Tata Motors Announces Price Increase for Commercial Vehicles Starting July 2024
Tata Motors, a leading global automobile manufacturer, has announced a price increase for its commercial vehicles, effective from July 1, 2024. The price adjustment, up to 2%, is being implemented to counterbalance the escalating costs of commodities.
Impact of Rising Commodity Prices
The decision to raise prices comes as a response to the rising costs of essential commodities, which have significantly impacted production expenses. This price increase will be applicable across its entire range of commercial vehicles, with variations depending on the specific model and variant.
About Tata Motors
Tata Motors Limited, part of the USD 150 billion Tata Group, is a USD 44 billion organization that stands at the forefront of the global automobile industry. With listings on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE: 500570 and 570001) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE: TATAMOTORS and TATAMTRDVR), which is renowned for its extensive range of vehicles, including cars, utility vehicles, pick-ups, trucks, and buses.
Innovation and Sustainability
Tata Motors operates state-of-the-art design and R&D centers across India, the UK, the US, Italy, and South Korea. The company’s brand promise, “Connecting Aspirations,” drives its commitment to bringing new, innovative products to the market that captivate the imagination of GenNext customers.
The new V-Class Marco Polo is equipped with state-of-the-art safety and driver assistance systems
Mercedes-Benz proudly presents the new V-Class Marco Polo, a smart, stylish, and versatile camper van that is perfect for everyday use. Available for order since January and now displayed in dealer showrooms, the V-Class Marco Polo offers a seamless blend of luxury and practicality, catering to both adventure seekers and daily commuters.
A Legacy of Excellence
The V-Class Marco Polo boasts a rich 40-year history, beginning with the first Marco Polo model based on the T1 van in 1984. Today, it continues this legacy with a design based on the V-Class MPV, offering modern amenities and a sleek, contemporary look.
Exterior Design
The new V-Class Marco Polo is an attractive eye-catcher, featuring the hallmark Mercedes-Benz design language. Depending on the equipment line, it showcases either an upright Mercedes star on the bonnet or a star pattern with a central Mercedes star in the radiator grille. Optional MULTIBEAM LED headlamps with High Beam Assist PLUS enhance visibility and add a finishing touch to the front end. The rear has also been updated with a new chrome trim strip, contributing to the vehicle’s refined aesthetic.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside the V-Class Marco Polo to experience a luxurious feel-good space. The widescreen cockpit and advanced technology redefine ease of use. The MBUX multimedia system, coupled with a multifunction steering wheel with touch-control panels, ensures a seamless driving experience. Additional interior highlights include:
Widescreen cockpit with dual 12.3-inch color displays MBUX augmented reality navigation KEYLESS START Wireless charging system for mobile devices Ambient lighting with 64 color options
Customizable Luxury
The V-Class Marco Polo offers a range of customizable options to suit individual preferences. Special equipment such as luxury seats with massage function, a panoramic sliding sunroof, and fascinating ambient lighting allows you to tailor the interior to your liking. The spacious passenger compartment can be configured for maximum comfort and convenience.
Advanced Safety and Assistance Systems
The new V-Class Marco Polo is equipped with state-of-the-art safety and driver assistance systems. Features like the Parking Package with a 360° camera, the EASY PACK electric sliding door/tailgate, and the Driving Assistance Package enhance safety and ease of use in various driving situations.
The EQV and V-Class Variants
The new lineup also includes the EQV and V-Class models, each offering unique features and innovations:
EQV: The EQV stands out with its modern design and excellent value. It features a radiator grille with an LED light strip, darkened tail lights, and optional 17- or 18-inch light-alloy wheels. Inside, the EQV offers high-quality materials and intuitive operation, with the MBUX multimedia system specially designed for electric driving. V-Class: The V-Class offers a progressive look with a focus on luxury and performance. It includes attractive radiator grilles, a widescreen cockpit, and active assistance and safety systems. The V-Class is available in various equipment lines, each offering unique features and design elements.
Experience the V-Class Marco Polo Today
Designed for unforgettable camping experiences, the V-Class Marco Polo is equipped with innovative features that make it the ideal compact camper van. It includes a functional kitchen area, comfortable sleeping berths, and a cozy living area, all wrapped in a modern, stylish design. The vehicle also offers digital support and powerful technology, ensuring an exceptionally pleasant travel experience.
With Mercedes-Benz Advanced Control’s remote functions, the V-Class Marco Polo even becomes your smart home on the road. Whether you’re exploring the countryside or navigating city streets, this camper van offers the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and practicality.
Nissan Celebrates 55 Years of Z History with Heritage Edition Model
In a celebration of its rich sports car legacy, Nissan is marking 55 years of the iconic Z series with the release of the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition. This limited-edition model is designed to pay homage to the legendary S30-generation Datsun 240Z, first unveiled in 1969, featuring a unique color scheme and exclusive design elements reminiscent of the classic sports car.
Distinctive Design and Exclusive Features
The 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition stands out with its exclusive New Sight Orange paint, a nod to the original S30’s iconic orange bodywork. The exterior is further distinguished by a new front fascia featuring more rectangular grille openings, 19-inch alloy wheels, and fender extensions, all of which harken back to the design of the historic 240Z. The striking orange bodywork is complemented by a black hood decal, bodyside decals, and special Heritage Edition decals around the Z emblems aft of the quarter windows.
Performance and Power
Based on the Z Performance grade, the Heritage Edition offers two transmission options: a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic. Under the hood, it boasts a powerful twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering an impressive 400 horsepower. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of a mechanical limited-slip differential, Nissan Performance brakes with red calipers, and other high-performance features that enhance both road and track driving experiences.
Honoring a Legacy
The Z series has a storied history of delivering driving excitement, and the Heritage Edition is the latest in a long line of special edition models that honor this tradition. With its blend of nostalgic design and modern performance, the 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition is a fitting tribute to 55 years of Z history, celebrating the enduring appeal and thrill of the iconic sports car.
A Cinematic Celebration
To visually commemorate this milestone, Nissan has released a cinemagraph of the Heritage Edition in action – an orange Nissan Z Heritage Edition driving on a bridge with a city skyline in the background. This dynamic image encapsulates the spirit of the Z series, blending past and present in a vivid display of automotive artistry.
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is set to commence sales of its new commercial-use mini-EV, the N-VAN e:, in Japan on October 10, 2024
The N-VAN e: is an evolution of the gasoline-powered N-VAN, renowned for its versatility in both commercial and recreational use. This new EV variant retains key features such as a spacious cargo area, a flat low floor, and a high ceiling. Additionally, it includes unique EV benefits like a power output function and a quieter cabin. This marks a significant step for Honda as it expands its EV lineup, starting with the popular commercial-use light van model
Overview of the N-VAN e:
Through the integration of a large-capacity battery, a downsized eAxle, and a centralized layout of high-voltage components, the N-VAN e: achieves a practical range of 245 km (152 miles) in WLTC mode. Charging is efficient with approximately 4.5 hours for normal charging (6.0 kW output) and around 30 minutes for fast charging (50 kW output). The advanced battery cooling and heating system further ensures optimal performance across various temperatures, contributing to shorter charging times and extended range, especially in colder weather.
Model Variants
Honda offers four variants of the N-VAN e: to cater to diverse customer needs:
Honda Launch N-VAN e: Interior Cabin
e: L4: The standard 4-seater model, suitable for a wide range of purposes. It includes a 7-inch LCD meter for displaying various information and comes in several two-tone exterior color options.
e: FUN: Based on the e: L4, this variant is tailored for leisure activities with a stylish design, natural beige interior, and additional features like fast charging capability and LED headlights.
e: G: Designed exclusively for commercial use, this single-seat variant maximizes cargo space by eliminating the passenger seat, increasing interior length by 95 mm and lowering the floor height by 120 mm compared to the e: L4 and e: FUN types.
e: L2: Featuring a front/rear tandem seat configuration on the driver side and a large pillar-less opening on the passenger side, this variant enhances accessibility for loading and unloading.
The e: G and e: L2 models will be available exclusively for lease through the Honda Fleet Sales Division and Honda’s online store, Honda ON.
Safety Features
All N-VAN e: variants come equipped with advanced safety and driver-assistive features as standard. Notably, the N-VAN e: is the first commercial-use light van in the market to offer side curtain airbags for both the driver and front passenger seats. It also introduces the Post-Collision Braking System, a first for mini-vehicles in Japan, to mitigate secondary damage in the event of a collision.
Safety functions available for e: L4/e: FUN:
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) Collision Mitigation Throttle Control Rear Collision Mitigation Throttle Control Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Lead Car Departure Notification System Traffic Sign Recognition Auto High Beam Headlights Parking Sensor System (Front/Rear) Unintended Acceleration Mitigation
Safety functions available for e: G/e: L2:
Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) System Auto High Beam Headlights Parking Sensor System (Rear) Honda CONNECT The N-VAN e: supports Honda Total Care, a members-only support service offering features like setting departure times for optimal cabin temperature and battery charging, managing charging schedules to avoid peak electricity prices, and setting maximum charging levels to reduce battery degradation.
Pricing and Availability
The N-VAN e: is priced as follows (including 10% consumption tax):
These prices are suggested retail prices and may vary based on sales companies. They include a spare tire, standard tools, and a jack, but exclude insurance premiums, registration costs, and optional features.
Honda and Mitsubishi Corporation to Establish New Joint Venture, ALTNA Co., Ltd.
Honda and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) have unveiled plans to form a new 50/50 joint venture company named ALTNA Co., Ltd. (ALTNA), set to launch in July 2024. This initiative stems from a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by both companies in October 2023, aiming to develop new business ventures to support the anticipated growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market and the push towards a decarbonized society.
Objectives of Honda and Mitsubishi
The new company, ALTNA, will tackle key challenges in the EV sector and contribute to the realization of a decarbonized society by focusing on:
Optimizing EV Usage Costs: Reducing the financial burden on EV users through innovative business models and services. Enhancing Battery Lifetime Value: Improving resource circulation in Japan by extending the life and utility of EV batteries. Supporting Renewable Energy Integration: Utilizing grid storage batteries to meet the rising demand for renewable energy and enhance grid stability. By leveraging Honda’s advanced control and connected technologies for EVs and batteries alongside MC’s expertise in power generation and battery storage systems, ALTNA aims to offer new mobility services that lower the total cost of ownership for EV users and create sustainable power supply operations.
ALTNA’s primary business ventures will include:
1.Battery Leasing Business
ALTNA will collaborate with affiliated leasing companies of Honda and Mitsubishi to launch lease plans, starting with the Honda N-VAN e:, a new commercial-use mini-EV set to debut in October 2024. ALTNA will retain ownership of the batteries and continuously monitor their condition throughout the lease period, ensuring high reliability and predicting future battery deterioration.
Honda N-VAN e
Lease Plans:
N-VAN e: Value Plan: A closed-end lease plan offered exclusively through Honda’s online new vehicle store, Honda ON. This plan, available from October 10, 2024, will feature competitive pricing by considering the future repurposing of the batteries. N-VAN e: Circular Lease Plan: In collaboration with Mitsubishi Auto Leasing Corporation (MALC), this economical closed-end lease plan will include comprehensive customer support through MALC’s EV consultation program, “EV4CHANGE,” addressing challenges from fleet electrification to charging infrastructure setup.
2. Battery Repurposing Business
ALTNA will repurpose end-of-life EV batteries for grid storage, providing supply-demand adjustment capacities to stabilize the grid and promote renewable energy use. The company will ensure the recycling of end-of-life grid storage batteries to support resource circulation-oriented manufacturing.
3. Smart Charging Business
ALTNA will offer EV charging plans that optimize electricity costs by using advanced energy-control technologies to avoid peak-hour charging. This smart charging system will automatically schedule EV charging during off-peak times, reducing costs and promoting the use of surplus renewable energy.
Additionally, ALTNA plans to explore Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) services, allowing EVs to supply electricity back to the grid, enhancing energy efficiency and supporting the electricity market.
Leadership Perspectives
Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President, and Representative Executive Officer of Honda, stated, “With the future popularization of EVs in mind, Honda is committed to establishing a comprehensive EV value chain, from raw material procurement to EV production, and the repurposing and recycling of EV batteries. We are thrilled to partner with MC, which shares our vision of a decarbonized society. By starting with the N-VAN e:, we aim to build a sustainable business foundation that not only focuses on EV sales but also optimizes the entire EV ecosystem.”
Katsuya Nakanishi, Representative Director, President, and CEO of MC, commented, “We are excited to collaborate with Honda, known for its technological excellence and dedication to resource circulation. Our new joint venture will introduce a novel business model that separates vehicle and battery ownership, integrating mobility, energy, services, and data. Through our broad industrial network and expertise, we will strive to achieve a carbon-neutral society by advancing the societal implementation of EVs.”
Conclusion
ALTNA Co., Ltd. represents a significant step towards advancing the EV market and fostering a sustainable, decarbonized future. By combining the strengths of Honda and Mitsubishi Corporation, ALTNA aims to revolutionize the EV landscape with innovative solutions and services that enhance user experience and environmental impact.
Chery TIGGO 8 Pro Max Achieves Five-Star Safety Rating in ANCAP Assessment
The Chery TIGGO 8 Pro Max achieved the highest honor of a five-star safety rating in the latest round of assessments by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program Launched in Australia in May 2024, this prestigious rating underscores Chery’s unwavering commitment to user safety and technological excellence in the era of intelligent vehicles.
A Legacy of Safety and Innovation
From its inception, the TIGGO 8 Pro Max has prioritized safety as a core element, integrating numerous industry-leading safety technologies. Built on Chery’s self-developed T1X platform, the SUV is renowned for its lightweight, high rigidity, and modular characteristics. The platform’s exceptional body strength and stability are evident, with ultra-high-strength steel making up more than 60% of the vehicle’s body weight. This meticulous design ensures the SUV’s torsional stiffness reaches up to 21,000 Nm/deg, providing unparalleled safety and stability.
Cutting-Edge Safety Features
The TIGGO 8 Pro Max‘s comprehensive safety design is complemented by its advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Equipped with multiple L2-level ADAS features, including automatic emergency braking (AEB), adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane keeping assist (LKA), traffic jam assist (TJA), integrated cruise assist (ICA), and lane departure warning (LDW), the SUV offers extensive safety protection in various driving scenarios. These systems enhance driving comfort and ensure every journey is safer and smoother.
In terms of passive safety, the TIGGO 8 Pro Max features a robust restraint system with four pre-tensioned force-limiting seat belts that quickly tighten during a collision to minimize passenger movement and reduce injury. Additionally, the SUV is equipped with ten airbags, including a driver knee airbag, seat center airbag, and second-row side airbags, offering multi-directional safety protection.
Exceptional Engineering for Maximum Protection
The TIGGO 8 Pro Max‘s engineering excellence is further demonstrated through its use of high-strength steel and innovative safety technologies. Key areas, including the cabin, are reinforced with ultra-high-strength hot-formed steel, significantly improving collision resistance.
Moreover, the side curtain airbags feature a 6-second pressure retention technology, maintaining airbag pressure for six seconds after deployment. This advanced technology provides sustained protection for passengers, ensuring a safe environment immediately following a collision.
User-Friendly Safety Enhancements
Beyond its impressive active and passive safety features, the TIGGO 8 Pro Max includes TPMS, friendly enhancements that improve everyday driving safety. Additionally, the cornering lights provide extra illumination when the vehicle turns, enhancing safety during nighttime driving.
Commitment to Safety and Intelligent Driving
Mr. Zhu Shaodong, CEO of Chery Brand, states, “The TIGGO 8 Pro Max embodies our deep commitment to safety and intelligent driving.t embodies our ultimate commitment to user safety and highlights Chery’s expertise in smart vehicle technology. We are confident that with ongoing technological advancements and improved safety features, the TIGGO 8 Pro Max will emerge as a reliable companion for users globally, steering the future of mobility.
The TIGGO 8 Pro Max‘s achievement of a five-star safety rating in the ANCAP assessment is a testament to Chery’s dedication to safety, innovation, and excellence. This high-end SUV not only provides unparalleled safety but also offers a luxurious and intelligent driving experience, making it a leading choice for discerning customers around the globe.
Bentley Bentayga Unveils the Extraordinary Journeys Collection by Mulliner – A Bespoke Studio Drawing Inspiration from Travel Destinations Evoking Well-Being, Tranquility, and Adventure
Inspired by Bentley Bentayga’s ‘Extraordinary Journeys’ – a curated global travel experience offering unparalleled road trips with exclusive access to local cuisine, design, architecture, and wellness – this collection epitomizes the fusion of luxury and adventure.
The Extraordinary Journeys Collection by Mulliner reflects Bentley’s commitment to well-being and craftsmanship, offering five unique specifications inspired by some of the world’s most breathtaking locations: New Mexico, Scandinavia, China, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Each of these Bentayga is a testament to Mulliner’s artistry, using materials, colors, finishes, and unique details to infuse the sense of adventure into everyday driving.
A Journey Through Exquisite Craftsmanship and Design
Mulliner’s Chief Commercial Officer, David Parker, expressed, “With this collection, we hope to inspire and invite customers to challenge the notion of what is possible and consider how they may co-create with Mulliner.
The Bentayga Azure, known for its exceptional comfort and spacious interior, is the ideal vehicle for long-distance adventures. The Extraordinary Journeys Collection elevates this experience with bespoke interior shades and topographically embroidered cushions representing the chosen region. The craftsmanship exceeds all expectations, making every journey a luxurious event.
New Mexico: Ruggedness and Reverence
Inspired by the Sangre de Cristo mountains and vivid canyons, the New Mexico Bentayga features Amber over Burnt Oak duo-tone paintwork and body-colored wheels. The interior boasts a palette of Saddle, Camel, and Coral with Copper Stone veneer, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that echoes the ancient rock formations and serene landscapes.
Scandinavia: Natural Beauty and Ecological Sensitivity
The configuration blends Portofino blue exterior paint with Dark Sapphire wheels and a sumptuous interior showcasing Mulliner White main hide, Imperial Blue secondary hide, light blue Stratos accents, and contrasting stitching. Slate Stone open-pore veneer completes the look, inspired by crystal-clear fjords and sustainable architecture found in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
China: Serenity and Relaxation
Bentley Bentayga On The Mountains Of China
Embodying tranquility through China, the Bentley Bentayga is adorned with Arabica exterior paint and Pale Brodgar silver wheels. Inside, Linen-colored hide with Burnt Oak, Odyssean tweed accents, Gold Green stone veneer, and Piano Burnt Oak veneer reflect the serene landscapes of the Helan Mountains, the Alashan Gobi, and the Yellow River.
New Zealand: Awe and Tranquility
Bentley Bentayga Limited Edition Series
The interior showcases Portland main hide, secondary Burnt Oak, Highland Hare accents, dark green and bronze contrast stitching, and Jeera Green Stone veneer, transporting occupants to the majestic South Island and its stunning landscapes.
United Kingdom: Tradition and Reflection
Celebrating British heritage and escapism, the UK-inspired Bentayga features Alpine Green satin paint and Grey satin wheels. The interior is dominated by British Racing Green and Cumbrian Green, evoking Bentley’s endurance racing legacy and the picturesque Lake District. This edition follows the UK Extraordinary Journey from Crewe to Scotland’s Cairngorms and The Macallan whiskey distillery.
Conclusion to Bentley Bentayga
The Extraordinary Journeys Collection by Mulliner is more than just a series of luxury SUVs; it is a testament to Bentley‘s dedication to crafting unparalleled travel experiences that enhance well-being and evoke a sense of adventure. Each Bentayga in this collection is a masterpiece, designed to make every journey an extraordinary event, blending the best of bespoke craftsmanship with the spirit of exploration and luxury.
Tata Nexon India’s No.1 SUV: Tata Motors is extending gratitude to its customers with price benefits up to Rs. 1 lakh
Tata Motors, India’s leading automotive manufacturer, proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of 7 lakh unit sales of its flagship SUV, the Tata Nexon. As the Nexon marks its 7th anniversary, Launched in 2017, the Nexon has become India’s largest-selling SUV for three consecutive years, from 2021 to 2023.
A Legacy of Safety and Excellence
The Tata Nexon set a new benchmark in 2018 as India’s first GNCAP 5-star rated vehicle, raising the safety standards for Indian automobiles. This legacy continued with the new generation Nexon achieving its GNCAP 5-star rating under the enhanced 2022 protocol in February 2024. Additionally, the Nexon.Ev secured the prestigious 5-star rating from Bharat-NCAP this month, reinforcing Tata Motors’ commitment to safety and innovation.
Stellar Performance and Popularity
The Nexon’s impressive performance and growing popularity are evident in its sales trajectory. In just the past two years (2022 and 2023), over 3 lakh units were sold. Available in multiple powertrains—petrol, diesel, and electric—the Nexon has built a loyal fan base, thanks to its class-leading design, segment-best features, and tech-forward experience. The Nexon has won 41 prestigious awards, further cementing its status as a market leader.
Celebrating a Milestone Achievement
To commemorate the 7 lakh sales milestone and its 7th anniversary, Tata Motors is offering exciting price benefits for both existing and new customers. Speaking on this landmark achievement, Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer of Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., commented, “Since its debut in 2017, the Nexon has redefined standards in design, safety, comfort, and driving enjoyment.
Over the past seven years, the unwavering support and affection from our expanding customer base have elevated the Nexon to an iconic status within the industry. Offering a diverse range of powertrains and personas, we have ensured that there is a perfect Nexon to meet every evolving need and preference of our customers.
The Journey to 7 Lakh Sales of Tata Nexon
To commemorate this milestone of 7 lakh sales in 7 years and to express our heartfelt gratitude to the ever-growing Nexon family, we are thrilled to offer exciting price benefits to both our current and prospective customers.
1 Lakh: August 2019 (25 months) 2 Lakh: May 2021 (20 months) 3 Lakh: March 2022 (10 months) 4 Lakh: October 2022 (7 months) 5 Lakh: April 2023 (6 months) 6 Lakh: December 2023 (8 months) 7 Lakh: July 2024 (7 months)
Special Celebrations and Offers
All Tata Motors passenger vehicles dealers and showrooms across the country are hosting special events and customer meets to celebrate the Nexon. Customers who have booked and are awaiting delivery of their Nexon, along with those booking afresh or wanting to upgrade their existing Tata Nexon to its new avatar, can avail of benefits up to Rs. 1 lakh, depending on the model and variant. This makes it the perfect time for enthusiasts to get their hands on India’s No. 1 SUV.
Loaded with Cutting-Edge Features
Its modern and premium design language radiates sophistication and dynamism, always making a commanding statement on the road. The enthusiastic response from customers and fans has solidified the Nexon’s position as a true leader in the highly competitive Indian auto industry.
Tata Motors celebration of the Nexon’s 7 lakh sales milestone and its 7th anniversary is a testament to the SUV’s unparalleled success and customer trust. The Nexon continues to set new benchmarks in safety, performance, and customer satisfaction, making it a standout choice in the Indian automotive market.
The Audi e-tron GT quattro and the Ducati Panigale V4 R Experts Revel in Performance
Audi and Ducati: The Audi e-tron GT quattro and the Ducati Panigale V4 R might belong to different worlds, but their captivating performance and design make them stand out in their respective domains. This synergy between Audi and Ducati is on full display at the Audi driving experience center in Neuburg, Germany, where two experts from each brand come together to explore the nuances of these remarkable machines.
Audi e-tron GT quattro: Power consumption (combined) in kWh/100 km: 21.6–19.6 CO₂ emissions (combined) in g/km: 0 CO₂ emission class: A
A Meeting of Minds and Machines
Jaan-Mattes Reiling, Audi’s Technical Project Manager, and Alessandro Valia, Ducati’s Chief Test Rider, gather at the trackside to discuss the Audi e-tron GT1 prototype and the Ducati Panigale V4 R. The sleek lines and advanced engineering of both the high-performance car and motorcycle spark a lively exchange of ideas and admiration.
The Neuburg facility, often used for motorsport vehicle testing and rollouts, serves as an ideal backdrop for this meeting. Reiling and Valia, both veterans in their fields, are visibly excited by the superior driving performance offered by both the four-wheeled and two-wheeled machines. The electric drive of the e-tron GT1 prototype offers an exhilarating experience, even for seasoned petrolheads like Valia.
Synergizing Innovation: Audi and Ducati
As part of the Volkswagen Group’s Progressive Brand Group, alongside Bentley and Lamborghini, Audi and Ducati leverage shared strengths in technical development, purchasing, and sales. This collaboration allows each brand to focus on their unique selling points, such as Audi’s innovative design and Ducati’s dynamic riding pleasure.
The Panigale V4 R exemplifies Ducati’s commitment to combining raw power with advanced assistance systems. Features like Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, and Ducati Wheelie Control ensure that even the most powerful motorcycles are manageable and safe. Inspired by Audi’s Drift mode, Ducati Slide Control (DSC) enhances the bike’s stability during aggressive maneuvers.
Cutting-Edge Control and Customization
Both Reiling and Valia appreciate the advanced electronic systems that make these high-performance vehicles accessible and enjoyable. The Audi e-tron GT1 prototype’s customizable driving characteristics allow drivers to tailor the car’s performance to their preferences, mirroring the adaptability seen in the Panigale V4 R’s ride modes.
For Valia, the Ducati Panigale V4 R represents the pinnacle of motorcycle engineering, offering various settings to match the rider’s skill level and desired experience. Reiling, typically a four-wheel enthusiast, is equally impressed by the Panigale’s electronic setup and control.
Everyday Usability with Track Performance
Despite their track-ready capabilities, both the Audi e-tron GT1 prototype and the Ducati Panigale V4 R are designed for everyday use. This blend of practicality and performance is a testament to the engineering prowess of both brands. Valia and Reiling agree that these vehicles offer a balanced experience, delivering power smoothly and safely to the road.
Dynamic Design and Unmatched Performance
His admiration for the fully electric sports car echoes the sentiments of many enthusiasts who value both design and performance. Reiling, a self-proclaimed Ducati fan who rides a Ducati 996, finds the Panigale V4 R’s performance to be in a class of its own. Both vehicles are crafted for a first-class experience, whether on the track or the road.
A Shared Passion for Excellence
Audi and Ducati continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible on four and two wheels. The Audi e-tron GT1 prototype and the Ducati Panigale V4 R showcase the brands’ commitment to innovation, performance, and design. As the automotive world moves towards an electric future, these two models exemplify how cutting-edge technology can create unforgettable driving and riding experiences.
This collaboration between Audi and Ducati underscores the power of shared expertise and a mutual passion for excellence, setting a high bar for the future of high-performance vehicles.
Robb Report Names Bentley Flying Spur and Bentley Batur by Mulliner In ‘Best of the Best’ Categories: Best Sedan and Best Interior
This year, the Bentley Flying Spur Speed has been named the Best Sedan, while the Bentley Batur by Mulliner has earned the title of Best Interior. Bentley Motors is celebrating two significant accolades from the prestigious Robb Report ‘Best of the Best’ awards for 2024. These awards highlight Bentley’s commitment to excellence in both performance and craftsmanship.
Flying Spur Speed: The Best Sedan
The Bentley Flying Spur Speed, recognized as the Best Sedan in the Automotive category, represents the pinnacle of luxury performance sedans. As the most driving-focused version of the Flying Spur family, it features enhancements that make it a standout in its class. The Flying Spur Speed boasts a 0.4-second improvement in its 0 to 60 mph time, reaching a top speed of 207 mph. This performance is powered by a 626 bhp 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine, complemented by advanced technologies such as Electronic All all-wheel steering, Torque Vectoring by Brake, and Bentley Dynamic Ride.
We are thrilled that Robb Report has recognized our iconic and powerful engine, which underscores the two fundamental pillars of our brand: the outstanding performance of the Flying Spur Speed and the exquisite craftsmanship of the Batur,” remarked Mike Rocco, CEO and President of Bentley Americas. “We eagerly anticipate further collaboration and sharing our brand’s excellence with esteemed peers and vibrant categories as we transition into the era of hybridization.
Batur by Mulliner: Best Interior
The Bentley Batur, crafted by Bentley’s bespoke and coachbuilding division Mulliner, has been awarded Best Interior. This accolade acknowledges the car’s exceptional level of customization, sustainable material options, and meticulous attention to detail. The Batur signifies the start of a new design language for Bentley, which will influence the design of future Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
Limited to just 18 examples, the Batur is equipped with a 750 PS version of the iconic 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine, making it the most powerful Bentley to date. Each Batur is co-created with its owner through a bespoke process facilitated by Mulliner’s in-house design team. Using a specially-created visualizer, customers can personalize every aspect of their car, from colour and surface finishes to unique materials like 3D printed solid gold.
Celebrating Craftsmanship and Innovation
These awards come at a significant time as Bentley celebrates the legacy of its W12 engine and its achievements in both performance and craftsmanship. The Flying Spur Speed and the Batur embody Bentley’s commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury and driving experiences.
The Flying Spur Speed and Batur exemplify Bentley’s vision of combining tradition with innovation. The Flying Spur Speed’s enhanced performance features, coupled with the Batur’s revolutionary design and bespoke customization options, showcase Bentley’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence.
Looking Ahead
As Bentley moves towards a future of hybridization and electrification, these accolades from Robb Report underscore the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Bentley continues to invest in its existing and future facilities to ensure they are environmentally sustainable, integrating renewable energy sources, and implementing efficient waste management protocols.
Bentley’s recognition in the Robb Report ‘Best of the Best’ awards reaffirms its status as a leader in luxury automotive manufacturing. With a continued focus on innovation, performance, and craftsmanship, Bentley is poised to set new standards in the industry.
