American racing legend Michael Andretti’s quest to enter Formula 1 as the Andretti Cadillac F1 team by 2025 or 2026 has been a tumultuous one. Despite securing a powerful partnership with General Motors, Andretti’s endeavours have faced resistance from existing Formula 1 teams. The latest development reveals that Formula 1 management went so far as to ask General Motors to consider partnering with someone other than Andretti.
Andretti Global, in a partnership with Cadillac, presented its ambitions to join Formula 1 earlier this year. While the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), the governing body of Formula 1, approved Andretti Global’s application, the final decision rests with Formula One Group, owned by Liberty Media. This decision has stirred controversy and raised questions about the sport’s willingness to welcome new entrants.
Subaru Corporation is making its presence felt at the prestigious Japan Mobility Show 2023, which kicked off on October 25 and will run until November 5. Subaru’s booth at the event is not just about showcasing their existing vehicles but also about presenting a vision for the future of mobility, where “Enjoyment and Peace of Mind” are paramount.
At the show, Subaru unveiled two innovative concept models: the Subaru Air Mobility Concept and the Subaru Sport Mobility Concept. These concepts serve as visual representations of Subaru’s vision for a new era of mobility.
The Subaru Air Mobility Concept: Ushering in the “Air Mobility Revolution”
As electric and automated technologies advance in the world of aviation, Subaru envisions an “air mobility revolution.” The Subaru Air Mobility Concept embodies this future of enhanced freedom in mobility. Engineers from both the aerospace and automotive divisions are collaborating on flight demonstrations, underlining Subaru’s commitment to exploring new frontiers in transportation.
The Subaru Sport Mobility Concept: Electric Performance and Enjoyment
The Subaru Sport Mobility Concept is an alluring glimpse into the electrified future of Subaru. This battery-electric vehicle (BEV) concept is designed to cater to drivers who cherish the joy of going anywhere, anytime, and taking control of their driving experiences. It emphasises driver-centric control over all four wheels, while also offering a low seating position for excellent visibility and perceptibility. The design of this concept is focused on a clean and three-dimensional aesthetic that delivers a sense of protection and airflow.
At the highly anticipated Japan Mobility Show, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. has unveiled a groundbreaking creation – the Nissan Hyper Force. This unveiling marks the climax of a series of “hyper” concept vehicles, and it promises to deliver an unparalleled fusion of electrifying performance, exceptional environmental friendliness, and daily driving comfort.
Electrifying Power and Performance
Under the sleek exterior of the Nissan Hyper Force lies an exceptional all-electric powertrain. This core feature showcases precise and rapid acceleration, coupled with an all-solid-state battery that can unleash a remarkable output of up to 1,300hp. This electric powerhouse promises to redefine the experience of high-performance driving.
Advanced Handling and Downforce
The Nissan Hyper Force isn’t just about raw power. It’s engineered to offer precise handling, even on winding roads and racetracks. This feat is achieved through the cutting-edge e-4ORCE all-wheel control technology, complemented by a lightweight yet robust carbon body designed to enhance cornering and handling.
Aerodynamic Excellence
The Nissan Hyper Force’s design is nothing short of artistry. Collaborating with the renowned NISMO racing team, Nissan has crafted a vehicle with an aerodynamic profile that generates powerful downforce. This isn’t just for show; it’s a feature carefully designed to optimise both performance and cooling. The results are striking, from the front’s two-tiered aerodynamic structure to the dual-level rear diffuser, delivering performance that sets new standards.
Dual Driving Modes
The Nissan Hyper Force offers two distinct driving modes. “R” mode, aptly named for racing, transforms the cabin into a high-energy cockpit centered around the driver, encouraging focus and precision. Meanwhile, “GT” mode shifts the cabin ambiance into a comfortable, immersive environment suitable for grand touring. The switch between modes provides a seamless transformation of both the interior and the driving experience.
Cutting-Edge Infotainment
Nissan’s collaboration with Polyphony Digital Inc. has led to an innovative graphical user interface. This interface responds to the selected driving mode and offers real-time data on critical performance metrics. In “R” mode, the cabin illuminates in passionate red, emphasizing the driver’s role as the master of the road. With crucial data available at a glance, drivers can maintain focus on the track. “GT” mode creates a serene, blue-lit cabin with an infotainment interface focused on comfort and convenience for everyday driving.
Safety and Autonomy
The Nissan Hyper Force doesn’t compromise on safety. It features advanced autonomous driving capabilities with hyper LIDAR and an array of sport-tuned sensors. These innovations ensure a high level of safety, whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling a racetrack.
The Future of Gaming and Real Driving Integration
Incorporating augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), the Nissan Hyper Force creates a new dimension of driving. Drivers, when stationary, can don a specialized helmet to immerse themselves in VR driving experiences that offer racing against the clock or competing with online gamers. Additionally, using skeleton visors for AR, drivers can challenge their own digital ghosts on real-world tracks, providing a safe but exhilarating way to push the limits of their skills.
In essence, the Nissan Hyper Force symbolises Nissan’s vision for a next-generation electric high-performance supercar. Combining eco-friendliness, electrifying power, and cutting-edge safety, it sets a new benchmark for the future of driving. Though specific technical details, production plans, and release dates may still be in development, this concept car points the way forward to an exciting automotive future.
BMW Group Logistik, in collaboration with Trailer Dynamics, has successfully tested an electrically powered semi-trailer in real-world logistics operations. This innovative e-trailer concept achieved remarkable fuel savings when paired with a diesel truck. The testing occurred over various distances and routes, and the results were promising.
Short and Medium Distances: The e-trailer, when combined with a diesel truck, achieved average fuel savings of over 46% for short and medium distances.
Long Distances: For long-distance routes, the fuel savings exceeded 48% compared to conventional trailers.
The e-trailer is unique in that it features its own battery and electric drive axle, which assists the semi-truck’s engine. Integrated sensors optimize the load ratio, further improving fuel economy. The e-trailer’s powered axle not only reduces the tractor’s energy consumption but also provides additional power during acceleration and on inclines.
The tests were conducted over both medium and long distances, with up to 250km per day on motorways and main roads. The e-trailer data was collected automatically during these journeys. Over long distances, energy modules for BMW electric cars were transported over 450km, resulting in significant diesel savings. The e-tailer’s battery was charged with 100% green energy, further contributing to its environmental benefits.
A remarkable achievement was demonstrated on the final day of testing, where an electric Volvo tractor was used in combination with an e-trailer. This combination achieved a driving distance of more than 600km without recharging and, therefore, a 100% CO2 reduction when using an e-truck and e-trailer together.
While e-trailers come with a higher initial weight that affects payload capacity, the increased total weight for trailers allowed in the EU helps offset this concern. The higher acquisition costs are balanced by lower operating costs, especially over long distances.
The BMW Group is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and supports the development of innovative technologies in transport logistics to achieve these goals. These e-trailer pilot projects are a significant step in realising their “Green Transport Logistics” strategy.
Lexus, known for its commitment to pioneering technology, has unveiled a series of new battery electric concept models at the first Japan Mobility Show. With the theme “Pushing the Boundaries of the Electrified Experience,” Lexus offers a glimpse into its plans to maximise the potential of electrification and new technologies for delivering innovative mobility experiences.
LF-ZC
Among the featured concepts, the Lexus LF-ZC, a battery electric saloon concept, takes center stage. This concept provides a preview of an upcoming production model scheduled for release in 2026. The LF-ZC is joined by the LF-ZL, a flagship battery electric SUV concept that showcases the brand’s vision for a sustainable and integrated future.
LF-ZL
As a brand with a rich history of challenging luxury car conventions and exceeding customer expectations, Lexus is committed to becoming a battery electric vehicle (BEV) brand in Europe by 2030 and globally by 2035. To achieve this goal, the company plans to introduce a revolutionary modular vehicle structure, adopt advanced production technologies, and revamp its vehicle software platform.
Lexus aims to offer BEVs that balance functionality and beauty, without compromise. The next-generation Lexus BEVs will benefit from versatile packaging, downsizing, weight reduction, and continuous refinement of the “Lexus Driving Signature,” offering an exhilarating driving experience.
Intro Synergy Sdn. Bhd., the exclusive distributor of NETA models in Malaysia, has officially introduced the NETA V electric vehicle (EV) in the Malaysian market. The NETA V was initially shown to the public back in May when bookings were available.
Intro Synergy announced that the NETA V can be reserved in Malaysia at an on-the-road (OTR) price of RM100,000. The NETA V is the company’s debut EV offering in the passenger car segment and comes with a range of warranty options to ensure peace of mind for customers. These warranties include:
– 5-year or 150,000 km warranty for general components.
– 8-year or 180,000 km warranty for EV High Voltage Components, including the battery and on-board charger.
– 10-year or 200,000 km warranty for the vehicle’s body.
The NETA V is available in five distinct colours which are Sakura Pink, Sky Blue, Moonlight Green, Midnight Gray, Cyan, and White Storm.
The official launch event also unveiled the NETA V’s exclusive Malaysian body kit, which enhances the car’s sporty appearance. The redesigned front skirts extend the NETA V’s frontal profile, while the rear and side skirts create a sleek and aerodynamic exterior.
The NETA V boasts an electric motor that produces up to 127hp of power and a maximum torque of 160Nm, resulting in swift acceleration. It can go from 0 to 50km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 120km/h in actual tests. The car supports both fast and slow charging and is equipped with a battery management system that optimises charging times, allowing a 20% to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes through DC Fast Charging. It also features the HEPT 3.0 Thermostatic Battery Management System with liquid cooling to maintain battery efficiency while conserving cooling energy.
To encourage drivers to make the switch to EVs, the NETA V offers two package options. The first option includes a free EV Starter Package with essential accessories such as a home charger and installation, V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), body kits, auto tailgate, tint film, CO2 eliminator, and insurance. The second option is an interest-free package with up to 7 years of financing, subject to terms and conditions.
NETA has established a network of dealers and service centers in the Klang Valley, northern, southern, and eastern regions of Peninsula Malaysia, and also in Sabah. The brand has plans to further expand its network as it aims to gain momentum in the Malaysian market.
NETA’s introduction to the Malaysian market represents a commitment to contributing to the national agenda of carbon neutrality by 2050. GoAuto Group Executive Chairman, Dato’ SM Azli SM Nasimuddin Kamal, emphasized the group’s role in helping consumers transition to electric-based transportation modes.
NETA’s Vice-President, Mr. Alan Zhou, expressed excitement about the rapid growth of interest in electric vehicles within Malaysia and highlighted the company’s commitment to offering environmentally-friendly technology while providing excellent value to Malaysian consumers. NETA aims to make a positive contribution to the local market through its partnership with Intro Synergy.
This launch aligns with the broader industry trend toward sustainable mobility and supports Malaysia’s efforts to adopt green transportation solutions.
