Tag Archives: bring

Motorsport

Merkur XR4Ti Restomod Gets an EcoBoost Engine Swap and a Modern Look

In an effort to introduce European vehicles as premium options in the United States, Ford launched the Merkur brand from 1985 to 1989. One of the standout models was the XR4Ti, a sports coupe based on the Sierra from Europe. This amazing restomod from JH Restorations reimagines how a modern version of the XR4Ti could look.

Jesse Henke, the owner of JH Restorations, has been familiar with this particular XR4Ti since high school. It originally belonged to a friend, and they used to work on cars together. After changing hands a few times, Henke eventually acquired the car and spent over three years building this stunning restomod, which recently made its debut at the SEMA Show.

The project started with the plan to replace the original turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with a Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder crate engine. However, the new powerplant was taller than the original, so the team had to add a large bulge in the hood to accommodate it. The exterior was also modified to match the more aggressive look.

JH Restorations meticulously scanned the entire car and created a custom body kit for the XR4Ti. The kit includes a front chin spoiler that protrudes below the nose and widened fenders that make the car 4.0 inches wider. At the rear, there’s a tall wing with a center-mounted support, reminiscent of the European-market Sierra RS Cosworth. The car is finished in Ford’s Area 51 blue color.

In terms of performance, the tuned EcoBoost four-cylinder engine produces around 475 to 500 horsepower, a significant improvement over the original engine’s 175 horsepower. The suspension comes from the SN95 Mustang from the 1990s, as there is much more aftermarket support available for that platform compared to the Merkur.

If you’re impressed by the exterior, you’ll be even more delighted with the interior. JH Restorations found a bolt of blue Recaro fabric from the 1980s and used it to upholster the center sections of the seats and door panels, adding a touch of retro charm. The Blaupunkt stereo appears period-correct but is actually a modern unit with Bluetooth connectivity and a USB plug. The custom gauge cluster, courtesy of Dakota Digital, fits into the original instrument panel’s spot, while the dashboard receives a light blue leather wrap to match the rest of the cabin.

One downside of this build is that JH Restorations finished the car just before SEMA, so they haven’t had the opportunity to take the Merkur on the road yet. We’re eagerly waiting for a video of the XR4Ti in action.

News

Yamaha’s Motoroid2 Concept Gets Its Own Dance Crew To Back It Up

When Yamaha first announced what it planned to bring to Japan Mobility Show 2023, without a doubt, the most attention-grabbing vehicle on display was the Motoroid2 reference vehicle. It’s an evolution of the original Motoroid that it first brought to the Tokyo Motor Show in 2017.  

Since that show was the predecessor of JMS, it’s fitting that the first-ever JMS event is where Yamaha saw fit to show off the advancements it’s made in the past six years. The first iteration of Motoroid touted the concept vehicle’s abiilty to recognize its owner, and to interact with that person “like a living creature.” It’s a concept that likely seemed further away in 2017 than it does in 2023, if I’m honest. 

To show off the Motoroid2’s capabilities in 2023, Yamaha put together this video. The theme of this year’s presentation, which is supposed to encompass everything that Yamaha brought to the show, is “feeling life.”

You’re not just supposed to look at it. You’re supposed to experience it, and Yamaha’s products are supposed to enhance your enjoyment of it in various ways. (Fair enough; I mean, if you’re not having fun on a motorcycle, something is definitely wrong.) 

Yamaha Gets Weird for the Tokyo Motor Show

Yamaha Motoroid at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show

Yamaha Motoroid2 - Front Right Angle View

Yamaha Motoroid2 at Japan Mobility Show 2023

In figuring out how best to demonstrate that the concept can recognize a human face and then interact with that human, someone at Yamaha decided to put together a dance routine. The resulting impression is part robotic pet, part ParaPara Paradise dance game partner. Oddly, it feels less purely futuristic than I imagine that its predecessor probably did in 2017. 

Also, what’s up with the translucent blue protective plastic on some of the surfaces of one of the Motoroid2 demonstration vehicles? I’m not entirely sure if it’s a costume choice, since the blue perfectly echoes the visor on the rider’s helmet. Or is it meant strictly as protection? You know, like the plastic furniture covers at your grandma’s house, so you didn’t disturb the furniture while you sat on it? 

Yamaha Motoroid2

Anyway, Yamaha has also clearly described Motoroid2 as a “personal mobility concept” rather than a motorcycle as we know it, even if it bears a distinct resemblance to a motorcycle. As a reference vehicle, it appears to be indicative of some advancements, including its self-balancing abilities.  

There’s one segment in this video where a rider is mounted on the Motoroid2’s back, and several other Yamaha employees are around as the vehicle slowly moves forward. It looks like one guy on the left could be holding a controller in his hand. Is the rider controlling Motoroid2, or is the guy on the side operating it like an RC car? 

Is this your vision of future mobility? Let us know in the comments. 

News

Top 10 Best Small Electric Cars 2023

The next three years will bring a new level of accessibility to electric car ownership. While electric vehicles (EVs) have already proven to be practical for families and businesses, the coming years will show that they can also be affordable and viable as superminis and city cars with attractive showroom prices and impressive electric range.

In the UK, small hatchbacks have always been popular, and the shift to electric cars won’t change that. The main barriers have been the high prices and the challenges of packaging and weight. However, the compact size, practical interiors, and nimble handling of small cars are well-suited for back roads and suburbs. The electric technology just hasn’t fully met the requirements of small cars.

Battery costs are high and it’s easier to hide them in SUVs, so most of the innovation in EVs has been in the larger segments. It’s also easier to convince someone with multiple cars to have an electric vehicle, compared to someone who relies on just one car for everything. Despite these challenges, there are already good options available for those who want a small electric car. Some small EVs can even go over 200 miles on a single charge. And for those who prefer a sportier experience, there are small electric cars with hot hatch characteristics.

We have tested and rated every small electric car currently available, and we are also keeping an eye on upcoming models. Here is our list of the very best small electric cars:

Best Small Electric Cars 2023

Peugeot e-208

Pros: Good battery range for the price, comfortable ride, decent performance

Cons: Soft suspension impacts body control at speed, some low-rent materials, slightly cramped rear seats

The Peugeot 208 is already a popular supermini with a combustion engine, and its all-electric version is equally appealing. It offers a usable range, strong performance, value for money, practicality, style, perceived quality, and driver appeal. It’s a great choice for those looking for their first electric car.

The Peugeot 208 has a rich and distinctive interior, complementing its stylish bodywork. It is as practical as the Renault Zoe and even better than the Mini Electric in terms of practicality, which are important considerations for these types of cars.

Cars, News

Goodbye to the Ram 1500 TRX, But the Final Edition is Astonishing

The Ram 1500 TRX Final Edition bids farewell without any changes to its powertrain. However, it introduces exciting new colors and premium features. The Final Edition is available in eight exterior colors, with three exclusive options: Night Edge Blue, Delmonico Red, and Harvest Sunrise. Furthermore, this edition boasts Satin Titanium bead-lock wheels, a matching bed decal, and a hood badge.

Its interior receives notable upgrades as well. The dashboard now features Patina stitching, while the seats are embroidered with a TRX logo. The Final Edition also includes a unique cluster splash screen, a passenger-side TRX dashboard badge, a carbon fiber instrument panel, and Triaxle-suede door panel inserts. Additionally, each vehicle carries a special plaque displaying its production line number.

On the tech side, the Ram 1500 TRX Final Edition spoils its buyers with a 19-speaker Harmon Kardon premium sound system, a digital rearview mirror, and a heads-up display. Safety features such as blind-spot and cross-path detection, along with ParkSense technology, are also included.

Although this marks a sad day for fans of the truck line, the manufacturer assures that it is “not the end of TRX’s story.” New details about the line will be unveiled in the future. Alternatively, you can explore the game-changing electric Ram 1500 REV as a substitute.

News

Best Used Baggers And Touring Bikes

When we think of the best motorcycles, we often focus on their performance and technology, disregarding the category of fully-equipped touring motorcycles. These bikes prioritize comfort over speed and agility. It’s time to acknowledge the importance of these bagger motorcycles.

One reason why many bikers consider bagger motorcycles unattainable is their high price. Most baggers start at $25,000 and can reach up to $50,000! However, if you’re interested in a bagger motorcycle but don’t want to wait until retirement to buy one, you can consider purchasing a used model. Used bagger motorcycles are significantly cheaper than brand-new ones and are often still reliable even after years of use.

We have compiled a list of 10 bagger motorcycles that you should consider buying used in 2023.

10 Honda NT700V Deauville

Starting from $4,000 used

The Honda NT700V Deauville is not a thrilling motorcycle, but it offers longevity and reliability. Despite being around for 15 years, the first-generation models still run smoothly and are relatively affordable to maintain. The Honda NT700V Deauville is one of the best affordable bikes to consider. While it may lack in performance compared to other bikes, it is an excellent choice for comfortable long rides.

Pros

  • Affordable touring motorcycle
  • Reliable Honda engine
  • Flexible and practical V-twin engine

Cons

  • Finding a good example can be difficult in some states
  • Some spare parts need to be imported
  • Not the flashiest motorcycle in terms of appearance

9 Honda Silverwing Interstate

Starting from $2,000 used

The Honda Silverwing Interstate is a cheap bagger motorcycle that offers a comfortable riding experience along with decent power. It is an ideal choice for beginners and those who want a reliable touring bike without breaking the bank. Despite its smaller size, the Silverwing Interstate can handle long journeys comfortably, making it an excellent option for all riders.

Pros

  • Practical and reliable V-twin engine with shaft drive
  • Modular seat and trunk design
  • Premium-looking retro design

Cons

  • Finding a stock Silverwing Interstate can be challenging
  • Limited storage capacity
  • Not as comfortable at high speeds

8 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide

Starting from $4,000 used

The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide stands out among its rivals with its unique style, character, and American ruggedness. It features a powerful V-twin engine and a comfortable seat, making it perfect for long rides. However, be cautious of potential electrical issues that can arise with the Electra Glide. Overall, it is a desirable and charming bagger that offers a truly enjoyable riding experience.

Pros

  • An affordable bagger motorcycle from Harley-Davidson
  • Comfortable riding position and ergonomic design
  • Torquey engine suitable for long hours of riding

Cons

  • Heavy bike and not beginner-friendly
  • Underwhelming horsepower figures considering its weight
  • Potential electrical problems

7 BMW K 1600 GTL

Starting from $12,000 used

The BMW K 1600 GTL is a premium bagger motorcycle that offers a European take on touring. It comes equipped with a powerful inline-six engine and a host of advanced features like heated seats, dynamic ESA suspension, and Xenon headlights. The K 1600 GTL provides a luxurious and comfortable touring experience, but it comes at a higher price point compared to other used bagger motorcycles.

Pros

  • Smooth and powerful inline-six engine
  • Comfortable riding position for both rider and pillion
  • Handles its weight well for a stable ride

Cons

  • Heavier bike that may be challenging to maneuver at low speeds
  • Expensive maintenance due to the BMW brand
  • Some riders may find the performance less exciting

6 BMW R 1200 RT

Starting from $10,000 used

The BMW R 1200 RT is a nimble bagger motorcycle that offers a sportier ride compared to other models. It features a boxer engine and lower seat height, making it more manageable in traffic and at low speeds. While it may not be as off-road capable as some other models, the R 1200 RT provides an exciting and comfortable touring experience.

Pros

  • Nimble and exciting bagger motorcycle
  • Reliable boxer engine with proven performance
  • Easy to handle in traffic or at low speeds

Cons

  • High service cost
  • Design may not appeal to everyone
  • Not suitable for off-road riding

5 Yamaha V-Star 1300 Deluxe

Starting from $6,000 used

The Yamaha V-Star 1300 Deluxe offers a classic bagger design with Japanese reliability. It is a powerful and reliable touring bike that can be customized to suit your preferences. The V-Star 1300 Deluxe combines classic aesthetics with modern engine technology, resulting in a smooth and capable ride. However, some models may lack key electronics like ABS, and it may not be suitable for shorter riders.

Pros

  • Highly customizable traditional bagger motorcycle
  • Smooth and quick engine performance
  • Handles well despite its raked-out front end

Cons

  • Some models lack essential features like ABS
  • Not ideal for shorter riders
  • Availability of pristine examples may be limited in the used market

4 Yamaha FJR 1300

Starting from $3,000 used

The Yamaha FJR 1300 is a versatile touring motorcycle known for its performance and affordability in the used market. It offers features like hard panniers, a tall windshield, a shaft drive, and a powerful engine. The FJR 1300 is often used by law enforcement due to its reliability and durability. It is a great option for riders looking for a budget-friendly touring bike.

Pros

  • One of the most versatile touring motorcycles
  • Stable and planted ride, even at high speeds
  • Retains the essence of a Yamaha motorcycle

Cons

  • Tricky to manage at crawling speeds due to its weight
  • Wide geometry between the legs may not suit all riders
  • Earlier models were prone to overheating in warmer weather

3 Harley-Davidson Road Glide

Starting from $6,000 used

The Harley-Davidson Road Glide is a classic bagger motorcycle designed for comfortable long rides. It features a big V-twin engine, comfortable ergonomics, and a comprehensive electronic suite including an infotainment system and cruise control. The iconic style and distinct sound of the Road Glide make it a desirable choice among touring enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Ideal touring bike for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts
  • Relaxed riding position and ergonomic design
  • Impressive road presence

Cons

  • Heavy bike to maneuver at low speeds
  • Stiff ride quality
  • Not suitable for shorter or beginner riders

2 Indian Chieftain

Starting from $10,000 used

The Indian Chieftain is a bagger motorcycle that competes directly with Harley-Davidson models. It offers similar features but is often considered to perform slightly better. The Chieftain features a big V-twin engine, comfortable ergonomics, and a range of options to suit individual preferences. However, watch out for potential recalls and ensure the bike has a detailed service record.

Pros

  • Comes in various models to cater to different riders
  • Laid-back riding position
  • Agile and powerful performance

Cons

  • Known to have issues with clutch cables, circuit breakers, or gear indicators
  • Possible stalling issues
  • Expensive compared to some other bagger motorcycles

1 Honda Goldwing

Starting from $1,000 used

The Honda Goldwing is the ultimate bagger motorcycle and has been a favorite choice for touring riders for over 50 years. Whether you inherit an old Goldwing or purchase a recent model, you can expect a comfortable riding experience and smooth engine performance. The Goldwing comes equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offers an excellent balance of features and comfortable riding capabilities.

Pros

  • The perfect touring motorcycle with a host of features
  • Abundance of features and technology
  • Easy to maintain and live with

Cons

  • Large dimensions may not be suitable for new riders
  • Handling dynamics may not match modern standards
  • The extensive list of features may be overwhelming for some riders
News

Autocar product test: Which GPS tracker is the best choice?

GPS trackers are an excellent way to enhance the security of your valuable vehicle. However, with so many options available, from OBD trackers to keyring trackers, it can be challenging to determine which one offers the most comprehensive protection for your beloved car.

Choosing a tracker can be complicated due to the various features they offer, ranging from basic to advanced historic and real-time tracking data. Additionally, there are different types of hardware to consider, such as magnetic devices, OBD port trackers, and battery-connected trackers.

In order to provide guidance, we have selected a range of trackers and tested their ease of installation, as well as assessing their app or device functionality and interface. The cost of purchase and monthly subscriptions are naturally important factors to consider as well. So, which trackers did we try and how do we rate them?

Best buy – TruTrak FMT100

Price: £34.99

Buy from: Amazon

Minimum monthly payment: £4.72

3 Product tests 1600x1066

The TruTrak FMT100 is incredibly easy to install on a 12V battery and setup is a breeze. A unique feature is the availability of a direct phone number to a real person who can remotely set it up for you within minutes. Since it runs on the 12V, you don’t have to worry about charging it, and you can rest assured that it is always functioning. Unlike other trackers, there’s no need to purchase a separate SIM card. The accompanying phone app provides live location tracking, detailed tracking history, and customizable alerts, such as for erratic driving or leaving designated areas. If you have multiple vehicles, you can monitor them all on one app. The TruTrak FMT100 offers simplicity, affordability, and impressive effectiveness, making it our top choice.

Autocar says: 5 stars

Recommended – iTrack FS100

Price: £65

Technology

The Simplest Method for Discovering and Removing Unused iPhone Apps

If you want to find and delete unused apps on your iPhone, the App Library page is a good place to start. Simply swipe left on your iPhone’s home screen to access it. Here, your installed apps are categorized, and you can delete any app you want by long-pressing on its icon and selecting “Delete App”. However, if you prefer a more organized approach, you can use the iPhone’s settings. Just follow these steps:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Select “General”.
  3. Go to “iPhone Storage”.

After a short wait, you will see a list of all the apps installed on your iPhone. The apps are arranged based on their size, with the largest one appearing at the top. Beside each app name, you will find the date when it was last used or accessed. To find unused apps, simply go through the list and look for apps that you haven’t used in the past 6-12 months. Once you have identified an app, you have two options:

  1. Tap on any third-party app.
  2. You can then choose to either:
    • Offload App: This frees up space occupied by the app, but keeps its documents and data intact. If you reinstall the app, it should work as it did before, including any saved progress.
    • Delete App: This completely and permanently erases the app, along with all related data.

Finally, tap on your chosen option again to confirm and execute the action.

News, Technology

Apple Could Unveil Its First M3 Mac Models in October

According to reports, Apple’s upcoming M3 silicon is expected to bring significant improvements in both compute and graphics processing. It is rumored to be manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm process node, offering enhanced processing power and efficiency compared to the M2 series processors, which are based on the 5nm process. While specific details about the standard M3 configuration are not yet known, Apple has been testing a more powerful version known as the M3 Pro. This variant is said to feature 12 CPU cores, consisting of 6 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores. In contrast, the previous M2 Pro had 10 CPU cores, and the M1 Pro had 8 CPU cores.

Similar upgrades are also expected for the graphics capabilities of the M3 Pro. It is reported to have 18 graphics cores, two more than the M2 Pro, as well as four additional GPU cores compared to the M1 Pro. However, these improvements are anticipated to be available in higher-end Mac models, which are likely to launch in 2024. Apple recently upgraded the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro laptops with the M2-series silicon earlier this year in January 2023. Additionally, in June, the company introduced the updated Mac Studio and Mac Pro, both equipped with the powerful M2 Ultra silicon. Therefore, any incremental updates to these four machines are expected to be at least a year away.

Motorsport

Rolls-Royce Spectre to Participate in Goodwood Hill Climb, Custom Models on Display

Rolls-Royce is set to showcase its entire lineup at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. One of the highlights will be the debut of the electric Spectre coupe, which will take on the festival’s iconic hill climb course. In addition, the Cullinan, Ghost, and Phantom will be featured, showcasing the brand’s extensive customization options.

The Spectre has been finished in a unique two-tone Chartreuse and Black Diamond exterior, featuring impressive 23-inch wheels – a first for a coupe from the automaker in nearly a century. Inside, the interior is adorned with chartreuse accents alongside Grace White and Peony Pink elements.


ToyotaUk

$9 Million Global City Challenge Launched to Drive Safe, Inclusive, and Sustainable Innovation in City Mobility

  • The Toyota Mobility Foundation has launched a three-year Sustainable Cities Challenge
  • The Challenge aims to help cities reduce carbon, improve access, and enhance data-driven concepts for transport systems
  • Three cities will work with innovators to overcome their mobility barriers

LONDON (June 21, 2023) – The Toyota Mobility Foundation, in partnership with Challenge Works and World Resources Institute, has launched a $9 million global challenge to help cities adapt to the future, with the potential to transform the lives of millions around the world.

As cities grow and evolve, the challenges of moving people and goods in reliable, efficient, and inclusive ways have never been more essential. At the same time, opportunities to apply advances in transport modes, infrastructure design, operations, energy options, and connected data systems have never been more promising.

The Sustainable Cities Challenge aims to improve the lives of people by increasing access to jobs, education, and other essential services. It will bring cities and innovators together to implement mobility solutions that could reduce carbon, improve accessibility, and use data to build more resilient transport systems.

“Our experience over the past decade has underscored the importance of local cities’ buy-in and engagement with our activities,” Ryan Klem, director of programs at the Toyota Mobility Foundation, said. “Throughout the Sustainable Cities Challenge, we are looking to work alongside cities to find innovative solutions in the areas they identify as critical to develop a scalable model for the cities of tomorrow.”

Call for Entries

Entry to the first stage of the Challenge is open to city leaders and municipal governments, transport departments and other related local and regional agencies. Entries should be submitted according to one or more of the following three themes:

  • Expanding access to safe, affordable, and inclusive modes of transportation
  • Harnessing the power of data to create connected and resilient mobility ecosystems
  • Reducing environmental impact through low-carbon and renewable energy solutions

Shortlisted cities will be invited to attend a capacity building academy in the U.S. and will receive support developing their challenge design, becoming part of a wider network of other innovative city teams.

In February 2024, three winning cities will be selected to host a City Challenge to attract entries from global innovators. Innovators could be homegrown – living in the city or country chosen – or from anywhere across the globe, but with solutions applicable and adapted to the winning cities.

The winning innovators for each city will be announced in late 2024, and the cities and innovators will share $9 million in funding to test and roll out their solutions.

Increase mobility solutions for a more sustainable future

Many cities are now adapting to new behaviors and lifestyles, as our lives move increasingly online, and patterns of work change. With more than half of the world’s population currently living in cities, the United Nations predicts this will increase to two-thirds by 2050. Additionally, cities are responsible for 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The Sustainable Cities Challenge is funded by the Toyota Mobility Foundation and has been designed in partnership with Challenge Works and World Resources Institute. Challenge Works is an international leader in developing challenge programs to drive new thinking and find creative solutions to problems facing society. World Resources Institute is a global research organization which works with partners to develop practical solutions that improve people’s lives and ensure that nature can thrive.

“Brilliant people all over the world are working hard to create innovative solutions to help mobility systems work better, and with a lower carbon footprint,” Kathy Nothstine, head of future cities at Challenge Works, said. “The Sustainable Cities Challenge will help those innovators interface with cities to test and adapt solutions according to local needs to improve people’s lives. Challenges like this can act as catalysts for change by accelerating innovation in real-world settings.”

In addition to helping cities decarbonize, transforming mobility systems will help cities become more inclusive and accessible for the people living in them. Currently, 1.2 billion people living in cities do not have access to one or more core services.

“Cities are in need of innovations to foster sustainable mobility that reduces emissions, improves health, and increases access to jobs and opportunity for all,” Ben Welle, director of integrated transport and innovation at World Resources Institute’s Ross Center for Sustainable Cities, said. “The Sustainable Cities Challenge is an excellent opportunity for cities globally to build capacity and support innovators to work hand in hand with officials.”

To find out more and to enter, visit the Sustainable Cities Challenge website.

About Toyota Mobility Foundation

The Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF) was established in August 2014 by the Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) to support the development of a more mobile society in which everyone can move freely. The Foundation underscores Toyota’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and respect for people. It utilizes Toyota’s expertise and technologies to support strong mobility systems while eliminating disparities in mobility. TMF works in partnership with universities, governments, non-profits, research institutions, and other organizations, creating programs that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address mobility issues around the world.

In the past, TMF has led a range of Challenges, including the global Mobility Unlimited Challenge, CATCH in Malaysia, InoveMob Challenge in Brazil and STAMP Challenge in India. You can find out more about TMF and how it is governed at toyotamobilityfoundation.org

About Challenge Works

For a decade, Challenge Works has established itself as a global leader in designing and delivering high-impact challenges that incentivize cutting-edge innovation for social good. Challenge Works is a social enterprise founded by the UK’s innovation agency Nesta. In the last 10 years, they have run more than 80 prizes, distributed £100 million in funding, and engaged with more than 12,000 innovators. Challenge Works believes no challenge is unsolvable, partnering with non-profits, governments, and other organizations around the globe to unearth the entrepreneurs and their innovations that can solve the greatest challenges of our time. Visit them at https://challengeworks.org/

About World Resources Institute

World Resources Institute (WRI) is a global research organization with offices in Brazil, China, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Mexico, and the United States, and regional offices for Africa and Europe. WRI’s 1,700 staff work with partners to develop practical solutions that improve people’s lives and ensure nature can thrive. Learn more: WRI.org and on Twitter @WorldResources.