Automotive

RM Sotheby's is set to auction a highly sought-after 1990 RUF BTR III Flat-Nose Cabriolet, an exemplary model that underscores RUF's status as the premier Porsche tuning firm. This particular car, one of the most extreme versions of the BTR series, is an exemplary blend of power, rarity and distinctiveness — thought to be one of only 25 examples made.Originally delivered to RUF Canada on December 5, 1990, this BTR III Cabriolet stands out with its quadruple-black color scheme, covering the body, leather upholstery, wheel faces and cabriolet top. Adding to its unique appeal, it features the rarely-seen body configuration of a Flat-Nose with Turbo S rear air ducts.Under the hood, the vehicle boasts a numbers-matching 3.4L flat-six RUF engine producing 408 hp, courtesy of a K27 turbocharger a...

The 20th BMW Art Car, designed by renowned contemporary artist Julie Mehretu, was unveiled today at the Centre Pompidou in Paris. This special BMW M Hybrid V8 racecar is transformed into a performative work of art, continuing BMW's tradition of blending art with competitive racing. Soon, it will compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans.Mehretu, based in New York, collaborated closely with motorsport and engineering teams to create this unique car, describing it as a "performative painting" that will only be fully realized after it races in Le Mans. Oliver Zipse, Chairman of BMW AG, praised Mehretu's work, highlighting its inspiration for BMW's expanded cultural commitment to support young African artists.Mehretu’s design incorporates elements from her monumental painting Everywhen, using abstrac...

BMW has unveiled its latest concept car, the Skytop, a luxurious open two-seater, at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este at Lake Como. The Skytop combines elegant design and dynamic performance, notably paying homage to historic models like the BMW Z8 and BMW 503.The Concept Skytop stands out with its unique, exotic design, exuding a sporty elegance that complements its muscular stance. This meticulously crafted vehicle features warm monochromatic colors and blends exclusive materials with traditional craftsmanship, both inside and out.Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design, remarked, "The BMW Concept Skytop is a truly unique and exotic design, in the tradition of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. It offers a combination of driving dynamics and elegance at the highe...

Mercedes-AMG has introduced its latest concept, the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed, during an exclusive premiere at the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix. This striking concept car offers a glimpse into the forthcoming Mythos series, a highly exclusive line from Mercedes-Benz.The PureSpeed is a significant departure from traditional design, boasting an entirely open, two-seater configuration without a roof or windshield. This bold design pays homage to legendary racing cars, offering a direct and immersive driving experience. The concept was unveiled on a floating pontoon in Monaco's harbor, captivating attendees, including Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell."The Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed offers a glimpse of what is probably the most direct way to experience per...

Bugatti has unveiled the Chiron Super Sport 55, a one-of-one creation paying homage to Jean Bugatti’s iconic Type 55 Super Sport. This bespoke vehicle, commissioned through Bugatti’s Sur Mesure program, encapsulates the spirit of Jean Bugatti's pioneering designs, blending historical elegance with modern engineering.Jean Bugatti, known for his innovative designs and engineering expertise, crafted the Type 55 Super Sport in the early 1930s. This vehicle featured a 2.3L straight-eight engine derived from the Type 51 racer, coupled with a two-seater roadster body that set new standards for grand touring cars. With only 38 units ever produced, the Type 55 remains a coveted collector's item, revered for its unique duotone paint scheme and ability to reach speeds of up to 111 mph.The Chiron Supe...

Best known for making electric cars, automotive manufacturer VinFast has expanded into electric bikes with the US launch of its DrgnFly – a moped-style e-bike with a design inspired by "the golden age of motorcycles", according to the brand. From delivery riders and commuters to moms and dads opting to ditch the car, e-bikes are everywhere in 2024 – VinFast's DrgnFly enters a very busy market, but the Vietnam-based brand is hoping its combination of timeless design and modern sensibilities appeals to American riders.Crafted from aluminum, a durable and sturdy yet lightweight metal, the DrgnFly features an elongated frame that comfortably seats both solo riders and those with a passenger. Its upright handlebars encourage a relaxed ride, but the brand is also claiming its been designed so in...

Jeep has announced the arrival of the Avenger 4xe, an SUV that combines the distinctive design and versatility of the Avenger with the high-performance all-wheel-drive system that Jeep is known for. This latest addition to the Jeep lineup aims to enhance off-road excitement and all-weather drivability.The Avenger 4xe features a Hybrid 48-volt powertrain coupled with Jeep’s exclusive all-wheel-drive technology and a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This advanced system ensures that the 4x4 capability is always available without compromising fuel efficiency. Drivers can select the optimal driving mode for any situation using the "Selec-Terrain" function.A standout feature of the Avenger 4xe is its new Multilink rear suspension, designed to provide increased articulation on the rea...

Lamborghini has revealed that its highly anticipated codenamed 634 model, the successor to the Huracán, will feature a new hybrid twin-turbo V8 engine. This new addition to Lamborghini's High-Performance Electrified Vehicle (HPEV) lineup showcases a significant leap in engineering and performance.The engine is a clean-sheet design from Lamborghini's headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy. It combines a twin-turbo V8 with a hybrid system incorporating three electric motors and an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, recently seen in the Lamborghini Revuelto. This hybrid powertrain is engineered to deliver an impressive output of nearly 900 hp.Its 4L twin-turbo V8 boasts a specific power of 200 hp/liter, delivering 800 hp between 9,000 and 9,750 rpm and can reach a maximum engine speed of 1...

In an homage to one of Formula 1's greatest icons, McLaren has unveiled a special tribute to Ayrton Senna with unique liveries showcased on a heritage McLaren Senna and the MCL38 Formula 1 cars. This tribute coincides with the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix, marking 30 years since Senna's passing in 1994.The "Senna Sempre" livery, crafted by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), adorns a pre-production McLaren Senna from McLaren's heritage collection. This striking design features vibrant colors reflecting Senna's Brazilian heritage and his dynamic personality. The livery incorporates elements celebrating Senna’s illustrious racing career, particularly his successes at the Monaco Grand Prix, where he achieved six victories, five of which were with McLaren.In addition to the heritage car, the MCL38 For...

An ultra-rare example of RUF's SCR model has surfaced in Miami — the second only SCR to make it Stateside and the now official demo vehicle of RUF North America.This unique example features a deep Ultraviolet finish over an Alcantara interior and notably features a special "Mary Stuart" rear wing —a widebody-wrapping style found on vintage Le Mans racing Porsches like the 1973 RSR. ⁠Under the hood, SCR performance remains intact, with a RUF-built 4L naturally-aspirated flat-six engine that boasts 510 hp and a red line of 8,750 rpm. The example is also equipped with carbon ceramic brakes, pushrod double-wishbone suspension, RUF-branded Recaro carbon buckets, Sabelt harnesses and more.⁠Those hoping to catch a glimpse of the "no.2" RUF SCR can expect to see it make an appearance at the upcomi...

Porsche enthusiasts in the U.S. have reason to celebrate as the much-anticipated Manthey performance kit for the 718 Cayman GT4 RS is now available through authorized Porsche Centers. This kit, designed to amplify the car’s already remarkable track capabilities, can be professionally installed at these centers.The Manthey Kit enhances the 718 Cayman GT4 RS by improving its aerodynamics and suspension. It introduces modifications like a doubled downforce at 124 mph and a 20 percent increase in front spring rates. These adjustments are bolstered by carbon fiber reinforcements and a larger rear wing, elevating the vehicle’s performance ceiling. Jörg Bergmeister showcased the potential of these enhancements by shaving over six seconds off the previous Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time, recordi...