Motorsport

UPS Drivers to Finally Have Air Conditioning in Delivery Trucks

United Parcel Service (UPS), one of the world’s largest shipping companies, has announced that it will provide air conditioning in its delivery trucks. This decision comes after discussions with team leaders to address the needs of workers on the road.

However, not all UPS delivery trucks will have air conditioning. The agreement with the Teamsters, the labor union representing UPS employees, states that all newly purchased small package delivery vehicles in the United States will come with air conditioning starting from January 1st of next year. These new vehicles will be allocated to the hottest regions of the country where it is feasible.

For the remaining vehicles without air conditioning, UPS plans to install cabin fans within 30 days of contract ratification, and an additional fan by June 1st of next year. In addition, the company will also install exhaust heat shields to minimize heat conduction from the engine into the floor of the vehicle, which is expected to lower the cabin temperature by up to 17 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another measure agreed upon by UPS and the Teamsters is the addition of a forced-air induction system to bring fresh air from the front of the vehicle into the cargo area. This feature will be included in the production of new delivery vehicles and retrofitted to existing vehicles within 18 months of contract ratification.

UPS expressed their commitment to employee safety and comfort, stating, “We have always remained open to solutions that keep our employees safe on hot days…the new solutions we’ve agreed to will improve airflow, temperature, and comfort for our employees.”

Motorsport

Ford Recalls Almost 15,000 Fusions Due to Fire Risk

In a surprising move, Ford decided to discontinue the production of the Ford Fusion sedan in the United States in July 2020. However, there are still a significant number of Fusions on the road, and Ford has recently announced a new recall for the model.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) has released details about campaign number 23V440000, which affects 14,452 Ford Fusion vehicles. Specifically, the recall includes the Fusion Energy models from the 2019 and 2020 model years. These vehicles were manufactured between December 6, 2017, and July 27, 2020, and are equipped with 30 Ah high-voltage batteries. The Fusion Energi is the plug-in hybrid version of the sedan that was introduced in the 2012 North American Auto Show in Detroit.

The NHTSA explains that the affected vehicles have a battery energy control module that may be damaged due to excessive voltage and current flow. This damage could lead to a loss of power or even a fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. The exact cause of the current interrupt device (CID) activation is currently unknown and is being investigated by Ford.

Currently, there is no fix available for this issue. Ford is working on a remedy and is advising owners of the affected vehicles not to charge their cars. Letters informing owners of the safety risk will be sent on July 10, and additional letters with details about the fix will be sent at a later date.

This is not the first recall for the Ford Fusion this year. In March, Ford announced a recall for 1,167,825 units of the sedan from the 2013 through 2018 model years. The recall was related to the front brake jounce hoses, and the solution involved replacing both front jounce hoses and inspecting the brakes. Only non-hybrid vehicles were affected by this particular recall.

Motorsport

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Le Mans Centenary Edition: A Retro-Inspired Tribute

Porsche France recently teased a new variant of the 911 on social media, leading some to believe it might be the highly anticipated heritage-inspired ST model. However, the actual release is the 911 Carrera GTS Le Mans Centenary Edition, which pays homage to past Porsche models by incorporating design elements from the 356 SL and 911 GT1. This special edition celebrates 100 years of endurance racing since the inaugural event held on May 26-27, 1923.

Exclusive to France, the retro-styled 911 Carrera GTS will only have 72 units available for purchase. This number signifies the 72 years of Porsche’s continuous presence at the renowned 24-hour endurance race. Buyers can choose between a seven-speed manual gearbox or an eight-speed PDK transmission, and each car comes equipped with an extensive list of standard features. The price for this exclusive model is €237,819, which is approximately $259,600 based on current exchange rates.


Motorsport

Ferrari SF90 XX Stradale And Spider Debut Making 1,016 HP

Ferrari has introduced the SF90 XX Stradale and SF90 XX Spider, two high-performance models that can be driven on public roads. Unlike Ferrari’s previous XX models, which were exclusively for the track, these new models are designed for both on-road and track use. However, they will be produced in limited quantities, with only 799 hardtops and 599 droptops being made.

Mechanical Upgrades

Both the SF90 XX Stradale and SF90 XX Spider are equipped with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine which is supplemented by three electric motors. Two of the electric motors are placed on the front axle, while the third is located between the engine and the transmission. This powertrain configuration allows for a total output of 1,016 horsepower, an increase from the standard SF90 Stradale’s 986 horsepower.


Motorsport

2024 Lexus ES: More Tech, New Wheels, Starting at $43,190

The 2024 Lexus ES is hitting the market with some notable upgrades. While there are no major visual or mechanical updates, this best-selling sedan in the United States has some noteworthy improvements. The vehicle will be available at Lexus dealerships across the country later this summer, with a starting price of $43,190 (including destination and handling fees). This represents a slight increase from last year’s starting price of $42,490.

One of the key additions for the 2024 model year is the inclusion of the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 as standard equipment for all trim levels. This comprehensive safety suite offers features such as a pre-collision warning system with pedestrian detection, left turn oncoming vehicle detection and braking, adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and more.


Motorsport

Porsche Flagship EV Will Have All-New Interior And Automated Driving Functions

Porsche recently held its Annual General Meeting in 2023 to discuss its performance last year, with a 2.6 percent increase in car deliveries to 309,884 units. During the meeting, Porsche expressed its strong commitment to electric vehicles (EVs), aiming for over 80 percent of its sales to be battery-powered EVs by 2030. While the transition will take time, the luxury German brand has already unveiled its plans for the next few years.

The first EV to follow in the footsteps of the Taycan is the next-generation Macan, which will be entirely electric and set to go on sale in 2024. Originally planned for this year, its launch was delayed due to software issues. Porsche CEO and Volkswagen Group chairman, Oliver Blume, revealed that the electric-only Cayenne will closely follow the Macan, likely hitting the market in 2026. Similar to the current gasoline version, the electric Cayenne will be produced in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Going beyond the Cayenne, Porsche has plans for a larger, unnamed SUV that will target China, the United States, and other profitable markets. Blume described this upcoming model as a “new vehicle concept” that will deliver impressive performance and a new interior experience. Moreover, it will incorporate advanced automated driving functions. Codenamed K1, this high-end EV is expected to have three rows of seating and feature a completely different exterior design compared to previous models. Rumors suggest it will be a hybrid of a sedan and a crossover, stretching over five meters (196.8 inches) in length. The K1 will be based on the future Scalable Systems Platform (SSP Sport), a derivative of the Volkswagen Group’s upcoming Scalable Systems Platform.

Notably absent from the discussion was the iconic Porsche 911. While the company plans to introduce a hybrid version before 2030, an all-electric 911 is not expected during this decade. Porsche intends to continue selling the 911 with combustion engines for as long as possible. Additionally, Porsche is investing in the development and production of synthetic fuels, which could extend the lifespan of the rear-engined sports car.

Motorsport

Bugatti Expanding Molsheim Headquarters as it Prepares for New Models

Bugatti is getting ready for a new chapter by expanding its headquarters in Molsheim. The French luxury carmaker has recently introduced the Mistral roadster and the track-only Bolide as a farewell to the quad-turbo W16 engine, with limited production of 99 roofless hypercars and 40 extreme models. After these models, Bugatti will move on to an undisclosed engine. To support the introduction of these new models, Bugatti is adding a new two-story facility to its existing headquarters.

The expansion project will cover an area of 2,120 square meters (22,819 square feet) and aims to be operational by the second half of next year. Besides accommodating the launch of the new Mistral and Bolide, the expanded headquarters will also pave the way for future models that Bugatti is planning beyond the era of the Chiron. While details about these forthcoming models are scarce, Bugatti promises they will be “performance-defining automobiles.”

In line with the upcoming changes, Bugatti has ambitious plans to expand its workforce by more than 50 percent by the end of 2027. This strategic personnel expansion is part of Bugatti’s preparation for the new era in collaboration with Rimac, which will see the two combining their expertise in the development of cutting-edge hypercars.


BMW

BMW Group France, a Strong Supporter of Les Rencontres d’Arles, Prese

In 2010, BMW Group France became a major partner of Les Rencontres d’Arles, a renowned photography festival. As a patron for the 14th consecutive year, BMW Group France is providing the festival with a fleet of electrified BMW cars for transportation purposes. This partnership reflects BMW’s commitment to supporting the arts.

A Special Exhibition: INSOLARE by Eva Nielsen and Marianne Derrien

INSOLARE is a unique exhibition created by artist Eva Nielsen and curator Marianne Derrien. The project was developed as part of the BMW ART MAKERS program, which aims to promote innovation in the visual arts. INSOLARE will be showcased for the first time at Les Rencontres d’Arles and later exhibited at Paris Photo in November 2023.

The BMW ART MAKERS Program

The BMW ART MAKERS program, initiated by BMW Group France, supports a duo of artists and curators each year in creating a joint project. The program provides a grant of 10,000 euros to the artist and 8,000 euros to the curator. Additionally, a budget of 15,000 euros is allocated for research, production, and exhibitions of the works. This program highlights BMW’s dedication to fostering creativity and innovation in the field of visual arts.

Promoting Female Talent

BMW is actively involved in promoting female talent in the arts. They have been supporting the Prix de la Photo Madame Figaro Arles, which celebrates the achievements of female photographers, since its inception.

About the INSOLARE Exhibition

The INSOLARE project is an experiment that exemplifies the spirit of the BMW ART MAKERS program. Created by Eva Nielsen and Marianne Derrien, the exhibition explores the concept of time and the transformation of urban and Camargue landscapes. By combining poetic and scientific elements, the artists address the environmental changes that are causing the disappearance of various landscapes where human impact is constantly questioned.

Exploring Geographical and Geological Changes

Artist Eva Nielsen has focused on examining geographical and geological changes, a subject that is often overlooked by female artists. Nielsen has extensively explored the Camargue region, capturing numerous photographs. Through her artwork, which incorporates photography, silk-screening, painting, and printing, she presents a unique perspective and transfiguration of the landscapes. Nielsen’s work reflects her deep understanding of the territory’s architecture and environment.

The Vision of the Curator Marianne Derrien

Curator Marianne Derrien explains that INSOLARE combines optical and hydro-geological phenomena with the technical process of exposure, primarily used in screen-printing. This project captures the essence of both rural and industrial realities, intertwining the experiences of the artists and the diverse territories at the gateway to Arles.

Innovative Scenography for Ecological Conservation

The exhibition’s scenography has been designed with environmental conservation in mind. The use of materials has been minimized, and suspended metal structures have replaced traditional picture rails. These structures will be repurposed for the Paris Photo exhibition in November 2023.

BMW’s Commitment to Climate Neutrality

Maryse Bataillard, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at BMW Group France, explains that Eva Nielsen and Marianne Derrien’s project aligns perfectly with the BMW ART MAKERS program. BMW Group is proud to present this groundbreaking exhibition in Arles, as it reflects the company’s commitment to working towards carbon neutrality. BMW has also unveiled a concept for a 100% recyclable and recycled car set to be realized by 2040.

The 54th Rencontres d’Arles Exhibition

The INSOLARE exhibition is part of the “Geographies of the Gaze” section of the 54th Rencontres d’Arles. The exhibition explores the reality of climate and ecological challenges, together with other artists who approach these topics from various angles. Eva Nielsen takes the viewers on a sensory journey through the Camargue region, where the past and present intertwine in a unique artistic approach.

BMW Group’s Cultural Engagements

BMW Group has been actively engaged in cultural partnerships worldwide for over 50 years. In addition to supporting Les Rencontres d’Arles, BMW Group has become an official partner of other esteemed events, such as the Cannes Film Festival and Paris + by Art Basel since 2022.

The BMW ART MAKERS 2023 Jury

The BMW ART MAKERS 2023 Jury consisted of influential individuals in the art world. This includes Florence Bourgeois, the Director of Paris Photo; Fabrice Bousteau, Editorial Director of Beaux-Arts Magazine; Hervé Digne, Chairman of Manifesto; Fannie Escoulen, Delegate for Photography at the French Ministry of Culture; Chantal Nedjib, Founder of l’Image par l’image; Christophe Ono-dit-Biot, writer and Deputy Editorial Director of Le Point; Christoph Wiesner, Director of Rencontres d’Arles; and Maryse Bataillard, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR at BMW Group France.

BMW

Celebrating 50 years: BMW Group announces electrification of Plant Rosslyn, South Africa

  • South African plant will serve as a model for social, environmental, and economic sustainability
  • BMW Group invests 4.2 billion rand (over 200 million euros) in electrification of Plant Rosslyn
  • Nedeljković: “Starting from 2024, the next-generation BMW X3 will be produced in South Africa as a plug-in hybrid for global export.”
  • 1.5 million euros will be donated to UNICEF to support young people in South Africa

Rosslyn (South Africa). Fifty years ago, the BMW Group established its first foreign facility at Plant Rosslyn. Since then, it has become an integral part of the global production network. To commemorate its 50th anniversary, Milan Nedeljković, BMW AG Board Member for Production, has announced that Plant Rosslyn will be electrified. During an event in South Africa, he stated, “Starting from 2024, we will manufacture the BMW X3 as a plug-in hybrid in South Africa for global export. An investment of 4.2 billion rand (over 200 million euros) will prepare Plant Rosslyn for electromobility.” This investment will also include specialized training for over 300 employees at the plant.

The investment announcement aligns with the BMW Group’s global iFACTORY master plan, which focuses on advancing the development of efficient, digitalized, and resource-friendly production. Plant Rosslyn has already produced over 1.6 million vehicles and exported them to more than 40 countries worldwide, including 14 African nations. Throughout its history, the plant has manufactured various BMW models such as the BMW 1800 SA, BMW 2000 SA, BMW 5 Series, and BMW 7 Series. It has been producing the popular BMW X3 since 2018, marking a significant milestone in BMW’s globalization efforts. Currently, the BMW Group sells vehicles in more than 140 countries and operates manufacturing facilities in 15 locations.

Nedeljković, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW South Africa, emphasized that the BMW Group’s impact in the country extends beyond car production: “In South Africa, we haven’t just established a plant that provides employment and contributes to the country’s industrialization; for the past 50 years, we have also demonstrated our commitment to social responsibility.” As part of this commitment, the BMW Group announced a donation of over 1.5 million euros to support a program run by UNICEF. Together with UNICEF, the BMW Group will promote the teaching of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) to thousands of children and young people in South Africa.

The BMW Group also places great importance on resource conservation. Since 2015, Plant Rosslyn has been using energy from a nearby biogas plant (Bio2Watt), significantly reducing its CO2 emissions. The plant also collaborates with various organizations to ensure that its waste is recycled and not disposed of. For instance, in partnership with Envirolite, Plant Rosslyn repurposes scrap polystyrene as a building material, resulting in the construction of more than 650 low-cost houses since the project’s inception two years ago.

Furthermore, South Africa plays a pivotal role as a market for BMW Group’s innovations. In addition to the plant, the company has opened offices in South Africa for its global IT hub, employing around 2,000 staff who provide global IT services. Due to the market’s unique characteristics, South Africa serves as an ideal location for piloting innovations. In 2020, the BMW Group conducted a pilot project for direct sales with trading partners in South Africa, gaining valuable experience and striving to offer the best premium customer experience in the industry.

* UNICEF does not endorse any company, brand, product, or service.

Volkswagen

Gernot Döllner appointed as the new CEO of AUDI in Volkswagen’s Group Board of Management

Gernot Döllner will become the new CEO of AUDI AG and will join Volkswagen AG’s Group Board of Management on September 1, 2023. He will be taking over from Markus Duesmann, who will step down from Group management at the same time. This decision was made by the Group Supervisory Board today.

The Chairman of Volkswagen’s Supervisory Board, Hans Dieter Pötsch, expressed gratitude towards Markus Duesmann for his contributions at Audi. Duesmann played a pivotal role in implementing an ambitious electrification strategy, achieving a significant milestone with the E-Roadmap, and leading the way for a complete transition to e-mobility. Pötsch also emphasized that Gernot Döllner, with his extensive experience within the Group and its products, will effectively advance and develop Audi’s strategy.

Gernot Döllner, who hails from Lower Saxony, studied mechanical engineering and joined Volkswagen as a doctoral student in 1993. He held various managerial positions at Porsche AG, including head of Concept Development and head of the Panamera series. Döllner has been responsible for Product and Group Strategy, as well as the General Secretariat in the Volkswagen Group since 2021.

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