OIL CAPS: news briefs from the week

The Mini Aceman EV is gearing up for its debut, showing off a production-ready (albeit camo-heavy) form in recent photos shared by Mini. Set to be unveiled at the Auto China show on April 24, the Aceman represents a strategic addition to Mini’s line-up, positioning itself between the Mini Cooper hatchback and the larger Countryman SUV. What sets the Aceman apart is its commitment to electrification. Unlike other models that offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) options, the Aceman is exclusively an EV. Expect a 54kWh battery and we’d pick a single electric motor producing around 160kW, driving the front wheels.

Porsche has made a major overhaul to its “My Porsche” Apple app. According to the company, it has become the first carmaker to integrate various functions within an app in Apple CarPlay, delivering a more personalised user experience. This allows users to access such as audio settings, radio stations, climate control, and ambient lighting directly from their CarPlay interface. Additionally, the app introduces a new performance dashboard in CarPlay, enabling drivers to monitor real-time performance data like top speed, G forces, efficiency, and distance covered. The update refines the My Porsche app’s home screen, offering more info, clearer overviews, and more functionality.

Are you looking for a unique way to get over your ex this Valentine’s Day? You’re in luck, as Scrap Car Comparison is offering the ultimate heartbreak remedy — and it’s delightfully cheeky.

The vehicle scrappage comparison site is giving spurned lovers around the globe the chance to name a car destined for the scrap heap after their not-so-loved one.

Let’s face it, Valentine’s Day can be a bit of a bummer for people nursing a freshly broken heart. But the company’s new scheme, “Scrap Your Ex”, is not just a witty play on words — it’s a cathartic experience, or as they cleverly dub it, “car- tharsis”.