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so after reading so many bad reviews about the civic hybrid and several good reviews about the pirus i'm wondering if 100% electric cars will be a good move in the near future, if the battery can withstand our sunny temperatures anybody got any experience to share? what is the lifespan of such batteries? the civic groups complain a whole lot about their batteries but the people who own the piruses seem to be very happy with their cars, so it does seem like a split down the middle

Dear Forumers, Starting this topic as I believe some of us here may be in the same situation as me and I also hope to learn from the rest of the EV forumers here with respect to being a likely first-time EV owner. So, my 'hunt' started with a visit to the car showrooms at Leng Kee with a family member who was shopping for a car. Unwittingly, the 'shopping bug' latched on to me as well and I found myself 'magically' drawn to the showrooms myself with my family in tow. With regards to my current profile, I am driving an Alphard (Year 2021) thus when comparing 'apple to apple', an equivalent replacement would be another MPV. For the new Alphard, it costs anywhere between $360,000 - $400,000 (depending on dealer) with an annual depreciation from $31,000 onwards. From the online pictures and review, I didn't bother to check out the current Alphard as there wasn't any significant updates from my current ride. Instead, I paid a visit to the Lexus showroom to view the Lexus LM (7-seater). At > $600k, I didn't find the interior quality to be worthy of it's price tag. Even the SA commented that the LM is meant for would-be Alphard buyers with money to spare and distinguishing themselves from the 'peasants' Alphard crowd. Unsatiated, I looked elsewhere and found my gaze drawn to the EV MPVs from China, that were flooding the market coincidentally at this point in time. And thus, the impetus for this topic as to who will dethrone the long undisputed king of MPVs that is the Alphard. 1. Xpeng X9: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1e6BfFyfb5mHigWXyuQo2YwiXHm-iblhs/view?usp=sharing This is the newest kid on the block and while the car is in the showroom, it is undergoing homologation at LTA thus no test drive is possible. As per the SA, the selling price is likely to be at $310,000 and depreciation (my estimate) about $28,000 - $30,000. Pros: This is the most futuristic MPV among the lot, in both its exterior and interior. My family loved the interior the most due to the TV (for rear passengers) ala the 7-series which folds down dramatically at the touch of a button. Most of the other functions in the cabin are also operated by 1-touch buttons making it seamless and modern. Last but not least, its 3rd row recess electrically into the boot at the touch of a button creating a completely flat rear cabin. Cons: In my opinion, the looks of the X9 is going to be divisive with polarising opinions. Personally, I am not able to fathom it's appearance, especially its rakish rear 3rd quarter. In some ways, it seems like it is modelled after the Tesla Cybertruck but I don't think it was pulled off as successfully. Therefore, I have my doubts as to its eventual resale value due to this main consideration. 2. Zeekr 009: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10SmD8B66eUKu5shV8Q2-SDRBFnk5fGOK/view?usp=sharing This is the car with a similar price tag as the new Alphard. I didn't enquire with the SA about the depreciation due to its initial hefty price tag and associated cost (more on that later). Pros: This is also a modern-looking MPV that drew comments like 'it looks like a Rolls Royce' from my family. It also features the most luxurious interior with it's trimmings and overall build quality. Most cars will also be left helpless in it's wake in a traffic light sprint as it's 0-100km/hr is in a class leading 4.5 seconds. Cons: Beyond the hefty price tag, the road tax is at a crazy $6.5k per annum. As one of the motivation for switching to EV is to lower the operating cost, this is definitely a huge red flag and therefore reduces it's appeal (didn't even test drive as don't want to waste the SA time). 3. Maxus Mifa 7/9: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vDibRvN8KYnmNLWnWJQc6f0qldVE_ka3/view?usp=sharing This is the most affordable car among the lot. Visited the showroom just to draw a level of comparison but didn't test drive as wasn't really keen on it. A note though that, this was the only showroom where we were not accosted by a SA thus maybe they had hit the sales quota for 2024. Pros: This has the lowest price tag and first mover rights as it was the first large 7-seater electric MPV to make its foray into the local market. Cons: No disrespect to current Mifa 7/9 owners, but I feel that the interior build quality and trimming reflects in the price tag. For the Mifa 9, the instrument cluster and head unit is really below par as more of an afterthought. However, I believe this was the best option in the past as it was the only sizeable MPV that is an EV and therefore, owners really didn't have much choices to consider. 4. Denza D9: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10YwRQpBtBkR2Jj_Rjc5syg2nzcVwhsHD/view?usp=sharing This was the only car I test drive as from the online research, it had ticked all the right boxes. Pros: First and foremost, it is unpretentious in its intention and looks like an Alphard. Therefore, I believe its design is more palatable for existing Alphard owners making the transition. Next, the price tag (depreciation at $27-$28k for the FWD Elite model) is 'reasonable' in current market conditions and undercuts the Alphard by $3-4k a year in depreciation. It makes decent power and have sufficient range, and it's road tax is only $480 more than the new Alphard. It's interior build quality and trim is also 'value for money' in terms of its quality. An initial collaboration between BYD and Mercedes, this is apparent in the cabin such as the wood trimmings (same as in Mercedes products) and ambient lighting. It also offers better seat comfort in the 3rd row as compared to the Alphard/X9 and perhaps comparable to the 009. This is because the seats are inclined a few degrees towards the ceiling thus making it significantly more comfortable as compared to the Alphard which is flatter and has shallower seat bottoms. In terms of the drive, it also feels more 'continental' - same secured/rooted/engaged sensation as premium makes that I had driven before that hails from Germany/England. Cons: From the B-pillar onwards, one may be surprised to find that the D9 offers less in terms of cabin space than the Alphard despite its longer length/wheelbase. This is due to the 'thicker materials' used (like the captain seats) and a 410L fixed boot (Alphard has none). The ambient lighting also looks like it is underpowered (too dim even at its brightest settings) unlike its ex-sister brand Mercedes. Finally, there isn't any TV for rear passengers like the 009 and X9 which was a severe disappointment for my family (as we have 1 in our existing Alphard). As you would have guessed it by now, all things considered, the Denza D9 is in my opinion going to give the Alphard a real run for its money in its uninhibited attempt to wrestle the 'King of MPV' throne in Singapore. There is nothing wrong with the Alphard (past and present). From the B-pillar onwards, in my opinion, it beats the more luxurious contemporaries such as the Mercedes S-class or 7-series. It also leverages intensively on its branding as the most reliable car brand in the world (and rightfully so as my past 3 years of ownership had been uneventful compared to my previous experiences). On the flip side, it offers an emotionless and soul-less drive. It's interior build quality is at best average and the 3rd row seat comfort is mediocre. With the new Alphard at >$30k in annual depreciation, it really makes no financial sense at all to choose the new Alphard as its interior build/quality is still average and features almost non-existent. For MPVs, the 2nd row seats are the 'money seats' and therefore, it must be the most important point of reference for these luxury MPVs. For instance (past/new Alphard), in its most basic trim, there are no touch-screen control panels at its captain chairs, no ventilated or massage seats. And all these comes standard in the D9. Therefore, all things equal, it is bewildering why one would consider the new Alphard over the D9, when you paying more for less! Furthermore, in terms of operating cost and assuming an annual mileage of 20,000km for the average driver and based on a fuel consumption of 12km/l and RON 95 petrol at $2.20/l for the Alphard, it costs $3667 in petrol cost per year. For the D9, it has a consumption of 4.66km/kwh and based on $0.5 kwh charging costs, one would pay $2145 per year which translate to a saving of $1522. If one would to minus $480 (due to the higher annual road tax of the D9 compared to the Alphard), it would still translate to a saving of $1042 yearly. This saving would be even higher if petrol costs increases and if one has access to home charging (at $0.3 kwh compared to 3rd party service providers). Also, we haven't factored in the lower maintenance costs of EV (dealer for D9 offering 10-years battery warranty/maintenance) compared to ICE. All-in-all, it is certainly financially compelling to jump ship to the D9. Finally, what may be the other cons stopping Alphard owners? To me, it would be the branding and resale value down the road. And I also appreciate any other forumers inputs who have been there and done there (by transiting to EVs). At $300k a pop, the D9 ain't exactly loose change thus I am also worried if I had missed out any 'blind spots' in my analysis. Awaiting your valuable inputs and hope my sharing had offered other forumers who are in the same situation as me in making a better decision on their next purchase, thanks!

Officially unveiled at the Vantage Automotive Centre, the Atto 3 debuts as BYD's first-ever contender in the local compact crossover segment. Coincidentally, the SUV also marks the third passenger-car model by the Chinese maker here, following in the footsteps of the best-selling e6 and van-turned-MPV M3e. A single permanent magnet synchronous motor, paired to a 60.5 kWh Blade Battery, helps to produce 201bhp (150kW) and 310Nm of torque - apparently good for a 7.3 second century sprint. With the Blade Battery, the crossover's NEDC-rated range also clocks in at an impressive figure of 480km. Thanks to its battery architecture, DC fast charging via CCS at up to 80kW is offered on the Atto 3, bringing the battery from 20% to 80% state-of-charge within 42 minutes. AC charging at up to 6.6kW, on the other hand, will see a full recharge done in 9.5 hours. Worth noting is that the Atto 3 falls under the A1 band of the VES, allowing it to qualify for the highest ARF rebate of $25,000. The Atto 3 comes with a refreshing dual-tone interior, mixing blue and beige upholstery (in our eyes at least - the combination is called "Eclipse Blue + Hazy Grey" by BYD) with red-stitching on the seats. Shaped contours across the dash, guzheng-inspired strings along the door bins, and disc-like aircon vents all continue to distinguish the cabin of the crossover. While the driver gets a fully digital five-inch display behind the multi-function steering wheel, taking centerstage is the 12.8-inch Intelligent Rotating Infotainment Display, which can be oriented in either 'portrait' or 'landscape' mode. Another high-tech feature the car offers is the ability to be unlocked and locked via an NFC Keycard. Strangely, it appears that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will only be available in Q4, although Bluetooth Phone Connectivity does come as standard. A BYD OS App will also debut somewhere down the line. The marque's name is spelt out boldly in capital letters too on the car's electrically-operated tailgate, which opens up to 440 litres of boot space (this can be expanded to 1,340 litres with 60:40 folding seats). Five different colours are available for potential owners of the Atto 3, including Surf Blue and Parkour Red. Test drives for the BYD Atto 3 are now being offered and the car open for booking. Local authorised dealer E-Auto has also announced that the car will launch with a special price of $178,888 (the number is supposed to be auspicious), inclusive of COE. Feature Highlights Wireless Apple CarPlay and Wireless Android Auto Wireless Smartphone Charging Inbuilt Navigation Electric Tailgate Sunroof Driver and Passenger Electric Seats 12.8" Intelligent Rotating Touchscreen 360° View Camera Adaptive Cruise Control Lane Keep Assist Lane Departure Warning Blind Spot Monitor Rear Cross Traffic Alert Front and Rear Pre-collision Warning Had the opportunity to visit Vantage before the Atto 3's official launch and I must say I left the showroom impressed with the direction BYD is going with its electric vehicles. Granted, the interior styling might be a bit tacky for some, but it is mighty packed with features. Full specs and features here.

Surprisingly, this news is not discussed in this forum? https://www.topgear.com/car-news/business/bmw-tuner-ac-schnitzer-will-shut-down-end-2026

Source: https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/vincar-distribute-protons-first-electric-vehicle-singapore?_nei=b6b75704-ecd5-4f07-9067-f06dd1f99685 MALAYSIA’S automotive maker Proton has appointed car dealer Vincar to distribute its first electric vehicle (EV) in Singapore. The Proton e.MAS 7 is slated to launch in Singapore early next year, and Vincar said on Monday (Dec 16) that it is planning test drives for the media and public previews to coincide with its release. It will also set up Proton e.MAS’ flagship showroom in Singapore’s Leng Kee automotive belt and oversee its after-sales services, including warranty coverage. The Proton e.MAS 7 was launched in Malaysia on Monday, the latest entry into the local market as the country seeks to boost EV and hybrid-EV use, and gain a foothold in the global supply chain. Proton is majority-owned by Malaysian conglomerate DRB-Hicom, with the remaining 49.9 per cent stake held by Chinese carmaker Zhejiang Geely.

https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global/article/detail/T0271424EN/the-new-bmw-6-series-gran-turismo?language=en

Thanks god it looks less radical than the Vision Neue Klasse concept, and the rear is almost a mini i5. The 4 spokes steering is anything but eye pleasing. Yay or nay?

Compared to the current X1, the grill seems to be wider by not as tall?

Source: https://www.motor1.com/reviews/690621/2025-porsche-macan-ev-review/ Welcome to the future. The future of Porsche, at least, and Audi, too, eventually. Underneath that whisp of cladding and all the black vinyl is the new, all-electric Porsche Macan, the first product built upon Volkswagen Group's Premium Platform Electric. PPE is set to deliver a new generation of high-end electric Porsches and Audis to boot. After a day of hustling a prototype of the new Macan around California roads, I'm here to say that the future is looking bright. Bright, but also perhaps a bit murky. While this is an EV Macan, it won't be called "Macan EV" or "Macan Electric." It's just called Macan, and while it is set to enter the market in early 2025, the internally combusted Macan isn't going away. Yes, you'll have your choice of not one but two models built on two different platforms, both called Macan, at dealerships soon. Confusing? A smidge, yeah, but this is very definitely the one you'll want. The Next Generation When it comes to first acts, it's hard to do better than the Taycan. Porsche's first EV made the transition from luscious concept to desirable production machine smoother than most. It'll be a hard act to follow, but from what I just experienced behind the wheel, the new Macan won't be lingering in the second-album doldrums. Let's get some of the critical figures out of the way first – or as many as we can, at least. Porsche is still playing its cards pretty close to its chest on this one, so we're not quite dealing with a full deck. The electric Macan's PPE platform will deliver a battery pack with a capacity of around 100.0 kilowatt-hours, with a range that Porsche says will test "well beyond" 500 kilometers on the European WLTP test. That equates to somewhere north of 310 miles of range, a significant boost over the Taycan's current maximum rating of 246 miles. However, that is on the rather more challenging EPA test cycle. With all that uncertainty, it's difficult to say what the Macan's US, EPA-rated range will be, but somewhere in the 275 to 300 mile range seems reasonable. And how about power? All Macans will be all-wheel drive with a dual-motor setup, but three different power levels will be available. Porsche has yet to figure out just how to brand this thing, but you can imagine it arriving in dealers as something like a Macan 4, 4S, and Turbo to follow current Taycan branding. Porsche again doesn't have specific power figures available, but I was told the top-shelf Turbo trim would manage around 450 kilowatts. That's just a tick over 600 horsepower. The top-shelf Macan GTS today offers 434 hp. That is a healthy jump, to say the least. That power will surely come with a considerable increase over the GTS's roughly 4,400-pound curb weight, too, but Porsche hasn't confirmed a figure. And, just to round out all the TBDs, we don't have pricing on the electric Macan either, but don't be surprised if it starts above the Macan GTS, which currently has an MSRP north of $85,000. Monster Macan Now that we've established all the unknowns let's dig into the known: This thing is a monster. I drove a variety of flavors of electric Macan on a beautiful day hustling through the Malibu hills, but I started in a model that Porsche's engineers would only describe as "top" trim. That meant all the power, all the handling goodies, and the air suspension, lacking only the rear steering option. So, that meant somewhere north of 600 hp put to the road through two electric motors. Unlike on Taycan, the rear motor no longer has a two-speed transmission, but it is augmented by an active rear differential with torque vectoring. I started my day, as so many SoCal drivers do, stuck in traffic, dawdling along over some questionably paved stretches of asphalt. My first impressions were of a car that's remarkably compliant and comfortable for commuting. It's quiet, too, as you'd expect an EV to be, but given this was such an early prototype, I'd expected some squeaks and rattles or some degree of excessive road noise. There wasn't a hint. The roads cleared as I got out of town. As the asphalt started snaking, I was able to pick up the pace. Dropping the Macan into Sport mode delivers an immediate and noticeable change in character. The throttle response immediately sharpens, the suspension likewise stops being so soft and starts getting real. After being nearly lulled to sleep in earlier gridlock, I confess I was not expecting the new Macan to be such a powerhouse in the turns. The harder I pushed, the better it responded, really coming alive when I twisted the mode dial over to Sport Plus. Soon I was comfortable enough to have the all-season Continental tires at both axles squealing in complaint through the corners. The Macan did remarkably well at managing the grip from those increasingly overtaxed tires. Yes, the Macan tended to understeer, but in the sort of safe, predictable way that makes sense for a car like this. That understeer wasn't terminal by any means. Turning the wheel a little more and adding a little throttle resulted in the nose coming around every time, that rear differential doing its magic. Oversteer was easy to provoke, and the Porsche's various stability management systems were kind enough to let me enjoy it. In hours of overly aggressive driving, tires squealing, I only felt one significant intervention. And the power? Addictive. On Sport Plus, the throttle is incredibly sharp, the kind of delivery that may cause neck injuries for passengers not receiving fair warning before you step on it. The power requires some modulation as you accelerate out of tight corners, but that rear differential does a lot of work to keep the thing moving in the right direction. I later sampled cars with the rear-steering system, and that just added more agility to the mix. It's paired with an even sharper variable steering ratio to make the car feel almost too eager to get to the apex, a feeling that is utterly addictive. And the less-powerful electric Macans? While they certainly lacked the eye-opening thrust of that top Turbo (or whatever Porsche calls it), they're still properly quick. Their accelerative performance should be easily on par with any of the internally combusted Macans. The feeling across the range there is equally good when it comes to braking. The brake pedal has confidence-inspiring firmness yet still enough travel to comfortably work through traffic without complaint from back-seat passengers. That feel, though, is entirely synthetic. The electric Macan uses a brake-by-wire pedal system that, behind the scenes, relies on electric regenerative braking as much as possible before seamlessly calling in some help from the physical brakes. Thanks to the Macan's 800-volt battery system, the car can pull a lot of juice from those motors during regen, meaning you'll only need the physical brakes under serious decel. If and when the brake performance is degraded due to temperature or the like, a Porsche engineer told me the pedal feel will modulate to give feedback to the driver. But, on a hard, hot day of charging through the California hills, I never felt a hint of fade, simulated or otherwise. Sadly, though, there's one fly in this ointment: one-pedal driving. Porsche is still sticking to its guns: If you want to slow down, you'll need to move your foot from accelerator to brake. I can't argue with the engineers that it may be the more efficient way to drive, but then you also can't argue that PDK transmissions are quicker and more efficient than manuals, and yet Porsche is quite proud to offer those to its sports car enthusiasts. Plenty of electric car enthusiasts prefer one-pedal driving, myself very much included, and as Porsche gets more serious about EVs, it'd be nice if the company acknowledged that. After all, adding a high-regen mode is a heck of a lot simpler than adding a third pedal.

Saw this.... Front wheel drive.... oh man... but at least it does look like one of the sportiest MPVs around... http://paultan.org/2013/12/16/bmw-2-series-active-tourer-completely-undisguised/ Will you buy?

Hi everyone, I'm starting a thread for all BMW owner. So we can share everything inside here. I'm currently driving G30, cheers and have a great weekend!

Quick Fact / Details - Production begins November 2018 - Uses B47 and B58 engines - 330e come with 48V electrical system - Model availabe for new launch (other models possible, but unlikely by end 2019): • 318d, B47, 148hp, manual and automatic, RWD • 320d, B47, 188hp, manual RWD, automatic RWD and xDrive • 330d, B57, 262hp, automatic RWD and xDrive • 320i, B48 168hp 1.6L or 181hp 2.0L depending on the market, automatic RWD and xDrive • 330i, B48, 255hp, automatic RWD and xDrive • M340i, B58, 385hp, automatic RWD (US only) and xDrive • 330e, B48 + electic motor, 248hp, automatic RWD and xDrive (xDrive US only)

20 single-deck electric buses each from BYD and ST Engineering Land Systems 10 single-deck and 10 double-deck electric buses from Yutong The buses will progressively arrive in Singapore from next year, with the final batch delivered in 2020 Source: The Straits Times

Look very sleek and just like a mini 7 series, minus the controversial monster size grille.. The car's shark-like front nose appears to be sitting lower compared to the current model to lend the 5 Series an angrier look without the odd split headlights of the next 7 Series, X7 facelift, and X8 / XM. A subtle spoiler integrated into the trunk lid can be seen as well, while the dashboard appears to be fully camouflaged. It's likely a sign the cabin will be completely revamped, possibly by adopting the dual-screen setup with a 12.3-inch driver's display and a 14.9-inch infotainment as seen in the iX and i4 electric models running on iDrive 8.

Source: https://mothership.sg/2025/08/tribecar-rental-ev/ Tribecar is offering a relatively affordable car leasing option in Singapore: S$799 nett per month for an electric vehicle (EV). Facebook post announcing deal Its Facebook post on Aug. 24 announcing the leasing option attracted a few dozen comments within two hours. The post's caption read: "Le Blu Frenchy is a fantastic four-seater that offers a range of up to 180km on a full charge." It further stated that this translates to plugging in every two to three days, similar to charging a phone nightly. The leasing period is between three months and two years, the post added. The special offer of S$799 per month is for the first 10 leases that sign up for a two-year contract. What sign-up form stated? The sign-up form is for those interested in registering their interest. As stated in the sign-up form, absent the special offer price for the first 10 leases, the regular two-year lease costs S$888 per month. For a three-month lease, it will cost S$958 per month. A frequently asked questions segment was also included in the form. It clarified that the lease covers the costs of the vehicle, Certificate of Entitlement (COE), Preferential Car Entitlement (PARF) value, road tax, insurance, and maintenance. Currently the EV cannot be driven to Malaysia, but Tribecar said it is working on it. The Le Blu Frenchy can be test driven for those interested. Queries from public Within the first two hours of the post going up, numerous queries were posted in the comments section. A number of queries noted the similarities between the two-door Le Blu Frenchy and the EV previously offered by BlueSG, which is now on hiatus as its operations have been halted since Aug. 8. Here is a summary of the Q&A: Q: The electric cars are formerly from BlueSG but spray painted and rented out? A: No comments. All cars bought in are given a top to bottom tune and fix up. Test drive it for free and you will fall in love with it! But before all leases, all our vehicles are receive a rebirth before it is test driven by a prospective customer. Q: Is this a belated April Fool's joke? A: This is absolutely legit! The re-energised cars are definitely worth a test drive. Q: Can it be used as a private-hire vehicle? A: The interior will be a bit of a squeeze but you will be the first in the world to do it! Fill up the form and we will follow up! Other additional costs The sign-up form also includes the options for cosmetic vehicle customisation. For example, those leasing can choose the colour of the EV, such as Bubblegum Pink or Butter Yellow, at a cost of up to S$70 extra per month. Regular checks of the EV appears to be free with the basic care plan, but there could be extra costs associated with servicing. Under the care plan section, it is stated: "For safety, we still would like to check the car every three months to ensure roadworthiness, and will advise you of any tune-up and fixes costs if needed." Mothership has reached out to Tribecar for more details and comment.

seems like there is not much interest/discussion in the new X3 comes in xDrive20 and M50 ready for preorder eta oct/nov2024 delivery https://www.bmw.com.sg/en/all-models/x-series/x3/bmw-x3.html

The BMW Digital Premium features ensure that information and so much more is always at your fingertips. Our cars are called to serve a wide variety of tasks. Whether you're using your BMW as a space for rest and solace, to chase new adventures, or doubling it up as a second space for work and entertainment, BMW's Digital Premium features are ready to assist, ensuring that you're treated to the best, even before you leave your car. Many options for play while you wait Picking the kids up from school? Waiting for the missus to end her shift? Or maybe you're simply charging up your BMW? There's now a slew of entertainment options awaiting thanks to BMW Digital Premium, perfect for those quick pitstops or when you're waiting your loved ones. Keep the kids entertained on the go with AirConsole that includes racing, sports, quiz and music quiz games as well as simulation, strategy, jump-and-run and puzzle games. Complete with hit titles that will engage all including Overcooked and the classic UNO card game now in digital form via UNO Car Party, all of which, are sure to make every trip an adventure before you even arrive at your destination and will hopefully help keep the complaints from those fidgety young'uns to a minimum! And even when you're alone, there's still plenty to explore on that screen. With YouTube included, you'll be able to watch you favourite your favourite videos in comfort. And the chance to catch up on work as you please And it's not just all about entertainment. For all those go-getters, your BMW can also keep you in the know, thanks to its integration with a host of apps. Stay up to date with the latest from around the world thanks to access to the stories from a host of global news channels, or stay connected with your closest colleagues here in Singapore or beyond via the Zoom app. Truly the best navigation experience And once you're ready to leave, the BMW Digital Premium's Enhanced BMW Maps will ensure that travel is always easy. The Enhanced BMW Maps not only offers real-time traffic information on your selected route, but also across the entire map, so you can see just how traffic in your city is evolving, even before you leave your lot. Personalisation Options But that's not all. With BMW Digital Premium, you won't have to set your car up all again when your step back into the driver's seat the next day. With BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant, your BMW will be able to proactively suggest improvements based on your driving behaviour, so you can set a different air conditioning temperature for different locations as you make your way to the office, or set the car to draw in some fresh air just as you're arriving at your workplace so you're freshened up and alert for the workday ahead. Looking for a truly premium drive experience? BMW Singapore is offering all Sgcarmart readers a 10% discount till 31 October 2025 on a host of digital services. Prices are as follows (all inclusive of GST): i. Digital Premium starting from $8.80 / month How it works: Simply log into the BMW ConnectedDrive Store, select your services and complete the purchase online with the discount code. The services will be automatically installed on your vehicle's onboard computer. Users will be able to secure the 10% for the digital services by entering the following promo codes on checkout: i. SGCM10DP - For Digital Premium BMW Digital services are subject to availability and compatibility with the BMW vehicle. More information on BMW's ConnectedDrive upgrades is available here. Catch BMW's Digital Premium features in action here:

Admittedly, I’ve been putting this on the back burner for a while. With plenty of work to get through, tonnes of stories to clear, and multiple Cars & Kopi(Coffee) meets ongoing, I never felt I could give this piece the attention it truly deserved. And that hesitation mattered, because this was one of the most memorable drives I’ve ever had. Believe me, I’ve been on quite a few. This drive, though never really intending to be so, came to represent a series of personal milestones. Having already covered the Hakone Turnpike and its surrounding mountain roads on previous outings with both the M2 and the M3 Touring, it was time to look further afield and discover more of what Japan’s beautiful roads have to offer. And I had just the right material to reference: the little-known series Initial D. Jokes aside, while many like-minded enthusiasts were drawn into the world of automotive otaku culture through the adventures of Takumi Fujiwara and his panda AE86, it never truly appealed to me, until now. While the antics of Takumi and his friends existed in the imagination of Shuichi Shigeno, the locations where rivalries in the series were settled are very much real. With that in mind, I settled in and binge-watched the first two seasons of the anime, otherwise known as “stages” in Initial D speak. It may have taken me decades, but I’m happy to report that it is thoroughly enjoyable and brought back vivid memories of visiting Japan in the late ’90s, when Japanese sports car culture was arguably at its absolute peak. Enjoying the anime was, of course, just part of the research process. With the mountain roads based on real-life locations, it was also time to plan my drive to visit the now-legendary roads of Initial D. Keys in hand, I left the bustle of Tokyo behind and headed north. My first stop: Mt. Haruna, better known to fans as Mt. Akina, Takumi Fujiwara’s legendary stomping grounds. A short drive later, I found myself at Mt. Akagi, the domain of the Akagi RedSuns. To close out the day, I carved my way toward Nikko and the twisting turns of the Irohazaka, the proving ground of Team Emperor and the stage for Kai Kogashiwa’s infamous MR2 jump. Google Maps might have plotted the journey at just under eight hours, but my experience told a different story. With lunch breaks, refreshments, repeated runs for photos and videos, and the occasional pause to drink in the scenery, the drive stretched closer to 10 or 11 hours. Every stop was part of the adventure, each turn steeped in the history of the roads that had inspired generations of enthusiasts. The car for the job? A gorgeous San Remo matt green G29 Z4 M40i, courtesy of BMW Japan's press fleet. Having had the privilege of driving and sampling almost all of the latest machines from Munich over the years as a hobbyist writer, the Z4 was, for me, the car that first kick-started my journey into automotive journalism with the marque. While it might have taken place almost 18 years ago, I still remember that car with fond and vivid memories. No less memorable was the fact that it was an M Roadster variant, with its S54 engine snarling and screaming right behind your ears with the roof down. It was, and still is, one of the most exhilarating drives I’ve ever had. A drive so enjoyable I emptied two full tanks of fuel over a weekend. Interestingly, having sampled multiple variants of the Z4’s second generation over the years, the final iteration of BMW’s roadster had eluded me, due to both scheduling and availability issues. Seven years after its launch, and sadly a year before the model’s decommissioning, it was finally time for me to have a go. With some beautiful ribbons of tarmac ahead, I truly couldn’t think of a better way to fall in love with driving all over again. With a full day of driving ahead, it made plenty of sense to set off bright and early; this is Tokyo, after all. After a relatively mundane and uneventful series of highways and byways, my next stop beckoned, Mt Haruna. Nestled in Gunma Prefecture, Mt. Haruna rises to 1,449 meters and is crowned by the serene Haruna Lake, a crater lake formed within the caldera of an ancient volcano. The area has long been a destination for nature lovers and hikers, offering well-marked trails that range from gentle strolls to challenging ascents, each framed by lush forests and seasonal blooms. At the summit sits Haruna Shrine, a centuries-old Shinto site offering panoramic views of the mountains and Kanto plains. On this crisp morning, though, none of that was the focus. What mattered were the mountain’s twisting roads. Tight hairpins, flowing sweepers, and steep gradients. The legendary roads upon which the iconic panda AE86 danced with perfect finesse. The only difference today was the mighty bellow of the B58's 382 horses over the Toyota's screaming 4AGE. As the beautiful Z4 powered up the steep inclines and sharp corners, it showed little hesitation, slightly pushing its tail out while remaining steadfastly poised, its perfectly specced Michelins gripping tightly as it charged through each directional change with the B58 howling away, joyfully soaking up the roads and daring you to bury the throttle even deeper. Haruna’s roads are tight, narrow, and intensely technical, defined by relentless hairpins and rapid elevation changes, but such a joy it was to drive that at the end of the hill climb, I turned around, went back down and did it all over again. That said, the view across Haruna Lake at the summit was reason enough to slow things down for a moment. A little further down was a lay-by that I'm sure fans of the show would most certainly recognise. Where everything began. There were Initial D references throughout the area for fans to spot. While I would have loved to hang around to spot more Initial D references and take in the sights around Haruna Lake, it was time to charge toward Mt. Akagi. But not without stopping for a spot of lunch at a random, yet rather fantastic udon restaurant. It was seriously good. With lunch settled, it was time to continue towards Mt Akagi, a short 40 kilometres away from Mt Haruna. While Mt. Haruna and Mt. Akagi sit relatively close to one another, their roads could not feel more different, each shaped by the character of the mountain it climbs. Mt. Haruna is tight and technical, its roads sometimes closing in around you, demanding focus at every turn. Mt. Akagi, by contrast, opens itself up. The road feels broader and more expansive, with longer sweepers, wider lanes, and higher average speeds, offering fewer back-to-back hairpins and far more room to breathe. Rising almost 400 metres higher than Haruna at its peak, Mt. Akagi’s more gradual elevation changes encourage a smoother, flowing rhythm, one that feels perfectly suited to big turbocharged power. This time, not from an FC or FD, but a BMW Z4. And if the view of Haruna Lake was lovely, Lake Onuma at the summit of Mt. Akagi is simply breathtaking. Framed by dense forest and open sky, its still waters feel worlds away from the pace of the drive leading up, a place that invites you to pause, step out of the car, and take it all in. Steeped in local folklore and closely associated with Akagi Shrine, I'm sure it is also familiar ground to fans of Initial D as the backdrop to the Akagi RedSuns’ territory. The calm, mirror-like water at the summit feels worlds away from the intensity of the racing battles that made these roads legendary in pop culture, yet seeing it in person makes the anime’s reverence for the mountain suddenly tangible. With more than half the day behind me, it was time to leave my reflections behind and head toward the final 峠 of the drive: Irohazaka. Little did I know just how epic the roads ahead would turn out to be. Nikko awaits.

Sexy is the word. @mercury1 @vratenza this one for your consideration? Munich. BMW consistently continues to pursue the brand’s current model offensive whilst developing an innovative vehicle concept for the premium compact segment. During the annual results press conference, BMW AG CEO Harald Krüger will announce the presentation of the first BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. With the sporty and elegant four-door coupe, the premium automobile manufacturer is adding to its range in the compact segment a particularly designoriented model for modern, urban target groups. The concept of a four-door coupe, already successful in higher vehicle classes, will in future combine a dynamic charisma and an expressive design with a high degree of everyday suitability also in the premium compact segment. The first BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe will make its word debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2019, with the worldwide market launch beginning in the spring of 2020. The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe sets new accents in individuality, aesthetics and emotion in the premium compact segment. It combines an emotive design with sportiness and the latest innovations in operation and connectivity technology. Therefore, the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offers the ideal prerequisites to attract new target groups to hallmark BMW driving pleasure. BMW already offers a unique range of compact models for various different requirements and target groups that is unmatched within the competitive environment. The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe will once again create fresh impulses in this class. It builds on the latest BMW front-wheel drive architecture and shares a multitude of technological developments with the new BMW 1 Series, which will also be presented during the course of 2019. The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe has been conceived as a global offering that constitutes an attractive enrichment, especially for markets in which car buyers show a strong affinity for notchbacks. As an exclusive alternative to the classic saloon, the four-door coupe addresses all target groups that prefer a sophisticated design and a self-assured look in the compact segment as well. Some video & spy shots to quench your thirst.

YES! The world will get a chance to know more about our little red dot. BMW i7 Singapore Icons Is a Bespoke Electric Luxury Sedan With Rolls-Royce Paint (https://www.autoevolution.com/news/bmw-i7-singapore-icons-is-a-bespoke-electric-luxury-sedan-with-rolls-royce-finish-254367.html) BMW is strengthening its presence in Asia by unveiling a one-of-a-kind i7. Designed to commemorate Singapore's 60th anniversary, as well as the company's local 40th birthday, the model is aptly called the BMW i7 Singapore Icons and has just celebrated its premiere. According to BMW Group Asia's Managing Director, Lars Nielsen, "planning for this masterpiece began 18 months ago and was a labor of love." The car in question "exhibits the best BMW has to offer, including refined materials, supreme craftsmanship, and individualization, all to honor the Lion City." The all-quiet luxury sedan is presented in Madeira Red, a dark red metallic paint finish sourced from Rolls-Royce's portfolio. The hue is available through BMW Individual, the company's personalization division, and sports "opulent tones of rich madeira wine and dark cherry-black hues." The company says that it chosen this color due to its multi-layered pearlescent effect, adding that the i7 Singapore Icons is the first car in Singapore to be presented in it and it will remain that way. Besides the special color, the all-new and unique BMW i7 Singapore Icons sports a 'Singapore Icons' logo on the Hofmeister kink, and that is another way to tell it apart from the rest of the lineup. The automaker says that this position was specially chosen to honor the Hofmeister kink's roots, as it first appeared on a Bimmer back in the 1960s, and it was the 1500. The 20-inch wheels were crafted by BMW Individual and feature a two-tone look and a diamond-cut finish, further highlighting the model's special nature. Opening the door of the BMW i7 Singapore Icons will reveal the Smoke White Merino leather upholstery, said to echo the colors of the Singapore flag (red and white). The high-end upholstery also came from BMW Individual's portfolio and is said to be robust, breathable, and soft. The car manufacturer states that "each hide is carefully selected for its immaculate, unblemished quality," so the attention to detail is certainly on deck. The 'Singapore Icons' design bedecks all four headrests in Alaska Gray, another special touch from the company's personalization division. A dashboard inlay pretty much rounds off the special design of the car, featuring seven of the country's icons. Some of the landmarks on deck include the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay Supertree Grove, Singapore Changi Control Tower, Anderson Bridge, Merlion Statue, and ArtScience Museum. Crafted from a 25.7-cm (10.1 in) wide single-piece metal thinner than 1 mm, it is integrated into the fine wood in oak gray metallic and sports a mirror-like finish. The most affordable BMW i7 in Singapore is the eDrive50 Pinnacle, which starts at S$625,888 (equal to US$488,355), and in the United States, the model carries an MSRP of US$105,700 (S$135,440).

Even the most exciting journey can be boosted by BMW's tech. And we're not just talking about that engaging drive! Singapore is a lovely city to drive in: The views are great, and the road network is a product of careful and extensive planning. But what if you're still looking to give those weekend drives a little extra boost? That's exactly what BMW is now offering its drivers with its Connected Package Professional Packages. Join us in this second of a series of three articles as we explore how the firm is enhancing safety, convenience, and even the entertainment offerings with its connected technology, so you’re free to chase that next adventure! Always in touch, no matter where you go Chasing a new outdoor hobby or visiting a new trending cafe in a faraway location? With BMW's Connected Package Professional*, you’ll never again have to fear unfamiliar roads. The Map Update feature from BMW will get you to your destination quickly and reliably with its intuitive layout and easy-to-understand instructions. And getting this map updated is also easy. Simply download the most up-to-date map from the ConnectedDrive Store and into your BMW via a USB stick. or better yet simply wait for your infotainment system to receive the latest map via an automatic over-the-air update. Keeping you safe, should conditions change But it's not just unfamiliar roads you're protected from. With BMW Maps' ability to offer real time traffic information along your selected route, you'll also always be informed if there's any congestion or potential delays on your journey ahead. Use this information to plan alternative routes or inform friends and colleagues that you'll be delayed, way ahead of any scheduled gathering. Drive one of BMW's electric vehicles? Keeping your vehicle topped up has never been easier, thanks to BMW Connected Charging*. BMW Connected Charging puts information of the available chargers near to you right at your fingertips via the car's infotainment system, so you never need to calculate the remaining range available from your vehicle. And if you’re eyeing longer journeys still, BMW Connected Charging can even fetch you information on nearby points of interest or restaurants, so you can always stay refreshed, and travel with confidence! Uniquely yours, for any road And when you're once again ready to go, your BMW stands ready to entertain along every drive. Thanks to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, you'll never be left out of contact from friends and family. And with BMW Connected Music*, you'll also be able to accompany every drive with some of your favourite tunes. Stream up to 30 million songs from BMW’s music partners Deezer or Napster, or listen to your favourite tracks from Spotify, all via the SIM card installed in your vehicle. But of course, that's not the only entertainment you’re after. With every BMW you'll be able to configure your car so it's just right for the road conditions ahead. Facing long stretches of highway? Why not opt for one of your car's more calming driving modes for a serene driving experience, or make the switch over to 'Sport' once more twisty roads beckon? And then there's also 'Expressive' to consider, perfect for when you're cruising around town with friends and want to belt out to your favourite tunes! Want to learn more about the connected features of your BMW? Look out for the next episode of this series come 2 September 2025! Looking to give your next drive a little boost? If you're after a boosted driving experience, look out for services (all prices inclusive of GST) including: Prices are as follows (all inclusive of GST): i. Connected Package Professional starting from $150 All the eligible digital services for your BMW are available on the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Simply select your preferred services and complete the purchase online with the discount code "SGCM10CP" to enjoy the exclusive 10% discount for BMW Connected Package Professional and the services will be automatically installed on your vehicle's onboard computer (Discount is valid until 31 October 2025). *BMW Digital services are subject to availability and compatibility with the BMW vehicle. More information on BMW's ConnectedDrive upgrades is available here. Catch some of the benefits of BMW's Connected Package Professional Packages here:

Join us and BMW in this short series that explores just how connected technology can make your journeys easier than ever. Internet of things? Ambient Intelligence? Fourth Industrial Revolution? From smartphones to home appliances, the devices that we use are becoming smarter and more connected by the day, and our cars are no different. Thankfully, there's no need to develop a deep understanding of these information technology concepts to benefit from the added convenience that BMW is bringing to its vehicles. Join us in this short series as we explore (in simple to understand terms) just how you could stand to benefit from the connected technology that the firm is applying into its vehicles. This first of three articles sees just how your daily commute could be so much easier in a BMW! Making every drive a breeze Living in a fast-paced city like Singapore means it's inevitable that you'll face long and challenging days. Now, your BMW may have been honed to offer sheer driving pleasure, but when tough workdays or long journeys take their toll, it's always nice to have someone to fall back on. Or maybe, you could call upon something to make your commute a bit easier and safer. Enter, BMW's Driving Assistant Plus* (available as a three-month free-of-charge trial, or to subscribe to for one month, one year, three years, or to simply purchase for an unlimited period). The Level 2 automated driving technology can not only maintain a safe distance between your car and the vehicle ahead but can also help you keep your BMW within its lane and will warn you if the speed limit changes. All this means that you and your BMW can not only make easy progress in start/stop traffic but you'll also will be able to take the stress out of travelling on the motorway! Effortless at any destination But stressful commutes are not the only bother when it comes to driving in Singapore. There's also those pesky tight carparks to think about. But when you arrive at your selected destination in a BMW, there's no need to sweat, thanks to the firm's Parking Assistant Professional* (available as a three-month free-of-charge trial, or to subscribe to for one month, one year, three years, or to simply purchase for an unlimited period). This technology allows your BMW to drive itself into and out of tight parking spaces in a partially automated manner, and if you so wish, even allows you to manoeuvre your car into a space via a smartphone so you don't even have to be seated within it. And there's another clever feature to consider: BMW's Manoeuvre Assistant. With this feature, your car can perform up to ten recurring parking manoeuvres, each covering a total distance of up to 200m. Simply save the manoeuvre once and your car now knows how to reverse out of any narrow corridor or space - perfect if the parking provisions at your home or workplace aren't exactly great! Always ready when you are And even when you're busy at work or simply resting at home, BMW's connected technology means access to your car is always at your fingertips. Need to check on the battery capacity of your electric BMW? Or perhaps you've forgotten when the car's next service is due? Fret not, all this information and much more is now easily accessible all through the free-of-charge BMW Remote Services* which you can access via the My BMW app! Link the app to your vehicle and you won't even have to adjust its seats or mirrors even after your kinds or parents have driven it. All your personalised settings will be saved and automatically applied whenever you use your phone to unlock the vehicle. But there's more. With the BMW app, users can pre-cool their vehicle even utilise a remote 3D view and vehicle locator to find it in any parking lot - that means that your car will be getting its cabin ready for you as you prep for a day's worth of activities. How clever is that? Utilise the technology to beat our scorching sun and ensure that you always step into a car full of cool and fresh air! Want to learn more about the connected features of your BMW? Look out for the next episode of this series come 26 August 2025! Want to ensure you're always connected? If you're after a more connected driving experience, look out for services (all prices inclusive of GST) including: i. Driving Assistant Plus starting from $60/month ii. Parking Assistant Professional starting from $30/month All the eligible digital services for your BMW are available on the BMW ConnectedDrive Store. Simply select your preferred services and complete the purchase online with the discount code "SGCM10RF" to enjoy the exclusive 10% discount, and services will be automatically installed on your vehicle's onboard computer. Discount is valid till 31 October 2025. *BMW Digital services are subject to availability and compatibility with the BMW vehicle. More information on BMW's ConnectedDrive upgrades is available here. Or you might also want to catch BMW's connected features in action on video here:

Is it just me, but the front look like borrowed from an Opel SUV... BMW will kick off a new chapter of its electrification strategy in 2025 with the launch of a new platform for electric vehicles. The Neue Klasse (New Class) architecture will underpin at least six new zero-emissions SUVs and today, these spy photos provide an early look at one of those electric models in prototype form. Our spies in Germany sent us a batch of spy shots with what is currently known as the NA5 project, which is expected to arrive in the summer of 2025. The high-riding EV here is believed to be roughly the same size as today’s X3. However, smarter packaging combined with longer overhangs should result in a bigger storage area behind the rear seats, as well as a roomier cabin. In August last year, BMW confirmed the first product to be based on the Neue Klasse platform will be an electric sedan. It will be followed by this SUV here and some sources even claim it will arrive first. We won’t speculate on that topic but we’ll mention production of the electric family hauler is expected to begin in July 2025 in Hungary. “By the end of the decade, the Neue Klasse is expected to account for more than half of our sales,” BMW’s CEO Oliver Zipse said last year.

Any fellow G70 owners here?

The bigger grill does help to enhance the look of this SAC - Sports Active Coupe (coined by BMW), which now look closer to the larger X4 esthetically. X2 M35i xDrive The 2024 X2 measures 4,554 mm in length, with a width of 1,844 mm and a height of 1, 590 mm. The X2’s wheelbase of 2,692 mm and track of 1,582 mm is identical to that of the X1. However, when it comes to mass, the SAC is a smidge porkier than its crossover SUV sibling, weighing in at 1,725 kg for the xDrive28i and 1,742 kg for the X2 M35i, which is 40.8 kg more than the X1 xDrive28i. In the US, this brand new model get a 2.0L sump, churning out 241hp / 400Nm / 6.2sec (xDrive28i) and 312hp / 400Nm / 5.2sec (M35i xDrive). When it hit our shore, I am sure the 122hp / 230Nm / 10.5sec sDrive16i will be one of the option, if not the only one available...