Latest news with #Euro7
The Citizen
21 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Mercedes-AMG C63 a step closer to dropping four-cylinder PHEV
Latest report confirms previous speculation of the C63 reverting to six-cylinders, also with a plug-in hybrid setup, instead of reviving the V8. Mercedes-AMG is reportedly soon to revert to six-cylinders for the C63. Image: Mercedes-AMG With rumours of its move away from four-cylinders continuing to mount, a senior Mercedes-AMG employee has let slip that the controversial plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain in the C63 will indeed be phased-out based on poor reception and slumping sales. No, yes? First mentioned in 2023 following a report from US publication Car and Driver that the 2.0-litre based unit has received significant backlash despite being powerful than the 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 it replaced, an AMG figure head stated that adapting the V8 for Euro 7 emissions regulations had already taken place in response to dealers struggling to shift units dramatic prices cuts. ALSO READ: Mercedes-AMG C63 set to go six-cylinder PHEV route in 2026 According to the most recent report by Mercedes-Benz dealers in the United Kingdom have offered discounts of up to £9 500 (R233 386) on the C63, bringing its price tag to £90 095 (R2 213 363) or £17 525 (R430 536) less than the sticker price of the BMW M3 Competition. 'We could have explained it better' Similarly, discounts in the States have also been enforced, with AMG CEO, Michael Schiebe, admitting to MotorTrend last month that it 'could have better explained' the system before putting it into the C63. 'There are pure V8 fans, and it's hard to convince them of this four-cylinder hybrid technology. It's my job to do a constant review of our portfolio. I'm pretty confident that we will fulfil our customers' dreams in the next two to three years,' he said. The combination of the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and plug-in hybrid hardware has main the biggest point of content with the new Mercedes-AMG C63. Image: Mercedes-AMG Despite Mercedes-AMG debunking the hybrid's withdrawal in a response to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport days after the Car and Driver statement, an unnamed executive has admitted to Britain's Autocar that the setup has 'failed to resonate' with buyers. 'Technically, the four-cylinder is one of the most advanced drivetrains available in a production car. It's also right up there on performance. But despite this, it failed to resonate with our traditional customers. We've recognised that,' the source told the publication. In spite of its combined outputs of 500kW/1 020Nm, 125kW/270Nm more than the V8-engined C63, the newcomer' 2 165 kg kerb mass has been cited as another reason for its slump in sales, with recent evaluations in Europe and the States also criticising the battery pack getting hot at over 200 km/h. Return of six In confirmation with the most recent Autocar report in April, the unnamed source said the plug-in hybrid 2.0-litre will give away to a six-cylinder in the reported form of a 3.0-litre plug-in hybrid modelled on the mild-hybrid configuration that powers the AMG CLE 53. Seemingly not earmarked for a return is the 4.0-litre V8, which will produce a reported 478kW/880Nm with mild-hybrid assistance in the forthcoming AMG CLE 63. While no official word from Mercedes-AMG has yet been made confirming the move to back six-cylinders for its flagship C-Class since the supercharged C32 AMG made from 2000 to 2004, expect possible clearer details to emerge throughout the rest of the year. NOW READ: Mercedes-AMG C63 V8 return blasted as German sales tumble
Motor 1
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Motor 1
BMW: 'The Combustion Engine Is Our Foundation'
Many carmakers rushed to set cutoff dates for combustion engines, only to backtrack on their lofty electric goals just a few years later. But BMW didn't break any promises for the simple reason that it never announced an end to gas-powered cars. On several occasions, CEO Oliver Zipse emphasized that the switch to electric shouldn't be forced and that consumers should have the freedom to choose, citing high EV prices and an underdeveloped charging infrastructure. In a new interview with the German business newspaper Automobilwoche (subscription required) , a senior BMW official stated, 'The combustion engine is our foundation and will also finance our future business.' Klaus von Moltke is the plant manager at BMW's Steyr factory in Austria, where 1.2 million engines were built last year. He added that the development of conventional powertrains will continue. To secure the ICE's future, engineers will make the three- to eight-cylinder engines compliant with upcoming Euro 7 regulations. Photo by: BMW While it might seem BMW is referring only to gasoline engines, diesel isn't dead yet. Von Moltke stated that the company is testing various fuels compatible with internal combustion engines, including HVO100, for diesel-powered cars. The abbreviation stands for 'hydrotreated vegetable oil,' and '100' indicates it's a pure, unblended fuel. BMW is already filling up diesel cars made in Germany with HVO100 before shipping them to dealers. The company claims CO₂ emissions are reduced by as much as 90% compared to conventional diesel. In addition to environmental benefits, diesel engines running on HVO100 are said to perform better during cold starts and are less prone to microbial contamination due to the fuel's purity. Beyond combustion engines, BMW's Steyr factory in Upper Austria is also producing 'electric engines' for future Neue Klasse EVs. Pre-production of sixth-generation electric motors began about a year ago for prototypes, ahead of the new iX3's debut this September at the IAA Mobility show in Munich. Series production of the electric crossover will start late this year at BMW's new Debrecen plant in Hungary. Photo by: Alex Goy | Motor1 Although BMW remains committed to combustion engines for the long haul, it expects sales to be evenly split between ICE and EV models by the end of the decade. Reaching 50% in just five years is ambitious, given that EVs accounted for only 17.4% of total BMW Group sales (including Mini and Rolls-Royce) last year. In the first quarter of 2025, EVs made up nearly 19% of shipments, so the company must feel pretty confident it can reach parity by 2030. Asked whether the European Union will follow through on its plan to ban sales of new combustion-engine cars by 2035 , Klaus von Moltke replied: 'It's not our job to make such assumptions; that's pointless. Our job is to consider all possible scenarios, prepare for each one, and ensure our delivery capability.' BMW is keeping all options open and has not yet fully committed its resources to EVs. It remains invested in combustion engines and has already confirmed a new gasoline-powered M3 with an inline-six is in development, likely with some form of electrification. The larger M5 hasn't lost any cylinders either, as its V-8 is now part of a plug-in hybrid setup to meet increasingly strict emissions standards. BMW's Main Rivals Have Had A Change Of Heart: Mercedes Makes 'Course Correction' to Extend Combustion Engine Life Audi Changes Its Mind. Will Make Gas Cars For Another 10 Years Source: Automobilwoche Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Platinum ETFs Outshining Gold & Silver in 1H2025: Here's Why
After being in the doldrums for a long time, platinum has made a solid comeback in recent months, driven by strong industrial demand, supply constraints and clean energy adoption. In fact, platinum is the standout performer among precious metals, outpacing gold and is especially true as abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF PPLT has risen 40% so far this year, while its popular peers — SPDR Gold Shares GLD and iShares Silver Trust SLV — returned less than 30% each. Notably, most of the rise has occurred recently. Over the past month alone, gold rose 7% and silver climbed 13% but platinum skyrocketed 30% (see: all the Precious Metal ETFs here). Platinum is one of the rarest precious metals, primarily used in automotive catalytic converters, chemical processing, electrical components and petroleum refining. About 80% of global production comes from South Africa, followed by Russia and North America. South Africa faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and operational disruptions, leading to reduced platinum market is grappling with a pronounced supply deficit. The World Platinum Investment Council (WPIC) projects a shortfall of 966 koz, marking the third consecutive annual deficit and reinforcing concerns over tightening market fundamentals. Total platinum supply for 2025 is forecast to decline 4% year over year to 6,999 koz, the lowest level in five years, while demand is expected to decline 4% to 7,965 koz in 2025. A resurgence in platinum jewellery demand in China is expected to drive a 5% increase in global jewellery demand in 2025. High gold prices have prompted consumers and jewelers to turn to platinum as a cost-effective alternative (read: Gold Up 27% YTD: How Long Will the Rally Last?). Automotive demand remains resilient despite market uncertainty, with a modest 2% decline forecast to 3,052 koz for the full year. The slowdown in EV adoption has led to sustained demand for internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid vehicles, both of which utilize platinum in catalytic converters. Additionally, stricter emissions regulations, such as Europe's upcoming Euro 7 standards, are expected to increase platinum loadings in demand remains robust, projected at 688 koz, supported by strong bar and coin purchases in China. Above-ground stocks are forecast to decline 31% to 2,160 koz by year-end, providing just three months of demand coverage, a significant signal of tightening also plays a pivotal role in the burgeoning hydrogen economy. It is used in fuel cells and hydrogen electrolyzers—core technologies in the clean energy transition. With governments and corporations ramping up investments in hydrogen infrastructure, demand for platinum in non-automotive industrial applications is soaring. From a valuation perspective, platinum has been historically cheap relative to gold. For much of the past decade, platinum traded at a steep discount to gold, with the gold-to-platinum ratio climbing to 3.5 in May 2025 from the historic range of 1-2. This signals that platinum was significantly undervalued. Since platinum's surge in recent weeks, the ratio has come to 2.7. All three precious metals have been on a surge this year. Gold is trading at record highs, driven by inflation concerns, central bank accumulation and geopolitical stress. The yellow metal continues to enjoy its status as the ultimate safe haven, particularly during periods of geopolitical turmoil and inflation. Silver has climbed to 13-year highs, benefiting from its dual role as both an investment asset and an industrial metal. The rally is supported by booming demand from clean tech and electronics (read: ETFs Riding High on Multi-Year Record Silver Prices). Meanwhile, platinum occupies a unique middle ground — it's a precious metal with powerful industrial utility. The metal is at a four-year high but still well below its all-time high set in 2008, making it appear undervalued in gold and silver appearing 'overbought' to some, platinum is increasingly being viewed as the more attractive entry point. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report SPDR Gold Shares (GLD): ETF Research Reports iShares Silver Trust (SLV): ETF Research Reports abrdn Physical Platinum Shares ETF (PPLT): ETF Research Reports This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Hindustan Times
10-06-2025
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition revealed as final farewell model for Europe
Honda is officially drawing the curtain on the Civic Type R in Europe with the introduction of the Ultimate Edition, a limited-run swansong for the much-loved hot hatch. As the brand prepares to bow out of the segment due to looming Euro 7 emissions norms, only 40 units of this commemorative model will be produced. Designed as both a celebration and a send-off, the Ultimate Edition marks the end of an era for the Civic Type R in the European market. Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition: Design With exclusivity in mind, the Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition gets subtle yet striking visual enhancements. The car comes solely in the iconic Championship White paint scheme, now complemented by bold red graphic accents on the bonnet and side doors. To set it apart from the standard FL5 version, the Ultimate Edition also features a black-painted roof, carbonfibre rear wing, and unique 'Ultimate Edition' badging. Also check these Cars Find more Cars Honda Elevate 1498 cc 1498 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 11.91 Lakhs Compare View Offers Honda Amaze 1199 cc 1199 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 8.10 Lakhs Compare View Offers Honda City 1498 cc 1498 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 11.82 Lakhs Compare View Offers Honda City Hybrid 1498 cc 1498 cc Multiple Multiple ₹ 20.85 Lakhs Compare View Offers UPCOMING Honda Elevate EV ₹ 18 Lakhs Alert Me When Launched UPCOMING Honda WR-V 2026 1199 cc 1199 cc Petrol Petrol ₹ 8 - 10 Lakhs Alert Me When Launched Also Read : Honda Cars India offers discounts up to ₹76,100 in May. Check details While the basic silhouette is unchanged—with its low-sitting posture, massive hood scoop, and bodywork that's all business—the visual updates make the car look even more intent, track-focused. Smoked-out LED headlights give way to a black mesh grille and the obligatory triple exhaust system to further underscore the Civic Type R's motorsports-inspired heritage. The Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition comes solely in the iconic Championship White paint scheme Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition: Features Step inside, and the Ultimate Edition embraces the same race-bred ethos. Honda has introduced a fresh carbonfibre finish across the door sills and center console, paired with red floor mats and a Type R logo projector that lights up the ground upon entry. Subtle but thoughtful upgrades include ambient lighting around the cabin, extending to the cupholders, footwells, door panels, and under-seat areas, enhancing the premium sporty feel. Owners will also receive a special presentation box that includes a numbered plaque denoting the car's unique position out of the 40 units, a carbonfibre key ring, and a custom car cover—a collectible package to match the exclusivity of the vehicle. Also Read : Honda Cars India sees May sales slowdown, eyes recovery with improved market conditions The rest of the interior remains unchanged. Expect red suede-effect sports seats, a Type R-specific steering wheel, and a silver gear lever with red accents. Tech and convenience features include a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and an 8-speaker sound system. Powering the Ultimate Edition is the same 2.0-litre VTEC turbocharged petrol engine, which outputs 329hp and 420Nm of torque Honda Civic Type R Ultimate Edition: Specifications Under the bonnet, Honda has not meddled with the mechanicals. Powering the Ultimate Edition is the same 2.0-litre VTEC turbocharged petrol engine, which outputs 329hp and 420Nm of torque, channelled to the front wheels through a 6-speed manual gearbox. This powertrain takes a 0-100kph run in a mere 5.4 seconds, and a maximum speed of 275kph. Significantly, the configuration achieved the FL5 Civic Type R's reputation as the quickest front-wheel-drive production vehicle to lap Germany's iconic Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit, with a time of 7 minutes and 44.881 seconds. Check out Upcoming Cars in India 2024, Best SUVs in India. First Published Date:
Auto Blog
05-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Tired of Brake Dust? Brembo's Greentell System Could Be Your Solution
As Europe clamps down on brake emissions, Brembo's Greentell rotors offer a high-tech solution that could reshape the future of friction brakes. Brake dust isn't just ugly — it's harmful If you've ever seen silver wheels turned gray from brake dust, you've witnessed a small part of a much larger problem. That dust doesn't just settle on wheels; it enters the air and, eventually, our lungs. It's why the European Union is targeting brake particulate emissions under its upcoming Euro 7 standards, set to take effect next year. These rules cap brake particle emissions at 7 milligrams per kilometer, dropping to 3 mg/km by 2035. Even EVs, which rely more on regenerative braking, aren't entirely off the hook. Greentell is Brembo's answer to Euro 7 Italian brake giant Brembo believes it has a solution: a new line of rotors called Greentell, combining 'green' and 'intelligent' in one slightly awkward but descriptive name. The real innovation lies in how they're made. Greentell rotors are treated with a proprietary coating applied through Laser Metal Deposition (LMD), an additive manufacturing process that uses powdered metals and lasers to 'print' a surface layer onto the brake disc. This dual-layer coating dramatically cuts down on the amount of particulate matter released during braking. Massive dust reduction, minimal trade-offs In controlled WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) tests, Brembo says Greentell rotors reduced particle emissions by 90% compared to uncoated cast-iron rotors. Surface wear was also slashed by 80%, though because the discs themselves are thinner, overall lifespan gains are closer to 20–30%. To make the most of this new disc surface, Brembo also had to develop a new brake pad material, specially designed to work with the smoother coating. Brembo Greentell brakes — Source: Brembo Even wear indicators get a high-tech twist Thanks to the reduced wear rate, traditional disc wear measurements don't quite cut it. Instead, Brembo now etches its logo (or an automaker's logo) onto the disc face. When the logo disappears, it's time to swap the rotors. The idea originates directly from motorsport, where visual wear indicators are already widely used. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. No slots or holes needed 2025 Subaru WRX tS — Source: Elijah Nicholson-Messmer Don't expect flashy drilled or slotted rotors here, though. Those were originally used to combat 'gassing out,' an issue with older pad materials that's largely been solved by modern materials. Plus, those slots and holes increase abrasive wear, exactly what Greentell aims to avoid. Final thoughts Greentell rotors are primarily aimed at helping European automakers comply with Euro 7 and are expected to appear first on premium and performance vehicles — the kind Brembo typically supplies. The U.S. currently lacks similar brake dust regulations, but if that changes, these high-tech rotors could make their way stateside. For aftermarket buyers, Brembo also offers a similar dust-reducing option called Greenance. Both systems represent the growing realization that cutting vehicle emissions isn't just about what comes out of the tailpipe; it's also about what comes off the wheels. About the Author Elijah Nicholson-Messmer View Profile
