Suzuki holds start of dispatch ceremony of the BEV e VITARA in India

Industry News

Suzuki Motor Corporation has commenced dispatch of Suzuki’s first battery electric vehicle (BEV) e VITARA, and batteries for strong hybrid vehicles in India. The start of dispatch ceremony was held on 26 August at the Gujarat Plant, where the e VITARA is produced. The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat State Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Ambassador of Japan to India Keiichi Ono, and Representative Director and President of Suzuki Toshihiro Suzuki. Approximately 600 people participated, including representatives from the Government of India, Gujarat State Government, and Suzuki personnel. Comment from Representative Director and President Toshihiro Suzuki“We are deeply honored that the Honorable Prime Minister has graced the two landmark projects. The e VITARA, our first BEV, will be manufactured here at this Gujarat facility and exported to over 100 countries and regions worldwide, including Europe and Japan. The lithium-ion batteries used in our hybrid models are manufactured at TDSG*, which contributes to ‘Make in India’. Suzuki has partnered in India’s mobility journey for over four decades. We remain committed to supporting India’s vision for sustainable green mobility and contributing to the further development of India.” * TDS Lithium-Ion Battery Gujarat Private Limited (TDSG) Start of Dispatch of e VITARASuzuki’s Indian subsidiary, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, began dispatch of Suzuki’s first global strategic BEV, the e VITARA. The vehicle is produced at the Gujarat plant in India and will be shipped from Pipavav port in Gujarat, to be supplied to markets worldwide, including Europe and Japan. With the concept of “Emotional Versatile Cruiser,” the e VITARA features a design that combines a sense of advanced technology and strength, a BEV powertrain that delivers a nimble and sharp driving experience, an electric 4WD system “ALLGRIP-e” that provides not only off-road capability but also powerful performance, and a newly developed platform “HEARTECT-e” specifically for BEVs. Start of Dispatch for Strong Hybrid Vehicle BatteriesTDSG, a joint venture established by Suzuki, Toshiba Corporation, and Denso Corporation to manufacture automotive lithium-ion batteries, began production of batteries for strong hybrid vehicles. The batteries are installed in the Grand Vitara, and is scheduled to be introduced to other models in the future. TDSG was established in 2017 to ensure a stable supply of automotive lithium- ion batteries within India and to support the promotion of environmentally friendly vehicles in the country. As India’s first plant to produce lithium-ion batteries from the cell level, TDSG started production of batteries for mild hybrid vehicles in 2021. They have since produced batteries for a total of over 1 million vehicles.

Volkswagen Group collaborates with AWS to help transform production for the age of AI

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Volkswagen Group advances production digitalization The Digital Production Platform (DPP) – Volkswagen’s “factory cloud” – enables widespread use of artificial intelligence (AI) and cutting-edge IT systems across all sites 43 factories worldwide already connected Next step: Preparing for software-defined vehicles Collaboration with AWS extended for another five years Wolfsburg, 28. August 2025 – More efficient, smarter, more resilient: Volkswagen Group is gearing up its vehicle production for an AI-powered future. Volkswagen and Amazon Web Services, Inc. (AWS) are extending their collaboration on the Digital Production Platform (DPP) – Volkswagen’s “factory cloud” designed to support automotive manufacturing – for another five years. Volkswagen uses the DPP to deploy AI and cutting-edge IT systems across its global production sites. This makes production more flexible and faster, reduces IT costs, and helps bring new models to market more quickly. Originally launched as an industrial partner network, Volkswagen and AWS have developed the DPP into a key digital link helping connect order intake, logistics, and manufacturing – helping ensure seamless data flows throughout the entire process chain. This is a fundamental prerequisite for the widespread use of AI, a core strategic objective of the company. In addition, the DPP helps enable Volkswagen to roll out new IT systems as standardized solutions across its factories. Across the Volkswagen Group, 43 sites in Europe, North and South America are already connected to the DPP. In total, the Volkswagen Group operates 114 production facilities worldwide. “Our ambition is to become the global automotive tech driver. To achieve this, we are consistently digitalizing and connecting all areas of our company. Our goal is to bring products and technologies to our customers even faster. The Digital Production Platform plays a key role in this: it is the digital nervous system of our factories – and the key to a future of AI-powered production,” said Hauke Stars, Member of the Board of Management for IT at the Volkswagen Group. More Efficient and Cost-Effective: Volkswagen can roll out new key IT systems for production and logistics uniformly across all factories connected to the DPP. One example, called “Guided Vehicle Completion”, is a digital solution that helps optimize the coordination of complex processes in vehicle assembly, and is already in use at 13 plants across Volkswagen, Audi, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. The high availability and scalability of AWS help enable Volkswagen to host these production- critical systems in the cloud and help reduce risk of production line stoppages. Thanks to more standardized systems across sites, the Volkswagen Group is already seeing medium-term savings in the double-digit million range. At the same time, these central standards help create a unified, cross-functional data foundation – enabling an even more consistent use of technologies like AI. For example, with ‘KI4UPS’, Volkswagen leverages AI to assist assembly line teams in software deployment for vehicles, more swiftly pinpointing potential electronic issues. This helps lead to a substantial reduction in Volkswagen’s manual workload. The Volkswagen Group now uses more than 1,200 AI applications – far beyond the realm of production. Through innovative AWS services like Amazon SageMaker, Volkswagen trains AI models and builds industrial computer vision use cases that improve quality control systems and drive cost savings. These AI applications include sustainability efforts: at the Poznań, Poland, plant, for example, AI is used to help optimize electricity consumption. As a result, energy costs have been reduced by 12 percent, along with a decrease in CO₂ emissions. Smarter: With its DPP, Volkswagen lays the groundwork for data-based improvements in manufacturing efficiency. This includes, for example, predictive maintenance and remote monitoring of quality assurance processes. At German sites such as Wolfsburg and Ingolstadt, AI systems perform real-time image analysis during production, helping ensure that every component is accurately fitted to match each vehicle’s configuration. This helps enable faster detection and immediate correction of potential production errors. More Resilient: Thanks to the continuous availability of data throughout the entire manufacturing process, decisions can be made more quickly, allowing production to be adjusted more flexibly – especially in response to short-term disruptions in the supply chain. Cybersecurity and the digital resilience of systems also benefit from centralized standards and a unified data foundation provided by the DPP. “Our high-performance vehicle production is a key driver of success for the Volkswagen Group and its brands,” said Christian Vollmer, Member of the Brand Board of Management of Volkswagen for Production and Logistics and Member of the Extended Group Executive Committee. “By more closely integrating development and manufacturing through a shared, AI-capable data structure, we are creating the conditions to bring our vehicles to customers even faster.” Next Step: Preparing for Software-Defined VehiclesWith the ongoing development of the DPP, Volkswagen is placing greater emphasis on software- defined vehicles (SDVs) – next-generation models where most functionalities are managed and updated through software. The DPP will play a key role in helping enable software deployment directly during the manufacturing process. This capability will be shaped by the Volkswagen Group’s joint venture with Rivian Automotive, which is developing the next-generation of electronics architecture and vehicle software. Already developed AI solutions such as KI4UPS and their data models can be flexibly adapted to the future electronics architecture. This enables Volkswagen to utilize the joint venture’s rapid development cycles, even within its production environment. “Volkswagen Group is setting new standards for smart manufacturing,” said Kathrin Renz, Vice President of AWS Industries. “Our five-year extended collaboration combines AWS’s cloud infrastructure and purpose-built IoT and machine learning services with Volkswagen’s manufacturing expertise. Together, we’re fast-tracking AI solutions that will help unlock new levels of innovation throughout Volkswagen Group’s manufacturing operations.” In the medium to long term, the DPP is intended to represent large parts of Volkswagen’s production system. At the same time, it serves as the foundation for forward-looking developments in the industrial context and is compatible with industry-wide standards such as Catena-X. Volkswagen Group at the IAA Mobility in MunichThe Volkswagen Group is on its way to becoming the “Global Automotive Tech Driver” of the automotive industry and is already…

Horse Technologies begins production of HR12 LPG MHEV engine at Mioveni

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HR12 LPG MHEV is first engine in the world to combine direct injection technology with LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas), the kit being assembled directly in the engine plant. New powertrain includes compact and powerful 48V mild hybrid system for enhanced performance and efficiency Horse Technologies is a division of Horse Powertrain, a global leader in hybrid and combustion powertrain solutions across 17 plants and 5 R&D centres Mioveni, Romania (28 August 2025) – Horse Technologies, a division of Horse Powertrain and a leader in innovative and low-emission powertrain systems, has started production of its 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder ‘HR12 LPG’ engine at its facility in Mioveni, Romania. Featuring 48V mild hybrid technology, including a Belt-integrated Starter Generator and DC/DC converter, that provides transient torque assistance reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by enabling features like start-stop functionality and electric boost for the engine during acceleration, the HR12 LPG turbo engine is also the world’s first volume production unit to combine direct injection technology for use with Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) as well as gasoline. The powertrain delivers peak power of 140PS (103kW) at 5,500rpm and peak torque of 230Nm starting from just 2,100rpm. When running on LPG it emits 9% less CO2 than using gasoline. Developed for both EU and global markets, the HR12 LPG fully complies with Euro 6e regulations, and is designed to comply with new Euro7 regulations. The HR12 LPG benefits from a bespoke direct injection system that’s been developed specially for LPG use, an electronic vaporizer provides more accurate compression control, as well as reinforced valve-train components. The LPG fuel tank can be located below the boot floor in the vehicle’s spare wheel well, ensuring there is no compromise in interior packaging and practicality. Patrice Haettel, CEO of Horse Technologies, said: “The arrival of the HR12 LPG demonstrates our commitment to delivering genuinely innovative powertrain solutions across all fuel types. Direct-injection technology for LPG fuel makes it a true world-first for Horse Technologies and is further evidence of our global technology leadership as alternative fuels experts”. Developed by engineers at Bucuresti, Titu and Mioveni, the HR12 LPG is the seventh powertrain generation to be produced at the Horse plant in Mioveni, which has capacity to build 450,000 engines per annum. About Horse Powertrain Horse Powertrain is a new global leader in hybrid and combustion powertrain solutions, supporting automotive OEMs with a range of systems including engines, transmissions, power electronics, and integrated hybrid platforms. Consisting of two divisions, Aurobay Technologies and Horse Technologies, Horse Powertrain operates 17 plants and 5 R&D centers globally, serving a range of OEMs including Renault Group, Geely Auto, Volvo Cars, Proton, Nissan, and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. Horse Powertrain is headquartered in London, UK, and employs 19,000 people globally. The company’s three shareholders are Renault Group (45%), Geely (45%), and Aramco (10%).

RML Group reveals first GT Hypercar at Salon Privé 2025

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First of 39 special edition units from RML’s Bespoke Division Features full carbon body, active aero and damping, 920hp motor Offers lap record-breaking performance with full road-car compliance Debut follows successful development and testing of P39 Prototype Woodstock, UK, August 27, 2025: RML Group Ltd, the UK’s leading high-performance automotive engineering specialist, today unveiled the first unit of its limited-production GT Hypercar (GTH) at Salon Privé. Inspired by Le Mans Hypercar racers such as the Porsche GT1, the production GTH draws on all of RML’s 40 years of championship-winning motorsport performance, bespoke engineering and industry leading innovation. Fulfilling its promise to be the Ultimate GT, the GTH – developed under the internal RML P39 codename – delivers an uncompromising fusion of all-round performance, bespoke refinement and usability. Thanks to sophisticated driver-selected active aero and damping systems GTH is capable of lap-record pace on track but also offers a fully compliant ride on the road. The GTH making its debut at Salon Privé is doubly special – it is not only the first of 39 production models, but also one of just 10 RML 40th Anniversary Special Edition (SE) variants. This SE specification includes exclusive bespoke interior detailing and upgrades plus both the Performance Pack and highest-level Track Pack. These upgrades bring selectable ride height adjustment, rear roll cage, and rear-seat delete. Power is boosted to 920hp and torque to more than 1000Nm thanks to an exhaustive and exacting tuning created in partnership with Litchfield Motors. Demonstrating the near-limitless level of customer options, the first GTH is finished outside in Storm Purple with the roof and bonnet in tinted visual carbon. The larger, centre-lock wheels are finished in Gold while the brake calipers are in Gunmetal. Badging is in hand-painted Gold. Inside, the retrimmed standard seats and interior leather have Crayon-coloured stitching. The seatbelts are also now Crayon to match. Elsewhere, the inlays are in body-coloured visual carbon fibre, and the roll cage is finished in Storm Purple. Speaking at the unveiling, Michael Mallock, Board Member responsible for the Bespoke Division, said: “This is a proud day in RML history. I could not be more thrilled with how the GT Hypercar has turned out. It was an ambitious project but it has beaten even my exacting expectations on road and track. I congratulate and thank the whole RML team for making my and our customer’s dream cars come true.’ RML Group CEO, Paul Dickinson, adds: “GT Hypercar demonstrates the very best of RML Group. Our ability to produce extraordinary world-beating products and solutions in record time and within budget is unmatched, as we’ve proven again here. Congratulations to our team and the first owner.” The P39 codename used for the GTH prototype is not a random number. It indicates that this is the 39th project car produced by RML Group since its inception. While many of the RML P Cars remain confidential, the work being conducted in secret for manufacturers, there are several other notable cars which can be revealed. One of these is the Nürburgring Nordschleife record-setting NIO EP9 prototype EV supercar, which is also on display at Salon Privé. One of 16 prototypes produced for the company under project P31, the EP9 showcases RML Group’s world-beating VarEVolt battery technology. Founded in 1984 by racing driver and engineer Ray Mallock, RML Group has delivered championship‑winning touring cars, GT racers, bespoke supercars and advanced battery technology programmes. Today, the company operates from a purpose‑built facility in Wellingborough, providing design, development and limited‑series manufacturing services to OEMs and high‑net‑worth clients under the guiding principle of Engineering Excellence.

World premiere of the Volkswagen T-Roc: new generation of the best seller is high quality and innovative

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With the new T-Roc, Volkswagen presents a forward-looking successor to its hit model, which has sold more than two million units worldwide New generation impresses with powerful design, innovative drive systems and high quality New T-Roc offers a wide range of assist systems and technologies from higher vehicle classes Structure of vehicle range is clearer and more customer-oriented Wolfsburg – The time has come: Volkswagen presents the new T-Roc! Developed completely from scratch, the second generation of the best seller boasts an expressive design and innovative drive systems. The high-quality interior features a newly designed cockpit, an infotainment screen measuring up to 33 centimetres and background lighting that creates a lounge-like atmosphere. In addition, the T-Roc offers more space in the interior and luggage compartment. New assist systems and technologies from higher vehicle classes complete the model. Examples include Travel Assist and the driving experience control. Pre-sales of the new T-Roc start in Germany on 27 August, with the market launch scheduled for November. Prices start at 30,845 euros for the 1.5 eTSI with 85 kW/115 PS1. Second generation with a new design. The model’s major leap forward in terms of development can be seen at first glance in its powerful, clean design. It retains the characteristic T-Roc DNA with the coupé-like rear end and makes the most of the advantages of 12 cm more overall length compared with the predecessor model. The larger proportions are what make the dynamic design possible. The lighting design also plays a significant role in the new interpretation of the T-Roc. New LED headlights at the front are standard. IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights are available as an option and are connected to the white illuminated Volkswagen logo by a narrow light strip. The rear end of the new T-Roc also features a continuous LED crossbar with a red illuminated Volkswagen logo (depending on equipment). High-quality interior and best-in-class features. The interior has been significantly improved and impresses with its premium quality, soft surfaces and innovative technologies. For example, the dash panel is upholstered in a newly developed fabric, which creates a lounge-style atmosphere together with the background lighting. The new T-Roc adopts numerous features from the larger Tiguan and Tayron models, such as the latest evolutionary stage of the driving experience control, which can be used to select driving profiles and control the volume, among other things. A new feature in the T-Roc and in its class is also the optional windscreen head-up display, which projects important information such as speed or navigation pictograms directly on to the windscreen in front of the driver. More space for up to five people. The space in the new T-Roc is suitable for long journeys and families. Even if people taller than 1.85 metres are seated in the front, passengers of a similar stature can sit comfortably in the rear thanks to the extra 12 cm added to the length of the new T-Roc. In addition, an electrically adjustable 14-way ergoActive seat with massage function will be available in the Style version for the first time in the T-Roc. The boot volume increases by 30 litres to 475 litres when loaded up to the height of the rear seat backrests. Technology transfer thanks to MQB evo. Following the current Tiguan (debut in 2024) and Tayron (debut in 2025), the new T-Roc is the third SUV from Volkswagen to be based on the latest evolutionary stage of the modular transverse matrix, the MQB evo – and thus benefits from the hardware and software developments in this modular assembly matrix. These include a new development stage of Travel Assist3. It not only supports automatic lane changes, but can also react with even more foresight to speed limits or the lifting of speed limits3. For the first time, the new T-Roc also has systems such as Park Assist Pro1 on board. This system uses the memory function to ensure trained and thus fully automatic parking over distances of up to 50 metres and enables a smartphone to be used to drive the vehicle into and out of parking spaces3. The exit warning system is also available as an option and can warn occupants before the doors are opened3 that cars or bicycles are approaching from behind. Mild hybrid as standard. The new T-Roc will be available exclusively with innovative hybrid turbocharged petrol engines on the European market. For the launch, there are two 48V mild hybrid drives (1.5 eTSI) with 85 kW (116 PS)2 and 110 kW (150 PS)2. They will be followed by two full hybrid drive systems that have been developed entirely from scratch. These always have front-wheel drive. A T-Roc R will also be available in the future as the most powerful variant. All 1.5 and 2.0 mild hybrids feature a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. New range of versions. The equipment matrix for the new T-Roc will now be more clearly structured and customer-focused. In order to make configuration as simple as possible, Volkswagen has combined standard and optional individual features and packages with the equipment versions. The packages are precisely tailored to customer preferences, resulting in a streamlined range of standard and optional equipment at attractive prices. The range in some markets consists of the basic T-Roc version (focus on budget and functionality), the first expansion package Life (focus on functionality and comfort) as well as the two top-of-the-line versions Style (focus on design and technology) and R-Line (focus on sportiness). Six paint finishes are available in Germany for the new T-Roc: Pure white solid, Wolf grey metallic and Grenadilla black metallic as well as the new paint colours Canary yellow solid, Flamed red metallic and Celestial blue metallic. The roof is also available in the bi-colour black solid colour. In addition, all versions of the T-Roc can be ordered with a towing bracket whose drawbar load (80 kg) is designed for transporting heavy e-bikes. Prices and specification for the new T-Roc in the UK will be confirmed soon. A car from Europe for Europe. The…

MOKE International appoints Lorne Vary as Chief Executive Officer

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London, 27 August, 2025: MOKE International (MOKE) has appointed Lorne Vary as Chief Executive Officer. Vary joins MOKE during a transformative moment for the iconic British brand as it strengthens its leadership team, accelerates international growth, deepens its direct-to-consumer strategy, and scales production of the all-electric MOKE. Vary brings a wealth of leadership experience from his tenure at Brompton Bicycle (Brompton), where he was instrumental in transforming the company from a niche UK manufacturer into a globally recognised lifestyle brand. Under Vary’s financial and strategic leadership, Brompton expanded from revenues of £8m and 80 employees in 2009 to a business with a turnover of over £130m with 800 employees and a presence in 47 territories worldwide. His track record in scaling purpose–driven British brands will be central to MOKE’s next phase of growth. In his new role as CEO, Vary succeeds Nick English, who announced he will be stepping down as Executive Chairman. Over the past 18 months, English, co-founder of Bremont Watches, has played a pivotal role in guiding MOKE through a defining chapter in its evolution. His leadership strengthened the brand’s position as the first heritage automotive marque to go fully electric, oversaw expansion into key markets including Greece and California, and most significantly, brought manufacturing in-house to MOKE’s new production facility in Leamington Spa, UK. English also personally introduced Vary to the company, paving the way for this next phase of leadership. The MOKE Board welcomes Lorne and thanks Nick for his vision, leadership and commitment. It values his continued support as the business moves into its next phase under Vary’s leadership. Nick English, Executive Chairman, said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure guiding MOKE into a new era, establishing our own production facility and helping elevate the profile of this incredible British marque. I now need to dedicate more time to other commercial activities. I am delighted that Lorne [Vary] has agreed to join us and have full confidence that he is the right person to be taking over the day-to-day management of MOKE and driving forward our vision to be the world’s most adored and adventurous premium open-air motoring brand.” Commenting on his appointment, Lorne Vary, CEO, MOKE International, said: “I want to thank Nick for his vision and stewardship of MOKE, and for entrusting me with the opportunity to lead the brand into the future. I am honoured to join MOKE International at such an exciting stage of its journey. MOKE is a true British icon, few brands can blend heritage, innovation, fun and lifestyle so effortlessly. The bold move to go 100% electric has set a visionary foundation, and I am thrilled to work with our talented team, partners and suppliers to scale production and write the next chapter. Together we will ensure MOKE continues to bring joy, freedom and a smile to drivers around the world.” About MOKE International:Conceived in the early 1960s by Sir Alec Issigonis, father of the Austin Mini, the Mini MOKE was originally designed as a military utility vehicle, to be parachuted in behind enemy lines. In a twist of fate, it quickly attained cult status in fashionable resorts across the French Riviera and the Caribbean, with Brigitte Bardot, The Beatles and James Bond all early converts. MOKE International is the owner of the original 1964 European ‘MOKE’ trademark and over 100 other related marks, registered worldwide. In 2023, it launched the Electric MOKE and became the first heritage automotive brand to go 100% electric. Integrating state-of-the-art driving technologies, including its own whisper-quiet powertrain, whilst honouring the timeless design that made it such a global sensation, MOKE has stayed true to its legacy. The latest MOKE vehicles are meticulously engineered and lovingly handcrafted in Northamptonshire, England, just miles away from where the original MOKE cars were built in the 1960s. MOKE is for a worldwide audience, that has time to take it slow and enjoy life’s journey. It continues to be treasured for its unique styling and the feelings of freedom it evokes. Once again, the MOKE is becoming the must-have luxury beach accessory – from St Barth to St Tropez, and in all the world’s sunniest destinations. The MOKE battery comes with a 3-year warranty and allows sufficient range for at least two round trips between Cap-Ferrat and Monaco, Santa Monica and Malibu Beach, Bal Harbour and Miami Beach or Goodwood and West Wittering Beach.

YANGWANG U9 Track Edition sets new global EV top-speed record: 472.41 km/h

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Papenburg, Germany — YANGWANG, BYD’s high-end sub-brand, has set a new global electric vehicle (EV) top-speed record of 472.41 km/h at the ATP Automotive Testing Papenburg test track in Germany. The feat was achieved with YANGWANG’s latest U9 Track Edition supercar on 8 August 2025, making it the world’s fastest EV. The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition is built upon the same e4 Platform and DiSus-X core technical architecture as the YANGWANG U9 currently on sale in China. On top of this, it features the world’s first mass-produced 1200V ultra-high-voltage vehicle platform, paired with a thermal-management system optimised for extreme conditions. This combination of an existing technical footprint and ground-breaking enhancements elevates the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition’s performance to unprecedented levels. Breaking world records demands both relentless power delivery and exceptional high-speed stability. The YANGWANG U9 Track Edition’s e4 Platform — the world’s first quad-motor system to feature 30,000rpm high-performance motors — delivers peak power of 555kW per motor, with a combined system output exceeding 3,000PS. This grants the vehicle an astonishing power-to-weight ratio of 1,217PS per tonne, placing it among the top tier in the global automotive industry. Beyond this, the e4 Platform’s quad-motor independent torque-vectoring system continuously monitors road feedback, adjusting each wheel’s torque at an ultra-high frequency that exceeds 100 times per second. Even at high speeds, it maintains absolute control over body posture, ensuring no wheel slip or loss of traction. The DiSus-X Intelligent Body Control System performs rapid, independent vertical adjustments to the suspension at each corner of the vehicle during aggressive acceleration and cornering, or on uneven surfaces. This not only suppresses pitch and roll — enhancing driver comfort and confidence — but also actively optimises the contact patch between the tyres and the road, maximising grip. Working in synergy with the e4 Platform, it delivers dual guarantees for vehicle stability and driving safety. Unlike traditional supercars, the YANGWANG U9 adopts the innovative “e4 Platform + DiSus-X” technical architecture, introducing “body posture control” to racetrack scenarios and exploring the boundaries of safety and performance for supercars in track environments. Furthermore, the YANGWANG U9 Track Edition retains the aerodynamic design of the current YANGWANG U9 and is equipped with an enhanced, optional carbon-fiber front splitter that is already in mass production, fully verifying the scientific design and technical reliability of the YANGWANG U9 under ultra-high-speed operating conditions. To enhance tyre performance and durability under extreme driving conditions, YANGWANG, building on data gleaned during extensive testing and achievements in Germany in 2024, has engaged in a collaboration with Giti Tire to develop a track-focused semi-slick tyre. This high-performance tyre features optimised compound materials and a bespoke tread design, while an innovative knurling treatment at the wheel-rim interface, combined with high-viscosity lubricant, minimises relative slippage between the tyre and the rim during hard acceleration or braking. This reduces torque loss and tyre wear, while improving predictability and stability during dynamic manoeuvres. The record was set by German professional driver Marc Basseng, who was behind the wheel for the previous global EV speed record in 2024. After completing the high-speed test for YANGWANG, he said, “Last year, I thought I’d peaked. I never expected to break my own record so soon — but here we are, at the same track, with new technologies that have made it possible.” By setting a new global EV speed record, YANGWANG redefines the sustainable supercar. Backed by BYD’s innovation and sustainability commitments, YANGWANG employs cutting-edge tech to deliver unmatched performance, safety, and driving experience. 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. 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.

Rolls-Royce Spectre Inspired by Primavera: a springtime vision to carry into the year ahead

Industry News

Tuesday 26 August 2025, Goodwood, West Sussex Rolls-Royce Motor Cars presents Spectre Inspired by Primavera A Bespoke series inspired by the transient beauty of springtime Includes three expressions celebrating different aspects of the season Features Blackwood interior panels, engraved with a cherry blossom motif Delicate hand-painted floral coachline motif New 23-inch wheel design, inspired by a flower in bloom “Spring is a moment of celebration in cultures around the world. It is associated with youth and romance, the return of light and warmth after the darkness of winter. Its joyous transformation is swift and fleeting, which makes it all the more precious. In Spectre Inspired by Primavera, we captured the emotions this moment brings for clients to enjoy all year round. There is a wonderful contrast at the heart of this Bespoke series: the transience of the season, expressed through the permanence of a Rolls-Royce. Spectre Inspired by Primavera reflects the constant evolution of Rolls-Royce Bespoke, which is shaped by the ever-changing imaginations of our clients.”Martina Starke, Head of Bespoke Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is delighted to announce Spectre Inspired by Primavera, a poetic exploration of spring expressed through a series of highly Bespoke motor cars. Named after the Italian word for spring, Spectre Inspired by Primavera features carefully curated Bespoke details that evoke the feeling of the season: delicate, uplifting, and alive with promise. The Spectre Inspired by Primavera Bespoke series includes three distinct expressions –Evanescent, Reverie and Blossom. Each offers a different interpretation of the season, available to commission until the beginning of next year, with deliveries commencing ahead of spring 2026. Spectre Inspired by Primavera: a poetic expression of the seasonPresented in three different colourways, each motor car features a cherry blossom motif – an evocative emblem of spring. These floral elements were individually hand-sketched by a Rolls‑Royce Bespoke designer before being digitised and translated into exterior and interior features. On the exterior, each motor car is distinguished by a hand-painted coachline motif depicting a cherry branch in bloom. A new, intricate 23-inch alloy wheel design also debuts for this series, evoking a flower in bloom. Its directional form reminds petals gradually opening to meet the spring light – a subtle reference to nature’s vitality. Cherry blossom continues inside: on the Illuminated Treadplates, which also bear the Spectre Inspired by Primavera name, and on the headrests, where a sculptural, silhouette-based stitch embroidery technique captures the appearance of petals. The highlight of each motor car is a uniquely tactile detail: a Blackwood fascia and centre console etched with an expansive, blossoming cherry bough motif. This effect was achieved by experimenting with 37 different laser densities to create a balanced contrast against the polished wood surface, followed by the development of a special sanding process that preserves the detail without diminishing the finish. Inspired by springtime’s changing constellations in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the bright stars in Boötes, Leo and Virgo – known collectively as the ‘Spring Triangle’ – into view, each motor car features Starlight Doors, which include 4,796 hand-placed illuminations, and an Illuminated Fascia, depicting an abstract constellation of more than 5,500 individual ‘stars’ alongside the Spectre wordmark. Evanescent: Luminous BeautyThe ephemeral nature of spring and its beauty give Spectre Inspired by Primavera ‘Evanescent’ its name. The motor car’s design draws from the unruly beauty of wildflowers, which fill the fields, woods and hedgerows with their vibrant hues and myriad forms. The motor car’s Crystal over Arctic White finish is complemented by a coachline, cherry blossom motif, pinstripe wheel centres and brake callipers in Turchese – a vivid accent that continues inside, paired with Grace White leather. A fine line of piping in Chartreuse adds a flash of contrast. Reverie: Nature’s AwakeningSpectre Inspired by Primavera ‘Reverie’ explores the spiritual significance of spring, with its connections to new beginnings, vitality and a reawakening. In keeping with its name, this serene interpretation of Spectre cocoons its occupants in a dream-like atmosphere of absolute peace and serenity. The exterior is finished in Duck Egg Blue with a coachline and cherry blossom motif hand-painted in Forge Yellow to match the brake callipers and pinstripe wheel centres. The interior is a study in purity, combining Grace White and Charles Blue leather with vibrant Forge Yellow accents. Blossom: Season of RenewalSpring is a season of fleeting brilliance – a dazzling moment between dormancy and full bloom, when nature briefly reveals its most vivid and delicate forms. Spectre Inspired by Primavera ‘Blossom’ captures this spirit through its Velvet Orchid Metallic exterior, a deep, expressive colour that evokes the richness and rarity of early spring blooms. A shoulder coachline and floral motif, alongside brake callipers and pinstripe wheel centres in Forge Yellow, introduce graceful flashes of sunlight and energy. Inside, the cabin pairs Grace White leather with rich Peony Pink accents, while Forge Yellow piping brings a final flourish of seasonal vibrancy. Spectre Inspired by Primavera is a tribute to spring’s fleeting beauty and the emotions it evokes: preserved forever in the permanence of a Rolls-Royce commission. TECHNICAL INFORMATIONSpectre: WLTP: Power consumption: 2.6-2.8 mi/kWh / 23.6-22.2 kWh/100km. Electric range 329 mi / 530 km. CO2 emissions 0 g/km. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a true luxury house, creating the world’s most recognised, revered and desirable handcrafted Bespoke products for its international clientele. There are over 2,500 people working at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, West Sussex. This comprises both its global headquarters and Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence – the only place in the world where Rolls-Royce motor cars are designed, engineered and meticulously built by hand. An independent study by the London School of Economics & Political Science confirms that since the company first launched at Goodwood in 2003, it has contributed more than £4 billion to the UK economy and adds more than £500 million in economic value every year. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a wholly owned subsidiary of the BMW Group and is a completely…

Alan Mann 68 Edition Ford Escort makes race debut at Silverstone Festival 2025

Industry News

Successful race debut for the Ford Escort Alan Mann 68 Edition by Boreham Motorworks four months after its launch Driven by Henry Mann and legendary touring and sports car ace Steve Soper Entered in the Adrian Flux Trophy for MRL Historic Touring Car Challenge, organised by Motor Racing Legends Finishing 25th out of 42 starters in its very own class Hand-built to period-correct specification and finish, delivering authentic, analogue driving feel – only 24 to be produced Alan Mann Racing Mustangs also competed in the Transatlantic Touring Car Trophy (Pre-’66), with strong qualifying and race results Full set of images: https://media.drvnautomotivegroup.com/press-releases/alan-mann-68-edi…ne-festival-2025/ Coventry, UK – August 26th, 2025.Only four months after its reveal in April, Boreham Motorworks and Alan Mann Racing celebrated a landmark moment at the Silverstone Festival 2025, as the Ford Escort Alan Mann 68 Edition took to the track for its first ever competitive outing. Faithfully engineered as an exacting continuation of the famed 1968 Alan Mann Racing Mk1 Escort, the Alan Mann 68 Edition demonstrated its balance, agility and competitiveness in front of packed crowds on the famous British Grand Prix circuit. The Alan Mann 68 Edition programme from Boreham Motorworks recreates one of British motorsport’s most recognisable works Escorts with forensic accuracy. The result is not a restomod, but a faithful race car built today to the exacting standards, spirit and performance that made the original an icon. Its participation at Silverstone showed how naturally the car flows through high-speed corners, with communicative steering, precise braking and the kind of chassis feedback that rewards the driver lap after lap. Standing out as the sole Group 5 entry among a 42-strong grid, the car was quite literally in a class of its own. An impressive debut perfor-Mann-ce!Run under the stewardship of Motor Racing Legends, the Alan Mann 68 Edition took its place in the Adrian Flux Trophy for MRL Historic Touring Car Challenge, the field was a showcase of touring car history. Finishing 25th out of 42 starters, completing the full race distance to the chequered flag, underlining its reliability in true race conditions. Henry Mann, who shared driving duties with Steve Soper, reflected on the car’s performance: “To drive the Alan Mann 68 Edition competitively at Silverstone Festival was truly special. It was an atmospheric pleasure to race, and the changes we made from qualifying to the race made a big difference. Every day we have made a step forward, especially on the balance in high-speed corners. The car is strong on the brakes, and the lightweight means we can defend into the corners under braking. Stiffening the front from qualifying has helped, and there is more to come. It felt every bit as alive and rewarding as the original cars. Sharing the drive with Steve Soper made the occasion even more memorable, and to experience the car in the heat of battle was something I’ll never forget.” This first competitive outing was an important phase of product preparation, testing and development ahead of customer car deliveries. Since arriving at Silverstone, the team worked tirelessly in mixed weather conditions, gathering driver feedback and making set-up changes to extract the very best from the car. The knowledge gained on track will directly inform the fine-tuning of the 24 customer cars, ensuring each customer receives a machine proven in the crucible of racing. Beyond simply validating performance, these learnings will also guide customer racers on how best to set up their own cars, providing them with the insight and confidence to compete effectively from their very first outing. Alan Mann Racing in the Transatlantic TrophyAlan Mann Racing’s presence at Silverstone Festival extended beyond the Ford Escort Alan Mann Edition debut, with the team fielding two Ford Mustangs in the Transatlantic Touring Car Trophy (Pre-’66) – organised by Masters Historic Racing. Both cars, prepared and supported by Alan Mann Racing, qualified strongly in 5th and 6th place, while no fewer than six of the top ten qualifiers were Alan Mann Racing-built machines. In the race itself, the Alan Mann Racing Ford Mustang, driven by BTCC ace Tom Ingram alongside Jack Ruddell, secured 5th place after a thrilling late battle for the lead. The team’s engineering strength was underlined again at the flag, with the top five finishing cars originally constructed by Alan Mann Racing, led home by an iconic red and gold Alan Mann Racing Mustang. About Boreham MotorworksBoreham Motorworks, founded in the United Kingdom, specialises in the design, manufacture, and distribution of iconic Ford road, race, and rally cars. As an official licence holder from Ford Motor Company, Boreham Motorworks is committed to preserving and reimagining some of Ford’s most legendary vehicles. With an ethos built around delivering a Peak Analogue® driving experience, every Boreham vehicle blends stunning performance, authentic character, and true driver engagement. Launched models include the acclaimed Mk1 Escort RS and the limited-run AMR-68, an exacting tribute to the original 1968 Alan Mann Racing Escort. Boreham’s next chapter includes the highly anticipated RS200 programme—continuing its mission to celebrate and revive Ford’s most iconic performance models. Combining meticulous craftsmanship with modern engineering, Boreham Motorworks honours the spirit of classic Ford design while meeting the expectations of today’s automotive enthusiasts. With a passion for motorsport heritage and an uncompromising approach to quality, each vehicle is a living tribute to Ford’s performance legacy.

Versatile, sporty, and digitally connected: the new Audi Q3 Sportback

Industry News

The all-new, second-generation Q3 Sportback joins the premium compact segment Powerful plug-in hybrid technology and efficient combustion engines available Driving assistance and lighting technology from the full-size class plus innovative operating concept for even more comfort Q3 SUV on sale in September, priced from £38,300 (OTR) for TFSI, £40,000 (OTR) for TDI, and £45,800 (OTR) for e-hybrid Q3 Sportback follows in October, and carries a £1,500 premium over the SUV For additional information please visit https://press.audi.co.uk/en-gb/ Ingolstadt, August 25, 2025 – The Audi Q3 has been a well-established bestseller in the premium compact segment for more than 10 years. Now the third generation SUV is setting new standards in several respects. In its exterior design, the Q3 conveys confidence and emotion both as an SUV and Sportback. Numerous innovative features turn the Audi Q3 into a digital companion. They provide a first-class user experience and ensure greater comfort and safety for the driver and other road users thanks to many assistance systems. In addition to the well-balanced suspension, the digitalization of light also enhances customer benefits. A high degree of personalization and adaptive, high-resolution light functions are made possible with the new micro-LED technology in the digital Matrix LED headlights. Another feature of the new Audi Q3 is an efficient, partially electrified combustion engine with mild-hybrid technology and a plug-in hybrid model with an electric range of up to 72 miles. Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG: “With a total of more than two million vehicles sold worldwide since the launch of the first generation, the Audi Q3 is one of our best-selling models and has a high status in our product portfolio. With the third generation of the Audi Q3, we are renewing an important model family as part of our product initiative and strengthening our range with a powerful plug-in hybrid and efficient combustion engines. The new model combines efficiency, driving dynamics, and comfort.” In addition to efficient and partially electrified combustion engines, the Audi Q3 offers a new adaptive suspension that enables a balance between comfort and dynamics. Geoffrey Bouquot, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at AUDI AG, adds: “With the Audi Q3 interior, we are transferring the digital stage from the full-size class to the compact segment. An innovative operating concept and numerous assistance systems increase safety and comfort and make the Audi Q3 the ideal digital companion for everyday life.” Compared to its predecessor, the new Audi Q3 has an even more emotional design. The wide Singleframe and the sleekly tapered headlights are fully integrated into the aerodynamic concept. Viewed from the side, a horizontal shoulder line between the headlights and rear lights visually divides the car into two parts, creating a very special distribution of light and shadow. In addition to classic SUV advantages like easy entry, excellent visibility, and a practical interior layout, the second generation of the Audi Q3 Sportback combines the strengths of an SUV with the aesthetics of a coupé. Its roofline, which slopes downward from the A-pillar, is 29mm lower than that of the SUV. This gives the Audi Q3 Sportback an even sportier appearance and a faster silhouette. The rear section is adorned with digital OLED rear lights (optional on Edition 1), complemented by a continuous LED light strip and the illuminated rings (standard on S line and above). This level of lighting technology offered in the new Audi Q3 is available for the first time in the Audi compact segment. The front of the compact SUV features digital Matrix LED headlights (standard on Edition1) that use the micro-LED module for the first time in the Audi Q3. The use of this micro-LED technology improves illumination significantly and thus ensures a strong contrast on the road. The light guidance functions are now much more closely linked to the driver assistance functions. The digital daytime running lights with LED technology, consisting of 23 segments per side, create distinctive light signatures that make the vehicle easily recognizable on the road. In the interior, the new steering wheel control unit means more storage space in the centre console, a new user experience, and a better sense of space. The steering wheel control unit integrates two new steering column levers for the first time. The lever on the right serves as a gear selector, the one on the left as a control element for the light functions and windshield wipers. Also, for the first time in the compact segment at Audi, acoustic glazing for the front side windows comes as standard which makes for better interior acoustics, particularly at high speeds. The 488-litre boot (375 litres on e-hybrid) also demonstrates the practicality of the Audi Q3. With the seat bench folded down, the storage space for the Audi Q3 increases to up to 1,386 litres (1,293 litres e-hybrid) and 1,289 litres (1,196 litres e-hybrid) in the Q3 Sportback. The seat bench can be moved lengthwise, and its angle can be adjusted as standard. The Q3 has a towing capacity of up to 2,100kg. The entry-level model in the Audi Q3 family is the Audi Q3 TFSI 150PS, a four-cylinder petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. The Audi Q3 TDI 150PS is particularly suitable for driving long distances. The Audi Q3 e-hybrid 272PS can charge up to 50kW with DC power under ideal conditions and is more powerful and efficient than ever before. A high-voltage battery with a gross capacity of 25.7 kWh (net 19.7 kWh) was installed for that purpose. This battery enables an electric range of up to 72 miles in the WLTP test cycle. The further developed standard suspension delivers an improved driving experience. The sports suspension (standard on Edition 1) and the suspension with two-valve damper control (available on S line and Edition 1 as part of the optional Sound & Vision Pack Pro) offer an optimally balanced driving experience. One driving assistance highlight is the driver attention and fatigue monitor. For even greater safety on the road, an interior camera also monitors the driver…