The Singapore Motorshow 2024 took place last month from 11th to 14th January and it was, in so many ways, a car lover’s dream. This year’s show saw over 126 vehicles on display from 25 automotive brands, including the likes of MINI, Audi and Mercedes. Singapore Motorshow 2024 also saw 22 new car unveilings.
A total of 42,000 visitors, including international guests, came to Suntec City Convention Centre for the Motorshow. “The success of the 2024 Singapore Motorshow underscores the resilient spirit of our automotive community, said Mr. Glenn Tan, President of the Motor Traders Association, in a statement. “This overwhelming response proves our local community’s enduring passion for automotive excellence. From the unveilings of innovative vehicles to heart-stopping displays of precision driving mastery, the show delivered a vibrant energy highlighting our collective capability in spearheading the sustainable mobility revolution.”
It is worth noting that of the 22 new cars unveiled by the various automotive brands, 15 were electric vehicles. These EVs captured the imagination of the attendees, many of whom made serious enquiries into the availability of these cars. We were in attendance as well, and while there were a few that were truly outstanding – such as the MINI Concept Aceman and the new BMW X2 – we picked three that we thought were the best of the lot at Singapore Motorshow 2024.
Mercedes-Benz Concept EQG
The G-class is Mercedes-Benz’ most rugged, but most deceptively versatile car to date. Built like an offroad beast, the 4X4 is also elegant in a way that only Mercedes-Benz can master. It retains the robust, angular silhouette of the G-class, while illuminated stripes run in parallel with the exterior protective strips. The Black Panel Grille is also an outstanding aesthetic feature, paired with an illuminated 3D star and the iconic squircle pattern in the familiar rich blue associated with Mercedes-Benz’s all-electeric models. The Concept EQG rides on striking 22-inch polished alluminium alloy wheels.
In making the G-class all-electric, Mercedes-Benz does not compromise on the performance expected of a 4X4. Its off-road reduction, which can be activated via a shiftable 2-speed gearbox as with other G-class vehicles, is not affected. Torque and power output remain at similar levels to its pre-electric counterparts. This will be put to the test when the EQG faces the notoriously difficult Schöckl mountain test track, a 1445-meter uphill climb with gradients up to 60 degrees. This will happen when the concept reaches the end of its development as a series model. We’ll update you on the results here on Augustman – if initial tests are anything to go by, the outlook looks very positive.
Claudius Steinhoff, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Singapore, said, “Apart from offering a glimpse of the upcoming all-electric G-Class, the Concept EQG also embodies our approach to electrification – continuing our heritage of being inventors of the automobile, applying electrification knowhow and expertise, and going full-steam ahead in reinvigorating and future-proofing our entire model lineup. We hope visitors to Singapore Motorshow 2024 share in our excitement of redefining desirability for this electric era and come to our showcase to interact with our products and brand representatives.”
Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron
At Singapore Motorshow 2024, Audi unveiled the Q8 and Q4 Sportback e-trons, two electric vehicles that represent the zenith of Audi ideals, and its standards in quality and performance. Both represent the brand’s commitment to full electrification by 2026, while the Q4 marks Audi Singapore’s entry into the electric compact segment.
Featuring a tri-motor powertrain, the Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron enables sportier handling and agility, but it holds a lot of features that one might not be fully appreciated on Singaporean roads or by most Singaporean drivers. By that virtue, the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron pips its Q8 cousin to be Audi’s highlight of Singapore Motorshow 2024.
Scheduled for introduction to the local market in 2024, the Audi Q4 e-tron provides customers in Singapore with a more affordable and more manageable electric vehicle option than the new Q8. The Q4 is nevertheless, fully Audi in its quality and performance. Featuring a range of up to 544 kilometers and a power output of 286hp with 545 Nm of torque, the Audi Q4 e-tron also showcases enhanced power and steering, coupled with a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features. While perhaps not as ‘Fast & Furious’ as the Q8 can be, the Q4 nevertheless boasts a sport suspension with more dynamic spring/damper setting and the vehicle is lowered by 15 mm, offering more direct contact with the road.
It also has a striking design, standing out in a Motorshow full of the most eye-catching cars of 25 differeent brands. Its sporty silhouette is sleek in pebble grey, which pops out nicely against a contrasting paint finish in mythos black, perhaps best expressed in the grille.
Polestar Electric Roadster Concept
One of the most exciting unveilings at Singapore Motorshow 2024 came from independent Swedish premium electric performance car brand Polestar with the Polestar electric roadster concept.
The electric roadster concept builds upon the design, technology, and sustainability aspirations outlined by the Polestar Precept, showcasing the brand’s vision for future sports cars. As one of only two units globally, this exclusive concept vehicle also highlights advancements in sustainability and technology. A novel thermoplastic mono-material plays a significant role in the interior, where “mono-material” refers to the utilization of a single base material for producing various components.
The interior exclusively incorporates recycled polyester as the sole material for all soft components, including foam, adhesive, 3D knit fibers, and non-woven lamination. This streamlined approach to materials not only simplifies recycling but also represents a substantial stride towards enhanced circularity, concurrently reducing weight and minimizing waste.
Transitioning from concept to reality, the hard-top roadster embodies Polestar’s vision for open-top performance, delivering an exhilarating driving experience with the advantages of electric mobility. This concept serves as the inspiration for the Polestar 6, set for a global launch in 2026. The initial 500 units will be exclusive “LA Concept” versions, featuring special design elements mirroring the concept car. These include uniquely crafted 21” alloy wheels, the distinctive Sky exterior color (with other color options available), special bodyside graphics, and an animal welfare-traced leather interior.
