Positioned as the flagship model, the new Civic hybrid, available in sedan or hatchback configurations, is anticipated to achieve an EPA combined fuel economy rating approaching 50 mpg1, thanks to its integration of the award-winning Honda two-motor hybrid system.

The 2025 Civic will be offered in four trim levels, starting with the LX (sedan only) and Sport, and featuring the hybrid-powered Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid variants. These new hybrid-electric models are projected to constitute approximately 40% of Civic sales, marking a pivotal step in Honda’s electrification strategy.

The new Civic hybrid-electric trims boast remarkable performance, featuring an anticipated combined 200hp and an impressive 315Nm of torque, making them the most potent non-Type R Civics ever produced. This enhanced power output, coupled with exceptional EPA fuel economy ratings, ensures quick and effortless acceleration. The Linear Shift Control enhances the driving experience by simulating the rev feel of a conventional drivetrain shifting gears under acceleration, resulting in even quicker performance than the outgoing 1.5L turbo-powered Civic.

Honda’s two-motor hybrid system optimises efficiency without compromising dynamic performance or interior space. Tailored for the Civic, this system delivers a sporty driving experience, incorporating two powerful electric motors. Furthermore, the new Civic hybrids offer four levels of regenerative-braking deceleration via selector paddles on the steering wheel, allowing for precise control during deceleration.

To enhance Civic’s renowned fun-to-drive spirit and ride comfort, the ride and handling dynamics of the hybrid models have been fine-tuned with unique spring and damper tuning, along with specially developed tires. Moreover, hybrid trims boast the lowest NVH levels in the Civic lineup, featuring a robust noise reduction package that includes Active Noise Control on all hybrids and wheel resonators on Sport Touring trims.

Continuing its commitment to affordability, Civic LX and Sport trims are powered by a responsive and efficient 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine, while Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid trims benefit from Honda’s potent yet efficient two-motor hybrid system. Drivers can seamlessly switch between selectable drive modes—Econ, Normal, and Sport (Sport and hybrid trims only)—to optimise the driving experience for various conditions. The Sport Touring Hybrid models also introduce a new Individual mode, enabling customisation of the driving experience.

In terms of design, every 2025 Honda Civic receives exterior enhancements, including a more aggressive front fascia and grille, along with darker taillights for a sharper appearance in the sedan model. The more-powerful hybrid-powered trims feature a distinct body-coloured headlamp garnish and front lower spoiler, further accentuating their sporty aesthetic. Additionally, all Sport trims retain dark trim and black 18-inch wheels, with a new machine-finished wheel design exclusive to the top-of-the-line Sport Touring Hybrid.

Introducing four new exterior colours—including Solar Silver Metallic, Urban Gray Pearl, Blue Lagoon Pearl (exclusive to Civic sedan), and Sand Dune Pearl (exclusive to Civic hatchback)—further enhance the visual appeal of the 2025 Civic.

Inside, the Civic’s interior is refreshed, offering a simple yet clean design. All hybrid models now feature a grey interior colour, while the Sport Hybrid includes standard amenities such as a moonroof, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate controls. The Sport Touring Hybrid adds premium touches like leather seating, a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, and advanced technology, including a larger 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with a wireless smartphone charger. Additionally, all Civic models come standard with front USB-C ports.

The top-line Sport Touring Hybrid integrates Google built-in for the first time in a Civic, offering access to apps like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and more on Google Play. This feature enhances the driving experience with personalised and connected functionalities, supported by a complimentary 3-year unlimited data plan.

Safety remains a top priority for Honda, with the 11th-generation Civic equipped with advanced active and passive safety technology as standard across all trim levels. This includes Honda’s proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, designed to enhance occupant protection in various frontal collisions, along with advanced supplemental restraint systems.

Civic’s driver and passenger front airbags are engineered to minimise the risk of severe brain trauma associated with angled frontal collisions, with innovative designs aimed at reducing rotation. Furthermore, all Civic models come equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, featuring Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) with Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) incorporating Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Additionally, all Sport models are now equipped with Blind Spot with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

McLaren Pays Tribute to Ayrton Senna with Unique Liveries Inspired by His Legacy

McLaren recently unveiled a strikingly colourful Senna adorned with a special paint job, aptly named the Senna Sempre livery, paying homage to Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna. Although this eye-catching car isn’t available for purchase, Amalgam, renowned for its model-making expertise, offers collectors the opportunity to own a meticulously crafted 1:8-scale replica capturing every vibrant detail.

Amalgam’s latest creation exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship, a hallmark of the UK-based company. While replicating intricate details in small-scale models is impressive, the Senna Sempre’s unique paintwork, including Senna’s iconic dot-matrix face on the rear fenders, showcases Amalgam’s attention to detail.

For McLaren’s MSO team, hand-painting the full-size car posed a significant challenge. While Amalgam hasn’t disclosed its process for scaling down the livery, crafting each 1:8 Senna replica required an astonishing 3,000 hours for design and manufacturing. Additionally, meticulous hand assembly adds another 300 hours to the process. Beyond the captivating exterior, the replica features a meticulously detailed interior visible through its open doors, offering a glimpse of the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V-8 engine beneath the cover. Behind the Pirelli-clad wheels lie “massive” McLaren brakes with cross-drilled rotors, further enhancing the model’s authenticity.

McLaren will showcase the special Senna Sempre at the Monaco Grand Prix, alongside Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s McLaren MCL38 Formula 1 cars sporting similar liveries. This particular Senna, a pre-production one-off from McLaren’s heritage collection, serves as a captivating display piece. However, Amalgam plans to produce 30 scale replicas for enthusiastic fans and collectors alike.

If you’re considering adding this exquisite replica to your collection, you will have to invest real-car money, with pricing in the United States starting at $21,385 (RM100,680).

Lamborghini Huracan Successor Will be Equipped with a Hybrid Twin-Turbo V8 Engine

The Lamborghini 634, codenamed as the successor to the Huracan and set to join the High-Performance Electrified Vehicle (HPEV) lineup, will boast a twin-turbo V8 engine coupled with a hybrid system featuring three electric motors and the eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox recently introduced on the Lamborghini Revuelto. Specifically optimised for the new model, this configuration promises a maximum output exceeding 887hp.

This all-new engine marks a clean-sheet design from Sant’Agata Bolognese, aimed at surpassing the performance and driving emotion of the current Huracán range. The twin-turbo V8 inherits the renowned linearity of progression from the Lamborghini V10 while incorporating the high power and specific torque typical of a new-generation turbocharged engine.

With a displacement of 4.0 litres, the twin-turbo V8 achieves an exceptional specific power output of 197hp/litre. It delivers a maximum power of 788hp between 9,000 and 9,750rpm, with a redline set at 10,000rpm—a figure usually reserved for racing engines. The engine also generates a maximum torque of 730Nm between 4,000 and 7,000rpm, offering an exhilarating progression akin to that of a racing engine, thanks to seamless integration with the electric unit.

The rear electric system, purpose-built for the new V8, is positioned between the combustion engine and the dual-clutch gearbox. It incorporates the inverter and the axial electric unit, capable of delivering high torque and power values, with a peak torque of 300Nm and 147hp at 3,500 rpm, all while maintaining compact dimensions and low weight.

A crucial aspect of the design process was defining the sound profile to imbue the new powerplant with a distinctive character, enhancing the driver’s experience. The characteristics of the new V8 culminate in a crescendo, with volume and frequency peaking at high revs, complemented by vibrations transmitted to the chassis by the flat-plane crankshaft, creating a captivating sensory experience.

Scheduled for a 2024 launch, the Lamborghini 634 represents another milestone in the ‘Direzione Cor Tauri’ program, driving Lamborghini towards progressive electrification of the range. This journey commenced in 2023 with the debut of the Revuelto and will continue with the unveiling of the Urus SE in April 2024.

SAIC Motor to Mass Produce Solid-State Batteries for EVs in 2026

SAIC Motor, the largest state-owned Chinese automaker, has announced a significant advancement in the development of solid-state batteries, which will be available in its electric vehicles (EVs) as early as 2026. This development positions SAIC ahead of other global car manufacturers, making it the first to bring this advanced technology to the mass market. The company’s portfolio includes brands such as IM, Maxus, Rising Auto, Roewe, Baojun, Wuling, Hongyan, Sunwin, and the British brand MG, which is known for models like the Cyberster EV roadster and the EX181 electric hypercar.

The first model to feature SAIC’s solid-state battery will be the IM L6, a competitor to the Tesla Model 3, set to launch in China this October. The IM L6 is advertised to have an impressive range of 998km on a single charge, thanks to its 900V ultra-fast charging solid-state battery developed in collaboration with Qingtao Energy, a subsidiary of SAIC. This move underscores SAIC’s commitment to pioneering cutting-edge technology in the EV market.

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BMW Concept Skytop Unveiled: One of a Kind Luxury Open Two-Seater

The BMW Group has unveiled the BMW Concept Skytop at this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, an esteemed event by Lake Como that highlights historic cars and motorcycles. This unique, open two-seater exudes an elegant, sporty design, merging warm monochromatic colours and exclusive materials with traditional craftsmanship to create a meticulously crafted vehicle sculpture.

The Concept Skytop’s exterior features athletic and organic proportions with a sleek, muscular build. Taut surfaces and minimalistic lines guide the eye towards the rear, creating a dynamic appearance enhanced by integrated winglets replacing traditional door handles and precise lamellas on the light-alloy wheels. Signature design elements include a prominent bonnet and an iconic BMW shark-nose design with an illuminated kidney grille, leading to a retracted rear section.

A striking spline runs from the bonnet through the interior to an aluminium trim on the tailgate, echoing the legendary BMW Z8 roadster. Advanced lighting technology is showcased through custom-developed LED headlights with milled aluminium carriers, consolidating all lighting functions into a single, slim profile. The rear lights’ flat and defined shape complements the vehicle’s clean design. Unique features such as a leather-finished roll-over bar, side fins on the B-pillar, a fully retractable rear window, and removable roof parts that can be stored in the luggage compartment add to its distinctive appeal.

Inside, the Concept Skytop is a testament to luxurious craftsmanship. Brogue-style leather surfaces create a sense of opulence and spaciousness, with the reddish-brown leather contrasting against the muted silver exterior paintwork for a seamless transition between the interior and exterior. Artful details, such as crystal applications embedded in the cockpit, further enhance the luxurious feel. The interior surfaces were crafted at BMW’s traditional saddlery in the Dingolfing plant. Similar to the BMW Z8, the Concept Skytop houses BMW’s most powerful V8 engine, ensuring performance that matches its dynamic design.

The BMW Concept Skytop showcases BMW’s dedication to blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. With its meticulous design and luxurious features, this concept car pays tribute to motor racing and elegant design, standing out as a highlight at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. It offers a glimpse into the future of exclusive and dynamic BMW vehicles, reaffirming BMW’s commitment to innovation and luxury in automotive design.

Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed Concept: Open Two-Seater Without a Roof or Windscreen

In the lead-up to the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, Mercedes-AMG unveiled the PureSpeed concept, an open two-seater performance car without a roof or windscreen. This radical design pays homage to the brand’s racing heritage and serves as a preview of the exclusive Mercedes-Benz Mythos series. The world premiere took place in Monaco on a floating pontoon, impressing racing drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.

A notable feature is the HALO system, replacing the conventional A-pillar. Derived from Formula 1, it protects the driver’s head in accidents. The HALO is a bracket connected to the car’s body, aerodynamically optimised for safety. The concept includes specially designed helmets for an immersive Formula 1 experience. The interior features unique colours, equipment, and a custom IWC Schaffhausen clock on the dashboard.

The PureSpeed concept boasts a low silhouette and design elements inspired by the Mercedes-AMG ONE hypercar. The visible carbon fibre parts contrast with the rounded shapes of the upper vehicle. Carbon fibre cladding on the wheels enhances aerodynamics, with closed rear wheel covers and open front wheel covers for optimal airflow and brake cooling.

The design includes a long bonnet, a low front end with a “shark nose,” and a wide lower air intake with AMG lettering. Transparent deflectors direct wind over the cockpit, while side-sill panelling and muscular rear shoulders merge into an elegant boot lid.

The paintwork, transitioning from Le Mans red to graphite grey with a black AMG pattern, honours the victorious Mercedes car at the 1924 Targa Florio race. The number 10 on the front wings commemorates this historic win.

Limited to 250 units, it epitomises the pinnacle of exclusivity, offering a direct connection to the brand’s racing legacy and cutting-edge technology.