Tag Archives: Buzz

Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pricing And What You Get In Each Trim

Introducing the hotly anticipated all-new Volkswagen ID. Buzz. Volkswagen’s newest electrical providing brings forth a contemporary interpretation of the beloved VW Bus, neatly maintaining its retro charm with cutting-edge know-how. This reincarnation symbolizes not solely a nod to the previous but in addition a daring step in the direction of a greener – and extra tech-savvy – future.

With its cheerful exterior and spacious inside, the ID. Buzz affords a pleasant combine of favor and practicality. But past its aesthetic attraction, this minivan is a testomony to Volkswagen’s dedication to eco-conscious driving. Featuring an all-new electric powertrain, the ID. Buzz delivers spectacular efficiency whereas minimizing environmental impression. When it hits the States, it will be out there in two trim ranges, the ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Sport, with Volkswagen characteristically catering to a plethora of potential suitors. Whether you are looking for on a regular basis versatility or a contact of sporty aptitude, every trim will supply its personal set of options and upgrades to discover.

Here, we dive into what we all know to date in regards to the new Volkswagen ID. Buzz, from its design philosophy to its superior know-how and past. Whether you are a seasoned VW fanatic or a newcomer to the electrical revolution, there’s a lot to find and recognize on this fashionable interpretation of an previous favourite.

In order to provide the latest and correct info doable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from Volkswagen.

Related
2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz: Everything Confirmed So Far

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, the electrical model of the enduring Microbus is coming to the U.S. with an prolonged wheelbase, plenty of tech, and extra energy.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pricing By Trim: What We Know

The 2024 Volkswagen ID. Buzz might be provided in two distinct trim ranges: the ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Sport. While each variations include LED headlights, heated entrance seats, and a 10-inch touchscreen show as customary options, the ID. Buzz Sport kicks it up a notch with further enhancements. Expect issues like sporty exterior styling components, an upgraded audio system, and an adaptive suspension.

With the ID. Buzz base mannequin, Volkswagen goals to offer a steadiness of consolation and performance, perfect for everyday driving needs. On the opposite hand, the ID. Buzz Sport is more likely to cater to these craving a extra dynamic driving expertise, with added options designed to reinforce efficiency and elegance.

When Will The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Be Released In The U.S.?

Up to now, it is unclear precisely when the ID. Buzz might be out there within the American market. Volkswagen has beforehand introduced the discharge date for the brand new Volkswagen ID. Buzz in the U.S. will be sometime in 2024. While no particular date has been supplied, these patiently ready can anticipate the electrical bus to make its debut inside the yr.

Volkswagen has but to reveal the pricing for the 2024 Volkswagen ID. Buzz within the U.S. However, insights from the UK and European markets counsel a beginning value of roughly £59,000, which is the equal of round $73,000. Considering historic tendencies, the U.S. pricing sometimes tends to be extra aggressive than in Europe. The U.S.-spec mannequin may even boast a bigger battery and longer wheelbase. Of course, it is anticipated that the dual-motor variant will command a better value. Unfortunately, till Volkswagen formally broadcasts pricing particulars for the U.S. market, potential patrons might want to await affirmation concerning the associated fee.

Related
Here’s What Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader Would Drive if the ID. Buzz Existed in the Star Wars Universe

Two editions impressed by the principle characters of the Obi-Wan Kenobi TV sequence

What You Get With The New Volkswagen ID. Buzz All-Electric Powertrain

Volkswagen

Powered by an all-electric drivetrain, the ID. Buzz boasts spectacular efficiency figures, with a regular rear-mounted motor delivering 282 horsepower and as much as 406 pound-feet of torque. For those craving even more power, an non-obligatory dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant affords round 330 horsepower.

With a bigger 91 kWh battery in comparison with its European counterpart, this three-row electrical bus guarantees prolonged vary and exhilarating acceleration. Embodying the spirit of the enduring Microbus, Volkswagen’s President and CEO of America, Pablo Di Si, describes the ID. Buzz as a sensible, sustainable, and undeniably enjoyable car, set to captivate American hearts upon its 2024 launch.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz European Vs. U.S. Model Powertrain And Performance Comparison

Europe (Single Motor)

U.S. (Single Motor)

U.S. (Dual-Motor)

Horsepower

201 HP

282 HP

330 HP

Battery Capacity

82 kWh

91 kWh

91 kWh

Drivetrain

Rear-Wheel-Drive

Rear-Wheel-Drive

All-Wheel-Drive

Range

263 Miles

TBA

TBA

(Data sourced from Volkswagen)

258 Miles Of Range For The Euro-spec Models

The vary functionality of the ID. Buzz is a sizzling matter amongst electrical car lovers. The particular EPA-certified vary figures for the U.S. mannequin have not been unveiled but, however the European-spec mannequin comes with a claimed vary of as much as 258 miles.

Driving Modes Should Allow For A Personalised Driving Experience

The ID. Buzz offers drivers a range of driving modes to swimsuit numerous preferences and situations. For occasion, the Eco mode prioritizes power effectivity by adjusting throttle response and local weather management settings to maximise vary. On the opposite hand, the Sport mode unleashes the total potential of the electrical powertrain, delivering exhilarating acceleration and dynamic efficiency.

Additionally, there could also be a Comfort mode geared toward offering a clean and relaxed driving expertise, preferrred for day by day commuting or lengthy freeway journeys. These driving modes permit drivers to tailor their driving expertise in accordance with their wants, whether or not it is effectivity, efficiency, or consolation, enhancing the flexibility of the ID. Buzz on the highway.

Related
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Debuts In Two Avatars; Offers More Cargo Space Than The Massive Chevy Tahoe!

It might be fascinating to see how the ID. Buzz will make a mark for itself in a market the place persons are obsessive about SUVs

The ID. Buzz Puts A Modern Twist On A Retro Classic

Volkswagen

The design of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz effortlessly merges traditional styling cues with up to date components, paying homage to its iconic predecessor while embracing modern aesthetics. At the entrance, an illuminated VW badge connects to LED headlights by way of a placing lightbar, mixing nostalgia with futuristic attraction. Faux vents on the rear pillar evoke the spirit of the unique air-cooled mannequin, whereas new two-tone paint choices like Cabana Blue and Metro Silver add a contact of custom to the colourful shade palette. The bigger 20-inch wheels, harking back to the 1950 T2 however with a contemporary twist, full the distinctive exterior look of the ID. Buzz.

Inside, the ID. Buzz affords an opulent and adaptable inside designed for consolation and comfort. Rich darkish brown leatherette seats with white accents, paired with blue door inserts and a smooth wood-look dashboard, create an inviting ambiance that echoes vintage charm. Alternatively, lighter shade schemes with clay piping and washed wooden accents present a contemporary interpretation of inside design. Premium options corresponding to powered entrance seats with air flow and therapeutic massage capabilities, a panoramic sunroof with adjustable tinting, and customizable ambient lighting improve the driving expertise. It even has considerate touches like Play and Pause symbols on the pedals and a flexible detachable middle console.

Enormous Number Of Cool Paint Options

When it involves expressing private fashion, the ID. Buzz does not disappoint with its array of paint choices. Embracing a blend of tradition and modernity, Volkswagen affords a collection of vibrant and traditional colours to swimsuit various tastes. From the timeless attraction of Cabana Blue to the energetic power of Energetic Orange, there is a hue to match each persona.

Additionally, choices like Pomelo Yellow and Mahi Green evoke a way of nostalgia, paying homage to the enduring VW buses of the previous. For these looking for a recent contact, Metro Silver and Indium Grey present a smooth and complicated aesthetic.

Masses Of Interior And Cargo Space

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz affords a spacious and versatile cargo area, making it good for households and adventurers alike. While precise cargo house specs have not been launched, the ID. Buzz boasts practicality with its potential to accommodate seven occupants throughout three rows, or six with the non-obligatory captain’s chairs within the second row. With the second and third-row seats folding flat, and the choice to take away the third row solely, the ID. Buzz gives ample house for baggage, gear, and even giant gadgets for prolonged journeys. Additionally, the Flexboard with twin material storage bins ensures a flat ground for hassle-free loading and unloading.

Within the ID. Buzz, consolation meets comfort with premium options designed to reinforce the driving expertise. The customary 12-way energy entrance seats with therapeutic massage, reminiscence, and air flow guarantee optimum consolation for each journey. Even passengers within the second and third rows take pleasure in facilities like devoted air flow retailers and tinted privateness home windows. With added touches like foldable second-row seats, movable bench choices, and a detachable middle console providing versatile storage, the ID. Buzz prioritizes practicality with out compromising on consolation or fashion.

VW Says There’s No Market for an ID.Buzz Camper Van

When the Volkswagen ID. Buzz debuted back in 2022, discuss of a pop-top camper mannequin just about debuted with it. And why not? Camping adventures and the traditional VW bus go collectively like peanut butter and chocolate, however a contemporary tackle this formulation is probably going years away, if it materializes in any respect. That is, no less than in an ID. Buzz California camper coming straight from Volkswagen.

The holdup is not development problems as reported last year. According to Autocar, VW executives merely do not see sufficient demand to warrant the expense of constructing it proper now. Citing Lars Krause, gross sales and advertising and marketing head for VW, there are some anticipated growth challenges which might be typical for any new mannequin. But additionally, consumers aren’t able to decide to an electrical camper.

“I can tell you we always start from the market, and looking at the market figures and looking closely at our customers, it turned out that the need for these types of vehicles— BEV-driven campers—is not there yet from our perspective,” mentioned Krause, as reported by Autocar.

He additional states that demand is predicted to extend by the tip of the last decade and that VW is concentrating on that timeframe for a doable ID. Buzz California launch. In the meantime, there’s the Volkswagen California based on the T7 Multivan slated for European markets this 12 months. It debuted final August as a near-production prototype, bringing the long-lasting California moniker and pop-top roof to a plug-in hybrid platform.

VW Commercial Vehicles CEO Carsten Intra believes it’ll function a stepping stone towards electrified campers, and as such, we suspect its gross sales can be monitored very carefully. If consumers do not reply to a bigger PHEV California, it is affordable to suppose a smaller EV California could possibly be nixed utterly. Only time will inform on that entrance.

The irony is that, regardless of bearing the identify of a US state, the VW T7 California will not be provided on the market in North America. When (or if) the ID. Buzz California goes stay, it might make the journey. It could be primarily based on the long-wheelbase mannequin, which is the one model provided to US consumers.

World premiere of the brand new ID. Buzz GTX with 4MOTION all-wheel drive

Volkswagen presents the brand new ID. Buzz GTX: The electrical Bulli geared up with a robust efficiency drive system will in future be obtainable with two wheelbases, two battery sizes and a selection of 5-, 6- or 7-seater. It additionally comes with customary 4MOTION all-wheel drive for optimum pulling energy and traction in each driving state of affairs. In addition, each GTX fashions share an individualized design. Pre-sales of the ID. Buzz GTX will begin in the summertime. This yr, Volkswagen is as soon as once more increasing its vary of sporty GTX fashions alongside the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID. 7 Tourer .

10 Things You Need To Know About The Lucid Gravity Electric SUV

# 10 Things You Need To Know About The Lucid Gravity Electric SUV

The [Lucid](https://www.topspeed.com/tag/lucid-motors/) Gravity is creating a buzz in the electric vehicle industry. It will hit the market in late 2024. It boasts exceptional performance, luxurious comfort, and a balance of form and function in its design. The Gravity’s interior belies its interior dimensions. It has space for up to seven adults and their belongings and can handle more than 112 cubic feet of total usable cargo space. This includes an eight-cubic feet front trunk. [The Clearview Cockpit and Pilot Panel of the Lucid Air](https://www.topspeed.com/everything-to-know-lucid-air-touring/#no-dearth-of-high-tech-features-in-the-cabin) is offered here as well, enhancing the driving experience. Lucid’s outstanding 900V electrical architecture will serve as the base in [the Lucid Gravity](https://www.topspeed.com/lucid-enters-the-electric-suv-fray-with-the-seven-seater-gravity/), leading to a projected range of over 440 miles on a single charge and lightning-fast charging. Acceleration will be in the mid-three seconds range. Proprietary technology will ensure a towing and a payload capacity of 6,000 and 1,500 pounds respectively.

Available as either a two- or three-row SUV, pricing will start below $80,000. The optional Zero Gravity feature is designed to make the Gravity conquer off-road terrains. Lucid has always believed in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. They succeeded with [the Air](https://www.topspeed.com/tag/lucid-motors-air/) and could set another standard with the Gravity.

**In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from Lucid Motors’ official website, other manufacturer websites, and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver**.

# The Lucid Gravity Will Start At Under $80,000

**It Arrives In Late 2024**

The Lucid Gravity is an exciting addition to the electric vehicle market coming in late 2024, starting at less than $80,000. While specific details about its features are yet to be unveiled, at $74,900, the base Gravity model is priced similarly to [the Lucid Air Pure](https://www.topspeed.com/everything-to-know-lucid-air-pure/). The Lucid Air Pure boasts a range of 410 miles and, with 480 horsepower, has a swift 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds. There’s also the convenience of being able to recoup 200 miles at a charging station in just 15 minutes. It has a roomy interior, heated seats, and the Surreal Sound Pro system. While specific details about the Gravity’s features are limited, for its price range, the Lucid Gravity presents an enticing option for the future of electric vehicles.

# The Design Aims To Be A Balance Of Form And Function

The Lucid Gravity’s exterior is a sleek and aerodynamic design, [with a drag coefficient of 0.24 Cd](https://www.topspeed.com/lucid-gravity-three-row-electric-suv-arrived/). This makes it incredibly efficient at cutting through the air and is a major reason for its impressive performance and energy efficiency. A raked roofline that subtly slopes into a tail spoiler, accentuates its smooth, sleek shape and gives it an athletic and dynamic appearance.

**Vehicle Dimensions**

– Height: 65.2 inches
– Width: 78.7 inches
– Length: 198.2 inches
– Wheelbase: 119.5 inches
(Specs sourced from Lucid)

One unique light strip runs across the front of the vehicle from headlight to headlight, and another runs across the back of the vehicle, adding a distinctive touch to its overall design. It has an impressive wheel size of 20 to 23 inches, depending on the chosen trim level, with air intakes positioned beneath the headlights not only to seem stylish but also to channel airflow for cooling the brakes during heavy use.

# Can Be Had As A Two- Or A Three-Row SUV

**Expansive Interior For Up To Seven Adults And Their Belongings**

After Lucid built the must-have sedan, they built the Lucid Gravity with a wheelbase of 119.5 inches, which provides it with ample space for up to seven occupants across as many as three rows of seating. Unlike the Air, the battery pack is placed beneath the front row of seats, to maximize legroom in the rear seats. The second row of seats can be folded flat to load larger items.

**Interior And Cargo Dimensions**

– Wheelbase: 119.5 inches
– Total Cargo Space (Five-seater): Over 120 cubic-feet
– Total Cargo Space (Seven-seater): Over 112 cubic-feet
– Front Trunk: 8 cubic-feet
(Specs sourced from Lucid)

The rear doors also open a full 90 degrees, for easy entry and exit. With such interior room, the Gravity boasts between 112 and 120 cubic-feet of total usable cargo space in the seven-seat and five-seat configuration. There’s a washable eight cubic-feet front trunk, perfect for tailgating. It has cushions for seating, cupholders, and power outlets for the true tailgating experience.

# Exceptional Luxury In-car Experience

The interior of the Lucid Gravity has optional dynamic lighting controls and massaging seats to further enhance the driving experience. [It also includes the Lucid Sanctuary and Lucid Spaces features](https://lucidmotors.com/stories/introducing-lucid-gravity), interactive wellbeing features that can be activated when the vehicle is stationary. They alter the images on the screens and change the entire environment within the vehicle to ensure soothing scenes that enhance mental health and well-being.

They entail calming visuals on the screens, soothing audio, a comfortable temperature set by the HVAC system, and gentle seat massages. In a unique collaboration with Meditopia, Lucid will introduce a guided meditation experience in the Gravity. This feature is a proprietary feature that isn’t available on the Lucid Air.

# Clearview Cockpit And Lucid’s Pilot Panel Feature In The Gravity

The Lucid Gravity will come with a whole new level of interior cutting-edge technology. [Lucid will use their in-house developed UX 3.0 operating system](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a45861120/2025-lucid-gravity-revealed/), to knit together the entire in-car experience. [The immersive 34-inch floating screen with a 6K display cockpit from the Lucid Air](https://www.topspeed.com/features-that-put-lucid-air-ahead-of-the-pack/#giant-display-for-an-incomparable-experience) will return, alongside the customizable Pilot Panel and center console. They’d add a touch of personalization to the driving experience with access to various functions.

Heads-up display that has augmented reality cues will improve the driving experience, while the 22-speaker Surreal Sound Pro system and Dolby Atmos technology will partner with the Lucid Sanctuary feature to deliver a truly immersive sonic experience. For an unobstructed view of the screen, the steering wheel has been squared off at the top and bottom.

# An Evolution Of The 900V Electrical Architecture

**0-60 MPH Acceleration In Less Than 3.5 Seconds**

The Lucid Gravity is designed with an evolution of the 900V electrical architecture in the Air. The dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration is connected to [produce over 800 horsepower](https://lucidmotors.com/gravity) and an acceleration from zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. In comparison, the Lucid Air Grand Touring features a dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration that produces up to 819 horsepower and can accelerate to 60 mph in just 3.0 seconds.

**Powertrain Specs**

– Motor setup: Dual-motor
– Horsepower: Over 800 HP
– 0-60 mph: 3.5 secs
– Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
(Specs sourced from Lucid)

[The original 900V electrical architecture used in the Air](https://www.topspeed.com/lucid-air-sapphire-dominate-performance-electric-car-market/) utilizes a custom lithium-ion battery system, connected with a top-quality battery and thermal management system, and the miniaturized efficient powertrain. This system is why the Air has such a huge range, horsepower and fast charging. Lucid has evolved it in the Gravity. It claims the new electric motors and batteries will be more power-dense. This follows its design principle of doing more with less. That is, they will have more power put into smaller motors and battery packs.

# A Projected Range In Excess Of 440 Miles

Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO at Lucid, claims that Lucid Gravity will use a smaller and lighter battery pack than its competitors. This will further reduce its carbon footprint by reducing the energy it consumes as well as the pressure placed on the grid. Combined with the company’s evolution of the cutting-edge 900V electrical architecture, the Gravity will be more sustainable and efficient, and capable of traveling a projected range of over 440 miles on a full charge.

**Battery And Range Specs**

– Battery Pack: N/A
– Driving Range: Over 440 miles
– Charging Speed: 350 kW (200 miles in 15 minutes)
(Specs sourced from Lucid)

This also improves its fast charging capabilities. [At a charging speed of 350 kW](https://www.topspeed.com/lucid-air-better-than-tesla-model-s/#electric-range-and-charging-lucid-air-vs-tesla-model-s), the Gravity will be able to recharge 200 miles of range in just about 15 minutes. This reduces the time spent waiting at charging stations and brings it much closer to the refueling times of gas-powered SUVs.

# Towing Capacity Of 6,000 Pounds

The Lucid Gravity is also built to excel in practicality and functionality. It can accommodate up to seven passengers, and when not fully loaded with passengers, the maximum cargo capacity ranges from 112 to 120 cubic-feet, depending on whether it’s equipped in the five-seater or seven-seater configuration, providing ample space for all your belongings.

**Towing and Payload Capacity**

– Towing Capacity: 6,000 lbs
– Payload Capacity: 1,500 lbs
(Specs sourced from Lucid)

To be able to handle all this load, it is designed to accommodate a payload capacity of over 1,500 pounds, without compromising its performance. Also, it has a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, which ensures you can bring your trailers or boat on those long trips with friends or family. For this to be possible, the Gravity has been built as a purpose-built vehicle, with features not found on [the Lucid Air](https://www.topspeed.com/lucid-air-miles-ahead-in-terms-of-electric-range/).

# Lucid Introduces Zero Gravity To Maximize Off-road Capability

The Lucid Gravity will use an optional feature called Zero Gravity to enhance its off-road performance. It is an air suspension package that automatically adjusts to different terrains, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride regardless of the surface. This is especially important when you’re navigating rocky trails or sandy dunes, as it ensures that the Gravity effortlessly adapts to these off-road needs. This Zero Gravity feature will have four height modes.

The Gravity also offers manual adjustments, allowing you to customize the vehicle’s height. This allows you to optimize its off-road capability in conquering the most challenging terrains. When back on the road, lowering the vehicle maximizes its performance and range, bringing about that 0.24 aerodynamic drag coefficient figure that ensures a more efficient and dynamic driving experience.

# How The Lucid Gravity Stacks Up Against Its Rivals

The Lucid Gravity will hit the market in late 2024 as the electric SUV with the most range. At 440 miles of range, it will be 40 miles more than what the Max battery pack on the [Rivian R1S](https://www.topspeed.com/why-rivian-r1s-special/) offers. Priced at under $80,000, it will be competitive with the competition, with both the [Tesla Model X and the Rivian R1S](https://www.topspeed.com/ways-rivian-r1s-better-than-tesla-model-x/) similarly priced. The performance will be on par with the rest, although 0.5 seconds slower than [the quad-motor Rivian R1S](https://www.topspeed.com/rivian-r1s-off-road-capability/). Its dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain will deliver over 800 horsepower, which is very powerful and expected to compete toe-to-toe with the others. It will be able to tow 1,500 and 1,700 pounds less than the [Hummer EV SUV](https://www.topspeed.com/gmc-hummer-ev-suv/) and the R1S.

**Comparison Specs**

| Spec | Lucid Gravity | Tesla Model X | GMC Hummer EV SUV | Rivian R1S |
| —————————- | ————– | ————– | —————— | ———- |
| Motor setup | Dual-motor | Dual-motor | Tri-motor | Quad-motor |
| Horsepower | Over 800 HP | 670 HP | 830 HP | 835 HP |
| Torque | N/A | N/A | 11,500 lb-ft | 908 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 3.5 secs | 3.8 secs | 3.5 secs | 3.0 secs |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive| All-wheel drive| All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Range | Over 440 miles | 348 miles | 314 miles | 400 miles |
| Towing Capacity | 6,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 7,500 lbs | 7,700 lbs |
| Starting Price | Under $80,000 | $79,990 | $97,175 | $78,000 |

(Specs sourced from the respective automakers’ websites)

The Lucid Gravity offers a spacious interior, convenient storage, a fusion of form, and function, and aerodynamic excellence at a competitive price.

Suzuki Celebrates 25 Years Of Speed With 2023 Hayabusa Homecoming

Suzuki has been making quite a buzz about the Hayabusa’s 25th anniversary. Earlier in 2023, the Japanese manufacturer debuted a special 25th Anniversary Edition of the iconic sportbike in multiple markets. This time around, the brand has announced a Homecoming event for fans and enthusiasts in the good old US of A to celebrate the Hayabusa’s quarter-of-a-century legacy.

The Hayabusa Homecoming, as it’s being called, will be held during the In-N-Out Burger Finals of the NHRA Camping World Drag Racing Series. It’s scheduled for November 11, 2023, and will be held in the In-N-Out Burger Dragstrip in Pomona, California, the place considered by many to be the birthplace of professional drag racing.

Suzuki hasn’t made the Hayabusa Homecoming exclusive only to Suzuki owners, but welcomes all enthusiasts and participants of the In-N-Out Burger Finals to take part in the fun and excitement of the event. However, special perks do await Suzuki owners, such as free grandstand entry, as well as VIP Suzuki Parking for the day, and a complementary In-N-Out Burger lunch voucher. The Suzuki Hayabusa display will be located within the NHRA pits from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, November 11.

Suzuki also has quite an extensive list of activities and prizes for Hayabusa aficionados. The first 200 Suzuki owners who register online will be given free grandstand entry, as well as an exclusive Hayabusa 25th Anniversary gift pack. There will also be Q&A sessions and meet-and-greet events with the Vance & Hines/ Mission Suzuki Pro Stock Motorcycle Team members. On top of all that, Moore Mafia’s Chris Moore, a renowned bike builder, will be running his custom turbocharged Hayabusa on the Pomona track, after which the bike will be on display at the NHRA pits.

Of course, if the Hayabusa isn’t the Suzuki bike of your liking, or perhaps you already have a Hayabusa and want to grow your Suzuki collection, the rest of Suzuki’s extensive model lineup will also be on display at the Hayabusa Homecoming. Additionally, Suzuki merchandise and accessories will also be on sale at the event.

Registrations for the Suzuki Hayabusa Homecoming are now open, and can be accessed through the official website linked below. Do note that only one ticket per Suzuki owner is allowed, but if you own multiple Suzukis, you can register each one for multiple tickets.

VW ID. Buzz Mystery Machine Features Custom Wrap, Coilover Suspension

Customizing the Volkswagen ID. Buzz has become popular, and one creative customization idea is to give it a custom wrap. In this case, the van has been transformed into the iconic Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine with psychedelic colors.

The choice to apply the Scooby-Doo theme to the ID. Buzz is not a mystery. This electric van is a modern version of the classic Volkswagen Transporter. An Indonesian company called Concept Motorsport was responsible for the customization, which involved a vinyl wrap created by TeckWrap and other modifications.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX Seen Testing on the Nurburgring

It is not very common to witness vans driving on the Nürburgring, but Volkswagen is currently developing the performance-oriented ID. Buzz GTX model there. It is logical for VW to assess the performance of this sporty variant on the renowned track.

This particular Buzz GTX test vehicle, which has been spotted wearing the BSVF410E license plate, appears to be the same as the one captured in previous spy shots (see gallery below). The color and appearance of both vehicles are identical, further hinting that they are one and the same.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz GTX Long-Wheelbase Spotted without Camouflage

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is set to be released in the United States in 2024, with the higher-performance GTX version arriving later that same year. Recently, spy shots of this more-powerful variant undergoing testing in Europe have surfaced without any camouflaging.

The ID. Buzz will be available in the US only as a long-wheelbase model, whereas Europe will also receive a short-wheelbase version. The vehicle in these spy shots is the larger model, and interestingly, it is completely uncovered.

What Could Royal Enfield Release in 2023?

While Triumph and Harley-Davidson have collaborated with Indian manufacturers to introduce new bikes in India, Royal Enfield has been working on its own new model introduction schedule. Back in 2020, Royal Enfield had announced its plans to release a new bike every quarter in the following years. According to reports from Indian business news channel CNBC-TV18, Royal Enfield is planning to launch between two and three new models in the next five months.

One of the expected releases is the long-rumored Himalayan 450. Enfield managing director Siddhartha Lal had teased a more powerful Himalayan model in August 2022, generating excitement among fans. Besides the Himalayan 450, a new Bullet 350 is also anticipated. The details about a possible third bike are not yet clear, but more information is likely to emerge in the coming months.

The Royal Enfield Hunter 350, launched in August 2022, is performing well, with sales expected to surpass 200,000 units in the next month. In June 2023, Royal Enfield reported impressive sales figures, with 68,664 bikes sold in the sub-350cc segment, showing a 36 percent growth compared to June 2022. However, sales of bikes over 350cc saw a drop of 23 percent in June 2023.

Although the growth in the sub-350cc segment is promising, international business for Royal Enfield has declined by 31 percent compared to the previous year. Improvements are needed in the international market, as only 20,935 bikes were sold outside India in FY23, as compared to 29,563 bikes in the same period of FY22.

Under the skin: Why cars will become more like smartphones

One of the latest buzz phrases in the car industry is ‘the software-defined car’. While some may not like the sound of it, there are already complaints on social media about buggy car software.

However, cars have been using specialised computers, known as electronic control units (ECUs), since the late 1970s. These ECUs are essentially boxes of hardware running computer code to control various functions in the car.

The first major use of ECUs in cars was to control engines, which greatly improved efficiency and power. Over time, ECUs found their way into other systems such as ABS, lighting, stability control, and transmission controls. Modern cars are filled with ECUs, with some vehicles having nearly 100 of them.

An advantage of using multiple ECUs was reducing the amount of wiring needed, which made cars more complex. Instead of individually wiring each electrical device and its associated components, the introduction of the controller area network (CAN) allowed each ECU to control its own group of equipment using only a few signal wires.

However, with the increasing complexity of cars, a more sophisticated solution is needed. This is where the concept of the software-defined car comes into play. For instance, Renault plans to update its cars throughout their lifetime using a centralised architecture, similar to how smartphones receive updates.

This shift involves going beyond using electronic components to operate car features and allowing them to evolve over time. Renault’s approach includes preventative maintenance, personalisation of interior features, battery charge management, infotainment, and more.

This transition also brings about a significant physical change. Instead of the 60-80 ECUs found in Renault’s cars today, there will be a central computer with excess power and flexibility. This way, it can accommodate future upgrades and handle vast amounts of data.

Renault is collaborating with Qualcomm and Google to develop the CAR OS for this software-defined approach.

Renault is just one example, as the rest of the industry is also moving in this direction. ZF Friedrichshafen, a major supplier and innovator, has created Cubix control software to coordinate and control all chassis actuators directly, including brakes, steer-by-wire, and suspension systems.