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Euro NCAP Flags Trailer Safety Gap in Crash Tests

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Euro NCAP has raised serious concerns over trailer safety, revealing that current rear underrun protection systems may not be enough to prevent fatal crashes. In recent tests conducted at 56 km/h, trailers from Schmitz Cargobull and Krone failed to adequately stop impact intrusion, highlighting a major safety shortfall. Rear underrun accidents—where a car slides beneath the back of a truck or trailer—remain a critical issue, accounting for around 400 deaths annually across the EU and UK. Despite mandatory regulations in Europe, the existing standards appear insufficient in real-world crash scenarios. The organisation is now pushing for stricter measures, urging lawmakers in the EU and UK to adopt the more robust TOUGHGUARD standard developed by the US-based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This voluntary benchmark has demonstrated improved crash protection in similar conditions. Adding to the concern, Euro NCAP found that older advanced driver assist...

2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally Launched in India

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Ducati India has introduced the 2026 Multistrada V4 Rally, a hardcore long-distance tourer built to go the distance—on and off the road. Designed for serious adventure riders, the bike combines performance, comfort, and versatility in one package. At its heart sits a 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine producing 170hp and 123Nm. The motor is tuned for a smooth, linear power delivery, making it equally capable on highways and rough terrain. Features like the counter-rotating crankshaft and extended rear cylinder deactivation further enhance refinement and efficiency. The Multistrada V4 Rally stands out with its 30-litre fuel tank, promising extended range for cross-country touring. It also gets Adaptive DSS EVO suspension with increased travel, ensuring better control across varied terrain. Ducati has added an Automatic Lowering Device, a revised swingarm pivot, and a larger rear disc to improve rideability and safety. Comfort remains a strong focus, with the bike offeri...

BYD Teams Up With Parkopedia for In-Car Payments

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BYD is stepping deeper into connected mobility, partnering with Parkopedia to introduce ParkPay—an in-car parking payment solution built into Android Automotive OS. The feature is expected to roll out in production models by early 2027. ParkPay aims to simplify urban driving by allowing users to handle parking payments directly through the car’s infotainment system. Once the vehicle detects parking activity at a supported location, drivers receive a prompt on screen. From there, starting a parking session takes just a few taps, with the relevant zone already selected. The system will debut on upcoming models like the Denza Z9 GT and the BYD Atto 3 Evo. Importantly, BYD plans to push the feature to existing vehicles via over-the-air updates, expanding access across its growing lineup. At launch, the service will integrate with RingGo in the UK and EasyPark across Europe, ensuring wide geographic coverage. But this is just the beginning. Future updates are set to bri...

Mitsubishi Teases New Pajero's Multi Meter Digital Display

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Mitsubishi Motors is gearing up to bring back a legend. An all-new Pajero is set for a global debut this autumn, and early details suggest it’s staying true to its hardcore off-road roots. At the center of the new SUV’s capability is a Multi Meter digital display, a feature inspired by earlier Pajero generations but now significantly enhanced. This system delivers real-time data including altitude, compass direction, outside temperature, pitch and roll angles, and even left-right torque distribution. In short, it gives drivers a live snapshot of exactly how the SUV is handling tough terrain. Whether it’s steep climbs, tight forest trails, rocky paths or muddy tracks, the setup is designed to boost driver confidence when conditions get challenging. It’s a clear reminder that this Pajero isn’t just about looks—it’s built to perform where it truly matters. Mitsubishi says the system is a direct evolution of the brand’s off-road legacy, reinforcing the Pajero’s identi...

Renault Rolls Out Gemini AI to Cars via OTA Update

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Renault is stepping up its in-car tech game by rolling out Google’s Gemini AI assistant across vehicles equipped with the openR link system. The update, which began deploying over-the-air on June 15, 2026, replaces the existing Google Assistant—and it comes at no additional cost for users. Unlike traditional voice systems, Gemini brings a more natural, conversational experience. It can handle complex, multi-step requests without needing rigid command phrases, making interactions feel far more intuitive. Drivers can control key vehicle functions such as air conditioning, navigation, media, and settings, while also accessing real-time EV data for smarter route planning. What sets this apart is that the intelligence now sits within the car itself, rather than relying on smartphone mirroring systems like Android Auto. The result is a more seamless and integrated user experience. Importantly, this isn’t limited to new cars. Renault is pushing the upgrade to existing ve...

Volvo Debuts Australia’s First Electric Articulated Bus

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Volvo Buses has taken a major step in Australia’s public transport electrification journey with the debut of the BZL Electric Articulated bus. Built for the Public Transport Authority of Western Australia (PTA), this 18-metre-long people mover is designed to handle high-capacity urban routes with ease. The new articulated bus offers seating for 57 passengers and builds on Volvo’s growing electric footprint in the country, where over 140 units from the same platform are already in service. The PTA itself began operating Volvo electric buses back in 2022, making this latest addition a natural progression. Under the skin, the bus is powered by a dual-motor EPT802 setup producing a combined 400kW. Energy comes from a substantial 497kWh battery pack made up of lithium iron phosphate cells, while CCS2 fast-charging ensures operational flexibility. The bodywork has been developed by Volgren, Australia’s largest bus body manufacturer, with production spread across faciliti...

BMW X6 M60i xDrive Launched in India at ₹1.77 Cr

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BMW has launched the new X6 M60i xDrive in India, bringing its high-performance Sports Activity Coupé to the market as a fully imported (CBU) model. Priced at ₹1.77 crore (ex-showroom), it blends aggressive styling with serious performance. At the heart of the X6 M60i sits a newly developed 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine. It delivers the kind of power you’d expect from an M Performance model, promising strong acceleration and a deeply engaging driving experience. This isn’t just about speed though—it’s about presence. Visually, the X6 continues to stand out with its signature coupé-SUV silhouette. The sloping roofline and sharp body lines give it a stretched, athletic stance. Up front, slim Adaptive LED headlights with arrow-shaped DRLs and the blacked-out kidney grille with double ribs add to its bold character. M-specific elements further enhance its road presence. Step inside, and the focus shifts to comfort and customization. Buyers can choose from Sens...