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.

RollsRoyce

Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Conclude Historic Anniversary Re-enactment Tour with Grand Finale in Salzburg

  • Members of the 20-Ghost Club conclude their epic re-enactment of the 1913 Alpenfahrt in Salzburg
  • The event marks the 110th anniversary of the 7-day, 2,600km trial that immortalized Rolls-Royce as ‘the best car in the world’
  • Participants, including pre-1940 and contemporary Rolls-Royce motor cars, closely followed the original Alpenfahrt route over some of Europe’s highest roads
  • Inaugural ‘Inspiring Greatness Trophy’ presented by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, echoing the prizes awarded to the all-conquering Rolls-Royce Works team in 1913

“The dominant performance by the Silver Ghosts of the Rolls-Royce Works team at the 1913 Alpenfahrt confirmed Rolls-Royce as ‘the best car in the world’. This wonderful re-enactment, marking the 110th anniversary of that landmark event, is a tribute to their achievements, and to the engineering excellence of these historic Rolls-Royce motor cars. That so many examples remain not only fully operational, but able to undertake the same extraordinary endeavors they did more than a century ago is a testament to their devoted owners’ meticulous care and attention. These remarkable people and their magnificent motor cars inspire greatness every time they take to the road; I’ve been honored to be part of this unique adventure.”
Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

The participants in the 110th anniversary re-enactment of the 1913 Alpenfahrt, comprising members of the 20-Ghost Club (the world’s oldest Rolls-Royce owners’ club and devoted exclusively to models built before 1940), make a triumphant return to Salzburg after a 16-day, 2,600km odyssey through the Alps. Members were accompanied on part of their adventure by bespoke examples of the marque’s Ghost and Black Badge Ghost models, created at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, which celebrates its own 20th anniversary this year.

The 2023 rally closely followed the route of the original event, taking in some of the highest roads in Europe. Among the cars taking part were Silver Ghosts, including one of the original motor cars that formed part of the original 1913 Works Team that helped seal Rolls-Royce’s reputation as ‘the best car in the world’.

Although today’s drivers were engaged in a more leisurely tour – rather than a fiercely fought contest between powerful commercial and sporting rivals – Rolls-Royce Motor Cars added a further touch of competitive authenticity by awarding its inaugural ‘Inspiring Greatness Trophy’. Judged and presented by Ken Forbes and Nick Naismith, it recognizes the 20-Ghost Club member who most perfectly embodies the marque’s central value, ‘Inspiring Greatness’.

VolvoCars

Impressions that last in the new all-electric Volvo EX90 SUV

Remember the cool, smooth touch of the polished pebble you picked up during that beach walk many summers ago. Or the velvety feel of your old bottle-green armchair, and how the gentle resistance of its tiny fibres created a slight friction against your fingers.

The way our minds can hold on to tactile memories is remarkable, and it’s these simple encounters that remind us of the power of touch. Even the briefest connection can leave an everlasting sensation, so that decades later we can recall it as vividly as if we experienced it yesterday.

When our designers created the interior of our Volvo EX90 SUV, they picked materials that create lasting impressions. Materials from natural, recycled, and renewable sources. Materials that feel good and do good. Together with the design, it’s an expression of our company’s values and Scandinavian foundations.

“I work with an amazing team – they’re very much motivated by the values of our brand and meaningful design,” says Lisa Reeves, Head of Interior Design at Volvo Cars. “We have worked to redefine luxury by using more sustainable lightweight materials that really feel tactile and are of great premium quality.”

Natural, recycled and certified materials
This reinterpretation of luxury means that excess and conventional fabric make way for circularity and the progressive Nordico material.

The Nordico upholstery, created from textiles made from recycled material such as PET bottles, as well as bio-attributed polymer from forests in Sweden and Finland, sets a new standard for premium interior design.

“Our designers have put so much effort into designing the grain you can feel on the surface of the Nordico material,” says Lisa Reeves, referring to the intricate texture of ridges and valleys – like miniature landscapes.

Another EX90 upholstery option is our Nativa™-certified wool blend seat finishing, a fabric certified according to strict sustainability standards on animal welfare, environmental, and social issues. It has also obtained the Performance Certification from the Woolmark Company.

Together with FSC™-certified wood panels around the cabin and carpets partly consisting of regenerated polyamide, these material choices make sure that the Volvo EX90 consists of almost 50 kilogrammes of recycled plastics and bio-based materials – the highest amount of non-primary fossil-based materials in our line-up of cars.

The Volvo EX90 also allows you to customize your car’s interior by choosing between seven different ‘rooms’. Inspired by the Scandinavian lifestyle and its close connection to nature, each room provides a different mood, thanks to our designers’ thoughtful selection of color, upholstery, and material finish. And with the SunLike LEDs lighting the cabin with near-sunlight and enabling a more natural color expression, the wood deco and progressive materials of the Volvo EX90 stand out more clearly.

See below to learn more about the inspiration and creative approach of our designers:

Long-Term Review

Alpina D3 S 2023 long-term test

In Germany, Alpina’s diesel models are popular because people prefer to commute long distances rather than fly internally. In Japan, which is traditionally a petrol market, they have also started to embrace diesel models, similar to the trend in the early 2000s.

From a dynamic perspective, the Alpina D3 S is quite impressive. It has a firm yet controlled ride, low noise levels, and heavy but consistent steering. The car feels incredibly stable at high speeds and has a reliable and uncompromising approach.

It’s common to compare Alpina models with their BMW M counterparts, but since the D3 S is a diesel and BMW doesn’t offer this engine, I won’t be making a direct comparison to the M3 Touring. These two cars are quite different, and the D3 S lacks the agility of the M models.

If there is an issue with the D3 S, it’s not entirely its fault. The 20-inch wheels with 30-profile Pirelli P Zero tires provide a nicely balanced four-wheel-drive setup with even weight distribution. However, on a couple of occasions, I encountered unexpected British potholes at night that made me fear damaging a tire. It might be worth considering the 19-inch wheels instead, although they have a different design compared to the sleek Alpina classic spokes that I’m personally fond of.

Stay tuned for more updates, including how the tires fare on continental Europe roads.

Second Opinion

Prior’s enthusiasm for the diesel V6 engine in Alpina’s D4 S Gran Coupé is well-founded. Earlier this year, I was thoroughly impressed by its refined cruising and effortless performance and efficiency. I even speculated that you could achieve 40mpg while cruising at speeds over 100mph on the autobahn.

News

Autocar reveals winners of the 2023 Great Women: Rising Stars awards

The winners of the 2023 Autocar Great Women: Rising Stars awards have been announced. These awards recognize the top up-and-coming female talent in the motoring industry across 11 different categories.

The Autocar Great Women awards, organized in collaboration with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and supported by executive search specialists Ennis & Co, aim to celebrate the success of rising stars in various roles within the industry. These individuals are employed by companies such as JLR, Mini, and Pendragon.

A total of 124 Rising Stars were recognized across the 11 categories, with each category having a winner. All of these Rising Stars were regarded as exceptional in their respective fields and were honored at the annual Autocar Great Women event, which took place this year at Stellantis’s UK headquarters in Coventry.

Among the winners were Julie Stears, chief engineer at JLR, who is responsible for engineering quality; Megan Harrall, Mini UK’s strategy, planning, and operations manager; and Emma Whyld, Toyota UK’s section manager for employee relations. Whyld was recognized as the winner in the new ‘Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion’ category, which acknowledges individuals making efforts to make the automotive sector more inclusive and appealing to a wider range of people.

Autocar’s editor, Mark Tisshaw, commented on the high standards of this year’s entries. He said, “The quality of our entries was so strong that it made judging not only more difficult but more enjoyable than ever before. I know all of our winners will continue to showcase our industry at its best, both in their fast-progressing careers and personal development. We will watch their careers grow with great interest.”

Rachael Prasher, the Chair of the judging panel and managing director of Haymarket Automotive, added her congratulations to all the winners and highlighted the inspiring variety of talent and roles in the automotive industry. She emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives and talents during this period of significant industry change.

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the SMMT, also commended the winners, describing them as rising stars in their respective fields and emphasizing the career opportunities available in the automotive industry. He expressed hope that recognizing the achievements of these future business leaders would encourage more talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in automotive, contributing to the industry’s transformation in the UK and globally.

The event featured several speakers, including Lynn Calder, CEO of Ineos Automotive; Diane Miller, plant director for Vauxhall Motors; and Claire Miller, advisor and former director at Octopus Electric Vehicles. Additionally, a panel debate was held with industry experts such as Lynda Ennis, founder of Ennis & Co, Tina Lovelock of Brompton Bicycle, Kristian Elvefors, managing director of Volvo Car UK, and Ivan Sarti, IT director of Group Lotus.