Tag Archives: been

News

The Evolution Of Toyota’s Hydrogen Combustion Engine

Automotive manufacturers have been attempting to revolutionize the fuel industry for a few decades now. Toyota was one of the front-runners in this effort with their hybrid systems, first introduced in the Prius. While many believe that electric vehicles (EVs) are the way forward, Toyota and others are skeptical about their practicality and environmental impact. As a result, Toyota has invested significant time and resources into hydrogen power, and their efforts may just save the internal combustion engine.

Hydrogen is seen as one of the most promising environmentally friendly power sources for vehicles. Toyota has used hydrogen in combination with batteries to eliminate charging time and reduce emissions. With this technology, vehicles can be refueled with hydrogen at fuel stations, offering convenience to drivers. Additionally, hydrogen-powered vehicles require smaller and fewer batteries compared to traditional EVs, making them more environmentally friendly. Toyota has even explored the idea of using hydrogen in conventional internal combustion engines as a replacement for petrol. Since hydrogen fuel produces water as a byproduct, successfully implementing this technology would revolutionize the automotive industry.

Toyota has made significant progress in this area, developing hydrogen-powered engines such as the 1.6-liter Yaris and the 5.0-liter V-8 from the Lexus RC-F, in collaboration with Yamaha. These engines retain the power and performance of their petrol counterparts, with minimal modifications required. This means that existing production lines and engine designs can be used, further benefiting the environment. In the future, Toyota may even offer hydrogen conversion kits for petrol-powered vehicles, allowing classic car enthusiasts to keep their beloved machines on the road without the need for costly conversions or excessive road taxes.

However, there are some downsides to hydrogen engines, specifically related to the storage of hydrogen. The fuel requires large tanks, reducing interior space in vehicles, and it is highly flammable, necessitating leak-proof and durable storage systems. Once these storage challenges are addressed, the installation of hydrogen fuel stations could be more straightforward compared to EV chargers, as they can utilize existing infrastructure for normal fuels.

BMW

UPDATE: BMW M Hybrid V8 celebrates historic first victory at IMSA race in Watkins Glen.

Watkins Glen. The BMW M Team RLL has secured the win in the 6-hour race of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship at Watkins Glen in the USA. Connor De Phillippi and Nick Yelloly finished in second place but were later awarded first place due to a technical violation by the first-place Porsche. This marks the first-ever victory for the BMW M Hybrid V8, with the last BMW prototype win in North America dating back to 1999 at Sebring with the BMW V12 LMR.

Reactions to the victory:

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “Wow! This is a historic day for BMW M Motorsport and a significant milestone for our LMDh project. Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved in this program. While we would have preferred to win on the track, this success is a well-deserved reward for the hard work put in by our team. I’m particularly proud of our consistent strong performance throughout the weekend, setting the top times and earning our first victory in the GTP class.”

Nick Yelloly (#25 BMW M Hybrid V8, 1st place): “I’m incredibly happy for the team. They have worked hard and truly earned this victory. We have been steadily improving, and although winning on the track is our preference, we gratefully accept this victory. It’s not only the first win for the BMW M Hybrid V8 but also my first in the IMSA series, making it even more special for all of us.”

Note to the editors:

Please refer to the initial version of the press release for further race details and Augusto Farfus’ response to his accident.

Featured

Maserati Confirms Long-Term Commitment To Formula E

Maserati recently held a roundtable discussion to talk about its performance and future in Formula E, reaffirming its long-term commitment to the sport. The discussion was led by Giovanni Tommaso Sgro, head of Maserati Corse, along with drivers Edoardo Mortara and Maximilian Günther. The team achieved its first victory in the sport at the 2023 Jakarta E-Prix, which was also Maserati’s first single-seater victory since 1957.

Prior to the race in Portland, OR, Sgro emphasized the importance of Maserati being the first Italian carmaker to compete in Formula E. This aligns with Maserati’s goal of offering electric versions of its cars by 2025 and transitioning to full electric by 2030. As a result, Maserati plans to stay in Formula E for the long term.

In addition to striving for high-level performance in a growing sport, Maserati recognizes the significance of its fanbase in Formula E. Sgro highlighted that the fanbase is not only comprised of traditional car enthusiasts but also includes a large number of tech enthusiasts. Maserati sees this as an opportunity to tap into a previously untapped customer base.

Maserati’s participation in Formula E allows it to reach a new audience while showcasing its electric vehicles, such as the recently released all-electric GT Folgore and upcoming EVs like the Grecale Folgore.

Although Maserati is committed to electrification and Formula E, it also plans to compete in other areas of motorsport. This includes the MC20 GT2, which was recently unveiled, and the limited production track-only Project 64. These endeavors demonstrate Maserati’s dedication to its racing heritage and long-term involvement in motorsport.

Motorsport

Toyota Supra Drag Racing Challenger Hellcat Puts Up A Good Fight

The Toyota Supra has always been popular among JDM enthusiasts, despite some reservations about the latest generation being based on the BMW Z4 and not being built in Japan. On the other hand, the Dodge Challenger, particularly in Hellcat trim, is considered the embodiment of modern American muscle cars. The video showcased at the top of this page demonstrates a modern showdown between domestic and import vehicles, reminiscent of the battles between previous-gen A80 Supra, Dodge Viper, and Ford Mustang SVT Cobra in the past.

The video features two races, each featuring a modern Supra and a modern Challenger Hellcat. At first glance, it may seem like the American car would easily outperform the Toyota, given its specifications.

The Hellcat is equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that produces an impressive 717 horsepower, sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its weight of 5,450 pounds (2,472 kg), the saying “there’s no replacement for displacement” holds true for this car.

On the other hand, the Supra is available in the United States with two engine options: a base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 hp, and a more powerful 3.0-liter inline-six engine generating 382 hp. Although this is nearly half of what the Hellcat offers, the Supra is lighter at 4,001 lbs (1,814 kg).

It is unclear whether the cars in the video are stock or modified. However, it is possible that the outcome of the races could have been different if the drivers had been more cautious during the launch.

What are your thoughts on this modern domestic versus import battle? Share your opinions in the comments section below.

Featured

Would You Buy This Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition?


The Rhino edition has been introduced in Malaysia with the SUV’s three-door version, limited to just 30 units

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

  • The Maruti Jimny Rhino edition only receives visual changes and there are no alterations to the features or powertrain.

  • Highlights of the Rhino edition include a vintage mesh grille, more cladding, decals, and the ‘Rhino’ badging.

  • The all-black interior remains unchanged, except for more premium foot mats.

  • It is equipped with the same 1.5-liter petrol engine with 4WD as the India-spec model.

  • The launch of the Maruti Jimny in India is expected in the future, with the possibility of other limited editions.

The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is available as a three-door model in various international markets. It is particularly popular in Malaysia, where it has received a stylish Jimny Rhino Edition. While the changes are purely cosmetic, its unique appearance is quite appealing. The ‘Rhino’ name is associated with Suzuki’s off-roading club, which consists of Jimnys and older Grand Vitaras.

Exterior Design Changes

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

The Jimny Rhino features an old-school grille with ‘Suzuki’ lettering instead of the logo. The mesh grille is surrounded by a dark chrome panel that also houses the round headlights. The front bumper has been slightly modified with new sturdy cladding.

On the hood, there are exclusive decals that also run along the sides of the vehicle. The mudguards are red, and there is a large decal along the bottom half of the door. The side of the vehicle is equipped with additional claddings to enhance its off-roading capabilities.

The rear profile remains unchanged, except for the ‘Rhino’ logo on the boot and a similar covering for the spare wheel.

Also Read: Maruti Jimny Waiting Period Already Extends Beyond 6 Months

Few Interior Changes

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

The interior design remains unchanged, except for the addition of premium foot mats. It retains the same all-black theme without any upgraded features. While the Jimny in Malaysia is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen system, the India-spec five-door model comes with a more premium 9-inch unit that includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the top variant.

No Changes To The Powertrain

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

The Jimny in India and Malaysia is powered by the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 4×4 capability as standard. In India, buyers have the option of a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the three-door version in Malaysia is only available with the latter.

Also Read: Here’s How You Can Personalise Your Maruti Jimny

Heading To India?

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

While it is too early to say for certain, it is possible that we may see this Jimny Rhino Edition or similar limited editions in India in the future. The Rhino Edition is considered a collector’s version as only 30 units will receive this treatment. In order to make it more appealing, it is expected that there will be special editions for the five-door Jimny in the coming years. The current price range for the Jimny in India is between Rs 12.74 lakh and Rs 14.89 lakh (ex-showroom).

Read More on: Jimny on road price

Motorsport

New Mercedes-Benz EQG Spy Video Shows Electric SUV with Concealed Box Design

It has been more than six months since we had the chance to experience the electric Mercedes-Benz EQG. The SUV is expected to make its debut before the year ends, but a recent video reveals that the highly anticipated model is still undergoing testing, wrapped in full-body camouflage.

Despite the coverings that hide the grille and other design elements, Mercedes cannot hide the EQG’s signature boxy design, which has been a defining feature of the model since its inception. The electric G-Class draws inspiration from the EQG Concept, which was unveiled at the 2021 Munich Motor Show. It is unlikely that the production version will deviate significantly from the concept’s overall styling.


News

MG 4 XPower: Powerful Electric Hot Hatch with 429bhp and 239-mile Range

Learn about the specifications of the MG 4 XPower hot hatch, which will be officially unveiled later this summer.

The XPower features a high-performance electric powertrain that delivers an impressive 429bhp and 443lb ft of torque, more than double the power of the MG 4 Long Range.

With this power, the XPower can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds, on par with top petrol-engined hot hatches such as the Mercedes-AMG A45 (3.9sec), and has a top speed of 124mph.

While the hot hatch uses the same 62kWh battery as the Long Range model, the range has been reduced from 281 miles to 239 miles due to the significant increase in performance.

Charging the XPower from 10% to 80% takes 35 minutes when using a 150kW charger.

Inside, the XPower is similar to the regular Trophy model, but with some changes including Alcantara bucket seats and metal pedals.

The XPower also comes equipped with a “dynamic driving management” system that provides data such as lap times and a g-force meter.

It is not yet known if the XPower will have any styling changes to reflect its sporty nature, such as a wide-arch body kit or rear spoiler. In China, where the car is called the Mulan Triumph edition, it features bright-green paint and a wider, lower stance.

MG Mulan Triumph Edition front

A major car dealer listing suggests that the XPower will come with 18-inch alloy wheels in a “cyclone” design and orange-painted brake calipers.

The starting price for the XPower is expected to be £36,495, excluding optional extras. Additional features include an exclusive British Racing Green paint finish priced at £800.

The XPower is anticipated to be showcased as the “sporting” model alongside the MG Cyberster electric roadster and the new EX4 concept car at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Little information is available about the EX4 at this time, but MG has described it as a “dramatic” prototype that has been designed and built in Britain.

Gaming, News

Razer Introduces Skins for Xbox Series X, PS5, Steam Deck, and Laptops

Razer, Inc. is a company that was established in 2005 and operates in both the United States and Singapore. Over the years, they have developed a wide range of technology products, including consumer electronics and gaming hardware. The brand is particularly known for its sleek and modern design, especially in the gaming industry. Their product lineup includes webcams, headsets, charging stands for game controllers, gaming mice, and even gaming chairs. In addition to these, Razer also offers its own line of gaming laptops and innovative devices that enhance the gaming experience, such as the Kishi V2, a controller that can be attached to an iPhone to transform it into a mobile gaming console.

While some of the products offered by Razer are a bit unique, like their environmentally-conscious reusable straws, they have also recently released more conventional items. For instance, in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company launched the Razer Zephyr, an air-purifying face mask priced at $100. This mask was compatible with N95 filters and featured two-speed fans. One might be surprised to learn that Razer took quite some time to introduce custom skins for devices like MacBooks and Steam Decks, considering it aligns with their brand. However, it is expected that Razer will release more patterns and potentially skins for other devices in the future.

News

Sweet 1969 Honda CB750 Sandcast In California Is Looking For A New Home

If you’ve been wanting a Honda CB750 K0 Sandcast, there’s one for sale in San Bruno, California. This 1969 CB750 Sandcast was restored in 1998 and the current seller acquired it in 2022. The bike is nonoperational and registered as such in California. It has only 248 miles on the odometer, with the total mileage unknown. The bike is being offered at no reserve.

The standout feature of this bike is its 736cc single overhead cam inline four-cylinder engine, which has a uniquely textured engine case due to the sandcasting method used by Honda on approximately 7,400 bikes. Later versions of the CB750s used die casting instead of sandcasting.


1969 Honda CB750 Sandcast - Engine Closeup

17 Photos

This 1969 CB750 has been refinished in red with gold and black details and hand-painted pinstripe work on the tank. The tank has also been replaced. Chrome accents complement the restoration and give the bike a complete and correct look. The seller mentions that all the parts used in the restoration are new old stock, with no reproduction parts used. The frame was treated and painted to match Honda’s original specifications.

Before the bike is sold, the front brake caliper and carburetors were rebuilt. Other work done includes an engine compression check, replacement of engine cover gaskets, points, points plate, and condensers. However, there are no videos available showing the bike running, only high-quality photos.

This listing is available on Bring a Trailer with no reserve. As of June 22, 2023, the current bid is $16,000. The auction will end on Wednesday, June 28, 2023, at 1:22 p.m. Eastern Time.

News

Mazda MX-5 Miata Electric: Everything We Know So Far

# Mazda MX-5 Miata Electric: Everything We Know So Far

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has long been known as a lightweight, affordable, and two-seater sports car. It was first revealed in 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show and quickly gained popularity for its timeless design and sleek silhouette. The fourth generation of the MX-5 debuted in 2014 and has been praised for its technical prowess and nimble handling. However, with the automotive industry shifting towards electric vehicles due to stricter emissions regulations, there have been speculations about the future of the MX-5. Mazda recently announced its plans to transition to full electrification by 2030, raising questions about the fate of the iconic sports car. While there is still limited information about the upcoming Mazda MX-5 Miata Electric, it is expected to be worth the wait.

## Mazda Commits To The Original MX-5 Design

Mazda plans to electrify its entire lineup by 2030, with 25% of its models being fully battery-electric. The challenge for the Mazda MX-5 Miata, and other small roadsters, is adding weight while maintaining its inherent lightness. Batteries add significant weight, so a hybrid setup is the most likely outcome. This setup allows the car to maintain its portability without sacrificing acceleration. Mazda’s current powertrain portfolio includes mild hybrid and 48-volt versions, which are expected to be used in the MX-5 Electric. Mazda assures customers that despite the changes, the essence of the MX-5 Miata will remain the same – a lightweight, affordable, and open two-seater sports car.

## Mazda Is Investing In Miata Electric For More Features

Mazda has announced a $10.6 billion investment plan for speedy electrification. A video released by Mazda provides clues about the features of the upcoming MX-5. The video showcases a hardtop coupé body style with Lamborghini-style scissor doors, hinting at the new Miata design. The model’s chassis also includes a space for a longitudinally mounted motor, a feature not commonly seen in electric cars. Mazda has also revealed other electric vehicles in its lineup, including a petrol range extender version of the MX-30 and a follow-up to the CX-60 called the CX-80. Mazda plans to introduce a new hybrid system and additional battery-electric vehicles between 2025 and 2027.

## The Mazda Miata Electric Will Be Affordable

The Mazda MX-5 Miata Electric aims to be an affordable option among electric roadsters. While other upcoming electric sports cars like the MG Cyberster and the Porsche 718 Cayman are expected to be more expensive, Mazda plans to offer a compelling driving experience at a fraction of the cost. Mazda has previous experience with electric vehicles, having released the MX-30 R-EV earlier this year. The company has taken customer feedback into account and aims to improve upon previous models. Despite the challenges and competition, Mazda is committed to producing a high-quality electric MX-5.

## What Does The Future Hold For Mazda MX-5 Miata?

Mazda’s strategy revolves around delivering multiple solutions tailored to customer needs and local driving conditions. The company aims to embrace both hybrid and electric technology to make its mark in the evolving automotive industry. The reveal of the electric MX-5 by Mazda is highly anticipated by enthusiasts. With a goal of complete electrification by 2030, Mazda has time to perfect this project while maintaining its reputation for enthusiastic driving pleasure. Fans hope to see an ambitious product that combines Mazda’s classic design with the benefits of battery technology, creating the ultimate sports car. Only time will tell what the future holds for this iconic legacy.