If you’ve heard of Investindustrial before, that’s because this won’t be the first time it has kicked in a bit with a specialist British car manufacturer. It also has a reasonable stake in Aston Martin, having invested £150 million in the company for a 37.5 percent stake in 2012.
“The past two years have been the most successful in our company’s 110-year history,” said Dominic Riley, chairman of Morgan Motor Company.
“However, to really fulfil Morgan’s full potential and secure our long-term future, both the family and management team felt it was essential to bring in a strategic partner. A partner that shares our vision for Morgan and has the expertise, financial resources and track record of success in the automotive world, to make it happen. That partner is Investindustrial.”
The future is bright for Morgan
The Plus Six is just the beginning of a new model offensive, which the partnership with Investindustrial is hoped to accelerate. The CX platform, first used in the new Plus Six, ought to help speed up manufacturing and development and open doors to new markets the world over.
Morgan wasn’t exactly in a bad place before Investindustrial bought in. Last year it scored a net profit of £3.2million from revenues of £33.8m, in spite of 2018 being a wind-down year in terms of production. Nevertheless, the Investindustrial partnership will shore up Morgan’s financial standing and bolster its efforts to future-proof itself.
As long as that most unique spirit that makes a Morgan a Morgan remains, we’re all for it.
“Morgan is one of the most famous names in the automotive world,” said Andrea C. Bonomi, chairman of the Industrial Advisory Board.
“Morgan’s handmade British sports cars are true icons of the industry. We have followed the company and seen its progress for some time and see significant potential for Morgan to develop internationally whilst retaining its hand-built heritage, which is at the heart of the Morgan Motor Company.”
Fiat CEO Olivier Francois has confirmed an all-new electric-only Fiat 500 will launch at the 2020 Geneva Motor Show. And the new city car will be inspired by Tesla.
“We should think of the new 500 EV as an urban Tesla,” he said. “The beautiful style, coolness of concept, the statement it makes that the driver is cool, refined, sophisticated and cultivated.”
Although this means the entry-level price of the electric 500 may increase, Francois is not concerned. Half of customers already pay between £19,000 and £21,000 to buy a high-spec 500.
Fiat sold almost 200,000 500s last year. Taking a theoretical £26,000 entry-level price for a supermini-sized electric car, Francois argued that, once government incentives are factored in, Fiat already has evidence 100,000 people are prepared to pay what an electric 500 may cost.
The current model, he added, will remain on sale, as a ‘classic 500’, with a range of small petrol engines. “We will keep on updating it to keep it fresh.”
Shifting the new 500 to an electric-only model is only possible because of the strength of the 500 brand. “People love the 500. Some will take it as an electric car even if they don’t need it. We will not lose customers by going only EV.”
Fiat will use sales of the zero-emission electric 500, along with a potential electric replacement for the Panda, to keep its European FCA fleet CO2 emissions within 2021 targets.
“Small cars do not make lots of profits, but the contribution they can make to our group emissions will allow us to sell greater numbers of higher-margin Jeeps, Maseratis and Alfa Romeos.”
Motoring Research will be live from the floor of the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, bringing you all the news and announcements as they happen. Join us for the biggest reveals, major debuts, and everything else Geneva can throw up. All times listed are GMT.
Last year, Geneva was preoccupied with autonomy, writes Richard Aucock. Most show-goers puzzled over the relevance, and it seems this year, the automakers have agreed. Self-driving cars are for the future: there are more pressing concerns for now, such as reducing their average fleet emissions below the 2021 level at which hefty EU fines kick in for every single car sold.
So it’s back to electrification. Rather than being far-sighted visions, electric cars are getting real. Honda’s pretty E Prototype appears virtually in the guise it will go on sale later this year. Skoda has an electric concept that isn’t far off showroom-ready either. Same for Seat. And Peugeot’s gorgeous new 208 is here, including the e-208 EV that will go on sale from its imminent launch. Just a few pounds more on monthly finance and you could trade the little petrol engine for electric.
There’s more. A radical Kia EV concept. A surprise electric Fiat that previews how the next Panda will democratise electrification. Aston Martin’s radical Lagonda EV SUV. The Audi Q4 e-tron. And more plug-in hybrids than you can shake an expensive Geneva baguette at, including the Alfa Romeo Tonale, Mitsubishi Engelberg and Nissan IMQ (secretly the next Qashqai).
However, an electric hypercar was one of the show-stealers. Automobili Pininfarina launched with a bang at Geneva 2019, and a 1,900 horsepower work of art called the Battista. Beautifully crafted to justify its multi-million price tag, this is Pininfarina showing off its artistry, and electric drivetrain partner Rimac showing just how electricity is going to clobber explosively-tuned petrol engines before we know it.
This hasn’t stopped the traditional makers rolling out gas-powered exotica. Aston Martin went all-out by showing the latest development in its McLaren Senna rival, now called the AM-RB 003. It also surprised everyone by presenting an early look at its new mid-engined supercar – confirming the Vanquish will soon become a McLaren 720S rival.
Lamborghini sprayed bright paint on a facelifted Huracan called the Evo, and took the roof off the Aventador SVJ. Mercedes-AMG also took the roof off the GT R. Ferrari refreshed its own mid-engined monster, now called the F8 Tributo. McLaren showed off its recent launches, the 720S Spider and 600LT, in bespoke MSO trim – and gave us a look at the Speedtail.
Geneva, see, is all about pleasing the mega-rich who will start pouring through the doors once the press has departed. Its boutique nature, carefully-capped show hall size and location in one of the richest regions in the world is ideal for those with seven-figure statements to sell. The umpteen specialists and tuners showcasing their wares is evidence of that.
On one stand, Yorkshire Tea was brewing for the first time, as Ginetta joined them to launch its new supercar, the Akula. On another, bottles of Grand Cru were being racked up, as Bugatti showed the Chiron 110 Ans and La Voiture Noire: a one-off, and the most expensive new car ever. A snip at £12 million.
There were a few disappointments. The new Renault Clio isn’t much different to the old one; given how lovely the new 208 looks, the Regie may be a little worried. Mercedes’ recent mild facelifts of the GLC and GLE were forgettable. In contrast, BMW’s facelift of the 7 Series remains staggeringly gratuitous. The massive X7 walks a similar tightrope of causing offence.
And, of course, some weren’t there at all. No Ford. No Vauxhall-Opel. No Volvo. And no Jaguar Land Rover – which has to be marked up as a fail, given how the Jaguar I-Pace both won European Car of the Year and was named a World Car of the Year finalist at the show. Land Rover has the lovely new Evoque to show, Jaguar has the revised XE range to showcase: if little old Morgan can be there with its all-new Plus Six, why not JLR?
Although there are omissions at Geneva this year, most makers say it’s an event they’ll never miss. Auto shows may be under threat, but some are safer than others. Geneva is one of those, because of its size, its location and its long reputation as being a barometer of the industry.
This year, the car industry is getting serious. Yes, all the supercars and hypercars are serious stuff, because that’s one of the few areas of the business that’s still growing. The rich, after all, keep on getting richer.
But the normalisation of electric and electrified technology is the bigger story. No more wasting time trying to convince us self-driving cars will be here soon. They won’t: zero-emissions motors are a far more pressing concern. And they were out in force at Geneva this year. How long before they start staking a similarly strong claim to showroom space back home?
Geneva 2019: As it happened
5th March
17:50
So after an incredible day in Geneva, it’s time to bring things to a close on the live blog for day one of the 2019 Motor Show. You can check out all the galleries and articles above, or journey through all the big reveals and important debuts below.
Even by Geneva standards, the Koenigsegg Jesko is rather special. Ethan has dived deep into the technical detail of the latest Swedish supercar in this article.
Supercars and electric power have been two of the big themes running through the first day of the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. We’ve covered much of the performance machinery already, but we now also have a full rundown of the newest electric vehicles on display, too.
Geneva sees the return of another historic brand, with the Hispanso Suiza name reappearing on a car for the first time since the 1950s. Set to cost more than €1.5 million, and with a 1,019hp electric drivetrain, only 19 examples of the Carmen are planned for production. They’ll certainly stand out on the road.
In case you’re wondering, Akula is the Russian word for shark, and also refers to a class of nuclear submarines! Just 20 of these Ginettas will be made, each costing £340,000. Weighing less than 950kg, and with 575hp, performance should be extreme.
Yes, it’s another performance SUV. But it does have a turbocharged V8 engine, built in Maranello by Ferrari! Capable of 0-62mph in 4.1 seconds, and a top speed of 186mph. Also available in red or yellow, with stitching for leather interior to match.
Ethan has studied all the information on the new Fiat Centoventi Concept. Find out what it means, and how strongly it will influence the next Panda, right here.
Ferrari opted to announce the details of the new F8 Tributo ahead of the Geneva show. It has made the journey to Switzerland though, and you can get all the information you need on it here.
15:40
With all the attention on Aston Martin today – see everything from 10:09 to 11:05 – this isn’t the first time the brand has used the Geneva Motor Show to shocking effect. Cast your mind back a whole decade, and the 2009 Geneva show saw the full debut of the One-77. Compared to the AM-RBR 003 and Vanquish Vision concepts unveiled today, it now looks almost ordinary.
If you’re looking for all the best new cars in one easy to find place, we have that for you! Take a look at our MR team effort, with everything important to see in Geneva.
Ruf is celebrating its eightieth anniversary in 2019. The company first began in 1939, with Alois Ruf Sr. running a service station in Pfaffhausen, Germany. It was until 1977 that Ruf launched its first actual car, with a tuned version of the Porsche 930 Turbo.
Amidst all the excitement, Jeep’s Wrangler Rubicon 1941 has sailed slightly below the radar today. A demonstration in the options available from fitting Mopar accessories to the new Wrangler, it certainly looks the part. But it isn’t a Gladiator pickup though is it, Jeep?
You can’t question the determination of the Volkswagen Group in attempting to spin-off Cupra into a separate sub-brand from Seat. Rather than simply sticking new badges on existing products, the Formentor previews an entirely fresh design for the Cupra name. Even our Gav doesn’t necessarily hate the idea, either.
Amongst all the other electric SUV concepts making a debut in Geneva, the Alfa Romeo Tonale is certainly one of the prettiest. Contrast it against the Mitsubishi Engelberg Tourer at 12:10 if in doubt. Hints of the original Brera concept, which was launched at the Geneva show in 2002, in the design.
13:40
This Blu Iconica #Battista is closest to the traditional #Pininfarina blue. More electric in tone, reflecting the technological innovation within, multiple layers of paint make it a deep blue representing the ambition to deliver electric performance in a luxurious package. pic.twitter.com/iyGjgxv4GN
— Automobili Pininfarina (@AutomobiliPinin) March 4, 2019
Whatever your thoughts on electric cars, it’s hard not to get at least a little excited about the Pininfarina Battista. No, it’s hardly affordable at £2 million, but the performance promises to be shocking (sorry).
Although Fiat’s press conference at Geneva was several hours ago, details of the Centoventi concept are now filtering through. But, when it’s a birthday present to yourself, you can dictate the rules. Previewing the next Panda is an innovative electric powertrain, and the ability for customers to have the car wrapped to a colour of their choice.
13:05
Muonionalusta meteorite and accents of gold, arctic white and midnight black embellish #Phantom Tranquillity. Inspired by the heavenly realms of space, this motoring rarity, one of just 25, will appear for the first time this year at the #GimsSwiss 2019. pic.twitter.com/fTswBWpuLy
— Rolls-Royce Motor Cars (@rollsroycecars) March 5, 2019
Here is something which got lost amongst the early morning Geneva madness. Rolls-Royce has launched a special model from the Bespoke collection, with the Phantom Tranquility taking cues from space exploration. Space-grade aluminium trim features inside, whilst the volume controller includes pieces of an actual meteorite! Truly out of this world.
Proving that the Volkswagen Group will leave no brand without the new MEB platform, Seat’s taken on the electric car is also in Geneva. The el-Born is named after an area of Barcelona, and features a 200hp electric powertrain. A 2020 launch date matches offerings from Skoda and Audi.
12:23
Say hello to the Mazda CX-30 – Mazda’s all new compact crossover SUV. @GimsSwiss pic.twitter.com/OKDz4Ge0h9
Mazda has a brand-new compact crossover in Geneva. However, the CX-30 doesn’t feature an electric powertrain, so Mazda isn’t ticking all the trending boxes. It will at least be on sale later this year and is, arguably, rather attractive for an SUV.
12:10
Fancy a glimpse at the future?: #EngelbergTourer makes its Global Premiere @GimsSwiss!!!
Just like Nissan’s IMQ concept – see 11:28 – Mitsubishi has a new SUV offering with an electrified powetrain. Given the crushing success of the Outlander, who would beat against another major win with a production version of the Engelberg Tourer?
The E Prototype may have us totally charmed with its style, but for Honda it represents a much bigger concept. The brand has committed to total electrification of European models by 2025, although that will be scant consolation to workers at the Swindon factory.
Electrification is key to the future of the Jeep brand, and the Fiat Chrysler company as a whole. Just last week FCA announced an impressive $4.5 billion investment plan to build battery and plug-in hybrid Jeeps in Detroit.
if you’ve had just about enough of Aston Martin supercars for one morning, fear not. There’s a brand-new SsangYong Korando making a debut at Geneva, too!
All the details on Aston’s new supercar can be found here.
10:48
A tantalising preview of Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engined supercar, the Vanquish Vision Concept showcases the design language of the marque’s most ambitious model, taking centre stage alongside the newly revealed AM-RB 003, Valkyrie and Valkyrie AMR Pro. pic.twitter.com/uEyMFi9pms
Everybody recovered from the intense Aston Martin announcement experience? No? Well here is a video to try to pull all the mid-engined craziness into one place.
Oh, and there’s another major announcement from Aston Martin – the Lagonda All-Terrain luxury SUV! We already have all the information on this one. Phew, an intense few moments from Aston there!
10:17
Vanquish Vision Concept provides a preview of Aston Martin’s first series production mid-engined supercar, showcasing the design language of our most ambitious model.#AstonMartin#GIMSSwisspic.twitter.com/RsXpp9G8PS
There’s also a new mid-engined Vanquish concept from Aston.
10:15
Powered by an all-new Aston Martin-designed V6 engine, AM-RB 003 follows Aston Martin Valkyrie and Valkyrie AMR Pro as the third mid-engined Aston Martin hypercar#AstonMartin#GIMSSwisspic.twitter.com/AzfMqp7hkY
This is the one we’ve spent all morning waiting for. No Mercedes-AMG or Cosworth engines here, this one is the work of Aston Martin itself. Think McLaren Senna, but with development work by Red Bull. Maybe this should be the AM-RB ‘Vettel’ then?
Audi might be talking about plans to roll out huge numbers of electric cars over the coming years, but it is still willing to celebrate the internal combustion engine. The Decennium (it is a real word, honest) marks the 10th anniversary of the V10-powered R8.
09:50
Lots of buzz around the ID. Buggy, and excitement at the prospect of the MEB platform available for other manufacturers – just like the Beetle’s chassis with buggy builders pic.twitter.com/eTa0igchyn
— Volkswagen UK Press Office (@VWUKPress) March 5, 2019
It’s that Volkswagen MEB electric platform again – see 09:21 and 07:20 – but this time under a concept dune buggy. Unlike the Audi and Skoda, don’t expect a production version of this in the near future. Sorry.
Honda absolutely stole the show when it revealed the Urban EV concept car at Geneva. This year it is back with a prototype version that is edging closer to production reality.
Performance AND lifestyle all in one package? Get all your fast compact crossover needs sorted with the new Volkswagen T-Roc R. Coming to a new-build housing estate near you soon.
09:32
With most announcements made well in advance of actual motor shows, there are typically very few ‘bombshell’ moments at the event itself. However, McLaren Automotive CEO Mike Flewitt caused real surprise with news that the brand will launch it’s “own interpretation of the Grand Tourer” later this year.
Volkswagen has now produced an astonishing 30 million units of the Passat, with a new updated version launched at Geneva. This also includes a special limited edition R-Line version. Power will come from a 265hp 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, and just 2,000 cars will be built.
Another electric Skoda concept in Geneva, the Vision iV, was revealed to the world at the Volkswagen Group Night. Using the new MEB modular platform – just like that Audi Q4 e-tron from 07:20 – the production version is not far away.
09:12
"This is the #KLEMENT: Our unique smart mobility device for the modern city life. Our “crossover” unites all advantages of an e-scooter, an e-bike and an e-motorbike – a true world first." ŠKODA CEO Bernhard Maier#SKODAinGeneva2019#micromobilitypic.twitter.com/R4kOkCIJdN
Along with the debut of the new Kamiq small SUV – which you can read about in our preview, here – Skoda is also showing off a concept electric bike. LED lights and ABS braking make this sound quite cool, but would you rather wait for an inevitable Audi version?
08:59
In terms of electric Kia models you can buy very soon, Geneva also sees the launch of the new e-Soul. There is the potential for a range of up to 280 miles once fully charged. All the details, prices, and more right here.
08:55
NEWS | Kia has electrified the Geneva Motor Show with a display made up solely of hybrid and electric cars. The new e-Soul, and stunning 'Imagine by Kia' concept take centre stage. #Kia#KiaMotors#GIMS2019#GimsSwisspic.twitter.com/5FlVmsLFAz
Kia has gone big on electrification at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Taking centre stage is the dramatic ‘Imagine by Kia’ concept car. If you think the outside is impressive, the inside features a dashboard made of 21 individual screens, intended as a humorous nod to the ever-growing size of displays in new cars.
You can read about all the impressive details on the ‘Imagine by Kia’ concept with our handy guide.
08:45
20 years since my first #GIMS with #AstonMartin when we launched DB7 Vantage, and I could never have imagined then what we are about to reveal today… pic.twitter.com/StK3ywLkPP
Here it is in action – the new Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake hunting down prey with its special ‘predator nose’ (see 08:05). Or, more likely, heading to Waitrose to hunt down some artisan sourdough. Yellow paint a bold choice, too.
The Porsche press conference is underway, featuring the latest 911. But actually just how new is the most recent rear-engined addition to the Porsche family?
Previously interested in a New Stratos from Manifattura Automobili Torino, but wanted a manual gearbox for full retro thrills? Panic no more.
08:15
Say hello to the most expensive new car ever sold. This is the Bugatti ‘La Voiture Noire’ and it has cost one enthusiastic owner €11 million (£9.45 million) plus taxes. It is a genuine one-off, and has been inspired by the classic Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic. Power comes from the Chiron-sourced 1,500hp W16 engine.
08:05
Here is one of the big debuts from Mercedes-Benz – the brand-new CLA Shooting Brake. Apparently it features a ‘predator nose’ which is inspired by the way a predator looks at prey. Hmm, just maybe don’t tell Arnold Schwarzenegger that the Predator is back.
The Fiat hiding beneath this cover has probably generated the most speculation and intrigue so far in Geneva. Intended to celebrate Fiat’s 120th anniversary, most rumours point to a new Panda. Not a new 500 though – the current version will probably outlive us all…
The new Renault Clio has now made an official debut at the Geneva show. All the details were released before the show, and you get the full lowdown on the newest French supermini right here.
Next up on the press conference rollercoaster is Bentley, although the brand used Monday’s ‘Volkswagen Group Night’ to reveal the special GT Number 9 Edition of the Continental GT. Just 100 examples will be built, with the number 9 paying tribute to the historic Birkin ‘Blower’ Bentley.
One of the first major reveals of the day is Audi’s new electric Q4 e-tron concept. Although badged as a prototype, a production version of this compact SUV is not far off, with Audi promising it will hit showrooms by the end of 2020.
Our press conference takes place at 11:00 CET this morning and for those who can’t make it here in person, we will be live-streaming from 10:55 CET from https://t.co/lBHomtZCEOpic.twitter.com/r0ml6pc4b3
Our man Richard is already on the ground in Geneva!
07:00 – Welcome to Geneva 2019
Good morning, and welcome to our coverage of the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. We’ll be here throughout the day so stick the kettle on, grab a Toblerone (other clichéd Swiss snacks are available), and stick with us for all the news
Monday 4th March
14:45 – Jaguar wins Car of the Year award!
After a genuinely tense and nail-biting vote, which saw the top two cars tied, the Jaguar I-Pace emerged victorious as the 2019 European Car of the Year.
You can read the full story of how Jag’s electric SUV emerged on top in our special feature. We’re wondering if Jaguar are now questioning the decision to skip this year’s Geneva show.
13:05
It might be one of the biggest events on the annual motor show circuit, but 2019 has seen a number of manufacturers choosing to miss Geneva. Find out who will be staying at home with our guide.
11:10
With the clock ticking down to the start of the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, we’re already excited about the new cars we expect to see.
We have a packed preview article to whet your appetite, although Honda may have already stolen the show (again) with the E Prototype.
Morgan, that most traditional of British car companies, has launched a revolutionary all-new car at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, called the Plus Six. It replaces the Aero 8 at the top of Morgan’s car range.
Don’t be fooled by the traditional styling. This is a brand new car from the ground up, built on an advanced bonded aluminium platform called the Morgan CX Generation. Far stronger and safer than earlier models, it’s also extremely light, with a dry weight of barely more than one tonne.
Morgan isn’t just teasing the Plus Six, either: it opened ordering at the Geneva 2019 show, with prices starting from £77,995.
“It gives us immense pleasure to finally reveal the long-awaited Morgan Plus Six to the world,” said Morgan MD Steve Morris. The programme has been more than four years in the making and has created an architecture that “will underpin our highest performance models throughout the next decade.
“We have listened to our global customer base and not only have we introduced all of the technical advancements highlighted, we have done so whilst continuing to stay true to our roots and championing the craftsmanship and iconic design that is synonymous with Morgan.”
Morgan Plus Six: in detail
It may seem familiar – intentionally so – but look closely and the changes to the classic Morgan silhouette become clear. Dating back to the 1930s, the Plus Six modernises the iconic shape with better attention to detail and carefully crafted features, from the vents on the bonnet to the brand new headlights, to the beautifully sculpted doors that include side impact bars and, for the first time, speakers.
Other tech firsts include remote central locking, automatic lights and ‘puddle lights’ which illuminate the ground either side of the car as you approach.
The interior features subtle tech alongside pretty new instruments that are modelled on 1950s aircraft dials. The centre console now stretches through the spine of the car and the seats are far more comfortable and now actually have a full range of adjustment.
Most Plus Six will be driven with the roof down, but for when it does rain, a lightweight composite hard top is included. It’s modelled to echo the 1960s ‘road racer’ style.
Morgans have always been hand-crafted collector’s cars, but the Plus Six brings a new level of personalisation, which it calls ‘21st-century coachbuilding’. No Morgan has ever offered this level of customisation.
Oh, and although it’s now largely made from aluminium, wood is still used in construction. The hand-made wooden frame is built of English ash and is stiffer than ever to support the wide-body design.
BMW power
Under the louvred hood is BMW’s 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo petrol engine, as also seen in the new Toyota Supra and BMW Z4. The first turbo engine in a Morgan produces 340 horsepower, which is good for 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 165mph. BMW drivers might recognise the gearshifter too: yes, it’s the familiar ZF eight-speed automatic – which can also be mated to steering wheel paddles.
The Plus Six isn’t just quick, it’s also green. Combined fuel economy of 38.2mpg is almost unheard of for a sports car that can reach 60mph in around four seconds; CO2 emissions of 170g/km are also environmentally friendly – and, of course, the new Morgan is homologated to new Euro 6 emissions standards.
Handling will transcend anything that’s gone before, thanks to a MacPherson strut setup at the front, and a four-bar linkage at the rear. A front anti-roll bar, stiffened suspension bushes and tailored dampers, coilover springs and wishbones. 19-inch multispoke alloys are standard.
A core team of 30 development engineers have developed the new Plus Six. The team grew from just 10 engineers in 2014, which shows the legislative and regulatory demands, as well as the technological step on. They’ve certainly been busy: of the 4,000 parts used to make the Plus Six, more than 99 percent of them are all-new.
Incredibly, the Plus Six is the first-ever ‘metric Morgan’ – up to now, vehicles have used a mixture of metric and imperial, reflecting how far back their core engineering dated. It is also a staggering 100 percent more rigid than the car it replaces.
The new Plus Six will be sold in three versions at launch: standard, Plus Six Touring and Plus Six First Edition. The latter costs £89,995 and will be the first models to be produced. They will be sold in two versions: Moonstone and Emerald.
The Alfa Romeo Tonale Concept has been revealed at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show and by heck, have they done it again. Alfa Romeo, in its second attempt at an SUV, has made another looker. If any marque was going to manage it, it was Alfa.
Yes, it’s a hybrid, but let’s go through the looks first, because the Tonale owes quite a bit of its handsomeness to its ancestors, Alfas of old.
A new-era hybrid SUV inspired by the Brera
First, you look it dead in the snout. We’re in very familiar territory at the front of the Tonale, with the “three plus three” light design evoking the Brera and the SZ before it. The teledial wheels run deep through Alfa’s heritage.
The body is muscular but not excessive, with a strong belt line and distinctive arches. The surfaces down the side are very smooth and clean, as the window line flourishes upwards at the back.
At the rear, we’re back on the Brera, with the centrally tapering window and “three plus three” design continuing in the lights.
‘Alfa Romeo Lifestyle and Social communities’
The interior is dominated by the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.25-inch touch screen. It is via these that you can access the ‘Alfa Romeo Lifestyle and Social communities’…
‘Alfista’ gives you access to marque-specific clubs, events, gatherings, drives and meets. In between RSVPing to these, you can read up on all the latest Alfa Romeo news.
The ‘Paddock’ is the Alfa Romeo market for upgrades for your Tonale and merchandise, all available at your fingertips. Hmm…
Under the skin
Under that delightful Brera-inspired skin is a hybrid powertrain that can be deployed in different ways via different driving modes. The ‘DNA’ system we see in current Alfa Romeos has been adapted for this hybrid application.
’Dual power’ mode replaces ‘Dynamic’ for maximum shove, while ‘Natural’ mode continues, managing both electric and internal combustion powertrains automatically for optimised performance. ‘Advance E’ takes the place of ‘Advance Efficiency, in this case prioritising electric power. The interior fully lights up to correspond with your driving mode, the above being ‘Dual Power’.
Wait… Tonale..?
Yes, it’s an intriguing name. They haven’t plucked it out of thin air, though. Tonale comes from the name of an Alpine pass, not far from the Stelvio, incidentally. Alfa’s future SUV naming strategy ought to become clear at this point…
We’ll forgive the cheesy social media waffle and the strange name on one condition, Alfa. Make the production version look like this. If the world must be flooded with SUVs, they might as well be as pretty as this.
Koenigsegg has revealed the long-awaited successor to its Agera RS hypercar. You know, the one that smashed the record for highest top speed for a road car, with a cumulative average of 276mph, and a 284mph V-max…
Naturally, the Jesko, as it’s called, is an orgy of engineering, incredible figures and smile-raising stories. Let’s break down the Jesko one megafact at a time.
It can produce up to 1,600hp
On E85, the subtly reworked 5.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine can produce a faintly ridiculous 1,600hp. This, thanks to new larger turbochargers that have their own blown air feed via a compressor and a 20-litre carbon tank, to fight lag.
Also new are the reworked cylinder heads, a 5kg lighter flat-plane crankshaft and individual combustion chamber management. Thanks to catalytic converter heaters and various other tech, it’ll be globally emissions compliant until 2026…
Light Speed Transmission: The cleverest gearbox fitted to any car
What’s putting all that power to the wheels, then? Well, Koenigsegg is known for its clever transmissions. The Regera gets no gears (direct drive) and the Jesko gets nine. Yes, nine gears.
It has a highly compact lightweight design with a lot of internalised components, immediately giving it an advantage over dual-clutch systems. It can shift between any of the gears instantly, sort of like on a bicycle.
How? Well, like on a bike, there are multiple clutches managing six cogs for a total of nine ratios combined. Seventh to fourth? Fine, just nudge a lever two notches and the Ultimate Power on Demand (UPoD) system will select the best gear for acceleration within the Lightspeed Transmission. Yes, that is what it’s called…
Suspension-crushing downforce
The Jesko’s sculpted and evolved bodywork can produce over 800kg of downforce at 155mph, 1,000kg at 171mph and, allegedly, as much as 1,400kg at an as yet undisclosed (and we suspect, untested) top speed.
That’s like sitting a BMW 1 Series on the top of it at a standstill. To cope with the immense forces, the car has a triplex damper at each end to manage the load. The entire suspension system has been beefed up, too.
It’ll do 300mph
There’s a lot of debate around what is the first 300mph car. Could a Bugatti Chiron do it if it was let off its lead? Possibly. Is Hennessy very openly gunning for it, almost building a car specifically to take the title? Absolutely.
The problem is that until any of them do it, none are 300mph cars. The Jesko, as purported by Christian von Koenigsegg, will crack the triple-tonne. With 1,600hp and a low-drag set-up, we’re not here to doubt that it can and based on the marque’s prior track record, we reckon they’ll give it a shot.
That low-drag version is, per Christian’s presentation at Geneva, going under the working title ‘Jesko 300’. Yeah, he’s confident…
It’s a tribute to Christian von Koenigsegg’s father.
Jesko isn’t quite Ragnarok, is it? The latter is a Norse mythological word for the end of the world, the former is the name of Christian’s dad. Jesko it is…
Way back when a wide-eyed and ambitious 22-year-old was setting up his hypercar company, Jesko, his dad, instead of poo-pooing the idea, invested his own hard-earned cash. Through bad times and good, Koenigsegg has emerged triumphant.
The Jesko will be built to 125 units – the longest run of Koenigsegg’s yet – and it carries Jesko’s name by way of a tribute and a thank you. They even kept the name from him until the show stand reveal at Geneva.
Supercars are supposed to have heart and soul and we’re damned if that tear-jerker of a story doesn’t have it in spades. Not that Koenigseggs are particularly cold and emotionless as they are…
This year’s Geneva Motor Show may well be a watershed moment in the movement towards the electrification of cars. From tiny superminis to luxurious off-roaders and even hypercars, seemingly everything has the potential for battery power in 2019.
We’ve taken a look at some of the most impressive battery-powered concepts and production-ready vehicles making headlines in Geneva.
Kia ‘Imagine by Kia’ concept
Kia is not messing around when it comes to the future of electric cars, and the special ‘Imagine by Kia’ concept proves it. Yes, the name might be a little weird, but this high-riding four-door crossover features dramatic styling inside and out. A compact electric powertrain sits beneath the swooping exterior.
In fact, Kia has used the Imagine to take a shot at other car manufacturers, and the trend for giant multimedia screens. The Imagine features 21 individual displays across the dashboard, as a “humorous and irreverent riposte” to modern trends.
Alfa Romeo Tonale
Arguably one of the prettiest concept cars making its debut at the Geneva show, this plug-in hybrid SUV manages to stand out against the countless competitors on display in 2019. Not only is it Alfa’s first step into the mid-size SUV category, but also the first car from the Italian brand to feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The name comes from the Tonale Pass, located in the Alps and not far from the Stelvio Pass – which lends its name to Alfa’s current SUV offering. Although pegged as a concept vehicle for now, a production version seems highly likely in the near future.
Volkswagen I.D. Buggy
The Volkswagen Group has a range of concepts on display at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, all making use of the new MEB modular electric platform. Volkswagen has become adept at platform-sharing, and the move to electric vehicles means that attitude will only increase in importance for the company.
The beauty of the modular MEB platform is that it allows different bodies to be added. Volkswagen is even touting the idea of offering it to third-party suppliers, just like dune buggies of old. For now, this is very much a concept, albeit with 204hp from an electric AWD system.
Skoda Vision iV concept
Making use of the same MEB platform, but in a much more production-focused design, Skoda is rightly excited about the Vision iV concept. There’s a dramatic coupe-crossover design, with more than 300hp on offer from the electric drivetrain. The traditional wing mirrors have been replaced by cameras, and the centre console can be moved.
Vegans will be pleased by the vinyl fibres used to finish the seat-backs, while the carpets are made from pure biodegradable wool. Ignoring some of the more fanciful design features, we can expect to see an actual production version of the Vision iV towards the end of 2020.
Audi Q4 e-tron concept
Seemingly even closer to reality than the Vision iV, and naturally using that same MEB platform, Audi’s Q4 e-tron is just one model in the brand’s major electric vehicle strategy. Set to become the fifth production electric vehicle from Audi, the Q4 will go on sale in 2020.
An 82 kWh battery uses almost all the space below the passenger compartment, but allows for a range of up to 279 miles when fully charged. Top speed is limited to 111mph, but 0-62mph takes just 6.3 seconds.
Seat el-Born
It’s that Volkswagen MEB platform again, but this time with a Spanish flair to proceedings. Appearing somewhere between a tall hatchback and an MPV, the el-Born will be Seat’s first all-electric car. Expect a range of 261 miles on a full battery, plus the ability to charge to 80% capacity in just 47 minutes.
It might be named after one of Barcelona’s most famous districts, but the forthcoming el-Born will be built in Germany. Volkswagen’s Zwickau factory will be responsible for churning them out, with production slated to begin in 2020.
Honda E Prototype
We were wowed by the original Urban EV concept, and hoped Honda would put it into production unchanged from that cute creation. Thankfully, Honda seems to have listened, with the E Prototype borrowing much of the Urban EV’s style, but in a more practical five-door hatchback body.
Curiously, Honda admitted to designing the production car before the concept version, seeing the show model as necessary to generate interest. It certainly worked, and a finished car should go on sale with a battery range of around 125 miles. Perfect for urban life.
Pininfarina Battista
At the opposite end of the scale to the Honda, the Battista offers up an astonishing 1,900hp from its electric powertrain. That huge amount of power means 0-62mph in less than two seconds, but all with the smug eco-satisfaction of using electricity.
The Battista marks the first actual production car to be sold under the Pininfarina name alone, with 150 units to be offered to customers. They’ll need to stump up some £2 million for one, but that seems almost reasonable for the performance on offer. That it looks rather a lot like a Ferrari 488 can only be a bonus…
Aston Martin Lagonda All-Terrain
On an Aston Martin stand featuring two shock new supercars, it was almost easy to overlook the importance of the Lagonda All-Terrain. Any other day this would be major news, as Aston sets out its stall for Lagonda to become an all-electric brand.
A production version won’t appear before 2022, and Aston Martin is obviously light on details at the moment. But expect an electric all-wheel-drive setup, long-range battery capabilities and a luxurious interior. Oh, and the key levitates in the centre console using magnets.
Mercedes-Benz Concept EQV
Thought the MPV was dead? Not according to Mercedes-Benz, which is bringing the idea back with electric power. In fact, the MPV concept is perfectly suited to electric propulsion, as the battery packs can fit neatly beneath the flat floor of the EQV.
Although billed as a concept vehicle, this looks fairly close to being ready for production. A 100 kWh battery pack offers up to 250 miles of range, while the interior can be configured to seven- or eight-seater layouts. Not sexy, but a practical EV future.
Skoda Klement electric bike concept
Not content with creating electric concept cars, Skoda has also unveiled a concept bike in Geneva. An electric motor attached to the rear hub generates 4kW, allowing for a top speed of up to 28mph. Thankfully, the brakes feature ABS assistance.
Given that Skoda began life manufacturing bicycles, the Klement is a neat nod to the history of the company. Although we imagine LED lights and an electric range of 39 miles are ideas Skoda’s founding fathers could only have dreamt of.
Fiat Centoventi
Another genuine surprise at this year’s Geneva show, the Centoventi is a 120th anniversary present from Fiat to itself. Radical in nature, the styling previews what is expected to be the next version of the Panda city car. Fiat is mooting the idea of selling them only in one colour, with buyers able to have panels wrapped to their own preferences later.
Even more radical is the electric powertrain underneath. A sliding rail connects the battery packs, allowing more to be quickly added to boost range, with a maximum of 310 miles. The tailgate can be used to display digital messages, and the roof also acts as a solar panel.
The Fiat Concept Centoventi has been revealed at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, both as a 120th birthday present to itself, and a statement of intent for the future. Make a few tweaks and shake some of the concept fripperies, and you could be looking at the next Panda…
What is the Centoventi?
Translated, Centoventi means ‘one hundred and twenty’. Given Fiat’s track record of nomenclature based on Italian translations of numbers, there are no prizes for guessing that one…
It’s an electric car that wants to offer ‘an electric mobility solution affordable for all’ and is ‘the Italian brand’s idea of electric mass mobility in the near future’.
Fiat envisions this concept as a preview for a true successor to the original Fiat 500. Not in terms of its chintzy looks or how fashionable it is, but in terms of what it means as a mode of transport, for a mass audience, in a rapidly changing landscape. Just as the 500 popularised the automobile in Italy and gave cheap mobility to the masses, so too will the Centoventi do so for emissions-free driving.
The modular car of the future
The challenge of making electric cars cheaper and more versatile is one that many manufacturers are throwing untold fortunes at. Fiat, in a more pragmatic approach, has shirked the billion-dollar R&D in favour of ingenuity.
The Centoventi is, in principle, modular. That’s to say, you can pop out and pop in whatever battery you need, whenever you need it. Be it a 310-mile long-haul item or a 62-mile standard item. You can buy or rent per your whim…
The modular nature of it doesn’t stop there, either. Less integral to function is the body colour and interior design, which can be mixed and matched with choices of four roofs, four bumpers, four wheel covers and four external wrappings. There are also 120 additional accessories that Fiat says open up a ‘genuinely new business model’. All but six of these accessories can be bought online and fitted at home by the customer.
It’s understandable that more chunky stuff like the digital tailgate, polycarbonate roof and Lingotto instrument cluster might require a pro’s touch.
You needn’t wait for special editions or new versions, either, given you can just ‘upgrade’ parts of the car. Clever!
Is it really the next Panda?
It’s certainly a bit of a departure from the outgoing model, but Fiat says the Centoventi takes influence from the Panda of the 1980s. Couple that with the little stuffed Panda on display and the add-ons at the show, and we’ve enough on which to make a safe assumption that this is a giant hint at the next-generation Panda.
The 2019 Geneva International Motor Show is underway, packed with the usual array of hot new cars, crazy concepts, extreme supercars and next-generation EVs. We’ve elbowed our way to the front of each stand, avoiding the wheeled flight bags, to bring you all the important cars from the 2019 show.
Pininfarina Battista
The Pininfarina Battista produces 1,900hp, is faster than a Formula 1 car from 0-60mph, and will travel almost 280 miles on a single charge. Only 150 will be built, each one carrying a rumoured £2 million price tag. And if that’s not all, this electric hypercar will hit 218mph, if you’re not too concerned about preserving that electric range. It’s a line in the sand for the automotive industry and without question one of the stars of Geneva 2019.
Morgan Plus Six
The Morgan Plus Six is a brand new car from the ground up, built on an advanced bonded aluminium platform called the Morgan CX generation. It weighs barely more than one tonne and is powered by the 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine found in the new BMW Z4 and Toyota Supra. Morgan is taking orders at the show – prices start from £77,995. We want one.
Honda E Prototype
You can keep your million-dollar supercars and Nurburgring-taming SUVs, because this is one of the stars of the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. It’s every bit as adorable as the 2017 Urban EV Concept and is set to become one of the most sought-after EVs on the market. Honda is promising a range of over 200km (124 miles) and a fast charge functionality of 80 percent battery charge in just 30 minutes. Production will begin later this year.
Bugatti La Voiture Noire
Meet the most expensive new car of all time: the Bugatti La Voiture Noire. And before you ask, somebody has already paid the €11 million (£9.45 million) before tax price tag. The one-off creation pays homage to the Type 57 SC Atlantic and is powered by an 8.0-litre 16-cylinder engine developing 1,500hp. “Our history is both a privilege and a responsibility – the responsibility for continuing the Bugatti heritage into the future. With ‘La Voiture Noire’, we are paying homage to our heritage and bringing speed, technology, luxury and aesthetics forward to a new era,” said Bugatti president Stephan Winkelmann.
Polestar 2
Perhaps it would be a little harsh to say that the Polestar 2 isn’t as visually alluring as the Polestar 1, but that’s how we feel. However, with an eventual price tag of €39,900 (£34,000), five doors, and right-hand-drive production, this electric fastback is more relevant than the one Polestar made earlier. The company is targeting a range of 500km (311 miles), with a 408hp powertrain delivering a 0-62mph time of five seconds.
Peugeot 208
In terms of pure sales, this is one of the most significant new cars at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. The Peugeot 208 range will include, from launch, an all-electric e-208 capable of a range of more than 200 miles. Three petrol engines and a diesel will be offered, with the 208 offering a premium interior with the now familiar i-Cockpit. The best supermini on the market? We think so.
Audi Q4 e-tron concept
The Q4 e-tron concept previews the fifth fully-electric model to join the Audi range and packs two electric motors to deliver 225kW of power. As a result, it’ll rush from zero to 62mph in 6.3 seconds before hitting a top speed of 111mph. Even more impressive is the WLTP range of 279 miles. In terms of size, if you imagine a slightly larger Audi Q3, you won’t be too far wide of the mark.
Skoda Vision iV
The Vision iV is the first Skoda to be based on Volkswagen Group’s MEB modular electric car platform and previews the company’s first production EV. The coupe-SUV features two electric motors – one on the front axle and one on the rear – to give the Vision iV all-wheel-drive. A total output of 306hp is distributed to the wheels depending on requirements, with the battery pack offering up to 310 miles of range.
Volkswagen I.D. Buggy
As if to prove that it will be possible to have fun in an electrified future, the Volkswagen Dune Buggy concept goes back to the future, paying homage to the dune buggies of the 60s and 70s. Like its forebears, the concept has no roof or doors, but it does have large wheels and off-road tyres. Crucially, it’s based on VW’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) platform – there’s no Beetle chassis to be found here. Although the concept is a pure two-seater, it can also be converted to a 2+2-seater.
Ferrari F8 Tributo
The Ferrari F8 Tributo is powered by a 3.9-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 710hp – matching the 488 Pista, but 50hp up on the 488 GTB. It’s also 49kg lighter than the 488 it replaces, with the new body improving aero efficiency by 10 percent. We love the louvred engine window at the rear – a possible nod to the F40.
Aston Martin Vanquish Vision Concept
Few were expecting Aston Martin to reveal a second concept at Geneva 2019, but the Vanquish Vision Concept is a big deal for the brand – not to mention a potential headache for the competition. The new Vanquish will be a “transformational moment for the brand… the car that will propel Aston Martin into a sector of the market traditionally seen as the heartland of luxury sports cars,” said president and CEO Andy Palmer. Make no mistake, the new Vanquish should lead to a few sleepless nights at McLaren and Ferrari.
Alfa Romeo Tonale
Alfa Romeo sprung a surprise when it unveiled the stylish Tonale SUV. Alfa’s first mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV is based on the same platform as the Jeep Renegade and Fiat 500X, and will enter the highly competitive compact SUV segment. There’s no word on specifications, but if the production version looks this good, it will shoot to the top of the class in the styling department.
Fiat Concept Centoventi
Say hello to the new Fiat Panda! Officially, the Concept Centoventi is a celebration of 120 years of Fiat, but it’s also one giant preview of the next-generation Panda. The highly customisable concept will offer 62 miles of electric range in its most basic form, but customers can purchase or rent additional batteries to increase this to 310 miles. Produced in just one colour, it can be ‘painted’ by the customer with a choice of four roofs, four bumpers, four-wheel covers and four external wrappings. Fiat claims it will be the least expensive battery electric car (BEV) on the market.
Lagonda All-Terrain Concept
We suspect Aston Martin will have great fun with its Lagonda brand, rolling out a succession of OTT electric and autonomous playthings. The All-Terrain Concept represents the shape of things to come – an ultra-stylish, fully electric emission-free vehicle that’s more shooting brake than SUV. Sadly, we’ll have to wait until 2022 before we can get our hands on Lagonda’s vision of the future.
Kia ‘Imagine by Kia’
The Kia ‘Imagine by Kia’ is an all-electric concept that is a “visual embodiment of Kia’s desire to move forward in the exciting world of electrification”. The ‘tiger nose grille’ has evolved into an illuminated ‘tiger mask’, which “could potentially be deployed as a unifying design element across Kia’s future electric vehicle range,” said Gregory Guillaume, vice president of design for Kia Motors Europe. The interior is wonderfully OTT, looking like something out of Flash Gordon. Cool thing, mind.
Nissan IMQ concept
Nissan hasn’t mentioned the Qashqai in the press material for the IMQ concept vehicle, but we reckon the Q is there to tip the hat to the hugely popular crossover. ‘IM’ stands for Intelligent Mobility – the brand’s vision for the future of automotive transportation. Which means the IMQ is 100 percent electric and equipped with an advanced version of Nissan’s Propilot driving assistance system, tweaked to offer autonomous driving capability. Ladies and gentlemen, your new Nissan Qashqai has arrived.
Aston Martin AM-RB 003
The Aston Martin Project 003 has a codename: AM-RB 003. Developed in partnership with Red Bull Racing, the ‘son of Valkyrie’ will be powered by a new hybrid turbocharged V6 engine and made fully from carbon fibre. Inside, the AM-RB 003 boasts ‘Apex Ergonomics’, which is said to perfectly align the centreline of the driver’s back with the steering wheel and pedals. If you fancy one, get your name down quick, because just 500 will be built.
SEAT Minimo
According to Seat, the Minimo could represent the future of shared mobility services. The quadricycle offers a claimed range of 62 miles, with Seat proposing a battery-swap system to reduce charging times. It’s a funky little thing, but there are only two names on the lips of everyone on the Seat stand – ‘Renault’ and ‘Twizy’.
Mercedes-Benz Concept EQV
Mercedes is billing the Concept EQV as the world’s first electric MPV and says that the concept in Geneva is close to production-ready. It’s based on the V-Class and can seat up to eight, with Mercedes promising a range of up to 249 miles. Crucially, a fast charger delivers 62 miles of range from just 15 minutes of charging.
Koenigsegg Jesko
If you’re still with us, thank you. As a reward, here’s the Koenigsegg Jesko, a hypercar named after Christian von Koenigsegg’s father. The Agera RS successor is powered by a redesigned 5.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 1,280hp using standard petrol and 1,600hp on E85 biofuel. The figures are incredible: 1,000kg of downforce at 170mph and a kerbweight of just 1,420kg. As the top speed – Koenigsegg is targeting 300mph. Blimey.
Few marques have licence to build and sell ‘the most expensive car in the world’. Of all, it is perhaps Bugatti you’d most expect to aim so high.
Now, at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, it’s done just that, with the one-off £12 million La Voiture Noire.
The story of La Voiture Noire
La Voiture Noire owes its name, and its existence, to a tale of lost treasures fit for an Indiana Jones movie.
This car pays tribute to the Type 57 SC Atlantic – a classic car that almost transcends monetary value. Unless you have many, many millions and the bargaining power to convince the likes of Ralph Lauren to give up the keys, you’re not getting one.
The new La Voiture Noire refers to a different Atlantic, however. Jean Bugatti’s personal car that was lost in the throes of World War Two, never to be found again. ‘The Black Car’ pays tribute to that legendary lost chassis.
A Chiron with a body kit?
If you were being crass, you could call it that. The basis is very much the Chiron, 1,500hp quad-turbo W16 included. The Noir appears to be extended by comparison, however, with that long sprawling nose aping the elegant Atlantic. At the front, there are more than a few hints of the track-prepared Bugatti Divo, too.
It’s at the back, however, where the Noir is truly distinctive. Six exhausts dominate an aggressive rear end, with ‘Bugatti’ emblazoned and glowing above. A distinctive light strip follows the line at the top, not looking entirely dissimilar to the McLaren P1.
On top, the open-engine setup of the Chiron is gone, with a smoother Atlantic-aping closed rear end. The engine cover is perforated to allow hot air to escape. The wheels are a distinctive new design and the cabin, unseen as yet, has likely gone through significant changes of its own.
As for who bought it? Company boss Stephen Winkelmann calls the buyer ‘a Bugatti enthusiast’. There have been rumours that it’s former VW head honcho, Ferdinand Piech.
However, like the location of that lost Atlantic, we suspect the lucky custodian’s identity will remain the stuff of legend.
The Winkelmann factor
When he was the boss at Lamborghini, Stephen Winkelman made a point of pushing limited-run specialist cars.
Now he’s heading up Bugatti, we’re getting the same with the Divo and La Voiture Noir. We sincerely hope there are more to come…