Electric Cars

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled its latest masterpiece, the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, a vehicle engineered for uncompromised performance and exclusivity. This limited-production coupe, the second offering in the marque's prestigious Mythos series, combines raw power with meticulous weight reduction and advanced aerodynamic features. With only 30 units slated for production, all of which have already found owners, this model stands as a testament to automotive artistry and engineering prowess, embodying Mercedes-AMG's dedication to creating extraordinary driving experiences.

First teased in January, the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung has now made its full debut, living up to the high expectations set by its initial reveal. The name "Spezialanfertigung," meaning "custom-made" in English, perfectly encapsulates the car's bespoke nature and extreme rarity. This road-legal beast is derived from the AMG CLE53, yet it undergoes substantial modifications to elevate its track capabilities and overall performance. Enthusiasts who appreciate the fusion of luxury and extreme performance will find this model particularly compelling.

At the heart of the CLE 646 lies a formidable twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine, meticulously tuned to deliver an astonishing 637 horsepower (or 646 PS, which inspires the car's designation) and 627 pound-feet of torque. This powerhouse incorporates a flat-plane crankshaft, a design choice that significantly reduces rotating mass and sharpens throttle response, providing an exhilarating and immediate acceleration. The engine's robust cooling system features three independent circuits, ensuring optimal operating temperatures even under the most demanding conditions. A high-temperature circuit manages the engine itself, while two distinct low-temperature circuits regulate the charge air, transmission oil, and the 48-volt electrical system. Further enhancing its performance and auditory signature, the V-8's roar is channeled through a unique exhaust system, developed in collaboration with Akrapovič, featuring lightweight titanium components.

A critical divergence from its CLE53 predecessor is the CLE 646's exclusive rear-wheel-drive configuration, which channels its immense power through a sophisticated nine-speed automatic transmission and an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. This setup contributes to its blistering acceleration, propelling the car from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds and reaching 124 mph in a mere 11.4 seconds, with a top speed of 193 mph. The vehicle's handling prowess is equally impressive, thanks to a specially engineered steel-sprung coilover suspension system equipped with four-way adjustable dampers. These dampers offer independent low-speed and high-speed rebound and compression settings, allowing drivers to fine-tune the ride for various track conditions. Stopping power is provided by a high-performance braking system featuring ventilated and perforated carbon-ceramic discs, measuring 16.5 inches at the front and 14.2 inches at the rear, clamped by six-piston fixed calipers up front and single-piston floating calipers at the rear.

The exterior design of the CLE 646 is as aggressive as its powertrain, featuring a body widened by 2.4 inches and reinforced to enhance structural rigidity. The bulging front fenders, complete with large air outlets, are crafted from carbon fiber, a material extensively used across the front end, side sills, hood, roof, and rear bumper. These lightweight components, combined with innovations such as a polycarbonate rear window and rear side windows, and a lighter 12-volt starter battery, contribute to a substantial weight reduction of approximately 375 pounds compared to the CLE53. The car's front fascia is dominated by numerous intakes, which not only contribute to its menacing aesthetic but also efficiently cool the engine and brakes. The grille now extends to the front splitter, complemented by a prominent hood vent. At the rear, a massive diffuser, stacked quad exhaust outlets, and an unmistakable, manually adjustable rear wing generate over 550 pounds of downforce at top speed. The CLE 646 rides on 20-inch forged wheels, shod with 305/30 front and 335/30 rear tires, providing exceptional grip and stability.

The interior echoes the extreme, performance-oriented philosophy, sacrificing comfort elements for a more focused driving experience. The rear seats and acoustic insulation material have been removed, and the sound system is simplified. The number of drive modes and assistance systems has been reduced, streamlining the controls on the steering wheel. Racing bucket seats provide maximum support, and an optional Performance package includes six-point harnesses and carbon fiber door panels, further emphasizing its track-ready nature. This second Mythos car, following the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed roadster (based on the SL63 and lacking a roof or windshield), underscores Mercedes-AMG's commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive performance and exclusivity. While the exact price remains undisclosed, its limited production run suggests a significant premium over the CLE53's starting price of $78,850.

Porsche has officially completed the sale of its remaining shares in Bugatti Rimac and the larger Rimac Group. This strategic divestment concludes Bugatti's more than two-decade tenure under the Volkswagen Group's umbrella, redirecting the iconic brand's future toward full integration with the Croatian technology and supercar firm, Rimac.

The transaction, finalized on September 9th, has provided Porsche AG Group with an impressive €1 billion, approximately $1.16 billion at current exchange rates. A significant portion of these proceeds, specifically €250 million, will be allocated to bolstering pension obligations. Furthermore, this move is anticipated to substantially elevate Porsche's net cash flow margin for its automotive business, with projections rising from a previous forecast of 3-5% to an improved range of 5.5-7.5% by 2026. This financial restructuring comes as Porsche intensifies its focus on electric vehicle development and aims to enhance profitability amidst shifting market dynamics.

Bugatti's reemergence as a prominent name in the ultra-luxury and performance automotive sector was largely shaped during its time with the Volkswagen Group, under the vision of former CEO Ferdinand Piëch. The brand's legacy was reignited through iconic models like the Veyron and Chiron, which cemented its status among supercar enthusiasts. The formation of the joint venture with Rimac in 2021 was a pivotal step, leveraging Rimac's electrical expertise to propel Bugatti into a new era of innovation, exemplified by the forthcoming Tourbillon hybrid hypercar. With the Tourbillon's production slated to commence this year, the full impact of Porsche's exit on Bugatti's long-term product strategy remains to be seen. However, this divestment underscores Porsche's commitment to streamlining operations and fortifying its financial standing, particularly in a landscape increasingly dominated by electric mobility.

This decisive action by Porsche to fully divest from Bugatti Rimac is a clear signal of strategic realignment, enabling both entities to pursue their distinct visions with renewed focus. Such bold moves are essential for companies navigating the complex and rapidly evolving automotive industry, ensuring sustainable growth and continued innovation in the face of new challenges and opportunities.