Tag Archives: creative

munich artistic enterprise week 2024 themed “How to co-create with nature”. BMW Group Design talks on aligning design and nature.

Munich. Nature-driven design approaches are the principle focus of this 12 months’s munich artistic enterprise week (mcbw). “The theme of ‘How to co-create with nature’ is so interesting because it doesn’t view nature, technology and people separately, but focuses on the correlations between them,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. “It fosters new types of living and working in a community, and the array of possibilities will change both the design of products and society’s interaction with them.”

New Modes IV / “New Relations with Nature”

For the BMW Group, sustainability just isn’t solely a matter of electrifying autos, but additionally shifting in direction of a constant round economic system. This strategy is about utilizing sources extra effectively, closing materials cycles and adapting design processes accordingly. This is why the BMW Group Design Team, in partnership with Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum, is dedicating this fourth occasion within the New Modes sequence to the subject of “New Relations with Nature”. At the panel dialogue, the interdisciplinary consultants Anna Goldhofer, Martina Maier and Johanna Seelemann will discuss how a brand new sort of relationship to nature can open up new views for design and technological progress. A round economic system knowledgeable on the BMW Group, Anna Goldhofer has been engaged on the subject from the angle of various buying and growth items for the previous six years. Johanna Seelemann heads a design studio that researches materials cultures associated to on a regular basis objects. Architect Martina Maier serves because the Sustainability Specialist at Snøhetta, a transdisciplinary studio, and is answerable for implementing sustainable methods in structure and design.

“I Am Nature”. Designing with nature in thoughts

An experimental occasion hosted on the Munich workplace of Designworks, the BMW Group’s innovation studio, will discover what it means for designers to see themselves as a part of nature. Titled “I Am Nature”, the occasion will deal with questions corresponding to how one can categorical ideas of nature in design and new aesthetic developments that come up as creatives apply a “nature mindset”.

Those preferring to discover round economic system subjects hands-on are invited to the RE:BMW Circular Lab workshops at BMW Welt.

Conversations with BMW Group consultants

As a part of the BMW Group’s continued involvement in mcbw, the 2024 speaker roster includes quite a few consultants from the corporate who will share their information at completely different occasions:

Daniela Bohlinger, Senior Expert Innovation Management of the BMW Group, will probably be a keynote speaker on the mcbw design summit. Corinna Exner, Specialist in User Interface and User Experience Design, is among the consultants from main corporations on the DDX ’24 Munich Speaker Board – Innovation & UX Conference; her matter on the occasion: “The customisation of your driving experience”. Holger Hampf, Head of BMW Group Designworks, will probably be a part of a stay occasion, DESIGNBUS: Mobility, and can present his favorite locations round Munich whereas sharing what conjures up him as he co-creates the longer term.

At the 13th rendition of Germany’s greatest design occasion, the munich artistic enterprise week brings collectively consultants, corporations and college students of design, structure and enterprise to have interaction in a cross-disciplinary debate of present developments. The BMW Group has been a devoted cooperation companion of mcbw since its launch in 2012. This 12 months’s occasion is scheduled for 11 to 19 May.

For additional programme info and to register for particular person occasions, please see the enclosed checklist or go to https://www.mcbw.de/en/program.

If you’ve got any questions, please contact:

 

Press and Public Relations

 

Michaela Martinus, Spokesperson BMW Group Design

Phone: +49-160-963-13773

Email: Michaela.Martinus@bmw.de

Steven Wörns, Spokesperson BMW Group Design

Phone: +49-151-601-16992

Email: Steven.Woerns@bmw.de

Website: www.press.bmwgroup.com

Email: presse@bmw.de

The new MINI Aceman.

Munich. Creative use of house – reinterpreted: MINI celebrates the premiere of the primary crossover mannequin for the premium small automobile phase. The new MINI Aceman combines compact exterior dimensions with as a lot room as doable for occupants and an all-electric drive. The result’s a up to date interpretation of basic Mini inventor Sir Alec Issigonis’ underlying imaginative and prescient: most utilisation of house with a minimal footprint mixed with a contemporary drive idea. The progressive design of the brand new MINI Aceman supplies house for 5 comfy seats inside a automobile size of simply over 4 metres. MINI attracts on modern applied sciences to boost the inside with an immersive digital consumer expertise, whereas the MINI Aceman’s all-electric drive offers a contemporary enhance to the attribute MINI go-kart feeling. Combined with trendy help methods and hallmark design, conventional model values pave the way in which for an all-electric MINI future.

“The MINI Aceman brings a new level of excitement to our all-electric lineup, packed with a truly enjoyable immersive digital experience,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI. “The MINI Aceman is perfect for navigating crowded city streets, while maintaining the versatility and functionality of a Crossover and the Go Kart feeling you can expect from a MINI. I am certain that the sleek design, the performance, and the versatility as a 5-seater Crossover, will make the MINI Aceman a resounding success.”

From the surface, the MINI Aceman embodies sporty agility and a confident presence. The automobile structure of the brand new crossover mannequin relies on a completely electrical drive idea.

Measuring just below 4 metres in size, the brand new MINI Aceman has 5 seats and a flexible baggage compartment with a load quantity of 300 litres, whereas quite a few adjustment choices allow this capability to be prolonged individually to as a lot as 1,005 litres. With a predicted vary of as much as 406 kilometres within the WLTP take a look at cycle, the MINI Aceman is completely geared up for domestically emission-free mobility past town limits, too.

New design type “Charismatic Simplicity”.
The total new MINI household encompasses a clear, decreased design, giving the assorted fashions a up to date look that exudes easy assurance. The minimalist design type of the MINI Aceman additionally powerfully conveys its progressive character.

“The MINI Aceman is a strong character with his own young personality within the new MINI family. It has an independent design language, is compact and looks agile. With its distinctive expression, it is the perfect everyday companion for those who value individuality in urban areas.” emphasizes Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design

The exterior.
Expressive crossover with compact proportions.

With its placing front-end, sturdy contours and athletic stance, the sporty MINI crossover mannequin epitomises agility and confident presence. Measuring 4.07 metres in size, 1.75 metres in width and 1.50 metres in top, the MINI Aceman is positioned between the MINI Cooper and the MINI Countryman.

Featuring a streamlined entrance, quick overhangs and the practical two-box design, the model’s hallmark “Clever Use of Space” design precept has been given a brand new, distinctive character, whereas the all-electric drive opens up a complete vary of contemporary potentialities when it comes to automobile design. Creative house utilisation ensures the brand new MINI Aceman is agile and nimble in city site visitors whereas on the similar time offering ample room for occupants.

Continuous surfaces give centre stage to the expressive and stylish colors of the physique. The versatile and adventurous character of the MINI Aceman is emphasised by the usual roof rails, visually accentuated wheels in sizes from 17” to 19”, and underride safety on the entrance, rear and sides of the automobile.

Modern front-end design with placing LED headlights.
The front-end design of the MINI Aceman conveys a robust presence, reinterpreting typical MINI design parts such because the expressive headlights and the attribute entrance grille. Its remodelled, octagonal form builds on the standard underlying theme of the hexagon. The grille encompass within the MINI Aceman extends into the stable underride safety on the entrance apron. In the brand new Vibrant Silver end or in high-gloss Jet Black, the entrance grille units extremely contrasting accents, serving to to make the crossover mannequin immediately identifiable.

With their particular person design, the automobile’s angular LED headlights additionally lend emphasis to the distinctive standing of the MINI Aceman throughout the MINI mannequin household. Their form is perpetuated within the readability of the bonnet design with its exact traces, giving the entrance of the automobile its distinctive character. The daytime working gentle parts of the LED headlights could be switched to a few totally different modes, underpinning the expressive character of this new MINI member of the family.

Distinctive physique design with eye-catching particulars.
The floor design of the MINI Aceman contributes to the readability and freshness of the brand new mannequin’s aesthetic type. Tautly stretched physique surfaces are accentuated by exact traces and sturdy angles. While making a progressive assertion, this eye-catching styling of the MINI Aceman additionally forges a hyperlink to the model’s historical past, enabling it to be immediately recognized as a MINI.

The basic tripartite division of physique, surrounding window graphics and roof has been reinterpreted. In maintaining with thought of lowering every part to the necessities, a flush transition between the automobile physique and glass surfaces optimises the automobile’s aerodynamic properties. Flat built-in door openers emphasise the progressive expression of the MINI Aceman, whereas diagonal contours within the physique under the A-pillars echo the weld crease of the basic Mini fashions within the entrance space of the aspect panels. Harmonious surfaces and horizontal traces between the wheel arches create an intriguing waistline, giving the automobile physique its unmistakable dynamic aptitude. The strikingly formed wheel arches with their lengthy rearward sweep and comparatively steep downturn are a completely distinctive function of the MINI Aceman throughout the MINI Family. Sills in matt black spherical off the design of the aspect view in direction of the highway, and their form is carried on into the door space, giving the automobile physique a slim, upright and athletic look.

The rear of the automobile displays readability of design, that includes giant horizontal surfaces that emphasise the automobile’s broad and secure stance. The aerodynamically bevelled and retracted rear window ensures a pronounced, highly effective shoulder part, an impact that’s additional emphasised by the elongated roof spoiler. The hallmark MINI upright tail lamps body the centre part of the rear of the automobile. With three distinctive graphics, the Matrix tail lamps bear out the character of the MINI Aceman in differing methods. A large, darkish encompass on the decrease fringe of the rear apron and the underride safety aspect built-in within the centre make for sporty proportions, thereby conveying the crossover mannequin’s versatile traits.

Expressive physique finishes and 4 particular person trims .
The delicate three-dimensional high quality of the physique surfaces is stylishly highlighted by way of expressive colors. Shadows solid by the accentuated bodywork could be perceived to various levels, relying on the incidence of sunshine and perspective. In mixture with 4 contrasting finishes for the roof in hallmark MINI type, this conveys the expressive character of the MINI Aceman with explicit readability.

The MINI Aceman is offered in 4 totally different trims. An oblong-shaped badge within the design of the respective gear variant is hooked up to the entrance space of the aspect sill. The Essential Trim presents most readability and a decreased total look, highlighting sure practical elements resembling the brand within the new Vibrant Silver end. In reference to the Classic Trim, the contrasting roof and exterior mirrors could be chosen in black or white. The entrance grille is completed in high-gloss black, whereas the internal floor of the grille and the bumper are completed in physique color.

The Favoured Trim extends the person expressive capabilities of the MINI Aceman to incorporate the choice of the attribute Multitone Roof, mixed with white mirror caps and a grille body in Vibrant Silver. The most sporty aptitude of the brand new crossover mannequin is especially evident within the JCW Trim. This gear variant impressed by motorsports has its very personal distinctive entrance and rear design. The entrance grille is that includes a body and the variant-specific JCW brand in high-gloss black, whereas a contrasting roof in Chili Red and purple bonnet stripes underline the highly effective total look. Meanwhile the rear sculpture is rather more muscular in form and the all-round panelling is completed in high-gloss black.

Various aerodynamic wheel rim designs in sizes between 17 inches and 19 inches additional complement the outside gear choices accessible for the MINI Aceman.

The inside.
Purist design and wide-ranging materials idea.

The new MINI design type “Charismatic Simplicity” is expressed significantly clearly within the inside. With its constant discount when it comes to inside design, the MINI Aceman follows the unique imaginative and prescient of Alec Issigonis, the inventor of the basic Mini. With its easy-to-handle steering wheel, a central OLED show and the remodelled hallmark toggle bar, the cockpit echoes three key design parts of the basic Mini. By technique of this modern styling within the totally new crossover mannequin, MINI transports the historical past of the model into the right here and now.

Spacious door interiors together with comfy dimensions within the shoulder space and handy legroom give the brilliant cockpit an open and amply proportioned environment, whereas the panoramic glass roof enhances this impact by offering further gentle from above. In the darkish, the ambient lighting alongside the roof body creates the chosen lighting temper within the inside. The free-standing door handles and the speaker covers within the new Vibrant Silver end are aligned diagonally and create an interesting distinction with the horizontal design within the entrance space of the cockpit.

The light, rounded design type of the inside is additional mirrored within the curved surfaces of the dashboard: the latter’s floor is roofed with a knitted materials by which the decrease color shines by the higher one. This offers the inside a homely character with starkly accentuated color contrasts. Extending to the inside door trim, the easy-care, versatile construction is product of recycled polyester. Rounding off the high-quality fittings within the cockpit are comfy seats, optionally that includes a textile floor or product of perforated Vescin.

The amply sized rear of the automobile presents house for 3 passengers. Thanks to the 60:40 folding rear seat backrest, the bags compartment could be prolonged from 300 litres to as much as 1,005 litres as required.

High-resolution OLED show for modern journey consolation.
With modern applied sciences, the round OLED show lends the inside further expressive high quality. With a diameter of 240 mm, the central instrument options an especially flat design and a high-quality glass floor. The modern MINI Operating System 9 allows all driving features to be operated intuitively by contact or voice. A centre for each consolation and expertise, the MINI Interaction Unit is dealt with in an analogous solution to a smartphone.

The graphic presentation of the vehicle-related information is modern and minimalistic in type, with the velocity and battery standing proven prominently on the prime of the show, straight within the driver’s sight view. Tapping the velocity show opens a big full-screen speedometer that clearly focuses on the driving expertise. The different widgets are proven in thumbnail view within the Home menu, to the left and proper of the present menu perform. These could be moved to the centre and chosen by way of a horizontal swiping motion. In the decrease space of the OLED show, the menu gadgets Navigation, Media, Telephone and Climate could be chosen straight at any time.

MINI Experience Modes improve the driving expertise.
The emotional MINI Experience Modes improve the inside with immersive consumer experiences. In the MINI Aceman, two projector items beam particular illuminated graphics onto the dashboard with differing patterns and colors. Changes are made to the color scheme of the sunshine patterns and to the ambient lighting in all the inside relying on the Experience Mode chosen. The newly created MINI Driving Sounds improve the expertise of all-electric mobility. Together with particular graphic parts on the OLED show, automobile occupants get pleasure from a completely new driving expertise within the inside of the MINI Aceman.

Among the eight modes accessible for choice, Personal Mode presents modern choices for customising the cockpit. In this mode, a personally chosen picture could be uploaded from a smartphone through the MINI app and chosen because the show background. A digital color picker then identifies the dominant colors of the photograph for projection onto the textile dashboard surfaces. The ambient lighting below the dashboard and within the door mirror can be colour-coded to match these projections.

The different modes accessible for choice are Go-Kart Mode, Vivid Mode, Core Mode, Green Mode, Timeless Mode, Balance Mode and Trail Mode, every of which focusses the show on a “Mode App” to match the atmosphere. In Go-Kart Mode there’s a extremely dynamic give attention to MINI’s racing DNA, for instance. The show and the inside as a complete then function the colors anthracite and purple, whereas particular analogue shows for driving dynamics complement this MINI Experience Mode impressed by John Cooper Works.

Typical MINI: historic toggle bar in a brand new design.
In the basic Mini, the texture of the toggle bar on the centre of the cockpit enhanced the emotional connection between driver and automobile. MINI additionally attracts on this attribute gear element to move model historical past into the newest of its fashions. The most necessary driving features (parking brake, gear selector, begin/cease key, expertise mode toggle, quantity management) are straight accessible within the MINI Aceman through 5 individually designed toggles. This implies that no further gear selector is required, making room for sensible and spacious storage choices within the centre console. In addition to the cup holders, there may be an extra tray for wirelessly charging smartphones.

Four particular person gear choices.
All the fashions of the brand new MINI household function 4 trims with particular person customisation choices, every conveying the modern feel-good idea within the inside of the MINI Aceman otherwise.

In the Essential Trim, the inside is designed with most readability and a discount of apparatus particulars. Black sports activities seats with distinctly patterned multitone textile harmonise with a colored textile inlay on the dashboard. From the Classic trim upwards, the two-spoke primary steering wheel is changed by a three-spoke steering wheel with a textile band in differing colors. In addition, the gear variant with a black and blue knitted floor on the dashboard and doorways supplies a diversified distinction to the seats in high-quality cloth or Vescin.

In the Favoured Trim, the inside encompasses a strikingly expressive design. The dashboard comes within the elegant Dark Petrol, complemented by an accentuated color gradient in orange on the passenger aspect. The dynamic look is additional mirrored within the sports activities seats product of perforated Vescin. These can be found with conventional accent stitching and an embroidered MINI brand in two colors. The JCW Trim presents the versatile materials idea of the MINI Aceman in most sporty type. The JCW seat with sports activities seat geometry and extra lateral assist noticeably enhances consolation. Combined with multi-coloured knitted textile and black artificial leather-based with purple stitching, the color idea echoes the design of the dashboard and door trim.

Digital providers.
Simplified communication with the primary MINI voice assistant.
The model’s first fully-fledged voice assistant could be activated within the MINI Aceman by saying “Hey MINI!”. Alternatively, the push-to-talk steering wheel button can be accessible for this objective. Voice-controlled interplay is visualised on the round OLED show by way of an animation of graphic parts, typography and an avatar. Communication with the digital journey accomplice – both a stylised MINI or the character “Spike” – is especially fluent and intuitive due to improved speech recognition. Navigation, telephony, leisure and quite a few automobile features could be managed merely and conveniently by talking the related command.

The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant learns repeatedly by dialogue and is ready to tackle day-to-day duties on repeated routes. Based on geo-based information, for instance, the automobile can determine the doorway to a multi-storey automobile park and robotically open the window. This implies that particular person routines could be dealt with extra conveniently.

Advanced help methods enhance security.
Driving Assistant Plus supplies the MINI Aceman with an extra steering and lane assistant for lateral steering. Convenient and cooperative steering helps the driving force keep on monitor. The elevated consolation supplied by the system combines relaxed and superior management of the automobile whereas relieving the driving force of the monotonous and fewer demanding points of driving. The clear-cut look of the shows, working parts and easy-to-understand practical options lead to a excessive diploma of system safety. The new Trailer Assistant helps when manoeuvring right into a parking house with a trailer as commonplace, additionally providing recommendation on the required steering wheel angle when reversing.

Thanks to 12 ultrasonic sensors and 4 Surround View cameras, the MINI Aceman is ready to determine vacant parking areas with better precision, robotically initiating parking manoeuvres the place house is restricted, whereas the brand new Remote Parking perform of the elective Parking Assistant Pro allows the automobile to be parked utilizing a smartphone. This perform permits the MINI Aceman to be pushed out of a parking house robotically, making it simpler to get into the automobile if house to the aspect is just too restricted.

The modern MINI Digital Key Plus choice likewise utilises the consumer’s smartphone to make sure a handy and personalised automobile expertise, reworking the smartphone right into a automobile key. The entrance and tail lamps begin the welcome projection as quickly as the driving force is lower than three metres away, and the doorways unlock robotically. Replacing the traditional automobile key, the digital key could be transferred to a number of customers.

Convenient connectivity and intuitive interplay.
The trendy aesthetics of the digital consumer interface within the MINI Aceman mix practical and emotional parts. Its minimalist design adapts the brand new graphics to the round form of the MINI Interaction Unit, simplifying operation by way of a transparent construction. Static and dynamic parts mixed with micro-animations be certain that the interplay between the driving force and the central instrument is harmonious and intuitive. This emphatically digital character of the MINI Aceman is enabled by the MINI Operating System 9.

At the centre of the display screen is the beginning menu, whereas on the backside of the display screen the fastened standing bar could be seen with the menu gadgets “Navigation”, “Media”, “Telephony”, “All Apps” and, in sure conditions, “Home” – all of which could be chosen straight. As prospects are used to from quite a few client electronics units, a so-called toolbelt could be made to seem by swiping upwards from the underside fringe of the display screen. Preferred features resembling navigation locations and radio stations could be saved for fast retrieval at any time. The toolbelt may also be activated through the star button on the multifunction steering wheel. The higher display screen space is reserved for driving-related content material resembling velocity and necessary automobile standing info. The elective head-up show presents a very powerful info within the driver’s line of sight.

The temperature is proven completely for the driving force and entrance passenger on the left and right-hand fringe of the display screen. The local weather settings are at all times built-in on the prime degree of the MINI Interaction Unit and are operated by both contact or voice. Depending on the Experience Mode, a single faucet on the velocity show transforms all the MINI Interaction Unit right into a typical MINI speedometer.

MINI Connected upgrades enable further driving features to be activated flexibly at any time, together with an elective augmented actuality perform that is ready to visualise sophisticated turning conditions realistically and in three-dimensional show, for instance. In conjunction with the optionally accessible MINI Connected Package, the digital MINI Connected Store supplies entry to a continually evolving number of sensible and entertaining apps, together with within the space of gaming, music and video streaming. The new AirConsole app presents a novel type of in-car gaming for all passengers, turning the consumer’s smartphone right into a recreation controller on the OLED show.

The drive.
All-electric and environment friendly.
The MINI Aceman is offered solely with an all-electric drive, enabling domestically emission-free mobility. The environment friendly electrical motor ensures hallmark MINI driving enjoyable each in city areas and on excursions past town limits. At market launch, the brand new MINI Aceman will probably be accessible within the MINI Aceman E (electrical energy consumption mixed: 14,7 – 14,1 kWh/100 km in response to WLTP; CO2 emissions mixed: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; Range in km in response to WLTP: 298 – 310) model and likewise because the MINI Aceman SE (electrical energy consumption mixed: 14,8 – 13,9 kWh/100 km in response to WLTP; CO2 emissions mixed: 0 g/km; CO2-class: A; Range in km in response to WLTP: 382 – 406) with elevated output. 

The 135 kW/184 hp electrical motor of the MINI Aceman E generates a torque of 290 Nm, accelerating the automobile from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and reaching a prime velocity of 160 km/h. With an output of 160 kW/218 hp, the MINI Aceman SE generates a torque of 330 Nm, enabling the automobile to speed up from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and attain a prime velocity of 170 km/h.

With an power content material of 42.5 kWh, the battery of the MINI Aceman E achieves a variety of 310 kilometres within the WLTP take a look at cycle. The high-voltage battery of the MINI Aceman SE has an power content material of 54.2 kWh, giving it a variety of 406 kilometres in response to the WLTP.

Sporty agility and excellent driving dynamics.
Its chassis offers the brand new MINI Aceman a sporty character, and that is additionally mirrored within the driving enjoyable that’s typical of the model. The tyres with a diameter of 654 mm give the automobile a extra highly effective visible presence, enhancing driving dynamics and journey consolation in equal measure. The Aceman is supplied with a exact damping system that options extremely prestressed stabilisers: these enhance steering precision and accuracy whereas on the similar time making certain sound roll assist. The exact adjustment of the steering and all driving stability management methods to both comfy or sporty driving ensures an distinctive driving expertise in each scenario. The response of the electrical drive to stress on the accelerator pedal is optimised for a sporty driving type.

Meanwhile, agile and dynamic dealing with is emphasised by the direct steering, with a rack ratio of 59.5 mm rack journey per flip of the steering wheel. Combined with a brief and agency really feel when braking, the built-in braking system will increase journey consolation by way of dependable stabilisation. In conjunction with the quite a few driver help methods, quick braking distances enhance security.

The MINI Experience Modes with numerous suspension set-ups can be found for a personalized driving expertise, whereas driving enjoyable could be intensified by adjusting the steering response and likewise specifically calibrated intervention limits for the traction management.

Quick and simple: charging the battery.
The battery of the MINI Aceman could be charged through alternating present with 11 kW. Fast charging with direct present is feasible within the MINI Aceman E with 75 kW and within the Aceman SE with as much as 95 kW. At a quick charging station, this enables the battery to be charged from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in just below half-hour. When MINI Navigation is activated, the high-voltage battery could be set to the perfect temperature for environment friendly charging upfront, relying on climate situations. This considerably reduces charging time, particularly in chilly out of doors temperatures.

For a clear and easy charging course of, the shopper can optimise automobile battery charging by way of easy-to-understand setting choices. The begin time for charging could be chosen or a particular time window for charging could be set, for instance. A exact goal degree for battery capability could be decided upfront, too. For a very nice begin, charging could be set to be accomplished by a specific departure time, and the automobile inside could be air-conditioned to the specified temperature by this time. The MINI App supplies a handy overview of the charging course of, even when the shopper will not be close to the automobile. This supplies particulars of the present battery standing, a charging-optimised route plan, and charging historical past thus far – together with all prices and financial savings.

This Lamborghini Urus Prototype Is Wearing The Freakiest Camo We’ve Ever Seen

We’ve seen producers use completely different sorts of inventive and typically even odd methods of camouflaging upcoming manufacturing automobiles throughout their improvement. Some like to put in massive amounts of fake body panels, whereas others wish to preserve it easy with colourful wraps. Lamborghini, however, is experimenting with one thing we’ve by no means seen earlier than. What you see within the video hooked up under isn’t a brand new model of Dumb and Dumber’s dog van, however a brand new electrified model of the corporate’s best-selling product, the Urus.

The Italian firm bought 6,087 Urus models in 2023, making it the most important contributor to a record-breaking year for Lamborghini. Later in 2024, the super-SUV will receive a plug-in hybrid version, and the corporate is at present placing the ending touches on that mannequin. While the weird-looking disguise makes the plug-in Urus appear like a cartoonish model of the efficiency household hauler, its precise form can be sharp sufficient to correspond with the elevated output beneath the hood.

While the agency hasn’t confirmed what is going to energy the Urus PHEV, logic tells us it’s going to obtain an electrified model of Volkswagen Group’s 4.0-liter V8. In the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, that engine combines with an electrical motor to ship a complete system output of 729 horsepower and 700 pound-feet of torque. We suspect Lamborghini will most likely have the sting given its positioning within the hierarchy, which means the Urus with a plug may very well be much more highly effective. 

Hidden Gems: A Spotlight on Five Never-Before-Seen Projects from CALTY Design Research

Since its establishment in 1973, Toyota has been a leader in creative automotive innovation. The talented team at Toyota’s design studios in California and Michigan has been responsible for many of the company’s groundbreaking designs that have shaped the future of mobility. Some projects move quickly into production, while others remain in the archives.

Regardless of their status, the ingenuity and brilliance behind these designs and projects deserve recognition. It’s never too late to celebrate innovation, and the following models are prime examples of exceptional excellence.

From a late 1980s future high-performance concept to the Baby Lunar Cruiser, the following designs and projects from CALTY Design Research (Calty) have not been seen before and are noteworthy. These cutting-edge designs have not only paved the way for today’s vehicles but have also served as inspiration for future designs.

Towards the end of the 1980s, the Calty team was on a roll, producing one radical design study after another, many of which were performance/sports cars.

The unique Future High-Performance Concept, created in 1989 and shown above, featured an engine that emerged from the body. With the push of a button, the mid-mounted powerplant raised from the vehicle, offering a cooling effect while driving. The two-cockpit design featured a driver-side windshield that could be completely closed when parked. This advanced concept embodied the flash and flair of the 1980s.

Prior to the widespread use of groundbreaking vehicles like the Prius and other electric vehicles (EVs), Calty created an EV concept to showcase what such a vehicle could look like.

Their design was a compact, lightweight vehicle with outstanding aerodynamic qualities for maximum driving efficiency. The energy-efficient vehicle, designed for city commuting, stood out with its wind-cutting profile and thin tires. Despite being purely an advanced design study, this car represented Calty’s initial venture into the EV genre.

Following the launch of the Scion FR-S, Calty was inspired to utilize the vehicle’s unique platform and package in a new way, incorporating the flat-4 engine and all-wheel drive.

Created in 2012, the conceptual study, the X86D, transformed the svelte coupe into a four-door shooting brake. The distinctively shaped rear end gave it a hot rod-like appearance from the side and rear.

The cabin, modeled after the cockpit of a race car, was designed to center around the driver. The low position of the boxer engine allowed for a low hood line, contributing to the design’s pure sports car aesthetic.

The 2012 NYC Concept was inspired by exploring future transportation trends in big cities. An internal project, it incorporated several unique and innovative features, including a “fence seat” for front passengers.

In this concept, front-seat passengers leaned against a support in a unique semi-seated/standing position, similar to leaning against a wall or a fence, offering the same eye level with pedestrians and increased eye contact near crowded walkways. The compact design with a distinctive vertical proportion was ideal for navigating busy streets, offering good utility.

In envisioning a capable 4×4 for the year 2030, Calty designers looked to the Lunar Cruiser for inspiration, a vehicle designed for driving missions on the moon.

The Baby Lunar Cruiser (BLC) is built on a conceptual EV platform with in-wheel motors powering all four airless tires. Its body was designed from an engineer’s standpoint, making every component grounded in reason and functionality. With a self-driving function and an augmented reality-based “drivetainment” system that converts the vehicle into an interactive video game, the BLC embodies futuristic off-roading. The AI system enables the BLC to perform tasks once thought impossible, making it a vehicle designed for both Earth and beyond.

Toyota’s continuous pursuit of improvement and innovation positions the company as a leader in mobility, well-prepared for the future.

2023 Tata Nexon Creative vs Tata Nexon Creative Plus: Variants Compared


The Nexon Creative is the entry-level variant for automatic transmission options with the Tata SUV

2023 Tata Nexon

  • Tata Nexon is available in four variants: Smart, Pure, Creative, and Fearless.

  • The car comes with two engine options: a 120PS, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 115PS, 1.5-litre diesel unit.

  • It is the entry-level option for automatic transmission with both engines.

  • Key features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, 6 airbags (standard), and a 360-degree camera.

  • The Nexon Creative variants have an introductory price range of Rs 11 lakh to Rs 14.30 lakh (ex-showroom).

The recently launched Tata Nexon facelift comes with a new design and several feature upgrades. It is available in 4 main variants called Personas. The mid-spec Creative persona offers both petrol and diesel powertrains. It is further divided into three variants: Creative, Creative+, and Creative+ S, each with its unique set of features. Let’s compare these three Nexon Creative variants to see what they offer.

Exterior

2023 Tata Nexon Sequential LED DRLs

Variant

Creative

Creative+ (over Creative)

Creative+ S (over Creative+)

Highlights

All three variants have almost the same overall look. The front, side, and rear profiles share the same design elements. However, the Nexon Creative+ S variant stands out with its electric sunroof, indicated by the “S” in the variant’s name.

Interior

2023 Tata Nexon Steering Wheel

Variant

Creative

Creative+ (over Creative)

Creative+ S (over Creative+)

Highlights

  • Dual-tone cabin

  • 2-spoke steering wheel with illuminated Tata logo

  • Chrome inserts on door handles

  • Fabric upholstery

  • Leather gear knob

  • Variant-specific dashboard inserts

  • Rear parcel tray

The interior of all three variants is the same. They feature a dual-tone cabin, fabric seats, and a touch of leather. However, the Creative+ variants and above also come with a rear parcel tray. If you choose the Ocean Blue exterior color, you’ll get matching dashboard inserts.

Features

2023 Tata Nexon 10.25-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System

Variant

Creative

Creative+ (over Creative)

Creative+ S (over Creative+)

Highlights

  • 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system

  • Wired Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

  • 7-inch semi-digital driver’s display

  • 6-speaker sound system

  • Auto AC with touch controls

  • Height-adjustable driver seat

  • Cooled glovebox

  • Electrically foldable ORVMs

  • Rear AC vents

  • Push button start-stop

  • Paddle shifters (Automatic variants)

The three variants differ more significantly in terms of features. The Creative+ variant and above offer a larger touchscreen with wireless connectivity, along with additional comfort and convenience features. However, the Creative+ S variant only adds one feature over the Creative+.

Safety

2023 Tata Nexon Airbag

Variant

Creative

Creative+ (over Creative)

Creative+ S (over Creative+)

Highlights

  • 6 airbags

  • ABS with EBD

  • Electronic stability control (ESC)

  • Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

  • Hill hold assist

  • Traction control

  • Anti-glare IRVM

  • Rear parking camera

  • Top mounted rear wiper and washer

  • Auto-dimming IRVM

  • Front parking sensors

  • 360-degree camera

  • Blind view monitor

All variants come with important safety features like 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), and tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The Creative+ variant and above also offer a 360-degree camera for added safety.

Price

2023 Tata Nexon

Variant

Creative

Creartive+

Creative+ S

Petrol MT

Rs 11 lakh

Rs 11.70 lakh

Rs 12.20 lakh

Petrol AMT

Rs 11.70 lakh

Rs 12.40 lakh

Rs 12.90 lakh

Petrol DCT

Rs 12.20 lakh

Rs 12.90 lakh

Rs 13.40 lakh

Diesel MT

Rs 12.40 lakh

Rs 13.10 lakh

Rs 13.60 lakh

Diesel AMT

Rs 13 lakh

Rs 13.80 lakh

Rs 14.30 lakh

* All prices are introductory ex-showroom Delhi

The Tata Nexon Creative variant starts at Rs 11 lakh and goes up to Rs 14.30 lakh (ex-showroom). The regular Creative variant is well-equipped, but if you want some of the highlight features like the larger touchscreen and 360-degree camera, you’ll have to pay up to Rs 80,000 more. Additionally, if you want a sunroof, it is available on the Nexon Creative+ S variant at an additional cost of Rs 50,000.

Also Read: 2023 Tata Nexon vs Honda Elevate: Specifications Compared

Among the three variants, the Nexon Creative+ justifies its premium over the regular Creative variant and would be our recommended choice.

The 2023 Tata Nexon is priced between Rs 8.10 lakh and Rs 15.50 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom) and competes with models like the Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, Maruti Brezza, and Mahindra XUV300.

Read More on : Tata Nexon AMT

Toyota’s 2024 Grand Highlander Campaign Showcases a More Luxurious Life

  • The First-Ever Three-Row SUV Featured in a Marketing Campaign Focusing on Spaciousness, Design, and the Hybrid MAX Powertrain

PLANO, Texas (September 8, 2023) – Toyota unveils the highly anticipated 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander, the brand’s most powerful Midsize SUV to date, in their new marketing campaign called “Life’s Grander in the Grand Highlander.”

Lisa Materazzo, group vice president of Toyota Marketing at Toyota Motor North America, explains, “The campaign shines a spotlight on the first-ever 2024 Grand Highlander – the latest addition to Toyota’s bold SUV lineup. Featuring the Grand Highlander’s beautiful design and spacious interior, the campaign is inspired by the reality that life, with all its unexpected surprises, is pretty grand.”

To create a cohesive marketing approach, Toyota developed the integrated Grand Highlander campaign using its Total Toyota (T2) model. This model integrates efforts to encompass multicultural marketing and the mainstream market.

The “Life’s Grander in the Grand Highlander” campaign showcases a unified creative style across various spots.

In Conill Advertising’s spot titled “Labor,” directed by Sebastian Strasser, a family accompanies expectant parents to the hospital for the birth of a new family member. Thanks to the Grand Highlander’s spacious third row, even the baby’s godmother and aunt can join the ride.

InterTrend Communications created two spots for the campaign, directed by Bruce St. Claire. In the spot “Yes Day,” a family spends an unexpected day of fun in the Grand Highlander after their kids’ tutoring lessons are canceled. In “Grand Recruiting,” a family almost forfeits their cricket game due to a lack of players. The Grand Highlander saves the day by helping them pick up more teammates, including a last-minute recruit, international cricket star Unmukt Chand.

In Burrell Communications Group’s spot, “HBCU Tour,” a family’s college visit turns into a friendly competition between parents from rival colleges, trying to convince their son to choose their respective alma maters. In their spot, “Back There,” playful kids in the backseat of a Grand Highlander are playfully warned by their mom not to misbehave. The spots are directed by Kenya Barris, making his commercial directorial debut after a successful career in TV.

In the spot titled “Slamming Doors,” created by Saatchi & Saatchi, a teenager is picked up from school in a Grand Highlander. The annoyed teenager’s mood quickly changes when the whole family, including the grandma, starts singing together. Saatchi & Saatchi also created “Rescue Run,” a humorous spot where a family on their way home from a day at the lake turns around in their Grand Highlander to safely return a live fish their son was trying to keep in a leaking bucket. The spots were directed by James Rouse with Biscuit.

Media Placements

The “Life’s Grander in the Grand Highlander” campaign spans various media platforms, including linear TV, digital video, digital content, cinema, programmatic, paid social, audio, and search. It will be featured on high-profile Network Prime, cable, Prime Novelas, and sports programming, including Thursday and Sunday Night Football, Premium Soccer, and the Billboard Latin Music Awards. Digital content/video partners include Hulu, YouTube, MAX, Sensical, and Pandora. Partnerships with Bustle’s “Camp Romper,” Moveable Feast, Amazon, Uber Eats, and The Weather Channel are also part of the campaign. Paid Social will run on platforms such as TikTok, Meta, Snapchat, Reddit, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

Viewers can watch the broadcast spots here. For images and credits, please click here.

About the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander

The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is the latest addition to Toyota’s successful SUV lineup. It is available in three powertrains and three grades: the well-balanced 2.4L turbo gas engine, the efficient 2.5L hybrid, and the high-performance 362 horsepower Hybrid MAX. Designed by Calty Design Studios and assembled exclusively at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant in Princeton, Indiana, the 2024 Grand Highlander has a starting MSRP of $43,070 for gas engine models, $44,670 for the hybrid, and $54,040 for the Hybrid MAX powertrain.

The Grand Highlander Hybrid and Hybrid MAX support Toyota’s efforts to achieve a “Beyond Zero” future as part of the company’s diverse approach to carbon neutrality. Beyond Zero represents Toyota’s commitment to reaching carbon neutrality through its products, services, and operations while making a positive impact on the planet and society.

Key Features of the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Include:

  • Available in three powertrains with a spacious third row and ample cargo space
  • Hybrid and Hybrid MAX Powertrains for reduced carbon emissions
  • Powerful performance with a 362-horsepower Hybrid MAX system
  • Available tech features like Traffic Jam Assist, Head-Up Display, and Digital Rearview Mirror
  • JBL® Premium Audio system
  • Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Jaguar Recognizes Previous Choices Led to Mediocre Results

During a meeting with investors in Gaydon, JLR Chief Creative Officer Gerry McGovern openly acknowledged the current state of Jaguar. He admitted that past decisions have negatively impacted the company’s success, as their attempt to appeal to a wide range of luxury car buyers and become a British BMW has been unsuccessful. Consequently, this has resulted in the brand being perceived as mediocre with no distinguishing features. Nonetheless, there is a comprehensive strategy in place to rejuvenate the Tata-owned marque.

In an effort to compete with prominent brands like Porsche, Bentley, and Maybach, Jaguar will be moving upmarket. It plans to transform itself into a solely electric brand, focused on producing high-margin, low-volume products. Future vehicles will boast unique and polarizing designs, with Gerry McGovern stating that they will no longer prioritize trying to be universally liked. He emphasized that attempting to please everyone is detrimental and has been a contributing factor to the brand’s recent struggles.

Old Honda CR-V Is a Fantastic Overlanding SUV With Bed, Fridge, and More

People are discovering innovative and creative ways to travel the world. With advancements in technology and affordable used cars, we now have the opportunity to build our dream campers and hit the road with everything we need. While some may prefer luxurious motorhomes, others find joy in converting a Japanese crossover into a smart camper. One example is Nate and his dog Bobby, who don’t need a million-dollar RV to explore and be happy.

For his overlander, Nate uses a 2005 Honda CR-V as the base. The second-generation CR-V is a robust and durable SUV with a boxy shape that provides enough interior space to transform it into a cozy living area. Nate, a videographer and photographer, aimed to create a camper that can sleep one person and accommodate all his professional equipment, as well as a comfortable spot for his dog to sleep.

Despite its small size, it’s impressive that this CR-V camper includes a fridge. Nate has installed an electric cooling box below his bed, which is connected to the vehicle’s electric system. He has even added extra insulation to reduce energy consumption and keep his drinks cooler.

To keep such a small space organized, Nate has maximized storage with various drawers. He uses a plastic three-drawer storage organizer and many smaller plastic drawers hidden in different spaces under and around the bed. Bobby, his dog, has his own spot on the front passenger seat, where he sleeps and enjoys the view through the windshield. Finally, Nate has installed a small diesel heater with an integrated exhaust pipe underneath the vehicle.

If you’re considering a life on the road for the next few months with your old SUV, you may be wondering about necessary upgrades and potential difficulties. Nate can provide answers to almost all your questions in the video at the top of this page, where he reviews his 2005 CR-V camper.

School Bus RV Conversion With Loft And Game Room Is Home For Family Of 7

We’ve come across many impressive custom bus conversions that serve as luxurious full-time homes for families, but none quite like this. This particular bus, owned by Jeff and Anna, not only accommodates a family of seven, but also includes a permanent loft. Yes, you read that right – a loft for a family of seven (or nine, if you count the cat and dog). And yet, somehow, it doesn’t feel cramped.

Jeff and Anna are experienced buslifers who embarked on their journey with this full-size skoolie back in 2017. The version featured in a recent video by Tiny Home Tours is actually their second stage of construction, built after approximately two years on the road with their initial design. As their family grew, they decided to add a loft – a small second floor with two small bedrooms and a game room for some family fun.

The other three kids’ bedrooms are located on the main floor, although they are essentially large bunks with enough space for a bed and not much else. This allows for a spacious kitchen, which is essential for feeding a family of seven. They’ve used butcher blocks for all the countertops, mounted on custom-built cabinets. The kitchen also features a full-service four-burner propane oven, situated across from a large refrigerator/freezer. Additionally, there’s a washer and dryer in the kitchen area, and a full-size bathroom is located just aft of the kitchen.

In contrast to the bunks, the master bedroom is more than just a bed. It houses a king-size bed on top of the engine bay, with ample storage space and shelves surrounding the bed at the back. While the living room is not technically a bedroom, it provides enough sofa space for a comfortable nap. The sofa cushions even have seatbelts for safety during travel.

The video doesn’t mention the total power and water supplies, but the bus operates primarily on solar power, which is sufficient to run multiple climate control units inside. As for the tanks, the wastewater needs to be emptied approximately once a week, considering it is used by a family of seven – a reasonable timeframe.

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen an old bus converted into a luxurious tiny home, nor is it the first time we’ve seen a bus repurposed as a full-time home for a large family. The bus was purchased for $4,000 in 2017, and the total investment at this stage is around $50,000. However, the priceless experiences of traveling together as a large and adventurous family, exploring the country, make it all worthwhile.

Only 10 Certified Subs Can Reach the Titanic

When it comes to going deep underwater, Japan’s JAMSTEC Shinkai 6500 holds the record among “manned submersibles for academic research” on Earth. It can dive to an impressive depth of 6,500 meters. However, it’s worth noting that there are other submersibles capable of diving even deeper, although they may not fall under the category of academic research.

Since its launch in 1991, the JAMSTEC Shinkai 6500 has completed over 1,500 dives. Its main mission is to research seafloor topography, geology, and marine organisms in various oceans, including the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, and Japanese seas. You can find more information about it on the JAMSTEC website.

Over the years, the Shinkai 6500 has undergone numerous upgrades and refits, with its most significant overhaul occurring in 2012. It has an interior diameter of two meters and can accommodate a maximum of three people, albeit with limited space. Underwater, its manipulators can lift objects weighing up to 100 kg, and its seven searchlights provide approximately 10 meters of visibility in the depths of the ocean. A typical dive in the Shinkai lasts around eight hours, but it can support its crew members for up to 129 hours in case of emergencies.