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Aston Martin CEO Outlines Future Strategy, Wants More Manual Transmission Variants

After five months as CEO of Aston Martin, Adrian Hallmark is unveiling his vision for the brand’s future, drawing inspiration from Porsche’s model strategy and reaffirming his commitment to purist sports cars. Among his key priorities is the return of manual transmissions, an element he believes is crucial for delivering an engaging driving experience.

Hallmark highlighted the importance of developing multiple variants for each model, ensuring differentiation beyond simple colour and trim updates. “For a true, purist sports car experience, we need a manual,” he stated, hinting at potential future offerings. Aston Martin’s last manual transmission was featured in the limited-edition Valour and Valiant models, while the 2019 Vantage AMR was the most recent standard production manual model. Hallmark sees strong demand for manual sports cars, as demonstrated by the success of the Porsche 911 GT3 and S/T.

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Ford Set to Make a Triumphant Return to Le Mans 24 Hours in 2027

Ford has officially announced its return to the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours race in 2027, aiming for overall victory with a new LMDh prototype as part of a World Endurance Championship (WEC) campaign. The move marks the American automaker’s first full-factory assault on Le Mans since the Group C Ford C100 program in 1982.

The decision was revealed by Ford Motor Company’s Executive Chair, Bill Ford, during a motorsport launch event in Charlotte, North Carolina. Reflecting on the brand’s storied history at Le Mans, he highlighted the company’s iconic victories between 1966 and 1969 with the Ford MkII, MkIV, and GT40, as well as its triumph in the GTE Pro class in 2016, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of its first outright win.

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Renault Unveils the Filante Record 2025: A Tribute to Speed and Innovation

Renault has officially introduced the Filante Record 2025, a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Renault Étoile Filante, celebrating its 70th anniversary. Inspired by the groundbreaking 1956 model, which set a world speed record of 308.9km/h on the Bonneville Salt Flats, this new concept embodies cutting-edge technology and aerodynamic excellence.

A Homage to Historic Innovation

The original Étoile Filante was a revolutionary vehicle powered by a gas turbine engine, a rare feat in automotive history. Seventy years later, Renault pays tribute to this engineering marvel by unveiling the Filante Record 2025, a concept designed for extreme speed and performance. While the Étoile Filante demonstrated Renault’s pioneering spirit in the mid-20th century, the new model integrates modern materials, aerodynamics, and sustainable engineering.

Advanced Aerodynamics and Lightweight Construction

The Filante Record 2025 is built with ultra-lightweight materials, ensuring optimal performance at high speeds. Its sleek, streamlined body is crafted for minimal air resistance, enhancing stability and efficiency. The design is a fusion of classic and futuristic elements, preserving the silhouette of the original model while incorporating state-of-the-art aerodynamic principles.

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Ford Performance Unveils Two New Supercharged Crate Engines for 2025

Ford Performance has announced the introduction of two new high-performance crate engines, the 7.3-litre Megazilla 2.0 V8 and the 5.0-litre Supercharged Coyote V8, designed to provide significant power upgrades for both competition and street applications.

Megazilla 2.0: A 1,000+ Horsepower Powerhouse

The Megazilla 2.0 is an evolution of Ford’s original Megazilla V8, now enhanced with a Gen 6 3.0-litre Whipple Supercharger. This combination results in an estimated 1,000+hp, making it one of the most powerful crate engines Ford has ever produced.

Built for competition use only, the engine is intended for applications such as drag racing and desert off-road racing. Key features include:

Forged pistons, connecting rods, and a steel crankshaft for enhanced durability.
Ported and polished cylinder heads with upgraded valve springs for improved airflow and efficiency.
A high-performance supercharger to maximise power output.

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Volvo Announces Major 2026 Model Year Tech Upgrades Across Lineup

Volvo is set to introduce significant technological advancements for the 2026 model year, bringing an enhanced user experience and improved infotainment performance to several models. The updates will apply to the XC40, EX40, EC40, S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, V90, and V90 Cross Country, with additional upgrades for the upcoming XC90.

Next-Generation Volvo Car UX for a Safer, More Intuitive Experience

Volvo’s latest user experience system, Volvo Car UX, will be integrated into all mentioned models. Already featured in the EX30, EX90, and new XC90, this system is designed to offer a more personalised, streamlined, and safer way to interact with the vehicle’s infotainment system.

Key enhancements include:

A redesigned home screen prioritizing frequently used apps like navigation, media, and phone.
A contextual bar that dynamically adjusts to display the most relevant functions.
An updated driver display with a larger, clearer navigation view for better visibility.

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Volvo Launches 2025 EX90: A Family-Oriented Electric SUV to Rival the Competition

After a relatively quiet period in its electric vehicle lineup, Volvo is preparing to make a significant impact in 2025 with the launch of a new family-friendly EV. The Volvo EX90 is a three-row electric SUV designed to elevate the brand’s presence in a competitive and growing market.

Powerful Performance and Impressive Range

The 2025 Volvo EX90 offers two distinct powertrain options, both paired with all-wheel drive and an impressive 111 kWh battery capable of achieving up to 498km on a single charge. When connected to a DC fast charger, the vehicle can recharge from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes, making it a practical option for long-distance travel.

The base trim features dual electric motors that deliver 402hp and 770Nm of torque, enabling the EX90 to reach 100km/h in just 5.7 seconds. For those seeking enhanced performance, an upgrade to the twin motor performance powertrain boosts output to 510hp and 909Nm of torque, slashing the 0-100km/h time to 4.7 seconds. This performance enhancement comes at an additional cost of $5,000 (RM22,140).

The Volvo EX90 is available in two trims: the Plus, starting at $79,995 (RM354,212), and the Ultra model, priced from $84,345 (RM373,473).

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