Global News Archives

Kia EV9 Crowned ‘UK Car of the Year 2024’

In a testament to its outstanding performance and innovation, the Kia EV9 has been bestowed with the prestigious title of ‘UK Car of the Year 2024’. This accolade comes as a result of the UK Car of the Year Awards, which celebrates the finest new vehicles available to discerning UK customers across eight distinct categories.

The distinguished panel of judges, comprising 30 esteemed journalists hailing from various automotive, business, and tech publications across the UK, carefully deliberated over eligible cars launched within the past 12 months. Among stiff competition, the EV9 emerged triumphant, not only securing the overall award but also clinching victory in the fiercely contested ‘Large Crossover’ category.

Renowned for its innate practicality, contemporary design, and impressive electric driving range, the EV9 garnered widespread acclaim from the judging panel. John Challen, co-chairman of the UK Car of the Year Awards, lauded the EV9’s versatility, noting its potential to entice drivers away from conventional petrol or diesel vehicles. Furthermore, judge Paul Barker, Managing Editor of Carwow, praised the EV9 for its spacious interior, practicality, and remarkable electric range, affirming its status as a game-changer in the automotive landscape.

Echoing similar sentiments, Alex Grant, a respected fleet-focused journalist, commended Kia’s unwavering ambition and the EV9’s ability to cater to large families while maintaining a luxurious appeal. Tech journalist Rob Clymo lauded the EV9 for its seamless blend of functionality and cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal choice for individuals prioritising practicality without compromising on driving experience.

This latest accolade adds to the EV9’s growing list of achievements, following its recent introduction to the UK market in January 2024. Already named a finalist for the 2024 European Car of the Year awards and a top-three finalist for the upcoming 2024 World Car Awards, the EV9 continues to garner acclaim on the global stage.

Packed with versatility and equipped with cutting-edge features, the Kia EV9 offers customers a choice of six- or seven-seat configurations, rear- or all-wheel drive powertrains, and three meticulously crafted trim levels. With a starting price of £65,025 (RM391,213) on-the-road, the EV9 boasts an impressive electric driving range of up to 561km (WLTP Combined), complemented by ultra-fast charging capabilities that add 247km in just 15 minutes.

Nissan GT-R Gears Up for Its Final Act: A Limited-Edition Swan Song

In the realm of supercars, the Nissan GT-R has carved out a legendary status, and now, it’s preparing to bid farewell with a final, limited-edition model slated for the 2025 model year.

Since its debut in 2007, the R35 generation GT-R has cemented its reputation as a relentless supercar challenger, boasting remarkable performance figures that have kept enthusiasts enthralled.

According to insider sources cited by Japanese publication Mag X, Nissan is poised to unveil the curtain call for the GT-R on March 14, with reports suggesting that only 1,500 units will roll off the production line, including approximately 300 Nismo models. However, it remains uncertain whether these exclusive editions will be reserved solely for the Japanese market or offered globally.

While specifics about the final model remain elusive, considering the significant visual refresh the 2024 GT-R received just a year ago – with updated front and rear fascias – major overhauls for the 2025 version seem improbable. Perhaps minor aerodynamic tweaks or adjustments to trim levels may be in the cards, but a complete redesign appears unlikely, especially for a model destined to bow out after a limited production run of 1,500 units.

Should the reports hold and 2025 indeed mark the swan song for the R35 GT-R, enthusiasts can anticipate commemorative touches adorning the sports car, such as special badges or decals.

Under the hood, the regular variant is expected to retain the familiar 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 engine from the 2024 model, delivering 565hp and 632Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the GT-R Nismo variant could receive a power bump to 600hp and 651Nm of torque.

Upon its debut, the GT-R made waves in the supercar world. It stood as one of the fastest production cars globally, surpassing rivals at significantly higher price points. However, over the past 17 years, the supercar landscape has evolved, with lighter and more potent competitors entering the fray, effortlessly outclassing the GT-R.

While the 2025 GT-R may draw the curtains on the R35 era, Nissan is poised to usher in a successor in the near future. At the recent Japan Mobility Show 2023, Nissan teased enthusiasts with a glimpse of the future through the Hyper Force concept – a GT-R-inspired model propelled by electric motors, boasting 1,341 bhp.

Euro NCAP Calls for Return to Physical Controls by 2026 for Improved Safety

The automotive industry has seen remarkable progress in recent years, with cars becoming safer and more efficient. However, there are certain trends that many would prefer to leave behind, such as the heavy reliance on touchscreen controls for essential functions.

European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP), a leading automotive safety organisation, shares these concerns, particularly regarding touchscreen controls. Euro NCAP Director of Strategic Development, Matthew Avery, emphasised the risks associated with the overuse of touchscreens, noting that they require drivers to divert their attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of distraction-related accidents.

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Saudi Arabia and UAE Oil Giants Explore Lithium Extraction from Brine

In a bid to diversify their economies and capitalise on the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs), national oil companies in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are planning to extract lithium from brine in their oilfields.

The move signals a strategic shift for oil-producing nations as they seek alternative sources of wealth amidst the global transition away from fossil fuels. Saudi Arabia, in particular, has invested significantly in positioning itself as a hub for EVs under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Sources revealed that Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) are in the early stages of exploring lithium extraction from brine, which is considered a critical mineral due to its essential role in battery manufacturing for electric vehicles. However, specific details regarding the extraction technology were not disclosed, and both companies declined to comment on the matter.

Direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, although in its infancy, presents advantages such as avoiding the environmental challenges associated with traditional mining methods. By filtering lithium from saltwater brine, Saudi Arabia and the UAE can leverage their expertise in handling oil brine and wastewater at oil production sites.

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Porsche Partners with Blizzard for Overwatch 2 Macan EV Skin

Blizzard Entertainment has announced an exciting collaboration with Porsche for Overwatch 2 Season 10. The renowned gaming company will partner with the iconic car manufacturer to introduce new content, including a special version of the popular hero D.Va.

Images released by Blizzard Entertainment showcase the collaboration, depicting D.Va in a unique design inspired by Porsche’s iconic style. The collaboration will feature multiple new cosmetics and two legendary skins, with the D.Va skin being unveiled as the first offering.

D.Va, known for her cool demeanour and distinctive mech design, was the ideal hero to kick-start Overwatch 2’s collaboration with Porsche. With her love for engineering and dedication to improving her mech, D.Va resonates with Porsche’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence.

The back of D.Va’s mech is inspired by the design language of the all-new Porsche Macan Electric, adding a touch of automotive flair to the hero’s appearance.

Blizzard Entertainment expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating that they believe players will love D.Va’s new skin as much as they do.

Fastest ever Aston Martin Vantage: Official FIA Safety Car For F1

Aston Martin is set to revolutionise the front of the Formula 1 grid by introducing its most driver-focused Vantage ever. Designed to lead the pinnacle of motorsport around the world’s Grand Prix circuits, the new Vantage is primed to take up its role as the Official FIA Safety Car of Formula 1.

The high-performance Vantage, specially equipped for its safety role, will lead the pack of F1 cars on the formation lap for this weekend’s Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024. Positioned at the exit of the pit lane, it stands ready to intervene and control the pace of the race if required.

Powered by a hand-built 4.0 Twin-Turbo V8 engine, the new Vantage boasts a 30% increase in power over its predecessor, making it the fastest of its breed. Despite its formidable performance, the Vantage required no engine upgrades, cooling system changes, or braking enhancements to fulfil its role as the FIA Safety Car.

Bernd Mayländer, FIA Safety Car Driver, praised the Aston Martin Vantage’s impressive handling and power, essential qualities for swift and safe on-track deployment. Mayländer expressed his delight in driving the new Vantage, equipped with additional aerodynamics and bespoke features tailored for its safety role.

Inside the Vantage Safety Car, advanced systems assist the driver and passenger, including Pole Position Seats and a bespoke centre console with FIA switchgear. The interior, finished in Lime Essence trim, pays homage to Aston Martin’s racing heritage.

The Vantage Safety Car, along with the DBX707 Medical Car, will make its debut at the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024, painted in Aston Martin Racing Green colours to match the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team cars.

Stellantis Invests Billions in Internal Combustion Engines Amid EV Shift

In defiance of forecasts heralding the end of the internal combustion engine (ICE) era, major automotive conglomerate Stellantis is intensifying its focus on piston-powered vehicles. With ownership of 14 brands under its umbrella, Stellantis is funnelling a staggering $6 billion investment into South America, earmarked for the development of new ICE technology and vehicles.

This mammoth investment, touted as the largest in South America’s automotive realm, is set to underpin the introduction of over 40 new vehicle models and the advancement of flex-fuel engines capable of running on both petrol and ethanol. In addition, Stellantis is charting the course for the rollout of hybrid-flex and plug-in hybrid-flex configurations to enhance efficiency, with plans for at least one fully electric vehicle slated to debut in the region between 2025 and 2030.

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2024 Dodge Charger Daytona Makes Official Debut with 670hp!

The all-electric 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona has officially debuted, boasting a 400-volt system and a 100.5kWh battery capable of generating up to 670hp. Set to go on sale later this year, the electric muscle car promises impressive performance metrics, including a 0–100km/h acceleration in 3.3 seconds and a quarter-mile time of just over 11 seconds. Gone are the traditional V8 engines, replaced instead by dual electric motors and a unique feature: external speakers that produce a simulated engine noise.

Dodge’s foray into electric vehicles has been anticipated since the unveiling of the Charger Daytona SRT concept nearly two years ago. Despite some industry hesitance towards electric vehicles, Dodge remains committed to its electrification plans, as announced by CEO Tim Kuniskis three years ago.

The electric Charger will be available in two trims: R/T and Scat Pack, with both two-door coupe and four-door sedan versions. Additionally, Dodge plans to release a refreshed internal-combustion engine Charger next year, alongside a performance variant of the electric Charger Daytona called the Banshee.

The car’s design prioritises power over range, with the R/T offering 456hp (496 with a Power Shot) and the Scat Pack delivering 630hp (670 with the Power Shot). However, the increased power comes at the cost of range, with the Scat Pack offering an EPA estimated distance of 418km compared to the R/T’s 510km.

Built on the STLA Large platform, the Charger EV features a 100.5kWh battery with a usable capacity of 93.9kWh. The vehicle supports DC fast charging at up to 183kW, with charging times ranging from 32.5 to 52.4 minutes depending on the charger’s capacity.

The Charger EV comes standard with Direct Connection stage kits, offering additional power beyond factory settings. The vehicle also features large Brembo brakes and various drive modes tailored for different driving conditions.

One distinctive feature of the Charger Daytona is its simulated engine noise, emitted through external speakers. The noise intensity increases with acceleration, providing an auditory experience reminiscent of traditional muscle cars.

Despite the shift towards electrification, Dodge remains committed to its legacy of high-performance vehicles, offering a blend of tradition and innovation in its electric offerings.

BMW Group Expands Manufacturing Footprint in Thailand with Battery Assembly Facility

After a joint ground-breaking ceremony attended by Milan Nedeljković, Board Member for Production at BMW AG, representatives of the Thai government, and the German ambassador to Thailand Ernst Reichel, construction has commenced for the BMW Group’s local manufacturing facility for Gen-5 high-voltage batteries. This facility will enable the BMW Group to produce fully electric vehicles locally, with production scheduled to begin in the second half of 2025.

The forthcoming high-voltage battery assembly facility will cover 4,000 square meters and will be an integral part of BMW Group Manufacturing Thailand. The assembly line will convert imported battery cells into modules, which will then be integrated into high-voltage batteries. The BMW Group has invested over 1.6 billion baht (approximately RM211,153,426) in the project, with a significant portion earmarked for state-of-the-art equipment and systems, totalling almost 1.4 billion baht (approximately RM184,759,247).

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Maserati Unveils The 2024 GranCabrio – 535hp and 650Nm

Maserati has unveiled the 2024 GranCabrio sports car, albeit six months later than scheduled due to a series of new-model delays. Set to arrive in European showrooms later this year, the GranCabrio is the convertible counterpart to the GranTurismo coupe introduced 18 months ago, marking Maserati’s first all-new model in 14 years.

Unlike its predecessor, which featured non-turbo Ferrari V8 power and ceased production in late 2019, the new GranCabrio debuts with a twin-turbo V6 petrol engine. Initially, it will be offered with this powertrain, with an electric version likely to follow.

Distinguishing itself from the coupe variant, the GranCabrio boasts a soft-top roof available in five colours – black, blue, grey, ‘greige,’ and garnet red. The roof operates swiftly, opening in 14 seconds and closing in 16 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h. Controlled via a touchscreen menu, the roof also includes a neck warmer and a folding ‘wind stopper’ for added comfort.

Externally, the GranCabrio mirrors its coupe counterpart, featuring an evolutionary design inherited from its predecessor dating back to 2007.

Under the hood, the GranCabrio is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol ‘Nettuno’ V6 engine developed by Maserati, delivering 535hp and 650Nm of torque in Trofeo trim. Power is channelled to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 3.6 seconds, 0-200km/h in 12.2 seconds, and a top speed of 316km/h.

Equipped with adaptive air suspension, sizable brakes, large wheels, and advanced driver aids, the GranCabrio promises dynamic performance and precise handling. It offers four drive modes – Comfort, GT, Sport, and Corsa – along with a full ESC Off setting for enthusiasts.

Inside, the GranCabrio boasts luxurious appointments, including a head-up display, a digital interpretation of Maserati’s traditional clock, premium leather, aluminum finishes, and a high-end sound system.

Advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, autonomous emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera enhance safety and convenience for occupants.

Despite sharing design elements with the GranTurismo, Maserati claims a 100kg weight increase for the GranCabrio. Nevertheless, it promises an exhilarating driving experience coupled with unparalleled luxury and comfort.