The China Mail - Automotive

Bentley: Visions for 2026

Bentley returns to its roots in 2026 with the Continental GT Supersports, one of the most extreme versions of the two-seater grand tourer ever to hit the road. A hundred years after the first ‘Super Sports’, the new Supersports remains true to its name: it will be limited to just 500 numbered units and offers the purest driving experience.At the heart of the Supersports is the revised 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with enlarged turbochargers and reinforced cylinder heads. With 666 PS and 800 Nm of torque, it achieves the highest performance ever achieved in a Bentley V8. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission – a departure from the usual all-wheel drive and an expression of the purist concept.The Supersports' performance is impressive: 0–100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of around 310 km/h. To ensure the car remains stable at high speeds, the aerodynamics have been comprehensively optimised. A huge front splitter, side skirts, aprons and a fixed rear wing generate over 300 kilograms of additional downforce compared to the Continental GT Speed. The weight reduction extends from carbon fibre body parts to a complete titanium exhaust system; the total weight remains below two tonnes, enabling the car to achieve 1.3 g of lateral acceleration.In the interior, Bentley has opted for a combination of carbon fibre and fine leather. The traditional rear seats have been replaced by two lower-positioned sports seats to save weight and lower the centre of gravity. As usual, customisation is possible through the in-house refiner Mulliner, with new colour and material combinations available. Orders for the Supersports will start in March 2026, with production starting later in the year. Bentley has not yet announced official prices, but experts expect them to be well into six figures.Urban SUV – first all-electric production modelWhile the Supersports celebrates the petrol tradition, Bentley is simultaneously venturing into the fully electric future. The British manufacturer has announced its first all-electric SUV, currently known under the working title ‘Urban SUV’, for the end of 2026. With a length of less than five metres, it is set to be more compact than the Bentayga and create a new market segment. The manufacturer promises tailor-made luxury and a wide range of personalisation options, as well as state-of-the-art technology.Technical details are still scarce, but Bentley confirmed at a press conference that the Urban SUV will be based on an 800-volt platform and will offer a charging capacity for a range of 160 kilometres in under seven minutes. The developers are thus aiming for industry-leading charging times. The platform is likely to come from the Volkswagen Group, as is already the case with other models in the Premium Performance Electric (PPE) modular system.Production of the pre-series vehicles has already begun in autumn 2025, and Bentley emphasises that the Urban SUV will be designed, developed and built entirely in Crewe. The market launch is planned for the end of 2026, with the first deliveries to customers scheduled for 2027. Inside, customers can expect a new level of digital connectivity, paired with sustainable materials and the typical Bentley finish. The trade press estimates the starting price at around €140,000, which would be below the Bentayga.

2026 S-Class starry facelift

When Mercedes‑Benz unveiled the 2026 S‑Class, it was clear that this was no ordinary facelift. Engineers replaced or refined more than 2,700 components, meaning over half of the vehicle is new. The changes begin on the outside: a 20 percent larger grille filled with hot‑stamped chrome stars projects a grander presence, while the traditional hood ornament now illuminates as part of the car’s striking light signature. Mercedes’ trademark three‑pointed star motif also appears in the headlights and taillights, underscoring the brand identity with refined opulence. Optional 20‑inch cross‑spoke wheels use high‑pressure casting to reduce weight and material consumption, and customers can choose from more than 150 paint colours.Digital light and starry illuminationLighting technology takes centre stage on the facelifted S‑Class. New micro‑LED Digital Light headlamps cut energy consumption in half while offering ultra‑range high beams that illuminate up to 600 metres ahead. The headlamps and taillamps embed miniature three‑pointed stars in their lenses, and the lights can project patterns such as welcome animations or warnings for oncoming drivers. These lamps are paired with a 20 percent larger grille outlined by a luminous frame and an illuminated bonnet star. At the rear, triple‑pod taillights with a star pattern and chrome accents contribute to a wider stance.An interior defined by screens and AIInside, the S‑Class adopts the MBUX Superscreen architecture. A 14.4‑inch central display is flanked by twin 12.3‑inch screens—one for the driver and another for the front passenger—forming a sweeping glass surface. Rear passengers enjoy two 13.1‑inch high‑definition displays with built‑in cameras. Mercedes’ latest software platform, MB.OS, underpins the cabin: it unifies navigation, vehicle systems and voice assistants. Generative AI powers the “Hey Mercedes” virtual assistant, enabling complex dialogue through voice assistants based on ChatGPT‑4o and Google Gemini. Navigation relies on Google Maps‑based data to provide real‑time traffic and 3‑D surroundings. Even the air vents are electronically controlled through Digital Vent Control, and an updated Energizing Air Control system filters cabin air for maximum purity.Comfort innovationsAlthough the cabin brims with screens, Mercedes preserved its luxurious ambience. Heated seatbelts can warm occupants to 44 °C (111 °F), while detachable remote controls allow rear passengers to adjust seat functions, climate and entertainment. The expanded Manufaktur programme offers nearly 50 bespoke paint finishes and 25 leather options, emphasising individuality. The interior retains high‑quality materials and adds Digital Vent Control for precise airflow. Mercedes has also equipped up to 10 external cameras, five radar sensors and twelve ultrasonic sensors, enabling advanced driver assistance and environment awareness.Handling and suspensionThe 2026 S‑Class comes standard with rear‑wheel steering that turns the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees, reducing the turning circle by nearly two metres. Buyers can upgrade to an optional 10‑degree system for even tighter manoeuvrability. E‑Active Body Control, an active suspension that reads the road ahead, uses cloud‑sourced Car‑to‑X data to adjust damping at each wheel and can lift the car within milliseconds to mitigate side‑impact forces. This predictive suspension works alongside AIRMATIC air springs and electronically controlled dampers, delivering a blend of comfort and agility.

All-new Ioniq 3 coming in 2026

Hyundai is preparing to launch the Ioniq 3, a compact EV that will slot below the Ioniq 5. Inspired by the Concept Three unveiled in 2025, the production car will ride on a 400‑volt version of the E‑GMP platform and feature pixelated LED lighting, active aero shutters and a lounge‑like cabin. Two battery options are expected: a 58.3 kWh pack yielding around 270 miles of range and an 81.4 kWh pack delivering roughly 375 miles (WLTP). A front‑mounted motor producing about 201 hp should propel the car to 60 mph in roughly 7.5 seconds with a top speed near 105 mph. Vehicle‑to‑load bidirectional charging will be included.Hyundai is also reportedly developing a high‑performance Ioniq 3 N with dual motors and 288 bhp for a sub‑six‑second 0–60 mph time. The infotainment system will debut the new Pleos software, enabling over‑the‑air updates and Apple CarPlay Ultra. Designers intend to create a “living room” interior with flexible seating and sustainable materials.

New Twingo e-tech is at the starting line

Renault has reimagined its iconic Twingo as a purely electric city car. Built on the AmpR Small platform, the new model uses a lithium‑iron‑phosphate battery with 27.5 kWh of usable capacity and an 80 hp motor. This combination gives a WLTP range of about 163 miles (approximately 263 km). Standard charging is via a 6.6 kW AC charger, with options for 11 kW AC and 50 kW DC; the latter takes the battery from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes. A one‑pedal mode delivers strong regeneration for urban driving.The Twingo E‑Tech is slated to hit the European market in early 2026 with a target price below €20,000. Early adopters can secure an R Pass from December 2025, gaining priority ordering and perks such as a 1:43 scale model and early test drives. Inside, a seven‑inch digital instrument cluster is paired with a ten‑inch infotainment screen running Google services and voice control. Sliding rear seats allow the boot to expand to 360 litres, and up to 24 driver‑assistance systems—including automated emergency braking and lane‑keeping—make this tiny EV surprisingly sophisticated.

New Ypsilon and Ypsilon hf

Lancia’s revival begins with an all‑new Ypsilon supermini. Built on Stellantis’s CMP platform, it comes as a battery‑electric or 48‑volt mild‑hybrid. The electric Ypsilon uses a 51 kWh battery and a front‑mounted motor rated at 115 kW (156 hp), delivering up to 403 km of WLTP range and more than 500 km in urban use. DC fast charging takes the battery from 20 to 80 percent in 24 minutes, or adds 100 km of range in 10 minutes, while consumption is rated at 14.3–14.6 kWh/100 km. The mild‑hybrid pairs a 1.2‑litre three‑cylinder with a 48‑V system to produce 100 hp and achieve 0–100 km/h in 9 seconds.The cabin is co‑created with furniture maker Cassina, combining sustainable textiles with a minimalist design. Lancia’s SALA (Sound Air Light Augmentation) interface manages lighting, climate and media across dual displays. Half of the surfaces passengers touch are made from recycled or eco‑friendly materials. Outside, the Ypsilon wears a reinterpretation of Lancia’s grille, round Stratos‑inspired rear lights and clean lines.

The Cupra Raval will be launched in 2026

The Cupra Raval translates Cupra’s rebellious spirit into an urban electric hatch. Derived from the UrbanRebel concept, it rides on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB+ architecture and will be built in Martorell. Launching in early 2026, the Dynamic and Dynamic Plus versions deliver 210 hp and up to 450 km of range, while the VZ Extreme pushes output to 226 hp and adds an electronic limited‑slip differential and adaptive chassis tuning.Two battery sizes—expected around 38 kWh and 56 kWh—will enable sub‑7‑second 0–62 mph acceleration. Styling borrows from the edgy UrbanRebel with angular headlamps, bold creases and copper‑coloured details. Inside, a driver‑focused cockpit features configurable digital instruments, a large infotainment screen and an optional 12‑speaker Sennheiser audio system.

New id.Polo comes electric

Volkswagen’s ID.Polo ushers the iconic Polo name into the electric age. Pre‑sales begin at the end of April 2026. Built at the Martorell plant in Spain, the compact five‑door model is the first production car on VW’s updated MEB+ platform. Pricing will start below €25,000.Customers can choose between 37 kWh and 52 kWh batteries powering 85 kW, 99 kW or 155 kW motors; the GTI variant with 166 kW arrives later. The larger battery delivers up to 450 km of range and supports DC charging at up to 130 kW. New assistance systems include Travel Assist with traffic‑light and stop‑sign recognition.

BMW iX3 new style and design

BMW’s iX3 heralds the Neue Klasse era. Revealed at CES 2026, the pre‑production SUV features a dual‑motor powertrain delivering 345 kW/469 hp and 645 Nm of torque, launching from 0–100 km/h in 4.9 seconds with a 210 km/h top speed. Sixth‑generation BMW eDrive technology introduces cylindrical cells and an 800‑volt battery with 108.7 kWh usable capacity, enabling up to 805 km of WLTP range.Ultra‑fast charging adds 372 km in 10 minutes at 400 kW DC stations. Charging from 10 to 80 % takes just 21 minutes, and the NACS port provides access to the Tesla Supercharger network with an optional 22 kW AC charger. Bidirectional charging (V2L, V2H and V2G) turns the iX3 into a mobile power bank or home energy store.Inside, the Panoramic iDrive spans the windscreen with a 43‑inch projection display and a 17.9‑inch infotainment screen. The AI‑powered Intelligent Personal Assistant, enhanced with Amazon Alexa+, allows natural voice interaction and controls vehicle functions. Sustainable materials contribute to a greener footprint, with recycled plastics and aluminium used in components. A flat floor improves space; the iX3 offers a 510‑litre boot plus a 58‑litre front trunk.

New Skoda Epiq: modern with range

Skoda’s Epiq is the first series‑production vehicle to fully adopt the brand’s new Modern Solid design language. Previewed as a show car in September 2025, the compact city SUV rides on Volkswagen’s MEB Entry platform and measures around 4.1 metres in length. Despite its small footprint, it seats five and provides a generous 475‑litre boot. Skoda aims to offer an affordable electric alternative to its conventional Kamiq with a targeted starting price of about €25,000. Production is slated to begin in Navarra, Spain, with sales expected in late 2026.Different battery sizes (around 38 kWh to 56 kWh) will deliver a WLTP range of up to 425 km. The platform is shared with the upcoming VW ID.Polo and Cupra Raval, ensuring competitive efficiency and low running costs. Externally, the Epiq is defined by its Tech‑Deck face with T‑shaped LED daytime running lights and a pronounced tornado line along the flanks. Cashmere matte paintwork combines with black accents to convey robustness.

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. Signs Global Exclusive Supply Agreement With STERK for Electric Boats

Under the agreement, Vision Marine may exclusively integrate its E-Motion™ 180E electric propulsion system into certain STERK boats, facilitating a seamless and high-performance electric boating experience. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Vision Marine's European expansion strategy, as STERK boats are to be assembled in Germany using Vision's Marine's battery packs.

Vision Marine Technologies Strengthens E-Motion(TM) Line With New Outboard PCU Patent Filing

The patent application reinforces Vision Marine Technologies' role in advancing electric marine propulsion technology. The newly developed Outboard PCU autonomously manages propulsion parameters and cooling operations, delivering enhanced efficiency and reliability. Leveraging a dual-CAN bus architecture, the PCU promotes seamless communication with both internal sensors and actuators within the outboard engine housing and external vessel control units (VCU). This architecture enables real-time autonomous control of the electric motor, increasing performance while maintaining robust safety protocols and scalability.

Vision Marine Technologies Announces Approval of Stock Repurchase Program

Alexandre Mongeon, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Vision Marine, commented:"The Board of Directors recognizes the challenges faced by microcap stocks in the current market environment. While Vision Marine has made significant strides in the electrification of marine transportation, we believe our stock price does not accurately reflect the Company's value and long-term potential. We believe that the implementation of a stock repurchase program would take a strategic step to enhance shareholder value and demonstrate confidence in our vision to lead the industry with our industrialized, turnkey electric powertrain solutions."

Vision Marine Technologies Strengthens Partnership with Electrified Marina to Propel Electric Boating on the East Coast

Co-founded by Erick Pinzon, Jr., a former Tesla service and charging infrastructure specialist, Electrified Marina has become a key player in the electric boating sector. Known for its deep industry knowledge, Electrified Marina has built a strong reputation by selling and operating both high-powered electric boats and low-powered electric cruisers, making electric boating accessible to a diverse range of customers.

Vision Marine Technologies to Present New 180E-Integrated Boats at Carefree 2025 Carefree Boat Club Annual Conference

Vision Marine will showcase new rental-ready electric boats, most notably a 22' dual console boat and a 30' pontoon, both powered by the E-Motion™ 180E HV Electric Powertrain technology. These newly integrated models will be available for sea trials and orders, offering Carefree Boat Club operators a firsthand experience of the turnkey electric solutions designed to elevate rental and membership-based boating experiences.

Vision Marine Expands Partnership With Aileron Residences to Launch Electric Boat Rentals and Retail Hub in South Florida

This partnership provides Vision Marine with essential dock space and storage, allowing for a phased rollout of rental operations with on-site Company presence. Additionally, Vision Marine intends to open its new point of sale ("POS") location to strengthen its foothold in the Florida market by providing early exposure to its products and services, which is expected to solidify its long-term growth strategy."This partnership marks a significant step in integrating electric boating into luxury real estate" said Maxime Poudrier, Head of Growth & Strategic Partnerships at Vision Marine Technologies. "Aileron Residences expects to set a new standard by offering not only seamless access to our electric boat club but also a platform for introducing cutting-edge 180E E-Motion electric boats. This location will serve as a launchpad for innovative electric boating solutions, redefining the marine experience with minimal environmental impact."

Vision Marine Technologies Appoints Pierre-Yves Terrisse to Board of Directors to Strengthen Financial and Strategic Expertise

Mr. Terrisse has been a trusted advisor and strategic contributor to Vision Marine for the past three years, bringing invaluable financial insight and market expertise as the Company navigated its growth in the electric marine sector. With over 25 years of experience in capital markets, financial analysis, and corporate development, his deep knowledge of the technology and industrial sectors has already played a key role in shaping Vision Marine's strategy. His formal appointment to the Board underscores the essential role he has played and will continue to play in guiding the Company's evolution and expansion.

Vision Marine Technologies Files Patent Application for Distributed Control System Architecture in Electric Marine Vessels

Enhancing Efficiency, Scalability, and Performance in High-Voltage Electric Powertrains

Vision Marine Technologies to Feature Innovative Electric Boats at the Miami International Boat Show

Attendees will have the opportunity to view and purchase Vision Marine's latest advancements in electric boating, including one third-party model powered by the E-Motion™ 180E electric powertrain, alongside two proprietary electric models.

Vision Marine Technologies Achieves European CE Certification for E-Motion(TM) Equipped Electric Boat

Our "CE" certification is a pivotal step in Vision Marine's European strategy. After numerous successful integrations of the E-Motion™ 180E system into boats produced by European manufacturers, obtaining "CE" certification on this first boat was the logical progression to obtain compliance with the region's rigorous standards.

Vision Marine Technologies Files Patent Application for Independent Fault Detection Technology

Enhancing Performance and Reliability in Electric Marine Powertrains

Vision Marine Technologies Announces Closing of Private Placement

MONTRÉAL, QC / ACCESS Newswire / January 16, 2025 / Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "Company", "Vision Marine", "we", "us", "our") (NASDAQ:VMAR), a leading innovator in electric marine propulsion, today announced the closing of its previously announced brokered private placement offering with accredited and institutional investors for the issuance and sale of units consisting of common shares (each a "Common Share") (or pre-funded warrants (each a "Pre-funded Warrant") in lieu thereof) together with warrants (each a "Common Warrant") to purchase one-half of the number of Common Shares (or Pre-funded Warrants) of the Company at a price of US$1.25 per unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately US$5.9 million, before deducting fees and offering expenses.

Spiffy's Digital Servicing Platform Expands with Krause Genesis

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Vision Marine Technologies Files Patent Application for Proprietary Battery Encryption System

Safeguarding Advanced Powertrain Technology and Boaters' Data from Third-Party Substitution

Vision Marine Technologies Announces $5.8 Million Private Placement

The Company will be issuing a combination of 4,626,400 common shares (or Pre-funded Warrants in lieu thereof), and common warrants to purchase 2,313,200 common shares. Each Pre-funded Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one common share at an exercise price of $0.001 per share, and each Common Warrant will be immediately exercisable and entitle the holder to acquire one common share at an exercise price of $1.50 per share, for a period of five and one-half years following the closing of the Offering. The private placement is expected to close on January 14, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

Vision Marine Technologies Announces 2025 Boat Show Schedule

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "Company", "Vision Marine", "we", "us", "our") (Nasdaq:VMAR), a leading innovator in electric marine propulsion, is pleased to announce its schedule for the upcoming boat show season. The company will showcase its groundbreaking electric powertrain technology, its latest innovative electric boats, and, for the first time, electric pontoons available for purchase and delivery started spring 2025. Different boats, including E-Motion™ equipped models, will be showcased at select locations, ensuring a varied experience tailored to each show. Attendees will have the opportunity to see, test, and buy these newly added models in Vision Marine's product lineup, with purchase inquiries available at all locations, even if specific boat models vary by show.

Vision Marine Technologies Secures Over US$11.7 Million Through At-the-Market Offering to Accelerate Growth and Strategic Acquisitions

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. ("Vision Marine") (NASDAQ:VMAR), a leader in electric marine propulsion systems, is pleased to announce the successful completion of an at-the-market ("ATM") offering, raising gross proceeds of approximately US$11.75 million and net proceeds of approximately US$11.2 million. We intend to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including strategic acquisitions aimed at expanding our market presence and enhancing our technological capabilities.

Vision Marine Technologies Innovates HV Marine Battery Packs in Collaboration With Calip Group

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "Company", "Vision Marine", "we", "us", "our") (Nasdaq:VMAR), a leading innovator in electric marine propulsion, announces the establishment of a production line for custom cooling plates in partnership with Calip Group, a leader in high-tech welding processes. Under this collaboration, Calip Group will supply components that enhance the thermal management of Vision Marine's high-voltage (HV) marine battery packs. These custom cooling plates are specifically tailored to meet the stringent demands of marine applications, with production slated to begin in 2025.

Vision Marine Technologies and Massimo Marine Announce Production Partnership for First Commercial Electric Pontoon Platform

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "Company", "Vision Marine", "we", "us", "our") (Nasdaq:VMAR), a pioneer in electric marine propulsion, has entered into a milestone partnership with Massimo Marine, the marine division of Massimo Group (MAMO). This collaboration will produce a fully integrated 30-foot electric pontoon platform designed for commercial and recreational markets. As part of Vision Marine's strategic shift to offer complete electric boats directly to consumers, this partnership represents a key step in rapidly delivering high-quality electric marine products to market.

Tidal Wave Auto Spa Celebrates Grand Opening of Brand-New Lantana, FL, Location

Top Three Conveyor Car Wash Company Opens 20th Express Wash in Sunshine State

Fine-Art Automotive Photographer Launches Southern California Studio

Fine art automotive photographer Peter Kappen has opened a state-of-the-art, purpose-built studio in Ventura, California, dedicated to capturing stunning, high-end automotive imagery. Serving prestigious clients across North America, Kappen specializes in working with elite car collectors, OEMs, and automotive brands, elevating every vehicle he shoots into a true work of art.

Vision Marine Partners With a Major Pontoon Manufacturer to Produce Cutting-Edge Electric Pontoons

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "Company", "Vision Marine", "we", "us", "our") (Nasdaq:VMAR), a pioneer in electric marine propulsion, is pleased to announce a new production initiative with Smoker Craft Inc., a U.S.-based pontoon manufacturer known for its precision engineering and advanced manufacturing capabilities. This collaboration is expected to produce a state-of-the-art pontoon platform specifically designed to integrate Vision Marine's high-performance (180 HP) electric propulsion systems, specifically the pontoon-designed P-Powerpack. We believe the powerpack will merge cutting-edge technology and exceptional craftsmanship into a transformative product for the marine industry.

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