It’s the end of June 2023, and motorcycle manufacturers are starting to release their 2024 updates to generate excitement for the upcoming year. BMW Motorrad USA’s first batch of 2024 bikes includes new colors, Option 719 packages, and one significant update to several models: Intelligent Emergency Call as a standard and/or optional feature on certain bikes.
For the first time, BMW Motorrad will offer its Intelligent Emergency Call feature on select models in the US and Canadian markets:
Bike
Optional or Standard
2024 BMW F 900 R and XR
Optional
2024 BMW K 1600
Standard
2024 BMW R 1250
Standard
2024 BMW R 18 B and Transcontinental
Standard
2024 BMW S 1000 R and RR
Standard
2024 BMW CE 04
Standard
2024 BMW bikes equipped with the Intelligent Emergency Call feature will have an SOS button with a cover on the right-side handlebar. This button features a loudspeaker and a microphone to allow riders to communicate in case of an emergency. The system utilizes BMW Motorrad Connected Services to connect the rider with a BMW agent, who can then contact the appropriate emergency services in their area. If a bike with this feature is involved in a crash or fall, the Intelligent Emergency Call will automatically activate and place a call for the rider to receive assistance.
In addition to this update, all 2024 BMW M motorcycles now come with BMW Ultimate Care Break-In Service at 600 miles as part of their sale to new owners.
BMW Motorrad USA has also announced new colors and pricing information for its returning 2024 models:
Model
New 2024 Colors
US MSRP
2024 BMW CE 04
Imperial Blue Metallic (on the Avantgarde Package)
$12,195
2024 BMW C 400 GT
Imperial Blue Metallic (on the Style Exclusive)
$8,245
2024 BMW G 310 R
Racing Blue Metallic (on the Style Sport) and Granite Grey Metallic (on the Style Passion)
$4,995
2024 BMW G 310 GS
Racing Red (on Style Rallye)
$5,695
2024 BMW F 900 R
Style Triple Black (replaces Style Exclusive/Bluestone Metallic)
$8,995
2024 BMW F 900 XR
Racing Blue Metallic 2 (on Style Sport)
$11,695
2024 BMW R 18
Black Storm Metallic and Vintage, Style Option 719 Velvet Green Metallic
$14,995
2024 BMW R 18 Classic
Black Storm Metallic and Vintage, Style Option 719 Moon Stone Mineral White Metallic
$17,995
2024 BMW R 18 Roctane (new model for 2024, but recently announced)
Black Storm Metallic, Manhattan Metallic Matte, Mineral Grey Metallic Matte
$18,695
2024 BMW R 18 B
Racing Blue Metallic, Style Option 719 Black Pearl Black Storm Metallic 2
$19,945
2024 BMW R 18 Transcontinental
Racing Blue Metallic, Style Option 719 Moon Stone Mineral White Metallic
While vans are not typically known for their sporty handling, it is interesting to observe how the European version of the VW ID. Buzz performs in both the moose test and a slalom. This retro-inspired electric vehicle demonstrates impressive performance during the evaluations.
This particular ID. Buzz variant showcases a short-wheelbase design with a single rear-mounted electric motor, which generates 201 horsepower. It is equipped with Continental EcoContact 6 tires.
Volkswagen is recognizing the exceptional achievements of 46 talented apprentices from 39 facilities in 19 countries. As part of this recognition, the winners of the “Best Apprentice Award” were given the opportunity to visit the exhibition “Flashes of Memory: Photography during the Holocaust” in Berlin. The exhibition is supported by Volkswagen and aligns with the company’s commitment to remembrance. The apprentices from the Wolfsburg region will also have the chance to visit the exhibition at the Museum für Fotografie in the near future.
During their visit to the museum, the group of apprentices participated in a guided tour of photographs and films that were captured during the Holocaust. These visual documents provide different perspectives of both the perpetrators and the victims, highlighting the importance of understanding the context behind the images. Another group of apprentices will have the opportunity to visit the exhibition in July. Many of these young individuals are currently undergoing apprenticeships at Volkswagen facilities in and around Wolfsburg, and some have already volunteered at the memorial site of Auschwitz-Birkenau, a former concentration and extermination camp.
Gunnar Kilian, Member of the Board of Volkswagen AG for Human Resources and member of the Foundation Council of the International Youth Meeting Center in Auschwitz, emphasizes the significance of preserving the memory of the Holocaust: “The exhibition ‘Flashes of Memory’ plays a vital role in Volkswagen’s commitment to honoring the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. It allows people to learn about this dark chapter in German history and serves as a reminder for future generations. Our apprentices will gain personal insights into the lives of people during that time and become ambassadors for a culture of remembrance that encompasses our responsibility in how we live together today and in the future.”
Dieter Landenberger, Head of Volkswagen Heritage Communications, welcomed the apprentices in Berlin and explained the importance of Volkswagen’s corporate culture of remembrance. For over 30 years, the Volkswagen Group has been collaborating with the International Auschwitz Committee and encouraging apprentices to volunteer in the preservation of the Auschwitz memorial site.
Daniela Cavallo, Chairwoman of the Group Works Council, expressed Volkswagen’s commitment to remembrance and responsibility: “Remembrance and responsibility are fundamental to Volkswagen’s corporate culture. We are incredibly proud of our young apprentices and their dedication to the memorial work at Auschwitz. Holocaust survivors frequently express their appreciation for the commitment shown by our young people. This commitment will always be a top priority for Volkswagen.”
The Volkswagen Group is a partner in the education program for the exhibition “Flashes of Memory: Photography during the Holocaust.” The exhibition has been on display at the Museum für Fotografie in Berlin since March 24, 2023. It features personal photographs from the Holocaust era and provides critical interpretations of their impact. Following its presentation at the World Holocaust Remembrance Center Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, the exhibition is now available at an international museum outside of Israel for the first time.
When it comes to luxury vehicles, performance and practicality are important, but there are other factors that buyers consider. They look for class, comfort, and small details that add beauty. They want a car that justifies its high price tag, which can be three times or more than a standard vehicle. Luckily, the BMW i7 checks all the boxes when it comes to luxury.
The ride in the BMW i7 is incredibly smooth, almost like gliding on the road instead of rolling. Despite its impressive speed, it never feels too fast. Even when reaching speeds over 100 mph, it remains safe and comfortable, comparable to driving at 40 mph in a regular car.
While driving the BMW i7 is an experience in itself, passengers can have an even better time thanks to its exceptional infotainment system. Passengers in the backseat can customize their seat settings to heat or cool as needed. The car also offers various massage settings for ultimate relaxation. Additionally, Theater Mode can be activated, which unveils a 31-inch, 8K resolution screen and rolls up the window shades for an immersive entertainment experience.
The BMW i7 provides a complete luxury limousine experience. However, in addition to the cost of over $150,000 for a fully equipped i7, you may also need to budget for a chauffeur if you want to fully enjoy the experience.
Members of the 20-Ghost Club conclude their epic re-enactment of the 1913 Alpenfahrt in Salzburg
The event marks the 110th anniversary of the 7-day, 2,600km trial that immortalized Rolls-Royce as ‘the best car in the world’
Participants, including pre-1940 and contemporary Rolls-Royce motor cars, closely followed the original Alpenfahrt route over some of Europe’s highest roads
Inaugural ‘Inspiring Greatness Trophy’ presented by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, echoing the prizes awarded to the all-conquering Rolls-Royce Works team in 1913
“The dominant performance by the Silver Ghosts of the Rolls-Royce Works team at the 1913 Alpenfahrt confirmed Rolls-Royce as ‘the best car in the world’. This wonderful re-enactment, marking the 110th anniversary of that landmark event, is a tribute to their achievements, and to the engineering excellence of these historic Rolls-Royce motor cars. That so many examples remain not only fully operational, but able to undertake the same extraordinary endeavors they did more than a century ago is a testament to their devoted owners’ meticulous care and attention. These remarkable people and their magnificent motor cars inspire greatness every time they take to the road; I’ve been honored to be part of this unique adventure.” Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
The participants in the 110th anniversary re-enactment of the 1913 Alpenfahrt, comprising members of the 20-Ghost Club (the world’s oldest Rolls-Royce owners’ club and devoted exclusively to models built before 1940), make a triumphant return to Salzburg after a 16-day, 2,600km odyssey through the Alps. Members were accompanied on part of their adventure by bespoke examples of the marque’s Ghost and Black Badge Ghost models, created at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, which celebrates its own 20th anniversary this year.
The 2023 rally closely followed the route of the original event, taking in some of the highest roads in Europe. Among the cars taking part were Silver Ghosts, including one of the original motor cars that formed part of the original 1913 Works Team that helped seal Rolls-Royce’s reputation as ‘the best car in the world’.
Although today’s drivers were engaged in a more leisurely tour – rather than a fiercely fought contest between powerful commercial and sporting rivals – Rolls-Royce Motor Cars added a further touch of competitive authenticity by awarding its inaugural ‘Inspiring Greatness Trophy’. Judged and presented by Ken Forbes and Nick Naismith, it recognizes the 20-Ghost Club member who most perfectly embodies the marque’s central value, ‘Inspiring Greatness’.
Compared to their European counterparts, American sports cars have always seemed to be a step behind the refined sports cars across the pond. But in recent years, that stereotype seemed to have changed with a few choice sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette, and to a certain degree, the Dodge Viper. But they were still behind in terms of interior materials and technology.
The C8 Corvette broke the internet after its release and is no doubt the hottest car to hit the sports car market in recent times. It was set up for ultimate success from on-set with its new mid-engine layout, exotic looks, updated interior and technology, superb handling, and affordable price. It was so good that MotorTrend named it their Car of the Year which is no easy feat. But the Corvette isn’t the only one making a buzz.
The Lotus Emira looks like a sportscar that costs way above its current price. It is all new and features many new updates never found in past Lotus vehicles. You even have two engine and transmission options. It is the most important car in the brand’s history as it aims to be a more mainstream car than a niche vehicle.
The Emira is no doubt one of the most gorgeous sports cars under $100,000. It takes design cues from the multimillion dollar Electric Evija Hypercar, so you get Hypercar looks for Sports car money. You also see a lot of similarities in design with McLaren and Ferrari especially with air intakes behind the doors. It has smooth bodywork with flowing lines that exude class and sophistication. The Emira wears its look so well that you would always take a second look when you walk away from it.
The C8 on the other hand hasn’t failed to remind us of its American roots, it may have gone mid-engine but it is more edgy than ever. Its face has so many sharp edges similar to what a Lamborghini would have but it may look better with fewer straight lines. The door to the rear seems to have been designed separately from the front.
Mecum Auctions
A front 3/4 shot of a 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Coupe
Its big intakes tease us of what lurks in its engine bay and give it a muscular stance. At the rear things seems to fall apart a bit, unless you opt for the Z51 package which comes with a rear spoiler the car looks incomplete. Don’t even mention those exhaust tips, they don’t look good on this car and many owners have swapped them with circular tips that look much better.Both vehicles also allow you to see the engine bay which is a trademark among supercars. Chevy does score some points for being able to take the roof off.
The Corvette Has The Better Engine But The Emira Is More Engaging
Lotus
Six-speed manual gear shifter in the Lotus Emira
This isn’t just because the Corvette has a V-8 and the Lotus makes use of a V-6, the V-8 has character which the V-6 just can’t seem to match. Once the C8 starts up the soundtrack reminds you that you have a powerful motor sitting behind your head. It is also much quicker than the Emira with a claimed 60 MPH Time of 3.0 seconds.
Testing has shown them regularly at 2.8 seconds, the Emira would be destroyed in a drag race. But speed isn’t all there is to it, the DCT transmission also adds to the excitement of the V-8 soundtrack. Downshifts are especially crisp with this engine, each shift produces a rumble that the Emira’s V-6 just can’t make.
Engine Specifications
C8 Corvette
Lotus Emira V-6
Lotus Emira i4
Manufacturer
General Motors
Toyota
AMG
Engine
NA V-8
Supercharged V-6
Turbo inline four
Displacement
6.2 liters
3.5 liters
2.0 liters
Power
490 horsepower
400 horsepower
360 horsepower
Torque
495 pound-feet
310 pound-feet
310 pound-feet
Acceleration (0-60)
2.8 seconds
4.3 seconds
4.2 seconds
Top Speed
194 MPH
180 MPH
176 MPH
Transmission
Eight-speed DCT
Six speed manual/auto
Eight-speed DCT
Layout
Mid-engine RWD
Mid-engine RWD
Mid-engine RWD
Handling has always been the reason you bought a Lotus, speed was secondary. But Lotus has at least given buyers a few choices, a supercharged V-6 Toyota and a turbocharged inline-four from Mercedes AMG. You get a six-speed manual and automatic with the V-6 but the turbo-four is DCT only, but both have similar acceleration times of 4.3 and 4.2 seconds respectively. No matter your powertrain choice you still get a responsive and dynamic chassis that will keep up with Corvette, especially on twisty roads.
Interior shot of a white interior in the C8 Corvette spyder
Both cars have come a long way from their predecessors with cheap plastic in Corvettes and sparse interior for Lotus. The C8 and Emira have updated and better-looking interiors with nice materials like leather and Alcantara with various color finishes. Both have fully digital instrument clusters which are configurable, the lotus display is slightly bigger at 12.3 inches while the C8 makes do with just 12 inches. The Emira also has the C8 beat with its center screen at 10.25 against just 8 inches with both offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other infotainment features.
Despite sharing similarities in interior features, the Corvette is a nicer place to spend time. Lotus may have updated its interior but it is still sparse and has fewer gimmicks than the Chevy. The quality, feel, and layout of the C8’s interior are much better than the Emira. Simplicity is seen all over the Emira’s interior which has a lot to do with the Lotus DNA but The C8 has taken it a step further.
Lotus
Interior shot of the 2023 Lotus Emira V-6
You get better leather materials stretching the full length of the interior, brighter colors, a clearer display, and quirky square steering. Lotus has retained a nice feature found in its manual cars, a mesh in the center console which exposes the gear linkage. This allows you to see the shift action work which is so cool and is a feature you find in cars like Pagani and Spyker.
Daily driving a sports car has been made much easier with new technologies at our disposal. Breaking the norm for Lotus, the Emira has features like auto emergency brakes, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control. These were never found on previous Lotus products because of their focus on being lightweight. They’ve managed to add all these without adding much weight to the vehicle while the Corvette weighs much more.
Dimensions
C8 Corvette
Lotus Emira
Wheelbase
107.2 inches
101.3 inches
Length
182.3 inches
173.7 inches
Weight
3647–3913 pounds
3175 pounds
The C8 Corvette also gets these features but with added blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Both cars have ample luggage capacity at the rear despite their mid-engine layout which can fit sizable luggage for short trips. But unlike most mid-engine cars the Emira doesn’t have a frunk (front trunk), the ‘Vette beats it in this aspect being able to carry more luggage.
Since both cars aren’t that big and wide, they are easy to maneuver around town. The smaller Lotus may find this task easier. GM’s latest Magneride suspension is so good and gives the car the ability to stiffen the suspension depending on each mode. Most owners have reported that this makes big changes in suspension compliance. On the other hand, in keeping with the Lotus ethos you have a choice of a sport or touring chassis from the factory. Once chosen you can’t make changes so you need to make a sacrifice.
Front 3/4 view of red Chevrolet Corvette Z51 and rear 3/4 view of Chevrolet Corvette Stingray parked.
With a starting price of $60,000, the C8 Corvette is the performance bargain of the century. Realistically, this is with no options which is impossible, but a well-optioned C8 will cost under $90,000. It’s a lot of money but also a lot of car for what you get but in comparison, an Emira has a starting price of $77,000. First edition models of the Emira cost around $94,000, in this regard they are similarly priced vehicles.
Choosing between both cars may seem a bit easier than you think. Lotus and Corvettes may not have been directly cross-shopped in the past but they now will. The buyer’s mindset will ultimately determine the purchase. The C8 Corvette offers a lot more in terms of performance and overall sports car value beyond what the Emira offers. But the Emira has evolved into an everyday sports car with better amenities while retaining the characteristics of a Lotus. But the ‘Vette has gotten a head-start and the Lotus has to play catchup.
The next generation of the BMW M5 is entering the practical phase of its development process. The prototypes, though disguised, clearly display their high-performance nature. BMW M GmbH has officially announced that a Touring variant of the new BMW M5 will join its model range in 2024.
The Touring variant, like the sedan, will feature a newly developed partially electrified drive system. This will provide M-typical performance and a finely tuned chassis that enhances driving dynamics and agility. BMW M GmbH sees this as a step towards electrification, with hybrid drive systems being introduced in their high-performance cars.
For nearly 40 years, the BMW M5 has been the epitome of driving dynamics, agility, and precision in the high-performance sedan segment. The BMW M5 has achieved this through evolutionary progress, racing development expertise, and groundbreaking innovations in areas such as drive, suspension, aerodynamics, and lightweight construction.
The new BMW M5 Touring will build upon this legacy, with exciting innovations to deliver an even more exhilarating driving experience.
The first BMW M5 Touring was introduced in 1992, based on the second-generation BMW M5 Sedan. Since then, it has represented a combination of high performance and everyday practicality. In 2007, BMW M GmbH introduced a Touring variant for the fourth-generation BMW M5. The recent successful launch of the BMW M3 Competition Touring with M xDrive further demonstrates the appeal of this special vehicle concept in the premium mid-range segment.
Testing of the new BMW M5 Touring prototypes will commence soon, with various road and track tests planned to ensure an ideal balance between sporting performance and comfort in real-world driving conditions.
BMW M3 Touring: fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 10.4 – 10.1 WLTP; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 235 – 229 WLTP.
The next generation of the BMW M5 is now in the practical phase of development, with prototypes undergoing test drives on public roads, BMW Group proving grounds, and racetracks globally. BMW M GmbH has also confirmed the addition of a Touring variant to its model range, combining high-performance capabilities with long-distance comfort and spaciousness. Both the sedan and Touring versions will feature a newly developed partially electrified drive system, enhancing driving dynamics and agility. BMW M GmbH is embracing electrification, installing hybrid drive systems in its high-performance cars. For almost 40 years, the BMW M5 has been the benchmark for driving dynamics in high-performance sedans. The new generation aims to push the boundaries even further with innovative technologies. The first BMW M5 Touring was launched in 1992, followed by a Touring variant of the fourth-generation M5 in 2007. The success of the BMW M3 Competition Touring further emphasizes the appeal of this special vehicle concept. Prototypes of the new BMW M5 Touring will undergo testing in urban traffic, country roads, motorways, and even on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife.
BMW M3 Touring: Fuel consumption in l/100 km combined: 10.4 – 10.1 WLTP; CO2 emissions in g/km combined: 235 – 229 WLTP.
The switch to bio-fuels and more efficient engines by airlines may give the impression of green initiatives, but drivers of electric vehicles using Heathrow Airport in the UK have been left stranded as the major charging network has been unexpectedly turned off. Neither the airport nor the charging company has provided an explanation for this sudden shutdown.
In order to cater to the growing number of electric car users at the airport, Heathrow had installed more than 25 chargers as part of its Pod Point network in the short-stay car parks. However, over the past few months, drivers have discovered that these chargers are no longer functional and have taken to social media to express their frustration.
Jonathan Whelan, owner of a Tesla Model 3, shared his disappointment, stating, “Looks permanently shut now. All powered down.” Another theory circulating is that Heathrow failed to renew its contract with Pod Point. However, neither Pod Point nor Heathrow provided a reason for the sudden shutdown, with Heathrow only mentioning that it is “developing plans to meet the growing demand.”
Although the Pod Point chargers at Heathrow have been deactivated, there are alternative charging options available for electric vehicle drivers. Networks such as BP Pulse and Polar offer chargers at various locations near the airport, including major hotels and some nearby car parks. Additionally, Tesla Supercharger sites are available at terminals 2, 3, and 5.
Furthermore, some valet parking services at Heathrow now offer EV charging. One of the first companies to do so is Park Giant UK, a meet-and-greet parking operator. They launched their EV charging service in January 2022 and currently charge around 40 cars per week. Charging is available through slow, three-pin sockets in their storage compound or, upon customer request, at the nearby Tesla Supercharge facility at the Hilton, Terminal 5.
Bob Gill, director of Park Giant UK, shared his satisfaction with the demand for EV charging services and expects it to increase further as the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expansion takes effect and more people switch to electric vehicles.
Not only at Heathrow but also at airports across the UK, the provision of charger facilities is inconsistent, with many chargers available in car parks and hotels in an apparently ad hoc manner. Autocar contacted the UK’s 10 busiest airports for details on their charger provision, and only Luton and Gatwick responded. Luton confirmed the availability of 10 7kW chargers in Terminal Car Park 1, while Gatwick has 24 22kW charge points across its public car parks. Moreover, Gatwick will soon have a dedicated EV charging facility called the Gatwick Electric Forecourt, provided by Gridserve. It will be located on the approach to the airport’s South Terminal and feature 36 medium and high-power chargers. Newcastle is also set to have a dedicated EV forecourt with up to 12 charging bays in 2024, pending planning permission, through a partnership with charging operator Fastned.
The space in the Kia Telluride is good across all three rows. The second-row captain’s chairs are equipped with ventilation, which is a nice touch. They are just as comfortable as the first-row seats and can slide forward and backward. There are buttons on the side to make accessing the third row easier. If you prefer a second-row bench, you’ll have to go for the lower Telluride trims, as it is not available in the X-Pro.
In the third row, there is enough space for at least two adults or three children, although it does compromise the legroom in the second row. Even with all three rows up, there is still an impressive 21 cubic feet of cargo space. However, if you need more space, you can easily fold down the second and third rows using the buttons and cords provided, expanding the trunk to 46 cubic feet or a maximum of 87 cubic feet.
Chris Davies/SlashGear
The infotainment system in the Telluride is comprehensive, allowing you to access features like Driver Talk, which transmits the driver’s voice through the rear cabin speakers for effective communication. However, it only supports wired connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, not wireless. Kia has included physical controls for the HVAC and multimedia functions, as well as additional controls in the center console for drive modes and other drivetrain settings. One feature I appreciate is Kia’s Auto Hold, which remains active even after restarting the SUV, unlike many other competitors’ systems.
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