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Alpine A110 Future Previews the Brand’s First Electric Sports Car
The Alpine A110 Future offers the first look at Alpine’s next-generation electric sports car, combining a new aluminum platform, dual rear-mounted electric motors and advanced battery technology ahead of its 2027 launch.
Alpine A110 Future Reveals the Brand’s First Electric Sports Car
The Alpine A110 Future marks the beginning of a new era for the French performance brand. Following the end of production of the second-generation A110, Alpine has officially unveiled its first development prototype for the next-generation model, which will become the company’s first fully electric sports car when it arrives in 2027.
Rather than adapting the outgoing gasoline-powered coupe, Alpine has developed an entirely new sports car on a dedicated electric platform while preserving the lightweight philosophy and rear-wheel-drive character that made the A110 one of the most respected driver’s cars in the segment.
The Alpine A110 Future features a brand-new electric platform
Unlike its predecessor, the Alpine A110 Future rides on the new Alpine Performance Platform (APP), an aluminum-intensive architecture designed specifically for high-performance electric vehicles.
The prototype replaces the outgoing turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with a dual-motor electric powertrain that continues sending power exclusively to the rear wheels.
Although Alpine has not released official power figures, the company says the new setup will deliver exceptional torque and performance while maintaining the precise handling characteristics expected from the A110.
To preserve balance, engineers developed a split battery layout with two battery packs mounted at the rear, helping achieve an ideal 40:60 weight distribution.
The platform also incorporates high-energy-density battery cells, a cell-to-pack battery design, a silicon carbide inverter, and a modern 800-volt electrical architecture, allowing significantly faster charging and improved efficiency.
The Alpine A110 Future previews the next generation of Alpine’s iconic sports car with an all-new electric platform.
Alpine promises true sports car performance
One of Alpine’s biggest objectives is proving that electrification doesn’t have to compromise driving enjoyment.
The company describes the Alpine A110 Future as the world’s first true electric sports car, claiming it will outperform many of today’s combustion-powered sports cars while remaining faithful to the lightweight DNA that has defined the A110 for decades.
Although the new model will inevitably weigh more than the outgoing 2,430-pound (1,102 kg) coupe, Alpine has focused on minimizing weight through extensive aluminum construction and lightweight suspension components.
The familiar silhouette remains, but the prototype already features noticeably wider wheel arches, signaling a more aggressive chassis and significantly wider front and rear tracks.
Alpine says the A110 Future will combine lightweight engineering with electric performance.
The Alpine A110 Future launches in 2027
The Alpine A110 Future will make its first public appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed before entering production in 2027.
It will remain a dedicated two-seat sports car, although Alpine has already confirmed plans for a larger A310 electric coupe with a 2+2 seating configuration to expand its future performance lineup.
Replacing one of the most celebrated lightweight sports cars of the modern era is a significant challenge, but Alpine believes its new platform will allow the company to preserve the driving engagement that has always defined the A110.
The Alpine A110 Future is scheduled to enter production in 2027 as Alpine’s first fully electric sports car.
The Alpine A110 Future also represents one of the most important projects in Alpine’s long-term electrification strategy. Instead of simply converting an existing model into an EV, the company developed a dedicated sports car platform engineered from the ground up for electric performance. That approach allows Alpine to optimize weight distribution, chassis rigidity and driving dynamics while preparing the brand to compete in the next generation of high-performance electric sports cars.
As Alpine expands its electric lineup over the coming years, the Alpine A110 Future will serve as the flagship of that transformation. If the production model delivers on the promises made by the prototype, it could redefine expectations for electric sports cars while preserving the engaging character that has made the A110 an icon among driving enthusiasts.
Skoda has refreshed the Slavia for India with updated styling, more technology, new automatic transmissions, and a rear-seat massage function.
Skoda has unveiled the updated Slavia sedan for the Indian market, adding new technology, improved comfort features, and revised styling.
The facelifted model remains based on the local MQB-A0-IN platform, developed and produced in India. It forms part of Skoda’s “made in India, for India” strategy alongside the Kushaq and Kylaq.
The Slavia is also exported to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Vietnam.
Updated exterior design
The Skoda Slavia first arrived in 2022 and has now reached almost 80,000 sales in India.
The refreshed sedan keeps its overall dimensions, with a length of 178.7 inches, but receives several exterior updates.
The facelifted Skoda Slavia gets new LED headlights and redesigned taillights with sequential turn signals.
The most noticeable change comes at the front, where new LED headlights give the sedan a fresher appearance.
At the rear, Skoda has redesigned the taillights and added sequential turn signals.
The range-topping Monte Carlo version also receives two-tone exterior paint, black accents, and exclusive badging.
More technology and comfort inside
The cabin receives several important updates for the facelift.
A 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster now works alongside a 10.1-inch infotainment display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available.
Skoda has also introduced an AI Companion based on Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent.
The updated Slavia combines digital displays with an AI assistant designed specifically for Indian English voice commands.
The system can recognize Indian English accents and respond to voice commands. Drivers can use it for music, phone calls, climate control, and other functions while also requesting real-time information.
However, the most unusual addition is aimed at passengers in the back.
The updated Slavia introduces a rear-seat massage function, which Skoda describes as a segment-first feature.
Other available equipment includes a 360-degree Area View camera, front parking sensors with Park Pilot, and additional convenience features.
Safety remains a major focus
Skoda has also expanded the Slavia’s safety package.
The sedan comes with six airbags as standard and more than 25 active and passive safety systems.
The Slavia has also earned a five-star Global NCAP rating for both adult and child occupant protection.
The Slavia combines six standard airbags with more than 25 active and passive safety systems.
That safety equipment adds to the sedan’s appeal in a market where buyers are increasingly focused on advanced driver assistance and occupant protection.
The updated technology package also makes the Slavia more competitive against newer rivals.
New eight-speed automatic transmission
The powertrain lineup continues to use TSI gasoline engines, but Skoda has introduced an important transmission update.
The 1.0 TSI can now be paired with a new eight-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter. Skoda says this setup is a segment-first feature.
A six-speed manual transmission remains available for buyers who prefer a more traditional driving experience.
The larger 1.5 TSI continues with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission.
Vehicles equipped with the 1.5-liter engine also gain rear disc brakes, adding another technical upgrade to the revised model.
Pricing has not been announced
Skoda has not yet revealed pricing for the updated Slavia.
For reference, the outgoing model currently ranges from approximately $13,000 to $22,000 at current exchange rates, depending on the selected trim.
The updated Skoda Slavia gives the Indian-market sedan a substantial technology boost while retaining its compact dimensions and gasoline powertrains.
Range Rover has created the one-of-one SV Pearl Luster to showcase its expanding SV Bespoke program, with unique colors, materials, and design inspired by California’s coast.
Range Rover has unveiled the SV Pearl Luster, a one-of-one luxury SUV created to demonstrate the possibilities of its SV Bespoke customization program.
The long-wheelbase Range Rover SV made its debut during Monterey Car Week. Unlike a conventional special edition, this vehicle was built as a unique commission and will not be offered as a regular production model.
Range Rover has not disclosed the vehicle’s powertrain or final price, keeping the focus on its handcrafted design and exclusivity.
A unique Range Rover inspired by California
The exterior of the Range Rover SV Pearl Luster is finished in Bespoke White Pearl Gloss.
The color takes inspiration from White Abalone shells found along the California coast, giving the SUV a distinctive pearl-like appearance.
The Range Rover SV Pearl Luster features Bespoke White Pearl Gloss inspired by California’s White Abalone shells.
Range Rover also fitted the SUV with unique 23-inch wheels featuring machined spokes and engraved surfaces.
The result is a more exclusive interpretation of the Range Rover SV, with exterior details designed specifically for this single vehicle.
A handcrafted interior with coastal inspiration
The bespoke theme continues inside the cabin.
Range Rover uses Orchid leather, Natural Light Linear Wenge wood, and natural white mother-of-pearl inlays to create a bright and sophisticated interior.
The SV Pearl Luster cabin combines Orchid leather, Wenge wood, and natural mother-of-pearl details.
The long-wheelbase configuration also includes the rear SV Signature Suite with fully reclining seats.
The interior is designed to feel more like a private luxury lounge than a conventional SUV cabin. Each material contributes to the overall coastal-inspired theme.
Monterey debut highlights the SV Bespoke program
The SV Pearl Luster was presented during Monterey Car Week, an event that has become an important showcase for ultra-exclusive automotive commissions.
Guests were given the opportunity to register interest in the unique Range Rover during the event.
The one-of-one Range Rover SV Pearl Luster debuted during Monterey Car Week as a showcase for SV Bespoke.
A portion of the proceeds from the vehicle’s sale will be donated to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, extending the California-inspired theme beyond the SUV’s design.
The project also demonstrates how Range Rover is positioning SV Bespoke as more than a collection of additional paint and leather options.
The future of SV Bespoke
Range Rover launched SV Bespoke in 2023 and has continued expanding its commissioning capabilities.
The SV Pearl Luster shows how the program can combine custom paint, unique wheels, exclusive interior materials, and a specific narrative into a single vehicle.
Honda-powered teams head to Washington, D.C., for the inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix with Alex Palou leading the title fight and Honda seeking another street-course win.
The Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington will bring the NTT INDYCAR SERIES to the streets of Washington, D.C., for the first time on Sunday, August 23, 2026.
The race will begin at 1 p.m. ET, with pre-race coverage starting at 11:30 a.m. ET and live coverage on Fox.
The inaugural event will take drivers around the nation’s capital and past some of its most recognizable museums and monuments. The race also celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Honda enters another major street-course test
Honda arrives in Washington with a strong record on street circuits during the 2026 season.
Honda-powered drivers have won all five street-course races held so far this year. Four of those victories were part of all-Honda podium sweeps.
Honda-powered teams have won every street-course race of the 2026 IndyCar season ahead of the Washington debut.
Alex Palou opened the season with a victory at St. Petersburg before leading all-Honda podiums at Long Beach and Detroit.
Kyle Kirkwood then won the inaugural race in Arlington, while Marcus Ericsson followed with victory at Markham last weekend.
The results have helped Honda build a 169-point lead in the manufacturers’ championship.
Palou leads a major championship fight
The Washington race could also have a major impact on the 2026 drivers’ championship.
Alex Palou currently leads the standings by 133 points, giving the Chip Ganassi Racing driver a significant advantage heading into the second half of the season.
Alex Palou holds a 133-point championship lead heading into the inaugural Washington street race.
Palou has collected victories at St. Petersburg, Barber, Long Beach, Detroit, Nashville, and Portland during the 2026 campaign.
Andretti Global’s Kyle Kirkwood is currently second and represents one of the biggest threats to Palou’s championship advantage.
The Washington street circuit gives Palou’s rivals another opportunity to reduce the gap. A strong result for the championship leader, however, could bring him significantly closer to a fifth NTT INDYCAR SERIES title.
Acura joins the Washington celebration
The inaugural race will also feature an important Acura celebration.
Marcus Ericsson’s No. 28 Andretti Global Honda will carry an Acura-themed livery during the Washington race.
Marcus Ericsson’s No. 28 will feature an Acura livery celebrating both America’s 250th anniversary and 40 years of Acura.
The special design celebrates 250 years of the United States while also marking 40 years of Acura, which entered the American market in 1986 as the first Japanese luxury car brand.
The partnership gives Acura another opportunity to connect with motorsport fans through the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.
Honda lineup for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix
Honda will field a strong group of drivers across its participating teams in Washington.
Andretti Global
- No. 26 Will Power — Series Champion, Indianapolis 500 winner, Race Winner
- No. 27 Kyle Kirkwood — Race Winner
- No. 28 Marcus Ericsson — Indianapolis 500 winner, Race Winner
Chip Ganassi Racing
- No. 8 Kyffin Simpson
- No. 9 Scott Dixon — Series Champion, Indianapolis 500 winner, Race Winner
- No. 10 Alex Palou — Series Champion, Indianapolis 500 winner, Race Winner
Dale Coyne Racing
- No. 18 Romain Grosjean
- No. 19 Dennis Hauger — Series Rookie
Meyer Shank Racing
- No. 60 Felix Rosenqvist — Indianapolis 500 winner, Race Winner
- No. 66 Marcus Armstrong
Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing
- No. 15 Graham Rahal — Race Winner
- No. 45 Louis Foster
- No. 47 Mick Schumacher — Series Rookie
With Honda already dominant on street circuits and Palou holding a commanding championship lead, the Honda IndyCar Washington GP will provide another important test for both the manufacturer and its leading drivers.
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