Emil Frey Racing experienced a real rollercoaster ride of emotions at the opening weekend of the DTM and ADAC GT Masters in the Oschersleben motorsport arena. After pole position and a commanding, albeit lucky, victory for Jack Aitken in the Ferrari 296 GT3 in Saturday's race, luck was no longer on the side of the Swiss team on Sunday. Both Jack Aitken and Thierry Vermeulen achieved good grid positions, but were involved in accidents in the race that led to retirement.

Top ten twice

The ADAC GT Masters season opener brought two solid top ten results after a one-year break. The driver duo of Jean-Luc D'Auria and Alain Valente finished seventh on Saturday and improved to sixth place on Sunday after an eventful race.

Team boss Lorenz Frey-Hilti had this to say about the first race weekend: "After the successful start to the season on Saturday, Sunday was of course all the more disappointing for us all. Winning the first race of the year is something very special and a reward for the whole team, who worked so hard over the winter to make this success possible. In the ADAC GT Masters, we were able to achieve two top ten results, but we have definitely not yet reached our full potential."

Growth potential

Jürg Flach, Technical Director, commented: "We had good speed throughout the weekend, which was underlined by the pole position and Jack's victory in the DTM on Saturday. It was important and a well-deserved reward for the whole team. The DTM race on Sunday was very unfortunate. It's a shame that we weren't able to take advantage of the good starting positions. The results in the ADAC GT Masters were an important foundation stone at the start of the season. The potential for more is there, and we can certainly make even better use of it in the next races."

That remains to be seen, as the Emil Frey Racing DTM team will start round two at Brands Hatch next weekend, while the ADAC GT Masters cars will be back in action at Zandvoort from June 7 to 9.

emilfreyracing.com

The Dacia Duster embodies the values of the brand like no other model. It stands for robustness, outdoor spirit and a focus on the essentials. It made its debut in 2010 and the second model generation followed in 2017. Since its launch, 32,000 units have been registered in Switzerland.

Its steadily growing popularity also made it the best-selling SUV in Europe in the private market across all segments in 2022. Around 1000 units roll off the production line every day at the Dacia plant in Pitesti, Romania.

Generation three
The Duster is now based on the CMF-B platform, which plays a central role in Dacia's strategy. It was first used in the Sandero and Logan models and then in the Jogger.
Patrice Lévy Bencheton, Dacia VP Product Performance, explains: "The new platform is an important factor in the development of the Dacia product range. We see its full potential in the new Duster." On the platform, the new Duster offers more space for passengers and luggage. It also puts the Duster on the path to electrification, as it can accommodate powertrains with mild and full hybrid technology.

The new edition still has the striking appearance that characterized the previous generations. However, Dacia's new design language makes it even more striking. Visually, the Duster is enclosed by a band that encompasses the side protective strips, which merge seamlessly into the wheel arch linings.

Hybrid 140 and TCe 130
The hybrid drive introduced in the Jogger at the beginning of 2023 is now also available in the Duster Hybrid 140. It generates a system output of 103 kW (140 hp) and consists of a 1.6-liter petrol engine and two electric motors as well as the clutchless multi-mode transmission. In the Duster TCe 130, a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo works together with a 48-volt starter-generator. Dacia combines the TCe 130 in the 4×2 and 4×4 versions with a 6-speed gearbox.

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Of course, the new Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4Matic+ is immediately recognizable by its exterior. The long hood embedded in the front end with the two powerful powerdomes is characteristic. The passenger compartment is set far to the rear and leads to the short rear end via flat front and rear windows. The front apron, which is raised in an A-shape in the middle section, allows a large lower air intake. Flared fenders at the front and rear, the enlarged track widths and the 19- or 20-inch wheels give the AMG Coupé a powerful appearance.

Everything under the AMG flag
The interior of the AMG CLE also differs significantly from the Benz models. Eye-catching features include the free-standing 12.3-inch instrument cluster, the portrait-format 11.9-inch central display and the ambient lighting, which sweeps in 64 colors from the center console to below the outer air vents. The integral seats in black man-made leather with AMG-specific graphics and red contrasting topstitching are another highlight. They are comfortable and offer firm lateral support. Upholstery in genuine leather is available on request.

However, the most important parts are hidden under the body: the drivetrain and the chassis. They turn the new coupé into a sporty, comfortable coupé saloon or a muscular sports car, depending on the driver's wishes and choice of mode.

Fast-thinking turbo engine
The showpiece is the in-line six-cylinder engine, which delivers 449 hp and 560 Nm from three liters of displacement thanks to numerous internal engine modifications as well as a new injection system and higher boost pressure, and even 600 Nm in the short term with e-boost from the integrated starter-generator. An additional electric compressor also ensures a more spontaneous response and improved torque build-up. Unlike in the Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 4Matic, the 9-speed Speedshift TCT transmission is equipped with a wet clutch instead of a torque converter. This enables super-fast gear changes and multiple downshifts, with an intermediate throttle function if the appropriate mode is selected. With the five driving programs Smooth, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, the characteristics of the new 53 models can be set using the steering wheel rotary adjuster. The AMG Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds, with the Race Pack even in 4.0 seconds, and maximum speeds of 250 and 270 km/h are specified. The fully variable all-wheel drive, rear-wheel steering as standard and Ride Control suspension leave nothing to be desired in terms of driving dynamics.

The 4.85 meter long and 1925 kilogram AMG 53 4Matic+ coupé is available at prices starting at 99,900 Swiss francs. And what can also be expected: AMG-style convertible joys are likely to be fulfilled in the near future.

mercedes-benz.ch

Genesis unveiled the new Electrified G80 as well as the G80 EV Magma Concept and two new models under the Magma program at Auto China in Beijing. The Electrified G80 reaffirms Genesis' commitment to the Chinese market, as it has special characteristics tailored to local customer requirements.

Long wheelbase
The 130 millimeter longer wheelbase in the Electrified G80 adds to the elegance and also resembles the side profile and Day Light Opening of the top-of-the-line Genesis G90. The longer wheelbase creates more space in the second row with new Ergo Motion seats and the Integrated Memory System, increasing passenger comfort.

The Magma concept
With the world premiere of the G80 EV Magma Concept, which was presented together with the X Gran Berlinetta Concept, the GV80 Coupe and the GV60 Magma Concept, Genesis also introduced a new addition to the Magma high-performance program. The entry into the performance sector is a sign of the positive development of the Korean brand. "With the launch of Genesis Magma in China, we are opening up a new dimension of driving experience," explained SangYup Lee, Head of Genesis Global Design. The G80 EV Magma Concept is the second electric model in the Magma range, highlighting the sporty side of the Electrified G80 and perfectly combining power, performance and style.

Sporty chassis
Achieving maximum performance is a key element of the G80 EV Magma Concept. The use of an advanced suspension system, high-performance wheels and large, ventilated front and rear brakes significantly improves handling. The suspension with racetrack tuning ensures better road holding and optimized handling. The interior of the G80 EV Magma Concept features Alcantara, quilted leather and a carbon fiber fabric with blue inserts.

genesis.com

As a premium partner of the 2024 Roland-Garros French Open tennis tournament, Renault will have a 150 square meter stand dedicated to the Renault 5 E-Tech 100% electric. During the tournament from May 20 to June 9, Renault will present the new electric car there for the first time in the special Roland-Garros series. However, the edition will not go on sale until 2025.

Special series Roland-Garros
There is a choice of four body colors for the Roland-Garros special series: Blanc Nacré, Bleu Nocturne, Noir Étoilé and Gris Schiste matt. These colors perfectly match the roof stripes in satin chrome and the 18-inch wheels in Noir Brillant. The specially designed wheels add a further accent with a hub cap in a matt Gris Schiste. The lower section of the front doors is adorned with the Roland Garros logo in the center of a St. Andrew's cross inspired by the architecture of the stadium. The roof of the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric Roland-Garros is adorned with a textile film in satin black.

Recyclates inside
Light grey upholstery fabrics with weaves inspired by functional sportswear characterize the interior. The Roland Garros logo is woven into the backrests of the front seats. The seat fabric and the blue TEP can also be found on the door panels. Under the air vent on the passenger side is an embroidery with the words "blue white clay" in reference to the clay courts of the French Open. The E-Pop selector lever with the Roland Garros logo is inspired by the handle of a tennis racket.

Give Me 5 - practical projects
To promote access to sports activities for young people in disadvantaged neighborhoods, Renault launched the Give Me 5 campaign in 2022 to support the construction and renovation of tennis courts in France, Brazil and Argentina. In France, Renault is working with the Fête le Mur association to finance three new tennis courts in disadvantaged neighborhoods in Marseille, Poitiers and Roubaix.

Renault is providing a fleet of 180 vehicles for the tennis tournament - nine out of ten of the models used are electrified.

renault.ch

The aim of restoring a classic car is not only to make it functional, but also to return it to its original condition and preserve its authenticity. This is why Samantha Loup sees herself as a preserver of the past. "The patina of the car is important and must be preserved," she explains.

A car for every hobby
Samantha only drives her Peugeot 404 in the summer. As she occasionally takes part in slalom races, she also owns a Peugeot 206 RC. "For me, it's not the monetary value that counts, but the fun and the story you tell with it," she says. 2012 was the first time she worked on a classic car, a Peugeot 304 Coupé S. Later, during her apprenticeship as a car mechanic at Garage Bandieri in Bassins, she had the opportunity to work on classic cars. "I waited six years for the training course to become a "vehicle restorer with a federal certificate" to be offered," she says.

No silly sayings
This time was not only inspiring, but also exhausting. "I often spent weekends working for school," says Samantha, who was able to work 90 percent during her training. For her final project, she worked on a 1958 Renault 4CV that a customer had given her. Her fellow students were between 19 and 55 years old. Samantha was the only woman. During this time, however, she never had to fight prejudice based on her gender. This was only the case during her apprenticeship.

Preferably the oldest
Samantha Loup works at Risoud Automobiles Sàrl in Le Brassus, a Nissan and Subaru dealership, where she has often dealt with veteran vehicles since starting her training. "I hope that one day I will only work with classic cars," she says.

With such a passion for the past, it's hardly surprising that Samantha Loup doesn't rave about electric cars. As a passionate car driver, she would miss the emotions that a combustion engine triggers. "Besides, I don't see the future of the car being all-electric," she says. "I think it's more environmentally friendly at the moment to maintain an existing vehicle rather than build a new one."

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From the front, the BMW i4 and the 4 Series Gran Coupé have a stronger presence thanks to redesigned kidneys with a half-closed (i4) or mesh-structured surface (Gran Coupé). The headlights with their newly designed LED units are also striking. Adaptive LED headlights with matrix high beam, city light and laser light tail lights in the style of the M4 CSL are available as optional extras.

An M sports package and M performance models with M-specific design features are also available as options.

New body colors
Cape York and Fire Red are offered as new metallic exterior paint finishes. New in the sporty interior are the Curved Display and the steering wheels. Models with a combustion engine are equipped with shift paddles on the steering wheel as standard.
There are various optional alternative products for the standard sports seats. In addition to up to five seats, the two new models offer large, high-swinging tailgates and trunk capacities of between 470 and 1290 liters.

Wide range of drives
The all-electric i4 is available in four model variants. The power spectrum from i4 eDrive35 to i4 M50 xDrive ranges between 210 and 400 kW (286 and 544 hp). The Combined Charging Unit of the BMW i4 enables AC charging with a maximum output of 11 kW and DC charging with up to 205 kW.

The 4 Series Gran Coupé offers a large drive portfolio. The petrol engines from 420i to M440i deliver between 184 and 374 hp, the 420d and 430d diesels 190 and 286 hp. All engines are combined with an 8-speed Steptronic transmission.

Typically sporty for the brand
Thanks to the model-specific suspension technology, both the i4 and the Gran Coupé have sporty and harmonious handling characteristics at all times. The M sports suspension, the adaptive M suspension with variable sports steering and sports brakes are also available. The i4 comes with rear-axle air suspension as standard. The most important sales markets for these two model series are the USA, Germany, Great Britain and China.

bmw.ch

The so-called Multi Launch Coaster from Mack Rides offers an incomparable package of thrills, atmosphere and technology. The new roller coaster sets new standards. As the 14th ride of its kind at Europa-Park, it accelerates catapult-like from 0 to 90 km/h four times - once even backwards.

Passengers aged eight and over and 1.30 meters tall can look forward to seven overhead elements, 2.2 seconds of weightlessness and the world's steepest launch at 105 degrees. The new roller coaster not only sets new records, but also offers an intense and incomparable ride experience.

Croatian surroundings
The 1385-metre-long Multi Launch Coaster winds its way through an authentic Croatian landscape. Light-colored limestone, ruins, sections of wall and a variety of plants, including an 800-year-old olive tree, create a Mediterranean flair.
The story developed by Mack Magic about the scientist and inventor Nikola Tesla, who was born in what is now Croatia and who ushered in the electrical age with the help of the legendary Adventure Club of Europe, runs as a common thread through the attraction and Europa-Park.
Owner Roland Mack is delighted: "Voltron Nevera offers a ride experience that is unique in the world. We are looking forward to the many guests who want to experience our new roller coaster with their families and friends this year."

Cooperation with Bugatti Rimac
The cooperation partner is Mate Rimac with its joint venture Bugatti Rimac. Rimac's flagship, the ultra-fast Nevera electric car, combines performance and cutting-edge technology in a very special way. The name Nevera is derived from the Croatian word of the same name for sudden, short storms, which are usually accompanied by lightning and occur mainly on the Croatian Adriatic coast.
In the storytelling surrounding the rollercoaster innovation, it is those storms with the impressive energy discharge that inspire Tesla to invent the Voltron. Mate Rimac himself also repeatedly refers to his role model Tesla, whose inventions laid the foundations for the technologies that are used in electric cars today.

europapark.com

The new Mini Aceman aims to transfer the basic idea of Sir Alec Issigonis, the inventor of the classic Mini, to the present day. Maximum space utilization with a minimum footprint is to be combined with a modern drive concept. The design of the new Aceman model allows up to five seats and a luggage compartment volume of 300 to 1005 liters in a length of just over four meters.

Self-confident appearance
From the outside, the car embodies sporty agility and impressive presence. With its proportions of 4.08 meters in length, 1.75 meters in width, 1.50 meters in height and a wheelbase of 00000000 meters, the Aceman occupies a position between the Cooper and the Countryman. The streamlined front, the short overhangs and the two-box design give the brand's typical Clever Use of Space principle a new, strong character. Wheels are available in sizes 17 to 19 inches.

Depending on the incidence of light and perspective, the shadows cast by the body can be perceived to varying degrees. In combination with four typical contrasting colors for the roof, the character of the Aceman is expressed particularly clearly. Four trims are available. In the Aceman, the brand's first fully-fledged voice assistant can be activated by saying "Hey Mini!". Alternatively, the push-to-talk steering wheel button is also available for this purpose. The voice-controlled interaction is visualized through the animation of graphic elements, typography and an avatar.

Fully electric and efficient.
The Mini Aceman is only available with a fully electric drive. In urban areas and for excursions beyond, the electric motor ensures the driving pleasure typical of the brand. At market launch, the new model is available in the Aceman E and Aceman SE variants. The 135 kW electric motor (184 hp) of the Aceman E achieves a torque of 290 Nm, while the 160 kW engine (218 hp) of the SE variant makes a maximum of 330 Nm available. This enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 170 km/h. With the 42.5 kWh battery, a range of 310 kilometers can be achieved, with the 54.2 kWh battery a range of 406 kilometers.

mini.ch

The time has finally come. From April 26 to 28, Fach Auto Tech celebrates its return to the ADAC GT Masters. The season opener of the popular GT3 championship will take place in the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben. The Fach Auto Tech team will be on the grid with the new Porsche 911 GT3 R. The #4 will be driven by Alexander Schwarzer and Alexander Fach. Qualifying and a race are scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday.

Strong team
"This will be an incredibly exciting year for us," says Team Principal Alex Fach. "We have a lot of experience to gain in the new season - from the race car and a new racing format to the highly competitive field with a wide variety of brands. But we are really looking forward to these challenges."

Alexander Fach and Alexander Schwarzer, two true Porsche experts, will drive the car with the starting number 4, which has also been given the distinctive red and white Fach Auto-Tech design in the ADAC GT Masters. Schwarzer has already competed for the Schwyz-based team in the Porsche Sports Cup Suisse and the Dubai 24 Hours. They also made a guest start together in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup in 2023.

New car
Team colleague Alexander Fach also knows the team very well. The 21-year-old competed for the Fach team in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup and Porsche Carrera Cup Germany in 2022 and 2023. He collected a large number of podium finishes and claimed the first victory by a Swiss driver in the prestigious Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup at Silverstone. He is looking forward to the switch to a Porsche 911 GT3 R: "Of course, the Porsche 911 GT3 R is a different car to the Cup Porsche - among other things, we now have many more setting options and more downforce, and it is also equipped with ABS and traction control."

The duo can expect even more innovations compared to the one-make cups. The ADAC GT Masters offers unparalleled diversity - in addition to Porsche, the field includes Audi, Mercedes, Aston Martin, Lamborghini and BMW.

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