Cars

Mercedes-Benz Group AG unveils the sportiest model in the Maybach brand’s storied history: the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series. This latest marvel combines opulence, innovative design, and powerful engineering for an unparalleled open-air driving experience. With its introduction, Mercedes-Maybach redefines what it means to travel in luxury under the open sky.

Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series: (Provisional figures, combined energy consumption: 13.7 l/100 km | combined CO₂ emissions: 312 g/km | CO₂ class: G)*

Exquisite Design Concepts: “Red Ambience” and “White Ambience” introduce a new level of luxury
Iconic Features: Chrome fin, upright star on the bonnet, and aerodynamic double scoop behind the seats redefine elegance.
Maybach Signature Elements: A cohesive design linking the exterior with the interior, ensuring the highest level of comfort and style.

A Masterpiece of Design and Engineering

The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series offers two curated design concepts at launch: Red Ambience and White Ambience. The Red Ambience boasts a striking two-tone paint job, featuring obsidian black metallic over MANUFAKTUR garnet red metallic, while the White Ambience contrasts obsidian black metallic with MANUFAKTUR opalite white magno. Both color schemes exude sophistication, perfectly capturing the philosophy and driving spirit of this luxurious open-top two-seater.

Each Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is a work of art, from its meticulously crafted exterior to its lavish interior. The car’s front end features a brand-specific, chrome-finished radiator grille with illuminated contours and finely integrated MAYBACH lettering. The iconic bonnet, with its upright Mercedes star and a chromed fin running down its center, can be further personalized with a Maybach pattern in graphite grey uni. This complex process, executed partly by hand, ensures that each vehicle is a unique masterpiece.

Elegant and Sporty Proportions

The vehicle’s proportions are accentuated by a double scoop behind the seats, which, along with the chrome fin on the bonnet, enhances the car’s elegance and sporty stance. The 21-inch forged wheels, available in a 5-hole or multi-spoke design, add a touch of dynamism to the vehicle’s appearance.

The rear of the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is equally impressive, featuring tailpipes with a signature horizontal bar, a brand-specific rear skirt with chrome trim, and a dedicated diffuser design. The acoustic soft top, made from light black fabric, subtly incorporates the Maybach pattern in anthracite, ensuring that even the smallest details contribute to the overall aesthetic.

Luxurious Interior with Maybach-Specific Features

Inside, the Monogram Series continues to impress with a blend of luxury and cutting-edge technology. The cabin is adorned with sustainably tanned, crystal white MANUFAKTUR Exclusive nappa leather, which graces the door panels, center console, and comfort seats. This leather is complemented by silver chrome trim and galvanised seat backrests, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance.

The seats feature a new floral design, and even the space behind the seats is finished in luxurious white leather. The fully digital instrument display and electrically adjustable center display feature Maybach-specific start-up animations and display styles, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to providing a unique driving experience. Additional Maybach-specific touches include the steering wheel, stainless-steel pedals, and stainless-steel door sill trims.

Unmatched Driving and Acoustic Comfort

Driving the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series is an experience like no other. The vehicle is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine, delivering 430 kW (585 hp) and 800 Nm of torque. Paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and fully variable 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive, the SL 680 offers dynamic performance with superior handling.

To ensure a serene driving experience, Mercedes-Maybach has implemented comprehensive measures for driving and acoustic comfort. These include a noise-optimized exhaust system, extensive insulation, and a comfort-oriented suspension setup with soft engine mounts. The result is a vehicle that offers the ultimate in open-air luxury, with minimal road noise and maximum driving pleasure.

Exclusive MAYBACH Icons of Luxury Collection

In conjunction with the launch of the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series, MAYBACH Icons of Luxury will offer a curated collection of luxury items, available in boutiques and online. This exclusive collection includes a leather jacket, sneakers, a scarf, a tote bag, and a dog bag, all inspired by the materials and colors of the Monogram Series.

Technical Specifications at a Glance

Conclusion

The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series sets a new standard in luxury open-top driving. With its exquisite design, superior driving comfort, and exclusive features, it offers an unparalleled experience for those who seek the very best in life. Whether cruising down the coast or navigating city streets, this vehicle promises to deliver the ultimate in open-air luxury and performance.

Thar ROXX ‘THE’ SUV, is not just another vehicle; it’s a statement. It brings together the rugged charm of the classic Thar with modern sophistication, creating a vehicle that is both a head-turner and a powerhouse.

The Thar ROXX’s design is nothing short of iconic. Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., a name synonymous with robust and reliable SUVs, has taken the automotive world by storm once again with the launch of its latest marvel—The Thar ROXX. It features a distinctive silhouette with a long hood and short overhangs, ensuring exceptional approach and departure angles. This timeless design is further accentuated by:

Bold Front Grille: Paired with Bi-LED projector headlamps and C-shaped DRLs, the front of the Thar ROXX ensures superior visibility while making a bold statement.
Rugged Aesthetics: Angular wheel arches, robust cladding, and R19 alloy wheels wrapped in 255/60 All-Terrain tyres highlight its strong road presence.
Signature Rear Tailgate: The side-hinged split rear tailgate with an externally-mounted spare wheel adds to its practicality while maintaining its rugged appeal.
Luxurious Interiors: Step inside to an ivory ambiance with leatherette trims and soft-touch materials. The leather-wrapped dashboard, piano black, and metallic finishes, along with ambient footwell lighting, add a touch of luxury to this beast.

Unparalleled Driving Dynamics

Mahindra introduces its all-new M_GLYDE platform with the Thar ROXX, engineered for smooth rides and precise handling. This platform offers:

Refined Suspension: Featuring WATT’s Link suspension, advanced shock absorbers with MTV-CL and Frequency Dependent Damping (FDD) technology, and a first-in-category Hydraulic Rebound Stopper (HRS) for enhanced ride quality.
World-Class NVH Levels: The Thar ROXX is designed to deliver a premium and quiet in-vehicle experience, ensuring that every drive is as comfortable as it is thrilling.

Power that Commands Respect

Under the hood, the Thar ROXX is a beast ready to conquer any terrain. It offers dynamic engine options, including:

Safety Meets Innovation

Safety is paramount in the The ROXX, which comes equipped with over 35 standard safety features, including:

Level 2 ADAS: With advanced safety technologies like Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Comprehensive ESP Package: Including Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), and Roll Over Mitigation (ROM), ensuring maximum safety in all conditions.
Tyre Monitoring Systems: The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Tyre Direction Monitoring System (TDMS) add an extra layer of security on every journey.

Off-Road Prowess

The Thar ROXX is designed to conquer the toughest terrains with features like:

4Xplor System: Offering superior traction through Electronic Locking Differentials, making challenging terrains feel effortless.
Crawl Smart Assist and Intelli-Turn: These technologies allow for precise low-speed control and effortless tight turns, enhancing off-road maneuverability.
Best-in-Class Angles: With an approach angle of 41.7°, a departure angle of 36.1°, and a ramp-over angle of 23.9°, along with a water-wading depth of 650 mm, the Thar ROXX is prepared for any adventure.

Luxury Meets Technology

Inside the Thar ROXX, luxury is not compromised. It features:

Harman Kardon 9-Speaker System: With Quantum-Logic surround, delivering an exceptional in-cabin audio experience.
Twin HD Screens: A 26.03 cm digital instrument cluster paired with a 26.03 cm infotainment system keeps you connected and entertained.
Adrenox Connectivity: Featuring 80+ advanced features, including Alexa integration and wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay for seamless connectivity.

Panoramic Skyroof™: Offering an expansive open-air view, enhancing the sense of space and connection with nature.

Variants Wise Features

Pricing and Availability

The Thar ROXX is available in various variants, with pricing starting at ₹12.99 Lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings will open online and at Mahindra dealerships from October 3, 2024, with test drives beginning on September 14, 2024. Deliveries are set to commence this Dussehra, ensuring that customers can get behind the wheel of this magnificent SUV as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts

Mahindra’s Thar ROXX is more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of boldness, adventure, and luxury. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring the great outdoors, the Thar ROXX is designed to deliver a driving experience like no other. With its combination of power, safety, luxury, and advanced technology, it’s no wonder that Mahindra aims to make the Thar ROXX the No. 1 SUV in its segment by volume within the next 3 to 5 years.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) marked ‘World Biofuel Day 2024’ by reinforcing its dedication to promoting clean and green vehicle mobility. With the goal of achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2050 and Net Zero Carbon in Manufacturing Operations by 2035.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) continues to pioneer green technologies and alternative energy solutions, paving the way for a sustainable future. In alignment with its global commitment to sustainability, As one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers, Toyota has consistently championed initiatives that contribute to environmental sustainability. TKM’s efforts are guided by the Toyota Environmental Challenges 2050 (TEC 2050), which outlines a strategic roadmap to drastically reduce carbon emissions across all operations. This year, on World Biofuel Day, TKM reiterated its focus on advancing cleaner mobility solutions through a holistic approach, considering the current energy mix, infrastructure readiness, and unique consumer needs.

The Importance of Biofuels in India’s Energy Landscape

India, as the fastest-growing large economy, faces rising fossil fuel consumption and increasing imports. In April 2024 alone, India imported 21.4 million tonnes of crude oil, making it the world’s third-largest energy consumer. The transport sector, accounting for about 50% of oil demand, significantly contributes to this consumption and the associated carbon emissions. To combat these challenges, a swift transition to cleaner energy technologies, such as electrification and biofuels, is essential.

Biofuels, particularly ethanol, play a crucial role in this transition, offering an economically attractive and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. India’s abundant renewable resources, including surplus sugar, food grains, and biomass, present a significant opportunity to produce ethanol and reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels. Ethanol production not only supports energy security but also promotes economic growth by generating new jobs and increasing farmer incomes.

Progress and Potential of Ethanol in India

India has made significant strides in ethanol blending, with ethanol blending in petrol reaching 15.90% in June 2024. The country is on track to achieve 20% blending by 2025, which could substitute 86 million barrels of gasoline and result in foreign exchange savings of over Rs. 30,000 crores. This shift is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 20 million metric tonnes and decrease PM2.5 emissions by up to 14%.

The introduction of Flex Fuel Vehicle (FFV) technology, which allows vehicles to operate on higher ethanol blends, represents the next step in India’s biofuel revolution. Although FFVs face challenges related to lower fuel efficiency due to ethanol’s lower energy density, the integration of electric powertrains in Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFV-SHEVs) offers a solution by enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing overall emissions.

Toyota’s Role in Advancing Biofuel Technology

Toyota has been at the forefront of electrified vehicle technology, and Toyota Kirloskar Motor continues to lead in promoting biofuel-driven mobility. Last year, TKM unveiled the world’s first BS6 Stage II Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicle prototype, demonstrating its commitment to advancing green vehicle technology. This innovation, which combines a flex fuel engine with an electric powertrain, offers the lowest well-to-wheel carbon emissions and exemplifies Toyota’s approach to sustainable mobility.

Mr. Vikram Gulati, the Country Head and Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Governance at Toyota Kirloskar Motor, highlighted the crucial role biofuels could play in strengthening India’s energy security and achieving environmental sustainability. He remarked that biofuels, particularly ethanol, have the power to lessen the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels while delivering significant economic and environmental advantages. By harnessing ethanol, a locally-sourced and renewable energy resource, India can make substantial progress toward its energy security objectives. Moreover, ethanol’s ability to drastically cut fossil fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions aligns with the country’s mission of reaching carbon neutrality.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s Participation in Biofuel Initiatives

To further emphasize the importance of a multi-faceted approach to achieving carbon neutrality, Toyota Kirloskar Motor participated in the SIAM International Conference on World Biofuel Day. The conference, themed “The Biofuel Revolution in India: Fuelling Tomorrow,” featured discussions on biofuel demand and supply management, the auto industry’s preparation for a biofuel future, and the development of a robust ecosystem for biofuel adoption. The event brought together government officials, industry leaders, and global experts to share insights and strategies for promoting biofuel as a sustainable energy source.

Conclusion

As Toyota Kirloskar Motor continues to drive innovations in green mobility, its commitment to a cleaner, greener future remains steadfast. By promoting a holistic approach that includes biofuels, electrification, and advanced vehicle technologies, TKM is playing a crucial role in India’s journey toward sustainable energy and carbon neutrality. Through these efforts, Toyota Kirloskar Motor is not only contributing to environmental conservation but also ensuring that the benefits of clean mobility are accessible to all.

Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s leading automobile manufacturer, has proudly announced the commencement of 1,600 Fronx, to Japan.

Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s leading automobile manufacturer, has proudly announced the commencement of exports for its award-winning SUV, the Fronx, to Japan. This landmark achievement not only marks the first ‘Made-in-India’ SUV to be shipped to Japan but also stands as a testament to the success of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, symbolizing national pride and the growing global influence of India’s manufacturing sector.

First Consignment to Japan

The first consignment, consisting of over 1,600 Fronx SUVs, was shipped from Gujarat’s Pipavav port. The vehicles are exclusively manufactured at Maruti Suzuki’s state-of-the-art facility in Gujarat, known for its advanced production capabilities and commitment to quality. The Fronx is set to be launched in Japan by Suzuki Motor Corporation, Maruti Suzuki’s parent company, in the autumn of 2024.

This export milestone is particularly significant as the Fronx becomes the second model from Maruti Suzuki to be exported to Japan, following the success of the Baleno in 2016. The move underscores the increasing strength of Indian manufacturing on the global stage and highlights the growing demand for Indian-made vehicles in advanced markets.

A Tribute to ‘Make in India’

The export of the Fronx to Japan is a significant tribute to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which aims to transform India into a global manufacturing hub. The initiative has seen remarkable success in the automotive sector, with Maruti Suzuki at the forefront, leading the charge in exporting world-class vehicles to international markets.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, expressed his pride in the achievement. Our export to Japan is a testament to Maruti Suzuki’s capability to manufacture world-class vehicles that exemplify cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, internationally recognized safety, and quality standards. It underscores our strong commitment to excellence.

Maruti Suzuki’s Export Performance

Maruti Suzuki has consistently been a leader in India’s automotive export sector. In FY 2023-24, the company shipped over 2.8 lakh units to more than 100 countries, capturing a significant 42% share of passenger vehicle exports from India.

About the Fronx

The Fronx, which made its global debut at the Auto Expo 2023, was officially launched in India on April 24, 2023. The SUV has quickly captured the attention of Indian consumers with its modern design, spirited performance, and tech-loaded premium features. Within just 10 months of its launch, the Fronx became the first model in India to achieve sales of 1 lakh units, a remarkable feat that underscores its popularity.

In July 2023, Maruti Suzuki began exporting the Fronx to various international markets, including Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. Since its launch, the Fronx has achieved cumulative sales of over 2 lakh units in both domestic and export markets, further solidifying its status as a top-selling SUV.

Looking Forward

As Maruti Suzuki continues to expand its global footprint, the export of the Fronx to Japan marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey. This achievement not only highlights the company’s manufacturing excellence but also reinforces India’s growing reputation as a global automotive manufacturing hub. With its strong export performance and commitment to quality, Maruti Suzuki is poised to continue leading the charge in India’s automotive industry, driving the success of the ‘Make in India’ initiative on the global stage.

Great Wall Motor Company Limited (GWM) has reported impressive sales figures for July 2024, demonstrating the company’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation in the global automotive market. With the release of its latest sales data, it continues to make significant strides, particularly in overseas markets, where its vehicles have seen unprecedented demand.

Record-Breaking Sales in July 2024

In July 2024, GWM sold a total of 91,285 new vehicles, showcasing its strong market presence. Among these, 24,145 were new energy vehicles (NEVs), highlighting GWM’s growing focus on sustainable mobility. Notably, overseas sales reached an all-time high of 38,185 units, marking a remarkable 41.39% year-on-year increase. Additionally, GWM sold 22,845 vehicles priced above 200,000 CNY, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 4.65%.

For the first seven months of 2024, GWM’s cumulative sales stood at 650,954 vehicles, representing a 3.60% year-on-year increase. Of these, 156,519 were NEVs, a significant 28.14% rise compared to the previous year. Overseas sales during this period also surged, with 239,685 units sold, a 58.80% year-on-year increase. The sales of high-end models priced above 200,000 CNY reached 163,378 units, showing a robust year-on-year growth of 48.64%.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

GWM’s success in July is a testament to its commitment to long-term quality development. The new generation HAVAL H6 continues to lead the charge as a beloved “national car,” with its advanced 1.5T+7DCT and 2.0T+9DCT powertrain options setting new benchmarks for family SUVs. GWM is also advancing its technological capabilities with the development of the Coffee OS 3 intelligent space system and the Coffee Pilot Ultra intelligent driving system, ensuring that its vehicles are at the forefront of automotive innovation.

In terms of marketing, GWM has optimized its product mix, achieving both quantitative and qualitative growth. The company’s focus on delivering premium products and services has paid off, with GWM’s semi-annual performance forecast for 2024 estimating a net profit of between 6.5 billion and 7.3 billion yuan, reflecting a staggering increase of 377.49% to 436.26% compared to the same period last year.

Brand Performance and Market Leadership

GWM’s success is evident across its five major brands, each contributing to the company’s overall growth:

• HAVAL: The brand sold 52,944 new vehicles in July, with a cumulative total of 352,682 units sold from January to July. The new generation HAVAL H6, with its impressive performance and reliability, continues to be a cornerstone of GWM’s success.
• WEY: The NEV brand sold 22,632 units from January to July, with the new WEY 80 model featuring advanced technologies such as the Coffee Pilot Ultra and Coffee OS 3. This model is setting new standards for luxury and intelligence in the automotive industry.
• TANK: With 18,682 new cars sold in July, a year-on-year increase of 38.49%, TANK is making significant inroads in the SUV market. The TANK 500 Hi4-T received the prestigious China Automotive Health Five-Star Certification, further solidifying its reputation.
• ORA: The brand sold 4,780 new cars in July, with cumulative sales of 36,529 units from January to July. ORA’s focus on the battery electric vehicle (BEV) market is evident with the launch of the 2024 ORA 03 and the 2024 ORA 03 GT Mulan Edition, driving forward GWM’s presence in the electric vehicle segment.
• GWM Pickup: The brand sold 12,028 new vehicles in July, with a total of 103,944 units sold from January to July. GWM’s pickup trucks continue to dominate the Chinese market, particularly with the introduction of the King Kong POER 8AT and the 2.4T GWM POER.

Accelerating Global Expansion and Ecosystem Export

GWM’s strategy of accelerating its “ecosystem export” is paying off, with overseas sales hitting a record high in July 2024. The company’s global presence is bolstered by its comprehensive product offerings across various categories and powertrains. With over 14 million global users and cumulative overseas sales exceeding 1.6 million units, GWM is setting new benchmarks for comprehensive overseas operations, including research, production, supply, sales, and service.

In July, GWM expanded its global footprint with the launch of the TANK 300 in Malaysia and Azerbaijan, the TANK 500 in Chile, and the HAVAL DARGO in Uzbekistan. The company also made a significant impact at the Jakarta Auto Show in Indonesia, where it showcased multiple brands, including HAVAL, TANK SUV, and ORA, attracting considerable attention.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, GWM remains committed to its long-term principles, focusing on the intelligent NEV segment, strengthening its position in the off-road market, and accelerating its global expansion. The company will continue to enhance its technology research and development, optimize its capital chain and industrial ecosystem, and contribute to the healthy and sustainable development of China’s automotive industry.

GWM’s impressive performance in 2024 underscores its commitment to quality, innovation, and global leadership in the automotive industry. As the company continues to expand its global reach, it is well-positioned to drive future growth and success.

Hyundai continues to solidify its position as a leader in the automotive industry, securing six prestigious accolades in the 2024 Newsweek Autos Awards. The awards highlight Hyundai’s commitment to innovation, design, and understanding consumer needs, with the brand excelling in multiple psychographic categories designed to align with the diverse preferences of new car buyers.

Hyundai ELANTRA: The Perfect Choice for First-Time Buyers and Urbanites

The 2024 Hyundai ELANTRA made a significant impact by being named the Best Vehicle for First-Time New Car Buyers and a Top Pick for Urbanites. These recognitions underscore the ELANTRA’s appeal to those looking for a reliable, stylish, and practical vehicle for navigating city life. The ELANTRA’s combination of affordability, advanced features, and fuel efficiency makes it an ideal choice for first-time car buyers and those living in urban environments where space and efficiency are paramount.

IONIQ 5: Leading the Way for Tomorrow Seekers, Suburbanites, and New Parents

IONIQ 5 also made a strong showing with three awards, being named the Top Pick for Tomorrow Seekers, Suburbanites, and New Parents. The IONIQ 5’s futuristic design, cutting-edge technology, and spacious interior make it a versatile option for various lifestyles.

For Tomorrow Seekers: The IONIQ 5’s forward-thinking design and advanced EV technology resonate with those who are looking for a vehicle that represents the future of driving. It offers a glimpse into what tomorrow’s automotive landscape will look like, with features like ultra-fast charging and an impressive electric range.

For Suburbanites: With its spacious interior, ample cargo space, and family-friendly features, the IONIQ 5 is perfectly suited for suburban living. Its blend of practicality and style makes it a standout choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle the demands of suburban life while still offering a touch of luxury.

For New Parents: The IONIQ 5’s emphasis on safety, comfort, and convenience makes it an excellent choice for new parents. Its roomy cabin, easy-to-access child safety features, and smooth ride provide peace of mind and comfort for families on the go.

Hyundai IONIQ 6: A Vision for Tomorrow

The 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 6 earned recognition as a Top Pick for Tomorrow Seekers, showcasing Hyundai’s ability to create vehicles that not only meet current consumer needs but also anticipate future demands. The IONIQ 6, with its sleek design and advanced electric powertrain, is tailored for those who are looking for a car that combines cutting-edge technology with an eco-conscious approach. It represents the next step in Hyundai’s journey towards a sustainable and innovative automotive future.

Hyundai’s Continued Success in the Newsweek Autos Awards

The 2024 Newsweek Autos Awards featured 13 psychographic categories, each designed to reflect the behavior and driving impressions of modern car buyers. Hyundai’s success across multiple categories is a testament to the brand’s deep understanding of its customers and its ability to deliver vehicles that meet a wide range of needs and preferences.

Hyundai’s multiple wins in the 2024 Newsweek Autos Awards highlight the brand’s dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Whether it’s a first-time buyer, a suburban family, or those looking to embrace the future of driving, Hyundai continues to deliver vehicles that resonate with consumers across the board. As the automotive landscape evolves, Hyundai is clearly positioned to remain at the forefront, offering vehicles that cater to the diverse needs of today’s drivers while paving the way for the cars of tomorrow.

GWM secured top honors in three categories: the HAVAL H6 PHEV 2WD was named the “Best Buy Hybrid Car under 300,000 Reals,” the HAVAL H6 GT was awarded “Best Buy Hybrid Car above 300,000 Reals,” and the ORA 03 took the title of “Best Buy Electric Car under 200,000 Reals.

The HAVAL H6 hybrid series was honored with the “Highlight of the Year” award in its debut year. The prestigious “Best Buy” awards, organized by Brazil’s renowned automotive publication Quatro Rodas, recently revealed its winners, with Great Wall Motors (GWM) making a remarkable impression. GWM secured top honors in three categories: the HAVAL H6 PHEV 2WD was named the “Best Buy Hybrid Car under 300,000 Reals,” the HAVAL H6 GT was awarded “Best Buy Hybrid Car above 300,000 Reals,” and the ORA 03 took the title of “Best Buy Electric Car under 200,000 Reals.”

CEO Message

Diego Fernandes, Chief Operating Officer of GWM Brazil, expressed his excitement at the award ceremony, stating, “In a fiercely competitive market like Brazil, winning these three awards is an extraordinary achievement for a new brand like GWM. This not only demonstrates our commitment to quality and innovation but also reflects the acceptance and recognition from consumers and professional media. This award is very important for our brand because in the past July, both the HAVAL H6 and ORA 03 took the lead in their respective segments.”

The “Best Buy” awards have a legacy of 24 years and are regarded as one of the most significant accolades in the Brazilian automotive industry. Unlike the “Car of the Year” award, the “Best Buy” award emphasizes user needs, with rigorous media testing, personal experiences, and comprehensive evaluations of product price, performance, depreciation, insurance costs, parts availability, safety, and comfort. The winners are those models that provide the best value for money in their respective categories.

Award-Winning Models and Their Achievements

In the 2024 “Best Buy” evaluation, the HAVAL H6 PHEV 2WD emerged as the top hybrid car under 300,000 Reals. Launched in Brazil in June, this model quickly became a dominant force in its segment, impressing both consumers and critics alike.

The HAVAL H6 GT, recognized as the “Best Buy Hybrid Car above 300,000 Reals,” captivated judges with its avant-garde design and exceptional performance, underscoring GWM’s strong presence in the premium hybrid market.

In the electric vehicle category, the ORA 03 won the “Best Buy Electric Car under 200,000 Reals” award, thanks to its cutting-edge technology and artistic design, making it the top choice for consumers seeking electric vehicles in Brazil.

Continued Success and Future Prospects

This marks the second consecutive year that GWM has been recognized at the “Best Buy” awards. In the 2023 evaluation, the HAVAL H6 hybrid series was honored with the “Highlight of the Year” award in its debut year. Additionally, in June 2024, the HAVAL H6 PHEV won the “Best Hybrid Vehicle” award in the “2024 Best Car Buying Guide” by Autoesporte, Brazil’s leading automotive magazine. It was the only model to receive a five-star recommendation in this category.

Moreover, the HAVAL H6 HEV was awarded the “Lowest Ownership Cost for Hybrid Vehicles” by Quatro Rodas. Throughout June and July 2024, the HAVAL H6 series consistently led the hybrid car market, while the ORA 03 maintained its strong position in the pure electric vehicle segment. These accolades highlight GWM’s growing influence and leadership in Brazil’s new energy vehicle market.

Looking ahead, GWM is poised to continue driving the electrification of the automotive industry in Brazil and across Latin America. As a leading representative of Chinese new energy vehicles on the global stage, GWM is committed to expanding its market presence, adhering to a long-term strategy, and focusing on user-centric innovation. The company aims to deliver even better products and technologies to meet the evolving needs of consumers in diverse markets worldwide.

A Leap Forward in Automated Driving Technology

As part of Mercedes-Benz China’s technology research initiatives, this Level 4 testing aims to explore the latest advancements in automated driving system software and hardware. This development follows the company’s previous achievement at the end of 2023, when it became one of the first automakers to receive approval for Level 3 testing in Beijing.

Markus Schafer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement, emphasized the historical significance of this approval.
Since pioneering the automobile 138 years ago, Mercedes-Benz has consistently raised the bar with cutting-edge technologies. Our ongoing work in automated driving is reshaping what cars can do.

We currently offer over 40 driver assistance features, including advanced Level 2 capabilities, and we’re proud to be the first automaker with a Level 3 system available to consumers. With this recent approval to test Level 4 technology in Beijing, which will eventually be used in privately-owned vehicles worldwide, Mercedes-Benz is making a significant leap towards autonomous driving. We’re once again setting the industry’s standard—moving at the remarkable pace of ‘China speed.

Advancing Research and Development in China

Mercedes-Benz China plays a crucial role in the global research and development network for automated driving technology. With a commitment to innovation and a strong local R&D team, the company continues to drive forward the development of intelligent luxury products and services tailored to the needs of Chinese customers.
In recent years, Mercedes‑Benz has continuously increased its local R&D investment. Through a series of advanced research projects, the local R&D team is committed to bringing intelligent luxury products and services to the needs of Chinese customers at ‘China Speed.’”

Focused Testing and Safety Innovations

The Level 4 automated driving testing in Beijing focuses on studying multi-sensor perception in high-level automated driving, verifying system performance under diverse conditions, and exploring the deep integration of perception. Two specially upgraded Mercedes-Benz S-Class models will serve as the testing vehicles, equipped with a comprehensive sensor array, including LiDAR, radar sensors, and cameras, designed specifically for this project.

To ensure maximum safety, the testing vehicles are also equipped with redundant systems. These vehicles are being developed to navigate normal traffic in busy urban areas, efficiently completing complex maneuvers such as unprotected left turns, navigating roundabouts, U-turns, and parking. On highways, the vehicles can perform automatic lane changes and pass through toll stations. In extreme situations, they are programmed to execute a minimal risk maneuver, finding a safe location to stop.

The approval for Level 4 testing was granted by the Beijing High-Level Automated Driving Demonstration Zone Office in partnership with We-Ride, a leading autonomous driving technology company. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of automated driving technology.

Mercedes-Benz’s Ongoing Commitment to Innovation in China

Mercedes-Benz’s journey in the field of automated driving technology dates back to 1986, with the company continuously investing in research and development to advance this field. The recent approval for Level 4 testing in Beijing represents a culmination of decades of exploration and innovation. The China R&D team has been instrumental in developing the Level 2+ automated driving function, which offers navigation-assisted driving capabilities on highways and urban expressways across the country. This feature, introduced with the all-new long-wheelbase E-Class, has already received positive feedback and will soon be available in more Mercedes-Benz models.

Mercedes-Benz China has been a key partner in the global R&D network for automated driving technology. Since launching local R&D activities in 2005, the China team has grown into the most comprehensive R&D network outside Germany, encompassing advanced design, electrification, connectivity, automated driving, and whole vehicle testing. The company has invested RMB 10.5 billion in R&D in China over the past five years, further solidifying its position as a leader in automotive innovation.

Conclusion

With the approval for Level 4 automated driving testing on urban roads and highways in Beijing, Mercedes-Benz continues to lead the way in automotive innovation. The company’s commitment to advancing automated driving technology, combined with its strategic partnerships and robust R&D capabilities in China, ensures that Mercedes-Benz remains at the forefront of the global push toward autonomous driving. As the company moves forward, consumers worldwide can look forward to the integration of these cutting-edge technologies into the next generation of luxury vehicles.