Latest Cvent Planner purchasing report reveals expectations
Cvent, the market-leading provider of meetings, events and hospitality technology, has released the 2025 Cvent Planner Sourcing Report: European Edition. This annual report provides hoteliers, venue operators and destination management organizations with valuable insights into the purchasing priorities of UK and European event professionals, as well as actionable strategies to meet changing industry needs and capitalize on meetings and events growth . The report presents an encouraging outlook, showing that 90% of planners are optimistic about the current state of the events industry. This optimism is further reflected in planners’ expectations for an increase in in-person meetings, with 59% expecting an increase in in-person events by 2025 and 60% expecting an increase in off-site events by 2025. The combination of more in-person events and resource constraints is putting pressure on event teams looking to secure meeting space, with 83% expecting to receive RFPs within four days or less and 20% saying venues could improve response customization to support faster decision-making.While…
Kia India reveals new SUV with first sketch
Kia India has released preliminary sketches of its upcoming SUV, the first vehicle under its new 'Kia 2.0' strategy, which aims to redefine the SUV experience for Indian consumers. The model showcases Kia's "Design 2.0" philosophy, which emphasizes enhanced technology, increased space and upgraded safety. Inspired by Kia's high-end EV9 electric SUV and Fiesta luxury sedan, the new product is expected to feature advanced technology and a redesigned cabin layout. The sketches reveal a bold exterior with a modern aesthetic that breaks away from traditional SUV design language. With this upcoming model, Kia aims to appeal to customers looking for something beyond traditional SUV styling, focusing on a balance between style, innovation and functionality. The company is yet to reveal technical specifications but stressed that the new SUV will come with segment-leading amenities and a unique "lounge-style" interior with futuristic elements. Kia’s Design 2.0 philosophy Kia's Design 2.0 approach underscores the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of style and…
New research reveals the most popular cars among buyers aged 15+
Not a single European car appears on the list of preferred cars, trucks, SUVs and brands, nor do General Motors and Stellantis. go through Chris Chilton 1 hour ago A new study reveals the most popular vehicles and brands in America. The list is dominated by Japanese brands, with Toyota taking the top spot in all four categories. Ford's Escape Hybrid is the only American brand car to appear on this list, which also excludes European cars. What are the most popular vehicles and car brands in the United States? If you go back 40 or 50 years ago, the answer would be dominated by the Detroit Three and cars like the Oldsmobile Cutlass and Chevrolet Cavalier. But when the authors of a new study ask the same question in 2024, Ford, General Motors and what was once Chrysler are barely worth mentioning. Rather than simply asking people what cars and brands they like, or basing their data on new…
Skoda’s upcoming Kodiaq VRS field testing reveals little
The second-generation Kodiaq will soon be available in vRS version, powered by the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the latest Volkswagen Golf GTI go through Chris Chilton 19 hours ago Skoda's second-generation Kodiaq vRS has been spied testing in and around Germany's Nürburgring circuit. The sporty SUV could be powered by the 261-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine from the new Volkswagen Golf GTI and Octavia vRS, but with all-wheel drive. There has been no vRS model in the Kodiaq range since the Mk2 version debuted last autumn. When Skoda launched the new second-generation Kodiaq last autumn, there was one conspicuous absence from the range of petrol, diesel and hybrid SUVs: a sporty vRS model. Now, the Czech company is gearing up to fill that gap, and we've got a preview of the three-row SUV in prototype form. The vRS retains the split headlights and vertical grille slats from the base Kodiaq that debuted 12 months ago, but it pairs…
Leaked 2026 Lexus ES manual reveals design tweaks and
It looks like Lexus is gearing up for another subtle facelift of the seventh-generation ES midsize sedan October 23, 2024 18:48 A facelifted version of the seventh-generation Lexus ES has appeared in what appears to be a leaked manual. Exterior changes are limited to updated LED headlights and a revised spindle grille pattern. Inside, the sedan features a larger 14-inch display as well as a new digital instrument cluster. Now in its seventh generation since being launched in mid-2018, the Lexus ES is starting to feel a little dated. While a full replacement doesn't appear to be imminent, Toyota is planning an update. We've spotted some pages on Chinese social media that look like a brochure for the facelifted model, giving us an idea of what to expect from the 2026 model update. Based on previous teasers and patent filings, many expected the 2026 Lexus ES to follow in the footsteps of its Toyota sister model, the Camry, with a…
Mercedes reveals puffer jacket-inspired G-Class and new ‘past’
The latest special edition G-Class sports a two-tone exterior with black accents Mercedes, Moncler and NIGO have teamed up to create a "work of art" based on the G-Class Cabriolet from the 1990s. This one-of-a-kind style features a two-tone look and a soft top inspired by puffy jackets. Mercedes has also launched a special edition of the Past II Future, which draws inspiration from the concept and is limited to just 20 units. In one fell swoop, Mercedes unveiled a new "art piece" and a special edition G-Class. Both celebrate the model's 45th anniversary, but are likely to be divisive. Starting from this concept, Mercedes and Moncler have teamed up to launch the one-off Project G-Class Past II Future. It is based on a convertible from the 1990s and modified by designer NIGO. More: 579-horsepower quad-motor Mercedes G580 EQ could outpace the ICE G The resulting piece won't please everyone, but it has a matte two-tone look of gray and…
F1 US Grand Prix: Alpine reveals special Indiana
To celebrate the upcoming release of Raiders of the Lost Ark, Alpine will wear sunset orange liveries at COTA, with Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly donning special racing suits. Alpine F1 Team is partnering with Xbox to launch a special Indiana Jones-themed livery at the United States Grand Prix to celebrate the release of the Indiana Jones and the Big Circle video game. The car will feature a bold sunset orange design at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), adding a unique appeal to the race weekend. Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly will wear matching match kits specially designed for the occasion. The vehicle's one-off design incorporates details from the iconic film series, including an ancient map, red travel routes, and highlighted game titles. Before the game, Alpine and Game embarked on a U.S. tour, transporting a mysterious artifact through iconic landmarks such as Las Vegas, Monument Valley, and the Bonneville Salt Flats, which coincided with the game's arrival at COTA,…
Kia EV4 gives up internal secrets, reveals wide screen
Kia hopes to undercut the price of the Tesla Model 3 and make its electric vehicle more affordable than the EV6, which has struggled to sell. go through Chris Chilton 7 hours ago Spy photographers have captured the first ever interior photos of the Kia EV4. The pictures show that the wide-screen digital display and dashboard design are very similar to the EV3 SUV. The compact electric sedan will be smaller and cheaper than the EV6 and should undercut the Tesla Model 3. Kia's EV4 sedan prototype has been spotted numerous times, but this time our photographers got a sneak peek inside the upcoming Tesla Model 3 competitor. New images of a heavily camouflaged sedan being tested in Europe show the infotainment screen and dashboard of the latest member of Kia's growing electric family, which look nearly identical to those fitted to the car's SUV sister, the EV3. RELATED: 2026 Kia EV4 Has a Hatchback Body, Looks Like a Mini…
McLaren reveals P1 successor ahead of October 6 unveiling
The car, codenamed P18, will feature advanced aerodynamics and a custom hybrid powertrain go through Brad Anderson September 26, 2024 05:57 The brand's new supercar is expected to be powered by a bespoke V8 engine and a mild-hybrid system. McLaren is yet to confirm the name of its new flagship model, currently codenamed P18. It looks like the much-anticipated successor to the McLaren P1, set to be unveiled on October 6, will have to be something extraordinary in order to live up to its iconic predecessor. A few days ago, McLaren released a video that looked back at the great F1 and P1 while hinting that something new was in the works. It has since released an even more interesting teaser featuring some of McLaren's executives and employees talking about the definition of the brand's "Type 1" car. Read: McLaren dealer gives first look at $2 million supercar coming in 2026 According to McLaren, the number 1 car must be…
Carlex reveals first vintage-style Mercedes G-Vintage model
Carlex Design has given the G-Class a retro vibe that seems to fit it well go through Brad Anderson 12 hours ago As the name suggests, this modified SUV is designed to give off a retro vibe. Customers have a wide range of options when building their dream G-Wagen. All examples in the G-Vintage series are based on the G 63 AMG. Back in July, Carlex Design made our knees weak and our palms sweaty when it previewed a retro-styled Mercedes-Benz G-Class (dubbed the G-Vintage). Now, the company has built the first few examples, and they look truly stunning. Carlex's G-Vintage features a two-tone exterior paint scheme that immediately evokes memories of the past, starting with a cool example of orange combined with silver. Photographed on snow, the lower half of the Mercedes features a highly reflective orange hue with chrome trim on the doors. The upper half of the 4×4, including the cabin and wing mirrors, is painted silver.…
New report reveals China’s steel subsidy strategy, focusing on
Wiley Rein LLP, a prominent Washington, D.C.-based law firm, has released a report titled “Scam: A Case Study in Chinese Steel Subsidies,” which critically examines China’s steel industry and its unfulfilled promises of economic reform. The report, authored by Alan H. Price, Co-Chair of the International Trade Practice, Robert E. DeFrancesco, Partner, and Adam M. Teslik, Counsel, highlights the disconnect between China’s policy rhetoric and industry practices. See also: China's container trade and leasing markets send mixed signals “Despite China’s bold claims of ‘reform’, our research shows that the Chinese steel industry remains tightly controlled by the government, with little evidence of a genuine shift towards market-driven practices,” Price said. The report focuses on the development of China's steel industry during the 13th and 14th Five-Year Plans (2016-2020; 2021-2025), pointing to continued government involvement and subsidies. Through case studies of three steel companies, the authors show how state-led mergers, relocations, and financial support have led to overcapacity and market distortions.…
Aston Martin reveals 2025 Vanquish soundtrack
The new model will surpass the 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 of the new Ferrari 12Cilindri go through Brad Anderson August 20, 2024 05:46 The 2025 Vanquish's upgraded twin-turbocharged V12 engine produces 824 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. From the outside, the new Vanquish looks a lot like a familiar Aston Martin grand tourer. A release date for the new model has not yet been announced. Aston Martin has launched a teaser campaign for the 2025 Vanquish, previewing the soundtrack for the car's redesigned twin-turbocharged V12 engine. The British automaker has cleared its social media pages and released a teaser that reads "All will be conquered." The image shows a blue sky and mountains, but doesn't actually preview the new Vanquish itself. However, Aston Martin's website has been updated and includes a 34-second video showing off the car's V12 engine and previewing its sound. Read: Aston Martin Vanquish is almost confirmed to be powered by a new 824-horsepower twin-turbo V12…
F1: McLaren’s Oscar Piastri reveals X-rays of fractured ribs
Oscar Piastri won his first Formula One title at the Hungarian Grand Prix and now he has revealed he did it despite suffering broken ribs, which made it even more impressive. Oscar Piastri shocked the Formula 1 world when he revealed he raced through an injury that occurred during the British Grand Prix. The news heightened admiration for his impressive performances, including his maiden Formula 1 victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Piastri's tenacity and skill have further cemented his reputation as a rising star in the sport. Piastri has quickly become a formidable challenger to reigning world champion Max Verstappen and constructors champions Red Bull Racing. In 14 races this season, Piastri has finished on the podium four times, including a breakthrough win at the Hungarian Grand Prix, showing he has the potential to disrupt Formula 1's current dominance. "The first part of the season is over. First Grand Prix win. First broken bone. Riboud is enjoying this break,"…
Pininfarina reveals mysterious one-off model ahead of Monterey
This unique car was commissioned by a current Battista owner. The week-long celebration will also include a get-together for Battista owners. At last year's event, Pininfarina unveiled the wild B95 Hyper Barchetta. Monterey Car Week is almost here, and this year's event will feature a ton of high-end exotic cars and customer creations. One of those will be from Automobili Pininfarina, and it's been previewed by a teaser image. var adpushup = window.adpushup = window.adpushup || {que:()}; adpushup.que.push(function() { if (adpushup.config.platform !== "DESKTOP"){ adpushup.triggerAd("4d84e4c9 -9937-4f84-82c0-c94544ee6f2a"); } else{ adpushup.triggerAd("6a782b01-facb-45f3-a88f-ddf1b1f97657"); } }); The mystery model is a one-off commissioned by a current owner of the Battista all-electric hypercar. Pininfarina describes it as a "completely new vehicle," indicating it was built from the ground up, adding that it was created to "stand out in terms of design and technology." Read: Bruce Wayne's Manhattan mansion now for sale with Pininfarina Batmobile for $1 million The teaser is a bit cryptic, and it's hard to…
Kawasaki reveals new hydrogen-powered motorcycle
Kawasaki plans to launch hydrogen-powered motorcycles early next decade Kawasaki has launched a hydrogen-powered motorcycle in Japan. The prototype's engine has been modified to run on hydrogen instead of gasoline. Kawasaki plans to launch a "hydrogen fuel cell" motorcycle early in the next decade. Kawasaki has unveiled a hydrogen-powered motorcycle that promises the benefits of a traditional motorcycle but with far fewer emissions. Based on the Ninja H2, the motorcycle features a 1.0-litre (998cc) supercharged four-cylinder engine modified to run on hydrogen instead of petrol. The motorcycle uses a conventional combustion process, with hydrogen injected directly into the cylinders. More: LiveWire S2 Mulholland combines hemp fenders with electricity The engine isn’t the only change, as the motorcycle comes with hydrogen fuel tanks as well as an onboard “hydrogen fuel supply system.” These components are apparently placed at the back and are designed to look like hard saddle bags. Kawasaki recently held the "world's first public demonstration of a hydrogen-fueled motorcycle…
Kawasaki reveals new hydrogen-powered motorcycle
Kawasaki plans to launch hydrogen-powered motorcycles early next decade Kawasaki has launched a hydrogen-powered motorcycle in Japan. The prototype's engine has been modified to run on hydrogen instead of gasoline. Kawasaki plans to launch a "hydrogen fuel cell" motorcycle early in the next decade. Kawasaki has unveiled a hydrogen-powered motorcycle that promises the benefits of a traditional motorcycle but with far fewer emissions. Based on the Ninja H2, the motorcycle features a 1.0-litre (998cc) supercharged four-cylinder engine modified to run on hydrogen instead of petrol. The motorcycle uses a conventional combustion process, with hydrogen injected directly into the cylinders. More: LiveWire S2 Mulholland combines hemp fenders with electricity The engine isn’t the only change, as the motorcycle comes with hydrogen fuel tanks as well as an onboard “hydrogen fuel supply system.” These components are apparently placed at the back and are designed to look like hard saddle bags. Kawasaki recently held the "world's first public demonstration of a hydrogen-fueled motorcycle…