Mobility: Wil is the first purely electric city

ALWAYS READY For the first time, Mobility is placing exclusively electric cars in a Swiss city: In Wil, a total of eight e-vehicles are waiting for customers around the clock at the train station, Waagplatz and Speerstrasse.

Mobility
In addition to Wil, e-vehicles will soon be available in Flawil and Rapperswil-Jona.

Mobility has set itself the goal of electrifying all vehicles in its fleet by 2030 at the latest. The car-sharing provider in Wil has already achieved this goal: users now have access exclusively to e-models.

With the Seat Mi, the VW ID.3 and the Renault Zoe, six are placed at the train station, and one each at Speerstrasse and Waagplatz.

Mobility built the charging infrastructure together with partners and was supported by the city of Wil.

Optimization possibilities of the loading times

Spokeswoman Sybille Theiler: "Both Wil and Mobility want to become climate-neutral. That's why the decision to cooperate was easy for us. For us, Wil is a playground where we can rethink and test mobility. We are curious to see how the e-cars will be received and whether there is room for optimization in terms of charging times."

Subscription costs are borne by the Technische Betriebe
The pilot project in Wil is part of the Monamo program (models of sustainable mobility) in municipalities, which is co-sponsored by the Swiss Federal Office of Energy.

Since mid-September 2021, for example, all residents of Wiler have been able to benefit from free Mobility annual season tickets. Since then, the number of customers has risen from 350 to 560. The subscription costs are borne by Technische Betriebe Wil TBW. This example should set a precedent.

mobility.ch

Harley-Davidson: The new models for 2022

ALL CLEAR FOR THE COMING SEASON Harley-Davidson is already presenting some of the 2022 models. Further innovations will be unveiled at a big show under the motto "Faster. Further." on January 26.

The Street Bob 114 model is the basis for individual, performance-oriented customization.

The Sport model family includes the Sportster S performance cruiser, powered by the 122-horsepower Revolution Max 1250T engine and featuring a taut, lightweight chassis for agile handling.

Since their market launch in February 2021, the Pan America TM 1250 and TM 1250 Special adventure-touring models have taken the multi-purpose motorcycle world by storm.

The robust, high-performance models are designed to ignite the spirit of adventure on and off the road. In the cruiser segment, Harley-Davidson offers a wide variety of the most diverse models: from nostalgic to ultra-modern. New paint schemes will be offered for all of them in 2022.

Freewheeler offers pure hot rod feeling
Grand American Touring models offer special travel experiences to riders with an insatiable thirst for adventure. All these models are powered by the Milwaukee Eight V-twin. Powerful Brembo brakes and cornering-optimized driving assistance systems support the driver in difficult situations and critical road conditions.

Harley-Davidson's trike models offer old hands and newbies alike the confidence that comes from three wheels. This is joined by a large and, above all, practical storage space for the ride. The Freewheeler offers hot-rod feeling on three wheels, the Tri Glide Ultra model is ideal for the long haul.

Presentation of all models for real fans

Jochen Zeitz, chairman, president and CEO of Harley-Davidson, said, "We look forward to unveiling our complete lineup of 2022 models on Jan. 26 as part of the world premiere "Faster. Further." to unveil the complete line-up of our 2022 models and hope the Harley-Davidson family will be part of this show."

If you want to participate in this event as a true fan, you can register around the clock at www.h-d.com.

harley-davidson.com

Microlino: Production starts in Turin 🎥

FINALLY IT'S GOING Since its successful appearance at the IAA in Munich, the development team of the small Swiss electric car Microlino has been preparing for production in Turin - and reports promising progress.

The car is produced in Turin. The video shows a short insight into the production hall.

 

Persistent bottlenecks in the global supply chain have forced the manufacturer to postpone the start of production of the Microlino micro-electric car until mid-March. The online configurator will start in February. The first test drives can be taken a few weeks later. The delay will be offset by a faster ramp-up of production.

The first units already produced will initially be used for additional tests and process optimization. Deliveries to customers can be expected in April or May in Switzerland and soon after in Germany.

Microlino
Following delays in the supply chain, production of the Microlino can begin shortly.

Special Pioneer Series model for series launch
In addition to the three editions Urban, Dolce and Competizione, which have already been presented, Microlino is introducing an edition limited to the first 500 vehicles called Pioneer Series.

The dwarf, which is just 2.52 meters long and weighs only 435 kilograms without the battery, can be ordered with battery capacities of 6, 10.5 or 14 kWh. This is expected to enable ranges of 95, 175 or 230 kilometers. The 12.5-kW drive motor is good for a top speed of 90 km/h. In addition to two people, there is room for 230 liters of luggage in the small sphere.

More detailed information and prices of the models will follow soon.

microlino-car.com

Honda: Super price for the super bike

RARE OFFER At an auction held by car market specialist Collecting Cars, a Honda RC213 V-S street-legal motorcycle has fetched a world-record sale price of as much as £182,500.

Honda_RC_213
More than five years old and still new, the Honda motorcycle achieved a record price at the auction.

The super bike, which recently went under the hammer at a Collecting Cars auction, had never been ridden, so was in new condition and even ready to go in its original transport box.

The Japanese manufacturer's road-going Moto GP two-wheeler is based on a hand-built aluminum frame, features carbon and titanium fairings and weighs just 170 kilograms.

Titanium exhaust, Öhlins suspension, Brembo brake
Also part of the 2016 model year super bike is an HRC race kit with titanium exhaust system, Öhlins suspension, Brembo brakes, magnesium wheels and peak power increased from 159 to 217 hp.

At 182,500 English pounds, which is equivalent to about 226,000 Swiss francs, the fast Honda achieved the highest price ever paid for a Japanese motorcycle.

collectingcars.com
honda.ch

Jeep: The Wrangler 2022 arrives at dealerships

CLASSIC AS PLUG-IN-HYBRID Swiss Jeep dealers are now taking orders for the Wrangler 4xe. The plug-in hybrid is the most powerful, efficient and connected version in the model's history.

Jeep_Wrangler
The Jeep cult model Wrangler is available in Europe exclusively with plug-in hybrid all-wheel drive.

The electrified new Jeep Wrangler 4xe aims to prove that off-road can be emotional and also efficient. Starting with the 2022 model year, all Wranglers sold in European left-hand drive markets will have a plug-in hybrid drive. By 2025, 70 percent of all Jeep models sold worldwide will be available with electrified drive.

The 2022 redesign comes with improved features and an even more immersive open-air experience. These include the reinforced Gorilla Glass windshield from Jeep Performance Parts, the Sunrider flip-top from Mopar and new special colors.

User-friendly functions and operation
With the NAV Uconnect infotainment system, the Wrangler 4xe offers integrated and user-friendly features for operation, driver information and an entertaining mobility experience. Connectivity simplifies the 4xe experience with a range of applications that allow vehicle functions to be conveniently controlled remotely.

With the My Uconnect app, customers can access a range of services to easily and quickly manage usage, maintenance, find charging stations, and even emergencies.

The Wrangler is available in the new colors Silver Zynith Metallic and High Velocity. All color options are available with a soft top or a black or body-color hard top, depending on trim. This new open-air Sunrider Flip Top option adds a soft top over the front seats for easy opening.

4xe model in the tradition of the Jeep brand
As the most efficient and at the same time the most off-road capable Wrangler, the new 4xe model is very much in the Jeep tradition. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and delivers a maximum system output of 280 kW (380 hp) and 637 Nm of torque. In addition, the 4×4 PHEV drives more than 50 kilometers in pure electric mode.

The drive system includes a 2-liter gasoline engine, two electric motors and an 8-speed converter automatic. The E-Selec modes allow the driver to adapt the 4xe drive to the route in question: Hybrid, Electric and eSave.

Prices start at 76,590 francs (Sahara model).

jeep.ch

Fiat: 500 electrifies Las Vegas

ON TO AMERICA At the Consumer Electronics Show, Stellantis will be showing the new Fiat 500 in the 3+1 body version and 500 RED trim as one of the focal points in the "Electrification Zone" at its booth.

Fiat_500
The Fiat 500 is offered in sedan, sedan 3+1 with additional second door variants.

After Europe, the Fiat 500 is now set to delight the USA: At CES 2022 (Consumer Electronics Show), the world's most important technology trade show in Las Vegas, Stellantis will show the fully electric Fiat 500, which represents a milestone for the Turin-based manufacturer.

Today, the iconic small car is available in Europe, Israel and Brazil, and the market launch in Japan is planned for the current year.

Three body variants are on offer
The electric 500, which has a range of up to 320 kilometers, enables fast charging up to 85 kW. It is available in three body variants: sedan, sedan 3+1 with additional second door on the passenger side, and convertible.

In the fifth generation of the Uconnect infotainment system, it is also connected at all times. The "Hey Fiat" voice recognition system makes it easy to communicate with the vehicle.

Focus on combating pandemics
The special series 500 RED has a clear mission, This is further driven by the collaboration between Fiat and RED. The car is also intended to be a vehicle with an ethical message, as RED is a charitable organization that has been working to combat pandemics for more than 15 years.

Together with Jeep and Ram, Fiat has pledged to donate four million dollars worldwide over the next three years in the fight against pandemics. The 500 RED model is now taking this message to the USA.

In Switzerland, the 500 RED is available from 32,290 francs, while prices for the 3+1 start at 38,990 francs.

fiat.ch
ces.tech

Crash test: These are the winners of the year 🎥

SAFETY 33 cars passed the Euro NCAP crash test last year. Of these, 22 achieved the highest rating of five stars. Now the safety organization has published the best in the tested vehicle classes.

In total, Euro-NCAP had 33 models hit the wall last year.

 

The Mercedes EQS is the best-tested electric car of the past year by Euro-NCAP. According to the safety organization, the sedan was also the safest car in the luxury class.

The EQS scored 96 percent in adult occupant protection in the crash test, while Euro-NCAP rated safety for children at 91 percent.

NCAP_Crashtest
The Mercedes scored 76 percent for pedestrian protection and 80 percent for safety equipment.

Skoda Fabia is the best small car
Euro-NCAP presented the "Best in Class" award in a total of six categories. The Skoda Enyaq iV (center gallery), which is also electrically powered, took the win in the large SUV category, while the Nissan Qashqai (right gallery) came out on top in the compact SUV category.

The Skoda Fabia came out on top in the small car category, while the Toyota Yaris Cross (gallery, left) was named best compact van.

Valuations in a calendar year
In total, Euro-NCAP had 33 models hit the wall last year. 22 achieved the maximum rating of five stars in the crash test. Since the star ratings cannot be compared directly between different vehicle categories, Euro-NCAP publishes a list of the class winners every year.

Because the requirements become more stringent each year, the organization only compares the best in class within a calendar year, so all vehicles were evaluated to the same standards.

euroncap.com

Iveco: Natural gas trucks bring the packages

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY Amazon shipments are to be distributed with significantly less CO2 in the future. The online giant has ordered 1064 trucks powered by natural gas from Iveco for the sustainable delivery of shipments in Europe.

Iveco_Truck
Trucks with natural gas engines from Iveco reduce CO2 emissions by up to 95 percent.

At the Italian commercial vehicle manufacturer Iveco, the production line for CNG vehicles is currently bustling with activity. A total of 1064 CNG-powered trucks are being built on the assembly lines for the American company Amazon.

The online retailer, which offers the world's largest selection of books, CDs, and videos, already relied on hundreds of trucks with biogas in the tank in the U.S. to reduce CO2 emissions from its distribution fleet.

Ranges of up to 620 kilometers
Of the 1064 CNG vehicles ordered in Europe, a first batch of 216 CNG tractor units has already been delivered. A further 848 units will be handed over to the partners who operate them on behalf of Amazon from mid-2022.

These vehicles are powered by natural gas engines of the type Cursor 13 from FPT Industrial. Installed are the large 1052-liter CNG tanks, which allow a range of up to 620 kilometers. The vehicles are also equipped with the Iveco Driver Pal, the voice-controlled driver companion with Amazon Alexa functions.

Decarbonization of road freight transport

Gerrit Marx, CEO-designate of Iveco Group, said: "Working with global leaders like Amazon is a testament to the reliability of our products and our commitment to achieving the decarbonization target of road freight by 2050. In the Iveco Group, Iveco will continue to pioneer combustion engines with renewable fuels. This is the only viable solution already available on the market on a large scale to reduce emissions. Especially since a natural gas truck running on biogas can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 95 percent on a well-to-wheel basis compared to diesel."

It is not yet clear when natural gas Ivecos will be used in Switzerland.

iveco.com
fpt-engine-research.ch
cng-mobility.ch

Toyota: Yaris comes as GR Sport

MODEL FAMILY EXPANDED Toyota has introduced the Yaris GR Sport, a new member of the model family that has won several awards in Europe. Recently, the Yaris was awarded the Golden Steering Wheel 2021 in Germany.

Toyota_Yaris
The current model update of the Yaris GR Sport primarily affects the suspension tuning.

The new Yaris GR Sport comes in the exclusive Dynamic Grey exterior color with contrasting black accents. New 18-inch wheels with red accented segments recall the lineage of Toyota Gazoo Racing.

The front grille gets a new mesh grille with an independent G-motif structure, and at the rear a new diffuser ensures a striking appearance.

Exclusive suede upholstery and heated seats
Inside, the Gazoo Racing theme can be seen in the logos on the steering wheel, headrests, start button and instrument cluster. The seats feature exclusive suede upholstery and heated seats as standard.

Red stitching can also be found on the steering wheel with perforated leather and on the shift knob. Door panels, console and steering wheel are all finished in GR Sport Gun Metal silver.

Proven hybrid drive and new dampers
The Yaris GR Sport features the familiar 1.5-liter hybrid drive. The front and rear suspensions have been tuned with sporty driving in mind. The new dampers respond more quickly at slow speeds to optimize steering feel and comfort. In addition, the rear springs have been modified for even better ground contact and minimal body movement.

Additional underbody struts on both sides make the body stiffer and thus improve handling and stability. Aerodynamics have also been improved by baffles in the wheel arches.

The relaunched Yaris GR Sport will be available from the second quarter. Prices have not yet been set.

toyota.ch

Genesis: The showroom comes into the living room

VIRTUAL CIRCUIT As of now, the Korean manufacturer Genesis is offering Virtual Studio, an online portal that gives European customers the opportunity to contact a product expert via video call.

Genesis_Virtual_Studio
With the Virtual Studio, the customer gets to know his new car in the comfort of his own home.

The Genesis Virtual Studio takes customer convenience to a new level. It embodies the brand promise "We come to you" and extends the Genesis Personal Assistant service. It offers Genesis customers the convenient opportunity to experience the entire model range live at home.

During an interactive 360-degree tour, prospective customers can have the vehicle functions explained to them together with a trained product expert. Customers can also arrange a test drive or a follow-up appointment with a personal assistant. In each case, 30-minute time slots are available for personal consultation.

Strengthening the experience for customers

Dominique Boesch, Managing Director Genesis Motor Europe: "With its service, the Genesis Virtual Studio is a significant milestone in strengthening our customer experience. The launch of the digital showrooms follows the opening of the first Genesis Studio in Munich, with more to follow soon."

Also explained during the virtual visit is the "Genesis Flexibility" offer, which makes vehicle purchase and ownership easier. It includes all scheduled maintenance, a five-year care package, and advice and service from the Genesis Personal Assistant. And in addition, it gives prospective buyers the opportunity to get to know the brand.

genesis.com

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