motornews

General Motors (GM) is realigning its autonomous driving strategy to prioritize advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) for personal vehicles. Building on the success of Super Cruise , GM’s hands-off, eyes-on driving system, which now logs over 10 million miles monthly across 20+ models, the automaker aims to accelerate its path toward fully autonomous personal cars. To streamline efforts, GM plans to merge its technical teams with Cruise LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary. However, GM will stop funding Cruise’s robotaxi development, citing the significant investment and growing competition in the segment. GM, which currently owns around 90% of Cruise, plans to acquire nearly all remaining shares, pending board approval. This restructuring is expected to reduce spending by over $1 billion annually , with the transition slated for completion by the first half of 2025. from Indian Autos Blog https://ift.tt/ZGAxiXP via IFTTT

The all-new MINI Countryman, the largest offering in the brand’s lineup, has bagged an impressive 5-star safety rating in the Euro NCAP tests. Known for its spacious interior, modern design, and advanced tech, the Countryman stood out for its exceptional safety features and occupant protection. Built at the Leipzig facility, the MINI Countryman excelled in occupant safety during various collision scenarios, pedestrian and cyclist protection, and accident prevention systems. Its latest front collision warning system, with braking functionality, plays a key role in urban safety by detecting cyclists and pedestrians, including those approaching from behind or while turning. In passive safety, the model shines with features like a standard center airbag between the driver and front passenger seats. It also achieved top marks for child safety in frontal and side-impact tests, showcasing its family-friendly credentials. Also read: MINI Cooper Convertible Returns to Oxford Production...

Dacia has revealed the Duster Soul of Dakar Edition , a special one-off show car celebrating the brand’s participation in the upcoming Dakar Rally . While officially a single showcase model, Dacia's CEO hinted at the possibility of similar variants hitting showrooms in the future. The Duster Soul of Dakar flaunts a striking black, grey, and orange livery , inspired by the Dacia Sandrider rally car. Enhancing its rugged appeal, it features a bespoke roof rack equipped with a waterproof bag, cargo box, and a shovel—perfect for off-road adventures. Inside, it adds hooks for securing smartphones, tablets, and accessories, boosting its practicality. Mechanically, the Soul of Dakar remains unchanged, featuring a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 128hp , paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and an electric AWD system . Source from Indian Autos Blog https://ift.tt/rshUDWq via IFTTT

Xiaomi EV, the automotive division of Chinese tech giant Xiaomi, has shared fresh images of its upcoming YU7 SUV , following a regulatory filing that revealed key specifications. The latest images highlight the YU7’s sleek design, which builds on the styling of Xiaomi’s first EV, the SU7 sedan . While it retains a standard SUV profile, the YU7 boasts a sportier look, setting it apart in the segment. According to filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the YU7 measures 4,999 mm long, 1,996 mm wide, and 1,600 mm high , with a spacious 3,000 mm wheelbase. It features dual electric motors , delivering a combined peak power of 508 kW (220 kW front, 288 kW rear) and a top speed of 253 km/h . The SUV is powered by CATL-supplied Li-ion ternary batteries , though battery capacity details remain undisclosed. Set to launch by June or July 2025 , the YU7 is Xiaomi’s follow-up to the successful SU7 sedan, which debuted in March with a starting price of...

Ferrari unveiled the stunning 12Cilindri Spider at the exclusive Casa Ferrari event, set against the luxurious Yas Links Golf Club during the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend (December 6-8, 2024). Giorgio Turri, General Manager of Ferrari Middle East, said: “Casa Ferrari, the much-loved event where our Ferraristi gather every year, provided the ideal opportunity to unveil this latest highly anticipated model boasting unparalleled levels of performance, driving thrills and comfort. As we mark our 30th anniversary in the Middle East region, the unveiling of the 12Cilindri Spider ­– with all that it signifies – was particularly momentous.” Inspired by Ferrari’s open-top Gran Turismo legends from the ‘50s and ‘60s, the 12Cilindri Spider blends cutting-edge design with heritage. Its sleek, futuristic styling ditches muscular lines for formal purity while delivering a pure driving experience. Under the hood, the iconic naturally aspirated V12 engine pushes out an impressive ...

Mercedes -AMG has officially revealed the PureSpeed , a roofless, windshield-free version of the SL63, marking a stunning fusion of Formula 1 inspiration and classic design. Part of the exclusive Mythos Series , only 250 units of this ultra-limited model will be produced, catering to collectors and enthusiasts seeking a unique driving experience. The standout feature of the PureSpeed is the F1-inspired “halo” bar , splitting the cockpit and adding structural safety. The design pays homage to the 1955 300SLR , featuring iconic humps behind the seats, while its red-and-black livery and #10 graphics reference Mercedes' historic win at the 1924 Targa Florio . Buyers can also opt for a matte silver finish , representing traditional German racing colors. Also read: 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT 43 Arrives at $105,900 Under the hood, the PureSpeed retains the SL63’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 , delivering 577 horsepower through a nine-speed transmission and all-wheel drive . Advanced chass...

A bizarre crash involving a pink Rolls-Royce and a dump truck in Guangzhou, China, has ignited debate across social media. The driver of the luxury sedan, a woman referred to as “Zhu” in local media, found herself at the center of accusations, with many claiming the accident was staged for online fame. The incident occurred when the dump truck made an unexpected turn, colliding with Zhu’s custom Rolls-Royce. The luxury sedan suffered significant front-end damage, including a deformed grille, broken headlight, and a ripped-off bumper. Despite the insurance company offering compensation, Zhu declined, opting to pay for the repairs herself. The cost of repairs remains undisclosed, but the Rolls-Royce is valued at approximately 6 million yuan (around $830,000) . Photos of Zhu posing and taking selfies at the crash site quickly went viral, sparking accusations that she orchestrated the accident to boost her social media following. Her followers on Douyin skyrocketed to 1.4 million ,...

The grand finale of TVS MotoSoul 4.0 — TVS Motor Company ’s ultimate motorcycling festival—wrapped up in Vagator, Goa, showcasing innovation, racing thrills, and exciting reveals. Capping off the event was the unveiling of the refreshed 2025 TVS Ronin in two eye-catching new colors: Glacier Silver and Charcoal Ember . The updated TVS Ronin now combines retro-inspired styling with modern technology, vibrant graphics, and improved performance. The two new colors replace the previous Delta Blue and Stargaze Black, enhancing the Ronin’s visual appeal while maintaining its unique design identity. A key highlight is the introduction of Dual-Channel ABS on the mid-variant for the first time. This significant upgrade boosts safety and stability, ensuring better braking control. With this addition, all three variants of the TVS Ronin now offer distinct features, setting them apart not just in color and graphics but also in functionality. The festival’s final day was packed with adre...

The Bugatti Tourbillon, unveiled in June at Château Saint Jean, continues its global journey, now captivating audiences in Japan and Singapore. As Bugatti's latest hyper sports car, the Tourbillon blends heritage and innovation, perfectly mirroring the cultural duality of its East Asian stops. Japan: Harmony of Past and Future In Japan, where tradition and modernity coexist, the Tourbillon showcased its timeless artistry. Stops included prestigious Bugatti dealerships in Osaka and Tokyo, along with serene landmarks like Wakatake no Mori, the sacred Kashihara Jingu Shrine, and the culturally significant Abuden Miso building. These backdrops reflected Bugatti’s 115 years of craftsmanship and elegance, resonating deeply with Japan’s reverence for excellence and preservation. Also read: World’s First Customer Bugatti Bolide Lands in the USA Tokyo’s dynamic Akihabara district, a hub of technology and creativity, underscored the Tourbillon's cutting-edge engineering and pio...

Ferrari has celebrated its 30th anniversary in the Middle East by unveiling six stunning, one-of-a-kind Ferrari 296 GTBs. The exclusive models, designed specifically for this milestone, were showcased at the prestigious Casa Ferrari event, which coincided with the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix weekend (6th–8th December). Six Nations, Six Masterpieces These bespoke 296 GTBs have been crafted by Ferrari’s Special Equipment and Colour & Trim departments, paying tribute to the six Gulf nations with unique liveries and custom interiors. Each car captures the spirit of its respective country through distinctive metallic colours, including the newly developed Arabian Golden Sheen matte finish, symbolizing the golden reflection of sunlight on desert sands. Here’s how each car honours its nation: UAE : A pearlescent white inspired by the country’s pearl diving heritage. Saudi Arabia : Vibrant green, reflecting the lush oases in its deserts. Kuwait : Metallic brown represen...

Car enthusiasts often stumble upon a perplexing dilemma when comparing Volkswagen 's TSI badge with Audi 's TFSI . Are they different? TorqueCars on YouTube explains in this video. Shared Engines, Different Badges Volkswagen uses TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) while Audi opts for TFSI ( Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection ). Fundamentally, both badges represent direct fuel injection combined with turbocharging, enhancing efficiency and performance. Power Variants and Efficiency Interestingly, even within the same engine range—like the 1.4-liter TSI/TFSI—power outputs vary (125hp, 140hp, and 150hp). The misconception? Lower power equals better fuel economy. In reality, higher-powered versions tend to be more fuel-efficient. These engines optimize combustion, making better use of fuel, though driving style influences real-world mileage. How the Power Differences Work The main distinctions in power output come down to engine programming and subtle technical ...

The all-new Mitsubishi Triton pickup has clinched the prestigious Design Car of the Year title at the 2024-2025 Japan Car of the Year awards. This marks Mitsubishi 's second consecutive win, following the recognition of the Delica Mini last year. Praised for its rugged yet inspiring "Beast Mode" design, the Triton combines bold aesthetics with practicality. Its striking Dynamic Shield front-end design, robust form, and well-balanced proportions deliver a blend of toughness and agility. Inside, the Triton features a horizontal-themed instrument panel, soft pads for passenger protection, and intuitive controls optimized for professional use, even with gloves. Tracing its legacy back to 1978's Forte, the Triton has evolved over five generations, selling 5.7 million units across 150 countries. The latest model, launched in Thailand in 2023 and Japan in 2024, represents a complete overhaul, offering improved design, performance, and versatility for both commercial...

BMW is gearing up to commemorate the 50th anniversary of its iconic 3 Series at the 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The event, scheduled for May 23-25 on the picturesque shores of Lake Como, will spotlight the legacy of the E21, which debuted in 1975 as a successor to the 02 Series. With the eighth-generation G50 set to begin production in late 2026, the 3 Series continues its enduring journey as a luxury sedan staple. Other milestones to be honored include the 70th anniversaries of the BMW Isetta microcar and the stunning 507 roadster. Rolls-Royce will also join the celebration, marking 100 years of the legendary Phantom, first introduced in 1925 and now in its eighth generation. BMW has a tradition of showcasing unique models at Villa d’Este, such as the Concept Skytop and Concept Touring Coupe in recent years. Fans eagerly anticipate what special creation BMW will unveil at the 2025 edition of this prestigious event. Source from Indian Autos Blog https://i...

Ever wondered how useful something as simple as a license plate can be? It’s not just a random hunk of metal on your car; it’s a critical part of law enforcement and vehicle identification. And depending on where you’re driving, the rules about these plates can get pretty confusing, especially when it comes to front plates. Image by mrsiraphol on Freepik The benefits of skipping a front license plate are only seen by drivers who argue that life is better with just one plate. They love the idea of ditching the front plate, saying it ruins their car’s sleek look or interferes with airflow (because we all want to look cool, right?). But states like California, Texas, and New York don’t care about your aesthetics; they care about safety and law enforcement. But why do some states demand two plates while others stick with just one? Let’s break it down and see what’s behind these rules. Why Do We Even Have License Plates? License plates aren’t just there to let you flaunt your quirky ...

Royal Enfield , a leader in the mid-size motorcycle segment (250cc-750cc), has launched its first fully owned CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly plant in Thailand. Located in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok, this marks a pivotal step in the brand’s expansion in the Asia Pacific region. Spanning 57,000 sq. ft., the state-of-the-art facility has an annual capacity of over 30,000 units. It will streamline motorcycle deliveries and enhance customer experiences. Initially catering to the Thai market, the plant will later serve neighboring countries in phases. This facility is Royal Enfield’s sixth CKD unit globally, following others in Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, Bangladesh, and Nepal, underscoring its commitment to the region's growing demand. from Indian Autos Blog https://ift.tt/YFHgGKx via IFTTT

Mazda is doubling down on its rotary engine legacy with plans to bring a two-rotor engine to the U.S. market. Building on the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV’s 830-cc rotary generator, Mazda reinstated its rotary engine team in early 2024, tasking 36 engineers with developing innovative and thrilling cars. As per reports, in a recent interview, CEO Masahiro Moro acknowledged the challenges of meeting U.S. emissions standards but confirmed progress on a more powerful two-rotor setup. Unlike traditional engines, this rotary system acts as a generator for EV batteries, similar to the design in the Iconic SP concept, which boasts 365 horsepower and near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution. While the concept was sized larger than a Miata, Mazda hinted at potential downsizing for production. This approach aligns with their goal of delivering EV-like performance with rotary technology. Additionally, Mazda is gearing up for its next-gen Skyactiv-Z engine, set to debut in 2027. Skipping turbocharg...

The fully electric Volvo EX30 SUV has achieved the highest five-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP safety tests, reaffirming Volvo 's legacy as a leader in automotive safety. Despite being Volvo's smallest SUV, the EX30 packs advanced safety systems built on over 50 years of real-world accident research. Its robust structural design and modern restraint technology exceed standard safety requirements, ensuring top-notch protection for passengers. The EX30 also features cutting-edge active safety tools like an intersection auto brake to mitigate urban collisions and a door-opening alert to prevent "dooring" accidents with cyclists. With its compact size and comprehensive safety suite, the EX30 proves that small SUVs can deliver big on safety and innovation. from Indian Autos Blog https://ift.tt/vVLt2Y7 via IFTTT

Road accidents are unexpected. Therefore, when you buy a new car, getting its insurance policy is crucial to protect yourself financially from misfortunes. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, car insurance is a mandatory requirement with at least a third-party policy. There are many car insurance companies that provide excellent policies. However, you must compare different policies and get the best deal for your insurance plan. So, here are some effective tips that will help you reduce your car insurance premiums. What is Car Insurance? Car insurance, also referred to as auto or motor insurance, is an agreement between a policyholder and an insurer, and the insured person agrees to pay premiums on a regular basis. In exchange, the insurer helps the policyholder by providing financial protection if his/her car suffers any losses due to unfortunate events like accidents, thefts or damages. Top 10 Tips to Reduce Car Insurance Premiums Here are the top 10 tips that will help you re...

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled MBUX Notes , an AI-powered note-taking app designed to boost productivity on the go. Integrated into the brand's third-generation MBUX infotainment system, this innovative app allows drivers and passengers to create hands-free, multilingual voice notes with ease—perfect for jotting down grocery lists, meeting agendas, or creative ideas. What sets MBUX Notes apart is its use of generative AI powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4 technology. Voice notes are securely encrypted and sent to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, where they’re summarized and organized intelligently. Users can have their notes read back and even share them via email or sync them with popular productivity apps for seamless access outside the vehicle. Also read: Mercedes-Benz Enhances Active Parking Assist for Greater Ease and Safety Currently available in 30 European markets , the app will soon expand to the USA, Japan , and nine additional markets. It’s offered exclusively in Merced...

Lamborghini introduced its latest masterpiece, the Temerario, to European audiences with a series of exclusive events in London in late November. Following its global debut at Monterey Car Week in August, the super sports car captivated over 700 guests at Ladbroke Hall, a historic automotive venue turned cultural hub. The event showcased two variants of the Temerario: the standard model in matt Blu Marinus and the track-focused Alleggerita version in Verde Mercurius. Lamborghini’s President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann, alongside other executives, formally unveiled the vehicle, highlighting its key features. Also read: Lamborghini Huracan STO Driver Fined Under New Driving Licensing Rule The Lamborghini Temerario boasts a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 hybrid powertrain, paired with three electric motors to deliver over 900 bhp and 800 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 340 km/h. Key innovations include a dual-clutch transmissio...

South Australia's new licensing rule for "Ultra High-Powered Vehicles" (UHPV) came into effect on December 1, mandating a special "U Class" license for cars with a power-to-weight ratio exceeding 370 hp per metric ton. The rule caught its first high-profile offender—a Lamborghini Huracan STO driver—who was fined for failing to possess the required license. The Huracan STO, boasting a 630-hp V10 engine and a power-to-weight ratio of 470 hp per ton, clearly falls under the UHPV category. The 36-year-old driver was pulled over in Hillcrest, near Adelaide, after police noticed the car’s missing rear license plate. Along with the plate issue, authorities discovered the driver lacked the mandatory U Class license, which requires an online course costing AU$61 (~$40) and a nominal fee for license reissue. The fines for driving without this license can reach AU$2,500 or jail time for repeated violations. South Australia's law also penalizes drivers up to AU$...

Mercedes-Benz is celebrating 10 years of the V-Class with a stylish addition to its lineup—the V-Class Marco Polo HORIZON recreational vehicle. This high-end all-rounder is designed to blend luxurious comfort with practical versatility and is now available to order in Germany, starting at €58,939.95. The new V-Class Marco Polo HORIZON features an upgraded design, including a striking front grille, adaptive MULTIBEAM LED headlights, and revamped rear elements. Inside, it boasts a widescreen cockpit with twin 12.3-inch displays, stylish air vents, wireless charging, and enhanced ambient lighting with 64 color options. Innovations like KEYLESS Start, steering wheel heating, and the upgraded MBUX system add convenience and sophistication. Also read: Mercedes-Benz Enhances Active Parking Assist for Greater Ease and Safety Ideal for adventures and everyday use, it offers up to seven seats and five sleeping berths, including a reclining bench and a pop-up roof bed. Sliding doors on b...

The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric has made waves by winning the prestigious "Car of the Year" award at the first-ever London EV Show Awards. Recognized for various aspects like affordability, style, and city-friendly practicality, the pure-electric supermini stood out among its competitors. Set to hit the market in January, the Renault 5 E-Tech starts at £22,995 OTR and pays homage to its iconic predecessor while delivering modern features. Highlights include a unique bonnet-mounted charging indicator, built-in Google services optimized for EVs, and bi-directional vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality. With two battery options and a heat pump as standard, it offers an impressive range of up to 248 miles* and fast charging capabilities—reaching 80% in just 30 minutes*. Agile handling, cutting-edge tech, and a touch of nostalgia make the Renault 5 a standout in the electric vehicle market. The award was presented at the London EV Show, held at ExCeL, which brought together i...

Whether it is a luxury icon or a family car, cars have different sentimental value for different owners. Now that it is evolving to be a self-driving car it is time to look at how we can protect it from the dangers on the road.  Most of the security features in the car is primarily focussing on driver and passenger safety, in which both of them are within the car. Consider for example the interesting feature that Volkswagen brought to us. In the Volkswagen models the car itself detects if the driver is unconscious and takes remedial steps to provide safety to the driver. Intimately the car comes to a halt on it is on. Like this, the safety features are enhancing day after day to provide the passengers with comfort and security while driving. But what about the safety of the car itself? Such feature-rich cars come with a higher price tag and it is important to invest in car security before hitting the road. GPS trackers have been in the market for quite a long time now. Like any...

Ather Energy has opened its first international Experience Centre, Ather Space , in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This marks Ather’s entry into its second global market after Nepal, showcasing its flagship electric scooter, the Ather 450X , tailored for the performance-oriented segment. The Colombo Experience Centre, established in partnership with Evolution Auto Pvt. Ltd., will offer test rides, sales, and support services. Evolution Auto, backed by Sensei Capital Partners, Atman Group, and Sino Lanka Private Limited, will also oversee Ather Grid fast-charging stations across Sri Lanka, supporting the nation's EV transition. Ather’s international journey began with Nepal in 2023, where it has five Experience Centres and 16 fast-charging stations. In India, the company boasts 239 Experience Centres across 175 cities and over 2,000 Ather Grid stations. With two operational plants in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, and a third facility under construction in Maharashtra, Ather is rapidly scaling its ...

BYD has unveiled the Sealion 7 EV at the 41st Thailand International Motor Expo 2024, expanding its electric SUV lineup to Southeast Asia after its European introduction. Rebranded as the Sealion 7 for the Thai market, the SUV is offered in two variants: the Premium rear-wheel drive version priced at 1,149,900 baht ($33,380) and the Performance all-wheel drive version at 1,249,900 baht. Also read: BYD Expands Lineup in Norway with Sealion 7 EV Built on the cutting-edge e-Platform 3.0 Evo, the Sealion 7 represents BYD’s push for innovation. It initially launched in China on May 10, where it is available in four variants starting from RMB 189,800 ($26,160). At the expo, BYD also showcased an impressive lineup, including the Yuan Plus, Dolphin, Seal, and Denza models, highlighting its growing footprint in the global EV market. Source from Indian Autos Blog https://ift.tt/ujRr36Y via IFTTT

Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis has set its sights on the 24 Hours of Le Mans, preparing to compete in the Hypercar class of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). Following its September announcement, Genesis has unveiled a teaser of its upcoming Le Mans hypercar, offering a glimpse of its ambitious design. The teaser reveals a sleek sketch showcasing a curved canopy with a distinctive shark fin and a large rear spoiler, hinting at the aerodynamic focus of the vehicle. A short video featuring legendary racer Jacky Ickx, who serves as a Genesis Brand Partner, further builds anticipation for the hypercar's debut. As part of its Le Mans entry, Genesis is developing an LMDh (Le Mans Daytona h) car, designed to leverage hybrid technology and high-performance combustion engines. This move marks a significant step for Hyundai’s luxury arm as it gears up to compete with established giants in endurance racing. With its bold entry into the premier class of endurance motorspor...