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Aston Martin Vanquish Volante: The Ultimate Grand Tourer

Aston Martin has a rich history of producing stunning convertibles that blend luxury, performance, and timeless design. The marque introduced its first open-top model, the DB2 Drophead Coupé, in the early 1950s, setting the stage for a lineage of elegant and powerful roadsters. Over the decades, Aston Martin has refined its convertible offerings, from the iconic DB5 Volante of the 1960s to modern masterpieces like the Vantage Roadster and DBS Volante. Each model embodies the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and driving exhilaration, making Aston Martin convertibles a symbol of prestige and open-air motoring excellence.

Enter 2025, Aston Martin has officially revealed the highly anticipated Vanquish Volante, marking the latest evolution of the iconic Volante lineage. As the fastest and most powerful open-top series production Aston Martin to date, the Vanquish Volante stands alongside its coupe counterpart as the most formidable front-engine production car available today.

Power and Performance

At the heart of the Vanquish Volante lies Aston Martin’s new 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering a staggering 835PS and 1000Nm of torque. With a top speed of 344km/h, the vehicle promises a visceral open-air driving experience like no other. Despite its convertible form, the Vanquish Volante retains the coupe’s dynamic precision and agility, offering uncompromising performance.

Power is sent to the rear wheels via an advanced eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, integrated with an electronically controlled rear differential (E-diff). This system transitions from fully open to locked in just 135 milliseconds, enhancing agility in tight corners while maintaining stability at high speeds. The vehicle’s chassis is underpinned by a bonded aluminum structure, which provides 75% increased lateral stiffness compared to its predecessor. The result is a dynamic and refined ride that balances grand touring comfort with supercar-level handling.

Suspension and Driving Modes

The Vanquish Volante features bespoke suspension tuning to accommodate its unique weight distribution. Advanced Bilstein DTX dampers offer superior wheel control across different drive modes, which include GT, Sport, and Sport+. GT mode delivers a smooth, long-distance touring experience, while Sport and Sport+ progressively tighten body control and response, ensuring an exhilarating ride.

The model also benefits from carbon-ceramic brakes as standard, reducing overall weight by 27kg while providing exceptional stopping power. The brakes work in tandem with a bespoke Pirelli P ZERO tire, designed exclusively for Vanquish, ensuring optimal grip in various driving conditions.

Design and Engineering

Staying true to Aston Martin’s design ethos, the Vanquish Volante features a sleek and muscular stance, accentuated by signature aerodynamic elements. The car retains the dramatic front-end styling of the coupe, including F1-inspired thermos louvres for efficient cooling. At the rear, a distinctive Kamm tail and floating ‘Shield’ design enhance aerodynamics and aesthetics. The frameless door mirrors and flush-fit door handles contribute to the vehicle’s seamless, sculpted profile.

The lightweight K-fold fabric roof can be operated in just 14 seconds when opening and 16 seconds when closing, even while driving at speeds up to 50km/h. Advanced thermal insulation ensures an interior experience comparable to the coupe, maintaining class-leading refinement and acoustic performance.

Interior and Advanced Technology

Inside, the Vanquish Volante embodies precision craftsmanship with a two-seat layout that enhances driver engagement. The interior architecture mirrors that of the coupe, featuring a lowered center console that enhances the feeling of cabin space. A blend of modern touchscreen technology and tactile physical switchgear ensures intuitive operation, preserving the brand’s signature ultra-luxury experience.

Aston Martin’s latest digital infotainment system, housed within a 10.25-inch display, offers seamless connectivity and advanced navigation features. Naturally, the Vanquish Volante comes with Bowers & Wilkins’ finest audio system as standard. Expertly tuned for the car, its 15-speaker surround sound delivers an unforgettable listening experience

The optional titanium exhaust system further enhances the driving experience, producing an unmistakable V12 soundtrack while reducing weight by 10.5kg.

With the introduction of the Vanquish Volante, Aston Martin solidifies its reputation for crafting ultra-luxury, high-performance convertibles. The model stands as a testament to six decades of Volante excellence, combining state-of-the-art engineering with timeless design to deliver an unparalleled driving experience.

Toyota Launches Upgraded Supra RZ Grade and Limited A90 Final Edition

Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) has officially launched a partially upgraded version of the Supra RZ Grade, now available at Toyota dealerships across Japan. In addition, the company has opened the lottery for the highly anticipated special-edition Supra A90 Final Edition, limited to just 150 units in Japan. The lottery runs until April 13, with winners set to be announced on May 9.

The latest updates to the Supra RZ Grade focus on enhancing its driving experience, making it more integrated and enjoyable on city streets, winding roads, and racing circuits. Toyota has improved braking performance for greater safety, increased the body’s rigidity, and refined the suspension and chassis tuning. Aerodynamic improvements have also been introduced to boost handling and stability.

The A90 Final Edition represents the pinnacle of the current-generation Supra, offering significant performance upgrades as a tribute to loyal fans. This special-edition model features increased engine power and torque, upgraded braking components, a strengthened body structure, and a KW suspension system—a favourite among racing enthusiasts. The car is also equipped with high-performance tyres, further refining its high-speed stability and responsiveness.

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Lewis Hamilton Eyes Ferrari Road Car Project, Inspired by the Legendary F40

Lewis Hamilton’s aspirations at Ferrari extend beyond the Formula 1 circuit, as the seven-time world champion has expressed interest in designing a road car for the iconic Italian marque. In a recent interview with Motorsport.com, Hamilton revealed his ambition to create a modern-day tribute to the legendary Ferrari F40, a project he intends to pursue during his tenure with Ferrari.

The British driver, now in his first season with Ferrari, has long been fascinated by automotive design. Back in 2019, while racing for Mercedes-AMG Petronas, he voiced his desire to contribute to a special edition of the One hypercar, a project that never materialised. However, Hamilton remains eager to leave his mark on the automotive world, this time under the banner of Ferrari.

“One of the things I really want to do is design a Ferrari,” he stated while attending the Australian Grand Prix. “I want to do an F44—based on the F40, with an actual stick shift. That’s what I’m going to work on for the next few years.”

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Mitsubishi Ralliart Gears Up for AXCR 2025 with Enhanced Triton Rally Car

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has confirmed its participation in the upcoming 2025 Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR), with Team Mitsubishi Ralliart set to compete in the gruelling event using a specially modified Triton pickup truck. The rally, which will take place this August, will span across Thailand and Cambodia, marking the event’s 30th anniversary with an extended course and tougher conditions.

The updated Triton rally car, built to T1 cross-country specifications, was unveiled today at the 46th Bangkok International Motor Show. Featuring a striking new livery, the vehicle has been upgraded with improved engine durability, refined chassis tuning, and additional enhancements designed to boost its endurance and competitiveness. Team Mitsubishi Ralliart has set its sights on reclaiming the AXCR title, which it last won in 2022.

Aiming for Redemption

In the 2024 AXCR, Mitsubishi entered four Tritons, which showcased improved handling and performance to compete against high-displacement rivals. Thai driver Chayapon Yotha had taken the overall lead by Leg 4, securing a significant 20-minute advantage. However, an engine failure forced him to retire, dashing the team’s championship hopes.

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Tesla Roadster: Eight Years of Delay and Still Taking RM221k for Reservations

Tesla continues to accept reservations for its long-promised second-generation Roadster, despite nearly eight years passing since its unveiling in November 2017. While the company has remained silent on a firm production timeline, the vehicle remains listed on Tesla’s website, inviting enthusiasts to place deposits without any clear indication of when—or if—their orders will be fulfilled.

The Roadster was initially introduced as a revolutionary high-performance EV, with Tesla projecting a production start in 2020. However, that timeline has been repeatedly pushed back, first to 2021, then to 2022, 2023, and now 2024. Last year, Elon Musk suggested a potential 2025 production date but reiterated that Tesla’s mainstream models would always take precedence in development.

Beyond its ever-shifting launch schedule, the Roadster has been at the centre of some of Tesla’s most ambitious claims. The company continues to promote performance targets announced in 2017, including a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 1.9 seconds, an 8.8-second quarter-mile, a top speed exceeding 402km/h, and a driving range of 997km. The Roadster is also expected to feature all-wheel drive and a four-seat configuration, setting it apart from many traditional supercars.

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BYD Launches Denza N9 Plug-in Hybrid SUV in China

BYD has officially launched its new flagship plug-in hybrid SUV, the Denza N9, in China, with prices ranging between 389,800 and 449,800 yuan (approximately RM253,370 to RM292,370). The SUV introduces BYD’s cutting-edge e3 “Yisanfang” technology, which enhances manoeuvrability with features such as crab walking, tank turns, and stability control at speeds of up to 180 km/h in the event of a tyre burst.

The Denza N9 is available in four exterior colours—black, silver, grey, and green. It measures 5,258 mm in length, 2,030 mm in width, and 1,830 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,125 mm. A panoramic sunroof, spanning 3.2 square meters, extends across all three rows, offering an open and spacious cabin experience.

Built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, the N9 is powered by a tri-motor system that includes a front AC asynchronous motor and two rear permanent magnet synchronous motors. The front motor delivers 268hp and 315Nm of torque, while the rear motor produces 322hp and 360Nm of torque. This system is paired with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that generates 204hp and 325Nm of torque. The SUV is equipped with a 46.9 kWh Blade battery pack, which provides a pure electric range of 202km under the CLTC cycle and a combined range of 1,302 km. With a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 3.9 seconds, the Denza N9 is one of the quickest SUVs in its segment. The vehicle has a minimum turning radius of 4.65 metres, while fast charging capabilities enable a 30% to 80% charge in just 19 minutes.

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Toyota Launches Circular Factory in UK to Advance Vehicle Recycling

Toyota Motor Europe (TME) has announced the launch of its first Toyota Circular Factory (TCF), a facility dedicated to processing end-of-life vehicles through recycling, repurposing, and remanufacturing. The initiative marks a significant step in Toyota’s broader sustainability efforts aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.

The inaugural TCF will be established at Toyota Manufacturing UK’s Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, with operations scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year. The facility is designed to serve as a centre of excellence for future recycling processes across Europe and other global markets.

The primary objective of the TCF is to extract reusable components from decommissioned vehicles, remanufacture essential parts, and recycle raw materials. Reusable parts will be thoroughly inspected and validated before being reintroduced into the market through Toyota’s retail and distribution network. Commodity items such as batteries and wheels will be evaluated for potential remanufacturing, repurposing, or recycling, depending on their condition and viability. Additionally, raw materials including copper, aluminium, steel, and plastic will be recovered and processed to reduce reliance on virgin resources in new vehicle production.

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Honda Unveils Next-Generation Fuel Cell Module and Power Generator

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled the specifications for its Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module and Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator at the 23rd International Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo (H2 & FC EXPO) in Tokyo. These advancements mark a significant step in Honda’s commitment to hydrogen-powered technology and sustainability.

Mass Production Timeline

Honda announced that mass production of the Next Generation Fuel Cell Module will commence in 2027, while the Fuel Cell Power Generator is set to enter production in 2026. These developments align with Honda’s long-term vision of promoting clean energy solutions and achieving carbon neutrality across its operations by 2050.

Next-Generation Fuel Cell Module

The newly introduced fuel cell module has been independently developed by Honda as a successor to the previous model, which was jointly created with General Motors. It features a rated output of 150 kW, improved efficiency, and a significantly reduced production cost—cutting costs in half while more than doubling its durability compared to the current version.

The module’s volumetric power density has increased more than threefold, resulting in a more compact design that enhances installation flexibility. By expanding the applications and market reach of this next-generation module, Honda aims to further contribute to a sustainable, energy-efficient society.

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ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 Flagged Off, Proton e.MAS 7 Embarks On 9,000km Journey

The Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), with support from the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and Tourism Malaysia, has officially launched the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 (AUD 2025). The initiative, which aims to promote sustainability in mobility, marks the start of an ambitious 9,000km journey across nine ASEAN countries.

A landmark initiative in Malaysia’s leadership in green mobility, cross-border collaboration, and automotive innovation, AUD 2025 will culminate at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 (MAS 2025), scheduled to take place from May 9 to May 15, 2025, at MAEPS, Serdang.

The official flag-off ceremony was held at Menara MITI and was officiated by the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. He emphasized that the initiative represents the region’s collective strength in advancing sustainable mobility while reinforcing economic integration and environmental stewardship. Malaysia remains committed to shaping a unified mobility ecosystem that accelerates innovation, harmonizes standards, and strengthens ASEAN’s position as a global leader in next-generation transportation. This drive, he noted, is a vital step towards a future-ready automotive industry benefiting the entire region.

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New MG4 Electric Hatchback Revealed in China with Larger Dimensions and Redesigned Look

A new version of the MG4 all-electric hatchback has been revealed in regulatory filings in China, showcasing a significantly larger design and a complete overhaul in styling. The development suggests that MG may be taking a fresh approach to its entry-level EV, particularly as the current MG4 has struggled with low sales in the Chinese market.

The new MG4, now listed by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), measures 4,395 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, and 1,551 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. Compared to its predecessor, which had dimensions of 4,287 mm in length, 1,836 mm in width, and 1,516 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,705 mm, the new model is notably larger in all aspects. The increased size suggests it is more than just a facelift and represents an entirely new generation.

The redesign extends beyond dimensions, as the new MG4 features an overhauled front fascia, reworked doors, and a revamped rear section. The greenhouse structure between the A and C pillars has also been modified. The styling appears to draw inspiration from the MG3 hatchback while incorporating elements from the MG Cyberster, particularly in the rear, where a wide light strip and arrow-shaped taillights create a striking visual resemblance.

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