Month: February 2024

Renault’s CEO, Luca de Meo, has urged European automakers to unite and form an Airbus-style conglomerate to manufacture affordable electric vehicles capable of competing with Chinese imports entering the continent.

Airbus came together in 2000 as a joint venture between European aerospace companies. It is supported by European governments, and the companies came together to compete against large American companies, like Boeing.

According to de Meo, European automakers need to do something similar to compete with the growing influx of affordable electric vehicles from China, which has emerged as a powerhouse in the segment. According to Autonews, the CEO said “we need to be creative to find a solution” at the Geneva Motor Show this week.

Read: $233k Yangwang U9 Supercar Costs $100k More Than Expected, But Should Ferrari And Rimac Be Worried?

“Partners can share the investment and reduce the costs” of producing new vehicles, De Meo argued. He also pointed to past examples when European automakers have cooperated, such as on the “Type 4” platform in the ’80s, which was shared by Alfa Romeo Fiat, Lancia, and Saab.

Renault is already in discussions with Volkswagen to share the AmpR platform that underpins the Renault 5 and will go under the smaller Twingo, an EV the automaker plans to start selling at €20,000 (around US$21,700 at current exchange rates).

According to de Meo, the challenge of such a project would be creating a European value chain that includes batteries, motors, and electronics, like Chinese automakers have done. “The goal is to source everything in Europe at a competitive price,” de Meo said.

He further argued that creating cars quickly will be a major challenge for European automakers. He said that Renault has shortened development times for its EVs from four years to three years for the Renault 5, and will get it down to two years for the Twingo.

“Speed is important against the Chinese,” he said. “We’re in an uncertain world. In the past, with internal-combustion cars, you could foresee what was coming.”

In addition, de Meo argued that EU rules should allow for small Japanese “kei” cars in urban areas, lowering the value-added tax on small EVs with small batteries (rather the bonus, which is currently offered in France), or giving small vehicles free parking to incentivize their use.

Renowned design house Pininfarina unveiled the futuristic Enigma GT at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show, a design study that explores the future of “everyday driving pleasure”. The virtual concept is still a work in progress and features a large canopy for access to a 2+2 interior. More importantly, it is powered by a combination of a hydrogen-burning V6 and an electric motor, offering AWD capabilities.

Felix Kilbertus, Chief Creative Officer of Pininfarina, described the concept as a “contemporary GT, a 2+2 with desirable, exotic looks, exuding purity of design, elegance, and Italian flair”. The Enigma GT will be further evolved for Pininfarina’s 95th anniversary in 2025, making us believe that it could spawn a real-life prototype sometime in the future.

More: Pininfarina Designs Luxury RV That Expands Into A Mini Mansion

The exterior is characterized by a low-slung silhouette, a single-piece wraparound greenhouse, slim LED bars on both ends, large-diameter wheels, and a sculpted bodywork reminiscent of earlier Pininfarina concepts.

With a length of 4,580 mm (180.3 inches), the Engima GT is 140 mm (5.5 inches) shorter than a Tesla Model 3 while having an incrementally longer wheelbase of 2,880 mm (113.4 inches). According to the designers, the mid-rear engine layout proved to be beneficial for both the aerodynamics and the interior packaging. As a result, the concept has a drag coefficient of 0,24 cd, aided by active aerodynamics on the grille shutters, front wheel deflectors, underbody, and tail.

The large canopy lifts together with the dashboard, revealing the high-tech cabin with a 2+2 seating layout. The centerpiece is a transparent OLED screen on the dashboard which is combined with an augmented reality windshield harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence. The multi-functional steering wheel has a weird shape that is said to mimic the handshake of an “intelligent and friendly machine”. The seats are upholstered in sustainable materials, while elements of the hydrogen powertrain are visible to the occupants. Finally, an autonomous driving mode enhances comfort and safety in longer journeys.

A Hybrid That Combines Hydrogen With Electric Power

The unconventional hybrid powertrain combines a hydrogen combustion engine with an electric motor and a small battery pack. The hydrogen-burning engine is a turbocharged 2.5-liter V6 with 436 hp (325 kW / 442 PS) driving the rear axle, while an electric motor with up to 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) powers the front wheels and giving the Enigma GT AWD capability.

With the 9 Kg hydrogen tank full and the 10 kWh battery fully charged, the Pininfarina Enigma GT is said to offer a driving range of 550 km (342 miles) in the combined cycle. At the same time, the concept is projected to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 4 seconds, before topping out at an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Pininfarina says that the presentation “deliberately withholds the complete revelation” of the concept’s styling, as the full unveiling is reserved for the future. Besides the virtual-only Enigma GT, visitors to the 2024 Geneva Motor Show will also be able to experience “state-of-the-art design tools” from the Pininfarina Design Center, offering a glimpse of vehicle development.

Pininfarina

This week’s Geneva Motor Show will be relatively small compared to the event’s glory days, with only a handful of companies participating. Among them is Totem Automobili, a coachbuilder hailing from Italy, and this is their latest creation.

Named the GTAmodificata (Gran Turismo Alleggerita Modificata – Italian for ‘grand tourer, lightened, modified’)  Totem’s newest restomod is a thoroughly overhauled and modernized version of the iconic Alfa Romeo Giulia GTAm from the late 1960s, early 1970s.

It’s still in the prototype phase and will be limited to just 5 production examples, each carrying a staggering price tag of €1.1 million, or about $1.18 million at current exchange rates. That’s a hefty sum indeed.

Totem has ditched the original panels and replaced them with new lightweight carbon fiber parts. Much of the prototype’s bodywork has exposed carbon fiber but the thoroughly revised front bumper has a gorgeous blue finish. Totem has also installed two-piece forged wheels, crafted new LED headlights, and fitted distinctive LED taillights.

On the performance front, there’s lots to talk about. For starters, the entire car is now underpinned by a carbon fiber monocoque, both the front and rear axles have a double-wishbone setup, and huge Brembo six-piston brakes are found up front while at the rear are Brembo four-piston units. Then there’s the engine.

Read: This Wacky Alfa Romeo Giulia QV Is Inspired By The Original 1962 Model

Totem Automobili turned to Italtecnica Engineering and has sourced a custom 3.2-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that weighs just 165 kg (364 lbs) and produces a monumental 798 hp and 538 lb-ft (730 Nm) of torque between 3,500 and 6,000 rpm. This engine also revs to 8,500 rpm and is coupled with a sequential transmission driving the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential. There are three driving modes, an electric power-assisted steering system, and adjustable ABS. A titanium exhaust should also ensure the V6 sounds the part.

Photos of the car’s interior have not yet been released but the Italian coachbuilder says it comes standard with carbon fiber seats clad in leather and supporting Sabelt racing harnesses.

MG took the wraps off the new generation of the MG3, serving as the entry model in its lineup. The subcompact hatchback went under a significant visual and technological makeover and is exclusively available with a new self-charging hybrid powertrain producing a combined 192 hp (143 kW / 194 PS).

We were already familiar with the sharper looks of the new MG3 from earlier teasers. The hatchback that was designed in Shanghai follows the lines of the larger MG5 and MG7 sedans with more aggressive facial features and sculpted bodywork.

More: MG Cyberster Red Top Edition Pays Homage To Classic MGA And MGB

Measuring 4,113 mm (161.9 inches) long, 1,797 mm (70.7 inches) wide, and 1,502 mm (59.1 inches) tall, the new MG3 is slightly longer, wider, and lower compared to its predecessor. According to the company, the increased footprint results in a more spacious cabin and a 293 lt (10.3 cubic feet) boot which is incrementally larger than the cargo space of the rival Toyota Yaris Hybrid.

The fully digital cockpit comprises a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen coming standard with navigation and Android Auto / Apple CarPlay connectivity. We also find an array of toggle-style switches on the center console, four USB ports, and more buttons on the steering wheel. Safety equipment includes the MG Pilot ADAS suite with systems like adaptive cruise control.

Hybrid-Only

Unlike its ICE-only predecessor, the 2024 MG3 is exclusively available in self-charging hybrid form. The Hybrid+ powertrain comprises a four-cylinder 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS), a single electric motor producing 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), a 1.83 kWh battery, and a three-speed automatic gearbox. The driver has access to three driving modes – Eco, Standard, and Sport – with the latter allowing a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 8 seconds. At the same time, the MG3 has a combined fuel consumption of 4.4 lt/100km (64 mpg UK) and emits 100 g/km CO2.

As for the chassis, MG engineers added new “ultra-high stiffness components” which together with a new suspension setup bring improvements in handling, ride refinement, and noise insulation compared to the outgoing MG3.

Rivals and Pricing

Rivals of the new MG3 that also come with self-charging hybrid setups include the Toyota Yaris, Renault Clio, and Honda Jazz. The rest of the pack in the segment is either available with mild-hybrid powertrains (Peugeot 208, Opel Corsa, and Hyundai i20) or with non-electrified engines (VW Polo, Skoda Fabia, Seat Ibiza).

MG didn’t announce pricing for the new model but it will reportedly start from around £20,000 (about US$25,500) in the UK. An MG spokesperson told Australian media that the new MG3 will be around AU$5,000 (US$3,300) more expensive than the model it replaces when it arrives Down Under in mid-2024.

MG

The production version of the new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric has been officially revealed at the Geneva Motor Show as a modern reincarnation of the 1972 original. The styling of the French subcompact hatch remains loyal to its conceptual sibling from 2021, while its fully electric underpinnings promise a range of up to 400 km (249 miles). More importantly, Renault announced a starting price of around €25,000 ($27,100), making it one of the most affordable EVs in the European market.

The R5 E-Tech Electric’s development time was reduced to 3 years, utilizing the expertise of Renault’s newly established Ampere unit. It is the first production model that rides on the new AmpR Small architecture which is basically an updated and electrified version of the widely-used CMF-B that already underpins the Clio and the Captur.

Concept Looks With A Nostalgic Tone

The retro-inspired exterior is nearly identical to the previewing concept, echoing its silhouette and most styling nuances, right down to the wheels. Yet, discerning eyes will catch a few sly differentiators. These include refined lights at both ends, thicker pillars, as well as conventional door mirrors and handles.

More: Renault’s Future Lineup To Include 7 EVs, Developed And Built In Europe By Ampere

The LED graphics on the darkened headlights are designed to resemble the pupil of the human eye, inspired by a vintage ad of the original 5. In the welcome sequence, the EV blinks to the driver, as part of a “humanized interface”. On the other hand, the vertically mounted taillights represent the most notable nod to the classic Renault 5. These are connected by a black trim piece and feature subtle extensions from the side panels, aimed at enhancing the aerodynamic performance of the hatchback.

One of the standout features is a novel charge indicator placed on the top of the hood, drawing inspiration from the signature intakes of the original Renault 5. Given the electric nature of this new sub-compact model, Renault’s designers utilized this space for a graphic panel that illuminates whenever the vehicle is connected to a charger, displaying the current charge level. When the battery reaches full capacity, the LED display takes the shape of the number 5.

More: Renault 5 EV Turns Into A $300 Pedal Car With Functional Lights

Last but not least, the pronounced fenders were inspired by the famed R5 Turbo, giving the EV the appearance of a hot hatch. This means Alpine won’t have to exert much effort to spice up the design of its own performance-focused version.

Tech-Filled And Sustainable Interior

The interior of the R5 E-Tech Electric blends retro elements and vibrant colors reminiscent of the original model with a modern twist. The centerpiece is a 10.1-inch touchscreen which is combined with a digital instrument cluster. The Google-powered OpenR Link infotainment can host over 50 applications and services while introducing the new AI-enabled digital assistant called “Reno”.

Safety equipment includes the Active Driver Assist which is a Level 2 ADAS system. Other notable features include the multifunction steering wheel, complete with a prominent start button, and the modern textiles used all around the cabin using recycled and bio-sourced materials. Renault put a lot of emphasis on the sustainable nature of the EV which will achieve 85% of recyclability. In terms of practicality, the hatchback has a five-seater layout with an available boot space of 326 lt (11.5 cubic feet) and a towing capacity of 500 kg (1,102 pounds).

Three Power Outputs And Two Battery Options

The new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric will be manufactured in Douai, France by the Ampere unit. Measuring 3.92 meters (154.3 inches) in length, the city car introduces the new AmpR Small platform, formerly known as the CMF-BEV. The single electric motor, sourced from the larger Megane E-Tech and Scenic E-Tech, is available in three power outputs, producing 94 hp (70 kW / 95 PS), 121 hp (90 kW / 122 PS) or 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS).

The battery pack has a capacity of either 40 kWh or 52 kWh, with the latter providing a WLTP range of up to 400 kilometers (249 miles). The batteries are compatible with DC fast charging at rates of 80 kW and 100 kW respectively. Furthermore, the model supports V2G (vehicle-to-grid) technology, allowing owners to sell energy back to the grid.

Renault engineers put a lot of work into the chassis setup of the R5 E-Tech Electric, which promises to deliver segment-leading levels of roadholding ability and performance comparable to larger vehicles. This is largely thanks to the multi-link rear suspension, the low center of gravity, and the compact footprint, making it “superbly nimble”.

The starting price for the Renault 5 E-Tech will hover around €25,000 (about $27,100 at current exchange rates), positioning it squarely in competition with several current and upcoming models. It’s expected to match the pricing of the VW ID.2 while undercutting the Peugeot E-208. However, it does come at a slightly higher price than the newly introduced Citroen e-C3. Other rivals include the Mini Cooper Electric and the slightly smaller Fiat 500e.

• Note: This story has been updated to include the latest photos, videos, and information following the official debut (Feb. 26).

Renault

Renault is getting ready to participate in next week’s Geneva International Motor Show, where it will unveil the highly anticipated Renault 5 E-Tech electric hatch. However, that’s not the only highlight, as Renault will also present a variety of branded products developed in collaboration with French startups.

Most relevantly for our purposes, the production version of the all-electric Renault 5 E-Tech is expected to offer up to 249 miles (400 km) of range, and start at just €25,000 (around US$27,000 at current exchange rates). In fact, there will be a wide variety of 5s on display, among them a pair of demonstrator models. These will help show off the technology that underpins its new EV, and highlight the AmpR platform, as well as its motors, batteries, and the bidirectional chargers.

Read: The 2024 Renault 5 E-Tech Has A Hood-Mounted Charging Display

To celebrate the launch of the new car, the automaker will show off a collection of Renault 5-themed merchandise, including a yellow foosball table, a wool sweater, and an electric scooter made by the brand Plume.

In addition, Renault will present innovative electric mobility devices as part of its 5 Movements project. These vehicles feature Renault 5 branding and were developed by French startups. Each device was selected based on its interaction with one of the four natural elements: earth, water, air, and snow.

We’ll start with the world’s first folding sailing dinghy, and was created by Reverso. The compact, rigid-hull sailboat is about 11 feet (3.4 meters) long, and can be disassembled into four (floating) parts, making it easier to store and transport. It has a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h) and weighs just 37 lbs (16.8 kg).

There’s also a specially-branded version of the first electric BMX bike, by Evol BMX. It’s equipped with a 500 watt motor that can get it up to a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). It has a range of 25 miles (40 km), and tips the scales at just 29 lbs (13 kg).

The automaker collaborated with Flavien Neyertz, resulting in the creation of the yellow Searacer. This is the world’s first electric jet ski, capable of cruising along the water for up to two hours at speeds of up to 48 mph (77 km/h). It has already received an A’ Design Award.

Renault’s collaboration with Plume ensures riders stay above the water. The startup’s foil board is equipped with batteries that provide up to 90 minutes of continuous operation, all while weighing less than 66 lbs (30 kg). With a motor positioned below the water behind a wing, the board allows both itself and the rider to glide above the waves, reaching speeds of up to 22 mph (35 km/h).

If snow is more your style, Renault has partnered with Moonbike to offer an electric snow scooter. This innovative vehicle features a tank track at the back, enabling it to reach speeds of up to 25 mph (40 km/h). With batteries capable of powering it for up to three hours of continuous snow carving, and weighing in at 198 lbs (90 kg), it promises an exhilarating winter adventure.

Visitors to the Geneva Motor Show will be able to see all of these products and more at Renault’s booth from February 26 to March 3.

This story has been updated with the official information about the technical specifications of the Kimera EVO38.

Kimera Automobili unveiled the EVO38, an “Integrale” version of the sold-out EVO37, featuring a host of exterior, interior, and mechanical upgrades. The highlight of the EVO38 is the addition of an all-wheel-drive system, taking inspiration from the never-materialized evolution of the rear-drive Lancia 037 rally car.

The new model is described as “Ultima Evoluzione” which is Italian for “Final Evolution”. The styling stays true to the successful recipe of the EVO37, although the EVO38 has a redesigned bodykit. At the front, the bumper has larger intakes and the hood has a deeper vent. On the profile, the fenders are wider and slightly boxier than before, highlighting the new rally-inspired alloy wheels shod in Pirelli P Zero tires. Finally, there have been revisions in the engine cover, diffuser, and rear wing, while a new single exhaust pipe is mounted between the round taillights.

More: The Martini 7 Is Kimera’s Rally Love Letter To Lancia 037 With A Power Boost

Kimera

Kimera didn’t rely on the new “makeup”, as there were significant improvements under the skin. The engine has been upgraded with a larger turbocharger, new cams, improved ventilation, and variable-valve timing, resulting in an increased output of 600 hp (447 kW / 608 PS) and 580 Nm (428 lb-ft) of torque. At launch, the engine is mated to a shorter-ratio six-speed manual gearbox but the company is working on an electro-actuated sequential transmission that could transform the EVO38 into a “race weapon”.

The biggest difference however is the motorsport-derived AWD system featuring an electro-hydraulic differential lock that can be controlled from the dashboard, allowing the driver to manage the percentage of traction split between the front and rear wheels. This will certainly make the EVO38 faster around the corners compared to the RWD-only EVO37, together with the power boost, the improved weight distribution, and the revised suspension setup. Furthermore, thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber and titanium, the EVO38 remains in the featherweight category, tipping the scales at 1,100 kg (2,425 pounds).

Kimera

The suspension comprises a central shock absorber with double side springs at the back and push-rod shock absorbers at the front. It benefits from a new set of electronically controlled shock absorbers and can increase ground clearance for driving on rough terrain. The company also said that the new model has better ergonomics inside the two-seater cabin, without showing us the revised cockpit.

As hinted at by the name, the EVO38 will be produced in a limited number of 38 units – which is one more compared to the previous iteration. Pricing has yet to be disclosed but no one expects a heavily re-engineered Lancia 037-inspired restomod to come cheap. The new model will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show

Besides the EVO38, Kimera has also announced the upcoming K-39 “hyper restomod”, which will be destined for motorsport activities with a very limited production run and an even wilder aerodynamic package.

The parent company of MG, SAIC Motors, is continuing its expansion in European territory with the introduction of a new electric-only brand called IM, which stands for Intelligent Mobility. The marque will introduce itself to well-heeled European consumers with the L6, which will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on February 26.

The electric sedan, which has yet to be revealed or even teased for Europe, is going after the premium market with impressive range and performance. Although horsepower ratings have not yet been shared, IM Motors promises that the L6 will be able to get from 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in less than three seconds, which is quicker than a Lucid Air Grand Touring or a Tesla Model S Performance.

Read: IM Motors LS6 Secures 10,000 Orders In One Week, Offered With Up To 787 HP

The Chinese automaker also promises that the L6 will come in two different specs that offer between 600 km and 800 km (373 to 497 miles) of range. The longer-range model will achieve this feat thanks to a solid-state battery, which should be safer and quicker to recharge than the lithium-ion battery that powers the shorter-range model.

IM Motors also promises that the L6 will offer consumers “leading-edge levels of technology” in order to allow it to compete with Europe’s premium vehicles when it launches in 2025. As the brand’s introduction to the European market, the L6 is indicative of the vehicles it plans to sell on the continent. It says its focus on executive sedans and large SUVs.

The IM L6 will be unveiled alongside the new MG3 Hybrid. IM Motors was founded in 2020 as a joint venture between SAIC and Chinese tech companies Zhangjiang Hi-Tech and Alibaba. The newly formed brand is said to be one of the reasons why Audi deepened its collaboration with SAIC in China last year.

The other-worldly YangWang U8 from BYD will be showcased at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show kicking off on February 26 and will be displayed alongside other models from the Chinese brand. While this year’s event as a whole is shaping up to be quite disappointing compared to the glory days of the past, attendees will no doubt be fascinated by what BYD brings to the table.

BYD says it will use the event to gauge the public reaction to the YangWang U8 before it decides to launch the luxury brand in Europe. It has previously expressed an interest in selling it locally as a rival to vehicles like the Land Rover Defender 130, although it has not provided any indication as to how much it could cost in Europe.

Read: BYD May Bring 1,184HP YangWang U8 And 670HP Fang Cheng Bao 5 SUVs To Europe

Found beneath the dramatic bodywork of the U8 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine acting as a range extender for the 49.05 kWh battery pack. Feeding power to the ground are four electric motors with a combined output of 1,184 hp, giving the U8 almost double the power of a Lamborghini Urus. BYD will also demonstrate some of YangWang’s key technologies at the event, including its advanced DiSus Intelligent Body Control System and the e⁴ platform that underpins the SUV.

Plenty of other BYD products are also heading to Geneva. This includes the new Seal U DM-i plug-in hybrid SUV, which will be showcased alongside the seven-seat, battery-electric BYD Tang. The Seal U DM-i could prove particularly important for the company as it will be sold in markets where the EV infrastructure has not yet matured and in areas where drivers do not want to compromise in range.

Denza, the joint venture brand of BYD and Mercedes-Benz, will also be attending and presenting the D9 MPV.

Just a handful of other big-name car brands will be attending this month’s Geneva Motor Show, including Renault, Dacia, MG, Isuzu, and Lucid.

The third generation of the MG3 will have its world premiere on February 26 at the 2024 Geneva International Motor Show, the company confirmed.

The SAIC-owned brand also released the first teaser image of the interior on Monday, showcasing a fully revamped cabin. This redesign incorporates prominent dual infotainment and instrument panel displays, along with a rotary gear selector similar to the one found in the larger MG4 EV. Additionally, the seats boast diamond-stitched upholstery, something will likely be offered on higher trim levels.

More: Everything We Know About The New MG3 Sub-compact Hatch

While this is the first time that MG showed us the upcoming model, we are already familiar with its styling thanks to leaked photos and patent drawings. Predictably, the hatchback looks like a baby version of the MG5 and MG7 sedans, adopting the latest styling language of brand.

The front end sports a sharp nose and aggressive headlights. The large bumper intake makes up for the lack of a grille and is flanked by aerodynamic wings. The profile is more sculpted than before, with curved character lines reminiscent of the Seat Ibiza. At the back, there is a pair of horizontally mounted taillights and a sporty rear bumper.

MG has also confirmed plans to replace the current petrol-only powerplant with a new Hybrid Plus system. Although specific technical details were not disclosed, it is anticipated that the self-charging hybrid system will comprise a 1.5-liter petrol engine, a solitary electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery pack.

More: Does The MG Cyberster Live Up To The Legend Of A Classic Like The MGB?

The outgoing second generation of the MG 3 was originally introduced in 2011, with a facelift following 2018. Despite its age, the model remains a dominant force in Australia’s supermini segment, benefiting from the fact that it is the most affordable new car in the country. Still, MG needed a clean sheet design for its entry-level offering, that will keep it relevant until the EV-only era arises.

The 2024 MG 3 is expected to go on sale in Europe, the UK, and Asia-Pacific regions shortly after its debut in Geneva. It is safe to assume that the hatch will remain competitively priced, like its predecessor.

Story was updated on February 5, 2024 to include new information and teaser photos