Auto-makers facing major trade headwinds are attempting to hedge against Brexit and steeling themselves against generalised market weakness in Europe and abroad.
Many brands, including Aston Martin, Ford, Fiat, McLaren, Mitsubishi, Volvo, and Nissan, decided to skip Frankfurt altogether. Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Land Rover took the opportunity — and all the additional space — to flaunt big debuts live in Germany, especially on the electric front. Here’s the best of the bunch.
BMW Concept 4 An enlarged grille, pushed forward as if by the curved front hood and massive wheels, is the most stunning component of the edgy preview of BMW’s 4 Series line of cars, including an M3 and M4. Company executives say the design is inspired by historic models such as the 328 and 3.0 CSi, but have not revealed any performance specs.
Audi AI: TRAIL The Audi AI:Trail Quattro Concept is the fourth in its series of crazy futuristic concept cars that include the Aicon, PB18, and AI:ME. This four-door electric vehicle packs serious off-road capabilities and combines them with autonomous driving. Its 22inch wheels and 33.5-inch offroad tyres give it more than a foot of ground clearance and the ability to ford water more than 18 inches deep. Inside, it has a traditional steering wheel and pedals but can also be activated to drive itself at low speeds. The 429 hp-equivalent lithium ion battery will go from 399 to 499 km on one charge — at least, hypothetically.
This story is from the September 13, 2019 edition of The Hindu Business Line.
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This story is from the September 13, 2019 edition of The Hindu Business Line.
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