Welcome Back, Car Enthusiasts to Turbo Times - your gateway to the world of cars!

The rain evidently makes people a little more stupid…

News from The Paddock

A car chase… but in reverse?! 🤔 

Toyota Land Cruiser that’s so light it can be lifted by two people 💪 

Aggressive driving is climbing in cities around the holiday period 🎄

Unveilings

Morgan Launches Electric XP1 Three-Wheeler

Morgan, revered for its classic cars, has unveiled the XP1, a groundbreaking electric three-wheeler, breaking tradition yet retaining its iconic charm. The XP1, based on the Super 3 chassis, weighs under 700kg despite its 33kWh battery. It boasts a 100kW motor from iNetic, driving the rear wheel, and maintains Morgan's lightweight ethos. The XP1 combines aerodynamic efficiency with Morgan's timeless design, reflecting a significant step into electrification while preserving the brand's heritage. This prototype symbolizes Morgan's commitment to evolving with the automotive industry's electric future. Click the video below to get a look at this beast

Mercedes-Benz CLE 53 AMG Revealed

Mercedes-Benz has launched the AMG CLE 53, a powerful 3.0-litre AMG coupe, which is the new midpoint between the C-Class and E-Class Coupes. This robust model, equipped with a 442bhp straight-six turbo engine, accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds and tops out at 155mph. It features adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering, and a ‘fully variable’ all-wheel drive. The CLE 53's engine, an updated M256M, includes double turbocharging and a 48v mild-hybrid system, producing 442 horsepower and 413lb ft of torque. Enhanced with a wider track, 20-inch wheels, and AMG Ride Control, it promises a dynamic driving experience with various modes like Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The interior boasts high-tech amenities and, with the UK-specific Pro Performance package, offers even more upgrades for performance enthusiasts. Pricing details are still under wraps, but expectations are high for this elegantly powerful coupe. Click the link below and check it out 👇

Sale of the Week

2020 BAC Mono - Sold for $196,000

An eye-catching 2020 BAC Mono has been snapped up for $196,000, marking a significant sale for the British automotive market. This distinctive single-seater sports a Mountune Racing 2,488cc inline-four engine paired with a six-speed Hewland sequential gearbox. The Mono's striking presence is further enhanced by its silver paint with teal accents, reminiscent of the Petronas livery on Mercedes-AMG F1 cars.

Weighing in at just 877 miles on the odometer, this Mono features a carbon-fiber composite body, providing a lightweight yet robust structure. The 17" Dymag carbon-fiber wheels add to the car's sleek design and performance efficiency. Inside, the cockpit is adorned with black upholstery, complemented by teal stitching, and includes a multifunction steering wheel on a quick-release hub, an electrical cutoff switch, and a Willans safety harness.

This unique vehicle, previously available in Colorado, promises a blend of high performance and exclusive design, making it a coveted addition to any car enthusiast's collection. Congratulations to the new owner of this 2020 BAC Mono, a standout example of British engineering and design prowess.

Click the video below to see a video of the Mono in action 👇️ 

Buying?

Testing an Electric Car's Battery Health

When considering a pre-owned electric car or maintaining one you own, assessing the battery's health is crucial. Here's a simple guide to check the health of the larger lithium-ion battery that powers the motor:

1. Dashboard Monitoring: Check the range estimation on the dashboard after fully charging the car. Compare the miles you get with the estimated range. A significant discrepancy could indicate battery issues.

2. State of Charge (SOC): Monitor the SOC displayed on the dashboard or infotainment screen. Rapid drops in SOC could signal battery problems.

3. Battery Health Indicators: Most electric vehicles have a Battery Management System (BMS) showing battery temperature, voltage, and current. Consistently monitor these indicators for any abnormal readings.

4. Diagnostic Scan at Service Centres: For an in-depth assessment, get a diagnostic scan at a certified service center. They use specialized equipment to provide detailed insights into battery health.

5. Manufacturer's Software Tools: Use manufacturer-provided software or apps for a comprehensive overview of your electric car's battery health. These often work with an OBD2 reader and provide detailed battery statistics.

6. OBD2 Readers and Scanners: Use an OBD2 reader or scanner to access the car's Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). This can reveal battery-related issues.

7. Multimeter: For a more hands-on approach, use a multimeter to measure voltage, current, and resistance related to the battery.

8. Battery Tester: Invest in a battery tester specifically designed for electric vehicle batteries to measure state of charge, voltage, and temperature.

Tips for Prolonging Battery Life:

• Regular Charging: Aim to keep the charge level above 20% and below 80%, especially for routine use.

• Slow Charging: Prefer slow charging methods to minimize heat and stress on the battery.

• Temperature Management: Park in shaded areas during hot weather and store the car in a garage during cold weather.

• Gentle Driving: Avoid aggressive acceleration and heavy braking.

• Software Updates: Keep the car's software updated to optimize battery performance.

• Routine Maintenance: Ensure regular car maintenance, including inflating the tires.

• Proper Storage: If the car won't be used for a while, store it in a cool, dry place with a charge level between 40% and 60%.

Upcoming Automotive Events

Advanced Automotive Battery Conference: San Diego, USA, Monday, December 11th - Thursday, 14th December

This Week In Automotive History

First Mini Cooper Prototype Created

This week in automotive history, we celebrate an iconic moment: on December 14, 1959, the first Mini Cooper prototype was created, marking the birth of a car that would become a symbol of the 1960s and revolutionize small car design.

Original Mini Cooper Prototype

The original Mini Cooper was a breakthrough in automotive engineering and design. Conceived by designer Alec Issigonis, it was developed in response to the time's fuel shortages and economic challenges. The Mini Cooper's compact dimensions, front-wheel drive, and innovative transverse engine layout were revolutionary, maximizing interior space while maintaining a small footprint.

The Genesis of a Legend

The Mini Cooper was more than just a small economy car from its inception. It combined practicality with a fun driving experience, becoming a favorite among everyday drivers and celebrities alike. The Mini Cooper's unique combination of affordability, efficiency, and enjoyable driving dynamics made it an instant hit.

The Mini Cooper also achieved success in motorsport, most notably in rallying, where its agility and handling shone. The car's rally successes further cemented its status as a cultural icon of the 1960s.

Legacy and Influence

The Mini Cooper's influence on car design is immeasurable. It introduced and popularized the concept of the small, space-efficient urban car, which has inspired countless vehicles since. Its iconic design and cultural impact have endured over the decades, leading to numerous iterations and modern revivals.

As we look back this week at the creation of the first Mini Cooper prototype, we celebrate not just the inception of a car but the genesis of an automotive and cultural phenomenon. The Mini Cooper was more than just a vehicle; it was a testament to innovative design and a symbol of a vibrant era in automotive history.

Industry Insights

📈 China's Car Sales Surge Amid Intense Price Wars

China's car sales in November 2023 witnessed a significant 25.5% year-on-year increase, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth, as reported by Reuters. With sales totaling 2.1 million units, this acceleration was fueled by heightened competition and discounts among automakers. Notably, new energy vehicles (NEVs) – electric and plug-in hybrids – saw a 39.8% rise, comprising 40% of total sales. Major EV manufacturers BYD and others offered promotions, responding to economic challenges and an upcoming tax break change. After initiating a price war, Tesla made several price hikes, focusing on profitability at its Shanghai factory. China’s car market shows robust growth, especially in the NEV sector.

🧑‍⚕️ Tesla Cybertruck Design Sparks Safety Debates

Tesla's Cybertruck, with its angular, stainless-steel design, has raised safety concerns among experts. Reuters interviewed six safety professionals who expressed worries about the vehicle's potential risk to pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars. The truck's rigid exoskeleton could cause more harm in collisions. Although Tesla showcased the truck's impact-absorbing features during a recent launch event, experts need more data to form definitive conclusions about its safety. The Cybertruck's design, reminiscent of the DeLorean, includes energy-absorbing ribs and door skins designed to bear crash loads. However, its limited "crumple zones" and high acceleration pose additional risks, especially to non-occupants. Tesla has yet to confirm if the Cybertruck will be sold in Europe, where its size and power could conflict with pedestrian safety regulations.

Thanks for tuning into this week’s TurboTimes. We’ll be back again next week to bring you all the updates on the world of cars.