Tag Archives: away

VolvoCars

Stream More Content in Your Volvo Car with Prime Video and YouTube

Whether you’re recharging, waiting to pick up a loved one, or enjoying a peaceful moment away from the in-laws, your Volvo car now offers enhanced entertainment options. Volvo Cars has introduced Prime Video to Google Play, allowing users to download it in all markets where Google apps and services are available. This makes Volvo one of the first car makers to offer Prime Video in its vehicles.

Additionally, Volvo cars will soon have YouTube available, thanks to the integration of Google into its systems.

Starting from September 18th, Prime Video will be available as a pre-installed app. The rollout will occur gradually through over-the-air updates, market by market.

According to Erik Severinson, the Global Head of New Car Programs at Volvo, “Adding access to services such as Prime Video and YouTube in our cars bolsters the continuously growing list of software and applications to make lives for our drivers better. We are delivering on our promise of building cars that grow with our customers over time.”

It’s important to note that access to video streaming will only be available when the car is fully stationary, ensuring driver safety.

Here are some additional details:

  • Prime Video can be downloaded from Google Play, while YouTube will come pre-installed as part of an over-the-air update.
  • Both apps will be available in Volvo cars with integrated Google systems, globally, except in China, South Korea, and Vietnam.
  • Availability of these features and services may vary between different markets.
  • Data necessary for streaming these services (and other digital services) may not be provided with your Volvo car in certain markets. In markets where it is provided, there may be specific terms, conditions, and limitations.
  • Google, Google Play, and YouTube are trademarks owned by Google LLC.
Motorsport

Updated Kia K5 And Carnival Confirmed To Debut Later This Year

Tucked away in a press release about global sales results in August is news about what Kia has in store for the remainder of the year. Previously known as the Optima, the K5 midsize sedan will get a mid-cycle update later in 2023, roughly four years after the fifth-generation model was unveiled. We’ll also be seeing a facelift for the Carnival minivan, even though the fourth-gen family hauler made its debut in June 2020.

The updated K5 is rumored to receive a curved dual-screen setup akin to the latest K8 while the Carnival is said to get a hybrid powertrain but nothing is official yet. The MPV could get the same screen layout, along with additional equipment on top of the already generous amenities.


Motorsport

2024 VW Golf GTI 380: The Final Model with a Manual Gearbox

The Volkswagen Golf GTI with a manual transmission is coming to an end. To pay tribute to this beloved gearbox, Volkswagen has introduced the 2024 Golf GTI 380 package for models equipped with a manual transmission, regardless of the trim level. This package celebrates the heritage of the manual gearbox.

The 2024 Golf GTI 380 package is a standard offering on every Golf GTI trim that comes with a six-speed manual transmission. It includes a range of visual enhancements. The car features 19-inch gloss black aluminum-alloy wheels borrowed from the Golf R 20th Anniversary Edition. These wheels come wrapped in summer performance tires. Additionally, Volkswagen has painted the roof and mirror caps in gloss black, creating an eye-catching contrast with the GTI’s standard exterior red accents.


News

From the archive: on this day in 1939

We instantly fell in love with the Fiat 500, but when a four-seat version of the ‘clockwork mouse’ was introduced three years later, we had some reservations. After all, it was only 3.3 meters long and had the smallest engine – a 13bhp 570cc four – of any car on the market.

Surprisingly, the only modifications needed to accommodate two more people were a squarer rear, a higher final drive ratio, and half-elliptic rear springs instead of quarter-elliptic ones.

There was no need for concern. After a day with three people, we concluded: “This additional weight can be felt, but the car remains practical and is able to reach the speeds preferred by most family motorists.” It could go up to 50mph and “continues to maintain driving interest to an impressive degree”.

“The engine’s efficiency cannot be denied. It revs freely and performs remarkably for its size.” It was also “delightfully smooth”.

“The ride is exceptionally comfortable. The independent front suspension allows you to drive over rough surfaces without feeling any discomfort or rough treatment.” Although the rear sometimes bounced.

“The steering is not only light but also accurately responsive without any jolts from the road.”

The rear had enough legroom, thanks to new footwells, and the canvas roof could be opened to avoid feeling claustrophobic. It’s no wonder the 500 was produced until 1955, with half a million units made, and has been successfully relaunched four times since then.

America shows us the motoring world of tomorrow

Exhibitions of national achievements have been around for a long time, but the 1939 New York World’s Fair was noteworthy as the first to focus on “the world of tomorrow”.

Our correspondent was extremely impressed with the amount of money that was spent on the fair. He particularly admired General Motors’ Highways and Horizons building, which was as large as two city blocks and featured a massive diesel locomotive at the front.

Inside, there was a vision of America in 1960. Our correspondent experienced this vision while sitting in a row of moving chairs and listening to a narration. The exhibit showed how US cities would be transformed by highways (and skyscrapers), featuring wonders such as elevated and depressed turn-offs, ramped loops that allowed cars to turn at 50mph, flyover junctions, elevated walkways, and even continuous illumination at night.

News

Introducing Ixon’s New Hopper Riding Sneakers

When riding a motorcycle on the street, especially during hot summer weather, it can be tempting to forgo some essential gear. Fortunately, many motorcycle gear and equipment manufacturers create urban gear that keeps you cool and comfortable without compromising on protective features.

Ixon, a French gear and equipment specialist, has recently released the Hopper riding sneakers. These sneakers are made entirely of breathable and lightweight textile fabric, making them almost indistinguishable from casual sneakers. However, they also feature reinforcements that make them durable enough for daily rides. The upper portion is made of a durable and abrasion-resistant Cordura fabric, which incorporates Ripstop technology and neoprene inserts for comfort and elasticity.

Take A Look At Ixon’s New Hopper Riding Sneakers

In addition to their abrasion-resistant exterior, the Hopper sneakers also have heavy-duty reinforcements in key areas such as the toe, heel, and malleolus. The interior features a mesh lining, foam-formed collar, and an elastic instep and lace-up closure for a secure and comfortable fit. These features make the Ixon Hopper certified as personal protective equipment (PPE) according to the EN 13634:2017 standard.

The Ixon Hopper combines functionality with style. Its casual design makes it suitable for both on and off the motorcycle. While it provides ample comfort and protection for urban rides and short trips, it is recommended to wear more heavy-duty gear for longer rides outside the city. Overall, the Hopper is a solid choice for daily riders in search of lightweight motorcycle-approved sneakers.

As for pricing and availability, the Ixon Hopper is available in Tactical Green and all-black color schemes. It can be purchased in sizes ranging from 39 to 47, with a retail price of 149.99 Euros (approximately $164 USD). Pricing and availability may vary by region, so it is recommended to contact your local gear retailer for confirmation. For more information, you can visit Ixon’s official website linked below.

Take A Look At Ixon’s New Hopper Riding Sneakers
Motorsport

Lamborghini Confirms Electric 2+2 Grand Tourer For 2028 Debut

Lamborghini has confirmed that it will release its first-ever electric car in 2028. The electric vehicle (EV) will be a practical 2+2 grand tourer, offering a more daily usable option compared to Lamborghini’s sports cars. Although additional details are not yet available, CEO Stephan Winkelmann has hinted that the EV will have more ground clearance than Lamborghini’s sports cars, but less than the Urus SUV. The car will not be a crossover.

Lamborghini EV

Although specific technical specifications for the EV have not been revealed, Winkelmann has mentioned that it will not be based on an all-Lamborghini platform. Instead, the EV will benefit from the synergies of the Volkswagen Group, similar to the relationship between the Urus and other Volkswagen Group vehicles such as the Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7/Q8, and VW Touareg.

The release of the electric 2+2 grand tourer will follow the launch of the Urus S/Performante and the replacement for the Huracan, both of which will feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain in 2024. Lamborghini’s flagship model, the Reveulto, already has a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) setup with a new V12 engine. The Urus successor, set to be released in 2029, will be an EV. This plan was confirmed by Lamborghini’s CEO in an interview.

For now, order books for the Huracan and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) Urus have been closed since all available production has been sold. The next model after the Huracan will not have an Audi counterpart, as the R8 will be discontinued without a direct replacement. Lamborghini has emphasized that it is financially capable of developing new supercars without assistance.

Motorsport

Ford Mustang Dark Horse R Teaser Shows Race Car In Motion, Debuts Thursday

Ford is set to reveal the Mustang Dark Horse R race car on Thursday. In anticipation, the company released a teaser video showcasing the car in motion, although the clip only offers glimpses of the coupe.

The Dark Horse R was first announced when Ford revealed the S650 Mustang in September 2022. The track-only car is based on the Dark Horse S, another racing variant of the new pony car.

The Dark Horse R will feature racing content inherited from the S, including an upgraded brake system, Multimatic DSSV dampers, hood pins, front and rear tow hooks, an adjustable rear wing, and an upgraded exhaust system.

On the inside, Ford will equip the Dark Horse R with a full FIA-certified safety cage, a race seat with safety belts, a quick-disconnect steering wheel, safety nets, and a fire suppression system. There could be additional exclusive features that will be revealed during the debut.

The teaser video showcases the car’s livery, which is similar to that of other racing Mustangs. While the footage doesn’t provide a clear look at the entire car, we can see glimpses of the rear taillights, wing, and front grille.

The Dark Horse R is not the only race-ready Mustang coming from Ford. The automaker plans to develop six racing derivatives with this model generation for competitions such as NASCAR, NHRA Factory X, and other racing series.

Ford previously unveiled the Mustang GT3 race car, which served as the starting point for the development of the Mustang GT3. The GT3 features new bodywork, performance upgrades, and is powered by a M-Sport-built 5.4-liter V8 engine based on Ford’s Coyote motor.

The full reveal of the Mustang Dark Horse R will take place on Thursday, July 27, at 7 p.m. ET. Stay tuned for more details on Ford’s latest Mustang race car.

News

Adjust Your Chain In One Go With BPA Racing’s Chain Adjustment Tool

Many modern motorcycles are shifting away from the traditional chain-drive system in favor of low maintenance alternatives like belts or shafts. However, most performance-oriented motorcycles still use chains to deliver power to the rear wheel. If you own a chain-driven motorcycle, chain adjustments are likely a part of your regular maintenance routine.

Adjusting the chain on your bike can take anywhere from five minutes to an hour, depending on the model. Some lower-end motorcycles have finicky chain adjusters that make it difficult to align both sides of the axle. On the other hand, higher-end motorcycles have precise chain adjusters that don’t move when the axle is loosened. However, aligning the rear wheel is not the only challenge. Achieving the right amount of chain slack can require multiple attempts, as you manually measure the chain’s movement with a ruler or tape measure.

Adjust Your Chain In One Go With BPA Racing's Chain Adjustment Tool

However, BPA Racing has developed a unique solution to help you save time and effort when working on your motorcycle. Their chain adjustment tool simplifies the process by allowing you to set your bike’s chain slack in one go.

To use the tool, you first need to adjust your chain correctly and calibrate the tool accordingly. Once calibrated, attach the tool to your chain and adjust the tension until the lines align. From then on, you can easily handle chain adjustments by referencing the calibrated tool. This tool is especially convenient for individuals who frequently perform maintenance on their bikes, such as off-road or track riders.

The BPA Racing chain adjustment tool is made of stainless steel and features aluminum rings and a handle for easy operation. The kit comes in a case and includes a spanner and torx key for calibration. You can purchase BPA Racing’s products from their official website, with the chain adjustment tool currently priced at $45.95 USD, discounted from the standard price of $89.95 USD.

Adjust Your Chain In One Go With BPA Racing's Chain Adjustment Tool
Motorsport

1987 Range Rover Abandoned In Forest Only Has 23,000 Miles On The Odometer

Abandoned cars can be found in various places such as garages, barns, forests, and fields. One interesting example of an abandoned car is a 1987 Land Rover Range Rover discovered in a forest in Wales. Surprisingly, this car has only driven 23,000 miles.

The exterior of the Land Rover is covered in dirt and leaves. The hood is hidden under decaying foliage, and the car’s surface has green lesions. Inside the cabin, which now serves as a storage space for other forgotten items, the interior remains in fairly good condition. The buttons on the center console are still shiny, and the dials on the dashboard clearly display the mileage of 23,000.

Despite being abandoned in the woods for a long time, the Range Rover’s engine and underbody appear to be in good shape. The engine bay is dirty, but the engine itself looks well-maintained. There is a sticker indicating that the car was last registered for the road in 2005, suggesting it has been sitting there since then. The tires, although flat, still have a considerable amount of tread.

The Range Rover was discovered alongside an old Subaru Impreza and another Land Rover, both in poor condition. These vehicles are also covered in dirt and sap, with flat tires and their wheels sunken into the ground.

Through a check of the car’s license plate, it is confirmed that this low-mileage Range Rover is a 1987 model. The original blue color can still be faintly seen beneath all the dirt. The Land Rover is equipped with a 3.5-liter V8 engine, which had a power output of 165 horsepower 35 years ago and a top speed of 107 miles per hour.

It is perplexing to think about why someone would abandon a car in the woods. It’s sad that someone parked it there, walked away, and never returned. Clearly, the car and its contents were once important to someone, but now they are left to decay. Despite its less than excellent condition, the low mileage of this SUV makes it an ideal candidate for restoration.

Motorsport

Massive Ferrari “Barn Find” Features 20 Cars Lost In Hurricane Charley

Not far from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway sits a collection of Ferraris hidden away for decades. The collection contains some of the most storied cars, including a 1956 250 GT, once owned by King Mohamed V of Morocco, and a “long-nose” 275 GTB that participated in the 1966 Targa Florio. While the location in Indiana may seem odd for this collection, how they arrived is even more unusual. 

Hurricane Charley laid waste to many parts of south-central Florida in 2004, causing flooding and widespread damage. In its path sat a barn containing approximately 20 rare and vintage Ferraris. The collection includes cars dating from 1954 to 1991, including the aforementioned 250 GT and 275 GTB as well as a rare Mondial 500 Spider that raced in the 1954 Mille Miglia and a NART 1978 Ferrari 512 BB Competizione developed by Luigi Chinetti Sr. for the 1978 24 Hours of Le Mans.  

The 2004 hurricane season was unusually destructive, with four major storms, including Charley, that caused over $60 billion in damage and more than 3,000 deaths throughout the Caribbean and Gulf Coast of the US. For that reason, this collection of Ferraris was relocated to the warehouse in Indiana, where they remained untouched for almost 20 more years. 

Join owners and enthusiasts discussing this topic at FerrariChat.com!

Several of these cars still bear scars from Hurricane Charley, when the barn they were located in partially collapsed. The damage includes everything from dents and scratches to smashed windshields and caved-in roofs. Other cars look unscathed but need a good detailing to revive their appearances. All of them are in original, unrestored condition, wearing their original paint and patina. 

While many people knew of the cars from their racing histories, few knew they still existed, and only a select group knew of the collection. It’s the holy grail of barn finds for Ferrari collectors and aficionados. And now the entire collection is for sale as part of this year’s RM Sotheby’s auction in Monterrey, California.       

If you’re shopping for a Ferrari, or are interested browsing a diverse collection of Ferraris, check out the ones for sale on the duPont Registry. The list includes modern cars like the Ferrari F8 Tributo and SF90 Stradale and vintage Ferraris like the Dino 246 GTS and 512 BBi.