Automotive
Mercedes-Benz Leverages AI To Provide “Human-Like Conversations” via Its Voice Assistant
Mercedes-Benz has announced a significant update to its MBUX Voice Assistant, introducing an AI-driven knowledge feature that delivers real-time, natural language responses. This innovation uses Microsoft’s ChatGPT technology via the Azure OpenAI Service and integrates Bing search capabilities, enabling customers to have "human-like conversations" with their vehicles.The enhanced assistant can answer a range of general knowledge questions spanning topics like pop culture, science and history. It also supports context-aware follow-up inquiries, making interactions seamless and intuitive. For example, a user might ask, "How many Grammy awards has a certain artist won?" and follow up with, "When was the first?" — all without needing to restate the topic.“By adding an AI-driven knowledge featu...
Lamborghini Teams Up with CAPiTA and Union for Exclusive Snowboard Collaboration
Lamborghini has unveiled a limited-edition snowboard and binding set in collaboration with CAPiTA and Union Binding Company. Previewed during the Lamborghini Esperienza Neve in Yakeshi, Mongolia, the collection blends the automaker's iconic design with cutting-edge snow sports technology.At the heart of this collaboration is the CAPiTA Warpspeed Automobili Lamborghini snowboard. Manufactured at The Mothership, CAPiTA's state-of-the-art and sustainable facility, the board integrates Lamborghini’s performance aesthetics. Its tip and tail shapes evoke the sleek lines of the Italian supercars, while its Megacarbon layup ensures a lightweight and powerful ride. Designed for all-mountain dominance, the snowboard comes in 154 cm, 157 cm, and 160 cm sizes.The Union Falcor | Automobili Lamborghini ...
Honda Brings Back the Iconic Prelude as a Hybrid-Electric Sports Coupe
Honda has announced the revival of the legendary Prelude with a sixth-generation vehicle that marks a significant milestone in its electrification strategy, blending the brand's sporty heritage with modern tech.First teased as a concept at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Prelude will feature Honda's two-motor hybrid powertrain and debut the innovative S+ Shift drive mode, promising an exciting driving experience. Jessika Laudermilk, assistant vice president of Honda Auto Sales shared "The return of the Honda Prelude as a hybrid-electric sports model demonstrates our continued commitment to offer a variety of exhilarating products to meet the needs of our customers."The Prelude holds a special place in Honda's history, first introduced in November 1978 as part of its original trio of pa...
From Diablo to Revuelto: A Journey Through Lamborghini’s Evolution
When it comes to automotive craftsmanship and unrelenting passion for performance, Lamborghini has spent decades perfecting its art. During a recent visit to the Sant'Agata Bolognese headquarters, Hypedrive had the unique opportunity to compare four Lamborghinis across different eras: the Diablo, the Murciélago LP640-4 Versace Edition, the all-new Revuelto and the Urus Performante SE. This comparative experience, which brought us from the open road to the factory floor, not only showcased the automaker’s evolution but also underscored its commitment to heritage and innovation.A Journey Through Time: The Four IconsLamborghini Diablo: Analog ExcellenceIntroduced in the early 1990s, the Diablo remains a masterpiece of analog engineering. Powered by a 6L naturally aspirated V12 engine and pair...
Ducati Unveils Exclusive Panigale V4 Tricolore
Ducati has unveiled the Panigale V4 Tricolore, an exclusive model limited to just 1,000 numbered units. The motorcycle pays homage to Ducati’s rich heritage and modern engineering while celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Tricolore livery, first seen on the 1984 750 F1.Notably, the asymmetrical livery, designed by Aldo Drudi in collaboration with Ducati's Centro Stile, blends the colors of the Italian flag with checkered flag motifs, symbolizing victory. This special edition also boasts performance upgrades like carbon fiber rims, a dry clutch and a Brembo braking system with 338.5 mm racing discs — used for the first time in a production bike."The Panigale V4 Tricolore represents the perfect fusion of advanced technology and Italian artistry," said Andrea Ferraresi, Ducati’s Director ...
Five Takeaways After Test Driving the AMG-Powered 2024 Lotus Emira
There's often a "shame" that comes with purchasing the entry level model and trim of specific cars, as unfortunate as that may be. And while there's a multitude of decisions as to why someone would, the fact of the matter is that they are entry level for a reason. For Lotus and its most recent sports car, the Emira, there is no exception to the rule and its downgrade is apparent.When we tested the Lotus Emira First Edition earlier this year, we were highly impressed with the small form factor, its sexy design, the nimble chassis and, most notably, the power and transmission. What started (at least in the United States) as a stout 3.5L supercharged V6 supercharged mated to a downright-glorious six-speed manual gearbox is now contended against a turbocharged 2.0L, AMG-developed inline four a...
Bugatti and Fahrengold Team Up for Gallery-Like Showcase Platform
To elevate its hyper sports cars to the next level and go beyond standard storage solutions, Bugatti has collaborated with German luxury garage specialist Fahrengold to create the Bugatti Edition FG-01 Garage, CarPad and CarPad Pro.The FG-01 Bugatti Edition Garage is a gallery-like showcase that combines modern security, climate control and museum-inspired design. Highlighting Bugatti's aesthetic, the garage features custom glass accents, tire protection pads, and refined Bugatti-blue leather cupboards embossed with the brand’s emblem. Each garage includes a personalized plaque and curated displays for collectibles.Complementing this is the CarPad Bugatti Edition and its advanced sibling, the CarPad Pro — dynamic platforms engineered to spotlight Bugatti hyper sports cars. Equipped with dr...
Mercedes-Benz Teases at “New Era” for its Van Category
Mercedes-Benz has teased a new vision for the future of its Van category, marking a "new era" with the announcement of its Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA). Set to debut in 2026, this modular and scalable platform is set to revolutionize the brand’s approach to electric vans, offering versatility and innovation across both private and commercial segments.With VAN.EA, Mercedes-Benz Vans aims to distinctly separate its offerings, catering to both luxury-focused private customers and premium commercial users. For the private market, the future portfolio will include high-quality family vans, exclusive VIP shuttles and spacious limousines. The commercial lineup will similarly benefit from the VAN.EA platform, maintaining the premium quality synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz name.To offer a g...
Lotus Unveils Limited F1-Inspired Emira Series
Lotus has launched a new and exciting limited edition Emira series, a homage to its Formula One legacy. Based on the acclaimed four-cylinder Emira, this exclusive collection features five bespoke liveries inspired by iconic Lotus race cars. Each design is limited to just 12 units, symbolizing Ayrton Senna’s race number during his Lotus career.The "Emira Limited" introduces a new level of customization, previewing the upcoming Chapman Bespoke personalization program, set to debut in 2025. The program will allow customers to tailor their vehicles, blending heritage with individuality.Kkey moments that reflect Lotus’s racing history include:The vibrant yellow-and-blue Type 99T celebrates Senna’s 1987 Monaco Grand Prix victory.The shadow grey-and-gold Type 97T recalls Senna’s first Grand Prix ...
Renault Reveals New Hot Hatch: the 5 Turbo 3E
Renault has officially confirmed the Renault 5 Turbo 3E as a production model, which was revealed in an unorthodox way during the finale of the Anatomy of a Comeback documentary series on Prime Video. The series, which premiered on December 13, explores Renault’s transformative "Renaulution" and culminates with a thrilling Easter egg: a sneak peek at the all-electric Renault 5 Turbo 3E.This modern reinterpretation of the iconic Renault 5 Turbo and Turbo 2 of the 1980s combines retro styling with modern technology. Echoing its rallying heritage, the Renault 5 Turbo 3E features motorsport-inspired livery, a lightweight carbon structure and a rear-wheel drive layout. Powered by two electric motors located in the rear wheels, the hot hatch delivers nearly 500 hp and a 0-62 mph time of 3.5 seco...
Mercedes-AMG Shares First Look at New High-Performance EV SUV
Mercedes-AMG has officially begun testing its latest fully electric high-performance SUV, first teased in early November. Built on the AMG.EA architecture, this SUV is the second vehicle in AMG’s bespoke EV platform portfolio and showcases innovative advancements in electric performance technology.The prototype is undergoing rigorous winter testing in northern Sweden. Known for its extreme sub-zero temperatures, the region offers an ideal environment to evaluate the SUV's performance and durability. This development phase is designed to assess the integration of key components, like its pioneering axial-flux motors and a newly engineered high-performance battery system.While details are still scarce at the time of writing, this latest SUV signals a big move for Mercedes-AMG, combining the ...
YouTube Integration Makes its Way to the Porsche 911
Porsche is elevating in-car entertainment by integrating YouTube into four additional model lines — 911, Taycan, Cayenne and Panamera. This enhancement follows its initial rollout in the all-electric Macan, allowing passengers to access the world’s leading video platform as part of Porsche Communication Management (PCM).The feature, standard in newly configured vehicles, offers a multimedia experience right from delivery. Existing owners with in-car video capability can upgrade their systems via a free software update.Whether it’s a quick tutorial on Porsche functions through the brand’s Spot On series, planning scenic routes, or catching up on news and weather, the integration of YouTube aims to turn long journeys into exciting experiences. Content can be played on the central PCM display...
