Suzuki, Mopar, Silence, LIMITLESS, Honda

Audi has unveiled the AUDI E Concept in China, the first concept vehicle from its joint venture with the Chinese state-owned company SAIC. Notably, for this new sub-brand, Audi is foregoing its traditional four-ring logo and instead using an illuminated AUDI lettering on the front and rear. With this move, the automaker aims to appeal to younger and tech-savvy customers in the Chinese electric vehicle market. Initially, three models are planned to launch as early as mid-2025. By 2030, the portfolio could expand to up to nine models.

Suzuki is debuting the e Vitara, its first all-electric model, built on the new HEARTECT-e platform, specifically designed for electric vehicles. The electric SUV will offer two versions, with either a 49-kWh or a 61-kWh battery. Power output ranges from 106 kW for the base model up to 176 kW for the all-wheel-drive version with the “ALLGRIP-e” system. Production is set to begin in India in early 2025.

Stellantis’ performance brand Mopar has unveiled an all-electric concept car based on a 1967 Plymouth GTX in Las Vegas. This iconic muscle car has been retrofitted with a 250 kW electric motor and four battery packs totaling 73 kWh, offering an estimated range of 400 kilometers (around 335 horsepower). Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a special 3:1 gearbox, while battery placement ensures optimal weight distribution to preserve the car’s classic dynamics.

Spanish manufacturer Silence has introduced the “S05 Weekender,” a versatile, eco-friendly electric motorcycle designed for city and weekend rides. The S05 reaches a top speed of 120 km/h and offers a range of up to 133 kilometers, thanks to a removable lithium-ion battery for easy charging at home or work. Weighing just 94 kg (without the battery), the S05 Weekender is agile, ideal for tight streets and heavy urban traffic. Other features include a 7-inch touchscreen, a spacious helmet storage compartment, and ABS for added safety.

The European research project LIMITLESS has achieved a significant milestone in Hyperloop technology. In a 125.6-meter vacuum tube, a scaled 1:12 model completed a test run, covering an equivalent distance of 11.8 kilometers at a top speed of 40.7 km/h. Scaled to a full system, the Hyperloop concept could potentially reach speeds of up to 488.2 km/h. These tests provide insights into the efficiency and feasibility of near-vacuum tube transport, underscoring Hyperloop’s potential to transform high-speed travel, though further tests and adjustments are needed before it’s ready for passenger service.

Honda has revealed a new V3 combustion engine featuring an electric compressor aimed at boosting torque in the low and mid-RPM range, enhancing engine responsiveness. Powered by battery, Honda’s “e-compressor” operates independently of engine speed. The 75-degree V3 engine is water-cooled, compact, and lightweight, making it well-suited for high-performance sports motorcycles.