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Blow to EV: Several brands have already abandoned their projects, and now it’s this Italian giant’s turn

Adrien Conges
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Blow to EV: Several brands have already abandoned their projects, and now it’s this Italian giant’s turn

Alfa Romeo had planned to permanently turn the page on combustion engines by 2027 to become a 100% electric brand—well, not anymore!

Facing a market reality more complex than expected, the Italian brand has changed course. Like other manufacturers, it is now opting for a “multi-energy” approach to avoid alienating customers still attached to combustion and hybrid engines. This decision is driven by sluggish sales and an uncertain industry outlook.

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EV adoption isn’t happening fast enough

The automotive industry hoped for a swift transition to 100% electric vehicles, but the reality is more nuanced. While demand for battery-powered cars is growing, it’s not happening as quickly as anticipated. High prices, limited range for some models, and uneven charging infrastructure are slowing adoption. Alfa Romeo has recognized this shift and adjusted its ambitions: rather than pushing electric at all costs, it is keeping a diverse lineup to meet consumer expectations. This decision is particularly relevant in North America and Europe, where dealerships have voiced concerns about their ability to survive by selling only EVs.

Stelvio - © Alfa Romeo
Stelvio – © Alfa Romeo

A trend seen across the industry

Alfa Romeo isn’t the only automaker pivoting in this direction. Several brands that initially announced full electrification by the end of the decade are backtracking. Mercedes, Ford, and Volvo have also adjusted their strategies, favoring a hybrid model where electric coexists with gasoline and plug-in hybrids. Stellantis, Alfa Romeo’s parent company, initially planned for brands like DS and Lancia to launch only electric models after 2024. However, these brands will continue offering hybrids in the coming years. Even the upcoming STLA Small platform, originally designed exclusively for EVs, has been reworked to accommodate multiple powertrains.

Stelvio - © Alfa Romeo
Stelvio – © Alfa Romeo

What does this mean for Alfa Romeo?

Currently, the only country nearing the goal of 100% electric vehicle sales is Norway, with over 90%, while other markets lag behind this projection. But for Alfa, this new direction doesn’t mean abandoning electric altogether—it’s about adapting to market demand. The next-generation Giulia and Stelvio, expected in 2026 and 2025 respectively, will be available as EVs but also with hybrid and combustion engine options. Alfa Romeo is also counting on its Junior SUV to attract a broader audience, though its launch in North America remains uncertain. As for the supercar set to succeed the 33 Stradale in 2026, it might retain a combustion engine after all, despite initially being planned as an EV-only model… And that’s great news for fans of roaring engines!

No more car accidents thanks to this camera that analyzes all obstacles in your autonomous vehicles at the speed of light

This article explores why Alfa Romeo has revised its all-electric strategy and the impact of this shift on the brand and its future models. Balancing pragmatism with economic necessity, this decision highlights the challenges facing the entire automotive industry in its transition to electric.

Images: © Alfa Romeo

No more car accidents thanks to this camera that analyzes all obstacles in your autonomous vehicles at the speed of light

Matthieu Aigron
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No more car accidents thanks to this camera that analyzes all obstacles in your autonomous vehicles at the speed of light

Revolutionary camera identifies objects at the speed of light.

A collaborative team from the University of Washington and Princeton University has engineered a compact camera that can identify objects nearly instantaneously, harnessing the full speed of light. This cutting-edge prototype, a fusion of optics and computing, stands poised to revolutionize fields from autonomous vehicles to smartphone technology.

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A fusion of optics and artificial intelligence

This novel camera leverages a sophisticated array of engineered optics rather than traditional glass lenses. The optical components, known as meta-lenses, consist of 50 layers of ultra-thin, lightweight materials designed with microscopic precision to manipulate light directly. These meta-lenses enable the camera to process images at speeds incomparable to traditional digital imaging solutions.

China may be signing the death warrant for the electric vehicle (EV) with a discovery that will eliminate the limitations of internal combustion engines

Groundbreaking efficiency in power consumption

One of the most significant advantages of this new camera technology is its efficiency. By utilizing light for both power and processing, the device consumes significantly less energy than conventional cameras. This efficiency does not come at the cost of performance; the camera can process images over 200 times faster than current systems relying on standard computer hardware.

Broad applications across industries

The potential applications for this technology are vast and varied. From enhancing the capabilities of self-driving cars to integrating into medical diagnostic devices, the technology promises to open up new frontiers in numerous fields. Smartphones and other personal electronics could also see substantial improvements in battery life and processing capabilities.

The power of collaborative innovation

This project is the result of a robust collaboration between Arka Majumdar, a professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering and Physics at the University of Washington, and Felix Heide, an assistant professor of Computer Science at Princeton University. Their partnership has previously produced significant innovations, including a camera small enough to rival the size of a grain of salt. This latest endeavor pushes the boundaries even further, demonstrating the transformative potential of combining interdisciplinary expertise.

Technological and computational breakthroughs

The prototype camera, developed in the Washington Nanofabrication Lab, incorporates a new form of optical computing. By replacing traditional electronic processes with optical computations, the system significantly speeds up the ability to analyze and classify images. The meta-lenses also act as an optical neural network, performing complex calculations at the light speed to detect and recognize objects almost instantaneously.

Future directions and continued collaboration

Looking forward, the team plans to refine and expand the capabilities of their prototype to better serve practical applications, such as autonomous navigation and more advanced object recognition tasks. The ongoing collaboration between Majumdar and Heide, supported by their students and research institutions, indicates a promising trajectory for further innovations in this high-tech venture.

24% less powerful but infinitely more exciting: the new Mercedes-AMG C63 finally gets its legendary V8 back

This article explores the development of a revolutionary camera that combines advanced optics and computational technology to identify objects at the speed of light. Engineered by a collaborative team from the University of Washington and Princeton University, this prototype significantly reduces power consumption while increasing processing speed, offering broad potential applications across various industries. With its unique capabilities and promising future developments, this technology may soon redefine the landscape of digital imaging and artificial intelligence.

Source : Science

Photo by Ilya Chugunov, courtesy of Princeton University

China may be signing the death warrant for the electric vehicle (EV) with a discovery that will eliminate the limitations of internal combustion engines

Matthieu Aigron
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0
China may be signing the death warrant for the electric vehicle (EV) with a discovery that will eliminate the limitations of internal combustion engines

Unlocking the secrets of ultimate Power: how new heat engine design redefines efficiency.

In a groundbreaking development, researchers from China have upended traditional views on thermodynamics by designing a heat engine that promises maximum power and unparalleled efficiency. This innovation could drastically alter our approach to energy use and signal a new era in technological advancement.

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The paradigm shift in heat engines

For centuries, the field of thermodynamics has been bounded by the belief that high efficiency and high power output in heat engines cannot coexist. However, a recent study from Chinese researchers introduces a minimal model heat engine that achieves what was once thought impossible—Carnot efficiency at maximum power. This remarkable achievement not only challenges the foundational laws of thermodynamics but also sets a new benchmark for future energy systems.

Michael Schumacher’s engine is up for sale, and its future owner might just pull off the deal of the century

Breaking down the innovative engine design

At the heart of this breakthrough is a simplified engine model that utilizes a high level of energy state degeneracy. This means numerous microscopic states are capable of working in unison, enhancing the engine’s ability to convert energy efficiently. The study, published in the prestigious Physical Review Letters, suggests that these collective effects help sidestep the traditional trade-offs between power and efficiency, potentially revolutionizing how we build and conceptualize engines.

The role of collective effects

By employing a design where many small components operate synergistically, the new engine model leverages collective advantages. This approach facilitates more effective energy conversion, pointing to exciting new directions for the development of advanced heat engines. Such engines could be crucial in reducing energy waste and improving the performance of power plants and even small-scale biological machines.

The biochemical innovation

Addressing the longstanding challenge of achieving near-Carnot efficiency, the researchers have pioneered a biochemical heat engine. This model draws inspiration from polymer folding theories and demonstrates the feasibility of surpassing traditional efficiency limits at maximum power output. This novel engine does not just aspire to theoretical ideals; it suggests practical applications that could transform our energy landscape.

Implications for future technology

The implications of this research are profound. If these new theories can be integrated into real-world applications, we might soon see a generation of power plants and engines that operate much more efficiently than current models predict. This shift would not only enhance energy sustainability but also pave the way for innovations in various fields, including industrial machinery and healthcare technologies.

Physical mechanisms and future prospects

The researchers have not only developed a new engine model but have also identified the underlying physical mechanisms that allow this breakthrough. Understanding these mechanisms provides invaluable insights into how collective properties within systems can be harnessed to break through conventional limits, offering a blueprint for future technological advancements.

800 and 1,000 hp at unbeatable prices: this famous American manufacturer unveils two monstrous engines… and you can buy them

This article explores how a revolutionary heat engine design by Chinese scientists challenges established thermodynamic laws by achieving maximum power alongside peak efficiency. This breakthrough not only redefines what is possible within the realm of energy conversion but also sets the stage for more sustainable and efficient technological applications in the future.

Source: https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.134.027101

This secret V12-powered car project has been hiding in plain sight for four years, and it’s just the beginning of Aston Martin’s bigger plan

Adrien Conges
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This secret V12-powered car project has been hiding in plain sight for four years, and it’s just the beginning of Aston Martin’s bigger plan

It’s official! Aston Martin has unveiled its Valkyrie AMR-LMH, ready to take on the world’s greatest endurance races.

But behind its return to WEC and IMSA—the two most famous championships—was a well-prepared plan that had been in the works for some time. Let’s break down this unique hypercar and the real intentions of the British brand.

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Aston Martin’s secret project

On paper, the Valkyrie AMR-LMH is the race version of an already extreme road-legal hypercar. Its naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine, developed by Cosworth, has been restricted to 670 horsepower to comply with endurance racing regulations—far from the 1,000 horsepower of the road version revealed in 2021. What seems like a constraint actually hides a more subtle strategy. Less power means greater reliability, a crucial factor in endurance racing. Could Aston Martin be looking to develop a modular platform capable of evolving with future regulations? The idea of returning to endurance racing isn’t new—initially, the brand had planned to enter the Valkyrie much earlier before canceling its program. This time, the commitment is official, but one can’t help but wonder if the brand is playing another card behind the scenes.

Aston Martin Valkyrie Hypercar
Aston Martin Valkyrie Hypercar

More than just a race car—A rolling laboratory?

Aston Martin’s decision to compete in both WEC and IMSA raises questions. By entering these two major championships, the Valkyrie positions itself as a true rolling laboratory. The brand could be testing technological solutions before integrating them into its road models. This approach has already been used by other manufacturers, like Toyota with the GR010 Hybrid, which serves as a foundation for the brand’s future electrified sports cars. Could Aston follow this path with a futuristic development for its upcoming models? Its presence in Formula 1 already allows it to develop technologies for its most exclusive and high-performance cars. With the gradual transition to hybrid and electric powertrains, the current Valkyrie could be a stepping stone toward a new generation of ultra-high-performance vehicles benefiting from racing experience. Take Ferrari, for example, which revealed its hypercar, the F80, featuring almost the same engine as its Le Mans-winning prototype.

Aston Martin Valkyrie Hypercar
Aston Martin Valkyrie Hypercar

A plan that goes beyond racing?

While the Valkyrie was designed for Le Mans and endurance racing, its design and performance suggest a much bigger project. Adrian Newey, the legendary engineer who worked on the Valkyrie’s design while at Red Bull, may have influenced ideas for a future generation of race-inspired road cars. Moreover, Aston Martin has demonstrated in recent years its ambition to rival Ferrari and Porsche, not just in endurance racing but also in the supercar and hypercar market. The Valkyrie AMR-LMH may just be the first building block of a much larger vision, aiming to redefine the brand at the dawn of a new technological era. But in any case, all this time, we already had Aston Martin’s prototype right in front of us with the Valkyrie—and now it’s heading to endurance racing!

This article explores the hidden project behind the Valkyrie and Aston Martin’s true ambitions. Far from being just a return to WEC and IMSA, this hypercar appears to be a key piece in a broader strategy that combines racing, innovation, and the future of the brand’s models.

Over 1,950 electric cars per hour! And yet, China still has a secret weapon up its sleeve with this battery built directly into the chassis

Images: © Aston Martin

The price of 3,140 Tesla Model 3! The most expensive car of all time is not the Ferrari 250 GTO but this other German model at $142 million

Matthieu Aigron
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The price of 3,140 Tesla Model 3! The most expensive car of all time is not the Ferrari 250 GTO but this other German model at $142 million

You won’t believe how much this classic car sold for.

In the world of classic cars, some vehicles transcend mere transportation to become legendary works of art. One such automobile recently shattered all expectations, setting a new benchmark for collector car values. This isn’t just any old car – it’s a piece of automotive history that has enthusiasts and investors alike buzzing with excitement. Let’s dive into the extraordinary tale of this record-breaking sale and explore why this particular vehicle commands such an astronomical price tag.

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A silver arrow strikes gold

The automotive world was left in awe when a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe sold for an eye-watering $142 million in May 2022. This sale, conducted by RM Sotheby’s on behalf of Mercedes-Benz, didn’t just break records – it obliterated them. To put this into perspective, the previous record holder for the most expensive car ever sold was a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, which fetched $70 million in 2018. The Uhlenhaut Coupe more than doubled that figure, cementing its place in the annals of automotive history.

This $900,000 Supercar is reviving the luxury of this European country on the brink, but one condition is still necessary for it to hit our roads

The birth of a legend

The story of the Uhlenhaut Coupe begins in the mid-1950s, a golden era for Mercedes-Benz in motorsport. Named after its creator, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the chief engineer of Mercedes’ racing department, this car was originally conceived as a hardtop version of the successful 300 SLR racing car. Only two prototypes were ever built, making it one of the rarest Mercedes models in existence.

What sets the Uhlenhaut Coupe apart is its unique blend of racing technology and road car comfort. It boasted a 3.0-liter straight-eight engine capable of producing 302 horsepower, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 180 mph – a staggering figure for the 1950s. Its distinctive gullwing doors, a hallmark of the 300 SL road car, added to its futuristic appeal.

A hidden treasure revealed

For decades, both Uhlenhaut Coupes remained in Mercedes-Benz’s possession, rarely seen by the public. They were considered crown jewels of the company’s collection, representing the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design from a bygone era. The decision to sell one of these treasures came as a surprise to many, sparking intense interest among collectors and historians alike.

1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe on display in Mercedes Museum , Stuttgart , Germany 2014
1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe on display in Mercedes Museum , Stuttgart , Germany 2014

The sale was shrouded in secrecy, with only select invited guests allowed to participate. The identity of the buyer remains undisclosed, adding an air of mystery to the already sensational story. What we do know is that the proceeds from the sale will be used to establish the Mercedes-Benz Fund, a global scholarship program focused on environmental science and decarbonization.

More than just a car

What makes the Uhlenhaut Coupe worth such an astronomical sum? It’s a combination of factors that elevate it from mere transportation to a work of art. Its rarity cannot be overstated – with only two in existence, it’s more scarce than many famous paintings. The car’s historical significance, representing the pinnacle of 1950s automotive technology, adds immeasurable value.

Moreover, the Uhlenhaut Coupe embodies a moment in time when Mercedes-Benz dominated the racing world. It’s a tangible link to the company’s golden age of motorsport, a period that helped shape the brand’s reputation for engineering excellence. For collectors, owning such a vehicle is akin to possessing a piece of history.

The impact on the classic car market

The record-breaking sale of the Uhlenhaut Coupe has sent shockwaves through the classic car market. It has redefined what’s possible in terms of valuation, potentially paving the way for other ultra-rare vehicles to command similarly staggering prices. This sale may encourage owners of other unique or historically significant cars to consider bringing them to market, hoping to capitalize on the current enthusiasm for automotive treasures.

 

However, it’s important to note that not all classic cars will see such dramatic increases in value. The Uhlenhaut Coupe occupies a unique position at the intersection of rarity, historical significance, and brand prestige. For the average classic car enthusiast, this sale represents an aspirational peak rather than a new norm.

Preserving automotive heritage

The sale of the Uhlenhaut Coupe raises important questions about the preservation of automotive heritage. While the car will remain accessible for special public displays, its new private ownership status changes its relationship with the public. This transaction highlights the delicate balance between private collection and public interest in historically significant vehicles.

Can a car be worth $124 million? The answer is yes with the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe.
Can a car be worth $142 million? The answer is yes with the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe.

On the positive side, the establishment of the Mercedes-Benz Fund ensures that the car’s legacy will continue to have a positive impact. By funding environmental research and education, the sale transforms a symbol of 1950s engineering into a catalyst for future innovation. It’s a poetic transition that bridges the gap between automotive history and the industry’s sustainable future.

This article explores the record-breaking sale of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, delving into its history, significance, and the implications of its $142 million price tag. We’ve examined the factors that make this car uniquely valuable, from its rarity to its technological innovations. The sale’s impact on the classic car market and the establishment of the Mercedes-Benz Fund highlight how this transaction goes beyond mere commerce, touching on issues of heritage preservation and future-oriented

Over 1,950 electric cars per hour! And yet, China still has a secret weapon up its sleeve with this battery built directly into the chassis

Adrien Conges
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0
Over 1,950 electric cars per hour! And yet, China still has a secret weapon up its sleeve with this battery built directly into the chassis

The automotive market is undergoing a major transformation, and one player is standing out: Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers.

Not only are they offering more competitive prices, but they are also betting on onboard technology that is far more advanced than the competition. Some even say their cars are no longer just EVs (electric vehicles) but EIVs—“intelligent electric vehicles.” So, what gives them this edge?

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An undisputed market dominance

The numbers speak for themselves: in 2024, Chinese manufacturers sold over 17 million electric vehicles, accounting for about 60% of global sales. And while China remains their biggest market, their influence is rapidly growing internationally. One of the reasons behind this meteoric rise is their ability to innovate quickly and offer technologically advanced models at much lower prices than Western manufacturers. In the United States and Europe, where price remains a key factor for the general public, this strategy is starting to weigh heavily against legacy brands. Tesla, for example, is seeing its dominance challenged by these newcomers, who are not afraid to compete aggressively on pricing while integrating cutting-edge technology.

Xiaomi SU7 - © Xiaomi
Xiaomi SU7 – © Xiaomi

Connectivity straight out of a sci-fi movie

Chinese cars aren’t just electric—they’re also ultra-connected. Take the Xiaomi SU7, for example, a model priced at around $30,000. This vehicle features a 16.1-inch infotainment screen, a 56-inch head-up display, and Apple CarPlay support—technologies usually reserved for high-end cars. But that’s not all: thanks to advanced connectivity, it allows users to control over 1,000 smart home devices remotely. Imagine turning on your lights or adjusting your home’s heating directly from your car! Driver assistance is also top-notch. With 11 cameras, 12 ultrasonic radars, and LiDAR technology combined with the power of the NVIDIA Drive Orin platform, these vehicles offer advanced autonomous driving and parking assistance capabilities that outshine some Western models.

Xiaomi Smart Chassis - © Xiaomi
Xiaomi Smart Chassis – © Xiaomi

CATL: The battery giant aiming to revolutionize the market

Behind the rise of Chinese electric vehicles, one name keeps coming up: CATL. This battery giant is no longer just a supplier—it aims to play a key role in designing the cars of the future. Its latest project, the “Bedrock Chassis,” is a modular platform that could accelerate the shift toward even smarter and safer electric vehicles. The goal? To simplify EV production by integrating batteries directly into the structure, optimizing both space and range. With this technology, CATL estimates it could tap into a market worth over $135 billion. This ambition underscores how China is reshaping the future of the automotive industry.

$42,000 for this? A simple scratch turns into a nightmare for owners of this American pickup that costs barely twice as much

This article explores how Chinese manufacturers are gaining a decisive edge in the electric vehicle sector. With competitive pricing, advanced connectivity, and major technological innovations, they are shaking up legacy brands and establishing themselves as market leaders—a trend that is likely to intensify in the coming years.

Images : © Xiaomi

The USA would leave China far behind to reclaim the position as the world’s number one electric vehicle power through the mastery of this new wireless charging process

Arthur Baquey
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The USA would leave China far behind to reclaim the position as the world’s number one electric vehicle power through the mastery of this new wireless charging process

Say goodbye to EV range anxiety: the future is here with Wireless charging highways!

Imagine driving your electric vehicle (EV) and never worrying about how much battery you have left. This vision is closer to reality than ever before, thanks to groundbreaking advancements in wireless charging technology developed by engineers at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). This transformative approach promises to redefine how we power our rides, potentially making ‘range anxiety’ a thing of the past.

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Wireless power transfer: driving the future today

At the core of this revolution is Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer (DWPT). This system incorporates transmitter pads embedded directly into road surfaces, enabling vehicles to charge as they drive. Initially tested on a dynamic roadway at Utah State University, the technology has demonstrated its potential in real-world conditions. The integration of these systems into our roads could soon allow continuous charging, dramatically altering our approach to EV infrastructure.

This $900,000 Supercar is reviving the luxury of this European country on the brink, but one condition is still necessary for it to hit our roads

Harnessing efficient energy models

To optimize the implementation of DWPT systems, UTEP engineers have pioneered a method to model electric load demands on the grid. Spearheaded by Professor Paras Mandal, this research aims for a comprehensive understanding of how dynamic charging can coexist sustainably with existing power networks. The team’s efforts focus on ensuring that this innovative charging solution can be scaled up without compromising the efficiency and reliability of the electrical grid.

The advantages of DWPT technology

Currently, most EVs rely on stationary charging stations, which can be sparse and often lead to long charging times. DWPT technology offers a seamless solution by allowing EVs to charge while in motion, thus eliminating the need for frequent stops to recharge and reducing the overall demand on public charging stations. This could significantly decrease urban congestion and lower the carbon footprint associated with vehicle charging.

Technical challenges and solutions

Integrating DWPT into our roads isn’t without challenges. One major hurdle is the complex electronic power simulations needed to handle high volumes of traffic and multiple charging transmitters. To address this, UTEP researchers developed a modified Toeplitz convolution method (mCONV) that accurately models power consumption based on varying road conditions, vehicle types, and traffic patterns.

Dynamic load management

This innovative modeling technique allows for precise predictions of energy needs across extensive networks of wireless charging roads, from a few transmitters to stretches spanning multiple miles. By using real-world traffic data, this method helps ensure that DWPT systems are both efficient and sustainable, preparing them for integration into existing road infrastructures.

Paving the way for a wireless world

Kenith Meissner, dean of the College of Engineering at UTEP, believes that this model will provide crucial insights for local and state authorities as well as utility companies. Understanding the implications of deploying DWPT technology is key to its success and widespread adoption, which could ultimately lead to a major shift in how we view mobility and EV usage.

Over $50 million for this car, yet it’s only the third most expensive ever sold

This article explores the innovative strides being made in the field of electric vehicle charging technology, specifically through the development of wireless charging roads. These advancements hold the potential to significantly impact the way we use and think about electric vehicles, promising a future where ‘range anxiety’ is effectively eliminated and sustainable transportation becomes the norm.

Source: https://www.utep.edu/newsfeed/2025/february/utep-engineers-model-electric-grid-demand-for-evs-to-charge-while-in-motion.html

$42,000 for this? A simple scratch turns into a nightmare for owners of this American pickup that costs barely twice as much

Adrien Conges
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0
$42,000 for this? A simple scratch turns into a nightmare for owners of this American pickup that costs barely twice as much

The cost of repairs on electric vehicles has always been a sensitive topic, and Rivian R1T owners regularly pay the price.

This electric pickup, already known for its hefty repair bills after accidents, has once again proven that even a minor fender bender can turn into a financial nightmare. Several recent incidents highlight just how expensive it can be to get these vehicles back in shape, even after the smallest impact.

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A simple scratch, a shocking bill

Take the example of an owner who barely hit a pole in a parking lot. From the outside, the damage seemed minimal: a cracked taillight, some chipped paint, and a slight scratch on the bumper. You’d probably think, “A quick trip to the body shop, just a minor repair,” right? Yet, the repair estimate skyrocketed to a staggering $7,490—far beyond the $1,400 initially estimated by the insurance company. This isn’t the first time an R1T has racked up a disproportionately high repair bill for a minor incident. What’s concerning isn’t just the exorbitant amount but also the complexity of the repair process, which consistently inflates costs.

A cracked taillight, some chipped paint, and a slight scratch on the bumper.
A cracked taillight, some chipped paint, and a slight scratch on the bumper.

When a minor collision costs more than a new car

Another Rivian owner had an even more shocking experience. After being lightly rear-ended by a Lexus RX330, he expected a reasonable repair bill. The other driver’s insurance initially estimated the damage at $1,600. But after taking the electric truck to a Rivian-certified repair center, the final bill soared past $42,000! Why such a massive increase? Simply because the R1T’s design requires dismantling large sections of the vehicle to replace certain parts. In this case, the entire rear body panel, tailgate, and even the rear window had to be removed just to access the damaged components. The result? Several months of downtime and a bill that would make any potential buyer think twice.

Rivian RT1 - © Rivian
Rivian RT1 – © Rivian

Why are Rivian repairs so expensive?

So, which electric car is the most expensive to maintain? Rivian owners aren’t the only ones facing outrageous repair costs, but this electric pickup seems to be particularly affected. The main reason? A design that prioritizes aesthetics and aerodynamics over repairability. Unlike other models where body panels can be replaced individually, some sections of the R1T are a single unit, meaning entire portions of the vehicle must be replaced if damaged—similar to certain supercars with carbon fiber body panels. On top of that, the limited number of certified repair centers and the need to recalibrate sensors and other onboard technologies drive the costs even higher. What a shame, the Rivian R1T which aims to be a rugged off-road pickup, is so exciting…

$5M almost wasted: He tests his Hypercar in his backyard after narrowly avoiding reducing it to ashes

This article explores how minor accidents with the Rivian R1T can result in exorbitant repair costs. With a complex design, specialized parts, and a shortage of repair centers, this electric pickup highlights the limitations of a still-young market. This raises an important question: as vehicle electrification becomes mainstream, could these extreme repair costs dampen drivers’ enthusiasm for EVs?

Images: NeverEverSayNever2 on Reddit

$5M almost wasted: He tests his Hypercar in his backyard after narrowly avoiding reducing it to ashes

Adrien Conges
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0
$5M almost wasted: He tests his Hypercar in his backyard after narrowly avoiding reducing it to ashes

Manny Khoshbin, a well-known investor famous for his impressive supercar collection, has just added an exceptional piece to his garage: a Bugatti Bolide.

This 1,850-horsepower hypercar, sold for around $5 million, is one of only 40 units produced by the French brand. But before he could fully enjoy it, he faced some unexpected difficulties. Between a complicated startup and a temperamental engine, his first experience didn’t go as planned.

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A startup that almost turned into a disaster

Unlike a regular car, where you simply turn a key or press a button, the Bugatti Bolide requires a full ritual to start. There’s no key here, but three switches that must be activated in the correct order, much like a fighter jet. This complexity caught Manny Khoshbin off guard during his first attempt. But that’s not all: the Bolide has no fans to cool its engine, meaning it can overheat quickly. During delivery, Bugatti engineers explained that an extended startup could raise the temperature to dangerous levels. The result? They didn’t even dare to start the car in front of him, opting instead to push it into his garage. He was also given detailed manuals and special equipment, including a battery charger, an air compressor, and F1-inspired slick tires.

The Bolide has no fans to cool its engine, meaning it can overheat quickly.
The Bolide has no fans to cool its engine, meaning it can overheat quickly.

First test… in his backyard

Waiting several months to test his new acquisition on a track was out of the question for Khoshbin. Too impatient, he decided to get behind the wheel immediately… but there was one problem: the Bolide isn’t street-legal. That meant his playground was limited to his massive private property. After finally mastering the startup procedure, he strapped himself into the five-point harness and cautiously drove out of the garage. Within the first few meters, he was struck by the chassis’s stiffness and the responsiveness of the steering. “It’s an absolute monster,” he exclaimed as he completed a few laps on his personal track. His heart was pounding so much that he joked about needing a massage after every driving session.

The Bolide’s power is so extreme that even a short ride in his backyard was enough to give him a glimpse of its potential. He repeatedly shouted, “Oh my God!” as the experience overwhelmed him. But a major issue was already looming: with an almost empty fuel tank, he knew this thrill wouldn’t last long.

Manny Khoshbin testing his Bugatti Bolide in his backyard.
Manny Khoshbin testing his Bugatti Bolide in his backyard.

An extreme hypercar, but not made for the road

While the Bugatti Bolide is breathtaking in terms of performance, it’s far from a comfortable luxury car. Unlike his Rolls-Royces or even other, more civilized Bugatti models like the Chiron, this hypercar is entirely focused on performance. Every detail, from its featherweight 2,734 lbs (1,240 kg) chassis to its track-oriented tires, is designed for the racetrack. In May, Khoshbin will finally be able to unleash his Bolide at a private event organized by Bugatti. It will be the perfect opportunity to see what this machine is truly capable of on a proper track. Until then, he’ll have to settle for a few laps around his estate… while being careful not to overheat the car and turn this gem into a fireball.

This article explores Manny Khoshbin’s first try with his Bugatti Bolide in his backyard, a hypercar as impressive as it is challenging to tame. With a startup process fit for a fighter jet and demanding mechanical constraints, this car is definitely not for everyone.

For $20,000, you’ll get the smallest yet most stylish car on the market, inspired by the national icon of the land of city cars

Images: © Manny Khoshbin on YouTube

For $20,000, you’ll get the smallest yet most stylish car on the market, inspired by the national icon of the land of city cars

Matthieu Aigron
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For $20,000, you’ll get the smallest yet most stylish car on the market, inspired by the national icon of the land of city cars

The Citroën Ami is an unconventional car well known in Europe, but for those looking for even more style, a neo-retro version is now available.

Thanks to a kit designed by the Italian coachbuilder Caselani, this small electric city car takes on a look inspired by the iconic French Type H van from the 1940s. While the idea is appealing, the transformation comes at a significant cost. So, is this revamped Ami really worth it?

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A retro design full of character

Behind this transformation is David Obendorfer, a designer known for modernizing iconic models. After already redesigning several Citroën utility vehicles, he now turns his attention to the Ami, giving it an entirely new fiberglass body. The goal? To replicate the ribbed look of the Type H, the legendary French van produced between 1947 and 1981. The kit, which attaches directly to the original structure, does not alter the mechanics. Only the exterior and a few aesthetic details change, with a large vertical grille and ribbed surfaces that echo Citroën’s DNA. Available in nine base colors, this retro Ami can also be customized for an even more unique look. A true vintage makeover that will appeal to both nostalgia lovers and Ami enthusiasts.

Citroen Type Ami - © Caselani
Citroen Type Ami – © Caselani

Still just as practical, but no more powerful

Despite its vintage look, the Type-Ami retains the technical specifications of the standard version. Its electric motor still produces 8 horsepower (6 kW), and its 5.5 kWh battery offers a theoretical range of about 47 miles. Its top speed remains limited to 28 mph, classifying it as a light quadricycle accessible from the age of 14 in Europe. This revamped Ami remains ideal for city driving, with its ultra-compact 7.9 ft (2.41-meter) length and tight turning radius making maneuvering easy. However, its minimalistic comfort remains unchanged: no soundproofing, firm suspension, and a stripped-down interior. It’s a shame Caselani didn’t extend the transformation to the cabin, which remains identical to the original model.

Citroen Type Ami - © Caselani
Citroen Type Ami – © Caselani

A unique style, but at what price?

This retro Ami is sure to turn heads, but the price tag is quite steep. The kit alone costs around €5,000 ($5,400), on top of the car’s base price of about €13,400 ($14,500). A significant investment for a purely aesthetic transformation. Unfortunately, the cost adds up quickly. While the standard Ami attracts buyers with its affordability and practicality, this Caselani version is aimed more at design enthusiasts and classic car collectors. The real question is whether the nostalgic look justifies nearly doubling the price—and whether demand will be strong enough for the Italian coachbuilder. Either way, this new version is probably the most stylish city car out there!

This article explores the transformation of the small electric city Citroën Ami into a tribute to the Type H through Caselani’s kit. While the neo-retro design is appealing, the car retains its technical characteristics without any comfort improvements. With a high cost for a purely aesthetic revamp, this version primarily targets vintage-style vehicle enthusiasts.

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Images: © Caselani

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