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Electric Vehicles

BMW Teases the Future of M: Quad-Motor Electric Prototypes Signal New Era of Performance

BMW’s M division is gearing up for a seismic shift with the development of full-electric M models, but enthusiasts will need to wait until later this decade for the real deal. Models like the i5 M60 and i7 M70—currently part of BMW’s M Performance lineup—serve as a precursor, much like the M240i or M340i in the combustion world. However, these electrified offerings are just a stepping stone, paving the way for a bona fide electric M car.

Development on this groundbreaking project started years ago, with prototypes based on the i4 M50, BMW M’s best-selling car in both 2022 and 2023. A behind-the-scenes video recently offered a glimpse into the rigorous testing and development of these electric M prototypes, revealing exciting details about their future.

Quad-Motor Setup: The Next Frontier

Carsten Wolf, Head of Overall Vehicle Development at BMW M, dropped a major hint in the video: future M electric cars will feature a quad-motor setup, promising unparalleled performance and cutting-edge technology. Wolf described the four-motor configuration as a game-changer, capable of delivering features and driving dynamics beyond what is currently imaginable.

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BMW Unveils Next-Generation Electric Models and Visionary Concepts at Paris Motor Show 2024

At the Mondial de l’Auto Paris 2024, the BMW Group showcases its evolving strategy for electrification, underlining its leadership in electric mobility across multiple segments. Alongside the new BMW 1 Series, BMW X3, and BMW M5, the event also features world premieres of groundbreaking models and future concepts.

Key highlights include the introduction of the first all-electric Mini John Cooper Works (JCW) models—Mini John Cooper Works Electric and Mini John Cooper Works Aceman. These vehicles bring Mini’s motorsport heritage into the electric era, combining high-performance driving with innovative power and design. The BMW Neue Klasse Vision Vehicles also make their debut, providing a preview of the brand’s next generation of electric vehicles. The BMW Vision Neue Klasse, a sporty sedan, and the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X, a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), feature Minimalist designs and cutting-edge technology, such as BMW iDrive with Panoramic Vision and 3D Head-Up Display.

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Honda’s Future Electric Vehicles to Mimic Sounds from Iconic Petrol-Powered Cars

Honda may be trailing some of its rivals in the electric vehicle (EV) space, but it is catching up quickly with the development of its all-new 0 Series range of battery-electric vehicles. This upcoming lineup will be heavily influenced by the Honda Saloon concept, which debuted earlier this year and will include innovative features designed to mimic the driving experience of traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. One of the standout characteristics of these EVs will be artificial sounds and vibrations that replicate the sensation of driving a petrol-powered car.

In the evolving EV market, where differentiation is becoming more challenging due to the nature of electric powertrains, software is playing a critical role. Unlike the clear distinctions that once existed between a four-cylinder engine and a V10, electric motors are far more uniform in their characteristics. To address this, Honda is developing software solutions that will give their EVs unique personalities, helping them stand out in a crowded market.

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Honda Explores Manual Gearbox Feel for Its Future Electric Vehicles

Honda is exploring innovative ways to retain its celebrated manual transmission experience even as it transitions to electric vehicles (EVs). At a recent tech event showcasing its future “0 Series” of EVs, a Honda engineer confirmed that the company has developed a synthetic manual transmission for EVs, complete with a clutch pedal, according to The Drive. This represents an intriguing approach to preserving the driving dynamics that have made Honda a favourite among enthusiasts, particularly for its manual transmissions.

The development of this synthetic manual system marks a shift from previous scepticism expressed by Honda’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, who in 2022 doubted whether a simulated manual could replace traditional ones. However, Honda’s electrification lead, Shinji Aoyama, suggested that while mechanically challenging, creating an artificial manual transmission is possible, potentially through a system resembling active sound control.

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EV Market Faces First Decline as Hybrids Gain Ground in 2024

Electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are facing new challenges as the market share for fully electric vehicles has retracted in 2024 for the first time since the data collection began, according to a report from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. While the decline is minimal—just 0.1%—it signals a shift in consumer preferences. Despite this setback, traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles have experienced the largest drop in market share, losing 2.3% in 2024. Consumers are instead gravitating toward plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and traditional hybrids, with market share increases of 0.3% and 2.2%, respectively.

EV sales have seen substantial growth over the past few years, particularly during the pandemic, rising from less than 1% of total vehicle sales in 2016 to nearly 8% by the end of 2023. However, the cooling of EV demand in 2024 could signal a shift toward hybrid technologies as buyers seek alternatives that balance electric and traditional petrol power.

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Chinese Firms Condemn European Commission’s Tariff Proposal on Electric Vehicles

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) voiced strong opposition to the European Commission’s proposed import duties of up to 36% on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), calling the move unfair and likely to escalate trade tensions between China and the European Union.

In a statement released earlier today, the CCCEU expressed “strong dissatisfaction” with the European Commission’s “protectionist approach,” accusing the bloc of undermining free trade principles. According to the group, such measures would ultimately damage the European electric vehicle industry’s competitiveness by stifling global collaboration.

“The European Commission’s unjustifiable use of trade tools to obstruct free competition in the electric vehicle market will weaken the resilience of the European EV sector,” the CCCEU stated. They warned that the protectionist stance could lead to strained relations between the EU and China, casting a shadow over future cooperation on green initiatives and global development.

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BMW Drops the “i” From Its ICE Models After 50 Years

It’s indeed a significant shift for BMW to drop the iconic “i” from the end of its internal combustion engine model names, marking the end of a tradition that dates back to the early 1970s. Originally denoting the use of fuel injection, the “i” became synonymous with BMW’s lineup, indicating models that featured the latest automotive technology.

However, as BMW expanded its range to include SUVs, roadsters, and electric vehicles, the significance of the “i” began to blur. With the introduction of electric cars, where “i” stood for “innovation,” the distinction between petrol and electric models became less clear.

The decision to simplify the naming structure by dropping the “i” from internal combustion engine models reflects BMW’s commitment to clarity and consistency. By using a format where the first number indicates the model and the last two numbers represent the engine, BMW aims to streamline its lineup and make it easier for customers to understand.

The transition will occur gradually, with the next-generation X3 being the first to drop the “i,” followed by other models such as the 1 Series and possibly the 2 Series Gran Coupe. The facelifted 7 Series may also undergo this change.

Although the decision may disappoint some fans who have grown accustomed to the “i” designation over the years, it reflects BMW’s commitment to adapting its brand identity to evolving market trends and technological advancements.

Maserati Aims to Fully Electrify its Entire Trident Range by 2028

Maserati’s much-anticipated Folgore Day has finally arrived, coinciding with the 110th anniversary of the renowned Modena-based manufacturer. This milestone event marks the brand’s official foray into the electric dimension, signalling a new era for Maserati as it embraces electrification to shape its future across the globe.

At the heart of this electrifying journey are the brand’s latest offerings: the GranTurismo Folgore, the Grecale Folgore, and the GranCabrio Folgore, each representing a unique blend of electrification, innovation, luxury, and excellence deeply rooted in the Italian tradition. These models, alongside the upcoming MC20 Folgore super sports car set to debut in 2025, embody Maserati’s commitment to sustainable profitability and continuous evolution.

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Hertz’s Electric Vehicle Ventures: Leadership Change and Strategic Reevaluation

Hertz Global Holdings Inc. is making a change in leadership following challenges stemming from its investments in electric vehicles. Stephen Scherr, who has been serving as CEO for just over two years, has decided to step down. He will be replaced by Gil West, the former chief operating officer of General Motors Co.’s Cruise Robotaxi unit, effective April 1.

Scherr’s tenure at Hertz coincided with the company’s ambitious foray into electric vehicles, which began shortly after emerging from bankruptcy. Hertz made significant investments in EVs, including placing orders for 100,000 vehicles from Tesla Inc., as part of its strategy to modernise its fleet and capitalise on the growing demand for electric mobility.

However, these bets on EVs did not yield the expected results. Last year, Tesla’s price cuts significantly reduced the resale value of Hertz’s used EVs, leading to challenges related to depreciation and demand. As a result, Hertz announced plans to sell off a substantial portion of its EV fleet, citing lacklustre demand and costly depreciation.

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Volkswagen Unveils ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer

Expanding its lineup of sporty GTX models, Volkswagen introduces the new ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer, marking a significant step in offering captivating electric mobility experiences. These dynamic models boast individual exterior designs, unique light signatures, sporty interior details, and powerful performance drives, building upon the success of the GTX label introduced in 2021.

ID.3 GTX

The ID.3 GTX will be available in two variants, with the top-of-the-line ID.3 GTX Performance offering snappy, compact sports car performance with 322hp and 545Nm of torque and the standard one with 282hp and 545Nm of torque. It delivers snappy acceleration akin to the iconic Golf GTI Clubsport.

The ID.3 GTX features a distinctive exterior design with GTX-specific elements, including a new front bumper, high-gloss black body elements, and 20-inch Skagen alloy wheels. Inside, premium sports seats with red decorative stitching and a GTX-specific multifunction steering wheel elevate the sporty character.

ID.7 GTX Tourer

Introduced shortly after the ID.7 Tourer, the ID.7 GTX Tourer represents the pinnacle of the lineup with its powerful performance and spacious interior. With a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering 335hp, it combines the spaciousness of a large estate with sports car performance.

The ID.7 GTX Tourer features a distinctive front bumper with honeycomb grille, GTX-specific light graphics, and high-gloss black body elements. Inside, individualised seats with GTX lettering, red piping, and a GTX-specific multifunction steering wheel create a refined ambiance. With a luggage compartment capacity of up to 1,714 litres, the ID.7 GTX Tourer offers ample storage space alongside its sporty performance.

With the introduction of the ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer, Volkswagen redefines electric mobility by combining sporty driving dynamics with the efficiency of electric vehicles. These models offer customers a captivating driving experience, showcasing Volkswagen’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry.