“The T.50s is the most engaging car I’ve ever drive,” said Franchitti. “For pure fun factor, it surpasses all other track-only models, my favourite supercars of all time, and even the race cars I drove to multiple world championship wins. Gordon set out to create the greatest on-track driving experience ever. The team has more than delivered. The feedback, responsiveness, performance, sound, visibility, braking, stability … everything … it’s just perfect.”

The Bahrain circuit was chosen for its extreme thermal and mechanical stresses, enabling engineers to evaluate braking performance, tire wear, low-grip handling and high-speed stability. During testing, the T.50s reached 184 mph, experienced 2.7g lateral acceleration in corners and endured 3g longitudinal forces under braking. The lap demonstrated the production-readiness of the car and confirmed that aerodynamic and chassis setups met GMA’s specifications.

Professor Gordon Murray, CBE, executive chairman, Gordon Murray Group, said, “This car was never about setting lap times. We simply designed the lightest, optimally powered, most driver-centric track car possible – with the right formula, speed comes naturally. T.50s is designed from the ground up to deliver the greatest possible on‑track driving experience, without compromise.”

Each T.50s is named in tribute to one of Murray’s first 25 Grand Prix victories, with the Niki Lauda model honoring the three-time Formula 1 World Champion. The car is powered by a bespoke 3.9-liter Cosworth GMA V12 producing 772ps at 11,500rpm, with revs up to 12,100rpm. A six-speed paddle-shift Xtrac gearbox, central driving position and fully adjustable aerodynamic package generating up to 1,200kg of downforce combine with a carbon-fiber monocoque and unique race-optimized systems to deliver an immersive track-focused experience.

“Naming the car after Niki was deeply personal. He was a great friend and a remarkable racing driver, and I believe he would have appreciated the purity, focus and engineering integrity that define the car we named in his honour,” said Professor Murray.

Related news, CamMotive opens high-current battery testing facility in Cambridge

The fully electric drivetrain provides long-range, high-charging performance with 800V technology and efficient energy recuperation, making the BMW M Neue Klasse a versatile everyday vehicle. Its newly developed architecture, featuring centrally controlled individual wheel drive, reportedly opens a new dimension in driving dynamics and enhances the safety of all next-generation BMW M vehicles.

The Neue Klasse’s advanced central control and electronics architecture also improves the driving dynamics. Four high-performance computers, called Superbrains, manage driving functions, automated driving, infotainment and comfort features. This setup enhances performance through faster data exchange and allows next-generation BMW M models to receive quicker updates and upgrades.

BMW M eDrive concept

The BMW M Neue Klasse has been developed from the ground up. At the core of the new architecture is BMW M eDrive, which is based on the BMW Gen6 technology of the Neue Klasse.

BMW says that M Dynamic Performance Control, using M-specific Heart of Joy software, enhances driving dynamics, safety, traction, recuperation and responsiveness.

The Neue Klasse features two electric drive units on the front and rear axles, each with one electric motor per wheel. Each of the four electric motors drives one wheel. This combines the advantages of rear-wheel and all-wheel drive while enhancing driving dynamics on the road and racetrack. Additionally, the front axle can be completely decoupled.

BMW M eDrive’s electric drive units are BMW M’s most powerful, with parallel motors powering each wheel via dedicated gearboxes. The drive units also integrate the inverter for controlling the electric motors and the oil supply. The system enables precise control of torque and power at each wheel, enabling optimal traction, continuous torque distribution between the braking system and electric motors, and brake energy recuperation right up to the limit.

High-voltage battery

The high-voltage battery, boasting over 100kWh of usable energy as the powerhouse for the BMW M eDrive system, has been adapted to meet the demands of high-performance vehicles.

With a focus on compatibility with both road and racetrack use, BMW’s Design to Power approach uses a performance-optimized Gen6 cylindrical cell with an enhanced cooling system and the Energy Master control unit, enabling higher power outputs for road and track use. With BMW M-specific solutions, the Gen6 high-voltage battery in the fully electric high-performance models delivers even greater peak and charging performance. Additionally, within the Gen6 technology, the Neue Klasse models offer the highest recuperation values. The high-voltage battery housing also serves as a structural component of the vehicle and is connected to the front and rear axles. The resulting higher stiffness leads to improved driving dynamics.

In related news, Czinger establishes UK base at Mira Tech Park

Kumho Tire expects that using driving simulators in R&D will reduce the time and cost of vehicle testing and prototype production, allowing more precise and efficient performance evaluation from the early stages of development.

Kim Youngjin, executive vice president and head of research and development at Kumho Tire, said, “This will serve as an opportunity to advance our research and development paradigm to be more digitally focused. By actively utilizing advanced simulation technology, we will introduce high-performance, high-value-added products optimized for the future mobility environment, and continuously strengthen our competitiveness in the global market.”

Dan Clark, managing director of Ansible Motion, added, “Tire development has entered a new phase where virtual testing complements and accelerates physical evaluation. Our Delta S3 Spin DIL simulator will enable Kumho Tire to investigate solutions for the next generation of tires in an environment that enables its engineers to be engineers – without the time and costs associated with traditional prototyping rounds.”

Ansible’s Delta S3 Spin DIL simulator replicates road driving conditions and enables virtual testing of vehicle dynamics, driving safety and ride comfort. It features the company’s six-degrees-of-freedom Stratiform motion system with infinite yaw, combined with a 360° wraparound projection and interchangeable vehicle cabins for a fully immersive lab environment. It provides 1:1 cueing in combined lateral and yaw situations, simulates road disturbances and integrates with leading tire modeling software. Its open software architecture and 5 × 5m scalable ground plane allow upgrades and integration with external systems such as HIL rigs and advanced vehicle models, ensuring long-term value for evolving tire testing needs.

DIL simulators enable detailed digital analysis of tires, including tread design, carcass construction and compound composition, while capturing real-time feedback from human drivers. By linking virtual and physical testing, Kumho Tire aims to refine predictive models and improve the accuracy of simulation-to-road correlations.

In related news, Innoviz and Vueron create AI-powered toolset for automated lidar data annotation and training

“Vision Iconic embodies our vision for the future of mobility. With groundbreaking innovations such as neuromorphic computing, steer-by-wire, solar paint and Level 4 highly automated driving, along with state-of-the-art technology, we are setting new standards for the electric and digital age. This beautiful vehicle is a testament to our commitment to making the mobility of tomorrow a reality today,” said Markus Schäfer, member of the board of management and chief technology officer, development and procurement, at Mercedes‑Benz Group.

Exterior reimagining

The Vision Iconic features Mercedes-Benz’s ‘iconic grille,’ with a modern take on the brand’s classic design that combines a chrome frame, smoked-glass lattice and contour lighting, merging heritage with digital styling, and featuring an illuminated star on the hood.

Hyper-analog

“Our Vision Iconic is more than just an automobile – it is a sculpture in motion, a homage to timeless elegance and a statement for the future. The symbiosis of traditional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art technology and an unmistakable design language makes it the ultimate expression of value, prestige and grace: the most beautiful, most prestigious kind of thing,” commented Gorden Wagener, chief design officer at Mercedes-Benz Group.

The Vision Iconic’s interior blends art deco elegance with modern craftsmanship. Its centerpiece, a floating glass ‘zeppelin’, which the auto maker says, showcases intricate detailing and a seamless mix of analog and digital design.

The instrument cluster features a cinematic, entirely analog animation inspired by high-end chronographs and the pillar-to-pillar screen concept blends technology seamlessly into the interior. At the center, one of the four clocks is shaped like the brand logo and doubles up as an AI companion.

Behind the zeppelin, a mother-of-pearl inlay extends across the cabin and doors around the brass handles. A deep blue velvet bench seat is fitted for the driver and passenger, enhancing the sense of shared comfort and understated luxury.

A four-spoke steering wheel combines sportiness and elegance, featuring a glass-encased Mercedes-Benz logo. The floor’s handcrafted straw marquetry, in a fan-shaped art deco motif, has been produced using a decorative art process that dates back to the 17th century.

Neuromorphic computing and ADAS tech

Future Mercedes-Benz models like the Vision Iconic will feature more and more autonomous driving capabilities and increasing energy demands that make efficiency critical. Mercedes-Benz is exploring neuromorphic computing, which mimics the human brain to process AI tasks up to 10 times more efficiently and in a manner that is 90% less energy-intensive than current systems. This technology could enhance safety features by improving the recognition of traffic signs, lanes and other road users, even in low-visibility conditions.

The Vision Iconic comes standard with Level 2 point-to-point urban driving capabilities, enabling precise handling of complex city traffic with cooperative steering and acceleration. Mercedes-Benz says the next step will be to equip future models with Level 4 highly automated driving technology.

Solar coating for more range

Mercedes-Benz is also developing ultra-thin solar modules that can be applied directly to a vehicle’s body like a coating. The photovoltaic-active surface adapts to different materials and the company says that this could generate enough energy for up to 12,000km per year under ideal conditions on a car the size of a mid-size SUV (11m2 ). Free of rare earths and silicon, the recyclable coating achieves 20% efficiency and continues producing power even when the vehicle is switched off.

In related news, Yangwang U9 Xtreme sets Nürburgring electric hypercar record

The Future of Automotive Testing Conference

This day of high-level content will explore various topics and provide an engaging opportunity to learn from and connect with industry peers. Situated among the exhibits, it will have a relaxing atmosphere, and visitors will be able to dip in and out at their leisure. A highlight will be ATTI’s on-stage interview with Jon Quigley, who worked for Volvo for many years and now runs his own company, Value Transformation. With his broad experience and portfolio of contacts, he’s a very good person to know. He loves sharing his thoughts, too, hence his new gig as ATTI’s regular columnist.

Read Quigley’s latest column on p36 of the September issue.

Also during the conference, Venkat Adusumalli, software engineering manager at Stellantis, will reveal how Stellantis is using AI to accelerate E/E system testing and validation workflows. Click here for a pre-show interview with him.

Innovation Showcase

The free-to-attend Innovation Showcase also provides an interactive platform for learning about new technologies. Speakers will welcome questions and discussion after their presentations, making it a great way to explore ideas together. Like the conference, it will take place within the main hall, so it will be very easy to listen in while wandering through the exhibits, or to come and go throughout the day.

Technology debuts

The industry is moving quickly and it can be a challenge to keep up. Every year there is an abundance of new technologies on display. Some are incremental improvements to existing products, others are entirely new. It’s always surprising how companies find ways around bottlenecks. Often, these developments emerge from ongoing conversations between supplier and customer, ultimately benefiting multiple companies.

Read ATTI‘s comprehensive expo preview in the September issue.

Face-to-face discussions  

It sounds obvious, but the most fruitful conversations are usually the ones that happen in person – it’s how journalists find the best stories. Year after year, exhibitors and visitors report having forged unexpected collaborations at the show, in the form of technology tie-ups or service partnerships.

Detroit’s revival 

A lot of money has been plowed into Detroit in recent years, as evidenced by the stunning renovation of Michigan Central Station, which is well worth a visit. Much of the investment has been in the tech sector. Eleven years ago – when the station was still derelict – ATTI took a tour of some of the labs at GM and what was then the FCA headquarters (see The right wave length, November 2014, Seasonal highlights, September 2015, and Powerbase, March 2015). The facilities were impressive then and are even more so now, thanks to several years of investment in innovation leading to Detroit’s resurgence as an automotive powerhouse.

Visit the Automotive Testing Expo North America website to secure your FREE pass, which will give you access to the expo, the Future of Automotive Testing Conference and the Innovation Showcase

Headquartered in the US and manufacturing in Italy, Vittori says it aims to fuse timeless artistry and cutting-edge technology, redefining what is possible for the future while respecting the beloved aesthetics and qualities of classic car design.

Founder and CEO Carlos Cruz noted, “Our dream was to create a beautiful, high-speed vehicle that evoked emotion and a sense of connection. We didn’t want to make another supercar – we wanted to build something that feels like flight, like sculpture, like power at your fingertips. We sought to build a reality where performance, beauty, control and freedom could exist in one car – without compromise.”

The model debuting in Miami is a running concept, which Vittori says is just the start of its journey toward a production version. Pininfarina will drive Vittori’s concept development, manufacturing and the production of exclusive limited series.

In related news, prototypes take center stage at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025

“The launch of the first-ever fuel cell production model from BMW in 2028 will add another exceptionally efficient high-performance drive system with zero emissions to our technology-open product portfolio,” said Joachim Post, a member of the board of management of BMW AG. “The choice of Steyr as the production location clearly demonstrates our commitment to a European innovation footprint. The BMW competence centers in Munich and Steyr have a key role to play in the development of pioneering fuel cell systems.”

Compact, powerful, efficient

The first generation of the fuel cell drive system was supplied entirely by the Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and was fitted in the BMW 535iA back in 2014. The second generation made its debut in the current BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet. This time, BMW has developed the overall fuel cell system itself, while the individual fuel cells came from Toyota.

For the latest generation, the BMW Group and Toyota jointly developed the powertrain system for passenger vehicles, with the core fuel cell technology creating synergies for commercial and passenger vehicle applications.

The third generation has reduced the space taken up by the fuel cell system by 25% as the increase in power density has enabled a compact construction compared with the preceding generation. The system is set to be substantially more efficient than its predecessor thanks to upgraded individual parts that are based on the drive technology jointly developed with Toyota, and improved operating strategies. These advances result in increased range and output combined with lower energy consumption, which represents a significant improvement over the second generation.  The latest fuel cell can also be integrated into future vehicle architectures.

Technological expertise: Munich

BMW is making prototypes of the highly efficient fuel cell systems at the company’s competence center for hydrogen in Munich. An electrochemical reaction takes place in the fuel cell, which involves hydrogen from the tanks reacting with oxygen from the air. This reaction produces electricity that powers the electric motor and thereby supplies the vehicle with energy.

The fuel cell system comprises not only the fuel cells themselves but also all the components and systems needed for their efficient operation. These include the cooling system and hydrogen and air subsystems.

Prototype production is currently focused on development and validation of the assembly and testing processes, with particular attention paid to industrialization, quality assurance and scalability in the longer term. In parallel, the prototypes are being used to develop an operating strategy and for validation on both a system and a vehicle level. These steps aim to prepare the technology for series production.

Series production: Steyr

Production of the fuel cell systems is due to get underway in 2028 at BMW Group Plant Steyr. New test rigs and production facilities are being built, and buildings are being modified to incorporate the drive technology and refine it.

“We are proud to be producing another innovative drive technology at Plant Steyr in the future alongside the latest generation of electric motors and combustion engines,” said Klaus von Moltke, senior vice president of engine production at BMW and director of BMW Plant Steyr. “This, together with the development expertise we have available on-site, makes our plant a prime example of the BMW Group’s technology-open approach.”

Component manufacture: Landshut

Landshut is responsible for manufacturing components for the fuel cell vehicles. Construction of hardware and equipment for the series production of the BMW Energy Master will start in late May 2026. The BMW Energy Master controls the supply of power in the vehicle across a range from 400- 800V. It also acts as the interface for data from the high-voltage battery. This control unit is supplemented by various components that are specifically required for the fuel cell application. Production of the prototypes will begin in mid-2026.

In related news, Siemens Digital Industries Software recently announced that Nidec Corporation has adopted Teamcenter X software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software, with the goal of achieving innovative motor development and supply, and setting new industry standards, including automotive

Following the initial round of teaser images shared a week ago (see below), Hyundai has officially confirmed the model’s name as Concept Three ahead of its global debut.

The latest image showcases the future-forward design of the EV. Its side profile reveals a bold, energetic stance, shaped by Hyundai’s design language, Art of Steel. Inspired by the way steel bends and flows, the body features sculpted surfaces, clean intersections and distinctive character lines to emphasize motion and precision. This side view also previews the Aero Hatch, a new typology.

“Designing the Concept Three was an opportunity for us to rethink the compact EV from the ground up,” said Simon Loasby, senior vice president and head of the Hyundai Design Center. “We defined the Aero Hatch typology to craft a silhouette that captures a sense of flow and becomes a beautifully proportioned sculpture.”

Manuel Schoettle, exterior designer of Concept Three, added, “The authenticity of the way we treated the steel fits perfectly. It just felt natural, making the Concept Three extremely pure, and hopefully it will bring a smile to your face.”

In related news, several vehicle prototypes – many previously covered by ATTI – were on display at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed

Among the records smashed was a record for the greatest distance covered by an electric vehicle in 24 hours. The technology platform traveled 5,479km (3,404 miles), surpassing the previous sub-4,000km (2,485 miles) record by 1,518km (943 miles) – a 38% increase.

The tests also included AMG’s ‘drive around the world in eight days.’ Drivers maintained a constant speed of 300km/h (186mph), stopping only to recharge at power levels averaging around 850kW. After each charging stop, the vehicle accelerated back to 300km/h (186mph) for eight consecutive days. According to analyses, the 300km/h (186mph) speed offered the optimal balance between track speed and charging stops, delivering the fastest overall time.

The Concept AMG covered the distance of 40,075km (24,901 miles) in exactly 7 days, 13 hours, 24 minutes and 7 seconds – beating the 8 day target by a wide margin. Along the way, the Concept AMG set a number of additional performance records.

Two vehicles participated in the demanding endurance challenge. After more than 7 and a half days of continuous operation, both finished just 25km (15.5 miles) apart. The program required 3,177 laps of the 12.68km (7.88 miles) Nardò circuit, where race drivers completed two‑hour shifts. On average, each vehicle drove more than 5,300km (3,293 miles) per day. Conditions were far from favorable, with daytime ambient temperatures rising up to 95°F (35°C) in the shade, climbing higher under direct sunlight on the exposed track.

“As an F1 driver, I’m used to pushing technology to its absolute limits – the Concept AMG GT XX really impressed me. The axial flux motors respond as immediately and precisely as a Formula 1 drivetrain, but with an endurance that I have only ever experienced with combustion engines. This technology will revolutionize the driving experience – both on the racetrack and on the road,” commented George Russell, Mercedes‑AMG Petronas F1 team driver.

Electric endurance

The drive system, featuring three axial flux motors and the latest high-performance battery, enabled continuous electric power and ultra-fast-charging. This allowed the vehicle to perform consistently under extreme conditions at Nardò, with the battery maintaining optimal temperatures for both high performance and rapid charging.

The axial flux motors, which are significantly more compact, lighter and about three times more power-dense than conventional electric motors, enabled high-performance driving that could be consistently and repeatedly delivered.

Three axial flux motors and a directly cooled battery concept

The concept vehicle produced over 1,000kW (>1,341hp) using three motors in high-performance drive units. Two axial flux motors on the rear axle operated continuously, while a front booster motor activated as needed for extra power or traction.

The high-performance battery is a new development from Affalterbach, inspired by Formula 1. It uses newly developed cylindrical NCMA cells, which offer efficient cooling and an energy density of over 300Wh/kg.

The battery cells were directly cooled by an electrically non-conductive oil, regulating the temperature of over 3,000 cells for even heat dissipation. This supported the battery’s high continuous power. Operating at over 800V reduced the weight with lighter cables and shortened charging times, while thermal management ensured optimal cell temperature for maximum performance under extreme conditions. The AMG charges at over 850kW across much of the charging curve. In five minutes, it can add about 400km of range (WLTP).

“With the Concept AMG GT XX technology program, we are entering a new dimension of performance – this time with fully electric drive. The goal is to redefine the limits of what is technically possible in the age of electric drives. So what could be more fitting than to chase records once again? Our mission: to redefine the very standards of performance with groundbreaking technologies and innovations. The motivation and dedication of the cross-functional team from Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes-Benz Mobility and our F1 engine experts at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains throughout the entire preparation phase were boundless. I am immensely proud of the unprecedented achievement of the entire team in this unique record drive,” said Markus Schäfer, member of the board of management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, and chief technology officer, development & purchasing.

In related news, Siemens Digital Industries Software recently announced that Nidec Corporation has adopted Teamcenter X software from the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of industry software, with the goal of achieving innovative motor development and supply, and setting new industry standards, including automotive

In collaboration with Mahle Powertrain, the team leading the project outlines the process of developing, packaging and delivering a system capable of producing 1,250bhp, integrating with a hybrid system, and reaching 9,800rpm without compromising driveability.

The Mjølner powertrain combines the latest technologies, and draws on Mahle Powertrain’s experience. “We always knew that the Aurora project was going to be a push for what was possible through conventional and regular thinking,” explains Jens Sverdrup, chairman and CCO, Zenvo Automotive.

“Was an off-the-shelf system more straightforward? Of course. Was it ever an option? Absolutely not. Aurora is about delivering no compromises, and that means developing our own powertrain which delivers exactly what we wanted, exactly how we wanted it. Like the car itself, the Mjølner powertrain pushes the boundaries of what can be done from an engineering perspective. No compromise.”

The Zenvo Aurora program remains on track for its 2026 production goal, with development of the Mjølner powertrain “accelerating”, Zenvo says.

In related news, Kia’s latest all-electric compact model, the EV4, has completed a 10,000km Nürburgring test under near-maximum load and hypercharging conditions and a 110,000km accelerated public road simulation test, after which the fourth-generation vehicle showed “minimal wear and sustained battery efficiency”, the auto maker said. Read the full story here