Electric Cars

This captivating article highlights a bespoke 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata, skillfully reimagined with the distinctive aesthetic of an Aston Martin. This unique vehicle, crafted by Simpson Design, marries the exotic visual appeal of a luxury car with the everyday practicality and dependable mechanics of a Mazda Miata. Presented as a coachbuilt masterpiece, it's designed to intrigue and delight, offering a blend of rarity and accessibility that challenges conventional automotive perceptions.

The vehicle in question is a 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata, which has undergone a dramatic transformation by Simpson Design, a specialized coachbuilder from Washington State. This firm, known for infusing European design elements into MX-5s, created a bodywork that mimics the sophisticated lines of an Aston Martin. This particular model, one of only two such examples (the other being a coupe), stands out with its mint green finish and classic wire wheels, presenting an alluring yet perplexing sight to those unfamiliar with its origins. The underlying Mazda chassis ensures that despite its high-end appearance, the car benefits from readily available parts and maintenance.

The car’s charm lies in its ability to offer a taste of luxury without the associated complexities. Like the iconic Toyota 2000GT from the James Bond film, which was a rare and unattainable gem, this Mazda offers a more achievable 'Japan/James Bond crossover' fantasy. It’s equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 166 horsepower, providing ample excitement for leisurely drives. Its six-speed automatic transmission, while perhaps not the preferred choice for purists, guarantees ease of use, making it suitable for daily driving. The meticulous craftsmanship of Jim Simpson, the founder of Simpson Design, ensures that this 'cosplaying Mazda' is not merely a superficial imitation but a well-executed fusion of styles.

With only 26,000 miles on the odometer, this roadster comes complete with both a hard top and a soft top, adding to its versatility. The combination of exotic aesthetics and Mazda's dependable engineering makes it an unparalleled choice for those seeking an unusual yet practical vehicle. The auction, set to conclude on April 28, represents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to acquire a truly one-of-a-kind automobile that promises to be both a conversation starter and a joy to drive.

Luxury vehicle customizer Mansory has made its debut in the Chinese market with a striking modification of the Zeekr 9X, a high-performance SUV. This collaboration showcases the rapid advancements and growing luxury aspirations of Chinese automotive manufacturers. The redesigned 9X, unveiled at the Beijing Auto Show, features extensive aesthetic overhauls that draw parallels to the prestigious Rolls-Royce Cullinan, asserting its presence in the ultra-luxury segment while maintaining its formidable 1,381 horsepower.

The Chinese automotive industry has been experiencing an unprecedented period of expansion and innovation. Bolstered by substantial industrial support, these manufacturers are consistently pushing the boundaries of vehicle production. In a remarkably short timeframe, the quality and sophistication of Chinese-made cars have seen significant improvements, leading to their strategic entry into new market niches. A prominent trend among these emerging brands is the emphasis on new energy vehicles, including both electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), alongside a burgeoning focus on luxury as a key selling proposition.

Mansory, renowned for its distinctive and often audacious modifications of high-end vehicles, has now ventured into this dynamic market. The partnership with Zeekr represents Mansory’s first collaboration with a Chinese brand. Zeekr has carved out a reputation as a relatively conventional yet innovative local brand, with its 9X model, launched last year, positioned as a direct competitor to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.

True to its established style, Mansory has endowed the Zeekr 9X with a comprehensive aesthetic transformation. The vehicle now sports an entirely new body kit, featuring a more aggressive hood design, a revamped front bumper, and a grille that distinctly echoes the iconic Rolls-Royce aesthetic. Expansive new panels on the fenders contribute to a broader, more imposing stance, complemented by redesigned side skirts and darker exterior trim elements. The rear of the vehicle, by Mansory's standards, exhibits a degree of moderation, incorporating a new diffuser with quad exhausts and a subtle Mansory emblem on the boot lid, culminating in a sleek and contemporary finish.

Inside, the customized 9X radiates luxury with a sophisticated blend of white leather, contrasting black accents, and elegant gold touches. A significant interior modification is the introduction of rear-hinged doors, which not only enhance ease of entry and exit but also add a visually striking element when opened, further elevating the vehicle’s exclusive appeal.

While Mansory is known for often boosting the performance of the vehicles it customizes, the Zeekr 9X retains its original powertrain. The standard three-motor configuration of the 9X already delivers an impressive 1,381 horsepower, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds. Given this already potent performance, Mansory likely deemed additional power enhancements unnecessary. Compared to some of Mansory's more extravagant previous builds, the Zeekr 9X modification is relatively subdued, a strategic approach that may reflect Mansory’s cautious entry into the Chinese market.