Electric Cars

Mercedes-Benz has made a significant strategic shift regarding its entry-level A-Class model, choosing to extend its production timeline until 2028. This decision, a reversal of earlier plans to discontinue the compact car, involves relocating its manufacturing base from the Rastatt factory in Germany to the Kecskemet facility in Hungary, beginning in the second quarter of the year. This move is driven by the need to optimize production capacity at the German plant for the upcoming generations of the CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, and the next-gen GLA, which will feature both traditional combustion engines and electric powertrains.

Mercedes-Benz Repositions A-Class Production and Compact Car Strategy

In an announcement to the German business publication Automobilwoche, a Mercedes spokesperson confirmed the extended life and new production location for the A-Class. This strategic maneuver will allow the Rastatt plant, a vital hub for Mercedes, to concentrate on the production of the new CLA models and the next-generation GLA, scheduled to commence in 2027. The GLA will notably bridge the gap between internal combustion and electric vehicles, aligning with Mercedes' broader strategy to integrate its ICE and EV lineups. While the A-Class gains an extended lease on life, its counterpart, the B-Class minivan, is slated for a gradual phase-out without a direct successor. Looking ahead, Mercedes is also planning to introduce a smaller G-Class model, nicknamed the \u201cLittle G,\u201d which will offer both gasoline and electric variants, with an expected unveiling in late 2024 or 2027. The A-Class, one of the brand\u2019s oldest models, will be approximately a decade old by the time its production concludes in 2028. Although a direct replacement was initially not in the pipeline, a new entry-level model positioned below the CLA is now anticipated. Its availability in the United States, where the A-Class was withdrawn after the 2022 model year, remains uncertain. The form this successor will take \u2013 whether a five-door hatchback, a refreshed sedan, or a derivative resembling a stripped-down GLA \u2013 is still a matter of speculation, though a hatchback seems a logical choice given its popularity in European markets and Mercedes' extensive crossover portfolio.

This reevaluation of the A-Class's future and the decision to move its production signify a calculated move by Mercedes-Benz. While the A-Class, as an entry-level offering, might yield slimmer profit margins, its significant sales volume makes its continued presence commercially viable. The relocation to Hungary is likely a cost-saving measure, capitalizing on potentially lower labor and operational expenses compared to Germany, a practice already adopted by competitors like Audi and BMW. This strategic pivot indicates that despite Mercedes' recent focus on higher-margin luxury vehicles, the brand recognizes the importance of catering to a broader market segment. The continuation of the A-Class, and the development of a successor, reflects a desire to balance exclusivity with market accessibility, potentially navigating the dual challenge of maintaining luxury brand perception while expanding market reach.

Embracing the Pace: Ligier's Unconventional Quest for a Nürburgring Record

The Unprecedented Challenge: Pursuing the Slowest Lap Record on the Legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife

While most automotive companies vie for the fastest lap times on the demanding Nürburgring Nordschleife, French automaker Ligier has deliberately charted a different course. They set their sights on an unparalleled achievement: securing the record for the circuit's most leisurely completion. Their chosen vehicle for this endeavor was the JS50 Revo D+, a microcar specifically engineered for efficiency rather than outright speed. This bold strategy has piqued the curiosity of automotive enthusiasts and critics alike, demonstrating that records can be set in more ways than one.

Ligier's Transformation: From Formula 1 Pedigree to Microcar Innovation

Ligier boasts a rich heritage, having once competed in the prestigious world of Formula 1. However, the company has since pivoted its focus to manufacturing compact, low-power microcars, which are gaining popularity in Europe. These vehicles offer the unique advantage of being driven without a traditional license in many regions, making them accessible to a broader demographic. The JS50 Revo D+, with its humble 8-horsepower diesel engine, embodies this shift, providing practical and fuel-efficient transportation.

The Daring Expedition: French Journalists Tackle the Nürburgring in a Ligier JS50

A dedicated team of French journalists, led by Nicolas Meunier and Martin Coulomb, embarked on an extraordinary journey from Paris to Germany with the explicit mission of conquering the Nürburgring. Their weapon of choice: the 8-horsepower Ligier JS50. Despite the vehicle's legal speed limit of 28 mph, the duo successfully navigated the formidable Nordschleife, demonstrating the microcar's surprising resilience and the drivers' unwavering determination. This remarkable expedition highlights the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of unconventional challenges.

The JS50's European Classification: More Than Just a Car

In Europe, the Ligier JS50 Revo D+ is not classified as a conventional automobile. Instead, it falls under the category of a "diesel-powered quadricycle." This designation is crucial, as it allows individuals as young as 14 years old to operate the vehicle without a full driver's license. Powered by a 0.5-liter engine, the JS50 generates 8 horsepower and 20 pound-feet of torque, enabling it to reach its legally mandated maximum speed of 28 mph. The European Union's perspective is that these quadricycles offer a safer alternative to mopeds, providing a practical and accessible mode of personal transport.

Efficiency on Wheels: The Ligier JS50's Impressive Fuel Economy

Beyond its unique classification and Nürburgring exploits, the Ligier JS50 is also celebrated for its exceptional fuel efficiency. During their journey from Paris, the French journalists achieved an impressive 78 miles per gallon. This outstanding fuel economy underscores the JS50's practical appeal as an economical choice for urban and short-distance travel, aligning with growing demands for more sustainable and cost-effective personal mobility solutions.

A Trio of Challengers: Ligier's Multi-Vehicle Attack on the Nürburgring

For this unprecedented record attempt, Ligier brought not one, but three distinct vehicles to Germany. In addition to the diesel-powered JS50, the lineup included an electric variant and a second electric model with a slightly higher top speed of 47 mph. This diverse selection allowed Ligier to explore the limits of its microcar range on the challenging track, showcasing the different performance characteristics of each power train.

Lap Times Revealed: Diesel vs. Electric on the Iconic Green Hell

The diesel JS50 completed its Nürburgring lap in 28 minutes and 25.8 seconds, setting a benchmark for leisurely motoring. The electric version demonstrated a quicker pace, crossing the finish line in 27 minutes and 55.6 seconds, likely benefiting from improved uphill performance. The JS50 Electric 75 KM/H, with its increased governed speed, managed to dip under the 20-minute mark, recording a time of 19 minutes and 53.4 seconds. These times, achieved on Nankang RC semi-slick tires, have sparked discussions among enthusiasts regarding the impact of tire choice on such an unconventional record attempt.

The Enduring Legacy: A Record That Will Stand the Test of Time

Ligier's accomplishment on the Nürburgring is not merely a fleeting moment; it is a record that is unlikely to be surpassed anytime soon. The sheer dedication and patience required to achieve such a deliberately slow lap time mean that few others will be inclined to challenge it. This unique feat cements Ligier's place in automotive history, not for speed, but for its audacious and memorable embrace of slowness.