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Auto Blog
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Audi Is About To Change The Look Of Every Car It Makes
Audi Wants To Make 'A Bold Step' Forward A couple of months ago, German automaker Audi launched a new Chinese sub-brand called AUDI, and its creations will look unlike anything the mothership in Ingolstadt builds. But soon, even the cars created for Europe and America will look completely different, according to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. Speaking with Autocar, the CEO confirmed that the first concept under new design boss Massimo Frascella will be revealed this year, and this 'bold step' will not just be a fantastical idea of what could be; future concepts will only be shown to the world if they have true production intent. Audi Is Looking Forward, Not Back 'We won't show design studies anymore,' said Döllner. 'When we show things, [they] will be substantial. Every concept we show will have a product decision behind it.' The CEO added that the brand 'would look to the future and the strengths of Audi design, for clarity and to bring that to the future, not copying the past.' He went on to praise the work that Frascella has already done in his first year, saying that he and the designer agree on 'a clear vision for Audi design.' It will be interesting to see how Audi maintains its individuality while moving its design forward. Its Singleframe grille outline has defined many a vehicle since the mid-2000s, and LED lighting design has been a big part of the brand's identity. LED and OLED lighting will only get more complex, and Audi has always been at the forefront of the tech, but how it will use its innovations in a novel manner will surely be a challenge. Why Audi Needs A Fresh Approach Source: Kyle Edward/Autoblog Audi's recent designs, including the 2026 Q3 that launched this week, have all been moving in the same direction over the past few years, drawing at least some inspiration from the e-tron GT EV. While the latest A6 sedan also embraces some of those styling tropes, most of its styling remains derivative of past designs under the nameplate. As for SUVs, while these have almost all adopted a split headlight design and a full-width taillight bar that was once very impactful and trendy, the playbook has been overused, and with so many nondescript SUVs of all descriptions adopting similar styling strategies, Audi's look is no longer as unique. Just naming an automaker that doesn't incorporate these elements is difficult. Thus, it's time for a fresh new concept to inform all future cars, regardless of body style. Döllner didn't say what size or sort of car would be used to introduce the conceptual design language, but given their popularity, we suspect a crossover/SUV will debut the new looks. Audi managed to adapt elements of the original R8 supercar to several mainstream models, but we doubt Audi's vision of the future will be grounded in something as niche as a sports coupe of any description. Whatever we see and whenever we see it, any cosmetic changes will take time, and not all of the automaker's range has fully evolved yet, so much of the current design language will survive for a few years to come. The Q7 three-row SUV, for example, still needs to adopt the current look. Audi's previous design boss, Marc Lichte, was in the job since 2014 until last year, so Frascella's perspective will certainly shake things up. Responsible for cars like the modern Defender, the Italian designer knows how to blend old with new in an authentic manner. Here's hoping he can inject just as much appeal with the Audi design concept. About the Author Sebastian Cenizo View Profile
Daily Record
30-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
JOHN MURDOCH'S DRIVE TIME: We take a spin in the new KGM Actyon and highlight AUDI's new entry-level model to its e-tron range
The Actyon has strong kerb appeal and features Korean-flag inspired daytime running lights, upright tail lights, black roof rails and privacy glass. In this instalment of John Murdoch's Drive Time, John takes a spin in the new KGM Actyon, a smart-looking SUV from Korea, and highlights how AUDI is releasing a new entry-level model to its e-tron range. The stylish five-door Actyon is the first offering from KGM, the company that recently acquired SsangYong, and it is hoping that the newcomer will be a sales success. Featuring a 1.5-litre petrol engine and available in just one smart trim, the Actyon is an eye-catching coupe-SUV from the Korean company and it combines good looks, advanced technology and practicality for just under £37,000. The Actyon has strong kerb appeal and features Korean-flag inspired daytime running lights, upright tail lights, black roof rails, privacy glass, and handsome 20-inch alloy wheels and lots more. The interior is also impressive and boasts eight-way power-adjustable seats in a mix of Nappa leather and suede and are both heated and ventilated. There is a nice hexagonal leather steering wheel which offers bags of adjustment and features heating and controls. A pair of 12.3-inch screens sit behind a curved glass panel with the left screen handling all the on-board tech, including the navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and ambient lighting. Behind the steering wheel the other screen displays all the essential driving information and there is also a favourites button on the wheel which allows the driver to customise frequently used features for quick access. This means you don't constantly have to fiddle with touchscreen menus. There is stacks of space inside for five to travel in comfort with lots of head, shoulder and legroom. A powered tailgate opens to reveal a substantial 668 litre boot which can be boosted to 1568 litres with the rear seats folded down. A hands-free kick sensor lets you open the boot by waving your foot under the rear bumper and there are lots of additional storage spaces inside the large cabin. The only engine available is a 1.5-litre petrol unit which produces 161bhp and 280Nm of torque and is matched to a six-speed automatic gearbox. It is good for 0 to 62mph in 10.8 seconds and has a top speed of 119mph. That performance will be good enough for most buyers but it is quite thirsty with a WLTP-tested combined fuel efficiency of 33.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 194g/km resulting in higher day-to-day running costs. The automatic transmission makes for smooth and quiet progress and there are three drive modes called Normal, Sport and Winter to choose from. Sport does sharpen things significantly and you can also play with steering wheel-mounted paddles for extra engagement. In town, light steering and a 360-degree camera proved to be a bonus and the suspension dealt well with rough surfaces and potholes. It cruised well at motorway speeds and provided good grip on country roads. It has all the latest safety features and driver aids and comes with eight airbags and a suite of smart safety features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Safety Distance Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Front Vehicle Start Alert, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Speed Limit Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Assist, Blind Spot Assist, plus Safety Exit Warning. For the more adventurous, the Actyon can tow up to 1,500kg (braked) or 750kg (unbraked) and can also wade through water up to 300mm deep and boasts impressive approach and departure angles of 17.6 and 21.4 degrees, respectively. According to KGM the name 'Actyon' combines 'Act Young' and 'Act On,' and invites customers to live life fully. With smart styling, lots of tech and decent driving dynamics this newcomer is also very practical at a very competitive price. It is competing in a very crowded market and its fuel efficiency does let it down but you still might be tempted after a test drive. In other motoring developments, German giant AUDI has added an entry-level GT variant to its e-tron range with prices starting from £88,555, with the new seven model range topping out at £149,925. The e-tron GT quattro can call on up to 584ps while also covering up to 384 miles when its battery is fully charged. The new entry level Grand Tourer is available to order in the UK from this month and deliveries are due to begin in August. The Audi e-tron GT quattro rounds off the existing GT family, which comprises the S e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT performance. It has a system output of 503ps (584pswith Launch Control). Thanks to a gross battery capacity of 105kW and a range of up to 384 miles, it can fulfil the Grand Tourer role but is equally at home in city traffic. The newcomer also features a charging capacity of up to 320kW. This means that only short charging stops are needed, as around 177 miles of range can be regained in 10 minutes. From a practicality perspective boot space is 405 litres and there is also a front compartment with a volume of 77 litres. Like the other GT models, the new version is produced at the Audi Sport plant in Neckarsulm. In the UK it is available as the e-tron GT quattro or the e-tron GT quattro Vorsprung, which adds features such as all-wheel steering, a head-up display, Fine Nappa Leather upholstery and Bang & Olufsen audio to the equipment list. *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
Time of India
28-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Ship capsize: Panel set up to guide clean-up operations
Thiruvananthapuram : Following the chemical spill and plastic pellet wash-up caused by the maritime mishap involving cargo ship MSC ELSA 3, state govt convened a high-level expert panel with international participation and deployed trained volunteers to lead coastal clean-up efforts. Acting on chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan's directives, a multidisciplinary expert consultation, involving internationally renowned marine and environmental specialists, was held. Among those present were Murali Thummarukudy, an authority in disaster management and environmental response, Olof Linden, former professor at World Maritime University, petroleum chemical analysis expert Babu Pillai, environmental economist Shanthakumar and coastal clean-up expert Mike Coving. Senior state officials, including chief secretary, principal secretaries of disaster management and environment, chairman of Kerala state pollution control board and district collectors from affected areas, participated. Govt had been closely monitoring the situation since the vessel capsized. After initial emergency actions, the expert meeting marked a strategic shift toward long-term damage mitigation and community protection. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Nuevo Audi A6 Sportback e-tron AUDI Ver oferta Undo As a key public safety measure, fishing activity has been banned in a 20-nautical-mile radius from the site of the sunken ship. Local self-govts and coastal fishing communities were issued specific advisories on what to do if they encountered debris such as damaged containers or unidentified materials onshore. Simultaneously, pollution control board mobilised rapid response teams to deal with possible oil spills. Equipment, including oil booms, was pre-positioned at river mouths and estuaries to contain any contamination. With the presence of plastic pellets—also known as nurdles—posing significant ecological risks, state deployed volunteer squads to systematically clear beaches. Guided by drone surveys, volunteers were stationed every 100m along the affected coastlines. Their efforts were closely coordinated by police, fire and rescue services and pollution control board. Strict instructions were issued to supervisors to ensure that volunteers followed all safety guidelines and avoided hazardous contact. "This is not just a clean-up drive. It is a coordinated, scientifically informed emergency response prioritising public safety, environmental protection and the welfare of the fisheries sector," said a senior official. State's current response is aimed at averting long-term ecological fallout, protecting livelihoods and establishing a blueprint for managing such complex maritime disasters in future.
Saudi Gazette
14-05-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Arab European Cities Dialogue concludes in Riyadh with strengthened urban partnerships and sustainable development recommendations
The first edition of the Arab European Cities Dialogue concluded in Riyadh on Sunday after three days of discussions under the theme 'Bridging Cities, Building Futures.' The forum was organized by the Riyadh Municipality in collaboration with the Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI), PLATFORMA, and VNG International. The conclusion of the event marked the culmination of a busy agenda featuring plenary sessions, workshops, and roundtable discussions that addressed key challenges and opportunities in sustainable urban development. The forum brought together high-level participation from mayors and city leaders from across the Arab world and Europe, along with representatives from international organizations, development funds, and municipal alliances. The sessions covered various cross-cutting themes, including cross-border cooperation in the session titled 'Beyond Borders: Transforming Cities through Global Cooperation,' climate action in 'Towards Resilience: Climate Adaptation and Mitigation in Arab and European Cities,' and future urban planning in 'Digital Transformation in Urban Governance: Insights from European and Arab Cities.' The forum also examined how local actions can align with global goals through the session 'From Data to Impact: How Voluntary Local Reviews & SDG Localization Drive Development in Cities.' A dedicated session titled 'Perspectives on Riyadh's Urban Leap – CEOs Talk' highlighted Riyadh's development journey as a regional model of integrated planning and ambitious growth. In the 'City Leadership Forum,' chaired by Mayor of Riyadh and Chairman of AUDI Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, city leaders discussed the forum's governance and future prospects. It was agreed to institutionalize the forum as a biennial platform for cross-border urban collaboration. Madrid was announced as the host city for the second edition in 2027. Future editions will focus on topics such as economic growth, urban identity, digital transformation, quality of life, culture and innovation, sustainable cities, and risk management. The 'City Networking' session, on the other hand, emphasized enhancing cooperation among Arab and European city leaders through knowledge exchange, building strategic alliances to promote sustainable urban development, and fostering networking among delegates to ensure the forum's long-term institutional impact. The forum also showcased several impactful initiatives, notably the 'Urban Financing Forum', where eight cities presented development projects totaling over SR6.2 billion, directly engaging with 4 international development funds. This initiative aims to foster cross-border investments and connect municipal projects with development capital. On the sidelines of the forum, Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf held bilateral meetings with several European city officials, including mayors of Madrid, Amman, Damascus, and Turin, to strengthen international cooperation in urban planning, digital transformation, sustainability, and quality of life.
Leaders
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- Leaders
Arab Urban Development Institute Signs Strategic MOUs at AECD 2025
Under the patronage of Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh and President of the Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI), the Institute signed two significant memoranda of understanding during the Arab European Cities Dialogue (AECD 2025) in Riyadh. The agreements were signed with Metropolis, the global network of major cities and metropolitan areas, and Fira de Barcelona, organizer of the Smart City Expo World Congress. These partnerships aim to strengthen collaboration in urban governance, innovation, and the exchange of knowledge between cities. AECD 2025 brought together representatives from over 100 Arab and European cities, as well as international organizations, municipal federations, and urban development institutions. The event reflects Riyadh's growing role as a regional center for global urban dialogue. These new partnerships reinforce AUDI's commitment to fostering international cooperation, advancing sustainable urban development, and supporting effective policymaking across Arab cities. Related Topics : Trump in Saudi Arabia: Underscoring Historic Ties and Riyadh's Strategic Centrality HUMAIN: Saudi Crown Prince Unveils New Global AI Powerhouse Saudi Football Pro League: Week 31 Schedule, Live Results & Scorers Jusoor Exhibition in Pristina Showcases Saudi Culture, Islamic Values Short link : Post Views: 106
