At the scenic Villa d’Este by Lake Como, BMW Motorrad unfurled the BMW R20 concept. 

The BMW R20 concept is unique in that the Big Boxer engine takes a central, almost sculptural role in its design. Markus Flasch, Head of BMW Motorrad, calls it a “mechanical masterpiece,” emphasising that it’s distinctly BMW in spirit and execution.

With an aura of what might be called ‘casual gentility’, the R20 encapsulates the essence of BMW Motorrad: a blend of traditional aesthetics and exhilarating mechanics. Its tank complements the minimalist yet powerful design of the rear, highlighting the bike’s muscular stance.

The framework of the R20 is a newly crafted chrome-molybdenum steel, creating a robust yet sleek double-loop main frame that enhances its road presence. Its wheels sport a black spoke design, with substantial tyres that promise solid grip and responsive handling.

In terms of performance, the proven BMW Paralever technology has been adapted into a new two-arm version, ensuring that all that power from the Big Boxer engine is seamlessly transferred to the road with grace and stability. Attention to detail is meticulous, from the radially mounted ISR brake callipers to the finely milled aluminium rear axle carriers.

The design extends to the ergonomic and aesthetic details, like the integrated taillight in the Alcantara and leather-upholstered single seat, and a modern LED headlight that seems to float within its 3D-printed aluminium ring.

Alexander Buckan, Head of Design at BMW Motorrad, sees the R20 concept as a bold reimagining of BMW’s design language, marrying oversized proportions with a minimalist aesthetic to create a bike that is undeniably present and unique.

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Monterey Car week saw Lamborghini unveil its Lanzador concept which the Sant’Agata Bolognese firm calls “a high ground-clearance GT with 2+2 seats…” Alrightey then!

The Lanzador concept points toward a series model that will be built from 2028 onwards. Electrified, of course. This follows in the footsteps of the V12 plug-in hybrid Revuelto, and is in sync with Lamborghini’s strategy and roadmap toward electrification announced in 2021.

“With the fourth model concept, we are opening a new car segment: the Ultra GT. This will offer customers a new, unparalleled Lamborghini driving experience thanks to pioneering technologies,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

The Lanzador is touted as an all-electric Gran Turismo with a distinctly Lamborghini coupe-esque body style, in the same vein as the Espada, Jamara and Urraco from yesteryear, but now riding higher above the tarmac as inspired by the Huracan Sterrato.

“With Lanzador we are looking into our future without forgetting our DNA. The first coupés from Lamborghini with their front engines were sporty, elegant Gran Turismos suitable for everyday use as 2+2-seaters. The concept for our fourth production model leverages our philosophy of super sportiness combined with brave new technologies and fearless design, perfectly fitting into our Direzione Cor Tauri strategy,” explained Stephan Winkelmann.

Lamborghini’s idea here is to make the driver feel like a pilot via controls on the sports steering wheel.

A newly-developed Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Integrata (LDVI) driving dynamics control system delivers information back to the driver via intelligent sensors positioned behind the new “pilot’s” glass panels mounted at the front of the car which gives a taste of future radar technology.

Active aerodynamics play a huge role in battery electric vehicles, more so than their internal-combustion engine counterparts, for active aero can improve range per battery charge while increasing performance.

Lamborghini’s famed ALA system is here, together with new active aero devices in the front and rear to ensure the best efficiency in the Lanzador’s Urban driving mode, and best downforce in Performance mode.

Active air suspension and rear steer go toward making the Lanzador the consummate GT cruiser over long distances, and bruiser in the twisties such as the Stelvio Pass. With two electric motors, one mounted per axle, torque distribution remains optimal for the driving conditions, with millisecond-precise shuffling of torque from left to right and right to left to let the Lanzador pilot errrmmm driver carve out the optimal line.

There is a boot in the rear, and there is a smaller frunk or froot hidden away under the bonnet. Gran touring doesn’t have to be compromised by carrying capacity.

The interior sports a slim, lightweight dashboard with iconic design elements. The pilot and co-pilot errrmmm driver and passenger sit low in the cabin, separated by the centre console that flows into the dashboard. All controls are within ergonomic reach.

Going green means using environmentally-friendly materials. The interior is made almost entirely of sustainable materials, with the dashboard, seats and door panels using a coloured thread made from regenerated nylon and recycled plastic.

Many of the non-visible plastics are made of 3D-printed recycled fibres. Even the carbon in the centre console and door panels is made of regenerated carbon, a new two-layer composite material. 100% merino wool comes from Australian Mernio sheep instead of artificially processed wool.

Let’s see what 2028 brings.

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BMW has graced us with the world premiere of its BMW Concept Touring Coupé, a stunning creation that pays homage to the timeless allure of automobiles.

This one-of-a-kind model, presented at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2023, showcases BMW Design’s innovative take on the elegant sports car, giving it a shooting brake concept that oozes sophistication and charm.

You have to wonder why this design ooze didn’t translate to its other vehicles, but oh well.

The interior of the BMW Concept Touring Coupé features meticulously crafted leather surfaces from renowned Italian manufacturer Poltrona Frau, creating an opulent ambience. And let’s not forget that compartment behind the seats, offering ample space to store your luggage for those spontaneous trips.

Even the luggage itself is custom-made at the esteemed Schedoni leather workshop in Modena, so you can flex even when walking into that hotel lobby.

Enough of the inside, let’s take a gander at that sleek, sexy bodyline. The BMW Concept Touring Coupé pays homage to the legendary BMW 328 Touring Coupé that triumphed in the 1940 Mille Miglia endurance race.

The shooting-brake concept draws inspiration from the BMW 02 Series model variants of the early 1970s, which sported the “Touring” moniker to distinguish them from sedans.

The sculpted rear end is a particular highlight of the BMW Concept Touring Coupé. Flowing seamlessly from the contours of the roof, it accentuates the car’s athletic shoulders, while the flat rear window and precisely defined body surfaces exude strength and confidence. 

From the side, the unmistakable shooting brake proportions, a signature BMW interpretation, is a well-missed silhouette. The long bonnet, streamlined roof contours, and powerful rear section blend harmoniously, creating a distinctive two-box design. 

Even the paint is unique on the car. Sparkling Lario paintwork embedded with blue glass flakes gives the car depth, with the silver-bronze accents and specially designed BMW kidney grille with longitudinal bars complementing the ensemble.

Completing the look are the exclusive 20-inch front and 21-inch rear alloy wheels in a 20-spoke radial design, featuring intricate details and discreet gold-coloured surfaces that exude elegance and athleticism.

Domagoj Dukec, the head of BMW Design, said “The BMW Concept Touring Coupé celebrates the original Sheer Driving Pleasure. A highly emotional vehicle like this shows that the passion for everything that goes into driving pleasure has been essential through the ages and will be for the future.”

Please BMW, just bring this into production already. 

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In one of our Singapore Motorshow 2023 coverage articles earlier this year, we wrote about a Toyota bZ model, the bZ4X, that will not be for sale in Singapore but only made available as part of a car-sharing scheme. bZ (Beyond-Zero) in Toyota-speak refers to their battery electric vehicle (BEV) range, and now there are two new concept cars, unveiled at the 2023 Auto Shanghai, which will likely become a reality in a similar fashion to the bZ4X.

First up in Toyota bZ-land is the Sport Crossover Concept. Based on “‘Reboot,’ which incorporates the idea of a change of pace” when one gets in and starts to drive, clearly it’s aimed at the younger Gen-Z crowd with its sharp and sleek lines.

Gen-Z’ers definitely don’t like things getting staid and stale, so Toyota has engineered the functions of this bZ concept to nicely nestle its occupants. Furthermore, the functions have also been engineered to evolve over time after purchase, such as driver assistance and automatic parking, “so that owners can continuously enjoy a most up-to-date car with all five senses.”

We think it looks cool, never mind that we’re not Gen-Z.

For the more family-oriented prospective BEV buyer, the bZ FlexSpace Concept comes to the fore with its focus on utility and usability.

“Cozy Home” is the theme here, and Toyota’s goal is that of a large cabin space that “families can use safely, comfortably, and freely with peace of mind.” We imagine that this means gizmos to keep the young’uns occupied for longer road trips as well as driving aids that will make the journey that much more enjoyable.

We’re not too sure about the shrubbery on the dashboard though – cue horrifying scenes of wilting and rotting that would make a Greenpeace activist weep copiously. However, if it’s a holographic projection, we say bring it on! Hopefully the instrument cluster and infotainment screens can be holographic projections too *wink wink nudge nudge Scotty beam me up*

China will be the first to get the new Toyota bZ models because these BEVs are being jointly developed by Toyota and BYD for the Sport Crossover Concept, and Toyota and Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) for the FlexSpace Concept. These two models are slated to be launched in China in 2024. Other markets will probably get them sometime thereafter. Toyota aims to launch 10 bZ models in China by 2026.

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Accompanying it will be a wide range of new and future products that promise to exceed expectations. These include two other concepts designed to meet the diverse mobility needs of consumers in China.

A new EV concept model designed and made for China will take centre stage alongside the Nissan Max-Out. Both offer exciting and confident driving experiences that are tailored to a broad range of lifestyles and needs while supporting Nissan’s future global plans and ambitions.

Maxed out for the future

The Nissan Max-Out was first revealed in 2021 as a digital concept, and it illustrates the future of Nissan Ambition 2030, the company’s long-term vision to meet consumer, environmental and societal needs in a truly sustainable manner.

Now a physical reality, the convertible concept promises to deliver a new driving experience with superlative stability and comfort.

Nissan will also showcase electrified vehicles featuring all-electric and e-POWER powertrains. These vehicles embody the company’s approach to changing how cars are powered, driven and integrated into society, and show how Nissan is committed to making vehicles that will be at the forefront of innovation.

The 20th Shanghai International Automobile Exhibition will be held from April 18-27 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center. We can’t wait to see what Nissan has in store for us all.

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The Mercedes-Benz Concept Store located in Great World City has now closed its doors for the final time.

Created in partnership with Singapore’s authorised Mercedes-Benz distributor, Cycle and Carriage, the concept store was curated as a platform for Mercedes-Benz to raise awareness around sustainability and climate change, with the intent of spurring greater environmental consciousness.

Hence, the concept store also served as a main retail point for the Mercedes-EQ lineup. Additionally, this space also saw the launches of the Mercedes EQE and EQS.

As a final hurrah before the store officially closed its door, the space played host to a final panel of environmental advocates. The lineup included Chris Morriss from reXtore, Artist Zen Teh, Stephanie Dickson, founder of Green is the New Black, Asia’s first conscious festival and media platform, and Emily Sim, Co-founder of Superstructure, a design to fabrication consultancy.

Keeping in theme with sustainability, the materials used to decorate the store will either be reused or repurposed by reXtore. The startup is a social enterprise committed to developing a circular design eco-system, and they have partnered with Mercedes-Benz throughout 2023 and beyond.

For prospective customers who wish to experience the new EQ lineup of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, fret not! You will still be able to try them out at the Mercedes-Benz Center, located at 301 Alexandra Road.

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Bentley has pushed hard for a new lifestyle-esque direction for the company, and it’s doing so by launching a new retail concept store. Located in Cheongdam, Seoul, the aptly named Bentley Cube will serve as a destination for current and prospective Bentley customers.

The site will be located within Seoul’s exclusive fashion district and is said to be one of the first new retail and experiential concepts propping up around the world.

Inside, Bentley will house a Batur Studio Suite, where customers will be able to create their very own bespoke Bentley through the Mulliner programme, Bentley’s in-house commissioning division. An Azure lounge will also be created, providing an exclusive space for customers to relax and network. 

In the basement of the new establishment, a Sound Playground, complete with a sound theatre with Naim audio equipment, will be available for customers to experience music at the highest standards. Naim is Bentley’s long-established audio partner, and customers will get to try out the same quality they would receive in their own cars.

Will this lifestyle-oriented angle be the new trend for automotive companies? Guess only time will tell.

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The car offers a first glimpse into Volkswagen’s future EV that will arrive in Europe come 2025. It is rumoured to start with a base price under $26,400.

Even though it is just a concept, looking at the photos it’s pretty obvious that this has already evolved to be more of a pre-production study rather than just a concept car that will never see the light of day.

Looks very similar to a Golf right? Hopefully, this doesn’t suffer the same fate as that of the ill-fated ID. Life, which was promptly shunned by the head honchos in Wolfsburg.

The Volkswagen ID. 2all is poised to be a very significant car for Volkswagen for two obvious reasons. The first is the projected price, which will open up a massive market for prospective EV owners. The other is the ID. 2all’s underpinning, based on Volkswagen Group’s MEB Entry platform. This means the production model will become the German marque’s first FWD MEB model.

And it has the specs to back it up as well

Rumoured specs of the Volkswagen ID. 2all include 166 kW (222 bhp), or about the same amount of power as you get in a base VW Golf GTI. Plus, with its EV drivetrain, it will probably accelerate quicker too from 0 to 100km/h. Neat.

While Volkswagen did not reveal the battery capacity, its targeted range is up to 450 kilometres (WLTP). Fast DC charging would enable a 10 to 80 per cent charge in just 20 minutes, while the option of charging up to 11 kW is available for AC stations. 

The styling is also a design study into Volkswagen’s new design language, based on the three pillars of ‘stability, likeability and excitement’.

Styling highlights include a LED full-width light bar, bulged wheel arches filled with frankly massive 20-inch wheels running 225/40 R20 tyres, hidden rear door handles, and a new C-pillar design which harkens back to the first Golf.

Smaller than a golf on the outside, bigger on the inside

The interior also has a sleek and simple design, with an uncluttered dashboard culminating in a bridge-type centre console. two big displays sit front and centre, including a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 10.9-inch digital cluster. A large panoramic sunroof dominates the roofline as well.

Other trinkets include a head-up display, a separate air conditioning control panel under the main screen (thank you!), and two large inductive charging interfaces for smartphones on the centre console.

New power seats with massage functionality are a welcome addition, with numerous USB-C interfaces spread throughout the cabin. If you wanted even more charging functionality, a fully usable 230V socket is included too, to power larger devices.

Thanks to the efficient packaging of the MEB Entry platform, the Volkswagen ID. 2all offers significantly more interior space than a traditional ICE Golf. Boot space is ample at 490 litres, and this increases to a cavernous 1330 litres with the rear seats folded (40:60 split). 

On top of that, the ID. 2all has a hidden stowage area under the rear seat with a capacity of 50 litres. This lockable compartment can accommodate larger devices such as laptops and tablets.

Overall, the ID. 2all is an exciting new proposition, and we cannot wait for what else Volkswagen has in store for the future.

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It’s the 4th iteration of Audi’s ongoing ‘sphere’ concepts and serves as concept studies for future Audi EV models. Unlike the first 3 concept designs, the Activesphere is built from the ground up to be an offroading active mobility monster and combines loads of Audi’s modern and futuristic design languages.

A sportback-esque design with a tapered roofline morphs with large SUV underpinnings, and the fastback-looking tailgate actually folds away to reveal a large open cargo space, which Audi calls the “active back”. In the demo, a pair of bicycles can be seen fitted to the back.

A motorised panel separates the rear seating area from the cargo space when it is exposed so that the cabin remains insulated.

Even though this is a more rugged vehicle, Audi has still added tons of visual details to maintain the brand’s premium appeal. Various surfaces around the cabin are fitted with glass, and this “seems to dissolve the boundary between the natural world and the interior when the Activesphere is in off-road mode.” According to Audi at least.

Speaking of off-road, going off the beaten path is one of the Activesphere’s unique selling points. Large 22-inch wheels with chunky 285/55 tyres ensure it’ll probably never get stuck wherever it goes.

If the going gets really tough, air suspension can increase total ground clearance by up to 40mm. And of course, all-wheel-drive or Quattro is standard, with an electric motor on each axle.

The Activesphere concept is built using Premium Platform Electric (PPE), a platform exclusively designed for battery electric drive systems. Developed in conjunction with Porsche, the PPE is the world’s first platform designed to accommodate a large demographic of EV models.

In total, both motors produce a peak output of 436bhp (325kW) and 720Nm of torque. This is all attached to a 100kWh lithium-ion battery, and thanks to 800-volt architecture, the Activesphere do fast charging at up to 270kW.

Inside, one might look like he or she is having a dose of virtual reality. That’s because the Activesphere is the first concept to offer mixed reality headsets for driver operations. Audi dubbs this the “Audi Dimension”, and it hopes to harmonise both the real and virtual world.

Wearing these headsets would reveal augmented reality fixtures and surfaces that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye. If the user wishes to interact with the content or the various systems, gesture controls are on hand. Virtual indications and real-time updates, such as map projections or traffic updates, can potentially improve ergonomics and driving experiences too.

The headsets are not only limited to within the confines of the car. Owners can take them out and use them for various needs outside of the vehicle, such as navigation while outdoors.

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