The 2024 Ferrari Challenge race series has introduced its ninth-generation machine, based on the 296 GTB

The final of the 2023 Ferrari Challenge one-make series has now concluded at the Mugello Circuit, marking the end of the Ferrari 488 Challenge driver line-up. Originally launched in 2017 before the Evo's 2020 overhaul, the model has now reached the end of its life, and the new successor to the Ferrari 296 Challenge is set to debut in the 2024 season, as the ninth model in the series' history.

Although based on the 296 GTB road car, it shared several elements with its highly successful sibling, the GT3 race car, making it a promising replacement for the 488 Challenge car.

After making its public debut on the eve of this year's Finali Mondiali event, the 296 Challenge ditches the road car's hybrid assistance for a less complicated pure combustion approach. Unlike the 3.9-liter V8 of its predecessor, it has the same 3-liter 120-degree turbocharged V6 as the GTB road car (and the 296 GT3, for that matter), sending 681bhp and 546 lb-ft to the rear wheels – although that's 20bhp more than the 488 Challenge Evo, torque down 14 lb-ft.

Bearing in mind that the GT3 is limited to 592bhp by regulations, the 296 Challenge's pure combustion output of 681bhp is the most of any F163 V6 version – torque remains at 546 lb-ft. The road car is capable of producing 654bhp (although that adds 165bhp from hybrid boost for a total of 819bhp). To achieve these new power figures, Ferrari has increased boost, changed calibration, and reduced exhaust backpressure by 30 percent on the road car thanks to the removal of the Gas Particulate Filter and Tubi Style exhaust.

Ferrari says the model was designed with performance and consistency in mind, implementing similar solutions to those found on the 296 GT3 launched last year – considering the car's incredible success at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, this is no bad thing. Although it does not use a hybrid system in its road cars, the brand also applies the latest technology from its road cars, including the EVO Track ABS to improve braking performance in racing conditions.

The overall design isn't as extreme as the high-downforce, dramatically built GT3, but the Challenge still features plenty of track-specific upgrades to the exterior. A pair of canards, a more aggressive splitter, rear wing, side skirts, and diffuser all contribute to a peak downforce figure of 870kg at 155mph, the highest of any Ferrari Challenge car so far. Unique front and rear bumpers, a ventilated hood, and a mesh rear bumper similar to those found on the 296 GT3 are also present for cooling.

Chassis changes haven't been revealed, but a complete geometry overhaul is evident, with Rotiform wheels tucked further into their arches and significant negative camber relief. Each car will also be equipped with a set of new 19-inch Pirelli tires developed specifically for the Challenge model. In addition to the ABS EVO Track system, the new CCM-R PLUS disc brakes are also said to improve braking performance and consistency for long stints on the track.

With standard glass, unnecessary interior gubbins, and the hybrid system removed, the weight now stands at 1,330kg (dry), 140kg less than the road car. Not only that, Ferrari also had to add more cooling solutions and a 12V starter motor to the pure combustion Challenge.

The new Ferrari 296 Challenge will hit the track next year in the European and North American series and will cost each driver €318k plus VAT and racing fees.

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The All-Electric Jeep Avenger Reach Up Brand’s B-SUV Share In Europe

Orders For The All-Electric Jeep Avenger Reach 40,000 Units
Drives Up Brand’s B-SUV Share In Europe

In a market increasingly defined by electric mobility, the all-electric Jeep® Avenger (JJ) has emerged as a game-changer for the iconic Jeep brand in the competitive B-SUV segment of the European market. Since its unveiling at the Paris Auto Show last year, this European Car of the Year 2023 recipient has garnered over 40,000 customer orders, establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with.

Jeep’s popularity in the B-SUV segment has grown significantly, fuelled by the Avenger’s popularity. Between January and August of this year, the brand’s sales within this segment increased by a remarkable 33.5% compared to the previous year, outpacing the segment’s industry growth rate of 12.8%. This robust growth can be attributed to the Avenger, which has made its mark in various European markets over the last three months.

The Avenger’s commercial success is complemented by its impressive list of industry accolades. Designed and produced as a quintessential Jeep vehicle, it has already garnered 10 industry awards, including the prestigious 2023 European Car of the Year. It was also recognized as the Best Family SUV in the 2023 Women’s World Car of the Year and awarded Electric Car of the Year in the Top Gear UK Awards.

A notable trend is the significant demand for the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) version of the Jeep Avenger, accounting for over 40% of confirmed customer orders. This highlights the growing interest among customers in the all-electric version of this remarkable SUV.

In addition to the Avenger, the Jeep Renegade (BV) has maintained strong sales momentum, keeping pace with the previous year’s volume. With over 32,000 units registered, compared to 31,705 in the same period of 2022, the Renegade continues to be a customer favorite.

In Europe, Jeep has secured a fifth-place ranking in the SUV segment, boasting a market share of 10.6%, up from 9.6% the previous year. The Italian market is particularly receptive to Jeep, where the brand commands an overwhelming 49.9% market share. The Renegade continues to dominate the B-SUV segment in Italy, capturing 7.9% of the market share, which rises to 11.4% when combined with the Avenger’s 3.5% share.

Jeep’s success extends beyond Italy, with strong results in Germany, Spain, Poland, and the Netherlands, where the brand enjoys double-digit market share percentages.

The Avenger encapsulates the essence of the Jeep in a compact SUV. It combines capability, style, functionality, and technology to express “concentrated freedom.” With a unique 400-volt electric motor, the Avenger boasts a stress-free range of up to 400 kilometers (248 miles) WLTP and up to 550 kilometers (342 miles) in city driving. Its fast-charging capability provides 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) of range in just three minutes.

The Avenger offers four distinct trim levels, each tailored to meet specific customer needs. These include Avenger, Longitude, Altitude, and Summit. Impressively, 80% of Avenger units sold feature the two highest trim levels, Altitude and Summit, showcasing customers’ preference for technology and exclusivity. The preferred color among buyers is Vulcan (black), accounting for 30% of total sales.

 

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Tesla Model Y as its best-selling product.

It cannot be denied that the electrified vehicle or EV market is experiencing very positive growth in various countries, including the United States. In Uncle Sam's country, the electrified vehicle or EV segment is also experiencing growth in terms of sales which continues to increase from time to time.

In the United States itself, Tesla is still the king of the electrified vehicle segment with the highest sales figures in the second quarter of this year. Based on a report from Clean Technica, the Tesla Model Y will be the best-selling electric car in the world in the first semester of 2023. The electric car alerted by Tesla sold 579,552 units in the first half of this year.

EV Sales Data In The United States

As reported by Carscoops, the EV vehicle market in the United States experienced growth of up to 66.4% during the second quarter of this year. During the second quarter of 2022, up to 196,788 EV vehicles in the United States could be sold. When compared to the same period last year, only 118,235 units were sold.

In fact, throughout the first semester of 2022, EV sales increased by 75% to 370,726 units. In contrast to the first semester of 2021, when only 216,927 EV vehicles were sold. In fact, what is interesting, from this study conducted by Cox Automotive, apart from reporting that EV sales continue to increase, this EV segment cannot even be approached by conventional vehicles in terms of sales growth.

Talking about the king of EV vehicle sales in the United States, Tesla is the best. During the second quarter of 2022, 2 products from Elon Musk's brand dominate the list of EV products with the highest sales. The Tesla Model Y was at the top with 59,822 units, followed by the Model 3 which sold 54,620 units.

Below the two Tesla models, there is the Ford Mustang Mach-E which is observed to have a very large difference at 10,941 units. Then the fourth and fifth positions were followed by 2 products from Korea, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with 7,448 units and the Kia EV6 which managed to sell up to 7,287 units.

Based on a report from Clean Technica, the Tesla Model Y will be the best-selling electric car in the world in the first semester of 2023. The electric car alerted by Tesla sold 579,552 units in the first half of this year. Its position is followed by the Tesla Model 3 with electric car sales of 279,320 units. Then, BYD Song recorded sales of 259,723 electric car units throughout the semester I/2023. Sales of BYD Qin Plis electric cars were recorded at 204,259 units in January-June 2023. 

Then, BYD Yuan Plus succeeded in selling 201,505 electric cars. There were also sales of BYD Dolphin electric cars totaling 158,512 units. Meanwhile, Wuling HongGuang Mini EV and GAC Aion S sold 122,052 units and 115,606 units respectively. According to the brand, BYD is the most sold electric car brand in semester I/2023, namely 1.19 million units. Its position is followed by Tesla and BMW with electric car sales of 888,879 and 220,795 units respectively. 

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Toyota GT300 Team

Fan-favourite SUPER GT squad Tsuchiya Engineering has announced it will continue fielding the hand-built Toyota GR Supra in the GT300 class this season, also revealing a new driver line-up. The team revealed its decision to end its participation in Japan's top sports car series on Wednesday, ahead of this weekend's Suzuka 450km. Max Racing is set to miss the fifth round of the season after the Toyota GR Supra GT300 run by Tsuchiya Engineering suffered damage during a race at Fuji earlier this month, when it caught fire due to exhaust problems. In a short statement, Max Racing said its decision to leave the series was influenced by the inability to source spare parts to repair its cars this season. “Last year, following the sudden passing of team owner Tsuyoshi Oono, we were able to move forward thanks to the strong encouragement of our supporters and the desire to continue his legacy,” the statement read. “However, due to repeated accidents last season and vehicle fires at the previous Fuji round, we were unable to obtain some damaged parts during this season. “Given this situation, and after careful consideration, we have made the unfortunate decision to withdraw from the SUPER GT series.”

 

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Hyundai IONIQ 6 is the world's best car in" the 2023 World Car of the Year award"

Designed to complement everyday life by providing space to awaken your potential. Through an aerodynamic silhouette, as well as an interior appearance designed to provide driving pleasure. IONIQ 6 is here to realize a new era of electric mobility. Experience fast and convenient charging on your IONIQ 6. Apart from that, IONIQ 6 can also support charging up to 80% in just +/- 18 minutes. The DC Charging above can be fulfilled by using a DC Charging Station with a 50 kW power supply. 4-point interactive pixel lights display IONIQ 6 charging status

 

The V2L feature allows IONIQ 6 to be a 3.6 kW power source for electronic device use, adding to your convenience and comfort while traveling. Inspired by Hyundai's Prophecy EV Concept, the Ioniq 6 is characterized by clean, simple lines and a pure aerodynamic shape that Hyundai designers describe as Emotional Efficiency.' The Ioniq 6's electrified streamliner typology and cocoon-like interior embody the silhouette of a new era of electric mobility, while the overall design theme of Ethical Uniqueness reflects Hyundai's customer-centric commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. "Ioniq 6 connects the emotional convergence between functionality and aesthetics," said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center, in Hyundai's official statement regarding the Ioniq 6 recently.

“The signature sleek design is the result of close collaboration between engineers and designers, with obsessive attention to detail and customer-centric values at its core. We have created Ioniq 6 as a caring cocoon that offers a personalized space for all. The design of the Ioniq 6 has been human-centric from the start, with the interior space developed simultaneously with the exterior shape. This was done to maximize and optimize the interior space, stretching it at the front and rear, resulting in a unique streamliner silhouette and a spacious interior. 

 The Ioniq 6 looks more aerodynamic with a low nose and thin digital side mirrors although they are available as an option. Then there is an elliptical spoiler inspired by a small wing, a small boat tail structure. In fact, at the bottom of the car, Hyundai optimized the aerodynamics of this car with optimized deflectors and a smaller wheel arch distance.

Ioniq 6 also integrates more than 700 Parametric Pixels in various places, such as headlights, rear combination lights, front bottom sensors, air vent decoration, and center console indicators, to strengthen the Ioniq brand identity throughout the vehicle. The rear wing's Parametric Pixel High-Mounted Stop Lamp (HMSL) produces an attractive light execution when the brake is applied. To further highlight the uniqueness of the Ioniq 6, newly designed Hyundai 'H' badges are applied to the front and rear of the vehicle. Hyundai Motor Group's Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) applied to this car allows for more interior space, front, and rear, to create optimized legroom and spaciousness that allows passengers to remain comfortable in the vehicle. The platform also allows for a completely flat floor, giving a spacious feeling.

The user-centric interior architecture is exemplified by an ergonomically designed control unit located centrally to reduce distractions and encourage safe, intuitive driving. The modular touchscreen dashboard integrates a 12-inch full-touch infotainment screen and a 12-inch digital cluster. The bridge-type center console provides convenient and abundant in-car storage. Dual Color Ambient Lighting provides comprehensive illumination for the interior of the Ioniq 6.

 Users can choose from a spectrum of 64 colors and six dual-color themes developed by color experts to help the driver and passengers feel relaxed and comfortable. 4-point Interactive Pixel Lights on the steering wheel allow easy communication between driver and vehicle. The removal of the knob from the front door provides more breathing room and more storage. The interior of the Ioniq 6 is also made with sustainable materials and colors. Depending on the variant level, this includes eco-processed leather on the seats, recycled fabric, bio leather on the dashboard, and bio paint derived from vegetable oil on the doors.

Interactive Pixel Lights 4 points on the steering wheel and LED lights on the crash pad indicate various car statuses (welcome/good-bye, voice recognition, etc.). The 12.3″ Digital Cluster and 12.3″ infotainment are integrated into one screen for a wider display to make it easier for you to access all the information.

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Lamborghini Sian Roadster 2020 With Lamborghini's most powerful engine and electric motor

 

The Lamborghini Sian Roadster is currently one of Lamborghini's rarest hypercars. Even the Sian Roadster can be considered a topless version of the most powerful car from the Lamborghini portfolio. Sharing engines and configurations with the Aventador SVJ, however, the Roadster edition also features a hybrid powertrain from a 48-volt electric motor.

The exclusivity offered by Lamborghini can be seen from the production units that are not overproduced. The Lamborghini Sian Coupe is already extremely rare with only 63 examples to be produced. Meanwhile, the Sian Roadster is more special and worth hunting for because there are only 19 units available worldwide, or less than a third of the Coupe edition.

Both production figures are not without reason. Both refer to the year Ferruccio Lamborghini founded Automobili Ferruccio Lamborghini S.p.A in 1963. With 19 units of the Sian Roadster and 63 units of the Sian Coupe, these two cars are not only rare, but represent a milestone for this Italian manufacturer.

2020 Lamborghini Sian exterior

Lamborghini already offered a sporty and impressive appearance when it introduced the Sian in September 2019. However, the presence of the Sian Roadster has been made more aggressive with several changes. Not just cutting the roof, but a slight revision of the exterior appearance.

Lamborghini designers offer a periscopio line inspired by the legendary Lamborghini Countach. The body lines flow from the front fascia diagonally to merge with the headlights with a Y accent that looks like an arrow. Confirms the fast impression carried by this Roadster.

You can see the front splitter from carbon which is integrated with the headlamps. To improve aerodynamics, airflow is directed through the front splitter to the roof, then through the side air intakes past the rear spoiler. Completing the front view, there are gold accents running from the front fascia to the side skirts.

The roofless design is a distinctive characteristic of the Sian Roadster which differentiates it from the Coupe version and the standard edition. Without a roof, it doesn't have much of an impact on the aerodynamic efficiency offered. With scissor-style doors, the Sian Roadster offers an attractive new Blue Uranus color option. Like any other sports car, you need to be careful when driving this car. Considering that the ground clearance of this car is only 100 mm.

There are six hexagonal taillights which are also inspired by the Countach which also adorn the stern appearance. Lamborghini patented a new technology for active cooling vanes on the rear exterior that are activated by temperature in the exhaust system. The rear wing, like the coupe model, is integrated into the body and extends automatically when needed.

The interior design is not unlike the other Sian models. Based on the interior of the Lamborghini Aventador, there have been a few adjustments made to make it look a little different from its older sibling. The Oro Electrum color distinguishes the Sian Roadster, which was created specifically for the hybrid powered variant.

The luxurious design of the sporty style is immediately felt when you enter the cabin. Likewise, the dashboard display is almost the same as the standard Sian version. Made identical to the Sian Coupe, the Sian Roadster is inspired by the cockpit of a fighter plane which is made ergonomically for driving comfort.

Several aluminum accents in the cabin that adorn the dashboard to the center console. There is a charming switch on the center console which is widened. Instead of being on the center side of the dashboard, the large portrait-style touch screen is located on the center console, presenting navigation functions and an entertainment system that will accompany you along the way.

Alcantara leather-coated steering wheel with a flat-bottom design offers comfort while driving. No multifunction button, so all settings are centered on the center console. Behind the steering wheel, there is a fully-digital instrument cluster which is perfectly positioned and has good visibility. So it's not too disturbing

The sporty bucket seats will support the body perfectly when driving at the impressive speeds that the Sian Roadster provides. There is a black impression on the side of the headrest with the typical Lamborghini bull logo made to match the exterior color which makes it sweeter in the cabin.

Features of the 2020 Lamborghini Sian

Like other high-speed models, the Sian Roadster hypercar offers various additional features to improve the driving feel. There is additional rollover and revised aerodynamics, making it remain stable even at high speeds. At the rear, there is Lamborghini's active ventilation which can be opened to keep the engine temperature from getting too hot.

Increasing driving comfort in the car, the system automatically flows from one side to the other. Like the 4-wheel steering from the Lamborghini Dynamic Steering system, it will adapt to the speed and driving mode used. The four-wheel drive system is paired with an adaptive suspension that adjusts the ride according to road conditions.

Compared to the exterior and the improved appearance, the engine used on the Sian Roadster is still the same as the regular Lamborghini Sian. The 6.5L V12 engine with Multi Point Injection technology is capable of producing a maximum power of up to 818 PS and a peak torque of 720 Nm coupled with Lamborghini's 7-speed Independent Shifting Rods transmission.

The power output is assisted by a 48-volt electric motor, which is added by the new Lamborghini supercapacitor technology, a new system that can store 10 times the power compared to lithium-ion batteries. Delivers three times the power of a battery of the same power, but is three times lighter.

Its impressive power with an all-wheel drive system makes the Sian Roadster triumph on a straight track. Lamborghini claims that this car can go from rest to 100 km/h in just under 2.9 seconds. Meanwhile, the top speed reaches 350 km/hour.

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The completely Redesigned 2023 Genesis G90 Fully Commits to its Luxury Mission

 

With potent engine options, a classy and high-quality interior, a gentle ride and a long list of standard features – all for a much higher price than previous-generation models.

Pros

Robust powertrain options

Gentle ride

Long list of standard features

Upscale cabin

The 2023 Genesis G90's #1 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Large Cars category. Currently the Genesis G90 has a score of 9.3 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 11 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.

As a fan of the midsize Genesis G80, I was eager to spend some time with Genesis’ largest and most luxurious sedan, the redesigned 2023 Genesis G90. It did not disappoint. With a silky smooth ride, Chauffeur Mode, a Mood Curator and pampering rear seats with pillow-like headrests and a foot rest, the G90 is all about comfort and refinement. It's also a pleasure to pilot. The supercharged V6 provided more than enough power for my needs. It offered near-instantaneous acceleration from a stop and quickly got me up to and surpassing legal freeway speeds.

 The G90 easily soaked up road imperfections, and the handling was surprisingly composed for such a large sedan. If you want a luxury large car to enjoy and impress, you'll have no complaints about this Genesis. That said, I preferred the smaller Genesis G80. It doesn't offer all the luxe amenities of its big brother, but it's still packed with high-tech features, and better handling makes the G80 more fun to drive. Additionally, its starting price is about $40,000 less.

the 2023 G90 is a fantastic luxury large car. It beautifully blends top-notch performance, an upscale cabin and modern features. Its new mild-hybrid powertrain provides quick acceleration, and the available air suspension keeps the ride calm even on bumpy roads.

The 2023 Genesis G90 starts at $88,400. That's about average for the segment, but the base G90 3.5T comes standard with more features than most of its rivals, making it a relative bargain in the luxury large car class. This includes Nappa leather upholstery, power soft-closing doors and heated, ventilated and massaging front seats. The only other trim is the G90 3.5T E-Supercharger ($98,700), which adds an electric supercharger to the mix as well as a few more luxury features, including power rear seats with a massage function.

We recommend the base G90 3.5T trim for the vast majority of buyers. It's plenty powerful, and it can be had for roughly $10,000 less than the E-Supercharger trim while offering nearly all the same features. While the electric supercharger is cool, it's hard to rationalize its price premium.

The cost of insuring a Genesis G90 will depend on a variety of factors, including your deductible, the level of coverage that you want, and the type of insurance that you choose. Your age, gender, location, credit score, and driving record can also have an impact on your insurance rates. Check out our car insurance guide  to find the best policy for you.

2023 G90 Interior Quality

The 2023 Genesis G90 has a top-notch interior that reflects its luxury price tag. The cabin uses Nappa leather, wood, stainless steel and other high-quality materials that are attractive and assembled with precision. It’s a spacious, comfortable and well-designed place to sit.

The G90’s updated infotainment system works better than the one in the previous model. It processes inputs quickly, has updated graphics and is easy to use while driving. There are also several physical buttons and knobs for commands like audio volume and climate. However, some reviewers complain that smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto shouldn’t require a wired connection in such an expensive car.

Standard infotainment features: a 12.3-inch touch screen, navigation, a Bang & Olufsen stereo, satellite radio, HD Radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, wireless device charging and multiple USB ports

Additional standard features: a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, tri-zone automatic climate control, proximity keyless entry, remote start, ambient interior lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, the Genesis Digital Key and a panoramic sunroof

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Lamborghini Lanzador at Monterey Car Week 2023

Automobili Lamborghini has revealed a new concept model at Monterey Car Week 2023. Known as the Lanzador, the 2+2 Gran Turismo will be the brand's first all-electric model that will debut as a production car in 2028. While core technical details are being kept under wraps, Lamborghini has confirmed that the production-spec Lanzador will get an electric motor on each axle, bringing the model with all-wheel drive and offering e-torque vectoring. The model also promises to be far-reaching, though specifics have yet to be revealed. Power output will be in the one-megawatt range, which is around 1,341bhp. Some of the other notable features include air suspension, rear axle steering, and adaptive dampers.

The Lanzador is a competent GT car, although it's said to be four inches closer to the ground than the Urus. At the front, it gets sharp-looking LED headlights and bumper, with a familiar detailed pattern on either side.

The side profile doesn't get scissor doors, but rather two conventional doors that can be stretched to four on the production model. Also available are gloss black cladding and 23-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.

At the rear, the sloping roofline ends with a ducktail spoiler and a set of Sian-inspired tri-unit LED taillights, separated by Lamborghini lettering. Located further below is an aggressively designed edge towards the bottom of the rear bumper.

Inside, the Lanzador feels quite futuristic, and its hallmarks, including the Y-shaped design, have been put to the fore, with the latter appearing on the center console. We expected a sleeker steering wheel design, a new look for the passengers, and the engine start-stop button to be under a dramatic missile launch-like mechanism. The second row has two captain's seats, and behind it is ample space for luggage and other items the ideal customer might want to carry.

While the all-electric Lanzador is due to arrive in 2028, the entire product range from the House of the Raging Bull will be electrified in one way or another by the end of 2024. The V12 Aventador has been replaced by the Revuelto hybrid, and a Huracan successor with a hybrid powertrain has been spotted being tested. This leaves the Urus, which will also follow the same path over the next two years.

 

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Ranking of the World's Top 5 EV Automotive Groups by Sales: H1 2023

 The two largest OEMs by volume - Tesla and BYD - are increasing their market share, leaving less and less room for others.

More than 5.8 million plug-in electric cars were sold during the first half of 2023, accounting for about 15 percent of total car sales globally. Today, we will look at the largest manufacturers (automotive groups) of rechargeable cars.

According to EV-Volumes data, shared by Jose Pontes, five OEMs are responsible for more than half of plug-in car sales.

As usual, we will first examine the volume and share of the top OEMs in the overall plug-in market first, then in the battery-electric segment.

Plug-in (BEV + PHEV)

In the plug-in category, which combines battery electric cars (BEV) and plug-in hybrid cars (PHEV), the top five were the same as in Q1. However, while some OEMs are expanding, others are struggling to maintain their market share.

BYD remains the largest group with over 1,248,168 units registered in H1 and a share of 21.4 percent. The Chinese manufacturer increased its market share by several percentage points from 15.4 percent last year.

Tesla is another example of a thriving OEM. The company recorded 888,879 units in H1 and a 15.2 percent share in the plug-in segment (despite only selling BEVs), which is an improvement compared to last year's 13.6 percent share.

Third largest was Volkswagen Group, however, with 425,761 units in H1, its share was 7.3 percent (down from 8.0 percent last year).

Geely-Volvo, fourth after the first half of the year, recorded 359,543 units and a share of 6.2 percent (up from 5.6 percent last year).

Together with SAIC, the big five are responsible for nearly 56 percent of all plug-in electric cars sold globally in the first half of 2023.

Plug-in car registrations in Q1-Q2 2023 (vs. previous year):

BYD Group: 1,248,168 and 21.4% shares (vs. 15.4%)

Tesla: 888,879 and 15.2% share (vs. 13.6%)

Volkswagen Group: 425,761 and 7.3% shares (vs. 8.0%)

Geely-Volvo: 359,543 and 6.2% share (vs. 5.6%)

SAIC (including SAIC-GM-Wuling): 322,921 and 5.5% shares (vs. 8.6%)

Top 5 total: 3,245,272 and 55.6% share

Others: 2,586,592 and 44.4% shares

Total: 5,831,864

Battery-Electric Vehicles (BEV)

In terms of all-electric car registrations, BEV-focused Tesla is the top manufacturer (no changes here). The company recorded 888,879 registrations, accounting for 21.7 percent of the BEV segment (versus 19 percent last year).

BYD, the second best, recorded 615,064 units and a 15 percent share in the BEV segment (four percent more than last year). That's a big leap.

Both Tesla and BYD are well ahead of other OEMs and are also expanding their BEV businesses faster than other OEMs (overall).

We cover the race between Tesla, BYD and Volkswagen Group in detail here.

Third-best OEM Volkswagen Group recorded 311,359 units and a 7.6 percent share in the BEV segment (compared to 7.3 percent last year). On the other hand, SAIC's share fell from 10.8 percent last year to 7.5 percent in H1 2023.

The top five OEMs account for nearly 58 percent of all BEVs sold in the first half of 2023.

All-electric car registrations in Q1-Q2 2023 (vs. previous year):

Tesla: 888,879 and 21.7% share (vs. 19%)

BYD Group: 615,064 and 15% share (vs. 11%)

Volkswagen Group: 311,359 and 7.6% share (vs. 7.3%)

SAIC (including SAIC-GM-Wuling): 308,899 and 7.5% shares (vs. 10.8%)

Geely-Volvo: 236,847 and 5.8% share.

Top 5 total: 2,361,048 and 57.6% share.

Others: 1,738,952 and 42.4% shares

Total: 4,100,000

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Blaupunkt EVIL Z24

Blaupunkt will display the award-winning "Evil Z24" project car at auto shows and autosound contests, as part of a national tour to include the Spring Break Nationals, SEMA, and Vision Entertainment's Hot Import Nights shows in more than 15 cities coast to coast. The Evil Z24 (a.k.a. Evil Z) is an ultra-custom 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 is owned by Bob Mull, founder of Team GMCI Racing. This extensively customized vehicle showcases Blaupunkt's newest generation of audio and video products, including 29 video monitors and a full complement of the company's revolutionary OverDrive series of flat loudspeakers, plus a wide array of aftermarket performance accessories.

"The Evil Z24 has enough audio and video equipment for a small apartment complex," said George R. Velez, Blaupunkt's marketing manager. "By squeezing it all into a sport compact, Mull has created a unique showcase for Blaupunkt's installation-friendly components. He used our low profile video monitors, flat subwoofers and shallow-mounting OverDrive component loudspeakers. The system has a total of 18 channels of amplification, 29 video monitors, four 12-inch subwoofers, five sets of component speakers, and uses over 3 miles of Stinger wires to complete the installation. This mind-blowing entertainment system is a perfect compliment to the car’s mind-blowing appearance and performance."

The Metamorphosis of Evil

Already one of the most successful show cars in the country, the Evil Z24 was completely stripped and rebuilt for the 2004 Season in just six weeks. When the metamorphosis was complete, the "new" Evil Z24 debuted in January at the 2004 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, one of the world's largest trade shows, where it won the Best of Show People's Choice Award prize from Car, Sound and Performance Magazine.

Brian Mobley and Sean Young, the owners Sound Decision of Montgomery, Illinois, designed and installed all the audio and video systems, and provided overall creative guidance for the extensive interior and exterior redesign. The visual and functional centerpiece of the cockpit is a Blaupunkt Chicago IVDM-7002 DVD player with a flip-out monitor and Blaupunkt Travel/Pilot DX-N navigation system. Five Blaupunkt IVSC-5502 signal controllers are used to integrate the additional monitors and sources into a flexible and seamless system that can put sound and video almost anywhere in the car.

The glove compartment was replaced by a sleek motorized tray to house the "brain"--a laptop computer--which controls the car's extensive Venom VCN 2000 Nitrous and Accel Gen 7 Engine Management systems, and can tune the car on the fly. The Evil Z also has an external laptop that is used for demonstrations at car shows. It employs a unique computer program written by Sound Decision to control 52 different motorized functions and accessories. These include the Air Ride Technologies Air Ride System, accessory lighting consisting of 152 neon sticks and eight strobes provided by Street Glow, motorization of amplifiers and trunk lid motors supplied by Danaher Motion and more. When the Evil Z24 is in motion at shows – "It’s almost alive!" said Velez.

The Evil Z's flashy new green and yellow paint scheme and body fabrication was the work of Brian Colwell and his two sons, Matt and Bobby of J. C. Customs Paint and Body, Little Rock, Illinois. On the exterior, they fabricated a new trunk lid and rear wing spoiler, and created an RK Sport SS style hood. Their extensive interior modifications include a completely stripped and refabricated dash which sports no less than 15 Stewart Warner gauges, center console, the entire back seat – audio/video theater area. The entire vehicle, interior and exterior is finished with House of Kolor meticulous Pagan Gold and Green Metallic paint with purple pin-striping and air-brushed highlighting.

The Evil Z24 is not just for show but has been turned out for "no-holds-barred" performance by Peter Murrin and Jason Plohr of Speedway Performance. The engine was rebuilt and modified with a 20G Turbo System, Crower connecting rods, JE pistons, a custom intercooler, port and polished head, Venom fuel rail, and Venom High Flow polished intake system manifold. They used PI-Thon hose clamps in rebuilding and tuning the Evil Z24 engine for power and show, custom designing a special Fuel Safe gas cell for race offering a mix of "show & go" most people dream of. These same guys also developed and built the one-of-a-kind Lambo-style door hinges which allow the doors shoot straight up at a 90 degree angle, and make the car look like it’s ready to fly.

This vehicle has it all with 19 X 7-1/2 Hex-1 three-piece rims from R-1 Racing Wheels sported with Toyo Proxes T1 racing tires, 12-inch slotted rotors with four-piston caliper to include chrome undercarriage parts from General Motors to finish it off as one of the leading sport compact cars on the scene today. The finishing touch is provided by Meguiar’s new NXT Generation polishes to keep the Evil Z24 looking its award winning best, show after show.

 

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