A recent leak about the upcoming Galaxy Watch 6 not only provided some limited details about the watch itself but also hinted at a potential price hike compared to its predecessor, the Galaxy Watch 5. Currently, the Galaxy Watch 5 is priced at $279, excluding any trade-in credits (which can go up to $130).
The leaked images and information originated from a French outlet, so the prices mentioned are specific to France. On Samsung’s French website, the Galaxy Watch 5 is listed at €299 (approximately $326). In contrast, the new 40mm Galaxy Watch 6 with Bluetooth connectivity is expected to have a retail price of €319.99, a 20 Euro increase. Similarly, the 40mm 4G variant of the Galaxy Watch 6 is anticipated to be priced at €369.99. As for the 44mm models, the Bluetooth version is expected to cost €349.99, while the 4G version may come with a price tag of €399.99. The Classic options, on the other hand, may be priced at €419.99 and €469.99 for the 43mm models, and €449.99 and €499.99 for the largest model, depending on the connectivity type.
These leaked prices suggest that Samsung might introduce a new pricing structure for its latest range of Galaxy watches. It is essential to note, however, that these prices are not official and come from unofficial sources. The leaked information lacks substantial details, and there is a possibility that Samsung may change the prices when officially unveiling the new Galaxy Watch 6.
Despite the availability of newer aircraft models, there are still some airlines that choose to keep their older planes in service. One example is Nolinor Aviation, a carrier based in Canada.
Nolinor Aviation specializes in chartered flights and has the capability to transport passengers and cargo, including petroleum, to various destinations in North America and Europe. They often fly to remote and challenging locations, particularly in the northern parts of Canada. This is where their old Boeing 737-200 planes come in handy.
Currently, Nolinor Aviation operates the two oldest 737-200 airframes still in use. These planes were produced in 1974 and 1975. As long as it remains a practical and cost-effective option for the carrier, there is no immediate plan to replace these aircraft.
There’s no denying that electric motorcycles are the future of two-wheeled mobility. With rapid growth in Europe and Asia, electric two-wheelers are foreseen to become more popular in the coming years. Indeed, nearly all manufacturers big and small are developing new EV platforms, the latest of which is French motorcycle brand Peugeot Motocycles.
We’ve talked about Peugeot Motocycles quite a bit in recent years. The historic French marque seems to be undergoing a resurgence, rolling out new models left and right, in multiple markets. Indeed, thanks to funding from German company Mutares, the French brand has been given a second lease on life. That being said, with electric motorbikes apparently the next big thing, it’s no surprise that Peugeot wants in on the action, too.
In an article by Le Repaire Des Motards, Sébastien Mas, President of Peugeot Motorcycles explained, “The main driver of our collaboration lies in the DAB brand promise: to deliver thrills on two wheels to the bold. This powerful commitment has led us to recognize the need to venture into the electrical field, relying on our strong heritage of 125 years of know-how. In addition, the essence of both brands is rooted in production in France. We are very proud to manufacture our premium ranges locally, to preserve our expertise and to contribute to the growth of French industry.”
Instead of developing a new EV platform from the ground up, Peugeot has decided to invest in another company to carry out its EV-focused endeavors. Said company is fellow French firm DAB motors. Founded in 2019, the Biarritz-based company started out building custom motorcycles. In 2021, it entered the EV space with its Concept-E, an electric motorbike with minimalist, sporty design akin to that of a supermoto. It was designed as a 125cc-equivalent in terms of performance.
On paper, a machine like the DAB Concept-E is a perfect fit for what Peugeot wants to achieve in the future. Peugeot, being the established company that it is, undoubtedly has the expertise when it comes to sales, distribution, and mass-production. Meanwhile, DAB has the technological know-how to make impressive, premium electric motorcycles. That being said, you can probably see where this is going – the partnership could very well result in the commercialization of the Concept-E, or some other equivalent electric two-wheeler.
On the DAB Motors side fo the equation, company founder and CEO Simon Dabadie stated in the same report, “I am delighted to be associated with a historic manufacturer such as Peugeot Motocycles. This strategic collaboration will allow DAB Motors to take a new step. With the support of Peugeot Motocycles, DAB Motors will soon mass-produce its electric motorcycles and deliver them worldwide.”
Now, whether DAB will retain its branding, or be absorbed into Peugeot as a whole, remains to be seen. What we do know, is that DAB is set to put up its production line in Peugeot’s large factory in Mandeure, France. The end-goal is to have an electric motorcycle that’s affordable, practical, and 100-percent made in France. Peugeot now holds a majority share in DAB Motors, so expect to hear quite a lot more about this partnership in the future.
In 2021, Italian scooter manufacturer Piaggio introduced the 1, a scooter designed specifically for urban commuting. It gained popularity in the European market for its simple yet stylish design. Now, for the 2023 model year, Piaggio has made several updates to enhance its performance and features. Let’s explore the changes.
The Piaggio 1 for 2023 now offers improved performance, thanks to enhancements in its motor internals. These improvements result in increased power and torque, allowing for quicker acceleration and easy maneuverability on steep slopes.
The latest version of the Piaggio 1 electric scooter delivers 2.2 kilowatts (about three horsepower) of power, equivalent to a 50cc moped. This represents a significant power boost compared to its predecessor, with a claimed 14-percent acceleration improvement, particularly beneficial in stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, the Piaggio 1 features a removable battery conveniently located beneath the saddle for convenient charging on and off the bike.
For 2023, the Piaggio 1 retains its sleek and compact design, offering stability and durability with its solid frame. Its sophisticated urban appearance is complemented by useful amenities such as a keyless start system, LED lighting, and a spacious under-seat storage compartment capable of accommodating a jet helmet. The scooter also incorporates a full-color display for an enhanced user experience.
The Piaggio 1 is available in various elegant color combinations. Those seeking a discreet yet trendy look can choose from Forever Gray, Forever White, and Forever Black. Alternatively, bolder options include Sunshine Mix, Arctic Mix, and the new Flame Mix, all featuring attractive two-tone finishes. With a price tag of 2,899 Euros (approximately $3,171), the Piaggio 1 offers an affordable way to navigate the city streets in style.
These upgrades to the Piaggio 1 demonstrate the continual improvement of electric scooters. Electric scooters are increasingly replacing traditional internal-combustion models as a popular commuting alternative in Europe and Asia. Their affordability and government incentives promoting sustainability contribute to their growing popularity. While the adoption of electric scooters in the U.S. may be slower compared to other regions, it is evident that they have a place in urban areas where sustainability and emissions reduction are prioritized.
Zach Osborne, a well-known motocross and supercross rider, recently made the decision to try his hand at off-road racing. Unfortunately, he was sidelined with an elbow injury shortly after joining the Am-Pro Yamaha team for the GNCC XC1 Pro class. In a recent interview with Dirt Bike’s Travis Fant, Osborne gave an update on his recovery and discussed his experiences in off-road racing.
In his early days racing for Geico Honda, Osborne had already dabbled in off-road racing. He competed in a few GNCCs and the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) in 2013 and 2014. When asked about his experience at the ISDE, Osborne mentioned that he raced alongside notable riders like Mike Brown, Kailub Russell, Thad Duvall, Kurt Caselli, and Charlie Mullins.
Osborne revealed that off-road racing was always part of his long-term plan, even during his successful motocross career. He seized the opportunity to switch to off-road racing when it came along, despite facing challenges and setbacks. He acknowledged that the level of competition and the sport itself had evolved significantly in the past decade, but he was determined to succeed.
In terms of training, Osborne made adjustments to focus on zone training and working in mid-heart-rate zones. He mentioned that his training intensity is now consistent across all aspects, including riding and supplemental training. Although he has reduced the number of riding days per week, the hours spent on the road bike and dirt bike have increased.
When asked about the differences between motocross and off-road racing, Osborne mentioned that he hadn’t had much opportunity to ride off-road tracks due to his injury. However, he did have a chance to experience the challenging Penton section of the GNCC, which involved riding rocks, roots, and managing difficult terrain. He acknowledged that there was a learning curve but expressed confidence in his ability to adapt and improve.
As the reigning 2020 Pro Motocross Champion, Osborne acknowledged that he might have a target on his back in the GNCC. He understood that competitors would want to beat him and recognized the elevated level of competition in off-road racing.
One significant difference Osborne noticed between supercross and off-road racing was the atmosphere. Off-road events were more laid-back and less corporate-driven. He appreciated the grassroots nature of off-road racing and the passion that riders had for the sport.
In terms of bike setup, Osborne mentioned that he now runs hand guards for off-road racing, something he hadn’t used in motocross or supercross. His bike is also set up softer for the rougher off-road terrain. He emphasized the durability of the off-road bikes and the focus on longevity rather than short bursts of performance.
Osborne shared that many racers and people in the sport thought he was crazy for transitioning from supercross to off-road racing. However, he believed it was the right decision for him and his wife. He expressed appreciation for the opportunity and the support from his team.
Regarding his recovery and plans for the summer break, Osborne mentioned that he had suffered a leg injury in a recent crash. Due to the extent of the injury and overall soreness, he decided to take some time to heal and come back stronger. He mentioned his intention to participate in local races and events during the summer break to regain his momentum and ride competitively again.
Although Osborne has considered racing on the West Coast, he admitted that the high speeds and the skill level of the riders in races like WORCS (World Off Road Championship Series) were not suitable for him at the moment.
When asked about his thoughts on two-stroke bikes, Osborne admitted he wasn’t a big fan and preferred the performance of four-stroke bikes. He mentioned that his current Yamaha YZ250F was one of his favorite bikes, and he believed that the advantages of riding a two-stroke in the GNCC were minimal.
Osborne’s down-to-earth and media-friendly nature was also discussed in the interview. He believed in reciprocating the time and effort people put into him and had respect for those working in different disciplines and making a living. Osborne expressed gratitude for the opportunities in his career and hoped to be a positive influence for future riders looking to transition from supercross to off-road racing.
The interview concluded with Osborne expressing his enthusiasm for returning to racing and making his mark in the GNCC. He emphasized his determination to succeed and pave the way for others in the sport.
The “White Knight” motorcycle, created by Jonny Weisman, the owner of The Ride Shop AZ, is a combination of a 2023 GAS GAS chassis and an early 2000s 380cc two-stroke engine. This project is a counterpart to the “Dark Knight” Project Weisman built a few years ago, which featured a KX500 engine in a newer generation KTM chassis. Jonny Weisman has previously worked as Destry Abbott’s mechanic in the off-road department at factory Kawasaki. In this video, we explore the details of the build, its performance on the track, and provide you with the opportunity to listen to the powerful sound of this 380cc two-stroke engine at Glen Helen Raceway in Southern California.
I recently experienced a broken chain when I was far away from my truck. Do you have any advice for this situation? It was a terrible experience because I didn’t have any tools to fix it, and no one in my group had a tow strap. My friend used his leg to push me, but there was a lot of sand. Now, I think my friend hates me! It took us hours to get back.
I’m going to be completely honest with you, Stewart. The majority of chain problems are caused by the lack of maintenance and failure to replace worn-out parts. You should inspect your driveline after every ride to check for wear on the links, excessive stretching, and degradation of the masterlink. By inspecting the links, you can assess the condition of your chain. Worn plates indicate significant usage and the need for a new system. This includes replacing both the front and rear sprockets! Don’t take shortcuts, and one last piece of advice: Always carry a tow strap, a mini chain breaker (Motion Pro offers these), and a spare master link!
If you don’t mind showcasing your mistakes to the world, we won’t deny you the opportunity. Send evidence of your failures to [email protected] or Mr. Know-It-All
As the automotive world accelerates towards a future characterized by electrification, autonomy, and cutting-edge innovation, Jaguar’s lion-hearted emblem, which once held the promise of grandeur and unmatched performance, stands on shaky grounds.
The prestige and allure of this British marque are now being jeopardized by rivals, which are not just matching Jaguar stride for stride but threatening to leave it in the dust. From profitable glory in 2018 to staggering losses post-2019, Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) journey reflects a broader slump in manufacturing. A series of high-profile exits, including former bosses Ralf Speth and Thierry Bolloré, has intensified its struggles, with the latter’s departure possibly influenced by the company’s handling of the global semiconductor shortage.
Current interim boss Adrian Mardell, who has gained respect within JLR, took on the challenge of turning the company around, revealing a drastic reduction in car production numbers needed for breaking even. This narrative tells a compelling story of JLR’s quest for resurgence amid a rapidly evolving industry. But can Jaguar orchestrate a triumphant comeback? Let’s delve into the issues.
A front 3/4 view of the Jaguar F TYPE R Dynamic Coupe
Presently, Jaguar faces issues primarily due to its sports cars and sedans. Take the F-Type, for instance. A fantastic car that gave the Jaguar brand a much-needed flair and dynamism when it first rolled out. But it’s been the same song and dance ever since, with no successor appearing. Besides a letdown for car enthusiasts, it’s also a missed beat for Jaguar to tap into its rich legacy and rekindle customer love. Mention the word ‘Jag,’ and people’s minds often leap to iconic classics like the E-Type and the old XJ. The absence of a new sports car feels like a glaring oversight on Jaguar’s part.
In the same vein, the XF, a strikingly handsome sedan, has been on the market for quite a while now without any notable upgrades. After an eight-year run, it’s showing signs of age, missing out on features Jaguar devotees have come to expect, like high-octane engines. The absence of a V-8 option has left car buffs pining for the exhilarating power and performance that’s come to be associated with Jaguar. Rewind to 2019, and the XF sedan was a colossal letdown.
The previous generation had its unique charm, but the new XF felt unapproachable, harsh to handle, and failed to strike a chord. Eight years later, the XF cries out for a successor, yet there isn’t one in the works. And then there’s the XE, Jaguar’s entry-level offering. It has a few commendable attributes and handles well on the road, but it lacks that polished refinement expected from a Jaguar.
Additionally, the engine choices leave something to be desired, particularly the top-of-the-line P300’s relatively tame two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. For a premium Jaguar, you’d think there’d at least be a six-cylinder gasoline engine in the mix. Like the XF, the XE has also run its eight-year course without a successor.
Jaguar’s Recent Product Line Up
Car Model
Challenge
Short Details
F-Type
No updates/successor
The F-Type has remained unchanged since launch, lacking a successor.
XF
Outdated features, lacks power
The XF is outdated with no powerful engine options, disappointing enthusiasts.
XJ
Discontinuation
The discontinuation of the flagship XJ with a V8 engine has upset enthusiasts.
XE
Refinement and engine choice
The XE lacks refinement and has a disappointing engine choice in the top-tier model. It is also due for a replacement.
A Front 3/4 shot of a Jaguar F-Pace SVR cruising on asphalt
Jaguar is in some choppy waters, having trouble with their flashy sports cars, luxury sedans, and smaller, compact SUV categories. Their competitors are one step ahead. To give you a clearer picture, let’s break down their offerings:
The E-Pace, their smallest SUV, hasn’t rocked the auto world. It is adorable and compact, but its petite size and limited functionality make it a hard sell against more feature-rich alternatives. It’s for a hardcore Jaguar enthusiast rather than the average customer valuing practicality over prestige.
The I-Pace, their solitary venture into the electric vehicle realm, has managed to charm the few who have given it a spin. But Jaguar has been slacking a bit since its debut, with only minor cosmetic changes and no significant improvements to its battery or charging capacity. In an era where charging speeds of 150 to 350 kilowatts are becoming the norm, the I-Pace’s 100-kilowatt charging ceiling is disappointing. This lagging is posing quite a challenge for Jaguar in the premium segment.
On a brighter note, its sister brand, Land Rover, has been on a roll with their beloved Range Rover series. Catering to a broad spectrum of budgets and tastes, these SUVs are highly coveted. The success of Land Rover is a helping hand that keeps the company afloat while Jaguar tries to gain more traction.
Losing The Electrification Race And The Land Rover Dilemma
Jaguar
Jaguar I-Pace charging
Jaguar stumbles in its efforts to join the electric vehicle frenzy. They’ve committed to going all-electric by 2025. Still, their only electric offering, the I-Pace, doesn’t stack up against the technological prowess and performance of the latest EVs. They’ve missed a golden opportunity to establish themselves in the premium EV scene, especially while competitors from other luxury brands stole the limelight.
U.S. consumers have a soft spot for high-end electric vehicles. With the increasing popularity of EVs, Jaguar had the circumstances to shake things up by rolling out an electric variant of their popular XJ. Such a move could’ve painted Jaguar as a trailblazer. It could even attract a new crowd of sustainably focused customers. Regrettably, they abandoned the electric XJ, passing a chance to make a powerful statement in the luxury EV market.
Moreover, Jaguar’s close ties with Land Rover aren’t free from issues. While Land Rover is doing great in the SUV game, Jaguar finds it hard to carve out its current identity. There’s a genuine risk here of the audience perceiving Jaguar as a rebranding effort, with their cars coming across as remodeled versions of Land Rover and Range Rover vehicles. This might dilute what makes Jaguar unique, raising questions about its distinct role and future sustainability.
Turning Point: Jaguar’s Revival Strategy And The Road Ahead
Jaguar
A shot of a Jaguar F-Pace with the Golden Gate Bridge in the backdrop in San Fransisco
Jaguar is on a precarious precipice, battling many challenges that have chipped away at its standing in the car market. But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s a solution, and Jaguar can stage a return to be recognized as a top-tier luxury brand again. Here’s how:
Top of the list should be the launch of a new F-Type successor. It would create a buzz and reestablish Jaguar’s position in the market.
Pouring investments into advanced electric vehicles can’t be ignored. It represents the future, and Jaguar must dive deep into electrification.
It’s time for Jaguar to carve out a unique identity within the Jaguar Land Rover group, distinct and easily identifiable.
Jaguar could be well-prepared for a prosperous future by hurdling these stumbling blocks. Though to get there, the company needs to step up its customer service game to wow buyers—something non-negotiable in the current car landscape. They also should harness the power of new media platforms. It’s an invaluable tool to captivate and grow a younger audience. The path forward might be unclear, but it’s far from a dead-end.
Jaguar is expected to rekindle its glorious heritage, breathe new life into its product range, and welcome innovation with open arms. By following this roadmap, Jaguar has the potential to become a beacon of luxury once again.
Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) not only offers environmental benefits but also reduces running costs. While the cost of living crisis has affected both EV and ICE (internal combustion engine) car owners, fuel costs continue to impact ICE car owners more heavily.
Charging an electric car at home is often cheaper than at public charging stations. This is especially important considering that more than 90% of EV drivers primarily charge their vehicles at home. By charging overnight when electricity rates are lower, EV owners can start each day with a full charge.
However, the cost gap between running an EV and an ICE car is closing. Initially, the higher purchase price of electric cars compared to their fossil fuel counterparts affected the cost difference, with a battery-powered Peugeot e-208 costing an additional £11,000 compared to the petrol version. Additionally, using public chargers can be more expensive, especially rapid DC units that can charge up to 80% capacity in less than half an hour.
With the UK Government planning to ban the sale of pure ICE cars by 2030, and energy markets experiencing global events, it is crucial to understand the costs associated with charging an EV.
How much will it cost to charge my car at home?
The majority of EV owners charge their cars at home, saving money compared to traditional petrol or diesel cars. The cost of charging at home depends on the car being charged and the electricity supplier’s tariff. Even with recent increases in electricity prices, EV owners still save money compared to filling up a traditional car.
For example, charging a 64kWh Kia e-Niro with a claimed range of 281 miles would cost approximately £20 for a full charge, based on the current average cost of 34p per kWh (according to the Government’s Energy Price guarantee as of the first quarter of 2023). While this is more expensive than a couple of years ago, when off-peak tariffs were as low as 12p per kWh, the cost of a full charge is still reasonable compared to fueling an equivalent petrol hatchback for the same distance, which would cost around a third more.
The CEO of Volkswagen, Thomas Schäfer, has admitted that the introduction of touch-sensitive controls in the brand’s cars had a negative impact. He has vowed to create simpler and more functional interiors for future Volkswagen vehicles.
Schäfer made these comments during the pre-production launch of the next-generation Volkswagen Tiguan. The new model’s cabin represents a departure from the interior designs of the Volkswagen ID 3 and Golf. It features two larger infotainment touchscreens and fewer physical controls.
One of the key changes is the removal of the criticized elements from the previous Volkswagen control layouts, such as unlit climate control sliders and haptic steering wheel buttons. Additionally, a new rotary controller has been installed on the center console to facilitate quick access to drive mode and volume settings.
In response to customer feedback, Schäfer emphasized the company’s efforts to address criticism and improve the usability of Volkswagen cars. He acknowledged that the unconventional interior arrangements introduced by his predecessor had caused frustration among customers and had a damaging effect on the brand’s reputation.
Schäfer explained that they spent considerable time systematically evaluating the functions that customers interact with in a vehicle. They prioritized these functions and determined which ones should be assigned to buttons or the screen. They also considered the intuitive reach for specific controls, such as the light switch.
Furthermore, Schäfer highlighted the importance of aesthetics in the design process. They aimed to create a limited number of high-quality buttons with pleasant haptics, similar to the experience of using aircraft controls.
The CEO emphasized the collaborative nature of this effort, involving a large team and extensive planning. They meticulously categorized and analyzed the functions, resulting in a comprehensive Excel spreadsheet.
Schäfer expressed his commitment to maintaining consistency across the Volkswagen lineup. Once they establish the desired formula for interior layouts, he advised against making significant changes with each new model. Instead, he recommended optimizing and refining the existing design to meet future needs without confusing customers.
His ultimate goal is for Volkswagen cars to provide an intuitive experience, ensuring that drivers know the location of all controls without hesitation.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
