Car News

There’s a new breed of engine coming for the USA's armed forces, and it could pave the way for more powerful and efficient engines in broader applications. It's called the Advanced Combat Engine (ACE). A co-development of Cummins and Achates Power, it’s radically different to a typical diesel engine that we all know. It’s the result of a $US47.4 million contract, aimed at producing the next generation of engine for military use.

Amid the current covid-clampdown that’s taking place around the world, automotive brands like Audi are looking for new and innovative ways to share news about their new models and technologies. In Audi’s instance those product communications are taking place via Audi Tech Talks, where engineers and executives talk up the brand’s latest and greatest developments. In the most recent, suspension development came under the spotlight.

BMW will debut a remote engine start function on its upcoming 4 Series, 5 Series, and M5 Competition vehicles. The technology will allow operators to start the car's engine remotely – using a smartphone app – for up to 15 minutes before driving. During this time the interior can be heated or cooled and the seat warmers can be activated. Drivers can activate the function from any location through the BMW ConnectedDrive app.

Side mirrors could soon be replaced by tiny cameras with high-resolution displays inside the cabin – to improve visibility and fuel economy. The first vehicle on sale in Australia available with cameras instead of side mirrors is the latest generation Mercedes-Benz Actros truck.

Audi is out to prove electric cars don’t need to be boring, or slow. The German car maker has released details on the Audi E-Tron S electric SUV range ahead of its Australian arrival in the second half of next year. It promises sports-car performance – with a 0 to 100kmh time of 4.5 seconds – and has an “overboost” mode that delivers a phenomenal 370kW/973Nm output for up to eight seconds, designed for safer overtaking.