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Mercedes-Benz Vans to Usher in a New Era with VAN.EA Platform in 2026

Mercedes-Benz Vans has announced the introduction of its groundbreaking Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), set to debut in 2026. This modular and scalable platform marks a significant shift for the brand, heralding a new era for both privately positioned and commercial vans.

The VAN.EA platform is designed to offer a clear distinction between luxury-focused private vans and premium commercial vehicles. In the private segment, the new architecture will cater to high-end markets with models ranging from elegant family vans to exclusive VIP shuttles and spacious limousines. By extending its portfolio, Mercedes-Benz Vans is carving out a unique luxury niche in the van segment, redefining the expectations of its sophisticated customer base.

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Porsche to Cut Dealer Network in China Amid Declining Sales

Porsche has announced restructuring its dealership network in China, reducing the number of Porsche Centers from 138 to about 100 by the end of 2026. This move, described by the company as an “optimisation,” comes as the German luxury carmaker grapples with declining sales in what was once its most important market.

Sales figures for Porsche in China have been on a steady decline over the past two years. In 2023, the company reported a 15% drop in sales, with a total of 79,283 vehicles sold. The situation worsened in 2024, as sales plummeted by 29% in the first nine months of the year. Once regarded as Porsche’s largest market for eight consecutive years, accounting for more than 30% of its global sales, China has become a challenging landscape for the brand amid shifting market dynamics and intensifying competition.

Struggles in the Chinese Market

China’s evolving automotive market has presented significant challenges for foreign brands like Porsche. The rise of local electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, coupled with a growing consumer preference for new energy vehicles (NEVs), including battery electric and plug-in hybrid models, has reshaped the industry. Meanwhile, an ongoing price war has put further pressure on luxury automakers, with reports suggesting that some Porsche models have seen discounts of up to 35% at dealerships.

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Renault Rises: The Story Behind Its Revival and the All-Electric Turbo Icon

Renault Group’s inspiring transformation story is the centrepiece of Anatomy of a Comeback, a four-part documentary series premiering on Prime Video. The series chronicles the company’s emergence from a challenging crisis in the early 2020s, driven by the ambitious Renaulution roadmap. This bold strategy redefined Renault’s direction and revitalized its identity, culminating in a remarkable resurgence that is now captured in this exclusive series.

The documentary provides an unprecedented glimpse into Renault’s internal processes, showcasing the innovation and dedication behind its revival. It delves into the manufacturing and design secrets of iconic models like the Renault 5, offers exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the Alpine Formula One Team paddocks, and builds anticipation with a world-first vehicle reveal in the series finale. Through the voices of Renault’s employees, viewers witness the resilience, setbacks, and ultimate triumphs that propelled the company back to prominence.

In a groundbreaking move, the final episode of the series will unveil the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, a production vehicle that marks the 44-year revival of the legendary Renault 5 Turbo. This modern reinterpretation reimagines the classic as an all-electric hot hatch, blending the nostalgia of its rallying heritage with cutting-edge technology. The reveal takes viewers into Renault’s Design Department, where executives Luca de Meo, Fabrice Cambolive, and Gilles Vidal confirm the exciting future of this iconic model.

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Michelin and Brembo Unite to Transform Automotive Performance and Safety

Michelin and Brembo, two of the most renowned names in the automotive industry, have joined forces to revolutionise performance and safety in vehicles. This partnership integrates Michelin’s sophisticated tire-monitoring software with Brembo’s advanced AI-driven SENSIFY braking system, setting a new benchmark in braking technology. The collaboration aims to combine real-time tyre data with intelligent braking to redefine the safety and performance standards for modern automobiles.

At the heart of this groundbreaking partnership is Michelin’s cutting-edge software suite, which includes technologies like SmartWear, SmartLoad, and SmartGrip. These systems gather crucial real-time data on tyre wear, load distribution, and grip levels through sensors embedded within the vehicle. This data is then seamlessly transmitted to Brembo’s SENSIFY braking system, which uses artificial intelligence, algorithms, and sensors to independently manage the brakes on each wheel. This level of control ensures precise braking performance, enhancing safety, stability, and overall driving dynamics.

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This Is Why The JAECOO J7 Should Be Your Next Car!

The JAECOO J7 was introduced to Malaysians in July and by the end of October of 2024, it was the best-selling non-national SUV. (more…)

Mercedes-AMG’s High-Performance Electric SUV Embarks on Winter Testing

Mercedes-AMG has reached a significant milestone in the development of its forthcoming high-performance electric SUV, the second model to feature the innovative AMG.EA electric vehicle architecture. Early prototypes are undergoing rigorous cold-weather testing in northern Sweden, where sub-zero temperatures push all components to their limits. These extreme tests are designed to validate the durability, performance, and integration of the SUV’s systems under the harshest conditions.

The AMG.EA Platform: Setting New Standards in EV Performance

At the heart of Mercedes-AMG’s electric future is the AMG.EA platform, which will debut in 2026 with the four-door production version of the Vision AMG concept. This cutting-edge architecture is engineered for unparalleled performance, featuring an 800V electrical system for ultra-fast charging and efficiency. The platform employs axial-flux electric motors, available in twin and tri-motor configurations, delivering outputs exceeding 1000bhp.

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