Aston Martin chose the present day to reveal three of its new car models designed for three different platforms. Yes, the new generation of the Vantage is here alongside the GT3 version of the road racer and of course, the brand new AMR24 F1 that’ll hit the paddock for the 2024 Formula-1 season.
Our focus however is set on the Vantage GT3 that briefly made its debut in Daytona last month. The official reveal of the race track-oriented car developed in collaboration between Aston Martin Racing (AMR) and Aston Martin Performance Technologies (AMPT) happened today, and it replaces the outgoing Vantage GT3 that debuted in 2018. The latest version comes with an upgraded chassis, improved aerodynamics, and obvious cosmetic changes – making it more appealing.
The striking GT3 has a very attractive nose section highlighted by the fender-mounted headlights. It gets even more boxy with the fenders having integrated louvers and a massive wing complemented by the new diffuser. The circuit-oriented car gets the same aluminum chassis as its road-legal counterpart. Every mechanical part is covered by carbon fiber panels, lending the performance vehicle a good balance of power-to-weight ratio.
GT3 also gets the same twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 as the more toned-down Vantage but the unit is tweaked to comply with the FIA GT3 class regulations. Suspension on this one is majorly improved from the last model to give it better handling characteristics. This results in way better driving dynamics of the GT3 for professional and novice drivers as well. Also, the British marque promises the car has more stable braking and wears its tires more evenly.
According to Gustavo Betelli Racing Head of Performance at Aston Martin, the new GT3 is adapt for any “circuit, on any tire, and with any driver.” As we saw during the 24 Hours of Daytona the three Vantage GT3’s seemed like a complete package on the track. The number of cars in this lineup will be produced to a limited number of 30 by the end of season 2024.
Pagani has unveiled its latest open-top hypercar, which pushes the boundaries of both performance and design. The latest Huayra R Evo derives inspiration from the IndyCar and the iconic Le Mans performance cars that are built for endurance to the limits. The long-tail form is influenced in particular by the Huayra R, since Horacio Pagani got majorly attracted to the single-seater’s design during the Formula Indy race in Nashville.
Horacio couldn’t help but appreciate the aeroscreens, the protective polycarbonate surfaces that replace the two roof panels for an immersive connection to the outside while experiencing the sweet rumble of the engine in the ears. From that moment on the idea of creating a beautiful, strong and harmonious car sprouted. The result, this descendant of the Huayra R took two years to complete.
At its heart, the Electrified R Evo is powered by the Pagani 6.0-liter V12-R Evo engine, capable of generating 900 hp (at 8,750 rpm and 567 lb-ft torque). That extra power is delivered from the trumpet design for the camshafts, intake manifold and modified exhaust system. Now that level of performance on paper should rival the gasoline-powered icons of endurance racing. The six-speed sequential gearbox weighing just 176 pounds (designed in collaboration with HWA AG), 280/680 R19 Pirelli P Zero Slick tires at the front and 345/725 R20 at the rear, helical springs, electronically controlled shock absorbers, heave damper and double-wishbone suspension further optimizes handling.
The race-ready electric Pagani can hit a top speed of 218 miles per hour and is equally capable when it comes to the stopping power, courtesy of the new CCM-R self-ventilated carbon ceramic brakes and bespoke racing pads. Increased downforce of 45 percent can be attributed to the four inches extended front splitter (with integrated ductwork cooling system support), 7/5-inches longer rear, central stabilizing fin and the rear wing of course. The open-top configuration further adds a boost of 5 percent better downforce. The result is that Huyara R Evo generates more downforce than its 2,337 weight at 199 mph which is utterly impressive.
On the inside, the hypercar is snug in fireproof material with a six-point harness system and the carbon-fiber headrests with lateral protection pay an ode to safety. Pagani will give the buyers the option for left or right-hand drive configuration which is expected from the ultra-proactive client-oriented Italian marquee.
They say car aesthetics evolved to keep up with our abilities to bend and shape metal. Cars in older days were boxy because we couldn’t manipulate metal sheets into 3D curves and contours. As soon as that happened, the retro-style boxy cars went the way of the dodo, giving rise to more aerodynamic, curvilinear silhouettes… but what if, in an alternate reality, the old aesthetic just stuck around? We moved onto futuristic-looking LED headlights and cyberpunk metallic gloss/matte paint-jobs… but the shell of our vehicles still retained their retro charm. Meet Hexaleaf, a concept car (and brand) from Ukrainian concept artist Andrii Snitsar. Created as a part of another project, Snitsar decided to share the Hexaleaf as an independent project on his Artstation, highlight its retro-inspired cyberpunk beauty.
Snitsar’s Hexaleaf somehow simultaneously looks retro as well as futuristic – think DeLorean but a lot classier. The straight lines and lack of organic curves are almost caricature-ish, but look wonderful on the car. See the cutout on the fender for the wheels and you’ll know what I mean. Snitsar is almost ridiculing the notion of car design by giving the wheels an almost SIM-card-shaped cutout (OCD-people beware). It looks eye-catching, to say the least, and brings more attention to the shiny wheel rims. The car also opts for a highly unusual front bumper, looking more like a metal bumper guard than the bumper itself. It lines up perfectly with those gorgeous headlights that feel like a luxury car from the 50s was given a facelift worthy of the year 2050.
The Hexaleaf logo features prominently on the roof – an odd choice. It can even be seen on the hood, which is where car logos are most commonly found.
It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly the design language that’s on display with the Hexaleaf, but there’s a strong interplay between old-fashioned and futuristic. The car’s shape, just on face value, is a hat-tip to the cars of the mid-60s, with those vertical headlights adding a distinct retro flavor (think Deville, GTO, Galaxie, or even the Eldorado). That flat-panel windshield is a throwback to an even older time when triplex glass couldn’t be bent into shape, giving the Hexaleaf an undeniable blast-from-the-past appeal. The use of chrome, for some reason, feels both retro and modern, evoking the simultaneous emotions of the DeLorean and the Cybertruck.
The rear highlights dual exhausts and a set of three-ring LED tail-lights, hidden behind a transparent facade (so the back is completely flat, coming to life only when the lights shine through. It’s surprising there’s no electric power train on this one (you’ll even see the gasoline inlet beside the taillight), but then again, the fact that it runs on fuel kinda does give it the pure American muscle vibe that I personally love.
LEGO Technic has found a deep-rooted fancy for motorsports lately with the release of the McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna LEGO set and Speed Champions 2023 McLaren. Now the group has revealed the Mercedes-AMG W14 E Performance and a smaller pull-back version. The scaled replica of Lewis Hamilton’s 2023 Mercedes-AMG W14 F1 car is highly intricate and one to get for Formula-1 fans who follow the sport passionately.
The seven-time world champion sparked the interest of audiences worldwide with his domination at the pinnacle of motorsports for nearly a decade. This has earned the team millions of fans who come to witness the driving craft of Lewis and his machine. Sadly the team has tumbled from the top spot as Red Bull hit back with a flurry of wins but that doesn’t take anything away from the champion and his glory years. This LEGO set celebrates that winning spree and domination etched forever in the hearts of Mercedes fans.
LEGO Technic is expanding its ever-growing collection of motorsports replicas with the Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance LEGO set. The 1/8 scale model can be built piece by piece from the individual 1,642 LEGO bricks to form the W14 measuring 13 cm tall, 63cm long and 26 cm wide. Symbolized by the black color to keep the carbon parts from being painted to reduce that minuscule amount of weight, the F1 car is crafted to the most fine details.
The see-through V6 engine has moving piston parts, a working steering wheel, suspensions, differential, slick tires (without the Pirelli branding) and a DRS rear wing to complete the build. The original livery in the form of stickers has been replicated on the bodywork, making it a very inviting final form if you love the Silver Arrows for what they are.
The LEGO set will be released on March 1, 2024, for interested buyers and I’m sure there will be many takers. Also, LEGO will release a smaller version for kids in a pull-back form to have maximum fun.
Traveling luxuriously in modern times is synonymous with names like the Maybach S Class, Rolls Royce Ghost, Porsche Panamera and Bentley Continental GT. Such is the lure of luxury that once you get a taste of it, you never want to go back. The same holds for the future where clean energy vehicles will overtake their gasoline-powered counterparts.
Even at that time luxury will be at the forefront for those who can afford to own. The Hotel on Wheels: Vision Pullman Express culminates from that inner desire for comfortable mobility for a premium experience. The concept vehicle designed by Arya Kani holds merit for short-term travelers as well as those who prefer more adventurous escapades wrapped in the best luxury available.
The car is equipped with level 5 autonomy, dripping with utmost comfort and flexible options for traveling while working or resting. There are swappable seats, dedicated sections for rest and work for professional travelers. The buck doesn’t stop at that as there are options for flexible drop-offs, mobile bot room service and even the option to hop on one of the integrated micro-mobility scooters and bikes. Yes, these micro vehicles are housed within the huge Hotel on Wheels which justifies its name threefold.
Since we are more levied towards the design aspect let’s throw some light on the semi-flat front cabin contrasted by the elegant rear section. The front grille bears the Mercedes-Benz influence with the apparent logo muting any inquisitiveness. The daylight opening with the semi-flat glass and a front seat row seems out of place but has a valid purpose. The wavey exterior is inspired by the West Coast of the United States for that cool overall vibe.
On the inside, the car has an airy large glass roof for maximum natural light to seep in. Comfort and functionality are given precedence here with dual zones for seating and dining. There are adjustable rising seats to enjoy the panoramic view outside, whether parked or traveling. For the more flamboyant type, there is the lookout bar with the perfect ambiance for weekend fun. The interior can be turned into a private oasis with the push of a button to reduce the natural light coming in which comes in handy for the summers too.
This concept sees Mercedes-Benz and Belmond Group join forces to plug this huge gap in the futuristic vehicle market that concentrates solely on clean energy and minimalism. The designers envision a future where people will be able to rent out such vehicles for a quality-of-life experience amidst the choking strains of going minimalistic. The premium urban travel-themed aura of the vehicle will be 100 percent tailored to the needs of discerning travelers.
The choice of the two brands to develop this EV concept seems logical since Mercedes-Benz and Belmond Group have evolving businesses in travel and mobility. Take, for example, the Mercedes Sprinter and Orient Express trains by Belmond.
Pickup campers, trailers, and pop-up tents all have one thing in common; they persuade an enthusiast to step out of their driving seat over into the camper of choice filled with most essential amenities for a few days on the road. In the list of exceptional options popping up by the day, a hunting blind manufacturer is putting the tried and tested high density EPE foam material into creating the HitchHiker.
HitchHiker is what its name portrays; a tiny camping solution that rides on the back of your truck or trailer to give you a well-insulated, ultra-lightweight sleeping pod to curl into when the sun goes down. This pick-up camper, as you would have realized, is not the usual one to hitch behind your truck, in fact, the 190-pound fully insulated, hard-walled bare-bones sleeper camper is made to be carried along for an overlanding experience.
Pennsylvania-based mobile shelter manufacturer, Tusca Outdoors, has designed the simple HitchHiker with one motive: to let the enthusiasts retire in it after a long day’s drive. The camper doesn’t intend to include a kitchen or a washing setup or a pop-out skylight – it ideally is an all-weather enclosed camper with a lockable single entry. Owning to its bare-bone construction and single-point simplicity, it is very affordably priced at $2,750.
The construction is ultra-insulated. The company notes it can be heated with body heat even in sub-zero temperatures. Even though it has an electric port on the outside, you can use it to connect an electric or propane heater. For the adventurer, the HitchHiker then does function as a teardrop camper in all four seasons. Measuring 90-inch by 58-inch, the camper is ultra-compact and can fit onto the bed of a 5×8 utility trailer. It can be secured on the pick-up bed with accompanying 2-inch ratchet straps.
As far as features of the HitchHiker interior go, it is made to accommodate a full-size bed (available separately), which can sleep up to two adults comfortably. To ensure the interior is fresh and lighted, the HitchHiker has been fashioned with screened windows on both sides and even has small vents to maintain ventilation when the windows are closed.
What really makes this portable camping pod a good company is the convenience with which you can haul it. With two people, you can pick and set it up on the truck bed or trailer. And when you want to use it as a toy hauler, HitchHiker can be used on a larger trailer (larger than a 5×8). You can station the camper right in front and have the ATV or a bike behind it. IF the HitchHiker gets you excited, Tusca is showing it at the Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Plan a trip this week!
Gocycle is pretty adept at making electric bikes showcasing a sleek, exotic design. Taking their innovation further, they’ve revealed the lightweight Gocycle CXI Family Cargo Bicycle that carries forward the core values of lightweight and portability for people who were always turned off by cumbersome cargo bikes.
The company has added the CXi lineup of cargo e-bikes that come with core patented innovations including side-mounted Pitstopwheels, F1-inspired monocoque chassis, internal cabling and Cleandrive drivetrain. There are two e-bikes, CXi and CX+ which are more or less the same, with the differentiator being the newly designed FloFit Handlebar in the latter.
The CXi’s patent-pending handlebar permits adjustments for reach height, multiple hand positioning, fingertip controls and grip angle to toggle the upright or forward stance. Other than that the signature Gocycle styling is evident with an appealing design that has no visual presence of chains, spokes, wires or gears. Some are engineered into oblivion, while others are cleverly hidden behind engineered shrouds and custom-built frames. The 51 lb bike folds down to a transportable size of 46.5 x 15.75 x 30.75 inches which makes it highly practical for diverse needs.
Combining the performance front, the cargo bikes are built on the hydro-formed 6061 T6 front frame and carbon fiber rear frame. This time around Gocycle is calling it the WingPillar Frame which can haul a load of up to 480 lb. The MIK-compatible rear rack does all the heavy lifting with space for accessories and seating. There’s the 500-W front hub motor that provides smooth pedal assistance of 20 mph courtesy of the five-speed Shimano Nexus geared hub. On a single charge, the 375-Wh battery is good for a range of 50 miles.
The two models will arrive in a choice of six colors with the CXi priced at $6,999 and the CX+ coming in at $7,999. Deliveries are scheduled for September and pre-orders are live now for a refundable deposit of $499.
In the heart of Audi’s creative forge, a groundbreaking project unfolded, marking a blend of heritage and innovation. The Audi RS 6 Avant GT is a canvas where past and future collide. This design journey began with a visionary apprentice project: the 2020 RS 6 GTO concept. In this project, a dozen apprentices from various disciplines, from bodywork to automotive mechanics, painting, and tooling mechanics, brought their dreams to life under the guidance of Audi Design.
Designer: Juergen Loeffler, Exterior Designer at Audi
Drawing deep from the well of history, these young talents channeled the indomitable spirit of the 1989 Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO race car. Their six-month journey was more than an exercise in automotive design; it was a dialogue between eras, a reimagining of what a car could embody.
The Audi RS 6 Avant GT emerges as a sculptural masterpiece, distinct in its lineage yet boldly forward-looking. Its design language speaks of power and grace, with a front visage that commands attention. The high-gloss black Singleframe and menacing air intakes sculpt a lower and wider facade, a homage to its racing DNA. The introduction of vertical blades, a new intake grille, and a front splitter crafted into the bumper sharpens its predatory stance.
Audi Sport ventures into new territories with a carbon fiber redesigned hood, underscoring the unique identity of the RS 6 Avant GT. This hood is more than just a part; it’s a standout feature, accentuated by the body color, making the carbon weave a spectacle. The air outlets behind the 22-inch wheels intelligently combine aesthetics with aerodynamics.
The car’s side features carbon fiber fenders housing the wheels, showcasing Audi’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. The side profile is accentuated with glossy carbon inserts and mirrors alongside the bespoke 6-spoke wheels, exclusive to this model.
At the rear, the RS 6 Avant GT wears its “RS 6 GT” lettering like a badge of honor, complemented by a tailgate that seamlessly blends into the car’s silhouette, a functional diffuser, and a motorsport-inspired double wing, directly influenced by the apprentices’ concept.
For the first time, the RS 6 Avant sees its roof rails omitted, crafting a sleeker, more streamlined profile that whispers speed even in stillness.
The palette of options for the RS 6 Avant GT is a tribute to Audi Sport’s heritage, offering decals in striking color schemes that echo the brand’s racing legacy. Whether it’s the stark contrast of Arkona White against the vibrant decals or the subdued elegance of Nardo grey or Mythos black, each choice is a statement of individuality.
Inside, the RS 6 Avant GT is a model of simplicity, where the RS design package is the main feature. Black interiors are punctuated with red and copper accents, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors that dance across the steering wheel, center console, and the luxurious RS bucket seats. The meticulous stitching in Express Red and Copper weaves a narrative of attention to detail and craftsmanship.
The use of Dinamica microfiber throughout the cabin, from the armrests to the dashboard, elevates the tactile experience, offering a glimpse into the future of luxury materials. The optional open-pore carbon twill inlays add another layer of depth, bringing the exterior’s carbon motif inside.
Each RS 6 Avant GT is a piece of history, marked by its unique serial number in a limited series of 660, a reminder of the exclusivity and passion that drives Audi’s design ethos.
The RS 6 Avant GT is not just a car but a symbol of youthful creativity and a bridge between generations. It represents both Audi’s design legacy and its future. More than just being built, the RS 6 Avant GT is crafted. Each line, curve, and stitch tells a story of innovation, heritage, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.
The RS 6 Avant GT ramps up the performance with a power output of 463 kW (630 PS) and torque of 850 Nm, marking an increase of 22 kW (30 PS) and 50 Nm over the base RS 6 Avant model. This allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.3 seconds, 0.3 seconds quicker than the base model, and reach 200 km/h in 11.5 seconds, 1.5 seconds faster. The top speed is capped at 305 km/h (190mph). The car comes standard with RS ceramic brakes for effective deceleration.
Power from the 4.0 TFSI engine is delivered through an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox to the quattro all-wheel-drive system, featuring an optimized center differential that improves handling and reduces understeer by adjusting the torque distribution between the front and rear axles as needed.
The RS 6 Avant GT also gets a specially tuned quattro sport differential for the rear axle, enhancing agility and precision, especially in dynamic driving mode. It comes standard with adjustable coilover suspension, lowering the ride height by ten millimeters compared to the base model and balancing dynamic driving and comfort. The suspension setup includes higher spring rates, triple-adjustable dampers, and stiffer stabilizers to reduce body roll and enhance driving enjoyment. Customers can choose between this setup, the RS sport suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), or the RS adaptive air suspension.
Mayla Yacht is already well known in the arena of sports car manufacturing, so why not extend that skill to the waters? That’s the very reason behind the development of this 44-foot GT superboat that supersedes the current designs in both aesthetics and visual presence. Not to mention it’ll come with an option to choose from gas, diesel, electric and hybrid powertrains delivering 3,000 HP. Each one of these monster engines is capable of hurling the speedboat to a top speed of 100 knots.
The German marque currently designing winning yachts, knows this space well, therefore, justifying their foray into the superboat design world. This sharp pointed nose vessel made from high-end carbon fiber material has a spacious cockpit section to enjoy the summer rides and a water toy garage that doubles as a beach club. If all this already excites you, mark your calendars for the Mayla GT world premiere at Boat Düsseldorf 2024.
The use of carbon prepreg keeps the overall weight well below 3.8 tons which helps both in efficiency and range. To help the boat achieve hair-raising speeds between 50 – 100+ knots, there’s the deep-V monohull with twin transversal steps that create air bubbles to reduce surface friction. Also, the Petestep deflectors push the water spray downwards to facilitate power efficiency, stability and reduced noise.
When it’s time to finally settle down and have a lounge party in the open seas, the boat accommodates up to 8 passengers in the multipurpose cockpit section. There’s everything from sundeck with sliding loungers, and foldable dining tables to a wet bar or BBQ. If you feel the urge to get up close and personal with the inviting waters, the beach club platform is the section to settle down. Under the deck, the GT has a double bed, sofa lounge, wardrobe with vanity, entertainment system and separate shower sections. For a comfortable stay, the vessel has on board 200 liters of fresh water and 22 liters of hot water system.
According to Mayla, the entry-level GT superboat will make its first appearance at the Boat Düsseldorf with a price tag of approximately $1.8 million. If interested buyers have more cash to burn, they can opt for more options to spoil themselves in luxury. If you are someone who wants to try out the vessel but doesn’t have that amount of money to spare, the German company is also offering trials beginning in Spring 2024.
Having witnessed countless shape-shifting concepts and working prototypes, I always yearn for a set of wheels that is practical in real-life usage and easy enough to transform from one form to the other. To my amazement, an Indian automotive startup has that desire half-fulfilled. Meet the S32 EV that’s an electric scooter transforming into an e-rikshaw and vice versa.
While you won’t be seeing me driving an e-rikshaw in this lifetime atleast, the vehicle seems like a very good option for commercial use. Given the sheer intensity of commute, home delivery and logistics requirements of the nation, this is going to be a successful product. Designed specifically for the Indian subcontinent, the e-scooter can solve a lot of purposes – be it your commute to the supermarket to grab groceries or hauling medium-sized cargo across the city.
The interchangeable body frame is an industry-first innovation and it’s as easy as popping open the front section (fascia) of the rikshaw and sliding out the two-wheeler. This transition takes less than three minutes courtesy of the specially engineered spring-loaded mechanism, turning the three-wheeled e-rickshaw into an electric scooter so fast you’ll be amazed to see it in real time. All this is done at the touch of a button without the need for any tools. The result is a flexible vehicle that can take either of the two shapes depending on the needs.
The transforming vehicle has very little scope for personal usage, it is a great option for commercial use. For instance, a delivery vendor could configure the S32 on the fly depending on the needs of the client without needing to keep two separate vehicles for each usage. Each module has its separate batteries (independently charged) and motors to make them as independent as they can be. On the inside the vehicle is fitted with LED lighting, digital speedometer and switchgear.
When both of them are combined the three-wheeled rickshaw mode is activated – kicking into action the larger 11 kWH battery, generating 6bhp. It’s powerful enough to haul a weight of 500 kg and has a top speed of 50 km/h. When separated, the electric scooter’s 3.5 KWH battery is activated for commuting, having a top speed of 60 km/h thanks to the 4 bhp output.
Hero Motor Corp says the rikshaw module can be bought in either the hauling option with a cargo bed or the passenger configuration with seats at the back. The company has not revealed the pricing or actual release date but they’ve hinted at a probable production timeline of 2025.
