NEW CARS

BMW Alpina Teases New 7 Series-Based Luxury Sedan for 2027

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BMW Alpina has released the first official teaser of its upcoming luxury sedan, confirming that an entirely new chapter is about to begin for the legendary German performance and luxury brand. Based on the BMW 7 Series, the new model will become the first production vehicle developed since Alpina became a fully integrated part of the BMW Group. Its market launch is scheduled for 2027, with the official debut expected in the coming weeks.

The first teaser, published on BMW Alpina’s official Instagram account, deliberately keeps the car hidden behind a blurred image. Nevertheless, it reveals enough to suggest a low-slung luxury sedan featuring distinctive split LED headlights. The accompanying message, stating that the new model is already out on the road and that some people may have already passed it, strongly indicates that development prototypes are undergoing real-world testing on public roads.

For Alpina enthusiasts, this is an important moment. The new sedan will effectively mark the return of the brand’s flagship four-door luxury model following the end of production of the BMW Alpina B7 in 2022.

BMW Alpina’s New Flagship Will Be Inspired by the 7 Series

BMW first provided a glimpse of its new Alpina direction in May, when it presented the Vision BMW Alpina concept at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The concept offered an early indication of how the brand intends to combine BMW’s modern design language with Alpina’s traditional approach to exclusivity, craftsmanship and long-distance comfort.

At the time, BMW confirmed that the first new production model would arrive in 2027, drawing inspiration from the 7 Series while remaining, in the company’s own words, unmistakably BMW Alpina.

Although the upcoming sedan will share its fundamental architecture with BMW’s flagship luxury car, it is expected to receive a considerably more individual identity. Spy photographs suggest that the Alpina model will feature amber-colored daytime running lights, similar to those showcased on the Vision concept, alongside a redesigned front bumper with a more prominent lower spoiler.

Other expected exterior modifications include a distinctive grille pattern, exclusive Alpina badging and specially designed alloy wheels. At the rear, the brand’s traditional quad oval exhaust outlets are likely to provide one of the most recognizable visual signatures.

These changes should help distinguish the Alpina from the standard BMW 7 Series without abandoning the elegant proportions and understated character that have defined the brand for decades.

V8 Power Expected, but an Electric Alpina Cannot Be Ruled Out

Perhaps the biggest question surrounding the upcoming BMW Alpina concerns its powertrain.

The sound of development prototypes recorded during track testing suggests that a V8 engine could be under the bonnet. If that proves correct, the new model would continue an important part of Alpina’s heritage, combining effortless performance with the refined character expected from a high-end luxury limousine.

As a reference point, the pre-facelift BMW 760i xDrive was powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 544 hp. However, there is currently no official confirmation regarding the engine specifications or output of the upcoming Alpina.

An all-electric version also remains a possibility. BMW could potentially draw inspiration from the electric powertrain used in the BMW i7 M70, which produces an impressive 680 hp. Such a configuration would give Alpina an opportunity to extend its traditional luxury philosophy into the electric flagship segment.

For now, the V8 appears to be the more intriguing possibility, particularly given the sounds reportedly produced by the prototypes. Nevertheless, BMW has yet to disclose whether the new model will be offered with combustion power, electric propulsion or multiple powertrain configurations.

BMW Alpina Will Position Itself Above BMW and Below Rolls-Royce

The transformation of Alpina into a fully integrated BMW Group brand represents more than an ownership change. It also signals a clearer positioning within BMW’s increasingly diverse luxury portfolio.

BMW intends to position Alpina between its most exclusive BMW models and Rolls-Royce, with a greater emphasis on comfort, refinement, individualization and craftsmanship than outright performance.

This strategy will place the new BMW Alpina sedan in direct competition with the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, one of the most established names in the ultra-luxury limousine segment.

Unlike BMW M, which focuses primarily on high-performance driving dynamics, Alpina has traditionally pursued a different balance. Its vehicles combine powerful engines with sophisticated suspension tuning, exceptional long-distance comfort and distinctive interior and exterior details.

That philosophy is expected to remain central to the new generation of Alpina vehicles. Rather than simply producing a more powerful 7 Series, BMW appears to be developing a genuinely more exclusive luxury automobile.

The sedan is also unlikely to be the only addition to the revived lineup. Following its introduction, an Alpina interpretation of the next-generation BMW X7 is reportedly expected, potentially extending the brand’s influence into the increasingly important ultra-luxury SUV market.

New BMW Alpina Could Cost More Than the Most Expensive 7 Series

Pricing will be another important indicator of BMW’s ambitions for Alpina.

The upcoming model is expected to cost more than the most expensive BMW 7 Series variant, reflecting its more exclusive positioning, bespoke design elements and additional luxury appointments.

That would place it firmly in the territory traditionally occupied by the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, although the final pricing structure will depend on the model’s powertrain, equipment and available customization options.

The new sedan will also carry considerable symbolic importance. It is not simply another derivative of the BMW 7 Series, but the first production model representing Alpina’s future under BMW Group ownership.

With its debut expected in the coming weeks and customer deliveries scheduled for 2027, the upcoming luxury sedan could become one of the most significant additions to BMW’s high-end portfolio.

After several years without a new B7 flagship, Alpina is preparing to return with a different identity, a renewed strategy and a clear ambition: to offer an alternative to the world’s most prestigious luxury limousines while preserving the distinctive character that made the name famous.

Source: BMW Alpina via instagram

News

Italy Plans €160 Fine for Drivers Travelling Below 100 km/h in the Motorway Overtaking Lane

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Italy is preparing a significant change to its motorway traffic regulations that could see drivers fined up to €160 for travelling too slowly in the overtaking lane. The proposed legislation introduces a minimum speed requirement of 100 km/h in the far-left lane of motorways with at least three lanes in each direction, although several important exceptions will apply.

The measure is part of a broader effort by the Italian government to improve motorway traffic flow, reduce unnecessary congestion and discourage drivers from occupying the overtaking lane without sufficient reason.

Italy Proposes a 100 km/h Minimum Speed in the Left Lane

Under Article 50 of the proposed legislation, motorists driving below 100 km/h in the far-left lane of qualifying Italian motorways could face fines of up to €160.

However, the proposed restriction will not apply to every motorway in Italy. It will specifically cover motorway sections featuring at least three traffic lanes in each direction, where the leftmost lane is primarily intended for overtaking.

The proposal was approved by Italy’s Council of Ministers in mid-October and has subsequently entered the parliamentary process. Its final adoption is still pending, meaning the new minimum speed requirement is not yet an enforceable nationwide rule.

Although Italy currently has no specific statutory minimum speed for the overtaking lane, existing traffic regulations already require motorists to use motorway lanes correctly and avoid unnecessarily occupying the left lane.

Driving Slowly in the Overtaking Lane Is Already Prohibited

The proposed amendment builds on two important provisions of Italy’s existing Highway Code.

Article 141 requires drivers to adapt their speed to road conditions, traffic density, visibility and other circumstances affecting driving safety. Meanwhile, Article 143 establishes the principle of keeping to the right-hand lane whenever it is available, using the left lanes primarily for overtaking.

In practical terms, drivers should return to the right-hand lane after completing an overtaking manoeuvre rather than continuing to cruise in the far-left lane.

The proposed 100 km/h threshold would introduce a more specific requirement for certain multilane motorways, giving authorities an additional basis for penalising drivers who unnecessarily obstruct faster-moving traffic.

Exceptions for Bad Weather, Accidents and Roadworks

Importantly, the proposed legislation does not mean motorists will be forced to maintain a speed of at least 100 km/h regardless of driving conditions.

Exceptions will apply whenever road or traffic conditions make such speeds unsafe or inappropriate. These include heavy rain, dense fog, reduced visibility, traffic accidents and roadworks.

In these circumstances, drivers will be expected to adjust their speed according to the actual conditions, even if that means travelling below the proposed 100 km/h minimum.

This distinction is particularly important because road safety remains the priority. A minimum speed requirement should never encourage motorists to drive faster than conditions safely allow.

When Will the New Italian Traffic Rules Come Into Force?

Despite approval by the Council of Ministers, the proposed amendment has not yet completed the parliamentary process. Its final wording, implementation details and effective date will depend on the outcome of the legislative debate.

Until Parliament formally adopts the changes and the relevant provisions enter into force, drivers should continue following Italy’s existing Highway Code.

For international motorists, including tourists travelling through Italy on their way to other European destinations, the proposed regulation is worth monitoring. If adopted, it could introduce an additional traffic rule to consider when using Italy’s major three-lane motorways.

Ultimately, the government’s objective is straightforward: keep the overtaking lane moving, discourage unnecessary slow driving and make motorway traffic more predictable. However, whether a fixed 100 km/h threshold will deliver those benefits without creating new challenges for drivers remains to be seen.

Source: Automotive News

Auctions

1997 Ferrari F50 Sells for Record $18.7 Million at Las Vegas Auction

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A virtually untouched 1997 Ferrari F50 has rewritten the record books, selling for an astonishing $18.705 million at a Broad Arrow auction in Las Vegas. With just 171 kilometers (106 miles) on the odometer, the Italian supercar achieved the highest auction price ever recorded for an F50, highlighting the extraordinary demand for rare, low-mileage Ferrari models among the world’s wealthiest collectors.

The landmark sale took place on October 31, surpassing the previous auction record for the Ferrari F50 by approximately $4.1 million. Although pre-auction estimates suggested the car could potentially reach $20 million, the final hammer price, including the buyer’s premium, settled at $18,705,000. Nevertheless, the result represents a remarkable achievement for one of Ferrari’s most celebrated modern supercars.

Ferrari F50 Breaks Auction Records With Just 171 Kilometers

Introduced in 1995 to celebrate Ferrari’s 50th anniversary, the F50 occupies a special place in the history of the Maranello manufacturer. Conceived as a road-going interpretation of Formula 1 technology, it combined a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V12 engine with an uncompromising chassis philosophy inspired by the company’s motorsport experience.

Its exclusivity, naturally aspirated powertrain and direct connection to Ferrari’s racing heritage have made the F50 one of the most desirable modern classic supercars. However, the example offered in Las Vegas was particularly exceptional.

Having covered only 171 kilometers since new, the 1997 Ferrari F50 represents an unusually preserved example of a model that was already produced in limited numbers. Its extraordinarily low mileage, combined with its historical significance and condition, undoubtedly contributed to the record-breaking result.

The $18.705 million sale also demonstrates how the collector-car market increasingly rewards exceptional provenance and originality, particularly when it comes to historically significant Ferrari models.

Ferrari Dominates the $92.8 Million Las Vegas Auction

The Ferrari F50 was the undisputed star of the evening, but it was far from the only exceptional car to attract significant attention.

The October 31 Broad Arrow auction generated an impressive $92.8 million in total sales, setting a new record for the highest-value collector-car auction ever held in Las Vegas. Of the 84 vehicles offered, 64 found new owners, resulting in a sell-through rate of approximately 76 percent.

Ten vehicles established new world auction records for their respective models, with Ferrari claiming the three highest-selling positions.

Following closely behind the F50 was a 2025 Ferrari Daytona SP3, which sold for $18.54 million. The example had accumulated approximately 130 kilometers and was offered by its original owner. Its final price established a new auction record for the Daytona SP3 outside a charity sale.

The third position went to a 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari, which achieved $8.805 million.

Combined, these three Ferraris generated approximately $46 million, accounting for almost half of the auction’s total proceeds.

Another significant Ferrari result came from a 2003 Enzo, which sold for $6.55 million. Although it did not establish a new record, the result further demonstrated the enduring appeal of Ferrari’s limited-production flagship supercars.

Bugatti, McLaren and Koenigsegg Also Attract Million-Dollar Bids

While Ferrari dominated the top of the results, several other manufacturers were represented among the auction’s most expensive vehicles.

A Bugatti Chiron Super Sport achieved $4.57 million, while a Ferrari 599 SA Aperta changed hands for $4.35 million.

The McLaren P1 GTR by Lanzante was another notable highlight, selling for $3.415 million and establishing a new auction record for the model. The track-focused hybrid hypercar remains one of the most distinctive interpretations of McLaren’s hybrid performance technology.

Meanwhile, a Koenigsegg Regera achieved $2.645 million, reinforcing the growing collector interest in exclusive Swedish hypercars.

Classic Mercedes-Benz models also secured places among the ten most expensive cars of the event. A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing sold for $1.93 million, while a 1934 Mercedes-Benz 500 K Spezial Roadster achieved $1.765 million.

The Ferrari F50’s $18.7 Million Sale Signals the Strength of the Collector-Car Market

The results from Las Vegas offer another indication of the extraordinary financial value attached to historically important supercars, particularly those produced in limited numbers and preserved in exceptional condition.

The Ferrari F50’s record-breaking $18.705 million sale is especially significant because it demonstrates that the market’s appetite extends beyond the latest hypercars. Collectors continue to place enormous value on analogue-era supercars that combine motorsport engineering, naturally aspirated engines, exclusivity and an unmistakable connection to Ferrari’s heritage.

With the Daytona SP3 also achieving $18.54 million, and the LaFerrari reaching $8.805 million, the three leading results underline Ferrari’s remarkable position in the high-end collector-car market.

Ultimately, the Las Vegas auction was about much more than a single record-breaking F50. With $92.8 million in total sales, ten model-specific auction records and three Ferraris generating approximately half of the proceeds, Broad Arrow delivered one of the most significant collector-car events ever held in the city.

Source: Broad Arrow Auctions

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