All posts by Francis Mitterrand

EV, News

Mercedes Vision EQXX with a range of 746 miles

Earlier this year, Mercedes revealed its new electric concept, the Vision EQXX, which was claimed to have a range of 600 miles (1,000 km). Now this model has set a new record with a range of 746 miles (1,202 km).

Mercedes has equipped the EQXX with air curtains, covers and moving elements including a rear diffuser that pulls out at higher speeds, Bridgestone tires with ultra-low rolling resistance. Inside, there’s an 8K resolution 120.6cm screen with a navigation system with 3D graphics showing the city from a “satellite perspective” up to 10 feet high.

The Mercedes Vision EQXX is powered by a single electric motor with 245 hp (180 kW). The journey started from Stuttgart and after two days, 14 hours and 30 minutes the car reached the famous British Silverstone circuit. The EQXX consumed an average of 8.3 kWh per 100 kilometers, and the average speed was 52 mph (83 km / h). The car is equipped with Mercedes batteries that allowed an additional 11 laps (64.8 kilometers) at a speed of 87 mph (140 km / h).

The car is equipped with 30 percent lighter batteries than those found in the Mercedes EQS models. The battery capacity is not known, and Mercedes announced that it is less than 100 kWh. The range was also helped by a 117-cell solar panel which provides energy for the HVAC system (which worked for more than eight hours), lights and infotainment system.

Source: Mercedes

News

2023 McLaren Artura GT4

A few days ago McLaren unveiled its new model, the Artura GT4. It is the racing successor to the 570S GT4 with impressive performance and significantly less weight than the rest of the McLaren range. It will have its premiere at the Goodwood Festival of Speed ​​which will take place from June 23-26.

When designing the Arthur GT4, McLaren focused primarily on the weight of the car. It is lighter than its predecessor, which was contributed by the transition from V8 to non-hybrid V6 engine. Also, instead of a battery, the Artura GT4 is equipped with a 110-liter fuel cell, as well as an auxiliary propulsion system. McLaren claims that the weight is still low and in the center due to better balance. The eight-speed automatic transmission has been replaced by a new 7-speed transmission with a shorter gear range.

The more aggressive aerodynamic body kit provides greater downforce compared to its predecessor, the 570S GT4. This includes a new front splitter and a new rear wing with seven levels to adjust so the car can adapt to different types of tracks. The driver’s seat and adjustable pedals are taken from the 720S GT3, and McLaren claims it’s as safe as this model.

When it comes to price, the new McLaren Artura GT4 costs £ 200,000.

Source: McLaren

News, Tuning

Mercedes-Maybach GLS with 820 HP

Lately, Mansory has been paying more attention to Mercedes cars. Such is the case with the new project, based on the luxury Mercedes-Maybach GLS, which brings certain design changes but also 820 hp.

The GLS got a new front grille with integrated front lip spoiler, as well as new LED daytime running lights. The design of the radiator grille has remained the same, but there is the option of dimming or carbon finishing. There are also new sills, a rear diffuser and a redesigned rear bumper, but also a bull bar at the front and a ram protection at the rear. The side mirror housings are also made of carbon.

Inside, the seats are upholstered in beige leather, which dominates the rest of the interior as well. There are also 3D leather embossing and carbon applications (on request), a new steering wheel made in a combination of leather and carbon, as well as other carbon details.

When it comes to powertrain, the upgraded Mercedes-Maybach GLS is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with 820 hp (603 kW) and 723 lb-ft (980 Nm) of torque. It reaches 62 mph in 4.4 seconds with a limited top speed of 186 mph (300 km / h). It is mounted on 24 inch forged high gloss wheels type V.6.

Source: Mansory