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Plug-in Hybrid

Lamborghini has electrified its best-selling Urus model with the introduction of the new Urus SE, boasting increased power and speed. Unlike typical plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) setups which often involve downsized engines, the Urus SE retains its potent twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine alongside an electric motor.

Integrated within the eight-speed automatic transmission, the electric motor contributes 189hp and 482Nm of torque, while the petrol engine delivers an impressive 612hp and 799Nm.

Compared to its predecessor, the Urus S, the new SE variant shaves off 0.1 seconds in the 0-100km/h sprint, achieving it in just 3.4 seconds. While the Performante variant remains the quickest in the Urus lineup at 3.3 seconds, the Urus SE clocks in at 200km/h in just 11.4 seconds, 1.1 seconds ahead of the petrol-only version and 0.1 seconds quicker than the Performante. Its top speed reaches 312km/h, edging out both V-8-only versions.

Equipped with a 25.7-kWh lithium-ion battery positioned below the cargo floor, the Urus SE boasts over 60km of pure electric range, reaching speeds of up to 130km/h in EV mode before the V-8 engine seamlessly takes over. Lamborghini highlights an 80 per cent reduction in emissions compared to the pure ICE model with the plug-in hybrid configuration.

Beyond its electrified powertrain, the Urus SE receives aesthetic updates including updated matrix LED headlights with a distinctive daytime running light signature inspired by a bull’s tail. The front section features discreet tweaks inspired by the Revuelto supercar, while the rear draws inspiration from the Gallardo, enhancing downforce by 35 per cent compared to the Urus S.

Buyers can choose from an array of customisation options, including new 23-inch wheels, over 100 body colour choices, and 47 interior themes. For those seeking bespoke configurations, Lamborghini offers the Ad Personam program for one-off builds.

The cabin has been updated to highlight Lamborghini’s signature “feel like a pilot” design DNA, featuring new solutions throughout the front section of the dashboard and accentuating the lightweight feeling already introduced on the Revuelto. The Urus SE features a pair of 12.3-inch screens and introduces four new selectable driving modes: EV Drive, Hybrid, Performance, and Recharge, alongside the existing driving modes.

With Lamborghini confirming that the second-generation Urus will be fully electric upon its release in 2029, the Urus SE offers enthusiasts the chance to experience a petrol-powered exotic SUV from the legendary Italian marque before the transition to electric mobility.

Ahead of its upcoming debut, the new BMW X3 undergoes rigorous final tuning at the BMW Group test centre in Miramas, southern France. The fourth generation of this Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) in the premium mid-range segment promises highly efficient combustion engines and an advanced plug-in hybrid drive. Engineers meticulously fine-tune all chassis control and driver assistance systems to ensure superior handling across all model variants.

Extensive testing in various conditions, including snow, ice, extreme heat, and off-road terrain, has validated the BMW X3’s versatility and performance. From urban traffic to winding roads and highways, every aspect of its suitability for daily use and travel has been refined to deliver an exceptional driving experience.

At the Miramas test track, engineers focus on analysing and optimising the BMW X3’s acceleration, suspension, steering, and braking behaviour. The vehicle’s intelligent lightweight construction and aerodynamic design, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.27, contribute to its driving dynamics and efficiency.

Compared to its predecessor, the new BMW X3 features a wider track, reduced rear axle lift, and increased body and chassis rigidity. Enhanced steering comfort and cornering dynamics are achieved through modifications to kinematics, elastokinematics, and steering ratios. Optional Adaptive Chassis with electronically controlled shock absorbers offers customisable driving modes for added comfort or sportiness.

The latest BMW iDrive system, based on the BMW Operating System 9, elevates the X3’s automated driving and parking capabilities. With standard equipment exceeding Euro NCAP safety standards, the X3 integrates seamlessly with driver assistance systems, providing precise control and harmonious interaction between driver and vehicle.

State-of-the-art sensor and software technology powers the X3’s assistance systems, enabling features like the Active Lane Change Assistant and Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant, which allows remote control of maneuvers via smartphone.

In defiance of forecasts heralding the end of the internal combustion engine (ICE) era, major automotive conglomerate Stellantis is intensifying its focus on piston-powered vehicles. With ownership of 14 brands under its umbrella, Stellantis is funnelling a staggering $6 billion investment into South America, earmarked for the development of new ICE technology and vehicles.

This mammoth investment, touted as the largest in South America’s automotive realm, is set to underpin the introduction of over 40 new vehicle models and the advancement of flex-fuel engines capable of running on both petrol and ethanol. In addition, Stellantis is charting the course for the rollout of hybrid-flex and plug-in hybrid-flex configurations to enhance efficiency, with plans for at least one fully electric vehicle slated to debut in the region between 2025 and 2030.

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The 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV may appear similar to its conventional counterparts, but its distinguishing feature lies in its plug-in hydrogen setup, as indicated by the two fuel caps. Unlike traditional plug-in hybrids, this CR-V combines a fuel cell setup with a battery pack, making it a unique offering in the market.

Referred to as the only fuel-cell electric passenger vehicle made in America, the compact SUV boasts a sophisticated powertrain configuration. It features a front-mounted electric motor generating 174hp and 310Nm of torque. The compressed hydrogen gas tank, with a capacity of 4.3 kilograms, provides an EPA-certified driving range of 434km. Additionally, the separate 17.7-kilowatt-hour battery pack offers an EPA-estimated 46km of electric range.

Incorporating bidirectional charging capabilities akin to conventional plug-in hybrids and battery EVs, the CR-V e:FCEV includes a power supply connector that can deliver up to 1,500 watts of power through a standard 110-volt outlet. This feature enables users to power various appliances, camping equipment, tools, and even portable air conditioners.

Given the unique weight distribution of the SUV, Honda has completely re-tuned the suspension system at both the front and rear axles. The CR-V e:FCEV utilises a MacPherson strut front and a multi-link rear suspension setup. Improvements in rear lateral and torsional rigidity, up by 10 percent and 9 percent, respectively, over combustion engine models, are achieved through the implementation of new stabiliser bars, dampers, and springs.

This model marks Honda’s debut of the second generation of its fuel cell module, co-developed with General Motors and manufactured in Michigan. Notable enhancements include increased efficiency, durability, refinement, and cost-effectiveness compared to its predecessor. Production costs for the fuel cell have been substantially reduced by two-thirds compared to the discontinued Clarity Fuel Cell.

Visually, the CR-V e:FCEV features distinct design elements to set it apart from its non-hydrogen counterparts. Changes to the front fenders, bumper, partially black tailgate, clear taillights, and 18-inch black alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design contribute to its unique aesthetic. Underneath the SUV, a fully closed underfloor improves airflow for enhanced efficiency.

For the 2025 model year, the CR-V e:FCEV will be exclusively offered as a Touring trim level, boasting a comprehensive list of standard features. From electrically adjustable heated front seats to a 12-speaker Bose sound system, the Touring trim includes luxurious amenities such as dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, a power tailgate, and a wireless charging pad. Standard technology features include a 9-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Scheduled for lease availability in California later this year, the 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV represents a significant step forward in Honda’s commitment to sustainable mobility and innovative technology.

In 2024, BYD is set to achieve a significant milestone with the launch of its first utility vehicle (ute), which has been spotted in near-production form during testing in Australia. The BYD ute has been designed to meet the demands of the rugged Australian terrain, with collaborative efforts between Australian and BYD engineers.

Images from testing by Autospy reveal an exterior that combines sleekness with robustness. The interior is expected to feature technological advancements, including a digital instrument cluster and a large, portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen that can rotate.

While specific details about the plug-in hybrid powertrain are yet to be disclosed, industry speculations suggest a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine paired with two electric motors, providing a total output of 489hp. There is also consideration for a fully electric version, although high battery costs pose a challenge.

The pricing for the BYD ute is unknown, but the company is committed to maintaining competitiveness in the segment. EVDirect CEO Luke Todd highlighted BYD’s dedication to affordability, drawing parallels with the pricing strategy for other electric models. As BYD enters the ute market, industry observers are keen to see how it will compete with established contenders, given its focus on technological innovation and tailored design for specific markets.

Chery secara rasmi telah melancarkan sedan plug-in hibrid Fengyun A8 di China. Dijual pada harga antara 119,900 hingga 149,900 yuan (kira-kira RM78 ribu hingga RM97 ribu), Fengyun A8 adalah sebahagian daripada siri kenderaan tenaga baru Chery. Diposisikan sebagai sedan kompak, ia menawarkan empat pilihan model kepada pengguna.

Ciri-ciri utama Chery Fengyun A8 termasuk gril trapezoid besar yang bersambung dengan lampu hadapan di bahagian depan dan rekabentuk lampu belakang terangkat di atas bonet pada bahagian belakang yang menyerupai Audi A8. Interior mempunyai papan instrumen 12.3 inci, skrin kawalan pusat 12.3 inci, dan stereng four-spoke flat-bottom. Kabin dikuasakan oleh sistem pengendalian Lion 5.0 milik Chery, dan varian tinggi dilengkapi dengan cip Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155.

Chery Fengyun A8 dikuasakan oleh sistem hibrid elektrik pengecasan tinggi Kunpeng Super Performance C-DM milik Chery. Ia terdiri daripada enjin hibrid ACTECO 1.5TGDI generasi kelima dan motor sinkronan kekal. Output kuasa keseluruhan adalah 355hp dan tork 530Nm, dengan masa pecutan dari 0 hingga 100km/j dalam 7 saat.

Pek bateri lithium 18.3 kWh kenderaan ini memberikan jarak memandu elektrik sejauh 127km (CLTC) dan jarak jumlah lebih dari 1,400km (WLTC). Kebolehan pengecasan pantas membolehkan bateri dicas sepenuhnya dari 30% hingga 80% dalam 19 minit, manakala pengecasan perlahan mengambil sekurang-kurangnya tiga jam.

Barisan ini dilengkapi dengan navigasi, OTA, Bluetooth, kawalan jauh melalui aplikasi, dan fungsi karaoke. Sistem bantuan pemanduan canggih, hanya tersedia dalam varian tinggi, termasuk ciri-ciri seperti amaran perlanggaran hadapan dan belakang, brek kecemasan automatik, kawalan memandu adaptif full-speed penuh, dan bantuan gabungan lorong.

Chery has officially launched its Fengyun A8 plug-in hybrid sedan in China. Priced between 119,900 to 149,900 yuan (approximately RM78k to RM97k), the Fengyun A8 is part of Chery’s new energy vehicle series. Positioned as a compact sedan, it offers consumers four model options.

Key features of the Chery Fengyun A8 include a large trapezoidal grille connected to the headlights in the front and an upturned tail design above the trunk at the rear that has a resemblance to the Audi A8. The interior boasts a 12.3-inch instrument panel, a 12.3-inch central control screen, and a four-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel. The cockpit is powered by Chery’s Lion 5.0 operating system, with high-end models equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip.

Powering the Chery Fengyun A8 is Chery’s Kunpeng Super Performance Electric Hybrid C-DM system, comprising a fifth-generation ACTECO 1.5TGDI hybrid engine and a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The total power output is 355hp and 530Nm of torque, with an acceleration time from 0 to 100km/h in 7 seconds.

The car’s 18.3 kWh lithium battery pack provides a pure electric cruising range of 127km (CLTC) and a total range of over 1,400km (WLTC). The fast-charging capability allows the battery to be fully charged from 30% to 80% in 19 minutes, while slow charging takes at least three hours.

The lineup comes standard with navigation, OTA updates, Bluetooth, remote control through the app, and karaoke functions. Both CarPlay and HiCar are supported. The advanced driving assistance system, available only in high-end models, includes features such as front and rear collision warning, automatic emergency braking, full-speed range adaptive cruise control, and lane merge assist.

In 1967, Mazda became the first carmaker to mass-produce rotary engines. These lightweight yet powerful engines aided the firm, which was producing 300,000 automobiles per year at the time, in gaining admirers all over the world.

The Mazda RX-8 was the last model that featured a 13B rotary engine, and manufacturing ended in 2012. However, for the first time in 11 years, the legendary rotary engine has found fresh life as a generator for a new plug-in hybrid car.

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Lamborghini has apparently combined thunder and lightning for its first HPEV (High-Performance Electrified Vehicle) hybrid super sports car, the Revuelto.

The word “Revuelto”, translated to English means “scrambled” or “mixed-up” and was actually a fighting bull, a celebrity in the arenas of Barcelona in the 1880s.

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The Wankel rotary engine was first used in a car in 1964 and it seemed like a revolutionary concept that many carmakers licensed it to use for their models. However, virtually all found it to have issues which they didn’t want to waste time and money trying to address and gave up. Only Mazda worked hard to commercialize the rotary engine and succeeded in doing so from 1967.

Unfortunately, some of the characteristics of the rotary engine – high emissions and consumption – were unacceptable as the world grew more environment conscious. By 2012, Mazda had no choice but to stop using the rotary engine and it seemed that it was gone forever. From time to time, there would be rumours of its return and Mazda insiders would say ‘we are working on it but still need time…’. The last time the rumour was strong was with the Vision Study Coupe concept.

Today, the rotary engine returns but not in the way enthusiasts would expect it. It is not used as a primary propulsion system but is instead adapted for use more as a power generator in the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain of the new MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV model.

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