oleh admin | Mar 21, 2025 | auto enthusiasts, automotive industry, autos, car design, cars
The Jaguar brand showcased its aim to attract younger, wealthier motorists during an exhibition in Paris where they unveiled their latest concept car, the Type 00. This model offers all-electric opulence but comes with a hefty price tag.
The sleek, athletic-looking concept car unveiled to European journalists on Friday hints at a production version slated for release around mid-2026 with an estimated starting price of 150,000 euros ($160,000).
That’s twice as expensive as the current lineup of Jaguars, placing it more in the Porsche price range.
But the prestigious British brand — owned since 2008 by Indian automobile giant Tata Motors — has embarked on a campaign to remake itself as a ride for a far younger clientele than the one traditionally associated with it. Especially as the market goes increasingly electric.
At the end of last year, the company stirred up discussions when they introduced a new logo with rounded letters and launched an advertisement showcasing a vibrant, culturally diverse group of models — without any vehicles in sight.
The Type 00 prototype is just as vibrant: the electric blue variant displayed appeared as though it was taken directly from the set of a “Tron” film.
Jaguar states that the concept guiding their latest release is “exuberant modernism.”
The managing director of Jaguar, Rawdon Glover, who was present to sit in the driver’s seat of the prototype, described it as “a clear preview of all the future Jaguars to come.”
Glover mentioned that the intended audience was likely “between 35 and 50 years old,” noting they should have “a definite appreciation for both design and technology.”
Jaguar faces an uphill battle nonetheless.
Based on data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), Jaguar accounted for just about 1.2 percent of Europe’s car sales in January of this year.
Between April 2023 and the end of March 2024, the firm reported selling 78,000 vehicles in Europe as stated in their 2024 annual report.
As the market for electric cars expands, models from Tesla, Volvo, and Volkswagen lead the way. However, with economic uncertainties looming, numerous European consumers are hesitant due to the elevated costs.
However, Jaguar anticipates that the Type 00 technology will be appealing, boasting a claimed range of 700 kilometers (430 miles) per charge and versions capable of delivering up to 1,000 horsepower.
Nevertheless, the company failed to provide specifics regarding the hefty batteries that would be installed in the vehicles.
Several high-end automakers are delaying their shift toward fully electric vehicles due to the lackluster reaction from consumers.
Aston Martin, Bentley, Maserati, and other brands have postponed their initiatives, while Jaguar’s sister brand Range Rover has also delayed the manufacturing of its electric SUV.
oleh admin | Mar 20, 2025 | autos, battery electric vehicles, cars, driving, electric cars
Renault is adopting the neo-retro approach for its latest urban vehicle and is resurrecting a iconic title. The “R5” serves as an excellent homage to the model I recall from my youth. However, this time around, it’s electrified… Time to put it through its paces!
Creating fresh designs with nuanced nods to history has become the go-to strategy for certain brands. Renault is now embracing this approach. The Renault 5 exemplifies this trend quite successfully. Before my eyes sits a contemporary yellow vehicle, yet it evokes memories of the classic R5—particularly the sloping rear window framed by vertical headlights. To aid these recollections, a tiny plaque inside the compartment behind the driver’s seat displays outlines representing various iterations of the Renault 5 lineage. Indeed, this automobile exhibits strong familial ties; despite being shorter than a Clio at just under four meters in length. Nonetheless, the all-new Renault 5 E-Tech gazes firmly into tomorrow as an entirely electric model. During testing, I drove the “Comfort Range” variant equipped with a 52-kWh battery delivering 150 horsepower (or 110 kilowatts) producing 245 Newton-meters of torque. This sums up our introduction.
Small, but…
Aboard, the ambiance is remarkable! The Iconic Five finish stands out significantly, particularly the seats which echo those seen in the legendary R5 Turbo. Two 10-inch curved displays sit gracefully upon a dashboard styled with a distinct ’70s flair. Notable among these tributes is a motif inspired by the grille of an older Renault 5 located on the center console alongside features like the wireless phone charger and USB-C ports, along with what we traditionally refer to as the ashtray.
The R5 2025 does not come equipped with a manual gearshift (as expected). Instead, you’ll find the R-N-D selector positioned towards the right side beneath the steering wheel. After your journey concludes, simply press the power button situated on the dash between the dual screens rather than using ‘P’. Above the control lever for windscreen wipers lies another stick dedicated to managing infotainment functions — this places more demand on the driver’s dominant hand. Additional function keys adorn the steering wheel itself; specifically noteworthy is the “Multi Sense” key placed on the right side for selecting different driving modes such as Eco mode, which caps the vehicle’s maximum speed at 115 km/h despite having a top-speed capability of 150 km/h.
Between Winter and Spring
Having experience with electric vehicles, I am well aware of the shortcomings of compact models, regardless of their promising WLTP ranges. While they perform admirably in urban settings—being cheerful, sociable, and dynamic—they tend to struggle significantly on highways. Therefore, I’m eager to put the R5 through highway tests. Particularly because mornings remain chilly during the initial part of the trial period, with daytime temperatures also quite low.
The good news is that my Iconic Five model includes a built-in heat pump, so there’s no concern over conserving energy use for climate control. Ideally, this vehicle should offer approximately 410 kilometers based on an official combined cycle rating of 52 kilowatt-hours. However, reality paints a different picture; the onboard computer swiftly adjusts expectations down to roughly 330 kilometers.
When venturing onto the highway, one realizes how critical it becomes to plan stops frequently during colder months, needing breaks every hour and forty-five minutes due to reaching around ten percent charge after covering nearly two hundred kilometers.
By the conclusion of several days’ worth of trials, warmer weather begins to make itself felt, signaling springtime approaching. Interestingly enough, once conditions improve slightly, the car starts performing better, extending its operational range considerably. Under ideal circumstances, expect close to 280 kilometers on the motorway while maintaining full power from the battery at all times—a duration sufficient for almost exactly two hours without requiring rest periods, although barely meeting basic requirements.
The Time to Live
At maximum capacity, the DC fast charger delivers 100 kW. In cold conditions, particularly when frozen, initial charges rarely surpass 40 kW. At around 15°C outdoors, we achieved a peak rate of approximately 70 kW. Consequently, expect to pause for about 30 to 45 minutes to achieve an optimal state where the vehicle’s battery reaches roughly 80-85%, before resuming highway travel. Patience becomes key here. Renault included a thoughtful touch—a ‘5’ emblem on the hood serving as a visual charge status indicator. While waiting at the station under sunny skies, sitting comfortably on a nearby bench allows you to keep track of your progress effortlessly.
During trips exceeding 100 kilometers—especially those driven within speeds ranging from 90km/h to 120km/h—we observed energy usage averaging over 20 kWh per hundred kilometers. Lowering speed and using smaller 18-inch tires fitted with winter rubber brought efficiency closer to 16 kWh per 100 kilometers during city drives. This indicates it might be unsuitable for long-distance commuting but remains feasible for occasional excursions beyond metropolitan areas.
Storage capabilities remain modest; the trunk offers just 326 liters of cargo room. Folding down the rear seating expands this significantly to 1106 liters. Nonetheless, certain features such as the optional Harman Kardon sound system occupy cable management spaces. Similarly, devices connected via conventional sockets used to transform the R5 into a portable power source leave their cords freely accessible in shared zones.
Alive
The highlight is undoubtedly piloting the R5. Kudos to Renault for crafting such an agile and responsive electric vehicle. This compact car handles roads with ease, excelling both on highways and through curves, spreading joy among drivers. Its braking system works perfectly, guiding the rear into smooth turns with finesse. During our climb and descent of the Citadelle de Namur for photography purposes, these skills shone brightly.
Naturally, due to its heft, robust suspension was necessary, leading to firmer dampening. On a section of the gently rolling Brussels Ring, the car briefly exhibited some oscillation but quickly stabilized. Though brief, these minor jolts detracted slightly; however, they didn’t overshadow overall comfort significantly enough to diminish praise for the Renault 5 E-Tech’s achievements. Stylishly designed—elegant yet powerful—it accelerates smoothly from 0-100 km/h in just eight seconds without feeling harsh. Four lightly packed adults could enjoy this spirited takeoff effortlessly.
Upfront, luxury abounds. However, those seated at the rear might find legroom limited, particularly if someone as tall as General de Gaulle occupies the driver’s seat.
The prices
The attractive French-made vehicle with 150 horsepower sells for approximately €32,900 in Belgium. Meanwhile, the model featuring 120 horsepower paired with a 40 kWh battery begins at around €27,900 in Belgium. Regarding the Renault 5 E-Tech Iconic Five we’re testing, fully loaded with additional features, it comes to €34,900. Its price in France stands at €35,590. If purchased in Switzerland with similar specifications as shown in photos, expect to pay about CHF 36,000. Despite knowing that this electric urban car has some range constraints, the Renault 5 E-Tech boasting 150 horsepower along with a 52 kWh battery remains suitable for regular use when charging from home at 11 kW. It also allows occasional trips and pulling a light trailer up to 600 kg without issues.
(MH with Duquesne – Source: Renault – Images: © Olivier Duquesne)
oleh admin | Mar 18, 2025 | autos, cars, driving, mercedes benz, technology
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Steering an EQS offers a journey filled with epiphanies and bewilderment. I doubt we’ll be returning anytime soon, though.
The future can be unforgiving, something Mercedes-Benz understands well. As a German automaker, they have established themselves as pioneers at the forefront of automotive technology, setting trends that will likely become standard features in vehicles over the next decade or two. From antilock braking systems to electronic stability controls and even supercharged engines—their innovations span an extensive range.
However, this method carries significant risks. Get it right, and you’ll be hailed as an innovator who revolutionized the industry. But get it wrong, and you could end up burdened with perplexing, untested technology and considerable financial loss.
No car embodies this quite like the
Mercedes-Benz EQS
Sedan. Praised as the pioneer of the electric age, it debuted with lukewarm receptions and disappointing sales figures. Recognizing this, Mercedes is shifting focus away from the oval-shaped aesthetics.
ditching the EQ names
And moving forward with hybrid alternatives. The upcoming electric S-Class will indeed be just that—
an electric S-Class
In terms of both name and appearance, it is not a separate standalone model like this one.
However, the EQS has arrived now, and
Available as a bargain on the second-hand market too.
It received a mild update for the 2025 model year, featuring a somewhat conventional front-end pseudo-grille along with an enlarged battery for increased range. Now, let’s examine its strengths and weaknesses concerning the future.
(Transparency Note: Mercedes provided me with a 2024 EQS for a week to use during this evaluation. Upon arrival, the vehicle was fully charged.)
Mercedes EQS: Driving Experience
Step into any electric vehicle (EV), and it becomes clear why high-end car manufacturers have invested heavily and early in this technology. The electric powertrain offers effortless, quiet driving experiences. While the S-Class’ inline-six and V8 engines are impressively smooth, they cannot compare to the exceptional performance of the EQS’ finely tuned drivetrain.
The EQS offers four variants: 450+ rear-wheel drive, 450 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and 580 AWD.
AMG
AWD. The EQS 450+ model I tested produced 355 horsepower and 419 lb-ft of torque via its single motor setup. In comparison, the all-wheel-drive variant delivers identical horsepower with a significantly higher torque output at 590 lb-ft. While these numbers might not stand out much today due to increasingly powerful vehicles, one notable aspect about electric cars is their silent operation; hence, even though figures may seem modest, they mask the actual driving experience where you won’t hear the powerplant struggling under load.
A gasoline engine with 335 horsepower would struggle to propel the 5,500-pound EQS. However, the electric motors face no such issues. Given that using a luxurious vehicle like this isn’t typically for high-speed races, its acceleration of zero to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds is sufficiently fast; thus, your personal comfort rather than the performance of the engine will likely set the pace.
Mercedes refreshed the EQS for 2025 with a redesigned grille inspired by their gasoline-powered models. Although I tested the 2024 version, this review also covers the updates introduced in 2025.
For those seeking additional horsepower, the EQS 580 could be more appealing with its output of 516hp and 611lb-ft of torque. If you’re inclined towards extremes, the outrageous AMG EQS Sedan delivers a staggering 649hp and 700lb-ft of torque. However, considering my ample experience with power and the substantial starting cost of $117,375 for theEQS 450+, I find little reason to invest further in higher-power variants. In fact, even at the baseline configuration, performance remains impressively satisfying.
Choosing electric power turned out to be a wise decision. However, by providing a vehicle with increased mass, altered weight distribution, and a sophisticated rear-wheel steering system, Mercedes seemingly overlooked the importance of maintaining the smooth S-Class ride quality. The brand’s characteristic plush suspension is primarily why I would endorse it. In comparison, the latest gasoline-driven S-Class offers the most comfortable journey short of sitting behind the wheel of a Rolls-Royce.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The EQS doesn’t fall short in comfort. It remains an outstanding choice for long drives on highways. However, navigating through city streets and traversing small bumps reveals that even advanced air suspensions cannot mask the vehicle’s considerable mass. The car feels ponderous when crossing hills and lands heavily into dips. These observations might seem severe—the ride quality is still superior to most cars—but enthusiasts seeking flawless handling will not find it with this model. Hence, our initial cautionary message from the Ghost of Mercedes Future: As you pursue future advancements, remember the foundation upon which you built your success.
I agree that the German automakers’ hesitance to provide an authentic one-pedal drive option seems odd, particularly since they continue to present “adjustable” settings that nearly achieve this but fall short. For instance, in the EQS, you can increase regeneration significantly, making it feel almost like single-pedal operation; however, the vehicle won’t halt entirely by itself. This inconsistency undermines their efforts. They should either fully commit to providing a genuine one-pedal experience or avoid such incomplete solutions altogether.
Don’t assume that all this new chassis technology goes to waste. Mercedes introduced a rear-wheel steering system in the EQS that utterly surpasses similar systems used by others. While a
Cybertruck
Utilizing its notably assertive rear-wheel steering, Mercedes’ system enables a massive pickup equipped with sizable 35-inch tires and poor wheel clearance to navigate turns adequately. This technology transforms maneuvering through parking lots into an experience akin to driving a compact vehicle. Executing U-turns on regular urban roads poses no challenge either. However, my mind struggled to adapt initially; as a result, I often ended up making parking attempts overly tight and had to correct myself frequently. This indicates success: such advanced tech forces you to readjust your perceptions.
Mercedes EQS: Driving Range, Battery Capacity, and Recorded Energy Efficiency
Every 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan comes equipped with an 118-kWh battery, providing up to 390 miles (628 km) of range for the EQS 450+ variant. While this might fall short compared to vehicles like the Lucid Air or Tesla Model S, it still outperforms much of the traditional competitors. The one I tested featured larger wheels and utilized a smaller, earlier version of the battery from 2024, resulting in a range of 352 miles (566 km). In my view, this figure represents the ideal balance.
Below are the range breakdowns for the additional trims in 2025:
-
EQS 450 4Matic: Up to 367 miles (590 km)
-
EQS 580 4Matic: Up to 371 miles (591 km)
-
AMG EQS: Up to 316 miles (509 km) of range
All of those figures are respectable and show that Mercedes is serious about offering the sort of long-range EVs American luxury buyers demand. I observed efficiency of 2.9 miles per kWh in mixed highway and around-town driving, giving me a projected real-world range of around 342 miles. That’s pretty solid given that my driving included a golf trip with five passengers and three bags of clubs.
The EQS boasts an impressive hatchback feature that significantly enhances its functionality compared to the gasoline-powered S-Class. We managed to accommodate three sets of golf clubs along with two cases of Diet Coke, still leaving ample space available.
Photo by: Mack Hogan/InsideEVs
Mercedes EQS: Charging Experience
Regrettably, problems with the charger prevented me from accurately measuring the 10-80% charge time for the EQS. However, I observed charging rates nearly matching Daimler’s advertised peak of 200 kW. When I chose a charging station via the vehicle’s nav system, the EQS pre-conditioned itself for rapid charging autonomously. Additionally, I found it noteworthy that the EQS maintained a swift charging pace; even at approximately 65%, it was still drawing power at about 137 kW, which falls within typical limits but leans towards the higher side for a 400-volt setup.
Mercedes states that the EQS Sedan can charge from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes. From my observation, this seems credible. However, there are definitely quicker charging options available within its segment.
A Porsche Taycan can accelerate from 10% to 80% battery charge in approximately 16 minutes.
, and a
The Lucid Air can achieve this in 20 seconds.
—however, I find this performance satisfactory enough.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes EQS: Interior
Here is where taste significantly comes into play. The interior quality of the Mercedes EQS Sedan stands out as impeccable. The brand employs high-quality materials and enhances the design quite effectively. However, the traditional use of leather and wood has been replaced by an abundance of black plastic within the EQS. This shift is largely due to the vehicle’s emphasis on its massive “Hyperscreen,” which features a continuous end-to-end screen encompassing three distinct displays.
It’s impressive, yet there isn’t much else to observe. The most prominent piece of wood within the cabin conceals the cup holders and wireless charging station. Since this space will likely be used for storing your keys and phone, you may never even notice the wooden surface. Instead, the interior predominantly features glossy black accents along with extensive areas occupied by screens.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
If your priority is a vehicle brimming with advanced technology, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for here. However, those anticipating the classic luxurious interiors reminiscent of older Mercedes models will likely feel letdown. Mercedes is fully committed to incorporating displays, voice controls, and cutting-edge technology into their cars. This strategic direction shows no signs of changing. Fortunately, the seating remains top-notch, although some may find the driving posture uncomfortable because of the elevated waist line and unusual body structure.
Technology, Infotainment & UX
Mercedes believes that technology is the future. That’s why when it built the EQS, it basically bet on all of them at once. It has the expected massaging seats and high-end Burmester stereo. But it also has Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos Support (this rocks). It can vibrate your seats along to the music. It has a conversational voice assistant that can turn all of these features on, and provide you with restaurant recommendations along the route.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The system includes a web browser enabling video streaming. Additionally, it features “augmented reality” guidance, which superimposes directional indicators over footage captured by cameras at the vehicle’s front, likely proving quite attention-grabbing. Music streaming comes pre-installed yet remains compatible with CarPlay and Android Auto. Essentially, this presents as a comprehensive array of choices akin to ordering off a Cheesecake Factory menu, all displayed on a large 17.7-inch screen complemented by dual 12.3-inch panels alongside.
In summary, it’s overly complex for my liking. Despite the system being extremely fast and reliable, I often felt confused by the numerous menus and options available. Additionally, I was disappointed with the performance of the voice assistant. It always starts with “How may I help you?” which disrupts the user’s question and offers only a brief moment to speak. Moreover, it frequently failed to understand even simple requests.
Technologically adept owners will ultimately get the hang of it. However, being 27, I am roughly three decades younger than the typical buyer for a luxury $100,000 sedan, and even then, I found myself feeling overwhelmed.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The EQS has reliable onboard navigation that supports route planning for extended journeys.
This comes down to personal preference. For quite some time, I’ve believed that luxury doesn’t merely involve adding features; it also requires selective removal. Providing an extensive list of options isn’t as beneficial as delivering a cohesive software experience where everything feels purposeful throughout all menus. This is something Tesla and Rivian excel at, and I believe they’re currently outpacing Mercedes in this aspect. On the other hand, Mercedes has embraced over-the-air updates similar to these companies and recently introduced ChatGPT integration along with “conversational navigation” powered by Google Gemini. However, after two decades of consistently introducing new add-ons, I sincerely hope that the upcoming version of MB.OS will focus more on simplification rather than expansion.
Mercedes states that its “conversational navigation” feature will make its first appearance on the new CLA model. However, this technology will ultimately be rolled out through an over-the-air update to numerous current vehicles as well. The EQS is likely to receive this upgrade at the forefront of such updates.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Safety & ADAS
At this point, Mercedes performs much better. The EQS includes an excellent highway driving assistance system along with a comprehensive array of advanced driver support features. This lane management system can take complete control of steering, braking, and acceleration, including making automatic lane changes to bypass slower vehicles.
I appreciated the car’s adherence to Germany’s disciplined driving style, swiftly returning to the correct lane after overtaking. However, it frequently switched lanes on California’s congested, high-speed five-lane highways. The vehicle would sound an alarm to notify you about these maneuvers, which often paused the music. After some time, I grew weary of my four-minute songs being disrupted multiple times during each journey. While having a warning before making a lane change seems essential, thus potentially justifying this feature, I’d prefer turning automatic lane adjustments off for a calmer ride.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Currently, Mercedes provides the sole genuine hands-free driving system in an American-made vehicle, though this feature is limited to just Nevada and California. Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to test it out.
The
EQS also provides Mercedes Drive Pilot.
The sole driver assistance system in the U.S. that permits drivers to look away from the road under particular conditions. Such systems, referred to as “Level 3” according to SAE standards, surpass Level 2 systems such as Tesla Autopilot and General Motors Super Cruise, both of which demand constant attention. However, this capability has limitations; drivers may remove their hands and gaze from the steering wheel only when they’re caught in low-speed traffic, less than 40 mph, on predetermined highways in California and Nevada.
The press vehicle I used lacked Drive Pilot, and even with repeated efforts, I’ve never had the chance to experience this technology firsthand in actual driving conditions.
Mercedes EQS: Pricing
The starting price for the Mercedes EQS 450+, inclusive of the destination fee, is $105,550. Similar to most German vehicles, adding optional features will significantly increase your expenses, despite the basic model being fairly well-appointed. TheEQS 450+ variant priced at $117,375 that I tested did not include a heated steering wheel; the Mercedes voice assistant informed me gently upon requesting it. This seems odd since such feature comes standard on the Chevy Blazer EV. In this class of car, manufacturers typically do not load their models with many standard amenities.
Among the additional choices on my tester were the $2,150 Exclusive package, which features massage functions for the front seats, the MBUX “Interior Assistant,” and four-zone automatic climate control. There was also an optional perfume distribution system available for $450.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The starting price for the AWD EQS 450 4Matic is $108,550. The EQS 580 has a base cost of $128,500, while the top-of-the-line AMG EQS Sedan comes with an MSRP of $148,700.
Mercedes EQS: Verdict
With the EQS Sedan, Mercedes took a gamble, seeing the shift to electric vehicles as an opportunity to reinvent itself—not merely as a technological frontrunner but entirely shaped by innovation. If you examine the resale value of pre-owned EQS models, it becomes clear that their strategy paid off. Vehicles from just two years ago, originally priced between $100,000 and $150,000, often sell for around $45,000.
The market has delivered its verdict, and it wasn’t particularly favorable regarding these automobiles. However, this assessment might be somewhat harsh. The EQS is indeed a fairly dependable vehicle, yet it seems to lack clear direction. As an electric vehicle, it holds up well but doesn’t stand out as the top choice within its class. In terms of luxury, it performs adequately but falls short compared to the S-Class when it comes to refinement. Additionally, despite being a fascinating display of technology, it originates from a brand that hasn’t quite reached the level of seamless integration found in fully software-driven models.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
Primarily, it serves as a testing ground. Several aspects function well: the impressive spatial audio system, the responsive display, the seamless powertrain, and decent range. However, some elements fall short: the ungainly design, the unremarkable ride quality, and the overwhelming presence of its extensive feature set.
This was an experiment. When Mercedes entered this market with full force, they appeared to absorb numerous lessons swiftly. Although the company didn’t come up with a unified, captivating offering, their audacity stands out in contrast to most car manufacturers who are cautiously easing into the electric vehicle sector. Thus, one must commend Mercedes for taking such a daring plunge wholeheartedly.
Although it didn’t pay off this time, over an extended period, the market tends to favor businesses bold enough to embrace significant risks.
Contact the author:
Mack.Hogan@insideevs.com
.
More Mercedes EV Coverage
-
In 2026, the Mercedes CLA-Class will be an electric vehicle with a range of 500 miles as well as a hybrid option.
-
The Mercedes-Benz GLC EV Demonstrates That The Brand Is Changing Its Approach
-
The Head of Mercedes Design States AI Will Craft Tomorrow’s Vehicles: ‘My Heir Will Be a Robot’
-
Mercedes-Benz Electric Vehicles Gain Access to the Tesla Supercharger Network Today
-
2025 Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV: Is It Worth $199,250?
-
The Mercedes EQS successor will be a genuine electric S-Class.
-
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Electric Vehicle: All the Details We’ve Gathered So Far
-
A Pre-owned Mercedes-Benz EQS Could Cost You as Much as a New Tesla Model 3
|
2024 Mercedes EQS 450+ Sedan
|
|
Base Price
|
$105,550
|
|
As-Tested Price
|
$117,375
|
|
EV Range
|
352 miles
|
|
Battery
|
108 kWh (net)
|
|
Drive Type
|
rear-wheel drive
|
|
Output
|
355 horsepower
|
|
Maximum torque
|
419 lb-ft
|
oleh admin | Mar 17, 2025 | automotive industry, autos, cars, driving, electric cars
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Perched on an exclusive 800V architecture, the twin-engine hatchback will have a production cap of 1,980 vehicles.
-
The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is set for production in 2027.
-
It features two electric motors located within the rear wheels and is made from carbon fiber.
-
It employs a custom-designed electrical system featuring an 800V battery pack that can handle up to 350 kW.
Well,
Renault
was carrying out this initiative. Towards the end of last year, when the French carmaker disclosed
The 5 Turbo 3E electric super-hatch
As previously stated, the yellow monster was slated for production. Now, this has been confirmed officially.
Set to roll off the production line in 2027, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E is a modern, electric throwback to the iconic 5 Turbo and 5 Turbo 2 of the 1980s. Just like its gas-powered predecessors, the new electric “mini supercar” resembles the standard version of the iconic hot hatches, but turns the craziness dial to 11 under the skin.
More European EVs
-
The Toyota C-HR+ boasts a range rivaling Tesla’s and might be heading to the United States.
-
The Upcoming Kia EV1 Will Be More Compact and Budget-Friendly
-
The Zeekr 7X Is a Luxurious High-Voltage SUV Targeting Markets in Europe and Beyond
-
Volkswagen’s Latest Electric Vehicle Offers An Affordable Option That Tesla Isn’t Producing
The single front-mounted motor and 400-volt battery pack are now history.
Renault 5
Instead, Renault opted for a custom-made platform equipped with an 800-volt battery pack that powers two electric motors located within the wheels at the back. This setup delivers a combined power of 540 horsepower, and according to Renault, can accelerate from a standstill to 62 mph (or 0-100 km/h) in less than 3.5 seconds.
As a compact two-door hatchback measuring only 157 inches (4 meters) in length, each start should provide quite an exhilarating experience. However, it’s more than just rapid acceleration; the French carmaker claims this limited-edition electric vehicle has a range of up to 250 miles (400 kilometers) per full charge. Additionally, with its remarkable peak charging capability of 350 kilowatts, it can boost its battery level from 15 to 80 percent in merely 15 minutes.
The vehicle tips the scales at 3,197 pounds (1,450 kilograms) when factoring in its 70-kilowatt-hour battery. This mass is comparable to that of an average Renault 5 equipped with a 52-kWh battery, featuring four doors along with rear seating. To maintain a lower curb weight, the 5 Turbo 3E features a body made from carbon fiber and includes only two seats alongside two doors.
Inside, you’ll find a vertically positioned handbrake lever reminiscent of its ancestor’s rallying past, along with features like a roll cage, bucket seats equipped with six-point harnesses, and Alcantara upholstery spread across the interior.
In terms of design, the production version is almost indistinguishable from last year’s prototype. This has become somewhat typical for Renault; frequently, exciting concept cars are introduced but never make it to production. Therefore, it’s quite invigorating to witness this vehicle transition into production virtually unchanged.
Renault announced that pre-orders for the striking 5 Turbo 3E will commence shortly. Although prices have not been disclosed yet, only 1,980 vehicles will be produced—an homage to the initial 5 Turbo model from 1980 that was created as part of a homologation requirement. Production of the first units is scheduled to start in 2027. This limited-edition Renault 5 Turbo 3E will be available in Europe, Australia, Japan, and the Middle East.
oleh admin | Mar 17, 2025 | autos, cars, electric cars, fuel consumption, suvs
Around the world, an increasing number of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are appearing both on and off the streets.
Despite forecasts from the United Nations suggesting an unavoidable shift toward compact and eco-friendly cars due to the pressing nature of the climate emergency and increasing living costs.
This shift did not occur: worldwide, 54% of the vehicles sold in 2024 were SUVs, encompassing gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and electric models. According to reports, this represents a rise of three percentage points compared to 2023 and five percentage points more than the previous year.
GlobalData
.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), out of all the SUVs currently on the roads—whether they be new or old—about 95% rely on fossil fuels for their operation.
However, manufacturers argue that their newest batches of these vehicles are progressively turning electric, and not every SUV currently for sale leads to higher emissions.
SUVs stand out easily. They are bulky and bigger vehicles featuring roomy cabins, increased ground clearance, and a lofty seating position offering an improved perspective of the roadway, even though compact variants do exist as well.
Environmental activists like Greenpeace view SUVs as major contributors to the climate crisis and contend that producing these vehicles requires substantial resources due to their large size.
Specialists likewise mention that bigger batteries are needed for the electric models, which subsequently boosts the requirement for essential minerals, adding extra strain on the Earth.
It was believed that momentum lay with compact, energy-efficient electric vehicles. However, the sales of regular-sized EVs have declined in key markets like Japan and Germany, and their growth rate has decelerated in India as well.
In Europe, sales of SUVs have surpassed those of electric vehicles even though trends from over five years ago suggested otherwise. According to data, in 2018, European sales reached 3.27 million units for compact hatchback models—whether fueled by conventional means or electricity—but dropped to 2.13 million units by 2024.
GlobalData
.
Sammy Chan, the sales forecast manager, stated: “Partly due to smaller-sized SUV options available, which saw their European sales increase to almost 2.5 million units in 2024 from around 1.5 million in 2018.”
In 2024, China led with approximately 11.6 million SUV sales, trailed by the United States, India, and Germany, as reported by GlobalData.
What factors are behind this surge in SUV sales?
Experts in the industry indicate that individuals’ buying capacity has been increasing in numerous rapidly developing countries, which makes SUVs more likely to be chosen as cars.
Mike Hawes, CEO of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), stated, “Car makers listen to what consumers want, and more drivers are being drawn to multi-functional vehicles due to their usefulness, comfort, and excellent visibility of the road.”
Auto industry experts likewise mention that producers are drawn to the substantial profit margins of SUVs; they can earn higher profits from these vehicles despite producing them in smaller numbers.
“Dudley Curtis, who works as the communication manager at the European Transport Safety Council, stated that ‘the industry has boosted demand significantly with extensive marketing and advertising efforts over the past few years,’ ” he noted.
He mentioned that SUVs provided the automotive sector with an easy method to increase the price of a vehicle that performs similar functions as others.
Are SUVs an issue?
Due to the strong surge in sport utility vehicle sales, the IEA reports that the oil usage for these vehicles rose by 600,000 barrels daily worldwide from 2022 to 2023, representing over one-fourth of the overall yearly increase in global oil demand.
“If SUVs were considered as part of country rankings, they would stand as the globe’s fifth biggest source of CO2 emissions, surpassing those from Japan along with several other significant economic powers,” stated Apostolos Petropoulos, who works as an energy modeler at the IEA.
The organization states that when compared to medium-sized vehicles powered by gasoline and diesel, SUVs consume approximately 20% more of these fuels because they typically weigh around 300 kilograms more on average.
Actually, road transportation accounts for over 12% of worldwide carbon emissions, making it a major contributor to global warming. Experts warn that every sector needs to quickly reduce their carbon output to prevent a severe climate crisis.
However, industry representatives counter that not every SUV currently for sale leads to higher emissions.
“Around two in five of these [new] vehicle models are zero emission as their body type lends itself well to electrification with longer battery range that can reassure consumers concerned about charging accessibility,” said Hawes, from the SMMT.
This has resulted in the average CO2 emissions from new multipurpose vehicles decreasing by over half since the year 2000, aiding this category in leading the reduction of carbon emissions in UK road transportation.
Even though most newly sold sport utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to use fossil fuels, officials from the International Energy Agency (IEA) have noted that more than 20% of SUVs purchased in 2023 were completely electric. This represents an increase from just 2% in 2018.
Regarding hybrid vehicles capable of operating using either electricity or fossil fuels, a 2022 European study conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation discovered that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (covering all kinds such as SUVs) were predominantly running in their gasoline modes. On average, these vehicles utilized electric power for merely approximately 30% of the total kilometers driven.
Comparable outcomes were observed in other significant economic powers like the US and China.
In general, the shift toward SUVs, according to certain experts, has led to a considerable delay in the decarbonization of the transportation industry.
The shift towards larger and more inefficient vehicles like SUVs in certain regions has mostly offset the advancements in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions seen in passenger cars globally, according to the IEA.
The UK Parliament’s climate change committee reported a comparable conclusion in their 2024 study on reducing carbon emissions within the nation.
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oleh admin | Mar 14, 2025 | auto enthusiasts, automotive industry, autos, cars, motor bikes
Removing the traditional kei car frame, and replacing it with the advanced components of a high-performance superbike.
It’s small, it’s yellow, and it has a clearly retro design as a hatchback. This isn’t a Mini; it’s a Honda N600 from the early ’70s. It was equipped originally with a petite 600cc-ish kei car engine that, when everything aligned perfectly, could crank out roughly 40 full horsepower on a good day.
Pleasing to the eye but not as enjoyable when driving; potentially frustrating, varying based on one’s mood and patience levels on a certain day.
However, that’s all set to change soon.
Cars and Cameras
Each year, they invite a group of friends to participate in what they refer to as Build Week. During this event, their aim is to finish an incredibly ambitious task within seven days by putting in continuous effort throughout the duration. Of course, there are moments set aside for rest; however, the idea is that bringing together skilled do-it-yourself enthusiasts will enable them to accomplish substantial amounts of work much more quickly compared to when working alone.
In 2025, they plan to transform this unassuming little Honda N600 by installing a distinct Honda engine within. Which engine? It’s a
CBR1000RR
Superbike million. This indicates, amongst other aspects, that it would not simply involve swapping out the small N600 motor. The plan includes changing it to rear-wheel-drive configuration, with components such as the fuel tank, radiator, and battery being relocated into what used to be the engine compartment at the front end to assist in balancing the overall weight distribution of the final build.
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More Powerrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
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Certainly, we must address the minor detail that the CBR1000RR engine produces approximately 170 horsepower. This figure is over four times what the N600 was originally designed for, plus the motor will now sit at the back rather than up front. As such, numerous additional modifications would have to be implemented to ensure this tiny kei vehicle does not contort itself like a delectable soft pretzel when in operation.
They’re assembling quite an eclectic mix of components here, featuring a rear axle sourced from a Mazda Miata, some suspension pieces taken from a Polaris RZR, and various other elements used to bring everything into alignment. Despite being imported from Texas, where cars can easily succumb to rust, this particular N600 remains impressively corrosion-free for its years; however, extensive modifications still have to be made—namely cutting apart the back end—to accommodate both the new engine placement and suspension setup.
How crazy does it sound once this build is finished? They intend to head over to the Virginia International Raceway go-kart track for an exhilarating ride after completion. Do you want to get behind the wheel of this, or are they completely nuts? Share your opinions in the comments section.
