Blog

Mercedes-AMG has hit the ground running in seven days. With its GT XX prototype, the German brand covered the equivalent of the earth’s circumference, i.e. 40,075 km, on the Nardò ring in Italy. In the process, the car set 25 world records, including the longest distance in 24 hours. A spectacular demonstration that illustrates the technological endurance of the future electric AMG.

An electric hypercar ahead of its time

Officially, the GT XX is still a concept. Yet its characteristics already place it among the ranks of hypercars. Three axial-flow engines deliver 1,360 bhp, an unprecedented level of power for an electric road car. Its high-performance battery can take a charge of 850 kW. It features direct cooling inspired by Formula E. In concrete terms, it takes just five minutes to recover 400 km of range, a figure that ridicules the current competition. On the track, the engineers chose to maintain a stabilised speed of 300 km/h, a crazy speed which is not the vehicle’s maximum (360 km/h), but which represented the ideal compromise between performance and energy efficiency.

Breathtaking records

For eight days, two prototypes took it in turns to keep up the pace. Meanwhile, seventeen drivers from F1, GT and rally racing, including George Russell and France’s Doriane Pin, completed a series of two-hour stints in extreme conditions, sometimes at temperatures in excess of 35°C. The result: a new record for distance covered in 24 hours, with 5,479 km, almost 1,500 km more than Xpeng’s previous feat. On average, each day saw more than 5,300 km covered without any major incident, which clearly underlines the reliability of a machine that is still at the experimental stage.

A message to the competition

Over and above the sporting performance, Mercedes has a clear objective. Specifically, it aims to regain the upper hand against Chinese manufacturers. The latter, such as Xiaomi, BYD and Nio, are stepping up their electric power. With this in mind, Mercedes-AMG has reaffirmed its position as a global benchmark and its commitment to endurance and performance. Furthermore, the GT XX is not just a technological showcase. Indeed, it foreshadows a new generation of AMG electric cars, expected at the Munich Motor Show in September. Later, in 2026, an SUV based on the same AMG.EA platform will also arrive.

A feat… subject to conditions

One important point remains. Indeed, this feat was only possible in a totally controlled environment. A private ring, a team of engineers mobilised day and night, and customised charging points delivered a level of power inaccessible to the general public. As a result, the average motorist will not see 850 kW chargers in Europe for a long time. Therefore, this performance is above all a marketing tool and a message of power sent to the competition. Nevertheless, Mercedes has demonstrated impressive technological know-how. Moreover, this expertise could soon be reflected in production models. Ultimately, the real revolution will come when this prowess hits the streets and finally becomes accessible to AMG customers.

Audi is presenting its new Q3 Sportback plug-in hybrid at the IAA Munich 2025. This premium compact SUV combines sporty styling with electric efficiency.

A sporty design that appeals

With its roofline lowered by 29 mm and coupé silhouette, the Q3 Sportback makes a strong statement. The wide single-frame grille and digital Matrix LED headlights give it a modern look. At 4.53 metres long, it retains well-balanced proportions that are ideally suited to family use.

A connected, optimised interior

The dashboard features an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch central touchscreen. Audi has introduced new steering wheel levers, freeing up space in the centre console. Passenger space remains decent, even if the boot capacity drops to 375 litres on the plug-in hybrid version.

A powerful, efficient engine

The e-hybrid version combines a 177 bhp 1.5 petrol engine with a 115 bhp electric motor. Together, they produce 272 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds, while offering a smooth, quiet ride.

Record electric range

Thanks to a 19.7 kWh battery, the Q3 Sportback e-hybrid claims up to 120 km in electric mode. What’s more, the battery can be rapidly recharged with 50 kW of direct current, taking it from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes.

Prices and availability

In France, the Q3 Sportback e-hybrid starts at €57,500 in Design trim. However, it is subject to a weight penalty of €1,010. It is due to go on sale in November 2025.

Every summer, Monterey Car Week transforms California into a temple to the automobile. In 2025, manufacturers and tuners vied with each other in their creativity to seduce a demanding public. From electric concepts to hybrid hypercars, the diversity was total. Daring restomods, unprecedented supercars and extraordinary performances were the hallmarks of the event. Here’s a look back at the models that thrilled enthusiasts and collectors alike.

General Motors, electric and spectacular

General Motors hit back with two striking concepts. The electric Corvette CX impressed with its radical design and performance ambitions. Alongside it, the CX.R Vision Gran Turismo, developed with the creator of the famous video game, ignited discussions. Cadillac also unveiled its Elevated Velocity concept, a sculptural manifesto of future luxury. The public reacted enthusiastically, with some wanting to buy models not yet on the market.

Lamborghini Fenomeno: the hypercar of extremes

The Italian marque has unveiled the Fenomeno, produced in just 29 examples. With 1,080 bhp, this hybrid hypercar accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 2.5 seconds. With a price tag of 3.5 million dollars, it is aimed at a very select clientele. Its sharp design and oversized engine make it one of the jewels of the 2025 edition.

Restomods and unique creations

The tuners showed off their expertise with some daring interpretations. Gunther Werks presented Project F-26, a Porsche 993 transformed into a 1,000-horsepower monster. Ringbrothers reinvented a 1971 Aston Martin DBS, now the Octavia, powered by an 816bhp Ford V8. Meyers Manx and Tuthill surprised us with the LFG buggy, powered by a Porsche flat-six capable of 11,000 rpm.

Gordon Murray, a tribute to the legends

The British engineer celebrated the 30th anniversary of the McLaren F1 victory at Le Mans. Under his GMSV brand, he presented two exclusive supercars, including the Le Mans GTR. A demonstration of his expertise that confirms his status as a key figure in the world of sports cars.

The 2025 edition of Monterey Car Week will go down as one of the most exciting and surprising ever. With electrified innovations, tributes to icons and outrageous performances, the event once again proved that it’s much more than a show: it’s an open-air spectacle where the automobile is constantly reinventing itself.

Indian manufacturer Bajaj Auto is back on the rare earth supply track. After several weeks of stoppage, production of electric scooters is back on track. This comes just before the festival season, a key period for vehicle sales. Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj confirms a significant improvement in shipments of rare earth magnets.

Global dependence on rare earths

China supplies almost 90% of the rare earths used in the world. However, in April, China banned exports of rare earths, causing disruption to many car manufacturers. This decision forced Bajaj Auto and its competitors to look for alternatives to maintain production. Moreover, rare earth magnets are essential for electric motors, making their availability crucial for the manufacture of electric scooters and motorbikes.

A gradual recovery in production

Rajiv Bajaj said that deliveries of rare earth magnets resumed three to four weeks ago. As a result, Bajaj Auto expects to produce 15,000 Chetak scooters in August, before increasing this figure to 40,000 units in September. This increase reflects the resumption of the flow of raw materials and marks a turning point after a “zero production” month of August for certain electric models.

A strategic opportunity for the festival season

The period from August to October in India is a good time for major purchases, including vehicles. Consumers take advantage of the festivities to invest in electric mobility. By improving its supply, Bajaj Auto hopes to meet the growing demand and consolidate its position in the market. In this way, the manufacturer is preparing to take full advantage of a period that can account for a significant proportion of annual sales.

Towards a more stable future for electricity generation

This resumption of supplies marks an important step for Bajaj Auto. It demonstrates the manufacturer’s ability to adapt to global constraints and secure the resources needed to support the growth of electric vehicles in India.

Fast-charging stations are a cornerstone of the transition to electric vehicles. However, a Californian study reminds us that no technology is completely neutral. Researchers have detected occasional levels of fine particles around certain stations, linked not to the vehicles but to the electrical power cabinets.

Fans involved

These cabinets convert electricity into direct current for recharging. To prevent overheating, they use powerful fans. This stirring of the air suspends the dust on the ground. It includes tyre and brake residues and urban particles. This phenomenon explains the higher concentrations observed near the stations. They are sometimes higher than those measured near service stations. Despite this, the effect remains localised and diminishes rapidly with distance.

A localised and temporary risk

The researchers insist that the pollution is not widespread. Levels fall rapidly as soon as you move a few dozen metres away. For users, a few simple precautions are all that’s needed: stay in your vehicle while charging, with the air conditioning on, or take advantage of the break to walk a few minutes further.

Solutions already identified

This observation does not call into question the overall benefits of electric cars. Electromobility is still much less harmful than internal combustion in terms of CO₂ and atmospheric pollution. What’s more, solutions do exist: improving air filters in cabinets, rethinking the layout of charging points and providing better ventilation in enclosed spaces. These are all measures that will quickly eliminate this new blind spot.

Improving the transition, not slowing it down

At a time when Europe and the United States are massively deploying recharging stations, this study serves above all as a useful warning. It shows that the energy transition must also be accompanied by vigilance with regard to indirect impacts. But far from acting as a brake, these results pave the way for technical improvements that will further strengthen the advantage of electric over internal combustion engines.

Leapmotor is taking the next step in its European offensive. The manufacturer will be unveiling its B05 electric compact car at the IAA Mobility show in Munich. The first strategic model in the compact saloon market, the B05 is aimed directly at the Volkswagen ID.3, MG4, Renault Mégane E-Tech and Peugeot e-308.

A compact car designed to win over Europe

The Leapmotor B05 takes its technical base from the B10 SUV, which has already been launched. It adopts a hatchback body style, a format favoured by Europeans. Two LFP batteries are expected, of 56 and 67 kWh. Depending on the configuration, range could exceed 450 kilometres WLTP. In addition, Leapmotor is not ruling out a range-extender version, following the strategy already applied to the C10 SUV.

An ultra-competitive segment

The electric compact will arrive in a particularly hotly contested segment. The Renault Mégane, Volkswagen ID.3, Cupra Born and MG4 already dominate this key segment. However, Leapmotor could spring a surprise with its aggressive pricing policy. As in China, the brand intends to slash prices to attract European customers who are sensitive to value for money.

Rapid expansion on the Old Continent

In 2025, Leapmotor sold more than 8,000 vehicles in Europe in the first half of the year. Its T03 and C10 models accounted for the bulk of registrations. However, the ambition is much broader: the company is aiming for 50,000 to 60,000 annual sales outside China this year.

The crucial issue of local production

To limit the impact of European customs duties, Leapmotor is preparing to set up production facilities on the continent. The Stellantis plant in Zaragoza, already mentioned for the B10 SUV, could house the B05 from 2026. This choice would also make the model eligible for certain environmental bonuses, making it even more attractive.

A risky but strategic gamble

The unveiling of the B05 at Munich will be more than just a product launch. It will mark Leapmotor’s aggressive entry into one of Europe’s most hotly contested segments. With the industrial support of Stellantis and a rapidly expanding range, the young Chinese brand hopes to establish itself alongside the established manufacturers.

Kia is stepping up its electric drive in Europe. The South Korean manufacturer has just launched production of its new EV4 compact car at its Žilina plant in Slovakia. The brand’s first 100% electric model to be assembled on the Old Continent, it marks a decisive milestone in Kia’s industrial strategy.

A modernised plant to accommodate the EV4

Located in Žilina since 2004, the Kia AutoLand Slovakia plant now produces combustion, hybrid and 100% electric models. Thanks to an investment of over €100 million, the production lines have been modernised to accommodate this new compact car. In addition, a battery conveyor has been integrated to optimise assembly and meet the requirements of the electric model.

A model designed for Europe

The EV4 is the first Kia electric car to be manufactured in Europe, and is aimed primarily at the European market. Based on the E-GMP platform, it is available with two batteries: 58.3 kWh for 439 km, 81.4 kWh for 629 km. In addition, the EV4 offers Vehicle-to-Load and Vehicle-to-Grid technologies, enabling it to power appliances or reinject electricity. Thanks to its local production, the model will be eligible for France’s environmental bonus of up to €4,200.

A strategic industrial site

With 3,700 employees and an annual capacity of 350,000 vehicles, the Žilina plant exports to more than 80 countries. Already producing the Sportage and XCeed, it is now strengthening its strategic role in the Korean group’s electric transition. Fully powered by renewable electricity, it has reduced its CO₂ emissions and is affirming its commitment to the environment.

An electric offensive in Europe

According to Marc Hedrich, President of Kia Europe, this launch represents “a decisive milestone” for the brand’s electric future. Following on from the EV9, EV6 and EV3, the EV4 strengthens a range that is already well established on the European market. The Fastback version, produced in Korea, will complete the range from 2025 to appeal to a wider customer base. In addition, the EV5 and EV2 will follow, confirming Kia’s ambition to accelerate its switch to electric vehicles on the continent.

With the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo, Opel looks to the future of the sporty electric city car. Presented at the IAA Mobility 2025 and soon to be playable in Gran Turismo 7, this concept car heralds the next generation Corsa while illustrating the growing power of the sporty GSE range.

Concentrated power

Beneath its sleek silhouette, the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo hides two electric motors. Together, they deliver 800 bhp and 800 Nm of torque. The result: 0-100 kph in 2 seconds and a top speed of 320 kph.

The concept uses advanced technologies. Active diffuser, movable spoiler, air curtains and streamlined bonnet optimise aerodynamic downforce. Every detail of the bodywork has been designed with performance in mind.

A strong Opel design

At 4 metres long and 2 metres wide, the Corsa GSE retains the Opel identity with its “Vizor” grille and illuminated logo. At the rear, the cross-shaped light signature reinforces its character. The two-tone pearl white and yellow paintwork underlines its sporty DNA.

Inside, the emphasis is on minimalism. A single suspended bucket seat, a racing-inspired steering wheel and a head-up display. Backlit electrochromic fabrics act as an interface, alerting you to the presence of nearby vehicles.

A link with the future

Unlike other “Vision Gran Turismo” concepts, this prototype foreshadows the next generation of Opel city cars, expected in 2028. It also highlights the relaunched GSE range with models such as the Mokka GSE.

Inspired by the Calibra V6 4×4 of the 1990s, the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo celebrates Opel’s sporting history. Above all, it embodies the brand’s electric future.

Lexus presented its new Sport Concept at Monterey Car Week in California. This model embodies the future sporting vision of the Japanese brand. Inspired by the legendary LFA, it takes up the spirit of iconic supercars. This concept car confirms Lexus’ ambition to remain in the premium sports car segment.

An assertive, modern design

The Lexus Sport Concept has a wide silhouette and low profile. Its bold styling blends dynamic lines with emotional touches. At the rear, a strip of light crosses the stern, a signature already present on other recent Lexus models. These elements herald the stylistic evolution of future production Lexus models.

The model was shown at two prestigious events: Pebble Beach and The Quail, in California. Lexus thus chose its main potential market to unveil this new sports car. The public response underlines the high level of expectation for a successor to the LFA.

Powertrains: still uncertain

At this stage, Lexus has not released any official technical data. Uncertainty therefore remains over the final powertrain. Some sources suggest that the car will be 100% electric, as initially envisaged by Toyota for 2021. Others are speculating on a hybrid unit inspired by the Toyota GR GT3, which could exceed 900bhp. However, nothing has yet been confirmed by the brand.

Lexus says that the final version will be presented at the Tokyo Motor Show in November. Deliveries could start in 2026, but this date has yet to be confirmed. In any case, Lexus seems determined to give the LFA a credible successor.

From 18 August 2025, a new European regulation will apply to electric vehicle batteries. All the rules are now uniform across the European Union. They cover the manufacture, traceability and recycling of batteries. The objectives are to limit the environmental impact and dependence on raw materials. Manufacturers and consumers will have to adapt to these new obligations.

A single frame for all batteries

The regulations apply to cars, bicycles, scooters and stationary storage. It imposes precise requirements for design, materials and manufacture. For example, each battery must meet strict environmental standards. The aim is to reduce the ecological footprint throughout the life of the batteries.

Ambitious recycling targets

By the end of 2027, recyclers will have to recover 90% of cobalt, copper and nickel. Lithium, which is more difficult to process, will have to be recovered at a rate of 50%. After 2031, these rates will continue to rise, stimulating innovation in recycling. This measure will create a more efficient and sustainable European industry.

From 2028, batteries will have to contain 16% recycled cobalt and 85% lead. In addition, 6% recycled lithium and 6% recycled nickel will be required. This obligation limits Europe’s dependence on imports of strategic metals. As a result, the industry is gaining in sovereignty and economic resilience.

A digital passport for every battery

From 2027, all batteries above 2 kWh will have a unique QR code. This passport will detail the composition, origin of materials and carbon footprint. It will enable full traceability and facilitate monitoring throughout the life of the batteries. In this way, industrial transparency will be enhanced for consumers and regulators.

Mandatory recycling protects the environment and enhances the value of strategic metals. Manufacturers can finance eco-organisations to organise collection and recycling. This measure also helps to create jobs in specialised plants. Last but not least, it promotes a sustainable circular economy that is good for Europe.