Despite the prevailing trend in the automotive sector favoring smaller, turbocharged engines, the German luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz has declared its commitment to the enduring V-12 engine. This announcement comes as a welcome surprise to automotive enthusiasts who have witnessed a steady decline in the availability of this powerful engine configuration across the industry. While specific technical details are still under wraps, the company’s decision suggests a strategic approach to preserving a symbol of automotive prestige.
Mercedes-Benz Reaffirms Commitment to V-12 Engines Amidst Industry Shifts
In a significant declaration, Markus Sch￤fer, the head of technology for Mercedes-Benz, recently confirmed to Autocar that the manufacturer plans to “continue to offer V-12s.” This statement implies a future beyond the current single V-12 model in their lineup, the Maybach S680. Although further specifics regarding engine displacement, horsepower, and potential hybrid integration were not disclosed, Sch￤fer hinted at exciting developments by stating, “I will not say more, but it is coming.” This suggests that while traditional V-12 powertrains face increasing pressure from environmental regulations, Mercedes-Benz is actively developing solutions to sustain their presence, most likely through hybridization.
Currently, the V-12 engine is a rare sight, with only a handful of luxury manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, Pagani, and Aston Martin offering it in their 2025 models. The Maybach S680’s 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-12, delivering 621 horsepower and priced at approximately $235,450, stands as one of the more “accessible” options in this exclusive segment. In the past, Mercedes-Benz showcased the versatility of the V-12 in performance models such as the AMG S65, CL65, and SL600. The forthcoming V-12 units are expected to incorporate electrical assistance to comply with increasingly stringent emissions standards, particularly in regions like Europe, where new Euro 7 regulations take effect in 2026. However, less restrictive markets, including the Middle East, China, and potentially the United States due to recent regulatory shifts, could see a continued robust offering of these high-performance engines. This move reflects a broader industry recognition of consumer demand for powerful, luxurious engines, a sentiment that Mercedes-Benz acknowledges following past “missteps” with alternative powertrain choices like the turbocharged four-cylinder in the AMG C63.
This strategic move by Mercedes-Benz underscores a fascinating dynamic within the automotive industry. While electrification and downsizing dominate headlines, there remains a dedicated market segment that values the heritage, performance, and exclusivity of multi-cylinder engines. Mercedes-Benz’s decision to invest in the future of the V-12, likely through advanced hybrid powertrains, demonstrates a commitment to catering to this discerning clientele. It also highlights the intricate balance automakers must strike between environmental responsibility, regulatory compliance, and consumer preferences for performance and luxury. This could pave the way for other high-end manufacturers to explore similar hybrid solutions, ensuring that the roar of a V-12, albeit with an electric hum, continues to grace the roads for years to come.
Unveiling a Pristine Automotive Gem: The 81-Mile V8 M3
A Legacy of Excellence: The Esteemed BMW M3 Series and Its Unique V8 Chapter
BMW's M3 lineage is celebrated for its dynamic performance and engineering prowess, with numerous models achieving iconic status. Among them, the E92 generation holds a distinct position, primarily because it was the sole M3 variant equipped with a naturally aspirated V8 engine. As a swansong for this powerplant in the M3 series, BMW introduced the exclusive Lime Rock Park Edition in 2013.
The Exclusive Lime Rock Park Edition: A Tribute to Performance and Rarity
The Lime Rock Park Edition, restricted to a mere 200 units for the North American market, was conceived as an homage to the renowned Lime Rock Park circuit in Connecticut. Each vehicle was presented in a vibrant Fire Orange finish and featured the coveted Competition Package. This limited production, coupled with its performance-enhancing specifications, elevates its appeal to enthusiasts and collectors, a decade after its initial release.
An Unparalleled Find: The Near-Delivery Condition V8 M3 Coupe Surfaces
These specialized M3s already command significant attention within the collector community. Currently, an exceptionally well-maintained example is available for bidding on Cars & Bids, astonishingly displaying a mileage count so minimal it mirrors the condition of a brand-new vehicle upon delivery.
Detailed Examination: The 81-Mile M3's Pristine State and Powerful Core
The particular vehicle featured in the auction is a 2013 BMW M3 Coupe Lime Rock Park Edition, registering a mere 81 miles on its odometer—potentially the lowest mileage existing example. It boasts an immaculate Fire Orange exterior complemented by a black Novillo leather interior, entirely preserving its original factory specifications without any alterations. Propelling this machine is the potent 4.0-liter S65 V8 engine, generating 414 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a rapid 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Factory amenities include the Competition, Cold Weather, and Premium packages, alongside a lightweight carbon fiber roof, an Alcantara flat-bottom steering wheel, and sophisticated carbon leather interior trim.
Provenance and Condition: A Single-Owner Vehicle with Minor Notations
A comprehensive Carfax report confirms the vehicle's clean history, free from accidents or mileage discrepancies, though a reporting gap from 2016 to 2024 is noted. This M3 has had only one previous owner and is currently offered by a dealership in Rockville, Maryland. Service records indicate a battery replacement and a left airbag assembly service in March 2024, with another new battery installed in August 2025. The only identified imperfection is the presence of the original tires, manufactured in 2012.
Seizing the Opportunity: A Rare Collectible in Its Final Auction Hours
The ongoing auction has seen robust bidding, with the current highest bid standing at $86,592 after 13 bids. The auction is slated to conclude imminently, on September 9, 2025. For discerning collectors who prioritize scarcity, authenticity, and condition, this Lime Rock Park Edition represents a prime acquisition. With just 81 miles from new, it offers an almost identical experience to taking delivery of one of BMW's ultimate naturally aspirated M3 coupes. This model uniquely melds motorsport-inspired engineering with everyday practicality, a combination BMW has yet to replicate since its production.
Rimac, a name synonymous with high-performance hypercars, has unveiled a significant shift in its business strategy, positioning itself as a pivotal technology supplier for the electric vehicle sector. At the recent IAA Mobility exhibition, the Croatian company showcased cutting-edge solid-state battery technology and advanced e-axle systems, demonstrating its commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric mobility beyond its exclusive vehicle lineup. These innovations underscore Rimac's ambition to influence the wider automotive landscape, providing crucial components that could redefine future electric vehicle design and performance across various segments.
This strategic evolution from an elite hypercar producer to a leading component provider highlights the company's profound engineering capabilities. The new product offerings, which include production-ready solid-state batteries and incredibly powerful e-axles, are not merely conceptual but represent tangible advancements ready for integration into the next generation of electric vehicles. Rimac's transition showcases its vision of driving industry-wide progress, building on its legacy of creating record-breaking vehicles like the Nevera, which stands as a testament to its innovative spirit and technical excellence.
Pioneering Battery Technology: Solid-State and Beyond
Rimac's collaboration with industry leaders ProLogium and Mitsubishi Chemical has resulted in the development of a solid-state battery system that promises significant improvements over current lithium-ion technology. This new system offers reduced weight, enhanced energy density, and superior safety characteristics, addressing key challenges in electric vehicle development. Unlike many theoretical concepts, Rimac emphasizes that this solid-state battery is ready for production, marking a major milestone in battery technology. Complementing this, the company also presented its Evo Battery, featuring advanced NMC 46XX cells, and a versatile Hybrid Battery platform designed for various hybrid applications, showcasing a comprehensive approach to energy storage solutions.
The readiness of Rimac's solid-state battery system for commercial production is a game-changer for the electric vehicle industry. Its lighter weight and higher energy density mean longer ranges and improved vehicle dynamics, while enhanced safety features offer greater peace of mind. This technology, developed in partnership with established players, solidifies Rimac's position as an innovator, moving beyond its hypercar roots to become a critical supplier of advanced components. By offering multiple battery solutions, including the NMC 46XX cell-based Evo Battery and the flexible Hybrid Battery, Rimac is catering to a broad spectrum of electric and hybrid vehicle needs, illustrating its commitment to practical, scalable solutions for the future of transportation.
Redefining Electric Power: Advanced E-Axles
Rimac's innovations extend to the powertrain with the introduction of its new SINTEG 300 and 550 e-axles. These compact yet powerful units deliver up to 360 kW and boast a torque density exceeding 90 Nm/kg, making them versatile enough for applications ranging from compact hatchbacks to larger SUVs. The highlight, however, is the XXL dual-motor e-axle, projected to enter series production in 2026, which promises an astonishing 11,000 Nm of torque. This level of power output is indicative of the technology that underpins high-performance electric vehicles, including Rimac's own Nevera hypercar, attracting considerable attention from collectors and the automotive industry alike.
The new SINTEG 300 and 550 e-axles are designed to be both compact and highly efficient, offering significant power output relative to their size. Their high torque density of over 90 Nm/kg makes them suitable for a diverse range of vehicles, from everyday cars to more robust utility vehicles. The forthcoming XXL dual-motor e-axle, with its projected 11,000 Nm of torque, represents a pinnacle of electric drivetrain engineering, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in terms of electric power and performance. This technological leap reinforces Rimac's expertise in developing components that enable extreme performance, and its ability to attract significant interest from both the automotive manufacturing sector and the high-end collector market.