The Rover model – to not be confused with Land Rover – had an extended and attention-grabbing historical past. The marque was discontinued in April of 2005, however lots of its fashions are nonetheless considered a few of Europe’s most distinctive merchandise. That holds very true for the Rover 75, a stately sedan that had a classic design and applied sciences borrowed from BMW.
Welcome to Timeless European Treasures, our weekly look again at automobiles from the European market that outlined a motoring technology.
Why Do We Love It?
At the guts of the Rover 75’s enchantment is its retro design, a departure from the standard styling prevalent in Europe’s D-segment of automobiles through the period. Richard Woolley’s imaginative and prescient introduced forth a car that embraced classical aesthetics, standing out boldly amidst its extra modern-looking rivals on the time.
The D-segment, a fiercely aggressive area within the late Nineteen Nineties, noticed the Rover 75 enterprise into uncharted territory with its throwback design. While it had first rate engines and superior applied sciences, potential patrons usually assumed it was hopelessly outclassed by its rivals. This notion, maybe fueled by exterior components like BMW’s publicized criticism and monetary challenges, resulted in a scenario the place the Rover 75 confronted an uphill battle for recognition.
The Fox-body Ford Mustang is likely one of the most attention-grabbing muscle vehicles to have ever existed. The Ford Fairmont is taken into account to be one of the profitable vehicles ever launched and a big a part of its success was the Fox platform that it ran on.
The third technology of the Mustang took the template that the Fairmont laid out and ran with it, shortly turning into one of many best-selling and most sturdy Mustangs ever constructed. Ford blended this all-round reliability with some spectacular efficiency and the Fox body is now one of the best project cars you can buy.
The Fox-body Mustang ran for a powerful 15 years earlier than its manufacturing ceased, leaving a ton of variants. We deeply dive into every mannequin 12 months throughout the legendary Mustang’s lifespan. We look again at what made them so particular and closely emphasised their reliability through the years.
In order to provide the newest and correct data attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from producer web sites and different authoritative sources together with Automobile Catalog, and Bring-A-Trailer. Models have been organized primarily based on reliability scores sourced from Carsurvey, from lowest to highest.
With simply 300 examples in existence, discover out what makes this track-focused 2000s pony automobile, one of the formidable Mustangs of all time
141984: The twentieth Anniversary Of The Mustang And A Pseudo Shelby
Reliability Rating: 5/10
Ford
The 1984 mannequin 12 months was a particular one for the Mustang because it marked the twentieth birthday of the nameplate. This was celebrated with the introduction of the SVO and the Saleen Mustang. Ford additionally produced a GT350 (not a Shelby) which is just as exciting and collectible as the current generation GT350. These are rarer and extra helpful and add to the excessive common worth.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
2.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Horsepower
145 HP
Torque
180 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
8.6 Seconds
Top Speed
121 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $27,500
Sales elevated 17 % over the 1983 mannequin thanks to those modifications and the slew of particular editions. While the high-performance fashions are nice enjoyable, house owners have a poor notion of this mannequin 12 months’s reliability, giving it a mean rating of 5/10.
Notable Changes
The SVO Mustang got here with an intercooler and tons of upgrades
The GT-350 was a white hatchback with maroon stripes
Sport seats grew to become customary within the GT and GT Turbo
The 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four made a comeback
131982: The High Output 5.0-Liter V-8 Makes Its First Appearance
Reliability Ratings: 7/10
Ford
Looking at examples on the used market, the 1982 mannequin 12 months is available in subsequent. There have been some minor upgrades over its predecessor however the primary draw was the introduction of the brand new High Output 5.0-Liter engine, an possibility on the brand new GT, which let rip 157 horsepower and an outstanding 240 pound-feet of torque.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
4-Speed Manual
Horsepower
157 HP
Torque
240 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
7.4 Seconds
Top Speed
125 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $14,000
There aren’t many 1982 Mustangs in the marketplace and a few rarer extra helpful ones that collectors are holding on to. Owners of 1982 Mustangs gave it a barely decrease reliability rating than the 1983 mannequin 12 months with a 7/10.
Notable Changes
The physique equipment on the brand new GT was extra Cobra-like
The GT was lighter and quicker than a Camaro Z28
The Ghia was changed by a brand new and upgraded GLX
Mid-level GL might be had as a hatchback
Special Service Package was launched for California freeway patrol models
121985: A Refresh Made The Fox-body Even Foxier And The SVO Even Quicker
Reliability Ratings: 7/10
Ford
The 1985 Mustang was a slight comeback for the Fox physique, slowly dropping traction. Its modifications resulted in a sleeker, sexier Mustang with some boosted efficiency that helped it stay a muscle fanatic’s favourite, even all these years later.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
2.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Horsepower
205 HP
Torque
240 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
7.3 Seconds
Top Speed
137 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $25,000
Over 150,000 models have been bought on this mannequin 12 months, which was a rise of ten % over the past 12 months. Owners see this as being one of many much less dependable Fox-bodies, solely awarding it 7/10 for reliability.
Notable Changes
A brand new front-end with a slit as a substitute of a grille
The 5.0-liter now outputs a powerful 210 horsepower
GT Convertibles have been solely out there with the 5.0-liter
The SVO went by means of a refresh, netting 205 horsepower and maintaining with the 5.0-liter
New electronically managed AM/FM cassette gamers grew to become an added possibility
Due to its affordability, versatility, and widespread availability, this is why the Fox Body Mustang is a wonderful alternative for a venture automobile
111979: The Birth Of The Fox-body Mustang
Reliability Ratings: 7/10
Ford
The 1979 Mustang was the introduction of the third generation and the Fox-body. It was revolutionary for its time and is an absolute discount for collectors. The most precious by far is the Indy Pace Car particular editions which have bought for upwards of $60,000. As for the remainder of the lineup, you possibly can even get a Cobra for lower than $20,000.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
4-Speed Manual or 3-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
140 HP
Torque
250 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
8.3 Seconds
Top Speed
120 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $15,000
The 1979 Ford Mustang shook up the muscle automobile scene in 1979 and other people beloved Ford for it. It bought twice in addition to the outgoing mannequin with practically 370,000 models being shipped. Owners love its reliability too, giving it a mean rating of seven/10, not unhealthy for a automobile inbuilt 1979.
Notable Changes
Completely new physique design with an enormous deal with aerodynamics
Turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder and 5.0-liter V-8 have been engine choices for lovers
Four-speed guide and three-speed automated have been the transmission decisions
Featured Michelin’s new TRX radial tire
Ghia trim degree featured distinctive luxurious
101986: Horsepower Drops Across The Board For The Pony
Reliability Ratings: 8/10
Ford
For 1986 we took a small leap in common worth as much as $20,000. This worth benefit over the earlier fashions on this record could merely be resulting from their rarer fashions not having bought because the 1986 Fox-body Mustang is one of the lesser-liked model years.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
2.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Horsepower
200 HP
Torque
240 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
6.6 Seconds
Top Speed
137 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $20,000
The loss in horsepower was an enormous blow to the Mustang for lovers, nevertheless it did not cease Ford from transferring over 200,000 models. Owners report this mannequin as being pretty dependable, with a mean rating of 8/10.
Notable Changes
Sequential port gasoline injection for the 5.0-liter
A twin exhaust was added
The energy peak was at a decrease RPM
Loss in horsepower throughout most fashions over final 12 months
91983: A Toned Down Look For The Mustang
Reliability Rating: 8/10
Ford
Looking at examples on web sites like Bring-A-Trailer, the 1983 Ford Mustang is available in as essentially the most inexpensive mannequin. The choice to have your Mustang as a convertible and the uncommon Mustang GT Turbo was launched. This mannequin 12 months got here with a facelift that made the ‘Stang look rather less aggressive, probably contributing to it being much less fascinating.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
3.8-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-6
Transmission
3-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
112 HP
Torque
175 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
12.3 Seconds
Top Speed
108 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $11,000
Even with this lengthy record of upgrades, the 1983 mannequin did not handle to promote very nicely in comparison with different mannequin years. According to house owners on CarSurvey, it nonetheless lives as much as Fox-body reliability, with a mean rating of 8/10.
Notable Changes
Sport Bucket seats have been not Recaro
The 5.0-liter engine got here with a Holley four-barrel carburetor
Essex 3.8-liter V-6 changed the three.3-liter inline-six
The 5.0-liter got here with a Borg 5-speed guide transmission
From showcasing radical designs to potent powertrains, these ideas have been instrumental in shaping the enduring pony automobile that we all know immediately
81988: Continued Success From 1987 And A Bright Looking Future
Reliability Rating: 8/10
Ford
The earlier mannequin 12 months, 1987, was one of the profitable Fox Mustangs that ever hit the market. The 1988 Mustang rides its coattails regardless of having acquired virtually no modifications. The Mass Air Flow sensor put in would assist it develop into one of many fastest muscle cars of the 80s.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
225 HP
Torque
300 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
6.3 Seconds
Top Speed
143 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $35,000
Sales have been on the up and up from 1987 and continued by means of the 1988 mannequin 12 months. Ford bought over 200,000 models, growing gross sales over the 1987 mannequin 12 months by a whopping 24 %. Reliability remained excessive for this mannequin, with house owners averagely scoring it an 8/10.
Notable Changes
A Mass Air Flow sensor was put in in California fashions which diminished horsepower negligibly
71989: A Piece Of Tech Makes The Mustang One Of The Most Modifiable Muscle Cars Out There
Reliability Ratings: 9/10
Ford
Average used costs skyrocket once we check out the 1989 Mustang. This is partly as a result of modifications Ford made but in addition as a result of they’re really easy to improve with aftermarket components. People love the potential that the MAF, put in within the California fashions in 1988, allowed for.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
225 HP
Torque
300 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
6.8 Seconds
Top Speed
137 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $50,000
Sales of the 1989 Mustang remained secure. While folks anticipating a high-performance variant for the ‘Stangs anniversary have been disenchanted, the MAF allowed folks to create high-performance variants of their very own. They are one of the best project cars that you can buy. Reliability remained a 9/10 in response to house owners.
Notable Changes
A revised MAF was now customary throughout all fashions
The uprated suspension that was non-obligatory on the GT grew to become customary on the LX
The T-roof possibility was deleted on the hatchback
A commemorative pony was added to the dashboard
61980-1981: The Cobra Saw Several Changes Making It Super Desirable
Reliability Ratings: 9/10
Ford
While the 1980 Mustang wasn’t essentially the most inspiring, with the Windsor V-8 being downsized for some unusual motive, there have been some upsides. The star of the present for the 1980 and 1981 mannequin years was the Cobra, which acquired a number of modifications that made it considerably extra attractive and laid the groundwork for one of the rarest Mustangs ever.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
2.3-Liter Turbocharged Inline-4
Transmission
4-Speed Manual
Horsepower
120 HP
Torque
145 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
9.4 Seconds
Top Speed
115 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $35,000
Mustang gross sales throughout this time slumped considerably. While gross sales numbers have been good in 1980 they dropped considerably in 1981. Owners report that these two mannequin years uphold the legendary Fox-body reliability, with a mean rating of 9/10.
Notable Changes
The entrance finish, hood, and rear spoiler from the Pace Car have been matted to the Cobra
Recaro Sports seats have been non-obligatory throughout all fashions
The leather-based wrapping was now out there on all steering wheel choices
In 1981 the hatchback featured an non-obligatory glass T-roof
With a legend’s pedigree, we have a look into the lifeline of the top-tier Mustang of all time, the GT500, and what makes the snake’s venom so potent?
51993: SVT Helps The Third Generation Mustang Go Out With A Bang
Reliability Rating: 9/10
Mecum
After an up-and-down lifespan, the ultimate mannequin 12 months of the Fox Mustang went out with a bang. Ford SVT produced a Cobra this 12 months which got here with some large upgrades that will make it one of the attractive Fox Mustangs ever, together with a ton of GT-40 components. The SVT Cobra R was additionally launched and is likely one of the most collectible Mustangs on the market.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
230 HP
Torque
280 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
5.7 Seconds
Top Speed
150 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $70,000
The SVT Cobra and Cobra R took the Fox Mustang out in fashion and has develop into one of the sought-after fashions from this technology of Mustang. Cobra Rs are known to sell for well over $100,000. They additionally retained reliability, with house owners giving the 1993 Mustang a 9/10 for reliability.
Notable Changes
Drop in 20 horsepower for the 5.0-liter Mustangs
The Cobra produced 235 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque
A revised transmission and improved suspension and brakes graced the Cobra
The Cobra R deleted facilities in favor of monitor efficiency
The Cobra R can speed up from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.7 seconds (Ford SVT)
41992: The Mustang Grows Old And Sales Drop
Reliability Ratings: 9/10
Ford
Keeping secure at a mean used worth of $20,000 is the 1992 mannequin 12 months Mustang. There weren’t many issues new concerning the 1992 Mustang however it retained the things that people enjoyed about it.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
225 HP
Torque
300 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
6.5 Seconds
Top Speed
135 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $20,000
The Mustang was starting to indicate its age in 1992 and this was mirrored in its gross sales. Ford bought lower than 80,000 models in 1992. However, house owners see it as one of many extra dependable Fox-bodies, with a mean rating of 9/10.
Notable Changes
New inside dome mild
Cheaper seat cushions have been used
Four-way adjustable seats have been non-obligatory
A restricted version 5.0-liter LX convertible was launched with vivid orange paint
31990: A Limited Run 7-Up Anniversary Mustang LX Hit The Streets
Reliability Rating: 9/10
1990 marked a major decline for the Fox Mustang and modifications made the muscle automobile objectively worse. The solely saving grace was that this was the twenty fifth anniversary of the Mustang and a restricted run of LX convertibles have been made to rejoice. These em
Mustang gross sales plummeted in 1990 by 39 % underneath the earlier 12 months. The restricted version twenty fifth anniversary Mustang’s are the saving grace for this mannequin 12 months. Owners report a 9/10 reliability rating.
Notable Changes
Driver’s aspect airbags grew to become customary
The tilt-steering column was eliminated
The middle console’s armrest was deleted
The bucket seats within the GT used the cheaper and smaller headrests from the usual Mustang
Changing up the basic muscle automobile recipe, this mid-engined Mustang idea permits us to discover the transformation of the enduring American pony automobile
21991: The Fox-body Mustang Remains Fairly Unchanged From The Previous Model Year
Reliability Rating: 10/10
Ford
The 1991 Mustang is a stable alternative and advantages lots from its predecessors. There weren’t a number of modifications to it, with every little thing being principally aesthetic. The base mannequin Mustangs did obtain a minor improve in energy, nonetheless.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
225 HP
Torque
300 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
6.4 Seconds
Top Speed
143 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $30,000
The Mustang was reaching the tip of its life-cycle and gross sales have been down. Despite this, the worth of those vehicles is doing pretty nicely. Owners report a superb 10/10 reliability rating, sitting among some of the most reliable Ford’s ever made.
Notable Changes
16-inch wheels with the operating pony emblem have been launched
The operating pony on the sprint was stored however the “25th-anniversary” inscription was eliminated
The convertible roofs have been re-engineered to be sleeker
HVAC controls grew to become streamlined
11987: The 5.0-Liter V-8 Becomes The Only Powertrain
Reliability: 10/10
Bring a Trailer
The 1987 Mustang is as near peak efficiency because it comes. It went by means of a redesign that made it sleeker and Ford’s made a dedication to efficiency by deleting the two.3-liter four-cylinder and the three.8-liter V-6, leaving solely the 5.0-liter. It was one of many largest leaps in efficiency the Mustang had seen. There are also tons of aftermarket parts to mod this already impressive muscle car into a behemoth.
Performance and Specifications
Engine
5.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Transmission
5-Speed Manual or 4-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
225 HP
Torque
300 lb-ft
Driveline
RWD
0-60 MPH
6.8 Seconds
Top Speed
138 MPH
(Specifications sourced from Automobile Catalog)
Average Used Price: $55,000
Despite the leaps in efficiency, gross sales of this mannequin 12 months nonetheless dropped. However, the redesign has caught the attention of collectors years later and the 1987 mannequin is likely one of the most precious Fox Mustangs. Owners on CarSurvey gave it a reliability rating of 10/10.
Notable Changes
Redesigned physique and entrance bumper
GTs acquired a novel physique equipment
The 5.0-liter acquired up to date cylinder heads and horsepower was elevated to 225 with torque as much as 300 lb-ft
Huge suspension enhancements
Could now run the quarter mile in mid-14 seconds from inventory
There is limited information available about Volkswagen’s upcoming electric car since it is still several years away from hitting the market. However, it’s worth noting that the company already offers a close option in the U.S. with the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, starting at $38,995 for the Standard Trim.
Although the ID.4 Standard, with its 209-mile range and good list of features, provides a viable choice, it is only one of eight available trims, all priced above $40,000. Volkswagen’s affordable EV may potentially include locally manufactured battery packs, making it eligible for an IRA tax credit of up to $7,500, potentially bringing the cost down to $27,000.
Volkswagen’s increased focus on the electric vehicle sector appears to be a response to its delayed entry into this market. The company’s first production-ready EV was the Volkswagen ID.3, which debuted in 2020, followed by the U.S. launch of the Volkswagen ID.4 in 2021. In 2022, Volkswagen began production of the 2023 ID.4 at its Chattanooga, Tennessee factory, further boosting its presence in the U.S. EV market.
In addition to the ID.4, Volkswagen has plans for several other electric vehicles for the U.S. market, including the Volkswagen ID Buzz, a three-row electric minibus, and the flagship ID.7 sedan.
Ford has revealed plans for new versions of its Maverick and Bronco vehicles, according to a quarterly statement. The announcement was made by Ford Blue, a separate automotive division focused on vehicles with internal combustion engines. While no specific details were provided, it is expected that these new versions will be extensions of the existing Maverick and Bronco nameplates. It is unclear whether these will be limited-run special editions or permanent trim levels. Stay tuned for more information.
Exactly two weeks ago, we covered a very interesting video showing an abandoned Ford dealership in the city of Ingolstadt, Germany, where a few brand-new 1980s Fords are sitting in fully original condition. That video made huge waves around the automotive society and many questions were asked.
There’s now a follow-up clip from Auto Retro, which tries to answer most of them with additional information gathered from different sources. We also have exclusive content coming later today but more on that in a minute. First, let’s talk about the new details.
From this new video, we get to learn that the dealership was originally established around the middle of the 1960s and was the main dealer of the brand in Ingolstadt. Its founder, Joseph Stock, had a hard time keeping up with the competition in the city as Ingolstadt was the place where Audi was by far the most popular marque. Another problem was the fact that Ford wouldn’t take back unsold cars, leaving Auto Stock with tens of unsold vehicles from previous years.
Things got even worse around the middle of the 1980s when the automaker pulled the plug on its partnership with Mr. Stock. Stock became an independent dealer and when he died in 1994, he left more than 300 Fords from different eras with more than half of them being brand-new and never-registered cars. His widow and son decided to close the business and sell the remaining assets and as you would imagine, the older cars received huge attention. For example, a Ford Granada with 0 miles on the clocks was sold for around 10,000 Deutsche marks, which is believed to be around $9,350 today – a real bargain for every collector.
But that wasn’t everything. There was also a full store of parts within the dealership mostly full of brand new body panels for 60s and 70s European specification Fords. A total of seven of the new cars, in turn, were set aside by Stock’s widow for their grandchildren. These were the cars featured in the previous video – three Sierras, an Escort, an Orion, and two Fiestas. Six of those cars are still sitting in the showroom as one was sold more than 20 years ago.
Mrs. Stock also kept the dealership clean as a way of honoring her husband and his professional achievement after building the dealership from the ground up. She even let visitors inside but some of them started stealing parts and she decided to lock the showroom for good.
Check out Motor1’s Rambling About Cars podcast for a special live interview with Darren from Auto Retro on this amazing time capsule dealership, available below.
If there’s one thing that can be credited to the EV revolution, it is for making things interesting. In recent years, we have witnessed the emergence of new automakers, resulting in some of the craziest specifications. From the Tesla Model S to the Rimac Nevera, the electric vehicle (EV) segment has never been dull. In the midst of this pivotal moment in automotive history, Huawei, the prominent hi-tech giant from Shenzhen, China, has set its sights on the electric vehicle industry.
Although Huawei does not manufacture cars directly, it is heavily involved in their production through joint partnerships with various automakers, such as Chery. Chery has collaborated with Huawei to introduce the Luxeed S7. Equipped with Chery’s electric platform and Huawei’s interior technology, the S7 is entering the market with strong competition. In addition to its nearly 500 horsepower, the high-end sedan comes with numerous impressive claims.
Richard Yu Chengdong, the head of Huawei’s car unit, stated on September 25 that “The car will make its debut in late November. It will be superior to Tesla’s Model S in various aspects.” As the car’s highly anticipated unveiling approaches, let’s delve deeper and explore what exactly the Luxeed S7 has to offer.
Information for this article has been sourced from credible sources, such as InsideEVs, Teslarati, CarScoops, and others.
The flagship S7 is built on Chery’s E0X platform, which includes a dual-motor, all-wheel drive configuration for electric EVs. The E0X platform is expected to have a 79.93 kWh battery pack from CATL, providing a range of up to 435 miles. However, this range estimate is likely based on CLTC (China Light Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) estimates, so the final EPA numbers may be closer to the Tesla Model S, which offers a range of 405 miles on a full charge.
The S7 is compatible with different wheel sizes and offers Brembo brake calipers as an option. Its exterior features thin, squinty headlights and a smooth curved design, giving it a premium feel. The motors can produce up to 496 horsepower, resulting in a top speed of 130 mph. However, it falls short compared to the Model S’ impressive top speed of 200 mph. Like most EVs, the Luxeed S7 is expected to be quite heavy, with a gross weight of up to 5,700 pounds.
The promising EV will debut with Huawei’s new HarmonyOS 4 software and will have a wide range of connectivity features. Carscoops suggests that the Luxeed will come equipped with the Huawei ADS 2.0 intelligent driving system. The driving software has been updated earlier this year and is set to operate in 45 cities by the last quarter of 2023. The new features include a 128-beam LiDAR, 11 HD cameras, 3 MMW radars, 360-degree full-range perception technology, 12 ultrasonic radars, automatic parking, valet parking, remote parking, and level 2+ autonomous driving.
It’s worth noting that Huawei’s ADS 2.0 is considerably more affordable than Tesla’s Autopilot, with the former costing $5,200 compared to the latter’s $15,000 one-time purchase price. However, the Luxeed S7’s biggest advantage may be its price, estimated to be between $34,440 and $48,210. This competitive price range could make it a formidable rival to the Model S, which is priced at 754,900 yuan ($103,477.58) in China.
Chinese tech giant, Huawei Technologies, known for serving over three billion people across 170 countries, is expanding into the EV market through various initiatives. The company notably supports several EV manufacturers in China, including Luxeed. Luxeed is a China-based startup resulting from a joint venture between state-owned Chery Automobile and Huawei. Rather than positioning themselves modestly as a newcomer in a highly competitive EV industry, Luxeed aims to challenge the big players. The Luxeed S7, their coupe-styled electric sedan, claims to outperform the Tesla Model S in multiple aspects.
Although Tesla is the second-best selling EV maker in China, following local automaker BYD, its dominance is not guaranteed. Tesla has faced tough competition from prominent players in China like Nio, Li Auto, and Xpeng. Tesla’s sales figures in China have also taken a hit in Q3 of 2023. The timing of Luxeed S7’s launch could therefore be strategically advantageous.
Interestingly, the rivalry between Huawei and Tesla became quite contentious when a Huawei executive referred to Tesla vehicles as “killing machines.” This led to his departure from the company after Tesla’s legal team in China promptly responded.
Huawei’s foray into the electric vehicle industry is not a standalone endeavor. The Chinese tech giant has already partnered with Seres Group, resulting in the creation of the Aito M5. This hybrid EV combines a 1.5 liter turbo engine, an electric motor, and a 40 kWh battery pack. The partnership between Huawei and Seres Group will lead to the release of more vehicles under the Aito brand, including SUVs, sedans, and multipurpose vehicles. Chery has been Huawei’s strongest partner in the automaking field. Chery, a prominent Asian manufacturer, started its electrification process and established the Jetour brand in 2018. Jetour specializes in full-size SUVs and crossovers, with popular models including the X90 Plus, the X95, the Dashing, and the X70.
According to the latest data from JATO Dynamics, the European new car market is experiencing interesting trends. In April, the market share of pure electric cars reached 22 percent, the second-highest monthly share after December 2022’s 25 percent. This means that more than one in five new cars registered in Europe were electric.
Tesla plays a significant role in these results. Despite its limited and relatively outdated range, the American brand is capitalizing on the growing interest in electric driving. In August 2023, Tesla registered 33,809 cars in Europe, a 240 percent increase compared to the same month the previous year. Consequently, Tesla surpassed large mainstream European brands like Opel, Citroën, and Fiat, and was only 3,600 units behind Ford.
Tesla Continues To Soar
Tesla’s success continues with its models such as the Model Y and Model 3. The Model Y was once again the best-selling model in Europe and is expected to maintain its position until the end of the year. This puts Tesla in a remarkable position, with a foreign car dominating the European market. Tesla has reported over 169,000 units of the Model Y, marking a 216% increase. Additionally, the brand has been using price cuts for the Model 3 to expand its customer base and compete in other segments.
Tesla, along with two Chinese companies (Geely and SAIC), is steadily increasing its market share. This success can be attributed to strategic actions such as the gradual introduction of the Model 3, opening more sales points across Europe, and cutting prices. Tesla’s momentum is being maintained effectively.
MG Phenomenon
Another major winner in the transition from petrol/diesel cars to electric vehicles is MG. Although positioned as a British brand, MG is entirely designed, developed, and produced in China and is truly changing the game. With its competitive pricing and favorable consumer opinions, the MG 4 has gained popularity among consumers, helping MG reach the European top 20 in August with nearly 14,900 units.
MG’s sales number is higher than Suzuki, Mini, Mazda, and Jeep. Electric models account for 59 percent of MG’s sales volume, placing them in seventh place among the best-selling Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) brands. MG has even surpassed major brands like Opel, Audi, Skoda, Peugeot, and Renault in terms of market share.
What About Traditional Brands?
The rise of Tesla and MG comes at the expense of reduced market share for traditional automakers such as Volkswagen, Ford, Citroën, Peugeot, and Hyundai. Although these brands offer electric vehicles, they are facing tough competition from Tesla and MG.
This is a challenge for traditional brands as Tesla lowers its prices, making its models more accessible and competitive in lower segments, while MG enters the market with highly competitive products.
The author of the article, Felipe Munoz, is an Automotive Industry Specialist at JATO Dynamics.
Recently, there has been a leak revealing some interesting details about the new Xbox Series X console. One of the most exciting findings is the introduction of the Xbox Universal Controller. Microsoft plans to make it the centerpiece of its gaming brand, allowing it to be used across various devices. While it bears a resemblance to the current controllers, there are a few notable changes.
The first noticeable difference is the two-tone design, which sets it apart from the standard design available now. It will also come with built-in support for Xbox Wireless 2 and Bluetooth 5.2. Additionally, the leaked documents indicate that the Xbox Universal Controller will feature haptic feedback, similar to the PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller. It will also have modular thumbsticks for customization and a rechargeable battery pack.
The controller will have an accelerometer, allowing it to detect movement and turn on automatically when picked up. Moreover, its modular design aims to make repair and disassembly easier, making it a more durable controller. Furthermore, a dedicated app will provide users with a simple way to pair and sync the accessory with multiple devices.
Being a passionate watch collector or enthusiast is exciting because you find and learn about other individuals who share the same love for luxury watches. Among those watch aficionados is actor and entrepreneur Mark Wahlberg, who owns a collection of rare and exclusive timepieces. Mark Wahlberg recently made a splash in the watch world by posting an Instagram video of himself wearing the newly released Rolex Daytona Cosmograph “Le Mans” Ref. 126529LN while unboxing some rare Nike Air Force 1s from Fat Joe.
Starting the video, Mark quickly shows off the limited-edition 18k white gold Rolex Daytona Le Mans. This watch was created to commemorate the 100th running of the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. It is highly sought after and typically sells for well over $250,000 on the secondary market. Mark Wahlberg has established himself as one of the top celebrity watch collectors and continues to impress with his acquisitions. You can browse luxury watches for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery.
If you’re interested in seeing Mark Wahlberg’s Instagram post featuring the Rolex Daytona Le Mans, you can view it below:
There is an engine concept called the opposed-piston engine (OPE) from Achates Power that is moving towards production.
In 2020, Ricardo North America partnered with Achates to further develop the project. The goal is to create a lightweight and fuel-efficient 270bhp petrol engine that meets the strict US emissions regulations for light duty vehicles.
This engine is intended for use in commercial vehicles like American full-sized pick-up trucks, providing high performance with low fuel consumption and emissions. It is also suitable for passenger cars.
Ricardo recently achieved a significant weight reduction of 60% in the second-generation engine compared to the first, while improving fuel consumption by 20% in a full-sized pick-up truck. The engine also delivers torque similar to that of a diesel engine.
Opposed-piston engines have been around for some time. They were even used in German aircraft during World War Two. However, they are quite different from conventional piston engines that have pistons moving up and down cylinder bores.
Opposed-piston engines, on the other hand, have two crankshafts on each end of the engine with two pistons in each bore that move towards each other. Fuel and air are introduced between the pistons as they almost meet in the center of the bore, creating a combustion chamber. When the mixture ignites, the pistons move apart, and air intake and exhaust handling occur in the center of the engine.
Achates’ engine is a two-stroke engine that ignites each time the pistons meet. What makes it even more advanced is its ability to ignite gasoline using compression and hot exhaust gas, eliminating the need for a spark plug.
The absence of cylinder heads and camshafts, and fewer bores make the three-cylinder engine lighter and less expensive to produce. It also has higher thermal efficiency, converting more of the fuel’s energy into mechanical power rather than losing it as heat.
Achates Power, as a founding member of the Hydrogen Opposed-Piston Engine Working Group, is exploring the development of direct-injection, spark-ignition versions to burn hydrogen cleanly with minimal NOx emissions. It is also possible that opposed-piston engines could run on synthetic fuels.
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