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The all-electric Mercedes Vision EQXX continues to make waves in the automotive industry, showcasing groundbreaking innovation and remarkable efficiency. Following its impressive 1,008km and 1,202km single-charge drives, the Vision EQXX has embarked on another monumental road trip that was 1,010km, this time braving the desert heat to test its advanced thermal management system under extreme conditions.

The primary objective of the desert expedition was to evaluate the car’s thermal management system’s effectiveness in temperatures reaching up to 34 degrees Celsius. Despite the harsh environment, the intelligent on-demand system flawlessly maintained optimal temperatures for both the electric drivetrain and cabin, ensuring minimal impact on energy efficiency. The air conditioning system, powered by a multi-source heat pump, played a crucial role in maintaining comfort while conserving energy.

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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into a tragic crash that occurred on February 24 in San Antonio, Texas, involving a Ford Mustang Mach-E equipped with the advanced hands-free driving assist technology, BlueCruise. The collision, which resulted in the fatality of Jeffrey Allen Johnson, the driver of a stationary Honda CR-V, has prompted scrutiny of the role of Ford’s BlueCruise system.

Ford’s BlueCruise is recognised as one of the most capable hands-free driving assist systems available in the U.S. market, allowing drivers to temporarily remove their hands from the steering wheel while driving on certain designated highways. However, drivers are required to maintain their attention on the road, with a driver monitoring system in place to track eye movements and disengage BlueCruise if prolonged diversion is detected.

2020 Ford Mustang Mach-E

Unlike previous investigations into collisions involving Tesla’s Autopilot, which focused on inadequate driver monitoring, this incident highlights the importance of robust driver monitoring systems in preventing accidents. While it remains uncertain whether BlueCruise was active during the crash, its potential involvement raises concerns about the efficacy of hands-free driving technologies and their impact on road safety.

If BlueCruise is found to have played a role in the crash, this incident could have far-reaching implications not only for Ford but also for the wider automotive industry. Nevertheless, the investigation aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the collision and identify any necessary enhancements to hands-free driving systems to improve overall safety on the roads.

The new Audi Q6 E-Tron has been unveiled, showcasing Audi’s Premium Platform Electric architecture, shared with the Porsche Macan EV and featuring Audi badging for the first time. This architecture operates on an 800-volt system and incorporates two electric motors biased towards the rear in both power and vehicle weight distribution.

At launch, the Q6 E-Tron will be available in two trims—Q6 and the performance-focused SQ6—both equipped with a 100-kWh (94.9-kWh net) battery pack. Sportback trims will be introduced later, along with a rear-wheel-drive version aimed at extending the range.

In North America, buyers can expect a combined 422hp from the Q6 E-Tron, marking a modest 40hp increase compared to the European model. The sportier SQ6 boasts 483hp, with both trims offering enhanced acceleration through launch control. Audi claims the Q6 can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in approximately 5.0 seconds with launch control, while the SQ6 achieves this in just 4.2 seconds.

 

Audi estimates a range of 482km for the standard Q6 E-Tron, with SQ6 range estimates pending. Both trims utilise the same battery, with the SQ6 likely to offer slightly less range. Of notable mention is the Q6 E-Tron’s 800-volt charging capability, allowing it to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 21 minutes using a DC fast charger, capable of pulling 270 kW.

The PPE architecture of the Audi Q6 E-Tron is engineered to optimise electric packaging while delivering robust driving dynamics. Features include control arms positioned in front of suspension arms for improved battery positioning and a fixed steering rack to enhance control. Additionally, Audi equips the Q6 with wider tires at the rear for optimised performance.

Beyond performance, the advanced technology integrated into the Q6 E-Tron is a standout feature. The SUV boasts the E3 (End-to-End Electronic) architecture, powered by AI to manage various Android-based systems and provide proactive suggestions based on learned behaviors. The SUV also features digital screens including an 11.9-inch driver display, a 10.9-inch passenger screen, and an optional augmented-reality heads-up display.

Pricing details for the 2025 Audi Q6 and SQ6 E-Tron models are to be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Uber has agreed to pay nearly $272 million (RM1,284,520 000) to compensate taxi and hire car drivers affected by its aggressive entry into the Australian market. Maurice Blackburn Lawyers announced that the class action against Uber, expected to go to trial at the Supreme Court of Victoria, would be abandoned after the rideshare company agreed to the substantial settlement.

This settlement, the fifth-largest in Australia’s history, represents a significant victory for more than 8000 taxi and hire car owners and drivers who suffered financial losses due to Uber’s market entry. Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Michael Donelly described the five-year legal battle as “gruelling” and emphasised how Uber had attempted to deny compensation to those affected.

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Hertz Global Holdings Inc. is making a change in leadership following challenges stemming from its investments in electric vehicles. Stephen Scherr, who has been serving as CEO for just over two years, has decided to step down. He will be replaced by Gil West, the former chief operating officer of General Motors Co.’s Cruise Robotaxi unit, effective April 1.

Scherr’s tenure at Hertz coincided with the company’s ambitious foray into electric vehicles, which began shortly after emerging from bankruptcy. Hertz made significant investments in EVs, including placing orders for 100,000 vehicles from Tesla Inc., as part of its strategy to modernise its fleet and capitalise on the growing demand for electric mobility.

However, these bets on EVs did not yield the expected results. Last year, Tesla’s price cuts significantly reduced the resale value of Hertz’s used EVs, leading to challenges related to depreciation and demand. As a result, Hertz announced plans to sell off a substantial portion of its EV fleet, citing lacklustre demand and costly depreciation.

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Xpeng, a prominent Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker, has unveiled plans to enter the highly competitive EV market segment with a new, more affordable brand. During an industry event in Beijing, Xpeng’s Chairman and CEO, He Xiaopeng, announced that the new brand’s models will be priced between 100,000 yuan and 150,000 yuan (RM65,536-RM98,304). This pricing strategy aims to target a wider consumer base by offering EVs at a lower price point compared to premium EV makers, whose vehicles typically fall in the 200,000-300,000 yuan (RM131,072 – RM196,608) range.

The decision to introduce a cheaper brand comes amid heightened competition in China’s EV market, with companies like BYD leading efforts to reduce prices. Xpeng’s move reflects the industry’s trend toward affordability and accessibility, as companies seek to attract more customers by offering more competitively priced EVs.

XPeng autonomous drive record in China 2021

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The revelation of potential talks between Nissan Motor and Honda Motor regarding a strategic partnership signifies a significant development in the automotive industry. Faced with mounting competition from new market players, both companies acknowledge the imperative to capitalise on their individual strengths and delve into collaborative ventures, particularly within the realms of electric vehicles (EVs) and automotive software.

During a joint press conference, Honda’s President and CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, underscored the necessity of collaboration in tackling the evolving challenges within the industry. He outlined broad areas of potential cooperation, spanning automotive software, EV batteries, and synergistic product development. While specifics were not disclosed owing to the nascent stage of discussions, the establishment of multiple working groups was announced to thoroughly explore collaboration opportunities.

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The newly redesigned Mini John Cooper Works Countryman stands out with its bold and distinctive appearance, characterised by a strikingly upright and minimalist silhouette. This design perfectly complements the exceptional performance capabilities of the car.

At the heart of the JCW Countryman lies a powerful 300hp engine, delivering exhilarating acceleration and dynamic driving experiences. Thanks to its enhanced aerodynamics, it can sprint from a standstill to 100km/h in a mere 5.4 seconds, making it a true force to be reckoned with on the road.

The exterior design of the Mini JCW Countryman further emphasises its sporty character. Finished in the eye-catching Legend Grey body colour, the vehicle commands attention wherever it goes. Adding to its visual appeal are the signature JCW contrasting Chili Red accents, which adorn the mirror caps, roof, and air outlet inlays. These bold red elements not only highlight the sportiness of the model but also pay homage to its racing heritage.

Overall, the Mini John Cooper Works Countryman combines striking design elements with powerful performance, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts who demand both style and substance from their vehicles.

Brabus, the renowned German tuner, has unveiled the 930 S, a powerhouse based on the new Mercedes-AMG S63 E-Performance, boasting a staggering 930hp.

With nearly 930hp packed into a luxurious sedan, the Brabus 930 S is a marvel of engineering. Accompanying this power is an astounding 1509Nm of torque. Brabus achieves this by enhancing the 4.0-litre AMG V-8 engine from 603 to 740hp by adding new turbochargers, exhaust system upgrades, and a corresponding tune. The existing 190-hp electric motor mounted at the rear axle remains unchanged.

Impressively, the Brabus 930 accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.2 seconds and reaches a limited top speed of 290km/h. Even more remarkable, Brabus provides a three-year or 99779km warranty for the drivetrain.

Visually, the Brabus 930 S receives the customary Brabus aesthetic enhancements, including carbon fibre elements and imposing 22-inch monoblock wheels. Inside, the cabin is adorned with luxurious quilted leather upholstery, with one variant showcasing light blue leather and microfibre trim, exemplifying luxury.

Brabus has also fine-tuned the suspension to lower the ride height in select drive modes and accommodate 265/35ZR22 front and 295/30ZR22 rear tyres. Despite its considerable weight of approximately 2599kg, including an electric motor and 6-kWh AMG battery enables the Brabus 930 to achieve impressive fuel efficiency, boasting a claimed 53.5 mpg.

However, such power and exclusivity come at a price. The Brabus 930 commands a hefty €405,000 (RM2,074,949), reflecting the unparalleled performance and craftsmanship it offers.

In a move that marks the ending of an era for manual transmission variants of the model in the Japanese market, BMW Japan proudly presents the M3 MT Final Edition. Limited to just 150 units, this exclusive release pays homage to the celebrated legacy of the BMW M3 series while commemorating the 35th anniversary of its inaugural victory in the German Touring Car Championship.

The M3 MT Final Edition stands out with its manual transmission, a feature that embodies the essence of driving pleasure and precision control. Drawing inspiration from its racing heritage, this special edition boasts design elements such as gold-painted wheels and red seat accents, reminiscent of iconic racing models like the U.S. market CS. As the ultimate manual M3, it serves as a poignant farewell to a cherished chapter in BMW’s history.

Renowned for their blend of track-ready performance and everyday usability, BMW’s M models have consistently impressed enthusiasts worldwide. The M3 MT Final Edition continues this tradition, offering the exhilarating driving experience of an M High-Performance (Competition) model paired with the practicality needed for daily driving. With its right-hand drive configuration and 6-speed manual transmission, it promises exclusivity and excitement for discerning drivers. Available in three captivating colours—Alpine White, Black Sapphire, and M Brooklyn Gray—this edition exudes sophistication and sportiness.

 

As the curtain falls on the era of manual M3s, the MT Final Edition stands as a testament to BMW’s commitment to engineering excellence and motorsport heritage. Enthusiasts and collectors eager to secure a piece of automotive history can participate in a lottery system on BMW Japan’s official website until March 27, with deliveries expected shortly thereafter.

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