12
The Superb, will once again complement its popular Combi estate with an elegant hatchback
The flagship Q family gets an upgrade
Keeping your car safe and secure, at home and on the road
8 The upgraded Audi Q8
9 ID. GTI Concept show car
7 The Concours of Elegance Best in Show
10 80s and 90s Car Culture
13 "Women are more at risk of whiplash injuries than men”
16 Renault Scenic E-Tech
18 The Austin Pedal Car Story
19 Volta Trucks publish first Life Cycle Assessment of all-electric Volta Zero
20 The ultimate in-car audio system
22 Bizzarrini releases first full images of The Giotto
23 Rolls-Royce owned by Sophia Loren now electric
28 New immersive Makalu digital cockpit display
29 The new all-electric MINI Cooper
31 The dramatic effect celebrity ownership has on enthusiast car values
33 Lotus unveils Emeya, its first hyperGT
24 BMW Vision Neue Klasse
“New BMW design language: clear, elegant, timeless ”
36 National Motor Museum gallery conjures a century of MG magic
37 The Ocean Cleanup
Škoda Auto, with the release of the fourth generation of its ICE flagship model series, the Superb, will once again complement its popular Combi estate with an elegant hatchback The new iteration of this traditional body variant has grown in length and height and at the same time become even more aerodynamic. Its sculptural Škoda design has evolved further and now features a redesigned octagonal Škoda grille and updated door handles. The wide range of powertrains for the new Superb now also includes a mild hybrid. The interior has been completely redesigned. For the first time in the Superb, it comes with a head-up display and a central infotainment display that has grown in size to 13 inches. The gearshift lever, now positioned on the steering column, makes for a roomier centre console. Below the central display are the new Škoda Smart Dials. These rotary push-buttons, each with a small digital display, allow quick and easy access to many vehicle functions. The interior is marked by sustainable materials; the textiles used are made of 100 percent recycled polyester.
The fourth-generation Superb hatchback is available for the first time with mildhybrid technology. In the 1.5 TSI entrylevel model with 110 kW (150 hp), the four-cylinder petrol engine is supplemented with a 48-volt belt-driven starter-generator and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. This enables energy recuperation during braking. The energy thus recovered is stored in the battery and can be used to support the internalcombustion engine with an electric power boost, or to allow the vehicle to coast with the engine completely switched off. In addition to the 1.5 TSI, Škoda offers two 2.0 TSI units with 150 kW (204 hp) and 195 kW (265 hp). Like the most powerful diesel, a 2.0 TDI with 142 kW (193 hp), the top petrol unit comes with all-wheel drive as standard The generous engine roster is rounded off by a 2.0 TDI with 110 kW (150 hp). For the first time at Škoda, all Superb engines are mated to a 7-speed DSG as standard. All powerplants meet the Euro 6d emissions standard.
Compared to its predecessor, the new Škoda Superb hatchback has grown in length by 43 millimetres to 4,912 millimetres and in height by twelve millimetres to 1,481 millimetres. This makes for eleven millimetres more headroom in the front and six millimetres more for rear passengers. Luggage capacity has increased by 20 to 645 litres. Vehicle width, at 1,834 millimetres, and the wheelbase, measuring 2,841 millimetres, have remained unchanged. Optimised air intakes and detailed work on the occupant cell and exterior mirrors have improved aerodynamics, resulting in a cd drag coefficient of just 0.24. The latest iteration of the Superb design language features many of the Škoda brand’s signature sculptural lines.
The redesigned interior of the Superb now features a free-standing central display with a screen diagonal of up to 13 inches. It is complemented by a head-up display, a first for Škoda’s ICE flagship model, and the new Škoda Smart Dials. These are three rotary pushbuttons below the infotainment screen, each featuring a digital display with a diameter of 32 millimetres. The Smart Dials provide quick and easy access to many vehicle functions The redesigned centre console has a tidy, more spacious and organised look, since the gear lever is now located directly on the steering column. The traditional Active, Ambition, and Style trim levels have been replaced by new options: Essence and Selection, complemented by the Sportline and Laurin & Klement versions Each of these features a unique interior design, blending contemporary concepts with an emphasis on sustainable materials.
The Concours of Elegance, presented by A. Lange & Söhne, concluded after three days at Hampton Court Palace in west London.
The 12th edition of the annual event welcomed 15,000 visitors to the stunning Palace gardens, for a landmark display of rare and significant road and competition machinery
The Best in Show winner – uniquely chosen by the Concours car owners themselves – was the irresistible 1955 Maserati A6GCS/53 Frua Spider - a masterpiece of Italian design, making its debut appearance on British soil
The wonderful A6GCS Frua Spider was conceived by Gugliemo ‘Mimmo’ Dei, the official Maserati dealer for Rome, who commissioned a small series of exquisitely coachbuilt cars based on the high-performance A6GCS platform
The A6GCS/53 - the ‘CS’ standing for ‘Corsa Sport’ – had originally been developed for the 1953 World Sports Car Championship, and featured motorsport-honed mechanicals It featured a potent 170bhp in-line sixcylinder engine – initially developed by famed engine builder Columbo for Formula 2 racing – and a similarly racebred, lightweight tubular chassis by Gilco The resulting car, weighing just 740kg, was a real work of automotive art, the perfect blend of delicate spider styling, delightful handling, and potent, race-car performance
Chassis 2110 was shipped to the United States in the late 1950s where it has remained until the present day In the early 2000s it was subject to a painstaking restoration under the supervision of Maserati aficionado Adolfo Orsi It’s appearance at Hampton Court represented its first ever UK appearance A wonderful motor car and a fitting winner
1955 Maserati A6GCS/53 Frua Spider CoE 2023
Audi is updating the flagship of the Q family with a sleek new design and upgraded technology The revised exterior aesthetic with new front and rear bumpers underscores the strong character of the SUV coupé For the first time, Audi is equipping the Q8 with HD Matrix LED headlights, including a laser as an additional high beam on top-spec models These headlights feature digital daytime running lights and selectable light signatures Digital OLED rear lights with four selectable rear light designs complete the expanded light offering New wheels, colours, decorative inlays, and seats with contrast stitching highlight the car ’ s top position among the Q models UK sales begin on October 10 with prices to be confirmed in due course
With its expressive new design, the revised Q8 is a sporty, elegant SUV coupé from the brand with the four rings The short overhangs and long wheelbase make for sporty, muscular proportions that can be accentuated with distinctive exterior colours and wheels
The unmistakably powerful and upright Audi Singleframe with an octagon design now features vertical inlays, which makes it clear at first glance that the Q8 belongs to Audi’s top models The self-assured appearance of the Q8 is underscored by the new prominent air intakes, which are neatly integrated into the lower section of the front bumper, and new tailpipes
High-intensity LED headlights light up the road in the Q8 as standard; Matrix LED headlights are available as an option on Vorsprung models HD Matrix LED headlights with the Audi laser light are also available, which work with 24 LEDs and a high-power laser diode each and are immediately recognizable via a blue ambient light incorporated into the headlights. The laser light becomes active starting at 43.5mph and significantly increases the high beam range
Only an Audi drives like an Audi: This is how the brand with the four rings sums up the DNA of an Audi’s driving characteristics, and it’s no less true for the Q8. Five characteristics define the Q8’s handling: balanced, solid, controlled, precise, and effortless The suspension, steering, and drive as well as the braking and control systems all play a key role in creating a reliably safe, dynamic, and simultaneously comfortable driving experience
The Volkswagen brand is giving its electric offensive an additional boost: by 2027, Europe’s largest automotive manufacturer will launch eleven new all-electric models and thus offer the widest electric vehicle range of all manufacturers – from a compact car priced as less than 25,000 euro through to a family saloon. In the future, there will also be sporty and emotive GTI versions of selected models from the allelectric ID. family. The ID. GTI Concept show car presented for the first time at the IAA Mobility in Munich provides a concrete insight into how Volkswagen will transport the iconic GTI label into the electric future. Alongside electric vehicles such as the ID. GTI Concept, ID 4, ID 5 and new ID 72, Volkswagen will also continue to offer efficient combustion engine vehicles such as the new generations of the Passat3 and the Tiguan3 In the Open Space on the Odeonsplatz, Volkswagen will also show itself as an approachable brand that is looking to engage in discussions with visitors.
Hagerty’s second RADwood UK event celebrated the excess of 80s and 90s car and lifestyle culture, with an amazing show of period dress, hundreds of RAD-era cars, and ten of the country’s most outrageously modified motors
Thousands of showgoers filled a sunny Bicester Heritage on Saturday 2nd September, to witness a car show that is unlike any other in the UK An eclectic selection of RAD-era cars gathered on the lawns of Bicester Heritage presenting showgoers with a jaw-dropping array of 80s and 90s automotive icons including heroic supercars, rare Japanese superstars and every make and model imaginable from this lesser-celebrated era of excess
Period arcade games and 80s and 90s music created a fun atmosphere which was enhanced by many showgoers dressing in period clothing and accessorising their cars with RAD-era memorabilia, bringing the event to life
TV presenters Charlotte Vowden and Hannah Gordon were joined by journalist and YouTuber Chris Pollitt to select the winning cars from the vast RADwood display area The coveted RADdest Car of the Show award was presented to Katie Bushell for her stunning, all-white VW Scirocco
Avid car collector Paul Cowland, Abigayle Andre from TV show Repair Lot, Richard Porter from leading automotive podcast Smith and Sniff, motorcycle racing legend Steve Parrish and Craig Callum, Design Manager for Hot Wheels Vehicles judged the ten 2023 UK Legends Tour finalists live on the RADwood main stage
Michael Wallhead’s 1975 MGB GT was chosen to represent the UK on the global stage and stake its claim to be recreated as a 1:64 scale die-cast model – after winning this year’s Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK at RADwood, beating a record number of 274 entries Michael is now facing the Legends Tour Semi-Final, taking place 2nd November, in a bid to make it through to the Global Finale and be in with a shot at the overall prize – entering the hallowed Hot Wheels Garage of Legends and securing his place in car culture history
Mark Roper, Managing Director of Hagerty International, said, “Sunshine, cars and a relaxed atmosphere made this year’s RADwood UK the best yet Hagerty welcomes all car enthusiasts and RADwood UK looks set to follow our own Festival of the Unexceptional in becoming a must-attend show for UK enthusiasts RADwood and FOTU will be back, bigger and better than ever, in 2024 and I can’t wait to see you there “
US-born RADwood was created to celebrate the excess of '80s and '90s car lifestyle culture, blending period-correct dress with automotive awesomeness to celebrate cars, trucks, and bikes from 1980-1999
Founded in America in 2017, Hagerty took stewardship of RADwood in March 2022 to build on the company’s purpose to save driving and car culture while expanding and supporting inspiring experiences for automotive enthusiasts
Road safety researcher Astrid Linder works at VTI, the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute Linder has received the WOW (Woman of Worth) award from Mia Liström, one of the judges of the Women's World Car of the Year in Sweden The award was given for her work on the development of a female dummy With this award, the Women's World Car of the Year honors the work of professional women who have distinguished themselves in the automotive world
Astrid Linder is also an assistant professor at Chalmers University, Sweden Her work focuses on research in crash safety and biomechanics, with a particular focus on the development of dummies to assess risk in the event of an accident One of Astrid's goals is to have crash protection studied for both men and women Together with her colleagues at VTI and Mats Svensson of Chalmers University, they have developed the first medium-sized female crash test dummy
How did your journey in road safety begin?
I studied engineering physics at Chalmers during the 90s and after graduation I looked for a job and found a position as a PhD student at Chalmers that caught my interest. The assignment involved developing the world's first crash test dummy for low-speed collisions to assess the protection for soft tissue injuries of the neck, so-called whiplash injuries At the time, there was no dummy or test for the type of collision that is the most common resulting in disabling injuries It was a big project in the 90s The financing came from Vinnova (Swedsih Innovation Agency), which was previously called KFB and was a collaboration of Volvo, Saab, Autoliv, Folksam and Chalmers The crash test dummy created was the size of an average man, as that is the model of the occupant that we use as the driver in both frontal and side impact testing After that, I worked abroad in Australia and England I also have long experience of working as a manager in the area of road safety
How did the idea of creating a female crash dummy start?
As part of my doctoral studies, I did a literature review and found that women were at higher risk of sustaining whiplash injuries than men Then it became a logical next step for me to work to design a model that represents that part of the population the women Since we evaluate the protection against injuries with a model of an average man We cannot today, in testing new cars, assess how well cars also protect the female part of the population How the body is constructed does not differ between men and women when you look at the big features such as skeletal parts, organs and soft parts except the reproductive organs which are not essential in crash safety Differences that are important to include in models for evaluating protection against injuries in a low-speed rear-end collision are things like upper body geometry, such as shoulder width and center of gravity of the torso, which are higher for men than women
Today there is no possibility of assessing the protection of a new car for the entire adult population Crash safety evaluation is done using an average (geometry, weight and height) man as the driver In addition we test with child models To represent children, we have child dummies in many different sizes Volvo has done tests with a pregnant model where the study was about how the fetus is protected However, protection for women was not studied, as the model was not designed as an average woman
What setbacks have you encountered over the years?
The biggest challenges and setbacks over the years have been finding research funding My drive is that future crash tests should be done with crash dummies/tools that inclusively represent both the female and male so that we can identify in testing the cars that give the entire population the best protection in the event of a crash But getting there requires more work In the regulations for type approval tests used in Europe, UNECE, it is clearly stated that what is required for roadworthiness tests is that a model of an average man must be used And as long as it says so in the regulations, the change will not come from society's demands The companies follow what needs to be followed, nothing more can be required To get ahead, cooperation, knowledge and will are needed, among other things
It is important how we vote and what we get involved in, as it affects how the regulations develop In terms of how difficult something is, developing a Covid vaccine is incredibly much more difficult than developing a model of the average female for crash testing and the development of the vaccine was successfully done in a short amount of time. A lot has to do with what we decide to do. Already in 2012, together with Volvo, Chalmers, and partners from Europe, we produced a mathematical crash test dummy model of an average woman so that virtual tests with male and female models could be performed. After this, it was widely believed that it was too difficult and expensive to develop a crash test dummy that represented the female part of the population. We managed to get funding from the EU for the recently completed project where we designed both a mathematical and physical model of both an average woman and man.
How does it feel to receive this award?
I feel very honored and happy that the projects are receiving attention and appreciation And together we can make a difference At car manufacturers there is not one person that builds a car, to make a car requires collective work and interaction with many talented people and other companies The same applies to the development of improved safety assessment
What do your future visions look like?
My future vision is that we improve road safety together and that by 2030 we can evaluate the protection in the event of a crash for both women and men inclusively
The WOW acknowledges the late Sue Baker as one of Women’s World Car of the Year founding judges Her insights, her wisdom and her knowledge during her time on our jury were greatly appreciated She was perhaps best known for her work as a presenter on BBC's Top Gear, appearing in more than 100 episodes She also contributed to a wide range of publications and outlets and was the first woman to chair the UK Guild of Motoring Writers She died in November 2022.
Astrid Linder Photo Mia Litström
The all-new Renault Scenic E-Tech 100% electric, set to be unveiled at the IAA Mobility 2023 Motor Show in Munich, is designed around families and their need to travel freely and safely, with an increasing awareness of sustainability. Fully electric and brimming with useful and intuitive technology, it embodies the Renault Group’s aims as a next-generation automotive manufacturer.
The Renault Scenic story began when the compact MPV first revolutionised the market in 1996. Its name, short for Safety Concept Embodied in a New Innovative Car, hinted at its fresh approach, and as families’ travel habits and aspirations have evolved over the years, the Scenic has changed with them.
Today, the new latest generation version can be specified with an all-electric powertrain that features a compact 87kWh battery and a 160kW (220hp) motor, capable of delivering a 379-mile range (pending WLTP certification). The 2.78m wheelbase ensures a spacious cabin, including a 278mm knee radius at the back and a 545-litre boot Its pioneering Solarbay opacifying glass roof and ingenious rear armrest are just some of the comfort-enhancing touches
Near 30-year success story of the Renault Scenic enters a new chapter with the unveiling of the new generation all-electric version
The OpenR Link multimedia system features more than 50 apps and the ability to help plan your journey effortlessly The all-new Scenic E-Tech electric’s signature sound sequence has been created in collaboration with renowned composer Jean-Michel Jarre
Renault is aiming for carbon neutrality in Europe by 2040 and worldwide by 2050 As a result, up to 24% of the Scenic E-Tech electric’s materials are recycled and 90% of its mass – including the battery – is recyclable
The European specification offers a choice of Techno, Esprit Alpine and Iconic trim – the top-ofthe-range version being available for the first time in a Renault all-electric vehicle The all-new Scenic E-Tech electric will launch in early 2024
The all-new Scenic E-Tech electric’s architecture is groundbreaking It features a fully flat floor, large 19- or 20-inch wheels, a long wheelbase, and a Solarbay opacifying panoramic roof, creating an adaptable space perfect for modern families
Its proportions are unique, too, at 4 47m long, 1 86m wide, and 1 57m high, ensuring remarkable roominess and uncompromising comfort for everyone. The extra height of the driver’s seat is reassuring and enhances safety, while passengers in the rear have as much knee- and headroom as the top C-segment family cars.
The Nouvel’R logo and new signature headlights represent the latest brand identity. The logo sits among an array of superimposed small diamonds, which appear and disappear depending on the light and angle. These patterns merge into the headlights at the top of the grille, creating a spectacular high-tech effect. A striking welcome sequence greets its occupants as they approach. On certain versions, the LED Adaptive Vision technology adapts the beam pattern to suit the driving conditions, while the indicators are animated, travelling outwards from the centre.
At the rear, the high-tech lights are cited like two arrows facing each other, and appear to stretch the vehicle widthways. Micro-optical technology brings them to life when activated, yet they appear to float when switched off
Aerodynamic efficiency was a central concern throughout the design process At the front, air curtains under the daytime running lights optimise the air flow around the vehicle, while the sculpted rear dispels drag with a characterdefining line on either side of the bumper
The lightweight, 20-inch wheels feature a design that reduces air inlet space, thereby enhancing aerodynamics further The door handles of the all-new Scenic E-Tech electric are flush with the body, adding a modern aesthetic while smoothing air flow
Six appealing body colours will be available: Flame Red, Midnight Blue, Diamond Black, Shadow Grey Glossy, matte Shadow Grey (exclusive to the esprit Alpine trim) and Pearl White Depending on the trim, the roof and door pillars can be finished in contrasting Diamond Black or Shadow Grey
The stand-out feature of the all-new Scenic ETech electric is the Solarbay panoramic glass roof, developed in partnership with Saint-Gobain Its AmpliSky technology uses a combination of PDLCs (polymer dispersed liquid crystals) to change the opacity of the glass one segment at a time
Renault is the first mass-market car manufacturer to offer a panoramic roof that can be either fully or partially opacified in segments. The driver and passengers can choose any of four roof settings: full light, full opaque, light at the front but opaque at the back, and the reverse. More practical than a conventional roller blind, it allows passengers in the back to lighten or opacify the roof in their area without affecting the occupants in the front. Its operation can be controlled using a button by the overhead light or by voice control using Google Assistant for an effect that positively wows passengers.
The Solarbay roof minimises the greenhouse effect in warm weather and opacifies automatically on exiting the car. When you return, it automatically reverts to its previous setting.
It saves space, too, gaining 30mm of headroom over a conventional mechanical blind, and is 68kg lighter. With one eye on sustainability, approximately 50% of the glass is made of waste from plate and automotive glass production, while 90% of it can be recycled at the end of its life
Clever storage abounds in the all-new Scenic ETech electric, with up to 38 7 litres of it throughout the cabin This includes the glove compartment (4 litres), door bins (13 6 litres), an open storage area in the centre console (6 6 litres) with two large cupholders (2 litres) and a compartment under the armrest (3 4 litres) which also slides forwards and backwards by 70mm Under the centre screen is storage and wireless charging for smartphones, while pockets behind the front seats add a further 2 4 litres each
BY DR. DAVID WHYLEY ON BEHALF OF AUSTIN PEDAL
The Austin J40 pedal car is a miniature motoring marvel
Originally built by Welsh miners who had developed lung disease as a result of a lifetime working in the coal mines, the impact made by these diminutive Austins is way beyond anything imagined when the handbuilt prototype of Austin Chairman Leonard Lord’s ‘little idea’ first appeared in 1946. The fact that over 70 years after the first production example rolled off the South Wales factory line – in 1949 – the Austin J40 still appeals today is testament to the incredible job that J40 designer Jim Blaikie did in his team’s secret Longbridge workshop
This lavishly produced book, featuring painstaking research and numerous previously unpublished archive photographs and documents, provides the definitive story of Austin’s diminutive Pathfinder, based on the 1930s Austin racers, and its successor the J40, intertwined with their impact on the lives of those who have built and pedalled the cars over the years. For British car industry enthusiasts, the J40 story is an unknown chapter of British car making history. This book uncovers how many heroes of the industry learnt their trade at the J40 factory, before making a name for themselves in years to come.
“THE
Volta Trucks, the all-electric commercial vehicle manufacturer and services provider, has completed an initial life cycle assessment of the all-new 16-tonne Volta Zero.
The company appointed Global Environmental and Engineering specialist, Ricardo, to undertake a cradle-to-grave Life Cycle Assessment of its preproduction 16-tonne ambient cargo box all-electric Volta Zero. Manufacturers have previously published Life Cycle Assessment reports on production vehicles, but an assessment of a prototype vehicle is understood to be an industry first and aligns with the brand’s vision to be the industry leader in zero-tailpipe emission commercial vehicles and its commitment to transparent communication of its sustainability efforts.
The Life Cycle Assessment examined the carbon footprint of the 16-tonne all-electric Volta Zero from when it’s produced to when it is recycled and disposed of after use, identifying which parts of that lifespan have the greatest impacts and potential opportunities for improvement.
The preliminary analysis summarised that charging the vehicle during its customer use phase is the largest contributor to the total lifetime emissions at 62%. Material extraction and the processing phase were the next major contributors at 33%.
Volta Trucks will now use this report to identify potential sustainability improvements across all areas of the business and with future product vehicle and manufacturing plans. Volta Trucks will continue to drive down supply chain emissions and ways to increase the lifespan of the trucks and batteries, and will also conduct a further full Life Cycle Analysis on a full-series production vehicle when possible.
Naim for Mulliner’s audio system is compatiblewithSpotify,AppleMusic, TIDAL and Deezer (amongst others) and allows customers to enjoy their own choice of music, digital radio or spoken word media such as audio booksandpodcasts.
BentleyMotorsreleaseddetailsofthe extraordinary new sound system availabletocustomersoftheBentley Batur by Mulliner. The most exquisite in-car audio system ever created, the new ‘Naim for Mulliner’ option is the result of 10,000 hours of development work, exceptional new hardware and a complete system recalibration. The ‘Naim for Mulliner’ audio system will be a £25,000* option for the 18 customer Baturs to be handcrafted by Mulliner at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England.
£25,000 (plustax)
First full images of new Hyper GT, The Giotto, styled by Giorgetto & Fabrizio Giugiaro (GFG Style)
In February 2023, Bizzarrini offered the first glimpse of an all-new Hyper GT: The Giotto Six months later, following aerodynamic analysis validating the Giugiaro-designed styling, the first full images of The Giotto are revealed, along with the first details of Bizzarrini’s exclusive V12 powertrain Together, these mark a key milestone in the journey towards the first customer deliveries of The Giotto planned for early 2026
Named after the engineering virtuoso and company founder, Giotto Bizzarrini, The Giotto is designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, alongside his son Fabrizio at GFG Style in Turin, Italy. This rekindles a brand partnership first established 60 years ago when a young Giorgetto, whilst at Bertone, contributed to the design of the original iconic Bizzarrini 5300 GT Now his subtle refinements to the bespoke carbon fibre body of the Giotto have crafted a spiritual successor that delivers beauty, performance and usability
The entire Lunaz elevation process has been carried out at Lunaz’ purpose-built production and research facility at Silverstone, UK
In its latest landmark project, Lunaz has elevated a Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II, first built in 1960 and owned by Oscar-winning actress Sophia Loren, to fullyelectric power The motor car was commissioned by The Largo hotel, Porto, Portugal
With its latest design concept, the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, the BMW Group is showcasing what the next generation of vehicles from its core BMW brand will look like.
“The BMW Vision Neue Klasse combines our ability to innovate in the core areas of electrification, digitalisation and circularity,” says Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “In this way, we are always able to stay two steps ahead of the future: The Neue Klasse is already bringing the mobility of the next decade to the roads in 2025 – and leading BMW into a new era.”
The Vision Vehicle embodies a clear design language, with expansive surfaces and just a few distinctive lines, that has been pared down to the essentials. This approach accentuates signature features like the BMW kidney grille and the Hofmeister kink of the side window graphic, giving the design even more of a BMW feel. In the interior, the next generation of BMW iDrive guarantees a unique digital user experience that merges real and virtual worlds. Increased use of secondary raw materials, resourceefficient production and a fully-electric drive train with sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology reduces the carbon footprint of the Neue Klasse across the vehicle lifecycle.
“30 percent more range, 30 percent faster charging, 25 percent more efficiency – the Neue Klasse represents a major technological leap that will take EfficientDynamics to new heights. The same applies to its design – which could not be any more futuristic,” says Frank Weber, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Development. “With the Neue Klasse, we have embarked on the biggest investment in the company’s history. We are not just writing the next chapter of BMW; we’re writing a whole new book. That’s why the Neue Klasse will certainly impact all model generations.”
New BMW design language: clear, elegant, timeless.
The exterior showcases design elements that will define the different Neue Klasse models. It is clear, elegant, timeless. The new, fully-electric vehicle architecture also opens up new possibilities for the interior design. “The design of the Neue Klasse is typically BMW and so progressive it looks like we skipped a model generation,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design.
Powerful wheel arches, the retracted greenhouse and steeply forward-slanting “shark nose” front-end are all characteristic BMW features. 21-inch aerodynamic wheels pay tribute to the classic cross-spoke design inspired by motorsports. At the same time, the almost monolithic vehicle body, with strong indentations at the front and rear, as well as large window areas, create a new aesthetic.
The luminous exterior paintwork in “Joyous bright”, with its subtle yellow hue, underscores the friendly, future-oriented personality of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse. Contrast is provided by black side skirts and bumpers. With a higher percentage of secondary raw materials and significantly reduced material variety, targeted improvements have been made to enhance circularity. An improved dismantling concept will also help optimise recycling of the vehicles of the Neue Klasse.
A fresh interpretation of the brand's signature design elements, like the BMW kidney grille and double headlights, transform the vehicle’s front-end into a single interaction area. A lighting effect with precise three-dimensional animation initiates intuitive interaction between the human and their vehicle as soon as they approach the car. E Ink elements in the lower portion of the side windows also feature in the exterior welcome scenario, directing attention to the sensor area that activates automatic door opening. Innovative technology similarly defines the design of the rear lights, with 3D-printed light elements that extend over several levels and are controlled in a targeted manner to create a unique impression of depth.
Providing vision: Next generation of BMW iDrive.
Analogue operating controls have been reduced to a minimum in the BMW Vision Neue Klasse. Human-car interaction takes place through the BMW Panoramic Vision, the Central Display and multifunction buttons on the steering wheel. The user experience is rounded out by the triedand-tested voice control of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. In this way, the next generation of BMW iDrive offers a modern interpretation of the driver orientation typical of the brand.
As it did with the introduction of the BMW iDrive controller in the centre console and the BMW Head-Up Display, the brand is once again leading the world with BMW Panoramic Vision, which will be available for the first time in the Neue Klasse. Information is projected at the ideal height into the driver's line of sight and, for the first time, across the entire width of the windscreen. This innovation will complement the enhanced BMW Head-Up Display in the production models of the Neue Klasse.
In the next generation of BMW iDrive, both the driver and front passenger are able to interact with information displayed on BMW Panoramic Vision, creating a shared user experience. Drivers can move content shown on the Central Display to the BMW Panoramic Vision with a simple gesture.
A coordinated choreography between the ambient lighting and graphic elements of the Central Display and BMW Panoramic Vision enriches the user experience –which can also be customised using My Modes. In My Mode ‘Sport’ , specific displays are set against a yellow background to support dynamic driving. The new BMW iDrive is based on a highly integrated software architecture that consolidates data related to the driving experience and infotainment with data from the vehicle's electronics and electrical system and the BMW cloud. Interaction between human and vehicle can thus be tailored even more closely to the driving situation and individual needs, enabling a totally new perception of mobility.
ECARX (Nasdaq: ECX) ("ECARX") will display its immersive Makalu digital cockpit at IAA MOBILITY during its first appearance at the world’s largest mobility event, taking place in Munich from 04-08 September in Germany.
Makalu is ECARX’s fifth-generation, ultrahigh performance digital cockpit computing platform system, which enables a longer product lifecycle without any hardware upgrades, allowing OEMs to ensure their infotainment systems can be continually improved via over-the-air updates.
The Makalu system has been integrated into a bespoke vehicle cockpit display, enabling IAA visitors to fully explore Makalu’s unique capabilities and its truly immersive user experience.
With up to 32GB of RAM, 8GB of video RAM, a solid-state drive with 1TB of storage, and the Unreal Engine 3D graphics engine developed by leading game company Epic, Makalu provides truly extraordinary performance and sets a new benchmark for infotainment, delivering breathtaking, real-time 3D animations, stunning augmented reality displays, home cinema-like sound, and even HD video games.
Peter Cirino, ECARX’s Chief Operating Officer commented: “At IAA we will showcase the incredible power and performance of our digital cockpit computing platforms. The demonstrators that we’ve created allow IAA visitors to fully experience for themselves the worldleading innovation that will shape the vehicle mind for years to come. As the automotive industry progresses towards the intelligent, software-defined vehicles of the future, our agility, flexibility, and expertise, together with our partnerships with the world’s leading tech companies, will ensure that ECARX will be at the heart of the mobility transformation.”
For its fifth generation, MINI is taking a giant leap into the digital era and the brands all-electric future, today unveiling the new MINI Cooper Electric at the IAA International Motor Show in Munich. Celebrating its rich heritage yet iconic design, the new MINI Cooper offers a major step forward in technology, while focusing on a driver centric interior cabin.
“With its electric drive and purist design, the new MINI Cooper is a perfect fit for an urban lifestyle. In the fifth generation of the MINI Cooper, we combine the traditional MINI DNA with innovative, future-oriented technology while enabling locally emission-free driving fun that is typical of MINI,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI.
“Inspired by our history, we have developed our own new design language, defining our DNA. We call it ‘Charismatic Simplicity’ The idea behind it is a design that gives each new MINI model a strong, individual character and is characterized by a clear, reduced design language intuitively focused on the essentials of the brand.” says Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design.
In its fifth generation, the MINI 3-door once again embodies the core of the brand yet now with a fully electric drivetrain. The silhouette features hallmark MINI proportions: short overhangs, a short bonnet, and a contrasting long wheelbase, while larger wheels and the removal of chrome from the vehicle bring a fresh take to the design.
The front end of the all-electric MINI Cooper remains iconic thanks to a striking new octagonal grille with filigree contour, and the infamous MINI circular headlights, which are offered with three unique light signatures for the first time. While horizontal light graphics are offered as standard, optionally the daytime running light elements can be switched to create three adjustable light signatures. In addition, all light modes start and end with a specially orchestrated welcome and goodbye animation.
The exterior: maximum reduction to the essentials.
The interior of the vehicle echoes the famous minimalist design of the classic Mini, using just the round instrument cluster in the centre and the infamous toggle bar below. In the new MINI Cooper, it is precisely these two elements, in combination with the steering wheel, that are the focus of the interior cabin.
The curved dashboard features a textile surface for the first time, where a specially developed knitting process has been used to create a versatile, easy-care textile in a two-colour design that is made of recycled polyester. To keep the dashboard as slim as possible the air vents are flat, and behind the steering wheel, the optional Head-up Display ensures that all the relevant content appears in the driver’s field of vision.
The clear lines and generous space in the front seats give the interior a modern feel, while the optional panoramic glass roof makes the interior bright and friendly. In the dark, the side lighting is based on the ambient light, thereby contributing to a distinctive interior atmosphere, and the armrest, mounted on the driver’s seat, provides even more space in the centre console.
Underneath the dashboard, the newly designed toggle bar houses the most important driving functions: parking brake, gear selector, start/stop key, experience mode toggle and volume control. Without the need for a gearstick, the new MINI Cooper offers more storage space in the centre console, with larger cup holders and an open storage compartment, alongside a wireless charging area. For those choosing the Exclusive trim, a knitted surface and a textile strap comes as standard.
The rear of the vehicle offers additional underfloor storage in the luggage compartment, and by folding down the rear seats in a 60:40 ratio, the luggage compartment can be expanded from 200 to 800 litres.
In the new MINI Cooper, numerous functions can be controlled using the brand’s first ever fully-fledged voice assistant. The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant can be activated with the greeting “Hey MINI” or by using the pushto-talk steering wheel button. Voicecontrolled interaction is displayed on the round OLED display in the form of an animation of graphic elements, typography, and an avatar. For the visualisation, users have the option to choose between “MINI” – a stylised representation of a MINI – or optionally "Spike" who will already be familiar to MINI fans.
With improved voice recognition, verbal commands are also displayed on the central instrument cluster allowing drivers to control navigation, telephony, entertainment, and vehicle functions by hand movement.
All-electric drive available in either E and SE output levels, offering 190-miles* and 250-miles* of electric range
World’s first touch display, with 24cm fully usable circular central instrument display Three new exterior colours, Blazing Blue, Sunny Side Yellow and Legend Grey join existing colour palette for ultimate personalisation The MINI Cooper Electric is priced from £30,000 OTR, with customer deliveries commencing in spring 2024
The interior: minimalist, digital, immersive & warm.
“Hey MINI!”: the first MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant.
Does celebrity ownership add thousands to the value of a car? How much more is a car worth if it has appeared in a movie? Do buyers care for Royal ownership? Hagerty UK Price Guide Editor and Power List author John Mayhead investigates
Launched in 2022, the Hagerty Power List is the definitive tracker of celebrity car influence, analysing the increase (and sometimes decrease) in value by comparing stars’ cars with their standard equivalent at the time of sale
This year, the Hagerty Power List has grown Nearly 400 sales of celebrity cars and bikes have been analysed from around the world, each with their own story to tell, and new categories have been added for Art Cars and Sporting Icons, while the Movie Stars category has been expanded to include TV personalities
Using Hagerty’s vast amounts of market data, the sold price of selected vehicles were compared with the values of a standard car at that time When faced with a unique car such as the Batmobile, Hagerty valued the standard equivalent of the vehicle on which it was based on The end result was a list of famous people and films and the difference, or ‘delta’, between the value of their cars compared to a normal one
Note that pure racing cars are exempt, as the added value created by the driver can be differentiated by its racing success, and advertised values of cars are no longer accepted as a true value, unless Hagerty knows for certain what it sold for This new ruling sees a few big hitters from last year slipping off the ranking
The 2023 Hagerty Power List comprises seven categories: Art Cars, Racing Drivers, Movies and TV, Musicians, Royalty, Screen Stars, Sporting Icons Category highlights include:
Given BMW’s longstanding links with the art car scene, it is no surprise that two of its models feature in Hagerty’s top five – the Jeff Koons 8 X, and the M1 Pro Car with a Frank Stella Polar Coordinates design The highest value increase in this category went to the Astro Cumulo Uber Express 1960 Cadillac by Kenny Scharf.
The elephant in the room is that the most famous art cars have not been sold in public The most valuable of them all is probably the 1979 BMW M1 racer painted by Andy Warhol If it ever sold, the top spot on the entire Power List may have to change
As mentioned above, Hagerty does not include pure racing cars in the Power List calculations as there’s rarely a ‘standard’ equivalent to compare against, and comparison with a road-going version is often meaningless Hagerty also ignores sealed-bid auctions, which means Juan Manuel Fangio’s 1958 MercedesBenz 300SL, sold last year for a reported $5 5M, is also out.
This year ’ s winner is a 1976 Ford Bronco bought new by legendary Canadian F1 driver Gilles Villeneuve and untouched since his death. It sold for €136,150 (£117,000), a huge 210 percent increase over the £37,730 that Hagerty would value a regular example in the same condition That sale took the top spot away from Carroll Shelby, who moves into second place
Movies and TV highlights
Pixar worked together with Porsche to create a roadgoing version of Sally Carrera from the 2006 Cars movie, based on the current Carrera GTS The resulting car sold for $3 6M (around £2M) at a charity auction That’s an increase of 2500 percent over the value of a standard new GTS, a result that placed the Cars star in third spot in the 2023 list
There was no budging the two heavyweights at the top of this particular list, though: the Bullitt Mustang with watertight provenance, awesome lost-and-then-found story, and McQueen connection, is likely to be unassailable with its nearly 16,000% increase over a standard Mustang The Risky Business Porsche 928 hero car is also in a very strong second place
Musicians highlights
A 1974 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow owned by Freddie Mercury sold for £286,250 last year against a standard Hagerty value of just £7500, and it’s no surprise that Mercury’s car now dominates the Musicians category in the 2023 Hagerty Power List
That wasn’t the only new entry this year, however, with six additions to the top ten John Lennon’s 1956 Austin Princess, Johnny Hallyday’s modified 1979 Porsche 911SC, George Harrison’s Porsche 928, and Dean Martin’s Rolls-Royce are all listed amongst the newcomers One notable figure absent from the top ten this year was Elton John, who slipped down to 11th spot despite having the largest number of cars tracked by the Power List analysts
Royalty highlights
During a year that was undoubtedly the most important for the Royal Family in living memory, including the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the most fascinating element of the Hagerty Royal Power List for 2023 is just how little change there was
But the most notable royal car sale of the year just reestablished the automotive dominance of Diana, Princess of Wales, who leads the Royal Power List for the second year in succession Her 1985 Ford Escort RS Turbo sold for an astonishing £722,500
Screen Stars highlights
Burt Reynolds is straight in at number two thanks to the Bandit Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, given to Reynolds by the production company to thank him for the success of the 1977 hit movie Smokey and the Bandit Sold last year, the Pontiac raised $495,000 (£370,000), a huge 771 percent over the standard Hagerty Price Guide value for the model
Sporting Icons highlights
David Beckham’s Aston Martin V8 Volante caused a stir (advertised for £445,000) and Michael Jordan’s Mercedes-Benz S600 Lorinser described as the ‘Holy Grail of Michael Jordan memorabilia’ was valued at $135,000 (£87,900) back in 2020, when a non-celebrity car was worth around half that
Muhammad Ali’s 1970 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow convertible sold for €132,250 (£118,000), and his 1976 Alfa Romeo Spider for $23,100 (£17,600), a combination of which put him in a strong third place Second was Tiger Woods, with a TGR EXP customised golf buggy that sold for $16,500 (£13,000), double its standard price
Out in front, however, is Diego Maradona, who sold his 1992 Porsche 911 Carrera 2 ‘Turbo Look’ cabriolet back in 2021 for €483,000 (£413,500), more than four times Hagerty’s normal value
Power List creator John Mayhead, said: “Hagerty monitors a huge amount of enthusiast car market data every week, and often we see record prices achieved throughout the year Of course, the rarity and condition of the car counts for a lot, but The Power List shows just how much celebrity ownership can add to the value of a car and can push the values way beyond what a standard car might achieve ”
Emeya is setting a new benchmark for how a Lotus drives and feels by combining the company ’ s 75-year expertise in engineering and design, with the latest advanced innovations –bringing drivers an electric car that is exciting to drive and performs exceptionally
This includes advanced and active aerodynamic features such as the pioneering active front grille, rear diffuser and rear spoiler All this, combined with a low centre of gravity that Lotus calls ‘hyperstance’, enhances stability when driving, and sets a new standard in the GT segment for ride and handling excellence
Lotus has unveiled Emeya, the company ’ s first fourdoor hyper-GT, in New York City.
“Bringing together our rich heritage with intelligent performance and the latest cutting-edge technologies, we ’ re pushing the boundaries for how a luxury electric vehicle should look and handle– making it truly for the drivers,” said Feng Qingfeng, CEO, Lotus Group
The top specification model for Emeya features Lotus’ high-power dual motor set-up that delivers a top speed of more than 155mph (250km/h) and can accelerate from 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in under 2 8 seconds, making it one of the fastest electric GTs in the world.
To provide customers with confidence wherever they’re travelling, the performance of Emeya is complemented by Lotus’ market-leading charging capabilities It can add 93 miles (150km) of range with approximately five minutes of charge using a 350kW DC fast charger, as well as boost range up to 80% within 18 minutes.
Emeya has been consciously designed with advanced sustainable materials that are also sustainably sourced, to reduce its carbon footprint This includes a new luxury thread made from repurposed fibres from the fashion industry – as well as PVD aluminium, Alcantara, Nappa leather, and Ultrafabrics PU
Ensuring that every occupant can enjoy an unrivalled music experience, the Emeya will offer a truly immersive audio system developed with KEF Emeya’s speaker system will elevate music listening to new levels. It features KEF’s award-winning Uni-Q® speaker design and Uni-Core™ space-saving subwoofer enclosure, as well as Dolby Atmos-enabled 3D surround sound – first seen in a Lotus on the Eletre Hyper-SUV
“This is a Lotus like you have never seen before. We’ve built on everything Lotus has achieved so far to create a luxury performance car for the drivers, designed to inspire confidence, exhilarate with raw emotion and pure joy – connecting them to the road,” said Ben Payne, Vice-President of Design, Lotus Group
nal Motor Museum at celebrating a centenary of marque as it exhibits rarely e photographs from the ollections The Magic of the 100 Years of MG in the -Focus Gallery will feature selection of images 100 years of the famous brand and Britain’s leading manufacturer founded by s Gallery opened this year ted space for temporary of photographs, artwork, bjects and memorabilia –m the Museum’s collection million items
Photographs and film clips depict the early years of MG Oxford based Morris Garages, owned by motor manufacturer William Morris, began selling re-bodied versions of the popular bullnose models in 1923 Led by General Manager Cecil Kimber, the firm soon abbreviated its name to MG and developed its own distinct identity. Within a decade MG was building a whole range of cars at a factory in Abingdon. Other photographs in the exhibition include private motoring, class speed records, motor sport and personalities associated with the MG marque Although famous for sports cars, the octagonal badge has adorned everything from racing cars to hatchbacks, record breakers to family saloons
Andrea Bishop Director of Collections & Engagement says, “This exhibition offers a rare chance to see a selection from our extensive photographic archive Visitors to the Museum will be familiar with the MG cars in our collection, but these images capture the magic associated with this iconic marque ” The Magic of the Marque - 100 Years of MG will be in the National Motor Museum In-Focus Gallery from the 16 September until the 6 January
Kia global partner, The Ocean Cleanup, sets a new record for the amount of plastic reclaimed from the world’s oceans
55 tonnes of ocean plastic delivered to Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada
Plastics will be recycled; proportion to be used in future Kia models under multiyear partnership
Catch delivered to shore from 16-million-square kilometre Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP) by The Ocean Cleanup’s System 002
The Ocean Cleanup announces scale-up to largest-ever System 03 in ongoing mission to remove 90 per cent of floating ocean plastic by 2040
Initiative aligns with Kia’s mission to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider
Kia remains committed to more than 20 per cent increase in plastic reuse by 2030 and achievement of carbon neutrality by 2045
Kia plans to use recycled plastic from a 55-tonne haul recently reclaimed from the Pacific Ocean in its new EV models The record-breaking amount of plastic reclaimed by Kia's global partner, The Ocean Cleanup, marks the next phase in a seven-year global partnership agreed in April 2022 as part of Kia’s transformation into a leading sustainable mobility solutions provider.
The Ocean Cleanup, the international non-profit project with the mission of ridding the oceans of plastic, landed its plastic catch at Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada. The record catch was removed from the Pacific Ocean using The Ocean Cleanup’s System 002 extraction technology following a lengthy voyage through the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP) The GPGP is the world’s largest accumulation of floating waste and has an estimated surface area of 1.6 million square kilometres – equivalent to three times the size of France.
Recycling of the captured plastic will begin shortly, and Kia will use a proportion of the material in future models This policy aligns with Kia’s commitment to provide sustainable mobility solutions that have a measurable impact on achieving sustainability at scale
Already, Kia has successfully implemented more than 30 sustainable solutions in various product areas, including fabrics and carpets using recycled PET, bio-based alternative leather, and BTX*-free paint In the case of the EV9, the brand’s seven-seat allelectric SUV flagship model, for example, upcycled waste, including fishing nets retrieved from the ocean, is used to create the vehicle's floor carpets The components used in the construction of the EV9 made from recycled plastic and bio-based, eco-friendly materials weigh approximately 34kg
Immediately after bringing the record haul to shore, The Ocean Cleanup announced the introduction of its new System 03 technology Almost three times larger than System 002, System 03 can capture much larger quantities of plastic at a lower cost per kilogramme removed on a continuous year-round basis. It also features more sophisticated environmental monitoring and safety technology, such as a new Marine Animal Safety Hatch designed to protect marine life. This scale-up marks the next phase towards The Ocean Cleanup’s objective of removing 90 per cent of floating ocean plastic by 2040
Kia remains steadfast in its commitment to a sustainable planet and the wellbeing of future generations. This strategy encompasses the brand’s continued and growing support of The Ocean Cleanup. It will be reinforced and represented through the Kia logo and colours appearing on every set of overalls worn by the crew of System 03.
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