Tag Archives: country

News

How Canada And The U.S. Could Shake Up The EV Battery Supply Chain

Summary

  • Canada surpasses China as the highest nation in BloombergNEF’s Global Lithium-Ion Battery Supply Chain Ranking, highlighting its potential in constructing a safe and sustainable battery ecosystem.
  • Canada’s benefit lies in its considerable uncooked materials assets, sturdy integration with the US automotive sector, and clear coverage commitments that assist the event of a home battery provide chain.
  • While China stays the dominant participant within the battery provide chain, different areas like Africa and Asia are making progress and have the potential to reshape the worldwide provide chain panorama sooner or later.

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is electrifying the world, however its continued success hinges on a important element: the battery. As the demand for cleaner transportation soars, considerations concerning the stability and safety of the EV battery provide chain rise. Currently, China reigns supreme, controlling over 80% of worldwide manufacturing capability. This dominance, fueled by government support, early investments, and resource access, has sparked worries about overreliance on a single supply.

Geopolitical tensions and moral concerns surrounding battery supplies add additional urgency to diversifying the provision chain. Enter the United States and Canada. Recognizing the opportunity and challenges, these North American neighbors are becoming a member of forces to construct a sturdy and sustainable battery ecosystem. According to BloombergNEF’s newest rating, North America is about to disrupt the Chinese established order.

NIO ET7 at the Auto Shanghai 2023

Related

How China Became A Dominant Force In The EV Race

China’s EV dominance did not occur in a single day, and this is what it did to turn into the world’s EV hub.

In order to provide the newest and correct info attainable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from BloombergNEF and different dependable sources. While Canada presently holds the highest spot in BloombergNEF’s (BNEF) Global Lithium-Ion Battery Supply Chain Ranking, it is essential to do not forget that that is BloombergNEF’s predictive rating and China nonetheless boasts the strongest established provide chain.

Canada Takes The Lead But China Remains The Powerhouse

Polestar Battery Model Prototype
Polestar

The latest edition of BNEF’s annual ranking, published on February 5, 2024, marks a major shift. For the primary time, Canada has surpassed China to assert the primary place. This rating assesses 30 international locations based mostly on their potential to construct a safe, dependable, and sustainable lithium-ion battery provide chain.

What we’re seeing now’s solely the tip of the iceberg of what Canada and the remainder of North America are able to in the case of creating a neighborhood provide chain for EVs. To at the present time, the province of Quebec’s filière batterie financial challenge is estimated to have an financial price of $11 billion. That quantity will develop as extra new investments, such because the latest Northvolt challenge, will assist strengthen the Canada-USA-Mexico provide chain.

– William Clavey – TopSpeed EV Journalist And Expert

Key Factors Behind Canada’s Ascent

Electric Car Battery Replacement

Related

Sodium-ion Battery Is Shaping Up To Be A Viable Alternative To Lithium-ion Battery In EVs

U.S. researchers have achieved breakthroughs in sodium-ion batteries, promising cheaper, sustainable power storage for electrical automobiles.

Friendshoring And Policy Drive Progress

BYD Blade Battery
BYD

The rating displays a broader pattern of North America’s rising potential within the EV battery provide chain. The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) performs a vital function on this, incentivizing friend-shoring – bringing manufacturing nearer to residence. This advantages Canada as a key companion within the U.S. automotive business.

Mexico Is Also Ripping Benefits

Battery research lab
Volkswagen 

Mexico has additionally seen spectacular progress, climbing 9 positions to nineteenth within the rating. While scaling up the home business stays a problem, Mexico’s current mining and automotive actions present a powerful basis. The IRA’s support for the EV and energy storage sectors in Mexico additionally performs a serious function.

solid-state battery car blue illistration

Related

This New Solid-State Battery Design Will Offer 10-minute Charge And 6,000 Cycles

A brand new battery design claims it may possibly forestall stray lithium from spiking its approach by solid-state batteries.

Challenges And Opportunities For Other Regions In The Booming Battery Supply Chain

A front rendering of the Mercedes-Benz Vision One Eleven Concept, its motors and battery pack
Mercedes

While North America basks within the sunshine of considerable assets, sturdy coverage commitments, and tight integration, different areas across the globe are navigating a posh panorama of challenges and opportunities in the lithium-ion battery supply chain. BloombergNEF’s (BNEF) annual Global Lithium-Ion Battery Supply Chain Ranking paints a nuanced image, highlighting each regional strengths and areas for enchancment.

  • “…Long Live The King”: Despite being dethroned by Canada within the rating, China stays the undisputed heavyweight when it comes to established battery provide chain infrastructure.
  • Rising From The Ground Up: African nations, rich in battery metals, are capitalizing on the chance by partnering with world gamers to increase their mining sectors and set up new manufacturing services. The three African international locations included within the rating – South Africa, Morocco, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo – witnessed enhancements of their upstream presence. To absolutely harness their potential, these international locations must prioritize maximizing worth addition inside their very own borders, specializing in actions like metals refining and battery precursor manufacturing.
  • The Rest Of Asia Is Chasing The Dragon: The area noticed essentially the most important progress in comparison with the previous year’s BNEF ranking, with India and Indonesia main the cost. As introduced initiatives materialize all year long, the area’s momentum is predicted to proceed, doubtlessly reshaping the worldwide provide chain panorama. Targeted provide chain roadmaps have been instrumental in propelling these rising economies up the ranks, however sustained efforts are essential to translate potential into actuality.

Maintaining Momentum And Building A Sustainable Future

Audi High-Voltage Battery Project House
Audi

The fast growth of focused provide chain roadmaps has propelled rising economies on this yr’s rating. However, sustained efforts are important to comprehend their full potential. As Kwasi Ampofo, BNEF’s Head of Metals and Mining, highlights;

Trade relations will probably be an attention-grabbing issue to observe in 2024, as overseas coverage efforts within the US and EU proceed to make it troublesome for worldwide corporations to function in main markets like China.

Looking forward, collaboration, innovation, and a concentrate on environmental and social accountability will probably be key to constructing a safe, sustainable, and globally diverse EV battery supply chain. Canada and the US are poised to play a major function on this transformation. However, it is necessary to do not forget that the race is much from over, and different areas have the potential to make important strides within the years to return.

Motorsport

Toyota Chairman Brought His Suzuki Jimny To A Car Show

If automobile fans might construct their very own nation, Akio Toyoda would more than likely be unanimously voted as president. The former Toyota CEO has been the driving drive behind many enjoyable automobiles launched underneath the Gazoo Racing banner. Although the corporate founder’s grandson has been with Toyota since mainly endlessly, he enjoys automobiles from different manufacturers as properly.

Imagine the confusion he created on the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon the place Toyota’s sales space had a Suzuki. Not simply any Suzuki, however the Internet’s favourite – the Jimny. It was one of many 5 automobiles on the so-called Morizo Garage earlier this month on the present held in Japan’s capital. If you are unfamiliar with “Morizo,” it is Akio Toyoda’s alter ego when he is racing automobiles. Toyota has an intensive rationalization of the place that title comes from in its Toyota Times magazine.

As a lot because the chairman loves the Jimny, a badge-engineered model is not occurring. Toyota reportedly wanted to sell its own version of the lovable go-anywhere SUV, however Suzuki mentioned no. The smaller of the 2 Japanese automakers motivated its choice by saying the Jimny is deeply rooted in Suzuki’s DNA: “It’s like asking Toyota to let us badge engineer the Land Cruiser,” based on a press release by an organization exec in an interview with Autocar India.

Since 2017, Toyota and Suzuki have been working collectively on a number of initiatives as a part of a enterprise alliance to share prices. In truth, Toyota even owns a 4.9% stake in Suzuki after a reciprocal association that allowed Suzuki to accumulate a 0.2% share in Toyota.

The Jimny was showcased alongside a modified GR Corolla and the obscure iQ GRMN. The latter was solely bought in Japan the place 100 items had been inbuilt 2009. A few years later, the iQ GRMN Supercharged arrived with a (sure, you’ve got guessed it) supercharger that bumped the 1.33-liter engine by 27 hp and 41 lb-ft (56 Nm) to a mighty 120 hp and 128 lb-ft (174 Nm).


News

A 705 HP Sleeper F-150 For Under $45,000 Brand-New? Here’s How

Summary

  • Town & Country Ford has developed the F-150 Sleeper, a powerful truck priced lower than the F-150 Raptor.
  • The Sleeper F-150 features a 5.0-liter V-8 engine with a Roush supercharger, producing 705 horsepower and 635 pound-feet of torque.
  • While the Sleeper F-150 may not have the same off-road capabilities as the Raptor, it offers a more affordable option for buyers seeking high-performance in a pickup truck.

Alabama dealership, Town & Country Ford, put their custom builders to work on a project rivaling the F-150 Raptor. With the singular mission of providing a high-powered truck at base model prices, TC Customs, Town & Country’s custom branch, equipped the humble workhorse with a not-so-humble supercharged V-8. Let’s just say they’ve cooked up the ultimate sleeper, and the best part is it costs half of what the Raptor goes for.

The Ford F-150 Raptor, as well as the Ram 1500 TRX, Tacoma TRD, and just about every other sport truck, are a popular buy for those looking to add a dose of performance to their pickup. However, the best-of-the-best, so to speak, of the above-mentioned trucks range from $50,000 and up. This leaves little room for the average enthusiast to get in on the fun.

Town & Country has found a way to make high performance more accessible, with the help of a 5.0-liter mill with a Roush supercharger. TC Customs has taken to calling the creation the F-150 Sleeper, a well-earned title for the unassuming pickup. Though TC Customs went with the base 2023 F-150 XL to keep total costs down, the 2023 model year features ample amenities and creature comforts, making it a valid competitor to the modern sport truck supremacy.

Gray Ford F-150 Tremor and orange F-150 RaptorRelated

Ford F-150 Battle: Skip The Raptor And Get The Tremor Instead?

While no one can argue with the F-150 Raptor’s incredible capability, here’s why the F-150 Tremor may actually be the more sensible choice

In order to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Ford, Town & Country, Ford Authority, Megarexx, and Factory Five.

Over 700 Horses, Under $50,000

The 2023 and 2024 F-150 Sleeper offered by TC Customs embody the “sleeper” element in a vehicle. Combining high performance with a casual appearance makes for interesting looks when it takes off like a rocket. This is a key selling point expressed in the advertising of the F-150 Sleeper.

This not only keeps the cost of the project to a minimum, it also opens the door for personalization, as the base F-150 XL is literally a blank canvas. Town & Country allows for the addition of optional features which include enhanced driver assist, safety, cosmetics, and functions. These optional perks may drive the price up, but considering the Raptor prices hover around $75,000, you may have a bit of wiggle room to customize.

Sleeper F-150 Performance

The Sleeper F-150 has yet to be tested on the road or track, though the upgraded powertrain gives us an idea of what to expect. The engine, which is a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 in base form, receives a 5.0-liter V-8 swap. Next, to give the Sleeper its extra push, a 2.65-liter Roush TVS R2650 supercharger is installed.

Sleeper F-150 and F-150 Raptor Specs

Sleeper F-150

F-150 Raptor (V-8)

0-60 MPH

NA

3.6-Seconds

Top Speed

NA

114 MPH (gov. limit)

Horsepower

705

700

Torque

640 Pound-Feet

640 Pound-Feet

Curb Weight

4,500 – 5,000-Pounds (est.)

6,077-Pounds

Layout

Front-engine, rear-wheel drive, electronic ten-speed automatic transmission, two-door, single-cab pickup

Front-engine, four-wheel drive, electronic ten-speed automatic transmission, four-door, five-passenger pickup

(Source: Town & Country, Ford)

All said and done, the Sleeper F-150 is rated at 705 horsepower and 635 pound-feet of torque. For illustration, the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor, when equipped with the high-output 5.2-liter supercharged V-8, puts out 700 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque. If anything, this power comparison is enough to raise the eyebrows of truck and sport truck enthusiasts.

The Raptor

The Ford F-150 Raptor has become one of the most recognized vehicles on the market, transcending the sport truck class and finding prominence in the performance community as a genuine, purpose-built performance vehicle. With extensive off-road and aftermarket upgrades, the Raptor can back up its claim as the top competitor. Its popularity has led to top brands and custom shops looking to topple it from its podium, among them, the TC Customs F-150 Sleeper.

Shelby F-150 vs Raptor R

Related

Shelby F-150 Vs. Ford F-150 Raptor R: Which One Should You Pick?

With the new Raptor R out, is it worth considering the Shelby F-150 trucks instead? We compare cost, capability, and collectibility, as well as looks

TC Customs And Ford Performance Optional Upgrades

Ford F-150 with FP700 package

TC Customs is a part of Town & Country Ford, a licensed Ford dealership. This means that buyers have the option to add Ford’s licensed upgrades. Upgrades can range from enhanced driver assist and safety to cosmetics upgrades both exterior and interior.

Optional 2023 F-150 XL and F-150 Sleeper Upgrades

  • Whipple 3.0-liter supercharger (F-150 Sleeper only)
  • Chrome front and rear bumper
  • Colored grille accent
  • Vinyl seats
  • Lane-keep assist
  • Trailer-reverse guidance
  • 4G Wi-Fi hotspot

Additional changes that can be made to the Sleeper F-150 upon request include a Whipple supercharger like the one offered on Ford’s factory performance upgrade. The Sleeper F-150 is offered with a 2X4 configuration, but those wanting four-wheel action can request it. Demand and availability are limited on the 4X4 models, but if Town & Country can procure it, they’ll offer it!

Ford’s Factory Supercharged Upgrade

The Blue Oval does offer a factory-backed supercharged upgrade, which features a performance and cosmetic upgrade. The FP700 package is designed and installed by certified Ford Performance technicians, which gives peace of mind when dealing with high-powered upgrades. Offered in either Bronze or Black, the FP700 package is compatible with any 5.0-liter 2021-2023 F-150 and includes the above-mentioned Whipple 3.0-liter supercharger.

FP700 Upgrades

  • Whipple 3.0-liter supercharger
  • Front/rear bumper cosmetic upgrade
  • Stylish wheel upgrade
  • Color accent and decal package
  • Ford Performance vents
  • Ford Performance floor mats
  • FP700 interior badging

The FP700 upgraded F-150 is rated at 700 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, taking it closer to the numbers produced by the Raptor, but not quite able to top its power. The cost of the FP700

Cars

10 Of The Most Luxurious Classic American Cars

Following the post-war period, there was a continuous increase in economic prosperity across the country, resulting in more consumers able to afford luxury goods. In response, auto manufacturers, such as Lincoln, began producing cars specifically targeted at high-end buyers, such as the ultra-exclusive Continental Mark II.

The Continental Mark II was distinct from the regular Lincoln branding and was produced in its own dedicated facility, known as the Continental Division. This division comprised the most skilled designers and engineers within the company, tasked with creating a vehicle that exuded the glamour of the 1940s Lincoln Continental. The resulting car not only paid homage to its predecessor but also boasted a fresh, sleek, and elegant design. Weighing over 4,800 pounds, the car was equipped with a powerful 368 V8 engine, delivering 300 horsepower and reaching a top speed of 115 mph.

The level of craftsmanship and quality was exceptional, with precision in every detail. From the tightening of nuts and bolts to the application of the paint, every aspect was meticulously executed. The interior was equally impressive, featuring luxurious amenities such as power windows, brakes, and seats, as well as zoned heating. However, despite the unparalleled luxury, the Continental Mark II was discontinued after only two model years due to its exorbitant price, which rivaled that of a contemporary Rolls-Royce.

News

Peugeot Motocycles Celebrates Its First Batch Of XP400s In Southeast Asia

Peugeot Motocycles Philippines has reached a significant milestone in the country. The French brand, under the Motostrada group, recently held an event to commemorate the release of its first-ever batch of XP400 adventure scooters in the market.

Peugeot Motocycles Philippines - XP400 Releasing

The XP400, which was launched at the EICMA 2022, is Peugeot Motocycles’ newest player in the adventure-scooter category. With its high ground clearance and 400cc single-cylinder engine that produces 36.7 horsepower, the XP400 is designed to handle various terrains including city streets, mountain twisties, and light trails. It features a 17-inch front wheel and a 15-inch rear wheel, as well as suspension with 140 millimeters of travel in the front. The scooter also comes with twin discs and a dual-channel ABS system as standard.

Peugeot Motocycles Philippines - XP400 Releasing

The XP400 is particularly suited for riders in Southeast Asian markets, especially the Philippines. It offers access and accessibility to new and experienced riders in the country, bypassing the 400cc limit imposed on motorcycles for expressway use. This makes the XP400 a significant addition to Peugeot Motocycles’ lineup in the Philippines.

During the event, the distributor Motostrada announced that the first batch of 30 XP400 units have arrived and are already spoken for. Prospective customers can join a waiting list for the second batch, which is expected to arrive in December 2023. The scooters will be shipped from France to the Philippines.

Peugeot Motocycles Philippines - XP400 Releasing

The new owners who attended the event were enthusiastic about bringing their new adventure scooters back to their garages, eagerly awaiting the chance to hit the road.

Peugeot Motocycles Philippines is open for more orders and is proud to announce that the initial batch of XP400s in the Philippines also represents the first batch of bikes released in the ASEAN region. It’s a significant step for Peugeot Motocycles, marking its expansion beyond Europe.

News

Watch: Spending 24 Hours In Canyonlands National Park

Exploring the country on motorcycles can be an adventure filled with breathtaking views and endless roads. As The Magpie Flies, a brother-sister duo, combines moto camping with their bike rides, and one of their recent adventures took them to Canyonlands National Park in Utah.

Canyonlands National Park is a vast landscape of red rocks and endless roads, offering a campsite where the duo spent 24 hours. They embarked on their adventure with the “trusty” Suzuki V-Strom 650 and a 2022 Honda Africa Twin borrowed from Honda America.

The video begins with their travel and camping experiences during the first few hours of their 24-hour stay. After enjoying a delicious meal at the campsite and a good night’s sleep, they set off to explore Needle Top Post in Canyonlands. Their first stop is the Needles Visitor Center.

The Needles district of the park covers over 300,000 acres and requires a vehicle with high ground clearance to navigate. Fortunately, the duo’s adventure bikes are well-equipped for the terrain. The area also offers a network of hiking and backpacking trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

The pair also explores Cave Spring Trail, a hiking route that showcases historic sites. After a full day of hiking and exploration, they return to their campsite for another restful night’s sleep.

If you’re interested in Amanda and Gary’s journey through the United States, stay tuned for more videos on their channel. Subscribe to their channel to see their next stop on this exciting adventure.

ToyotaUk

Back to School: Toyota Supports Students in Need

To help students in need as the new school year starts, Toyota employees across the country are giving back.

For the second consecutive year, Toyota partnered with the Kids In Need Foundation (KINF) for the Big Summer Giveback. This national service and parts promotion allowed Toyota customers to donate $3 to KINF’s Supply a Student program during their August oil change appointment.

The program aims to provide school supplies to children in under-resourced elementary schools nationwide.

This year’s results:

  • 429 Toyota dealerships raised over $600,000.
  • 21 dealers donated $10,000 or more each.
  • More than 24,000 elementary students benefited from the initiative.

Dealers will personally deliver the donated backpacks filled with school supplies to students at an elementary school in their community.

“Toyota is delighted to announce our continued support of KINF for the second year of our Big Summer Giveback campaign,” said Mark Nazario, Vice President of Guest Experience and Retention at Toyota Motor North America. “Together, we are committed to empowering students in under-resourced schools nationwide, ensuring every child receives an equal opportunity to thrive in their classrooms.”

Toyota employees also volunteered over the summer to pack backpacks with school supplies during an event at the company’s headquarters in Plano.

Social Innovation and nonprofit organization Team IMPACT organized a June event where 76 volunteers packed 450 backpacks. These backpacks were then delivered in July to the Boys and Girls Club of Collin County.

In addition, in July, 17 employees stuffed over 300 backpacks at Community Partners of Dallas, an event also hosted by Social Innovation and Team IMPACT.

BMW

Viktor Hovland wins the BMW Championship 2023 with course record on Sunday.

+++ Viktor Hovland triumphs after an impressive final round at the Olympia Fields Country Club, finishing on 263 strokes (17 under par) +++ This is the second BMW title for the Norwegian +++ Six players qualify for the Ryder Cup Team USA +++ All tournament proceeds going to the Evans Scholars Foundation +++


Chicago. Viktor Hovland has emerged as the champion of the BMW Championship 2023 with an exceptional performance in the final round of the PGA TOUR event. The Norwegian golfer produced a scintillating display, with seven birdies on the back nine, culminating in a course record of 61 strokes (9 under par). This score is the lowest in the history of the Playoffs and allowed Hovland to surpass the three-round leaders, Scottie Scheffler (USA) and Matt Fitzpatrick (ENG). With his fifth PGA TOUR win, the 25-year-old golfer climbed to second place in the FedExCup rankings. This victory marks Hovland’s second BMW title, adding to his win at the BMW International Open 2021 in Munich (GER).

Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Human Resources and Real Estate, congratulated Viktor Hovland on his remarkable performance in the final round and his achievement as the 2023 BMW Champion. Horstmeier expressed gratitude to the Olympia Fields Country Club, partners, volunteers, and everyone involved in making the tournament a success. She also highlighted the positive impact of the BMW Championship on the lives of young people, as all proceeds from the event go to the Evans Scholars Foundation.

The BMW Championship has contributed over 45 million US dollars to the Evans Scholars Foundation since its inception in 2007, providing educational opportunities to 3,300 caddies. These numbers exclude the funds raised in the BMW Championship 2023. Currently, the Evans Scholars Foundation is supporting a record number of 1,130 caddies in their pursuit of education.

Starting the final round three shots behind Scheffler and Fitzpatrick, Hovland seemed destined for a battle between the two leaders. However, the Norwegian golfer delivered an extraordinary performance, hitting every shot with precision. Except for the two par 3 holes, Hovland birdied every hole on the challenging back nine of the North Course, leaving Scheffler and Fitzpatrick unable to match his brilliance.

Reflecting on his victory, Hovland described winning the BMW Championship at a prestigious venue like Olympia Fields against the world’s top players as an incredible feeling. He considered it his best round ever, particularly given the circumstances of the playoff event and the difficulty of the golf course.

Scheffler and Fitzpatrick both finished tied for second place at -15, with Rory McIlroy in third place at -12. Open champion Brian Harman and Max Homa shared fifth place at -11.

Scheffler’s second-place finish allowed him to maintain his lead in the FedExCup standings and secure a spot in the Playoff final, the TOUR Championship, which will be held next week at the East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta. The BMW Group will serve as the Official Vehicle Partner for the event. Hovland moved up to second place in the standings, with McIlroy in third place. Fitzpatrick’s strong performance elevated him from 40th position to tenth.

The BMW Championship is the second-to-last Playoff tournament, and only 30 out of the 50 players who started the event in Chicago qualify for the season final. The remaining three spots were secured by Tyrrell Hatton (ENG, +1, T34), Jordan Spieth (USA, +1, T34), and Sepp Straka (AUT, +2, T37). Sahith Theegala (USA, -6, T15) narrowly missed out on qualification, finishing in 31st place despite a strong tournament performance.

The BMW Championship also played a significant role in determining the American Ryder Cup team. This was the last opportunity for players to earn points and qualify for the team, which will be captained by Zach Johnson (USA). Scottie Scheffler, Wyndham Clark, Patrick Cantlay, Brian Harman, Max Homa, and Xander Schauffele have all secured their places in the team. The final six spots will be decided by Captain’s Pick on August 29th. The Ryder Cup will take place in Rome (ITA) from September 25th to October 1st, 2023, with BMW supporting the legendary team competition as Worldwide Partner.

Looking ahead, the BMW Championship will make its debut at the Castle Pines Golf Club in Denver next year. In 2025, the tournament will return to the Caves Valley Golf Club in Baltimore, following its successful visit in 2021. The 2026 schedule features the Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis as the host for the first time since 2008. Finally, in 2027, the BMW Championship will celebrate its first tournament at the Liberty National Golf Club in the New York region.

BMW

BMW Championship kicks off with Gardner Heidrick Pro-Am

US sports stars will open the BMW Championship at Olympia Fields Country Club in Chicago, USA. The Gardner Heidrick Pro-Am event will be held in support of the Evans Scholars Foundation. The PGA TOUR playoff tournament will feature 50 world-class golfers. A Hole-in-One Award will be given to the player and their caddie – an all-electric BMW i5.

The BMW Championship is the second-to-last playoff event in the FedExCup. Only the top 50 pros from the PGA TOUR season are eligible to participate. This year’s field of players, who will compete at Olympia Fields Country Club in Chicago, promises to be of the highest quality. Patrick Cantlay, the two-time defending champion, will aim to become the first-ever three-time winner of the event since BMW became the title partner in 2007.

With almost all of the top 20 players in the world rankings participating, Cantlay faces a tough task of defending his title. Other notable players to watch out for include Jon Rahm, the current FedExCup leader, reigning Masters champion, and winner of last year’s BMW Championship at Olympia Fields. The world’s number one player, Scottie Scheffler, as well as Rory McIlroy, Wyndham Clark, and Brian Harman, are also among the top pros competing.

The tournament week began with the traditional Gardner Heidrick Pro-Am on Wednesday. Prominent US sports figures, including CC Sabathia, Victor Cruz, and Conner De Phillippi, participated as amateurs alongside professional golfers.

The Gardner Heidrick Pro-Am serves as the largest annual fundraiser for the Evans Scholars Foundation (ESF). All proceeds from this year’s BMW Championship will benefit the ESF, which provides college scholarships to deserving caddies across the country. Since 2007, the BMW Championship has raised over $45 million in support of the ESF, helping thousands of students achieve their college dreams.

BMW will also contribute a four-year Evans Scholarship in the name of the first PGA TOUR player to achieve a hole-in-one during the tournament. This scholarship covers full college tuition and housing. BMW has already awarded six Hole-In-One Scholarships, with Viktor Hovland being the most recent recipient in the 2022 tournament.

If a professional golfer manages to get a hole-in-one on the 16th hole, both the player and their caddie will receive two all-new, fully electric BMW i5 Sedans as a reward. Since all proceeds from the BMW Championship go to the Evans Scholars Foundation, it is fitting that the caddie also gets a new car when the player wins one.

In addition to the intense competition for one of the most prestigious titles on the PGA TOUR and a total prize fund of $20 million, the BMW Championship also plays a role in the team selection for the Ryder Cup. This is the last chance for American players to earn points and secure a spot on the team captained by Zach Johnson. The top six players in the rankings have already secured their places in the defending champions’ squad. Johnson will use his Captain’s Picks to select six more players. The team will face the European selection in Rome, Italy from September 25th to October 1st, 2023. BMW will be a Worldwide Partner of this legendary team competition.

NewsNew

2024 GASGAS CROSS COUNTRY AND ENDURO MODELS ANNOUNCED

GasGas has revealed its new Cross Country and Enduro models for 2024. The bikes have been completely redesigned and now share the same platform as the motocross models released earlier this year. The Cross Country models now feature a closed cartridge style spring fork, replacing the air fork. Additionally, GasGas has expanded its Enduro line with two new four-stroke models, the EC 450F and EC 500F. Here is the official information and images from GasGas.

Enduro | It’s time to rock ‘n’ roll!

The new generation of GasGas enduro bikes are designed to provide an easy and enjoyable riding experience. Whether riding in the woods, on trails, or tackling extreme sections, these bikes deliver top-notch enduro performance. The new bodywork not only improves the bikes’ appearance but also provides larger and smoother contact areas, allowing riders to grip the bike tightly on challenging terrain. GasGas has expanded the Enduro line with the addition of the EC 450F and EC 500F models. These big-bore bikes are perfect for open and flowy trails and come equipped with top-level components such as Braktec brakes, WP suspension, and enduro-specific PANKL transmissions. All GasGas enduro bikes are equipped with a rear suspension linkage, ensuring smooth handling over rough terrain. With the new lighter and more powerful motors, the outgoing agile and stable handling of the previous generation is amplified.

Technical Highlights Enduro

  • New frame – The new frame is engineered for stability at high speeds while maintaining agility on tight trails.
  • New aluminum subframe – The strong and reliable subframe contributes to the bike’s ergonomics and handling.
  • New die-cast aluminum swingarm – This lightweight and flexible component ensures optimal performance.
  • New bodywork – The refined rider triangle provides larger contact areas for better control and improved grip. The eye-catching design is all red.
  • WP XPLOR front fork with open cartridge – The front fork has undergone technical changes to enhance performance and handling. It is now a little longer, features new settings, and remains easily adjustable by hand.
  • WP XACT rear shock with rear linkage – The rear shock is shorter and lighter while maintaining 300mm of travel. It features a new piston for improved comfort and consistent and progressive shock action, thanks to the linkage system.
  • New forged triple clamps – The triple clamps include a new steering stem that offers more flexibility for increased comfort.
  • New Braktec brakes – The bikes come equipped with unique GASGAS brake disks and new front and rear calipers, ensuring excellent control in off-road conditions.
  • Neken Handlebars – Made from high-strength aluminum and featuring a unique bar bend specific to GASGAS, the handlebars provide durability, comfort, and improved safety with a larger bar pad.
  • New footpegs – The larger footpegs offer better control in all conditions.
  • New Throttle Body Injection with separate oil tank for 2 strokes – This feature brings 2-stroke enduro bikes up to date, ensuring clean operation, crisp response, and strong power across the rev range.
  • New electronic exhaust control for 2 strokes – The electronic powervalve controls the opening of the exhaust ports, improving durability and increasing torque.
  • New motors – The new motors are lighter, more powerful, and centrally positioned to enhance overall bike handling.
  • New, unified motor position – All 4-stroke models have the motor mounted in the same position, improving handling across the lineup.
  • Map Select Switch – Adding a Map Select Switch to the four-stroke models allows riders to customize performance. It enables features like traction control, a quickshifter, and a choice of two maps for optimal riding experience. Two different engine maps are also available for 2-stroke models.

Full line-up: EC 250, EC 300, EC 250F, EC 350F, EC 450F, EC 500F

Cross Country | Spice it up!

The Cross Country lineup has also been completely revamped. The five models have been built from the ground up with a focus on delivering exceptional performance both in tight and open terrain. These bikes share essential features with the motocross and enduro ranges, such as fuel injection, larger fuel tanks, and 18″ rear wheels. These upgrades make cross country riding more enjoyable than ever before. The Cross Country models are available in North and South America, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Technical Highlights Cross Country

  • New frame – The new frame offers stability at high speeds while improving rider feedback and cornering ability.
  • New aluminum subframe – The subframe enhances the bike’s ergonomics, strength, and reliability.
  • New die-cast aluminum swingarm – This lightweight and flexible component ensures optimal performance.
  • New bodywork – The refined rider triangle provides larger contact areas for better control and improved grip. The eye-catching design is all red.
  • New hour meter – The addition of an hour meter helps riders stay on top of bike maintenance.
  • WP XACT front fork with closed cartridge technology – The front fork is easily adjustable by hand. It features steel springs with a pressurized oil chamber and a hydrostop for smooth landings.
  • WP XACT rear shock – The rear shock is shorter and lighter while maintaining 300mm of travel. It has a new piston for improved comfort and performance.
  • New forged triple clamps – The triple clamps are equipped with a new steering stem that provides more flexibility for increased comfort.
  • High-performance Braktec hydraulic clutch system – The hydraulic clutch system ensures consistency and reliable performance with minimal maintenance.
  • New Braktec brakes – The bikes are equipped with unique GASGAS brake disks and new front and rear calipers, ensuring excellent control.
  • Neken handlebars – Made from high-strength aluminum and featuring a unique bar bend specific to GASGAS, the handlebars provide durability, comfort, and improved safety with a larger bar pad.
  • New footrests – The larger footrests offer better control in all conditions.
  • New TBI injection with premix for 2-strokes – Throttle Body Injection brings 2-stroke bikes up to date, ensuring clean operation, crisp response, and strong power throughout the rev range.
  • New electronic exhaust control for 2-strokes – The electronic powervalve controls the opening of the exhaust ports, providing maximum power and improved durability.
  • New engines – The new motors are lighter, more powerful, and centrally positioned to enhance overall bike handling.
  • New unified motor position – All 4-stroke models have the motor mounted in the same position, improving handling across the lineup.
  • Map Select Switch – By adding a Map Select Switch to the four-stroke models, riders can customize performance with features like launch control, traction control, and a choice of two maps. Two different engine maps are available for 2-stroke models as well.

Full line-up: EX 250, EX 300, EX 250F, EX 350F, EX 450F