New 2025 Skoda Kodiaq vRS debuts with 265hp and 7 seats

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November 2, 2024

Skoda has announced a hotted-up vRS version of its new, second-generation Kodiaq SUV.

The 2025 Kodiaq vRS offers the potential for hot hatch performance on the school run, with room for up to seven people inside Skoda’s most practical vehicle.

The first-generation Kodiaq vRS, then powered by a diesel engine, developed a cult following for its combination of pace and space. Skoda will hope for more of the same success with this version.

Same engine as the Golf GTI

Powering the new Kodiaq vRS is the familiar ‘EA888’ 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, found throughout the Volkswagen Group in cars such as the Golf GTI and Skoda Octavia vRS.

In Skoda’s latest range-topping SUV, the engine delivers 265hp and 295lb ft of torque. This reflects a 20hp boost in horsepower compared to the previous Kodiaq vRS, cutting the 0-62mph time down to 6.4 seconds. A top speed of 144mph should be more than sufficient, too.

All-wheel drive is fitted as standard, along with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Dynamic Chassis Control is also included, offering 15 levels of damper adjustment, plus there are ventilated disc brakes for good measure.

Standing out from the SUV crowd

In keeping with recent Skoda vRS tradition, the fastest Kodiaq comes with a gloss black finish for its front grille, window surrounds, roof rails and side mirror caps.

A bespoke front bumper features extra air intakes, while the front grille has a horizontal lighting strip. Polished twin exhaust tailpipes are found at the rear, with honeycomb trim covering the diffuser.

Bold 20-inch ‘Elias’ alloy wheels are unique to the Kodiaq vRS, and have a polished black finish. Red-painted brake calipers are a further hint at the performance on offer.

Inside the hot Kodiaq are high-backed sports seats with vRS branding, plus plenty of red stitching and a three-spoke sports steering wheel.

Due in spring 2025

Buyers can choose between vRS Lounge and vRS Suite specifications. The former comes with perforated Microsuede upholstery, while the latter upgrades to full leather.

Other interior highlights include a 10.0-inch digital instrument panel, 13.0-inch central infotainment touchscreen, ambient lighting, keyless entry and LED Matrix headlights.

Skoda has yet to confirm prices for the new Kodiaq vRS, but expect this latest family SUV to cost around £50,000. The first UK deliveries are due in spring 2025.

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All we want for Christmas… is a Tamiya remote control GR Yaris

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John Redfern

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November 2, 2024

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Online auction platform Collecting Cars has announced a limited-edition, radio-controlled Toyota GR Yaris.

Created in collaboration with model experts Tamiya, only 25 examples of the special R/C machine will be made for collectors across the world. And just in time for Christmas, too.

The 1:10-scale model is a replica of the full-size Toyota GR Yaris revealed earlier this year at the Collecting Cars Worldwide Coffee Run.

Its livery pays homage to the classic Tamiya Sand Scorcher R/C buggy, which was originally launched in 1979.

Small-scale fun guaranteed

The Collecting Cars GR Yaris makes use of Tamiya’s M-05 chassis. Unlike the full-size, 4WD Toyota, it uses a front-wheel-drive setup.

However, you will find double-wishbone suspension on all four corners, friction dampers and a low centre of gravity for nimble handling. The car’s agility is demonstrated by Jake Hill, the recently crowned 2024 British Touring Car Champion, in the video below.

Helping the Collecting Cars model stand out is a special Sand Scorcher sticker pack, which replicates the real GR Yaris.

The original Tamiya Sand Scorcher buggy, known for its waterproof design and robust metal components, became an instant classic when launched in 1979. It was subsequently reintroduced in 2010 as a 30th-anniversary model.

Better than novelty socks

Edward Lovett, founder and CEO of Collecting Cars, said: “The Toyota GR Yaris has become a standout within the Collecting Cars community, and this Tamiya model captures the excitement of both the real car and the beloved R/C classic – a reflection of everything we love about the GR Yaris, both in full size and in miniature.

“The life-size, road-going version is an appreciated and cherished car, that most respected collectors worldwide have within their stables. Our model is a very intricately designed, beautifully crafted homage to an icon, and the perfect gift for the petrolhead in your life – better than socks any day! A rally car really is for life, not just for Christmas.”

The bespoke GR Yaris is likely to attract plenty of attention from R/C collectors, and can be ordered by fans around the world from the Collecting Cars shop now. Priced at £325 plus shipping, sales will be made strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.

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First example of Maserati MCXtrema hypercar arrives in the UK

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John Redfern

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November 1, 2024

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The most powerful Maserati to date has landed in the UK, and been handed over to its fortunate new owner.

Based on the existing MC20, the Maserati MCXtrema is, as its name suggests, an extreme, track-only version of the mid-engined supercar.

Intended as a spiritual successor to the legendary Maserati MC12, only 62 examples of the MCXtrema will be produced for the global market.

About half of all MCXtrema production is earmarked for North America, meaning this car will be a particularly rare sight on British shores.

Pushing the MC20 to the limit

For the MCXtrema, Maserati has boosted its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged ‘Nettuno’ engine to deliver 730hp and 538lb ft of torque. Combined with a kerb weight of just 1,300kg, it makes for suitably extreme on-track performance.

However, the MCXtrema’s design is a bigger talking point, leaving almost nothing of the Maserati MC20 untouched. It features a completely flat underbody, jutting front splitter and huge rear spoiler, the latter incorporating a shark fin element.

Race-specification carbon brakes, adjustable suspension and 18-inch alloy wheels with centre-lock fastenings are all standard. Air jacks are integrated into the design to make track-day wheel changes easier.

On the inside, the MCXtrema is strictly a single-seater, with an FIA-approved roll cage and a fully plumbed-in fire suppression system.

Ready for the racetrack

The owner of the UK’s first Maserati MCXtrema is a car collector and racing driver with his own motorsport team. His journey to ownership included a visit to Maserati HQ in Italy, along with a passenger ride in a prototype at the Paul Ricard circuit in France.

Commenting on the arrival of his car, the owner said: “I’m thrilled to receive the keys to my very own MCXtrema today. A lot of work has gone into defining the car to my exact configuration requirements and I couldn’t be happier. It’ll be great to get it out onto the track shortly where it belongs and seeing what it can really do in the UK.”

Fancy your own MCXtrema? Sadly, you are already out of luck. Despite a price tag of £936,000 before any options, all 62 examples have already been sold.

Alternatively, there is the road-legal Maserati GT2 Stradale to consider. Although it ‘only’ has 640hp, recently announced UK prices start at £338,880.

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New purist Porsche 911 Carrera T is manual and rear-drive only

By

John Redfern

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November 1, 2024

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Want a Porsche 911 that goes back to basics? Meet the new 992.2-generation Carrera T.

You’ll find no all-wheel drive or towering rear spoiler here. Instead, Porsche has opted for a purist approach, with ‘the emphasis on driving fun’.

Most significantly, the PDK dual-clutch automatic gearbox is not available on the Carrera T – even as an option. Every car will come equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

In contrast to the previous 992.1 Carrera T, this lightweight model will be available in both coupe and convertible body styles, too.

Manual by design

Porsche has placed the Carrera T on a substantial diet. Lightweight windows are fitted, the back seats have been ditched, plus there is a reduction in sound-deadening material.

Equipped with fixed-back bucket seats, the Carrera T weighs 40kg less than a regular 911 Carrera. This cuts its kerb weight to 1,478kg – on par with many of today’s hot hatchbacks.

The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged flat-six comes from the regular Carrera, offering up 394hp and 331lb ft of torque. An auto-blip feature for the manual gearbox ensures any driver can emulate a heel-and-toe downshift.

Accelerating from 0-62mph takes 4.5 seconds (4.7 seconds in the Cabriolet), with top speeds of up to 183mph. On paper, this makes it the slowest 911 on sale, but straight-line speed is not the focus here.

Tuned for driving thrills

Porsche’s PASM adaptive sports suspension is fitted as standard, lowering the Carrera T by 10mm. Rear-wheel steering is also included, tuned specifically to make this 911 feel more agile.

The anti-roll bars have been adjusted to make the Carrera T’s chassis feel more neutral, while the steering ratio is more direct.

Lightweight alloy wheels from the 911 Carrera S measure 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear. Larger 350mm brake discs are fitted at all four corners, with six-piston calipers inside the front wheels.

A sports exhaust system is fitted for good measure. When combined with the reduced sound insulation, it’s said to create a ‘particularly emotive soundscape’.

Wood you believe it?

To underline the Carrera T’s (increasingly unusual) transmission, Porsche adds a special six-speed decal to the rear side windows. Vanadium Grey is used for the model badge, with the same colour used on the alloy wheels, engine lid grille and door mirrors. A near-endless choice of paint colours is available, including bespoke ‘Paint to Sample’ options.

On the inside, the Sport Chrono Package is standard, with an analogue stopwatch for measuring lap times. The shift pattern logo also appears on the passenger side of the dashboard. However, the open-pore walnut laminated gear knob, which sits atop a shortened shift lever, is the star of the show.

Four-way electrically adjustable seats are standard, but buyers will need to specify the £4,622 fixed-back buckets for maximum weight saving.

Ready to order now

The Carrera T may be the slowest version of the 911 available, but that doesn’t make it the cheapest.

The bespoke specification of this lightweight model means coupe prices start from £111,300. The Cabriolet requires at least £121,300 before the inevitable foray into the options list.

All customers get the chance to access a driver training event, to be held at Silverstone’s Porsche Experience Centre.

For those who want the most engaging Porsche 911 this side of a GT3, orders for the Carrera T can be placed now. The rest of us can simply dream, using the virtual Carrera T now live on the Porsche configurator.

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Futuristic new 2025 Tasman is Kia’s first pickup truck

By

John Redfern

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October 31, 2024

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Kia has unveiled the first pickup truck in its history, with the Tasman set to go on sale in 2025.

With a traditional ladder frame chassis, the Tasman is intended to be a tough working vehicle, rather than a lifestyle plaything.

Being named after the sea that separates Australia and New Zealand hints at the target market for the Tasman, although Kia does intend this to be a global model.

The competition will be strong, however, with the Kia Tasman pitched against household names such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

Looks like nothing else

Kia says the Tasman’s design team ‘deliberately shunned the familiar form language’. It certainly looks striking and futuristic, while also less divisive than the Tesla Cybertruck.

Kia’s trademark ‘Tiger Nose’ front-end treatment is still present, with a sizeable grille intended to emphasise the width of the Tasman.

A double-cab layout will be offered as standard, with certain markets able to choose a single-cab ‘ute’ variant or a chassis-cab (see below) for extra customisation.

Korean trucks will use a 281hp 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, but other countries will also be offered a 210hp 2.2-litre diesel. Higher-spec versions will come with all-wheel drive, too.

Developing a tough truck

Practicality is the lifeblood of the pickup truck market, and Kia claims the Tasman will offer a ‘best-in-class cargo capability’ of 1,173 litres.

A strengthened load bed can carry a payload of up to 1,195kg, alongside the ability to haul trailers weighing up to 3,500kg. Corner steps are included as standard, with load bed illumination to make life easier when working at night.

Wading ability of up to 800mm will feature on all versions, with waterproof connectors used under the bonnet to protect electrical components.

Kia has put the Tasman through an exhaustive development programme, too. It says 1,777 specific tests were conducted over more than 18,000 rounds of evaluation.

Not coming to the UK yet

Inside, Kia has fitted the Tasman with a modern 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, combined with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen. Dual wireless smartphone charging pads are included, along with hidden storage boxes beneath the rear seats.

Numerous accessories will help tailor the Tasman to individual needs, including four different accessory configurations for the load bed alone.

Kia chose to reveal the Tasman simultaneously at the Jeddah Motor Show in Saudi Arabia and at an event in Hobart, Tasmania.

Korean sales will start during the first half of 2025, followed by launches in Australia, Africa and the Middle East. Despite right-hand-drive production being planned, Kia does not currently intend to bring the Tasman to the UK.

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New Omoda SUVs come with 7 years of RAC breakdown cover

By

John Redfern

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October 31, 2024

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Chinese SUV manufacturer Omoda has announced a free roadside assistance offer. Omoda owners can now benefit from complimentary RAC breakdown cover for up to seven years.

All Omoda vehicles come with one year of RAC cover as standard. However, servicing the car at an approved dealership can see this extended further.

The new agreement marks the first time a Chinese car manufacturer has entered into a partnership with the RAC motoring organisation.

Servicing unlocks roadside cover

The maximum roadside assistance period aligns with Omoda’s standard seven-year/100,000-mile warranty, offered on both the 5 and E5 SUV models.

To extend their RAC cover, owners need to ensure their vehicle is serviced by an Omoda or Jaecoo dealership, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. This will see cover automatically renewed for a further 12 months each time.

Should the Omoda be sold, the RAC breakdown cover can also be transferred to its new owner.

At present, there are 75 Omoda dealerships throughout the UK, with plans to increase this to 100 by the end of the year.

Earning the trust of consumers

Victor Zhang, executive vice president of Omoda UK said, “This partnership with the RAC is the latest pillar in our wider aftersales proposition. As a new entrant to the UK, we know we have to earn the trust of the UK consumer and the RAC’s reputation will help give customers peace of mind.

“We’re very confident in the quality and reliability of our cars, but partnering with the RAC means that if customers do find themselves in need, most will get help within an hour, and four out of five cars will be fixed on the spot.”

First founded in 2022, Omoda is a spin-off brand from the Chinese Chery marque. Initially focused on sales in Russia, Omoda entered the UK market earlier this year. The Omoda 5 makes use of a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, while the E5 features a 150kW electric motor.

In addition to a seven-year warranty and seven years of breakdown cover, both Omoda models have received five-star Euro NCAP safety ratings.

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Callum creates road-legal version of Jaguar C-X75 concept car

By

John Redfern

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October 30, 2024

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A road-legal version of the stunning Jaguar C-X75 concept has been completed by design and engineering consultancy, Callum.

Commissioned by an unnamed collector, the modified supercar hints at what might have been – had Jaguar put the C-X75 into production.

“C-X75 was ‘the one that got away’ – a car brimming with unfulfilled potential,” said Ian Callum, the British designer who shaped the original Jaguar show car.

“We’ve combined the customer’s wishes with carefully engineered solutions to bring C-X75 to the thoroughly satisfying conclusion it always deserved.”

High speed, low emissions

The Jaguar C-X75 was first unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, powered by two Bladon Jets diesel-powered micro gas turbines. These were connected to a hybrid powertrain, sending a total of 789hp to all four wheels.

After a rapturous reception, Jaguar quickly confirmed the concept would enter production. Some 250 examples were planned in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering, albeit with the micro turbines swapped for a conventional petrol engine.

Despite this change, Jaguar aimed for CO2 emissions of less than 99g/km, plus a top speed in excess of 200mph.

Sadly, the effects of the global economic downturn saw Jaguar cancel plans for C-X75 production in 2012.

As seen on screen

However, the C-X75 did gain a starring role in 2015 James Bond film, Spectre, with a series of specially made stunt cars used on-screen.

Earlier this year, Callum transformed one of the four surviving C-X75 stunt cars into a road-legal vehicle. For this second customer C-X75, however, the revisions were even more in-depth.

Described as the ‘ultimate Jaguar C-X75 commission’, Car 001 has been comprehensively reworked to make it as close as possible to Ian Callum’s original vision.

This began with the fitment of a supercharged V8 engine, now combined with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Various driving modes can adjust the throttle response and gear shift speeds.

Acrive aero for more downforce

Perhaps the most impressive part of the Car 001’s transformation is the addition of a fully functioning active aerodynamics package. Above speeds of 37mph, the C-X75 will produce additional downforce to increase stability. There is even a pop-up airbrake to assist with high-speed stops.

Restoring the car’s bodywork took more than 1,000 hours. Its Willow Green paint contrasts with aluminium finishes for the window surrounds and filler cap. Carbon fibre is used for the rear diffuser.

Other new details include ‘C-X75’ emblems etched onto the exhaust tailpipes, along with tail lights that offer enhanced light diffusion.

Callum has kept the original 20- and 21-inch alloy wheels, but has wrapped them in modern Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. A hydraulic lift system for the front axle helps the low-slung Jaguar to clear speed humps.

From stunt car to sumptuous

On the inside, Callum’s work is even more evident. The raw, stunt car cabin has evolved into something far more practical and luxurious.

Dark green and cream are used throughout, intended to give a sophisticated ambience. “Sporting cars typically feature darker interiors, while comfort is often associated with lighter shades,” explains Callum’s head of design, Aleck Jones. “We wanted to fuse those elements in a dynamic way to reflect the dual nature of this car.”

The commissioning owner chose the seats for maximum comfort, then had them trimmed in Bridge of Weir leather. Callum milled the steering wheel from solid billet aluminium, also fitting three-point seat belts instead of racing harnesses.

Three rotary controllers protrude from the centre console, each with an integrated touchscreen. Air conditioning, keyless entry and a digital rear-view mirror have been installed by Callum, too.

A truly bespoke build

Other luxuries include a wireless charging pad for smartphones, along with Apple CarPlay connectivity for integrated infotainment. A bespoke sound system includes speakers behind Callum tartan-inspired covers.

The project demonstrates the incredible attention to detail required to create the second road-going C-X75. It also acts as a poignant reminder of what might have been, if only Jaguar had put its supercar into production.

“Through the re-engineering of this one-off supercar, along with the electrification and validation of a lightweight sports car, the limited production run of our own Callum Vanquish 25, as well as low volume interior design and manufacture programmes for cars such as the Prodrive P25, Callum is demonstrating its prowess at bringing a vision to an on-road reality,” said the company’s managing director, David Fairbairn.

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New government campaign warns of dangerous fake car parts

By

John Redfern

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October 29, 2024

0

The government’s Intellectual Property Office has launched a new campaign to warn drivers about the risks of buying counterfeit vehicle parts.

Using the slogan ‘Fake Always Breaks’, it aims to educate drivers about the dangers of cheaper imitation car parts, rather than replacing components with like-for-like original equipment.

The campaign is backed by the Independent Garage Association, Mercedes-Benz and the City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit.

Some 500 fake airbags were recently seized by the City of London Police, highlighting the scale of risk to drivers.

Gambling on safety

Ahead of the new campaign, a government survey found that one in six people (15 percent) admitted to purchasing a counterfeit item in the past 12 months.

OECD data suggests that fake vehicle parts imported to the UK are worth more than £1 billion a year. Car batteries accounted for a quarter of the fake car parts sold, followed by tyres and wheels (23 percent) and windscreen wipers (19 percent).

Equally concerning is the fact that 14 percent of motorists who purchased fake parts opted for a counterfeit airbag. And 12 percent admitted to buying knock-off brake components, too.

How to avoid counterfeit parts

The Fake Always Breaks campaign wants to educate motorists on how to identify counterfeit parts, giving the following advice:

Be wary of price – if it looks too good to be true, it probably is
Research the seller – if you are unfamiliar with the company selling the product, look at previous customer reviews and conduct some background research
Check the spec – fake parts are often ‘one size fits all’ and not made for your vehicle. This could be dangerous and cause irreversible damage
Look for proof – genuine parts will come with a certificate of Original Equipment. If there isn’t one, the component is likely to be a fake
Suspect it’s fake? Report it – it is illegal to sell counterfeits, and sellers should be reported to Crimestoppers.

Miles Rees, deputy director of enforcement at the Intellectual Property Office, said: “Fake car parts are illegal to sell and are very dangerous for motorists and other road users.

“While they may look the same, they are often made from inferior materials and are not safety tested. This increases the risk of failure and can lead to life-changing or life-ending consequences – a risk not worth taking.”

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This junkyard Mercedes Gullwing just sold for more than £7 million

By

John Redfern

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October 29, 2024

0

A rare example of the Mercedes-Benz 300SL, abandoned in a Los Angeles junkyard for decades, has sold for an staggering amount at auction.

With a final sale price of $9.355 million (£7.21 million), the 1956 ‘Gullwing’ far exceeded its already considerable pre-auction estimate of $4.5 to $6 million (£3.47 to £4.63 million).

The Mercedes was just one star of the RM Sotheby’s Rudi Klein Junkyard auction, which saw more than 200 special cars and rare parts go under the hammer.

One of just 29 produced

California-based Rudi Klein amassed a staggering collection of cars at his (deliberately misspelled) Porche Foreign Auto Wrecking yard in Los Angeles. After his death in 2001, Klein’s family left the junkyard untouched.

It means cars such as this rare, alloy-bodied 300SL have not been seen in public for decades.

Designed as a semi-competition version of the glamorous Gullwing, just 29 examples of the lightweight alloy model were produced.

Acquired by Klein in 1976, this special Mercedes had been hidden away for many years before it was photographed for the RM Sotheby’s sale.

A record-breaking Iso Grifo

Throughout his life, Rudi Klein amassed an enormous number of unique cars, including the only convertible version of the Iso Grifo.

Displayed at the 1964 Geneva Motor Show, the open-top Grifo was later exported to the United States and registered for road use. Klein managed to purchase the car in 1980, and even drove it as his own personal vehicle before it disappeared behind the junkyard walls.

At the RM Sotheby’s sale, the Grifo Spider achieved a final auction price of $1.875 million (£1.45million) when the hammer fell: a record-breaking auction price for an Iso Grifo.

Time to get the T-Cut out…

Proving just how extensive the Rudi Klein collection was, the auction catalogue included no less than three Lamborghini Miuras.

All the cars managed to find new owners, but the aqua green 1968 Miura P400 pictured above achieved the highest price, selling for $1.325 million (£1.02million).

Although clearly in need of restoration, and wearing a non-original paint colour, being verified as the 159th of 275 examples made will have attracted collectors.

Other notable cars rescued from the junkyard included a 1935 Mercedes-Benz made for racing driver Rudolf Caracciola, plus a rare Porsche 356 coupe.

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Halloween ‘car costumes’ make Rivian EVs into something scarier

By

John Redfern

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October 28, 2024

0

Owners of electric pickup trucks and SUVs made by Rivian can use a free software update to make their vehicles look spookier this Halloween.

The American EV manufacturer has become known for its seasonal software upgrades, but has pushed the idea even further for 2024.

A range of ‘Car Costumes’ can transform a Rivian into a movie-inspired vehicle. There are also a host of spooky surprises as drivers navigate through the various infotainment menus and functions.

At least your car’s costume is sorted

Using the Rivian mobile app, drivers can make their R1T or R1S replicate the legendary K.I.T.T. from Knight Rider.

This update sees the interior display replicate the diagnostics screens found inside K.I.T.T., while the exterior light bar shows a flowing red beam and makes the distinctive scanning sound effect.

Rivian’s ‘Gear Guard’ digital mascot will appear dressed as Michael Knight, too.

Alternatively, Rivian owners can choose to mimic the DeLorean Time Machine from the Back to the Future movies. Sounds from the films and bespoke infotainment screens are included, along special exterior lighting effects.

Ready for camping on Halloween?

For those who want an even spookier interior, the ‘Haunted Rivian’ Car Costume creates ghostly effects inside the vehicle. A selection of colour themes can be chosen, with the digital screens showing static electricity and spectres.

On the driver’s display, pedestrians will resemble zombies, while motorcyclists look like headless horsemen. The Rivian can also make an owl chirp when locking or unlocking.

Rivian’s Camp Mode, used to ensure the R1T or R1S is level when fitted with a roof tent, comes with added crows, pumpkins and even green flames at night.

At present, Rivian’s electric pickup truck and SUV are only available in North America. However, the company plans to bring smaller models to Europe in the future.

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