Porsche Centre Mumbai recently delivered its first 718 Cayman GT4 through its newly opened dealership under Infinity Cars. The keys of not only a GT4 but a Macan as well were handed over to the proud owner through an intimate celebration yesterday. The Cayman GT4 costs around Rs 2 crores (ex-showroom).
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 is the perfect sports car for those who like to push the limits, for those who take fun seriously and would rather sit in a sports seat than a leather armchair. The 718 Cayman GT4 is fitted with everything which makes your pulse race. 4.0-litre six-cylinder horizontally opposed and naturally aspirated engine with 420PS, manual transmission, rear wing. With a diffuser that demands respect and extremely output-oriented aerodynamics. The result is a razor-sharp driving machine that has never even heard of autonomous driving.
The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 represents a powerful performance and stands true to the brand’s ‘sports luxury’ ethos. While Porsche’s are born for the track, these cars are suitable for everyday usage.
When CEO and founder of Tesla Motors, Elon Musk, appeared and hosted an episode of a television show Saturday Night Live last weekend, he joked about various things, from his son’s name to his strange tweets, but the one thing that affected the most to the world was his anticipation of the cryptocurrency, as he joked about Dogecoin being a hustle. Due to one short segment, the cryptocurrency crashed overnight and everybody owning a crypto investment got worried, but within 24 hours, Musk tweeted SpaceX launching a Dogecoin-funded satellite to the Moon, and now, everybody is in awe.
Elon Musk, who holds a history of strange tweets, has been tweeting about the SpaceX mission and Dogecoin, but most people considered and treated it as a meme, and now for the first time, he mentioned the commercial rocket company accepting the meme-inspired cryptocurrency dogecoin as payment.
SpaceX launching satellite Doge-1 to the moon next year
– Mission paid for in Doge – 1st crypto in space – 1st meme in space
The mastermind behind the design of SpaceX said the satellite DOGE-1 would be the first crypto and the first meme in space. The DOGE-1 is a CubeSat intended to acquire ‘Lunar-spatial intelligence’ using onboard cameras and sensors. It’s being sent and paid for by a Geometric Energy Corporation company, and it’ll fly beyond the earth on a Falcon 9 rocket in the first quarter of 2022.
Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency that started off as a goofy meme, is invented by software engineers Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer, who determined to create a payment system that is fun and free from traditional banking fees.
Elon Musk-led Electric carmaker Tesla Inc bought $1.5 billion worth of bitcoin in February and would soon accept it as a form of payment for its electric cars. After vouching for Bitcoin, Elon Musk now supports Dogecoin cryptocurrency, and he’s been tweeting about Dogecoin memes and referring to himself as the Dogefather.
Earlier, right after Musk describes Dogecoin as a hustle in Saturday Night Live show, the value of Dogecoin crashed severely, but when he tweeted late on Sunday about SpaceX is now accepting the cryptocurrency Dogecoin to launch an upcoming satellite named DOGE-1 to the Moon, caused the price of Dogecoin to grow by more than 30 percent immediately. Previously this year, Elon Musk tweeted ‘a literal dogecoin on the literal moon’, which also created a buzz and the price shoot up briefly.
Other details on the DOGE-1 mission, including exactly what it will do in lunar orbit, have not yet been released. However, about the Dogecoin cryptocurrency, what started as a joke is now anything but nearly 113 billion mined coins.
Audi, the German luxury car manufacturer, today announced the launch of the new Audi S5 Sportback in India. Powering the latest Audi S5 Sportback is a 3.0-litre, twin-turbo TFSI petrolengine delivering 354 hp and 500 Nm of torque, mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels. The four-door sports coupe is being brought to India via the CBU route and is priced at Rs 79.06 lakhs (ex-showroom). Commenting on the announcement, Mr Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “The Audi S5 Sportback is the second product launch this year, and we are excited to launch this beauty in India. The Audi S5 Sportback stands out for its distinctive styling, engaging driving experience, on the one hand, everyday usability and five-seat comfort on the other. Glamorous, powerful and practical, it is an enticing proposition for buyers who want it all. The introduction of the Audi S5 Sportback will further strengthen our performance cars portfolio in the country.” The Audi S5 Sportback receives revised styling elements that add in even more visual drama. The Singleframe grille is now with sleeker slits above, forming a link to the iconic Audi Sport Quattro from 1984. S model bumpers with more oversized air intakes and a slick blade that includes the lower edge of the front bumper also lend the Audi S5 Sportback a bolder look. The 48.26 cm, five double-arm S Design alloy wheels and optional red brake callipers add to the sportiness of the S5 Sportback. Simultaneously, the redone diffuser only helps embellish the perfect proportions and flowing four-door coupe shape. Inside, the Audi S5 Sportback offers a brilliant blend of comfort and sportiness. A flat-bottomed steering wheel, sporty front seats and Alcantara leather upholstery set the tone for the cabin. Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, an updated MMI system and a panoramic glass sunroof are amongst other highlights inside. A heads-up display and a 19 speaker, 755W Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound system with 3D sound are optional upgrades available to buyers. At the heart of the Audi S5 Sportback is a 3.0-litre TFSI engine with direct and indirect fuel injection, turbo-charging, and Audi valvelift, putting out 354 hp and 500 Nm of torque. All this power is sent to all four wheels via Quattro permanent all-wheel drive, with a self-locking differential, and propels the car to 100 km/h in a quick 4.8 seconds. Mr Dhillon further added, “With the introduction of new products, we focus on customer delight across segments. Our sales in tier-II and III cities are also growing, and we expect it to pick up further during the year. 2021 is an exciting year for Audi India, and customers will be thrilled with what lies ahead for the brand Audi. All I can say at this moment is, stay tuned for lots of action in the coming months!” Customers can visit the official website and experience the Audi S5 Sportback in Augmented Reality. Through Augmented Reality and the 360-degree product visualiser, customers can view the inside and outside of the Audi S5 Sportback and book it online from the comfort of their home or register their interest at the nearest Audi India dealership. Potential customers and enthusiasts also get access to features including Augmented Reality, placement of test drive requests, product brochures, and service cost calculators, amongst other things, on the latest version of the ‘myAudi Connect’ App. Exterior Design: Effortless grace and intelligent design
Large surfaces, sharp edges, an exciting play of light and shadow – the exterior design of the S5 embodies the progressive Audi design language.
Striking shoulder line arches dynamically above the wheel housing.
The wide, low single-frame grille features three-dimensional aluminium struts and is flanked by standard Matrix LED headlights.
U-shaped clasps structure large, pentagonal air inlets, partly filled with honeycomb grilles and separate openings, allowing direct airflow into the wheel housing for improved aerodynamics.
Exterior mirrors have aluminium-look housing, and the powerfully contoured side sills are particularly eye-catching.
The Audi S5 Sportback has a spoiler integrated into the luggage compartment lid. LED rear lights with dynamic turn signals are standard.
There is a choice of eight paint finishes, including Turbo Blue, Daytona Gray, and Tango red.
The 48.26 cm, five double-arm S-style Graphite Gray alloys and optional red brake callipers add to the sportiness of the Audi S5 Sportback.
Users can select an optional black styling package to make the Audi S5 Sportback stand out even more. Interior design: Style and functionality
Horizontal lines characterise the design. A wide band of air vents, an elegant air conditioning panel, and a large decorative surface define the instrument panel layout.
The large glass panoramic sunroof provides a glorious view of the sky from inside the car.
Electrically adjustable front Sports seats with driver-side memory are standard.
Seat coverings are available in a leather/Alcantara combination, and you can choose from the Black and Rotor Gray colours.
The illuminated door sill strips, the sport leather flat-bottom steering wheel with multifunction plus, and the clasp on the Tiptronic selector lever bear the S logo with a red rhombus.
The pedal caps and footrest are stainless steel; the inlays are made of matt-brushed aluminium with additional options to choose from.
Contour Ambient lighting that you can control and choose from 30 different colours.
The S5 Sportback features 3-zone automatic air conditioning as standard.
Controls and infotainment: Well-connected and informed
The MMI system onboard the S5 model offers a highly modern control logic.
Features an intelligent free-text search function and a voice control function that recognises inputs from everyday speech.
Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus offers a fully digital instrument cluster for the flexible and need-based display of information relevant to the driver.
Innovative, fully digital 31.24 cm instrument cluster in full HD resolution, Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus comes with three customisable view modes: Sport, S performance & Dynamic.
The optional heads-up display projects essential data onto the windshield as symbols and digits.
The infotainment system is modular, with MMI navigation plus MMI touch and a 25.65 cm monitor topping the infotainment range.
Audi Sound system is standard and can be upgraded to Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound system with a 3D sound with 19 speakers with a maximum of 755W.
Smart features:
The Audi smartphone interface helps you get easy access to your phone system, navigation, music, and third-party apps via the MMI touch display or smartphone.
The optionally available Audi Park Assist works in tandem with the Parking System to identify suitable bay and kerb-sized parking spaces using ultrasonic sensors. While the driver accelerates and changes gears, the system automatically steers the vehicle during parking.
Optional Comfort Key with sensor-controlled luggage compartment release.
Driving Dynamics: 3.0 TFSI: Firepower
The 3.0 TFSI, V6 petrol engine, uses turbocharging and a combination of direct injection and indirect injection for best efficiency and performance.
The output is 354 hp (260 kW), and 500 Nm of torque is available between 1,370 and 4,500 rpm.
A sporty exhaust note provides a fitting soundtrack
The start-stop system helps reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by switching the engine off when the vehicle is stationary. Users can deactivate the system at any time via a button.
The eight-speed Tiptronic: lightning-fast and smooth
The 3.0 TFSI transmits its power to a lightning-fast and smooth-shifting eight-speed Tiptronic transmission system.
Lower gears feature short, sporty ratios, while the upper gears are long enough to reduce revs and fuel consumption.
Let the torque converter automatic transmission work independently, or one can choose to switch to manual for more control.
Shift sequence and connection logic are optimised for the rapid development of traction.
Quattro permanent all-wheel drive and sporty suspension:
Self-locking centre differential with Quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system transfers power from the eight-speed Tiptronic to all four wheels.
Torque is typically distributed in a ratio of 40:60 between the front and rear axle.
S Sports Suspension is standard and can be upgraded to the sophisticated S Sports Suspension with Damper Control that contributes to the sporty driving dynamics of the Audi S5 Sportback.
The S Sports suspension with Damper Control comes with damper settings for more direct contact with the road and sportier handling.
Mercedes-Benz today launched the 2021 GLC in India with updates to connected car technology and better comfort and driving assistance. The ‘Mercedes me connect’ technology gets a host of additional feature enrichment. These feature enhancements in the 2021 GLC will help maintain its lead in the mid-size luxury SUV segment and offer customers a compelling choice in the form of a fully loaded, connected luxury SUV.
The 2021 GLC is available in both GLC 200 and GLC 220d variants and combines outstanding on and off-road driving characteristics with spaciousness, practicality and comfort. It is an illustration of excellent artisanship of high-quality materials, in combination with a classy and authentic design that attracts immediate attention. Targeted towards tech-savvy urban dwellers and adrenaline seekers, the GLC is one of the most suitable products for them. With 2021 GLC, Mercedes-Benz is introducing two new shades in the GLC colour palette. They are ‘Brilliant Blue’ and ‘High Tech Silver’.
Martin Schwenk, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India said, “The GLC has remained a key pillar of our SUV offence and has been the single highest-selling SUV in our portfolio last year. With 2021 GLC, we now offer a technology superior, feature enriched fully loaded mid-size SUV, which has raised the benchmark for tech, comfort and convenience in the segment significantly. The new intuitive Mmc technology, MBUX Telematics with Hey Mercedes and new features create a comfortable and best-in car experience. As a customer-centric brand, it remains our endeavour to constantly offer new products and technology that benefit the customers and create a delightful ownership experience. We are confident, with the technology and feature enrichment, the GLC will continue its customer preference and extend its lead in the premium mid-size SUV segment.”
Key feature and technology enrichments of the 2021 GLC:
All-digital Instrument Display:
The digital instrument display with a choice of styles like “Classic”, “Progressive” and “Sporty” provides information, which is important to the driver. The 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) display delivers a pin-sharp image, which is very easy to read in all light conditions. In all styles, the instrument display is divided into different areas. In each case, the driver can adjust these individually to suit their requirements using the various settings options. In this way, they always have a precise view of what is important to them while they are driving.
Front massage seats:
Introducing in its product portfolio, front massage seats make the journey all the more pleasant. Individually adjustable air chambers adjust just like a tailor-made suit. When you adjust the backrest bolsters so that they are particularly firm, it improves lateral support for sporty driving manoeuvres. The air chambers in the lumbar area can also alternately inflate and deflate, giving a massage with a pulsating effect. The massage functions are adjustable via the media display.
Parking Package with 360° camera:
Parking Assist with 360° camera makes it easier for the driver to manoeuvre effortlessly and park with precision. Thanks to the 360° camera the driver can have a view from every angle around the vehicle. The virtual bird’s-eye view is a smart way to show where the car stands. The combination of the reversing camera and three additional cameras provides the driver with all-round visibility: so you can see the surroundings in front of, alongside and behind your vehicle, on the media display.
Remote Engine Start
With the “Mercedes me” app on the phone, the customers can remotely start the engine, for air-conditioning before the start of their journey. Customers will also be able to track the location of the vehicle, remotely lock or unlock, remotely flash the headlamps, and use the horn to find it in the parking lot. Customers can also open or close windows and sunroof remotely from the app, set speed alerts for other users and enjoy a plethora of other connected services.
Featuring 2021 Mercedes me connect with Alexa, Google Home integration and Parking location on navigation system
Any conversation with Alexa promises to be more fun as the systems connect with customers Mercedes Benz via the cloud and provide a real-time update. This feature can be used from an Alexa Echo device set up at the home, office or also from phone’s Alexa App. Some examples that you can command, “Alexa, Ask Mercedes to lock the car” or “Alexa, Ask Mercedes to start the engine.” Or “Alexa, Ask Mercedes when is my service due?”
Google Home users can also use Google Home voice assistance with Mercedes me connect. Similarly, once the Mercedes me connect is linked to Google Home, you can start issuing commands like “Hey Google, ask Mercedes where is my car” or “Ok Google, ask Mercedes to remind me to buy flowers”
Another introduction is the new Parking solution POIs (Points of interest) across different parts of the cities. One can easily spot a parking lot with the help of the vehicle’s navigation system or even with the maps section on the Mercedes me App.
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé has been launched in a new petrol variant in India. Introduced in an attractive “M Sport” package, the new BMW 220i is locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai. It is available at dealerships today onwards in addition to the two existing diesel variants.
Mr Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW India continues to expand its product range as per evolving trends in the luxury car segment. We believe in offering the power of choice when it comes to fulfilling the mobility needs and desires of BMW enthusiasts.
Designed with a focus on performance and sportiness, the new BMW 220i M Sport demonstrates a powerful uniqueness that suits the requirements of motorsport fans. With the dynamics of a petrol engine, first-class driving characteristics and the highest comfort, ‘Sheer Driving Pleasure’ is guaranteed every time.”
The BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 280 Nm at 1350-4600 rpm. The car accelerates from 0-100 km/hr in just 7.1 seconds.
The eight-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission comes with shift paddles on the steering wheel. The quick-shift control has been updated once again in the interest of rapid manual gear changes. The long seventh gear keeps revs low, helping to cut fuel consumption when out of town or on the motorway.
The transmission can also allow the car coast in neutral in certain situations, while a special low-viscosity oil brings about a further reduction in CO2 emissions.
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé seamlessly transfers the elegant aesthetics of its larger stablemates. The exterior embodies a modern and athletic design with precise lines and sculpted surfaces creating a fascinating interplay of light and shade.
The standout characteristic is its stretched silhouette, four frameless doors and prominent shoulders with a side taper at the C-pillar which gives it a sporty, low and broad-set stance. Slightly angled full-LED headlights form the prominent BMW four-eyed face and draw attention to the BMW kidney grille, giving a fresh interpretation of the classic BMW icons.
The full-LED taillights extend into the centre of the rear end and provide an all-new take on the familiar BMW ‘L’ shape with a single slim light element and a distinctive sweep to the side.
Despite its sporty appearance, the interior is designed to accentuate cabin spaciousness and the driver-focused cockpit with exquisite materials. The newly designed Sport Seats with electrical memory function offer greater long-distance comfort.
The elegant coupé form with generous cabin space welcomes the rear passengers with easy entry and ample knee room. Adding to the sense of space is the standard large panorama glass sunroof. The large 430 litres luggage compartment can be expanded by folding down the 40/20/40 split rear seat backrest.
The rear seat can be folded down completely to create more space. The illuminated trim, segment-first, retains a normal appearance in daylight but functions as decorative lighting elements with a space-shaping effect in the dark. Ambient lighting with six dimmable designs creates an atmosphere for every mood.
The car has front-wheel-drive architecture in which the engine is positioned transversely, thereby saving space without compromising on the driving dynamics.
To reduce understeering, an ARB technology (actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation system) works in combination with DSC (Driving Stability Control). The BMW Performance Control system increases the stability of the car by targeting the braking of the wheels.
BMW 220d Model M Sport
The BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four-cylinder petrol engine produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 280 Nm at 1350-4600 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km/hr in just 7.1 seconds.
The BMW TwinPower Turbo diesel engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offers spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine of the BMW 220d produces an output of 190 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km/hr in just 7.5 seconds.
The eight-speed Steptronic sport automatic transmission performs smooth, almost imperceptible gearshifts. At any time, in any gear, the transmission collaborates perfectly with the engine, enabling it to develop its full power and efficiency.
For even greater driving pleasure, it comes with steering wheel paddle shifters and cruise control with braking functions. Using Launch Control, ambitious drivers can achieve maximum acceleration with optimized traction from a standstill. Using the Driving Experience Control switch, the driver is able to choose between different driving modes to suit the driving conditions – ECO PRO, Comfort and Sport.
A host of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies continue to break the innovation barrier in the automotive industry. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes 3D Navigation, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display behind the steering wheel and a 10.25-inch Control Display.
The occupants can operate several car functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. Hands do the talking with BMW Gesture Control, which recognizes six pre-defined hand movements for control of many functions. The smartphone holder integrated into the centre console allows inductive, Wireless Charging for mobile phones.
Parking Assistant with Rear View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier. The Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering. Wireless Apple CarPlay ensures seamless smartphone connection with the car to access several functions.
BMW 220d Model M Sport
BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission, Auto Start-Stop, Brake-Energy Regeneration, Electronic Power Steering, 50:50 Weight Distribution and ECO PRO mode in Driving Experience Control.
BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, ARB technology (actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation system), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.
Lamborghini Squadra Corse presents the SC20, a unique specimen of an open-top track car type-approved for road use. The SC20 is the second one-off engineered by the motorsport department and designed by Centro Stile in Sant’Agata Bolognese: the car was created following the customer’s wishes, who was involved in the project from the very first drawings by Lamborghini’s designers.
The common goal was to build a unique vehicle, extreme in its design and performance, and able to combine aerodynamic solutions taken from racing Lamborghinis incorporating unprecedented lines and exclusive details. “Two years after the SC18 Alston, the SC20 was a new, intriguing challenge. The chief sources of inspiration were the Diablo VT Roadster, Aventador J, Veneno Roadster and Concept S, and the result is a dramatic combination of creativity and racing attitude,” commented Mitja Borkert, Head of Design Lamborghini Centro Stile.
The carbon fibre body was polished and slicked down by hand by the Lamborghini aerodynamic engineers to deliver optimal airflow for both performance and the cockpit’s occupants, ensuring comfortable open-air driving even at high speeds. Two fins frame the pronounced front splitter, and the air intakes on the front hood are inspired by those of the Huracán GT3 EVO, while the sculpted body sides reflect the solutions adopted on the Essenza SCV12. The muscular rear is topped by a large carbon fibre wing that can be set in three different positions: Low, Medium and High Load.
The SC20 features exclusive details starting from the body colours on a Bianco Fu (white) base, created for the customer, on which the Blu Cepheus (blue) livery stands out. The same shade is found in the interior, alternating with Nero Cosmus (black) and Bianco Leda (white). The most significant element of the passenger compartment is the visible carbon fibre used for the dashboard cover, rear wall, door panels, centre console and steering wheel trim, in addition to the monocoque. ‘
Carbon fibre is also used for the shells of the seats upholstered in Alcantara and leather. The door handles, on the other hand, are machined from solid aluminium. Lastly, the air vents are created using 3D printing technology at the Sant’Agata Bolognese factory.
Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer of Automobili Lamborghini, stated, “The SC20 is a combination of sophisticated engineering, Italian craftsmanship, sportiness and advanced design. It is also an example of applying our V12 engine and carbon fibre to a radical open-top vehicle that unmistakably carries the Lamborghini DNA.”
Its engine is based on Lamborghini’s flagship V12: the 6,498 cc, naturally aspirated twelve-cylinder that delivers 760 bhp at 8,500 rpm and develops 720 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm. It is managed through the optimized seven-speed Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) gearbox. The power is discharged to the ground by the four-wheel-drive system with central electronic differential, and the Pirelli PZero Corsa tires are mounted on single-nut aluminium rims, 20 inches in front and 21 inches at the rear.
Giorgio Sanna, Head of Lamborghini Motorsport, commented, “The SC20 is one more technical and styling exercise that associates Squadra Corse experience with Lamborghini design, masterfully interpreted by our Centro Stile based on the customer’s wishes, which was the focus of the project during the entire vehicle development and construction process.”
When you get a car like the first-ever M8 Coupe, for a couple of days, what do you do? You plan a short trip. Hence we zeroed in on Alibaug since the M2M ferry ride with the M8 was an exciting proposition, and we had an invitation from my friend Devita Saraf who owns Vu Televisions for her 85-inch Armani clad TV launch. They called and she promised me we could shoot anywhere in the artistic villa where the launch was taking place. Just like you are always in search of water in the desert, we are forever looking for backdrops, clean roads to drive, and something new. So this kind of invitation was tempting and we booked our seats on the M2M ferry. But we didn’t read the finer lines, unfortunately (more of that later.) The M8 is such an exclusive car that when you go to book online amongst the choices of cars under BMW, it has everything including M2 but not M8! Anyway, the ferry starts at 7.30 am from Mumbai to Mandwa [ port of Alibaug] and you have to reach 30 mins earlier. That’s what we missed and then we tossed a coin and chose heads to take the roads, and heads it was. As they say, when you start your voyage, you do not return unfinished. Later, we realized the pathetic state of roads towards Alibaug will test our manoeuvring skills and mind control to the fullest and we had to pull over, measure the craters and anticipate the ground clearance with our imaginary inch tape, step back inside and glide over it, without any ground touches that is. Imagine when you are strapped inside a machine that has 600 horses under it and you are driving at 15-20 kmph for a bad patch of stretch, you will just be cursing heavens up for everything. This makes me give the judgment that the ground clearance of M8 which is 128 mm (About 5 inches) and is lesser than the Lamborghini Huracan Evo RWD which is 135mm, but slightly higher than the Ferrari Portofino which is 120 mm can surprisingly make its way through our specially pothole-riddled Indian roads. And they say supercars are not practical!
First impressions:
Now let’s get the context: in 10-20 years when roads will be silently driven by the onslaught of electric cars, some cars will bring internal combustion engines (ICE) back from the grave. One of them is the BMW M8 Coupe. 600 HP and 750 Nm torque makes it a complete animal and also the most expensive BMW M car in the market. The M8 Coupe is a car that rides beautifully, offers plenty of usabilities, and is technically super-skilled, but still, it doesn’t thrill me as much as the 5-bench, more practical Audi RS 7 Sportback did. But there is something about the M8 that mesmerizes you and goes beyond its shortcomings especially the rear two seats. The Exhaust noise which is an aural delight and the way it is designed, it’s a stunner of a machine, which on roads gets the “neck swivelled” attention. Also, the RS 7 has a ground clearance of 109 mm, which means there would be a bloodbath with underbelly scraped by the rough patch underneath and we could have been putting stones and sand on the roads to Alibaug. The M8 Coupe is available in the country as a completely built-up unit. The vehicle body looks more powerful, refined, and luscious with the sportiness that is typical to BMW. It is the petrol variant in the M8 lineup and is priced at ₹2.15 Crore (ex-showroom). So, if you want to buy an M8 Coupe, double-check on your accounts and obligations and don’t ever drive it to the Income-tax office which you can do with the Audi RS 7 Sportback and keep it parked there and silently gallop to 0-100 in 3.6 seconds. The M8 can do that in 3.3 seconds but won’t be a silent process.
The design:
The M8’s muscular lines are broad enough to threaten all the cars from the highway, at 4,867 mm long and 1,907 mm wide, it’s quite a large coupe, and yes, it’s weighty- 1,955 kg; it has aggressive bumpers, two exhaust pipes, new alloy wheels, and the version we were given had 20-inch profile tyres, normal is 19inch. The large, extended hood and tight-fitting roof raise its charm and grab your attention. It is available in Automatic (Torque Converter) transmission and offered in 6 colours. Gray being the most boring until you step on the pedal. It has a small number of precisely drawn lines and sweeping surfaces which is modern and aerodynamic. The slim twin LED headlights on either side of the BMW kidney grille, encapsulate the focused look reminiscent of BMW stablemates past and present.
The athletically sculpted rear wheel arches and flared shoulders flow into a powerful rear end, whose width is emphasized by vertically stacked reflectors. On the rear, there are trademark quad-pipes of all full-M models and a gloss black rear overskirt.
Inside the M8:
The interior design is a harmonious blend of racing flair and luxury ambience. The M8’s every little part is luxurious as you’d expect from a 2-Crore car. But it will also remind you that the newly launched 2 series also has the same interiors and the instrument cluster, which is where I have a problem. In a flagship car, you need flagship interiors and not homogenous interiors which cut across all range of cars. Period.
In trademark M style, there are red strokes on the start/stop button and the M leather steering wheel’s M buttons. The interior also features an eye-catching cutout with integrated “waterfall” lighting for additional emphasis. The standard interior trim strips in Carbon Fibre also accentuate the high-performance models’ sportscar feel.
The M Sport seats, M leather steering wheel, M specific displays in the instrument cluster, and ergonomically optimized arrangement of all controls give the driver everything they need to enjoy an exciting driving experience. An interactive head-up display and a 12.3-inch device cluster; While the dual-zone climate control, an easy-to-use 10.25-inch infotainment screen, and Harman Kardon 16-speaker audio system will keep you smiling. Apple CarPlay, No Android – Again strange, SiriusXM with HD Radio, a 32GB drive, two USB ports, and WiFi with voice-activated navigation is available as standard. Bowers & Wilkins Diamond surround sound system is optionally available only with the flagship model, which is the one we had.
It has only 6 colours of ambient lighting, and none of them suits its two-tone interior. The position of the USB cable port is a little bit awkward when the USB is connected with some other device, it’s not easy to get your phone back from the wireless charging pad, it snugs most of the time.
The M Mode button on the centre console making its debut in the new BMW M8 Coupe can be used to alter both the responses of the driver assistance systems and the information shown in the instrument cluster and Head-Up Display. A simple press of the M Mode button engages the SPORT setting, in which the active driver assistance systems now can transmit alerts on speed limits and overtaking restrictions.
The digital drive display is not visually clear and sometimes you miss the much-needed information because of its dark tone nature and satellite navigation is not as accurate as google maps and it can lead you to unwanted roads.
Seats:
The M8 technically has four seats, but the rear seats are supremely compromised by the slanted roofline, and a wheelbase shorter than the old M6. Alcantara and leather encapsulate all occupants, but those in the rear would prefer to sit in an Audi RS 7, and it would look like a limousine in comparison. No legroom and headroom; it’s best for toddlers or pre-teens at best! Meanwhile, the front seats are magical, the driver and front-seat passenger will have a roomy cabin space adorned with extrinsic elements and ambient lighting.
Getting in and out of the front seats is easy, indeed for the driver, as the steering wheel will automatically elevate itself out of the way of your knees when you unlock the door or shut off the engine. Sweet.
The Boot:
It offers 420 litres of boot space and comes along with Automatic tailgate operation of the tailgate as standard. The trunk in the M8 is simply huge for this class and can swallow a pair of suitcases. In the cabin, the glovebox will easily contain a few necessary things, and the door cards can fit a couple of water bottles. There are a pair of cupholders in the centre console and another two slots in the back seating area.
Performance- It’s a wild child:
The M8’s 4.4-litre V8 is identical to the one found in the M5, and a development of the motor from the M850i, housing a pair of turbochargers within the V of the engine’s banks, improving responsiveness and shortening consumption and exhaust piping. The first-ever model draws the potential for its outstanding performance from the most powerful engine. The high-revving V8 unit with M TwinPower Turbo technology develops 441 kW/600 HPin the all-new BMW M8 Coupe, with 600 HP, acceleration in any gear, at any speed, is powerful and smooth. The high and rich performance power unit teams up with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, and the engine’s power is channelled to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The default mode in the M8 is the four-wheel-drive, which is good for maximum traction and control driving, but the four-wheel-drive sport mode turns M8 into a more wicked car. Here, the system transfers the maximum slice of the engine power to the rear wheels and which is what you need for control drifting, but when you deactivate the DCS mode that’s when it allows you to convert this into a ballistic rear-wheel-drive and converts the M8 into a monster.
The usual M8 also features dynamic damper control to soak up road imperfections and pockmarks, brake drying for increased wet-weather stopping power, brake-fade compensation, and cornering brake control systems alongside a standard active differential that takes more than just available grip into account to get the big-body coupe through turns more efficiently.
The engine stock is distributed between the front and the rear wheels, and it is fully variable using the transfer case electronically controlled multi-plate clutch before the active m differential splits it again between the two rear wheels as appropriate. It’s a four-wheel-drive, a rear-wheel-drive, and front-wheel-drive all rolled into one for a better drift, glide, and rev.
The new chassis technology clubbed with BMW M xDrive offers the variable distribution of the drive torque between the front and rear wheels. It also helps in optimized friction and driving durability depending on road surfaces. Overall, this is a brilliant and spacious powerboat, just not an analogue sprinter, and can manage Indian roads better than the RS 7.
The Last Words:
The First-Ever M8 Coupe is an exciting package, you can only have it with other cars in your garage and not just the solo one. It scores over the RS 7 on ground clearance and performance on road and is quicker than the RS 7 with an exhaust noise which is an aural delight. But the RS 7 is a practical performance car, 5-bench and you can just have one car parked in your garage and live your daily life.
BMW India has announced the launch of the all-new BMW X5 M Competition in India. The supremely powerful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is designed and engineered to offer unrivalled performance and signature attributes of BMW M. The all-new BMW X5 M Competition is now available across BMW dealerships in the country as a completely built-up unit (CBU).
The hallmark BMW M design and striking exterior features lend to an extrovert appearance exuding supreme authority in any environment. It has an immediately recognizable large front bumper air intake openings to feed additional air to the coolers. It features both a roof and lower tailgate spoiler as part of their aerodynamic enhancements. The car features exclusive ‘M’ light-alloy wheels in a 21-inch format at the front axle and 22-inch at the rear with Star-spoke style 809 ‘M’ Bi-color. The optional BMW Laserlight offers selective beam and no dazzling high beam function with a range of around 500 meters.
The interior cockpit design draws inspiration from the racetrack and combines it with impressive spaciousness and luxurious flair. The classy, contemporary style of the cabin is complemented by displays and controls with the familiar M treatment – the bespoke M controls and the red splashes of colour adorning the M leather steering wheel’s M buttons help the driver to dial fully into the dynamic driving experience. The integrated headrests on the M multifunction seats offer electric adjustments, head restraint height, thigh support, backrest and angle plus pneumatic lumbar support. Hands-free Comfort Access facilitates easy loading and unloading of luggage. The all-new BMW X5 M Competition features a 12.3-inch Multifunction Display touchscreen, iDrive Touch Controller, multifunction steering wheel’s buttons, the voice control feature along-with the optional BMW Gesture Control. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a navigation system and the BMW Virtual Assistant is offered as standard. It also gets wireless charging and Harman Kardon Surround Sound System. Interior ambience can be enhanced further by opting for Panorama Glass Roof Sky Lounge, Acoustic glazing and Ambient Air Package. The optionally available Rear Seat Entertainment Professional and Bowers and Wilkins Diamond surround sound system produces a superior entertainment experience. High-quality options from BMW Individual create a bespoke character with exclusive paintwork and interior trims.]
Mr Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “BMW M is driven by a single-minded passion for creating authentic motorsport functionality with everyday usability. The all-new BMW X5 M Competition inherits this DNA and heralds a new dimension in the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment. It is a sublime mix of exclusive ‘M’ elements, an imposing thirst for forwarding progress, supreme power, captivating presence and an ultra-modern interior that epitomizes luxury. The powerful V8 engine and an array of comfort and safety features promise a unique, sporty and exclusive driving experience. The all-new BMW X5 M Competition fulfils the highest customer expectations, not only for agility, dynamics and power but also the expression of individuality.”
The latest-generation V8 engine stands out with its high revving character and unmistakable performance of the M TwinPower Turbo technology with a racetrack-proven cooling system. With a maximum output of 460 kW/600 hp at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 750 Nm between 1,800 – 5,600 rpm, the all-new BMW X5 M Competition sprints from 0-100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and achieve a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The high-performance engine teams up with the latest version of the 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. The transmission adjusts from smooth to aggressive with the three-stage Drivelogic shifting system. The steering wheel paddle shifters, cruise control with braking function as standard and launch control function offers even greater driving pleasure. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system and Active M Differential ensure extremely dynamic on-road performance and masterful off-road ability.
The M-specific chassis always ensures precise handling. The M-specific adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers, active roll stabilization system and M Servotronic steering support sporty driving along with high comfort levels on long journeys. ‘M’ compound brakes offer outstanding stopping power. The integrated braking system developed for BMW M models offers two settings for brake pedal feel – COMFORT and SPORT.
The M Mode button on the centre console features a TRACK mode in addition to ROAD and SPORT mode settings, which is exclusively designed for use on race circuits. In SPORT / TRACK mode, the amount of information appearing in the displays is reduced offering a focused, high-performance experience.
The vehicle is loaded with cutting edge BMW Safety technologies such as front, side and head airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including ‘M’ Dynamic Mode, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control, Dry Braking function, Cruise Control with braking function along with Collision and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function. As a part of the standard package, Adaptive LED headlights, High Beam Assistant and Parking Assistant with Reversing Assistant. M-specific display content can also be shown on BMW Head-Up Display, projecting driving information onto the windscreen and right into the driver’s immediate field of vision. Comfort and safety can be enhanced by opting to Driving Assistant Professional package that provides Steering and lane control assistant, the Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection, the Lane Change Assistant, the Evasion Assistant, the Emergency Stop Assistant and the Crossroads warning, Wrong-way warning and Front Cross Traffic Alert systems.
The all-new BMW X5 M Competition combines high-performance power with the versatility of an SAV. Its unique attributes combine with the renowned prowess of the BMW X range to bring an even greater degree of dominance, fueled by performance and visual appearance.
The ex-showroom price of the all-new BMW X5 M Competition is Rs 1,94,90,000.
The purest concentration of Squadra Corse’s motorsports prowess, drawn from Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo EVO and GT3 EVO racecars, in a street-homologated super sports car.
Unique Lamborghini lightweight solution with superior aerodynamics and race car engineering.
Power of 640BHP and 565 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, weight to power ratio of 2.09 kg/hp, acceleration from 0-100km/h in 3.0 seconds, braking 100 km/h-0 in 30.0 meters, 200 km/h-0 in 110.0 meters, with the dynamic pace and handling to deliver lap records.
Automobili Lamborghini presents the Lamborghini Huracán STO – Super Trofeo Omologata: a road-homologated super sports car inspired by the racing heritage of Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s one-make race series with Huracán Super Trofeo EVO, as well as its three-time 24 Hours of Daytona-winning and two-time 12 Hours of Sebring winning Huracán GT3 EVO.
With its V10 naturally aspirated 640 hp (470 kW) power plant producing 565 Nm at 6,500 rpm, the rear-wheel-drive Huracán STO delivers exhilarating acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 3.0 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 310 km/h. However, its heart beats with the exhilaration and emotion of a racecar. Superior aerodynamic efficiency, extensive use of lightweight materials, unfettered steering and first-class braking performance, ensure the Huracán STO delivers the emotion of a track experience on every road drive.
“The Huracán STO is the purest incarnation of Lamborghini Squadra Corse heritage, directly transferring technologies from the Huracán Super Trofeo EVO and drawing on the Huracán GT3 EVO’s unique accomplishment of winning three consecutive times in the Daytona 24 hours,” said Automobili Lamborghini Chairman and CEO, Stefano Domenicali. Maurizio Reggiani, Chief Technical Officer added: “The Huracán STO delivers all the excitement of a beautifully balanced, lightweight and aerodynamically superior super sports car, mirroring the driving feeling and exhilaration of Super Trofeo, and perfectly set up for the world’s most demanding tracks but created for the road. The extensive technical solutions and intelligence gained from both our Super Trofeo and GT3 programs have been refined and embodied in the Huracán STO, allowing the pilot to experience the emotions of a racing driver, daily, in a road-legal Lamborghini super sports car able to take lap records.”
Aerodynamic and lightweight superiority in super sports car design
The Huracán STO sports an entirely new exterior design, revising its inimitable Lamborghini profile to optimize airflow. Mitja Borkert, Head of Design, says: “Racing cars are always a strong inspiration for our design. The Huracán STO exquisitely reflects the technology transfer from our successful Huracán race cars, displayed in every aesthetic detail.”
The front bonnet, fenders and the front bumper are comprised of one single component: the ‘cofango’ created by Lamborghini engineers combines the ‘cofano’ (hood) and ‘parafango’ (fender) including the front bumper, inspired by the Lamborghini Miura and more recent Sesto Elemento. It is not only lightweight but also a timesaving access feature in motorsports.
New air ducts on the front bonnet increase the airflow through the central radiator to improve engine cooling as well as helping generate downforce. The cofango also incorporates a new front splitter, directing airflow to the newly designed underbody of the car and to the rear diffuser. The cofango is shaped to push the airflow on top of the front fenders, which incorporate louvres to maximize airflow exiting from the wheelhouse, reducing pressure inside and increasing the front downforce. The side profile of the cofango directs airflow around the front wheels, reducing drag.
A new rear fender derived from the Super Trofeo EVO achieves both reduction of the front area of the car and consequently the drag while increasing rear downforce and the car’s overall aerodynamic efficiency. A NACA air intake integrated into the STO’s rear fender serves as an engine air intake, with the shortened duct allowing a 30% decrease in static pressure losses. The revised rear hood design features an integrated air scoop to improve air-cooling at the rear underhood. Dedicated air deflectors, integrated into the rear bonnet’s frame, manage the significant incoming airflow from the snorkel according to the temperature regulation needs of the engine and exhaust out. An integrated ‘shark fin’ on the rear bonnet improves the dynamic abilities of the STO, particularly when cornering.
A manual, easily adjusted aero set-up of the new rear wing optimizes aerodynamic balance and drag resistance according to track characteristics. A single slotted wing with double airfoil allows the front part of the airfoil to rotate into three positions to enhance rear downforce. By reducing the gap between the front and rear airfoil, compression is increased on the upper side, upping the suction intensity and extension on the bottom of the front airfoil. The aero balance of the car can thus fluctuate by 13%, adapting the STO to different driving styles and conditions.
The Huracán STO incorporates a windscreen 20% lighter than the Huracán Performante, and features magnesium rims for the highest strength-to-weight ratio, saving further weight over aluminium alloys with the same load factor. The magnesium rims are fitted with bespoke Bridgestone Potenza tires, available in two versions: one road-focused, the other more track-oriented.
Three new driving modes exemplify the Huracán STO’s racing spirit, focused on high performance driving environments: STO, Trofeo and Pioggia. The default STO mode is for road driving and fun on curving roads. Every aspect of the Lamborghini Veicolo Dinamica Integrata (LDVI) vehicle dynamics system is optimized for all road conditions and coupled with a road-oriented suspension setting. The fully active ESC can be switched off for maximum driving fun while still supporting the driver.
The Huracán STO interior – designed for a purpose
The interior of the Huracán STO reflects the lightweight persona of the exterior: extensive use of carbon fibre features throughout the cockpit, including sports seats in full carbon fibre; an Alcantara interior with Lamborghini’s Carbon skin; carpets removed and replaced by floor mats in carbon fibre; and the full-carbon fibre lightweight door panels with a door latch as an opener. A rear arch with four-point seatbelts and a newly designed front trunk for helmet storage, underline the Huracán STO’s racing DNA.
New Human Machine Interface (HMI) graphics feature on the Huracán’s touch screen, which manages the car’s functions including drive mode indicator, the LDVI system, tire pressures and brake temperatures. A fully connected telemetry system allows pilots driving their Huracán STO on racetracks to monitor and record their performance and to analyze the data via the Lamborghini UNICA app.
Owners of the Huracán STO can fully personalize both the exterior and interior of their race car on-the-road via a rich Ad Personam personalization program, with limitless paint and trim combinations as well as race-style vinyl. The concept of a personalized livery is inherent in the design of the Huracán STO, just as Huracán Super Trofeo race cars line up in their unique colours and designs on the starting grid. The launch livery of Blu Laufey and Arancio California exemplifies the Huracán STO’s young and sporty racing spirit.
The first customers will take delivery of the new Lamborghini Huracán STO in spring 2021 and Lamborghini is expected to reveal prices around that time.
A flying car: Something that fans of The Jetsons and tech freaks have always been pining for. After all the fantasizing and day-dreaming, finally, it is one step closer to reality. The AirCar, an experimental prototype by KleinVision has recently taken its maiden flight!
Developed by the aforementioned KleinVision, which is a Slovakian company founded by Stefan Klein, the AirCar is predominantly built from advanced composite materials that were produced by the certified Slovak company SKMODEL, s.r.o. All construction parts were manufactured meeting the highest quality standards using high-tech methods. It was tested successfully at Nitra airport in October 2019.
To test a number of aerodynamic and flight control characteristics predicted by digital simulation and analyses, a Flight Demonstrator Testbed (FDT), a model in the scale 1:1, had been built and used in flight mode. All the results measured and observed with the FDT confirmed the theoretical predictions. Currently, the FDT has been donated to and is displayed in the Aviation Museum in Košice.
The AirCar comprises several functional units. Its aerodynamic fuselage provides enough space for the passengers and simultaneously contributes to better lift characteristics during the flight. Among advanced technologies are retractable wings, folding tail surfaces, and a parachute deployment system, among others. The folding tail surfaces contribute to better longitudinal stability and take-off characteristics, just like in a conventional aircraft. However, in the car mode, the retracted tail results in a more compact size.
A fully functional flying of the AirCar prototype has been developed, from an initial idea to final product in the experimental category within 18 months. Experimental categories support the complete research and verification of all technical and design tasks.
Simulation methods and design optimization have been used throughout the entire R&D stage. A simulation, based on the CFD analyses was carried out at VUT Brno in close cooperation with experts in aerodynamics. The team has performed extensive analyses using state-of-the-art simulation methods such as FEM to achieve the best overall outcome. The load and stress calculations were conducted by Dalibor Vlček, MSc., who also contributed with his experience gained while acting as a Compliance Verification Engineer within several projects overseen by EASA.
The AirCar prototype is currently subject to intense ground and flight tests in the experimental category since October 2019. The flying prototype of AirCar was introduced to the general public on November 5, 2019, at CIIE in Shanghai, China. Thorough testing will continue in the next months to come. Variations of two engines will be included in the tests, along with an amphibious version.
Though there is no news of the official launch of the AirCar in the Indian or international market, its research is expected to conclude soon, which will lead to the initiation of its commercial production.
