Mercedes will dramatically reduce its model line-up as well as platform and powertrain options, as the maker seeks to reduce complexity and optimise profit. Markus Schafer, Mercedes R&D boss said the drive came as a result of its focus on electric vehicles, and would range from cutting car lines to single components used in its… Continue reading Mercedes to reduce model line-up, platforms and powertrains
Author: Autocar Magazine UK
Mercedes R&D boss: EQC production is “learning curve”
The supply chain issues for Mercedes’ EQC electric SUV have presented a steep learning curve, according to Mercedes R&D board member Markus Schafer, but he says the maker is back on track to produce 50,000 EQCs this year. Issues with Mercedes’ battery supplier, LG Chem, had led to widespread reports that Mercedes would not fulfil its… Continue reading Mercedes R&D boss: EQC production is “learning curve”
New Koenigsegg Gemera revealed as 1700bhp four-seat hybrid
Koenigsegg has revealed the Gemera as a highly potent four-seater that promises the Swedish firm’s trademark blend of refinement and straight-line pace. The surprise new model is described as a ‘mega-GT’, and, unlike anything else in Koenigsegg’s line-up, it’s claimed to seat four adults comfortably with ample room for luggage. Like the brand’s Jesko hypercar flagship, the… Continue reading New Koenigsegg Gemera revealed as 1700bhp four-seat hybrid
PSA Ellesmere Port factory investment will hang on EU trade deal
PSA boss Carlos Tavares remains “eager to invest” in Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port factory should a suitable business case be made for it off the back of UK-EU trade deal talks. However, should tariffs be imposed on cars or car parts then Tavares said the UK government would need to make the investment as it “would not be… Continue reading PSA Ellesmere Port factory investment will hang on EU trade deal
Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne is 1099bhp performance EV
Revived luxury car marque Hispano Suiza has revealed an upgraded version of its Carmen electric grand tourer, inspired by the brand’s motorsport heritage. Called the Carmen Boulogne in reference to one of the Spanish firm’s historic race cars, the limited-run luxury car is claimed to offer substantial performance and handling upgrades over the standard car,… Continue reading Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne is 1099bhp performance EV
Mega-power electric hypercar “not a priority” for Porsche
Porsche has no desire to follow the array of electric hypercars with four-figure power outputs into the market, according to the brand’s design chief. Talking to Autocar in a phone interview that would have taken place at the cancelled Geneva motor show, Michael Mauer expressed that he has other ideas about what is important for enthusiasts. … Continue reading Mega-power electric hypercar “not a priority” for Porsche
Porsche: no electric 911 until at least 2030
An all-electric Porsche 911 will not be produced before 2030 at the earliest, according to Porsche sports cars line director Frank-Steffen Walliser. “The 911 will be the last Porsche to become electric,” he told Autocar, “coming hopefully after my retirement so I’m not responsible any more and no one can blame me… I will fight to… Continue reading Porsche: no electric 911 until at least 2030
Suzuki Ignis gains new styling and powertrain for 2020
Suzuki’s quirky Ignis city car has undergone a mid-life facelift, gaining subtle design tweaks and a new mild hybrid powertrain option. The Fiat 500 rival, launched in 2016, retains its boxy overall silhouette, flared wheel arches and compact footprint, but gains a new five-spoke front grille that brings it into line with the Jimny SUV. … Continue reading Suzuki Ignis gains new styling and powertrain for 2020
New Bentley Mulliner Bacalar is £1.5m two-seat luxury GT
Hannig identifies three pillars of Mulliner: Mulliner Classic, Mulliner Collections and Mulliner Coachbuilt. Mulliner Classic was kick-started last year with a 1939 Bentley Corniche recreation and news of a continuation series of the Birkin Blower. Mulliner Collections includes models such as the recently revealed Continental GT Mulliner Convertible. And Mulliner Coachbuilt includes the Bacalar, with… Continue reading New Bentley Mulliner Bacalar is £1.5m two-seat luxury GT
New Skoda Octavia vRS gains 242bhp PHEV option for 2020
Skoda’s longest-serving sporting model, the Octavia vRS, has moved to a new generation and, like its Volkswagen Group siblings, will be the first to feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Czech brand has released details of only the vRS iV plug-in version so far, which has a 1.4-litre TSI turbo petrol engine mated to a… Continue reading New Skoda Octavia vRS gains 242bhp PHEV option for 2020