It can be quite difficult to wrap your mind around the concept of an Apple car. For a brand that still considers a smartphone display with a high refresh rate to be elite enough for its USD 1,200 smartphone, Apple could make unreasonable decisions while designing its first car. After all, the Apple car rumours have pretty much been all over the place. Not to mention, some people have had their imaginations run wild.

Will Apple decide to do away with the steering wheel on its car because it needs to use that space for better AC airflow (won’t be the first time Apple has removed a key feature), even though Tesla has already experimented with something similar and it didn’t work? Or will Apple make the iPhone a key necessity while driving its car? More importantly how much of the rumours doing the rounds are actually true? One can only imagine the Apple car making the Tesla Model S seem generic and that’s saying something! After all, Tim Cook and his team have never shied away from thinking out of the box.

Although Apple’s vision (pun not intended) is set on the Vision Pro mixed reality headset in the near future, industry insiders keep discussing the possibilities of an Apple car launching in a few years. Huawei, which is Apple’s biggest rival from China, has already ventured into the smart transportation segment with the Aito and Luxeed brands, recently revealing luxurious smart cars and MPVs to challenge Tesla’s cars. In that regard, Apple is trailing significantly, especially since it’s only a matter of time before Samsung and other brands also jump into the auto segment.

However, as mentioned above, the Apple car is a real possibility and as such, we are actively exploring all the rumours surrounding this mysterious car that could potentially revolutionise the way we look at mobility (or if nothing else, it could make for some truly hilarious memes).

A round-up of all the Apple car rumours

The first question most people have on their minds is simple –“Why is the Apple car even being planned?”

There can be many ways to look at this. The most obvious is that Apple doesn’t want to miss out on a lucrative opportunity. After all, if Tesla’s skyrocketing shares in the past four years are anything to go by, EVs are the future. Not to mention, Apple is notorious for trapping users (or enhancing their experience, depending on how you look at it) in the Apple ecosystem.

Advancements in tech and software have also revolutionised cars in the past decade, with Google setting a fine example through its Android Automotive system that powers cars from Volvo, Rivian, Audi, Ford, Chevrolet and others. Drivers of these vehicles are going to get a far better user experience if they rely on an Android smartphone. On the other hand, brands like Tesla and Nio are interested in creating their own ecosystem of devices and trying to earn more with software-based feature packs.

For example, the Chinese automaker Nio recently released a smartphone that improves the user experience of a Nio vehicle driver. Similarly, there have been rumours of a Tesla smartphone offering special features to make life easier for a Tesla driver, although Elon is too busy tweaking X, erstwhile Twitter, to earn more bucks out of keyboard-friendly users instead of building a Tesla smartphone (the jury is still out on how successful that endeavour will be).

It’s also not too difficult to imagine Apple designing certain smart features for mobility solutions that will work specifically with the Apple car if you have an iPhone. For example, you could need an iPhone to authorise your entry into the vehicle, stream music via Apple Music, use Find My to search for your car and its parking spot and even use Siri for basic car controls. The possibilities are endless.

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What are the Apple car rumours hinting at?

Initially, the Apple car, which is also known as Project Titan internally and the iCar by others, was expected to be a technological leap for the passenger car, visualised to usher into an autonomous future. Many had conceptualised the Apple car to be an aerodynamic pod on wheels with giant panoramic windows, lounge-style seats, minimalist interiors and everything else the mind can imagine. However, the dreamy references took a back seat over the years and as reality seeped in, it became clearer that the Apple car could end up being just a conventional sedan or SUV with a smart infotainment system.

Thanks to a bunch of recent rumours, we now expect the first-generation Apple car to be centred around the iPhone. Similar to how Mercedes Benz developed its MB.OS operating system for its all-electric EQ lineup, Apple will also introduce a car-centred operating system based on iOS. Similar to the Mercedes cars, the forked version of iOS on the Apple car could offer a convenient user interface with easy access to crucial vehicle features and possibly, a good infotainment system. Think of the Apple CarPlay interface that constantly keeps evolving at the WWDC event but BIGGER.

Will the Apple car be all-electric?

It would be odd if Apple chose to stick to an internal combustion engine instead of an electric motor.

Some of the most technologically advanced cars today rely on an electric powertrain solely to achieve the next generation of smart features. An electric car allows far greater digital control over its drivetrain and other systems. At the same time, an electric car will also help reduce Apple’s carbon footprint which, as it turns out, perfectly aligns with its goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

That said, there’s also a possibility that Apple could consider a Hydrogen fuel cell powertrain as an alternative option. For the uninitiated, cars with hydrogen fuel cells offer the same kind of convenience as a petrol-powered car but with the added benefit of H2O emissions instead of carbon.

Will the Apple car be a sports car?

Based on all the Apple car rumours we have heard so far, it seems like Apple could go the Tesla way with its first car. In fact, the first few generations of Apple cars could focus on practicality and touring. You can expect to see SUVs and crossovers from Cupertino instead of a drop-top sportscar, although we won’t be surprised if the ‘Pro’ moniker is used for the performance versions of its cars.

Will the Apple car have mixed reality baked in?

If Apple can announce the Vision Pro mixed reality headset in 2023, we can certainly expect the iPhone maker to make mixed reality a central part of the driving experience. Modern luxury cars from BMW, Porsche, Mercedes Benz and others already feature heads-up displays as an innovative way to inform the driver without letting them take their eyes off the road. With Apple’s expertise in mixed reality, you can expect the Apple car to project more information such as navigational directions from Apple Maps, music playback controls and a lot more on the car’s windscreen. Audi recently pulled off something similar in its upcoming Audi Q6 e-Tron SUV for the driver.

Will it support Android Auto?

This is a question that Tim Cook certainly won’t like to answer but if the EU can force Apple to put the USB-C connector on the iPhone 15, it can definitely pass a law to make the Apple car support Android phones as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What is Apple’s Project Titan?
The Apple Project Titan is rumoured to be an internal codename for the upcoming Apple car.

– When is the Apple car expected to launch?
The Apple car is now expected to break cover in 2026, if everything goes according to plan.

– What are the rumoured features of the Apple car?
The Apple car is now rumoured to include autonomous driving features limited to the highways, a bold new design and lots of smart features that perfectly complement Apple’s ecosystem.

– Which battery will be used in the Apple car?
Apple is rumoured to rely on LFP batteries for its first electric car. LFP batteries are cheaper to manufacture as well.

{Hero and Featured Image Credits: Courtesy Apple (Representational Image)}

The post Apple Car Rumours: What We Know So Far About Tim Cook’s Likely Foray Into Smart Cars appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

As cars slowly start to prefer electrons over petrol for moving their wheels, automakers have been giving their all to make electric cars more exciting. Porsche has played a major role on this front, electrifying its sedans and SUVs without compromising on its DNA, which is to ensure the ultimate balance of performance and efficiency. The all-electric Taycan had swept us off our feet a few years ago with its wild performance figures. Going forward, one of Porsche’s plans for its future involves electrifying its high-performance track-bred GT4-spec sports cars. To that effect, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance offers a glimpse of those future plans.

The Porsche 718 Cayman is usually regarded as the Holy Grail for mid-engined sports cars in its current petrol-powered spec. Usually, electrifying the powertrain would mess up the balance but Porsche’s engineers have somehow managed to retain its sporty performance while adding a lot of power. How much power, you ask? Well, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance is sort of a Frankenstein on wheels without popper interiors, making 1,088hp! That’s insane even for an electric sportscar. We are simply at a loss for words.

Sadly, we can’t remain mum because you have come here to know everything about this wild electric Porsche. Hence, we have composed ourselves and done the homework for you. So, without further ado, here’s deep diving into the electrifying (pun not intended) new prototype from Porsche.

Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance: A beast on wheels

Before you get all hyped, the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance is essentially a prototype to showcase what the future of Porsche’s customer race cars could look like. With the highly sought-after flat-six boxer engine removed, the onus falls upon the electric motor and the rest of the package to continue delivering the electrifying performance.

To build it, Porsche has simply taken a standard Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport and thrown out its insides. The body has been widened by 14 centimetres and the rest of the electricals and mechanicals have been borrowed from the Porsche Mission R Concept. Porsche fans should know that the Mission R Concept had previewed the next-gen Cayman EV in a race car trim a couple of years ago.

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The Cayman GT4 e-Performance has a body made of natural fibre composites and other exotic lightweight materials, all of which are supposed to reduce its overall emissions. The car uses Michelin’s 18-inch tyres and Porsche says that they are made out of sustainable rubber. In the midst of all the eco-friendly sculpting, Porsche’s lighting engineers have also given us stunning blue LED headlamps and a blue LED light bar at the rear, the latter doubling up as a battery charge indicator.

And, if you were wondering where the wing mirrors are, Porsche has replaced them with two rear-view cameras hidden within the front fender.

Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance’s specs at a glance

The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance is rated to produce 1,088hp and all that power is delivered via the dual motor configuration. However, delivering all that power drains the battery within minutes. So, if you want to experience all that performance for at least 30 minutes, the support team can simply dial the power down to 612hp. Porsche hasn’t quoted the exact acceleration and top speed figures but there are hints of this electrified Cayman matching the Porsche 992 911 GT3 Cup car’s performance. That’s unsuitable for mere mortals.

To fill up its 80kWh battery pack, Porsche has given this prototype a 370kWh fast charging system that can charge the battery via the 900V electrical architecture. How fast? Porsche says the battery can be charged from 5 per cent to 80 per cent in just 15 minutes!

All that performance, unfortunately, comes at the cost of that famed German comfort, although this isn’t too surprising considering we are dealing with a hard-core race car here. There are two bucket seats, a roll-cage and racing harnesses to keep the occupants safe in case of an accident. Equipment levels are scarce but everything you could possibly need on the racetrack is here.

Sadly, Porsche hasn’t revealed the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance’s price and that’s fine, considering it is a one-off concept race car. We actually hope that Porsche uses most of this car’s technology and mechanicals in the next-gen Cayman EV, minus the uncomfortable and impractical race car cabin of course.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What are the specifications for the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance?
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance features a dual-motor setup making 1,088hp and a 900V electrical system that uses a 370kWh charging system to fill up an 80kWh battery to 80 per cent in under 15 minutes.

– What is the price for the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance?
As the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 e-Performance is a concept race car, it currently doesn’t carry a price tag.

(Hero and Featured Image Credits: Courtesy @porsche.sg via Instagram)

The post Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 E-Performance Teases An Electrifying New Race Car appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

Germany’s contribution to the world of motoring has been significant and hence, when the IAA Mobility 2023 was announced, we were quite excited. Despite the country going through a phase of economic troubles, German automakers have not stopped impressing us with their exhibits. Munich was, once again, home to some of the coolest wheels we have seen this year. Be it the radical Batmobile-like offering from Cupra, the staid 2024 Tesla Model 3 or the wild off-road-themed Mercedes E-Class, the show floor in Munich was full of impressive vehicles and concepts from some of the largest auto manufacturers in the world.

Although the IAA Mobility 2023 had lots of exhibits from various manufacturers, we are going to take a look at those that truly swept us off our feet. Concept cars and platform demonstrations are easier to choose, courtesy of their dreamy designs and mind-blowing features. However, we have also handpicked some production-ready models that should keep most of you excited, whether they run on electricity or petrol. After all, these are the cars that will be gracing the showrooms near you sooner than those swanky concepts.

So without further ado, let’s check out some of the coolest cars displayed at the IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich.

The coolest cars from IAA Mobility 2023

The post All The Coolest Cars We Saw At The IAA Mobility 2023 In Germany appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

For months leading up to its debut, speculation has been rife in Far East automotive circles concerning the potential replacement model of Toyota’s legacy flagship, the Century. In fact, many of the rumours suggest that the subsequent generation of this heritage nameplate will assume the guise of a Toyota Century SUV instead of the long line of full-sized sedans preceding it.

Well, that has all been confirmed during the launch event that Toyota held earlier today in Japan as the wraps were stripped off the boxier haunches of the latest Century SUV. If there had been any doubts about the consumer market’s appetite for luxury off-roaders, the morphing of the Toyota Century into a veritable tank is enough to put them to bed.

The Toyota Century sequel joins the ultra-luxury SUV niche

From first glance, it’s readily apparent that the new Century is meant to fend off the likes of the Rolls Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga in the ultra-luxury SUV space. Which is why where dimensions are concerned, it’s suitably considerable, measuring 5,205mm long, 1,990mm wide, and 1,805mm tall, topped on a 2,950mm wheelbase.

The Toyota Century’s design cues remain recognisable, as is the case with most ultra-luxury flagships. Just like on the outgoing model, you won’t expect any ostentatious shows of wealth here. Despite being bulkier, it retains much of the conservative lines from it’s sedan counterpart, with the translation into SUV proportions remaining relatively true to the car’s design lineage.

The front fascia rings true in this regard with boxy LED headlights, complemented by a grill with the Century’s phoenix emblem dating back to the inaugural 1967 model. The same LED light motif is repeated in the rear for symmetry and consistency.

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It’s from the side where similarities can be drawn between the Toyota Century SUV and the Rolls Royce Cullinan, especially in its Phantom-esque D-pillar. A distinct character line also adds a sense of fortitude to the car‘s side profile, pulling from the front to its rear haunches. Pair that with 20-inch multispoke rims as standard, or with optional 22-inch units. Each new Century is available with seven different two-tone paint choices.

Backseat royalty

Step past the rear doors (which open up to 75 degrees for ease of access) and you are immediately reminded of how the Century is meant to serve as an exercise in superlatives for Toyota, where no detail is too small for consideration. Available exclusively in a four-seater layout, rear passengers get to enjoy unbridled comfort from two dedicated captain seats bisected by a massive centre console. Each is electrically adjustable and can even lie fully flat, a feature that Toyota claims is an industry-first.

As a car to be driven in, rear seat amenities are aplenty, combining old-world sensibilities with cutting-edge conveniences. The former includes a shoe horn holder, retractable tables, and an analogue clock. As for the latter, enjoy entertainment at your fingertips from two headrest-mounted displays measuring 11.6 inches each, complemented by two removable 5.5-inch touchscreen control units. An 18-speaker audio system provides auditory excellence on the move, too. Naturally, there’s also a refrigerator unit, in the event you’d like to keep your champagne bottles chilled.

In the driver‘s seat, a plethora of displays provides crucial information at a glance. This includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster mated with a head-up display, as well as a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. With that said, physical buttons are still thankfully available to control some of the car’s basic functions.

Electrified luxury

For power, the new Toyota Century comes with a 3.5-litre V6 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) engine, paired to a CVT transmission and mounted on an eFour all-wheel drive system. A similar setup can be found on the TX550h SUV that was recently introduced by Toyota’s sister brand, Lexus.

While the car comes with a number of usual drive modes for varying settings, the addition of a ‘Rear Comfort’ mode is of especially noteworthy interest. With it, the car is tuned to distribute the driving and braking force in such a way that it doesn’t intrude upon rear passenger comfort.

A sportier GR model was also teased during the launch with rear sliding doors, hinting at the potential for a more powerful, performance-orientated Toyota Century in the future. Let’s not forget the previous generation’s GRMW Century, which was created exclusively for Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota Motor Corporation.

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The Toyota Century SUV will go on sale exclusively in Japan, with a base price of 25 million Yen (HKD 1.3 million approx.) before options. A ‘Meister’ will be assigned to each customer upon the purchase of their Century, to ensure that the car meets their exact standards.

Feature and hero image credits: Toyota

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur

The post Half A Century Later, Toyota’s SUV Takes A Dig At Rolls Royce, Bentley Off-Roaders appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

Audi’s association with the technology of the future has been well documented in Marvel’s Iron Man movies (do you remember the Audi R8-E-Tron from Iron Man 3?). Although our technology has yet to produce anything similar to Tony Stark’s JARVIS assistant, Audi is sparing no time in bringing us closer to the futuristic world seen in science fiction movies with next-generation cockpit designs for its upcoming vehicles. At the ongoing 2023 IAA Mobility show in Munich, Audi has showcased the upcoming Q6 E-Tron SUV in the flesh and all the focus is currently on its science fiction-inspired cockpit.

The Audi Q6 E-Tron will join the company’s expanding fleet of electric SUVs and while it could end up with a more affordable price tag than the Audi Q8 E-Tron, Audi’s focus is solely on dumping all the technology inside to woo new customers. A dashboard dominated by large displays and an invisible AR-infused HUD puts this rather staid-looking Audi SUV a step above the most desirable electric cars on sale today.

So without further ado, let’s take a quick look at all the modern-day tech and gadgetry the upcoming Audi Q6 E-Tron SUV boasts of.

Audi Q6 E-Tron: A technical marvel?

The easiest way to make your car look technologically advanced is by putting more displays in the cabin. Mercedes gave us a fabulous example of this with the EQS sedan’s all-screen dashboard and BMW put up a massive flatscreen TV mounted to the ceiling in the BMW i7 sedan. Audi, however, has bested them all by a mile (pun not intended).

The Audi Q6 E-Tron’s beautifully designed dashboard straps on three massive displays. The driver gets their personal 11.9-inch display for showing the instrument cluster, including the navigation details and all other crucial vehicle information. Next to this is an even bigger 14.5-inch display for infotainment purposes. Angled slightly towards the driver, this display runs Android Automotive complete with its own app store. The system also offers a digital assistant with its own avatar that continues to learn the driver’s preferences and habits.

Similar to Siri or Google Assistant, Audi’s assistant comes alive with a ‘Hey Audi’ wake word and can be summoned to find the nearest charging stations or suggest an activity based on the driver’s routine. Audi says that the assistant will continuously learn from the user’s behaviour and provide better digital support. Audi has also given the cabin an IAL (short for Interaction Light), which is a slim strip of an LED light bar responding to the user’s command with animations and colours. Has Audi taken inspiration from Knight Rider’s K.I.T.T?

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Wait, there’s more!

Audi has also given the front passenger a dedicated 10.9-inch touchscreen display integrated into the dashboard. The purpose of this display is to let the passenger watch a movie or help the driver with GPS navigation. Don’t worry, your driver won’t be distracted as Audi has utilised shutter technology that will make the display invisible to him/her.

Audi Q6 E-Tron has an AR-infused HUD

While it was designing the car, Audi figured out that three displays weren’t enough. Hence, to pamper the driver, Audi has designed an Augmented Reality Head Up Display (AR HUD). The HUD projects a forward-tilted display across the windshield, giving the impression that the images are projected 656 feet ahead of the car. Audi says it can follow the driver’s eyes and adjust its direction.

When activated, the system can show information related to speed, traffic signs, navigation and other driving aids. Audi says that the AR HUD will be of major help when driving in poor visibility conditions.

What about the rest of the car?

The Audi Q6 E-Tron wears a familiar design, one we have already seen in Audi’s previous SUVs. Unlike the Q8 E-Tron, however, the Q6 E-Tron has a split headlamp design with LED lights and aggressive aero bits at the front. The rear also shows diffuser elements in the bumper, LED tail lamps joined by a massive LED light bar and an overall clean profile.

Based on Audi and Porsche’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, the Audi Q6 E-Tron has an 800-volt electrical system allowing power inputs of up to 270 kW. This means that the 100kWh battery can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes.

In its standard guise, the Audi Q6 E-Tron will have two electric motors producing 375hp that can deliver up to 600Km of range. A short power boost of 396hp is also available. For those seeking more performance, the SQ6 E-Tron will produce 483hp in normal mode and 510hp in boost mode.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What is the price of an Audi Q6 E-Tron?
As the Audi Q6 E-Tron is yet to launch across global markets, it doesn’t have an official price tag yet.

– What are the specifications of the Audi Q6 E-Tron?
The Audi Q6 E-Tron is based on Audi’s PPE architecture, making 375hp of power and allowing a range of 600km from its 100kWh battery pack.

– Does the Audi Q6 E-Tron have a voice assistant?
Yes, the Audi Q6 E-Tron has an Android-based voice assistant.

– What are the special features of the Audi Q6 E-Tron?
The Audi Q6 E-Tron has three displays on the dashboard for infotainment. Its infotainment system has an AI-based voice assistant that reacts to voice inputs via its IAL interaction lights on the dashboard. The driver also gets an AR HUD that projects all the necessary information almost 600 feet ahead of the car.

(Hero and Featured Image Credits: Courtesy Audi)

The post Audi Q6 E-Tron Cabin Is Loaded To The Teeth With Iron Man’s Tech appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

Even though Tesla pioneered the electric car segment, it is Mercedes Benz that’s making these cars desirable. The engineers and designers at Mercedes have displayed exemplary craftsmanship in recently announced EVs like the EQS, EQE and EQB. These cars, however, cost a fortune and most young buyers have been wanting similar experiences at a more accessible price, similar to what Mercedes has been offering with the A-Class hatchbacks and sedans. Cue the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class which was unveiled at the 2023 Munich Auto Show.

The CLA-Class, lately known as the A-Class Limousine, has always been the entry-level sedan from Mercedes, offering the quintessential luxurious car experience in a compact and accessible package. With the advent of electric propulsion, Mercedes Benz now reimagines the compact sedan infused with all of the latest gizmos and interior design trends in the automotive sector. The Concept CLA-Class is the first of many body styles based on the MMA platform, with two crossovers and a station wagon planned for later launches.

So, in case you are interested in finding out more about the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class, here’s everything you need to know.

Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class specifications

Its design looks uber cool

The entire bunch of electric cars from Mercedes Benz looks like a preview of the future, with swoopy aerodynamic profiles and fluidic design elements. With the Concept CLA-Class, Mercedes has tried something different. Instead of the familiar connected tail lamps and headlights, the Concept CLA-Class takes inspiration from retro styling, especially for the front fascia. An illuminated bonnet line flanked by retro-styled circular LED headlamps with the ‘three-pointed star’ detailing is the showstopper here.

If that wasn’t enough, Mercedes has also borrowed the iconic large radiator grille from the AMG GT and SL roadster models and changed the grille elements with LED lights. Talk about a commanding road presence.

A similar design theme continues on to the rear with circular tail lamps and the ‘three-pointed star’ detailing. The side profile is reminiscent of the Mercedes Benz EQE sedan with its swoopy coupe-esque roofline. However, it’s the long bonnet and the short stubby boot that give the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class its distinct identity.

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Equally fabulous interiors

In typical Mercedes fashion, the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class interiors try to bring an all-digital cockpit experience in a neo-retro minimalist package. While some of those gaudy elements like the illuminated trims on the centre console and doors are purely built for the concept, the rest of the interiors can make it to the production model. We want Mercedes Benz to retain the Superscreen dashboard running the MB.OS operating system and the rest of the ambient lighting that promotes the airiness of the cabin.

It’s also our heartfelt plea to Mercedes Benz to make those unique-looking AC vents happen, complete with the circular ring showing the temperature within.

Other than all the cool technology, the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class uses sustainable materials to help the good old polar bear live happily in the Arctic. The seats and dash trims are made from Nappa leather tanned with coffee husks. The accent fabric is made out of PET plastics and the floor mats are made out of bamboo fibre.

Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class: Does it run?

Unlike most concept cars, the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class has a working drivetrain, rated to produce 235hp. That’s not a lot of power on offer but then again, the Concept CLA is a compact sedan designed for the urban environment. Mercedes says that its 800V electrical architecture allows for 250kW DC fast charging, which translates to gaining 400km of range in just 15 minutes. When fully charged, the Concept CLA-Class can go all the way up to 750km before needing a top-up.

Though performance figures are still under wraps, Mercedes Benz will allow buyers to choose between two battery technologies. The most pocket-friendly option will use the lithium-ion phosphate chemistry while the silicon-oxide anode chemistry will be suitable for those seeking a higher energy density battery for better range.

The Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class is yet to get a price tag but given everything we’ve seen, it won’t be long before this car is parked in showrooms near you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What are the specifications of the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class?
The Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class gets an 800V electric architecture capable of doing 250kW DC fast charging. It can get up to 400km of range in 15 minutes and is rated to go up to 750km on a single charge. The electric motors produce 235hp.

– What is the price of the Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class?
The Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class is a concept car at the moment and Mercedes hasn’t announced its price yet.

(Hero and Featured Image Credits: Courtesy Mercedes Benz)

The post Mercedes Benz Concept CLA-Class Shows How Compact Electric Sedans Can Also Be Cool appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

The Tesla Model 3 was long overdue for an upgrade. So, prior to the Cybertruck’s release in 2023, Tesla has decided to answer our prayers and give its most popular sedan a much-needed overhaul. The Tesla Model 3 2024 looks new yet familiar and brings along several vital upgrades that potential buyers will absolutely love. Most importantly, these upgrades are expected to give Tesla an advantage over a herd of new electric cars from rival manufacturers like Mercedes Benz, Kia, Hyundai, BMW and more.

The Tesla Model 3 2024 will initially be heading to China, Europe, the US and Malaysia among other regions in the early phase. Eventually, it will reach all other markets where the Model 3 is currently on sale. The car is still available in the Single Motor Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) variant and multiple versions of the Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variant. Deliveries are slated to begin in late 2023 in select markets.

With exciting upgrades, the demand for Tesla’s newest Model 3 will obviously be high. So with that in mind, here’s an in-depth look at everything you need to know about the Tesla Model 3.

Tesla Model 3 2024 boasts new styling

For the year 2024, the Tesla Model 3’s design is more iterative than an all-out change. The Model 3 seems to derive its front fascia from the Tesla Roadster concept showcased a couple of years ago. While the overall profile of the sedan is similar to the outgoing model, the new front has slimmer LED headlights along with a reshaped bumper. On the back, a restyled bumper along with new LED tail lamps gives the Model 3 a distinct look, though it still reminds us of the OG Model 3.

Is this a handsome car? We will let you be the judge of that.

Say hello to even more futuristic interiors

The outgoing Model 3 already had some of the best interiors we have seen in a midsize sedan, offering a beautiful fusion of technology and modern-day minimalist styling. The 2024 Model 3 builds upon that legacy with a design that’s more in line with the current norms of luxurious cars. A new wraparound dashboard design adds to the highly desired roominess while the beautiful ambient lighting is another feather on Tesla’s hat. The massive 15.4-inch infotainment display now houses the gear selectors along with the usual arsenal of all-digital controls we have seen on other high-end Tesla cars.  The steering wheel has been redesigned to eliminate the control stalks.

The front passengers also get ventilated seats, a feature missing from the previous models. There’s also a new 17-speaker sound system here that offers superior audio quality.

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A panoramic glass roof makes the cabin feel airy and Tesla has also stated that the glass’ acoustic properties will make the cabin quieter. The rear passengers also get their own eight-inch touchscreen display for rear climate controls and entertainment needs. The cabin still maintains the minimalist design theme in accordance with all other Tesla cars. Lastly, the trunk capacity has increased from 561 litres to 594 litres.

Tesla Model 3 2024: Does its performance improve?

Even though the Tesla Model 3 2024 is more of a mid-life refresh than an all-new model, the changes have resulted in notable improvements in the overall driving range. The Single Motor RWD variant is now rated to go up to 513km on a single charge. It can go from 0-100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds and once you max it, it can achieve a top speed of 201 km/h. The enhanced range is courtesy of the improved drag coefficient from the new exteriors.

The Dual Motor AWD Long Range variant is rated to up to 629km and while the top speed remains unchanged, the acceleration figure for 0-100km/h drops down to 4.4 seconds.

Elsewhere, the Model 3 boasts of Tesla’s improved crash safety dynamics as well as all the usual software perks that Tesla owners have gotten accustomed to all these years.

A look at Tesla Model 3 2024’s prices

While the prices for all Asian regions have not been revealed (except for Malaysia), we have a rough idea of what it could cost. The Model 3 Single Motor RWD will set you back by MYR 189,000 (approximately HKD 318,698), excluding the Enhanced Autopilot and Self-Driving Pack. Those opting for the Dual Motor AWD Long Range variants need to shell out MYR 218,000 (approximately HKD 367,598), excluding all the bells and whistles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What is the price of the Tesla Model 3 2024?
The Tesla Model 3 2024 carries a sticker price of MYR 189,000 (approximately HKD 318,698) for the Single-Motor RWD base variant.

– What are the design specifications of Tesla Model 3 2024?
The Tesla Model 3 2024 gets revised front and rear bumpers, new head and tail lights, new alloy wheels and completely overhauled interiors.

(Hero and Featured Image Credit: Courtesy Tesla)

The post Tesla Model 3 2024 Gets Crucial Upgrades That EV Drivers Will Absolutely Adore appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

The common obsession that Rimac and its current owner Bugatti share revolves around smashing world records. Bugatti’s exquisitely finished hypercars leave no stone unturned to obliterate records on the track, both for top speed and the fastest lap times around the trickiest race tracks. On the other hand, Rimac has been trying to upset Bugatti’s hypercars and everything else with ungodly acceleration figures and unbelievable top speeds for EVs with the Rimac Nevera hypercar. Hence, under Bugatti’s ownership, it was only natural to see the Rimac bagging more records than most cars on sale today.

The Rimac Nevera has already bagged multiple top speed and acceleration records, and in a bid to achieve them, it even broke the world record for breaking the most number of world records in a single day! Rimac, however, wasn’t done and the team prepped a Nevera and a test driver mad enough to push this EV around the ‘Green Hell’.

The result? The Rimac Nevera has broken another record and this time, it took down the Tesla Model S Plaid.

Rimac Nevera bags another world record

The Rimac Nevera recently took to the Nurburgring racetrack and after a couple of test runs, the driver gunned it. Croatian racer Martin Kodrić pushed the Nevera hypercar to its utmost potential, using all of its 1,914hp available from its electric motors. Even though the weather was hotter than usual for an electric car to be fast around the Nurburgring on the chosen day, Kodrić and the Nevera wearing a set of Michelin Cup 2R super grippy tyres worked together to achieve a blistering lap time of 7:05:298.

That figure isn’t as impressive as it appears at first glance. After all, a time of 7:05:298 doesn’t even cut it to the list of the top 10 fastest lap times at the Nurburgring. Porsche 919 Evo is still the record holder and Lamborghini’s Aventador SVJ is the 10th fastest car around the track with a lap time of 6:44:97.

However, context is key here. EVs are heavier and their agility is usually affected by the massive battery packs they tow around. When you take that into consideration, the 7:05:298 lap time becomes more impressive especially since the Rimac Nevera is now the fastest road-legal electric car to be driven around the ‘Green Hell’. The Nevera beat the Tesla Model S Plaid’s lap time by 20 seconds and that’s saying a lot since the Tesla is a very fast sedan.

The fastest electric car to go around the Nurburgring is still the Volkswagen ID.R race car that achieved a lap time of 6:05:336. However, this one is not road-legal.

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Limited-edition Rimac Nevera Time Attack models commissioned

To commemorate this special occasion, Bugatti Rimac has rolled out a couple of limited edition Neveras. Called the Rimac Nevera Time Attack, this special edition Nevera will be built for 12 customers around the world.

The limited-run Nevera Time Attack is mechanically and electronically no different than the standard car, which is not a bad thing considering it broke another world record. The exterior gets a combination of a Squadron Black base paint job and Lightning Green highlights, along with green alloy wheels. It is highly reminiscent of the Bugatti Veyron Supersport which also flaunted similar bright colour accents on its exterior.

The interiors also get a hue of green paint across the seats and door trims. In the name of weight saving, no creature comfort has been shaved.

Sadly, even if you had the money to get one of these, all the limited-edition Neveras have already been sold out.

Looking at the Rimac Nevera’s incredible specs

The Rimac Nevera is a hypercar designed to do grand touring by relying solely on electric power. The Nevera has four electric motors powering all individual wheels, producing a total power of 1,914hp and 2,360Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0-100kmph in 1.81 seconds and in 9.22 seconds, it can dash to 300kmph. With a free road ahead, you can push the Nevera to a top speed of 412kmph. The Rimac Nevera’s range on a full charge is 490 kilometres, which is still higher than your average EV SUV.

The Nevera evolved out of the Rimac Concept C_Two and is a successor to Concept C_1.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What is the price of the Rimac Nevera?
The Rimac Nevera electric hypercar is priced at USD 2.05 million.

– What is the top speed of the Rimac Nevera?
The Rimac Nevera can achieve a top speed of 412kmph.

– What are the specs of the Rimac Nevera?
The Nevera has four electric motors, producing 1,914hp and 2,360Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0-100kmph in 1.81 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 412kmph. The Rimac Nevera’s range on a full charge is 490 kilometres.

– Which engine does Rimac Nevera use?
The Rimac Nevera relies on four electric motors and a battery pack.

(Hero and Featured Image Credits: Courtesy Rimac)

The post Rimac Nevera Tames the Nurburgring ‘Green Hell’ For EVs, Nabs Another World Record appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

BMW has just released the first luxury armoured electric sedan in the form of the i7 Protection.

This new series represents the 6th generation of Protection vehicles from BMW and the first powered by an electric motor.

Created for high-profile clients that need all the comfort one expects with the 7-Series, but with the added protection from threats and danger, the new 7-Series features full protection from ballistic attacks or explosions, automatic doors, BMW’s Protection Command Touch System, and Run-Flat tires.

In addition, options like all-door emergency exits, pennant holders, flashing lights, a fresh-air supply system, a fire extinguisher, and beacons can be added on.

The idea was to keep the car as unassuming as possible without drawing too much attention. While it is an armoured vehicle, all the comforts found in BMW‘s vehicles are present in this i7 Protection model, seen in the spacious interior, multifunction seats, privacy shades, and 28-speaker – 1,265-Watt Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System.

The BMW i7 Protection still moves considerably fast given all the additional weight from the amour plating. This is all due to the dual electric motors that put down 536 horsepower and 549 lb-ft of torque. It’s 0-100 km/h acceleration time is nothing impressive at nine seconds, and its top speed of just 160 km/h is nothing to brag about, but what it lacks in speed, it makes up for in survivability.

Currently, the i7 Protection model will be offered only to European customers while a standard 7-Series Protection model will be available to the rest of the world. Look for this to make an official debut at the IAA Mobility Show in September.

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All Images: BMW

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia India

The post Everything We Know About BMW’s First Armoured Electric Sedan, The i7 Protection appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.

Remember that iconic scene in Wolf of Wall Street when a ridiculously high Leonardo DiCaprio tries to get to his car? That very same car, the Lamborghini Countach, is being auctioned off.

Let’s be clear: there are many things that shouldn’t be replicated from the movie The Wolf of Wall Street, things that we can’t even mention here. But if you’ve watched the movie, you know exactly what those things are. However, one of the very few things you could possibly get for yourself—legally, of course—is the stylish car Jordan Belfort unfortunately crashes because he was under the influence. Fortunately, that very same car is going to be auctioned off soon. 

[Hero image: RM Sotheby’s]

The iconic car from Wolf of Wall Street is being auctioned off

There were two Lamborghini Countachs used during the filming of Martin Scorcese’s Wolf of Wall Street. One was crashed for the sake of the film and the other is the fortunate surviving one that’s being auctioned by RM Sotheby’s. The “Wolf” Countach, as it’s been dubbed, is an obvious 80’s style icon that looks straight out of Miami Vice. This specific Countach is the 25th-anniversary edition of the car and has a 5.2-litre V12.

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While another Countach with almost the same specs was auctioned a few weeks ago according to Hypebeast, it’s expected that this one will fetch for three times the price of the previous car due to its appearance in the Scorcese movie. That said, it’s no surprise that it’s the headliner for the New York City Luxury Week boutique sale, which kicks off on December 8. 

A number of other vintage luxury cars will also be auctioned off, but the “Wolf” Countach arguably casts a shadow over them all. “Scorsese, DiCaprio, Lamborghini, and New York—all make for an incredible pedigree,” said Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions at RM Sotheby’s.

For more information, visit RM Sotheby’s official website.

This story first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand

The post Lamborghini Countach From ‘The Wolf Of Wall Street’ To Be Auctioned appeared first on AugustMan Hongkong.