If you’re a BMW owner, you know all about great performance, but you could experience starting issues and that can put you at a standstill. One common issue that can cause frustrating starting problems is a faulty ignition module. Lucky for you though, it’s usually a super simple fix and you won’t be stuck with a car that won’t start for long!
What is an Ignition Module?
You may be wondering what in the world is an ignition module? It is a key part of your BMW’s ignition system. It controls the timing and distribution of the electrical spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture inside the engine’s cylinders. The ignition module works together with other parts, including the spark plugs, distributor, and crankshaft position sensor, to make sure that the engine starts smoothly and runs efficiently. If you start having issues with this module, you may find yourself stranded at the Sixth Floor Museum – not because you went there, but because your module was just wore out!
Symptoms of a Faulty Ignition Module
If your BMW is experiencing starting issues or trouble with its performance, the ignition module could be the culprit. One of the most common signs of a faulty ignition module is an engine that won’t start. You could be heading out to enjoy some Tex-Mex food in downtown Dallas and end up going hungry that evening because of a faulty ignition module – but don’t worry, it’s a pretty simple fix! We can get you a new ignition module and we might even be able to recommend some of the best Tex-Mex food in town.
Another common symptom of a failing ignition module is intermittent starting issues. You may find that sometimes your BMW may start while the next time you go to get in, it doesn’t. The module can be sometimes working while at other times it isn’t – which can make it a little harder to identify the problem right away.
Even if your BMW does start, a malfunctioning ignition module can cause engine misfires, poor performance, or stalling while driving. You can be driving to Klyde Warren Park or heading to DFW airport for a vacation and find that your BMW is losing power even though you are pushing down on the gas pedal. The ignition module can be to blame for this loss of power.
In some cases, a faulty ignition module can trigger the check engine light (CEL) on your dashboard. Like anyone, no one wants to see that dreaded light pop up, but it can help us find the problem quicker. We can get your BMW hooked up to our diagnostic tools with that light on and figure out the problem and get you back on the road heading to check out the Bishops Art District or just to work!
You might notice on those days you’re all bundled up that you might have difficulty starting your car in cold weather. We might not get as cold as our more northern friends, but we still get cold enough here in Texas that your BMW might start acting up. The cold weather can have negative effects on your ignition module and this can cause it to wear out faster.
Why Choose Ultimate Bimmer Service?
At Ultimate Bimmer Service, we specialize in servicing BMW vehicles in Carrollton and Dallas, TX. You may be just passing through and need some help, or you might live in our area and be wanting to find a home shop for your BMW and we fit the bill! Our team of experienced technicians are highly trained to handle all of your BMW’s ignition system needs, including ignition module replacement. We use the latest diagnostic tools to identify and resolve any issues with your ignition system, making sure that your BMW starts and runs smoothly and doesn’t leave you stranded!
We understand that your BMW is an investment, and we take pride in providing high-quality, reliable service to keep your vehicle in top condition. Whether you’re dealing with a simple ignition module replacement or more complex engine diagnostics, Ultimate Bimmer Service has the expertise to get your car back on the road quickly and safely.
Pour one out for the Proton Iriz, production of which has apparently ended this week with the last body, #97576, having been churned out by the Tanjong Malim plant on September 9. That’s according to the above image that has surfaced on the Proton Iriz Club Malaysia (PICM) Facebook group, quashing any hope of the hatchback receiving a Saga-style makeover.
While the national carmaker has yet to announce the news publicly (and the car is still listed on the official website), it’s likely that sales will end quietly, as was the case with the Exora MPV in 2023. This means that Proton will soon be without a hatch in its lineup for the first time since it launched the Mitsubishi Mirage-based Satria way back in 1994.
It’s a case of what could have been for the Iriz, which was launched with much fanfare almost exactly 11 years ago as the car that would take the Proton name overseas and save the company. You can trace the model’s roots all the way back to 2010 with the Giugiaro-designed EMAS concept (not to be confused with the eMas 7 EV that took the name 14 years later) that made headlines at the Geneva Motor Show that year.
Not much of Proton’s splashy period actually came to fruition – remember that it was also during this time that it brought range extender EVs to the UK and made the now-infamous announcement to launch five new Lotus models at the Paris show. But just three years later, the world would catch a glimpse of what the EMAS was turning into with the first spyshots of what was then known as the Global Small Car (GSC).
Proton EMAS Concept (left), the first Global Small Car spyshot
Yours truly joined paultan.org in early 2014, just as development of the car was properly gaining speed, with photos of disguised prototypes being sent to our inbox seemingly every week. It was a truly astonishing period as we learnt more and more about the car as the months progressed, with whispers of “Myvi killer” suggesting that Proton was serious about trying to beat Perodua at its own game.
The Iriz eventually made its debut on September 25 that year (who could forget the tagline “Betul2 Onz”?). Offered in 1.3 and 1.6 litre versions and retailing between RM42,438 to RM62,888, it was priced to tackle the Myvi head-on and specced to beat it – particularly where safety was concerned. I even managed to become one of the first people to drive the car at the launch, describing it as a promising but flawed machine.
Unfortunately for Proton, Perodua cut its legs from under it by launching the smaller and cheaper Axia just ten days before it, stealing its thunder. Only one of these two cars ever received a second generation – take a guess as to which one.
In the end, the Iriz never quite managed to meet the frankly unrealistic expectations it was burdened with. That caused a dramatic curtailing of its future plans – it never did manage to get exported to the UK, Australia or Europe (although it did end up being turned into an R5 rally car in the UK, achieving modest success), and it also never received the driver assistance package it was tested with, even as Perodua rolled out its own Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) technology across its lineup.
Electric (left) and turbo versions of the Iriz never made production
Neither did the Iriz receive the electric version that it was designed for – and which resulted in the car’s tallboy design – nor the sportier turbocharged engine (paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, no less) that was teased; those Proton firsts ended up going to later Geely-developed products. We still haven’t forgiven the company for denying us the pukka Iriz R3 of our dreams.
To its credit, Proton did give the Iriz several updates over time to address issues with refinement and CVT performance. These included two significant facelifts in 2019 and 2021 thanks to Geely investment, the last one turning it into a surprisingly attractive car and finally bringing the rugged-looking Active variant into production (albeit in significantly watered-down form).
The Iriz also sired a sedan version in 2016 in the shape of the third-generation Persona. That car ended up becoming more successful, repeating the effect seen on the previous model versus the Gen.2 and indicating that Proton arguably should have led with the four-door version first. As yet, there is no news about whether production of the Persona would end alongside the Iriz, although we suspect it will soldier on for a couple more years at least.
I think we’ve said enough about the Iriz, which will be fondly remembered (our own Hafriz Shah will – he even bought one!) despite not setting the sales charts on fire. Take a bow, you likeable not-so-Global Small Car, and enjoy your well-deserved retirement.
GALLERY: 2021 Proton Iriz Active in Malaysia
AD: Drive the Proton model of your dreams. Submit your details and Proton PJ will get in touch with you.
Ever wondered how some people always seem to know the best places to take their car for a check-up? It’s like they have an insider’s guide to the best auto shops. Well, you’re in luck because today, we’re spilling all the secrets on how to pick the perfect place for your vehicle’s needs. It’s about cruising smoothly down the maintenance lane with a smile.
Image Credit
Word on the Street: Why Reputation Matters
Everyone knows someone who won’t stop talking about their car repair guy. Why not tap into that chatter? Personal recommendations are golden. They’re the real MVPs when it comes to finding a trustworthy mechanic. Also, let’s not ignore the power of online reviews. A quick scroll through some customer feedback can steer you clear of any bumps in the road. A consistently high-rated shop? That’s a beacon of hope in the wilderness!
Certifications: More Than Just a Fancy Badge
When you drop off your car, you’re not just handing over your keys—you’re entrusting your safety. So, it’s essential to check that the mechanics are certified. Think of ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications as a mechanic’s diploma hanging on the wall. It’s not just about fixing cars; it’s about understanding them. Any shop that invests in certification respects both the craft and your car.
Transparency: Clear as Day
Ever been baffled by mechanic lingo? A good shop won’t leave you scratching your head. They’ll break things down without making you feel out of your depth. Full transparency is key. You should know what’s being done to your car and why. And about the cost? No surprises, please! A quote should be as clear as your windshield after a good squeegee.
Fair Pricing: Your Wallet Will Thank You
Let’s talk turkey—or rather, cash. We’re all hunting for a deal, but remember, cheap can come with its own cost. A good auto shop offers fair, competitive pricing that matches the quality of their work. Always check what’s included with the service to make sure you’re comparing apples to apples.
Solid Warranties: Your Safety Net
A robust warranty is like having a good insurance policy. It shows the shop stands behind its work with more than just words. It’s about giving you a safety net so you drive away with confidence, knowing any tweaks or fixes are covered.
Convenience is King
And then there’s the convenience factor. Does the shop offer a courtesy car or shuttle service? Can you book appointments online? Little perks can turn a routine service into a breezy, stress-free experience. Choose a shop that makes life easier, not one that adds to your to-do list.
Why Collison Motoring Services Could Be Your Go-To
If you’re nearby and hunting for a shop that hits all these marks, give Collison Motoring Services a whirl. With a keen eye for quality and customer satisfaction, they might just be the right fit for your car care needs.
The Takeaway
Choosing the right auto shop doesn’t have to be a puzzle. With the right information and a little groundwork, you can find a place that treats you and your car with the respect you both deserve. So next time your ride needs a little TLC, remember these tips and choose wisely. Safe travels and smoother maintenance roads ahead!
Aston Martin is celebrating 60 years since the launch of the first Volante with the DB12 and Vanquish anniversary editions designed by Q by Aston Martin.
The ‘Volante’ name first appeared on the 1965 Short Chassis Volante. Since then, it has been used for all convertibles.
The new DB12 and Vanquish Volante anniversary editions feature a Q Pentland Green exterior with anodised Bronze accents on the front grille and side gills. The 21-inch Satin Bronze alloy wheels have diamond-turned edges, while brake calipers are painted black.
The interior is wrapped in Centenary Saddle Tan, Ivory and woven leather. There’s Dark Walnut open-pore veneer on the door pads and centre console, and the number ’60’ embroidered into the headrests.
Mechanically, both the DB12 and Vanquish remain unchanged. While the DB12 is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 671 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, the Vanquish packs a 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 that delivers 824 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque.
Aston Martin is building only 60 units of the DB12 and Vanquish anniversary editions each. Deliveries will begin in Q4 of this year.
Many people enjoy camping because it allows them to spend time in nature and unplug from their busy lives. But at the same time, it can be hard to find a place that’s truly disconnected from modern life. If you’re craving a getaway where nobody can reach you with emails or telemarketing schemes, then Saylwinds could be your golden ticket.
This campground is located in the center of the National Radio Quiet Zone. It’s a large area where radio and satellite signals are limited. It’s also in the heart of the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. This forest is incredibly diverse, with all kinds of interconnected ecosystems to explore.
Saylwinds is the perfect campground for anybody who wants to find true peace and quiet while they camp. The setting is beautiful and there’s nothing to pull you back into the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. Unplug and find out why Saylwinds could be your next off-grid getaway!
What’s in a Name?
If you don’t recognize the name “Saylwinds” that may be because this park used to have a different name! In the past, it was called Pegasus Farm Campground. So if you’ve heard good things about that spot, they’re one and the same. As of 2025, Saylwinds is being sold to new managers, so there may be further changes in the future. But no matter who is in charge, this is certainly a campground worth visiting!
Overview
Saylwinds is located in Elkins, West Virginia, surrounded by miles of peaceful farmland. Two rivers—The Tygart Valley River and Chenoweth Creek—wind through this park as well. They provide a lovely spot to fish, wade, or just enjoy a nice riverside walk.
Saylwinds is quite a small RV park, with a total of 20 sites. But if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, a small park may be exactly what you’re looking for. Don’t let the number of sites fool you, though. Saylwinds spans over 28 acres so there’s plenty of property to explore.
When you stay in a remote area, you may expect subpar facilities and limited amenities. But when you stay here, you don’t have to sacrifice modern conveniences for some peace and quiet. Thirteen of the RV sites come with full hookups for water, sewage, and electricity, while the remaining seven have everything except a sewage hookup. A few tent camping spots are also available, but they are primitive sites without any hookups.
Because West Virginia experiences freezing temperatures during the winter, this park is not open all year long. However, it opens on April 1 and remains active until November 30, so it offers a longer camping window than most seasonal parks. You’ll have plenty of chances to enjoy the blooming wildflowers in early spring or the changing leaves in autumn.
Rates
Now let’s talk about rates. With such a gorgeous location and so few campsites available, you might worry that a reservation here costs an arm and a leg. But on the contrary, the prices here are quite affordable. We have a list of the average nightly rates for the different site types below.
20/30/50 Amp Full Hookup RV Site: $55 per night
30/50 Amp Full Hookup RV Site (Pull-Through): $55 per night
20/30/50 Amp Partial Hookup RV Site: $50 per night
Primitive Tent/Small Vehicle Site: $40 per night
All sites are also pet-friendly and many of them can easily accommodate big rigs. The largest site can even fit rigs that are up to 100 feet long (although I don’t imagine anyone needs quite that much room).
To check current availability or learn more about Saylwinds, visit the campground website at saylwinds.com
Amenities
In terms of amenities, Saylwinds is fairly basic. It’s main appeal is the location, giving RVers a chance to spread out and enjoy the quiet beauty all around them. But there are still a few special amenities to make your stay here more comfortable.
For starters, let’s talk about the campsites. With such a large property and so few sites, there’s plenty of space for every visitor. If you frequently feel cramped or closed-in by neighbors at other parks, this one will bring a nice change of pace. The sites are well arranged to provide lots of elbow room. Some are out in the open, while others are shaded by beautiful trees.
In addition to the hookups that are available at all RV sites, each site also comes with a fire pit and a picnic table. This gives you a nice little area for some outdoor cooking, gaming, and socializing. And with all the private space around your vehicle, feel free to spread out and create your ideal “yard.”
Restrooms and showers are also provided here. So if you’re getting tired of your little RV bathroom, just visit the on-site facilities to freshen up. They’re all very clean and well-maintained by the managers. And again, with such a small campground, there’s less competition for the shared facilities!
Speaking of shared facilities, Saylwinds is also home to a group kitchen that anyone can access. It’s a great place to go if you want to prepare a special meal or cook for a larger group than your RV can accommodate. Firewood is also available here, so don’t hesitate to ask if you need a little extra fuel.
The Grounds
Finally, we can’t talk about Saylwinds without mentioning the grounds. This park is gorgeous, with a mix of lush green fields, large shade trees, and winding creeks. It’s an excellent place to stay if you have children or pets who love to run around and get their energy out.
Explore the recreational trails within the park, finding little nooks and scenic spots along the way. If you want a fun path, follow for the abandoned railroad tracks and look for the historic trestle bridge on the property. It’s an easy journey that will let you admire all the best parts of Saylwinds campground.
Nearby Activities/Attractions
Once you’re settled into your campsite, it’s time to look for something to do. Fortunately, you’re in the middle of the Monongahela National Forest, which is one of the most beautiful and diverse parks in the country. It has mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, grasslands, and much more. No matter how you like to spend your time in nature, there’s going to be something for you here.
If you want to learn more about the forest, why not stop at the visitors center and learn from a park ranger? Or you can take a scenic drive that gives you all the best views from the comfort of your vehicle! There are also countless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, birding, hunting, horseback riding, and much more. This is a massive park with so much to explore!
Once you’re all tuckered out from your adventures, why not head into the town of Elkins? Theater is alive and well here, with options like the Old Brick Playhouse and Gandy Dancer Theater. Shows are performed here all throughout the year, and any one of them can make for a fun evening. You could also learn a thing or two about history at the West Virginia Railroad Museum.
And if you’re a science fan, you’ll love the Green Bank Observatory. This is home to the largest radio telescope in the world. It’s a truly impressive sight with a towering dish that points skyward. You can learn about some of the discoveries that have been made here, as well as take a tour of the facilities. It’s certainly worth a visit while you’re in the area.
And finally, let’s not forget about food. Dining is a huge part of travel and you won’t go hungry when you stay at Saylwinds. Some great local restaurants include:
Reviews
Due to its small size and remote location, this little campground doesn’t have too many reviews. But the people who have stayed here have shared their experiences on RV LIFE Campgrounds. Its cumulative score is 8.2/10, with more than 90% of respondents rating it as either “Good” or “Excellent.”
The main thing that was mentioned in the reviews was the setting. Every camper loved the peace and quiet that they found here. With the large park, well-spaced sites, and surrounding farmland, it was the perfect place to relax. The National Radio Quiet Zone didn’t hurt either, making it difficult for unwanted calls or emails to interrupt their peace.
There were a few critiques that are worth mentioning for anyone who wants to visit. For instance, the road into the park is fairly narrow, so you’ll need to be careful as you maneuver your rig. The sites are also covered with gravel, but some have more than others. It could get muddy here if you visit during a rainy season, so come prepared.
Generally though, campers had a wonderful experience during their visit and most people highly recommended Saylwinds. So if you need to get away from it all and escape into nature, head to West Virginia and immerse yourself in this lovely wooded environment.
Embarking on a groundbreaking journey, British-Moroccan electric vehicle (EV) startup, Atlas, is all set to make history by introducing Africa’s very first EV, infused with the essence of Moroccan design and identity. Scheduled to commence production in 2026, this exciting venture is already generating buzz with a captivating teaser sketch revealing a compact SUV silhouette for the yet-to-be-named model.
Founded by the dynamic duo of Mohammed Yehya El Bakkali (CEO) and Senhaji Hannoun (CTO), and fueled by substantial private funding, Atlas boasts a London-based headquarters, while the EV itself will be entirely manufactured in Morocco. With the impending announcement of an advisory board, the visionary founders are determined to make a mark in the market, guided by a clear vision of how to showcase the Moroccan-built EV.
To ensure a seamless development process, the Atlas EV will leverage “proven EV architecture from an established OEM,” although the OEM remains undisclosed. By incorporating off-the-shelf components wherever possible, Atlas aims to limit research and development costs to a mere 5% of the total investment. Alongside the cost-effective labor in Morocco, this strategy paves the way for an EV that promises an incredibly affordable price point.
Atlas plans to launch the EV in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa by 2027, with a global rollout following suit. However, their ambition stretches beyond EVs themselves. The company envisions investing in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and groundbreaking “advanced, range-enhancing technology” to shape the future of sustainable transportation.
As the world eagerly awaits the debut of Africa’s pioneering homegrown EV, Atlas remains steadfast in its mission to revolutionize the electric vehicle landscape. This visionary endeavor promises to celebrate Moroccan ingenuity and design while making eco-friendly mobility accessible to the masses. With Atlas leading the way, the future of EVs in Africa and beyond looks brighter than ever before.
Bespoke robotaxi developer Zoox officially launched driverless rides around the Las Vegas Strip today. The milestone follows months of testing in the area, and the initial rides are free for the general public.
In the eleven years since its incorporation, Zoox, Inc. has taken a unique and exciting approach to rideshare transportation. Instead of building a robotaxi fleet using existing vehicles retrofitted with autonomous driving technology, Zoox introduced its own novel electric vehicle early.
While most of the company’s initial test fleet consisted of existing vehicles equipped with sensors and cameras, we have closely followed the development, testing, and implementation of Zoox’s purpose-built robotaxis, which is designed without pedals or a steering wheel.
In the past, those unique Zoox EVs could be seen testing around the San Francisco Bay Area and the Las Vegas Strip, where the robotaxi network has been testing for over two years now. That initial route in Sin City consisted of a one-mile loop near Zoox’s Las Vegas headquarters, offering the ability to transport up to four passengers at speeds up to 35 mph.
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At the time, initial test rides were conducted by Zoox employees before “expanding over the coming months.” By March 2024, Zoox had upped the robotaxi’s top speed to 45 mph in Las Vegas and expanded operational hours to include nighttime driving and service under light rain and damp road conditions.
Following these expansions, Zoox said it was closer than ever to commercial operations and paid customer rides. Today, the robotaxi provider has reached that milestone in Vegas, offering the general public free rides in its purpose-built vehicles (an industry first).
Anyone can now order a Zoox robotaxi in Las Vegas
According to a blog post from Zoox this morning, it is celebrating becoming the first company in history to provide fully autonomous ride-hailing services to the public using a purpose-built robotaxi. Las Vegas is the perfect backdrop for Zoox’s unique ride-hailing experience, as its robotaxis could help transport some of the city’s 40 million annual visitors. Per Zoox CEO Aicha Evans:
The autonomous vehicle industry has made remarkable strides this year, bringing us closer to a future of safer, more accessible mobility. With the launch of our fully driverless ride-hailing service using a purposefully designed robotaxi, we’re thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking journey. Las Vegas is a city famous for unforgettable moments, and it is the ideal location for our debut. Zoox is about transforming the entire ride-hailing experience, making every ride a delightful experience
Starting today, September 10, you can download the Zoox app to your iOS or Android device and hail one of the company’s truly driverless robotaxi operating in Las Vegas. To begin, all rides are free, so early passengers can “become familiar with Zoox, our service, and share their feedback” before the company scales to paid rides, which still requires regulatory approval.
Looking ahead, Zoox said customers can also join the waitlist for robotaxi rides in San Francisco. The company hasn’t announced a launch date for the Bay Area yet, but said more details are coming soon. Here’s a little peek at the Zoox robotaxi in action around Las Vegas:
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On the initiative of the research community, Germany’s transport industry and politicians are committed to promoting autonomous driving in public transport and freight transport. MCube, the “Munich Cluster for the Future of Mobility in Metropolitan Regions” led by the Technical University of Munich (TUM), the Digital Hub Mobility of UnternehmerTUM, and the “Mobile Future Munich” (MZM) alliance have jointly executed a letter of intent to this effect.
Politics, industry, and science are convinced of the benefits of model regions for autonomous driving in public transport and freight transport
At the start of IAA Mobility 2025, the exclusive IAA Mobility Roundtable “Model Regions for Autonomous Driving in Public Transport” took place on 9 September under the joint patronage of Minister-President Dr. Markus Söder and Munich’s Mayor Dieter Reiter. The platform was initiated by TUM with MCube and UnternehmerTUM together with MZM as neutral, innovative facilitators. Around 50 stakeholders from politics, industry, public transport, science, and associations discussed cooperation to accelerate the development and implementation of autonomous mobility solutions in a confidential setting. With impulses from science, practice, and politics, the foundation was thus laid for cross-regional and cross-sector cooperation to strengthen Germany in international competition and advance autonomous driving as an innovation driver for local public and freight transport.
The declaration of intent was signed by the Bavarian Minister-President Dr. Markus Söder, the Mayor of Munich Dieter Reiter, TUM President Prof. Thomas F. Hofmann, and the President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) Hildegard Müller, as well as around 50 representatives from federal, state, and local politics, industry, transport associations, and other sectors.
Dr. Markus Söder, Bavarian Minister-President, said: “Bavaria is driving the future of mobility: we are pioneers in autonomous driving. What started with a truck on the A9 freeway is now poised to revolutionize urban transportation. At the Autonomous Driving Roundtable held at the Bavarian State Chancellery, we are bringing together key players from science, industry, and local government. Together with VDA President Hildegard Müller, Munich Mayor Dieter Reiter, and TUM President Thomas Hofmann, our goal is to establish Munich as a model region for autonomous driving and to expand our technological capabilities. This will propel us forward in mobility, economic growth, and innovation. We are aiming for 20,000 autonomous shuttles and 5,000 autonomous buses integrated into a connected system of public transport and on-demand services. Science and industry are ready — now it’s time to cut red tape and create the regulatory framework needed to stay competitive on the global stage. As a hub for the automotive industry and high-tech, Bavaria is the ideal location for the IAA.”
Dieter Reiter, Mayor of Munich, said: “The Munich region is growing – and with it the number of people who want to be mobile and the goods that need to be transported. Autonomous driving not only offers sustainable solutions for public transport but also makes it more economical and efficient. The topic is becoming increasingly important, especially in freight transport, given the growing shortage of drivers. Munich is a strong economic and scientific location and thus offers the best conditions for establishing a model region for autonomous driving in the city and the entire region in multiple stages. As part of the “Mobile Future Munich” alliance, we have developed a vision paper together with the surrounding municipalities, companies, and universities. With today’s signing of a letter of intent, we are positioning ourselves as a reliable partner alongside science and industry.”
Prof. Thomas F. Hofmann, President of TUM, said: “With the roundtable initiated by MCube, UnternehmerTUM and MZM, TUM is providing a strong impetus to translate research results even more effectively into socially viable innovations and real-life practice. We will drive this process forward together with the most important stakeholders in the field of autonomous local public and freight transport for the sustainable development of autonomous mobility in Germany as a center of innovation. The MCube mobility cluster is a key driving force in this regard!”
Oliver May-Beckmann, Managing Director of MCube / TUM, said: “Autonomous driving will only become a game changer if we actually make the technology usable for local public transport, shuttles, delivery vehicles, and trucks. To achieve this, it was necessary to cut through the Gordian knot of innovation blockades: until now, vehicle manufacturers have been waiting for purchase guarantees from local authorities and transport companies – and these in turn have been waiting for available vehicle models. And everyone together was waiting for politicians to secure investments through a legal framework. Now we’ve managed to get everyone around the table.”
Clear commitment
The letter of intent stipulates that model regions for autonomous mobility and logistics should be networked and expanded to implement innovations more quickly. The focus is on autonomous driving in public transport and freight transport. Strategic alliances pool expertise and infrastructure, while European platforms ensure technological sovereignty. The signing parties are making concrete contributions to implementation. Bavaria’s Science Minister Markus Blume is convinced: “The future of mobility begins in Bavaria. Our universities are global leaders in the development of autonomous driving. Leading the way is TUM, with its Munich-based cluster for the future of mobility. The technology is practically ready for market. Now we need the right infrastructure and regulatory framework. Through a joint pact between science, industry, and government, we will establish Munich as Germany’s number one model region for autonomous driving.”
The signatories of the letter of intent include (in alphabetical order)
AUMOVIO SE
Bosch
Bundesministerium für Verkehr (Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport)
Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy)
Bundesministerium für Forschung, Technologie und Raumfahrt(Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space)
DB Regio
Freistaat Bayern (Free State of Bavaria)
Holon
Industrie- und Handelskammer München und Oberbayern (Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Munich and Upper Bavaria)
Kraftfahrtbundesamt (Federal Motor Transport Authority)
Landeshauptstadt München (City of Munich)
Landkreis Freising (District of Freising)
Landkreis Dachau (District of Dachau)
Landkreis München (District of Munich)
Leipziger Verkehrsbetriebe (Leipzig Transport Authority)
MAN Truck & Bus SE
Moia
Motor AI
Münchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund (Munich Transport and Tariff Association)
Stadtwerke München (Munich Municipal Utilities)
Technische Universität München (Technical University of Munich)
Verband der Automobilindustrie (German Association of the Automotive Industry)
Verband Deutscher Verkehrsunternehmen (Association of German Transport Companies)
vbw – Vereinigung der Bayerischen Wirtschaft e. V. (Bavarian Industry Association)
Mercedes-Benz has released the first teaser image of its new C-Class EV sedan at the IAA Mobility Show. The teaser image comes alongside the unveiling of the brand’s new electric crossover – the GLC with EQ Technology.
The teaser image gives us a first glimpse of the brand’s mid-size luxury sedan in its newest avatar. The electric C-Class, similar to its crossover sibling, is expected to be called ‘C-Class with EQ Technology’. The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV will arrive in 2026 and will be a direct rival to the BMW i3.
While the teaser image doesn’t reveal much of the electric C-Class, it does showcase the massive illuminated grille at the front, similar to that on the latest GLC electric crossover. The new grille design is expected to make its way across the brand’s entire electric lineup.
Apart from the grille, one other detail from the teaser image is the quarter glass located beyond the rear doors – something usually seen on the Maybach S-Class.
Mercedes-Benz hasn’t revealed any details of the upcoming C-Class with EQ Technology, apart from that it will have 800 km of range (WLTP cycle). However, expect the electric C-Class to feature similar specifications to the recently unveiled GLC with EQ Technology. The electric crossover is powered by a 94 kWh battery pack with an 800-volt architecture.
The 2025 Formula 1 World Championship continues this weekend with round two, the Chinese Grand Prix, taking place once again at the Shanghai International Circuit.
The circuit stretches 3.4 miles and features 16 turns. It’s known for fast corners, a smooth surface, and plenty of overtaking opportunities. Around 80% of a lap is spent cornering, so the tires struggle to last, and strategy can make a huge difference.
Pirelli has nominated its mid-range C2, C3, and C4 compounds for the race, the same combination as last year. The weather can be quite changeable, and rain is often a feature in Shanghai this time of year. However, the current forecast calls for fine weather throughout the weekend.
This year’s Chinese Grand Prix includes the first Sprint race of the season. The Sprint race is a standalone points race with its own qualifying session that takes place on Friday, following an initial practice session.
This year, Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton qualified on pole for Saturday’s Sprint race, edging out Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen and setting a new lap record of 1:30.849s for the Shanghai International Circuit in the process. A second qualifying session will be held later on Saturday for Sunday’s main race.
Going into the weekend, McLaren’s Lando Norris leads the 2025 Drivers’ Championship with 25 points. Verstappen is second with 18 points, and Mercedes-AMG’s George Russell is third with 15 points. In the Constructors’ Championship, McLaren and Mercedes are tied with 27 points, while Red Bull is third with 18 points. Last year’s winner in China was Verstappen, driving for Red Bull.
