Cars, News

Tesla Cybertruck Wrapped In Camo Spotted In California

The camouflaged look of the Tesla Cybertruck has sparked speculation about new design features or a sneak peek at what to expect when the truck goes into production. Tesla had previously mentioned that customers would have the option to choose from a variety of colors, most likely in the form of a wrap. This black-and-white camo design seen in California could potentially be one of those options.

Since its announcement in 2019, Tesla has made several promises about its all-electric truck, but there have been numerous production delays. Originally scheduled for 2021, the release date had been pushed back to 2024 at one point. Currently, the Cybertruck is expected to be available for purchase later this year.

All versions of the rear-wheel and all-wheel models are projected to reach speeds of at least 110 mph and offer a battery range between 250 and 620 miles. The Cybertruck is designed to have 100 cubic feet of storage space, a 6.5-foot-long cargo area, and 16 inches of ground clearance. With a substantial market for light-duty trucks, Tesla’s fully electric version has the potential for great success, provided it lives up to the hype built over the years. While there is a chance of further production delays, if all goes as planned, we may start seeing Tesla Cybertrucks on the road by the end of this year, some of which may still be camouflaged.

Cars, News

Toyota’s New EVs Will Feature Simulated Manual Transmission and the Possibility of Stalling

During a presentation by Toyota BEV Factory president, Takero Kato, various updates were discussed, including the introduction of a simulated manual transmission. Kato covered a range of topics, from advancements in the production lines for Toyota’s electric vehicles to software enhancements aimed at making the cars more intelligent and efficient. Particularly notable was the discussion on an improved battery that could provide an impressive range of 1000 km (approximately 621 miles) for Toyota’s electric cars. With the U.S. government and auto industry transitioning away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles, Toyota is fully committed to producing electric vehicles and has set ambitious goals of selling 1.5 million units by 2026 and an additional two million by 2030.

Toyota is not the only automaker increasing its electric vehicle production. It is also not the sole company recognizing that EV drivers may long for the experience of a manual clutch. Other automakers, such as Dodge and Hyundai, have plans to implement simulated manual transmissions in their electric vehicles as well. Swedish company Koenigsegg has even developed a nine-speed, seven-clutch gearbox capable of mimicking a six-speed transmission. It remains uncertain whether these simulated systems will also include the possibility of stalling. Drivers may have to wait until 2026, when they release their virtual clutch too quickly, to find out.

News, Technology

Twitter Faces $250 Million Lawsuit Over Alleged Music Copyright Violations

The National Music Publishers Association (NMPA) has filed a lawsuit against Twitter, seeking damages of $150,000 for each of the approximately 1,700 songs it claims have been infringed upon. The allegations made in the lawsuit are strong, with the NMPA stating that “Twitter knows perfectly well that neither it nor users of the Twitter platform have secured licenses for the rampant use of music being made on its platform.” Alongside the monetary damages, the NMPA is also asking the court to immediately stop Twitter’s copyright-infringing activities.

It is worth noting that the NMPA asserts that it has sent formal notices regarding copyright infringement to Twitter since 2021, resulting in over 300,000 tweets being flagged for violating copyright laws. Additionally, other copyright holders have reportedly sent hundreds of thousands of similar notices to Twitter. However, the lawsuit alleges that Twitter consistently disregards known repeat infringers and the infringements themselves.

The lawsuit accuses Twitter of failing to take action by removing the problematic content or preventing public access to it. According to the lawsuit, “Twitter views itself, not the law, as the arbiter of what content is permitted on the Twitter platform.” At the time of writing, neither Twitter nor its new CEO Linda Yaccarino has made a statement regarding the matter. This lawsuit deals a significant blow to Twitter, especially considering the cost-cutting measures it has implemented recently – including laying off two-thirds of its workforce – in its pursuit of profitability. Furthermore, it sets a potentially detrimental precedent for Elon Musk’s ambitions of transforming Twitter into a creative content hub.

Cars

Best Electric Cars Of 2023

The BMW i4 M50 had a lot to meet the expectations. It had to offer the performance of an M-badged car, the practicality of a 4-Series Gran Coupe, and the smooth, refined experience that BMW EV buyers look for. It was a challenging task, but the i4 M50 successfully delivers on all aspects, making it one of the most satisfying BMWs to drive in recent times. Inspired by the M5, this car is surprisingly practical without compromising on performance. The front and rear seats are spacious, there’s a decent-sized trunk, and the cabin offers the luxurious BMW experience we know and love.

When you press the accelerator, the car feels even more powerful than the M440i, thanks to its dual electric motors that provide a surge of energy capable of lighting up the tires when the traction control is turned off. Whether you’re driving aggressively on winding roads or cruising on the highway, the i4 M50 handles remarkably well. And when it’s time to recharge, its support for 200 kW DC fast charging allows you to get back on the road quickly – assuming you can find a sufficiently powerful charger in the first place.

The only major drawback of the i4 M50 is its limited range, as it can only travel 227 miles between charges, whereas the regular i4 offers up to 301 miles. Aside from that, it excels in almost every aspect, making it an outstanding choice if you can live with the shorter range.

Featured

Facelifted Mahindra XUV300 Caught On Camera Again Revealing Two New Details

The latest spy shot reveal an XUV700-inspired floating touchscreen system and a fresh set of alloy wheels

  • Exterior revisions are expected to include a split grille setup and connected taillights.

  • It should also get a heavily updated cabin.

  • New features could consist of a digital driver’s display and ventilated front seats.

  • Likely to continue with the same engine options as the current model; might get a torque converter unit instead of an AMT option. 

  • It is expected to go on sale by early next year, and could be priced from Rs 9 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.

The facelifted Mahindra XUV300 is under development and another test mule of the SUV has been spotted. Though it was draped in heavy camouflage,  a couple of new details are still visible on both exterior and interior. Let’s have a look at what these details are hinting us at.

What’s Visible Under The Wrap?

At a first glance, the most noticeable change on the test mule is the new design of the alloy wheels. Also, if you try to peek inside of the test mule, a new floating touchscreen is visible, which looks inspired from its bigger sibling, the XUV700.

The updated XUV300 will also get comprehensive changes on both front and rear ends, including refreshed split grille setup, bonnet and bumper. At the rear, the boot lid now looks more muscular than before, and the license plate has been repositioned for a better look.  We also expect it to feature XUV700 inspired C-shaped LED DRLs and LED headlights upfront, and connected LED tail light setup at the rear.

Also See: First Spy Shots Of The Mahindra BE.05 Have Surfaced

Amenities To Expect

Mahindra XUV300 Cabin

The facelifted XUV300 will likely feature a big floating touchscreen setup running Mahindra’s latest operating system, a digital driver’s display, a 360-degree camera, wireless phone charger and ventilated front seats. Some existing features such as a single-pane sunroof and cruise control should likely be retained.

The safety kit on the new facelifted subcompact SUV will be carried over from the existing model, which includes up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, all-wheel disc brakes and a rearview camera.

What Will Propel It?

Mahindra XUV300 Engine

The 2024 XUV300 should come with the same engine options as the current model, which are a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine (110PS/200Nm) and a 1.5-litre diesel engine (117PS/300Nm). Both engines are mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AMT. Mahindra also offers a 1.2-litre TGDi turbo-petrol engine (130PS/250Nm), which is only available with the 6-speed manual. We believe that Mahindra could provide a torque converter unit instead of the currently available AMT gearbox on the facelifted SUV.

Launch, Expected Price & Rivals

The facelifted Mahindra XUV300 is expected to be launched by early 2024, at  a starting price of Rs 9 lakh (ex-showroom). It will continue its rivalry with the likes of the Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza and Kia Sonet.

Image Source

Read More on : Mahindra XUV300 AMT

Featured

Renault Achieves 10 Lakh Production Milestone in 16 Years


The carmaker also achieved the 9-lakh sales milestone in the same timeframe

Renault

Renault has reached a significant milestone by producing 10 lakh cars in India. The company had recently achieved the 9 lakh sales mark in over 16 years of operation in the country. 

In 2005, Renault entered the Indian market and introduced its first car, the Logan, in 2007. However, the sedan was sold through a joint venture with Mahindra. In 2011, Renault launched its first independent car, the Fluence. This premium sedan was followed by models like the Koleos, Pulse, Duster, Scala, KWID, Lodgy, Captur, Triber, and Kiger. 

Renault Triber

Also Read: Renault And Nissan Planning On Entry-level EVs For India To Rival Tata Tiago EV

Renault and its joint venture partner Nissan plan to launch six new vehicles, including four new SUVs and two new compact EVs, by 2025. 

Here’s the official statement from Renault: 

Renault, the leading European brand in India, is proud to announce a production milestone of 10,00,000 vehicles in India. This achievement showcases Renault’s manufacturing capabilities and commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles to Indian customers.

Renault’s advanced manufacturing plant in Chennai has played a crucial role in this extraordinary accomplishment. With a production capacity of 480,000 units per year, the facility demonstrates Renault’s dedication to excellence and innovation. The company has made significant investments in manufacturing, technology, and talent to create a robust production infrastructure that ensures the highest standards of quality and efficiency. The Renault-Nissan alliance has committed a major investment of INR 5,300 crore to support the development of six products. 

Renault Kwid

As Renault India celebrates this remarkable milestone, it reaffirms its dedication to delivering high-quality vehicles and exceptional customer experiences. All the models in the Renault range are equipped with advanced features and safety technology, along with exciting customer benefits. Renault also offers its existing owners an outstanding loyalty program, providing them with an opportunity to upgrade to a new Renault vehicle with enhanced benefits designed specifically for them. With a strong foundation, an expanding network, and a customer-centric approach, Renault is well-positioned for continued success and growth in the Indian automotive market.

Read More on : Kiger AMT

Featured

Maruti Invicto MPV Dealership Bookings Open Ahead Of July 5 Launch


The Maruti Invicto is the rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross, just like the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder

Toyota Innova Hycross

  • Maruti Invicto price will be announced on July 5.

  • The Maruti Invicto will come with the 2-liter petrol engine from the Hycross, with the option of strong-hybrid technology.

  • The Invicto will have features like a panoramic sunroof, a 10-inch touchscreen system, up to six airbags, and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System).

  • Expected to be priced starting from around Rs 19 lakh (ex-showroom).

Offline pre-bookings for the Maruti Invicto MPV are now open at select dealerships. The MPV will be revealed on July 5 and will also be available for sale on the same day.

Toyota Innova Hycross

The Maruti Invicto is essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross, similar to other combinations like Baleno/Glanza and Grand Vitara/Hyryder. However, there might be slight differences in the exterior styling as seen in the latest spy shots.

Also Read: Comparo: Kia Carens Luxury Plus vs Toyota Innova GX

The Invicto will be powered by the Innova Hycross’ 2-liter petrol engine, which produces up to 174PS of power and 205Nm of torque. There will also be an option for hybridization, which can generate up to 186PS of power in the Innova. The Hycross hybrid claims a fuel efficiency of up to 23.24kmpl, and similar figures can be expected from the Invicto.

Maruti Invicto teaser

The Invicto will come equipped with a panoramic sunroof, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital driver’s display, ventilated front seats, a wireless phone charger, and dual-zone climate control. Safety features will include up to six airbags, a 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. It will also be the first Maruti car to feature the radar-based safety technology, ADAS.

Related: CD Speak: Get Ready To Pay Over Rs 30 Lakh For A Maruti MPV

The Maruti Invicto may be priced slightly higher than the Hycross, which ranges from Rs 18.55 lakh to Rs 29.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It won’t have any direct competitor, but it will be positioned as a costlier and more premium alternative to the Kia Carens and Maruti XL6.

Featured

Volvo C40 Recharge: A Stylish Electric Vehicle with a 530 Kilometer Range


The Volvo C40 Recharge is an upcoming electric vehicle from Volvo that will launch in August. It’s the sleeker version of the popular XC40 Recharge, offering the same features but with a higher driving range.

Volvo C40 Recharge

The Volvo C40 Recharge is the newest addition to Volvo’s lineup in India. It has been recently unveiled and will be available for sale in August. Bookings will start once the prices are announced, and deliveries are expected to begin in September.

Positioned as the coupe-styled version of the XC40, the C40 caters to the growing demand for sleek SUV designs.

Powertrain Details

The C40 Recharge comes equipped with a 78kWh battery pack, which is the same capacity as the XC40 Recharge. However, due to its slightly more aerodynamic design, the C40 boasts a higher WLTP-claimed range of 530km. It features a sporty dual-motor AWD setup that produces 408PS and 660Nm of torque. The C40 Recharge can accelerate from 0-100kmph in just 4.7 seconds.

Furthermore, it supports 150kW fast charging, allowing the battery to be charged from 10 to 80 percent in just 27 minutes.

Familiar Interior

The C40 Recharge shares the same interior as its counterparts. It features a 9-inch vertically-oriented infotainment touchscreen at the center of the dashboard, along with a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. The fully-loaded trim includes electrically adjustable front seats with heating and cooling functions, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Harman Kardon sound system.

As one of the first brands to introduce Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) in India, the C40 Recharge offers features such as collision avoidance and mitigation, lane-keeping aid, post-impact braking, driver alertness monitoring, and run-off mitigation. Safety-wise, it also includes seven airbags and a 360-degree camera.

Rivals

The Volvo C40 Recharge is expected to have a starting price of around Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom). While it doesn’t have any direct rivals at the moment, it will compete with other electric vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, BMW i4, and its own sibling, the XC40 Recharge.

News

REV’IT! Presents The Outback 4 H2O Adventure Jacket

Adventure riding requires not only the right bike and proper skill to handle the terrain, it also requires the best gear to keep you safe and protected in ever-changing weather. Indeed, when embarking on long-distance rides, the weather can change from one region to the next, and being caught out in the cold and rain without the proper gear can be a recipe for disaster.

Dutch gear and equipment specialist REV’IT! is no stranger to adventure. In fact, a lot of the gear it has in its collection is specifically designed for adventure-touring. Its newest jacket, the Outback 4 H2O, is a good example of this. Now on its fourth iteration, REV’IT!’s Outback jacket has been designed to offer a customizable fit, and more ventilation than before to provide extra comfort. Of course, REV’IT! doesn’t skimp out on protection, offering some of the best technology when it comes to safety in this jacket.

REV’IT! Presents The Outback 4 H2O Adventure Jacket

The all-new REV’IT! Outback 4 H2O is available in both men’s and women’s sizes, giving you plenty of options for a perfect fit. Even the elbow guards are adjustable, and there are several hook-and-loop straps on the lower and upper arm. Because the cuffs are adjustable, you can wear your gloves inside or outside depending on your preference and the season. Furthermore, the jacket’s collar and waist can be adjusted to fit your demands.

As standard, the jacket has SEEFLEX CE-level 2 protection for the shoulders and elbows. It also has SEESOFT CE protection inserts on the back and chest. To round off your ideal travel ensemble, add the Neon Connector vest for visibility or the Challenger cooling vest for comfort. Reflective patches are built into the fabric to enhance visibility in all lighting conditions. These reflective portions are fused to the fabric using a welding procedure, which eliminates seams and improves the overall protection and longevity of the jacket.

REV’IT! Presents The Outback 4 H2O Adventure Jacket
REV’IT! Presents The Outback 4 H2O Adventure Jacket

The jacket’s thermal lining has an interior pocket for keeping personal belongings. There is also an easy-access internal Napoleon pocket, a rear patch pocket, two hand warmer pockets, two internal pockets, two front patch pockets, and one waterproof internal pocket. The integrated ventilation sections offer excellent airflow, efficiently keeping you cool while riding.

News

Beta Updates The RX 300 Motocross Machine For The European Market

Italian brand Beta is well-known for its off-road models and success in the world of enduro and motocross. In the European market, Beta has launched the RX 300, a model specifically designed for competitive motocross. While the RX 300 has been available in the U.S. market since 2021, the European version comes with updated features that cater to the motocross segment. Let’s take a look at some of the key details.

When it comes to technology, the RX 300 is equipped with a 300cc, two-stroke, single-cylinder engine that incorporates several performance-oriented enhancements. For instance, the engine boasts a higher compression ratio and a square bore and stroke of 72 x 72 millimeters. The crankshaft has also been redesigned to be lighter, resulting in increased linear power and faster acceleration. Additionally, the rider can fine-tune the valve timing based on their preferences and track conditions.

Beta Updates The RX 300 Motocross Machine For The European Market

The new Beta RX 300 also features an adjustable clutch that provides precise power delivery to the rear wheel. Derived from the RR models, the clutch springs offer three points of preload adjustability for easy tuning. In terms of suspension, the RX 300 is equipped with fully adjustable components from Kayaba. The front end boasts a long-travel 48-millimeter inverted fork, offering more travel than the RR 300 enduro model. Meanwhile, the rear shock has been tuned to handle motocross terrains with greater effectiveness.

As for the underpinnings, the Beta RX 300 shares a frame similar to that of the RR 300 enduro model. It rides on 21-inch front and 19-inch rear wheels equipped with Michelin Starcross 6 tires. Nissin brakes, with a 260-millimeter front and 240-millimeter rear, bring the bike to a stop. In terms of electronics, Beta has minimized the RX 300’s features to ensure simple operation. The electric starter switch is positioned on the right side of the handlebar, while the ignition kill switch is located on the left side. Additionally, the bike is equipped with a lithium battery to reduce weight.

Finally, the Beta RX 300 features restyled graphics in classic Beta colors. Although European pricing has yet to be announced, the availability of the bike is expected before the end of June 2023.

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