The road transport department (JPJ) has issued a statement for recalls involving more than 41,000 vehicles across five passenger car brands in Malaysia, comprised of Honda (previously announced by Honda Malaysia in November 2024), Kia, Ford, Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
The tally comes to 41,688 vehicles to be exact, though this figure includes 291 units of MAN trucks for four variants of the 2021-2023 TGS prime mover, which is being recalled for a malfunctioning 24-volt socket within the instrument panel.
Honda – recall information link here
Models from Honda involved in the latest JPJ recall are the 2022-2024 11th-generation Civic for the 1.5L E, V, RS and 2.0L e:HEV RS (26,802 units), the 2023-2024 Civic Type R (159 units), and the 2024 CR-V 1.5L E, V, S and 2.0L e:HEV RS (9,717 units).
This JPJ recall for the above Honda models are for abnormal sounds and roughness when turning the steering wheel, according to the department’s statement. Earlier, Honda Malaysia’s November 2024 statement elaborated on the matter, stating that the issue involves the EPS gearbox where its worm wheel may swell and reduce grease film thickness, causing abnormal steering noise or a sticky steering.
Kia – recall information link here
For Kia, the recall issued is for the XM-generation Sorento, for two separate issues and correspondingly, two model-year runs. The 2011-2015 Sorento (1,384 units) is being recalled for damaged engine connecting rod bearings, while the 2010-2014 Sorento (2,861 units) is recalled for a potential electrical short circuit which could cause a fire on the hydraulic electronic control unit circuit board.
Ford – recall information link here
Ford has 288 units of the Everest involved in two recalls. Of the 288 units, the first recall involves eight units of the 2022-2024 Everest 2.0L Titanium 4WD AT due to the e-shifter transmission selector draining the vehicle’s battery while driving.
The second recall for the SUV involves the 2.0L Sport 2WD AT (44 units), the 2.0L Titanium 4WD AT (214 units), the 2.0L Trend 4WD AT (12 units) and the 2.0L Wildtrak 4WD AT (12 units). This second recall is for driver or passenger side windows which may not automatically reverse (retract) when encountering an object; in other words, the anti-pinch function may not work.
Audi – recall information link here
For Audi, the 168 units recalled are for two separate issues. The first is for cracked brake hoses on the front axle, affecting the 2022-2024 e-tron GT (48 units) and the 2022-2024 RS e-tron GT (49 units). The second issue is for abnormalities on individual modules in the high-voltage battery, and this affects the 2022-2023 e-tron GT (32 units) and the 2022-2023 RS e-tron GT (39 units).
Mercedes-Benz – recall information link here
Five models from Mercedes-Benz are involved in the latest recall announced by JPJ. Involved here is the 2022-2023 S 580 e (nine units), for lambda controls within the engine control unit (ECU) software which may not meet the required specifications.
The second batch of models are the 2017-2022 Mercedes-AMG E 53 (three units), CLS 53 (four units), GT 43 (one unit) and GT 53 (one unit); this batch is being recalled for potentially improperly manufactured electrical connectors for the transmission wiring circuit.
As a Filipino digital nomad, I’ve learned that hopping between time zones, sampling new cuisines, and adjusting to unfamiliar environments can take a toll on both body and mind. But guess what? Staying fit and healthy on the road is absolutely possible. It just takes some creativity and good planning.
Through my own travel adventures, I’ve picked up some valuable tips like 5 Travel Tips That Make A Difference and How to Travel with an Infant. Whether you’re staying in apartments, condos, or coworking in a place with fast internet, this guide has tips to keep your digital nomad lifestyle stress-free.
For a deeper dive however, do consider getting your own copy of The A-Z on How to Become a Digital Nomad – my personal ultimate guide for aspiring nomads. This eBook is packed with everything you need to thrive while working and exploring the world!
Now, here’s what I’ve discovered on my journey to staying healthy and balanced while traveling.
1. How to Eat Healthy While Traveling for Work
Plan Your Meals
When I first started traveling, I would splurge on fast-food chains or convenient street bites whenever hunger hit. While that’s fun (and sometimes you really can’t resist local specialties!), I realized my body felt off-balance after a few weeks. Now, I try to stay in places where I have access to a kitchen – either an Airbnb or a hostel with a shared space – so I can whip up healthier, home-style meals.
Grocery Shopping: I love visiting local markets wherever I am – whether it’s a wet market in Vietnam or a weekend bazaar in Poland – to pick up fresh vegetables, fruits, and other whole foods. While in Asian countries like Thailand, exploring these markets is like finding paradise for fresh and healthy ingredients.
Meal Prepping: On hectic workdays, meal prepping is a lifesaver. I’ll prepare a batch of veggie stir-fry or chicken adobo (yes, I still crave Pinoy flavors abroad!) and pack it for lunch the next day. Adding healthy snacks like nuts or dried fruits keeps my energy up during the day.
Quick Travel Tip: Pack essentials like a solar power bank to keep your devices charged while looking up recipes or local market locations on the go.
Make Healthier Choices When Dining Out
I love trying local dishes – it’s a huge part of why I travel. But I’ve learned to strike a balance:
Choose Veggies & Lean Protein: My heart always does a little dance when I see grilled fish or a nice veggie dish on the menu.
Portion Control: Let’s face it, portion sizes can be bigger outside the Philippines. If I know I can’t finish it all, I’ll ask for a doggy bag.
Stay Hydrated: I bring a reusable water bottle everywhere. It’s so easy to load up on sugary drinks or coffee when you’re exploring new places, so water helps me stay refreshed without the extra calories.
Use Nutrition Apps
If I feel I’m losing track of my eating habits (hello, unlimited buffet breakfast?), I’ll use MyFitnessPal or Lifesum for a week or two. It’s a gentle way to keep myself accountable.
2. Finding Gyms & Staying Active
Research Gyms Before You Arrive
Back in my early travel days, I’d land in a new city and waste time searching for a gym. Now, I do my homework beforehand:
Local Gyms or Amenities: A quick Google Maps search usually brings up gyms with day or week passes – perfect to fit our remote work schedule or if I’m only in town briefly.
Hotel Gyms: When I splurge on a hotel, I make sure it has a fitness center so I don’t have to look elsewhere.
Coworking Spaces: Some coworking spots offer discounted gym memberships or host fitness classes. It’s a great perk for digital nomads like me.
Explore Alternative Workouts
I’m not a “gym rat” every day, so I switch things up:
Outdoor Activities: Diving in paradise destinations like Thailand? Hiking in Bali? Jogging along the Seine in Paris? Yes, please! Combining exploration with exercise keeps me motivated.
Yoga & Pilates Studios: I’ve dropped into yoga studios in almost every city I’ve visited. Some are even part of the digital nomad community, where you can meet like-minded travelers.
Home Workout Routines: When I’m short on time or can’t find a gym, I rely on YouTube routines. I’ve got a little bookmark folder of my favorite workout channels.
Use Fitness Apps
I’m currently obsessed with Nike Training Club. It’s free and gives me guided workouts of various lengths, which is perfect for my unpredictable schedule.
3. Managing Mental Health on the Go
Establish a Routine
Travel is unpredictable, but having even a loose structure helps me stay balanced:
Set Work Hours: I decide beforehand which hours I’ll focus on work, and which hours I’ll explore. Otherwise, I end up working all day in a café, forgetting why I traveled in the first place!
Schedule Breaks: Using something like the Pomodoro Technique keeps me from burning out. I take a 5-minute break every 25 minutes to stretch or grab water.
Stay Connected with Loved Ones
Homesickness is real! Frequent calls or messages with family back home keep me grounded, especially when I’m tackling passport renewals and fees.
Frequent Check-Ins: I schedule video calls with my family on weekends or chat with friends on Messenger. Hearing a familiar voice is the best pick-me-up.
Find Filipino Communities Abroad: There are some Pinoy associations or Facebook groups for digital nomads in big cities. It’s comforting to share stories with kababayans who understand the whole “digital nomad + being Pinoy” combo. You also get tips on low-cost living, health insurance coverage, or even local language apps for seamless interactions with foreigners and locals.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
Meditation Apps: I use Calm or Headspace when I feel overwhelmed. A 5-minute session can reset my mood.
Journaling: Writing about my day – whether it’s about a crazy tuk-tuk ride in Cambodia or a sweet conversation with a local vendor – helps me process emotions and stay grateful.
Seek Professional Help: I’ve used an online counseling platform before. It’s comforting to know that therapy is accessible wherever I am in the world.
4. Additional Tips for a Healthy Nomadic Lifestyle
Get Adequate Sleep: Jet lag is no joke. I try melatonin (under a doctor’s guidance) or set strict bedtime/wake-up times for a few days to adjust.
Travel Insurance: If I’m going somewhere remote or plan on adventurous activities, I make sure I have a solid policy. Better safe than sorry!
Stay Organized:Google Calendar is my best friend for juggling meeting schedules, travel itineraries, and personal to-dos.
Limit Alcohol & Caffeine: I love a good craft beer, but I keep it moderate – especially when I have an early work call the next day.
Take Breaks from Screen Time: Long laptop sessions can strain my eyes. I follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Pro Tip: Staying connected on the go? Use Yesim for easy eSIM access and enjoy a great percent off with code KATRIN8414.
Final Thoughts
Being a Filipino digital nomad has changed my life in so many ways, and I’ve grown to cherish the freedom it brings. But it’s also taught me the importance of looking after myself – physically and mentally – no matter where my laptop and I land.
Whether you’re navigating USD exchange rates, staying in apartments with easy access to co-working hubs, or prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, balance is everything.
Having travel insurance and a digital nomad visa with clear visa requirements in place has also been crucial for peace of mind and easier access to new destinations. Whether you’re exploring caves, diving into underground rivers, or working in a bustling major city like Metro Manila, balancing health and adventure is key.
Trust me, once you find that balance between exploring, working, and self-care, you’ll feel more energized and ready to tackle anything that comes your way. Here’s to staying fit, staying grounded, and making the most of our travel journeys!
Disclaimer: These are general tips based on my own experiences. For personalized advice, please consult a healthcare professional.
FAQ
What are the negative effects of digital nomads?
Difficulties in maintaining a work-life balance, not finding the right destination, lack of social life, financial hardships, problems regarding your routine and mental health problems as well as access to healthcare can be considered as some of the most common challenges digital nomads face.
What are the problems faced by nomads?
Without the structure of a conventional office, separating work from personal life can be difficult, particularly as a digital nomad. The lines can blur when you are traveling to a new location or country, leading to overworking and burnout.
What is a digital nomad’s salary?
May 24, 2024. According to a March 2024 study, 35 percent of surveyed digital nomads worldwide recorded an annual income of 100 thousand to 250 thousand U.S. dollars. By contrast, only six percent of the sample reported earning less than 25 thousand U.S. dollars a year.
Whenever a discussion of which airline has the best business class surfaces, the same names have long dominated the conversation. Emirates, the Middle East’s largest airline, undoubtedly comes to mind. With luxurious, lie-flat seats offered even on the airline’s shortest routes, an onboard bar experience on the Airbus A380, and culinary experiences that compete toe-to-toe with its competitors, it’s easy to see just why.
For most travellers, these premium experiences are reserved only for the top-end of airline classes. But what if there was an option that emanates a premium experience without needing to splurge on a business class ticket? With the introduction of premium economy onboard Emirates’ refurbished Airbus A380s and now Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, travelling in a class beyond standard economy is no longer too far-fetched of an idea — especially when it costs just a fraction of business for the upgrade.
Emirates hopes to offer something different with its take on premium economy. It promises a whole new cabin class that borrows — and even mirrors — several business class touch points instead of delivering an “economy-plus” product, as most airlines are inclined toward.
This might reassure anyone booked in this travel class, but I had my initial doubts. In fact, I quickly adjusted my expectations before embarking on a 20-hour journey (with a short layover in Dubai) to New York City from Singapore, worried that I may very well be sat in a seat that doesn’t differ that much from that of economy’s.
However, the airline got it right from the start, before I had even boarded the plane. Premium economy passengers are entitled to either 35kg of checked baggage or two pieces of checked baggage on flights to the United States and other destinations that follow the per-piece concept. With an allowance just 5kg shy of what most airlines would offer to their business class passengers, that alone allayed any pre-flight packing stresses.
Most Emirates flight routes, especially those where the A380s are deployed, would naturally incur long lines at the airport for check-in and baggage drop. Thankfully, there were dedicated counters catered for premium economy passengers, and it wasn’t long before my bags were checked in worry-free. The same priority was also offered during the boarding phase. Premium economy class passengers are allowed to board the plane before economy class passengers using the forward door of the aircraft. With shorter queues and fewer passengers to hurdle over, this is another win for the books.
Yet, it’s onboard where the real magic happens. White leather recliners greet premium economy class passengers in the 2-4-2 configuration on the A380. They spark uncanny resemblances to the airline’s new business class seats, measuring 20 inches in width and featuring 42 inches of pitch. These extra inches may not sound like a lot of difference if you’re of a smaller frame like me, but I assure you that you’d immediately notice the excess space in person. I could slumber lazily on my back and stretch out my legs without my knees touching the seat in front of me.
While the seats aren’t flatbed style, the added space allows for a calf and footrest that extends almost 90 degrees. Couple that with a seat that reclines 10cm more than an economy seat; there was no issue getting comfortable in the seats, which, frankly, feels a lot softer than it looks. There is also a soft, six-way adjustable headrest that cushions your head while seated and acts as a decently firm pillow during sleep. Between each seat is a divider cum console where you’d find storage for a bottle of water and a woodgrain tray table that folds in half.
It wasn’t long after I settled into my seat that the crew greeted me and offered a welcome drink and a hot towel. This time, I noticed woodgrain panels on the plane’s walls surrounding the electronic shade windows. The premium economy section on the A380 is located in the forward cabin of the plane’s lower deck, which makes a real difference considering the large aisle space that eases any feeling of constriction. Being at the front of the plane also makes for a quieter travelling experience. Three lavatories are generously made available for the 56 premium economy seats on the A380, and the decently-sized cabin also means more than adequate storage space for each passenger. All of which add to, and don’t replace, the in-flight experience.
In addition to upgraded seats, premium economy passengers can take advantage of an equally upgraded menu of food and beverage options throughout the flight. They’re both very noticeable — I hadn’t seen a menu card for premium economy as extensive as this before, with multiple pages folding out.
Most premium economy flights on Emirates offer three choices of mains, complete with appetisers and desserts, along with an array of snacks, liquors and chocolates on offer anytime you’d like. Some wines are even identical to the vintage on Emirates’ business class, and expect larger portion sizes than you would if you were in economy. Meals are served on Royal Doulton china tableware with stainless steel cutlery wrapped in linen, just as you would find in business class. Even if the flight was full, the crew didn’t take long to serve and clear all 56 meals during service. At this point, it was clear that there was nothing “economy” about this at all.
For now, key long-haul cities like Singapore, London, Sydney, Auckland, Los Angeles, New York, Tokyo, and Sao Paolo all feature one or more flights with an aircraft equipped with Emirates’ new premium economy offering.
However, the litmus test for the upgrade from economy class is whether the seats were comfortable enough, as it is in business class, to clock in some snooze. It’s certainly subjective for most, but I did manage to sleep from Dubai to New York (I even missed a meal service) and landed without feeling queasy or disoriented.
The seat reclined well enough to evoke a sense of being cradled. I didn’t experience as much of a constant need to adjust my position as I would in economy class; plus, the leg rest helps with that. It’s important to note where you’re seated: as the leg rest adjusts all the way out, coupled with a recline that’s deeper than average, chances are your sleep might be disturbed by your in-flight neighbours. With that said, having spent 20 hours in a truly comfortable seat, and with all the extra luxuries, makes for, in my opinion, a perfect flight.
Is premium economy on Emirates worth it? Yes, if one knows not to expect to be in business class. Having experienced business class on my return trip from New York, the onboard bar and lounge, airport lounge access and complimentary chauffeur services that make up for the allure of Emirates’ business class are add-ons that can’t be replaced. Yet, this is perfect for those seeking a premium experience who can’t swing business. And it’s well worth the upgrade — I wouldn’t be surprised if other airlines have set their eyes on offering similar configurations and amenities.
This article first appeared in Men’s Folio.
For more on the latest in luxury lifestyle and travel reads, click here.
The word is that the cost for using your UK mobile data in Europe is going up from MAR 2025, so it’s no wonder people are worried about using your phone in Europe. Concerned that you’ll return to high bills or hidden charges from your UK network? Here’s everything you need to know about data roaming charging in the EU and Europe and how best to use your phone abroad.
Heading to Europe? Don’t forget to grab your FREE European road trip checklist to make sure you have everything you need.
*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own.
If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)
Data Roaming Charges- do you get charged?
When my parents are sunning themselves in France, it’s hard to know if they are ok- I generally don’t hear from them for 3 days……..
My usually tech-savvy parents are TERRIFIED of incurring data roaming or penalty charges for daring to use their mobile phone abroad. Tales of HUGE mobile roaming fees have led to them turning their phones off and refusing to make or accept phone calls, or send text messages and god forbid they should do anything as audacious as send me a picture message…
I joke but, actually, it’s not that funny. My Dad is in his 80s. I’d quite like to know they’re ok. And, despite my reassurances that it’s not as bad as they fear, they don’t believe me.
So I thought I’d try to sift out fact from fiction, to try to help any other worried sons and daughters before their parents disappear into a French black hole.
What are Data Roaming Charges and how do they affect you?
On 1st January 2022, (once they were freed from EU legislation!), the UK mobile network providers were once again able to charge data roaming fees in the EU (and further afield).
The result has been, quite simply, chaos and confusion. There are now a bucket-load of options across every network provider and none of them apply the same rules.
To make things even more complicated, the Government now collects 20% VAT on roaming charges outside of the EU.
To help try to make this simpler for you, we’re taking a look at what the best network options are, how much data the ‘average’ Brit is using, and tips and tricks to avoid getting caught out with hidden or expensive charges.
What is the data roaming fee?
Isn’t that the all-important question!?
The below table shows the wide variety of different roaming charges on offer for monthly contracts from the main UK networks. In all cases, the number, and type of destinations vary hugely, as do the ‘fair usage’ policies.
On the face of it, many of the charges don’t seem unreasonable for a week-long holiday, although a £6/ day charge is better avoided!
Using a mobile phone abroad in Europe- and avoiding data roaming charges!
What are the fair usage limits on data roaming?
The most significant area of concern is the monthly fair usage limits, which vary widely from provider to provider.
Fair usage means the amount of data that a network provider deems ‘acceptable’ before charging you if you use more than that. As you can see below, it varies widely by network.
When you consider that people touring Europe by motorhome don’t have the use of hotel Wi-Fi and often have family to keep in touch with or many things to organise back home due to longer periods spent away, this usage is likely to be much higher, making the 5GB MONTHLY fair usage limit from giffgaff, or even the 12GB limit from Three, look insufficient.
What is the best UK network for data roaming charges abroad?
Here’s a table showing the top UK mobile networks and their data roaming policy, charges and fair usage allowance as of FEB 2025.
Provider
Extra charges
Fair use data cap (1)
EE
£2.47/day£2.50/day (£10 for 7 days) for pay-as-you-go.
50GB
O2
None (7)
25GB
Three
£2/day for contracts (or 3-day pass for £5, 7-day pass for £12, 14-day pass for £24). None for pay-as-you-go.If you need more than your UK data allowance, you can buy a Data Passport for £5 for unlimited data in 89 countries.
12GB
Vodafone
£2.42/day (or £12 for 8 days or £17 for 15 days) for contracts.From £9 for 3GB for 8 days for pay-as-you-go.
25GB
Asda Mobile
None
5GB
Giffgaff
None
5GB
iD Mobile
None
30GB (5)
Lebara
None
30GB
Lycamobile
None
Depends on your plan
Sky
£2/day
No set limit
Smarty
None
12GB
Superdrug Mobile
None
12GB
Talkmobile
None. If you need more than your UK allowance you can buy a Euro Holiday Booster which gives you 15GB of data plus unlimited calls and texts to the UK and other European destinations (£2.25/day, £10 for 8 days, £15 for 15 days).
15GB or 5GB (2)
Tesco Mobile
None until 2026 (3)
N/A
Voxi
£2.45 a day for 1 day, £4.50 for 2 days, £12 for 8 days, or £17 for 15 days (4)
20GB
(Note: The passage of time and speciall offers will of course mean the information above isn’t always up to date. Please do check current offers for the best package for your needs.)
How much mobile data will you use abroad?
In 2022, research commissioned by iD Mobile showed that the average British holidaymaker used about 5.64 GB PER WEEK of data – No doubt that in 2025 this would have increased but that it just my guess.
The same research showed that on average Brits use more than 32 hours of roaming data a week, most of which is used on streaming video and music. In fact, video and music data streaming use up more than 10x the amount of data otherwise used just browsing the internet or being on social media, and are responsible for the majority of that 5 GB+ a week of data.
But even if you don’t stream music or video, you could easily use 7.5MB/ day on:
using a map for navigating (another reason to get a proper motorhome sat nav!),
finding recommendations for restaurants and places to visit,
finding overnight motorhome parking stopovers
video calls, messages, social media, picture messages and even translation apps for communicating with locals.
With all this, it’s probably not a surprise to learn that over one in four UK holiday makers have been hit with mobile charges averaging £262 after their trip!!
For this reason, we would always recommend either going with a network provider that does not have a fair usage limit, or that provides 15 GB, or even 25 GB+ of data per month as their fair usage limit (depending on how long your trip is).
Either way, you should always check your providers’ price per MB for data used over their fair usage limit before you leave the UK. Data roaming policies do change fairly regularly, but once you are in contract it’s good to know that the law says mobile providers must give customers one month notice minimum if they are going to change any element of their contract. That includes their roaming policies and charges.
What about eSIMs?
Gone are the days, where you went abroad and went on the search for a phone shop to buy a local SIM card – now a lot of people are now using; eSIMs.
How does an eSim work?
Instead of removing a physical Sim card and inserting a new one when you want to change mobile network, you download an eSim profile. This is done by either an app or scanning a QR code.
You then pick an eSim plan and can start using it immediately, as the relevant information from the network will be installed directly to your phone. It’s possible to have both a physical Sim and an eSim.
Saily is one that people are using and it looks brilliant.
Tips and tricks to reduce your mobile data usage (and avoid a surprise bill!)
Check if your phone contract/ package already has an inclusive roaming bundle [the same survey showed that 50% of Brits didn’t have an inclusive roaming option when they travelled].
If not, many providers have roaming bolt-ons or add-ons that will save you money on your road trip if you know you are going to use a certain amount of data. You may want to buy one before you head off.
Set your spending cap – all providers let you do this.
Check you have not opted out of your providers’ usage cap (the government has specified that a £45 roaming charge limit must be in place unless you have opted out of it). In some cases, buying a data roaming add-on can automatically opt you out.
If your current provider doesn’t have a good roaming package, consider using a pay-as-you-go SIM card from another provider just for roaming. You can keep it in a spare / old phone and tether your current phone off it when using data so you don’t need to change your number.
Alternatively, and if you are going to use a lot of data or make a lot of calls, consider buying a local pay-as-you-go SIM card, or for longer cross-border trips a global SIM from TravelSim or WorldSim.
Get used to monitoring your data usage whilst on holiday – and remember that streaming music and video uses much, much more data than general browsing, checking emails or updating social media.
Watch out for spending more time abroad than at home (normally measured over a 4-month period) as you may get an alert from your provider that they wish to charge you a surcharge as they consider you to be permanently roaming. If that’s the case, then a global or local SIM is probably best for you.
Download films, music and books you might want to use before you leave so that you can just play them offline without using the internet.
Beware of apps which update in the ‘background’. Many of them are set to automatically do this- you’ll want to turn them off in settings or set them to only update over Wi-Fi. You can also turn off many apps you won’t use while travelling so they only work with Wi-Fi
Talking of which, you can use free Wi-Fi in restaurants and public areas where offered (McDonalds is great for this while travelling abroad), but remember these are insecure networks so don’t do anything private on there (like log into your bank account!)
I hope you found that useful and you have a great trip abroad. Right, I’m off to send a message in a bottle to my parents. Or a bat signal…
New to motorhome or camper travel in Europe? You might find these posts helpful:
How to tour Europe in a Motorhome- step-by-step
How to plan EPIC motorhome trips
How to find Free motorhome parking and overnight stopovers in Europe for motorhomes and campervans
Essential kit for Motorhoming in Europe (with free checklist)
See all our Europe motorhoming posts here
NEED GEAR? If you need any kit or essentials for motorhoming in Europe, here’s what we recommend and where to find it
Many of Mercedes’ upcoming EVs will feature the same design as gas/hybrid models
Mercedes has also reversed a decision to only sell its vans with electric powertrains
The era of Mercedes-Benz’s jelly bean design for electric vehicles is officially over.
During a financial results presentation on Thursday, the automaker announced that the design language for its future EVs will align more closely with that of its gas-powered models, which will increasingly adopt hybrid technology.
In many cases, the EV and gas versions will share identical designs—such as the G-Class, whose electric variant is visually the same as its gas-powered counterpart. The upcoming 2026 CLA-Class, previewed in camouflaged prototype form during the presentation, will also have a unified design across its electric and hybrid versions.
Additionally, Mercedes’ upcoming electric vans will now have gas-powered counterparts, marking a reversal of the company’s previous plan to offer vans exclusively as EVs. To facilitate this shift, Mercedes announced a new Van Combustion Architecture (VAN.CA), which will share about 70% of its components with the electric van platform, known as the Van.EA. This will enable both gas and electric vans to be built on the same production line.
Mercedes-Benz van architectures
The move isn’t entirely surprising, as Mercedes had already signaled plans to retire the EQ sub-brand it introduced for EVs. Current EQ models, such as the EQS and EQE, have distinct designs separate from Mercedes’ gas and hybrid cars.
Despite the unified design approach, Mercedes said its EVs will not lose their space advantages. Thanks to their skateboard-style platforms, EVs typically offer more efficient packaging than gas-powered models. And in some cases, gas/hybrid models will still use different platforms from their EV counterparts. For example, Mercedes will launch an electric C-Class sedan and electric GLC-Class crossover next year, both of which will use the MB.EA dedicated EV platform, while their gas-powered versions will continue on the older MRA platform.
As part of its efficiency push, Mercedes also announced that upcoming models will share a common technology stack—integrating software and hardware systems for key features such as infotainment and driver-assist technology.
This increased commonality between models will help streamline production, supporting Mercedes’ goal of reducing manufacturing costs by 10% by 2027.
Gordon Murray Group has added Gordon Murray Special Vehicles to its portfolio of businesses
Gordon Murray Special Vehicles (GMSV) will offer one-off and low-volume cars, as well as personalization services
The new business will also offer continuation models of earlier Gordon Murray designs
The Gordon Murray Group, founded by McLaren F1 designer Gordon Murray and overseeing his eponymous car company—known for the T.50 and T.33 supercars—announced on Wednesday that it is launching a new business focused on bespoke cars and ultra-low-volume specials.
The new venture, Gordon Murray Special Vehicles (GMSV), was established in response to strong demand for unique and niche designs, and will operate with an independent structure and engineering team.
“Over the years, we have received many requests to design and build one-offs and specials of all kinds,” Murray said in a statement. “Until very recently, we always resisted these requests as we were focused on launching our halo T.50 supercar and finalizing development of subsequent products.”
GMSV’s offerings will include the design and construction of one-off or ultra-low-volume cars tailored to customers’ specifications, and utilizing unique platforms. The company will also launch its own limited-edition vehicles, provide personalization services, and occasionally build continuation models or modern interpretations of some of Murray’s earlier designs.
GMA T.33 and T.50s Niki Lauda prototypes
However, given McLaren’s rights to the F1 design, new examples of the iconic supercar should not be expected. That said, a continuation model of the Rocket—Murray’s first road car, launched in 1991 by his now-defunct Light Car Company—may be possible.
The Gordon Murray Group also includes Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA), which produces high-performance road cars, and Gordon Murray Advanced Engineering (GMAe), a design and consulting division. The group previously had an electric vehicle development division, but this was sold last year to CYVN Holdings, an investment group linked to the Abu Dhabi government.
Production of the T.50 supercar is already underway at GMA’s plant in Highams Park, U.K., which went online last year. After the 100-car run is completed, GMA will start production of the 25 planned examples of the hardcore T.50s Niki Lauda track version. This will then be followed by production of the T.33 and later the T.33 Spider convertible.
The first event of the year is always special. It’s like being lost in a desert and then catching a glimpse of an oasis.
As the UK automotive season winds down with the arrival of winter, the first event you plan to attend in the new season feels like a beacon of hope. This was especially true for many enthusiasts in England looking forward to January 2025’s Bicester Scramble. However, just the day before the event, weather warnings were issued, and snow fell across the country overnight. Snow is rare in the UK, so the big question was: Would the event go ahead? And if it did, would people even be able to make it?
I spent the evening making snowballs and throwing them at my family, but also kept an eye on the Scramble’s social media for any updates. All hope was not lost when, at around midnight, I peeked out the window and saw that the snow had stopped. I had never been so happy to see rain; things were looking up!
The next morning, I woke up early, put on half a dozen layers of clothing, and stepped outside. I couldn’t let the first UK car event of the year slip away. After grabbing a hot chocolate, I turned on the heated seats in my car and slowly made my way toward Bicester.
Given all the snow and slush on the roads, I figured it would be a quieter Scramble. But, as it turned out, I couldn’t have been more wrong.
Standing at the entrance of Bicester Motion, chatting with friends and acquaintances, I couldn’t believe my eyes. Car after car kept arriving. Each vehicle was filled with smiling occupants, all excited to meet fellow enthusiasts in the midst of some stunning machinery.
And there was something for everyone. Subaru owners were out in force, putting their all-wheel-drive grip to good use. I’d never seen so many Imprezas at a Scramble before.
Land Rover owners were also in their element. My favourite sight was an ex-fire brigade Series 2 Land Rover recently bought by a talented young photographer.
But it wasn’t just practical cars that had braved the weather. At the other end of the spectrum were the supercars. A friend from the Supercar Driver Club was a bit worried that morning, but when I saw him later, he was beaming from ear to ear, standing next to over 30 machines spanning Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, McLarens, and more.
Petrolheads are often at risk of being classed as odd, and non-petrolheads simply don’t understand the appeal of cars. Sure, they’re just metal and parts, but the love we have for them goes beyond that. The car community has always been special to me – it’s inclusive and welcoming to all enthusiasts. No car goes unappreciated.
Despite the wintry conditions, the energy at the first Bicester Scramble of 2025 was palpable. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think it was the middle of summer! Almost.
After a few hours, I was completely soaked through, but that couldn’t take any of the shine off what I consider the perfect start to the year.
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In a saturated beauty market, Malaysian beauty brands are proving that homegrown talent can compete with international companies. In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the headquarters of buzzy beauty brands like Chuck’s, Olumes and Lumi Beauty are churning out a host of high-quality makeup and skincare products, decking out storefronts with captivating pop-ups, and changing the game with creative campaigns. With a blend of local culture and a keen eye for global trends, these beauty brands have experienced immense success throughout Malaysia, setting the standard for what it means to be at the forefront of one of the most lucrative retail industries in the world.
Chuck’s
Photo: Chuck’s
Since its inception in 2019, Chuck’s has become more than a skincare brand, it has become a representation of a lifestyle. As the creation of Malaysian influencer and entrepreneur Jane Chuck, the brand has an innate ability to fascinate self-care enthusiasts with its captivating brand storytelling, which only complements its range of high-quality products. The brand was inspired by Korean skincare philosophies, initially launching with its now-signature Self-Love Face Masks. Since then, they have expanded to include soothing honey creams, oat cleansers and the aptly named Very Important Sunscreen.
Photo: Chuck’s
What is most impressive about Chuck’s is its strong, intentional brand identity. From the beginning, the brand has strived to go beyond skincare products — it is about creating a persona and a community. In 2023, Mandy Gioh, Chuck’s creative director helped oversee the opening of the brand’s first physical store at The Gardens Mall in Kuala Lumpur, which features exclusive in-store promotions and merchandise. As Gioh once observed, the beauty industry is a competitive landscape, and the key to differentiation is by investing as much into brand messaging as it is about effective products.
The brand’s campaigns are a prime example of how it successfully blends creativity with commerce. In September 2024, Chuck’s launched a campaign in collaboration with Samsung. The ad recreated a K-mart style scene, where a shopper used the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6’s latest AI translator to browse the Korean-labelled products of the convenience store. Looking at the colourful cartons along the shelves, Samsung’s AI translator revealed that the products are not actually food items, but skincare products instead. In conjunction, Chuck’s created a K-mart experience at their store, designing their storefront to look like the mini-mart, complete with Korean convenience store packaging on their popular skincare collections.
Cuura
Photo: Cuura
Founded by Sarah Shah Nor, Cuura is a natural skincare brand with a simple approach: effective skincare solutions sourced from organic ingredients. The idea for Cuura’s creation stemmed from a deeply personal experience. In 2017, Nor was diagnosed with postpartum eczema, which subsequently inspired her to explore gentle skincare options. At the time, she gradually realised that there was a gap in the market for skincare products tailored to sensitive skin in Malaysia.
Photo: Cuura
Cuura’s first product, the Pure Beauty Oil was designed for those suffering from dry skin, eczema or psoriasis. Dubbed the “Miracle Oil Serum” by Cuura’s loyal customers, the formula contains essential oils like moringa, sweet almond and Japanese knotweed extract to seal in moisture and reduce fine lines. Continuing on from the beauty oil’s success, Nor has since expanded her holistic skincare line, with bestsellers like the calendula-infused Dew Drops essence and the Glo Nectar health drink, blended with vitamin C, rice bran and pomegranate.
Photo: Cuura
In line with their mission to create products that are as ethical as they are effective, the brand ensures that over 80 percent of its ingredients are natural or plant-derived. Nor also emphasises Cuura’s commitment to halal standards, sourcing locally whenever possible. As she said in an interview for the New Straits Times, “Cuura is just pure labour of love and ethics.” In addition to their boutiques at The Exchange TRX and KL East Mall, Cuura also has a lush standalone skin spa in Bandar Baru Bangi. The spa promises a relaxing retreat with their Basic Glow or VIP Glow treatments, complete with hydrodermabrasion pore cleansing and collagen boost therapy.
Launched in 2021, Kittie Yiyi Beauty is the eponymous makeup line by Malaysian influencer and designer, Kittie Yiyi. Known for her whimsical and expressive fashion designs, the beauty brand also reflects the same creativity and vibrancy she is known for in the fashion world. The brand’s defining feature is its embrace of unconventional colours that cater to the bold and expressive, often experimenting with statement shades of yellow, pink and blue.
Photo: Kittie Yiyi Beauty
Originally from Puchong, Malaysia, the young creative told Vulcan Post that she had always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. Her off-kilter style quickly led her to debut on the runways of Nanjing Fashion Week in 2015, and Vancouver Fashion Week in 2016. It was the pandemic, however, that caused Kittie to pivot from fashion to beauty. “Clothes had become so unnecessary during the pandemic,” she told Vulcan Post. Her first collection, the Cross The Line Eyeliner was a nod to the striking winged eyeliner look she often dons. Inspired by children’s stationery, the eyeliner comes in a bubblegum pink colouring pencil component, and features unconventional hues like a bold magenta and a glittering silver.
Photo: Kittie Yiyi Beauty
In the same interview, Kittie shared her vision for the brand’s identity. “I want to encourage people to be who they want to be,” she said. “I want people to feel joy just like how kids draw and paint freely without any worries on how people judge their artwork.”
This childlike wonder is imbued in her other beauty releases. Their latest release is the Puffy Flush Blusher,a range of two-toned pink shades which come in a distinct pastel palette lined with soft fluff and stamped with the brand’s quirky bee mascot.
Lumi Beauty
Photo: Lumi Beauty
With the K-wave showing no sign of slowing in Malaysia, it is no surprise that Lumi Beauty has become a fan favourite in the Malaysian skincare industry. Founded by Chryseis Tan, Lumi Beauty started as a project during the pandemic and quickly blossomed into one of the country’s most popular beauty and skincare brands. According to theSun, the Vitamin Glow Super Serum (the brand’s first-ever product) sold out within 10 days of its pre-order launch in September 2020.
Photo: Lumi Beauty
To develop some of Lumi’s most-loved products, Tan told theSun that she works closely with a skincare lab in Korea to develop unique, patented formulations, often revising them until they meet her standards. “At the end of the day, these are products that my family and I use,” she said in the interview. “It’s critical that they live up to my vision of using botanical-driven ingredients and creating a luminous glow.”
Tan’s dedication has paid off, with bestsellers like the Rose Set Glow Hydrating Mist and Bakuchiol Skydew Cloud Moisturizer claiming top spots at Beauty Insider’s 2024 Awards.
Photo: Lumi Cafe
For Tan, innovation is the key to Lumi Beauty’s continued success. The brand set a precedent for the skincare industry in Malaysia when they introduced skincare vending machines filled with an array of sunscreens and skincare bundles to select malls and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport. In early 2023, Tan launched The GlowHouse KL along with founder Kim May Chee of blow dry salon Cocodry, and founder Tan Boon Yao of fitness studio Babel. The all-encompassing wellness lounge is home to Lumi Cafe, a sherbet-coloured casual spot serving delicious coffees and small bites. Dedicated skincare lovers can also shop Lumi Beauty’s products at their in-house vending machine.
Olumes
Photo: Olumes
The origins of skincare brand Olumes is a tale as old as time — during a visit to her grandparents’ home in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, co-founder Aerin Gabor noticed that her elderly relatives had remarkably flawless skin. Gabor soon found the source of the skin-saving effect: the Kalalit tree. Native to the Bornean rainforests, the tree is believed to have revitalising effects on the skin, and has been used by the indigenous Kadazan-Dusun people of Sabah for centuries.
Photo: Olumes
After more experimentation and research, Gabor established Olumes in late 2019, with the launch of The Refining Lotion and Satin Cream, both containing Kalalit water extracted from sappanwood. As Gabor once shared to Vulcan Post, Olumes’ products represent “Borneo in a bottle,” blending the island’s natural remedies with plant-based ingredients like plant stem cells, ceramides and phytosterols. The efficacy was evident — the brand’s Satin Cream moisturiser took home Beauty Insider’s 2021 Award for Best Pore-refiner. In recent years, Olumes has invested in formulating their patented FCS Complex, a potent mixture of polypeptides and hand-harvested marine botanicals from the Celebes Sea in Semporna, Sabah. The FCS Complex is a key component in their Celebes Serum, designed to lighten sun spots and refine uneven texture.
Photo: Olumes
Also essential to Olumes’ cultural and natural roots is their commitment to sustainability. Their Kalalit water is only extracted from small branches so that the trees can regenerate in the future. According to theSun, Olumes co-founder Ika Yahiya also heads the brand’s Save the Rainforest initiative, which donates a portion of their sales to rainforest conservation organisations. “We believe that we don’t only play the part of improving complexions, but also to better the treatment of our planet too,” she said.
The company’s growth, coupled with its dedication to sustainability and ethical sourcing, makes Olumes a brand to watch in the global beauty market.
Makeup artist-turned-entrepreneur Syed Mohamed Fahmi Syed Shabthar founded his cosmetics company on the notion that all humans instinctively want to be beautiful. This belief is what has created success for Syedewa Cosmetics, since their launch over a decade ago. Their product formulations, packaging and collection range are all carefully designed to ensure that customers do not just look their best, but feel their best as well.
Photo: Syedewa Cosmetics
Most notably, Syedewa Cosmetics is known for their impressive array of lip products. Their Matte Lip Lacquer range boasts 60 different shades, and comes in either a full 5ml or a 2ml mini-version for easy on-the-go use. Although most famous for their lip lines, the brand has also ventured into other aspects of the makeup routine. Syedewa offers versatile Artist Finish Blush palettes fit with two powder and two cream formulas, inspired by colour schemes from iconic cities. Their Artist Finish Sculpt is a two-in-one bronzer and highlighter palette that features a small strip of muted brown colour to serve as a specialised nose contour shade.
Photo: Syedewa Cosmetics
With such a wide selection of products, Syedewa Cosmetics experienced a natural progression towards becoming an inclusive and authentic brand. At the time of its founding, Shabthar noticed that many Malaysian beauty brands only catered towards fairer skintones. Although diversity was not his main motivator in starting the company, his belief that makeup should be accessible to everyone allowed the brand to fervently produce effective products. Shabthar still considers himself an MUA to this day, posting tutorials and new releases on his YouTube channel to go back to his core philosophy — that everyone deserves to have fun with makeup.
Tatagaltier
Photo: Tatagaltier
Skincare brand Tatagaltier burst onto the scene in 2020, and quickly made a name for itself through their buzzy beauty serums and aesthetic “clean girl” packaging. Their debut product — the Bulaney Treatment Essence — was a power-packed blend of soothing centella asiatica, hydrating fungi filtrate and healing royal jelly protein from honeybees. Upon its launch, the essence became a crowd favourite and garnered rave reviews across social media, cementing Tatagaltier as a force to be reckoned with in the skincare world.
Photo: Tatagaltier
The brand has only grown more successful with its subsequent releases — reminiscent of haircare brand Gisou, which also uses bee byproducts as a basis for their products. Tatagaltier’s Peach Plump Hydrating Toner contains fermented honey — known for its hydrating and antibacterial properties — leaving the face protected and moist. Similarly, their Bertine Moisturising Gel Cream uses hydrolised royal jelly protein to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Behind the brand’s meteoric rise lies the vision of its founder, Aush Milby, whose passion for both design and skincare led to the creation of Tatagaltier. As he explained, aesthetics creates a strong first impression among consumers, but it is the formulation and effectiveness that seals the deal. For Milby, the secret to the brand’s success is their constant investment in the research and development stage.
Photo: Tatagaltier
This process has led Tatagaltier to greater heights, including beloved limited-edition releases. Most recently, the brand collaborated with Malaysian pop singer Yuna in December. The partnership saw the creation of an exclusive Tatagaltier x Yuna advent calendar, featuring a limited-edition designed bottle of Bulaney Essence, Sunny Seamless Sun Shield, Poppy Acne Patches, and 30ml samples of their “Teh” formulations which will feature in future essence treatments.
Velvet Vanity
Photo: Velvet Vanity
For almost a decade, Velvet Vanity is a cosmetics company that has been ahead of the beauty game. Starting with a passion to fill a gap in the Malaysian market for ethical beauty products, Adlina Nadirah dreamt up the vegan and cruelty-free makeup brand in 2016. In line with the trends of the time, Nadirah first launched with a collection of soft matte liquid lipsticks, which helped her rake in RM 20,000 in monthly sales in 2017. From there, the brand experienced a rapid rise to fame, getting a glowing endorsement from former beauty YouTuber Tati Westbrook and landing at stockists like Singapore’s Tangs VivoCity and online retailer Zalora.
Photo: Velvet Vanity
Today, Velvet Vanity has a similar-but-different approach. Sticking to its core consumers of eco-conscious beauty lovers, the brand also strives to tap into the pulse of youth culture with new releases. While Velvet Vanity still offers its cult-favourite smooth-finish liquid lipsticks, it has rebranded to a “fuss-free makeup skin care hybrid” principle, in line with some of the most popular trends in today’s beauty industry. It has also migrated to newer e-commerce platforms like Shopee Malaysia and Shopee Singapore. Their liquid blushes are designed in colours of dusty rose and flamingo pinks for a natural flush, infused with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Following in the footsteps of popular products from Clarins, Kosas and Rhode, Velvet Vanity has also created the Peptide Glo Lip Oil, a balm-gloss formula packed with the skin-loving ingredient.
Looking ahead, Nadirah is focused on continuing to grow her loyal customer base. The brand regularly goes through its social feeds to examine what products their customers desire — a strategy that has worked for them considering their longevity in the business. Velvet Vanity also hosts charming events in an effort to foster community, like their 2024 “Pretty in Pink” bruncheon in celebration of their new liquid lipstick colours.
For more on the latest in beauty and wellness, click here.
Honda has big EV plans, with the goal to have 30 EVs across its lineup by the 2030s. Part of those plans involve Honda’s luxury brand, Acura. The recently released ZDX is currently Acura’s only EV, while the upcoming RSX crossover is the only other one we know about so far. EV sales have started to stall as the industry gets rockier, which has caused Acura to rethink its EV plans and consider a pivot back to hybrids.
Acura is no stranger to hybrid powertrains. While none have been in its lineup since 2020, the brand had three hybrid models in its lineup during the last decade. Let’s take a look at Acura’s previous attempts at selling hybrids.
Acura ILX Hybrid
Acura
Despite Honda being a pioneer in the hybrid space with the original Insight, Acura was a bit late to the hybrid party. The brand wouldn’t get its first hybrid until 2013 with the introduction of the ILX Hybrid. It was mechanically identical to the Honda Civic, which meant the ILX was powered by the same fifth generation of Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system. The system paired a 90-horsepower 1.5-liter inline-4 engine with a small 23-hp electric motor and a CVT.
If you were looking for performance from the ILX Hybrid, you wouldn’t find it. Total system output was a 1990s-economy-car-like 111 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque. Despite a curb weight of just under 3,000 pounds, the ILX Hybrid was slow, with 60 mph coming in just under 11 seconds. The point was fuel efficiency, and the ILX’s EPA ratings of 38 mpg city and 38 mpg highway were decent for the time. Sadly the ILX Hybrid was a flop — from May 2012 to May 2013, Acura sold just 2,660 ILX Hybrids. It was axed in 2015 because of those low sales.
Acura RLX Sport Hybrid
Acura
Acura’s second hybrid was a variant of the flagship RLX sedan. This time around, Acura wanted to make a hybrid model that was more interesting to drive, so it slapped the “Sport Hybrid” moniker onto the RLX Hybrid. It lived up to that name. Three electric motors were paired with Acura’s 3.5-liter V6 for a total combined output of 377 horsepower, making it the most powerful sedan Acura made at the time and the second most-powerful car in the lineup after the NSX. The icing on top of this surprising sport sedan cake was Acura’s excellent Super Handling All-Wheel Drive System and a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.
This made for an executive sedan that could hit 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds and get nearly 30 mpg on the highway. The downsides? It wasn’t exactly cheap at around $62,000 to start, and not many people knew what the RLX was. Like the ILX, the RLX was discontinued in 2020 because of low sales. Just 1,237 were sold in 2017, and by 2020, those figures were even worse, as just 179 were sold in the first quarter of 2020.
Acura MDX Sport Hybrid
Acura
Acura’s third and final hybrid, the MDX Sport Hybrid, arrived in 2017. The company knew it had a winning performance formula with the RLX Sport Hybrid’s setup, so it took that entire powertrain and dropped it into the three-row MDX crossover. Power was down a bit compared to the RLX, with the tri-motor V6 setup making 321 horsepower in the MDX. When we tested it in 2017 we saw 27 mpg combined, which isn’t bad for the segment, and it drove pretty great too thanks to the SH-AWD and seven-speed dual-clutch.
The MDX Sport Hybrid was discontinued in 2020, right before the introduction of the current-generation MDX. Acura’s reasoning for the model’s discontinuation was strange. Rather than tout the marriage of performance and hybrid efficiency, the brand said that the gas-only MDX Type S would fill the brand’s performance SUV shoes. There hasn’t been a hybrid in Acura’s lineup since.
Volvo is close to revealing an ES90 electric midsize sedan
The ES90 will be Volvo’s first with dual Nvidia Drive AGX Orin chips
The ES90 is one of five new or updated Volvos arriving in 2025
The next model in Volvo’s EV offensive will be the ES90, a midsize sedan designed as an electric alternative to the current S90.
Volvo plans to unveil the ES90 on March 5, and in the lead-up to the reveal, the automaker has begun drip-feeding details about the new technology it will feature.
On Thursday, Volvo confirmed that the ES90 will share its SPA2 dedicated EV platform with the EX90 midsize SUV, along with the same software and hardware modules—what Volvo refers to as the Volvo Cars Superset tech stack.
However, the ES90 will benefit from faster computing power, thanks to dual Nvidia Drive AGX Orin chips. The EX90 currently pairs a single Orin chip with a slower Nvidia Drive AGX Xavier chip, but Volvo has announced a free upgrade is coming for EX90 owners to install dual Orin chips. This underscores Volvo’s flexible tech stack approach, allowing cars to be easily upgraded over time, including through software updates—making them true software-defined vehicles. Over-the-air updates for continuous improvement are already standard on newer Volvo models.
Volvo ES90 teased ahead of debut on March 5, 2025
With dual Orin chips, the ES90 can process around 508 trillion operations per second (TOPS), enabling rapid data handling for AI-based safety features, sensor data processing, and optimized battery management. Volvo also stated that the extra computing power will allow its AI systems to evolve and grow as more data is collected over time.
Volvo on Thursday also announced the ES90 will come with the automaker’s latest suite of senors, dubbed Safe Space Technology. This will include a lidar, five radars, eight cameras, and twelve ultrasonic sensors to support the vehicle’s various electronic driver-assist features.
The ES90 is one of five new or updated Volvo models launching this year. In February, Volvo revealed the rugged EX30 Cross Country and an updated XC60. Additional models expected include an updated S60 compact sedan and a long-range plug-in hybrid tailored for the Chinese market. The current S60 will exit the U.S. market after 2025 and is not expected to return. Volvo has yet to announce the U.S. launch timing for these new models.
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