Category: Concept Cars

Brussels Motor Show: Some thoughts about the styling future at Citroën, our talk with head of design Pierre Leclercq…

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Conceiving the automotive future is always a very challenging task. Some brands have also  a future-oriented attitude more than others in their DNA, and one of them is certainly Citroën.

75 years ago, they brought us the 2 CV, a car which embodied nothing less than a four-wheeled French revolution, embodying Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. Indeed, this adagio of the French revolutionists fitted the post-war French “citoyens” admirably, as the 2CV brought them just that. Freedom for all, with low-cost mobility, practicality, and go-anywhere capacity.

This revolutionary dream of the brand with the double chevron has never died. And Pierre Leclercq, the Belgian born head of design, proved its love for practicality, out of the box progressive “back to authentic basics of automotive mobility” thinking  already with its wonderful and stunning OLI.   

Your servant was at the presentation of this OLI in Paris, and now stood eye to eye with the equally intriguing ELO. On both occasions, he met the designer, Pierre Leclerq. We talked to him again in Brussels…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

A creative career…

Pierre Leclercq started in 1998 at BMW as an intern, he joined the Italian coachbuilder Zagato in 1999, which he left after three months to join Ford Ghia. Here he designed the interior of the Ford Street Ka concept. In 2000 he returned to BMW, where he worked for 13 years. There he notably designed the BMW X5 E70, BMW X6 E71 and the rear of the first Mini Countryman. He also worked on a successor to the BMW M1 based on the BMW i8, but the project was ultimately abandoned.

Pierre Leclercq headed the design studio of Great Wall Motors from 2013 to 2017. He then became design director at Kia, but stayed only one year with the South Korean manufacturer. Needless to say that he acquired a keen understanding of the design philosophy and DNA of both European and Far East manufacturers.

In November 2018, he took over the head of Citroën’s design office, succeeding Alexandre Malval, who had moved to Mercedes-Benz. The first project he led entirely at Citroën was the C4 X, a 4-door version of the third-generation C4.

Three pillars to keep in mind when building this concept car…

On the Brussels show, at the presentation of the ELO and the subsequent talk we had with him, Pierre stressed that this concept car is first and foremost a laboratory of ideas. He also wants to demonstrate the three pillars of the design philosophy of this car;  he told us: “The ELO must become your third place (after home and office – editor’s note) to live in which you must be able to play, work and rest ”   

Work…

Pierre presented the ELO to us, showing the highlights of its design. “We start with a six seater”, with the driver in the center and two seats on both sides. The second row is made of three other seats.”

“Fold two seats under the rear seats and then you can rotate the driver’s seat 360 degrees, either for a good entry or when you want to work. Ideal for people who want to work – our first pillar –  in another place than the office.”

Play…

“I told you the second pillar is play”, he continues. “The cooperation with Decathlon was so inspiring and led to new ideas and applications. We developed an app together with them. You can plan your trip, plan your weekend, so that you don’t forget anything that you need, you have electricity and (compressed) air for your bikes and toys…”

Compressed air and electricity for your E-bikes are provided…

Rest…

“The third pillar is rest. You fold the seats in the back row, and you have a flat floor. You then use two matresses, again an innovation from Decathlon. You inflate them to have perfect rigidity. We also have a larger screen that can unfold and we have a projector that is on the side of the car, and the little roof opens up at the back of the car to let you look at the stars in the sky.”

We asked him also about the cooperation with Decathlon on this project…

PD: “We liked Decathlon because we carry the same values.” was his answer. “Decathlon is innovating because it makes well designed and well thought products and is not reverting to expensive technologies. We worked together from the beginning to the end on this project, and it was a big learning experience for us.”

What are the futher design hallmarks of the ELO, we asked.

PD: “The car is compact, but has a lot of glass, which is very important both for the driver and people in the back, and more importantly, children.”

Can you tell us more about the materials used, we wanted to know.

PD: “Many materials are recyclable and we even recycled materials from the OLI for this project. Also the interior panels for example. They are also cheap and easy to replace when scratched due to intensive use…”

You took advantage of the EV architecture, we remarked…

PD: “Indeed, we could maintain very compact dimensions whilst offering much room. We could move driver forward, even putting him in the centre.”

We will see much of these solutions in forthcoming models?  

PD: “Yes, this concept car is a laboratory of ideas, there is not one idea which we will not try to put into production. Of course, this is the beauty of our craft, of being a designer, is to make and develop many projects, and to put them on the road, and last but not least to sell them, because these concept cars are not made for us, but for the cliënt.  

Needless to say it was a big pleasure for us to meet up again with Pierre Declercq, and see and admire his stunning concept car, the ELO.

In the next report on the Brussels Salon we will talk to Robert Lesnik, Director Exterior Design Mercedes-Benz and Oliver Löcher, Vice President Vehicle Engineering and Overall Vehicle Functions Mercedes-Benz Cars. Stay tuned!

Hans Knol ten Bensel

World premieres in Brussels…

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The Brussels Motor Show is now in its 102nd edition and will be quite important, with an impressive array of world premieres to admire.

You can stand eye to eye with the  Citroën ELO concept car, the Ford Ranger (facelift),  Hyundai’s biggest EV so far, the Staria EV, KIA will show its new EV2 and powerful GT versions of the EV3 , EV4 and EV5, Mercedes-Benz will bring its new GLB, Mazda probably the European version of the EZ-30. Last but not least there is the Opel Astra and Peugeot E-408.

Indeed, Citroën has chosen Brussels to unveil the world premiere of ELO, a concept car designed as a veritable laboratory of ideas. ELO is firmly rooted in society and evolving lifestyles: responsible, functional, clever, multi-purpose, accessible and resolutely friendly. Compact (4.10 m) but incredibly spacious, ELO is “the little car that thinks big”. Its 100% electric architecture is optimally exploited to offer a modular space that can accommodate up to six people.

Kia will unveil the EV2, an all-electric B-segment SUV dedicated for Europe, on 09 January 2026, at the Brussels Motor Show. It is expected to have one E motor, borrowed from the Kia Inster. The 115 HP EV will be built in Žilina, in Slovakia.

Hyundai will launch new EVs in 2026, starting at the Brussels Motor Show with the world premiere of its biggest EV yet,” the automaker said in a statement. “The new model will showcase state-of-the-art electric technology, including an advanced 800-volt charging system.”

The all-new Mercedes GLB is built for everyday life. Available as a 5-or 7-seater, it adapts to all customers’ needs. It has more space, a new design, greater comfort, and even the ability to tow a full-size caravan.

The new Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer will celebrate their world premieres at the 102nd edition of the Brussels international motor show. The compact class bestsellers ‘made in Germany’ are sharper and more technical than ever, featuring the permanently illuminated Opel Blitz in the centre of the modernised Opel Vizor brand face for the first time, as well as the segment-unique, adaptive Intelli-Lux HD light.

PEUGEOT will unveil its new saloon car, the PEUGEOT 408, in Brussels. A true ambassador of French dynamism and panache, says the manufacturer in its press message, the new PEUGEOT 408 boasts an expressive and unexpected design. Wow effect guaranteed… 

This will also be an opportunity for the Belgian public to discover the NEW PEUGEOT E-208 GTi.

The Brussels Motor Show will open its doors to the public from January 10 until 18 January. Your servant will attend the press day on January 9, and you will soon read my impressions in these columns… Don’t miss it!

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Mercedes tells us in Brussels Autoworld the iconic “Story of the Star”…

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The exhibition retraces this remarkable story, from the very first three-wheeled Benz (1886) to the spectacular AMG ONE, here on the photo.

The magnificent Autoworld Museum traditionally ends the year with a major exhibition. This year, the house with the good star, Mercedes, takes centre stage. You can admire all the cars which made the brand truly legendary, and this until 22nd of February 2026.

Indeed, Mercedes has quite something to celebrate: not only is the brand now 140 years old, but it celebrates also the 100th anniversary of the merger between Daimler and Benz.

The exhibition retraces this remarkable story, from the very first three-wheeled Benz (1886) to the spectacular AMG ONE. More than fifty vehicles, including several rare highlights, are brought together for the first time in Belgium, displayed across thematic zones that reveal the many faces of Mercedes-Benz.

We attended the press evening, and of course we took our Fujifilm camera along the exhibits. We show you here some remarkable cars, but you should definitely put a visit to Autoworld, housed in  the magnificent Cinquantenaire monumental site.

You can start your tour with the 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen Replica. A replica indeed, as Mercedes had 100 replicas build in England, to celebrate the 100th birthday in 1986.

Carl Benz (1844 -1929) built the car and it contained quite a few novelties:  fully elliptic springs were used at the back with chain drive on both sides. A simple belt system served as a single-speed transmission. The four-stroke engine was extremely light for the time, weighing about 100 kg. A large horizontal flywheel stabilized the power output. Nevertheless, Benz was cautious, and opted for 3 wheels because he was… as an engineer not really familiar with a 2-wheel steering mechanism (!). The vehicle was awarded the German patent number 37435, applied for on 29 January 1886. Everyone knows about the drive which his wife Bertha Benz made with this car to visit her mother. The first fully-fledged automobile drive ever… when you see the car in the flesh, you wonder how on earth this was ueberhaupt possible.

The unique Mercedes DNA was soon established…  

When you stroll a few meters further, you stand eye to eye with a magnificent green 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540 K Sport Cabrio A (W29). The car was originally delivered to Alfred Krupp , and was early after the second world war sold to Prince Bernard, the husband of Queen Juliana of the Netherlands. Since he wanted his cars to be green, it was resprayed in his favorite color.

It was sold to a Swedish owner in 1953. Around 1990, Daimler-Benz meticulously restored the car to its original specification. The current owner has cherished this remarkable automobile since 1995.

Alongside the 540 K stands a 1961 220 S (W111) “Heckflossen”. This nickname stemmed from the rather timidly styled rear fins, which Mercedes apologetically commented as “helpful for parking”. This 220 S was revolutionary for its “safety cell”, truly representing a milestone in car design where front and rear crumple zones absorbed kinetic energy on impact. F1 Racing car engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut had a major hand in the design of suspension and refining the handling of this beautiful car, and since my father owned one in these days, it is a car in which I learned to drive expertly. I still love the specific handling of this car, and I vividly remember a long drive with a 230 S “Universal” together with Autoworld Curator Leo Van Hoorick to visit the German Mercedes Benz museum, where I could enjoy behind the wheel the wonderful performance and stability in fast corners and at speed of this car. I think Leo fell immediately in love with this very car, and soon after he bought this car from the Mercedes Benz Belgium collection…and still owns it!

Royal transport: the 600 “Pullmann”

Strolling a bit further, one stands eye to eye with royal transport. Indeed, this car has served exclusively at the Belgian Royal Court, and is known as the “King Baudouin.”

This car, designed by the Frenchman Paul Bracq, (he also designed the iconic “Pagode” 230 SL) did not undergo a single modification during its 18-year career, undoubtedly due to its modern styling. It is equipped with air conditioning and a hydraulic system that controls, among other things, power steering, braking, and the hydraulic windows. Production began in 1964, and more than 600 variants were built until 1972. The production continued, albeit at a slower pace, until 1981. In total, 2,677 units were produced of which 487 long-wheelbase Pullmans. (overall length 6,240 mm).  

A F1 Mercedes for the road…
 

Sensational to admire is the 2025 Mercedes AMG-One. It is a hybrid supercar, nothing else actually than a F1 car adapted for road use. Behind the driver rests a 1,6 litre V6 turbo engine sourced from the Mercedes F1 car. But that is not enough: it also has four electric motors, which results in a total power delivery of 1062 HP and a top speed of 352 km/h. All this is not exceptional anymore in our dizzying EV age, but it stays quite impressive of course. The car made its debut on the 2017 IAA show in Frankfurt, but putting this complex drivetrain into production appeared to be a quite formidable task. So series production actually started only in August 2022. Only 275 units were planned, and of course they were completely sold out long before actual production began. The demand for this car was far higher, but AMG and Mercedes maintained the original production run, also to keep the car  very exclusive.

A tribute to Stirling Moss: the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren “Stirling Moss” (R199).

Your servant has vivid memories of this iconic British champion when he participated in the historic Mille Migilia in the official Mercedes factory team, alongside Stirling Moss. Together with my father, we drove the works 180 D “ponton”, which was far more comfortable and cooler that the 300 S Panamericana which Stirling Moss steered along the 1000 mile course. “You were having fun”, he commented, “you could drive virtually the whole course flat out!”

We like the panache and the contours of the car here which is built in his honour. Stirling drove this car on the 2009 Goodwood festival of speed.
 

This limited edition variant uses a speedster styling that does not include a roof or a windscreen. The car is designed by Korean designer Yoon Il-hun and is of course inspired by the 300 SLR race car. The SLR Stirling Moss was to be the last series of the McLaren SLR built under the partnership between Mercedes-Benz and McLaren.

he car is approximately 200 kg lighter than the standard model thanks to carbon fibre construction and speedster styling. All 75 cars planned to be produced were completed by December 2009. It was available only to the existing SLR owners and each car cost in excess of US$1 million. This one was driven and signed by Stirling Moss in Goodwood in 2009….
 

Autoworld curator Leo Van Hoorick (left) and Mercedes Benz Cars PR Bastien van Den Moortel guided us expertly through the exhibition…

But of course there is much more to be seen of stunning Mercedes cars in Brussels Autoworld. As said, the exhibition runs until February 22nd. Not to be missed…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

E-Power for all: the Fiat Grande Panda goes hybrid…

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FIAT launches the new Grande Panda Hybrid, marking a significant milestone in its global product strategy:  making the electrified transition possible for all thanks to this affordable, and cool B-segment Panda.This hybrid version marks the brand’s role as a leader in volume and accessibility, says Stellantis, echoing the golden years of FIAT when simplicity, innovation, and emotional design moved millions.

The Grande Panda project is the cornerstone of a new global vehicle family developed entirely under the guidance of the FIAT HQ and Centro Stile in Mirafiori, Turin. Your servant remembers its visit at the Centro Stile a few years ago, when he stood eye to eye with the clay model of the FIAT “centoventi” or 120, which showed already the proportions and styling language of the present day Panda. Technologically, it already incorporated the solutions we see today.

The model sits on Stellantis’ “Smart Car” Platform. At the heart of this model lies the T-Gen3 hybrid powertrain, featuring a 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 110 HP, combined with a 48V Li-ion battery and a eDCT 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This system integrates a 21kW electric motor,an inverter, and a central control unit.

Through functions like e-launch, e-creeping, and e-parking, the Grande Panda Hybrid can operate in full-electric mode during low-speed manoeuvres, allowing for up to 1 km of electric-only driving at speeds under 30 km/h. These features result in smoother acceleration, silent city driving, and less fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, made possible in part also by the Miller Cycle combustion strategy. The eDCT transmission further enhances efficiency and provides a relaxed, two-pedal driving experience that embodies FIAT’s “easy drive” philosophy.


All trims, and one can choose between three levels, notably POP, ICON, and LA PRIMA, come equipped with a comprehensive ADAS suite, including Cruise Control, Speed Limiter, Active Safety Brake, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and open-door alerts. The LA PRIMA trim enhances this with front sensors and a rear view camera.
Connectivity is supported through the onboard 10” digital cluster, 10.25” central touchscreen, and wireless smartphone mirroring. Customers benefit from multiple USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and seamless digital integration.

Continuing the 4 X 4 tradition of the Panda with a 4 X 4 concept…

The new Grande Panda 4×4 concept model, presented during the Grande Panda Hybrid Media Drive, is the direct heir of the Panda 4×4 from the ‘80s. It has exclusive details, and the unique dark red livery, bringing the 80s Panda’s character into the modern era.



It has an electrified, innovative rear axle that delivers all-terrain versatility.  We look forward to see this concept hitting the road soon…

We invite you to look at the accompanying photos for now…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Alfa Romeo shows its sporting panache at the Lago Di Como

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From May 24 to 25, in the extraordinary setting of the Villa Sucota overlooking Lake Como, Alfa Romeo will be the Official Partner of the 2025 edition of FuoriConcorso, and will show its beautiful cars, with its unique sporting design language, a festival of beautiful contours and shapes which are an everlasting delight to the eyes of every car enthusiast.

Just read on and enjoy the photos…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

The FuoriConcorso is an event with a well rooted tradition: it was founded in 2019 by Guglielmo Miani, president of Larusmiani, the bespoke menswear and gentleman accessories firm which has been there for gentlemen since 1922. The passion for cars results also in a boutique to create an exclusive collection limited edition. There now you can purchase a collectors box of the Alfa Romeo 6C which contains: the numbered t-shirt with rear print depicting the car and a caption postcard with the history of the car.

But let’s return to the FuoriConcorso. It has grown to an international event that every year attracts thousands of collectors, experts and car enthusiasts from all over the world. The theme selected for this year is – “Velocissimo – Italian Race Cars”, and this means that Alfa Romeo will put its mark on this event. Indeed, the splendid Villa Sucota will become this year the “Casa Alfa Romeo”.

Around 15 extraordinary models will be on show there, some from the Alfa Romeo Museum in Arese and others from private collections.

The Zagato 6C…

A car which truly stands out is the 1930 6C 1750 Gran Sport, one of the most famous Alfa Romeos for its unmistakable line (Zagato), six-cylinder engine with compressor and its wide-ranging trophy haul in motorsport, spread out between the Mille Miglia, Targa Florio, Tourist Trophy and many other victories in endurance races.

On a model similar to the one on display, the legendary Tazio Nuvolari won the 1930 Mille Miglia, setting an average speed record of 100 km/h across the entire route, in a memorable duel with his teammate, Achille Varzi, also driving a 1750.

The Giulia TZ2…

Many aficionados still dream of the golden era of road racing, and the cars which played a prominent part in this. Like the spectacular 1965 Giulia TZ2. An evolution of the previous Giulia TZ, this car is lower, more tapered and aerodynamic, with fiberglass bodywork on a tubular chassis. Designed by Ercole Spada at Zagato, it sports a sleek and muscular line, dominated by the famous truncated tail, which consecrates it as one of the most beautiful racing cars ever.

The 1.6 twin-cam engine evolved with double ignition and dry sump, reaching 170 hp and 250 km/h. At its debut in 1965, it won its class at the 1000 km of Monza and went on to take other victories in the same season, including the 12 Hours of Sebring, the Targa Florio and the 1000 km of the Nürburgring. One year later, the TZ2 achieved the same feat at Monza, Sebring, the “Targa” and the “Ring.”

The 33 TT12…

Then there is the 1975 33 TT12. It made its racing debut  on May 5, 1973 at the “1000 km of Spa-Francorchamps,” when the World Championship for Makes was experiencing a period of great popularity and commitment from the most prestigious manufacturers, including Alfa Romeo with the “Tipo 33” family.

The “33” which saw the light in 1967 has now become legendary, where  the letters “TT” stand for Telaio Tubulare (‘tubular chassis’; based on its forerunner the 33 TT3 with a V8 or ’Otto Vu’  engine) and “12” is the `number of cylinders of the new 180° (‘flat’) three-liter V engine that can exceed the threshold of 500 hp. The aesthetics are unmistakable, with its side fins and famous periscope. After a year of development and initial wins in ’74, total domination came in 1975: seven victories out of eight races to win the World Championship for Makes, the fourth overall title in Alfa Romeo history. Legendary drivers such as Merzario, Andretti, Ickx, Vaccarella and many others were behind the wheel to build this immense series of wins.

The legendary F1 compressor Alfetta’s…

When you stroll a few steps away from Villa Sucota, an exclusive area pays homage to the bolides that have made Formula 1 history, starring the 1951 Alfa Romeo GP Tipo 159 “Alfetta,” the veritable ruler of the first two World Championships. An evolution of the legendary 158 of 1938, the 159 triumphed with Fangio after the victory by “Nino” Farina in 1950. After the title – the first of five for Fangio – Alfa Romeo officially withdrew from racing to devote itself to the Giulietta.

Compared to the 158, the 159’s engine was equipped with a two-stage compressor, De Dion rear suspension – the name given to the 1972 Alfetta is based on the adoption of this technical solution – and a more efficient aerodynamic look. The supercharged 1.5-liter inline 8-cylinder engine reaches incredible levels of power: in tests, it even achieved 450 hp, equivalent to 304 hp/liter. This was also made possible by the use of alcohol based special fuels, which had a considerable cooling effect when evaporating, making higher compression rates possible without corresponding high combustion temperatures.

Last but not least, the 33 Stradale…

Also on show at Villa Sucota will be the new 33 Stradale, a “custom-built” car approved for road use that ensures outstanding performance on the track.

It was unveiled in 2023 and produced in only 33 models (all of which have already been sold), the car represents the return of the legendary 33 Stradale, an icon of the 1960s, reputed by many to be one of the most beautiful cars of all time, and derived directly from the Tipo 33 – once a big name in world motorsport.

We can only suggest you to take a look at the photos, and spend some delightful ”Alfa” moments…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

70 years of DS, a unique adventure: the story of its iconic engineers…

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 Already in 1934, the dream of the goddess of the road began: Citroën designers drew the first contours of a more streamlined body for the “Traction”, which was launched only a few months earlier.

This year we celebrate 70 years of DS, as indeed the iconic DS 19 was launched in October 1955, this year now 70 years ago.

Reason enough to delve into the stunning history of the birth of this goddess, and subsequently also DS Automobiles, who since 2014 carries further the tradition of making superbly styled, avant-garde automobiles offering exquisite comfort and panache.

Your servant started to delve into his archives, and here is a tale, which every car enthusiast can adopt as an exquisite story to be told at a dinner table with friends and family, about the men with a unique “Génie Français” which led to the birth of a truly unique automobile.  

Hans Knol ten Bensel

But development work started rather in earnest in 1938, when Pierre Boulanger codenamed the project for a successor of the Traction VGD, or “Voiture à Grande Diffusion”

The man behind it all: Pierre Boulanger...

But first a word about the actors of this unique engineering adventure. It starts with Pierre Boulanger,  who was a so-called “Michelin man”. He started working for Michelin in 1918, reporting directly to Eduard Micheli, co-director and founder of the business. Boulanger joined the Michelin board in 1922, and in 1938, he became the company’s joint managing director.

What has Michelin to do with Citroën? In December 1934, despite the support of the Michelin company, Citroën filed for bankruptcy. In that same month Michelin, already the car manufacturer’s largest creditor, decided out of necessity to become its principal shareholder.

Pierre Boulanger then became the assistant of Pierre Michelin, who was already the chairman of Citroën. Boulanger became the vice-president and chief of the Engineering and Design department. He became president in 1937 until his accidental death behind the wheel of a Traction 15 CV . He also jointly managed the Michelin company.

Pierre Boulanger was already since 1936 working on a project to create the TPV (short for ‘Très Petite Voiture’). This led, as you might already know dear reader, to the birth if the 2 CV, affectionately called by the French “La Deuche”.

The driving genius of the project: André Lefebvre …

But let’s go back to our VGD project, which he started with the help of André Lefebvre, the spiritual father of the Traction. Another most important actor in our tale. He was an engineer with unique insight and creativity, with a wonderful talent to think out of the box. He was a lifelong friend of aviator, artist and also car designer and engineer André Voisin. And this is a man who designed and built absolutely stunning cars.

André Lefèbvre in his younger years, a keen racing engineer, working for Voisin…

We show you here a photo of the Voisin which was to be seen in the Brussels Autoworld museum last year. It was also André Voisin who recommended Lefebvre to André Citroën.

The man behind the hydropneumatic suspension: Paul Magès

The genius who invented and developed the legendary hydraulic suspension was Paul Magès. He came to Citroën as a draughtsman at the age of 17 and a half, and made a wonderful career thanks to its practical sense, creativity and entrepreneurship. In September 1940 he was promoted to quality engineer and in 1942 Pierre Boulanger included him in his research team, to create and develop a suspension system for the 2 CV. Here his out of the box thinking and creativity proved crucial.

Already early in the development, he saw the advantages of a liquid that would compress a gas. It was a new idea that Paul Magès began to experiment with in 1944 on a 2 CV with a very crude system comprising 1 gas tank per wheel, which theoretically made it possible to vary the flexibility from one to four, with a gas and a liquid separated by cork. Cork will not withstand high pressure however. This archaic start is refined, perfected, tested a multitude of times, and the results are always more surprising. Paul Magès then created his own team which manufactured all the organs itself. The skills of each person are at stake, in the feverish atmosphere of research. The theory gradually became reality, the concept was simplified, the tests multiplied, the results were refined.

First trials of a hydropneumatic suspension on the 2 CV prototype…

In 1946, Pierre BOULANGER encouraged Paul Magès to continue his research, no longer on the 2CV but this time on a front-wheel drive, because it was necessary to think about the future VGD car. (Mass Circulation Car)

Besides the suspension, the car had to be revolutionary, and Boulanger proposed a monocoque structure in which the centre of gravity would be as low as possible, the roof and bonnet would be of aluminium and the floorpan would support unstressed, lightweight body panels. 

The hydraulic suspension found its way on the rear axle of the six cylinder 15 CV Traction…

In 1949, Paul Magès, after multiple tests, finally developed a hydropneumatic suspension that he put to the test in the cold in the Nordic countries, then in Algeria for resistance to high temperatures. It was from this adventure that the idea of a manual height control was born, in order to allow the vehicle to face snow or chaotic terrain. Other trials will be the source of questioning, creations, and multiple improvements.
In 1953, the hydropneumatic suspensions were deemed reliable enough to equip the 15 six, then the DS 19…

But soon more about the story of the DS in the following 70 years since its birth…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

We spoke with Sébastien Decarris, Head of Product Strategy & Advanced phase – DS Automobiles: “DS offers elegance, comfort and luxury with a unique French touch”.

Posted in Car manufacturers strategy, Car News, Car presentations, Car production and factories, Car Shows, Car technology, Concept Cars, E-mobility R &D and solutions, Interviews, New ModelsTagged Leave a comment

DS Automobiles made headlines at the 101th edition of the Brussels Motor Show by presenting its beautiful N° 8 to the public. This car will undoubtedly make its mark in the D segment, with its stunning looks, comfort and up to date EV technology. This car also means a lot for DS Automobiles. So we thought that an interview about the strategy of the brand would be very interesting , and we thank the dynamic PR department of Stellantis Belgium for arranging this interview. Just read further…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

The DS Automobiles N°8 made its debut on the Brussels Salon…

HKTB: It is always quite a challenge to combine the typical DS styling language with the imperatives and constraints modern cars in this D segment have to respond to and offer in terms of safety, performance and space efficiency.

SD: Indeed, we have to show that in terms of elegance and French “savoir faire”, we offer something remarkable. We have shown this with the ASL (Aero Sport Lounge) concept car, which was designed by exterior designer Thomas Duhamel. We wanted to bring a dynamic saloon.

A designers’s drawing of the Aero Sport Lounge Concept Car…

HKTB: What is now on the European and global market the strategy of DS Automobiles?

SD: The strategy is to occupy a strong presence in the premium segment, with an emphasis on electrification in a market which is now fully involved in this energy transition. We want to keep this exceptional French character, with a “savoir faire” in the use of the materials, performing the art of elegantly rendering details, with this attention to styling and design down to the very details, which is not immediately found with our competitors.

We bring elegance, not only in the contours and proportions, but also in the light signature of the car. This makes the car stand out in traffic. This has worked well from the first DS3 onwards and is the unique hallmark of DS Automobiles. Of course we keep this on our new N°8, and this signature will be found further on our future cars.

HKTB: The adoption of numbers is also a step..

SD: Indeed, it is a further evolution, an eye-wink towards further sophistication… What is also important is the reference we make to French coach-building tradition with a dual tone paintwork, a sophistication which is not immediately found on other cars in this D segment.

Your servant together with Sébastien Decarris at the Brussels Show in front of the Ds N° 8…

HKTB: Indeed, the styling language is also a continuation of the angular tradition so typical in French coachbuilding, like the iconic Voisin cars…

SD: En effet! Indeed, when we work on the design of DS cars, we indeed talk about Voisin… and then, there is the comfort, which is also very important for us. It is more than just a “must have”, it is crucial. It concerns the suspension, the seats, and also the thermal comfort. It is especially important in EV cars, and we worked hard on it. For instance, we introduced neck-area heating, which is hitherto only seen on cabriolets…

HKTB: As DS also puts forward “the art of travel” or “l’art du voyage”, I personally would like to see an infotainment software which delivers automatically audio info about the region(s) and cities you are travelling through, and where you can choose political, social or cultural history…

SD: It is an idea we are working on. Of course, in the first place we want to reassure the client driving an EV car, and inform him about charging possibilities on his trip.

HKTB: On the charging infrastructure, are you considering the idea to build a dedicated “DS Automobiles” charging network?

SD: We offer our clients an infrastructure via the “free to move” network. We want to reassure the client in the first place with the car we offer him, i.e. having a long range and an outstanding fast charging capacity. (Up to 160 kW) We wanted to reassure the client, giving him peace of mind with a long(er) range. We think that having a long range is more important than the possibility of (ultra)fast charging.  The automobile is for us (and our clients) first and foremost an object of freedom, of “liberté.” This means that you have to offer a range of around 500 km and more on the motorway.

HKTB: Quality and workmanship is of course also very important in the premium segment. Where is the N°8 built?

SD: It is built in Italy, at the plant in Melfi. The N° 8 is running on the STLA Medium platform, and this is decisive in the industrial strategy and where the cars will be produced.

HKTB: The batteries are also important…

SD: Indeed, they are produced by ACC, (Automotive Cells Co, with as stakeholders SAFT, which is wholly owned by TotalEnergies, and Stellantis and Mercedes – note from the author). We planned from the outset a premium car with a maximum 750 km range, using batteries manufactured in the EU.  

HKTB: Will the N°8 be future proof and be able to accommodate new developed batteries and electric motors during its production run?

SD: Certainly, the platform is able to receive newly developed components during the production life of the N°8. We have a modular strategy and the platforms are designed to accommodate them. This concerns the batteries as well as the electric motors. For all the models of the DS Automobiles range, we were from the outset prepared for its electrification, it is an essential element of our policy and you see this now unfold in the D-segment.

HKTB: I thank you for this interview.

Hans Knol ten Bensel

BMW makes you dream in the sky…

Posted in Automobilia, Car Events, Car manufacturers strategy, Car News, Car presentations, Concept Cars, Design, Fashion, Lifestyle, New Models, prototypesTagged , Leave a comment

Designers can make you dream, and at BMW this is no exception. It brought to this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este a unique design study: the BMW Concept Skytop. It has clearly athletic proportions, and Adrian van Hooydonk, head of BMW Group Design, commented: “It offers a combination of driving dynamics and elegance at the highest level, comparable to its historic ancestors, like the BMW Z8 or BMW 503.”

Indeed, it does, its lines, surfaces and volumes breathe the classic proportions of its iconic predecessors. Is it a harbinger for future BMW styling? It certainly has interesting details, like winglets integrated into the door shoulders replace conventional door handles. Light-alloy wheels with precise lamellas are also adding elegance and drama.

We like the impressive long bonnet and the classic kidney grille, and also the retracted rear end and the pronounced central spline, which runs over the bonnet through the interior and ends an aluminium trim positioned on the tailgate, add both panache.

The LED headlight units, positioned on milled aluminium carriers, were custom developed for the BMW Concept Skytop, utilizing the latest technology and design for automotive headlights with the slimmest profile currently available.

We also love the leather-finished roll-over bar behind the BMW Concept Skytop’s two seats, as it is combined with side fins on the B-pillar and a fully retractable rear window. The setup is quite practical: the two removable roof parts, also finished in leather, can be stored in a special compartment in the luggage space.

Color harmonies…

The colour scheme ensures a smooth transition from interior to exterior, regardless of whether the roof is open or closed. In the rear section, the reddish-brown tone of the roof flows into the muted silver with chrome shadow effect of the exterior paintwork. The technically elaborate colour gradient was crafted by an experienced master painter at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing (!)

…and luxury in brogue-style leather…

The leather seats in the interior carry brogue-style accents. The reddish-brown tone of the leather gives the whole interior a sense of luxury and spaciousness. Chrystal elements and further are artfully embedded in the gearchange lever and the cockpit, adding to the overall impression. The interior surfaces of the BMW Concept Skytop were crafted in the traditional saddlery of the BMW Group plant in Dingolfing.

The spirit of the Z8 reigns also in this concept car: under the hood roars the most powerful V8 engine in the BMW drive train portfolio.

Of course there is much more news on the BMW front: the new 3 Series Sedan and Touring, the new 5 series Touring and the first BMW i5 Touring, to say the least. Stay tuned!

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Stellantis Belux unveils cars and future plans in a multi-brand car show …  

Posted in Car Events, Car manufacturers strategy, Car News, Car presentations, Car Shows, Car technology, Concept Cars, Design, E-mobility R &D and solutions, Environment, Future car technology, Interviews, New Models, prototypesTagged , , , Leave a comment

Indeed, the  Management and PR team of Stellantis Belux, welcomed recently the Press and B2B to a, called ‘House of Innovation’.

A fitting initiative, set up in the absence of the Brussels Motor Shows, keeping the tradition in our country of a traditional show period and at the same time providing a platform for unveiling the latest innovations, concept cars and the future direction of the Stellantis brands.

Needless to say we were very keen to attend this event, giving your servant also the opportunity to have several interviews with the managers of several brands, which we will present soon on our columns. Here in this first report about this “Kickoff Press conference” we will focus on the future strategy of Stellantis and its plans for the Belux market. Just read further!

Hans Knol ten Bensel

The event started with an inspiring introduction by Florian Kraft, CEO of Stellantis Belux…

…followed by interactive brand presentations and workshops. “This event symbolizes our continued pursuit of innovation and progress in the automotive world. We are excited to share our latest developments and our vision for the future with the press and our valued customers and partners,” said Florian Kraft, CEO.

Florian Kraft first pointed out the four core targets of the Stellantis “Dare Forward strategic plan 2030.” This plan will move Stellantis into a sustainable mobility tech company.

The first target is reducing its carbon footprint by 50 % in total CO2 emissions per vehicle compared with 2021, on the path to achieving carbon net zero in 2038. This then includes not only from well to wheel, but also throughout the entire supply chain. 

The second target is setting the course for 100% BEV sales in Europe and 50% in the United States in 2030. The third is achieving number one position in customer satisfaction. The fourth is doubling net revenues while transforming our business models and sustaining double-digit operating margins. How Stellantis will achieve this, will be the subject of a future report in our columns. Stay tuned!

Ambitions for 2024…

Looking ahead to 2024, Stellantis Belux has set itself several goals. In terms of network, the company aims to ensure a successful transition to the New Retailer Model using its existing network. Indeed, Stellantis is progressing at full speed in the execution of its Dare Forward 2030 Strategic Plan, with the ambition to be #1 in customer satisfaction in all markets, in products and services. Indeed, the customer experience will be at the core of this retailer model.

Customers will be able to take advantage of a multi-brand and multi-channel approach with a wider range of services. Dealers will have a new and efficient business model aimed at benefitting from Stellantis’ 14-brand portfolio, creating synergies, optimizing distribution costs and offering additional sustainable mobility solutions, says Stellantis. So far for the aims, let’s explain this further in more concrete terms.

In September last year, Stellantis launched the reorganization of its European dealer network, starting with four specific markets before extending it further across Europe in 2024. Stellantis announced it was ending its previous sales and services contracts with European dealers for its 14 brands and moving toward a new distribution framework based on an agency model. What is this agency model?

Under this model, the manufacturer becomes the retailer while the dealer remains the physical touchpoint with the customer. The agent/dealer receives a commission on each sale and no longer individually sets prices or discounts.

As the dealer does not have to purchase the cars from the manufacturers anymore, he does not carry significant commercial risks and has less administrative costs as billing and payment towards the customer is done by the manufacturer. It protects also the profitability of the retailer. Because, as everybody knows, profit margins on new car sales can fluctuate.

With the Lancia Pu+Ra HPE, the Lancia journey towards the future begins, drawing inspiration from the past

The advantage for the car manufacturer is a direct contact with the customer, which it did not have so far….

The manufacturer can now determine end-customer discounts themselves, in this way achieving price consistency and avoiding  competition between dealers of the same brand. They can optimize costs through centralization, and profit from the scale effect of transferring responsibilities from individual dealerships to the bigger sales organizations on national levels.

The new Alfa Romeo Stradale: the future is already a pur-sang reality…

It also is more in line with today’s consumer preferences, which would rather see fixed prices and an equally simple buying process as they experience in e-commerce.

Stellantis is moving towards this model in big steps now. In September last year, Stellantis announced that the revised retail model will be fully effective from Sept. 4, starting with Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. Stellantis is not the only one to prefer this agency sales model. BMW and Mercedes opt for it too…

The BEV line up at Peugeot: towards a leading position in the B and C segment…

Stellantis market position in Belux …

In terms of sales, Stellantis Belux aims to regain the lost market share in 2024 and further strengthen its position. In 2023, Stellantis Belux achieved a global market share of 17.2%, with more than 100,000 units sold. On the LEV (Low Emission Vehicles) market, Stellantis Belux occupies a fourth place with an 11.6% market share. The BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) and the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) occupy a fourth place with respectively 10.5% and 12.8%.

Stellantis Belgium confirms its strong position with a pole position in the segment A and with not less than six models of Stellantis (Peugeot e-208, Peugeot e-2008, Opel Corsa Electric, Jeep Avenger, Opel Mokka Electric, DS3 E-tense) in the TOP 10 of the segment B (BEV), representative 66% of the part of the segment.

Introducing petrolheads to the joys of E-power: the Abarth 500 E, waiting for the imminent 240 HP 600 E…

Last but not least, Stellantis Belux is the leader in the segment of the LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle) with more than 30% of market share, of which more than 50% is electrified!

In terms of product innovation, Stellantis Belux will continue its electrification, where it currently leads in the A-B segment and LCV, and further expand it to the C segment with models such as the Opel Astra, Peugeot 308 and 3008 and Citroën C4.

As is tradition in January, the Stellantis brands start the year with super attractive “salon conditions” on their range. This applies to both private and professional customers and to electric and ‘thermal’ vehicles.

We made on this event interviews with Pierre Voineau, Managing Director Citroën Belgium & Luxemburg, (see photo here above), Asterio Perez, Managing Director of Fiat, Abarth and Fiat Professional in Belgium and Luxemburg, and last but not least Eric Laforge, Head of Jeep Brand Enlarged Europe.

This will be followed by a special report on the magnificent prototypes which were displayed amongst the 36 cars on this conference.

So stay tuned for (much) more soon!

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Nissan Benelux unfolds her strategy for the Benelux market…

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Managing Director Jerome Saigot unfolds the strategy of Nissan Benelux…

We are at the start a new automotive year, and therefore it is a good opportunity for manufacturers to look forward into 2024 and announce to the Belgian press what their strategy, plans and objectives will be in the forthcoming 12 months.

So we were invited at the end of last year by the Melvin Keuter, head of communications of Nissan Benelux at their press conference…and their interesting initiatives are certainly worth a closer look. Just read further!

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Melvin Keuter, head of communications of Nissan Benelux, exposed the electrification strategy of Nissan and its future…

Nissan Belux and Nissan Nederland merged into Nissan Benelux

On the 1st of July last year, this merger was executed in order to improve response to the needs of the Benelux market. Now the two entities are joined in a new so-called Regional Business Unit, led by Managing Director Jerome Saigot. Indeed, the car market is going through a fundamental transition, and Nissan will respond to these challenges by focusing on electrification, digitalization of the customer approach and responding to major changes in the buying behavior of their clients. Mr. Saigot emphasized these points of the strategy in his presentation at the press conference. He sees also in this merger further useful synergies for staff and dealerships.

He exposed the mission of Nissan Benelux, which is to be an innovative brand which offers electrified mobility and a superior service to its customers. Its objectives are to enlarge its volume, raise brand identity and awareness as well as boosting profitability.

The strategy to achieve this will be to focus, as we said, on further digitalization of customer approach, further electrification of the model range, strengthening corporate sales, bolstering brand identity and streamlining distribution.

According to Jerome Saigot, digitalization is a major trend which will strengthen further. In 2020, only 4 % of customers were buying a car online, which has risen to 12 % in 2023. Market surveys show that soon 45 % of the future customers will buy their car online. Of course, Nissan will work further on its electrification, and indeed focus also increasingly on corporate sales.

Looking at the results last year of Nissan Belux, 6.750 units were sold, which is an impressive 48 % rise compared to FY 22.

Also in distribution and dealership the focus will be on further developing synergies and tailoring the customer approach on their changing preferences and buying behavior. In December last year, Nissan sent a message to the professionals, small and medium enterprises, craftsmen and the like, pointing out the attractiveness of their increasingly electrified LCV segment.

Decisive steps toward further electrification… or EV36Zero.

EV36Zero is a key part of Nissan Ambition 2030. In this period Nissan will deliver exciting, electrified vehicles and technological innovations while expanding and transforming its operations globally the company announces. The vision supports Nissan’s goal to be carbon neutral across the lifecycle of its products by fiscal year 2050.

In November last year, Nissan announced that the EV36Zero hub in Sunderland, Nissan’s blueprint for future manufacturing, will consist of three electric vehicles (EVs), three gigafactories and up to £3bn investment.

The transformational project includes future all-electric versions of Nissan’s flagship Qashqai and JUKE crossovers, and Nissan also confirmed that the third vehicle planned for UK production will be next-generation Nissan LEAF.

Nissan also announced that that it expects its passenger car line-up in Europe to be 100% electric by 2030.

Nissan is also incorporating in their electrification strategy the latest developments in battery technology. It will adopt Cobalt-free batteries, and towards 2028 there will be a cost reduction in comparison with Lithium-Ion batteries of not less than 65 %. This year Nissan will open a pilot factory in Yokohama to produce solid-state batteries, which can be charged three times faster and cost much less. They will be introduced to the market in 2028…  

Looking into the future…

After exposing the good qualities of the present range, a veil was lifted in this conference about the cars we can expect in the (not so) distant future.

Indeed, the three future versions of the full electric Juke, Qashqai and Leaf will be inspired by three exciting all-electric concept models, two of which were recently unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show:

The Nissan Hyper Urban Concept, a crossover EV characterized by a sleek and modern aesthetic.

The Nissan Hyper Punk Concept, an all-electric compact crossover with an exterior aesthetic defined by multifaceted and polygonal surfaces.

The Nissan Chill-Out Concept, was unveiled in 2021 and previously confirmed as the inspiration for a future EV to be built in Sunderland.

 The car is a compact, sporty, city EV concept with an influence from the world of virtual gaming. Besides the sleek and modern design, advanced safety technology, it has a productive and comfortable interior space.

The Chill-Out, – see photo here above – which looks to us as a very realistic concept car which we might see on our roads in the (very?) near future, utilizes the CMF-EV platform.

The Nissan Hyper Urban Concept – see photo here above – was announced at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show; its styling complements the sophisticated tastes of its target users, such as urban and suburban based professionals who prioritise environmental sustainability.

This all-electric crossover concept is designed to remain up to date for every new owner, ensuring an extended lifecycle through regular software and hardware upgrades, aiming to achieve the utmost sustainability. To maximize this further, the vehicle seamlessly integrates into the electric vehicle ecosystem (V2H/B/G), for power sharing.

Last but not least, there is the Nissan Hyper Punk concept was also announced at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.

It is positioned as an all-electric compact crossover concept, catering for a dynamic audience seeking self-expression through style and creativity. It offers owners a canvas for self-expression with its polygonal-shaped exterior with dynamic color changes.

Further styling exercises: the Nissan Concept 20-23

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Nissan Design Europe (NDE) being located in London, Makoto Uchida, Nissan’s President and Chief Executive Officer, visited NDE in September last year to unveil an all-new sporty urban electric concept car called Nissan Concept 20-23.

The car certainly turns heads, as you can see from the accompanying photo. It was designed by a team including some the younger members of NDE, with the simple brief to design a car – with no constraints – which they would like to drive on the streets of the city where they work.

Of course there is the present range of Nissan, with the Juke, bestseller Qashqai and Ariya. Last but not least also the Leaf. Head of Marketing Rémy Le Gall presented them. See photo here below.

Soon we will refresh our driving impressions of these cars for you, and tell you then more about their unique qualities. Stay posted!

Hans Knol ten Bensel