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Weekly News #3
This weeks hot topic:
Is BMW silently working on a “Neue Klasse” and is the 6-Series coming back?
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Here are the most important news from last week!
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What’s it about this weird looking new BMW?
BMW “Neue Klasse”, Image 1
BMW “Neue Klasse”, Image 2
BMW is rumored to be developing a new supercar, possibly the most promising one yet. Previous attempts, such as the BMW “i16”, were canceled due to business and financial concerns. A recently spotted “Neue Klasse” prototype hints at a unique design, featuring a two-door layout, shark nose, and minimalist elements. The supercar could deliver up to 1,350 HP with a fully electric drivetrain. While not officially confirmed, this project shows significant potential compared to previous efforts. Could we see a new bavarian supercar in the coming 2-3 years?
Mercedes-Benz Sales Numbers: June 2024 was deep, deep red.
Is the star bleeding?
Mercedes-Benz experienced a significant decline in sales in June 2024, with a 15.3% drop in new registrations in Germany compared to the same month last year. This is contrasted by a 6.1% increase in the overall German car market. The company's first-half sales in 2024 fell by 12.7% year-over-year, while competitors like BMW saw growth. The overall electric vehicle market also saw a decline, with a notable 18.1% drop in new BEV registrations in June. Is Mercedes’ new “luxury strategy” not as efficient as thought?
Goodbye, X4. BMW is killing her.
The X4 will be going, forever. (At least in combustion engine form)
BMW is set to discontinue the X4 model after two generations and about 10 years in production. The X4, introduced in 2013, gained attention for its coupe-SUV design. A second generation was launched in 2018, but it will be the last for now. The discontinuation aligns with the release of a new X3 generation. While an exact end date for the X4 hasn't been specified, it is expected soon.
But, BMW is rumored to be developing an electric successor, possibly named the iX4, to continue the coupe-SUV legacy.
Are we getting the BMW 6-Series back?
The 2011-2018 BMW 6-Series that got replaced by the current 8-Series
Well, this is not a joke. BMW is set to revive the 6 Series in 2026, reintroducing it in coupe and convertible forms. The new 6 Series will be built on BMW's Cluster Architecture platform and will offer a range of powertrains, including gasoline, hybrid, and electric options. This move aligns with BMW's strategy to expand its electrified vehicle offerings, aiming for EVs to make up half of its sales by 2030. Consequently, the 8 Series and internal combustion 4 Series will be stopped, with their production ending around 2026 (8-Series) and 2028 (4-Series).
These changes reflect BMW's broader shift towards electrification and addressing consumer demand for both performance-oriented and environmentally friendly vehicles.
There are also rumors that BMW is considering stopping production of the current Monster, the XM. But more on that next week.
Interest in the Porsche Taycan is also on a decline…
The Porsche Taycan in its production plant
Porsche is reportedly reducing production of the Taycan due to declining demand. This adjustment is expected to affect both the Zuffenhausen factory, where the Taycan is manufactured, and the related supply chains. The company explains the decrease in demand to a combination of factors, including economic conditions and increased competition in the electric vehicle market. Chinese markets?
The Taycan has faced a challenging market environment despite its innovative technology and performance capabilities. The production cuts highlight the broader challenges automakers face as, especially, the Chinese manufacturers gain momentum.
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