Featured

Radford & Tanner Foust Break Pikes Peak Hill Climb Class Record

In the 101st running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, the Radford Type 62-2 Pikes Peak Special Edition made history over the weekend. Led by experienced race car driver and previous Pikes Peak champion, Tanner Foust, the vehicle not only won the Exhibition Class but also achieved a sub-ten-minute time, a record previously untouched by Foust.

Radford’s triumph was supported by impressive engineering. The Type 62-2 Pikes Peak Edition featured a 710HP supercharged 3.5L V6 DOHC engine, capable of going from 0-60 mph in under 2.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of 160 mph. The lightweight dry body, weighing only 1,898 pounds, was achieved through a full carbon composite monocoque. Additionally, the Radford race version included extensive modifications such as a new underbody design, subframes, suspension, wider body, and a new rear aero and diffuser to deliver outstanding performance on the challenging Pikes Peak terrain.

The Pikes Peak victory showcases Radford’s design and engineering capabilities for high-performance cars, combining power, speed, and cutting-edge technology. As the triumphant Type 62-2 Pikes Peak Edition prepares for its next challenge at the NASCAR Chicago Street Race on July 1-2, 2023, it carries the momentum and prestige of a remarkable success.

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Radford Pikes Peak Special Edition at the Iconic International Hill Climb Credit Larry Chen 2

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Technology

The Tragic Implosion of USS Thresher: A Catastrophe in Nuclear Submarine History

The USS Thresher was an impressive technological achievement, similar to other advanced submarines of its time. It was specifically designed for naval pursuits and had a sleek design to enhance its agility and maneuverability underwater. Armed with weapons like the ASROC, it had the capability to engage various types of targets. In April 1961, the Thresher began its meticulous trial process at Maine’s Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

Tragically, the very nuclear power that propelled the formidable Thresher became a contributing factor in its demise. Despite its technological advancements, the submarine was built to explore unprecedented depths in the ocean, depths that the U.S. Navy had not ventured into before. It was during a deep sea trial to showcase this capability that the Thresher was lost.

On the morning of April 10, 1963, the Thresher was conducting deep dives, aiming to reach its estimated maximum depth of 1,300 feet. It maintained regular communication with the nearby USS Skylark, its designated contact during this period. However, at approximately 9:12 am, the last communication was received, indicating an issue aboard the Thresher.

It is believed that water entered the submarine through insecure joints, causing the reactor and other systems to shut down. As a result, the Thresher continued to descend uncontrollably until it succumbed to the immense pressure of the deep waters and imploded.

News, Technology

Women Accuse Contracting Firm of Intrusive Pre-Employment Questions at Bill Gates’ Ventures

According to a recent statement, a spokesperson from Gates Ventures denies any knowledge of inappropriate questions being asked during the screening process in their 15+ years of operation. They confirm that no job offers have been rescinded based on such information.

The security company named in the report is Concentric Advisors, accused of conducting these alleged applicant assessments. In response, Concentric Advisors states that while applicants may provide such information voluntarily, they never requested those details. The Wall Street Journal, however, claims to have reviewed documents, including one that describes a consent form for a “behavioral assessment” covering previous drug and alcohol use. The document states that the assessment would help determine the applicant’s “suitability for employment.”

The core concern revolves around the potential violation of employment laws if such questioning did occur. Concentric Advisors asserts compliance with pre-employment screening regulations and an internal email leaked to Gates Ventures employees reportedly indicates that the company was unaware of any such questions being asked.

News, Technology

Google Creates a Special Edition Pixel Fold that Cannot Be Purchased

Although the Pixel Fold is a Google phone, it is important to note that it is the first generation of its kind. This means that there may be some hardware issues. Unfortunately, there have already been reports of poor quality, with most of the problems related to the inner foldable screen. One buyer complained on Reddit that their inner foldable screen broke after just one day of use. Another customer voiced their frustration on Reddit about a pink line appearing on the screen after only a few hours of use. There was also a Reddit post mentioning the peeling of the protective cover of the inner foldable screen after approximately five hours of use.

Ron Amadeo from ArsTechnica experienced a malfunction with his review unit’s screen within a few days, and Raymond Wong from Inverse mentioned on Twitter that the hinge parts produced a crackling sound. In addition, there have been numerous complaints on Reddit about erratic or delayed shipments of Pixel Fold orders. Although Google has not yet made an official statement about the faulty Pixel Fold units, it may be wise to wait a few weeks and assess the experiences of a broader audience before spending $1,800 on the phone.

Cars

Best Cars Of 2023 — 10 Of The Top Rated Picks

When it comes to luxury vehicles, performance and practicality are important, but there are other factors that buyers consider. They look for class, comfort, and small details that add beauty. They want a car that justifies its high price tag, which can be three times or more than a standard vehicle. Luckily, the BMW i7 checks all the boxes when it comes to luxury.

The ride in the BMW i7 is incredibly smooth, almost like gliding on the road instead of rolling. Despite its impressive speed, it never feels too fast. Even when reaching speeds over 100 mph, it remains safe and comfortable, comparable to driving at 40 mph in a regular car.

While driving the BMW i7 is an experience in itself, passengers can have an even better time thanks to its exceptional infotainment system. Passengers in the backseat can customize their seat settings to heat or cool as needed. The car also offers various massage settings for ultimate relaxation. Additionally, Theater Mode can be activated, which unveils a 31-inch, 8K resolution screen and rolls up the window shades for an immersive entertainment experience.

The BMW i7 provides a complete luxury limousine experience. However, in addition to the cost of over $150,000 for a fully equipped i7, you may also need to budget for a chauffeur if you want to fully enjoy the experience.

Technology

How to Change the iPhone Alarm Snooze Time

If you have ever set an alarm on your iPhone and hit the snooze button, you may have noticed that it automatically adds nine minutes to the clock. Whether you want more or less time for your snooze, the iPhone does not provide a way to customize the snooze duration. This default nine-minute limit has been in place since the first alarm clocks with snooze functions, such as the General Electric-Telechron Snooz-Alarm in the 1950s. The nine-minute interval was chosen to accommodate the gear setup already being used by alarm clock makers at that time. Despite advancements in technology, including smartphones, nine minutes is still considered the standard duration for the snooze feature.

Featured

Tata Nexon: India’s #1 Best Selling SUV For Two Years In A Row!


Multitude of powertrain and variant options fueling its growth

Tata Nexon

In a remarkable achievement, the Tata Nexon has successfully maintained its position as the leading SUV in terms of sales for the second consecutive year. During FY 2022-2023, the esteemed Indian car manufacturer sold an impressive 1,72,138 units of this compact SUV. It comes as no surprise that the Nexon has become the most sought-after SUV in India, surpassing competitors like the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Brezza.

Tata Nexon

The Tata Nexon has experienced impressive sales growth, reflecting its increasing popularity. In FY 2021-2022, the Nexon recorded sales of 1,24,130 units. Fast forward to FY 2022-2023, and the numbers soared, showing a remarkable growth rate of over 39 percent. On average, the Nexon sold an impressive 14,344 units per month during this period. The highlight of its sales performance was November 2022, where it achieved its highest-ever monthly sales of 15,081 units.

A major factor contributing to the widespread admiration for the Tata Nexon is its wide range of variants, offering customers an extensive selection. With a diverse range of diesel and petrol trims, the Nexon caters to the preferences of automotive enthusiasts.

Also Check Out: Tata Nexon Reaches 5 Lakh Families In India

Tata Nexon

For those who seek high performance, the Nexon offers a powerful 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine that delivers an impressive 120 PS. Additionally, the 1.5-liter engine boasts an admirable 110 PS. These engines are paired with a refined 6-speed manual gearbox or a smooth 6-speed AMT, providing options for individual preferences.

In addition, the Tata Nexon is renowned for its 5-star safety rating. This plays a significant role as today’s customers prioritize a car’s safety rating and other safety features.

Tata Nexon Interior

Finally, the Tata Nexon offers an extensive range of premium features that entice buyers. These include a sunroof, ventilated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, and a tire pressure monitoring system, among others. Customers also benefit from auto headlights and a 10.25-inch infotainment unit that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Thanks to its premium positioning in the compact SUV segment, the Tata Nexon has become a well-known name in Indian households.

The Nexon stands out in the market by offering features like a sunroof and touchscreen at a price below Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV’s price range starts from Rs. 7,79,900 and goes up to Rs. 14,49,900.

Read More on : Tata Nexon AMT

Featured

Thursday Throwback: Exploring The MPV Predecessors Of The Maruti Invicto


Maruti’s best sellers from the hatchback and SUV segments make it easy to overlook the brand’s dominance in the MPV space

The Maruti Invicto MPV is set to launch in July, and it will be the most expensive Maruti on sale to date, with an expected price of around Rs 19 lakh and up (ex-showroom). Maruti is the most popular carmaker in India, and even in the MPV segment, it’s a leader with the Ertiga and Eeco. While we expect the Invicto to help Maruti gain a foothold in the premium MPV space, the brand has a long history in the MPV segment.

We will take a trip down India’s automotive history and remember all the Maruti MPVs that came before the Invicto and learn about the carmaker’s journey in this segment.

Maruti Omni

Maruti Omni

In 1984, right after the launch of the Maruti 800, the Maruti Van was introduced. It was later renamed Omni in 1988.

The Omni became an instant hit, not only in the commercial segment but also with families. Its simple concept of transporting maximum passengers at minimal cost made it highly successful.

Interesting Fact: The Omni was launched for under Rs 1 lakh in 1984!

Maruti Omni

In 1998, the Omni received its first facelift with subtle design changes inside and out. It continued with the same engine as the Maruti 800 and manual transmission. Another facelift was introduced 7 years later, and it remained largely unchanged until its discontinuation in 2019.

After 35 years of service, the Omni retired, leaving its duties to the Eeco.

Maruti Versa

Maruti Versa

In 2001, Maruti launched the Versa as a better-equipped alternative to the Omni. It had a starting price of around Rs 4 lakh (ex-showroom), which was considered expensive at that time.

The Versa aimed to blend utility with comfort while accommodating 6-7 passengers. However, its price and basic van-like styling didn’t appeal to buyers. The more attractive Esteem sedan, priced only slightly higher, was preferred by those considering buying the Versa.

The Maruti Versa featured a modest 1.3-litre petrol engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. It had decent equipment for its time, including premium fabric upholstery, adjustable steering column, rear AC vents, power windows, central locking, and adjustable seats.

In 2009, the Versa was phased out, and the carmaker learned the lesson of simplicity and affordability.

Also Read: Top 10 Indian Celebrity Brand Ambassadors For Indian Cars!

Maruti Eeco

Maruti Eeco

In 2010, the Eeco was introduced as the successor to the Versa. It was essentially a facelifted version of the Versa, maintaining the same van-like appearance but with stripped-down features and comforts. It was designed to be an affordable option for transporting goods or people.

With the removal of several features from the Versa, the Eeco came at a very aggressive price. Starting at around Rs 2.7 lakh (ex-showroom), it was priced at half of the Versa’s cost. The Eeco lacked vital features like power steering, power windows, central locking, airbags, and AC (optional).

The simplicity of its design made the Eeco rugged, spacious for cargo, and cost-effective, leading to its success in the commercial segment. It is widely used as taxis, ambulances, and school vans among lower economic sections, and as cargo vans. The Eeco is one of India’s best-selling cars, averaging around 9,000 units per month.

Over the 13 years of being on sale, its exterior remains identical to the original version, with slight interior refreshments. The only updates have been to meet the latest regulations.

Maruti Ertiga

Maruti Ertiga 2012

In 2012, Maruti launched its first “proper” MPV, the Ertiga, at the Auto Expo. It was positioned as a Life Utility Vehicle (LUV) and was priced at Rs 5.89 lakh. The Ertiga featured a three-row configuration and had a stylish look with extended hatchback-like design.

The Ertiga was also the first Maruti MPV to offer a diesel engine, which was known for its efficiency of around 20kmpl. It also came with a new 1.4-litre petrol engine that provided a refined driving experience. The Ertiga offered car-like comfort and driving characteristics, a significant improvement over the Eeco.

With seating for seven people and reasonable comfort, the Ertiga quickly gained popularity among buyers seeking an affordable family car with manageable proportions. It faced minimal competition and attracted demand from private buyers as well as fleets. In just 4 years, it had crossed the 2.25 lakh sales mark.

FUN FACT – The Maruti Ertiga was one of the earliest MPVs to receive a decent 3-star safety rating.

In 2018, the Ertiga received a comprehensive facelift, which included more efficient petrol and diesel engines, additional features, and a more stylish appeal. The petrol variant also offered a 4-speed automatic transmission, enhancing its practicality. By this time, it had already become a segment leader with over 2.25 lakh units sold.

In 2018, a new generation of Ertiga was introduced based on Suzuki’s new HEARTECT platform. It retained the diesel engine but introduced a new 1.5-litre petrol engine. The new Ertiga featured several improved features, including dual airbags, a rear camera, a touchscreen infotainment system, ESP, and hill-hold function. The pricing of the new generation ranged from Rs 7.44 lakh to Rs 13.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

In 2020, with the implementation of BS6 emission norms, the diesel option was discontinued for the Ertiga. The latest mild facelift took place in 2022, and the Ertiga continues to be a segment leader in the MPV space.

Maruti XL6

Maruti XL6

As the design of the Ertiga began to look outdated, Maruti saw an opportunity for a better-looking but still affordable compact MPV to be sold through its premium Nexa dealerships. The XL6 was introduced in 2019 as a more stylish, premium, and comfortable version of the Ertiga. It is strictly a six-seater, unlike the seven-seat Ertiga.

At the launch, the XL6 was priced at around Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) and was available in two fully-loaded variants. It offered a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions. In 2022, it received a mild facelift, refreshing its design and features. With several additions over the Ertiga and a more stylish appearance, the XL6 can be considered an upgrade in the MPV space.

Maruti Invicto

Maruti Invicto MPV

The Maruti Invicto is essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross, with slightly different looks. It is the result of a collaboration between Suzuki and Toyota to exchange cars, platforms, and technologies.

The Invicto will be a premium offering with features like a panoramic sunroof, a 10-inch touchscreen system, wireless charger, ventilated front seats, and second-row powered Ottoman seats. It will also be the first Maruti car to feature the radar-based ADAS safety feature.

The Invicto will be powered by the Innova’s 2-litre petrol-hybrid engine, known for its efficiency of 23.24kmpl. It is one of Maruti’s most powerful powertrains introduced in the last decade.

Final Thoughts

Maruti has been known for its high-volume models, except for its initial Nexa offerings. However, the brand has expanded its image by introducing feature-rich products that compete globally and are in high demand.

The Invicto represents how Maruti has learned from its past and established itself as a multi-faceted brand. In terms of MPVs, Maruti offers a range from the basic Eeco to a premium MPV with a justifiable price tag of around Rs 20 lakh and higher.

Featured

Don’t Slip Up: Common Car Care Mistakes to Avoid This Monsoon


Discover essential tips and expert advice to keep your vehicle running smoothly and protect it from potential damage caused by the rain

During the monsoon season, it’s important to give your vehicle extra attention to ensure its performance, safety, and longevity. In this article, we will discuss the most common car care mistakes to avoid during the monsoon. By learning from these mistakes, you can save yourself from costly repairs and keep your car in good shape throughout the rainy season.

Neglecting Regular Washing

Don’t assume that the rain will clean your car for you. In fact, rainwater can contain harmful pollutants and acidic elements that can damage your car’s paint. It’s important to regularly wash and wax your vehicle to maintain its shine and protect the paintwork. Don’t forget to wash the tires and wheels as well.

Skipping Tire Maintenance

Wet roads increase the risk of hydroplaning, which can result in losing control of the car while braking or changing direction. Make sure your tires have proper tread depth and are properly inflated. Fresh treads are deeper and provide better water dispersal. Also, remember to rotate your tires regularly for even wear and better traction.

Also Read: Debunking The Myths And Methodology Around Modern Engine Break-in Methods

Wonky Windshield Wiper

If your wiper blades are streaky and worn out, they can compromise visibility during heavy rainfall. Replace them if they leave smudges or make unusual noises. Consider using a rain repellent solution on the glass surfaces to enhance visibility and help water droplets roll off.

Overlooking Proper Drainage

Clear clogged drainage channels, including those around the sunroof and windshield, to prevent water leakage into the interior of your car. Inspect and clean the gutters to ensure water flows away from your vehicle. This is especially important if your car has a sunroof, as improper maintenance can lead to water damage and rust.

Failing to Protect the Interior

Moisture can seep inside your car during the monsoon season, leading to unpleasant odors and potential damage to your upholstery. If you live in an area with frequent rainfall, consider investing in waterproof seat covers to protect the interior from rainwater and mud. Switching to rubber mats can also help protect the interior in the long run.

Ignoring the Battery

The monsoon weather can be harsh on your car’s battery. Regularly check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure a strong connection. Consider getting a battery check-up to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Also Check Out: Purrfectly Clean: Car Care Tips Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

Overlooking Undercarriage Cleaning

If your car is parked in a waterlogged area or if you’ve driven through standing water, it’s important to clean the undercarriage to remove debris and protect vital components. Allowing debris to linger can cause rust issues and damage important parts of your vehicle.

Forgetting the Emergency Kit

Be prepared for unexpected situations. While new cars usually come with a basic first aid kit, it may not be enough during the rainy season. Keep essentials like a flashlight, emergency tire pump/repair kit, first-aid supplies, jumper cables, and a rain poncho or umbrella in your car.

Remember, taking preventive care of your car can go a long way in ensuring its performance and longevity, especially during the monsoon season. Stay proactive and enjoy a safe and trouble-free driving experience!

Featured

Mahindra Scorpio Nameplate Reaches 9 Lakh Production Milestone


The production milestone includes both the Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N models

Mahindra Scorpio production milestone

  • Mahindra introduced the Scorpio SUV more than two decades ago.

  • The Scorpio is currently available in two versions: the Scorpio Classic and the new-generation Scorpio N.

  • As of May 2023, Mahindra had over 1 lakh units of Scorpio on order.

  • The Scorpio nameplate is still behind the Bolero in terms of lifetime sales, as the Bolero has already crossed the 14 lakh unit mark.

  • The Scorpio duo is priced between Rs 13 lakh and Rs 24.52 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The Mahindra Scorpio nameplate has achieved another milestone, with a total production of 9 lakh units. The Scorpio was introduced by Mahindra in 2002 and has been popular due to its high-seating position, road presence, and all-terrain capabilities. Recently, Mahindra launched the facelifted Scorpio Classic and the new-generation Scorpio N, both of which have contributed to reaching this milestone.

However, the Scorpio nameplate is still behind the Bolero in terms of lifetime sales. The Bolero, one of Mahindra’s best-selling vehicles for over a decade, has already sold more than 14 lakh units.

Recent Numbers

In May 2023, Mahindra produced nearly 8,000 units of the Scorpio (including both the Classic and N models).

Mahindra Scorpio production milestone

The Scorpio is one of the most sought-after models in Mahindra’s lineup. As of May this year, there were more than a lakh bookings pending delivery for the Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N. With plans to increase production, Mahindra could produce the next lakh units of Scorpio in less than a year.

Related: Mahindra Scorpio N Completes 1 Year In India: Here’s A Recap

Prices And Rivals

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic is priced between Rs 13 lakh and Rs 16.81 lakh, while the Scorpio N ranges from Rs 13.05 lakh to Rs 24.52 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).

Mahindra Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N

The Scorpio Classic provides a rugged alternative to monocoque compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Skoda Kushaq, while the Scorpio N competes with the Tata Harrier, Safari, and Hyundai Alcazar. The new-generation Scorpio N also offers a four-wheel-drive option and serves as an off-road-capable alternative to the Mahindra XUV700.

Also Read: Yami Gautam Adds BMW X7 To Her Luxury Car Collection

Read More on : Mahindra Scorpio N on road price