Ford’s CEO, Jim Farley, has stated that Tesla’s approach to reducing costs in electric car development and manufacturing has provided Ford with a significant advantage.
During the three months ending in September, Ford’s electric division, known as Model E, incurred a loss of $1.3 billion (£1.07bn). This was attributed to the challenging market conditions for their Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV and investments in new electric vehicle (EV) projects.
However, Ford plans to overcome these losses with its upcoming second generation of EVs, slated for release starting in 2025. This lineup will include a new electric pick-up truck and a seven-seat SUV.
In the EV industry, simply having a great product is no longer sufficient to succeed.
This ultra-safe luxury Audi sedan costs up to Rs 15 crore (ex-showroom)
When important political personalities and famous individuals need to travel between events, their safety is their top priority. Simply relying on airbags and driver assistance systems is not enough. These individuals require a vehicle that can provide protection against bullets and even explosions. While a typical military vehicle can offer this level of security, it lacks the comfort and discreetness required by VIPs. This is where luxury brands like Audi come in, offering specialized versions of their flagship models that are suitable for transporting VIPs and world leaders safely and comfortably. Recently, we had the opportunity to explore the Audi A8L Security, a blast-proof luxury sedan equipped with all the necessary safety features. Check out the CarDekho video below to learn more about its safety capabilities.
The Audi A8L Security is made bulletproof by reinforcing both its exterior and interior panels to a level where penetration becomes nearly impossible. In addition, it is equipped with bulletproof glass capable of stopping even sniper bullets. The extensive reinforcement of the panels not only results in significantly thicker doors but also increases the weight of the vehicle by 160kg. Furthermore, the underbody of the Audi A8L Security has also been fortified with armor to withstand blasts.
Durable Tyres
The tyres of the Audi A8L Security are not a weak spot. They are equipped with ‘Run Flat’ technology, which allows the vehicle to continue driving for up to 80 kilometers at a speed of 80 kmph even after a flat tire.
Protects The Air Inside
The safety of the occupants inside the Audi A8L Security is not limited to physical protection. In case of a chemical attack outside, the cabin is equipped with oxygen cylinders, ensuring that the occupants can breathe safely. Additionally, the doors of the sedan are designed to eject themselves in extreme emergencies, facilitating easy exit for the passengers.
Added Safety Means Added Weight
Due to the extensive reinforcement and bulletproof glass, the weight of the Audi A8L has increased by approximately two tonnes, bringing the total weight of the sedan to 4.5 tonnes. That’s more than the weight of 2 Toyota Fortuner SUVs!
The Powertrain
A safe vehicle not only provides security but also the ability to escape to a safe location quickly. The Audi A8L Security is powered by a 4-litre V8 turbo-petrol engine that produces 571PS and 800Nm of torque. With these performance figures, this heavyweight Audi can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in just 6.3 seconds.
Price
With all these specialized modifications, the Audi A8L Security comes with a hefty price tag of up to Rs 15 crore (ex-showroom), which is around Rs 13 crore more than the standard Audi A8L. Let us know your thoughts on the A8L Security in the comments section below, and if there are any other “Security” variants of luxury vehicles that you find interesting.
The price of a brand new Ford Bronco in China is currently between $96,200 and $165,000 (700,000 – 1,200,000 Chinese Yuans), which is more than double the price of the same vehicle in the United States. However, Ford has come up with a solution to this problem by introducing a locally produced Bronco specifically for the Chinese market. The first photos of this vehicle have been released, and it appears that there are only minimal differences compared to the Bronco available in the US.
The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has published the initial images of the Bronco that will be manufactured in China. These images reveal that the model will have a small Ford lettering on the front grille, positioned above the Bronco lettering. According to MIIT’s data, the Chinese version of the Bronco will have a length of 189-190 inches, a width of 81.5 inches, and a height of 78.3 inches, with a wheelbase of 116.1 inches. While the Chinese Bronco is slightly wider and taller than the US model, this could be attributed to the different wheels and wheel arches used.
In Japan, Toyota has introduced a new swan-neck rear wing for the GR86. The wing comes with a price tag of $3,556 (517,000 yen).
This rear wing features a body made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, providing a strong and lightweight structure. The uprights, on the other hand, are made of aluminum, ensuring stability. The wing is attached to the vertical section of the trunk lid.
Porsche maintenance costs can be significantly higher than other vehicles due to the high-quality components used in their cars, making routine maintenance more expensive.
Owning a Porsche requires constant attention and meticulous care to maintain its pristine appearance and luxurious interior.
Learning and mastering the advanced features and technologies in a Porsche may have a steep learning curve, and some owners may struggle to fully utilize and understand them.
Porsche is known for creating well-engineered sports cars beloved by auto enthusiasts around the world. While owning a Porsche can be a wonderful experience, there are certain secrets that Porsche owners might not readily share with you. Here are 10 secrets that Porsche owners will never tell you.
Maintaining a Porsche can be more expensive compared to other vehicles. Porsche vehicles are equipped with high-quality components, which contribute to higher maintenance costs. Routine maintenance for a Porsche, like the 2013 Porsche 911 Cabriolet, can cost around $1,163 over 12 months. Compared to competitors like the Audi Q5, Porsche maintenance costs are estimated to be 83% higher than the industry average.
Additionally, regularly driving a Porsche on the track may require more frequent maintenance, adding to the overall cost and inconvenience for the owner.
9Constant Attention
Porsche
Owning a Porsche requires constant attention and care. Porsche owners invest significant time and effort in maintaining their cars’ pristine appearance and luxurious interior. Maintaining the exterior paint, cleaning and caring for the interior, and regular performance monitoring are just some of the tasks they undertake to keep their Porsche in top condition.
8Learning Curve Of Advanced Features And Technology
Porsche
Porsche vehicles come equipped with advanced features and technology that may require a learning curve for some owners. Features like launch controls, driving modes, and connectivity options can take some time to fully understand and utilize. Owners may also need to learn advanced driving techniques to fully harness the car’s potential.
7Personal Track Times And Incidents
Porsche
Many Porsche owners enjoy driving their cars on the track. However, not all owners have the necessary skills to achieve the best lap times or avoid incidents. Personal track times and incidents may be a secret that owners do not readily share.
6Sacrifices Due To Priority For Passion
Porsche
Owning a Porsche may require sacrificing some practicality and comfort. Porsche sports cars are designed for performance, while SUVs may prioritize performance over a smooth ride. Owners often prioritize their passion for automobiles over practicality, making sacrifices to enjoy the Porsche driving experience.
5Customization Expenses And Hidden Modifications
DeMan Motorsport
Porsche owners often customize their cars with modifications ranging from custom paint jobs to performance upgrades. These customizations can be expensive, and owners may not readily share the costs with others. Additionally, some owners may have hidden modifications that are not immediately noticeable.
While the Porsche community is generally supportive, some owners may engage in friendly rivalries, comparing performance specifications and modifications. Owners may also participate in driving challenges and competitions, showcasing their cars’ capabilities. However, these competitions are often kept within the community and not openly discussed.
3Limited Practicality In Some Models
Porsche
Porsche sports cars, like the 911, Boxster, and Cayman, prioritize performance over practicality. These two-door sports cars often have limited trunk space due to engine configurations. Owners may not openly discuss the limitations in practicality that come with owning these sports cars.
2The Waitlist
Porsche
Some Porsche models, particularly limited editions and exclusive models, may have long waiting lists. Getting your hands on one of these coveted cars may require waiting for an extended period of time. Owners may find the wait frustrating, but it is a part of the Porsche ownership experience.
Many Porsche owners take pride in performing DIY repairs and maintenance on their cars. They prefer to take care of their Porsche themselves and may even engage in restoring or modifying classic models. However, this level of dedication to DIY repairs and maintenance may not be understood by non-enthusiasts.
The Tesla Powerwall offers attractive pricing, warranties, and maintenance costs to make it appealing to customers seeking reliable and efficient energy storage solutions. The cost of installing a Tesla Powerwall varies depending on factors like the number of Powerwalls needed, installation complexity, and regional considerations.
The estimated price range for a Powerwall is between $9,200 and $14,200 (location dependent), excluding any incentives. While the upfront cost may seem high, customers can justify the expense by considering the long-term benefits of backup power and potential cost savings through solar generation.
Buyers also get an impressive warranty, including a 10-year battery lifetime, free replacements and repairs, an unlimited cycle warranty, and 24/7 support. The Tesla Powerwall warranty ensures that their investment is protected and provides reassurance regarding the longevity of the Powerwall.
The Powerwall has minimal ongoing maintenance expenses as well, reducing long-term ownership costs. The low maintenance requirements make the Powerwall a convenient and hassle-free solution for homeowners and businesses alike. If the price is still too steep, there are Tesla Powerwall alternatives worth considering as well.
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