News

Renault 5 Turbo 3E will cost 155,000 euros

In late 2024, Renault announced the return of the sporty hatchback but as an all-electric, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E. It is inspired by the Renault 5 Turbo/Turbo 2 models that were produced in the 80s. Only 1,980 cars will be produced and the first 500 units will cost 155,000 euros.

It is built on an extremely stiff carbon monocoque chassis with a retro design. Although it weighs 1,450 kg, the company is confident that it will be able to shed a few kilograms by the start of production. It is equipped with boxy wheel arches, pronounced bumpers and sills, modified LED headlights compared to the standard R5, a sleeker glass section and better aerodynamics, and large rims with ultra-wide tires.

The R5 Turbo 3E is powered by two electric motors with a total output of 536 hp (400 kW). It is Renault’s most powerful production car, and it reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 3.5 seconds with a top speed of 270 km/h. It uses an 800V platform that allows a maximum charging speed of 350 kW. The lithium-ion 70 kWh battery can be charged from 15 to 80 percent capacity in just 15 minutes, and with a single charge it allows a range of 400 km.

Since the factory price of 155,000 euros is reserved only for the first 500 buyers, it is obvious that Renault urgently needs funds to start producing the car. From next year, buyers will be contacted by selected dealers and will then be able to customize their cars. They will also have the opportunity to meet with Renault designers to create a unique exterior and interior look if they wish.

Source: Renault

News

Mercedes will use a special solar paint that will allow a range of over 10,000 km

One of the biggest problems facing electric cars is charging batteries. BYD recently introduced a new platform with a charging power of 1,000 kW, which will allow its cars to travel 400 km after a 5-minute charge. However, Mercedes is developing an innovative solution, which is a special paint that could be applied to the body of electric vehicles, and which would work as a solar collector.

This special paint is used in the development of solar modules, and research has shown that it could provide enough electricity for an EV to travel 39 km per day (14,235 km per year). This may not be a huge achievement, but it is a significant step in further development and finding a solution to replace existing batteries that are bulky, heavy and take up a lot of space.

In addition to the special paint, Mercedes is also developing a programmable micro-converter, which can be installed at the battery cell level. This would allow for individual cell regulation and make electric vehicles even better. “Current research results show that it is possible to ensure a constant high-voltage output of 800 volts, regardless of the state of charge and the condition of the individual cells,” the company said.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

Gallery:

Mercedes will use a special solar paint that will allow a range of over 10,000 km
News

2026 Lexus ES

At the 2025 Auto Shanghai, Lexus unveiled the next-generation ES model, which brings several visual changes as well as powertrain options.

The Lexus ES is a mid-size luxury car that debuted in 1989, and its eighth generation is reminiscent of the LF-ZL concept that was unveiled more than a year ago. With a length of 5.14 meters and a wheelbase of 2.95 meters, it is larger than its predecessor and offers much more space for passengers.

The interior is designed in a minimalist style, and Lexus decided to use the highest quality materials. It is equipped with heated/cooled seats with massage function available in several colors, a self-dimming electric glass roof, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a centrally located 14-inch multimedia display, and buyers will be able to choose an additional display of the same size.

When it comes to powertrains, the new generation Lexus ES will be offered as a hybrid and an all-electric. The hybrid version comes in two options: the 300h, powered by a 2.0-liter engine combined with an electric motor producing 197 hp, while the 350h will be powered by a 2.5-liter gasoline engine and a single electric motor producing 247 hp, both of which will have all-wheel drive.

The all-electric ES 350e offers a range of up to 685 kilometers on a single charge, according to CLTC standards. Customers can also choose the more powerful ES 500e with all-wheel drive and two electric motors producing 343 hp. This version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds and offers an electric range of up to 610 kilometers.

Source: Lexus

Gallery:

2026 Lexus ES

Cars and catalogues