Piston.my

Latest News

BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse electric vehicle platform marks a significant departure from tradition, eliminating front-wheel-drive (FWD) configurations entirely. With no single-motor setup planned for the front axle, this shift could have profound consequences for Mini, a brand long associated with FWD agility and its signature “go-kart” handling.

The new sixth-generation eDrive technology promises to enhance performance, delivering a 30% boost in charging speed and range while reducing weight and manufacturing costs. The platform’s modular nature allows for various drivetrain options, including one-, two-, three-, and even four-motor setups. However, a key takeaway from BMW’s recent technical workshop revealed that none of these configurations would include a single front-mounted motor.

The reasoning behind this decision lies in the limitations of BMW’s Gen6 electric powertrain. Two types of motors will be utilised: an asynchronous motor (ASM) and an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM). The ASM, which is both compact and cost-efficient, is designated for the front axle in all-wheel-drive (AWD) models. However, due to its lower power output and lack of an integrated gearbox, it cannot function independently, meaning no BMW electric model will rely solely on a front-mounted motor. Instead, single-motor setups will be rear-wheel drive (RWD), fundamentally altering Mini’s traditional drivetrain layout.

(more…)

BMW M has unveiled a special edition of its high-performance M4 CS, created in collaboration with nine-time motorcycle world champion and current BMW M works driver Valentino Rossi. The BMW M4 CS Edition VR46, produced in a limited run of just 46 units, is a tribute to Rossi’s legendary career and iconic racing number. Manufactured at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, the exclusive model is available in two design variants: Sport and Style, both featuring distinct colour schemes and signature elements inspired by the Italian racing legend.

The special edition M4 CS pays homage to Rossi’s illustrious career, with the number 46 prominently displayed on the doors and carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof. Rossi himself played a key role in the design process, ensuring that his signature aesthetic and personal preferences were reflected in both variants.

The Sport version is finished in Marina Bay Blue metallic, contrasted by a large number 46 in Tanzanite Blue metallic on both sides. The Style variant adopts a matte Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic exterior, with the 46 displayed in Frozen Marina Bay Blue metallic. Yellow accents—a signature colour associated with Rossi—are applied to the M kidney grille outline, a single V spoke on the forged M light-alloy wheels, the brake callipers, and an accent stripe over the door frames of the Sport model. The carbon-fibre roof, which is hand-painted, features a large VR46 logo in yellow, along with Rossi’s signature. The tailgate is also adorned with the VR46 lettering.

(more…)

Kia Corporation has officially introduced the EV4, unveiling both the saloon and hatchback variants ahead of the brand’s second Kia EV Day in Tarragona, Spain.

Designed to broaden the appeal of Kia’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup, the EV4 targets a diverse audience with its modern styling and advanced technology, catering to lifestyle-focused consumers eager to embrace innovation. The model underscores Kia’s commitment to expanding the possibilities of automotive design while balancing practicality and aesthetic appeal.

The EV4 saloon features a sleek, low-slung front profile with a long-tail silhouette, embodying a fresh interpretation of the traditional sedan. Meanwhile, the EV4 hatchback is positioned as a nimble and versatile all-rounder, boasting a distinctive and clean design tailored for various driving environments.

A Design Rooted in Innovation

The EV4’s styling is guided by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, blending sharp, distinctive lines with bold, technical details to create a harmonious contrast rarely seen in the compact EV segment. The model showcases Kia’s vision for the next generation of electric saloons, moving beyond conventional silhouettes to establish a unique identity in an increasingly uniform EV market.

(more…)

Volvo owners in China have raised concerns over the authenticity of the Bowers & Wilkins audio systems installed in their vehicles, following reports of discrepancies in branding and construction.

The issue came to light when a Volvo S60 owner discovered a peculiar detail in the Tweeter-on-Top centre speaker of his vehicle. Instead of the renowned “Bowers & Wilkins” logo, the speaker was labelled as “Bovvers & VVilkins,” with two “V” characters replacing the letter “W” in both words. The owner, suspicious of the odd spelling, confronted the dealership, which dismissed the issue, claiming there was no typographical error. Images of the mislabelled speaker surfaced in Chinese media outlets further fueling concerns.

According to reports, the S60 owner had taken his vehicle to the dealership to have its original Bowers & Wilkins sound system replaced, though the reason for the replacement was not specified. The Bowers & Wilkins premium audio package is an exclusive option in certain Volvo models, including the top-tier S60 Ultra in the U.S., where it is priced at $3,200 (RM14,095).

(more…)

The Malaysian government generated RM45.9 million from the sale of special vehicle registration numbers in 2024, with half of the revenue directed towards transport-related initiatives aimed at assisting low-income groups.

According to the Transport Ministry, the funds were raised through bids for exclusive plate series such as “GOLD,” “FFF,” “EV,” “PETRA,” and “MADANI.” In a Parliamentary reply to Jerantut MP Khairil Nizam Khirudin, the ministry stated that all proceeds from these sales were channelled into the Consolidated Fund under the Finance Ministry. Of the total amount collected, 50 per cent was allocated to the Transport Ministry to support various programmes designed to benefit underprivileged communities.

As reported by Malay Mail, among the initiatives funded by this allocation is the MyLesen programme, which covers the cost of driving tests for B2 motorcycle licences, Goods Driving Licences, and permits for e-hailing and taxi drivers. The revenue has also been used to provide free helmets for both adults and children as part of efforts to improve road safety.

(more…)

Mercedes-Benz has officially announced that a smaller version of the iconic G-Wagen is in development. The confirmation came during an investor-relations presentation, though the German automaker has yet to disclose details regarding powertrains, design, or a release timeline.

Speculation has been mounting that the “Baby G-Wagen” will feature an all-electric powertrain, potentially utilizing technology derived from the current electric G-Class. However, Mercedes-Benz has not confirmed whether the smaller off-roader will be EV-exclusive.

(more…)

Archive

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube