At the heart of Toyota's electrified commercial vehicle family is the all-new Proace Max, which joins the revised Proace and Proace City as part of a powerful product portfolio. And with the Hilux Hybrid 48V, Toyota is launching an electric pick-up truck that expands the choice in this growing vehicle class.

Characteristic design

The striking front design of the Proace model series emphasizes the brand's typical identity. Depending on the equipment variant, full LED lighting creates a unique appearance. Depending on the trim level, there are new steering wheel variants and extended on-board equipment - including fully digital displays and an innovative infotainment system with integrated navigation and smartphone connectivity via Apple Carplay and Android Auto. All Toyota Professional vehicles are equipped with Safety Sense solutions that support the driver.

Versions with two wheelbases

As the largest vehicle in the Toyota Professional model range, the Proace Max is available in six versions with two wheelbases, three lengths and three heights for all kinds of transportation requirements. In the largest version, the Proace Max Electric offers a load volume of 17 cubic meters. Thanks to the full-height doors and a square load compartment opening with a low threshold, loading and unloading is uncomplicated. For the first time in a Toyota, the doors can be opened 270 degrees, which provides more loading and unloading freedom and better access to the driver's cab. The platform is also a leader in the field of conversions.

Upgraded pick-up classic

The Hilux Hybrid 48V features improved fuel efficiency and optimized handling, further enhancing the impressive on-road and off-road capabilities of the classic pick-up. It also impresses with improved throttle response and linear acceleration. However, the improved driving characteristics are not at the expense of the towing capacity and payload, which remain high at 3,500 and 1,000 kilograms respectively.

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KW manufactures the dampers, which are separately adjustable in the high-speed and low-speed forces of the compression and rebound stages, according to the displacement piston design. Both coilovers allow a stepless lowering of ten to 30 millimeters. While the KW V5 Clubsport was developed uncompromisingly for regular trackday use with semi-slicks, the suspension manufacturer recommends the KW V5 for all those who want to give their Lotus Emira the sporty handling of a Gran Turismo with a plus in rolling comfort. The catalog price of the V5 is 8365 Swiss francs, and the Clubsport version with unibal bearings and racing springs costs 8925 Swiss francs.

No disadvantage in terms of comfort

KW is using solid-piston technology, which is successful in current GT3 customer sport, in more and more road and trackday applications. It does not matter whether the suspension is intended for an off-road vehicle or a sports car. When converting the Lotus standard suspension to the KW V5 or KW V5 Clubsport coilover suspension, the sporty handling of the car does not become less comfortable. Those days are long gone.

Peter Banz from KW automotive Switzerland: "With the V5 and the V5 Clubsport, we also have our displacement technology for the Lotus Emira in our program. The big advantage of our solid piston dampers is that we can work more with the damper hydraulics and make the entire system more compact."

Separately adjustable with 14 clicks

The compression and rebound valves can be adjusted with 14 clicks each in the high-speed and low-speed range. The development engineers use the terms high-speed and low-speed to describe the slow and fast piston rod movements of the shock absorber. Fast speeds during compression and rebound are always caused by poor or undulating asphalt surfaces or when driving over transverse joints. Slow damping speeds, on the other hand, accompany acceleration, braking and steering.

Peter Banz: "Everything that affects the chassis from the road is a high-speed excitation. And everything that is caused directly via the steering wheel or pedals is a low-speed excitation. The compression stage also influences the compression, while the rebound stage is responsible for the rebound."

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The Smart #3 is an SUV with a coupé design, which is intended to make a premium claim with its sporty exterior look and lots of digital technology. The new Smart features a striking shark nose with a continuous light strip and slim LED headlights. Below this, the wide grille and side air intakes characterize the front section. There is also a continuous light strip at the rear. A roof spoiler and a striking diffuser look create a sporty impression, as do the large wheels - the top Brabus model even has 20-inch wheels.

Panorama glass roof on request

The Smart #3 measures 4.40 meters in length and has a wheelbase of 2.80 meters and a drag coefficient c_W of 0.27. It offers comparatively good space inside. One highlight is the panoramic glass roof, which allows plenty of natural sunlight into the interior. The 25th Anniversary Edition even has a Galaxy panoramic roof with LED details in the window. The comfortable duo leather seats with integrated headrests are also eye-catching.

In terms of technology, the Smart #3 features the powertrains adopted from the #1 model with one or two electric motors and peak outputs of 200 and 315 kW (272 and 428 hp) respectively. The same drive platform is also used in the new Volvo EX30, which also comes from the Geely Group.

Four equipment options to choose from

The Smart #3 is available in three versions: Pro+, Premium, Brabus and 25th Anniversary Edition. The Pro+ variant consumes 16.8 kWh/100 km according to WLTP and can travel up to 435 kilometers on a single charge (Pro with small battery 325 kilometers). Thanks to fast charging options with up to 150 kW charging power, the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes. Naturally, several driving assistance systems ensure driving safety and comfort.

To 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds

While the basic model only needs 5.8 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, the Brabus model completes this discipline in 3.7 seconds. The limited 25th Anniversary Edition is a model for Smart fans. It offers an exclusive combination of luxury-class equipment features and design elements of the Brabus model.

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The exterior design of the new Duster is characterized by an upright front section, modern LED headlights and hints of air curtains. At 4.34 meters, it is just as long as its predecessor, but appears significantly stockier. Add-on parts made partly from recycled plastic should be helpful in everyday life as well as on field and forest tracks.

A hybrid version for the first time

With the introduction of the CMF-B platform, the Dacia Duster will also be available as a hybrid for the first time. The technology kit from parent company Renault is already familiar from the Jogger and, like the van, the hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 94 hp with two electric motors that deliver 36 kW (49 hp). The result is a system output of 140 hp and, more importantly, can be driven purely electrically for up to 80 percent of the time when driving around town.

All-wheel drive version 4×4 without automatic transmission

Dacia combines the hybrid with front-wheel drive as standard via a multi-mode automatic transmission with four gears for the combustion engine and two gears for the electric motor. The brand only offers 4×4 all-wheel drive with the mildly hybridized three-cylinder petrol engine with 130 hp, which is unfortunately only available as a manual transmission (especially for Switzerland). The new 4×4 version of the Duster is equipped with the new Terrain Control, which offers five driving modes.

No status symbol was yesterday

In terms of looks, the Dacia Duster (2024) looks confidently in the direction of the G-Class, Defender & Co. Although it still lacks a reduction gear, it now has more plastic planks than the local DIY store. No status symbol was yesterday, from now on the Romanian is digging its way into the outdoor hobby audience. The front apron looks extremely bulky thanks to the flatter radiator grille/light unit, as does its counterpart at the rear.

Much more space at the front and rear

The Dacia follows the trend and relies on an infotainment screen floating above the center console. It measures 3.5 to 10.1 inches and the larger version comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For an extra charge, Dacia even offers a networked navigation system with real-time traffic information. Over-the-air updates are also no longer a foreign concept for the Dacia Duster. Behind the steering wheel is a digital instrument cluster for the very first time in a Dacia.

Pleasingly, thanks to the new platform, the SUV offers more space at the front and more legroom at the rear. At up to 472 liters, the trunk also offers more space than before. The final prices have not yet been set. Either way, they will not stand in the way of success.

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How can knowledge acquired over decades be used and passed on? Nicolai Jäggi investigated the question of knowledge transfer in the classic car industry in his Bachelor's thesis at the Bern University of Applied Sciences. The business economist presented his findings at an IgFS workshop.

Nicolai Jäggi: "Knowledge identification, knowledge development and knowledge transfer are of central importance for the industry Knowledge and experience are particularly relevant."

Preparing the next generation

Older business owners who want to pass on their garages should prepare the ground for the next generation. IgFS President Christian Ackermann pleaded for a sensible timeline. Knowledge should not only be recorded and documented for classic cars, but also increasingly in the youngtimer sector, added Patrice Walter, the IgFS representative for German-speaking Switzerland. Above all, garages should learn to involve young people more and hand over the lead. After all, there is an enormous amount of knowledge in the IgFS association. The opportunities to share knowledge with each other should be expanded.

Simon Jau, a vehicle restorer who recently took over a classic car business in Spiez: "Young professionals should make inquiries, get involved and use the network."

Components from the 3D printer  

Practical experience and possibilities in spare parts design and production were a second focus of the workshop. Frederic Landert, who has experience in the motorsport and space sectors, demonstrated the steps involved in the reverse engineering process to reconstruct CAD components using scanning techniques. Edy Schorno, who has been looking after historic vehicles in his company since 1990, described how 3D printing (additive manufacturing) can be used in the classic car sector. Almost anything is possible in small quantities, from small parts to entire engines.

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Alfa Romeo and the Italian police force are renewing their long-standing collaboration with the handover of the first Tonale in Turin. This began in the 1950s with the 1900 Super TI Speciale model and was continued in subsequent years with the Giulietta 1300, Giulia Super 1600, Alfetta, Alfasud, 33, 75, 155, 159 and Giulia models.

Special equipment for operations

The police Tonale is equipped with a 1.5-liter hybrid engine (163 hp) and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The vehicles are also equipped with anti-shatter films and the special Mercurio Extended connectivity system. This will enable faster checks during operations. The first vehicles are due to be delivered to police forces in the course of December.

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For the first time in the brand's history, a Jeep has won the prestigious title of Swiss Car of the Year. The Avenger prevailed against its competitors in a two-stage selection process. The 13-member jury of experts reduced the selection from 39 to ten new models by awarding initial points. On the test day at the TCS driving safety site in Hinwil, the jury, comprising President Monisha Kaltenborn, ex-F1 driver Marc Surer and experts from ACS, TCS, VCS, Empa and EKZ as well as automotive journalists, scrutinized the ten candidates.

Compact, agile and sustainable

The Avenger impressed the jury with its compact dimensions, plenty of space and 115 kW electric drive (156 hp). The car received 15.4 percent of the jury's votes - more than any other model this year. At the gala evening with around 150 guests, the Jeep Avenger was finally crowned the winner, having already secured first place in the European vote in the spring.

Thomas Odier, Managing Director of Astara Ital Switzerland AG: "The Avenger is the first Jeep to be developed in Europe for Europe - which obviously goes down well with people. I am delighted that we have now also been awarded the title of Swiss Car of the Year 2024 after winning European Car of the Year 2023."

Expert jury and audience chose

In addition to the expert jury, the public also voted for their Car of the Year at the event organized by Schweizer Illustrierte, Auto Scout 24, Roxor, Blick, Sonntags Blick, L'illustré and La Domenica. While the car experts relegated the BMW i5 and VW ID.7 to second place after the Jeep Avenger, the public chose the new Skoda Kodiaq as the winner - ahead of the Peugeot e-308 and the VW ID.7.

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Nissan will produce three electric cars at its British plant in Sunderland in the future. In addition to the all-electric versions of the two crossover models Juke and Qashqai, the third generation of the Leaf, with which the Japanese company once gave the go-ahead for mass-produced electric cars, will also roll off the production line there. The EV36 Zero competence center is being expanded for this purpose.

Car and battery production

Both vehicle and battery production use the EV36 Zero Microgrid. This includes wind and solar farms that will provide green electricity for Nissan and its neighboring suppliers. With this announcement, Nissan is emphasizing that all new models in Europe will be fully electric by 2030.

The car manufacturer is investing up to 1.12 billion pounds (1.29 billion euros) in its UK operations and a broader supply chain to strengthen both research and development and the production of e-cars.

Michel Jansen, Brand Director Nissan at Astara Mobility Switzerland: "I am looking forward to the electric transformation of three of our key models, with which Nissan is building on its pioneering role in electromobility."

Hyper-concept studies as a basis

The EV36 Zero competence center is an important part of Nissan's Ambition 2030, a long-term vision to become a sustainable company that strives for a cleaner and safer world. The car manufacturer is focusing on electrified vehicles and technical innovations. By the 2050 financial year, Nissan aims to reduce CO₂-work neutrally.

The three electric vehicles are inspired by three Nissan concept models, including the two studies recently presented at the Japan Mobility Show, the Hyper Urban Car Concept (gallery right) and the Hyper Punk Concept. Further information on the three models, including the exact model names, will be announced at a later date.

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With the G90, Genesis shows that it has no need to hide from the German competition à la the Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8 and need not even shy away from comparison with the British luxury brands Bentley and Rolls-Royce - at least as far as the interior is concerned. The interior is lavishly lined with the finest semi-aniline leather, extremely meticulously finished and fitted with exquisite decorative materials.

Long wheelbase as an option

In the long version, which stretches to almost 5.50 meters, passengers are literally enthroned on two armchairs that can be adjusted to a relaxing reclining position. The right-hand rear seat also offers a four-way adjustable footrest in the backrest of the front seat, which can be used to massage the feet. The seat surface and backrest are kneaded by ten air chambers in the backrest and two air chambers in the seat cushion.

Of course, the digital world has also been considered. Two 10.2-inch screens on the backrests of the front seats provide entertainment in the rear and can also be used for working. Between the two rear seats is an 8-inch screen on which all comfort settings can be adjusted. All of this is also available in the 5.28-metre-long base version, which also offers space and luxury in abundance.

V6 power and all-wheel drive

In Switzerland, the Genesis G90 is only available in one drive variant. A 3.5-liter V6 turbocharged petrol engine (415 hp), which is supported by a 48-volt compressor, is combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. This allows the luxury saloon to sprint to 100 km/h in just over five seconds - but who cares, in a car like this you'd rather roll along in style. And thanks to the air suspension and active noise suppression, you can do that quite formidably.

Something special has been thought up for buyers of a G90 in Switzerland. Not only can they enjoy the well-known exceptional Genesis services, but they can also book a private chauffeur ten times a year to drive them around for a day - for the first five years after purchase. For a price starting at 129,300 francs, you get a great deal.

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The exclusive one-off Porsche Panamera Turbo special request visualizes what the very personal dream car of a special request customer could look like. Individuality is a special form of modern luxury. That is why the new Panamera comes ex works with a wide range of colors, upholstery, decors and accents to choose from.

For even more individual requirements, Porsche also offers its customers the Special Request program. It includes advice, planning and the professional execution of customer-specific color and material requests through to the construction of individual pieces.

Almost all wishes are fulfilled

Porsche demonstrates the almost unlimited possibilities of this program during the world premiere of the new Panamera in Shanghai.

Detlev von Platen, Board Member for Sales and Marketing: "Our customers appreciate the opportunity to incorporate their personal touch into the design of their vehicle. The Panamera Turbo special request based on the new Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid is a vision of a possible customer dream and shows just how versatile and precise we can meet these wishes."

Elaborate paintwork in bicolor

The exterior was designed by experts from the Style Porsche and Exclusive Manufaktur divisions. The interior has deliberately not been completed - it will follow next year. Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur painted the inspiration model in a two-tone color scheme that focuses on the specially created Leblon violet metallic. This is a violet shade with a hint of chestnut. Using an elaborate technique, the experts blend this color into a black solid tone in the lower third of the vehicle. The sills, front and rear lips are completely black.

The Panamera Turbo special request was created during the factory conversion process to explain this procedure in a real project. Customers can contact the Exclusive Manufaktur special request team via their Porsche Center and order a subsequent factory conversion of their vehicle by Porsche. The vehicle is then transported to the manufacturer and customized according to the customer's wishes.

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