The new ŠKODA Karoq: the successful model gets an update

by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

• Evolved ŠKODA design language delivers a more striking look
• Slimmer headlights with full-LED Matrix technology for the first time
• Improved aerodynamics and lower CO₂ emissions
• Sustainable materials and more comfort features inside
• Efficient engines from the EVO generation
• State-of-the-art assistance systems and infotainment

Four years after its launch, the ŠKODA Karoq gets an update: the Czech carmaker has refreshed its second SUV model range to ensure its continued success.

In addition to an even more refined design language, the update brings sustainable materials, new technology and more efficient engines from the current EVO generation to the compact SUV. Surpassed only by the Octavia, the Kodiaq’s smaller brother was the second most delivered ŠKODA model worldwide in 2020, as well as in the first six months of 2021.

Thomas Schäfer, ŠKODA AUTO CEO, said: “With over half a million units sold, the Karoq is key to our brand’s success. To ensure that this will remain the case, we have developed it further: now sporting a fresher design and optimised aerodynamics along with state-of-the-art assistance systems and infotainment features. I am confident that this overall package will enable us to continue the Karoq’s success story.”

A fresh design, improved aerodynamics and sustainable materials in the interior
ŠKODA AUTO has continued to develop its design language for the revised Karoq, making the SUV look even more striking. The wider, now hexagonal ŠKODA grille, slimmer headlights as well as tail lights, and aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels with black plastic Aero trim create fresh visual highlights. The new wheels, rear window finlets and a new rear spoiler all improve the car’s aerodynamics while lowering its CO₂ emissions. The interior features new upholstery which, as an option, can be made from sustainable materials. New technology – such as full-LED Matrix headlights and an expanded range of assistance systems – also debuts in the range. Five efficient engines from Volkswagen Group’s EVO generation round off the Karoq’s update. Two diesels and three petrol engines deliver power outputs ranging from 81 kW (110 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS). The 2.0 TSI producing 140 kW is reserved for the Karoq SportLine with all‑wheel drive. The 2.0 TDI with an output of 110 kW is available with front- or all-wheel drive.

Launched in 2017, the Karoq was the Czech car manufacturer’s second SUV. Offering generous amounts of space, a high level of practicality and excellent value for money, it delivers on the brand’s promise. The Karoq is produced in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Russia and China, and available in 60 countries.

Exterior: striking front profile and redesigned lights

• Wider, hexagonal ŠKODA grille and new body-coloured rear spoiler
• Slimmer headlights now also available with optional full-LED Matrix technology
• Aerodynamically optimised alloy wheels with a diameter of 17 to 19 inches

More striking, more elongated and more aerodynamic: the updated Karoq is characterised by the refined ŠKODA SUV design language. As with other models by the Czech brand, it now sports a wider, hexagonal ŠKODA grille, which – together with the new front apron – makes the Karoq look more rugged. The headlights are slimmer, as are the tail lights, and feature a four-light cluster design, now also available with full-LED Matrix technology. A longer rear spoiler, a front apron with air curtains, aerodynamically optimised fuel tank undertrays and new alloy wheels with a diameter of 17, 18 or 19 inches help to reduce the car’s drag by more than 9% to a coefficient (c_d) of 0.30. This makes the Karoq one of the most aerodynamic cars in its segment.

Oliver Stefani, Head of ŠKODA Design, said: “The revised Karoq now comes across as much more self-assured. The wider, hexagonal ŠKODA grille and the new bumper make the front more stunning. In addition, the slimmer, newly arranged LED headlights with a four-light cluster design lend the car a more dynamic look. The redesigned tail lights emphasise this appearance, while the new rear spoiler makes the Karoq look longer.”

The restyled and sculptured bumper is body-coloured while the wide lower air inlet comes in a crystalline mesh-effect design. The L-shaped finishing touches on the sides accentuate the air curtains while a rugged, black-grained spoiler completes the front section. The air curtains direct the air through the sides of the front bumper as well as through the wheels, reducing air vortices and improving airflow. To reduce underbody drag, the all-wheel-drive Karoq now comes with aerodynamically optimised fuel tank undertrays, which also cover the rear axle.

Newly arranged, slimmer headlights with full-LED Matrix technology as an option
The significantly slimmer headlights extend to the ŠKODA grille. Redesigned daytime running lights, which are now split in two, further accentuate the car’s dynamic look. For the optional top‑end headlights, ŠKODA is offering full-LED Matrix technology for the Karoq for the first time. Here, two LED modules are arranged one above the other. They provide low beam and high beam, and create a distinct four-light cluster, particularly in driving mode in the dark. Even the entry-level Karoq comes with LED modules in the upper headlight as standard, with a separate fog light in the lower housing.

New rear apron and razor-sharp LED tail lights
The redesigned rear of the ŠKODA Karoq SportLine and SE L models is now adorned with an extended, body-coloured spoiler, which makes the vehicle look longer when viewed from the side. Together with side finlets, as seen in aircraft construction, the spoiler reduces air turbulence at the rear, improving the car’s aerodynamics and lowering its CO₂ emissions. The restyled rear apron is finished in body colour below the loading sill and the robust black plastic rear diffuser bears a striking sculptured shape. The ŠKODA designers have remodelled the Karoq’s tail lights too. They are now sharper and come with full-LED technology as standard. From the SE Drive trim level upwards, they feature dynamic indicators and an animated welcome effect. ŠKODA-typical design details include the crystalline structures and the brand’s signature C-shaped light cluster.

New Aero alloy wheels and two new colours
There is a choice of nine body colours for the updated ŠKODA Karoq, with the two metallic paint finishes Phoenix Orange and Graphite Grey making their debut in the range. Aerodynamics are improved by three new alloys: two of which – Scutus (17 inch) and optional Sagitarius (19 inch) – feature black plastic Aero trim that reduces air turbulence. The 18-inch Miram alloy is also aerodynamically optimised. The SE L trim level comes with the Scutus design as standard, while the Miram and Sagitarius Aero wheels are optional.

Two trim levels and a SportLine variant
The new ŠKODA Karoq is available in the SE Drive and SE L trim levels and as a SportLine variant. This model has a Black pack as standard, with gloss black roof rails and window frames. The new Karoq is 4,390 mm long and 1,841 mm wide. The front-wheel-drive features a wheelbase of 2,638 mm while the wheelbase of the all-wheel-drive measures 2,630 mm. The boot capacity is the same as in the previous model: 521 litres with the seats in their default position and 1,630 litres when folded down. With VarioFlex seats, the boot can hold 588 litres, or 1,605 litres with the rear seats folded down, and 1,810 litres with the rear seats removed.

Interior: more sustainability and additional comfort

• Eco pack with seat covers made of vegan, recycled materials
• Enhanced LED ambient lighting and optional electrically adjustable front passenger seat
• New decorative strips on the instrument panel and door trims

The interior of the updated Karoq is even more sustainable and comfortable. The new, optional Eco pack includes seat covers made of vegan and recycled materials, while the enhanced LED ambient lighting and new decorative strips on the instrument panel and door trims create new visual highlights. As an option, the front passenger seat can now also be adjusted electrically.

Oliver Stefani, Head of ŠKODA Design, said: “Thanks to the redesigned decorative trim and seat covers, the Karoq’s interior has a fresh, modern look and the car now also comes with additional comfort features. A special highlight is the new Eco pack, in which we focus on the use of vegan, recycled and reclaimed materials. The seat covers, for example, are made of disposed PET bottles.”

With the Eco pack, ŠKODA is offering a particularly sustainable specification for the revised Karoq: the seat covers include details that are made of vegan, leather-like materials, and the trim-specific armrests are made of Suedia (microsuede) – exclusively in Mocha Brown. The Nisha decorative trim on the doors features a soft surface, complementing the enhanced LED ambient lighting, which now illuminates the front as well as the rear door panels in one of ten colour options and the footwell in white. On request, this is also available as a stand-alone feature separate from the Eco pack. The SE Drive specification can be ordered with a ‘Unique Chrome’ trim on the instrument panel, while Piano Black trim can be found from the Karoq SE L upwards. The door panels now bear an Anodized Cross Line (SE Drive) or a soft-touch Linear Diamonds design (SE L). In the Karoq SportLine, the interior is characterised by door trims in a carbon look, sports seats with integrated headrests and a multifunction three-spoke sports steering wheel.

Increased comfort thanks to new functions of the seats
In addition to new decorative trims and upholstery, the revised ŠKODA Karoq offers increased passenger comfort. From the SE L specification upwards, electric adjustment including a memory function is available for the first time as an option for the front passenger seat. The built-in memory function saves personal settings and restores them at the touch of a button. Electrically adjustable lumbar support is also an option, allowing the front seats to be adapted to suit the driver and passenger preferences. The VarioFlex system is also available on request. This allows the three rows of seats to be divided in a ratio of 40:20:40.

Powertrains: EVO engines with lower fuel consumption and emissions

• Five advanced engines delivering 81 kW (110 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS) output
• All-wheel drive as standard for the most powerful petrol engine and optional for the range‑topping diesel
• Choice of 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG for three engines

The revised ŠKODA Karoq comes with a choice of five advanced and efficient EVO-generation engines from Volkswagen Group, which deliver an output from 81 kW (110 PS) to 140 kW (190 PS). With an injection pressure of up to 350 bar, the three TSI petrol engines are particularly efficient. The nitrogen oxides (No_x) emitted by the two diesels are significantly below the standards stipulated thanks to the ‘twin dosing’ exhaust gas treatment. ŠKODA offers the 2.0 TSI engine with an output of 140 kW (190 PS) exclusively in the Karoq SportLine in combination with 7-speed DSG and all-wheel drive. For the more powerful diesel, 4×4 and 7-speed DSG are available as options.

Johannes Neft, ŠKODA AUTO Board Member for Technical Development, said: “The current generation of our modern EVO engines have allowed us to make our cars more efficient while reducing their CO₂ and NO_x emissions. For the diesels, we apply a particularly effective ‘twin dosing’ exhaust gas treatment and for the petrol engines, we reduce fuel consumption by using high injection pressures, among other things. The current engines now develop their power much more harmoniously.”

ŠKODA Karoq engines at a glance:

*preliminary data

Highly efficient EVO engines and reduced emissions
ŠKODA AUTO has integrated a number of technical measures to make the current EVO-generation engines even more efficient and reduce their emissions. For the diesels, weight-optimised crankshafts and extensive modifications to the exhaust gas routing – as well as the turbo, injection and thermo-management systems – result in lower fuel consumption. In addition, the TDIs are equipped with a further developed SCR exhaust gas treatment system and two catalytic converters. Using what is known as ‘twin dosing’, AdBlue^® is injected in front of the two SCR catalytic converters that are positioned one after the other, reducing nitrogen oxide (NO_x) emissions to far below the required standards. As a result, the EVO-generation TSI petrol engines are more efficient than their predecessors. An injection pressure of up to 350 bar ensures lower hydraulic losses and a reduced fuel delivery rate. In the 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI engines, an innovative powder-coated layer measuring just 150 μm (0.15 mm) replaces cast-iron cylinder liners. This reduces internal friction, which lowers fuel consumption and emissions. Through better distribution and dissipation of heat in the combustion chamber, it also lowers the thermal load on the engine. Equipped with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), the 1.5 TSI automatically shuts down two cylinders when engine load is low, thereby further reducing fuel consumption.

Connectivity: digital instruments as standard and advanced infotainment

• Choice of two digital instrument clusters with an 8- or 10.25-inch display
• Four infotainment systems with touchscreens measuring up to 9.2 inches
• Permanent internet connection, ŠKODA Connect online services and infotainment apps

The ŠKODA Karoq’s connectivity features are state of the art: the SUV is equipped with systems from Volkswagen Group’s third-generation modular infotainment matrix and is always online thanks to a built-in eSIM. Infotainment apps provide weather forecasts and the latest news, and include calendar management. Every Karoq now comes with digital instruments: the 8-inch display is standard or there’s the option of a customisable 10.25-inch screen.

The Amundsen and Columbus infotainment systems are based on Volkswagen Group’s third-generation modular infotainment matrix. Thanks to a built-in eSIM, they offer digital DAB radio and are always online. The Amundsen system comes with an 8-inch screen and optionally receive web radio thanks to the permanent internet connection. The system can be operated via the touchscreen, the buttons and knurled wheels on the multifunction steering wheels, or through Laura, the digital voice assistant which, using online data, understands 15 languages. The range-topping Columbus system displays information on a 9.2-inch screen. Map and software updates are installed ‘over the air’.

Digital instrument cluster as standard
Following the model update, the ŠKODA Karoq is equipped with a digital instrument cluster as standard. The 8-inch display replaces the previous analogue instruments. From the SE Drive trim level upwards, the digital instrument cluster (or ‘Virtual Cockpit’ as it is also referred to) is available with a 10.25-inch display. This offers five basic layouts and can be configured individually.

Mobile ŠKODA Connect online services and infotainment apps
The Karoq provides access to a wide range of ŠKODA Connect mobile online services. The infotainment online services, for example, enable remote access to the vehicle via the MyŠKODA app. This allows the driver to lock and unlock their Karoq via a smartphone, display the car’s location on a map or activate the Honk & Flash function to make it easier to find the vehicle in a large car park. The online features in the new Karoq also include infotainment apps that display news and weather, and can connect a personal Google calendar to the vehicle. Smartphones can be paired with the car using Wireless SmartLink technology, Android Auto or Apple CarPlay and can also be inductively charged when placed in the optional Phone Box.

Safety: up to nine airbags and various assistance systems

• Park Assist, Trailer Assist and Area View increase comfort
• Travel Assist includes five to eight assistance systems
• Rear side airbags optional as part of the improved Crew Protect Assist feature

Improved assistance and safety systems as well as up to nine airbags ensure the best possible protection for all occupants in the ŠKODA Karoq. Travel Assist incorporates five to eight assistance systems, including Predictive Cruise Control, Adaptive Lane Assist and an improved version of Traffic Sign Recognition. The optional Crew Protect Assist system reacts to impending collisions to prevent an accident or minimise the severity of its consequences.

The Karoq’s occupants are protected by up to nine airbags. Driver and front passenger airbags are fitted as standard in the EU, as are front side airbags, curtain airbags and a knee airbag for the driver. Side airbags in the second row of seats are optional together with Crew Protect Assist. If the vehicle sensors – now also at the rear – detect an imminent collision or register sudden braking, the system automatically closes any open windows and, if necessary, the panoramic roof, and activates the hazard lights and pre-tensions the front seat belts. Following a collision, the Multi-Collision Brake prevents the vehicle from rolling any further in an uncontrolled manner.

Increased safety and improved comfort thanks to various assistance systems
In the EU, the standard equipment includes Front Assist with Predictive Pedestrian Protection and City Emergency Brake. The optional Travel Assist comprises several assistance systems, some of which are also available separately. There is a choice of two Travel Assist variants, both of which include Predictive Cruise Control, which uses images from the camera on the windscreen as well as data from the navigation system and, if desired, reacts in good time to speed limits or corners. In combination with a DSG, the cruise control’s Stop & Go function can automatically bring the vehicle to a standstill and have it pull away again automatically within up to three seconds. Travel Assist also includes a more accurate version of Traffic Sign Recognition (thanks to an improved camera), Adaptive Lane Assist (now able to identify road works and all road markings), Traffic Jam Assist and Emergency Assist. The enhanced version of Travel Assist also has Park Assist and Side Assist with Rear Traffic Alert. Side Assist warns the driver of vehicles approaching from behind up to 70 m away. Using Hands-on Detect, this system also checks whether the driver is touching the steering wheel every 15 seconds or if they no longer have control due to a potential medical emergency. In this case, Emergency Assist activates the hazard lights and brings the car to a stop in its current lane. Parking is made more convenient by the integrated Manoeuvre Assist – which detects obstacles in front of and behind the vehicle, and brakes automatically, if necessary – the 360‑degree image of the optional Area View system, as well as the optional Trailer Assist.

The ŠKODA Karoq SportLine: dynamic top-of-the-range model

• Exclusive to the series with a 2.0 TSI petrol engine and 140 kW (190 PS)
• Exterior with distinctive black finishing touches and 18-inch wheels as standard
• Black design features in the interior and sports seats with ThermoFlux covers

The Karoq SportLine is the range-topping model of the successful ŠKODA SUV. Apart from the 1.0 TSI, it is available with any of the engines in the range, while the most powerful engine is exclusively reserved for this Karoq variant. The 2.0 TSI petrol engine delivers 140 kW (190 PS), which is transferred to all four wheels via a 7-speed DSG as standard. Visually, the Karoq SportLine can be identified by numerous black design features, and the interior is also dominated by black sports styling.

The range-topping model of the updated Karoq can immediately be recognised by the SportLine-typical black design features. These include the gloss black ŠKODA grille, which provides a stunning contrast to the body-coloured front apron. The Black pack, sporting gloss black window frames and roof rails, is part of the standard equipment. Additional black design details include the rear diffuser on the body-coloured rear apron, the wing mirror caps and the 18‑inch Procyon alloy wheels, which feature an Aero trim, as do the optional 19-inch Sagitarius alloys. The rear side windows and the rear window are tinted (SunSet), and the front wings are adorned with a SportLine badge. The standard equipment of the Karoq SportLine also includes full‑LED Matrix headlights.

Black ThermoFlux seat covers
The interior is characterised by black sports styling, with Piano Black decorative strips on the instrument panel and a carbon-fibre-effect decor on the doors. The roof lining is also black, as are the breathable ThermoFlux covers of the sports seats with integrated headrests. The leather gearstick features silver contrasting stitching. The three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel is adorned with a SportLine badge and the front door sill trims bear Karoq lettering. The LED ambient lighting is a standard feature in the sporty range-topping model and now also illuminates the rear door panels in one of the ten colour options.

Nissan unveils Ambition 2030 vision to empower mobility and beyond

by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

With electrification at the center of long-term strategy, company will deliver exciting vehicles and technologies that empower customer journeys and society

• To accelerate electrification plans with an investment of 2 trillion yen over the next five years
• To launch 23 exciting new electrified models, including 15 new EVs, aiming for 50% electrification mix by fiscal year 2030
• To introduce ASSB in fiscal year 2028

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today unveiled Nissan Ambition 2030, the company’s new long-term vision for empowering mobility and beyond.  Responding to critical environmental, societal and customer needs, Nissan aims to become a truly sustainable company, driving towards a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world.  With this vision, Nissan wants to deliver strategic value by empowering journeys offering confident, exciting, and more integrated experiences to customers, and through collaborations, empower society to build a smart ecosystem with integrated mobility.

Over the next ten years, Nissan will deliver exciting, electrified vehicles and technological innovations while expanding its operations globally. The vision supports Nissan’s goal to be carbon neutral across the life cycle of its products by fiscal year 2050.

Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida stated: “The role of companies to address societal needs is increasingly heightened.  With Nissan Ambition 2030, we will drive the new age of electrification, advance technologies to reduce carbon footprint and pursue new business opportunities. We want to transform Nissan to become a sustainable company that is truly needed by customers and society.”

Accelerating electrified mobility with diverse choices and experiences
As a pioneer of electric vehicles (EVs), Nissan has democratized EVs and invested in building charging infrastructure and energy management. By placing electrification at the core of the company’s long-term strategy, Nissan Ambition 2030, the company aims to accelerate the electrification of its vehicle lineup and rate of technology innovation with investments of 2 trillion yen over the next five years.

Based on customer demands for a diverse range of exciting vehicles, Nissan will introduce 23 new electrified models, including 15 new EVs by fiscal year 2030 aiming for an electrification mix of more than 50% globally across the Nissan and INFINITI brands.

With the introduction of 20 new EV and e-POWER equipped models in the next five years, Nissan intends to increase its electrification sales mix across major markets by fiscal year 2026, including:

• Europe by more than 75% of sales
• Japan by more than 55% of sales
• China by more than 40% of sales
• The United States by 40% of EV sales in fiscal year 2030

“We are proud of our long track record of innovation, and of our role in delivering the EV revolution. With our new ambition, we continue to take the lead in accelerating the natural shift to EVs by creating customer pull through an attractive proposition by driving excitement, enabling adoption and creating a cleaner world,” said Nissan COO Ashwani Gupta.

Representing the next stage of Nissan’s electrified future, the company today also unveiled three new concept cars that offer enhanced experiences through sophisticated technology packaging. These concepts showcase the thrilling possibilities that Nissan strives to provide across a wide range of new advanced vehicles and ecosystems.

Further details on these exciting concept cars are available on Nissan’s website:

NISSAN CONCEPT CAR FACT SHEET

Increasing accessibility and innovation in mobility
Nissan’s ambition is to support greater access to safe and exciting mobility. To make progress towards this, Nissan will continue to evolve its lithium-ion battery technologies and introduce cobalt-free technology to bring down the cost by 65% by fiscal year 2028.

Nissan aims to launch EV with its proprietary all-solid-state batteries (ASSB) by fiscal year 2028 and ready a pilot plant in Yokohama as early as fiscal year 2024. With the introduction of breakthrough ASSB, Nissan will be able to expand its EV offerings across segments and offer more dynamic performance. By reducing charging time to one-third, ASSBs will make EVs more efficient and accessible. Further, Nissan expects ASSB to bring the cost of battery packs down to $75 per kWh by fiscal year 2028 and aims to bring it further down to $65 per kWh to achieve cost parity between EV and gasoline vehicles in the future.  

Nissan seeks to establish a global battery supply system to meet growing customer vehicle demand and support the growing number of EVs in use. Working with its partners, Nissan intends to increase its global battery production capacity to 52 GWh by fiscal year 2026, and 130 GWh by fiscal year 2030.

Though Nissan Ambition 2030, the company also seeks to extend the benefits of mobility by delivering its advanced driver-assistance and intelligence technologies to more customers. These combined efforts will likewise support Nissan’s continued efforts to establish new mobility services and partnerships.

Nissan aims to expand ProPILOT technology to over 2.5 million Nissan and INFINITI vehicles by fiscal year 2026. The company will also further develop its autonomous vehicle technologies, aiming to incorporate next generation LIDAR systems on virtually every new model by fiscal year 2030.

To meet the varying transportation needs of different countries, Nissan will collaborate with the most suitable partners to realize new mobility services for more efficient mobility in cities, as well as more sustainable mobility in rural areas.

Global ecosystem for mobility and beyond
In addition to technology upgrade, Nissan will localize manufacturing and sourcing to make EVs more competitive. Nissan will expand its unique EV Hub concept, EV36Zero, which was launched in the UK to core markets including Japan, China and the U.S.  EV36Zero is a fully integrated manufacturing and service ecosystem connecting mobility and energy management with the aim of realizing carbon neutrality.

Ensuring vehicle batteries remain sustainable will also continue to be a priority for Nissan based on its decade of repurposing and recycling expertise with 4R Energy. The company intends to expand its battery refurbishing facilities beyond Japan with new locations in Europe during fiscal year 2022, and in the U.S. in fiscal year 2025. Nissan’s refurbishing infrastructure will support a circular economy in energy management, and the company aims to fully commercialize its vehicle-to-everything and home battery systems in the mid-2020s. In addition, the company will invest up to 20 billion yen by 2026 towards charging infrastructure.      

As Nissan increases its pace of innovation in mobility, it intends to hire more than 3,000 employees in advanced research and development globally while continuing to upskill its current workforce. The company will also build on collaboration across the Alliance to enable cost-savings and shared expertise in areas such as carbon-neutral technologies, electrification, software and services.

Beyond the Nissan NEXT transformation plan, the company will sustain its business over the long-term, with consolidated operating profit margin above 5%.

Nissan Ambition 2030: Concept Car Fact Sheet

by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

At Nissan Ambition 2030, Nissan unveiled four new concept models including the near-future EV: Nissan Chill-Out.

Next-generation Crossover EV Concept: Nissan Chill-Out: A new way to spend time on the move

A new way to think about mobility, Nissan Chill-out is a mobile haven. It features a sleek and modern design, advanced safety technology, and a productive and comfortable interior space. The crossover concept utilizes the CMF-EV platform, delivering high levels of comfort and an energizing driving experience.

Standout Features:

• CMF-EV platform
• e-4ORCE

Nissan EV Technology Vision and three concept cars

Nissan EV Technology Vision is a technology study that looks beyond the Ariya and next-generation crossover EV. The technology considers the direction of future EVs, and how advancements in battery technology, hardware and packaging can offer customers a wide variety of mobility solutions to match their needs and lifestyles. Examples of this can be seen with the recently unveiled future forward concept cars: Max-Out, Surf-Out and Hang-Out.

Innovative integration of body, chassis and battery

At the core of Nissan EV Technology Vision is the integration of all solid-state battery (ASSB) technology that integrates with optimized components into a skateboard-like structure that allows for a variety of vehicle types. The optimum hardware structure will bring out the full potential of future complex software configurations and further realize the precision, performance, efficiency and versatility of our EV offerings.

Nissan Max-Out concept: Surpassing the conventional perception of driving enjoyment

The Nissan Max-Out is a convertible concept that aims to deliver a new driving experience with its superlative stability and comfort. Dynamic cornering and steering response are balanced with limited body roll to optimize driver and passenger comfort, creating a feeling of oneness with the car.

The two-seater features the unique ability to morph the seating, flattening into the floor to offer more interior space when desired, making it ideal for drivers with and without passengers.

Standout Features:

• Ultra-lightweight
• Very low center of gravity
• Advanced e-4ORCE

Nissan Surf-Out concept: Empowering customer’s range of activities

The Nissan Surf-Out concept aims to provide a smooth ride regardless of the terrain, enabling customers to go anywhere in comfort and with confidence. The vehicle’s variety of power outputs, and low and flat cargo space are aimed to help you go wherever you want and amplify your experience when you get there.

Standout Features:

• Off-road performance
• Electric power utilization from the vehicle
• Extended cargo space
• Advanced e-4ORCE

Nissan Hang-Out concept: Changing the perception of the mobile living space

With a completely flat floor that extends from the front to the back, the Nissan Hang-Out concept aims to surpass the conventional wisdom about interior layouts.

The Nissan Hang-Out concept is aimed to provide a new way of spending time on the move. It is designed to suppress vibrations and jolts, thereby reducing instances of motion sickness and interference while working on the go. Its spaciousness and quietness offers the comfort of your living room in a mobile space, expanding creature comforts on the go and off the beaten path. The theatre-like seating makes on-the-go movie nights with family and friends new and fresh, no matter where you are- or are going.

Standout Features and key technologies:

• Low and flat floor
• Quiet and comfortable cabin on-the-go
• Advanced e-4ORCE
• Advanced ProPILOT

DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE extends its range

by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

• DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE evolves to gain nearly seven per cent more range
• The only 100 per cent electric model in its segment, it now achieves up to 212 miles on the WLTP combined cycle
• Technical developments increase range in real-life use
• DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE demonstrates the knowledge and expertise garnered by DS Automobiles from winning four Formula E titles

The first 100 per cent electric model in the DS Automobiles range is evolving. On sale since 2019, DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE can now achieve a range of 212 miles according to the WLTP combined cycle, an increase of nearly seven per cent.

During the development, priority was given to the real-life usage of DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE. Notably, the heat pump has been developed with a moisture sensor for increased efficiency. Offered as standard, the heat pump enables heat to be produced by compression to generate hot air. As a result, energy consumption is greatly reduced.

From continued development and constant discussion with the Formula E championship winning team, supported by DS Performance, the gear ratio has also been perfected to further improve the efficiency of DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE.

The range gain in real-life usage is also achieved through the adoption of new 17-inch A-rated tyres, developed by Continental. Offered in 215/60 R17 96H size, the Continental EcoContact™ 6 Q introduces a new compound with high silica technology to improve rolling resistance and reduce noise emissions.

With an electrification strategy in place since its creation, DS Automobiles is the multi-energy brand with the lowest average CO₂ emissions in Europe (100.2 g/km of CO₂ according to the WLTP cycle per registered car in the first half of 2021) and every model is available with an electrified powertrain. The brand has seen 40 per cent of its customers buy either a fully electric or plug-in -hybrid car in 2021, in the UK. This strategy is accelerating: from 2024, every new DS Automobiles model will be exclusively 100 per cent electric.

The DS 3 CROSSBACK E-TENSE is available from £31,500 OTR (including the government plug-in grant). For more information visit www.dsautomobiles.co.uk.

Aston Martin Bulldog hits three amazing milestones in just over a week

by gaukcars.com | Oct 1, 2024 | Blog

The Aston Martin Bulldog supercar restored by Classic Motor Cars. Ltd (CMC) in Bridgnorth, Shropshire, has hit three major milestones in just nine days

The car won the Royal Automobile Club restoration of the year award, CMC won specialist of the year at the Octane Historic Moring Awards, and on Saturday November 27 the car hit 162 miles an hour on its first shake-down session. The first time in over 40 years, the car has been driven at speed.

Nigel Woodward managing Director of CMC said: “The last few days have been something of a whirlwind, to win two prestigious awards within a week is fantastic and is a great tribute to the team at CMC who have worked so hard on the car for the last 18 months. But to cap that by accelerating through 162 on our first time out with the car is just the icing on the cake.”

The car was privately testing at the Royal Naval Air Station at Yeovilton in Somerset. This was part of a series of Royal Naval activities which has seen the car unveiled at the Hampton Court Concours by two Royal Naval apprentices from the Royal Naval Air Station. The car was showcased on board HMS Prince of Wales, Britain’s latest Aircraft carrier and the next testing taking place back at RNAS Yeovilton once analysis of Saturdays testing takes place and the conditions are right.

Richard Gauntlett, who represents the owner of the car Phillip Sarofim, and who sent the car to CMC for the restoration was elated: “Seeing the car run like this for the first time in forty years is a dream come true. I grew up with the car, I had a poster of it on my bedroom wall. I cannot thank the team at CMC enough for the hard work that they have put into this Project.”

Victor Gauntlett, Richard’s father, was Chairman at Aston Martin when the supercar which was planned to be the first production car to exceed 200 mph. But the project was axed after the car reached nearly 192 miles per hour in 1980. The car was then sold and disappeared occasionally surfacing around the world. It was purchased by Phillip Sarofim two years ago.

Richard added: “The car will be tested again either this year or at the beginning of next at the Royal Naval air Station before we go for the 200-mph record that it never did in 1980. The location of that attempt is still being discussed.

Nigel added; “There is still much to do but Saturdays session not only validated the car but also provided a lot of very useful data. The fact that without trying, and in the teeth of a 50 mph crosswind we sailed through the 160 mph mark in only ¾ of a mile, at reduced boost and on partial throttle says much. It was only a lack of bravery on my part and the fact that we were still evaluating the car that prevented us going faster”.