Peminat-peminat BMW di Malaysia menantikan kemungkinan kedatangan BMW iX2, sebuah coupe elektrik, sebagaimana diisyaratkan oleh siluet misteri di laman web BMW Malaysia.
iX2, yang diperkenalkan secara global pada Oktober 2023, menjanjikan reka bentuk yang elegan dan jangkamasa elektrik yang mengagumkan sehingga 449km dengan sekali cas. Pengenalan iX2 mencerminkan permintaan yang semakin meningkat untuk kenderaan elektrik (EV) lestari dan berprestasi tinggi di pasaran Malaysia.
Dilengkapi dengan konfigurasi penggerak semua roda dua-motor, iX2 memberikan kuasa sebanyak 313hp dan tork 494Nm, memecut dari 0 hingga 100km/j dalam masa 5.6 saat. Bateri 64.7 kWh-nya menyediakan jangkamasa WLTP yang mencolok, menunjukkan komitmen BMW terhadap EV yang cekap.
Pilihan cas termasuk cas AC 11kW atau peningkatan kepada sistem 22kW untuk cas yang lebih cepat. iX2 berkongsi reka bentuk dalaman dengan iX1, menampilkan skrin terapung berganda, konsole tengah yang luas dengan pengecas telefon tanpa wayar menegak, dan Sistem Pengendalian BMW 9.
Dengan BMW berpotensi memperluaskan rangkaian EV-nya di Malaysia, iX2 melambangkan pergeseran dinamik ke arah pengangkutan lestari di negara ini.
BMW enthusiasts in Malaysia may have reason to be excited as the BMW iX2 hints at its potential arrival on our shores. A cursory glance at BMW Malaysia’s website reveals a mysterious blacked-out silhouette, teasing the imminent introduction of this electric coupe. Unveiled globally in October 2023, the iX2 promises to be a sleek and powerful addition to BMW’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup.
While no booking or registration links are available yet, clicking on the enigmatic silhouette leads to a brief overview of the iX2. Among the key details shared is its impressive electric range, potentially reaching up to 449 km on a single charge.
The gradual expansion of BMW’s EV offerings in Malaysia reflects the growing demand for sustainable and high-performance vehicles in the market. The iX2, with its enticing features, is likely to find a receptive audience among Malaysian car enthusiasts.
The iX2 is essentially a coupe version of the iX1, boasting a more aggressive styling approach and a distinctive sloping roof. Its taillight design, though divisive, showcases BMW’s commitment to exploring new aesthetic directions.
Under the hood, the iX2 xDrive30 is equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup, delivering 313hp and 494Nm of torque. With a single-speed transmission, the iX2 accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in a swift 5.6 seconds, showcasing the electric powertrain’s prowess. The 64.7-kWh battery provides a noteworthy WLTP range of 449km, positioning the iX2 as a formidable contender in the EV market.
The performance figures and range of the iX2 underscore BMW’s commitment to delivering an electric driving experience that combines power, efficiency, and range—an essential trio for widespread EV adoption.
Charging capabilities further enhance the appeal of the iX2, with options for 11kW AC charging or an upgrade to a 22 kW system. The latter allows for faster charging, exemplifying BMW’s dedication to providing convenient and efficient charging solutions.
Inside the iX2, familiarity reigns as it shares its interior design with the iX1. The twin floating screens and a spacious center console with a vertical wireless phone charger create a modern and user-friendly cockpit. The incorporation of BMW Operating System 9 and specially designed seats optimized for long-distance comfort elevate the driving experience.
The consistency in design and features across BMW’s EV lineup ensures a seamless transition for drivers embracing electric mobility, fostering brand loyalty and confidence in the evolving technology.
As BMW’s EV family in Malaysia potentially welcomes the iX2, the automotive landscape is poised for a dynamic shift towards sustainable and cutting-edge transportation. The iX2, with its blend of style, performance, and advanced technology, symbolises the next chapter in BMW’s electric journey and sets the stage for an electrifying future on Malaysian roads.
Audi has officially concluded the production of the TT sports car, marking the end of a 25-year career across three generations. The Audi TT produced a fair number of final editions in a number of regional markets before it was retired.
The final Audi TT rolled off the production line at the Gyor factory in Hungary. The occasion was commemorated with a flower-decorated third-generation TTS Coupe, escorted by the original TT Coupe and TT Roadster concepts from 1995, along with two second-generation models.
The lettering on the windshield indicates that a total of 662,762 units of the Audi TT were produced at the Györ factory between February 18, 1998, and November 10, 2023. The last Audi TTS produced was finished in Chronos Gray Metallic with Dark Chrome matt accents. It featured a 2.0-litre TFSI four-cylinder engine producing 315hp, making it the second most powerful version of the third-generation TT.
While the production of the Audi TT has come to an end, the remaining stock is still available for purchase. Audi has hinted at the possibility of the TT returning as an electric car in the future, but no official decision has been made.
The iconic TT has been a symbol of Audi’s design and engineering prowess, and its legacy will be remembered in automotive history.
Mercedes-Benz rarely introduces a brand-new model. However, they go all out when they do. The C-Class coupe and E-Class coupe are set to be replaced by the 2024 CLE-Class in the premium midsize segment, which is gradually shrinking.
The CLE Coupe is significantly larger than the C-Class coupe, at 191 inches long, 73.2 inches wide, and 56.2 inches tall. Although it is a spiritual successor to both models, Mercedes-Benz clearly wants to reduce the number of cars in its lineup.
Exterior
In addition to being in line with the usual Mercedes design language, it has typical coupe features which are the long bonnet embedded in the front end with two power domes, the steeply sloping windscreen and the long, sloping roof towards the rear.
Its front appearance, which has more angular headlamps and strong grille sections, is interestingly more similar to the less expensive CLA-Class than either the C- or E-Class sedans. The attached rear taillight bar reminds us of the company’s all-electric EQ products. Well, at least this design resembles an actual car rather than it looking like an egg with four wheels.
The GV80 Coupe Concept, which was inspired by the X Speedium Coupe Concept that debuted in New York last year, combines the utility of a lifestyle-focused SUV with the athleticism of a sports car.
Genesis steps up its SUV game to compete with rivals such as BMW and Mercedes, who are dominating the current Sports Utility Vehicle market.
At many motorshows, there are the major carmakers who display their production and concept models and usually occupy the biggest floor spaces. And there are smaller companies which may have one model – often with a unique design – on display. Some of these small companies may have big plans and are hoping to draw interest from investors so they can commercialize their ideas, or they are hoping to get advance orders (and money) from customers so they have funding to proceed.
While many fade away, some are lucky to be able to get funding and move forward. They are the ‘start-ups’ which often have some new and innovative ideas or ‘disruptive’ strategies which they believe will ‘transform’ the market. And these days, the focus is on electric vehicles (EVs), which can use business models that differ from the traditional auto industry models.
One such company which appeared two years ago at the Los Angeles Auto Show was Alpha Motor Corporation which displayed interesting designs. The company had plans though they were vague and had a few concept models to show but no specific time-lines to provide. Their answers to media queries were also vague but that’s not unusual for start-ups which are just well, getting started. Furthermore, they would also want to keep things secret so rivals don’t know what they are really working on.
In August this year, Bentley unveiled the Batur coupe, a very exclusive model to be built by Bentley Mulliner and limited to only 18 units, each priced at from £1.65 million (about RM8.9 million). Named after a beautiful lake in Bali, the Batur is the second bespoke project by Bentley Mulliner after the Bacalar and the first customers (all units have already been booked) should start getting their cars in mid-2023..
With development work completed and two prototypes available, real-world testing is now underway to verify the performance after an extensive engineering program. The validation activities, with more than 120 individual tests, include durability for both the engine and whole vehicle, environmental compatibility and sunlight simulation, high speed stability, aerodynamics, noise & vibration, and driving dynamics.
After some 4 years in the market, the BMW M850i xDrive Coupe has received updates as the MY Edition. Besides cosmetic changes on the exterior as well as interior, the list of standard equipment has also been expanded.
Beginning with the front profile, the new coupe has been given the ‘Iconic Glow’ lighting feature for the kidney grille, with LEDs within that provide a waterfall-like illumination which cascades down the grille slats. It seems a bit gimmicky and illuminates when opening the doors, starting and switching off the ignition, and finally locking the car.
The Bentley Batur coupe represents the end of one era, as well as the beginning of another. While giving a glimpse of the new design language for the British luxury brand, it also marks the end of the iconic W12 engine which has evolved to become the most powerful powertrain in its history.
The Batur, named after a beautiful lake in Bali, is the second bespoke project by Bentley Mulliner after the Bacalar and only 18 units will be produced, priced from £1.65 million each ex-factory. (about RM8.74 million). The 18 customers who have already reserved a unit will receive their cars within 11 months.
Final version of the mighty W12 Although riding on a similar chassis as the Continental GT, the Batur has a more powerful 6-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, producing 740+ ps and 1,000 Nm. This final version is the most powerful of the mightY W12 engines that first appeared in the Continental GT in 2002. Although its power output is risen nearly 40% in 20 years, fuel economy has improved by 25%.
For the Batur’s W12 engine, a new intake system, upgraded turbochargers, new intercoolers and extensive recalibration was done to deliver exceptional. It is paired with Bentley’s 8-speed double-clutch transmission, and a sports exhaust to provide a soundtrack in keeping with the level of performance. The entire exhaust system is in titanium, while the finishers are 3D-printed in titanium in a first for Bentley.
As well as being the most power and most exclusive Bentley coupe to date, the Batur will also be the most dynamic with Speed-tuned air suspension, it is claimed. Adaptive 3-chamber air springs each have 3 switchable chambers, changing the volume of the air spring and varying effective stiffness. The driver can select the balance between ride comfort and body control using the 4-mode Drive Dynamics, choosing between Sport, Bentley, Comfort and Custom.
The Drive Dynamics Control also changes the behaviour of the 48V electric active anti-roll control system, which can provide up to 1,300 Nm of anti-roll torque in just 3/10ths of a second or completely decouple the wheels at either end of each axle. The anti-roll control system can also be used to adjust the roll stiffness front-to-rear, giving the Batur sharper turn-in and greater ability to balance the car on the throttle when in Sport mode.
Overall traction and cornering grip is maximised through the use of an electronic Limited Slip Differential that actively vectors drive torque across the chassis. This is complemented by torque vectoring by brake, whereby the car can lightly brake the inside rear wheel on turn-in for greater front-axle response, and also lightly brake both inside wheels on corner exit to move power across to the outside, loaded wheels for better traction.
New chapter in Bentley design The Bentley design DNA that has driven the creation of the Continental GT, Flying Spur and Bentayga families has been revolutionised for the Batur, introducing new themes, approaches and details. The new form language defines a new chapter for Bentley design, as part of Bentley’s Beyond100 transformational journey.
“For any design team, the chance to redefine our own rules is the most exciting challenge. We have reimagined the Bentley design language, keeping some continuity to the past and present while also drastically changing key elements,” said Bentley’s Director of Design, Andreas Mindt.
“A mark of power and prestige has always been a long bonnet. Our new design cues include a line that stretches from the bonnet along the whole length of the car, connecting the bonnet into the body, making the car long and lean and giving an elongated proportion to the front end. We call this feature the ‘endless bonnet’, and it’s the only accent highlight to the cleaner shape,” he said.
“At the very front of the car, we’ve modernised the famous Bentley grille and made it lower and more upright, to give a stronger face and a more dominant stance. This upright elegance brings self-confidence with a luxury stance. The grille is flanked by a new headlight shape and design, an evolution of the design used on Bacalar and maintaining the single large headlight either side. These are matched with all-new tail-lamps at the rear, that sit either side of a deployable spoiler,” explained Mindt.
Meanwhile, the visual mass of the car is moved rearwards, giving the impression that the car is sat on the rear axle, which adds further depth to the haunches. Overall, the form is cleaner and simplified, relying more on curvaceous surfaces bisected in the right places to reflect light and dark and bring more muscle to the design.
Ultimate personalisation The interior space of the Batur for two persons is designed for ultimate personalisation and long-distance grand touring. Inspired by the interior design of the Bacalar, the Batur builds on the core elements of the Bacalar’s cabin design and adds new sustainable luxury features.
Every element of the cabin is tailored to the customer’s specifications. Each car will be unique, designed collaboratively with the customer with guidance from Mulliner’s in-house design team. Customers will be able to specify the colour and finish of practically every surface of the Batur, to create a car as individual as they are.
There’s variety of sustainable interior materials to choose from, while the passenger fascia panel is finished with a unique etching of the audio signature of the W12 engine (but bespoke etching is also available). Bright or dark treatments to the interior brightware and titanium options are also available. Certain controls – like the organ stops for ventilation – can be in 3D-printed 18K gold, if desired.
“With Bacalar, we proved the appetite of our clients for truly bespoke and individual Bentleys. We’re building on that story with the Batur, and the fact that all 18 cars are already reserved is testament to the fact that our design team is creating cars that our clients want to buy. Batur is not only a beautiful handcrafted Bentley – it is the next member of a distinguished line of cars coachbuilt by Mulliner, which include the W.O. Bentley’s favourite car in the 8 Litre and the now truly-iconic R-Type Continental,” said Paul Williams Director of Bentley Mulliner.
What if the Batur became a convertible? Here’s what our friend Theottle, the master at reimagining car designs, has come up with today.
With Project MAYBACH, Mercedes-Benz pays tribute to the late Virgil Abloh who passed away recently. Designed as a showcar to inspire the next generation, it is being revealed at the wishes of Abloh’s family.
The artist, architect, creative director, fashion designer and philanthropist, who was also artistic director of Louis Vuitton menswear, had collaborated with Gordon Wagener, design chief of Mercedes-Benz, for this design study. It interprets Mercedes-Maybach’s luxury identity with a new design language and pushed the boundaries of function, style, and collaborative creativity.
Inspired by the great outdoors and recontextualizing a traditionally urban brand within a distinctly off-road environment, the 2-seater, fully-electric off-road coupe combines huge Gran Turismo proportions (almost 6 metres long), large off-road wheels and distinctive attachments. Under the transparent surface of the showcar’s bonnet are solar cells that increase the imagined range of the Project MAYBACH.
Like Project Gelandewagen in 2020, Project MAYBACH is a design unlike anything that has been developed by Mercedes-Benz, with every element built from scratch. Key for both Abloh and Wagener was a responsible vision of future design. Complete creative freedom – unlimited by production requirements – enabled the design teams to conceptualize what the future of electric travel could look like.
The X-Factor nature of Project MAYBACH results not only from its imposing – almost 6 metres long – and characteristics, but also from its unique contrasts. ; most notably through how naturally authentic Mercedes-Maybach design elements are harmoniously combined with a new Outdoor Adventure design motif.
Project MAYBACH channels Abloh’s passion to challenge the status quo and re-write the rulebook of aspirational design. The power of his work is not only from the product design, but also the exploratory conversations that his work ignited. Whilst the showcar was inspired by how one could explore nature within a uniquely luxury context with Maybach, the Mercedes-Benz teams thank Virgil Abloh for the inspiration to explore every day the power of cross-industry dialogue to imagine a better, more inclusive future.
Project Gelandewagen, another car from Virgil Abloh, which was inspired by the G-Wagen.
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