The Smart #3, which will be on display at the Shanghai auto show until April 27, is the Chinese brand's first SUV coupe. Smart is thus following the pattern of many electric car manufacturers who offer technically identical vehicles with family-friendly SUV and with sporty coupe bodies.

Front reminds of the Smart #1 

The Smart #3 shares many elements with the Smart #1. In terms of design, however, the SUV Coupé goes its own way. The roof line drops sharply to the rear, turning the four-door car into a hatchback and the entire car into an SUV coupe. The roof arch extends all the way to the rear, creating space for an additional side window behind the rear doors. The front design is based on the Smart #1, and the exterior mirrors are also adopted. As usual, the alloy wheels are adorned with Smart logos on the hub.

Sound system with 13 speakers

In the interior of the upcoming new model, the chunky center console and the 12.8-inch touchscreen centrally located at the front stand out. A special atmosphere is created by the combination of natural light through the large glass roof and artificial ambient lighting. The long wheelbase results in generous space for rear passengers as well, and a sound system with 13 speakers provides entertainment at a high level.

Also available with all-wheel drive on request

The Smart #3 will be available with one or two electric motors, i.e. with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The single-motor version is rated at 200 kW, while the two-motor version will produce 115 kW at the front axle and 200 kW at the rear. The top speed is limited to 180 km/h.
The Smart #3 will celebrate its European premiere this year at the IAA Mobility (September 5-10, 2023) in Munich.

smart.com
autoshanghai.auto-fairs.com

One electric motor on the front and one on the rear axle, which together make a system output of 485 kW (660 hp) possible, and the M-specific chassis ensure a perfect combination of electric mobility, comfort and performance in the i7 M70 xDrive. The top seven measures 5.39 meters in length, has a wheelbase of 3.22 meters and rolls on 21-inch light-alloy wheels. The Super 7 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, making it the fastest electrically powered BMW. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h.

Range up to 560 kilometers

The dynamics of the i7 M70 are combined with high long-distance capability. With 101.7 kWh, the high-voltage battery helps the car achieve a range of 488 to 560 kilometers determined in the WLTP test cycle. With the Max Range function, the range can be increased by around 15 to 25 percent by limiting the drive power and top speed, combined with a reduction in comfort functions.

The Combined Charging Unit's charging software promotes efficiency when charging the high-voltage storage unit with an output of up to 22 kW for alternating current and up to 195 kW for direct current. This means that the range can be increased by up to 170 kilometers in ten minutes with a stop at a fast-charging station.

First model of the iDrive generation

The i7 M70 xDrive is one of the brand's first models to feature the latest generation of BMW iDrive with Quick Select and Operating System 8.5. With a new entry screen and quick access, the enhanced display and operating system offers an improved menu structure based on consumer electronics devices. BMW iDrive with Quick Select is combined with the Curved Display and the Intelligent Personal Assistant. The new entry screen permanently shows the map view of the navigation system or other individually configurable displays.

The i7 M70 will celebrate its world premiere at the Auto Shanghai trade show, which is now underway (until April 27). Production will start next July. The global market launch will begin in the second half of the year. Prices start at 212,900 Swiss francs.

bmw.ch
autoshanghai.auto-fairs.com

During Milan Design Week, Peugeot presents a creation created especially for the event, combining art and technology. Visitors to the fair will be able to immerse themselves in a universe made up of a series of screens showing both the style of artist J. Demsky and the new livery of the 9X8 racing car.

More than a vehicle design

The car will be on public display until April 23. Demsky was concerned with more than just vehicle design when creating the new livery. In the great tradition of Art Cars that have shaped automotive history, the artist sends a strong message by transferring it to a hypercar. The graphic design of the 9X8 is the vehicle manufacturer's second collaboration with the artist this year.

Start at the 24h of Le Mans

With its special design, the Peugeot 9X8 will take part in the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans, which celebrate their 100th anniversary this year. The French race car thus follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, the Peugeot 905 (winner at Le Mans in 1992 and 1993) and the Peugeot 908 (2009). The Peugeot Total Energies team has been fielding two 9X8s in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) since July 2022. In its first full season in 2023, the French are aiming for a place on the podium.

peugeot-sport.com
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With a 77-kWh or 86-kWh battery and a completely newly developed electric drive, the ID.7 is expected to achieve not only very good driving performance, but above all excellent range. There is talk of up to 700 kilometers. This is also helped by the extremely aerodynamic body with a cW value of 0.23, which at 4.96 meters long and a wheelbase of 2.97 meters offers generous space at the front and rear. The trunk, accessible via a large tailgate, holds 532 liters of luggage. The optional glass roof can be switched transparent or dark.

Augmented reality is series

The driver's environment is highly elaborate - with optional front-seat climatronic and massage function. Augmented reality is standard. And Volkswagen has taken the criticism of the central screen in the previous ID models as an opportunity to thoroughly revise this information and control element.

The virtual sliders are now illuminated and voice control has also been improved. The list of assistance systems includes a parking aid that can be controlled remotely from up to 50 meters away. Lane guidance is fed from swarm data, among other things: An important step toward autonomous driving.

Combination version is under discussion

The Volkswagen ID 7 is to be launched on the market as early as this fall - for less than 60,000 Swiss francs. In addition to the hatchback, a station wagon version could also follow later. Although it is based on the same MEB platform, the ID.7 differs in many respects from the first three ID models and appears much more grown-up and mature.

Find out how the top model drives You in a first test.

Source: auto-medienportal.net
volkswagen.ch

The exterior also underscores the vehicle's exclusivity, with the TRX Level 2 equipment package featuring the striking body color. The optional equipment also includes a panoramic sunroof, off-road steps, a 360° camera, lane departure warning and emergency brake assist, as well as heated and ventilated seats and Launch Control. Also special are the black 18-inch beadlock wheels with terrain-optimized body.

Tractive force is up to 3.5 tons

The Ram 1500 TRX Havoc Edition model year 2023 is produced in limited numbers. The special edition is designed for a fording depth of up to 80 centimeters, a towing capacity of up to 3500 kilograms and a maximum payload of 594 kilograms. The mechanical suspension and the Sport, Snow, Baja, Rock, Mud/Sand and Custom modes, which can be set via the on-board system, also contribute to maximum off-road performance.

For those who want to know more, Hedin Automotive Switzerland is expanding its existing brand portfolio and is the official distributor for the US brands Dodge and Ram.

ramtrucks.com
hedinautomotive.ch

The design of the Polestar 4 brings to life the key elements of the Polestar Precept concept car. This includes the elimination of the rear window and the separation of the dual headlights with the typical Polestar light signature. Aerodynamic efficiency is aided by the low vehicle front end, retractable door handles, flush glazing, rear aero louvers and optimization of airflow around the rear light bar

Waiver of the rear window

The Polestar 4 is based on the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) developed by Geely. The l wheelbase of 2.999 meters and the length of 4.839 meters result in generous interior proportions. These are particularly effective in the rear, where passengers travel in great comfort thanks to adjustable seats. The full-length glass roof is optionally available with an electrochromic function, which allows it to be either opaque or transparent, depending on the mood.

By eliminating the rear window, the glass roof extends over the heads of the rear passengers, creating a unique interior ambience. The rearview mirror is replaced by a high-resolution screen that displays a real-time image from a roof-mounted rearview camera, providing a far wider field of view than in common modern cars.

Fastest series model of the brand

The Polestar 4 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, with maximum output of 400 kW (544 hp). This makes the Polestar 4 the brand's fastest production vehicle to date. Typical of Polestar is its driving dynamics, which are said to provide exciting handling with sharp steering. The Polestar 4 will be available in both dual- and single-engine variants - that is, with all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. The long-range variants are equipped with a 102-kWh battery. The target range is 560 kilometers. Market launch for Europe, North America and the Asia-Pacific region is planned for early 2024. The expected launch price is 60,000 euros.

polestar.com

The LM is a new class of vehicle for Lexus in Europe. It offers the luxury of a sedan in the format of a spacious van. The main focus is on the well-being of the passengers. The seats offer perfect support and comfort, and the interior can be precisely controlled in terms of temperature, air quality and lighting. Access to the networking and entertainment functions is intuitive.

Two seat variants with seven seats

The LM, which will be available in Europe starting this fall, can be ordered as a 4- or 7-seater. In the 7-seater version, the middle VIP row of seats offers the most space and better access to features, while the additional third row of seats has three seats that can be folded down if more cargo space is needed.

The four-seater is the ultimate in luxury. There are only two multifunction seats in the rear. The equipment also includes a partition between the front and rear sections of the interior, in which a 48-inch monitor and a glass panel are integrated. The Mark Levinson audio system with 3-D surround sound has 23 speakers.

Self-charging 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain

The bold front design introduces a distinctive identity. Large glass surfaces all around give the impression of openness, and wide-opening sliding doors facilitate entry. The length is 5.13 meters, the wheelbase 3.00 meters.

The new Lexus is launched in Europe as the LM 350h with a selfcharging 2.5-liter hybrid drive. With the system output of 245 hp, maximum torque of 239 Nm and E-Four electronic all-wheel drive, the LM delivers good driving performance. The system can adjust the torque distribution to the front and rear axles between 100:0 and 20:80. Like all vehicles from , the LM receives a warranty of ten years or 185,000 kilometers.

lexus.ch

The new Cayenne debuts with a new display and operating concept, modified chassis technology and additional technology features. Fine-resolution matrix LED headlights provide road illumination tailored to every driving situation, an air quality system filters out pollutants in the interior, and the front passenger has his or her own infotainment display for the first time.

Porsche Driver Experience

The Porsche Driver Experience, familiar from the Taycan, optimizes operation. Frequently used functions are located directly on or immediately next to the steering wheel. The driving assistance lever now has additional functions, and for the first time the automatic transmission selector is located on the dashboard. This creates space on the center console for storage and for a large climate control surface in black panel design.

The newly designed cockpit includes a fully digital 12.6-inch instrument cluster with a curved design and variable display options. A head-up display is available as an option. The standard 12.3-inch central display of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) is harmoniously integrated into the new dashboard.

Travel comfort and performance

A steel spring suspension with Active Suspension Management (PASM) is supplied ex works. New shock absorbers with 2-valve technology and separate rebound and compression damping allow optimized performance in all driving situations. Comfort, handling when cornering and pitch and roll support have been improved. The chassis also offers even more striking differentiation between the driving modes.

Maximum power up to 474 hp

In the Cayenne S, a further development of the 4-liter V8 biturbo engine replaces the V6 unit. With a maximum output of 474 hp and 600 Nm of torque, the SUV and SUV coupé accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The entry-level model is the Cayenne with a 3-liter V6 turbo engine (500 Nm, 353 hp). The e-hybrid combines a V6 gasoline engine and an electric motor. Together they generate a system output of 346 kW (470 hp).

Prices start at 102,100 Swiss francs (SUV) and 107,100 Swiss francs (SUV Coupé).

porsche.ch

With the EQS 680 SUV model, Mercedes-Maybach presents its first all-electric production model. It is based on the technology of the Mercedes EQS SUV and combines it with the exclusivity of Maybach. The special exterior with upright Mercedes star on the hood and striking black panel front end, which transfers the specific radiator grille into the age of electromobility, ensures an unmistakable appearance. The optional two-tone paint finish is just as typical of the brand.

Redefining the extra class

Daniel Lescow, Head of Mercedes-Maybach, Mercedes-Benz Group AG: "The EQS SUV is a milestone in our brand history. For us, it embodies nothing less than the redefinition of automotive excellence in the age of electromobility. Our customers can look forward to an electric driving experience of the very highest order - with the aura of the extraordinary that is typical of Maybach. The interior offers a holistic comfort experience with a cocooning effect to make you as comfortable as possible in the car."

Comfort for all passengers

A highlight in the interior is the standard MBUX hyperscreen with zero layer and Maybach-specific start-up animations on all three displays. The overall visual appearance is designed especially for the EQS in a sophisticated deep blue. The numerous exclusive features include the animated display of the instrument cluster in Maybach mode. The functional content and operating structure of all three displays correspond to those of the EQS SUV from Mercedes. Rear-seat passengers experience the same extensive infotainment and comfort offering with two 11.6-inch displays on the backrests of the front seats.

All-wheel drive and air suspension

The system output of the two synchronous motors is 484 kW (650 hp), the maximum torque 950 Nm and the range up to 600 kilometers. Drive is provided via all four wheels as standard. The air suspension and rear-axle steering are also always integrated ex works. The 5.13-meter SUV can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds.

mercedes-benz.com

Two races in the 2023 World Endurance Championship season have been completed - and twice there was a dominant victory for Toyota. At the race in Portimão/Portugal, the GR010 Hybrid driven by Sébastien Buemi, Ryo Hirakawa and Brendon Hartley was the undisputed leader at the end. With the Ferrari 499P of Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina and Nicklas Nielsen (center gallery and video) and the Porsche 963 of Kévin Estre, André Lotterer and Laurens Vanthoor (left gallery), vehicles from three brands made it onto the podium.

Car of the winners on the pole position

The winning car had already started the race from pole position. But Sébastien Buemi got off to a bad start and initially had to let not only teammate Mike Conway - but also one of the Ferraris - pass. The Italian car was quickly caught again. Conway, on the other hand, was able to hold on to the lead in the second Toyota for around 50 minutes - by then both Japanese factory cars had distanced the entire field.

Podium for Louis Deletraz and Rahel Frey

In the LMP2 class, Louis Deletraz was also a Swiss on the podium. At the wheel of the WRT Oreca #41, which he shares with Robert Kubica and Rui Andrade, he finishes third. Rahel Frey takes third place as part of the women's trio at the wheel of the number 85 Iron Dames Porsche (gallery right).

Nico Müller achieved fifth place

Peugeot also made progress. The 9X8 driven by Loic Duval, Gustavo Menezes and Nico Müller took fifth place. The sister car of Paul di Resta, Mikkel Jensen and Jean-Eric Vergne had problems even before the race started. As the power steering had to be replaced, they started from the pit lane. The trio finished seventh.

The third round of the World Championship will be held at Spa-Francorchamps on April 29.

fiawec.com