BRABUS just revealed a SL63… Estate?!

The BRABUS Rocket GTS, (obviously) based on the Mercedes-AMG SL 63, features a tuned 4.5L V8 engine, producing 1’000 HP and 1’820 NM of torque. The 2+2 seater accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2,6 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 317 km/h. The price is expected to start at around 800’000€ (≈ 870’000 USD). For the money, you get (as you can see) lots and lots of carbon fiber both on the exterior and interior.

Mercedes-Benz in an absolute Crisis? Q3 numbers are here and they are…

Mercedes-Benz Cars experienced a sharp 64% drop in profit for Q3 2024, falling from €3.4 billion to €1.2 billion year-over-year. CFO Harald Wilhelm acknowledged that the results fell short of expectations, citing market challenges. However, he noted that the company still managed to generate a solid cash flow. In response, Mercedes-Benz plans to intensify efforts to improve efficiency and reduce costs across the business, while closely monitoring market conditions.

Hollywood is working on a movie about Ettore Bugatti

A new Bugatti movie is in the works, directed by Robert Moresco, known for the movie "Ferrari" and "Lamborghini." The film will explore the life and legacy of Ettore Bugatti, the founder of the iconic automotive brand. The biopic aims to delve into Bugatti's struggles and triumphs in building one of the world's most legendary car companies. With Moresco’s experience in automotive-themed films, expectations from fans are high for a cinematic portrayal that captures the spirit of innovation and ambition behind the Bugatti name.

Brands like Porsche, Aston Martin and Mercedes are building skyscrapers - but why?

Ever wondered why luxury car brands like Porsche, Aston Martin and now Mercedes in Dubai are building skyscrapers? It turns out that the power of their brand extends far beyond the cars they produce, and people are willing to pay a hefty premium to be associated with these iconic names.⁠

In recent years, automotive giants have recognized the immense value of their brand identity and the lifestyle associated with it. By venturing into high-end real estate, they are capitalizing on the desire of affluent individuals to align themselves with the prestige and exclusivity that these brands represent.⁠ Interestingly, these brands found out that branded residences can fetch up to 40% more in value compared to non-branded alternatives, making it a lucrative opportunity for automakers to expand their reach and tap into new revenue streams.

Therefore, slapping your companies name on a building and adding a premium of around 40% while clients enjoy it, is the short answer.

BMW and Toyota team up to build hydrogen combustion engines

BMW and Toyota have extended their partnership to develop a third-generation hydrogen fuel cell system, aiming for BMW's first mass-produced hydrogen car by 2028. They plan to make fuel cell vehicles more accessible by sharing development and procurement efforts. The collaboration also focuses on establishing a sustainable hydrogen infrastructure, including supply networks and refueling stations. Both companies view this as crucial for achieving carbon neutrality, with Toyota emphasizing hydrogen's role alongside electric and hybrid vehicles, and BMW considering it a step toward future mobility.

❤️ That’s your weekly wrap-up of all things automotive! Thanks for tuning in, and if you enjoyed it, please share this newsletter with a friend - it would make our day!