Tag Archives: developing

Blue Origin Investigating Explosion Of Rocket Engine Made For ULA

Blue Origin is investigating an explosion of its BE-4 rocket engine, which is known as the “most powerful liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled rocket engine ever developed.” The engine is being developed for United Launch Alliance (ULA) and is also intended to power Blue Origin’s New Glenn reusable launch vehicle. Blue Origin has been working on the BE-4 engine since 2011, but it wasn’t until 2014 that the company signed a deal with ULA.

Since then, Blue Origin has faced setbacks, including multiple powerpack failures, which have delayed the development and deployment timelines. It was only in October 2022 that Blue Origin announced the delivery of two BE-4 engines to ULA for the first flight of the Vulcan rocket. The launch of Blue Origin’s New Glenn, which competes with SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy, has been repeatedly delayed to accommodate the BE-4 development delays.

The original schedule for New Glenn’s first flight was in 2021, but it was pushed to the fourth quarter of 2022. However, the launch did not happen during that time. Blue Origin’s senior commerce executive, Ariane Cornell, has stated that New Glenn will be ready for NASA’s ESCAPADE mission to Mars in 2024.

2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre First Drive: Redefining Luxury

The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is the luxury carmaker’s first electric vehicle, designed to provide an unparalleled silent driving experience. Rolls-Royce has always been known for creating vehicles that offer the utmost comfort, quietness, and opulence. However, even with extensive sound deadening, internal combustion engines still produce some noise. The Spectre aims to achieve true silence by eliminating the internal combustion engine and introducing electric motors and batteries.

To create a truly silent driving experience, the Spectre features over 375 pounds of sound deadening material and a 1,543-pound battery pack that dampens road noise and imperfections. Whether driving on smooth roads or rough asphalt, the Spectre’s isolation is remarkable. It offers complete seclusion from the outside world, setting a new benchmark for luxury.

The Spectre is powered by two separately excited synchronous motors, one in each axle, making it an all-wheel-drive vehicle. The combined output of these motors is 584 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, with most of the power directed to the rear wheels. It reaches 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, offering impressive acceleration. However, the Spectre is more focused on smoothness and tranquility, prioritizing a seamless driving experience over aggressive performance.

The Spectre’s weight is a notable factor, with a curb weight of 6,371 pounds due to its heavy battery pack. To counterbalance this weight gain, Rolls-Royce has distributed the battery evenly throughout the car’s floor, ensuring a low center of gravity. The Spectre’s suspension system and chassis further enhance its comfort by providing a smooth and gliding ride, thanks to its active air suspension, active anti-roll bars, and sensors that constantly adjust to the road conditions.

One of the Spectre’s highlights is its remarkable silence. The electric powertrain eliminates most external noise, allowing for an incredibly quiet cabin. Even on rough roads, only minimal road noise can be heard. Rolls-Royce’s extensive sound deadening efforts combined with the active air suspension system contribute to the Spectre’s exceptional isolation.

The Spectre’s range is estimated to be around 260 miles according to EPA estimates. While this figure may seem lower compared to other electric vehicles on the market, Rolls-Royce found that most owners only travel around 30 miles per day. Charging habits also revealed that owners preferred to charge at home or in the office, reducing reliance on public charging infrastructure.

The interior of the Spectre is characterized by luxurious details and spaciousness. It features large doors, starlight doors that illuminate the lower section of the interior with thousands of stars, and a digital instrument cluster that can be customized to reflect the car’s configuration. The rear seats offer ample head and legroom, making it a comfortable four-seater with a focus on driver experience.

The base price for the Spectre is $420,000, making it a truly high-end luxury vehicle. The first two years of production are already sold out, with delivery times estimated to be in 2025. As Rolls-Royce plans to transition to fully electric vehicles by 2030, the Spectre represents the brand’s first step towards that goal.

In conclusion, the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre redefines the luxury car segment with its silent and potent electric powertrain, outstanding comfort, and attention to detail. It sets a new benchmark for luxury and showcases Rolls-Royce’s commitment to providing the ultimate driving experience.

Porsche Macan With Gas Engines Could Remain in Production Longer than Planned

Porsche’s collaboration with Audi to develop the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) is set to debut in 2024 with the launch of the electric-only Macan. However, due to software issues, the release of the zero-emission crossover has been delayed from its original timeline this year. While the current internal combustion engine (ICE) model was expected to be phased out once the electric version arrived, recent reports suggest that the gasoline-fueled Macan may have its lifespan extended.

Porsche initially intended to discontinue the ICE version in the United States by 2025 or 2026. However, the latest plan is to evaluate the sales performance of the electric Macan, particularly considering customer feedback regarding the limited availability of charging infrastructure in the US. Based on this assessment, Porsche will determine whether to continue offering the gasoline-powered Macan alongside its electric counterpart for a few more years.

Audi RS6 Avant: More Aggressive Model Spotted at the Nurburgring

The Audi RS6 Avant is currently undergoing testing at the Nürburgring in preparation for its latest update. A spy video captures the high-performance wagon in action on the track as well as on the public roads near the circuit.

The updated RS6 Avant showcases a more aggressive design compared to the current model. Notably, the front fenders have been widened, featuring openings at the rear section just ahead of the doors. These openings are likely functional and could contribute to brake cooling or improve the vehicle’s aerodynamics.

Additionally, there are several minor revisions to the front fascia. The bottom opening now extends to the intakes in the corners.

The side sills have also been restyled, displaying a more intricate design.

At the rear, a larger wing is attached to the back of the roof. The rear bumper has been reshaped, while the presence of the oval-shaped exhausts remains.