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The German manufacturer thoroughly upgrades the Astra and Astra Sports Tourer with more technology, advanced design, and greater electric range.

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A facelift that redefines the direction of the German compact

The 2026 Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer undergo one of the most significant updates in their recent history, a strategic move intended to keep the model competitive in one of Europe’s most demanding segments. Developed and manufactured in Rüsselsheim, they will make their public debut at the Brussels Motor Show from 9 to 18 January, previewing a qualitative leap in both design and efficiency. For Opel, this facelift is far more than a visual refresh; it marks a key repositioning ahead of 2026.

An illuminated front end and technology inspired by motorsport

The updated visual identity revolves around the evolution of the Opel Vizor, which now incorporates an illuminated lightning-bolt emblem for the first time, flanked by horizontal and vertical light signatures inspired by the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept. However, the most significant innovation lies in the Intelli-Lux HD matrix lighting system, featuring more than 50,000 individual pixels capable of adjusting the beam in real time, shading other vehicles, preventing reflections on road signs, and providing additional cornering support. This level of optical precision, reminiscent of the engineering focus seen in Formula 1, positions the Astra at the forefront of lighting technology in its segment.

A sustainable interior with enhanced comfort and premium ergonomics

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Opel doubles down on sustainability by integrating 100% recycled fabrics, a reorganised dashboard, and new Intelli seats as standard, designed to reduce pressure on the coccyx. For those seeking greater comfort, AGR-certified seats are available with ReNewKnit upholstery, adjustable lumbar support, heating, massage, and memory functions. Overall perceived quality has taken a significant step forward, placing the Astra among the upper tier of European compact cars.

Greater electric range and new features that expand everyday usability

One of the headline improvements is the enhanced Astra Electric, now offering up to 454 km of WLTP range thanks to a 58 kWh battery, extending the distance before the first charge by approximately 34 km. The addition of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality allows users to power external devices such as e-bikes directly from the vehicle, an especially useful feature for those who blend urban driving with outdoor activities. Practicality remains a strong asset: up to 1,339 litres of boot capacity in the Astra and up to 1,634 litres in the Sports Tourer, with 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats.

Awaiting full powertrain details ahead of the global premiere

Opel has confirmed that more details on the available powertrains will be announced in early 2026, coinciding with the model’s world premiere. With this redesign, the Astra reinforces its standing as one of the most complete compact cars on the market, combining advanced design, genuine sustainability, competitive electric range, and technology that rivals higher segments.

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Next-Gen Chevrolet Equinox EV Could Arrive for 2029

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Chevrolet is reportedly developing a next-generation Equinox EV that could arrive for the 2029 model year with an all-new electric platform.

The Next-Gen Chevrolet Equinox EV may already be in development. According to a new report, Chevrolet is preparing a second generation of its affordable electric SUV even as sales of the current model have slowed in 2026.

However, the reported redesign suggests General Motors remains committed to expanding its electric vehicle lineup for the years ahead.

A New Platform Could Power the Next Generation

The biggest change could be found beneath the body.

According to the report, the Next-Gen Chevrolet Equinox EV is expected to ride on GM’s upcoming BEV-N architecture. The current model uses the BEV3 platform, which also supports several other General Motors electric vehicles.

As a result, the new platform could deliver improvements in efficiency, technology and overall performance. Even so, Chevrolet has not confirmed any technical details.

The next-generation Chevrolet Equinox EV could move to GM’s new BEV-N electric platform.

Sales Have Slowed After a Strong Start

The current Equinox EV enjoyed an impressive launch.

In 2025, Chevrolet sold nearly 58,000 units, making it one of the best-selling electric vehicles outside of Tesla. However, demand has cooled this year.

Through the first half of 2026, Chevrolet delivered just over 16,000 Equinox EVs. Consequently, the electric SUV has slipped in the sales rankings as competition from rival automakers continues to grow.

Chevrolet’s affordable electric SUV posted lower sales during the first half of 2026.

Chevrolet Is Looking Toward the Future

Despite weaker sales, General Motors appears to be planning ahead.

The report indicates the Next-Gen Chevrolet Equinox EV could debut in late 2028 or early 2029 before arriving as a 2029 model. Meanwhile, Chevrolet has declined to comment on future product plans.

Nevertheless, the company’s investment in a second-generation model suggests it still sees long-term potential in the Equinox EV.

A redesigned Chevrolet Equinox EV could reach dealerships as a 2029 model.

Next-Gen Chevrolet Equinox EV Signals GM’s Long-Term EV Strategy

The Next-Gen Chevrolet Equinox EV may still be several years away, but it already appears to be an important part of General Motors’ future.

Overall, the reported redesign points to a continued investment in affordable electric vehicles. If the new platform delivers meaningful improvements, Chevrolet could strengthen its position in one of the industry’s fastest-growing segments.

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Rolls-Royce’s $32 Million Droptail Took 9 Months of Handcrafted Woodwork

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The Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail showcases extraordinary craftsmanship, combining thousands of hand-placed wood pieces, custom engineering and one-of-a-kind luxury details.

The Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is one of the most exclusive automobiles ever created. Designed as a one-off commission, the handcrafted roadster reportedly carries a value of around $32 million and showcases an extraordinary level of personalization that goes far beyond traditional luxury.

Moreover, nearly every element of the vehicle was developed specifically for its owner, from the body structure to its remarkable interior artwork.

1,603 Wood Pieces Form a Rolling Work of Art

The centerpiece of the Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is an intricate parquetry masterpiece inspired by the Black Baccara Rose, a flower known for appearing almost black in the shade before revealing deep red tones under direct light.

To recreate the effect of falling rose petals, a single Rolls-Royce artisan hand-positioned 1,603 individual wooden triangles, combining 1,070 black sycamore veneer pieces with 533 hand-painted red elements.

Furthermore, the craftsperson worked in complete silence inside a sound-insulated room, completing only one-hour sessions to maintain maximum precision. The assembly alone required more than nine months, while developing the complete parquetry project took nearly two years.

The interior artwork consists of 1,603 individually placed wood pieces inspired by falling rose petals.

A Bespoke Roadster Built From the Ground Up

The Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is much more than an ultra-luxury convertible.

Instead of adapting an existing platform, Rolls-Royce created an entirely new structure using steel, aluminum and carbon fiber. The custom monocoque allowed designers to develop the car’s sweeping rear bodywork, removable carbon-fiber hardtop and unique aerodynamic profile.

Power comes from a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V12 producing 593 horsepower, delivering effortless performance while maintaining the refinement expected from the British luxury brand.

The La Rose Noire Droptail features a bespoke carbon fiber, aluminum and steel architecture developed exclusively for the project.

Luxury Extends to Every Detail

Every surface of the Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail reflects obsessive attention to detail.

The exterior paint required more than 150 development iterations to reproduce the changing appearance of the Black Baccara Rose. Depending on lighting conditions, the finish shifts between deep black and rich pearlescent red.

Inside, the owner also commissioned a unique Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept watch that can be removed from the dashboard and worn as a wristwatch. Meanwhile, a handcrafted Champagne chest, crystal flutes and numerous bespoke finishes reinforce the vehicle’s status as one of the most personalized Rolls-Royce models ever produced.

A removable Audemars Piguet dashboard watch highlights the extraordinary personalization of the La Rose Noire Droptail.

Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail Redefines Coachbuilding

The Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail represents the pinnacle of modern coachbuilding.

Overall, years of engineering, handcrafted artistry and limitless customization transformed this exclusive roadster into far more than a luxury automobile. From its painstaking woodwork to its bespoke architecture and one-of-a-kind details, the La Rose Noire Droptail stands as one of the most remarkable custom cars ever created.

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Andretti Unveils Liberty Walk Livery for Tokyo E-Prix

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Andretti has revealed a special Liberty Walk-inspired livery for the Tokyo E-Prix, blending Formula E technology with one of Japan’s most recognizable tuning brands.

The Andretti Liberty Walk collaboration is bringing a fresh look to the Formula E grid ahead of the Tokyo E-Prix. Andretti has unveiled a special silver-and-blue livery created with renowned Japanese tuner Liberty Walk, celebrating the race’s return to the streets of Japan’s capital.

Moreover, the one-off design pays tribute to Japan’s legendary car culture while highlighting one of Formula E’s biggest events of the season.

Liberty Walk Brings Its Signature Style to Formula E

Known worldwide for its bold widebody creations, Liberty Walk has partnered with Andretti to give both Gen3 Formula E race cars an eye-catching appearance for the Tokyo event.

Instead of the tuner’s more recent white-and-red color schemes, the special edition features a chrome silver and blue finish inspired by classic Japanese performance cars. As a result, the cars combine modern electric racing technology with styling cues that have become iconic among automotive enthusiasts.

Andretti’s Formula E cars receive a special Liberty Walk-inspired silver-and-blue livery for Tokyo.

A Tribute to Japanese Automotive Culture

Founded in the early 1990s, Liberty Walk has built a global reputation for transforming performance cars with aggressive widebody kits and unmistakable styling.

Furthermore, the Tokyo E-Prix livery reflects that heritage by adopting colors reminiscent of legendary Japanese sports cars from the late 1990s and early 2000s. The design celebrates the country’s rich tuning scene while giving Andretti one of the most distinctive liveries on the Formula E grid.

The special livery honors Japan’s iconic tuning culture through Liberty Walk’s unique design language.

Tokyo’s Street Circuit Promises a Tough Challenge

While the new livery will attract plenty of attention, the drivers will still face one of the season’s most demanding street circuits.

The Tokyo layout features 18 corners packed into just 1.6 miles, leaving little room for mistakes. Consequently, precision will be just as important as outright speed as drivers navigate the narrow course lined with unforgiving barriers.

Meanwhile, Andretti enters the weekend running near the top of the Formula E Teams’ Championship, hoping the special edition design will accompany a strong on-track performance.

Andretti will debut the Liberty Walk livery during the challenging Tokyo Formula E street race.

Andretti Liberty Walk Creates One of Formula E’s Most Unique Liveries

The Andretti Liberty Walk partnership perfectly blends motorsport with Japanese automotive culture.

Overall, the collaboration delivers one of the most memorable liveries of the Formula E season while showcasing Liberty Walk’s unmistakable design philosophy on an international racing stage. If Andretti can match the striking appearance with a strong result, the Tokyo E-Prix could become one of the team’s standout weekends of the year.

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