Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (“Nissan”), Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (“Honda”), and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (“Mitsubishi Motors”) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore the possibility of Mitsubishi Motors’ participation, involvement, and synergy sharing in relation to the business integration through the establishment of a joint holding company outlined in an MOU signed between Nissan and Honda.
Nissan, Honda, and Mitsubishi Motors have reached a basic agreement to proceed with discussions based on the framework established in the MOU signed by Nissan and Honda on August 1 regarding the commencement of a strategic partnership focused on intelligence and electrification. Mitsubishi Motors has been participating in this framework, and the three companies have been proceeding with discussions.
Following the agreement between Nissan and Honda to start consideration toward a business integration through the establishment of a joint holding company amid the dramatic changes in the environment surrounding both companies and the automotive industry, the three companies have agreed to explore the possibility of achieving synergies at an increased level through Mitsubishi Motors’ participation or involvement in the business integration. Mitsubishi Motors aims to reach its conclusion by the end of January 2025 on the participation or involvement in the business integration between Nissan and Honda.
Marking the announcement, Nissan Director, President, CEO and Representative Executive Officer Makoto Uchida said: “Honda and Nissan have begun considering a business integration, and will study the creation of significant synergies between the two companies in a wide range of fields. It is significant that Nissan’s partner, Mitsubishi Motors, is also involved in these discussions. We anticipate that if this integration comes to fruition, we will be able to deliver even greater value to a wider customer base.”
Honda Director and Representative Executive Officer Toshihiro Mibe said: “At this time of change in the automobile industry, which is said to occur once every 100 years, we hope that Mitsubishi Motors’ participation in the business integration discussions of Nissan and Honda will lead to further social change, and that we will be able to become a leading company in creating new value in mobility through business integration. Nissan and Honda will start the discussion from today onwards with an aim to clarify the possibility of business integration by around the end of January in line with the consideration of Mitsubishi Motors.”
Comment from Mitsubishi Motors Director, Representative Executive Officer, and President and CEO Takao Kato said: “In an era of change in the automotive industry, the study between Nissan and Honda about a business integration will accelerate synergy maximization effects, bringing high value also to the collaborative businesses with Mitsubishi Motors. In order to realize synergies and to make the best use of each company’s strengths, we will also study the best form of cooperation.”
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), is proud to announce that its flagship electric SUV, the Hyundai IONIQ 5, took part in a prestigious Guinness World Records title attempt for the Greatest altitude change by an electric car. Driven by the professional team from Evo India, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 set a remarkable record by registering an altitude change of 5802 metres—from India’s highest drivable point, Umling La in Leh Ladakh, located 5799m (19,024 feet) above sea level, to Kuttanad in Kerala, situated 3 metres below sea level.
The extraordinary feat was accomplished in just 14 days, covering an extensive distance of over 4900 kilometres across challenging terrains and extreme climatic conditions, truly demonstrating the Hyundai IONIQ 5’s resilience, advanced technology, and superior performance. Throughout the journey, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 reaffirmed its position as a benchmark in electric mobility, seamlessly navigating harsh environments, from freezing temperatures and steep mountain passes in the Himalayas to humid coastal regions in Kerala.
Speaking on the achievement, Mr. Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor India Limitedsaid, “We are incredibly proud to see the Hyundai IONIQ 5 create history by achieving the Guinness World Record for the highest altitude change by an electric car. This achievement is a testament to Hyundai’s unwavering commitment to innovation, technological excellence, and sustainability. The IONIQ 5’s performance in such extreme conditions reflects its engineering prowess and durability. At Hyundai, we are dedicated to pushing boundaries and setting new benchmarks in e-mobility, and this record further reinforces our vision of ‘Progress for Humanity.”
The Hyundai IONIQ 5, developed on the state-of-the-art Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), has been designed to redefine smart mobility experiences. It features a futuristic and progressive design inspired by Hyundai’s iconic PONY, a revolutionary step towards a new era of electric mobility. Equipped with a high-capacity 72.6 kWh battery, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 delivers exceptional driving range, advanced safety, and cutting-edge smart technologies, offering customers an exhilarating and versatile e-mobility experience.
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has once again proven its capabilities, setting a new standard in the electric vehicle segment while offering an unmatched combination of performance, safety, technology, and design. Hyundai Motor India remains committed to delivering advanced mobility solutions and shaping a sustainable future for all.
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the appointment of a new leadership team, effective January 1, 2025. Nissan is carrying out its recently announced turnaround actions, designed to restructure the company’s operations for enhanced efficiency and resilience. As part of these actions, the appointments are aimed to respond quickly to current issues, restructuring the management following the appointment of a chief performance officer (CPO) effective December 1. In April 2025, Nissan will make further changes to management to create a lean, flat structure that can respond flexibly and quickly to changes in the business environment.
Stephen Ma, currently chief financial officer (CFO), is appointed as chairperson of the Management Committee for China. He will continue to report to Makoto Uchida, chief executive officer (CEO). With extensive experience and knowledge of China, along with his global leadership background, Ma will focus on shaping the future strategy for the region and enhancing local operations.
Jeremie Papin, currently chairperson of the Management Committee for Americas, is appointed as CFO. In this role, he will report to CEO Uchida. Prior to his current role, Papin amassed many years of experience in finance, strategy, and business development within Nissan and the Alliance. Papin also worked more than 10 years in investment banking focusing on the automotive sector.
Christian Meunier joins Nissan and is appointed as chairperson of the Management Committee for Americas. He will report to Guillaume Cartier, chief performance officer (CPO). Most recently, he served as the CEO for Jeep and was a member of the Executive Committee at Stellantis. Meunier returns to Nissan with a wealth of marketing and sales experience from his previous leadership roles in Nissan US, Canada, Brazil, and global INFINITI.
Asako Hoshino, currently serving as Chief Brand & Customer Officer (CBCO) and Chairperson of the Management Committee for Japan/ASEAN, will retire from her role overseeing Japan/ASEAN operations. She will continue in her capacity as CBCO, where she will focus on enhancing brand and customer experience. Her efforts will be instrumental in ensuring that customer engagement and satisfaction strengthen Nissan’s brand presence in the market.
Shohei Yamazaki, currently serving as chairperson of the Management Committee for China, has been appointed as chairperson of the Management Committee for Japan/ASEAN. His experience in the highly competitive China market will bring valuable insights to the Japan/ASEAN role to help further strengthen Nissan’s presence in the region. In this capacity, he will report directly to CPO Cartier.
Commenting on the changes Nissan President and CEO Makoto Uchida said: “These leadership appointments will bring the necessary experience and urgency to the countermeasures we are taking to get the company back on track. With the support of our leadership team, we will carefully execute our turnaround actions to secure sustainable profits while focusing on future growth.”
The Town Hall of Calcutta threw opened its doors to the public on March 22, 1814. Since that day, the Roman Doric style two-storied building, which stands in a rectangular block with two porticos, supported by rows of pillars has remained witness to many important gatherings of historic importance. Fast forward 210 years to a wintry Sunday morning of December 1 and this grand edifice stood testament to yet a marquee heritage vehicle event – the flag off of the EIMG Vintage Fiesta 2024 – presented by Club De Golf.
Now in its fourth year, the EIMG Vintage Fiesta 2024 was organised by Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) – a community of serious heritage vehicle collectors from all across Eastern India – the line up for the EIMG Vintage Fiesta 2024 included as many as 60 rare heritage two and four wheelers which were selectively handpicked by EIMG Founder & President Shrivardhan Kanoria, himself a restorer and collector of national repute.
By 8.30 AM, the vehicles started to arrive and aided by the team of EIMG marshals led by Ms. Siddique Cowper, these vehicles were parked in a predetermined sequence in front of the majestic Town Hall. What a sight it was to behold with these horseless carriage basking in the winter sun.
Once the lining up of these heritage vehicles concluded, it was time for EIMGians to share some camaraderie, exchanging notes and valuable information about these ageless beauties, over a hot cuppa and some delicious packed breakfast arranged by fellow EIMGian Ajay Kejriwal.
There were several noteworthy heritage vehicles which participated in this vintage gala. Few worth mentioning were Shrivardhan Kanoria’s 1938 Rolls-Royce 25/30 Limousine and a 1948 Bentley Mark 6 owned by Azam Monem, both stunning cars making their Kolkata debut; a beautifully restored 1938 Rolls-Royce 25/30 Saloon owned by Tamalika Naha, Ananda Choudhury’s 1913 Stoewer (the oldest participating car and a huge crowd puller), SK Lahiri’s 1948 Plymouth Special Deluxe (formerly owned by legendary signer Hemanta Mukhopadhyay and fondly referred to as Nilu by its present owner), a very popular 1947 Chevrolet Fleetmaster owned by Saikat Dutta, Shubhajit Kumar’s 1963 Standard Herald, a 1956 Land Rover owned by Sumit Periwal, Kunal Banerji’s 1926 Studebaker Erskine, Debaprem Chatterji’s 1950 Austin A40, and a 1940 Triumph owned by Terrance Lobo. But the one that really stood out among the galaxy of heritage stars was Kanoria’s ultra rare 1934 SS1 Tourer. A real headturner!
Post a quick briefing session by the EIMG President and the group photograph, it was time for these heritage motors to be flagged off from Town Hall for the final destination – Club De Golf in the New Town. Imagine a convoy of 60 heritage vehicle driving down the majestic Red Road flanked by the Maidan on one side. It was a sight for the City of Joy to watch as these beauties elegantly rolled together towards New Town.
It is worth mentioning that on this day alone, each of these heritage vehicles clocked around 60-70 kilometres on their odometers (garage to garage) which is an incredibly great deal for these vehicles and a testimony for the superlative effort put in by the owners who have kept the fire burning in their hearts.
After reaching Club De Golf located inside the picturesque New Town Golf Club, the heritage vehicles were displayed for a vintage rendezvous with their Club members and visitors. A thanks giving ceremony followed where each of the owners were felicitated with a memento for upholding the legacy of heritage motoring. Present on this special occasion was Ms. Akansha Pandey, Owner – Club De Golf and Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria, Founder & President – EIMG among few other dignitaries.
This was followed by a fascinating auto quiz which made all the EIMGians put on their thinking cap. It was brilliantly organized and proved to be a great learning experience for everyone present as many unknown trivia and facts about cars were revealed. The icing on the cake was the sumptuous cocktail brunch hosted by Club De Golf for all the members of EIMG.
Nissan Motor India (NMIPL) has announced the launch of its first state-of-the-art National Training Centre – Nissan Academy, located at the Alliance JV plant in Chennai. The academy will enhance the skills and capabilities of Nissan’s dealership and service staff network across India, reinforcing Nissan’s commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience. Inaugurated by Frank Torres, DVP AMIEO & President, Nissan India Operations, the 10,500-square-feet training facility is designed to provide top-tier educational and training experiences across sales, technical maintenance, and body shop services for all Nissan Motor India dealership teams.
The Nissan Academy features an advanced mechanical workshop for hands-on training in vehicle repair, diagnostics, and aggregate overhauling. Additionally, it boasts a state-of-the-art body shop equipped with upgraded equipment and resources, offering training in a wide range of repair and maintenance techniques. This initiative will provide Nissan’s dealership teams with practical, high-quality training, aimed at enhancing customer service excellence across Nissan’s pan-India network. Over 1,000 technicians can be trained in a year at this academy, a key part of Nissan’s commitment to strengthening and expanding its dealership network and ensuring the highest standard of service across India.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Frank Torres, Divisional Vice President-AMIEO Region Business Transformation & President-Nissan India Operations, said, “The opening of the Nissan Academy – National Training Centre in Chennai marks a significant step in our commitment to delivering innovation and excellence in customer service to the Indian customers. By investing in the development of our dealership teams, we aim to ensure that our customers receive unmatched service quality and experience. This training facility will support our ongoing efforts to drive excellence in customer experience and satisfaction. Nissan remains committed to its India operations, dealers, partners, and customers. We remain on track for our plans announced earlier this year at the launches of the Nissan X-TRAIL and New Nissan Magnite.”
As part of Nissan’s steadfast commitment to the Indian market and to meet the evolving needs of its customers, the company recently expanded its product lineup with the launch of the New Nissan Magnite, embodying the ‘One Car, One World’ philosophy.
MINI India is all set to bring its global legacy to life with the very first edition of MINI United, a one-of-a-kind celebration of BIG LOVE and all things MINI. MINI United will be held in Bengaluru on December 7, 2024. This milestone event will mark the largest-ever congregation of MINI owners in the country, creating an unparalleled platform for the vibrant MINI community to come together in style.
Mr. Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “MINI has always been more than a car – it’s an attitude, a bond, and a celebration of self-expression. Since 1959, MINI has inspired generations with its unmistakable design, agile performance, and pioneering spirit. With MINI United, we’re bringing this legacy to life in a way only MINI can. This event is about more than gathering MINIs, it’s about uniting people. It’s about discovering the new MINI family, sharing stories, and celebrating the bold, adventurous spirit that every MINI embodies. MINI United is where individuality thrives, and community comes alive.”
MINI United India will host MINI owners across India, driving their iconic cars to create the largest MINI convoy in India’s history. Scheduled to take place in Bengaluru, the event promises a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and unforgettable memories.
The event will see participation from MINI enthusiasts hailing from Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, and other key cities in South India. The meetup point will feature engaging activities designed to foster connections among MINI owners, celebrating the spirit of unity that defines the MINI family.
MINI United is a celebrated global event that has brought together MINI enthusiasts from around the world, creating iconic moments for the brand and its fans. This Indian edition will carry forward the legacy, uniting the country’s MINI community in an unparalleled celebration of passion, individuality, and connection.
The Kia EV3 has arrived to redefine the compact electric SUV market, with a segment-leading range of up to 375 miles on a single charge and an innovative interior design that optimises space, comfort and accessibility. Kia’s first dedicated electric compact SUV is ready for all European journeys and lifestyles, and sets a new benchmark for design, efficiency and performance in a high-demand market segment.
The Kia EV3 leverages the premium-level technologies of the EV6 and EV9, both multi-award-winning vehicles, in a compact, efficient, spacious, and comfortable car. The EV3 can adapt to every lifestyle and has the flexibility and affordability to be the main car of the household. Following extensive testing in Europe in all driving conditions, the model is proven to perform equally well on highways, city streets, winding roads, and long journeys. This testing also included validation of range and charging, with the EV3 confirmed as one of the most efficient EVs on the market.
“The Kia EV3 is an amazingly versatile vehicle, built and designed to accommodate the diverse needs and distinctive lifestyles of customers across Europe,” said Marc Hedrich, President & CEO of Kia Europe. “It also shows how a high-volume EV can be part of a broad ecosystem that includes in-car payments, over-the-air updates, bi-directional charging, digital upgrades and much more, to make driving more convenient than ever before.”
Built on Kia’s dedicated EV architecture, the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV3 is designed to prioritise the driving and ownership experience while making EVs available to a wider range of customers. It is part of Kia’s strategy to have 11 electric vehicles on the market by 2026, expanding to 15 models by 2027, with a fully electric product line-up in Europe by 2035.
The 375-mile range of the EV3 goes up to 479 miles when the vehicle is used purely in city driving situations. This is supported by i-Pedal technology and a Regenerative Braking System that offers the driver more flexibility and control by separating the level of regenerative braking from the full stopping control function. Full one-pedal driving can be used in all regenerative braking modes, as well as in reverse. The system also remembers the previously selected level when the vehicle is turned off, and automatically applies it when the vehicle is turned on again.
The efficiency and performance of the EV3 is aided by active air flap technology and a boat-tail shape, to improve aerodynamics. The drag coefficient of just 0.263 helps to reduce power consumption and increase the range. Extensive wind tunnel testing enabled Kia engineers to hone the EV3’s aerodynamic performance, including optimising the wheel shapes and enhancing the rear combination lamps. There are also new side sill undercovers, along with eight parts covering the underbody, for cleaner underfloor airflow and reduced drag.
Also helping drivers extend the range is the Driving Range Guide. Located in the instrument cluster, it displays the maximum and minimum driving ranges achievable depending on driving style, and an estimated range based on past driving efficiency.
400V fast charging technology enables the EV3 to go from 10-to-80% in 29 minutes for the 58.3 kWh battery version, and 31 minutes for the 81.4 kWh version. Up to 125 miles of range can be added in just 15 minutes. A stable charging power profile, combined with excellent efficiency, makes the EV3 one of the leading EVs for mile-per-minute charging in its segment. Fully compatible with European charging infrastructure, the EV3 is supported by Kia Charge, the brand’s network that offers access to more than 800,000 charging points in 28 European countries.
Kia is one of the leading manufacturers to bring Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) charging to the compact EV SUV segment. This feature enables the car to power external devices and allows customers to maximise the EV3’s accessibility. Every EV3 is also capable of bi-directional charging, including Vehicle-to-Grid, Vehicle-to-Home, and Vehicle-to-Building, which will gradually be introduced across European markets.
The EV3 features the world’s first highly efficient and super-compact thin HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) system that delivers consistent cabin comfort in all weather conditions, maximising comfort, and minimising power usage, without compromising range. The cleverly packaged system gives front-seat passengers an extra six centimetres of room in the footwell when compared with a conventional HVAC system. The highly efficient thermal management system, now in its fourth generation, improves heat pump performance, simultaneously absorbing outside air heat and driving heat (from powertrain components, for instance).
The EV3’s driving dynamics have been developed and tuned to meet the high expectations of European customers in terms of ride, handling, and steering. Even before the first test car was assembled, the EV3 went through an extensive virtual development, with hundreds of different setups tested on an advanced dynamic driving simulator. The resulting optimal geometries and compliances were then released for Kia’s European engineers to fine-tune the vehicle on European roads. The steering has been also specifically tuned for European driving conditions, with a focus on precision and linearity, enabling the EV3 to easily handle suburban curvy roads, city streets and motorways.
The vehicle’s suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including Highway Driving Assist 2, Smart Cruise Control 2, and collision prevention systems, have also been extensively tested on European roads.
The EV3’s spacious interior provides a ‘living room’ feel, with an array of usability features designed to make every journey comfortable and convenient. The clean, uncluttered dashboard has a triple-screen panoramic display. This combines a 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation screen and a 12.3-inch driver display screen, sandwiching a 5.3-inch segment display for climate control. A 12.3-inch head-up display puts all the necessary information within the driver’s eye line. As in the EV9, the EV3 achieves an excellent balance between touch and tactile controls for interior functions that help to minimise driver distraction.
Debuting on the EV3 is Kia In-Car Payment expanding the capability of the vehicle for in-car payments. The first partnership available is with Parkopedia, which will help drivers locate available parking and pay for it through the vehicle’s navigation screen. In-Car Payment’s convenience for drivers is part of Kia’s commitment to enhancing the driving experience and improving customer satisfaction across all touchpoints of a journey.
The EV3 offers the future of connectivity with over-the-air updates, video streaming capability4, features on demand via the Kia Connect Store and a Digital Key 2.0 that enables up to 7 customers to unlock and start the vehicle using a smartphone or smartwatch. It is also the first Kia vehicle that will feature Kia’s AI Assistant with ChatGPT that helps enhance the customer’s understanding, knowledge, and enjoyment of the vehicle4.
The EV3 incorporates the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy that harnesses the creative tension generated by the divergent values of nature and modernity to deliver a harmonious whole. Inside and out, the EV3 balances emotional and rational elements, representing the ‘Joy for Reason’ design pillar.
The unique interior ‘living space’ features relaxation seats, clever storage solutions, sliding tables, expansive head and legroom, intelligent mood lighting, and nature-inspired colours to enhance the well-being of drivers and passengers on every journey. The seats include mesh-like headrests on ‘GT-Line’ and ‘GT-Line S’ variants for better ventilation and comfort.
The EV3, among many innovations, includes a new optional limited edition trunk liner, featuring a geometric wave reminiscent of waves and trash flowing into a net. The accessory is made from recycled materials, 40% of it recycled ocean plastic from the Pacific Ocean collected as part of the cooperation with The Ocean Cleanup. The seven-year partnership aims to find innovative solutions and contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet, enabling the removal of almost half a million kilogrammes of plastic from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The trunk liner is the first application developed through this partnership.
In addition, every EV3 features Kia’s 10 ‘must-have’ sustainable material solutions, such as bioplastics, recycled PET fabrics, and BTX-free paint. As part of its long-term sustainability strategy, Kia is aiming to have 20% of the plastics used in its vehicles come from recycled sources by 2030.
The EV3 is now available in Europe, and is on sale in the UK. In future Kia plans to introduce an all-wheel drive (AWD) variant, expanding the range of choice for customers beyond the current two-wheel drive (2WD) models
Caterham has launched its latest limited-edition model, the Seven CSR Twenty, to celebrate 20 years of the CSR chassis. It’s the first vehicle for the UK market that has been built in Caterham’s new multi-million-pound factory in Dartford. Only 20 examples will be made available to UK customers, with prices starting from £79,995.
This special edition features Caterham’s most compliant chassis and includes inboard front and fully independent rear suspension. The inboard front suspension provides more direct and composed steering, ensuring an engaging driving experience suitable for devouring road miles. While the independent rear set up creates additional rear end grip, comfort and composure. Combined, these allow CSR Twenty to deliver its performance confidently, regardless of road quality. The ultimate in point-to-point performance.
This, paired to Caterham’s most popular engine, the 210bhp variation of the 2.0 litre Ford Duratec engine used in the Seven 420, is a combination that has never been offered before.
The performance of the four-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine delivers a brake horsepower of 210 (bhp), revs up to 7,600 rpm, 0 – 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 136mph. The model also includes a 5-speed manual transmission, and ventilated front discs with quad-piston calipers.
To signify the anniversary, the model boasts the most premium finish ever seen on a Seven.
Its interior features a satin carbon dashboard, CSR Twenty edition dials, a premium leather tunnel top, Alcantara gearstick and handbrake gaiters, plush, black carpets and leather Momo steering wheel.
For all 20 exclusive owners of the CSR Twenty, a numbered plaque from one to 20 is located between the seats on the rear interior panel.
In addition, the CSR Twenty seats are designed with premium leather, Alcantara inserts, red stitching and CSR Twenty logos, resulting in a Seven that is unmatched in terms of quality and finish.
The exterior of the car features a Seven 620-style nose cone and front wings, LED front and rear lights, black Mohair boot and weather gear, red brake calipers, a two-tone Union Flag grille and for the first time on any UK model, the exclusive-to-CSR Vulcan 15” alloys.
Customers also have a choice of two premium colours, Kinetic Grey and Dynamic Silver.
Bob Laishley, Caterham Cars CEO, said: “This is without doubt the most premium Seven we’ve ever built. The interior of the car is a level up from what we’ve produced before thanks to an array of high-quality materials used throughout.
“When you combine this with the exhilarating and engaging handling of our CSR chassis, this really is a Caterham built for longer distance road trips.
“It’s a vehicle that truly celebrates 20 years of our CSR chassis and I’m proud to see it being hand built here in our new Dartford factory.”
Caterham will also make an additional 20 units available to the US market.
Hyundai Motor Company has shared initial details of the interior of its much-anticipated IONIQ 9, the brand’s first all-electric three-row SUV. This milestone addition to the IONIQ lineup underscores the company’s commitment to electric vehicle (EV) technology, cementing its electrification leadership.
IONIQ 9 signifies Hyundai Motor’s entry into the large electric vehicle sector, building on the success of the award-winning IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6. With its spacious and comfortable interior, IONIQ 9 is set to revolutionize the EV experience.
“IONIQ 9 offers the ultimate lounge-like environment,” said Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center. “Its nature-inspired, lounge-like interior reflects our progressive approach of how we envision the technology, customer-centric design and tranquility, coming together seamlessly in the future of mobility.”
IONIQ 9’s ‘Aerosthetic’ silhouette gives way to an interior tailored to relaxation. Hyundai Motor’s advanced Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) provides a spacious cabin that features a flat floor across all three rows, enabling easy movement within the vehicle.
Beyond its impressive level of spaciousness, IONIQ 9’s interior features soft, elliptical design elements, such as the door trim and door handle, that contribute to a serene and sophisticated atmosphere.
As a large, three-row all-electric SUV, IONIQ 9 is capable of seating up to seven occupants comfortably. Its interior design delivers the versatility to accommodate different needs and situations, allowing each passenger to utilize the space flexibly.
Coupled with the IONIQ lineup’s groundbreaking electrification capabilities, IONIQ 9’s spatial innovations are set to deliver an unparalleled and distinctive customer experience.
More detailed information will be revealed at IONIQ 9’s World Premiere in Los Angeles later this month.
Bentley Motors has announced an extension of its forward-thinking Beyond100 business strategy, now called Beyond100+, from 2030 to 2035. Bentley has also confirmed that its first fully electric car to be revealed in 2026 promises to create an entirely new segment, the world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV. This model, designed, developed and to be produced at its headquarters in Crewe, will be the first of a new PHEV or BEV model to be launched every year over the next decade as Bentley’s product and investment offensive continues at pace with an ambition to be building only fully electric cars from 2035.
Bentley, already leading the way in the luxury hybrid car sector, will consequently further cement this position by extending the lifecycle of PHEV models beyond 2030, to 2035. And the Continental GT coupe, Convertible and Flying Spur models are now exclusively offered with an Ultra Performance plug-in V8 hybrid powertrain following the discontinuation of Bentley’s iconic W12 engine after over 20 years of production in Crewe.
Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, said: “Four years almost to the day that Bentley initially outlined its Beyond100 strategy, we adapt to today’s economic, market and legislative environment to initiate a major transformative phase for tomorrow. Beyond100+ becomes our guiding light as we extend our ambitions beyond 2030, while maintaining our aim of a decarbonised future, including offering only fully electric cars from 2035, and reinforcing our credentials as the British creator of extraordinary cars for over a century and beyond.”
Beyond100+ also endures a fundamental reinvention of the Crewe manufacturing infrastructure, and helps secure Bentley’s future at Crewe for the next generation of products and colleagues.
The company has already made enormous strides in reinventing the historic Crewe site, creating an industry-leading certified carbon neutral facility, and focus now turns to building a ‘Dream Factory’ for an electric future.
The largest self-funded site investment programme in Bentley’s illustrious 105-year history continues with a new state-of-the-art Design Centre, Paint Shop and BEV assembly line, transforming an 85-year-old site for a new age of electrification, and a new benchmark in next generation, digital, flexible and high-value manufacturing operations.
Power Drive 