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VW Passat R-Line introduced

The VW Passat R-Line introduced in the new Passat range But the Passat R-Line (which will be available in both saloon and estate versions) is not really an addition to the Passat range, rather a re-working of the current model options. The Passat Sport and Passat SEL are dropped, and the new range now comprises S, R-Line and Highline. But, just as with the Tiguan R-Line, this is not a power upgrade but merely a cosmetic one.

Mercedes want more Tesla-powered EVs. A-Class & CLA EV?

The Mercedes B-Class EV (pictured) could be joined by more Tesla-powered compact Mercedes EVS When Tesla was still trying to be something more than just the Silicon Valley company that put an electric motor in a Lotus to create the Tesla Roadster, Mercedes took a stake with an eye to the future. That deal between Mercedes and Tesla has already reaped some rewards with the Smart EV and electric B-Class, but it seems Mercedes wants more EVs in its lineup and wants Tesla to provide the powertrains and batteries. Speaking to Reuters, Daimler’s CFO, Bodo Uebber, said they were looking at more ways to work with Tesla and that they were looking to fo more in the premium compact arena to appeal to a younger demographic.

Michael Mauer appointed head of design at Porsche

Porsche AG has anounced the appointment of Michael Mauer to take over as chief designer from Harm Lagaay, who will retire on July 1 after 15 years in the post. Michael Mauer, 41, studied automobile design at Pforzheim University, and started his career at Mercedes-Benz. In 1989, he was appointed design project leader for the Mercedes V Class models, and was in charge of design work for the first SLK model generation.