After last year's successful event on October 1 - with an absolute record number of visitors and vehicles - the Albisgütli Classics Cars & Bikes will have to overcome various hurdles this year. From April to August, renovation work will be taking place in the ballroom of the Albisgütli Inn. This will also affect the area around the Gasthaus Albisgütli and the parking lots. As a result, access and exit routes will not be guaranteed as desired and therefore no Classic Car events can be held during the renovation phase.

October 6, 2024 has been set

Nevertheless, Albisgütli Classics Cars & Bikes will be welcoming all fans and friends of classic vehicles to the Albisgütli Inn on Sunday, October 6, with a big party. The date of the event can therefore already be entered in the diary. Further information about the Albisgütli Classics Cars & Bikes on October 6 will be provided at a later date. In any case, the organizers wish you a good start to the new classic car season.

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Fiat is preparing for an even more sustainable future. The focus is on newly developed vehicles, the first of which will be launched in July 2024, followed by another one every year thereafter. Thanks to its integration into the Stellantis Group, Fiat has access to the shared global platform.

First model for the 125th birthday

Fiat CEO Olivier François: "A family of concept cars inspired by the Panda provides a first glimpse of future models. Fiat is a global brand and we are becoming increasingly global. The next step in our product strategy is therefore to move from local products to a global offering. We will present the first new model as early as next July as part of the brand's 125th anniversary celebrations."

Sustainable, more affordable models

Fiat is meeting the challenge of building more sustainable and affordable cars with a "less is more" approach. The engineers are dispensing with superfluous components and reducing the use of environmentally critical materials. There is also a strong focus on modular construction. The new models share up to 80 percent of the components, particularly in the interior. This strategy also leads to significant price advantages for customers.

The concept vehicles at a glance

The city car is slightly larger than the current Fiat Panda. Its design is inspired by the former Lingotto plant. The oval shape of the test track on the roof also influenced some of the design details in the interior. The second model is a pick-up. It focuses on fun and functionality and combines the versatility of a pick-up with the utility value of a van.

The saloon show car combines sustainability with sportiness. The body is not only aerodynamically efficient, it also radiates more youthfulness. The fourth concept vehicle is an SUV for the whole family. It meets high standards of safety, versatility and design and offers families a large amount of space and pronounced robustness. Concept car number five is an all-rounder that embodies the typical Italian dolce vita style and is designed to bring people closer to nature.

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At Palexpo, Lucid will be showcasing the Gravity SUV and the Air Sapphire and Air Pure RWD models for the European market. The Californian EV company is also announcing extended service offers and an updated portfolio of the Air model series. What unites all Lucid vehicles is the specially developed e-technology with short charging times and ranges of up to 839 kilometers. Energy for 400 kilometers can be recharged in 15 minutes.

Fixed and mobile locations

Lucid is already represented in Germany, Norway, the Netherlands and Switzerland. The Lucid studios are located in central locations and offer an intensive experience around the brand and the flagship model Air. To underline its commitment in Europe, Lucid is planning to open four more studios in Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Stuttgart this year. The brand is also planning to expand its European service network - with both fixed locations and mobile solutions.

Fast trio with up to 1251 hp

Lucid describes the Air Pure RWD model (gallery on the right) as a champion of efficiency with its energy consumption of 13.0 kWh per 100 kilometers. With a maximum output of up to 325 kW (442 hp), the car can reach 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and has a range of up to 747 kilometers. With a price tag of 91,000 Swiss francs, the Air Pure RWD is the entry-level model.

The electric luxury SUV is called Gravity (gallery left) and accelerates to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, has a predicted WLTP range of more than 700 kilometers and a maximum output of around 588 kW (800 hp). Based on a new SUV platform, the Gravity offers enough space for seven adults including luggage in a luxurious interior. Production will begin at the end of 2024.

The Air Sapphire sports saloon (center gallery) combines cutting-edge technology with sophisticated design. With three engines, the top model delivers up to 920 kW (1251 hp), catapulting it to 100 km/h in around two seconds. It also reaches a top speed of 330 km/h. The starting price is 260,000 Swiss francs.

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The heart of the Avenger 4xe is the 4xe hybrid technology.

Eric Laforge, Head of the Jeep brand in Europe, comments: "The Jeep Avenger 4xe represents a turning point for the brand. The latest version of the successful model combines versatility with the performance of four-wheel drive. The result is capabilities for an even more dynamic driving experience."

One combustion engine and two electric motors

With the integration of the all-wheel drive system, the 4xe variant receives a significant upgrade that raises the car's capabilities to a new level. The vehicle couples a 136 hp combustion engine with two electric motors of 21 kW each, which can drive both axles.

Thanks to the power loop, the Avenger 4xe guarantees all-wheel drive regardless of the battery's state of charge, offering a safe driving experience on a wide variety of terrains. Thanks to the combination of the e-DCS6 6-speed dual-clutch transmission and the electric motor, the 48-volt mild hybrid system enables driving in pure electric mode at low speeds.

Models for all kinds of needs

With the wide range of drive variants, automatic or manual transmission and front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the Avenger now meets the needs of every driver. Whether as a battery electric vehicle, a mild hybrid or a conventional petrol engine, the Avenger can always be tailored to the driver's wishes and driving requirements. The order books for the Avenger 4xe will open at the end of 2024.

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After the first round of voting last November, the Scenic was selected as one of seven finalists - alongside the BMW 5 Series, BYD Seal, Kia EV9, Peugeot E-3008/3008, Toyota C-HR and Volvo EX30. The new car of the year was selected by the jury of 59 automotive journalists from 22 countries elected.

The Scenic E-Tech 100% electric took first place with 329 points, making it the seventh Renault vehicle to be awarded the prestigious title after the R16 (1966), the R9 (1982), the Clio (1991), the Scenic (1997), the Megane (2003) and the Clio (2006).

Range and space

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO of the Renault brand: "Winning the prestigious Car of the Year 2024 award fills us all at Renault Group with great pride. This recognition shows that we have made the right choices: a record-breaking range, a generous amount of space - and all this with a remarkable environmental footprint."

Ideal all-rounder for everyday use

As an all-electric vehicle developed on the mid-range AmpR platform, the Scenic E-Tech 100% electric is designed for professionals looking for versatility. Locally emission-free, maneuverable, lightweight and compact, it is in its element on city streets. For long distances, it offers a range of up to 625 kilometers, comfort, a spacious interior and plenty of driving pleasure. The starting price for the Scenic E-Tech 100% electric is CHF 43,700. Orders can already be placed and the first vehicles will soon be arriving in the Renault network.

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caroftheyear.org

The new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric has a special significance. It stands for the industrial renewal and transformation of the Renault brand towards electromobility. The production model retains the charm of the concept car presented in January 2021. Renault intends to develop a whole range of attractive electric models on its new AmpR platform for small electric vehicles. At this year's Geneva International Motorshow (GIMS), which takes place in the halls of Palexpo until March 3, 2024, the French car, which is very popular in Switzerland, will celebrate its world premiere.

A breath of fresh air on offer

When the Renault 5 came onto the market in 1972, it brought a breath of fresh air to the model range and symbolized freedom and joie de vivre. Now this icon is to be revived with the electric new edition. The design team had plenty of leeway. With its bright paintwork, striking fenders and colorful roof design, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is reminiscent of its trend-setting predecessor.

Under the hood of the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric is a compact separately excited synchronous motor, which is available in three power levels: 70, 90 and 110 kW. With the 52 kWh battery, the electric R5 achieves a WLTP range of up to 400 kilometers. The car is also coupled with a bidirectional AC charger that is compatible with the V2L (vehicle-to-load) and V2G (vehicle-to-grid) systems.

Answers are provided by "Hey Reno"

The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric features the new-generation OpenR-Link system with integrated Google, more than 50 apps and practical services. The new R 5 is the brand's first model to have the interactive avatar Reno on board as an intelligent travel companion. It responds to questions and commands by saying "Hey Reno". And of course, the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric also has many driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and Active Driver Assist.

Production starts in summer 2024

Production of the R5 electric will start in summer 2024, batteries from summer 2025 from France. The vehicle and battery will be assembled at the Douai plant, one of the production sites of the original Renault 5. The electric motor, reduction gearbox and power electronics will be manufactured in Cléon, while the battery cells will be produced in the Douai Gigafactory as part of the partnership with Envision AESC.

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The nickname VZ stands for the Spanish "veloz", which means "fast" and fits the new model perfectly. The Born VZ delivers a maximum drive power of 240 kW (326 hp) and a torque of 545 Nm. This is perfectly transferred to the road with the new adaptive chassis and sporty steering.

Cupra CEO Wayne Griffiths: "The Born was a milestone for the brand when we launched the 2021 model as our first 100% electric vehicle. With the Born VZ, we are now bringing even more power to this model and proving that electrification and performance go together perfectly."

100 km/h in 5.7 seconds

With the increased power, the Born VZ reaches 100 km/h from a standstill in 5.7 seconds - a whole second faster than the e-Boost version. The top speed has also been increased to 200 km/h. The Born VZ can travel up to 570 kilometers on a single charge, as the battery now has a net capacity of 79 kWh. It can be charged at home with 11 kW alternating current or with up to 170 kW at a DC charging station. Fast charging from 10 to 80 percent only takes around 30 minutes.

Special colors are available as an option

The exterior design of the Born VZ is enhanced by two new color variants. The special colors Dark Forest and Midnight Black are available exclusively. Aesthetics and performance are enhanced by new 20-inch alloy wheels with 3D copper inserts. Wider high-performance tires ensure that the increased power is safely transferred to the road via the rear wheels. Special icing on the cake for the latest version of the Born are the VZ logo in dark chrome on the trunk and the Cupra lettering in dark chrome.

The standard Cup bucket seats are an exclusive feature that can only be found in the VZ version. It links the car to the Formentor VZ5 and the Leon VZ Cup and offers a low seating position and good lateral support for a sportier driving style. The market launch of the Cupra Born VZ is planned for the third quarter of 2024.

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As part of this year's Geneva International Motor Show GIMS, Micro, the Swiss manufacturer of electric vehicles, is unveiling the Microlino Lite as a world first. The new model is an L6e version of the Microlino and is designed to make sustainable mobility solutions accessible to a public that does not have a driver's license.

Young look with new colors

A fresh color scheme emphasizes the contemporary concept of the vehicle, while details in a vibrant orange give the design a special touch. The Microlino Lite offers the same range as its bigger brother Microlino, but the top speed is limited to 45 km/h. The new model also sets new standards in its vehicle class in terms of driving dynamics and safety with its self-supporting body made of high-strength steel. A sunroof for that convertible feeling and a practical luggage compartment with up to 230 liters are also included. Like the basic model, the Microlino Lite is built in the Microlino factory in Turin.

On request Test drives in Geneva

In early summer, Micro will start selling the Microlino Lite at an entry-level price of 149 francs/month. Available in two color variants, Venice Blue and Berlin Anthracite, it opens up new mobility options for people aged 14 and over with an AM driver's license, in accordance with the relevant national regulations. Visitors to the Geneva show will have the opportunity to test drive the standard version of the Microlino directly on site.

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With a race duration of around ten hours on the 5.38-kilometre Lusail International Circuit, the opening race of the 2024 FIA WEC season on March 2, 2024 in Qatar is a major challenge. Not only will the race put drivers and cars to the test, but also the tires due to the weather conditions, which should not be underestimated. In the off-season, the team faced a double challenge: further developing the Peugeot 9X8 and keeping to the 2024 schedule in order to be ready in time for Imola in April.

Reliability is a key factor

Olivier Jansonnie, Technical Director of Peugeot Sport (gallery left): "We are expecting a tough race. Reliability will be a key factor, but we have the advantage of knowing that the 2023 car is a proven car that proved reliable at Fuji and Bahrain at the end of last year."

At Peugeot Sport, the team members can prepare for the new season in the simulator, with all six drivers taking turns behind the wheel.

Jean-Marc Finot, Senior Vice President Stellantis Motorsport: "The final uncertainty is the Balance of Performance (BoP) between the different cars on the grid. The Peugeot 9X8 that will be on the grid in Qatar is identical to the car that was used in the last races of the 2023 season. The BoP should therefore bring the 9X8 closer to the performance of the top contenders. We want to try and compete for the top positions."

Nico Müller starts with the number 93

Swiss Peugeot driver Nico Müller says: "Qatar promises to be an intense and exciting race. We have all worked hard over the winter and everyone in the team is very motivated. We can hardly wait to get started now. From a physical point of view, my preparation has been very good and I feel even stronger than before. The decision to change the composition of the teams was mainly about setup preferences related to the driving style of the drivers."

Insights from the past season

The aim for the #93 car, driven by Mikkel Jensen, Nico Müller and Jean-Eric Vergne, and the #94 car, driven by Paul Di Resta, Loïc Duval and Stoffel Vandoorne, will be to learn from last season and get the best out of the Peugeot 9X8 2023 before it is replaced by the 2024 version at the next race in Imola (April 21).

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In addition to the popular European Tuning Showdown, there will be a new US hall and a new Asia hall, and the Club Area promises beach vibes and, of course, spectacular after-show parties.

Project manager Emanuela Botta: "See, smell, hear, taste and touch. Visitors can look forward to a huge indoor and outdoor festival from May 9 to 12. Our aim is to let the public escape into another world and break out of their everyday lives."

Sport 1 broadcasts drift championship

Another highlight this year will be the Drift Championship, which will be held on the exhibition grounds and broadcast on Sport 1 for the first time. The hot phase of Tuning World Bodensee will be ushered in with fresh key visuals, a fully occupied site, a varied supporting program and a sensational party line-up. Despite all the new features, the trade fair event for car tuning, lifestyle and the club scene remains true to its brand essence: the love of the extraordinary automobile.

Club Area is a hotspot for the community

Private tuners have always been part of the event's DNA. The Club Area is the hotspot of the community. This year, the Club Area will be given even more prominence with the Beach theme. The demand for places in the Private Car Area also remains high. Interested parties have until March 15 to apply for a parking space and have the chance to showcase their car in Hall A5 during the trade fair.

Tuning World Bodensee takes place from Thursday, May 9 to Sunday, May 12 at the exhibition grounds in Friedrichshafen. The day ticket costs 17 euros in advance online sales, reduced 14 euros.

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