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Motorsport

This Old Russian SUV Is Every Bit As Capable Off-Road As A Hummer H2

The UAZ 469 is a compact SUV from Russia that dates again to 1971, nonetheless offered immediately as a automotive known as the Hunter. This video from Russian YouTube channel Garage 54 challenges this little rig towards a Hummer H2 via a muddy forest with large water puddles to see which one handles the difficult terrain higher.

The first problem for this pair of very completely different SUVs is to climb up a hill on a muddy path. This activity is extra arduous than it sounds, as traction is at a premium. The UAZ is ready to get alongside till the switch case pops out of low vary, inflicting the automobile to slip backward. Eventually the motive force is ready to stand up the hill regardless of the mechanical bother, although.

The H2 is far larger than the UAZ, and has a more difficult time going up the hill. At one level, all 4 tires start to spin because the SUV sits in place. It’s solely after steering to the facet of the trail the place there’s much less mud does the Hummer get sufficient traction to stand up the trail.

As the video progresses, the SUVs get deeper into the woods. The H2 will get caught at one level, and the UAZ has to tug it free.

The UAZ is sort of a little billy goat in these situations, as it could possibly seemingly go wherever. Meanwhile, the Hummer driver is getting shaken round violently whereas following the Russian SUV. The American mannequin retains up, although, so it is not prefer it’s completely ineffective out within the mud. We’d name the consequence a draw, however in these particular situations, we might slightly be behind the wheel of the UAZ.

The UAZ 469 (pictured under) served within the Russian army as a transport automobile, radio automotive, ambulance, and extra. There was additionally a civilian model. The unique iteration used a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 71 horsepower that might run on gasoline as little as 72 octane. The powerplant hooked as much as a four-speed handbook gearbox with a two-speed switch case and four-wheel drive.

UAZ-469
UAZ-469

Meanwhile, the Hummer H2 is a extra acquainted SUV to of us within the United States. The mannequin rode on a modified model of the GMT820 platform, which was additionally beneath the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe, and GMC Yukon. Production ran from the 2003 via 2009 mannequin years. Power initially got here from a 6.0-liter V8 making 325 hp and 365 pound-feet of torque. For 2008 and 2009, GM switched to a 6.2-liter V8 producing 393 hp and 415 lb-ft. The refresh additionally added a six-speed computerized gearbox to interchange the sooner four-speed unit.

FiatUk

In 2023 FIAT continues to develop by 12% globally, and confirms it has taken the highest spot as Stellantis quantity Brand chief in Italy, Brazil, Turkey, and Algeria

  • FIAT is turning into increasingly more international: in 2023, the items offered worldwide elevated by 12% to a complete of 1.35 million. 

  • The Brand is the chief in 4 home markets with a market share of 21.8% in Brazil, 12.8% in Italy, 15.7% in Turkey, and 78.6% in Algeria.  

  • In Europe, the 500e led the electrical metropolis automotive marketplace for the second yr in a row.  

  • The Fiat Professional Ducato was the primary LCV of Stellantis Group, in Europe. 

  • In 2023 FIAT is the Stellantis main Brand by quantity worldwide, for the third yr in a row, and chief in South America with a 14.5% market share.  

FIAT in 2023 has elevated its international gross sales quantity by 12%, registering a complete of 1.35 million offered items worldwide, thus, taking the highest spot for Stellantis by way of gross sales quantity. Its international management is highlighted by the numerous leads to Europe, South America, and Middle East, and Africa. In reality, the model is main in its 4 “domestic markets” with a share of 21.8% in Brazil, 12.8% in Italy, 15.7% in Turkey, and 78.6% in Algeria with completely different nameplates on the prime, respectively: Fiat Strada in Brazil, Panda in Italy, Tipo in Turkey and Algeria. 

Olivier Francois, FIAT CEO and Global CMO of Stellantis, said: “Over the last year, we have grown globally, consolidating our position as a global player and, for the third year in a row, FIAT has proven to be the number one Stellantis Brand in volume, globally scoring +12% versus last year thus contributing to the Group’s excellent results.” And continues “In 2023 in Europe we launched two new important products: the new Fiat 600 – which marks the return of FIAT in the B segment – and the new Topolino. Together they will make even more robust our leadership in the offer for a more and more urban sustainable mobility. In South America FIAT confirmed its leadership with 14.5% market share, together with its leadership in Brazil. In Middle East and Africa, we also confirmed our key role in Turkey and, thanks to the new Plant in Algeria, we entered a new important market, taking its leadership. Therefore, we are set for a great 2024. And soon the season two of FIAT will begin, giving life to the other side of our love brand, the one that stands for inclusive, ingenious, Italian and furthermore global.” 

Europe 

The spearhead of FIAT’s electrification technique final yr, the 500e, was Europe’s primary within the A+B BEV section with a market share of 14.7%, up 0.3 pt. in comparison with 2022. It additionally ranked first in Italy, Germany, Spain, Belgium, and Austria; and second in France. 

In the city-car market, FIAT registered greater than 230,000 Fiat 500 (excluding its BEV model) and Panda, achieved a share of 44.4%, confirming FIAT’s European supremacy.  

Among the Commercial Vehicles, FIAT Professional Ducato was primary within the Stellantis Group, rating seventh within the LCV market total in Europe. 

In Italy, FIAT is the market chief in passenger vehicles with 175,000 items offered, amounting to 11.1% of market share within the full yr.  

  • The Fiat Panda Hybrid, made in Pomigliano, was the Italian greatest vendor, for the twelfth yr in a row. Together with the Fiat 500 Hybrid the Brand reached 66.5% of share.  

  • The Fiat 500e, made in Torino Mirafiori, was the best-selling electrical metropolis automotive in Italy. 

  • Fiat 500X, produced in Melfi, has grown by 25% in comparison with 2022.  

FIAT Professional was the market chief in business autos, with 51,000 registrations amounting to a market share of 26.1% in 2023. Specifically, the Fiat Ducato, Doblò, and Fiorino ranked first of their respective segments, whereas the Scudo was second with a development of two.9% in comparison with the earlier yr. In addition to that, the Fiat Professional Ducato, made in Atessa (Italy), was the very best vendor in its dwelling nation with over 21,900 registrations and a market share of 29.4% (+ 10% in comparison with 2022).  

Rest of Europe: In 2023 FIAT grew in France with nearly 60,000 items registered (up +7.2% on 2022), amongst which 33,000 had been Fiat and Abarth 500, of which 24,000 had been of their electrical variations.  

In Germany, 500e is the very best vendor within the BEV A+B section and FIAT Professional registered a 40% development in quantity and +1.3 pt. market share. 

The 500e additionally dominated in Spain, gaining the title of the best-selling electrical city automobile within the A+B section, whereas the Fiat 500 was the best-selling city automobile within the A section for the seventh yr in a row. Also in Spain, FIAT Professional registered a gross sales development of 28%.  

South America 

In 2023, FIAT grew in South America the place the Brand was the chief with a market share of 14.5% and greater than 542,000 registered items (45,300 vehicles greater than in 2022), some 94,600 vehicles forward of second place.  

In Brazil, FIAT secured its management within the Hatch class (with greater than 140,200 items and 22.6% section share), pickups (172,000 vehicles and 42.6% share), and vans (26,250 items and 44.5% share). In the latter, development was 20% in comparison with the earlier yr. It is notable that within the section of vans and lightweight business autos, FIAT has been primary within the common class for over 15 years. And, for the third yr in a row, Fiat Strada was the highest vendor with 120,600 items and a 5.5% market share. In the SUV section, the Fiat Pulse and Fastback had 86,200 items offered over the yr and a powerful development of 43%.  

In Argentina, Fiat Cronos has been main the market since 2021, holding the primary place in B-Sedan with a 71.3% share. It’s additionally the second most manufactured mannequin within the historical past of FIAT in Argentina, with greater than 350,000 items produced, whereas Strada retains the primary place in B-Pickups with a 79.4% share.  

Middle East & Africa Region 

The efficiency within the MEA Region can also be fairly outstanding, particularly within the Turkish market the place FIAT is the primary automotive model to keep up a steady five-year management streak, accounting for 15.7% of the market share, additionally due to the Fiat Egea which is the best-selling automobile in Turkey for the eighth yr in a row. The Fiat Fiorino contributes to glorious outcomes, being the very best vendor within the LCV section.   

In addition, FIAT has set the trail for its future additional enlargement in MEA, first re-entering the Algerian market in March 2023 and introducing six fashions to fulfill the various mobility wants of retail and enterprise prospects. Here, FIAT is the market chief with a market share of 78.6% and greater than 50,000 autos offered final yr. Customers selected Fiat 500 Hybrid, Tipo, and 500X as their favourites within the passenger automobile section, whereas Doblo, Scudo and Ducato are essentially the most offered utility autos. The finish of 2023 additionally noticed the introduction of an thrilling new mannequin, the Fiat Titano.  

 

Turin, twentieth February 2024 

ENDS 

Contact:  

VINCE CLISHAM 
HEAD OF PUBLIC RELATIONS 
vincent.clisham@stellantis.com 

TEL +44(0)7835 114390 

 LUCINDA INGGS  
PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER 
lucinda.inggs@stellantis.com 

TEL +44(0)7542 394878 

MICHAEL ARNOLD 
PRESS FLEET MANAGER 
pressfleet@stellantis.com    

TEL +44(0)7831 829410 

JEREMY TOWNSEND 
COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR 
jeremy.townsend@stellantis.com    

TEL +44(0)7827 896480 

Featured

Over 10 Lakh Indians Have Bought A Hyundai Creta Since 2015

According to Hyundai India’s estimates, they’ve bought one Creta each 5 minutes for practically a decade

Hyundai Creta

The Hyundai Creta was first launched in India in 2015 when the potential for the compact SUV area was solely beginning to be explored. It has since undergone a generational replace together with two facelifts, the final of which was completed in January 2024. Now, in February, it has achieved a gross sales milestone of 10 lakh items. Let’s take a quick have a look at the Creta’s journey in India until now.

Two Facelifts & One Generational Update

A post shared by CarDekho India (@cardekhoindia)

In 2015, the Hyundai Creta emerged as a direct rival to SUVs just like the Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano. At that point, the Creta’s design language was notably sober and minimalistic. Later, in 2018, the first-generation Creta obtained a facelift, and it acquired an up to date fascia with a cascading grille design and varied new options, together with a sunroof.

In 2020, the second technology Hyundai Creta for India was launched, which had a futuristic look and featured quirky LED lighting particulars. Though it had a polarising design language, it was nonetheless one of many top-selling compact SUVs in India, with standout options just like the panoramic sunroof, 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, and power-adjustable driver’s seat. In January 2024, Hyundai facelifted the second-generation Creta, that includes a refreshed look, all-new cabin, and superior security options.

Hyundai Sold One Creta Every 5 Minutes

Announcing the numerous gross sales milestone, Hyundai additionally revealed an attention-grabbing undeniable fact that it bought, on common, one Creta in India each 5 minutes. The 2024 Creta has already crossed 60,000 bookings since its launch in January 2024. 

Also Check Out: Watch: The Correct Way To Close The Tata Punch EV Charging Lid

What Does It Offer?

2024 Hyundai Creta cabin

The 2024 Hyundai Creta comes with options equivalent to twin 10.25-inch shows (one for the infotainment system and the opposite for instrumentation), dual-zone AC, an 8-speaker Bose sound system, a panoramic sunroof, wi-fi telephone charging, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and ventilated entrance seats.

The passenger security is ensured by six airbags, a 360-degree digital camera, digital stability management, a tyre stress monitoring system, and a full suite of superior driver help programs (ADAS).

Also Check Out: Tata Nexon Global NCAP Crash Test Comparison: Then vs Now

Powertrain Options

Hyundai presents the Creta with three engine choices, and their specs have been detailed under:

Engine

1.5-litre N.A. Petrol

1.5-litre Turbo-petrol

1.5-litre Diesel

Power

115 PS

160 PS

116 PS

Torque

144 Nm

253 Nm

250 Nm

Transmission

6-speed MT / CVT

7-speed DCT

6-speed MT / 6-speed AT

Though the turbo-petrol choice is presently restricted to the 7-speed twin clutch automated transmission, Hyundai could introduce the choice of a 6-speed guide transmission with turbo-petrol with the introduction of the Creta N Line. 

Price Range & Rivals

The Hyundai Creta is priced between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 20.15 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It takes on the likes of the Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate, and Citroen C3 Aircross.

Read More on : Hyundai Creta on road price

News

Toyota Shelby 2000 GT: Most Expensive Japanese Car Ever Sold At Auction

Summary

  • The Shelby Toyota 2000 GT bought for $2.535 million, changing into the costliest JDM automotive ever bought.
  • The automotive was one in every of solely three racing examples constructed by Carroll Shelby, including to its worth.
  • Appreciation for JDM vehicles just like the 2000 GT continues to develop, setting report costs available in the market.

The demand for particular and important traditional vehicles has continued to develop lately. Many vehicles from this period are primarily Italian exotics or American muscle with some particular British vehicles. But JDM cars have been receiving a lot of love lately ever for the reason that debut of the Fast and Furious franchise. Other reveals like Initial D and Wangan Midnight have additionally helped popularize the Japanese automotive tradition and made lovers respect JDM cars extra.

This appreciation has led to a excessive demand for these JDM vehicles and has made them fairly costly and collectible. Cars like the Lexus L-FA and Nissan R34 GT-R are commanding million-dollar costs relying on the spec and rarity. While Toyota would not play on this subject of uncommon and fascinating JDM specials, there’s one automotive that has defied the chances and claimed the title of the costliest JDM automotive ever bought.

Red 1967 - 1970 Toyota 2000GT

Related

Japan’s First Supercar Wouldn’t Have Happened Without Yamaha. Here’s Why

Find out how Yamaha was instrumental in shaping the Toyota 2000GT’s physique, its inside and tuning the supercar’s inline-six engine

In order to provide the most modern and correct data attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with CNN. Hagerty, Gooding and Company, and Classic.com.

The Toyota 2000GT Sold For $2.5 million

When speaking about the costliest JDM automotive ever bought, you’ll routinely assume it might be a Lexus LFA Nürburgring Edition with costs hovering across the $1.7 million mark. Another guess could be a particular Z-tune GT-R however it’s a Toyota. The first time a Toyota bought for loopy cash was in January 2019 when the newly revived Supra sold for $2.1 million at the Barrett Jackson. However, this was an outlier as this was the very first manufacturing Supra, however in early March 2022, the Toyota 2000 GT turned the costliest Japanese automotive ever bought.

The final price for the 1967 Toyota 2000GT was $2.53 million beating Toyota’s earlier report by greater than $400,000. This was the very first 2000 GT to cross the million-dollar mark and has now set the tempo for different vehicles to comply with. While this was a report worth, it bought decrease than the estimated worth which was between $2.75 and $3.5 million. After this sale, one other 2000 GT crossed the million-dollar mark on Bring A Trailer however that automotive solely bought for $1.15 million.

A Brief History Of The Toyota 2000 GT

Red 1967 Toyota 2000GT
Toyota

The 2000GT was quite a special car and a halo project aimed toward altering the boring picture of Toyota within the 60’s. The aim was to have a top-of-the-line sports activities automotive that will draw individuals into the showroom and assist drive gross sales of different fashions. Many automotive manufacturers made use of this technique and it labored so Toyota needed to strive it out.

The 2000GT was built in conjunction with Yamaha as a entrance mid-engine sports activities automotive/ grand tourer. It was unveiled in 1965 on the Tokyo Motor Show with the primary manufacturing hitting the roads in 1967. Only 337 had been produced throughout its three-year manufacturing run which resulted in 1970. This makes it one of many rarest Japanese sports activities vehicles out there and they don’t come up on the market usually. It was such a leap ahead by way of technological developments and design that it was dubbed Japan’s first supercar.

Best Toyota Sports Cars

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The Best Toyota Sports Cars Ever Made

These Toyota sports activities vehicles left their mark on the automotive panorama as one of the best of one of the best

The Shelby-Tuned 2000 GT

The report worth of this 2000GT might sound insane at first however there’s extra to this story. While there have been 337 vehicles made initially, this specific instance is one in every of simply three racing examples that exist and so they had been constructed by Carroll Shelby. The well-known Carroll Shelby who helped Ford win consecutively at Le Mans with Ford GT had his arms on a Toyota.

Shelby constructed three 2000 GT race vehicles and a pair were entered into the 1968 SCCA production car races. They each carried out properly however that was the one 12 months they participated. Toyota took again one of many Shelby race vehicles and restored it in the identical paint scheme as their record-setting automotive which set a high pace of 144 MPH.

Toyota 2000 GT Racing In Japan

1967 Toyota Shelby-2000GT
Goodingco

The Shelby vehicles weren’t the one 2000 GTs that went racing. Before Shelby took them racing, they already participated in races at house. Before the manufacturing vehicles hit the street, Toyota entered the 2000 GT in a contest the place it positioned third on the 1966 Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji. Its first win was on the inaugural Suzuka 1000 Kilometers in 1966. Other wins included the 24 Hours of Fuji and the Fuji 1000 Kilometers in 1967.

13 FIA world records were also set with a 2000 GT on the Yatabe High-Speed Test Track. This feat was achieved throughout a 72-hour endurance check which was subsequently overwhelmed by Porsche in a purpose-built 911 R. Unfortunately, the report automotive was destroyed in a tempo automotive accident and was scrapped. It has now been changed with the aforementioned Shelby race automotive.

Shelby Heritage Center

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Shelby American’s 10 Most Iconic Cars

Here’s looking at some Shelby American vehicles that may preserve Carroll Shelby alive endlessly!

The 2000 GT Is Considered One Of The Most Beautiful Cars of its Era

1967 Toyota 2000GT
Yamaha

When speaking about probably the most lovely vehicles on this planet, the Jaguar E-type, Lamborghini Miura, Ferrari 250 SWB, and Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic are a few of the vehicles that at all times come up. Design inspiration for the 2000 GT was taken from the attractive vehicles of this period and many of the automotive’s design was initially executed by Yamaha’s Jiro Kono. But when it was time to construct the automotive, Toyota agreed to partner with Yamaha however the design could be modified to go well with their picture.

Toyota’s Satoru Nozaki was referred to as upon to design the 2000 GT and he took inspiration from GT vehicles from that period with inspiration from the attractive Jaguar E-type. There had been some design components taken from Toyota sports cars just like the Sports 800 which was Toyota’s first sports activities automotive. But wanting on the 2000GT, you possibly can see components from the E-type. It was low, lengthy, huge and seemed like rolling artwork on wheels. The automotive design was adequate that it ended up starring in a James Bond film.

James Bond Appearance

The 1967 James Bond movie “You Only Live Twice” featured a Toyota 2000 GT. The film passed off in Japan when the 2000GT had simply been launched for manufacturing and it made sense to have Japan’s first supercar featured within the film. Jay Leno checks out one of many two Convertible examples of the 2000 GT, that had been made particularly for the film. Although convertible variations had been by no means made for manufacturing, the automotive made numerous press for Toyota.

During filming, the 2000GT was seen racing via the streets of Tokyo which made many individuals surprise which automotive that was. When they came upon it was made by Toyota, visits to native dealerships elevated since individuals needed to see the automotive in individual. Recent Bond Actor Daniel Craig voted the 2000 GT as his favorite Bond Car of all time which is excessive reward contemplating the vehicles which have appeared in Bond films.

White Lexus LFA on a race track

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10 Times Yamaha Helped An Automaker With Engine Development And Tuning

Explore the automotive brilliance of Yamaha as a silent manufacturing associate serving to automakers to supply dependable, high-powered engines

The Shelby 2000 GT Is Powered By An Inline-Six

1967 Toyota Shelby-2000GT

Inline six engines had been fairly fashionable decisions for efficiency vehicles on this period, the Jaguar E-type, Mercedes 300 SL, Aston Martin DB4, and Maserati 3500 GT all made use of straight six engines. Regular Toyota vehicles used inline-fours however the 2000 GT needed to have a straight six engine with ample energy and Toyota already had an engine for the job. It made use of an analogous inline-six engine discovered within the Toyota Crown however with a number of adjustments for its utility.

Engine Specifications

Engine

Inline six

Inline six

Displacement

2.0 liters

2.3 liters

Power

150 Horsepower

140 horsepower

Torque

129 pound-feet

148 pound-feet

Transmission

Five-speed guide/three-speed automated

Drivetrain

Rear-wheel drive

(Source: Toyota)

There had been two out there engines for the 2000 GT, Both had been related in design to the unique crown engine however with slight variations. The first was the two.0-liter engine with twin overhead cams which made probably the most energy. The latter is the bigger 2.3 liter engine with a single overhead cam which made much less energy however extra Torque. The second engine was made primarily for the American market to match the torquey attributes of big V-8 engines. Most of them got here with a five-speed however some variants had the three-speed automated sending energy to the rear wheels.

The 2000GT additionally had some engineering firsts for Toyota and Japanese sports activities vehicles as a complete. These included:

  • A limited-slip differential
  • Four-wheel power-assisted disc brake, a primary for a Japanese automotive
  • Coil springs
  • Magnesium wheels

However, this would not be a Shelby automotive if it did not make extra energy than normal. It made use of the two.0-liter engine with three Weber twin-choke carburetors as an alternative of the Mikuni-Solex ones that got here initially with the automotive. It is estimated that the automotive made 210 horsepower which is 60 horsepower greater than inventory.

Red 1997 Toyota Supra 2JZ with the hood open

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Toyota 1JZ vs 2JZ: Picking The Best Engine Swap

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Other Expensive Japanese Cars Sold At Auction

1967 Toyota 2000GT
Toyota

In 1968, If you needed to purchase a Toyota 2000 GT within the US, you’ll spend $7,150 which was costlier than the Jaguar E-type and Porsche 911s at $5,539 and $6,790 every. In right this moment’s cash, the Toyota 2000 GT could be value $63,367 which isn’t even near latest values as they easily sell for 10 times more than that. This Shelby instance is a type of uncommon gems that promote for giant cash and relying on the situation of the opposite race automotive it would promote for related or much more cash.

This latest sale has set the tempo for vehicles just like the 2000 GT and can deliver extra eyes to this traditional Toyota. Just like different vehicles which have bought at report costs, it could trigger common 2000 GT fashions to begin creeping up in worth much more. Japanese/JDM vehicles have continued to understand lately and it will not be lengthy earlier than we see extra vehicles setting report costs.

Most Expensive JDM Cars Ever Sold

  1. 1967 Toyota-Shelby 2000 GT: $2.5 million
  2. 2020 Toyota GR Supra #1: $2.1 million
  3. 2021 Lexus LC500 Convertible VIN #100001: $2 million
  4. 2012 Lexus LFA Nürburgring: $1.87 million
  5. 1989 Mazda 767B: $1.75 million
  6. 2016 Acura NSX #1: $1.2 million
  7. Nissan Fairlady 240Z ‘432’: $1.1 million
  8. 2002 Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R M-Spec Nür: $675,000
  9. 1998 Subaru Impreza STi 22B: $604,517
  10. 1994 Toyota Supra – ‘Fast & Furious’ Movie Car: $550,000
Motorsport

Toyota Is Developing New Combustion Engines

Toyota bought extra automobiles in 2023 than ever earlier than however electrical autos had a minimal influence on the expansion. Of the 11,233,039 autos delivered by the Japanese conglomerate, solely 104,018 had been EVs. Just 0.926 percent of the automobiles bought by Toyota, Lexus, and the opposite subsidiaries final 12 months had been battery EVs. With that in thoughts, the corporate reckons there’s nonetheless a necessity for combustion engines.

During a speech held in entrance of 200 company managers and executives, Chairman Akio Toyoda reaffirmed plans for a “major engine development project.” His assertion is in keeping with an announcement made on the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon the place he “used the opportunity to tell everyone that we’re going to keep doing engines.”

During the Q&A session, Toyoda expressed his perception that battery EVs won’t ever exceed a market share of 30 p.c, no matter technological developments. As a outcome, the remaining 70 p.c will likely be represented by gasoline automobiles, hybrids, and gas cell EVs. The agency’s chairman additionally talked about that hydrogen-burning combustion engines may probably supply an answer. Diesel was not talked about.

While addressing questions from journalists, Toyoda did not solely concentrate on decarbonization. He additionally touched on the fragile matter of jobs:

“If we suddenly shift to BEVs, I’m sure the 5.5 million people in Japan’s auto industry who have spent their lives working on engines will start to question, ‘What was it all for?’ Some of our engine-related suppliers can’t even get banks to lend them money.”

We’ve reached the purpose the place the announcement of a brand new combustion engine comes as a shock. In 2024, automakers are predominantly targeted on revealing plans for brand new EVs. Some even go so far as claiming they will stop manufacturing of ICE automobiles within the coming years. For occasion, manufacturers like Jaguar, Chrysler, Lotus, Aston Martin, Bentley, Buick, Cadillac, Rolls-Royce, Genesis, Maserati, Mini, Opel/Vauxhall, and Volvo have dedicated to changing into purely electrical by the tip of the last decade. Even Toyota’s Lexus model has pledged to halt gross sales of automobiles with combustion engines by 2035.

In Europe, Stellantis guarantees to promote solely EVs by the tip of the last decade. Mercedes additionally intends to go absolutely electrical on the Old Continent by 2030 however solely “where market conditions allow.” Archrival Audi will cease making automobiles with combustion engines in 2032. BMW has not set a cutoff date but. The Volkswagen core model goals to solely make EVs in Europe from 2033.

Toyota sees issues otherwise, because it believes battery EVs cannot be the only real resolution to realize carbon neutrality. Akio Toyoda talked about that the charging infrastructure is much from being prepared, mentioning that “a billion people live without access to electricity” worldwide. Since Toyota sells automobiles in these areas, going all-in on EVs would not make sense.

Motorsport

Donald Trump’s Lamborghini Diablo VT Just Sold For $1.1 Million

A custom-pained Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster ordered new by former President Donald Trump offered on Saturday at Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale public sale for $1.1 million, making it one of the invaluable Diablos on the planet.

Trump ordered this Diablo VT Roadster new in 1997, selecting to have it painted within the Blu Le Mans paint colour you see right here. That colour wasn’t out there for ’97, however in line with Barrett-Jackson, Trump had a particular relationship with Lamborghini and received the colour authorized. That means that is the one 1997 Diablo VT Roadster painted on this colour, making it a real one-of-one. 

 

In addition to the colour, the Diablo VT Roadster was additional personalized by Lamborghini for Trump with a particular plaque put in on the door that reads “Donald Trump 1997 Diablo,” in line with Barrett-Jackson. The 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V12 making 492 hp remained unchanged, able to catapulting the mid-engine supercar to a high velocity of 202 mph. 

Trump offered the automobile in the summertime of 2002, however that is not the place the story ends. It was spotted for sale on eBay again in 2016, listed by an proprietor that reportedly purchased the automobile in 2005. It’s unclear if the Lamborghini has modified possession since then up till now.

Barrett-Jackson says the sale of Trump’s former Diablo marks a world document for Diablo public sale costs. Diablo VT Roadsters in related situation with out the celeb connection are routinely bid to round half the value of this one (or much less), going by recent Bring A Trailer auction results:

screenshot of recent auction results for the Lamborghini Diablo VT Roadster on Bring A Trailer

Despite its provenance, this Diablo VT Roadster did not sit undriven for the primary half of its life. When it was listed on the market in 2016 on eBay it had 14,655 miles on the clock. Sadly whoever acquired the automobile did not drive it a lot; when it crossed Barrett-Jackson’s public sale block on Saturday the odometer learn simply 15,431 miles. Hopefully the brand new proprietor places some miles on the clock and enjoys this automobile to the fullest.


Featured

Maruti Fronx Achieves 1 Lakh Sales Milestone In Under 10 Months

One in 4 Fronx models offered is an automated variant, will get alternative of 5-speed AMT and 6-speed AT relying on the engine

Maruti Fronx

The Maruti Fronx made its world debut at Auto Expo 2023 in January earlier than getting into the market in late April 2023. In the 9 months since, it has already managed to cross the 1 lakh gross sales milestone. The Fronx is actually a crossover based mostly on the Baleno premium hatchback with styling cues from the Grand Vitara compact SUV. It slots in between these very two fashions within the Maruti Nexa lineup.

Here’s all the things it’s essential learn about Maruti’s hottest new mannequin.

Fronx Features

Maruti Fronx dashboard

The Maruti Fronx comes with LED lighting throughout, a dual-tone cabin and an entire host of premium options. It will get a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wi-fi Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a heads-up show, wi-fi charger, and a 360-degree view digicam. Other comforts on supply embrace auto AC with rear vents, cruise management and related automobile know-how.

Related: Maruti Baleno vs Maruti Fronx

Fronx Engines and Transmissions

The Fronx is among the few Maruti Nexa fashions to be out there with two engine choices: a 1-litre turbo-petrol (100 PS/ 148 Nm) and a 1.2-litre petrol (90 PS/ 113 Nm). They are each mated to a 5-speed handbook transmission: the previous will get the choice of a 5-speed AMT whereas the latter will get the selection of a 6-speed AT with paddle shifters. The 1.2-litre petrol engine additionally will get the selection of CNG for peak gasoline economic system.

Maruti Fronx engine

Maruti additionally revealed that automated variants account for twenty-four p.c of the Fronx’s gross sales, however didn’t specify what number of of them are for the extra inexpensive AMT choice versus the extra refined torque converter automated with the turbo-petrol engine.

Prices and Rivals

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx at the moment retails between Rs 7.46 lakh and Rs 13.13 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). It has no direct rivals however acts as a substitute for premium hatchbacks and the Tata Punch, Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite subcompact SUVs.

Read More on : FRONX AMT

News

Lamborghini cracks 10,000 gross sales for third report 12 months in a row

Lamborghini offered greater than 10,000 vehicles in 2023, clocking a ten% enhance over 2022 and beating its report for the third 12 months in a row. 

The Italian agency delivered 10,112 vehicles worldwide final 12 months, a ten% hike on the 9233 that it produced within the earlier 12 months, which was itself a ten% enhance over 2021.

CEO Stephan Winkelmann mentioned it was “a true source of pride to have surpassed the 10,000-car delivery mark” for the primary time, however added: “We’re not stopping at single milestones and we’re ready to take on more exciting new challenges in 2024.”

As has been the case because it arrived in 2018, the Urus SUV was Lamborghini‘s best-seller final 12 months, accounting for practically two thirds of output at Sant’Agata, with 6087 models offered globally.

In the approaching months, the Urus will obtain a considerable mid-life replace, as a part of which it will likely be made out there exclusively as a plug-in hybrid. 

The V10-powered Hurácan was the second best-seller in its closing full 12 months on sale, with a bit of fewer than 4000 offered – a report for the mannequin line itself.

It can be changed later in 2024 by a brand new mid-engined supercar, set to swap the 10-cylinder engine for a hybridised V8, at which level the Lamborghini line-up can be totally electrified.

Only 63 V12-engined Lamborghinis had been delivered in 2023, as the ultimate 12 examples of the 10-year-old Aventador left the manufacturing line, together with 51 Aventador-based particular editions, just like the Invencible coupé and Autentica roadster. 

The Aventador’s successor, the Revuelto V12 hybrid, will enter quantity manufacturing this 12 months and is offered out into late 2026.

Lamborghini hasn’t mentioned what number of examples of the Revuelto it expects to ship this 12 months, however chief advertising and gross sales officer Federico Foschini hinted at lofty ambitions, saying: “Our goal for 2024 is to verify our progress development… Also due to the contribution of [the] Revuelto.”

Of Lamborghini’s three core gross sales areas, it was Europe, the Middle East and Africa that carried out strongest in 2023, with 3987 vehicles offered throughout the area. America was shut behind, with 3465 models, and the agency despatched 2660 vehicles to the Asia-Pacific area.

Motorsport

This Might Be A Civic Si Hatch

The Civic Si solely comes as a sedan within the United States the place it is bought alongside the Type R hatchback. But what if Honda have been to mix the 2 by rolling out a sporty compact with the previous’s engine and the latter’s physique model? The Civic RS launched on the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon seems to be that automotive, full with a six-speed handbook gearbox.

Although it is formally referred to as a prototype, Honda intends to place the automotive into manufacturing later this yr for the Japanese market. The blacked-out sporty hatch has contrasting “RS” badges and twin exhaust suggestions. Perhaps we will consider it as a cut-price Acura Integra A-Spec? It’s value noting {that a} Civic RS already exists in different markets the place it is a high-end trim degree however the brand new JDM variant appears to be a sportier mannequin, possible slotting beneath the Type R.


Motorsport

Porsche Carrera GT Owners Still Can’t Drive Their Cars

In April 2023, Porsche issued a recall for practically all Carrera GTs bought in North America. We’re speaking a couple of very uncommon supercar right here, so on this case, practically all equals 489 automobiles. With that recall got here a warning from Porsche to not drive the automobile, lest one thing occur that might trigger a crash. These aren’t precisely every day drivers, so parking the Carrera GT within the storage most likely is not a giant deal for many house owners. But 9 months later, that warning continues to be in place. Yikes.

We covered the recall last year, however the present standing of the Carrera GT was delivered to life by Jalopnik. Reaching out to Porsche, it was revealed {that a} repair nonetheless hasn’t been finalized for the issue. Furthermore, a spokesperson advised the web site that it may very well be a number of months but, coming someday within the third quarter of 2024. That could be July on the earliest – one 12 months and roughly two months after the stop-drive warning was issued.

2003 Porsche Carrera GT

Yes, not with the ability to drive your million-dollar supercar is a first-world drawback. But technically, you can drive it. Porsche strongly recommends towards it, however therein lies one other facet of this saga we hadn’t thought of. It appears a few of these house owners have realized that insurance coverage protection may very well be dropped if one thing occurs to the automobile whereas being pushed, as a result of Porsche advised house owners to not do it. The Jalopnik crew contacted an insurance coverage firm and had been mainly advised the identical factor. Bummer.

As a refresher, this all stems from a possible concern relating to spherical joints connecting the wishbone suspension parts. Porsche discovered some damaged joints throughout a normal car inspection that the car proprietor apparently wasn’t conscious of. A deep dive decided that the fabric used for the joints does not present “sufficient resistance to intergranular stress corrosion when exposed to salt and mechanical stress over service life.”

The repair, then, is new joints. But after 9 months, that hasn’t occurred but. We’ve reached out to Porsche in hopes of gaining some further perception into the restore and what a number of the challenges are, as a result of frankly, we’re curious. We will provide you with an replace if new data turns into out there, however within the meantime, we’ll must maintain driving the Enzo. Darn all of it.