The newest This vs That drag racing video from Hoonigan has drama, motion, shut calls, and hearth. It’s a love scene away from being a brand new Netflix sequence, besides this epic face-off ends on a contented be aware with everybody alive and nicely.
In one nook now we have Beto Ondgas driving a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado, or somewhat, a race automotive that appears like a Silverado. The mattress is metal, however the remainder of the physique is fiberglass. It rides on ladder bars, and inside you will discover a seat, shifter, roll bar, a steering wheel, and never a lot else. Under the hood you will discover a twin-turbocharged 5.3-liter V-8, making round 1,500 horsepower and driving all 4 wheels.
The different participant is Alex Soto, driving a 2018 Audi R8. It does not look fairly as radical because the truck, however the 5.2-liter V10 is massaged to make 1,200 hp. That energy additionally goes to all 4 wheels by means of the R8’s AWD system, managed by a modified seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Compared to the Chevy, it has a bit much less energy. But it is also 200 kilos lighter. On paper, this needs to be a very good race.
It definitely is, although not for the explanations you’d count on. The first heads-up race has the truck sliding all over, although Ondgas makes it look simple. He by no means lifts regardless of shuffling the wheel continually to maintain it straight, and his bravery pays off with a convincing win.
Here’s the place issues get actually sketchy. The second race sees the Audi with a two-car beginning line benefit, with Soto getting the hit. He takes off, Ondgas follows go well with, after which the drag race turns into a drift exhibition. The Silverado will get squirrely after which sideways because it crosses the runway centerline. At this level, Ondgas is within the Audi’s lane and shutting quick, however he nonetheless does not elevate. He corrects, corrects some extra, drives previous the R8, and wins once more. That’s true talent on show.
After coming to a relaxation, the Silverado begins leaking transmission fluid, hitting sizzling exhaust pipes and bursting into flames. Ondgas shortly jumps out and extinguishes the hearth earlier than any notable injury happens, ending the day with a decisive drag race victory and a useful truck. A win-win in our guide.
National Highways says the street will shut so it might demolish and exchange the bridleway bridge at Clearmount and set up a big gantry.
The work can even enhance the variety of lanes at junction 10, which, National Highways stated, will “make journeys safer and improve traffic flow”. Entry and exit roads to Wisley, Pyrford, Old Byfleet and RHS Wisley will probably be made safer, it stated, and air pollution can even be diminished.
Jonathan Wade, venture lead for National Highways, stated: “Drivers ought to solely use the M25 if their journey is totally needed. This is the primary of 5 full closures of one of many busiest junctions on our street community.
“We have spent months planning for these closures and ensuring there are diversion routes in place, however there’ll nonetheless be heavy congestion and delays.
“These improvements will bring long-term benefits to drivers who pass through this stretch of the M25, not to mention pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders who will also see positive changes in the area.”
When will different M25 closures happen?
Five full closures are set to happen between now and September 2024 as a part of National Highways’ programme to enhance Junction 10.
The authorities physique has not but introduced the precise dates of the 4 different closures, however the subsequent one will happen in April to put in the brand new bridleway bridge at Clearmount. Closures won’t happen throughout vacation durations, it stated.
Future closures will embody the set up of the brand new Cockrow Green Bridge – the UK’s first heathland bridge, which is able to join the Ockham and Wisley commons and type a pure and protected hall for native wildlife.
Between 4000 and 6000 autos journey between junctions 9 and 11 between 10am and 9pm on a weekend, National Highways stated, and it warned that journey to airports comparable to Heathrow and Gatwick could possibly be affected.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) does not consider automakers are preserving an in depth sufficient eye on drivers as they use superior driver-assist programs. A new report from the agency gave 11 out of 14 monitoring/safeguard programs available on the market in the present day a poor score, whereas two are ranked marginal, and only one is labeled acceptable. None earn a superb score.
According to IIHS requirements, a superb score requires programs to watch the motive force’s eyes and hand place and have two alerts inside a 10-second span. If the motive force remains to be deemed inattentive by 20 seconds, a 3rd alert must be carried out or the automotive ought to start emergency motion to gradual the automotive and safely exit the street. Regardless of the alerts, 35 seconds of inattentive motion ought to have the automobiles slowing and exiting the street.
Monitoring programs also needs to require people to provoke lane modifications. Lane-keep help shouldn’t disengage if a driver makes guide changes whereas it is lively, as this encourages drivers to actively drive. Similarly, adaptive cruise management shouldn’t routinely resume after a protracted cease, presumably in heavy visitors the place issues might be hectic. Lastly, if seat belts aren’t fixed or computerized emergency braking is disabled, the monitoring system ought to stop the motive force assists from activating.
The IIHS examine coated automobiles from Ford, General Motors, Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Genesis, Lexus, Nissan, and Volvo. Lexus has the excellence of incomes the suitable score, with General Motors and Nissan receiving the 2 marginal rankings. The examine concedes that Ford will get near a greater score, however the takeaway is that each driver monitoring system within the group falls brief in a number of areas.
“The shortcomings vary from system to system,” mentioned IIHS Senior Research Scientist Alexandra Mueller. “Many vehicles don’t adequately monitor whether the driver is looking at the road or prepared to take control. Many lack attention reminders that come soon enough and are forceful enough to rouse a driver whose mind is wandering. Many can be used despite occupants being unbelted or when other vital safety features are switched off.”
While the examine is essential of those programs, the IIHS believes fixes might be achieved largely by way of software program modifications.
“These results are worrying, considering how quickly vehicles with these partial automation systems are hitting our roadways,” mentioned IIHS President David Harkey. “But there’s a silver lining if you look at the performance of the group as a whole. No single system did well across the board, but in each category, at least one system performed well. That means the fixes are readily available and, in some cases, may be accomplished with nothing more than a simple software update.”
OnePlus says its newest smartwatch can monitor near a dozen bodily actions with deep granular analyses and in addition provides assist for over 100 sports activities modes. One of those is operating mode, which works a step past the same old monitoring metrics and in addition supplies particulars comparable to common floor contact time and stride size, coupled with priceless insights after making an allowance for particulars comparable to oxygen consumption and coronary heart fee zones.
Likewise, the tennis mode can furnish particulars comparable to serve pace, swing sort, and extra. In our exams, this mode was pretty correct. An authorized coach, nonetheless, remarked that the speeds measured by the smartwatch appear right largely for forehand serves, however the numbers for slices and backhand protection appeared sketchy throughout follow periods.
During the course of testing, the OnePlus Watch 2 obtained one software program replace, nevertheless it did not tackle the occasional points with step rely accuracy. In a side-by-side comparability with the Apple Watch Series 8 and the Google Fit app operating its personal step tracker on the OnePlus Open, the OnePlus Watch 2 appeared to err each time. Take a take a look at the disparity between the exercise information logged by the OnePlus and Apple smartwatches:
Nadeem Sarwar/SlashGear
For operating, OnePlus has armed the Watch with dual-frequency GPS throughout the L1 and L5 bands, every with its personal receptor antenna. The result’s enhanced positioning accuracy and faster reception, particularly in case you are into mountain climbing, trekking, or path operating. However, sensor accuracy and information interpretation want some work. For instance, the resting coronary heart fee is correct, however throughout rigorous actions, the studying was often off by a great margin
Hardly any motorbike comes near the appeal of classic cruiser motorcycles made within the final century. These bikes are uncooked and mechanical, and the design is timeless and galvanizing. Sure, not many bikers like cruisers as of late, however again then, cruisers have been the creme-de-la-creme of bikes, particularly earlier than the advent of superbikes in the 70s. So, if you’re a collector or dream of being one, a classic cruiser must be your choice to take dwelling.
In current instances, 1000’s of classic cruisers have flooded the public sale market, however some examples are extra particular than the remainder. Today, we’ll be diving deep into the latter, discussing a few of the most interesting choices for collectors (or simply classic fanatics). These are the bikes that desires are product of, and you’ll need deep pockets for some.
In order to provide the most recent and correct data potential, the info used to compile this text was sourced from the producers, and different authoritative sources, together with Mecum Auctions, Motorcycle Classics, Motorcycle Specs, National Motorcycle Museum, Auto Evolution, and Ultimate Specs.
The common public sale costs have been sourced from Hagerty and mirror the typical public sale costs throughout platforms like Iconic Motorbike Auctions, Mecum Auctions, Bring A Trailer, and so forth. The bikes are ranked primarily based on their common public sale worth, from the bottom to the very best.
Inching in direction of the million greenback motorbike
101985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator
Average Auction Price: $3,300
Mecum Auctions
Most metric cruisers of yesteryears have been imitations of American brawlers, however the Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator is an exception. This bike got here two years after the launch of the GPZ900R, that includes a barely re-tuned ZX900 inline-four engine. Don’t mistake it for a slouch that cruisers tend to be — this one goes quick!
Not many cruiser lovers would even know of this bike, however in the event you actually love cruisers, this one belongs in your storage. Fortunately, it’s so low-cost (credit score: it’s obscurity) that almost all collectors can afford it in the event that they let one in all their classic cruisers drip oil for a month longer.
Performance Specifications
Engine Type
Inline-four
Displacement
908cc
Frame Type
Tubular double cradle
Max Power
105 HP @ 9,500 RPM
Max Torque
62.9 LB-FT @ 8,000 RPM
(Specs sourced from Kawasaki and Ultimate Specs)
91985 Yamaha V-Max
Average Auction Price: $4,300
Bring a Trailer
Another low-cost legendary cruiser is the Yamaha V-Max, a power-packed bike that set the template for power cruisers and muscle bikes. This is a livid motorbike that produces brutal energy figures and a push-in-the-seat acceleration. Heck, its air intakes are giant sufficient to suck small mammals! Sure, the dealing with may be crap, but it surely comes into its personal when the street opens up.
Performance Specifications
Engine Type
V-four
Displacement
1,198cc
Frame Type
Double cradle metal tube
Max Power
145 HP @ 9,000 RPM
Max Torque
83.1 LB-FT @ 7,500 RPM
(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs)
81941 Harley-Davidson WLA Military
Average Auction Price: $17,000
Dmitry Pavlovsky
Let’s get into the mid-tier with the Harley-Davidson WLA navy motorbike. This was the corporate’s contribution to World War II, with near 90,000 items serving the armed forces on the sector. It wasn’t something particular, but it surely was beloved each on and off the sector; even some British and Russian troopers wished to take this dwelling.
If you may’t discover the H-D WLA at an public sale, no biggie, search for an Indian Model 741 as an alternative. This was Indian’s contribution to the struggle effort. The bike was powered by a de-tuned Scout V-twin, housed inside a Chief body with extra floor clearance and higher suspension. 44,000 of those bikes have been produced, and just like the WLA, most of those additionally discovered their manner into veteran garages. And due to this bike, Indian may see the sunshine of day post-war.
It’s not at all times concerning the backside line, fellas.
61949 Harley-Davidson FL Hydra-Glide
Average Auction Price: $25,000
Mecum Auctions
What a quintessential vintage American cruiser the FL Hydra-Glide is! A raised seat, elaborate fenders, a tall windscreen (on some), and a chunky V-twin rattling within the body. Today, this bike is without doubt one of the most collectible Panhead fashions on the market. You’ll discover older Panheads, too, however go for this one as a result of the 1949 variations got here with many new goodies. For instance, the 1949 Panhead featured the Hydra-Glide fork and styling updates, together with deep fenders, a big gasoline tank, a headlamp cowl, and a single-piece handlebar. This is the bike you think about once you consider a muscular classic Panhead.
The 1940 Indian Chief was the first of the true Chiefs, and it seemed out of this world. This bike’s design has aged like effective wine since. This mannequin yr was when the ornamental fenders and a flowy fly line have been launched to the Chiefs, together with barely reworked fenders for bench seats or saddlebags.
The bike wasn’t a slouch, both. With a prime velocity of as much as 80 MPH, this might outpace most bikes on American roads again then. This is why the police and the Army used these, too. Today, we glance again at this bike as not solely a high-performing cruiser however one in all America’s first true touring cruisers.
Like many BMWs of at the moment, the R32 was powered by a boxer twin engine mated to a drive shaft. But would you take a look at that design? Even again then, this cruiser seemed not like some other cruiser on the planet. It’s unusual to assume that we might by no means have such attractive BMWs if Germany had negotiated a treaty to finish the struggle.
Performance Specifications
Engine Type
Boxer-twin
Displacement
494cc
Frame Type
Twin loop metal tubular body
Max Power
8.5 HP @ 3,200 RPM
Max Torque
Unknown
(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs)
31936 Harley-Davidson EL Knucklehead
Average Auction Price: $63,000
Bring a Trailer
The EL Knucklehead was a pioneering motorbike in some ways for Harley-Davidson. This was the primary bike to function overhead valves as an alternative of side-valve designs. Plus, the bike began the company’s tradition of naming engines after the valve cover designs. This was Harley’s effort to dethrone Indian, so the engine was a leap forward by way of efficiency, too.
Still, the EL Knucklehead retained some antiquities that the Harley-Davidsons of the time have been identified for. The bike nonetheless had a foot clutch, hand shift, and a left-hand brake lever. Lastly, this was additionally the final bike designed by the Davidson brothers and Willian S. Harley. For many, that is one of the best Harley ever produced.
Performance Specifications
Engine Type
45-degree V-twin
Displacement
988cc
Frame Type
Steel double down tubes
Max Power
40 HP @ 4,800 RPM
Max Torque
NA
(Specs sourced from the National Motorcycle Museum and Motorcycle Classics)
Because throughout the pre-war period, 4 cylinders have been all the trend, and Indian had simply acquired Ace Motor Corporation. So, the previous plonked the latter’s four-banger engine in its chassis and referred to as it the Four. The bike was launched as Indian 401 in 1928, surviving till 1942. The one pictured here’s a 1940 mannequin. Who knew a four-cylinder bike can be one of many truest and bluest American cruisers? Even Steve McQueen owned one.
Here’s a glance again on the King Of Cool’s pristine Indian Four
1Crocker V-Twin
Average Auction Price: Up To A Million Dollars
Mecum Auctions
The most collectible cruiser is neither a Harley nor an Indian; it’s a Crocker, aptly named V-Twin. Rough estimates recommend 200 of those have been ever made, however since Al Crocker wasn’t identified for having an organized submitting system, nobody is aware of for certain. Today, solely 68 of those survive, and each one auctions at stratoscopic prices.
So, what’s so particular concerning the Crocker V-twin? Honestly, loads. It was the quickest motorbike of the time — 12 years earlier than the Vincent Black Shadow overshadowed it. Each Crocker was designed across the proprietor, and also you had the choice of selecting from a variety of engine capacities, due to thick cylinder blocks. In some ways, the Crocker V-Twin deserves the same pedestal as the legendary Vincent Black Shadow and Brough Superior SS100.
Fun Fact: Al Crocker was so assured of the bike’s prime velocity that he provided a money-back assure to any proprietor who was overwhelmed by an Indian or a Harley in a race. No one ever got here for a refund.
Q: Mr. Lamp, we are here at the BCCC – close to the FIZ. Everything looks very much like a High-Tech Research Facility. Where does the BMW Group stand in terms of Battery Tech today? The BMW Group is in a strong position when it comes to battery technology. The company has established the BCCC (Battery Cell Competence Center) close to the FIZ and recently opened the CMCC (Cell Manufacturing Competence Center) in Parsdorf. These centers, along with the expertise of professionals from around the world, allow BMW to compete with the best battery cell producing companies globally. BMW’s journey in battery technology began in 2008 with the development of its first MINI Cooper BEV prototype, and the company has come a long way since then.
…and why do you think you were able to make it to this level of expertise? We believe that our strategy of developing in-house competence in battery cell technology and large-scale battery production has been key to our success. This strategy enables us to incorporate the best batteries into our electrified vehicles.
Q: Mr. Vandeputte, after more than 25 years at Umicore you just started at BMW Group – what is your perspective on the BMW Battery Strategy? At Umicore, we valued collaborating with BMW on battery technology due to the company’s clear focus on understanding and mastering cell technology and production. The challenges faced by the automotive industry today, combined with BMW’s commitment to delivering the Ultimate Driving Machine, make the BMW approach very convincing and clear.
Q3: And the step from a “material tech company” to a German Premium Car manufacturer – how does it feel? It feels invigorating to be part of the iconic BMW family. The welcoming attitude and the exciting yet challenging objectives ahead make the transition from a material tech company to a German Premium Car manufacturer a positive experience. The focus on battery performance, cost-competitiveness, and environmental impact align with my expertise in active materials.
Q: Mr. Lamp, talking about projects and challenges: what is the next big step customers can expect from BMW electrified powertrains? In 2025, our NEUE KLASSE models will introduce the Gen6 eDrive technology, featuring a new cylindrical cell with 20% more volumetric energy density, 30% faster charging, and 30% more range compared to Gen5 technology.
But changing from a prismatic cell in Gen5 to a cylindrical cell in Gen6 is a significant move: what triggered this decision? At the beginning of the process, we considered all cell formats and sizes. However, the ambitious performance and safety goals led us to conclude that the cylindrical cell is the best format for our next generation. It also aligns with our integration approach for the NEUE KLASSE: cell to pack and pack to open body.
Q: Mr. Vandeputte, ASSB is often considered “the next big thing”. Where does BMW stand? What is the potential of the technology? We are making significant progress with our partner Solid Power in establishing a new process development line in our CMCC in Parsdorf. This advanced battery technology offers higher energy densities combined with equal safety compared to current technologies. However, it will take several years to mature the technology and prepare it for industrialization, likely not before the end of the decade.
Q: Looking at the automotive battery landscape today – very often new trends or even innovations are discussed in the media. How do you keep up with all developments? This is where the close connection from the BMW battery team to the Start-Up scene and universities plays a crucial role. It ensures that BMW remains abreast of new trends, findings, and developments, while also helping the company attract top talents in the industry.
Gentlemen, thank you very much for this conversation.
In the event of enquiries please contact: BMW Group Corporate Communications
Bernhard Ederer Communication BMW Group Innovation, Powertrain Technologies Mobile: +49-176-601-28556 E-Mail: Bernhard.Ederer@bmwgroup.com
Almut Stollberg Head of Communication BMW Group Innovation, Design, Technology, Digital Car Mobile: +49-151-601-96543 E-Mail: Almut.Stollberg@bmw.com
The addition of these features to the fourth-generation Swift will close the gap between the two hatchbacks
The 2024 Suzuki Swift was revealed in Japan recently and its testing has also begun in India. This sporty hatchback, in its new generation, will be entering the Indian market soon and it will continue its rivalry with the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. However, the updated one will come with many new features, making the competition tougher. Here are 5 such features which are expected to be present on the India-spec 2024 Maruti Swift.
A Bigger Touchscreen
The current Maruti Swift in India packs a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is smaller than the Grand i10 Nios’ 8-inch unit. In its new generation, the Swift will come with a 9-inch touchscreen, similar to the one seen on other modern Maruti models like the Baleno, Brezza and Fronx. While it will continue to have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, we believe Maruti could offer wireless smartphone connectivity with the hatchback’s fourth-gen model.
Electronic Parking Brake
A new convenience feature was seen in the fourth-gen Swift when it was unveiled in Japan: an electronic parking brake. While not a seemingly big feature addition, it does add convenience and opens up more space in the centre console. Also, along with an electronic parking brake, the new Swift also gets auto-hold function.
One of the test mules of the 2024 Swift in India had the blind spot monitor warning blinking on its ORVMs, confirming that this feature is being tested for the Indian market. So even if its entire suite of ADAS features doesn’t make it to India, a blind spot monitor will be present for improved safety.
360-degree Camera
Along with a blind spot monitor, the 2024 Swift in India will also most likely borrow the 360-degree camera setup from the Baleno for additional convenience. The current Swift and the Grand i10 Nios both only offer a rearview camera, but the presence of a blind view monitor on the India-spec version suggest the presence of additional cameras on the ORVMs.
Paddle Shifters
Another convenience feature that comes in handy in an automatic car will most likely be offered in the India-spec 2024 Swift. While the carmaker has introduced a proper CVT transmission in its home market, the India-spec model will most likely continue with the AMT, which can come with paddle shifters as well. Currently, the only car in India which offers an AMT with paddle shifters is the Hyundai Exter, a micro SUV based on the Grand i10 Nios.
The new-generation Maruti Swift is expected to enter the Indian market sometime next year at a starting price of Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom). Which of these new features would you like to try? Let us know in the comments.
The 2023 DTM season concluded at the Hockenheimring with an impressive crowd of 88,000 spectators. René Rast made a remarkable comeback in the Sunday race, climbing from 23rd on the grid to secure a third-place finish. Sheldon van der Linde finished fourth, wrapping up his last DTM race for now. Thomas Preining emerged as the title winner. Marco Wittmann had a disappointing season with ninth and 17th-place finishes in the two Hockenheim races.
Schubert Motorsport had a successful season, securing two wins and eight podium finishes. Van der Linde finished fourth in the driver standings with Rast closely following in fifth place. Rast’s performance was particularly impressive considering he missed a race weekend due to a scheduling conflict. Schubert Motorsport finished fourth in the team standings, while Wittmann ended the season in 13th place.
The highlights of the year for BMW M Motorsport were the race weekends at the Norisring and the Red Bull Ring. Van der Linde secured his only season win at the Norisring and finished third in the second race. Rast achieved his first podium finishes as a BMW M works driver with second-place finishes in both races. Wittmann, however, missed out on a podium finish in the 2023 season.
In response to the DTM season finale, Andreas Roos, the Head of BMW M Motorsport, expressed satisfaction with Rast and van der Linde’s results and congratulated Preining and Porsche Motorsport on their titles. Rast himself was pleasantly surprised by his podium finish, highlighting his impressive climb through the field. Van der Linde described the race and the season as bittersweet, acknowledging that they didn’t always maximize their potential. Wittmann, on the other hand, expressed disappointment with the season and is looking forward to the winter break and new challenges in 2024.
Munich. BMW M Team RLL is set to wrap up the first season of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship for its BMW M Hybrid V8 racing cars at this weekend’s Petit Le Mans in Road Atlanta, USA. The team aims to secure a second GTP class victory and potentially clinch the driver’s title. BMW M works drivers Connor De Phillippi (USA) and Nick Yelloly (GBR) currently sit in fourth place in the GTP driver’s championship, just 38 points behind the leader. They hope to achieve another strong finish to add to their successful season, which already includes one victory and five podium finishes.
For the 10-hour Petit Le Mans race, De Phillippi and Yelloly will be joined by fellow BMW M works driver Sheldon van der Linde (RSA) in the cockpit of the #25 BMW M Hybrid V8. Marco Wittmann (GER) will team up with fellow BMW M works drivers Augusto Farfus (BRA) and Philipp Eng (AUT) in the #24 BMW M Hybrid V8 with the goal of securing the car’s first podium.
In the GTD class, three BMW M4 GT3s will be competing. Bryan Sellers and Madison Snow (both USA), with their #1 Paul Miller Racing BMW M4 GT3, have already clinched the title with five victories this season. They will be joined by Corey Lewis (USA) at Petit Le Mans. Turner Motorsport will enter two GTD class cars: the #96 BMW M4 GT3, driven by Robby Foley and Patrick Gallagher (both USA), will also feature Michael Dinan (USA), while Thomas Merrill (USA) will share duties with regular pairing Bill Auberlen and Chandler Hull (USA) in the #97 car.
Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta begins on Saturday, October 14th at 11:40 local time (17:40 CEST).
Quotes ahead of Petit Le Mans:
Bobby Rahal (Team Principal BMW M Team RLL): “There is no question that our GTP program was a significant endeavor for BMW M Team RLL, BMW M Motorsport, and everyone involved with the BMW M Hybrid V8. The victory at Watkins Glen was undoubtedly a highlight, and achieving five podiums so far with the number 25 car is a great accomplishment. Comparing where we were just one year ago when we started with this new formula to our recent test at Road Atlanta in preparation for Petit Le Mans, we have made significant progress. Historically, Petit has been a good weekend for us, so we can’t help but be optimistic.”
Connor De Phillippi (#25 BMW M Hybrid V8): “The 2023 season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, and the finale at Petit Le Mans is going to be one last fireworks show. We recently had a great two-day test and feel well-prepared. With nearly 60 cars on a 70-second lap, it’s going to be a hectic race, and we all have one goal in mind—to win!”
Nick Yelloly (#25 BMW M Hybrid V8): “I have tested at Road Atlanta but haven’t raced there yet, so I am looking forward to Petit Le Mans. Connor and I are in the fight for the driver’s title, so everything is on the line. After Daytona and our disappointing day, I wouldn’t have expected our season to go so well, but BMW M Motorsport and BMW M Team RLL have provided us with a car and strategy that has kept us in contention for the rest of the season.”
Sheldon van der Linde (#25 BMW M Hybrid V8): “I’m very excited to be back with Connor and Nick at my favorite circuit in the US for the season finale. It’s been a while since I’ve been in the number 25 BMW M Hybrid V8, so I’m looking forward to seeing how the car has developed this season. I hope to quickly get up to speed and give the boys the best chance at a win and the championship.”
Philipp Eng (#24 BMW M Hybrid V8): “Our test at Road Atlanta a couple of weeks ago went well. We tried out many things and found the car in a very good state. The combination of this track and car is phenomenal, and I can’t wait for ten hours of racing.”
Augusto Farfus (#24 BMW M Hybrid V8): “We had a very successful test at Road Atlanta recently, so we are looking to finish the season with our best performance.”
Marco Wittmann (#24 BMW M Hybrid V8): “I’m really looking forward to the season finale at Petit Le Mans. It’s been a while since Sebring, but it’s always a pleasure to race with our LMDh car and the BMW M Team RLL crew. I hope we will have a good and successful weekend to finish the first GTP season on a high note for Augusto, Philipp, myself, and also to support the sister car as they are still in the fight for the title.”
The Porsche 911 Carrera T may not have as much horsepower as some of its counterparts, but its 380bhp still provides plenty of manageability. Even in wet conditions, the rear tires with a 305-section offer good traction, thanks to the 911’s rearward weight distribution. The car feels quick even when you can’t fully utilize its power in the lower gears.
Porsche introduced the Wet mode in the current 911. It goes beyond adjusting the electronic traction and stability aids; it also modifies active cooling, active aerodynamics, automatic gearbox, and torque vectoring settings as needed.
However, the effect of Wet mode on the manual, rear-drive Carrera T feels subtle. It does not act like a traction management system that prevents wheelspin in standing water. Nevertheless, Wet mode does seem to optimize standing starts. Our fastest 0-60mph runs of 4.8sec and 4.9sec were recorded with Wet mode active, only slightly off Porsche’s claimed time of 4.3sec in optimal conditions.
The Carrera T’s flat six engine delivers a crisp, progressive, and free-revving power delivery. The engine’s boost takes a moment to build, but then it provides thrust across a wide range of revs and continues to perform well beyond 7000rpm.
Despite producing “only” 332lb ft of torque, the Carrera T accelerates impressively in gear and maintains its power throughout the rev range. In fourth gear, it took just 3.4sec to go from 50-70mph in wet conditions, while the Chevrolet Corvette C8 achieved the same in 3.1sec in dry conditions. The Porsche can reach almost 140mph before shifting to another gear.
Overall, the Carrera T’s powertrain exhibits a deep-founded strength, impressive flexibility, and satisfying performance, considering it is the least powerful engine in the 911 lineup.
The manual gearbox complements the engine well with its carefully chosen ratios and a satisfying shift action. It has a short and solid feel, making it intuitive to use. The seven-gear configuration is easy to manage, with the seventh gear primarily used for relaxed motorway cruising.
Track notes
Even in wet weather, the Carrera T performs well on the Millbrook Hill Route. It maintains grip and stability while navigating bumpy and adverse-cambered corners. The regular P Zeros tires handle standing water efficiently, providing enough traction for spirited driving.
The four-wheel steering system and Wet mode stability controls contribute to the car’s stability during turn-ins and reduce throttle-off oversteer, which is common in 911s. These features are beneficial for high-speed driving. However, when you want to push the car’s limits and deactivate the electronic aids, it may require more aggressive driving to achieve the desired level of engagement. It doesn’t always feel as natural and progressive on the edge as it could be.
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