Why Ferrari Isn’t Giving Up The Combustion Engine

Amidst global heat waves, devastating floods, and unpredictable weather changes, the European Union member countries have taken a historic step by approving a law that accelerates the phase-out of gasoline and diesel-powered internal combustion cars. Under this groundbreaking legislation, all new vehicles sold from 2035 must have zero carbon emissions, and cars sold from 2030 should achieve a 55% reduction in emissions.

Ferrari Isn’t Giving Up The Combustion Engine

While the EU is making a bold move towards carbon neutrality, Germany has lobbied for an exemption for internal combustion cars powered by e-fuel. E-fuel is a synthetic petroleum alternative derived from captured CO2 emissions and other organic elements, such as water (H20). Porsche, the renowned German automaker, spearheaded the e-fuel revolution in 2022 and has partnered with Siemens to scale up the production of this environmentally friendly gasoline alternative.

Interestingly, even legendary Italian automaker Ferrari has embraced the e-fuel trend, despite its plans to launch its first-ever all-electric supercar by 2025. Ferrari’s goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, and it will continue to develop hybrid models for its lineup. Notably, Ferrari is committed to preserving its heritage by offering clients the option to choose between internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrids, or electric cars. Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna emphasized that the soulful sound of the high-strung, gas-powered V8 and V12 engines is an essential part of the company’s identity, making the ICE an integral part of its legacy.

Recent developments from Ferrari highlight their dedication to both sustainability and performance. The automaker recently unveiled its latest road-legal hybrid supercars, the SF90 XX Stradale coupe, and spider, as part of its racing-oriented XX program. These powerful machines feature a twin-turbocharged gasoline-fed V8 engine, three electric motors, and a 7.9 kWh plug-in hybrid battery, delivering a staggering 1,015 horsepower and a blistering zero-to-60 mph acceleration time of 2.3 seconds. Impressively, the SF90 XX models can travel for 15 miles in EV mode, combining electrification with Ferrari’s characteristic performance.

Even with speculations that the Daytona SP3 could be the last V12-powered Ferrari, the automaker is embracing synthetic e-fuel and hybrid technology as a strategic approach to navigate the electrified era while preserving its prestigious lineage. By striking a balance between environmental consciousness and its iconic driving experience, Ferrari is ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive well into the future.

5 Cool Multifunction Pens: Gadgets You Never Knew You Needed

DOES APPLE’S MAGIC MOUSE WORK WITH WINDOWS?

Understanding the 4D CAR Concept: What It Means and How It Differs from 4WD

The Iconic Audi TT: A Legacy of Style and Performance

Cars

5 MOST POWERFUL DIESEL AUTO ENGINES EVER BUILT BY BMW

by George Mensah 2024-10-21

BMW has built a reputation for producing high-performance engines, from its iconic inline-four-cylinder engines, such as the 2.3-liter found in the E30 M3, to the elite V12s that powered a select few coveted models. Alongside these petrol engines, BMW has also created some of the most powerful and reliable diesel engines in the industry, including the famous M57, which had a production span of 13 years and came in multiple variants.

In this post, we take a closer look at the most powerful diesel auto engines BMW has developed, showcasing their robust engineering and high-performance output. If you’re on the hunt for a powerful, long-lasting engine for your BMW, these diesel engines are prime candidates.

The M51: BMW’s Early Diesel Engine

The M51 diesel engine, produced from 1991 to 2000, was a pioneering inline-six that may not have been the most powerful but was advanced for its time. It played a significant role in establishing BMW’s diesel engine lineup, powering a range of models including the 5 Series, 7 Series, and the Land Rover Range Rover 2.5 DSE during the 1990s.

This 2.5-liter engine utilized direct fuel injection, a technology that was still relatively new during the early 1990s. Some versions of the M51 were equipped with an intercooler, which increased power to 134 horsepower—close to the output of the 2007 Isuzu D-Max’s diesel engine, which had the same displacement.

The M57: A Milestone in Diesel Performance

The M57 engine replaced the M51 in the late 1990s, marking a significant leap forward in diesel technology. Known for its excellent performance and reliability, the M57 was used in various BMW cars and SUVs, starting with the 2009 BMW 335d. The M57 came in different sizes, ranging from 2.5 liters to 3.0 liters, producing between 148 and 282 horsepower and up to 428 pound-feet of torque in the twin-turbo, 3.0-liter version.

The 2009 BMW 335d, powered by the M57, became known for its impressive acceleration, going from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, and completing the quarter-mile in the low 14-second range. With aftermarket modifications like improved software, injectors, and turbochargers, M57-equipped cars can push more than 700 horsepower, all while retaining their durable stock components.

The M67: BMW’s V8 Diesel Powerhouse

The M67 series marked BMW’s entry into high-performance V8 diesel engines, produced from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s. The engine came in several versions, with displacements ranging from 3.9 to 4.4 liters, and was used in the 7 Series. The most powerful M67 variant, the D44, generated 329 horsepower and a hefty 552 pound-feet of torque.

The 745d, equipped with the M67 engine, was capable of reaching 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, despite weighing nearly 4,500 pounds. Its top speed was limited to 155 mph, while offering fuel efficiency of 18.4 mpg in the city and 34.6 mpg on the highway.

The M550d: BMW’s Groundbreaking Quad-Turbo Diesel

The M550d xDrive is a standout in BMW’s diesel lineup. Produced from 2017 to 2020, the G30 model of this sedan featured a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine with four turbochargers, delivering 400 horsepower and 561 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the M550d to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, placing it among the fastest diesel-powered vehicles ever made.

The four turbochargers weren’t just for show—they helped eliminate turbo lag, providing smooth and consistent power throughout the rev range. Two smaller turbos managed low-end power, while the larger pair took over at higher engine speeds, making this engine one of the most innovative and powerful six-cylinder diesels ever produced. Its fuel economy remained strong, exceeding 45 mpg on average.

The N74 V12: A Final Diesel Beast

BMW’s V12 diesel engines were as powerful as they were rare, with the N74 standing out as one of the last of its kind. This engine powered select 7 Series and Rolls-Royce models, including the 2022 M760i, which was the final BMW to feature a V12 engine before the shift toward electrification.

The N74 diesel engine packed advanced features like double VANOS variable valve timing, direct injection, and twin turbochargers. This powertrain produced a massive 601 horsepower, channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive system. The M760i, powered by the N74, could reach 0-60 mph in a blistering 3.6 seconds, a performance that rivaled many supercars.

Cars

5 Cars GM Should Bring Back

by George Mensah 2024-10-20

When creating lists of classic cars, some iconic models inevitably get left out. For example, the recently discontinued Chevy Camaro isn’t included here. That’s partly because it could make a comeback in the future and also because it has already had its time in the spotlight.

Instead, let’s take a deeper look at General Motors’ (GM) history and explore five cars that should make a return to production. GM has an extensive catalog of classic models from brands like Chevrolet and Buick, which are still active today. However, some discontinued brands like Pontiac and Saturn produced cars that may have been ahead of their time and deserve another shot.

Here are five cars GM should have never discontinued, listed alphabetically to avoid bias. These vehicles blend performance, practicality, and pure driving enjoyment.

Pontiac Aztek: A Car Ahead of Its Time?

The Pontiac Aztek is often remembered for its unusual design, but it also had a number of standout features. While not known for being particularly powerful or stylish, its unique qualities have left a lasting impression. Despite its polarizing looks, the Aztek could potentially find a fanbase today, similar to other bold designs like the Honda Ridgeline and Tesla Cybertruck.

The Aztek also gained fame through its appearance in the hit TV show Breaking Bad, where it was driven by Walter White. Produced from 2000 to 2005, the Aztek featured a 185-horsepower V6 engine, available all-wheel drive, and optional “lifestyle” packages. One of its standout options was a camping package that included a tent, air mattress, and air pump, designed to attach to the back of the vehicle. Given the growing popularity of travel vehicles and campers, this feature might resonate with modern drivers.

Chevy El Camino: The Return of the Car-Truck Hybrid?

The Chevy El Camino, a car-truck hybrid, first appeared in 1959 but was discontinued after a year. It made a comeback in 1964 and stayed in production until 1987, eventually becoming an icon, especially in its muscle car versions equipped with some of Chevrolet’s most powerful V8 engines.

Although rumors about a 2025 Chevrolet El Camino have circulated, there has been no official confirmation from GM or Chevrolet. However, artist and AI-generated images and videos have fueled speculation. If GM were to revive the El Camino, it could appeal to today’s market, where car-truck hybrids like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick have gained popularity.

Pontiac Fiero: Could It Make a Comeback?

The Pontiac Fiero, introduced in 1984, faced challenges from the start, with some early models catching fire due to mechanical issues. However, the car made an impression with its mid-engine, two-seater layout. Despite efforts to improve the model after the initial problems, the Fiero was discontinued in 1988 due to its tarnished reputation.

A modern-day version of the Fiero, equipped with the latest technology and materials, could be a strong contender in the performance EV market. However, it’s unlikely GM would risk introducing a model that could rival its flagship sports car, the Corvette, making a Fiero revival seem unlikely.

Buick Grand National: A Muscle Car Classic

The Buick Grand National first appeared in 1984 as a high-performance version of the Buick Regal. Its stealthy, blacked-out design made it stand out, and in 1987, Buick introduced a turbocharged V6 engine that produced 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, making it more powerful than the Corvette at the time.

Although it’s unlikely that GM would bring back a full-size coupe like the original Grand National, a modern version with a nod to its muscle car heritage could appeal to performance enthusiasts. If GM were to revive the Grand National, it would need to balance classic styling with cutting-edge technology.

Saturn Sky: A Fun, Sporty Roadster

Saturn was introduced by GM in 1990 to compete with affordable, fuel-efficient imports, but it was discontinued during GM’s 2009 bankruptcy. One of its most memorable models was the Saturn Sky, a two-seat convertible roadster that was essentially a rebadged Pontiac Solstice. Both cars were powered by GM’s Ecotec engines and provided a fun, sporty driving experience.

The Saturn Sky debuted in 2007 with a 177-horsepower engine, while the performance-oriented Red Line version offered a turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower. While a Saturn brand revival is unlikely, the Sky remains a model beloved by enthusiasts for its blend of affordability and fun.

Conclusion

While GM is unlikely to bring back these five cars in the near future, they continue to have a place in automotive history. These models blended innovation, performance, and practicality, and they still capture the imaginations of car enthusiasts. For now, we can enjoy artist renderings and AI-generated concepts of what these classic models could look like today.

Load More Posts