The word “automobile” entered the English lexicon from French in the late 18th century, a compound of the Ancient Greek autós (αὐτός) which means “self” and the Latin mobilis which means “movable”. Originally referencing how manmade vehicles transitioned from relying on external sources of power, such as horses, to being powered by their own engines, it seems ironic now that the word foreshadowed in itself the advent of truly “self-driving” vehicles. 

Self-driving vehicles are becoming more and more of a reality in the automobile industry today. To qualify as fully autonomous, a self-driving vehicle must be able to both chart a path from point A to B and navigate the route by itself safely, free from human intervention. Currently, these works-in-progress rely on a combination of sensors which read the external environment (i.e. cameras, radar, lidar etc.) and artificial intelligence (AI) to make sense of the feedback to do so.

Companies developing self-driving cars range from Audi to Google, though Google’s Waymo in partnership with Lyft has already launched their own fully autonomous commercial ride-sharing service, Waymo One. The service is ongoing testing but is currently available in the US cities of Phoenix, San Francisco and soon, Los Angeles. 

The tech race to make cars self-driving is very much in line with the rise of Web3 and Big Data, where data is not only decentralised but also harnessed to power machine learning and AI – the digitisation of manual processes into automatic ones and the further obscuring of layers and layers of hardware into smooth, clean surfaces which operate multitudes of softwares seamlessly through a touch of a finger.  

Self-driving cars are nothing short of a technological wonder, but at the same time, they problematise the definition of what makes a good car. Sustainability, road safety, and comfort are aspects of car-making all car makers aim to excel in. Yet, the removal of the driver themselves seems to transform the car into a whole other beast. Perhaps then, the question we should be asking in the world of luxury motoring is not what makes a good car, but what makes a beloved car.  

The Driver Makes the Car  

Call it what you will: an effective marketing model or consumer-centric branding; cars are defined by the people who drive them. It may be a bit of a chicken-and-egg conundrum figuring out which came first, the discursive image of the ideal car owner or the loyal car lovers themselves. Regardless, the relationship between cars and the people who love, own or hope to own them is an intimate one – a relationship built around the sheer euphoric act of driving. 

One need look no further for proof than history’s most famous car – James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5. The DB5 has captured the hearts of many a car lover since its debut in 1963, not least because its Agent 007 who’s behind the wheel, but also because of what it means to drive it. Between chasing down villains along winding cobbled streets and silently speeding off from one city to the next in the dead of night as international spies do – the movies only show off what the car was built to do: work like a beast.

One of the fastest cars in the world at the time, the DB5 featured a 4.0 litre naturally-aspirated straight-six producing 282bhp and 380Nm, all that power sent through a five-speed manual gearbox to the rear wheels. Cornering in the DB5 lies just a step shy of being hardcore, though the heavier the steering is on such cars, the less input is needed mid-turn. The engine however more than makes up for it with its smooth, graceful ride at enormous velocities, living up to the DB5’s status as a grand tourer. Even modern GTs with their sophisticated suspension geometry and adaptive damping would struggle to match this senior in ride softness. 

At the car’s helm is a more than well-tuned cushy leather seat which sets the driver up for extra visibility, along with a generously-sized tactile wooden steering wheel paired with a comfortingly delicate gear knob, fitted for your driving pleasure. The pedals have also been known to be so skinny that the driver would feel clumsy in everyday sneakers, almost as if demanding you to suit up in a pair of well-shined oxfords. The wind noise over the front wings due to the lack of soundproofing is almost welcome, a reminder to the driver that they are already shifting into serious speed. 

The DB5 was discontinued in 1965 but received a special limited re-production of 25 units in 2020 to match the release of the last Daniel Craig Bond film, No Time to Die – a testament not just to its enshrined place in motoring history as the Agent 007 car, but also to the love of cars that were meant to be learnt, almost struggled with and finally, masterfully driven. The 2020 DB5 goes for a hefty price of 3.6 million USD. With such an iconic name as the DB5 at the centre of luxury motoring, could one bear a switch to self-driving cars? Without James Bond skilfully in the driver’s seat, the iconic DB5 seems to lose a huge chunk of what makes it so beloved.

Disrupting the Automobile Industry

It is perhaps this lack of identity that defines the self-driving car. Autonomous vehicles, after all, are not made for driving – they were made to fulfil social purpose. In the US, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 94% of serious crashes are due to human error, including drunk or negligent driving. Self-driving cars seek to be answer to the inherent problem in human effort – risk of failure from exhaustion. Besides aiming to increase road safety, the autonomous vehicle industry also promises to help lower carbon footprint through increasing fuel efficiency and self-driving car-sharing.

In the US and Europe, autonomous trucks are undergoing testing in hopes of improving the safety and work quality of truck drivers over long distances, while Beijing, China is in the midst of deploying autonomous street-sweeping vehicles in the city. These projects are disrupting the automobile industry by fundamentally changing the way cars are designed. In this vein, cars are not made for the driver but instead, made to make up for a driver’s inherent limitations.

Still, fully autonomous self-driving cars are far from complete with countless reports of errors and accidents. The technology is growing, but very much slowly. The problem of growth and scaling in the industry is perhaps most obviously evinced by the lost of the allure the world had for Elon Musk’s Tesla back in 2021 when he first announced that he would have “over a million Tesla cars on the road with full self-driving hardware”. Tesla’s stock might be enjoying a resurgence this summer, but it can only be described as “volatile” and “risky”. It hit a 52-week low of just over a 100USD a share back in January, having to climb up by more than 130% in June. Musk has been struggling with supply chain disruptions since 2021, eager to cut costs to improve his margins and produce a more marketable and affordable self-driving car.

His crosshairs landed on radar technology, a core component of the autonomous vehicle’s ability to detect hazards from afar. Without radar, Teslas would be susceptible to even basic perception errors and worse, crashes and collisions. In the past 2 years, reports of Teslas misinterpreting street signs, aggressively braking from high speeds for imaginary hazards and even fatal accidents have been steadily floating to the surface. The rush to scale and cut costs might be typical of any tech startup, but almost antithetical to the spirit of luxury motoring.

Luxury is Permanence

After all the innovation and design has passed, what remains in the figure of the luxury car? The truth is, a true luxury car is that which represents the unattainable. Never mind the multi-million dollar price tags, the top cars of the luxury motoring world are as rare as fine jewels. They conjure the joy of driving not so much because of the luxury driving experience, but because most people can only dream of being able to drive one.

Self-driving and luxury cars seem to have one thing in common: they are both not meant to be driven. The former disrupts what a car is by removing the driver and aims to fulfil as many human functions as possible – a rush to innovate and create. The latter, however, is focused on refining what a car is by centring the experience of a single driver, striving for perfection and becoming so sought after that it becomes rare, only to be seen on the roads when its lucky owner decides to take it out on a spin. Therein lies the euphoria of driving a luxury car, to be in a seat which is universally beloved across time.

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The luxury sector is resilient. In the first quarter of 2023, major players in the field like LVHM, Hermès and Kering have beaten analysts’ expectations and achieved significant growth. In particular, LVMH, the parent owner of Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Tiffany & Co., is now Europe’s most valuable company at US$500 billion. What this means is that despite mounting inflationary pressures and economic uncertainty, the demand for luxury goods still remains high. 

Extending beyond personal luxury goods like fashion, beauty and accessories, the sector for luxury cars is also seeing positive growth. Car makers like Lamborghini, Bentley, Porsche and Ferrari have posted double-digit growth for their respective first quarters. Leading the pack is Lamborghini with 46.1 per cent which amounted to €260 million. The Italian marque also mentioned that this was its best first-quarter result ever. 

• READ MORE: Strength to Strength: LVMH Bulls Through Q1 2023

Stephan Winkelmann, the Chairman and CEO of Lamborghini said: “2023 will go down in Lamborghini as a landmark period in our history, and starting off our anniversary year with these figures can only make us proud. These results will allow us to tackle the upcoming challenges with increased enthusiasm. These include the start of the second stage of the “Direzione Cor Tauri” program, the most important investment plan in the company’s history, which will help Lamborghini to grow and develop even further.”

At British marque Bentley, its operation profit grew by 27 per cent to €216 million year-on-year while its revenue increased by 9 per cent to €882 million. The company said that “much of this was due to continued strong interest in model customisation, higher specification derivatives and higher option uptake, including the sales of unique Mulliner Coachbuilt and Limited Edition models.” 

While for German marker Porsche, it has been a great start so far as the company recorded a 25.5 per cent increase in revenue over the same quarter last year to €10.10 billion while the operating profit surged by 25.4 per cent to €1.84 billion. Among the different models, the SUVs are the most popular model with the Macan taking the lead at 23,880 units delivered to customers. 

• READ MORE: Green With Envy — Porsche 911 Carrera S

For Ferrari, the company’s core earnings rose by 27 per cent to €1.42 billion when compared to the same period last year. As for the Prancing Horse’s operating profit, it is €385 million — a 25.3 per cent increase. The Italian luxury sportscar maker said it was reopening orders for the Purosangue, which had been suspended due to initial “unprecedented” demand. As one of the top models from the brand, Ferrari further shared that its order book filled up to the end of 2025 and those who had placed their order will have to wait until 2026 for it to be delivered.

With such a stellar first quarter, the financial performances of these luxury car brands show that the once perfect correlation between the stock market and luxury spending has been debunked. This is likely because the rich hold a more diverse portfolio and are less susceptible to market headwinds. 

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For petrolheads around the world, 2 May was a day to remember as Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced that it would be ceasing the production of its Dawn convertible. The much-beloved model first debuted at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show as the successor to the Phantom Drophead Coupe.

Rolls-Royce said the Dawn was the “best-selling drophead in the brand’s history as it takes its own unique place in the pantheon of great Rolls-Royce motor cars.” Its mission was to appeal to “an increasingly youthful, universally self-confident and sociable client base”, and it delivered results. 

The history of the Dawn, however, could be traced further back to the early 50s — the Silver Dawn drophead coupe. Its modern reincarnation perfectly embodied the expression “la dolce vita“. As a brand representing ultimate luxury and pleasure, the phrase rings aptly as owning a Rolls-Royce car is about savouring every moment and living fully in the present. 

“In reviving the Dawn nameplate, Rolls-Royce reinvigorated something much more than a motor car — like the glamourous convertible it drew inspiration from, the contemporary Dawn has come to characterise a modern expression of ‘la dolce vita’; a way of living that embraces the beauty and richness of life,” shared Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

• READ MORE: Rolls-Royce x Iris van Herpen: Phantom Syntopia

Dawn’s success prompted the marque to launch an even more powerful Black Badge model in 2017. The standard model is a V12 twin-turbo engine with 563 hp and 820 Nm while the latter delivers 593 hp and 840 Nm of torque. The discontinuation of the Dawn also marked a step closer for the brand towards electrification. Its first electric car, Spectre, will reach showrooms at the end of 2023.

The design of the Dawn was influenced by the fashion trends of the 1950s and 1960s, which emphasised elegance through minimalism and accentuating the wearer’s silhouette. This is reflected in the car’s sleek and uncomplicated design, which envelops the passengers luxuriously and fashionably, similar to how a raised collar on a coat can provide comfort and privacy. As a result, the interior of the Dawn offers a stylish and comfortable environment for its occupants.

• READ MORE: Rolls-Royce Unveils Most Advanced Black Badge Motorcar Yet in SEA

About 80 per cent of the Dawn’s panels were made new, including its “wake channel” on the bonnet, which Rolls-Royce’s Spirit of Ecstasy is traditionally found. Additionally, the marque is not shy about breaking away from the norm. Instead of conforming to the usual configuration for a convertible where only the driver and the front passenger get full-size seating, the Dawn has been designed to provide comfort to all four occupants.

Elsewhere, instead of a hardtop, its designers decided that the Dawn’s roof would be created from fabric “to retain the romance of listening to raindrops on canvas”. Extensive research is devoted to optimising the best convertible experience and the result has made Rolls-Royce one of the leading marques in aerodynamic comfort with the roof down. Furthermore, the Dawn is famously dubbed “the world’s quietest convertible”.

“As production of Dawn draws to a close, we can reflect on an extraordinary chapter in the marque’s history. This beautiful motor car perfectly embodies contemporary luxury while celebrating the marque’s founding principles and heritage,” said Müller-Ötvös.

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Italian carmaker Maserati, known to manufacture some of the world’s fastest and most luxurious sports and passenger cars, has launched a new SUV class to complement its range of automobiles. The brand calls it “Grecale”, which in Italian means a north-easterly Mediterranean wind. Like other models, Maserati named it after the world’s most famous winds to reflect its speedy nature.

Its base model, the Grecale GT can hit 60mph in fewer than 5.6 seconds and 124 mph in 23.7 seconds. This performance has already surpassed its fellow German competitor. In today’s fast-paced world, having an SUV like the Grecale makes commuting between places an easy feat. Its five-seater arrangement is just about right for a young family looking for a car, and each model has three basic drive modes (Comfort, GT and Sport) that the driver can toggle depending on the need.

• READ MORE: Top Luxury Electric Cars in 2022

For daily commutes in a city like Singapore, the ideal driving mode is Comfort, which guarantees maximum usability and comfort while ensuring peak efficiency. For those living in a country with long roads, the Sport mode will come in handy. Pedal sensitivity and gear change are set to peak performance and the driving position is lowered by 15mm — the spotlight is now on you and any preconceived notions of what an SUV can deliver will be rewritten.

The Grecale features a wide selection of powertrains, from conventional internal combustion engines to hybrid and a fully electric variation next year. As more countries move toward a greener future, the electric model, the Folgore, will most likely be a top pick for many across the world. Furthermore, it will be Maserati’s first fully electric SUV in its brand history and sets the standard for other upcoming electric vehicles the Trident brand has in its blueprint.

• READ MORE: Hybrid and Electric Luxury Car Sales Are On the Rise

“The Everyday Exceptional” is the tagline for the Grecale, and it is an amalgamation of passion, innovation, versatility and style. These qualities are exemplified throughout the SUV starting from the exterior, which is the second series to adopt Maserati’s new styling direction after the marque’s flagship MC20. The car’s face features a distinctive Maserati grille but the rest of its bulbous body is emblematic of a typical SUV like its fellow competitors from Alfa Romeo, Porsche and BMW.

Moving into the cabin, you will be greeted by the modern touches available such as the 12.3-inch dashboard containing a digital gauge cluster and a pair of touchscreens on the centre stack. A first for Maserati is the fitting of a digital clock, which not only tells time but also emits a signal response when a voice command is issued. Furthermore, the clock face can become a compass, an essential tool when embarking on an off-road journey.

When choosing an Italian brand like Maserati, you would be sure to know that you will be living each day without any compromise. Be it with your family in the city or road-tripping with your friends, the Triden brand’s Grecale model is there to confer you luxurious comfort paired with supreme performance that the marque is well-known for in the automobile world.

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When Lamborghini announced that it would discontinue the production of the Aventador, it signalled the end of an era. For a decade, the Aventador represented the pinnacle of luxury sports cars, and the last naturally aspirated Lamborghini to be produced in Sant’Agata Bolognese was the Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae Roadster. But following months of teases and speculations, the Raging Bull has unveiled a successor for the Aventador, the Lamborghini Revuelto — the first super sports V12 hybrid plug-in HPEV (High Performance Electrified Vehicle).

This beast is a befitting sports car to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Lamborghini while also marked the first foray into the world of electrification by the Italian automaker. According to the plans set forth by the brand, it is on track to become electrified, and the Revuelto is the first hybrid model from Lamborghini. Powering the Revuelto is a combination of an internal combustion engine as well as three electric motors. The former is Lamborghini’s signature 6.5-litre V12 engine, which has been used in its flagships for decades. With the aspirated engine alone, the Revuelto can deliver 814bhp at 9,250rmp and 725Nm of torque. Combined with the three electric motors, the car can hit 1,001bhp. 

• READ MORE: RM Sotheby’s Auctions off the Last Lamborghini Aventador Coupé Ever Made

As for the “newer” component of its powertrain, two motors are located on the front axle and another above the eight-speed double-clutch gearbox. A lithium-ion high power battery pack powers the three motors. Coupled with the ICE, its acceleration from 0 to 100km/h only takes 2.5 seconds, and it can also hit a top speed of more than 350km/h. 

The battery motors are recharged via three methods: charging via an outlet that only takes 30 minutes to recharge fully; regenerative braking from the front wheels; or directly from the V12 engine in just under six minutes. With such a powerful car, one would expect the batteries to be heavy, but Lamborghini has kept it at 70kg. To further mitigate the effects of the battery pack, the Revuelto is built upon the marque’s new aeronautics-inspired chassis, the “monofuselage”. This chassis is made of multi-technology carbon fibre, with forged composites for the front structure, allowing for a 25 per cent increase in torsional stiffness over the Aventador while being 10 per cent lighter.

The Revuelto has a striking appearance that is sure to turn heads. While the powertrain is the most talked-about aspect of the car, its design is just as impressive. With a wedge shape, sharp angles, and scissor doors, the Revuelto is an exaggerated version of the Aventador, complete with a rocket ship-like rear and a front fascia featuring hooded headlights and Y-shaped running lights. Despite its aggressive exterior, the cabin is surprisingly spacious, with more headroom than previous Lamborghini models. The driver’s cockpit resembles a fighter jet with three digital displays, including a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, an 8.4-inch infotainment screen and a slightly larger display at 9.1-inch for the passenger. To maximise the hybrid powertrain, the driver can choose from 13 driving modes using the squared-off steering wheel and infotainment system, including Recharge, Hybrid, and Performance.

• READ MORE: Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato Makes a Debut at Art Basel Miami

Overall, the Revuelto is a beautiful and innovative supercar from Lamborghini. Its potent new powertrain is sure to capture attention, but the design and interior of the car are also noteworthy. With a unique and bold exterior design and a spacious and technologically advanced cabin, the Revuelto is a step forward for Lamborghini as it embarks on a new era of electrification. The driver can choose from various driving modes to make the most of the hybrid powertrain, and the fighter jet-style cockpit will surely make for an exciting driving experience.

“The new Revuelto is a milestone in the history of Lamborghini, and an important pillar in our Direzione Cor Tauri electrification strategy,” said Stephan Winkelmann, Lamborghini Chairman and CEO. “It is a unique and innovative car but at the same time faithful to our DNA: the V12 is an iconic symbol of our super sports heritage and history. Revuelto was born to break the mould, combining a new 12-cylinder engine with hybrid technology, creating the perfect balance between delivering the emotion that our clients want with the necessity to reduce emissions.”

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Hand-built automobiles inspired by American 1930s coupes, that was the dream of three Australian Lebanese brothers Anthony, George and Gerry Khouri. That dream was given form In 1986 when Gerry began to build these special sports coupes in his garage which led to the brothers incorporating Bufori.

For over 30 years, Bufori has been handcrafting exclusive luxury cars with a timeless classic touch. It’s a name composed from an acronym standing for Beautiful, Unique, Fantastic, Original, Romantic, and Irresistible. LUXUO spoke to Asia’s answer to Bugatti during the lead-up week of Penang RendezVous to get the details on these extraordinary carmakers

Dreamed in Australia, Built in Malaysia: The Story of Luxury Handmade Cars from Bufori.

Driven by passion and dedication, the Bufori story is one of great achievements and resilience in the midst of setbacks. We interviewed Asia’s most luxurious and exclusive (they hand build 200 – 300 cars a year) car marque to learn just what makes Bufori so special.

When was the BUFORI concept born? Tell us more about the key three founders?

BMC: Bufori started in 1986 out of a challenge between friends. Company founder Gerry Khouri wanted to prove that it is still possible to fully build cars by hand like in the Olden days. So he created his own workshop in his garage and built the first Bufori, which took approximately one year. Gerry always had a soft spot for classic cars, especially the 1920’s American classics such as the famous Auburns, Packards and Duesenbergs. He drew inspiration from these iconic automobiles for the styling of his own car. At this time Gerry was only 19 years of age, and his elder brothers Anthony and George supported him and were involved in the management of the company in the early years. Stemming from a family of property developers with Lebanese heritage, the Khouris have a strong sense of entrepreneurship, which certainly fuelled the expansion of Bufori in the past three decades.

• READ MORE: RM Sotheby’s to Auction World’s Only Matte Black Ferrari Enzo

BUFORI stands out from any other car manufacturer, tell us more about the brand’s DNA and its uniqueness?

BMC: People always say that you only need to see one Bufori and you will remember it for the rest of your life, whereas other luxury cars usually don’t stand out from the mass. A Bufori is unique, opulent and a tad flamboyant. The main components of its brand DNA are the distinct contemporary classic styling, the fact that all cars are fully handmade to the highest standard and of course the customisation, which allows every owner to create a vehicle which corresponds to their unique personality.

What have been the latest BUFORI models released? How bespoke is each model from the proposed car colours to the choice of leathers on offer?

BMC: Our latest model is the Bufori Geneva Luxury Saloon, which is the first four-door car produced in Bufori’s history. It was first launched as a concept at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show and our official production began in 2014. As for every Bufori, the car can be fully customised to suit the preference of our distinguished clientele. Any exterior or leather colour can be achieved. We can match colour samples such as a particular flower or fabric. Customers are only limited by their imagination. Whichever unusual idea they may have, our team will strive to make it a reality. We can include a fridge, a cigar humidor, a coffee machine, a Chinese tea set with sink or even secret compartments into the Bufori Geneva. Every Bufori is a single creation, unique and unrepeatable.

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BUFORI has been expanding from Asia to the Middle East & European markets. Let us know what have been the major challenges to overcome?

BMC: Bufori has been steadily growing its business over the past decades, with cars exported to nearly 50 countries worldwide. The most obvious challenge is to convince people that there is in fact a luxury car which is handmade in Malaysia. When people see the quality and attention to detail on a Bufori, they usually expect it to be built in Europe and don’t believe that it is fully developed, engineered and handmade in a suburb of Kuala Lumpur. Some even visit the factory only to ensure this is true. Another challenge, which is typical of the Middle East, is that customer don’t like to wait for their car to be custom-built. They would rather instantly drive away with a Bufori the same day they make an order.

We trust it is highly rewarding to meet BUFORI owners around the globe. What are the most important global events for you to meet BUFORI car lovers?

BMC: Bufori tries to participate in global motor shows on a regular basis, but most importantly, we take part in smaller events with a more private crowd.

For more reads on Leaders, click here.

Italian automaker Lamborghini has finally debuted the Huracán Sterrato after months of teases. The marque unveiled the off-road sports car at Art Basel Miami. Made to conquer the dirt roads, the Huracán Sterrato is “designed for maximum driving pleasure even away from the asphalt on loose or dirt surfaces,” said the brand in a press release. This new car adds a new dimension to the concept of sportiness and incorporates the brand’s “principles of brave, authentic and unexpected” into the final masterpiece.

The Sterrato’s lineage can be traced back to June 2019, when it was first conceptualised and this is the final variant of the Huracán line after eight years. Many differences can be observed since its first unveiling, like increasing the car’s suspension by 44mm for a better drive over different terrains. Other off-roading accessories are also fitted like auxiliary lights, roof rails, carbon-fibre fender arches and a set of 19-inch wheels made exclusively by Bridgestone.

• READ MORE: RM Sotheby’s Auctions off the Last Lamborghini Aventador Coupé Ever Made

Powering the sports car is a 5.2-litre V-120 engine that can pump out 602 horsepower and 413 ft of torque using the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. To hit 60mph from zero, the car only takes 3.4 seconds. The Sterrato is able to hit a top speed of 162mph. Additionally, this powertrain will be Lamborghini’s last pure-combustion engine as the company ushers in a new era of electrification. To provide a greater intake of clean air when driving on dusty tracks, there is an additional air intake on the rear hood of the Sterrato. For breaking, a set of 15-inch brakes with six-piston callipers is fitted at the front while the back has 14-inch brakes with four-piston callipers.

For the new Sterrato, the vehicle features an updated version of Lamborghini’s Integrated Vehicle Dynamics System that allows the driver to pick three different modes of calibration: Strada, Sport and Rally. The last mode makes driving easier in low-grip conditions and drifting in off-road conditions.

Encasing this mechanical beast from the harsh conditions and elements, the Sterrato is encased in an aluminium underbody. On the inside, the car is fitted with exclusive Alcantara Verde Sterrato upholstery and reflects a “feel like pilot” philosophy commonly associated with the Huracán line. The driver is placed at the centre of the passenger compartment, which transmutes a sense of absolute control of all the car’s features.

• READ MORE: Huracán Tecnica: Lamborghini’s Design And Engineering Expertise In One

“True to our values as a visionary, bold and unconventional brand, with the Sterrato we are breaking new ground in driving sensations,” commented Stephan Winkelmann, Lamborghini Chairman and CEO. “Presenting the car at Art Basel in Miami reflects how, just like an avant-garde work of art, the Sterrato represents a radical and original interpretation of the super sports car concept but, in terms of performance, the Sterrato belongs in the world’s most dynamic and exciting driving environments.”

“With the high-speed all-terrain concept of the Sterrato, we have uniquely combined the driving experience of a true super sports car and the fun of driving a rally car,” explained Rouven Mohr, Lamborghini Chief Technical Officer. “Lamborghini cars always deliver emotion: the Sterrato delivers a new degree of driving thrills.”

The new Huracán Sterrato comes in limited production of 1,499 units.

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One of the hallmarks of luxury is the option for customisation and in the world of cars, this means everything from the interior to the exterior. If you so wish to have an all-leather upholstery, the option is there and some car manufacturers even allow you to pick the type of stitching that will be lining the seats. On the façade, the choice of colours is endless including creating your own shade of colour. At Ferrari, to cater to the varying needs of its top clients, the marque has a Tailor Made programme where a team of experts led by a personal designer assists the buyer in conceptualising their dream car.

• READ MORE: Rimac Nevera is the World’s Fastest Electric Vehicle

Next month, RM Sotheby’s will be auctioning a matte black Ferrari Enzo. This one-of-a-kind vehicle was produced for a member of the Brunei royalty and what’s so special about this car is that it is the first-ever Ferrari Hypercar that came out of the Maranello factory with a matte black finish. Called “Nero Opaco”, this colour is a stark shift from the traditional picks like red, yellow or black. To complement the matte black exterior, the Ferrari Enzo’s interiors are also fitted with Nero leather and carpets.

• READ MORE: Montblanc and Ferrari Celebrate the Spirit of Enzo Ferrari

What makes this auction lot even more special is that the Ferrari Enzo is one of the 400 Enzos ever built that used carbon fibre. During the early naughts, such technology was uncommon and utilising it made the Prancing Horse a frontrunner among its competitors. Powering the mechanical beast is a 6.0 litre naturally aspirated V12 engine with 651hp. It is also paired with a F1-inspired automated six-speed manual transmission. On its odometer, the car registered a little over 3,500 miles.

A crown jewel of the Bruneian royal family, the hypercar is set to go under the hammer with no reserve between 5-7 December 2022 at the RM Sotheby’s Sealed Sale (Lot 101).

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For German carmaker Porsche, its IPO debut on 29 September 2022 at the Frankfurt Stock Exchange was a momentous day as it ushered in a “new era with increased entrepreneurial flexibility”, according to the press release by the marque. The day also saw a new record in Europe as the car brand now holds the largest IPO by market capitalisation of around €78 billion.

On the first day of trading, the shares of Porsche were offered at €82.50 per share and by 6 October 2022, prices rose to €93, corresponding to a total market value of €85 billion. Compared to its ex-parent company Volkswagen’s market capitalisation of €77.7 billion, the sportscar maker finishes first to be Europe’s most valuable brand. Further adding to the prestige is the marque retaining its position as the world’s valuable luxury brand, according to Brand Finance, a leading brand valuation consultancy.

• READ MORE: Race Away — Street-Cred Cars Of Their F1 Marques

Speaking more about the successful IPO, Oliver Blume, chairman of the executive board of Porsche AG, said, “Making our customers’ dreams come true is what drives us. Today, a big dream comes true for us. With the completion of the IPO, we are beginning a new chapter in the unique history of our company.” He further added, “This is a historic moment for Porsche. Above all, I would like to thank our more than 37,000 dedicated colleagues worldwide and all who have enabled us to announce our successful IPO today.”

Porsche’s spun-off from its former parent company Volkswagen came at a juncture where the sportscar marker was due to end its financial and domination agreement by the end of 2022. Instead, it will be replaced by an industrial cooperation agreement where both entities will “govern their industrial and strategic relationship”. The common thread that holds the two is the aim for a “sustainable and value-creating development of Porsche AG”.

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With the fresh funds it raised from the IPO, Porsche has plans to use it and fulfil its commitment towards electrification. By 2030, 80 per cent of the cars made by Porsche will be battery-electric vehicles and accompanying this path towards a greener future, and it is working towards a net-carbon value chain by the same year. This move towards using electric engines aligns with other car manufacturers like Rolls-Royce, Bentley, Ferrari and Lamborghini. 

“We aim to redefine the concept of modern luxury by combining luxury with sustainability and social commitment. Porsche wants to grow with its luxury products and services and assume social responsibility,” shared Oliver Blume of Porsche’s aim for the future.

The company is expecting its operating profits to be in the range of 17 to 18 per cent for the year ending 31 December 2022. Porsche is in a strong financial position as its half-year financial results already saw it earning €17.92 billion, so for the year 2022, its predicted revenue is around €38 billion to €39 billion. 

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Motorheads will be pumped up as the F1 Singapore Grand Prix night race gears up this week. However, if you can’t burn some asphalt like an F1 car does, here are some street-cred cars of their F1 marques who put out impressive torque and performance to make any automobile junkie smile. Time to rev up and lift your F1 spirits for the upcoming race…

Aston Martin

While Aston Martin is famous for its appearance in Bond movies, the marque has moved with the times to create its first SUV. The Aston Martin DBX707 is recognised as the fastest production SUV on the market. The high-performance 4-litre, twin-turbo V8-powered engine produces close to 700hp and can achieve a top speed of 310km/h. The 2022 edition has updates to its exterior like a new fascia with striking splitters, complemented by new side skirts and arresting new tail lights.

The wheels measure 22 inches as standard with an option to upgrade to 23 inches. To tame the DBX707’s speed, high-performance brakes are required: the standard carbon-ceramic brakes measuring 16.5 inches up front and 15.4 inches in the rear; they’re tightly clasped by six-piston and four-piston callipers for the front and rear, respectively. Of course, the biggest revisions are under the hood where the AMG-sourced V8 pushes the 2.2-tonne vehicle to clinch 3.3 seconds for a Century sprint. There’s also the all-wheel-drive system and electronic limited-slip differential to handle curvy tarmacs.

Ferrari

The Prancing Horse marque’s storied history spans more than 70 years, producing some of the most desired supercars in the world. The Ferrari Enzo — touted as the F1 car for the road — might have clinched a jaw-dropping top speed of 350km/h, however, the SF90 plug-in hybrid Stradale’s Century sprint boasted as low as 2 seconds to the mark.

Being the first electrified Ferrari, the Ferrari 812 Superfast offers a 6.5-litre twin-turbo V8 and electric motors that put out a combined 986 hp. The rear-engined vehicle accommodates 12 cylinders and is equipped with EPS (Electric Power Steering), not forgetting a high-tech transaxle architecture that houses a front-mounted engine with a rear-mounted transmission.

Alfa Romeo

Since its humble beginnings in 1910, in Turin, Italy, Alfa Romeo has built a solid reputation in the car industry. It is no surprise that Alfa Romeo enjoys the adoration of many diehard fans. With a marque that has participated in numerous Grand Prix races and rallies around the world, the love for this brand has solidified its loyal folk and still wins converts over.

Alfa Romeo was previously under the ownership of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles until it was recently merged with those of the PSA Group to form Stellantis back in January 2021. The fastest road car from the Alfa Romeo stable is none other than the 2022 Giulia Quadrifoglio high-performance sedan. Powered by a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers 505hp, the sleek car can achieve 3.8 seconds for the Century sprint and snag a top speed of 307km/h.

McLaren

The McLaren Automotive badge has come a long way since its founding in 1985. On the other hand, its Formula One Group has gone on to win many races across the world. The British marque’s first Grand Prix win was in 1968 at the Belgian Grand Prix, but their greatest initial success was in Can-Am where they dominated the scene from 1967 to 1971.

So what’s the brand’s fastest street-legal car? It’s the Speedtail — the first-ever Hyper-GT where a unique powertrain sits at the core of this aerodynamically efficient hypercar. The vehicle’s statistics are staggering: hitting 300km/h in just 12.8 seconds; top speed of 403km/h which outstrips even the McLaren F1; a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain where a whopping 1,035hp is produced. The hypercar is on a limited production of just 106 units worldwide. The Speedtail’s unique three-seater layout and central driving position will turn heads everywhere.

Mercedes

Getting behind the wheel of the fastest road-going Mercedes car is the 2.4-tonne AMG GT63 4-door coupe. Under the hood, the 4-litre twin-turbo V8 coupled with a 204hp electric motor, the range-topping AMG 4-door coupe can produce a staggering 843hp and 1,470Nm of torque, making it the most powerful road-going Mercedes ever.

The car can snag the Century sprint in less than 3 seconds. The V9 Biturbo E-Performance is coupled with a PHEV system where the 6.1 kWh battery pack with the electric motor can provide a pure EV range of 12km at speeds of up to 130km/h.

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When introduced in 1958, the Rover P5 was the company’s undoubtedly flagship — and a return to the upper echelons of the executive car market for its maker. Being big, sturdy and incredibly well-made, the Ebony Black saloon became the favoured transport of British prime ministers and royalty.

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Manufactured on the 24th March 1973, this particular Rover played an important role in UK political history, transporting newly-elected Margaret Thatcher, from Conservative Headquarters to Buckingham Palace on 4th May, 1979, where she accepted the Queen’s invitation to form a new administration.

After retiring from its place on the political stage, the Rover moved into private ownership in 1980 with a recorded mileage at the time of circa 76,000m with approximately 17,000 miles recorded since then. It remains in exceptional condition throughout to this very day.

The structure of the car was designed as a single unit with all inner panels such as the floor, front and rear bulkhead and door post stressed. The project was Rover’s first attempt at a monocoque design, and as British car design engineer, Gordon Bashford, stated “There was no computer aided design in those days, of course, so all the stress engineering had to be done by mathematical dexterity and testing, particularly pave testing.”

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More recently, the paintwork has been given a refresh, while both the engine and gearbox have been rebuilt. In order to preserve the vintage feel of the interior and to maintain the Rover’s heritage, the interior has been kept in entirely original condition. The P5 was a product of free thinking, and among the advanced concepts used in the design were independent rear suspension and four-wheel Lockheed disc brakes. During this period, Gordon Bashford became responsible for Rover’s forward planning, and devised some amazing alternative P5 concepts – including front wheel drive, rear engines, de Dion-axled cars, rear mounted transmissions, four-wheel drive; and a car with the gearbox mounted under the seat. The car also had a box-section front subframe, which carried the suspension, steering, engine and gearbox. This was attached to the rest of the vehicle by six rubber bushes, and although it was complex, Gordon Bashford thought there were benefits in terms of servicing (it could be dropped from the car for easy access) and refinement, he later revised his opinion.

In terms of powering the Rover, it has a 3.50 litre V8 engine. Now, it is being offered by Silverstone Auctions on the 27th of August with an estimate of £35,000 to £45,000. With a large history file and unquestionable provenance, the venerable Rover P5 is an attractive saloon it is own right.

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