Danger from high temperatures in the car

Most people underestimate that it can become extremely hot and critical for people and animals after just a few minutes in a car in the scorching sun. If you leave a car in the blazing sun, it can heat up to 50 degrees after just a few minutes, and after an hour temperatures can even reach 80 degrees. Fluctuations in outside temperature and changing solar radiation can also heat up a vehicle. Staying in the car becomes dangerous above 40 degrees Celsius.

A windshield cover helps

Various TCS tests have shown that, in addition to parking in the shade, windshield covers in particular have a positive influence on the temperatures measured in the car. For example, 77 degrees Celsius were measured on the dashboard of vehicles parked in the sun for an hour without sun protection film, while the temperature was up to 40 degrees lower in vehicles with sun protection film. Contrary to popular belief that the paint color of the car has a major influence on the interior temperature, tests have shown that the difference in this respect is only minimal. Although dark cars heat up faster than light-colored cars in the first 20 minutes, the final temperature only differs by a few degrees Celsius.

Slightly open windows miss the mark

Slightly open windows do not have the desired cooling effect. In the test, a difference in interior temperature of just 2 degrees Celsius was measured over a period of 30 minutes. On the other hand, opening the windows fully when driving off helps to significantly reduce the temperature inside the car. However, the difference between an air-conditioned interior and the outside temperature should not exceed six degrees. Larger temperature differences can put a strain on the body and also lead to a cold.

Do not leave people and animals in the car

Time and again we hear reports of children and animals being left in the car. Most people underestimate the fact that it can become extremely hot and life-threatening for people and animals after just a few minutes in a car in direct sunlight. Stays in closed, uncooled vehicles that are exposed to direct sunlight should be avoided. Children and animals should not be left inside the vehicle, even for short stops.

Effects on the vehicle

The outer shell, dashboard and seats can become so hot that you can get burns simply by touching the surfaces. Care should therefore be taken when getting into the car and touching the seats, steering wheel, gear lever or other interior components. Burns and other skin injuries can occur within a few seconds from a temperature of 45 degrees. Before getting in, it is therefore advisable to briefly ventilate the vehicle interior by opening the rear wing and the side doors to allow the hot air to escape.

Technical precautions

It is advisable to check the oil and coolant levels regularly, especially in summer, otherwise the engine may overheat. If the engine light comes on, you should stop as soon as possible and call the breakdown service. A few extra kilometers are often enough to cause engine damage, which can lead to high costs. Before longer vacation trips, it is therefore advisable to carry out a basic check in the garage so that you don't get into a breakdown situation in the first place.

Special features of electric vehicles

The high temperatures pose no safety risk for the batteries of electric vehicles, as the batteries in the underbody are never exposed to direct sunlight. However, running the air conditioning system considerably reduces the range of electric vehicles. In this respect, however, electric vehicles have a major advantage in the summer heat: if they are parked at the charging station, the interior can be cooled down to a comfortable temperature by means of pre-air conditioning before the vehicle is started.

tcs.ch

Meeting place for motorhome enthusiasts

The Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf is the world's largest trade fair for motorhomes and caravans and attracts thousands of visitors every year. From August 31 to September 8, 2024, over 700 exhibitors will present their latest models, innovations and accessories for mobile travel. This is where industry experts, families, adventurers and everyone who loves life on the road meet.

A new era of vanlife

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWN) presented the new "California" brand at this year's Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf. With this extension, VWN is offering a unique range of services, products and experiences relating to vanlife. "California" is aimed at owners of all VW motorhomes and also invites drivers of campers from other manufacturers to become part of this new world.

New models for every kind of adventure

The Caddy California is the ideal choice for adventurers looking for a compact motorhome with great versatility. The new PanAmericana package makes the Caddy California even more robust and better equipped for difficult terrain. The package includes an all-terrain look with gray bumpers and wheel arch linings as well as 17-inch gloss-turned alloy wheels. Despite its compact size, the Caddy California offers a well thought-out interior design with an optional mini-kitchen, which is perfect for spontaneous short trips.

The Grand California, based on the advanced Crafter, offers maximum comfort and state-of-the-art technology. With two body variants - the Grand California 600 and the 680 - it is aimed at travelers who appreciate plenty of space and comfort. The newly developed cockpit landscape, the digital instruments and the ultra-modern infotainment system set new standards in the motorhome sector. Equipped with a wide range of assistance systems and a powerful 120 kW (163 hp) turbodiesel, the Grand California is ideally prepared for long journeys and demanding driving conditions.

The New California builds on the legacy of its predecessors and takes the vanlife experience to a new level. With its modern design, a highly flexible interior and the integration of the latest digital features, the New California offers the perfect combination of everyday practicality and travel mobility. For the first time, the California is available with a plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive, which enables temporary use as an electric vehicle and at the same time guarantees long ranges. The "Beach", "Beach Camper", "Coast" and "Ocean" model variants offer the right vehicle for every type of adventure.

A musical highlight

The launch of the new "California" brand will be accompanied by the Swiss musician and VW Commercial Vehicles brand ambassador Pat Burgener. As a passionate surfer and camper, Burgener perfectly embodies the lifestyle that the new "California" world wants to convey. In keeping with this, he has written an exclusive song called "Free" (on Spotify and video above), which musically captures the freedom and adventure of vanlife. The song will play a central role in the brand campaign and emphasize the experiences and emotions associated with the new "California" world.

The digital companion for vanlife fans

With the launch of the new "California" brand, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has also developed a special app that makes traveling even more comfortable and exciting. The California App is the ideal digital companion for anyone who wants to enjoy van life to the full. It combines numerous functions and services that make planning and experiencing trips with a VW Camper a seamless experience.

Travel planning made easy

The California App offers extensive travel planning options. Users can book exclusive pitches, campsites and even overnight stays in partner hotels such as the "Hotel California" directly via the app. In addition, the app provides personalized travel tips tailored to the user's individual preferences - be it for nature experiences, urban adventures or coastal trips.

Direct control of the camper functions

A special function of the California App is the ability to control many camper features directly from your smartphone. From controlling the auxiliary heating to monitoring the water tanks and adjusting the interior lighting - everything can be conveniently controlled via the app. This functionality not only makes traveling more comfortable, but also provides additional safety and control on the road. 

Exclusive content and offers for club members

Members of the new California Club benefit from exclusive offers and content in the app. These include special discounts on lifestyle accessories, events and rental vehicles. The app also offers the opportunity to interact with other Vanlife fans and take part in community events. This makes the California app a central tool for getting the most out of the new Vanlife brand.

amag.ch
volkswagen-nutzfahrzeuge.ch
caravan-salon.com

Insight into the Maserati Fuoriserie collection

In Maserati's current Fuoriserie collection, the MC20 Cielo is an outstanding example of Italian refinement and technological innovation. This exclusive range of vehicles represents a fascinating fusion of elegance and progress, inspired by the four elements: Earth, Water, Air and Fire.

Design and craftsmanship

The Maserati MC20 Cielo is characterized by its exceptional design, in which aesthetics and aerodynamics merge harmoniously. The body of the vehicle was designed with the utmost precision in order to impress both visually and functionally. The choice of materials and the workmanship exemplify the exclusivity of the Fuoriserie collection. Each MC20 Cielo is manufactured according to the customer's specific wishes, resulting in an unmistakable driving experience.

Performance and technology

Beneath the striking bodywork of the MC20 Cielo is a 3.0-liter V6 engine, known as the Nettuno, which delivers an impressive 630 hp. This technical sophistication lifts the vehicle into a new dimension of driving. State-of-the-art technologies ensure not only outstanding driving dynamics, but also a high level of safety and comfort.

Ride feel and comfort

In addition to its powerful performance, the MC20 Cielo offers a driving experience of the highest comfort. The interior design impresses with luxurious materials and modern equipment that create a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. The ergonomically designed seats and the well thought-out cockpit contribute to a comfortable yet dynamic driving experience. The chassis is tuned to combine a smooth ride with precise handling.

An experience for the senses

The Maserati MC20 Cielo provides a holistic driving experience that appeals to all the senses. The acceleration, the sound of the engine, the luxurious interior and the view through the panoramic roof offer an incomparable experience. Every moment in the MC20 Cielo is a tribute to nature and its elements.

In summary, the Maserati MC20 Cielo and the Fuoriserie collection are not just vehicles, but true works of art. They combine performance, design and individuality at a remarkably high level.

maserati.ch

AutoSprintCH was founded in 2013 by Stefan Donata pioneer of Swiss automotive journalism - and has been providing readers with automotive news, tests and trends in printed form and online ever since. Following the death of Stefan Donat in May of this year, AutoSprintCH faced an uncertain future. With the sale by Galledia to the Viva AG for communication in Zurich, a solution has now been found to ensure that AutoSprintCH will continue to delight readers and industry partners in the future.

We at Viva are aware of our responsibility, which we are taking over. From October, the print edition will once again be published every two months, and from now on you can also read news online every working day. As a reader, you will probably never have heard of Viva. However, we are a household name in the mobility industry. For example, our 14-strong team works for the automobile industry association AGVS whose Web portal with news and for whom we publish the leading automotive trade magazine "Autoinside" develop. Our author guides on "20 minutes", our articles for Streetlife.ch or CNG-Mobility.ch show how much we care about mobility and, in particular, the car.

The editorial management of AutoSprintCH Viva mobility editors Timothy Pfannkuchen and Jürg A. Stettler, who together have more than 60 years of professional experience in mobility journalism, are responsible for this. In addition, we are relying on the same proven team of editors who have worked for AutoSprintCH in the past. You can reach the editorial team at redaktion@autosprint.ch. We look forward to continuing to count on you as a reader, subscriber or industry partner in the future and thank you for your loyalty.

In the background of AutoSprintCH Karin Beutler (Managing Director, Head of Consulting & Publishing) and Georg Gasser (Founder, Owner and Chairman of the Board of Directors) act on behalf of Viva. They are under info@autosprint.ch Your contacts at the publishing house for industry partners.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time if you have any questions or input. Enjoy reading!

Your AutoSprintCH team

Dynamic design and innovative technology

The new SEAT Leon 2024 impresses with its dynamic design and innovative technology. Its sporty exterior combines sharp lines and elegant curves, giving it an unmistakable look. The interior offers maximum comfort with state-of-the-art equipment elements, including a high-resolution digital cockpit and a comprehensive infotainment system.

Wayne Griffiths, CEO of SEAT: "The SEAT Leon continues to be an important part of the brand strategy, paving the way for the company to embrace new technologies. The extended engine range with a new generation eHybrid and digital technologies continues this development."

Powerful and efficient motors

Under the hood of the SEAT Leon 2024 are highly efficient engines that offer both performance and environmental friendliness. Customers can choose between different powertrain options, including petrol, diesel and hybrid engines. This variety allows every driver to find the perfect balance between performance and efficiency.

Highest safety standards

Particular attention has been paid to safety. The SEAT Leon 2024 is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems that increase driving comfort and safety. These include a lane departure warning system, adaptive cruise control and an automatic emergency braking system.

Modern connectivity

The SEAT Leon 2024 also leaves nothing to be desired when it comes to connectivity. With the SEAT CONNECT app, drivers can control their vehicle remotely and call up important vehicle data at any time.

The SEAT Leon 2024 represents a successful combination of modern design, innovative technology and environmentally friendly efficiency. It is the ideal choice for anyone looking for a stylish, safe and powerful vehicle.

SEAT Leon is already available from SEAT partners from CHF 32,000 for the Hatchback and CHF 32,500 for the Sport Tourer.

seat.ch

The Buick Electra-L, unveiled in China, is a pioneering concept car. As an all-electric premium midsize sedan, it is suitable for family outings, daily commuting, social occasions and business meetings. The Electra-L was developed by the SAIC-GM PATAC Design Center and reflects the combined expertise of GM.

Exterior design

With a length of 5036 mm and a wheelbase of 3000 mm, the Buick Electra-L presents a luxurious and futuristic silhouette. The streamlined body, inspired by energy flow aesthetics, reduces drag and improves handling characteristics. The play of light in the radiator grille and the luxurious fly-wing headlights combine technological texture with glittering decorative details.

Interior and comfort

The interior of the Electra-L offers an airy, spacious feel. Zero-gravity front seats create a floating experience, while the rear area is equipped with a variety of comfort features such as a floating dashboard, a smart fragrance diffuser and immersive ambient lighting. The interior materials and colors are inspired by Monet's paintings, creating a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere.

Sustainability and technology

The Electra-L uses sustainable materials and processes, including eco-friendly suede and paint techniques that reduce water pollution. The vehicle is equipped with advanced CTP battery technology that enables outstanding range and reverse charging. Intelligent systems monitor the driver's health in real time and adjust the ambient lighting accordingly.

Intelligent interaction

The Buick Electra-L is equipped with AI-supported interaction systems that offer various cockpit modes to meet different needs. These systems create a stable and artistic atmosphere that gives the vehicle occupants a mobile sense of space characterized by temperature, color and emotion.

Buick Electra-LT Concept

The Buick Electra-LT is a large Shooting Brake that was presented at the Beijing Auto Show 2024. Developed by the SAIC-GM PATAC Design Center, it reflects the diverse requirements of future intelligent electromobility.

Lifestyle

Buick has developed a deep understanding of the Chinese market. Chinese drivers appreciate a diverse driving experience. The "anti-rat-race" culture encourages the acceptance of niche models such as the Electra-LT, which conveys a self-indulgent lifestyle through its design. The Shooting Brake interprets a healthy, exquisite and comfortable lifestyle inspired by the exploration of the infinite.

Exceptional proportions

The Buick Electra-LT impresses with its proportions: With a length of 5036 mm, a width of over 1950 mm and a wheelbase of 3000 mm, as well as 21-inch wheels and a short front overhang. The design optimizes aerodynamics and offers versatile usage options for travelling and camping.

Organic fusion of form and function

The Electra-LT adopts the new Buick design concept, which organically blends function and form. The yellow bodywork shines like stars in the night. The flying-wing headlights and fully enclosed grille create a flowing light and shadow effect and protect the interior. The design of the 21-inch titanium wheels reduces drag and protects the braking system on rough terrain. Intelligent all-wheel drive and air suspension improve stability and off-road capability, ensuring comfort and safety in unexplored terrain.

buick.com

Alpine is making a strong statement in the electric sports car segment with the A290. The 5-door compact sports car offers everything that fans of the brand love: dynamic performance, outstanding agility and a striking design. The two available power levels - 130 kW (180 hp) and 160 kW (220 hp) - ensure powerful acceleration and sporty handling. Inspired by Formula 1, the A290 has a special steering wheel with a recharge knob and an overrun button that provides short-term power peaks.

Design and technology at the highest level

The muscular proportions and striking light signature of the A290 make it a real eye-catcher. The wide fenders and sporty lines give the vehicle a dynamic appearance. The AmpR-Small electric platform provides a solid base and enables optimum weight distribution and a low center of gravity, which further improves the driving dynamics.

In the interior, Alpine focuses on an exclusive ambience with a driver-oriented cockpit and state-of-the-art connectivity. The infotainment system with a central 10.1-inch screen and the 10.25-inch speedometer display offer intuitive operation and numerous customization options. The high-quality materials and meticulous workmanship underline the premium character of the A290.

Performance and efficiency perfectly combined

The special platform for the electric drive ensures a balanced weight distribution and high rigidity of the vehicle. With acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds and a torque of 300 Nm, the A290 delivers impressive driving performance. The battery with 52 kWh capacity enables a range of up to 380 kilometers according to the WLTP standard.

The Alpine A290 is not only sporty, but also suitable for everyday use. Thanks to its compact dimensions and spacious interior, it is perfect for urban use. The bidirectional V2G technology also enables efficient use of energy and offers numerous charging options on the go.

Exclusive driving experience

Alpine attaches great importance to a distinctive driving experience. The A290 offers various driving modes that can be activated at the touch of a button on the steering wheel. From "Save" and "Normal" to "Sport" and "Perso", drivers can adjust the settings according to their personal preferences. Launch Control ensures optimum acceleration from a standing start, while Alpine Telemetrics offers extensive live data and coaching options to further improve driving skills.

With the A290, Alpine is launching a hot hatch that perfectly combines driving pleasure and sustainability. The compact sports car is the ideal companion for anyone looking for a dynamic and environmentally friendly vehicle.

alpinecars.ch

The new Macan with rear-wheel drive expands Porsche's all-electric SUV range. This model offers an impressive combined WLTP range of up to 641 kilometers and is particularly efficient. The model range is complemented by the powerful Macan 4S, which delivers up to 380 kW (516 PS) and thus marks the upper end of the performance spectrum.

Technology and performance combined

The Macan impresses with its advanced drive technology and innovative electronics. The high-voltage battery with 100 kWh energy content and the rear-axle motor with 250 kW (340 hp) ensure outstanding performance. The Macan 4S has a new rear-axle motor and a powerful 600-amp SiC pulse inverter, resulting in a system output of 330 kW (448 hp). With Launch Control, the Macan 4S reaches 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 240 km/h.

Innovative electronics and safety

Both models are equipped with the latest generation of the Porsche Driver Experience, which includes a state-of-the-art display and operating system. A 12.6-inch curved display, a 10.9-inch passenger display and a head-up display with augmented reality technology offer intuitive and safe operation. Furthermore, the CAS system (Collision Avoidance System) offers additional safety.

New options and design packages

The new off-road design package is available for all Macan models, making the SUV even more suitable for everyday use. With increased ground clearance and an improved slope angle, even rough terrain can be mastered with confidence. The package is available in different color variants and complements the progressive and timeless design of the Macan.

Opinions on the new model series

Sandro Kälin, Head of Communications at Porsche Schweiz AG, expressed his enthusiasm: "With the expansion of our all-electric Macan model range, we are sending a clear signal for the future of electromobility. Our customers will benefit from an impressive range, innovative technologies and an incomparable driving experience."

Availability and prices

The new Macan models are now available to order and will be delivered to Swiss customers in the second half of the year. Prices start at 91,900 Swiss francs for the Macan and 102,700 Swiss francs for the Macan 4S.

porsche.ch

If you ask around among journalistic colleagues what Stefan was like as a colleague/boss/employee, you get as many different answers as you ask people. However, the majority of our guild agrees on one thing: Stefan was an extraordinary doer. A page turner. In the true sense of someone who takes things into his own hands and just gets on with it, even if the whole industry shakes its head. Things didn't always turn out well, but you could never accuse him of not at least trying.

Stefan has learned his trade well. For example, he founded a magazine series called "Starclub" and helped other young up-and-coming businessmen with merchandising pages in his publication. Big band topics also appeared in it, about ABBA, the Beatles or Elvis Presley, for example. It was not uncommon for Stefan to meet the big names in person; Stefan's eldest son remembers nights when Brigitte Bardot, Silvester Stallone, gossip reporter Paul Sahner and a police commissioner from St. Tropez sat at the table with the Donat family.
Groundwork. Another of Stefan's cornerstones. Whether as a police reporter at "Hamburger Abendblatt", as head of entertainment at "Bunte", as editor for "Auto Bild" Germany and creator of its counterpart in Switzerland, as editor-in-chief of "auto illustrierte" and last but not least as the inventor of "AutoSprint" in Switzerland, a success story that no one would have believed him capable of, but with which he has earned the greatest respect in the industry.

Stefan was charming, he could be funny and party hard, he was never above hacking short messages into the system just before the editorial deadline at midnight. Well-connected, Stefan traveled to all continents - and he was always generous, truly a man of the world.

If you wanted to or were allowed to work with Stefan and for Stefan, all the basic rules of decency applied. And the basic rules of communication. As a child of the analog world, Stefan never understood why people waste time typing messages or writing emails when it's much easier to pick up the phone and call.

Clear language, no "PillePalle", as he liked to scold. Direct questions, direct answers, just as direct praise and criticism. It was helpful to have a thick skin if you wanted to meet his standards, and that's why one or two of them were tipped over the edge. Stefan was honest. In his likes and dislikes. Not everyone's cup of tea, but he could live with that. For me as a writer, Stefan was reliable, as a boss, as a comrade-in-arms, as a sparring partner, as a rock in the surf of our crazy world of automotive journalism and, increasingly, as a friend.

I would never have dared to address him as anything other than "boss". We've been to the same events many times for more or less exciting car presentations, sometimes sharing the test cars. Now he's gone off on his own. I will miss him.

Dörte Welti, Peter Ruch, Gerd Schuster

The family will fulfill Stefan's wishes. In lieu of flowers or similar donations, please make a donation to the Thurgau Cancer League (thurgau.krebshilfe.ch, Credit Suisse account
80-500-4
IBAN58 0483 5046 8950 1100 0
Bahnhofstrasse 5
P.O. Box 5
8570 Weinfelden) and/or to the Hospiz St. Gallen (hospizstgallen.payress.com) on behalf of Stefan Donat.

Introduced in 1924, the lightweight and powerful Type 35 enjoyed a unique career. In its relatively short racing career, it achieved more than 2500 victories. A marvel of modern design and pioneering engineering, the Type 35 embodied Bugatti's spirit of high performance, craftsmanship and innovation. The 1924 Lyon Grand Prix, organized by the Automobile Club de France, will forever be associated with Bugatti's motorsport history. Five Type 35 models took part in the 2024 Lyon Grand Prix, ushering in a new era of motorsport.

Impressive Bugatti collection
Christophe Piochon, President of Bugatti Automobiles, welcomed the guests and their 49 classic cars - including 23 examples of the Type 35 and twelve other historic Grand Prix models - to Château Saint Jean. The guests then embarked on a 700-kilometer adventure to Lyon, with the next stop in Mulhouse. There, the participants had the opportunity to explore the Musée National de l'Automobile - a treasure trove of automotive history that houses one of the world's largest Bugatti collections. Every single vehicle was acquired by the Schlumpf brothers over a period of three decades. From the Type 28 to the 1930 Royale, each car has been hand-picked for its historical significance.

A week full of emotions
The journey took them from the Vosges mountains to the Lyon plateau and left them at the mercy of the elements. Each participant emerged from this experience like a gladiator in the arena. It's hard to imagine driving such machines in the pouring rain, with the sound of water slapping against the bodywork in your ears and the traditional goggles allowing the crews to see only a few dozen meters.

"For us, it was the perfect opportunity to start this event in Molsheim, where Ettore's adventure began. Connecting the past with the present is a core value - both for the Bugatti brand and for Club Bugatti France," summarized Piochon.
bugatti.com