Motorsport

Perseverance Rover Lego Kit Debuts For You To Explore Mars From Your Desk

Lego has announced a new model of the NASA Mars Perseverance Rover, which comes with advanced features. The kit includes 360-degree steering, a fully articulated suspension, and a movable arm. It will be available for purchase on August 1, 2023, for $99.99.

With a total of 1,132 pieces, this Lego model is recommended for builders aged 10 and above. Once completed, the model measures 12.5 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. It includes various replicated features of the rover such as the power unit, antennae, cameras, and scientific instruments. Additionally, the kit also includes a miniature version of the Ingenuity flying drone.


Motorsport

MG EX4 Hot EV Revealed On Twitter Before Goodwood Debut

MG Motor, a British-based, Chinese-owned automaker, has unveiled the EX4 all-electric hot hatch concept on Twitter. The car will make its official debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this weekend.

The EX4 concept is based on the road-going MG4 XPower, which is equipped with a dual-motor setup delivering 429 horsepower and up to 442 pound-feet of torque. Although MG has not revealed the specs of the concept car, they have confirmed that both the street-legal MG4 XPower and the upcoming Cyberster electric roadster will be showcased at Goodwood alongside the EV hot hatch.

With its massive front splitter, enlarged wheel arches, green spoiler, and full-width diffuser, the EX4 concept is a tribute to the Metro 6R4 Group B rally car from the 1980s. The Metro 6R4 was known for its central-mounted 3.0-liter V6 engine producing up to 410 horsepower and powering all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.

The interior of the EX4 has not been revealed in the video, so there are still some surprises to look forward to at Goodwood.

The original Metro had success in rallycross events, and the standard Metro was a popular car in the UK between 1980 and 1997, selling approximately 1.5 million units.

Although it is unlikely that a road-legal version of the all-electric MG EX4 will be released due to safety concerns, it is exciting to see the British brand paying homage to its past in a modern way.

What are your thoughts on the MG EX4? Share your opinions in the comments section below!

Motorsport

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N: A Powerful Electric Car with 641 HP and Simulated Eight-Speed Gearbox

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has made its official debut at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. This new model represents N’s first foray into the world of high-performance electric cars, and it won’t be their last. Hyundai has big plans for its N sub-brand and sees the hot Ioniq 5 as the first step in its electrification strategy.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is equipped with two electric motors, resulting in a total output of 600 horsepower (448 kilowatts) and 545 pound-feet (740 Newton-meters) of torque. It’s worth noting that these numbers may change slightly before production begins. However, with the N Grin Boost function engaged, the power increases to an impressive 641 hp (478 kW) and 567 lb-ft (770 Nm) of torque. The N Grin Boost function is a temporary boost that lasts for 10 seconds.


Motorsport

Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS With Manthey Kit Sets Impressive Nurburgring Lap Time

Porsche has unveiled an upgraded version of the track-focused 718 Cayman GT4 RS. The new Manthey kit, developed in collaboration with Porsche Motorsport and Nurburgring specialists Manthey, enhances the car’s aerodynamics and suspension for improved track performance. This modification has enabled the sports car to complete the Nurburgring circuit in an impressive 7 minutes and 3.121 seconds. This time is more than six seconds faster than the stock model’s time. Porsche ambassador Jorg Bergmeister was behind the wheel for this record-breaking attempt, with the car equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires.


BMW

Exploring the Swedish Baltic Coast in a MINI Cooper S Convertible during Long Summer Nights

Stockholm. The summer nights in Sweden seem to go on forever, providing an opportunity for relaxation and outdoor activities. One way to make the most of these long summer days is by embarking on a summer adventure along the Swedish Baltic coast in a MINI Cooper S Convertible. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Stockholm, a short drive towards Östhamra on the E18 sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. The scenic routes 276 and 278 guide travelers through picturesque countryside and eventually lead to the coast.

Island Paradise. The archipelago northeast of Stockholm is known for its rugged coastline, created by the Baltic Sea. The area is dotted with numerous small islands, providing a sense of vastness and tranquility. When driving the MINI Cooper S Convertible with its top down (fuel consumption combined: 6.6-6.2 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 151-141 g/km according to WLTP), the feeling of space is intensified, with picturesque wooden houses painted in the typical Swedish red lining the shore. This distinct color originates from iron hydroxide extracted in Swedish mines, which turns into iron oxide, or rust, when exposed to air. This natural phenomenon gives the wooden huts their unique and charming appearance, adding to the beauty of the Baltic Sea landscape.

The combination of abundant sunshine, the open roof, and the captivating view of the water creates an irresistible urge to dive into the refreshing sea. Before venturing further into the archipelago, a stop at Solöbadet is highly recommended. The MINI Cooper S Convertible, adorned with a Melting Silver III body and luxurious Chester Malt Brown leather seats, blends harmoniously with the surrounding scenery, making one eager to continue the journey.

After a swim, a short detour north leads to the island of Marholmen, where the festival meadow is adorned with a beautifully decorated maypole. This small islet, like the rest of the country, celebrates the summer solstice with joyous singing and dancing. Midsummer in Sweden is a time of community gathering and creating lasting memories filled with laughter, music, and happiness.

Endless Exploration. The shimmering water, forest-covered islands, and picturesque bays make it easy to lose track of time, especially during the Midsummer Festival. The bright daylight at all hours can deceive, but the tantalizing Nordic cuisine featuring fresh fish and crisp vegetables serves as a reminder of the passing time. The MINI Cooper S Convertible, equipped with a dynamic Steptronic sports automatic transmission and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds, allows for swift and exhilarating driving experiences while exploring the eastern end of the archipelago. As the day draws to a close, a restaurant on Furusund offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with freshly caught culinary delights.

While enjoying a meal, the sky transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle of colors, characteristic of this time of year. Rather than being enveloped in darkness, the horizon glows with a captivating blend of blue, purple, orange, and pink hues, even approaching midnight. Under this enchanting ambiance, the top of the MINI Cooper S Convertible remains open late into the night. The unique combination of freedom and driving pleasure perfectly complements the Swedish summer highlight, leaving lasting memories as the winding archipelago leads back to Stockholm.

ToyotaUk

Toyota Racing Development Presents the First Global Simulation Summit

The inaugural Toyota Global Simulation Summit, organized by Toyota Racing Development (TRD), took place earlier this year in Salisbury, North Carolina. The event brought together professionals from the motorsports industry and Toyota affiliates to explore the potential of simulation technology. The summit highlighted the role of driver-in-the-loop simulators in improving chassis designs for race cars and discussed how simulation can expedite the development of advanced mobility solutions for production vehicles.

Steve Wickham, TRD’s business development director, played a crucial role in organizing the summit. He recognized the need to connect simulation enthusiasts within Toyota and create a platform for knowledge exchange. Wickham’s efforts paid off as the event was attended by approximately 40 individuals in person and an equal number virtually, representing five countries and various Toyota affiliates.

The three-day summit consisted of presentations, open discussions, hands-on experience with TRD’s simulation capabilities, and a tour of Toyota’s high-tech facilities in North Carolina. The gathering provided an opportunity for attendees to share their challenges and learn from each other’s approaches.

Command Center — Here’s the business end to TRD’s driver-in-loop simulator.

Simulation technology combines hardware and software components to replicate driving experiences and test virtual vehicles. This technology is not only valuable for motorsports teams seeking to enhance race car performance but also holds immense potential for Toyota’s engineers in developing safer and more advanced production vehicles. It can aid in the development of autonomous driving systems and expedite the time from concept to finished product, resulting in cost reductions.

Taking It for a Spin — Vangelis Kokkevis, director of simulation for Woven Planet North America, takes a seat behind the wheel of TRD’s driver-in-loop simulator

Regarding future possibilities, Wickham envisions a significant transformation for Toyota. He believes that reducing reliance on physical prototypes and utilizing simulation technology could lead to substantial savings and faster time-to-market. The success of the inaugural summit has set a strong foundation for future collaborations and follow-up meetings.

PeugeotUk

PEUGEOT #CAMOCATCH OPERATION: THE CHALLENGE IS ON

PEUGEOT’s #CamoCatch operation, which involves the general public in the launch of the new E-3008, is now in its final phase: The #CamoCatch Challenge. This summer, PEUGEOT challenges everyone to take photos of the camouflaged E-3008 during its final testing on the open road. Lucky winners will have the opportunity to test drive the new E-3008 themselves.

 

With the new E-3008, PEUGEOT is innovating more than ever. Usually, prototypes are kept confidential and away from the public. However, the new E-3008 is being displayed in full view and involving the general public in its launch.

 

In May, during the initial phase of the operation, PEUGEOT used its social networks to run a vote on the new camouflages intended for the prototypes of the new E-3008.

 

Thousands of votes were received on the brand’s various social networks in June, and three camouflage themes were chosen:

 

  • “Street Art” theme
  • “Optical Art” theme
  • “Prototype” theme

 

These camouflages, selected by the public, were produced in June and applied to the new PEUGEOT E-3008s that will undergo final development tests on European roads this summer.

 

From July 15th to August 15th, the #CamoCatch Challenge invites anyone who comes across one of the camouflaged PEUGEOT E-3008s to take a photo of it, if it’s safe to do so, and share the pictures on their social networks (Facebook and Instagram) with the hashtags #CamoCatch and @PEUGEOT.

 

All camouflaged E-3008s have a QR Code that can be scanned to access the #CamoCatch operation web page. A prize draw will determine the 6 winners who will have an exclusive opportunity to test drive the new E-3008 next year during the press test drives.

 

PEUGEOT has been actively collaborating with young designers and artists since the beginning of 2023. This collaboration, initiated by the brand, has now been extended to an international audience through social media to promote PEUGEOT’s design expertise to as many people as possible.

 

The new PEUGEOT E-3008 will make its public debut in September this year.

 

Citreon

CITROËN ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH CONSTRUCTION CHARITY BAND OF BUILDERS

  • Citroën UK is teaming up with Band of Builders, a construction charity, to provide Dispatch and ë-Dispatch vans for their charitable work across the country.
  • Band of Builders supports tradespeople facing life-changing circumstances due to illness or injury. They offer practical adaptations to homes, as well as financial and well-being support.
  • The Citroën ë-Dispatch is part of the electric Citroën ë-LCV range, which includes the ë-Berlingo Van and ë-Relay.

 

Citroën UK has announced a new partnership with Band of Builders, also known as ‘BoB’.

 

Through this partnership, Band of Builders will benefit from the use of Citroën Dispatch and ë-Dispatch vans for their projects across the UK.

 

Band of Builders not only provides practical support but also financial and emotional assistance to those dealing with challenging circumstances. This collaboration will enable the charity to expand its reach and help more people and projects.

 

The charity undertakes various projects, including the installation of ramps for improved accessibility, home renovations, and landscaping. The Citroën vans will facilitate the transportation of materials and equipment to project sites nationwide, enhancing the charity’s capabilities.

 

Gavin Crane, CEO of Band of Builders, expressed his pride in partnering with Citroën UK and the opportunity to utilize their fully branded Dispatch and ë-Dispatch vans for various projects and events across the country.

 

Greg Taylor, Managing Director of Citroën UK, praised the impactful work of Band of Builders and the opportunity to support their expansion. He encouraged everyone to keep an eye out for the distinctive Dispatch and ë-Dispatch vans, which will be making a difference nationwide in the months ahead.

 

NOTE FOR EDITORS: Photographs taken at handover of completed Band of Builders project, July 2023.

 

Featured

RARE 1-of-1 PTS Miami Blue 2021 Ford GT For Sale

The Ford GT is a legendary supercar that represents American automotive excellence. Its historic victory at the 1966 Le Mans race was a milestone for American supercars. Today, the Ford GT continues to be a symbol of innovation, performance, and design. Chicago Motor Cars, the luxury automotive specialists, are proud to offer this stunning 2021 Ford GT with a unique Miami Blue finish from Porsche.

The Miami Blue paint is an exclusive upgrade option that comes with a $30,000 price tag. To protect the paint, the car is also equipped with a full paint protection film. The build includes Ford’s factory exterior carbon fiber package and aftermarket 20/21-inch silver HRE wheels that beautifully complement the vibrant blue paint.

Inside the Ford GT, the focus is on simplicity and elegance. The black leather and Alcantara interior features carbon sports bucket seats with the “GT” logo embroidered on the headrests. The driver-centric cabin keeps the controls relatively hidden, allowing the driver to fully experience the Ford GT on and off the track.

The Ford GT is powered by a 3.5-liter Twin-Turbo 6-Cylinder Ecoboost engine that delivers over 647 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. It is equipped with a sophisticated 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds. With a top speed of 216 mph, the Ford GT is a true track performer. This rare 2021 Ford GT is currently available for sale at Chicago Motor Cars.

To view the price and listing for this unique Ford GT, click on the link below:

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Featured

Audi RS 6 Performance Avant vs Audi R8: Which Wins A Drag Race?

The Audi R8 Performance Spyder is considered one of the best supercars in the world. It boasts immense power, a convertible top, distinctive style, impressive performance, and, perhaps most notably, the unique and rare sound of a V10 engine. However, Audi is no stranger to creating incredible high-performance vehicles, and the upgraded Audi RS 6 Avant Performance is one of them. The Audi RS 6 Performance may appear as a regular station wagon with sporty styling, but it hides even more power under the hood. Its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine produces a whopping 621 horsepower. On the other hand, the R8 Performance derives 612 horsepower from its naturally-aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine.

Matching up the supercar with the super wagon in a drag race is sure to yield interesting results. Despite the R8 having slightly less power, its lighter weight and sharper focus on performance could give it an advantage. On the other hand, the RS 6, with its higher power output, might outpace the sleek supercar. Additionally, the RS 6 offers the convenience of back seats and trunk space. It’s worth noting that the R8, with its naturally aspirated engine, doesn’t have to worry about turbo lag.

In the first race, the R8 emerged as the winner, although it was a close call. In the second race, the RS 6 made a better launch and took an early lead but eventually succumbed to the R8 towards the end, resulting in another close second-place finish. The R8 completed the quarter-mile in 10.9 seconds, while the RS 6 did it in 11.2 seconds. The races continued in a similar manner, but at the end of the day, even being second is a testament to the remarkable performance of the Audi RS 6 Avant. It can keep up with Audi’s exceptional flagship supercar while offering the convenience of carrying cargo and passengers in the back.

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