Tag Archives: daily

Do We Really Need Yamaha’s Augmented Reality Motorcycle Helmet?

Though I exploit expertise day by day, together with permitting it to save my ass, I’d go full Luddite if the world would let me. Let me contact grass, not screens. But the world strikes on and new expertise continues to be delivered to the general public at a fast tempo, with the newest pattern being augmented actuality (AR). 

AR is fairly straightforward to know, as glasses, goggles, or lenses provide up a digital head-up display (HUD) that provides the wearer details about the world round them. Within the realm of RideApart’s mission, it might provide issues like pace, climate, and GPS navigation, or utilized by mechanics to know service intervals, the place elements are positioned, and extra, because the automotive firm Genesis does.

It has its makes use of, however I’m unsure the patent for Yamaha’s augmented actuality motorbike helmet is a type of. At least not for me. 

Yamaha’s patent is fairly attention-grabbing, because it follows together with the model’s AR helmet idea from a number of years again. However, it fortunately kills the unique thought of getting solely screens dealing with the rider’s eyes, no pass-through lens. 

It nonetheless has rider-facing cameras, 4 of them, to be precise, however there is a pass-through lens that permits the rider to nonetheless see outward within the case that the helmet’s battery dies. However, the helmet initiatives info in the identical means a HUD does, relaying info to the rider’s eyes. What’s attention-grabbing in regards to the patent, although, is that it is each for a closed- and open-face helmet, providing the tech seemingly to extra riders. 

But I’m simply unsure this can be a good thought.

I are likely to assume that motorcyclists need fewer distractions, no more. I get that this could provide up loads of the identical info being relayed from a motorbike’s sprint, however with no need to look all the way down to see it, however that is nonetheless extra issues in your sightline. And in a world that does not see motorcyclists most days, the less distractions the higher. At least for me. 

Now, I’m not the arbiter of what can be helpful to everybody. There’s most likely a load of people that’d discover this expertise helpful of their lengthy journeys, commutes, or brief mountain blasts. It’s simply not for me or my model of using.

I’m going on rides to flee expertise and the bigger world round me, and I can see how this could observe in Apple’s Vision Pro goggles. And I may see a close to future in that you simply’d possible begin to see commercials that simply pop up in your nightlines. Imagine billboards however instantly in entrance of your eyes ala the dystopian graphic novel: Tokyo Ghost.

I do not need that on my motorbike rides, however I get corporations would love captive audiences.  

But what do you all assume? Would you take into account one thing like Yamaha’s AR helmet or are you in my camp? Sound off within the feedback beneath. 

3 Things You Need To Know Before Adding Smart Home Tech To Your House

It’s simple to get swept up within the pleasure of making a house that automates your each day duties. Who would not wish to management the ambient lighting of their front room whereas concurrently asking Alexa to order extra cat meals and batteries for you? However, not solely is it costly, it is overwhelming. Start small and construct your good community brick by brick.

Start with the necessities like a sensible speaker. This won’t solely offer you a trusty voice assistant to name on when wanted, however it’ll additionally offer you an concept of which ecosystem you wish to construct your good house round. The major choices most go together with are Apple, Alexa, and Google, however Samsung’s SmartThings is not a horrible possibility.

It’s not needed to purchase a speaker with a display screen straight away. As handy as it’s to have visuals, it is extra inexpensive to go together with the speaker-only possibility first. Once you’ve gotten your voice assistant put in and you’ve got acclimated to its options, you’ll be able to department out to different good units. From smart locks and smart lighting to thermostats and video doorbells, you’ll be able to have your complete home seamlessly work collectively to make your life simpler.

Japanese EVs That We’re Looking Forward To In 2024

For many years, Japanese cars have been a popular choice due to their reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Brands like Toyota, Nissan, Honda, and their luxury counterparts have been among the most popular vehicles on the road. However, the automotive market is evolving, and electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant attention.

While names like Tesla and Lucid have made headlines, Japanese EVs shouldn’t be overlooked. Although some brands were late to the EV game, the quality, efficiency, and cost of their offerings make them worth considering.

Unlike Tesla’s fast Models, vehicles like the Subaru Solterra and Nissan Leaf may not be as quick, but they offer efficiency and reliability. Electric powertrains deliver impressive torque, with the focus on vehicle quality and performance.

This list includes upcoming vehicles that haven’t been fully revealed yet. The information provided may not be entirely accurate or may change before the vehicle’s release. We will make every effort to update this content with new developments as they arise. All information is sourced from authoritative sources, including Car and Driver and manufacturers’ build pages.

1 2024 Acura ZDX

325-mile Range

2024 Acura ZDX Type S
Acura

2024 marks the return of the ZDX, this time as a fully electric vehicle. Featuring a new design and a powerful electric powertrain, the 2024 ZDX offers great range and performance. Acura has confirmed that the vehicle will be available in 2024, with an exact release date yet to be announced.

Notable Features And Options

  • The first all-electric Acura
  • Three trim options with the base offering 325 miles per charge and the high-power Type S providing 288 miles per charge
  • 0-60 in under five seconds for the Type S trim
  • Intuitive driver features including a customizable 11.3-inch touchscreen with Acura integration of “Google Built In”
  • Standard Bang & Olufsen luxury audio system

The ZDX features a base 340-horsepower electric powertrain, with an option to upgrade to the Type S model, offering all-wheel drive and an output of 500 horsepower. However, choosing the Type S trim reduces the range to an estimated 288 miles per charge, making it the top choice among Japanese EVs due to its impressive range and optional performance trim.

2 2024 Nissan Ariya

304-mile Range

2023 Nissan Ariya side
Nissan (2023 Model Shown)

Nissan has been a significant player in the EV market, with the popular Nissan Leaf and the recent introduction of the Nissan Ariya. The Ariya, with its modern exterior and new platform, embodies the futuristic image of an electric vehicle. The collaboration with Renault has resulted in a fresh, entirely electric vehicle.

Trims And Statistics

  • The base front-wheel-drive version offers 238 horsepower, while the dual-motor, high-power trim provides 389 horsepower
  • Range options from 216 to 304 miles on a single charge
  • Availability of five FWD trims and four AWD trims
  • Fast charging that provides up to 175 miles in 30 minutes

Likewise, the electrifying Nissan Ariya demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to the future of mobility. The new platform and advanced features position the Ariya as a game-changer in the EV segment, offering a distinctive, futuristic electric vehicle.

3 2024 Honda Prologue

300-mile Range

Front 3/4 view of a 2024 Honda Prologue while driving
Honda

The Prologue, set for release in 2024, is Honda’s second attempt at an EV following the short-lived Honda Clarity. Jointly developed with GM, the Prologue presents a sporty driving experience, spacious cabin, and advanced technology, utilizing the same Ultimum Battery pack used in GM’s electric vehicles.

Features And Statistics

  • Sporty driving experience with a tech-filled and roomy cabin
  • DC fast-charging system adds up to 65 miles of range per 10 minutes of charging
  • Honda Smart Charge system notifies you of the best, most cost-efficient time to charge the vehicle
  • Honda will offer discounts on home chargers, free AC cord sets, and public charging credits
  • Three AWD trims and two 2WD trims available

The Prologue’s collaboration with GM has resulted in a reliable, efficient, and forward-looking EV that showcases Honda’s dedication to electric mobility.

4 2024 Lexus RZ 450e

220-mile Range

Side Shot Of 2023 Lexus RZ450 E EV
Lexus (2023 Model Shown)

In the first fully electric entry, Lexus introduces the RZ 450e, available in Premium and Luxury trims. Highlighting multicolor ambient interior lighting, premium surround sound, and a dedicated battery-electric platform, the RZ 450e offers a luxurious and sleek driving experience.

Additional Features

  • Multicolor ambient interior lighting
  • MARK LEVINSON® 1,800 watt premium surround sound
  • Built on a dedicated battery-electric platform for instant power and a low center of gravity
  • Electronic axle integrates the motor, transaxle, and inverter to benefit cruise range
  • Sound frequencies are matched with the vehicle speed and sound levels during dynamic actions to allow for a unique in-cabin sound to keep your driving experience invigorating
  • Five drive modes which are switched with a simple tap of the screen

The RZ 450e’s premium features and advanced electric platform position it as a luxurious and technologically sophisticated addition to the market.

5 2024 Subaru Solterra

220-mile Range

Touring 2023 subaru solterra
Subaru (2023 Model Shown)

The Subaru Solterra, introduced in 2022, presents a practical and capable electric vehicle. While its range may not be as extensive as some of its counterparts, it compensates with a strong emphasis on safety and a spacious, high-quality interior.

Features And Charging Statistics

  • DC fast charging option can provide 80 percent of a charge in under an hour
  • Normal mode, Eco mode, and an extra-responsive Power mode
  • eSubaru platform for enhanced safety and rigidity
  • Highly advanced 12.3-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Aerodynamic design to increase efficiency and aesthetics

True to Subaru’s ethos, the Solterra offers all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance, providing versatility beyond paved roads. Dual electric motors deliver optimal power and acceleration, accompanied by a range of 228 miles on a single charge.

6 2024 Nissan Leaf/Leaf SV

149/212-mile Range

Watch Hybrid Mercedes-AMG S63 Reach 186 MPH on the Autobahn

Here’s a reminder that in the world of cars, being big and heavy doesn’t always mean being slow. While small, lightweight cars can excel at maneuverability, it’s impressive to see a car that can carry five people in comfort accelerate from 0 to over 180 mph in just 30 seconds.

This is exactly what the Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance is capable of. A new video from AutoTopNL showcases this large luxury sedan doing what it does best – cruising at high speeds on Germany’s autobahn. The video wastes no time, immediately showing the car accelerating from a standstill to 295 kph (183 mph) on the speedometer. While we don’t have an exact time for this acceleration, our stopwatch recorded it at a mere 31.16 seconds. This is quite impressive considering the sedan’s weight of over 2.5 tons.

How To Use Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons To Control Your Phone’s Camera

It’s always convenient when the many portable devices we use on a daily basis interact with and complement each other. Fitness apps on a smartphone and a smart watch, for instance, are just one very logical and natural pairing. More outlandishly, though, the Nintendo Switch’s small but mighty Joy-Con controller can serve as a controller for something else: your smartphone’s camera.

If you’ve ever tried to use your camera’s timer feature and then rushed into a group shot, only to get questionable results, you’ll appreciate this rather obscure functionality of the Joy-Con. Here’s how it works.

In September 2021, Bluetooth audio was added to the Nintendo Switch for connecting headphones. However, months prior to that, a Reddit user named Byotan showcased the Bluetooth functionality that the system already had. It’s a niche feature but impressive nonetheless.

In Byotan’s demonstration, a single Joy-Con is used (via the “A” button) to activate the shutter of an Android phone’s camera, which is set up on a stand at a short distance. You can easily set this up for yourself too.

Android and Bluetooth Versatility Strikes Again

Here’s how to set up your Joy-Cons for remote photography on an Android device:

  1. Open your Android smartphone’s Bluetooth settings.

  2. Press the Sync button on your Joy-Con. It’s the small circular button between the SL and SR buttons. The indicator will quickly cycle through the player positions, indicating that the Joy-Con is searching for a Bluetooth device to pair to.

  3. On your smartphone, you should see either Joy-Con R or Joy-Con L (depending on whether you’re using the right or left Joy-Con) in the Available Devices list. Tap it, and your Android will start pairing with the Joy-Con automatically. If you’re connecting both Joy-Con, repeat this process for the second one.

  4. Open your smartphone’s camera app.

With the connection set up like this, pressing up on the D-Pad (left Joy-Con) or the A or B buttons (right Joy-Con) will take a photo on a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, while pressing down on the D-Pad (left Joy-Con) or the X button (right Joy-Con) will close the camera app.

The specific functionality may vary depending on your device (for example, pressing A on the right Joy-Con will take a photo on a Pixel device), and the easiest way to utilize it is to configure the photo settings to your preferences using the app as usual first, and then experiment with the Joy-Con buttons afterwards. With their movement-tracking capabilities, the Joy-Cons are very capable little controllers.

Royal Enfield Updates Interceptor and Continental GT 650s in France

Royal Enfield has introduced several updates for the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 for the 2024 model year in France. These updates include new technology, revised features, and added convenience for daily riders.

Royal Enfield has been actively expanding its lineup, with the Interceptor and Continental GT 650 being the flagship models in the 650cc class. These bikes have now received hardware updates and new looks for the 2024 model year, bringing them into the modern era.

One notable update is the addition of LED headlights, which enhance the premium feel of the bikes. However, some purists may argue that halogen lights are better. The engine and other hardware components remain unchanged, featuring a 647.95cc parallel twin engine, six-speed manual transmission, slipper clutch, disc brakes, and standard forks and shocks.

In terms of design, Royal Enfield has introduced new paint schemes and hardware options. Buyers can choose between two finishes and select variants with spoked rims and chrome accents or alloy wheels and black accents.

The updated models also feature new switchgear and an added USB port for added convenience. The USB port is protected by a weatherproof flap and allows riders to charge their phones while on the go.

As for pricing, the Interceptor 650 is priced at 7,390 EUR (approximately $7,890 USD), while the Continental GT 650 is priced at 7,690 EUR (approximately $8,200 USD) in France. Both models come with a three-year warranty with unlimited mileage.

duPont REGISTRY No. 460 – September 2023​

When it comes to symbols of excess, affluence, and influence, six driven wheels on your daily driver have become the new scissor doors. Back in the day, the vertical lift of a Lamborghini’s door instantly telegraphed your place in the social hierarchy: at the top. In today’s car culture, its six wheels on a car otherwise meant to operate with four.

The recently introduced Brabus XLP 900 6X6 is that kind of statement piece. Beginning life as an already impressive Mercedes-AMG G63, the XLP 900 6X6 is the result of some mad scientists at Brabus being given carte blanche to develop the ultimate truck. That’s right, this thing has a bed despite the donor vehicle being a fully enclosed SUV. I suppose making it a pickup is small potatoes after you’ve already decided to add a third driven axle.

Sept23-Magazine_Mockup_NS-Single

Newsstand Edition

Sept23-Magazine_Single

Subscriber Edition

⌊ Subscribe Now ⌉

⌊ Buy A Single Issue ⌉

We chose the XLP 900 6X6 as this month’s cover car because it reminds us what we love about duPont REGISTRY: turning the page and being arrested by a picture of a car for sale that’s wilder than we could have ever imagined. And yet, it exists, and it’s for sale. That’s the feeling it gives us, and you can read the rest of the story on Brabus’ brutish six-wheeled Mercedes-Benz with a bed on page 14.

This month’s other feature car is wholly different. The Rolls-Royce Spectre is arguably the most significant product the luxury car maker has ever built, but it looks similar enough to the Phantom Coupe it replaces that you might mix up the two. You can’t tell at first glance that enclosed within is the marque’s first all-electric powertrain. Will the Spirit of Ecstasy faithful embrace the brand’s electrified future? We’ll tell you why they should on page 22.

Sept23-Magazine_CoverSpread1
Sept23-Magazine_Spread-LIVE
Sept23-Magazine_Spread-Drive

We also spent some seat time with the new BMW M2, an engaging, charming, and decidedly unexpected creation from the people who brought you the 2002. The M2 is a hell of a fun ride, and its front end lacks the oversized double kidney grille that’s appeared on so many other BMWs lately and roiled the brand’s user base. We have nothing to complain about regarding the M2, yet we still have many things to say, which you can read on page 28.

It’s also that time of year to start thinking about Monterey Car Week on the California coast. Book your lodging and transportation early, and don’t forget to wander through the event’s parking lots for the best unofficial car show you could ever attend. We’ve got more tips on how to prep for Pebble Beach on page 46, as well as a look back at the most expensive auctions ever hosted at Monterey.

Sept23-Magazine_Stack_3

We end this month’s issue with an important piece on watch safes. God forbid the worst-case scenario happens and a burglar is standing in your bedroom, wondering what to take. On page 70, we show you some options that will ensure your watch collection doesn’t make his list.

Summer’s almost over, but rather than dwell on where you’ll go this year when the weather turns, how about sitting back and enjoying the final rays of summer on a beach chair reading this month’s issue of duPont REGISTRY? Maybe you’ll turn a page and be stopped by something special you’ve never seen before.

Sept23-Magazine_Grid

⌊ Subscribe Now ⌉

⌊ Buy A Single Issue ⌉

Genesis G70 Will Not Continue Beyond the First Generation: Report

According to a report from Korea JoongAng Daily, the Genesis G70 will not be receiving another generation. Weak sales have been cited as the reason behind this decision. It’s worth noting that the sedan recently underwent a refresh for the 2022 model year in the United States.

An inside source revealed to Korea Joongang Daily, “Recently, there was an official announcement within the company that it officially halted the development of RN2, a project name for the next G70.”

Favorite Drives From Lexus Racing Drivers

In the course of fulfilling regular errands and routine responsibilities, from daily commutes to child-activity runarounds, it can be easy to forget that the Lexus vehicle you’re driving is also designed for pure on-the-road joy.

We could remind you of this fact by delving into the myriad Lexus features that contribute to driving pleasure, such as paddle shifters, sequential-shift transmissions, quick Lexus Hybrid Drive accelerations, Drive Mode Select, and the like.

But we’re not going to do that.

Instead, we’d like to turn your attention to some fellow Lexus drivers who know a lot about Lexus-vehicle enjoyment—the 2023 Lexus Vasser Sullivan Racing team. These are drivers who understand what it is to drive, really drive, a Lexus, which of course they’ve been doing throughout this year’s thrilling Lexus Motorsports season (including a recent double win at Six Hours of the Glen).

Trademarks shown are those of their respective owners

Trademarks shown are those of their respective owners

However, they also know the importance of finding driving pleasure anywhere, in any capacity one finds fun, which is why we asked them to share their own favorite off-track stretches of road. Consider it inspiration to seek out—or revisit—your own favorite Lexus-driving spots:

Aaron Telitz (five years driving a Lexus RC F GT3 for Vasser Sullivan)

“My all-time favorite stretch of road is a little county road outside of my hometown of Birchwood, Wisconsin. The road is called ‘County Road DD.’ It weaves its way from Lake Chetac to Big Birch Lake and eventually the edge of Birchwood. The road is never straight with multiple blind and off-camber corners. I grew up driving on DD almost every day, even though it was the long way to Birchwood! On a drive up north to visit my parents in 2021, I had a beautiful and took the long way home to take it down DD for old times’ sake.”

Ben Barnicoat (two years driving for Lexus Racing)

“My favorite drive off the racetrack had to be recently going down the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles. I was lucky enough to do that in April 2022. I had the opportunity to drive an LC 500 convertible, and the sun was shining so I had the roof down. It was just a beautiful drive. I’m a huge fan of the ocean, so it was nice to drive and see the ocean views. The team spends so much time in the racecars driving as fast as we can, pushing our Lexus RC F GT3 vehicles to the limit, so the Pacific drive was obviously a very different experience. It was super relaxing driving the speed limit, and nice and chill because you want to go slow and appreciate the scenery that surrounds you. Quite different to what we do when we’re racing, but an incredible memory of great views and a great road with a lot of tight and twisting lanes.”

Frankie Montecalvo (five years driving a Lexus RC F GT3 for Vasser Sullivan)

“My favorite stretch of road to drive off the track would have to be at a national recreation area at Sandy Hook, which is located near my home in New Jersey. It’s just a beautiful stretch. It feels like you’re in the middle of nowhere, yet you’ve got the beach on one side and the river on the other. It’s just a great drive right along the coast, and it’s an especially nice drive at sunset.”

Jack Hawksworth (seven years driving for Lexus Racing)

“My favorite road is a winding road behind the town of Bingley, near my hometown of Bradford, England, where I grew up. The road runs past a pub called Dick Hudsons, so we always used to refer to that stretch as ‘Dick Hudsons’.’ Back in the day, my mates and I used to drive our little hatchbacks over that road every evening. I had a little yellow one at the time that used to break down every other week. It had a huge stereo and a Sparco gear lever in it! Good times!”

By the way, if you’re not already, make sure to follow the team throughout the 2023 Lexus Racing season at @LexusRacingUSA on Instagram or Facebook and follow the team all year at Lexus.com/motorsports.

Threads Engagement Reportedly Declines After Initial Success

Aside from a decrease in the number of daily active users, the amount of time spent by users on Threads has also significantly dropped. According to SimilarWeb, users now spend only 10 minutes on the app compared to the previous 30 minutes. The average time spent has gone from 20 minutes daily to 8 minutes. It is important to note that SimilarWeb’s data only accounts for the Android side of the platform and does not include iOS.

At present, Threads bears a resemblance to Twitter in terms of its user interface and is lacking several essential features, such as a following feed, an edit button, and advanced search capabilities. These aspects are crucial and are currently absent from the app.

However, there are a couple of factors that may work in Threads’ favor. Firstly, the app is currently unavailable in the EU, and users utilizing VPNs are being blocked from signing up. This represents a sizable audience waiting to join Threads.

Secondly, Threads will soon become a part of the Fediverse. This means that users will be able to communicate with individuals on Mastodon and other social networks built on the ActivityPub protocol within a decentralized social universe.

Many internet users are reluctant to sign up for yet another social platform by Meta. However, if they can stay connected with their Threads contacts without directly signing up for the app, it is likely that there will be increased engagement on Instagram’s Twitter clone.