Tag Archives: critical

Toyota and Argonne National Laboratory Investigate Recycling of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Research undertaking seeks to make the most of a brand new course of for recovering important battery supplies

Process can be utilized on end-of-life automotive batteries in addition to manufacturing scrap

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (April 30, 2024) – Toyota Motor North America (‘Toyota’) declares that it has entered a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory to analyze the event of a direct recycling course of for lithium-ion batteries, that are prevalent in new electrical automobiles. The focus of the analysis will likely be on cathode chemistries fabricated from nickel, manganese, and cobalt.

“Having Argonne utilize our commercial battery products will help us evaluate the direct recycling process at an industrial scale, in addition to other battery recycling technologies to maintain a diverse portfolio of recycling options for a diverse array of battery platforms and chemistries,” says Nik Singh, Senior Scientist within the Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRINA)’s Materials Research Department. “Toyota is in a unique position to bridge aspects of fundamental research with product evaluation, development and commercialization, to help its U.S. battery manufacturing achieve better circularity and supply chain security.”

For the undertaking, Toyota will present Argonne with each end-of-life and new Toyota batteries. Argonne will adapt and check its patent-pending direct recycling course of with the batteries. Further, TRINA, Toyota’s in-house entity for exploring next-generation applied sciences, will lend its experience to validate this “proof-of-concept” examine.

“Based on preliminary projections, direct recycling can potentially offer significant cost and carbon footprint savings,” says Sarah Kennedy, Operations Manager of Toyota’s Battery Lifecycle Solutions Business Development group. “Toyota’s Battery Lifecycle Solutions entity will help identify the appropriate pathway for the potential future commercialization of this technology, pending the outcome of the CRADA, as the project is projected to deliver a net improvement in battery materials manufacturing costs, waste and carbon footprint.”

The collaborative undertaking with Argonne is a part of Toyota’s pursuit of designing a closed-loop battery ecosystem aimed toward maximizing sustainability. In 2015, Toyota introduced the Environmental Challenge 2050, a set of objectives to realize carbon neutrality throughout the automobile lifecycle by 2050. For electrified automobiles, this consists of battery recycling, whether or not after first use or after being repurposed or refurbished, to make sure that uncooked supplies are extracted and put again into the manufacturing course of.

Additional details about the undertaking and Argonne’s analysis at its ReCell Center might be discovered here. 

Petrol Mini Cooper brings 154bhp for £22k

This is claimed by Mini to be the primary spherical OLED touchscreen in a manufacturing automotive, internet hosting vital details about it (akin to highway pace and gasoline financial system) on the prime and a menu bar on the backside.

The display can also be used for the majority of the local weather features, though usefully buttons stay for the entrance and rear window demisters.

The gear selector has been relocated from the centre console to a panel beneath the display, alongside the handbrake button, turn-key starter, driving mode selector and audio management dial.

Boot house is rated at 210 litres, down a single litre on the present three-door hatch however nonetheless 25 litres up on the rival Fiat 500 Hybrid (£16,790).

Mini Cooper S petrol rear quarter

The Cooper C is priced from £22,300 (RRP), on a par with the present entry-level Cooper. The Cooper S advantages from a value reduce, falling from £27,555 (RRP) to £26,700.

For reference, the electrical Cooper E and Cooper SE are priced from £31,945 and £33,445 (OTR).

Customer deliveries of the brand new petrol fashions are resulting from start within the spring.

Five-door hatchbacks and a John Cooper Works three-door will observe by the top of the yr and a new soft-top Convertible is predicted to reach in 2025.

Why 3D Printers Are So Important For Future Space Exploration

Weight is without doubt one of the most crucial elements to area journey as it could actually have a major affect on the quantity of gasoline and thrust wanted to get a rocket out of the higher ambiance. But it isn’t even that straightforward as extra gasoline additionally provides to the general weight, and different issues similar to meals, substitute elements, objects which may be wanted for experimentation, and different provides must be budgeted for as effectively.

The expectation for 3D printers is that they might finally scale back the quantity of weight being taken up by objects like part elements and a few instruments. For instance, as a substitute of bringing a number of substitute elements in case one thing had been to wish fixing (which may lead to a number of objects that find yourself not getting used, however nonetheless take up a good bit of weight), batches of 3D printing supplies will be introduced alongside and used to print out precisely what’s wanted in a given scenario.

Additionally, one thing like a Refabricator might be introduced alongside to recycle unused, damaged, or changed 3D printed supplies to be used in future prints (per NASA). This would theoretically in the reduction of on the quantity of uncooked printing supplies wanted — thus chopping again on weight utilization as effectively — and has been in testing on the ISS since 2019. Once the printing and recycling expertise is refined, it may make long-distance area missions happening over years (as a substitute of weeks or months) rather more possible.

Tesla Recalls Over 2 Million Cars Over A Potential Safety Issue, And Here’s Why

Summary

  • Tesla has recalled over 2.19 million autos within the US on account of undersized fonts used for essential warning lights on the instrument panel, which may hinder drivers’ potential to acknowledge and reply to alerts.
  • The recall impacts a number of Tesla fashions, together with the Model S, Model X, Model 3, Model Y, and a restricted variety of Cybertruck pickup vehicles.
  • Tesla is deploying an Over-the-Air Software replace to mechanically regulate the font dimension of the warning lights, aiming to rectify the security concern and decrease disruption for homeowners with out requiring bodily visits to service facilities.

The automotive business operates inside a dynamic net of security rules, technological developments, and evolving client calls for. This interaction usually results in a posh dance between innovation and danger mitigation. For many years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has served as the primary regulator for automotive security within the United States. Established in 1966, the company’s mandate encompasses a variety of actions, together with setting security requirements for car design, efficiency, and expertise.

One essential facet of this mandate is making certain efficient communication between autos and drivers by way of visible cues, audible alerts, and tactile suggestions. Among probably the most important communication channels inside a car are the dashboard warning lights. These illuminated symbols function a visible language, relaying essential details about potential malfunctions, system failures, or operational states. The dimension, colour, and placement of those warnings are meticulously regulated by the NHTSA, making certain they’re readily discernible by drivers beneath numerous lighting circumstances and inside various ranges of consideration. And, because of this Tesla has come beneath scrutiny, and a couple of.2 million of its EVs are being recalled.

Related

Tesla Recalls 7,600 Model S And Model X Vehicles Due To Faulty Airbags

And nope, this really has nothing to do with the wide-scale Takata airbag recall

In order to provide the most modern and correct data attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Tesla and different dependable sources.

Over 2 Million Teslas Recalled Due to Undersized Warning Fonts

Teslas Parked Together
Tesla

In a transfer impacting a good portion of its U.S. fleet, Tesla has initiated a large-scale recall encompassing over 2.19 million autos. This motion, ordered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), addresses a possible security concern recognized by the company: undersized fonts used for essential warning lights on the instrument panel.

Tesla Recall Prompted By Undersized Fonts In Safety Warnings

Tesla Model 3 screen and interior
Tesla 

The NHTSA pinpointed the difficulty as fonts smaller than 3.2 millimeters for essential indicators like Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warnings. Federal security rules mandate a minimum font size of 3.2 mm for such warnings, making certain their clear visibility to drivers. Fonts falling under this threshold, as recognized in Tesla’s autos, can doubtlessly hinder drivers’ potential to swiftly acknowledge and reply to those essential alerts. This diminished visibility, according to NHTSA’s letter to Tesla, may improve the danger of accidents, prompting the recall motion.

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BMW recalls all the i3 models ever sold in the United States

It’s nonetheless secure to drive them

Teslas Across Various Models And Years Recalled

The recall is important in its scope, encompassing a big portion of Tesla’s autos offered.

  • Model S (2012-2023): The veteran of Tesla’s lineup, the Model S launched in 2012 as the corporate’s first mass-produced electrical sedan. Known for its lengthy vary, spacious inside, and efficiency capabilities, it has been a core a part of Tesla’s success story. This recall covers your complete manufacturing vary of the Model S so far.
  • Model X (2016-2024): Following the Model S, the Model X arrived in 2016, providing a falcon-wing door design, distinctive seating configuration, and spacious cargo capability. It catered to a market looking for luxurious electrical SUVs with a contact of innovation. This recall consists of all Model X autos produced up to now.
  • Model 3 (2017-2023): Marking a strategic shift in the direction of affordability, the Model 3 entered the market in 2017 as Tesla’s extra mass-market sedan choice. It rapidly grew to become their best-selling car, attracting patrons with its mix of vary, expertise, and relative affordability in comparison with different Tesla fashions. This recall covers all Model 3 autos produced so far.
  • Model Y (2019-2024): In 2019, Tesla expanded its SUV choices with the Model Y, a compact SUV sharing many similarities with the Model 3. Offering the next seating place and extra cargo area, it catered to a rising demand within the electrical SUV phase. This recall covers all Model Y autos produced so far.
  • Cybertruck (2024): The futuristic-looking Cybertruck pickup truck, with its angular design and stainless-steel physique, was unveiled in 2019 and generated important preliminary buzz. However, manufacturing delays have pushed again its preliminary launch date. This recall features a restricted variety of Cybertrucks already delivered in 2024.

Related

Everything We Know About The Chevy Blazer EV Recall

General Motors recalled the highly-anticipated Blazer EV following car software program points, and here is what we all know.

Tesla OTA Update To Fix Undersized Warning Light

Tesla Model 3 dashboard
Tesla

Tesla is already deploying an Over-the-Air Software update that mechanically adjusts the font dimension of the brake, park, and antilock brake system warning lights to adjust to security rules. This replace goals to rectify the security concern and decrease disruption for homeowners.

An OTA update is a method of delivering new software or firmware to a device wirelessly, on this case, on to a Tesla car. This eliminates the necessity for bodily visits to service facilities, providing important comfort and time financial savings for homeowners.

How The Updates Usually Work For Teslas

Tesla Interior And Infotainment Screen
Photo by Jonas Leupe on Unsplash
  • Software Development: Tesla engineers develop and take a look at the up to date software program patch that addresses the font dimension difficulty within the warning lights.
  • Deployment: The replace is uploaded to a safe server accessible by Tesla autos.
  • Vehicle Communication: Tesla autos periodically test for updates utilizing their mobile or Wi-Fi connection.
  • Download and Installation: If an update is available, the vehicle securely downloads and installs it within the background, normally whereas parked and charging.
  • Verification and Activation: The replace goes by way of a verification course of to make sure it is real and appropriate with the car. Once confirmed, the brand new software program prompts, mechanically adjusting the font dimension of the warning lights.

Official notifications informing homeowners concerning the recall and the software program replace are anticipated to be mailed in March 2024. These notifications are widely expected to detail any potential risks related to the undersized fonts and supply additional directions, if mandatory.

5 Basic Milwaukee Tools No Handy Man Should Be Without

Whether you are laying pipe or placing up a shelf, it’s of essential significance that every part is exactly on the extent. After all, for those who construct a complete shelf with out ensuring it is leveled, it’s possible you’ll discover the complete factor itemizing ahead as quickly as you let go of it, unceremoniously dropping your knickknacks onto the ground. To make sure that little tragedy would not occur, you want a precision device for checking the extent at any angle.

Milwaukee’s 360-degree Locking Torpedo Level isn’t just an correct degree, it is also extremely adjustable for any level-checking scenario. You can lay it down on a horizontal floor as standard, however because of the 360-degree rotating and locking vial, you may verify for degree on any flat floor, regardless of the way it’s oriented. As an added bonus, the extent incorporates amplified uncommon earth magnets, permitting it to stay quick to any metallic floor, which makes degree checking a lot simpler on partitions and overhangs.

The Milwaukee 360-degree Locking Torpedo Level is offered at Home Depot for round $50, the place it has a person score of 4.6 out of 5. This degree is beneficial by Kenny Koehler of Pro Tool Reviews. In addition to the extent’s locking system for making certain measurement accuracy, he additionally appreciated the comfort of the extent’s magnified vials and sharp black traces, which make it straightforward to learn at a look.

10 Things We Just Found Out About The 2024 Triumph Daytona 660

In 2020, Triumph rocked the middleweight bare section with the Trident 660. Be as crucial as you need about this bare bike, you may’t deny it’s a terrific motorcycle for someone looking for a practical bike with out bonkers efficiency. It’s a candy bike, and it spawned the Tiger Sport 660 in 2021, a middleweight journey sports activities bike that supplied the same expertise for long-distance riders.

As issues are within the trade, producers like utilizing a single platform for every kind of bikes. Look at the Yamaha CP2 platform! A sports activities bike based mostly on the 660 platform was inevitable, however naming it after the legendary Daytona 675 supersport? Congratulations, your apprehensions have come true; the Daytona 660 is lastly right here.

But issues aren’t as dangerous as they as soon as appeared. The Daytona 660 looks like a candy bike that has the potential to dwell as much as the Daytona legacy. According to Triumph, the brand new Daytona is extra pleasant and extra sensible than its predecessor since that is what new riders are on the lookout for; the Honda CBR650R, Kawasaki Ninja 650, and Yamaha YZF-R7 are proof of that.

Related

Why The Yamaha R7 Needs To Worry About The Upcoming Triumph Daytona 660

Britain’s greatest bikemaker is about to make a stable entry into the extremely aggressive middleweight sports activities bike section

In order to provide the most recent and correct data doable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from Triumph and different authoritative sources, together with Motorcycle News.

10 You Get To Make It Your Own

2024 Triumph Daytona 660
Triumph

Who doesn’t like customizing their motorcycles? But there’s all the time a threat of voiding the guarantee or operating into compatibility points, is not there? Fortunately, Triumph has mounted this by providing 30+ Genuine Triumph Accessories with the Daytona 660, permitting you to make this sports activities bike actually yours.

Notable Triumph Genuine Accessories

  • Protection mods: engine cowl, tank pad, body and fork protectors, and canopy
  • Optional tech: My Triumph Connectivity System, under-seat USB socket, TPMS
  • Styling mods: seat cowl, oil filler cap, swingarm spools, and so forth.
  • Comfort mods: heated grips, consolation seats, decrease seat peak, and pillion seize handles
  • Luggage: tank bag and tail pack
  • Security mods: Triumph Protect+ Alarm, Triumph Track+ Tracker, disc lock, and so forth.
  • A2 license conversion equipment that limits the ability output to 47 HP

9 Your Wallet Will Thank You For This

Service Interval: 10,000 Miles

2024 Triumph Daytona 660 front 3/4 action shot
Triumph

Often, sports bikes are expensive to maintain and personal as a result of such machines are constructed to excellent their greatest, and the engines are stressed as a lot as they will with out hampering reliability. Fortunately, Triumph has you coated right here with the claimed lowest value of possession within the class. The bike will get an extended service interval and a two-year limitless mileage guarantee.

8 Aggressive Yet Understated Design With 675 DNA

2024 Triumph Daytona 660
Triumph

The original Daytona 675 may be known for its handling characteristics, however one factor it by no means acquired sufficient credit score for was its design. It was a beautiful bike that didn’t resort to edgy or aggressive styling; it had easy traces and a simplistic design.

The new 2024 Triumph Daytona 660 follows in its footsteps with an understated design. It might not look as sporty or aggressive as a few of its rivals, especially the Aprilia RS 660 or the Kawasaki Ninja 650, however it doesn’t have to be. It’s acquired a putting poise that’s unmistakably Triumph with a touch of Daytona 675 DNA.

Design Highlights

  • An aggressive stance with clear traces
  • Distinctive twin LED headlights with a central air consumption
  • Minimal bodywork with an emphasis on athletic profile
  • Contoured LED tail gentle housed in a minimalist rear part
  • Bold 660 graphic

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Middle-weight bikes are the proper stability of agility and efficiency for the informal bike rider

7 Tech Gizmos That Matter Most

2024 Triumph Daytona 660 close-up shot of the dashboard.
Triumph

Times are altering, and when even beginner-class sports activities bikes begin coming with tech gizmos, the expectations are excessive for middleweight sports activities bikes. The Daytona 660 shines right here as effectively.

The bike is supplied with a necessary suite of electronics and gizmos, which will not be as high-tech because the Aprilia RS 660, however that’s alright. The technological options get the job completed by making the bike safer and extra snug.

Notable Tech Features

  • Three using modes: Sport, Road, and Rain
  • Traction management system
  • Emergency Deceleration Warning system
  • Torque Assist clutch with non-obligatory Shift Assist quick-shifter
  • Multi-functional sprint with a colour TFT built-in into an LCD
  • Triumph My Connectivity System

6 A More Power 660 Inline Triple

Power Output: 93.70 HP @ 11,250 RPM

2024 Triumph Daytona 660
Triumph

One of the gripes we had with the Trident 660 was its somewhat underwhelming engine. No doubt, the engine was perky and dependable, however it all the time felt prefer it had extra potential. Fortunately, the Daytona 660 fixes that; Triumph has made some nifty adjustments to the engine that enhance the ability output and set it on par with the likes of the Aprilia RS 660 and Yamaha YZF-R7.

Triumph claims the up to date engine produces a easy and responsive energy supply with 17% extra horsepower and 9% extra torque than the Trident 660. The engine has a powerful mid-range, however the high-range isn’t compromised; the redline is available in at 12,650 RPM. The bike additionally will get a brand new chrome steel exhaust that ought to produce an unbelievable inline-triple symphony.

Notable Engine Upgrades

  • New camshaft with elevated gear width
  • New camshaft and cam profile
  • New cylinder head, pitons, and gudgeon pins
  • New valve gear

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled, inline-triple, 12 valves, DOHC, 240-degree firing order

Displacement

660cc

Bore

74.04 mm

Stroke

51.1 mm

Compression Ratio

12.05:1

Clutch

Wet, multi-plate, slip and help

Gearbox

Six-speed

(Specs sourced from Triumph)

5 This Time, The Daytona Is More Street-Friendly

Torque Output: 50.92 LB-FT @ 8,250 RPM

2024 Triumph Daytona 660 action shot.
Triumph

If you’ve ridden the Daytona 675, you’d understand how surprisingly versatile and versatile it was, aside from the ergonomics half. The Daytona 660 appears to be much more versatile than the 675. According to Triumph, 80% of the torque is delivered proper from 3,125 RPM, and it has a twin-like tractable character, which ought to make the bike a breeze to experience within the metropolis.

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4 Comfort Is Key Here

Seat Height: 31.88″

2024 Triumph Daytona 660
Triumph

Speaking of practicality, we will’t ignore consolation, which is without doubt one of the focuses right here. The Triumph Daytona 675 was by no means recognized for its consolation; it had an excruciating rider triangle. The Daytona 660 is on the opposite finish of the spectrum, due to its much-relaxed sports-tourer-like ergonomics.

The clip-ons are vast and positioned above the highest yoke, the foot pegs aren’t so rear set, and there’s an choice of a decrease seat. Triumph claims the relaxed ergonomics present consolation with out hampering the bike’s dealing with or suggestions, however we’ll must experience the bike to know for certain.

Ergonomic Specifications

Length

82.03″

Width

28.97″

Height

45.08″ (with out mirrors)

Wet Weight

443.12 kilos with 90% gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity

3.69 gallons

Fuel Consumption

57.6 MPH

(Specs sourced from Triumph)

3 Intuitive Handling That Has Large Shoes To Fill

Chassis Type: Tubular Steel Perimeter Frame

2024 Triumph Daytona 660
Triumph

This is the place purists (together with us) might really feel the brand new Daytona 660 isn’t so good. The Daytona 675 was a revolutionary bike largely due to its telepathic handling characteristics. It dealt with prefer it was on rails, took your command like an obedient canine, and caught to the road as if the wheels had been fabricated from glue.

On the opposite hand, the Trident 660, whereas poised by way of corners, by no means feels as safe because the Daytona 675 or the Street Triple 765. So, whereas the expectations are excessive, the Daytona 660 has massive footwear to fill on this case. So far, issues look good for the Daytona 660.

The Daytona 660 gets the same suspension setup because the Trident 660 however is paired with lighter five-spoked forged aluminum wheels, Michelin Power 6 tires, and sporty ergonomics. This ought to are available favor of the bike and make it deal with significantly better than its bare sibling.

Chassis And Suspension Specifications

Rake

23.8-degree

Trail

82.3mm / 3.23″

Wheelbase

1425.6mm / 56.12″

Swingarm

Twin-sided, fabricated metal

Front Wheel

Cast aluminum alloy 5-spoke, 17″ x 3.5″

Rear Wheel

Cast aluminum alloy 5-spoke, 17″ x 5.5″

Front Tire

120/70 ZR 17

Rear Tire

180/55 ZR 17

Front Suspension

Showa 41mm USD separate perform huge piston (SFF-BP) with 110mm wheel journey

Rear Suspension

Showa mono-shock RSU with preload adjustment, 130mm wheel journey

Front Brakes

Twin 310mm floating discs with 4-piston radial calipers

Rear Brakes

Single 220mm mounted disc with a single piston sliding caliper

(Specs sourced from Triumph)

2 Daytona 660 vs. The Rivals

2024 Triumph Daytona 660
Triumph

The 2024 Triumph Daytona 660 now not goes head-on towards conventional tremendous sports activities; as an alternative, it’s taking the battle to the brand new supersports breed just like the Aprilia RS 660 and the Yamaha YZF-R7. Plus, its energy supply and ergonomics inadvertently place it proper towards the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Honda CBR600R. How does it fare right here? Pretty effectively.

Speaking of straight energy figures, the Daytona 660 provides the very best bang for the buck within the section. The YZF-R7 is lighter however doesn’t produce as a lot energy, and nor does the Suzuki GSX-8R. The closest rival is the Honda CBR650R however it’s heavier than the Daytona 660. The RS 660 sits on the higher finish of the spectrum with its efficiency and tech options, and the Ninja 650 sits on the decrease finish. The Daytona 660 goes to rock the middleweight sports activities bike section.

Notable Daytona 660 Rivals

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10 Powerful Motorcycles Between 600 And 750cc Every Biker Should Ride

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1 Pricing, Colors, And Availability

Starting MSRP: $9,195

two 2024 Triumph Daytona 660 on display
Triumph

With a beginning MSRP of $9,195, the Daytona 660 is a candy deal within the middleweight sports activities bike section. And we’re excited to experience this, hoping it continues the Daytona 675 legacy. If it does, we’d like to personal the Daytona 660, and so must you. But as of writing this text, you’ll have to attend until April as a result of that’s when the deliveries begin.

Color Options

  • Snowdonia White / Sapphire Black
  • Satin Granite / Satin Jet Black
  • Carnival Red / Sapphire Black

2024 Porsche Macan EV to Feature 603bhp and 100kWh Battery

The upcoming Porsche Macan EV, Porsche’s first venture into the electric SUV market, has been spotted in its production-ready form. Unlike previous prototypes, this model is not camouflaged and does not have covered exhausts, indicating that it closely resembles the final design. The Macan EV will be sold alongside the combustion-powered version but will have slightly different exterior styling.

One noticeable change is the more angular front design, giving the SUV a sleeker appearance compared to the current blockier Macan. The headlights have also been updated to have a sharper shape, similar to those on the larger Porsche Cayenne. Additionally, the front daytime light bars have been replaced with two sets of twin circular lights. At the rear, the Macan EV features a more angular design compared to the previous bulbous design.

The Macan EV shares its PPE (Premium Platform Electric) architecture with the similarly-sized Audi Q6 e-tron. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2024, after experiencing delays due to development challenges at Cariad, the Volkswagen Group’s software division.

To position the Macan EV as the sportiest car in its class, Porsche has equipped it with a pair of permanently excited electric motors, similar to those used in the Porsche Taycan. However, these motors have undergone significant improvements to enhance power density and efficiency. They now feature a new ‘double V’ magnet arrangement and have switched from a silicon semiconductor to silicon-carbide, reducing power leakage in the motors’ pulse inverters.

The enhancements result in impressive power outputs of up to 603bhp and over 738lb ft of torque, which is sent to all four wheels. Porsche has not confirmed whether the Macan EV will have an ‘overboost’ function, similar to that offered on the Taycan Turbo S, which temporarily increases power and torque to 751bhp and 774lb ft.

Toyota GR ‘critical’ for revitalizing Corolla and Prius models

The Toyota GR will play a crucial role in reinvigorating the reputation of its long-standing models, including the Prius and Corolla, according to Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda in an interview with Autocar.

Toyoda emphasized the power of motorsport in enhancing desirability and profitability. He specifically mentioned the Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition, a special edition Prius inspired by racing and designed to commemorate the hybrid technology that helped the car win five races between 2018 and 2022.

Toyoda explained how the Prius became an iconic nameplate by pioneering hybrid technology and breaking the mold of traditional class segments. However, to approach the Prius from a different angle, Toyota decided to create a motorsport-inspired version of the vehicle.

A similar approach applies to the Corolla. While many people associate it with a mass-produced sedan loved by the public, Toyoda drove a hydrogen engine-powered Corolla at Le Mans. Additionally, the GR Corolla is priced significantly higher than the standard model, adding a new level of appeal to the nameplate.

The GR branding has the potential to push up the price of these vehicles and bring a fresh attractiveness to these long-standing models, according to Toyoda. Essentially, Toyota’s strategy involves rebranding these popular vehicles.

The Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition is 90mm longer, 50mm wider, and sits 30mm lower than the standard model. It also features widened front and rear tracks by 40mm. The edition showcases mini-inverters mounted directly onto the electric motor, as well as silicon carbide semiconductors and improved cooling.

F1 Reflects on 50 Years of Safety Cars, Starting with the Porsche 914

Safety cars are an essential part of Formula One events, serving to protect track marshals and safety crews during accidents or hazardous conditions on the track. While they are a familiar sight in modern races, there is a rich history behind these safety cars, as explored in a video on the Formula One YouTube channel.

The very first official Safety Car was a Porsche 914/6, used at the Canadian Grand Prix in 1973. Since then, Formula One has employed various cars for this role, including the Lamborghini Countach at the 1981 Monaco Grand Prix. Other unlikely choices have included the Ford Escort Cosworth, Renault Clio, and Fiat Tempra. It became evident that the safety cars needed to be fast enough to maintain normal operating temperatures in the Formula One cars’ brakes, tires, and engines, which is why in 1996 Formula One entered into an agreement with Mercedes-Benz to provide the official safety cars. Mercedes-Benz and its high-performance division, AMG, have supplied a range of vehicles, such as the CLK63 AMG Black Series, SLS AMG, and Mercedes-AMG GT, to fulfill the demands of the role. This exclusivity lasted until 2021 when Aston Martin joined as a partner, sharing the responsibility of providing safety cars.

However, being a Formula One Safety Car driver encompasses more than just piloting a fast car like the Aston Martin Vantage. It requires a skilled driver like Bernd Maylander. Maylander, an accomplished race car driver in his own right, won the 1997 FIA GT and the Nurburgring 24 Hours in 2000. For the past 24 years, he has served as the primary Safety Car driver in over 212 Grand Prix events.

The Formula One Safety Cars differ significantly from their stock, road-going counterparts. They are equipped with enhanced performance and safety features to handle the demands of the track. Special lights and communication equipment, including GPS and telemetry systems, are utilized to pinpoint the location of any accidents and the leading car during races.

Even to this day, Formula One and the role of the Safety Car continue to evolve. Maylander emphasizes the importance of teamwork and the continuous learning process within the safety car team. While he cherishes the memories from his extensive tenure as the primary Safety Car driver, it is the collaborative effort of the entire team that he takes the most pride in.

Enabling Dark Mode On Any Website: A Step-By-Step Guide For Android

When using the web on an Android device, enabling Dark Mode can have critical benefits such as reducing eye strain and improving battery life, especially on OLED screens.

The comfort of Dark Mode comes from the reduced brightness and contrast it offers, which helps alleviate eye strain. Bright screens can lead to computer vision syndrome, but with Dark Mode, the lower luminance provides a more relaxing viewing experience, especially in low-light conditions.

For Android devices with OLED screens, enabling Dark Mode also has a significant battery-saving advantage. Unlike LCD screens that use a backlight to illuminate all pixels simultaneously, OLED displays have individual pixels that emit their own light. As a result, dark pixels on OLED screens consume less power, allowing for better battery performance and longer usage away from the charger.

Whether you want to reduce eye strain or conserve battery life, enabling Dark Mode can significantly enhance your browsing experience on Android. Follow this step-by-step guide to turn it on and enjoy the benefits.