Škoda celebrates 130 year anniversary with fastest production Fabia ever: the new Fabia 130

Industry News

New Fabia 130 is the fastest production Fabia to date 0-62 mph in 7.4 seconds and 142 mph top speed Uprated 1.5 TSI EVO2 177 PS engine drives through modified seven-speed DSG gearbox Revised gearbox mapping improves mid-range flexibility Lowered sports chassis and revised steering delivers sharper responses Bespoke design package features deeper front bumper and larger rear spoiler New sporting flagship of Fabia range priced at £29,995 OTR Milton Keynes, 07 October 2025 – Škoda is marking 130 years of innovation and performance with a special addition to its line-up: the Fabia 130. Building on the specification of the current Monte Carlo variant, the special-edition model is Škoda’s fastest series-produced Fabia model to date with an output of 177 PS and a top speed 142 mph. Developed by the brand’s Technical Development team and inspired by Škoda’s ongoing rallying success, the Fabia 130 features an updated 1.5 TSI engine and bespoke chassis dynamics designed to deliver the most engaging Fabia driving experience yet. A revised DSG transmission, selectable driving modes and a series of chassis and aerodynamic upgrades all combine to make it the most responsive Fabia ever built. Performance and precision: the fastest Fabia everAt the heart of the new Fabia 130 lies a reworked 1.5 TSI EVO2 engine that now produces 177 PS (130 kW) – a 27 PS increase over the standard model. Škoda engineers have optimised components including the intake plenum, vibration damper and rocker arms to handle the higher output. The result is sharper, stronger performance across the rev range: peak power is delivered between 5,750 and 6,000 rpm, with 250 Nm of torque available from just 1,500 rpm. The seven-speed DSG transmission has also been reprogrammed with higher shift points for faster acceleration, double-clutch downshifts in Sport mode, and revised braking logic for immediate re-acceleration. The result is quicker responses and a more engaging drive. In terms of performance, the Fabia 130 sprints from 0–62 mph in 7.4 seconds (0.6 seconds quicker than the standard 1.5 TSI), and achieves a top speed of 142 mph – making it the quickest series-produced Fabia ever. Mid-range performance has also improved, with 37-62 mph (60-100 kph) taking just 3.8 seconds (compared with 4.1 seconds), and 50–70 mph (80-120 kph) in 4.8 seconds (compared with 5.3 seconds). To match the additional power, the Fabia 130 is equipped with sports suspension lowered by 15 mm, 18-inch Libra alloy wheels and recalibrated steering for greater precision and feedback. New Normal and Sport driving modes adapt both steering weight and throttle response, while a two-stage Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) can be turned off to deactivate traction control and allow a controlled slip in appropriate surroundings. Selecting ASR Sport + ESC Sport mode allows greater wheel slip while the ESC system intervenes later, ensuring an exciting yet safe driving experience. Exterior design: a confident nod to motorsport heritageBased on the Monte Carlo variant, the new Fabia 130 is offered in four exterior colours: Moon White, Velvet Red, Race Blue and Black Magic – each with a gloss black roof, pillars and mirrors. Motorsport-inspired detailing includes black front and rear spoilers, a rear diffuser, and special 130 badges on the front wings and boot lid. Distinctive smoked 18-inch Libra wheels complement the lower stance, while black-tinted headlight housings sharpen the car’s appearance. At the rear, a black horizontal stripe pays tribute to the Fabia Rally2’s livery, while twin exhaust tips emphasise the car’s performance credentials. Interior: sportiness meets practicalityInside, the Fabia 130 combines performance-oriented design with everyday comfort. Electric sports seats with firm side bolsters offer excellent support during dynamic driving, while a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with DSG paddles, and stainless-steel pedals complete the cockpit feel. Decorative grey and black aluminium trim runs across the dashboard and doors, while bespoke Fabia 130 door sills underline the car’s exclusivity. A 10-inch Virtual Cockpit is fitted as standard, along with a 9.2-inch infotainment display providing seamless connectivity. UK pricingPositioned at the top of the Fabia range, the new 130 variant is priced from £29,995 OTR with UK order books open from 30 October 2025. As befits a new sporting flagship of the line-up, the Fabia 130 comes generously equipped with metallic paint, Bi-LED headlamps and keyless start/stop + entry all included as standard. Buyers also benefit from a rear camera, voice control, privacy glass and 18-inch Libra alloys as standard. 130 years of innovation: inspired by motorsport successThe Fabia nameplate has been a core part of Škoda’s success story since its debut in 1999, with over five million cars produced to date. From the original Fabia vRS TDI, through the turbocharged 1.4 TSI vRS, to the R5 and Rally2 competition cars that have dominated international rallying, the Fabia has long embodied Škoda’s performance spirit. Since 2015, Škoda Motorsport has developed successive generations of Fabia Rally2 cars that have achieved countless victories in WRC2, ERC, and national rally championships, making the Fabia the most successful rally car in its category. The new Fabia 130 pays tribute to this rich heritage, combining everyday usability with authentic motorsport DNA. Škoda Auto is successfully steering through the new decade with the Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030. aims to be one of the five best-selling brands in Europe by 2030 with an attractive line-up in the entry-level segments and additional e-models. is emerging as the leading European brand in important growth markets such as India or North Africa. currently offers its customers eleven passenger-car series: the Fabia, Scala, Octavia and Superb as well as the Kamiq, Karoq, Kodiaq, Enyaq, Enyaq Coupé, Slavia and Kushaq. delivered over 731,000 vehicles to customers around the world in 2022. has been a member of the Volkswagen Group for 30 years. The Volkswagen Group is one of the most successful vehicle manufacturers in the world. independently manufactures and develops not only vehicles but also components such as MEB battery systems, engines and transmissions in association with the Group. operates at three sites in the Czech Republic; has additional production capacity in…

Renault wins Manufacturer of the Year title for unprecedented second year in a row, plus Renault 4 adds another trophy at News UK Motor Awards 2025

Industry News

Renault celebrates double success at the News UK Motor Awards 2025 Renault named ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ for the second consecutive year, an unprecedented achievement Renault 4 E-Tech electric wins ‘Small SUV/Crossover of the Year’, winning praise for being a “fabulous, affordable, fun EV for families” The Motor Awards are judged by expert journalists from News UK, including The Times, The Sunday Times and The Sun With the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant, for which every new electric Renault qualifies, prices for the Renault 4 E-Tech electric now start from £25,495 on-the-road Renault has triumphed once more at the News UK Motor Awards, winning ‘Manufacturer of the Year’ for the second year running – an unprecedented achievement – and celebrating further success with the Renault 4 E-Tech electric, which was crowned ‘Small SUV/Crossover of the Year’. The prestigious awards are judged by an expert panel of motoring journalists from across News UK’s leading titles, including The Times, The Sunday Times and The Sun. Winners are selected following rigorous assessment of the latest cars across a variety of important categories. Will Dron, Digital Driving Editor at The Times and The Sunday Times, said: “To win Manufacturer of the Year is impressive but to do it two years on the trot is unprecedented. It’s thoroughly deserved, though, with the momentum from the launch of excellent models like the Scenic E-Tech and Renault 5 last year carrying on into 2025. Anticipation around the likes of the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, Twingo and new Clio is building but it’s the Renault 4 that deserves huge praise for the time-being, as a fabulous, affordable, fun EV for families who need a bit more space than the R5 provides. We can’t wait to see what Renault can do over the next 12 months.” Priced from £25,495 after the Government’s £1,500 Electric Car Grant, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric reinvents the iconic original while retaining its trademark practicality and versatility. Impressive interior space, exceptional 420-litre boot capacity, and a driving range of up to 247 miles are just some of its most appealing highlights. This year’s double success follows Renault’s hat-trick of wins at the 2024 Motor Awards, when the Renault 5 E-Tech electric and Scenic E-Tech electric were crowned ‘Electric Car of the Year’ and ‘Family Car of the Year’ respectively. With the Renault 4 E-Tech electric now taking its own category win, Renault continues to demonstrate the strength and appeal of its all-electric line-up. For more information on the Renault 4 E-Tech electric, please visit https://www.renault.co.uk/electric-vehicles/r4-e-tech-electric.html ABOUT RENAULTRenault, a historic mobility brand and pioneer of electric vehicles in Europe, has always developed innovative vehicles. With the ‘Renaulution’ strategic plan, Renault has embarked on an ambitious, value-generating transformation moving towards a more competitive, balanced and electrified range. Its ambition is to embody modernity and innovation in technology, energy and mobility services in the automotive industry and beyond.

Past meets electric future: Škoda breathes new life into the iconic 110 R

Industry News

Škoda design team re-imagines classic 110 R Coupé Clean-sheet rework features all-electric drivetrain and rear-wheel drive Motorsport features include roll cage and centre-lock wheels Digital mirrors and concealed headlights improve aero efficiency Original 110 R coupe spawned a host of race and rally models Milton Keynes, 06 October 2025 – Škoda has always had one eye on the future while never forgetting the legends that built its past. With 130 years of history under its wheels, the brand can draw on a remarkable back catalogue of classic models that have shaped automotive history. As part of its creative process, Škoda’s design team often looks back to the brand’s most iconic models, reinterpreting them through the lens of its Modern Solid design philosophy. The latest classic to be reimagined for the electric era is the legendary Škoda 110 R coupé – a pioneering model that not only captured the hearts of drivers in its day but also laid the foundations for some of Škoda’s most successful rally and race cars. Škoda’s 2025 110 R reboot is the work of Richard Švec, a designer at Škoda Auto who works in the digital modelling team. His passion for the 110 R has inspired him to craft a bold, forward-looking reimagining of the Coupé for the electric age. Despite drawing obvious inspiration from the classic 1970s model, Richard’s take on the 110 R is anything but retro. Instead, it’s a clean-sheet vision that carefully integrates subtle nods to the original, while embracing the crisp proportions and uncluttered surfaces that define Škoda’s new Modern Solid design language. With a strong stance, taut surfaces and geometric shapes, the 110 R is a coupé that captures the elegance and boldness of the original. Skoda’s incredible motorsport heritage is evident too: flared arches, a visible roll cage, centre-lock wheels, and ribbed detailing on the bonnet pay subtle homage to the legendary 130 RS. From the start of the design process, the 2025 110 R was envisaged with electric propulsion and a rear-wheel drive layout – the latter element remaining faithful to the original. To help reinforce the visual link between the concept and its inspiration, the new version features distinctive side air intakes that take on a new function as cooling ducts for the battery pack. “Because an EV doesn’t need the same kind of cooling system as a combustion car, I was able to keep the shapes and surfaces beautifully clean,” says Richard. Hi-tech features play a starring role too. Low-drag cameras replace conventional mirrors, while the headlights are concealed beneath sliding covers that only reveal themselves when in use. “Lighting tells you so much about a car’s era,” Richard explains. “Reusing round headlights or retro tail lamps would have been too backward-looking. Instead, I used Škoda’s new Tech-loop lighting signature, recently introduced with the Vision O concept.” Other details include a striking black front panel that integrates a host of sensors, vertical LED running lights, and an illuminated Škoda badge. At the rear, a standalone glowing logo takes centre stage, mirrored on the wheels and even within the rear windows. Explaining the overall design concept, Richard explains: “I didn’t want to recreate the past. The goal was to capture the spirit of the 110 R in a car that feels innovative and absolutely contemporary. Finding the right balance between heritage and modernity was the real challenge. “I’ve always been drawn to elegant cars – those with clean surfaces and simple details. That’s exactly what the 110 R did so well. It was stylish, but it also had real motorsport credibility. That combination fascinated me.” The rebooted vision of the 110 R was brought to life using both traditional and digital tools. Richard began with sketches before evolving the design into a 3D digital model, giving the coupé a striking presence, even in concept form. Like Škoda’s other reimagined classics, such as the Felicia Fun and Favorit, the 110 R concept is purely a design study at this stage with no plans for production. However, the brand’s classic designs and rich heritage continue to inform Škoda’s design teams as they develop and craft the next generation of cars. Škoda 110 R: The Coupé That Defined an Era Produced at the Kvasiny plant between 1970 and 1980, the 110 R coupé was a car that perfectly captured the spirit of its time. Derived from the Škoda 110 sedan and first introduced to the UK in 1971, it stood out with its sleek design, rear-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive layout, a combination that gave it both character and charm. Under the bonnet sat an uprated 1,107cc four-cylinder engine delivering 62 PS, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Lightweight at just 880 kilograms and boasting a surprisingly aerodynamic profile, the 110 R could reach 90 mph – an impressive figure for the day. More than just a road car, the 110 R also became the springboard for Škoda’s motorsport ambitions. It provided the foundation for the extreme 200 RS prototype and, later, the legendary 130 RS, one of the most successful rally and circuit racers of its generation. The 110 R remains a true Škoda icon – a symbol of style, performance and motorsport heritage. A full database of media assets relating to all Škoda models is available to download at www.skodamedia.com. Škoda Auto is successfully steering through the new decade with the Next Level – Škoda Strategy 2030. aims to be one of the five best-selling brands in Europe by 2030 with an attractive line-up in the entry-level segments and additional e-models. is emerging as the leading European brand in important growth markets such as India or North Africa. currently offers its customers eleven passenger-car series: the Fabia, Scala, Octavia and Superb as well as the Kamiq, Karoq, Kodiaq, Enyaq, Enyaq Coupé, Slavia and Kushaq. delivered over 731,000 vehicles to customers around the world in 2022. has been a member of the Volkswagen Group for 30 years. The Volkswagen Group is one of the most successful vehicle…

Dacia Hipster Concept: an alternative vision of electric mobility

Industry News

Since the beginning of the 21st century, the automotive industry has evolved, particularly under the impact of regulation and electrification, towards cars that are ever larger, ever heavier, ever more sophisticated and therefore, ever more expensive Dacia is rethinking what customers want from an EV, inventing the popular electric car of tomorrow with the reveal of a new concept car Named the Dacia Hipster Concept, it breaks with automotive conventions and embodies Dacia’s vision of making electric mobility accessible to all Dacia Hipster Concept offers four real seats and a usable boot, in a vehicle that is only three metres in length Today, Dacia reveals the Hipster Concept, offering 100 per cent electric mobility tailored to everyday needs while aiming to halve the carbon footprint of electric vehicles. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the automotive industry has evolved, particularly under the impact of regulation and electrification, towards cars that are ever larger, ever heavier, ever more sophisticated and therefore, ever more expensive. In this world that pushes for ‘more and more’, Dacia has been pursuing its goal of enabling as many people as possible to access essential mobility, with determination and success for two decades. But what will really be essential tomorrow? How can we make the electric mobility market accessible to as many people as possible? What if we started with a blank page? This is the challenge Dacia has taken on, to reinvent the people’s car. Romain Gauvin, Head of Advanced Design and Exterior Design at Dacia explains: “This is the most Dacia-esque project that I have ever worked on. It has the same societal impact as the Logan did 20 years ago, and it involves inventing something that does not exist today.” DACIA HIPSTER CONCEPT: THE POPULAR CAR OF TOMORROWTo design Dacia Hipster Concept, the teams studied the real needs of drivers and passengers and how they use their cars in real life. In short, they focused on the essentials. Designers had to ensure that the Dacia Hipster Concept was a companion for everyday life. Therefore, making it agile, practical and economical. Stéphanie Chiron, Dacia Advanced Product Manager said: “Dacia Hipster Concept has everything you could want in an everyday vehicle. Measuring just 3 metres long, 1.53 metres high and 1.55 metres wide, it has four proper seats and a boot that can be adjusted from 70 to 500 litres.” Hipster Concept includes genuine capacity in an ultra-compact format which is a unique proposition that does not currently exist on the market. The car takes Dacia’s weight-driven approach even further. It is 20 per cent lighter than Spring. This performance is a result of Dacia’s overall ‘Eco-Smart’ approach – less weight means less raw materials and less energy used in manufacturing. It also means less mass to move, so less energy is consumers. The ambition behind the concept is to halve the carbon footprint over the entire life cycle of the vehicle compared with the best electric vehicles currently available today. Dacia Hipster Concept is just as at home in the city as it is on country roads or suburban routes. It is designed for everyday life, offering sufficient range for daily journeys with the need to recharge just twice a week. Here too, the Dacia Hipster Concept meets the real needs of customers. For example, in France, 94% of motorists travel less than 24 miles per day. With Dacia’s first electric car, Spring, the brand was the first manufacturer to have made electric mobility affordable. With Hipster Concept, Dacia wants to go even further by targeting a wide audience that currently cannot find anything to suit their budget. The average price of new vehicles in Europe rose by 77 per cent between 2010 and 2024, far outpacing household purchasing power. A SIMPLE AND OBVIOUS EXTERIOR DESIGNIn the history of the automotive industry, the most successful and popular cars have all been distinguished by innovative design. Romain Gauvin, Head of Advanced Design and Exterior Design at Dacia adds: “Our ambition in reinventing the true people’s car was to give it a distinctive and memorable design. A car that can be sketched in three strokes of a pencil.” The Dacia Hipster Concept stands out for being very simple and robust. It’s a block sitting firmly on four wheels at the four corners, with no overhang at either the front or rear. This simplicity is reflected in the design of the front end, which is entirely horizontal and incorporates sleek headlights that give Dacia Hipster Concept a serious yet friendly look. Priority is given to functionality at the rear. The tailgate covers the entire width of Dacia Hipster Concept and opens in two parts to provide ultra-practical access to the boot. True to its design-to-cost expertise, Dacia Hipster Concept features an innovative rear light design. Positioned behind the tailgate window, they do not require their own glass panel. In keeping with this approach, Hipster Concept is designed with a single body colour and only three three painted parts – the front of the car and the side door entry elements. The robustness of the Concept’s design is further enhanced by generous side protection in Starkle® – a material partly derived from recycled plastic, created by Dacia’s engineers – and front and rear skids that are dyed in the mass in line with Dacia’s ‘Robust and Outdoor’ approached. Dacia Hipster Concept is not like other cars. It gets straight to the point, and this is evident from the moment you first see it. The exterior door handle has been replaced by a strap, which is lighter, less expensive and just as practical. BIGGER ON THE INSIDE THAN ON THE OUTSIDEThe interior of the Dacia Hipster Concept has been optimised to offer exceptional space given its compact exterior dimensions. The interior closely follows the very cubic shapes of the bodywork, particularly with very vertical windows and windscreen, to make the most of the available space. The glazed front section of the roof provides light, contributing to the feeling…

MINI John Cooper Works Convertible conquers as The Sunday Times Car of the Year 2025

Industry News

The MINI John Cooper Works Convertible has been crowned The Sunday Times Car of the Year 2025 at their annual awards ceremony. Launched earlier this year, the MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible was celebrated for its engaging driving dynamics, with Motoring Editor, Nick Rufford commenting, “Supercars may be more exotic, but they don’t deliver everyday thrills at circa £37,000. Climb in, slip it into Drive and the MINI John Cooper Works Convertible zooms off with puppyish enthusiasm”. Built in the UK at the home of MINI production, MINI Plant Oxford, the range-topper receives fine tuning over MINI Cooper Convertible C and S models, including an increased engine power output and adjustments to the chassis and suspension, to deliver class-leading performance. “Show [the car] a twisty backroad and it will slingshot through bends in a way that would have delighted John Cooper,” Rufford continues. “This was the most fun out of all the cars I’ve driven this year and attracted the most admiring looks”. Reflecting on the win, David Beattie, Director of MINI UK and Ireland said, “We’re honoured that the MINI John Cooper Works Convertible has been named The Sunday Times Car of the Year 2025. It’s a proud moment for both our team and our customers, and a celebration of everything MINI stands for – playful performance, everyday versatility, innovative technology, and unmistakable design. As we head into 2026, we remain focused on delivering the feel-good factor that driving a MINI provides”. The MINI JCW Convertible is part of the new MINI JCW family, which offers customers seeking maximum performance a choice of a fully electric or combustion powertrain across five unique models. The lineup additionally includes the MINI JCW and JCW Electric, MINI JCW Aceman and the MINI JCW Countryman. For more information on the MINI John Cooper Works Convertible and the wider MINI range, visit mini.co.uk. The BMW GroupWith its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees. The economic success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. Sustainability is a key element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy and covers all products from the supply chain and production to the end of their useful life.

Upgraded EX90 charges even faster and delivers new and improved features

Industry News

Volvo Cars is opening the order books for the 2026 Volvo EX90, now enhanced with hardware and software upgrades. Powered by the company’s new 800-volt electric system, the EX90 can charge even faster*, while a core computer upgrade enables new and improved safety, collision avoidance and driver support features. New features include connected safety alerts for slippery roads, hazards ahead, and accidents ahead, along with the integration of automatic e-call** functionality with Emergency Stop Assist (ESA). ESA is designed to bring the car to a controlled stop in its lane if the driver fails to respond to attention or hands-off warnings, for example due to sudden illness. Once the car is stationary, the new e-call feature will automatically connect the car to an emergency call centre linked to Volvo Cars. The centre can then speak with the occupants and contact emergency services if needed. Other new features include expanded automatic emergency steering functionality in darkness, along with Park Pilot assist for parallel parking. With the upgrade to a dual NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin-based core computer, the EX90 now has 500 TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second) of computing power, giving Volvo Cars the ability to push safety and performance even further through data, software and AI. The upgrade is not just limited to new EX90s: owners of the 2025 EX90 will receive a one-time free upgrade of their car’s core computer through a scheduled Volvo workshop visit. “The additional computing power enables us to harness the power of AI, data and software to further enhance safety and overall performance of the EX90,” says Anders Bell, chief technology & engineering officer at Volvo Cars. “This means we can provide our customers with advanced safety and driver support features, along with continuous improvements to the infotainment and battery management systems – all delivered seamlessly over the air.” More power, faster chargingCompared to the previous model year’s 400V system, the new 800V architecture reduces heat generation during charging, enabling faster charging speeds. The charging performance is further improved by our in-house developed battery management software. Using a smart algorithm, it works in tandem with the 800V system to optimise charging, making it significantly faster than previously possible and adding up to 250 km of range in just 10 minutes. On top of that, the 800V technology delivers more power for faster acceleration, while using energy more efficiently. Plus, the shift reduces material use, which helps lighten the weight of both the battery and the electric motors. “The EX90 now features our most advanced electric system, delivering faster charging and higher efficiency, so you can feel more confident and in control,” says Anders Bell. Additionally, the EX90 will now come with an electrochromic panoramic roof, first introduced on the recently launched Volvo ES90. This new roof lets you adjust the glass transparency, helping to reduce glare or boost privacy at the touch of a button. These upgrades represent some of the most significant advancements coming to the 2026 EX90. Visit the EX90 model page [NK1] on volvocars.com for the full list of updates. The small print *Charging times can vary and depend on various factors such as outdoor temperature, battery condition and car condition. Our charging time was based on testing at 350 kW charging facilities. ** Availability of the automatic e-call function varies by market. If the function is available in the country where the incident takes place, the call centre can talk directly with the occupants in the car and contact emergency services if needed. Volvo Cars in 2024For the full year 2024, Volvo Car Group recorded a record-breaking core operating profit of SEK 27 billion. Revenue in 2024 amounted to an all-time high of SEK 400.2 billion, while global sales reached a record 763,389 cars. About Volvo Car GroupVolvo Cars was founded in 1927. Today, it is one of the most well-known and respected car brands in the world with sales to customers in more than 100 countries. Volvo Cars is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange, where it is traded under the ticker “VOLCAR B”. “For life. To give people the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way.” This purpose is reflected in Volvo Cars’ ambition to become a fully electric car maker and in its commitment to an ongoing reduction of its carbon footprint, with the ambition to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. As of December 2024, Volvo Cars employed approximately 42,600 full-time employees. Volvo Cars’ head office, product development, marketing and administration functions are mainly located in Gothenburg, Sweden. Volvo Cars’ production plants are located in Gothenburg, Ghent (Belgium), South Carolina (US), Chengdu, Daqing and Taizhou (China). The company also has R&D and design centres in Gothenburg and Shanghai (China).

MCPURA debuts in Italy: Maserati takes the spotlight at the Turin Auto Show

Industry News

The Trident’s new super sports car is showcased in both coupé and cabrio versions – the latter named Cielo – to embody the purest expression of elegance and performance in true Maserati style. Modena, 23 September 2025 – After captivating the international audience at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last July with a debut that made a lasting impression, Maserati now brings its new icon home: the all-new MCPURA, available in coupé and cabrio – named Cielo – takes center stage at the Turin Auto Show (Salone Auto Torino 2025) from 26 to 28 September 2025. The event provides the perfect stage for the national premiere of a super sports car that embodies the purest essence of Maserati energy and performance, rigorously and proudly 100% Made in Italy. In the heart of Turin’s Piazza Reale, Maserati showcases the two souls of its latest creation. The new supersport is presented in the exclusive Ai Acqua Rainbow finish, conceived by Maserati’s bespoke Fuoriserie program: matte on the coupé, glossy on the MCPURA Cielo. Now in its second edition, the Turin Auto Show is growing rapidly, establishing itself as a reference point on the global automotive stage. Set against the unique and evocative backdrop of Turin – widely regarded as the capital of Italy’s automotive tradition – the show offers not just an exhibition, but an open-air theatre dedicated to the passion for cars. In this context, Maserati takes the spotlight, reaffirming the bond between Turin and the Motor Valley – with Modena as Maserati’s home – celebrating the authenticity of Italian luxury. The show is not a static display, but an immersive celebration where the thrill of performance comes alive through the unmistakable roar of engines.Among the highlights of the three-day program, the grand parade on Saturday, 27 September stands out as one of the most anticipated moments. The route begins at the Reggia di Venaria, with a tour and lunch at the historic Savoy residence, continues through Superga, and culminates in the heart of the city at Piazza San Giovanni. Leading the parade will be Maserati Forza Torino customers at the wheel of Trident icons such as the GranTurismo and MC20, joined by a GranCabrio with a special guest on board: model and TV presenter Cristina Chiabotto, an exceptional presence and ambassador of Italian elegance. The new Maserati MCPURAA natural evolution of the iconic MC20 halo car, the MCPURA represents the new frontier of super sports cars, elevating its predecessor to an even higher level of performance and uniqueness. Available in coupé and cabrio versions, it stands out for four exclusive features: the carbon fiber monocoque, the iconic 630-hp Nettuno V6 engine with patented pre-chamber technology, the “Butterfly” doors, and – on the Cielo – the retractable electrochromic glass roof. The carbon fiber monocoque combines rigidity with lightness, bringing the overall weight to under 1,500 kg. Thanks to the 630 hp delivered, the car achieves a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 2.33 kg/hp, blending extraordinary performance with extreme elegance and artisanal mastery. It is the purest embodiment of Maserati’s authentic values, the epitome of Italian luxury worldwide. For its premiere, the chosen color is Ai Aqua Rainbow, an azure shade that shifts under sunlight to reveal a rainbow effect. Inspired by the prism, it decomposes white light to capture all its nuances, creating a unique and pure color. Starting from a base in aquatic tones, this finish delivers an unexpected and emotional effect through the use of rare, specially developed pigments.The exclusive version on display is available to clients through a dedicated configuration of the Maserati Fuoriserie customization program, which, in its bespoke world of “made-to-measure,” creates vehicles with specifically requested features or unique one-of-one models.MCPURA is produced at Maserati’s historic Viale Ciro Menotti plant in Modena, also home to the Nettuno engine, the GT2 Stradale, and – from the fourth quarter of 2025 – the GranTurismo and GranCabrio. MCPURA embodies extreme elegance, exhilarating performance, and Italian craftsmanship. With its production, painting, and personalization entirely carried out in Modena, it is the ultimate representation of Maserati’s authentic spirit and timeless style. Maserati S.p.A. Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars that are immediately recognizable by their extraordinary personality. With style, technology and an innate exclusivity, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and refined tastes, always setting a benchmark in the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally.The Maserati line-up includes Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV; GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer; and GranCabrio, the Trident’s new convertible; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and outstanding technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains, available for Grecale, and V6 petrol with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident Brand. GranTurismo is available with both the high-performance V6 petrol engine and a 100% electric version, the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. The full-electric range also includes Grecale Folgore and GranCabrio Folgore. The top of the Brand’s range is the MC family, which consists of the MCPURA coupe and its MCPURA Cielo convertible version, powered by the innovative V6 Neptune engine, 100% Maserati, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power unit of a standard production car. Completing the Brand’s commercial offering is the Maserati GT2 Stradale, the road-legal version of the GT2, which brought Maserati back to the track in covered-wheel championships, while Maserati MCXtrema is the limited series of only 62 units, a track-only homologated racing car that pushes Trident performance to the highest level and is dedicated to racing car enthusiasts.Maserati’s mission is to write the future of mobility in the luxury segment by focusing on its customers’ requests. In order to achieve this mission, the Brand is also strongly focused on the Maserati Fuoriserie customization program, the Maserati Classiche activities, and the intensive Maserati Corse racing program.

From pilot fleet to series production: the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen

Industry News

Technology-open approach as strategic success factor For the first time at BMW: five drivetrain variants in one vehicle HyMoS initiative to promote development of local hydrogen ecosystems Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptions have been made to cater to the UK market. Munich. The BMW Group is launching a vehicle with five different drivetrain technologies. The new BMW X5 will be the first model to offer customers a choice of battery electric, plug-in hybrid, petrol, diesel, and hydrogen fuel cell technology. The HyMoS (Hydrogen Mobility at Scale) initiative is designed to promote the development of hydrogen ecosystems and refueling stations in metropolitan areas and aims for an initial pilot implementation in Germany. “By launching the new BMW X5 with a choice of five drive system variants, we are once again demonstrating our leading position as a technology pioneer,” says Joachim Post, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development at an BMW event in New York. “Hydrogen has an essential part to play in global decarbonisation, which is why we are committed to driving the technology forward.” Technology-open approach is a strategic success factorProduct diversity continues to be a key success factor for the BMW Group. A wide-ranging portfolio of drive systems – encompassing ICE engines, plug-in hybrids, battery electric drive systems and, starting with the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen in 2028, hydrogen fuel cell technology – lays the foundations for successfully meeting the varying demands and needs of customers worldwide both now and in the future. Flexible manufacturing structures and high levels of integration expertise enable this array of drive technologies to be implemented efficiently in the new BMW X5 range in terms of development, purchasing and production. This means the BMW model line-up will include two types of fully electric drivetrain (battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell) from 2028, underlining the rigorous application of the brand’s technology-open approach. The new BMW iX5 HydrogenFollowing successful testing of the pilot fleet worldwide, the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen* will enter the market as the brand’s first-ever series-produced hydrogen-powered model. “The new BMW iX5 Hydrogen will be a true BMW – pioneering in its class and delivering the BMW typical driving pleasure,” says Michael Rath, Vice President Hydrogen Vehicles BMW Group. The drive technology is based on the third-generation fuel cell system that the BMW Group is developing in collaboration with the Toyota Motor Corporation. This technological advance paves the way for a system with a more compact design that is also more powerful and efficient, thereby increasing range and output at the same time as reducing energy consumption. Benefits of hydrogen-powered technologyHydrogen is recognized as a promising future energy carrier for global decarbonization. It acts as an effective storage medium for renewable energy sources, helping to balance supply and demand and enabling a more stable and reliable integration of renewables into the energy grid. Hydrogen is the missing piece for completing the electric mobility puzzle where battery electric drive systems are not an optimal solution. HyMoS initiative: alliance for strengthening the hydrogen infrastructureAs well as developing the new BMW iX5 Hydrogen, BMW is also actively involved in efforts to expand the hydrogen refueling network. The HyMoS (Hydrogen Mobility at Scale) initiative was established to support hydrogen ecosystems for mobility in cooperation with industry and institutional partners. The aim of this initiative is to increase the economic viability of hydrogen mobility ecosystems by pooling the demand for all types of vehicles, including trucks, buses and passenger cars. This will help to reach an optimal distribution and usage of hydrogen stations. The initiative supports existing hydrogen ecosystem projects in achieving their full potential by sharing experiences across projects and providing ground support of its industry partners. A pilot phase started with the support of existing ecosystems in Germany and France to gather experiences for deployment to further metropolitan areas and a potential later expansion to other countries. CO2 EMISSIONS & CONSUMPTION.*As this is a development-phase prototype, energy consumption information according to WLTP is not available yet. The BMW GroupWith its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. In 2024, the BMW Group sold over 2.45 million passenger vehicles and more than 210,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2024 was € 11.0 billion on revenues amounting to € 142.4 billion. As of 31 December 2024, the BMW Group had a workforce of 159,104 employees. The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action.Sustainability is a vital element of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products. www.bmwgroup.comLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/bmw-group/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/bmwgroupInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bmwgroupFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bmwgroupX: https://www.x.com/bmwgroup

Maserati triumphs in GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli:the Trident dominates in Valencia with Philippe Prette celebrating two overall victories, confirming himself as class champion

Industry News

Valencia, 21 September 2025 – Philippe Prette in the number 1 Maserati GT2 has been crowned 2025 champion in the Am Class in the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli, confirming the title he won in 2024. The Monegasque LP Racing driver celebrated his triumph at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain, in round 5 of the season, with a double overall victory. Prette dominated, with the title being awarded as early as Saturday’s race when he crossed the finish line first. He also beat the Pro Am Class riders and obtained points for mathematical certainty. Behind him was Dinamic Motorsport’s Maserati GT2 number 7 with Mauro Calamia and Roberto Pampanini, who then achieved success in the Pro Am class. Prette then doubled up on Sunday with another victory (third overall and eighth in the class), whereas the Trident’s second car retired after going off the track when in the lead in the race. In Race 1, held on Saturday, Prette took advantage of his overall pole to take the lead, resisting attacks from his rivals and building a considerable advantage that reached up to 15 seconds when entering the pit stop. Despite his penalty for double victory in the previous race at Misano, Prette managed to get back into the lead and keep it until the finish line. In second place was the Maserati GT2 number 7 with Calamia and Pampanini, which also took victory in the Pro Am class. Starting from the second row, they managed to move up one position during the first lap to maintain it until the driver change. At the restart, with Calamia at the wheel, the Trident car found itself third, but soon – with an overtake on the central straight – it moved into second and maintained it until the chequered flag. In stage 2 on Sunday, in the number 7 Maserati GT2 Calamia started from pole and began to push and gain an advantage over his pursuers despite the entry of a Safety Car. When the window for the driver change opened, due to light rain the slippery asphalt betrayed Calamia, who ended up with his wheels in the gravel then against the wall of the track, forcing him to retire and abandon his hopes for the Pro Am Class title. Calamia & Pampanini’s class victory on Saturday reopened the championship, but the problem of Race 2 gave the opponents certainty of the title. Prette, on the other hand, started from fifth position overall (class pole position) and began a good comeback, which he completed after the exit of the second Safety Car; from second place, he made the decisive overtake that took him into the lead. His pace was faster than his opponents, enabling him to pass under the chequered flag first with an advantage of more than seven seconds over the first of his opponents, celebrating the title he had just won in the best way. The last act of the season is also scheduled to take place on the Iberian Peninsula, from 10 to 12 October at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit. Maserati strongly believes in the GT2 European Series championship and its potential, with its particular focus on young drivers. The Trident has indeed joined the new SRO GT Academy project, announced last June at Spa-Francorchamps. Starting from 2026, the GT2 European Series powered by Pirelli will be expanding to include a Silver class. GT2 Europe will be adding an SRO GT Academy award with the support of Maserati and another brand, so Silver drivers can race a full season in the Silver or Pro-Am class in a car from the House of the Trident (or another brand) in the GT World Challenge Europe – Endurance Cup, starting from 2027. Maria Conti, Head of Maserati Corse, noted: “It’s been an extraordinary weekend in Valencia! We are overwhelmed by an indescribable emotion: Maserati dominated in the GT2 European Series by Pirelli, winning the championship with performance that will go down in history. Our cars have once again demonstrated exceptional strength and reliability, confirming themselves in the lead in terms of technology and performance. We knew we had developed an extraordinary car, but seeing these successes materialise on the track is a source of immense pride for all of us. We are excited to offer our teams and drivers a car that can stand out, and we look forward to the upcoming challenges in the more than 20 international championships for which the Maserati GT2 is eligible. We are now preparing our celebrations at the final round of the GT2 European Series by Pirelli in Barcelona. We also enthusiastically support the SRO GT Academy project, looking forward to an even more exciting 2026 with great confidence and ambition!” Maserati S.p.A. Maserati produces a complete range of unique cars, immediately recognizable for their extraordinary personality. Thanks to their style, technology, and innately exclusive character, they delight the most discerning, demanding tastes and have always been a benchmark for the global automotive industry. A tradition of successful cars, each of them redefining what makes an Italian sports car in terms of design, performance, comfort, elegance, and safety, currently available in more than 70 markets internationally.Maserati line-up includes the Grecale, the “everyday exceptional” SUV, the GranTurismo, the iconic Italian grand tourer, and the GranCabrio, the new convertible of the Trident; all models characterized by the use of the highest quality materials and excellent technical solutions. A range equipped with 4-cylinder hybrid powertrains – available for Grecale – and V6 petrol, with rear-wheel and four-wheel drive, embodying the performance DNA of the Trident brand. GranTurismo is available with both the high-performance V6 petrol engine and a 100% electric version, the GranTurismo Folgore, the first car in the Modena-based brand’s history to adopt this solution. The full-electric range also includes Grecale Folgore and GranCabrio Folgore. The top of the Brand’s range is the MC family, which consists of the MCPURA coupe and its MCPURA Cielo convertible version, powered by the innovative V6 Neptune engine, 100% Maserati, which incorporates F1-derived technologies into the power…

YANGWANG U9 Xtreme becomes world’s fastest production car, with top speed of 308.4 mph (496.22km/h)

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YANGWANG, the luxury sub-brand of global new-energy vehicle (NEV) leader BYD, has set a new global production-car top-speed record of 496.22km/h (308.4 mph) at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg test track in Germany. The feat was achieved with YANGWANG’s latest U9 Xtreme hypercar on 14 September 2025, eclipsing its previous EV benchmark and the 490.484km/h (304.48 mph) maximum of the quickest petrol-powered model to become the world’s fastest car overall. This modern milestone in engineering sets a new standard in electric mobility, mixing unrivalled power and speed with zero emissions. Originally known as the U9 Track/Special Edition, and now officially confirmed as the YANGWANG U9 Xtreme in production guise, or U9X for short, the fastest car on the planet takes the existing technical architecture of the U9 currently on sale in China and harnesses the potential of a number of key evolutions. These include, but are not limited to: an upgraded powertrain with 1200V ultra-high-voltage electrics (compared with 800V), a lithium iron phosphate Blade Battery with a remarkable discharge rate of 30C, four ultra-high-speed motors that operate at up to 30,000rpm and produce a total of more than 3000PS, track-level semi-slick tyres, and revised DiSus-X suspension with specific tuning to cope with the increased stresses of circuit driving. BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for everyone in the research and development division. YANGWANG is a brand that does not recognise the impossible, and only through this commitment to what’s coming next can you end up with a vehicle like the U9X. I extend my gratitude to the whole team, and my thanks to the driver, Marc Basseng, for his skill and technical input. It’s terrific that the fastest production car in the world is now electric.” The driver for the U9X’s record-breaking run was Marc Basseng, a German track specialist with a long history in sports-car racing and endurance motorsport. He said: “This record was only possible because the U9 Xtreme simply has incredible performance. Technically, something like this is not possible with a combustion engine. Thanks to the electric motor, the car is quiet, there are no load changes, and that allows me to focus even more on the track.” The U9 Xtreme is now being made available to customers, with a limited series production run of no more than 30 units. Its name is derived from the English word ‘Extreme’, meaning ‘limit’ and ‘ultimate’, with added emphasis on the ‘X’, which represents the unknown. These qualities fit perfectly with YANGWANG’s ethos of taking joy and delight from the act of exploration and the innovations that come through that process. By setting a new global speed record, YANGWANG redefines the sustainable hypercar. Backed by BYD’s innovation and sustainability commitments, YANGWANG employs cutting-edge tech to deliver unmatched performance, safety, and driving experience. More media assets: https://md.bydauto.eu/d/45558abfd0e14df4b377/ About BYDBYD is a multinational high-tech company devoted to leveraging technological innovations for a better life. Founded in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker, BYD now boasts a diverse business scope covering automobiles, rail transit, new energy, and electronics, with over 30 industrial parks in China, the United States, Canada, Japan, Brazil, Hungary, and India. From energy generation and storage to its applications, BYD is dedicated to providing zero-emission energy solutions that reduce global reliance on fossil fuels. Its new energy vehicle footprint now covers 6 continents, over 110 countries and regions, and more than 400 cities. Listed in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges, the company jumped into the top 100 companies in the latest Fortune 500 (91st place) and posted revenues of more than 100 billion euros in 2024. BYD continues to invest heavily in future technologies, with more than 10% of its one million employees devoted to research and development, producing 45 patents every working day for innovations in pursuit of a greener, more sustainable world. For more information, please visit www.bydglobal.com. About BYD AutoFounded in 2003, BYD Auto is the automotive subsidiary of BYD, a multinational high-tech company devoted to leveraging technological innovations for a better life. Aiming to accelerate the green transition of the global transportation sector, BYD Auto focuses on developing pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The company has mastered the core technologies of the entire industrial chain of new energy vehicles, such as batteries, electric motors, and electronic controllers. It has witnessed in recent years significant technological advancements, including the Blade Battery, DM-i Super Hybrid Technology, e Platform 3.0, CTB Technology, e⁴ Platform, BYD DiSus Intelligent Body Control System, and DMO super hybrid system. The company is the world’s first carmaker to stop the production of fossil-fueled vehicles on the EV shift and has remained top of new energy passenger vehicle sales in China for 10 years in a row. For more information, please visit www.byd.com. About YANGWANGLaunched in November 2022, YANGWANG stands as BYD’s flagship premium new-energy vehicle (NEV) brand. It represents BYD’s pioneering spirit of exploration, ground-breaking automotive technology, and cutting-edge design, crafting premium NEVs that transcend what customers once deemed achievable.