limited edition Archives

Mercedes-Maybach creates limited edition to celebrate 100th anniversary of Maybach W3

Back in the late 1990s, Rolls-Royce and Bentley were up for sale and BMW eventually acquired the former while the Volkswagen Group got the latter. As Daimler-Benz did not have anything beyond the Mercedes-Benz S-Class that could be on par with those two ultra luxury British brands’ limousines, it decided to revive a brand it had acquired in 1960 – Maybach. This was a historically significant brand which produced elegant and desirable cars between 1921 and 1940.

In 2002, the carmaker launched the standalone Maybach brand with two very expensive models, designed with the same sort of superlative luxury that would rival the best in the world. There were great plans to have a strong presence at the summit of the car market but only 3,000 were ever sold in 9 years – when the target was 1,000 units each year. The old brand name made no impact either, and the pricetag was considered just too high. By 2013, the Maybach brand was once again retired.

Ultra-luxurious sub-brand
However, Mercedes-Benz did not stop trying to have an offering to rival Rolls-Royce and Bentley and it instead decided to develop an ultra luxurious version of the S-Class, and giving it exclusivity by being branded as Mercedes-Maybach. Since 2018, there have been two models – Mercedes-Maybach S 560 4MATIC Sedan and the S 650 Sedan.

This year marks the 100^th anniversary of the first mass-produced car which Maybach Motorenbau GmbH presented at a motorshow in Berlin. It was the W 3 model and was the first German production car with brakes on 4 wheels, an epicyclic gear system and an interior with the finest materials.

Only 200 units of Edition 100
To commemorate that historic model’s 100^th anniversary, Mercedes-Maybach has come up with the ‘Edition 100’. This is a special edition of the current S-Class and GLS models, each limited to 100 units. Both models have the impressive radiator grille bearing the brand emblem. They are hand-painted in the same two tones – high-tech silver/nautical blue – and feature a special design of leather interior in designo crystal white/silver grey pearl.

The brand logo including the inscription ‘Edition 100’ adorns the C-pillar (S-Class) or D-pillar (GLS), various stowage compartments and the illuminated panels in the interior. The same lettering also adorns the hub caps on the forged wheels of the GLS and the grey wheels of the S-Class.

A car cover with the iconic double M as well as a fine handmade case made of soft crystal white or black leather in file size – made to store keys and papers – further underline the exclusivity of the edition.

Limited editions of lifestyle accessories
In keeping with the anniversary edition, Mercedes-Maybach’s long-standing partners are also designing strictly limited special series: Licensing partner Maybach Icons of Luxury, for example, offers a diamond-studded fountain pen from the Maybach the Peak collection; while the silver and yacht manufacturer Robbe & Berking offers a champagne flute with a specially created engraving.

The top-class GLS SUV combines a sporty appearance with the luxury of a saloon. It is 33 cm higher than the classic saloon and offers a generous interior with 1.10 metres of legroom. Electrically extendable running boards make getting in and out easy, while the interior is soundproofed and upholstered with the finest leather. The engine is a V8 with 557 bhp output, and air suspension ensures a very smooth ride.

The S-Class luxury saloon comes with a V12 engine that produces 612 bhp. It is intended as a chauffeur-driven saloon and much of the focus is therefore given to the noise-insulated first-class rear compartment. Compared to the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class, this model has an 18-cm longer wheelbase and is equipped with all-wheel drive for the first time.

Besides an extensive range of personalisation options for the cars, owners can also have matching lifestyle accessories such as exclusive travel bags, leather goods, clothing, home and eyewear. Sustainably selected materials are used, such as natural horn, precious woods, titanium, cashmere or leather types that meet the highest environmental standards. The artfully staged understatement of the products conveys the fascination of the brand and fulfils the desire for personal expression.

Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS for the new generation of customers

Eco-friendly shoes for World Car-Free Day, inspired by the Volvo XC40 Recharge

Cars and shoes… in some ways, they can be considered have similar functions since both ‘transport’ people around, though in very different ways. Cars use energy from the combustion engine or electric motor to move but with shoes, you have to provide your own energy. So it’s not unusual that on World Car-Free Day (September 22), Volvo Cars Canada and Casca footwear will launch a limited-edition sneaker. Available in Canada for $198 (about RM645), the shoes have been inspired by the fully electric Volvo XC40 Recharge.

“At Volvo Cars, we are committed to setting the highest standards of sustainability in mobility and that goes beyond electrifying our fleet to transforming all aspects of our business. The shoe we have created with Casca in celebration of World Car-Free Day, is one way to recognize the many steps we are taking on our journey to climate neutrality,” said Matt Girgis, Managing Director of Volvo Car Canada Ltd.

For a carbon-neutral future
As would be expected, the shoe is all about sustainability in the long term, and both brands have a shared vision for a carbon-neutral future. On Volvo Cars’ part, there is a commitment to reducing lifecycle emissions per vehicle by 40% by 2025 and producing only fully electric vehicles by 2030. Casca’s adoption of water-based, low-energy UV treatment processes coupled with their 2-year product warranty are a testament to their ‘buy less, waste less’ philosophy.

“The Volvo XC40 Recharge was designed to reduce environmental impact, so it was the perfect inspiration for the shoe,” said Kevin Reid Lead Director and Co-Founder, Casca. “Through this collaboration, we’re also celebrating many design firsts – our first shared design, our fastest production to market, and new recycled materials we’ve never used before.”

Scandinavian influences
The goal was to create a shoe rooted in conscious design. Scandinavian influences of the XC40 Recharge were purposefully integrated for a collaborative new interpretation of Casca’s trademark clean lines. For instance, the ‘Thor’s hammer’ headlight influence can be seen in the linework and panelling, delivering a more performance-inspired aesthetic to Casca’s popular Avro silhouette.

The Swedish flag is represented on one shoe tag, while the classic Casca yellow can be seen on the other, honouring the collaboration between the two brands as well as minimalist, Scandinavian design.

Recycled materials
Of course, an important aspect of the shoe is how it is made and its environmentally-friendly credentials come from having 10% of each sole made from recycled car tyres, the first time this material has ever been used in a Casca shoe as part of an intentional repurposing and recycling of materials. Furthermore, 7 recycled plastic bottles are used to make the yarn for each breathable, flexible knit upper.

Those two features are a preview of some of the initiatives by both companies. By 2025, Volvo Cars aims to increase the share of recycled and bio-based materials in their vehicles by 25%. By 2022, all of Casca’s knit uppers will be made from recycled or renewable materials.

*By 2025, Volvo Cars aims to increase the share of recycled and bio-based materials in their vehicles by 25%.*

“We know that being advanced isn’t just about great design and technology; it means implementing ethical and sustainable practices,” said Braden Parker, CEO and Co-Founder, Casca. “This is just one of many similarities we see between our brand and Volvo Cars, we both want to create something with intention that lasts.”

Mazda x Mizuno driving shoes enhance Jinba Ittai for drivers

Another limited edition GT-R from Nissan

It was 2007 when Nissan unveiled the GT-R at the Tokyo Motor Show, which makes it 14 years now that it has been in production. In comparison, the last Nissan Z was in production for 11 years and a new one was revealed last month for sale in 2022. However, the appeal of the GT-R has not diminished all these years, kept glowing by successes on the racetrack.

Over the years, Nissan has introduced special editions to keep interest high and also as evolutionary updates. Typically, performance has been improved in various areas, usually with work done by NISMO.

*Unveiling of the Nissan GT-R at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007.*

JDM only
The latest edition unveiled today is for the Japanese market only, although some units might appear overseas eventually. This new version comes in two grades – GT-R Premium Edition T-spec and GT-R Track Edition Engineered by NISMO T-spec.

The two editions are equipped with exclusive carbon ceramic brakes, a carbonfibre rear spoiler and an exclusive engine cover. Customers will be able to choose from two new body colours, Midnight Purple and Millennium Jade, as part of the T-spec options.

‘Trend’ and ‘Traction’
‘T-spec’ refers to ‘trend and traction’, the former relating to the GT-R as being ahead of the times, and the latter to the robust grip which the engineers have always worked hard on. Developed with a focus on enhanced driving performance, the GT-R Track Edition engineered by NISMO T-spec is specially equipped with an exclusive carbonfibre roof and bootlid as well.

Also fitted as Rays forged alloy wheels (bronze), and suspension that takes advantage of weight reductions below the springs. An expanded wheel-rim width has increased tire rigidity, enabling smooth and sensitive handling.

Same 3.8-litre powertrain
Under the bonnet, the Japanese-spec powertrain is used, which is a twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine (VR38DETT) and a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission with all 4 wheels powered. In NISMO tune, the output can be up to 600 ps/637 Nm.

The production run will be limited to only 100 units and as orders are expected to exceed that number when sales start in the second half of October, Nissan will select purchasers by lottery.

Production-ready Nissan GT-R50 by ItalDesign makes debut on track

Radford Type 62-2 revives iconic black and gold livery of the JPS racing cars

Racing fans and older readers will recall the era of racing cars in the 1970s with black and gold livery of John Player Special, the cigarette brand. While there were various teams (including one in Malaysia) that had JPS colours on their cars, the best known would be Team Lotus in Formula 1, which was run by Colin Chapman himself.

The colour scheme first appeared on the Lotus Type 72D which Emerson Fittipaldi raced to 5 victories and championship victory during the 1972 Formula 1 season. It was used on Lotus Formula 1 cars until 1986 and the Lotus 98T driven by the legendary Ayrton Senna.

Besides the Team Lotus Formula 1 cars (above) which had the iconic black and gold livery of the JPS cigarette brand during the 1970s, other teams around the world also used the JPS colours. The picture below shows the BMW team in Malaysia which raced a M1 (driven by Hans Stuck) at the Batu Tiga circuit in the 1980s.

For those who want that iconic black and gold livery as well as an exclusive car, British coachbuilder Radford is producing a sportcar in those JPS colours. The company has a history going back to 1948 but disappeared after 1966. It was revived in recent years and among the new investors is former F1 champion, Jenson Button.

Radford’s sportscar is designated the Type 62-2 and is the most extreme version of the world’s first modern Radford. It is also the third and final version of the car to be announced, positioned alongside the ‘Classic’ version with subtle design cues to the original Type 62 Lotus car. The JPS Type 62-2 wears a modern twist on the iconic John Player Special livery.

“The Radford Type 62-2 in John Player Special guise is a very unique proposition. From a design perspective, the JPS car really stands out as being more extreme than its Classic and Gold Leaf siblings, with larger diffusers, air intakes and wheels. Sporting what is certainly the most iconic racing livery ever to grace a Formula 1 car, gives the car a real presence and sense of occasion,” said Mark Stubbs, one of the owners of Radford.

“The John Player Special Type 62-2 is the most extreme Type 62-2 that money can buy. It is low, sleek and powerful and sports one of the most iconic racing liveries ever created – one of the liveries that the heroes of Formula 1 such as Emerson Fittipaldi and Ayrton Senna used to race with, in the cars that made me want to be a driver,” added Jenson Button. Needless to say, the former F1 driver has been responsible for chassis tuning.

Radford’s first model of the modern era is built in a partnership with Lotus. While the mid-engine two-seater coupe takes inspiration from the revered 1960’s Lotus Type 62, it has the marque’s latest technologies. Only 62 cars will be available worldwide, with each units built precisely to its individual owner’s desired specification. Of those 62 cars, only 12 will have the JPS colours. Production of the Radford Type 62-2 begins in late 2021, with first deliveries being made in 2022.

The JPS Type 62-2 offers owners several key enhancements over the other Radford models. It is lighter, faster and more focussed than the Gold Leaf car (another version) – and is closer to a racing car than a roadcar. It produces up to 600 bhp from a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine with a DCT.

There are AP Monobloc calipers and fully carbon ceramic brake rotors, which are 360 mm in diameter. These are housed within larger 18-inch front and 19-inch Dymag carbon composite wheels – which lower the unsprung mass, and improve the nimble handling characteristics of the car, yet further. The composite wheels are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.

The design of the JPS is another area where the car differentiates itself from the rest of the range. In every area of the bodywork the car is more extreme than its stablemates. At the front of the car, the splitter is more pronounced, providing a racing car stance. At the side of the car, the air intakes are larger to cool the more powerful combustion engine, while at the rear, the diffuser is again more extreme, extending further out for increased aerodynamic downforce.

The paintwork is another area worthy of mention. An exquisitely conceptualised and constructed finish has resulted from many hours of formulation and research. The layer of bespoke gold paint glints through 10 layers of rich, dark Candy Black. In certain lighting and at certain angles, the paint provides a subtle nod to the original JPS colour scheme, but with a modern and exciting twist. Cars sold to customers will include a gold pinstripe meticulously hand-painted underneath the clearcoat.

Lotus offers classic heritage editions of the Elise

The Defender V8 in ‘No Time to Die’ can be yours too

Land Rovers have appeared in various James Bond movies and will again star in the latest one to have its world premiere later this month. A video released last year showed Defenders in action, flying through the air in ‘No Time to Die’, and for those who want a similar vehicle, Land Rover SV Bespoke has created the Defender V8 Bond Edition.

Only 300 units will be offered through Land Rover dealers worldwide and there will be a choice of the Defender 90 or 110 bodystyles. To have the same stealthy look, the Defender V8 Bond Edition gets an Extended Black Pack with 22-inch Gloss Black alloy wheels and signature Xenon Blue front brake calipers.

The bespoke touches extend to the practical interior, with a specially developed start-up animation for the intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system touchscreen that honours Land Rover’s long partnership with the James Bond franchise. At night, customers will also spot unique ‘007’ puddle lamp graphics flashed on ground outside the doors.

There are, of course, ‘Defender 007’ badges on various parts of the bodywork and inside, laser etching details that each unit is ‘one of 300’. Each vehicle is specially commissioned by the vehicle personalisation experts at SV Bespoke in the UK.

Based on the recently launched Defender V8, the Bond Edition is powered by a 5-litre 525 ps/625 Nm supercharged petrol engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This provides levels of performance that were never available in the original Defender and expertly developed suspension tuning allows the driver to make use of all that capability.

“The Land Rover Defender V8 Bond Edition is an exclusive take on the most powerful production Defender ever made, inspired by vehicles on screen in ‘No Time to Die’. It represents a meeting of two great British brands and is a unique celebration of Land Rover’s 38-year association with James Bond,” said Finbar McFall, Land Rover Brand Director.

Besides the Defender, there will also be two Range Rover Sport SVRs, a Range Rover Classic and Land Rover Series III in the film, which is the 25^th one since 1962. ‘No Time to Die’ will be released progressively worldwide from the end of September, with the first screening taking place in the UK on September 30.

Going by some recent pictures of camouflaged Defenders on Malaysian roads last month, it is likely that Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will be introducing the model in the near future. If you want to be alerted about the launch, you could let your interest be known at a Land Rover showroom.

New Land Rover Defender to star in next James Bond movie (w/VIDEO)

Bugatti to build 40 units of Bolide experimental hypercar for sale

During the fourth quarter of 2020, Bugatti provided the answer to this question: What if the French carmaker built a radically light vehicle around the legendary 8.0-litre W16 engine? This led to a study that created the Bolide, a racetrack-oriented hyper sports car with a production-based W16 engine and minimal bodywork designed with maximum downforce in mind.

“The Bolide generated a great deal of enthusiasm and intrigue last year. Following its presentation, a significant number of enthusiasts and collectors asked us to develop the experimental Bolide as a production vehicle. I was absolutely amazed by the reactions and feedback from customers from all over the world,” recalled Stephan Winkelmann, President of Bugatti.

“We therefore decided to make the Bolide a few-off in order to give 40 customers the opportunity to experience this incredible vehicle. Our team has now been developing a production model – the ultimate driving machine for the track,” he said. This will make the Bolide the most extreme configuration level of the W16 engine and a must-have for Bugatti collectors.

Development around the powertrain
With the very limited-edition production Bolide, Bugatti engineers and designers have created the most extreme vehicle concept ever to have been conceived around the powerful powertrain of the W16 engine with 4 turbochargers.

“For me, being able to turn the radical thought experiment of the Bolide into reality as a production vehicle is a dream come true as it is by far the most challenging project of my 17-year Bugatti career,” said Bugatti Design Director Achim Anscheidt. “The design of the Bolide follows the minimalist approach of the Bugatti style philosophy of ‘form follows performance’ and is additionally founded on an uncompromising lightweight construction approach. It pays homage to the brand’s glorious motorsport past of the in the 1920s.”

The numerous air ducts and delicate front end are more reminiscent of aerodynamically sophisticated Formula 1 cars than a hyper sportscar, and they dominate its look. The Bolide sits very low to the ground, with an air intake scoop on the roof and an ultra-sporty seat position. In combination with the striking rear diffuser, the dominant rear wing results in high downforce and therefore also optimum traction. As with other Bugatti models, the design team opted for a colour split, although the proportion of visible carbonfibre parts is greater than in other models.

Tuned for RON98 fuel
With the W16 engine as a symbol of the brand’s technology, Bugatti boasts one of the most extraordinary engines in automotive history. In the case of the Bolide experimental car, its power output of 1,850 ps is achieved by (among other things) the 110-octane racing fuel. However, for the production model, Bugatti engineers have tuned the engine to run on RON98 petrol, readily available worldwide. This will enable the car to be driven anywhere in the world.

The use of a lower octane brings the output down to 1,600 ps with 1,600 Nm of torque generated from 2,250 rpm. The engine has been tuned for higher revs per minute for use on the racetrack, alongside the intake and exhaust system to achieve even faster, more spontaneous, and extreme responsiveness. The cooling system for the turbochargers, engine, transmission, and differential are likewise modified for optimum power development.

Meeting FIA safety standards
While some extreme cars are not constrained by regulations, Bugatti’s designers and engineers who are currently refining the aerodynamics and handling, have developed the Bolide in line with international FIA safety standards. The safety features include HANS system compatibility, an automatic fire extinguishing system, pressure refueling with a fuel bladder, central wheel locking, and a 6-point safety belt system. All these guarantee maximum safety and sufficient comfort during the pure driving experience.

“The customers’ safety is always our top priority. We therefore decided to offer exclusive track days for this extreme vehicle in order to guarantee a safe environment at all times and gradually introduce the customers to the Bolide’s breathtaking performance,” said Mr. Winkelmann.

Optimizations in the areas of design, aerodynamics, quality, and safety give the production vehicle a curb weight of just 1,450 kgs, which translates to a weight-to-power ratio of 0kgs per ps when RON98 fuel is used.

Close to technical demonstrator
Thanks to maximum weight-saving, the drivers will be able to experience the full power and torque of the engine. Bugatti has kept the production car so close to its technical demonstrator, both visually and technically, while also enhancing the design, quality, and vehicle safety.

Delivery to the 40 customers who put their money down for this hyper sportscar is scheduled for 2024 at a net unit price of 4 million euros (almost RM20 million) each.

FEATURE – The German engine that was born on a Japanese bullet-train

Ford GT Heritage Edition pays homage to 1964 prototype of Le Mans winners

If you saw the 2019 movie ‘Ford vs Ferrari’, you will know that in the 1960s, Ford entered the Le Mans 24-Hour races and won, the only American racing car to win the classic endurance event. Now, as a tribute to the Ford GT prototype that was used to develop the racing cars, Ford is introducing a Ford GT ’64 Prototype Heritage Edition.

6th Heritage Edition model

The limited-edition mid-engine supercar comes as the model enters its the final year of production. It is the sixth in the ultra limited production series related to the Le Mans cars. Many of the cars have the Gulf paint scheme that was distinctive in that era of motorsport.

2022 Ford GT Heritage Edition — *Another version in the Ford GT Heritage Edition, this one inspired by the 1966 GT40 MK II in the background.*

This latest Heritage Edition is based on the 1964 Ford GT prototype that debuted at the New York International Auto Show in April 1964. It has Wimbledon White paint with Antimatter Blue graphics, including an over-the-roof triple racing stripe. Exposed carbonfibre components are prominent, including 20-inch Antimatter Blue-painted carbonfibre wheels, a touch unique to Ford GT, as well as an exposed carbonfibre front splitter, side sills, mirror stalks, engine louvers and rear diffuser finished in gloss. Brembo brake calipers lacquered in silver with black graphics, plus black lug nuts further modernize the aesthetic.

*The world’s first mass-produced carbonfibre wheel application that debuted as standard equipment on the 2015 Shelby GT350R Mustang is also available for the Ford GT.*

Carbonfibre all over

Carbonfibre is also used around the cabin, for the door sills, lower A-pillars and console, along with matte registers, and Lightspeed Blue Alcantara-wrapped seats featuring silver stitching. The instrument panel is wrapped in Ebony leather and Lightspeed Blue Alcantara, while pillars and headliner are wrapped in Ebony Alcantara. Antimatter Blue appliques on the instrument panel, door register bezels and seat X-brace are coordinated with the unique wheels. The steering wheel is finished in Ebony Alcantara with black stitching, while dual-clutch paddle shifters are clear and polished.

The narrow-profile canopy reduces frontal area and caps a purposeful interior that provides state-of-the-art technology to ensure control, comfort and safety. The 2-seat cockpit is accessed by upward-swinging doors, and features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbonfibre passenger cell.

This configuration significantly reduces seating hardware and weight, and provides a consistent and direct sensory connection to the chassis. The fixed seating is combined with adjustable pedals and steering column to accommodate a very wide range of driver heights.

An F1-style steering wheel integrates all necessary driver controls, creating a stalkless steering column that allows uncluttered access to the transmission paddle-shift controls. A fully digital and configurable instrument cluster provides a wealth of driver-focused data. The display is configurable for multiple driving environments and different driving modes.

700 ps EcoBoost engine

The engine behind the cockpit is a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged Ford EcoBoost V6 with a power output of up to 700 ps and around 750 Nm of torque. The Powershift transmission is a dual-clutch unit made by Getrag. Ford’s high-performance division, Ford Performance, has been directly involved in the car’s development.

The current Ford GT is actually the second time Ford has built such a model. The first one was produced between 2005 and 2006 to celebrate the company’s centenary, with 4,038 units built. The second generation was introduced at the end of 2016 and production was planned to be 250 units a year until 2022. It is built at the factory of Canadian-based Multimatic, a specialist manufacturer.

*During 2005 and 2006, Ford built around 4,000 units of the first generation Ford GT which was for the company’s centenary celebration.*

Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more about Ford models in Malaysia

This is the last new Ford GT you can buy

21st century Countach unveiled on 50th anniversary of Lamborghini’s supercar

The Countach was undoubtedly a legendary Lamborghini model and an early entrant in the supercar era. On its 50th anniversary, the carmaker has unveiled a successor – the Countach LPI 800-4 – as a futuristic limited edition recreated for the 21st century. It imagines how the iconic Countach (pronounced ‘coon-tach’) of the 1970s and 1980s might have evolved into an elite super sports model of this decade.

The distinctive silhouette with the essential line running from front to rear, sharp angles and lines and idiosyncratic wedge shape, innovated modern super sports design as well as future Lamborghini models. The LPI 800-4 uses those characteristic lines of the original Countach’s five models over nearly 20 years, with the final outline being pure and uncluttered.

*One of the many versions of the original Countach. It was one of the very few Lamborghini model names not connected to bulls.*

Giving the LPI 800-4 a distinctive Countach face, inspiration was taken from the Quattrovalvole edition with its long, low rectangular grille and headlights, as well as in the wheelarches with their hexagonal theme. The sharp inclination of the greenhouse adopts the straight lines redolent of the original Countach, adjoining the powerful, clean front-to-rear line.

There is no fixed rear wing outside the pure lines, and the airscoops are integrated fluidly in the strong shoulders of the car, embellished with the distinctive Countach slatted ‘gills’. The iconic and aerodynamically powerful NACA air intakes cut into the side and doors of the LPI 800-4 while the distinctive Periscopio lines running through the roof to the rear of the car, particularly distinctive if viewed from above, appear to float towards the rear of the car.

The rear is immediately recognizable from its distinctive inverted wedge shape, with the rear bumper featuring a lower, sleeker line, and the ‘hexagonita’ design shaping the 3-unit rear light clusters. The LPI 800-4 sports the quad tailpipes of the Countach family, connected within the carbonfibre rear diffuser.

The V12 engine of the Countach is as legendary as the design. Mounted at the rear together with its forward-cabin layout, the original Countach featured side-mounted radiators from Formula 1 cars, plus a forward-facing gearbox and tubular spaceframe technology.

The familiar 6.5-litre V12 engine is part of the hybrid powertrain that includes a 48V electric motor (e-motor) to generate up to 803 ps/720 Nm. The e-motor is powered by a supercapacitor providing 3 times more power compared to a lithium-ion battery of the same weight. This enables the 4-wheel drive supercar to rocket from standing still to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, after which it will pass 200 km/h in another 5.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 355 km/h, it is claimed.

The monocoque chassis and all the body panels are in carbonfibre, provide the optimum lightweight solution as well as exceptional torsional stiffness. With a dry weight of 1,595 kgs, the weight-to-power ratio is 195 kg/ps.

Visible exterior carbonfibre features are available in the front splitter, around the front window and wing mirrors, engine bonnet cover air intakes and rocker panel and it is always present in specific interior details. Moveable air vents produced by the state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, and a photocromatic roof – changing from solid to transparent at the push of a button – act as a reminder that this car, despite its historic inspiration, is a future automotive screensaver for the 21st century.

The LPI 800-4 unveiled in California this week is in Bianco Siderale, a finish containing a hint of pearlescent blue and reminiscent of Ferruccio Lamborghini’s own Countach LP 400 S, complete with red and black leather heritage interior.

The interior also takes design cues from the original Countach within the context of a modern car. The classic and luxurious leather features geometric stitching on the specially designed comfort seats and dashboard, sporting a square motif referencing the bold style and optimism of 1970s design and technology. Access for driver and passenger is, of course, via the infamous scissor doors, first introduced on the Countach and that have become a Lamborghini V12 signature.

“The Countach LPI 800-4 is a visionary car of the moment, just as its forerunner was,” said Automobili Lamborghini President & CEO, Stephan Winkelmann. “One of the most important automotive icons, the Countach not only embodies the design and engineering tenet of Lamborghini but represents our philosophy of reinventing boundaries, achieving the unexpected and extraordinary and, most importantly, being the ‘stuff of dreams’. It upholds the Lamborghini tradition of looking forward, of exploring new design and technology avenues while celebrating the DNA of our brand.”

Lamborghini will build 112 units, the number taken from the ‘LP 112’ internal project name used during the original car’s development. Pricing is not known though that is not something potential customers will need to know right away. Those who do book one will get their car during the first quarter of 2022.

Production of Lamborghini Aventador ends with LP 780-4 Ultimae

Aston Martin takes the top off the Valkyrie for California debut

The Valkyrie, a product of the combined design and engineering talents of Aston Martin and Red Bull Advanced Technologies (RBAT), is one of the world’s most extreme hypercars. Only 150 units will be built (all already sold), each priced from US$3 million (about RM12.707 million). Joining the Valkyrie at a California debut is the Valkyrie Spider and only 85 units will be available – all of which are also taken.

Taking the roof of the Valkyrie promises an even more intense experience, perhaps comparable to the feeling that Formula 1 drivers have. Of course, the Valkyrie Spider is a roadgoing car and so it must meet the high standards of comfort and luxury customers (who will pay more than US$3 million) will expect.

While the 1,155 ps hybrid V12 powertrain remains the same, the Valkyrie Spider has received revisions to its carbonfibre structure, plus precise recalibration of both the active aerodynamic and active chassis systems.

Key to superlative performance is the ultra-lightweight construction and high downforce aerodynamics package. The upper body surfaces of the teardrop-shaped cockpit and lower tub contours follow the envelope of space available between the huge full-length Venturi tunnels that run either side of the cockpit floor. Drawing huge quantities of air beneath the car to feed the rear diffuser, these tunnels are the key to generating Aston Martin Valkyrie Spider’s extraordinary levels of downforce, while keeping the upper body surfaces free from additional aerodynamic devices that would spoil the purity of the open-top styling.

There is only a marginal weight difference to the Coupe and a top speed of 330 km/h+ is claimed with the roof removed, and 350 km/h+ with the roof on). This makes it the fastest and most extreme open-top, road-legal Aston Martin ever built.

The same driver-focused cabin is provided, with F1-inspired low hip-to-heel height and near-central seat positioning, along with a 6-point safety harness to keep the occupants tightly in their seats at high cornering speeds. A centre rearview camera system along with front and rear parking sensors will aid the driver at both high and low speeds, with displays sitting just above the instrument panel.

The Valkyrie Spider, which can be ordered with lefthand or righthand drive, features a bespoke, removable lightweight roof comprising of a carbonfibre central panel, latching onto the tub at the rear and to the windscreen surround at the front, along with a pair of polycarbonate roof windows, hinged on either side. On opening the doors, the roof can simply be lifted off and stowed away.

Modifications to the carbonfibre tub have been made to support the removable roof panels and the open-top layout, as well as new doors. The now front-hinged dihedral doors, which are unique to Valkyrie Spider, have been redesigned to tilt forward.

“The Aston Martin Valkyrie is the product of incredible innovation and technology, but above all it has always been about emotion. With the Valkyrie Spider, we are taking that passion and emotion to the next level. The driving experience promises to be truly sensational. The sound of that 6.5-litre V12 engine revving to over 11,000 rpm with the roof removed is something I cannot wait to hear!” said Aston Martin CEO, Tobias Moers.

Aston Martin reveals track-only Valkyrie AMR Pro without hybrid set-up

Silk-FAW to display updated Hongqi S9 PHEV hypercar at Milan Design Week next month

The S9 PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) hypercar which was first presented as a concept at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show is making steady progress towards production. The last time it made the news was in April this year when a production-ready model was shown at Auto Shanghai 2021 and orders were being taken.

Pricing starts from 1.5 million euros (about RM7.453 million) and at that price, Silk-FAW would not be looking at high volumes. It is believed that the production run will be limited to 99 units, so it will be a ‘halo car’ for the rest of the Hongqi range which will have many new fully electric models.

Styled by ex-Volkswagen designer
The S9 began life as a project for the Hongqi premium brand of FAW (First Auto Works, a state-owned carmaker in China). The original design was done by Walter de Silva, formerly design head at the Volkswagen Group whose work includes many Volkswagen, SEAT and Audi models, including the R8. He is credited with being the man who introduced the Singleframe grille design which has been used on Audis since 2004.

In February this year, FAW signed a joint venture with Silk EV, an Italian engineering company, to develop a series of ultra-luxury, high-performance, new energy sports vehicles for the China and global markets. This moved the S9 to Silk-FAW which will bring it to the market by 2023.

To be built in Italy
With an investment of 1 billion euros, the S9 (as well as another model) will be further developed and manufactured in Regione Emilia-Romagna, the heart of Italy’s ‘Motor Valley’, where Silk EV has its headquarters. As development of the Hongqi ‘S’ Series line-up continues, production will be carried out in Italy as well as Changchun, where FAW’s headquarters is located in China.

1,400 bhp with top speed over 400 km/h
Silk-FAW will display the production version of the S9 at the Milan Design Week in early September. It has been confirmed that the hypercar will have a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 4-litre V8 petrol engine with electric turbocharging, and two electric motors. Total system output is expected to be in the region of 1,400 bhp, with 880 bhp coming from the engine. A top speed of over 400 km/h is expected with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h targeted to be 1.9 seconds.

Other technical and design elements are not being revealed yet but as the pictures show, it has a long-tail design with a spaceframe underneath. Aerodynamic efficiency will obviously be superior and besides a variable geometry spoiler, there will be innovative carbonfibre air intakes, seamlessly integrated into each headlight, to bring cooling air to the engine. Air extraction will be via the rear light units.

Aspark Owl – first Japanese electric hypercar – claims acceleration record

Piston.my

limited edition

Mercedes-Maybach creates limited edition to celebrate 100th anniversary of Maybach W3

Eco-friendly shoes for World Car-Free Day, inspired by the Volvo XC40 Recharge

Another limited edition GT-R from Nissan

Radford Type 62-2 revives iconic black and gold livery of the JPS racing cars

The Defender V8 in ‘No Time to Die’ can be yours too

Bugatti to build 40 units of Bolide experimental hypercar for sale

Ford GT Heritage Edition pays homage to 1964 prototype of Le Mans winners

21st century Countach unveiled on 50th anniversary of Lamborghini’s supercar

Aston Martin takes the top off the Valkyrie for California debut

Silk-FAW to display updated Hongqi S9 PHEV hypercar at Milan Design Week next month

The Last Dance: 631hp Lamborghini Huracan STJ

Nissan GT-R Gears Up for Its Final Act: A Limited-Edition Swan Song

Mini Malaysia Farewells Countryman with Exclusive John Cooper Works Trim

Mercedes-AMG Unveils A 45 S 4MATIC+ “Limited Edition”

Limited-Edition Subaru WRX S4 STI Sport Unveiled for Japanese Market

Lexus Unveils Limited Edition RZ 450e F Sport Performance

Ferrari 296 GTB Assetto Fiorano: A Tribute To The F2004

Subaru Teases Limited-Edition WRX S4 STI Sport For Japan

Malaysian Man Sells His Rare Nissan Laurel C35 For Palestinian Charity

Bugatti and Adidas Unveil Limited-Edition Football Boots

Archive

Mercedes Vision EQXX: Pushing the Boundaries of Efficiency through Desert Exploration

Demands for Stronger Measures Against Negligent Parents in Child Seat Safety

The New Peugeot 5008 – EV, Hybrid and Petrol Variants, 21-Inch Display!

Pagani Alisea Concept: A Beautiful Tribute to the Zonda

MGZS EV Now Available for Booking in Malaysia – Estimated Starting Price of RM129k

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube

The Piston Show