Tag Archives: autumn

Technology

One Of The Best SR-71 Blackbird Legends May Have Happened Because Of Faulty Clearance

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In the autumn of 1983, 220 Marines, 18 sailors, and three troopers have been killed by a suicide bomber within the Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. Then-President Ronald Reagan directed surveillance of terrorist cells within the space. Burk and Henichek left RAF Mildenhall AFB in England on a mission over Lebanon. Denied entry to French airspace, their adjusted mission plan included refueling off England’s south coast, a fast transit alongside the coastlines of Portugal and Spain, passage by the Straits of Gibraltar, refueling within the Western Mediterranean, a direct overflight of Beirut, and departure alongside the southern Mediterranean with one other refueling cease over Malta, adopted by a supersonic return by the straits again to England.

“Henichek informed me that our defensive systems display showed that SA-5 was tracking us. About 15 seconds later, we got a warning of active guidance signals from the SA-5 site,” Burk recalled. After getting a low-oil-pressure warning, they altered course for England, crossing France with out authorization. As a outcome, they have been intercepted by a French Mirage III demanding a Diplomatic Clearance Number. Henichek gave them one thing else.

“What he had given him was ‘the bird’ with his middle finger: I lit the afterburners and left that Mirage standing still. Two minutes later, we were crossing the Channel,” Burk recounted.

BMW

BMW model update measures for autumn 2023.

The BMW model line-up will receive several updates in autumn 2023, focusing on the latest advancements in digitalization. Starting from November 2023, the BMW X1 and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will come equipped with the upgraded BMW iDrive featuring QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9. These models will also have access to the BMW Digital Premium offering, which provides customizable online services. Moreover, Remote Software Upgrades will be available for numerous current models, while the My BMW App will have an extended range of functions.

One of the highlights in terms of automated driving systems is the new Highway Assistant, which will be introduced in the new 5 Series Sedan and become available for the BMW 7 Series range from March 2024. Additionally, selected models will receive new exterior colors and light-alloy wheels.

New BMW iDrive with QuickSelect: More intuitive and easier to use than ever.

Starting from November 2023, the upgraded BMW iDrive with QuickSelect will come as standard in the new BMW X1, BMW iX1, and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This system allows for more intuitive and easy operation of various vehicle functions. It is based on BMW Operating System 9 and includes the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The redesigned home screen and QuickSelect feature enhance the menu structure and provide direct access to functions without entering submenus.

New BMW Digital Premium offering: Customized selection of online services.

The new BMW Digital Premium offering will be introduced in Germany in November 2023. It will be available as an option for BMW X1, BMW iX1, and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer models. This package includes a wide range of online services such as gaming, video streaming, music streaming, and news applications. It also offers enhanced navigation functions and customization options.

Enhanced navigation functions, additional My Modes.

BMW Digital Premium enhances the functionality of the BMW Maps navigation system, providing real-time traffic information, 3D visualization of buildings, extended information on parking facilities, and proactive notifications about traffic situations. It also introduces Expressive Mode, Relax Mode, and Digital Art Mode to the My Modes selection.

Current Remote Software Upgrades for enhanced driving pleasure.

Remote Software Upgrades allow for the importation of new features and improvements to existing digital functions over the air. These upgrades will be available for BMW models with BMW Operating System 8.5 starting from autumn 2023, including in-car gaming and video-streaming services.

Extra functions for the My BMW App.

The My BMW App provides customers with direct access to their car’s status, servicing requirements, charging status, and range. It also allows for remote access to functions such as vehicle locating and climate control. From March 2024, the app will enable customers with compatible Android smartphones to operate the Remote Control Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant functions.

New Highway Assistant also coming soon for the BMW 7 Series.

BMW has gained approval for semi-automated driving at speeds up to 130 km/h. The BMW Highway Assistant, which allows the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel for longer periods, will be available as part of the optional Driving Assistant Professional package for the BMW 7 Series from spring 2024.

Additional exterior color for the new BMW 5 Series Sedan, new 21-inch light-alloy wheels for the 7 Series.

The Fire Red metallic paint finish will be added to the exterior color options for the BMW i5 M60 xDrive Sedan from November 2023. Additionally, 21-inch BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design will be available for all BMW 7 Series models.

BMW iX1 xDrive30:

Electric power consumption, combined in the WLTP cycle: 18.1 – 16.8 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions: 0 g/km; figures in NEDC cycle: –

BMW X1 xDrive30e:

Fuel consumption combined: 1.0 – 0.7 l/100 km [282.5 – 403.5 mpg imp]; electric power consumption combined: 16.9 – 14.7 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 23 – 16 g/km in WLTP cycle; figures in NEDC cycle: – 

BMW X1 xDrive 23i:

Fuel consumption combined: 7.2 – 6.5 l/100 km [39.2 – 43.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 163 – 146 g/km in WLTP cycle; figures in NEDC cycle: – 

BMW 223i Active Tourer:

Fuel consumption, combined: 6.6 – 6.0 l/100 km (42.8 – 47.1 mpg imp), CO2 emissions, combined: 149 – 137 g/km based on the WLTP cycle.

BMW i5 M60 xDrive:

Power consumption combined in WLTP cycle: 20.6 – 18.2 kWh/100 km Electric range in WLTP cycle: 455 – 516 km.

BMW i7 M70 xDrive:

Electric power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 23.8 – 20.8, WLTP.

Motorsport

Goodyear Introduces Wrangler DuraTrac RT All-Season Tire for Snow and Off-Road Use

As winter approaches, Goodyear is gearing up by unveiling a new addition to its Wrangler tire lineup. The upgraded version of the DuraTrac series, called DuraTrac RT, is designed for light trucks and SUVs. This all-season, all-terrain tire strikes a balance between durability and off-road grip while maintaining on-road performance. Notably, Goodyear emphasizes the snow grip capabilities of this tire, which is certified with both the Mud and Snow (M+S) rating and the 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake certification (3PMSF) that meets the requirements for severe snow use in the US and Europe.

Goodyear DuraTrac RT

Compared to the standard DuraTrac, the DuraTrac RT features a less aggressive tread pattern, although it still boasts durability for off-road use. The tire incorporates Kevlar protection and a three-ply sidewall to resist punctures and tears. It comes with a 50,000-mile treadwear warranty and is available in 42 different sizes. The DuraTrac RT is compatible with rim sizes ranging from 16 to 20 inches, with the exception of 19-inch wheels which are not offered.

Michiel Kramer, director of product marketing at Goodyear, said, “From summer off-roading to snowy on-road drives, the new Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac RT provides drivers with the power and versatility to take them where they want to go. Engineered with a proven tread pattern featuring more biting edges for enhanced grip, this versatile tire can help drivers take on any road or trail in any weather condition – rain, snow, or shine.”

This is Goodyear’s second recent tire design announcement. The Wrangler Boulder MT was unveiled on September 21, featuring an off-road-focused tread pattern designed for extreme use. It serves as Goodyear’s flagship tire for trucks and SUVs.

Featured

PUMA Launches X-POWER Collection Inspired By Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1

This autumn, PUMA is introducing a new collection called X-POWER that combines style and functionality. Taking inspiration from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, PUMA has created a range of activewear that reflects their commitment to excellence and blends motorsport and street style.

The X-POWER collection includes hoodies, tracksuit pants, t-shirts, and a specially crafted jacket that embodies the bold spirit of the racing team. The collection also features knitted crew neck sweaters that incorporate iconic elements of the team’s Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W14 E Performance car raced by Lewis Hamilton and George Russell in 2023.

PUMA’s X-POWER collection showcases the brand’s innovation and style, leading the way in the sports fashion landscape. Experience the fusion of motorsport and street fashion by exploring and shopping the new PUMA X Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team Collection.

Shop PUMA x Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1

Photos: 7

News

New 2024 Skoda Kodiaq gains hybrid power and overhauled interior

Skoda has announced the details of the upcoming version of its largest SUV, the new Skoda Kodiaq. The SUV will be fully revealed in the autumn and will be available for sale in early 2024. The second-generation Skoda Kodiaq offers more interior space, introduces electrified powertrains, and incorporates various new interior technologies. Skoda provided a sneak peek of the model through a camouflaged prototype.

The new Kodiaq will be offered with two petrol and two diesel engines, ranging in power from 147bhp to 201bhp. All-wheel drive will be available on top models. Additionally, the Kodiaq will now feature hybrid power for the first time. The electrified range includes a 147bhp 1.5-litre TSI mild-hybrid petrol engine and a 201bhp plug-in hybrid as the top of the range option. The plug-in hybrid model utilizes a 25.7kWh battery, enabling it to achieve a range of over 62 miles on electric power alone. Charging can be done at speeds of up to 50kW.

All engine options are paired with a seven-speed DSG automatic transmission, except for the plug-in hybrid model, which comes with a six-speed DSG. The Kodiaq will also undergo an exterior redesign, with the new SUV being 61mm longer than its predecessor. This increase in length allows for a boot space of 910 litres in the five-seat version, while the seven-seat version offers between 340 to 845 litres depending on the seating configuration.

In terms of the interior, the Kodiaq has undergone a significant overhaul. The gear lever has been relocated to the steering column for the first time, and a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen has been installed. The rear now features a new storage compartment with cupholders and a touchscreen display cleaner, and the driver’s door houses Skoda’s signature umbrella.

Klaus Zellmer, Skoda chairman, expressed his confidence in the new Kodiaq, stating, “The Kodiaq has been an absolute success for Skoda ever since its launch in 2016, when it kick-started our SUV campaign.”

News

New Mercedes E-Class Estate offers more space and digital apps

Mercedes is set to release the new E-Class Estate this autumn, featuring increased rear passenger space, enhanced technology, and a range of third-party apps. The new model will be sold alongside the Mercedes E-Class Saloon, which was unveiled earlier this year. Compared to its predecessor, the E-Class Estate is 28mm wider and has a 22mm longer wheelbase of 2961mm.

One of the standout features of the E-Class Estate is its spaciousness. With 615 litres of cargo space, it falls just short of the Volvo V90’s 650 litres and surpasses the Audi A6 Avant’s 586 litres. Folding down the seats allows for a maximum storage capacity of 1830 litres. The plug-in hybrid models offer 460 litres of boot space, which expands to 1675 litres when the seats are folded due to the battery placement.

In terms of design, the E-Class Estate has received a refresh, featuring gloss black elements inspired by the all-electric EQS model range. The new model also boasts a sleeker roofline and a black panel that stretches from the radiator to the headlights.

Continuing the technology-focused approach, Mercedes has equipped the E-Class Estate with the latest generation of its MBUX infotainment system. This system includes features such as augmented reality, voice assistant, and online music streaming. In addition, a suite of digital apps like TikTok, Angry Birds, and Zoom is available. An AI system is present as well, learning the driver’s habits and suggesting relevant functions.

As for autonomous capabilities, the E-Class Estate offers level-four driverless tech with an optional driverless valet parking function, previously exclusive to the S-Class. This feature will be available in markets like Germany, where it is permitted by law.

The new E-Class Estate will initially offer a range of longitudinally mounted four- and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, all with 48V mild-hybrid electrification. The power outputs range from 194bhp to 375bhp, and all engines come with a nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Furthermore, a plug-in hybrid variant will be available, featuring a 24.1kWh battery that offers up to 62 miles of electric-only range.

For improved ride comfort, the estate comes with single-chamber air suspension at the rear as standard, with the option to upgrade to the Airmatic system with adjustable damping. The E-Class Estate has a towing capacity of up to 2.1 tonnes.