All posts by Francis Mitterrand

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Hypersquare comes with the new Peugeot 208 and 2008

Last year, Peugeot introduced the Inception concept car equipped with a futuristic steering wheel called Hypersquare. Peugeot conducted several studies and found that customers are ready for such a change, so it was decided that this technology will be used in the new generations of the 208 and 2008 models.

“By wire” technology eliminates the traditional steering column. There is no mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels, instead an electrical connection is used to send signals between the steering wheel actuator and the steering gear actuator.

In an interview with Autocar, Peugeot CEO Linda Jackson said: “Not only do we think this kind of steering is technologically superior, but it’s also linked to steering-by-wire technology. This is important because it enriches something that is absolutely fundamental to Peugeot, which is driving pleasure.”

Besides the Hypersquare, drivers will also have a 21-inch curved display mounted on top of the dashboard, which will replace the instrument panel and central display. The new technology provides better integration with modern safety systems, but also removes unwanted vibrations and provides better steering control with much less effort. Also, the new technology allows designing a more spacious cabin. Customers who participated in the studies were shocked by the amount of free space created by the introduction of the new technology.

Source: Peugeot

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Hypersquare comes with the new Peugeot 208 and 2008
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The last generation of Nissan GT-R

In 2007, Nissan introduced a 2+2 sports car, the Nissan GT-R (model code: R35), and after 17 years it seems that the new edition could be the last generation of this model. Nissan has prepared several changes for the Japanese-market GT-R, including a blue interior and Nismo details for the T-Spec and Track Edition models.

The pride of the Japanese automotive industry in the latest edition did not undergo any design changes to the exterior. The interior that we can see in the previous generation is also retained, but now Japanese customers can optionally choose Heaven blue upholstery.

The new Nissan GT-R is already available to order in Japan, with first deliveries expected in June. Prices are slightly higher than last year and range from $97,703 for the base GT-R Pure Edition model to $207,088 for the most expensive GT-R Nismo Special Edition. Some rumors say that Nissan will produce only 1,500 units, but there is still no official confirmation.

When it comes to the powertrain, the new generation GT-R is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 twin-turbo engine with 573 hp (427 kW) in the standard GT-R model, or 608 hp (453 kW) in the Nismo. The Premium Edition T-Spec and Track Edition now feature high-precision weight-balanced piston rings, connecting rods and crankshafts, previously exclusive to the Nismo Special Edition.

At the Japan Mobility Show, Nissan introduced the all-electric concept Nissan Hyper Force, which should replace the GT-R model. It is predicted that the car should reach the market by 2030.

Source: Nissan

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The last generation of Nissan GT-R
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2025 Škoda Epiq

Škoda has introduced the prototype of its new subcompact electric SUV, Škoda Epiq. It comes with more passenger space and luggage space, but also with a range of more than 400 km.

With a length of about 4 meters, it is similar in size to the Škoda Fabia. However, in terms of design, it resembles a smaller version of the 2022 Škoda Vision 7S concept with a similar “Tech-Deck Face” front end. It is finished in Moon White shade with discreet orange details and futuristic three-spoke rims, it is taller and has a distinctive LED light signature. It is equipped with enlarged protective plates that also serve as intakes, roof racks, and plastic linings emphasize the adventurous nature of the model.

In the cabin, enough to accommodate five passengers, sustainable materials will be used with various Simply Clever functions. A minimalist design of the dashboard with a large screen of the infotainment system paired with a smaller digital instrument cluster, a futuristic two-spoke steering wheel with integrated buttons, ultra-thin air vents, a mobile digital key and a compartment for wireless charging of mobile phones under the group of physical buttons on the center console are just some of the solutions. that adorn the interior of this model. The luggage compartment has a volume of 490 liters.

When it comes to the powertrain, Škoda hasn’t revealed any technical specifications other than range. However, since it will be built on a new version of the MEB platform it will share with the Volkswagen ID.2 and Cupra Raval, it is expected to use the same powertrain and battery options.

Last year, Škoda achieved sales growth of 18.5% with almost 900,000 cars delivered worldwide, which is an exceptional result for a brand from the VW Group. Also, last week Chairman of the Board of Management of Škoda Klaus Zellmer said that Škoda will continue to develop ICE and hybrid cars in the future.

“We will offer our customers everything they are looking for, from diesel and petrol engines, through mild hybrids or plug-in hybrids, all the way to electric vehicles. From our point of view, this is not about competing for the latest internal combustion engine, but about putting the desire of our customers in the center of attention. Our position, but our attitude is as reasonable as the one Škoda has accustomed us to,” said Zellmer.

Source: Škoda

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2025 Škoda Epiq