Xiaomi's Electric Car Venture: A Futuristic Driving Experience

New EV - China's renowned smartphone giant, Xiaomi, has ventured into the automotive industry with the launch of its inaugural electric car, the Xiaomi SU7. Partnering with Beijing Automotive Group (BAIC), Xiaomi leverages their production facilities. Positioned as a Tesla competitor, the sedan aims to disrupt the market.

China's renowned smartphone giant, Xiaomi, has ventured into the automotive industry with the launch of its inaugural electric car, the Xiaomi SU7 consisting 2 models, Standard and Max. (Picture from: Sewaktu)

The SU7 sits on Xiaomi’s Modena platform and is slightly longer than the Porsche Taycan. The dimensions are 4997/1963/1455 mm (L/W/H), with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. The car has a sizeable 105-liter frunk and boot space with 517 liters.

Xiaomi has not officially disclosed the pricing of the SU7, but it aims for the upper-middle segment given its impressive specifications. CarNewsChina notes two variants, Standard and Max, differing in battery capacity and range. However, the Chinese Ministry of Trade and Technology reveals three variants: SU7, SU7 Pro, and SU7 Max.

The Xiaomi SU7's design boasts a futuristic yet sporty aesthetic, featuring sleek curves reminiscent of the Porsche Taycan Turbo. (Picture from: CarNewsChina)

In terms of design, the Xiaomi SU7 boasts a futuristic yet sporty aesthetic, featuring sleek curves reminiscent of the Porsche Taycan Turbo. Xiaomi has prioritized aerodynamics in the design to enhance battery efficiency, ultimately extending the electric car's range.

Designed by Li Tianyuan, known for his work on BMW cars like the BMW iVision Circular Concept, BMW iX, and the new 7 series, assisted by James Qiu from Mercedes-Benz, the SU7 promises a visually appealing and well-thought-out design.

The Xiaomi SU7 designed by Li Tianyuan, known for his work on BMW cars, assited by James Qiu from Mercedes-Benz. (Picture from: Otomotif.Sindonews)

While the interior details are not officially disclosed, leaked images showcase a car equipped with modern features and a spacious cabin, ensuring passenger comfort. The control center boasts a 16.1-inch screen with 3K resolution, complemented by a 7.1-inch instrument panel, Xiaomi Pad for rear passenger entertainment, and a navigator.

Performance comparison chart between Xiaomi SU7 Standard and Max ones. (Picture from: CarNewsChina)

Technologically advanced, the Xiaomi SU7 includes features like ADAS, Xiaomi Pilot powered by the Nvidia Orin-X chip, and the hyperOS operating system with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295.

The Xiaomi SU7 utilizes a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by BYD. (Picture from: CarNewsChina)

The standard SU7 variant houses a 73.6 kWh battery with an impressive maximum range of 668 km, while the SU7 Max variant incorporates a larger 101 kWh battery, boasting a remarkable 800 km range on a single charge. The Xiaomi SU7 utilizes a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by BYD.

The Xiaomi SU7 includes features like ADAS, Xiaomi Pilot powered by the Nvidia Orin-X chip, and the hyperOS operating system with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295. (Picture from: CarNewsChina)

In terms of performance, the standard variant features a Xiaomi in-house developed rear-wheel-drive motor generating 220 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. The Max variant, equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) and dual motors, produces 425 kW of power and 838 Nm of peak torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds.

Xiaomi's foray into electric vehicles with the SU7 demonstrates the brand's commitment to innovation and a promising future in the automotive industry. With cutting-edge design and technology, the Xiaomi SU7 aims to make a significant impact in the competitive electric car market. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARNEWSCHINA | ]

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Sbarro EIGHT: Where Hot Rod Meets Future Innovation

Unique ONES - Navigating the dynamic landscape of automotive design, ESPERA Sbarro Montbéliard School students embark on two distinctive projects each year, captivating audiences at both the Mondial de l’Automobile (Paris Auto Show) and the Geneva Motor Show back in the 2012. Yet, it is the latter that takes center stage, representing a canvas for profound exploration and innovation.

The Sbarro EIGHT Hot Rod Concept made by ESPERA Sbarro Montbéliard School students in collaboration with Orange Group. (Picture from: Sbarro)

The genesis of the Sbarro EIGHT concept traces back to a pivotal moment when telecommunications giant Orange Group engaged Sbarro to exhibit their automotive innovations. This collaboration materialized just in time for the Paris Auto Salon 2012, marking the third collaborative effort between Orange and ESPERA Sbarro.

The Sbarro EIGHT Hot Rod Concept was successfully realized in a mere 40 days, and unveiled for the first time at the Paris Auto Salon 2012. (Picture from: SpeedHunter)

With a remarkable turnaround of a mere 40 days, the Sbarro EIGHT emerged as a testament to the students' Teutonic energy, exuding an aura of sheer menace. A fusion of classic 1932 Ford 3-Window Coupe hot rod aesthetics and futuristic Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk stealth bomber elements defines the Sbarro EIGHT, characterized by a mesmerizing design featuring sharp corners and aggressive angles.

The Sbarro EIGHT Hot Rod Concept featuring a fusion of classic 1932 Ford 3-Window Coupe hot rod aesthetics and futuristic Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk stealth bomber elements. (Picture from: SpeedHunter)

Powering this automotive marvel is a robust 3.2-liter twin-turbo Maserati V8 engine, boasting an impressive 368 horsepower. The EIGHT concept's frontal section accommodates the intercooler, drawing in fresh air through aluminum scoops positioned underneath, with air filters flanking either side of the vehicle. A generous gift from the school's founder, Franco Sbarro, the engine was sourced from a salvaged Maserati 3200 GT.

Interior view of Sbarro EIGHT Hot Rod Concept. (Picture from: SpeedHunter)

The visceral auditory experience is delivered through custom side-exit exhausts directly connected to the turbos, emitting a symphony of unbridled aggression, accompanied by fiery displays on the overrun. The audacious design of these side exhausts, though not street-legal, undoubtedly commands attention.

Rear view of Sbarro EIGHT Hot Rod Concept. (Picture from: SpeedHunter)

Rolling on OZ Racing Ultraleggera wheels, the Sbarro EIGHT maintains a distinctive profile, with larger wheels at the rear adorned with Michelin Pilot Sports in the front and Bridgestone Potenzas in the rear. The interior elevates the experience with genuine wood and leather elements, custom fiberglass seats adorned with hand-stitched leather, and a Parrot Asteroid Smart car radio featuring a 6.2-inch screen.

In essence, the Sbarro EIGHT stands as a compelling synthesis of innovative design, raw power, and audacious style, a true testament to the collaborative spirit and ingenuity of ESPERA Sbarro's aspiring automotive designers.. *** [EKA [24032015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO | SPEEDHUNTERS | BEAUTIFULLIFE ]

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Unveiling Pagani's Imola Roadster: A Fusion of Power and Elegance

Topless BEAST - Italian automaker Pagani, though less recognized than the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini, holds a special place in the hearts of aficionados of high-performance exotic cars. The recent unveiling of Pagani Automobili SpA's latest masterpiece, the Pagani Imola Roadster, marks a significant addition to the world of convertible hypercars, with only eight units in existence. This roadster is a direct evolution of its coupe predecessor, initially introduced at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show.

The Pagani Imola Roadster, marks a significant addition to the world of convertible hypercars, with only eight units in existence. (Picture from: Foto.Tempo)

In the pursuit of unparalleled speed without compromising stability, Pagani executed a comprehensive overhaul of the Imola coupe's chassis and body design. Notable enhancements include the enlargement of front intake duct holes, optimizing brake and engine cooling airflow. Furthermore, ingenious heat dissipation mechanisms, including exhaust channels beneath the body, fenders, and front/rear bumpers, showcase Pagani's commitment to pushing technological boundaries.

The Pagani Imola Roadster got notable enhancements include the enlargement of front intake duct holes, optimizing brake and engine cooling airflow. (Picture from: Foto.Tempo)

A distinctive feature is the incorporation of heat-dissipating holes in the rear lights, effectively managing the engine and rear brakes' thermal load. This not only aids in cooling but also enhances rear gravitational force, particularly around the wheels. The results are astounding, with the Imola Roadster generating a staggering 600 kg of downforce at a speed of 280 km/hour. Pagani boldly asserts the roadster's capability to achieve a lateral force of 2.2 G and a braking force of 2.2 G.

The Pagani Imola Roadster powered by a Mercedes-AMG 6.0-liter V12 engine, boasting an impressive 838 hp and a massive torque of 1,100 Nm. (Picture from: Foto.Tempo)

Beyond aerodynamic prowess, the Pagani Imola Roadster inherits the cutting-edge technology and design from its coupe and Huayra Roadster counterparts. From electronic systems to suspension upgrades, every aspect has been meticulously crafted to deliver an unparalleled driving experience. Powering this marvel is a Mercedes-AMG 6.0-liter V12 engine, boasting an impressive 838 hp and a massive torque of 1,100 Nm. Paired with a Pagani-engineered 7-speed Xtrac sequential transmission, the Imola Roadster claims a top speed of 350 km/hour.

The Pagani Imola Roadster generating a staggering 600 kg of downforce at a speed of 280 km/hour, claimed has capability to achieve a lateral force of 2.2 G and a braking force of 2.2 G. (Picture from: Foto.Tempo)

A noticeable departure from the coupe version lies in the interior design, where extreme aerodynamics take center stage. These aerodynamic features, coupled with bold curves, serve a dual purpose—reducing engine heat and providing an aesthetically pleasing environment. Inside the cabin, a blend of carbon fiber accents, wood panels, and Alcantara leather, characteristic of Pagani's style, creates a luxurious ambiance.

Despite being a high-speed convertible, the Pagani Imola Roadster doesn't compromise on auditory pleasure. A 7-channel audio system, complete with high-quality speakers mounted behind the headrest, complements the symphony of the V12 engine, offering an unparalleled driving soundtrack. While the price remains undisclosed, one can safely assume it to be in the multimillion-dollar range, attesting to the exclusivity and opulence of this remarkable hypercar. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PAGANI AUTOMOBILI | HYPERBEAST ]

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From Generators to Supercars: Robert Spiess' Foray into High-Speed Innovation

Rare ONES - In the thrilling world of supercars, innovation knows no bounds. Beyond the giants of the automotive industry, even individuals can etch their legacy in this exclusive realm. Meet Robert Spiess, a German entrepreneur, and former managing director until 2008 of Metallwarenfabrik Gemmingen GmbH—a company specializing in manufacturing components for electrical mechanical engineering, generators, and power generation systems. In 1992, Spiess made a bold foray into the supercar arena with the introduction of the Spiess TC522.

The Spiess TC522's design, reminiscent of the Chevrolet Corvette C5, and the later Porsche Carrera GT, featured large side inlets and air dams, hinting at the innovative engineering beneath its carbon fiber rear bonnet. (Picture from: Spiess on Facebook)

As documented by Cartefacts, Spiess embarked on this supercar venture around 1991. Collaborating with former Mercedes-AMG engineer Karl-Heinz Knapp, the duo aimed to create a pioneering all-carbon composite sports GT car. The TC522's design, reminiscent of the Chevrolet Corvette C5, and the later Porsche Carrera GT, showcased sleek and slung bodywork with prominent side inlets and air dams, providing a glimpse of the innovative engineering concealed beneath its carbon fiber rear bonnet.

The Spiess TC522 built by Robert Spiess in collaboration with a former Mercedes-AMG engineer Karl-Heinz Knapp, and first unveiled in the IAA 1992. (Picture from: FotoCommunity.de)

Shifting focus to the supercar's powertrain, Spiess collaborated with Callaway, drawing from their experience in the twin-turbo Corvette program for GM. The specifications were ambitious, with full compliance with EC regulations, 600 bhp of power / 600 lb-ft of torque, bespoke configuration, and stringent production quality control. The result was a sleek package featuring a unique intake manifold, twin AiResearch turbochargers, and specially cast exhaust manifolds.

The Spiess TC522 showcased a self-supporting monocoque made of CFRP, on a carbon fiber chassis. (Picture from: ObscureSupercar on Twitter)

Despite reports of a failed contract agreement with Callaway, the car achieved all its technical objectives with a ferocious twin-turbo 5,670cc V8. With an engine of such caliber, the Spiess TC522 is anticipated to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in under 4 seconds, reaching an impressive top speed of 190 mph. 

The Spiess TC522 is planned to be powered by a ferocious twin-turbo 5,670cc V8 drivetrain. (Picture from: Spiess on Facebook)

Debuting at the  IAA 1992, the TC522 showcased a self-supporting monocoque made of CFRP, on a carbon fiber chassis, including innovative features such an innovative safety steering of 6+1 steering wheel inching gear, ABS+ASR, coupled with  a rear camera.

The Spiess TC522 also has innovative features such an innovative safety steering of 6+1 steering wheel inching gear, ABS+ASR, coupled with  a rear camera. (Picture from: Supercars.net)

Initially, plans were ambitious, aiming to manufacture 100 units with a starting price of ℳ500,000 (around €255,000), later revised to ℳ870,000 (around €445,000). However, due to lackluster demand and soaring costs, the project met an untimely demise, leaving behind only one fully assembled car and a dummy body.

Unveiled at the 1997 Frankfurt Auto Show in September, the Spiess C522, now featuring a fresh blue paint job, shared the spotlight with the silver-painted Spiess TC522. (Picture from: CarPassion)

Fast forward to the 1997 Frankfurt Auto Show in September, where the Spiess TC522, adorned in silver paint, took center stage once again. Joining it was the Spiess C522, sporting a new blue paint job, and slated for production by Spiess Fahrzeugbau in Wolfratshausen near Munich.

The Spiess C522, while less powerful, boasts a formidable naturally aspirated DOHC 5,670cc V8 from the Corvette C5 and comes with a more budget-friendly price compared to the TC522. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)

The C522, though less powerful with a formidable natural aspirated DOHC 5,670cc V8 of Corvette C5, and priced lower than the TC522, faced a similar fate. Despite plans for 20 units, including a kit car model S522, production dreams were dashed, leaving the C522 as another prototype meeting its end like its predecessor.😔

The current whereabouts of both the TC522 and C522 remain elusive, with scant information, pictures, and a brochure as remnants of their existence. We invite anyone with information related to these supercars to share it through the comments section below, contributing to the unraveling of these automotive mysterious legacy. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄ *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | 1992 SPIESS TC522 PROTOTYPE | CALLAWAYCARS | CALLAWAYOWNERGROUP | CARTEFACTS | AUTOPIONEER.DE | TOPCARRATING | OBSCURESUPERCAR | ALLCARINDEX | AUTA5P.EU | FOTOCOMMUNITY.DE | SUPERCARS.NET | CARPASSION ]

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Beyond Boundaries: The Iconic 1990 Sbarro Chrono's Acceleration Obsession

Happy NEW YEAR - Stepping into the realm of automotive innovation, Franco Sbarro emerges as a genuine artist, sculpting dynamic masterpieces that defy conventional limits. In an era dominated by high-speed marvels, Sbarro's creations convey a powerful message – our only boundary is the limit of our imagination.

The 1990 Sbarro Chrono is a clear "red" reminder to not limit our imaginations. (Picture from: Obscure_Cars_Daily)

The 1990 Sbarro Chrono serves as a crimson declaration urging us to free our minds from the shackles of convention. With its foldable chassis and multiple timers set at 3.5 seconds, it establishes itself as the quintessential show-car challenging automotive icons like the McLaren F1.

The 1990 Sbarro Chrono is a compact sports car powered by a laterally-placed 3.5-liter 6-cylinder BMW M1 engine delivering 500 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

Propelled by the iconic BMW M1 engine, the 1990 Sbarro Chrono flaunts a power-to-weight ratio that outshines the Ferrari 360 Modena. Italians, renowned for seamlessly blending emotion, design, and technology, find their embodiment in Franco Sbarro. His eccentric portfolio includes the 1989 Sbarro Osmos show car with hubless wheels, Sbarro Ionos, a pure sports racing style of 1997, and the 2001 Sbarro Autobau, featuring a stingray-like shape in the front fascia.

With its foldable chassis and multiple timers set at 3.5 seconds, the 1990 Sbarro Chrono establishes itself as the quintessential show-car. (Picture from: Carakoom)

The vibrant red creation, embracing the concept of seconds with a clock theme integrated into its design and a cheeky timer in the all-red interior, is a testament to Sbarro's creativity. Like its Sbarro siblings, the Chrono is a compact sports car powered by a laterally-placed 3.5-liter 6-cylinder BMW M1 engine delivering 500 horsepower, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Chrono boasts a mind-boggling acceleration of 0-62 mph time of 3.5 seconds, surpassing revered "halo" cars of its time like the Bugatti EB 110 and McLaren F1.

The 1990 Sbarro Chrono featuring a semi-monocoque chassis of composites for weight savings coupled with unique flexing mechanism. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

The exceptional performance of the Chrono stems from an aggressive power-to-weight ratio, on par with the Bugatti Chiron. Utilizing composite and lightweight materials, including for its structure, this Sbarro creation weighs a mere 1,433 pounds—lighter than a Smart ForTwo.

By utilizing composite and lightweight materials, including for its structure, the Sbarro Chrono creation weighs a mere 1,433 pounds. (Picture from: Carakoom)

The unique flexing mechanism defines the Chrono, featuring a semi-monocoque chassis of composites for weight savings. Divided into two parts, the main body and a sub-frame housing the engine and rear axle, it mirrors modern motorcycles' split-trellis frame. Special hinges allow the car to appear "broken," and hydraulic links enhance the ride's comfort, though its chances of hitting the road remain limited.

The 1990 Sbarro Chrono has special hinges allow the car to appear "broken," and hydraulic links enhance the ride's comfort, though its chances of hitting the road remain limited. (Picture from: Carakoom)

Designed as a roadster, the 1990 Sbarro Chrono boasts a lightweight fiberglass body and a petite plexiglass windshield. Small headlamps adorned with a quirky "Chrono" logo upfront, where one "O" doubles as a timer, underscore its obsession with acceleration.

The 1990 Sbarro Chrono's chunky rear wheels contribute to its life-sized hot wheels allure, complemented by an unconventional wing resembling a comfortable bed. (Picture from: Obscure_Cars_Daily)

Chunky rear wheels contribute to its life-sized hot wheels allure, complemented by an unconventional wing resembling a comfortable bed. The all-red interior seamlessly follows the thematic tone, with bright red leather adorning every inch. Even the red-tinted plexiglass windshield, extending across the door ends, contributes to the cohesive aesthetic. The dashboard features a single insert housing a timer, playfully frozen at 3.5 seconds—a testament to true automotive obsession.

Not surprisingly, the 1990s, an era unbridled by creative constraints, birthed some of the most eccentric cars in automotive history. Some resembled raccoons, others drew inspiration from computer games. The Sbarro Chrono, an epitome of unrestrained creativity, stands as a testament to the wild spirit of that automotive period. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SBARRO | CARAKOOM | OBSCURE_CARS_DAILY | HOTCARS ]

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Arabian Nights on Wheels: Laraki Fulgura's Brief Stint in Supercar Stardom

Forgotten ONES - In the realm of exotic automobiles, one name that might not immediately come to mind is Morocco. However, the Laraki Fulgura, crafted by Moroccan entrepreneur Abdeslam Laraki, demands attention. Based in Casablanca, Laraki brought forth this creation through his company, Laraki Automobiles SA back in 2002, claiming the title of the first Arab supercar, although its European influences are quite evident.

The Laraki Fulgura is the first Laraki Automobiles SA. a Moroccan company's attempt at a sportscar, and originally unveiled as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: GTPLanet)

Abdeslam Laraki, known for his success in providing luxurious yachts to wealthy clients, ventured into the automotive world with the ambition to cater to their refined tastes. The Laraki Fulgura was born, drawing inspiration from the exotic Italian Lamborghini Diablo, a sensation in the 1990s and early 2000s.

The Laraki Fulgura built based on the frame and mechanicals of a Lamborghini Diablo, powered by a quad-turbo Mercedes-Benz 6.0L V12 to produce 920 hp (686 kW), coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: StrangestCars)

With aspirations to rival thoroughbreds like the Lamborghini Murciélago, the Fulgura showcased a design reminiscent of the Ferrari 360 Modena, particularly noticeable in the two side air scoops dedicated to engine and rear-wheel cooling. Unveiled initially as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, this supercar marked Laraki's inaugural foray into the sports car domain.

The Laraki Fulgura is the first Laraki Automobiles SA. a Moroccan company's attempt at a sportscar, and originally unveiled as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: GTPLanet)

Under the hood, the Laraki Fulgura boasted a Mercedes-Benz quad-turbo 6-liter V12 engine, generating an impressive 920 horsepower. Positioned longitudinally behind the seats, propelling the rear wheels, this placement promised a well-balanced chassis and superior cornering capabilities. The aerodynamically sculpted carbon fiber body hinted at a top speed of 247 mph, with a rapid acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds.

The Laraki Fulgura has an aerodynamically sculpted carbon fiber body hinted at a top speed of 247 mph, with a rapid acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds. (Picture from: GTPLanet)

Despite these enticing specifications, the Fulgura faced skepticism as the manufacturer provided performance figures without allowing independent reviewers to put them to the test. The absence of published road test reviews raised questions about the car's real-world capabilities. Priced at an estimated $555,750, the Fulgura's production status and unit count remain shrouded in mystery.

The lack of information suggests a lack of interest, relegating the Laraki Fulgura to the realm of forgotten supercars in automotive history. What a shame that 1st Moroccan's attempt at a supercar, while intriguing, should have vanished into obscurity. It appears that Laraki did not cease working; he went on to introduce several automotive creations such as Borac, Epitome, and ultimately Sahara. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄ *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GTPLANET | STRANGESTCARS | PISTONHEADS ]

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