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2024 SUPERMOTOCROSS PLAYOFF SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

PRESS RELEASE: During tonight’s tv broadcast of the DAYTONA Supercross, Round 8 of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and TremendousMotocross World Championship, lead analysts Ricky Carmichael and James Stewart revealed that zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Texas Motor Speedway, and The Strip on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway will host the 2024 TremendousMotocross World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final in September.

Last yr’s landmark inaugural season noticed two of the game’s youngest and brightest stars cement their place within the historical past books. At simply 17, Haiden Deegan earned Rookie of the Year and captured the 250cc World Championship whereas Australian sensation Jett Lawrence, at 20, turned the first-ever 450cc World Champion within the premier class, additionally as a rookie.

Showing the world this was no fluke, each Deegan and Lawrence are off to spectacular begins of their 2024 campaigns. Deegan simply earned his first win of the season (and his profession) this previous weekend at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and sits a mere seven factors again within the Eastern Regional 250SX Class Championship after two rounds. Lawrence, alternatively is the present factors chief within the very deep 450SX premier class and has two wins already in a yr that has witnessed 5 totally different race winners within the first seven rounds.
TremendousMotocross World Championship Playoff 1 will happen on Saturday, September 7 at zMAX Dragway in Concord, N.C. and Playoff 2 will happen on Saturday, September 14 at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas. The SMX World Championship Final will happen on Saturday, September 21 at The Strip on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Las Vegas, marking a long-anticipated return to a metropolis that has hosted many memorable ultimate Championship rounds in Supercross’ wealthy historical past.


“Last year, we created a completely new off-road motorcycle racing playoff series that combined both disciplines of indoor stadium racing (Supercross) and outdoor motocross racing (Pro Motocross) that was fully embraced by the teams, athletes, industry and fans,” stated Dave Prater, Vice President of Supercross, Feld Motor Sports, Inc. “Collectively, more than 110,000 fans from all over the world made their way here to attend the inaugural three round SMX World Championship Playoffs and Final and for the first time in the sport’s history witnessed the crowning of a true World Champion. The SuperMotocross World Championship is where the world comes to race.”
zMAX Dragway is located adjoining to Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C. and its world well-known four-lane dragstrip and twin grandstands offered the proper backdrop to host final yr’s first-ever SMX World Championship Playoff. The Charlotte space is a hotbed for followers of the game and is a simple metropolis to get to from most factors within the Eastern area. Last yr’s playoff turned the “must see” occasion of the yr and is a main cause for our return. zMAX Dragway proved to be a world-class facility in each means the place the SMX expertise was totally dropped at life with a full day of fan actions on Friday, an business packed FanFest on Saturday and a mess of prime tenting choices for each funds. The “Bellagio of Dragstrips” additionally offered the proper quantity of width and depth to create a really distinctive, world-class SMX monitor that stunned the groups and caught lots of the sport’s star athletes off guard which led to dramatic racing and unpredictable outcomes.
“Last year, we transformed a four-lane drag strip into the ultimate off-road playground and fans were treated to a full day of action-packed racing at the opening round of the inaugural SMX World Championships,” stated Greg Walter, govt vice chairman and normal supervisor of Charlotte Motor Speedway. “Building on that experience, we’re excited to once again partner with Feld Motor Sports to bring together the top Supercross and Motocross riders from around the world at zMAX Dragway to put on a high-flying, white-knuckled show for the fans.”

The dual-lane break up begin was considered one of a lot of distinctive options of the SMX World Championship Playoff monitor design held final fall at zMAX Dragway at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
Texas Motor Speedway, positioned in Fort Worth is well accessible for followers touring by automobile or aircraft with its central location and proximity to a number of worldwide airports. The 1.5-mile quad-oval superspeedway sits on over 1400 acres of land and is likely one of the largest sports activities amenities within the nation. Being a world-class venue, Texas Motor Speedway isn’t any stranger to marquee occasions as they’re an everyday cease on the NASCAR Cup Series and supply all the fashionable facilities motorsports followers anticipate when buying an occasion ticket. Last week’s Supercross spherical (7) in Arlington, Texas broke attendance data and this Playoff spherical might show to be a good larger spectacle with a deliberate Friday FanFest, and fan tenting choices being made accessible.
“All of us at Texas Motor Speedway are thrilled to have been chosen to host Round 2 of the 2024 SuperMotocross World Championship Playoffs and we look forward to welcoming an entirely new and energetic group of race fans, from across the country and around the world, to our world-class facility,” stated Texas Motor Speedway Executive Vice President & General Manager Mark Faber. “Supercross and motocross fans in the Fort Worth/Dallas metroplex have proven for years how much they love their sport so we look forward to proving to them how much we appreciate them coming to Texas Motor Speedway.”
Aptly named, The Strip on the Las Vegas Motor Speedway is conveniently positioned simply twenty minutes away from the world-famous Las Vegas strip and was a significant deciding consider bringing the SMX World Championship Final to Las Vegas.
“The Strip” is likely one of the most iconic dragstrips within the nation and joins zMAX Dragway as being considered one of simply two dragstrips within the nation to function four-wide racing. This expansive footprint will enable our grasp monitor builders to get very imaginative in creating the ultimate SMX World Championship monitor of the season. Situated proper throughout the road from the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the Strip is residence to greater than 50 occasions a yr and supplies an intimate viewing expertise from the grandstands and suites whereas additionally providing followers the flexibility to “line the fence”, comparable to what’s accomplished at a Pro Motocross occasion.
“The pinnacle of two-wheel racing is making its return to Las Vegas, and we’re thrilled to crown the ultimate champion at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, surrounded by the passionate fans of Supercross and Motocross,” stated Chris Powell, Las Vegas Motor Speedway President. “In recent years, Las Vegas has emerged as the ultimate sports hub, making it fitting to include the SuperMotocross World Championship Final on the list of prestigious events hosted here.”

Fans “lining the fence” and accessing areas which might be extra in keeping with a Pro Motocross occasion are a giant a part of the SMX Playoff expertise that may be offered in a Speedway setting. Photo Credit: Feld Motor Sports, Inc.
The TremendousMotocross World Championship Playoffs and Final will function the very best athletes on this planet as the highest 20 in mixed Supercross and Pro Motocross factors are mechanically seeded into the playoff rounds. As in different sport playoffs, athletes will probably be competing for the game’s final World Championship title, and the status that comes from overcoming adversity via a 28-round, dual-discipline (indoor and out of doors) season, plus two SMX Playoffs and a Final.
The SMX World Championship is the premier off-road bike racing collection on this planet and as such pays out extra complete prize cash than any off-road bike racing collection on the planet.
All 17 rounds of the 2024 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship and 11 rounds of the Pro Motocross Championship are on sale. Tickets for the TremendousMotocross World Championship Playoff Rounds and Final will go on pre-sale, Tuesday, April 2, adopted by public on-sale Tuesday, April 9. Friday FanFest, Saturday FanFest and tenting choices for every spherical and venue will probably be introduced later within the season.

Motorsport

This Secret Ford F-150 Lightning Will Climb Pikes Peak

During Ford’s big party in Charlotte to kick off the 2024 racing season, firm CEO Jim Farley revealed a brand new “EV demonstrator” would deal with Pikes Peak. Details on that car weren’t talked about, and for probably the most half, they nonetheless aren’t talked about. However, we no less than know it is going to be an F-150 Lightning. But it will not something you may see on the native Ford dealership.

Ford shared a single teaser picture on social media on Friday, exhibiting the entrance of a car hiding underneath covers. It’s low, large, and there is a wild wing on the again just like the one on the bonkers electrical SuperVan. In truth, if Ford did not particularly say this was an F-150 Lightning, our minds would leap on to some SuperVan iteration past the present 4.2 mannequin. But this can be a truck, and clearly, Ford is making use of among the classes discovered from its supremely quick van.


News

Why Chevy Discontinued The Bolt EV And What Comes Next

During General Motors’ earnings name in late April 2023, CEO Mary Barra confirmed that the Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV would be discontinued by the end of 2023. However, each fashions have lately reached the manufacturing and gross sales information GM was aiming for since Bolt’s launch in 2016. The Chevrolet Bolt, a hatchback, and the Bolt EUV (Electric Utility Vehicle), a extra utilitarian variant, sought from their inception to change into standard electrical autos due to their inexpensive base worth of $27,000 and a compelling vary of 259 miles.

Unfortunately, completely different issues stored the Bolt within the shadows of different fashions, particularly the Tesla Model 3. Thanks to a fair decrease base worth and elevated vary, and having fastened a longstanding and expensive battery fireplace problem, the Chevrolet Bolt has lastly managed to change into the success GM has been ready for from the beginning, which made the choice to discontinue it extra stunning. However, Chevy confirmed that the Bolt EV will be making a comeback, so keep tuned as we dive into these particulars.

Updated on February 11, 2024: This article has been refreshed to replicate present Chevy Bolt launch data, in addition to recall reviews from the automaker. Although this nameplate noticed a rocky finish to 2022 and 2023, there was affirmation of a 2025 launch of the Bolt EUV.

To give you essentially the most correct and up-to-date data doable, TopSpeed has sourced data from Chevrolet, in addition to different credible retailers, together with AutoNews in addition to official press dockets from General Motors.

A 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV and a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Related

Comparison: Chevrolet Bolt EV vs Bolt EUV

The Chevrolet EV siblings are the most cost effective EVs you should buy in 2023, for one purpose being they’re being retired. But, which one do you have to get?

The Chevy Bolt, Although Affordable, Fell Too Far Behind

Halting Chevy Bolt EV and EUV manufacturing brings super obstacles in accessing cost-effective electric vehicle ownership choices. The discontinuation is especially disadvantageous as a result of it compromises affordability, which units it aside from different presently accessible autos. In addition, the Bolt’s preliminary worth vary is exceptionally affordable; customers could profit from further financial savings by availing themselves of an up to $7,500 EV tax rebate in direction of their buy.

GM Has Utilized Its Ultium Technology For New Models

Thankfully although, GM has made an impressed shift towards using its cutting-edge Ultium battery know-how for upcoming tasks such because the Cadillac Lyriq mannequin lineup and others just like the Hummer EVT1 pickup truck or GMC Sierra Electric Pickup truck, which is already regarded as better than the Ford F-150 Lightning. This can solely imply that Chevrolet is shifting forward with grander plans thanks primarily to those superior energy sources from inside planning out a trio (that is three!) of fully-electric SUVs made using what they’ve discovered from this latest know-how now we have gotten our palms on but: The Silverado EV, Blazer EV, and Equinox EV.

  • Bolt and Bolt EUV fashions weren’t reducing it: The Chevy Bolt and Bolt EUV have been cost-friendly, though they weren’t spectacular sufficient in design, vary, horsepower, and so on.

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV in Radiant Red Tint-Coat

Related

Comparison: Chevy Blazer EV vs Tesla Model Y

With extra EVs coming day by day, Tesla Model Y loses its supremacy available in the market.

Bumpy Track Record Could’ve Played A Part In The Bolt’s Death

2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV front
Chevrolet

The Chevrolet Bolt EV has acquired a combined fame since its debut. While it was the primary to boast an “affordable” price ticket and long-range capabilities, it in the end fell wanting assembly its full potential. This was compounded by recalls in 2020 and 2021 due to fire concerns related to defective batteries from suppliers and producers alike.

Reports point out that no less than a dozen Bolts experienced spontaneous fires resulting from this problem. Regardless, GM executives have continued to tout the Bolt as a primary instance of their dedication to electrical automobiles. In reality, they declare that this mannequin has helped draw new prospects to the model; over three-quarters of all Bolt homeowners have been beforehand driving non-GM autos. From 2017-2022 models, Chevy did voluntarily inform prospects that their Bolt fashions *could* have recalled parts, which was not an incredible search for them.

Chevy Chooses To Move Forward

Silver Chevrolet Bolt
Chevrolet

First, nevertheless, General Motors should deal with creating a new entry-level electric car that will fit into the upcoming Equinox EV line. Priced at round $30,000 out the door and made in Mexico, consultants are desirous to see whether or not this mannequin holds extra promise than earlier makes an attempt by the automaker have. GM is already planning for vital ramp-ups in manufacturing for this Equinox EV. Again, the Bolt legacy will ceaselessly be part of Chevrolet’s electrical endeavor: Just a bit extra distant for now.

  • Recall alert: Chevrolet issued a recall for faulty battery parts for Bolt fashions 2017 to 2022, in the end inflicting main controversy amongst homeowners.

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV in Riptide Blue

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10 Reasons Why The Chevy Equinox EV Should Be Your First Electric Vehicle

The Chevy Equinox EV has a lot to supply to any first-time EV purchaser with its dynamic persona and intuitive options tailored for all.

Size Matters: The Chevy Bolt And Bolt EUV Were Too Tiny

Blue Chevrolet Bolt EUV profile
Chevrolet

Although the Bolt EUV can accommodate 5 folks comfortably, its measurement could have been one of many causes for its downfall, as it’s small relative to different automobiles on the highway at the moment. The length difference between this model and its counterpart – the Bolt EV is usually evident in how spacious it’s on the rear, permitting ample room for passengers.

As a consequence, this electrical car fits many drivers’ wants simply effective for on a regular basis driving, together with when touring with kids utilizing a toddler automotive seat. There’s sufficient legroom on the again for youths, too, to not point out how easy it is to comfortably get them into their baby seats.

Although It Had A Hatchback Option, The Bolt Wasn’t Enough

In addition, the hatchback-like form supplies loads of cargo area. However, regardless of these benefits, the U.S. prospects have a tendency to indicate little curiosity in compact hatchbacks in comparison with their friends worldwide, who gravitate in direction of extra inexpensive EV choices. On the opposite, within the United States, the development tends towards extraordinarily highly effective automobiles and large batteries, which interprets to excessive manufacturing prices and longer charging occasions.

Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV Dimensions

Bolt EV

Bolt EUV

Length

163 inches

170 inches

Width

70 inches

70 inches

Height

63 inches

64 inches

(Specs sourced from Chevrolet)

A 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV and a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV

Related

10 Alternatives To The Chevrolet Bolt EV And Bolt EUV

Currently one of many least expensive options in the marketplace, the Chevy Bolt is about to be discontinued and now we have some respectable options for it.

Missed Bolt? The EUV Is Coming Back In 2025

2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Redline Edition
Chevrolet

For these of you who missed the Bolt, its EUV model will likely be returning to North American roadways in 2025. Chevrolet announced back in 2023 that it will give the Bolt nameplate one other likelihood, solely this time with it using Ultium structure. For a 2025 Bolt EUV, you’ll be able to count on this, based on present CEO Mary Barra:

“Our prior portfolio plans included several newly designed vehicles in the entry-level segments and a capital commitment of $5 billion over the next several years. However, by leveraging the best attributes of today’s Bolt EUV, as well as our Ultium platform, our software, and NACS, we will deliver an even better driving, charging, and ownership experience with a vehicle we know customers love.”

Of course, particular particulars for the EUV sequence are nonetheless stored underneath wraps by Chevrolet, as they’re nonetheless within the testing part of this mannequin utilizing Ultium know-how. That stated, you’ll be able to rely on this car providing a greater commonplace vary due to Ultium, with ~300 miles per charge being the standard for the brand as of this yr. This vary might exceed 600 miles with GM’s second-generation lithium-metal batteries, so there may be hope for a fair higher vary from the all-new Bolt EUV. With these upgrades, count on the next MSRP. However, we can not give these figures *but*, however once we discover them: We’ll let .

Other Eco-Friendly Plans Revealed

Bolt EUV Redline Mosaic Black rear 3/4
Drive Time Productions LLC

General Motors goals to get half its automotive manufacturing and gross sales by 2030 to be green-energy-based autos. For GM, increasing this market will mean a more extensive offering of EVs for the patron. They’re assured that the state of affairs will assist scale back manufacturing prices and form the choices of shoppers nonetheless on the lookout for causes to start out transitioning to emissions-free automobiles.

With the target that half of its manufacturing and gross sales in 2030 will likely be of automobiles primarily based on inexperienced energies, GM has outlined a vital path encompassing manufacturing, provide, and governance, permitting it to succeed in this aim in seven years.

Motorsport

Sheared Bolt While Off-Roading Forces Tesla Cybertruck To Drive Six Miles In Reverse

While testing a Cybertruck in the course of the widespread King of the Hammers off-road race weekend in California, Unplugged Performance, the favored store that builds upgraded Teslas, encountered a shock failure. According to the driving force, Craig Coker, the truck suffered a damaged steering bolt on its rear suspension. That would possibly sound minor, but it surely prevented the steering wheel from staying straight when driving ahead. That means Coker had one selection: drive in reverse. It took about an hour to traverse six miles of off-road trails earlier than reaching camp for repairs.

Images posted on Twitter (proven beneath) confirmed the Cybertruck stopped with its rear wheel at an ungainly angle, fully eliminated whereas present process repairs, or with a tow strap appearing as a brief toe hyperlink to assist it limp by the desert. It didn’t assist {that a} decal studying “Invincible,” the identify for Unplugged Performance’s line of modified Cybertruck components, was plastered throughout its facet.

 

It’s unclear whether or not the incident displays any high quality points with the automobile itself. In a textual content message, Coker remained constructive in regards to the expertise.

“Cybertruck exceeded my expectations in many ways,” Coker mentioned.

The bolt is a inventory half on the truck linked to its rear steering characteristic. The automobile in query featured modified fenders, a prototype Unplugged Performance sway bar, beadlock wheels and 35-inch Yokohama Geolander all-terrain tires, based on the corporate. There have been no different adjustments to its suspension.

Coker mentioned the difficulty will probably be totally identified within the days to return. Unplugged Performance posted an announcement on Twitter (beneath) saying, “That one bolt broke is not concerning to us at all, and we wouldn’t hesitate to push even harder next time.”

 

Failures usually are not unusual on this terrain. The Johnson Valley OHV space, the place King of the Hammers is held, is thought for being unforgiving. It shouldn’t be uncommon to see even well-prepped autos damaged down or with punctured tires on the facet of its quite a few trails. Coker mentioned the Cybertruck had efficiently tackled sand, mud and rocky terrain earlier than the incident occurred, backed up by movies that present him traversing steep inclines and attacking sand dunes at excessive pace. Another non-public Cybertruck proprietor accompanied the group and has to date reported no troubles.

Still, the Cybertruck will proceed to face scrutiny from skeptics and the off-roading group. The Tesla web site touts the truck as being “durable and rugged enough to go anywhere,” giving the all-electric pickup weighing greater than 6,500 kilos loads to dwell as much as.

Unplugged Performance has promised a video recap of all of the off-roading motion to return. In the meantime, the corporate has expressed that its testing is way from over.

“Would I take CT out again to [King of the Hammers]?” Coker mentioned in a textual content. “Hell yes.”

Technology

Everything To Know About The English Electric Lightning Jet

During the Cold War, the British, like so many different nations around the globe, sensed hazard brewing and responded as humanity so inevitably will — with more and more potent weapons and army autos. The Avro Vulcan strategic bomber was one results of this work. Mighty because it was, the Vulcan and different British bombers have been positive to be main targets for any potential enemy which will emerge. The greatest protection is an efficient offense, they are saying, and so fighters/interceptors have been developed that would deter any assault on the bases they known as house.

This line of considering led to the English Electric Lightning, however the plane took some appreciable time to return to fruition. Early in 1949, English Electric acknowledged the potential of the idea for the plane, which had been devised by one W.E.W. Petter, generally known as Teddy. There was hope that it might obtain a high velocity even greater than initially envisaged, and a lofty Mach 2 turned the goal to hit.

August 1954 marked the plane’s first flight, nevertheless it wasn’t till the flip of the next decade that it formally joined two squadrons of the Royal Air Force. When it did, it proved to be a powerful asset certainly, succesful not solely of exceptional speeds however of different spectacular mid-air feats too.

BMW

BMW M Team WRT presents BMW M4 GT3 drivers for the FIA WEC and GT World Challenge Europe.

Spa. During a media occasion at Spa (BEL), BMW M Team WRT launched the BMW M4 GT3 drivers for the 2024 season within the LMGT3 class of the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) and the Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS (GTWC). BMW M works driver Maxime Martin (BEL) will take part in each the FIA WEC and GTWC alongside Valentino Rossi (ITA). In the LMGT3 class, the line-up is accomplished by three drivers: Sean Gelael (INA), Ahmad Al-Harthy (OMA), and Darren Leung (GBR). In the GTWC, Dries Vanthoor and Charles Weerts (each BEL) will contest the complete season, joined by Sheldon van der Linde (RSA), Raffaele Marciello (SUI) and Jens Klingmann (GER) within the Endurance Cup.

The FIA WEC rules stipulate that every LMGT3 automotive will need to have drivers from all FIA classes. Specifically, which means that along with a driver with Platinum or Gold standing, a Silver and a Bronze-rated driver should type the crew of a automotive. In the BMW M Team WRT #31 BMW M4 GT3, BMW M manufacturing facility driver Augusto Farfus (BRA) shares the cockpit with Silver driver Sean Gelael, BMW M Ambassador for Indonesia, and Bronze driver Darren Leung. In the #46 BMW M4 GT3, alongside Silver-rated Valentino Rossi (ITA), Maxime Martin and Ahmad Al-Harthy will probably be in motion.

In the Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, Dries Vanthoor and Charles Weerts, as a longtime duo, are aiming for the title. They take part in each the Sprint Cup and the Endurance Cup. For the endurance races, together with the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL), they are going to be supported by Sheldon van der Linde. Valentino Rossi, Maxime Martin, and Raffaele Marciello compete within the Endurance Cup, with Rossi and Martin additionally collaborating in chosen Sprint Cup occasions. Klingmann will compete within the Bronze class of the Endurance Cup along with Al-Harthy and Sam de Haan (GBR).

Comments on the line-up:

 

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “In our second season together, BMW M Team WRT has a packed racing calendar full of highlights. After the Hypercar line-up in the FIA WEC, the driver line-ups for the BMW M4 GT3 in the two main series for the team, the FIA WEC and GT World Challenge Europe, are now set. I congratulate Vincent Vosse and his colleagues for securing excellent amateur drivers for the LMGT3 class. With these crews, I see a very good chance to play a leading role in this category. In the GTWC, BMW M Team WRT, with a proven line-up and strengthened by Raffaele Marciello, takes a new shot at winning titles with the BMW M4 GT3. I wish the team and drivers success in all programs!”

Vincent Vosse (Team Principal, BMW M Team WRT): “In GT racing, we had a positive start to our collaboration with BMW M Motorsport last year. We took up the challenges, we won races, long-distance and sprint ones, and we collected some memorable moments like those lived in Misano. But we want more! We want to improve, to win more races, to be champions again. I think we have what it takes, including stellar line-ups, and we’ll go for it. Now is the time, to show we know what to do, with the determination and the passion we have always had.”

Maxime Martin: “I am very excited to return to the FIA WEC for a full season in a completely new class. With Valentino and Ahmad, we have a very strong crew. The competition will undoubtedly be exciting and high-class. I can’t wait to get started again. In the GTWC, I want to give my all to continue the success from last season together with Valentino and our new teammate Raffaele Marciello.”

Valentino Rossi: “I am very happy with my 2024 programme and I can’t wait to start. In the Fanatec GT World Challenge, I’ll race the Endurance Cup together with Maxime and Lello, two fantastic drivers and I think we can be very strong. Additionally, I will be doing two races of the Sprint Cup with Maxime, Misano and Brands Hatch, two tracks where we did very well last year. The WEC will be new for me; I’ll be with Maxime and Ahmad, and I’m eager to race in the main event at Le Mans, and at places like Austin and São Paulo, a brand new experience for me and hopefully we will be competitive.”

Augusto Farfus: “I feel honoured to be part of the WEC project of BMW M Motorsport and WRT, I always wanted to have a full campaign in the WEC and now is the right time to join the new platform. We have a strong package, we are eager to share the experience and we are ready for the WEC and Le Mans.”

Raffaele Marciello: “The GT World Challenge Europe has given me many great successes in recent years. I won the title in 2022 and 2023 and hope to continue this success with BMW M Team WRT. With Valentino and Maxime, we have a very strong team. Overall, it’s just fantastic to be part of so many projects next season and to have such outstanding teammates.”

Sheldon van der Linde: “Following the recent announcement of my debut at Le Mans this year, I’m delighted to join BMW M Team WRT in their GT programme again to do a few more big races like Spa, which is a personal favourite of mine. Myself, Dries and Charles have a really good relationship on and off track, so keeping our line-up unchanged is great news and the continuity we need to deliver a strong year together!”

Dries Vanthoor: “It is going to be a very busy season for me, but I am fully motivated. I am happy to be back with Charles in the GT World Challenge for a fifth season together, where we aim to bounce back and put things straight again.”

Charles Weerts: “New season, new chances, same targets! We will try to do our best, as we always do, and take all the lessons from 2023. We know the car better, with Dries and Sheldon we’ll try to perform as we should, and the team has worked very hard. The goal is to win races and titles, I am fully motivated and can’t wait to be driving again.”

Sean Gelael: “It’s my third year with Team WRT and it is an honour to be part of this great family and also the BMW M family. I am super-excited. I have been LMP2 vice-champion twice in the WEC; I hope I can get over the hump and there is one clear goal this year, to get the championship and Le Mans. There are no better team and teammates to go for it.”

Ahmad Al-Harthy: “I am extremely delighted to be part of an amazing team such as WRT, at such an exciting time for the WEC. I look forward to working closely with my teammates and achieving great results with them. I have worked with Maxime in the past and he’ll definitely help me improve my driving, and sharing the seat with a legend such as Vale. Who would have said that a kid from Oman watching MotoGP on TV would end up racing with such an iconic sportsman? I’m pleased to be working with the entire WRT family.”

Darren Leung: “I am very honoured and extremely humbled to be chosen to represent BMW M Motorsport and WRT in the 2024 FIA WEC. I am looking forward to working with two very talented and experienced teammates, Augusto and Sean. I’m excited to have them with me for my first season in the FIA WEC. I have been flat-out preparing and will be until the final round, not letting a single day go to waste. Let’s have it!”

Jens Klingmann: “I am very excited to join BMW M Team WRT for a full campaign after the two races of last year and winning at Dubai. For me, it was a goal and I am happy that it worked out. I think we have a strong package, the team has now experience with the BMW M4 GT3 and I look forward to meeting my teammates. The key target is to win the class and fight for race wins.”

Lexus

LEXUS AND VASSER SULLIVAN EAGER FOR SEBRING AFTER TOUGH ROLEX 24 AT DAYTONA

Both RC F GT3s Lead Field throughout 24-hour race

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 29, 2024) – Lexus and Vasser Sullivan confirmed great battle and willpower throughout the 62nd Rolex 24 at Daytona after claiming entrance row positions for the 24-hour endurance occasion, nonetheless the outcomes didn’t showcase the workforce’s total efficiency. Challenges on the race monitor resulted in an 11th-place end for the No. 14 RC F GT3 within the GTD PRO class and a 15th-place end for the No. 12 RC F GT3 within the GTD class.

Starting from pole place, the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 was in competition for the GTD class win all through the 24 hours. Aaron Telitz began the race sharing the automobile with Parker Thompson over the primary few stints, the place the No. 12 RC F GT3 was the dominant automobile early on. After pacing the sphere for many of the first three hours, they handed the wheel to Ritomo Miyata who additionally led the race in his Rolex 24 debut, operating within the top-two the vast majority of his first run late Saturday afternoon.

Frankie Montecalvo jumped within the No. 12 for a double stint as dusk came to visit Daytona International Speedway and ran a constant tempo. Once a yellow flag waved with a little bit greater than 17 hours remaining, Telitz jumped again within the Vasser Sullivan Lexus, going from fourth to first on the following restart. He and Thompson managed to battle for the lead all through the night time hours and stayed inside the prime 5 Sunday morning. On the ultimate pit cease, nonetheless, with Thompson preventing for a podium place, the automobile caught fireplace within the pit lane, which led to a retirement and a fifteenth place end. In complete, the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3 led 146 laps.

The No. 14 RC F GT3 began their GTD PRO title protection by overcoming early adversity within the Rolex 24 to complete in eleventh place with drivers Jack Hawksworth, Ben Barnicoat, Kyle Kirkwood and Mike Conway. Starting second, Barnicoat took the early lead for the primary 40 minutes of the race, main 14 laps. At the primary pit cease, Conway hopped within the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus for his first stint, however was hit by a spinning competitor on the following restart which put the workforce within the storage for repairs. Through unbelievable teamwork and effectivity, the crew completed all changes in simply over an hour to get the automobile again out within the race.

By clicking off laps and staying out of hassle, the No. 14 workforce was capable of get again into the highest ten by midnight as different rivals confronted their very own points. Unfortunately, the automobile needed to retire in hour 16 of the 24-hour endurance occasion on account of overheating points and finally got here house eleventh.

The Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3s return to motion at Sebring International Raceway for the 12 Hours of Sebring on Saturday, March 16. Live flag-to-flag protection will probably be on Peacock for authenticated subscribers, together with tv protection on the USA Network from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET. To sustain with all of the racing motion, observe Lexus Racing on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok by utilizing #LexusEfficiency.

Vasser Sullivan Driver Quotes

PARKER THOMPSON, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3

How would you describe your efficiency and the workforce’s efficiency on the Rolex 24?

“Up until the last hour, the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team did absolutely everything right. From the drivers to the pit crew, the engineers, we were the definition of perfection. To have it go away like that has me lost for words honestly. I can’t thank my teammates enough. Particularly Aaron Telitz who did a triple stint there at the end. We wouldn’t have been in that position without his effort. The pit box did an amazing job to keep us in the top race all day long. Unfortunately, we have to wait another 12 months to get another crack at it.”

FRANKIE MONTECALVO, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3

How was your race with the Lexus RC F GT3 earlier than what transpired within the final hour?

“It was a tough end to the day today. I feel like we were in the top two spots the entire time. It’s a hard blow to end this way. The No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team did a phenomenal job. Qualifying on pole and then controlling the race for a while. We didn’t have contact until something inadvertent later in the race, which provided some damage. To end like this is a tough one. We had a great run going and had some great points going for us. Going out of the race early like this is tough for us and the team. But I know the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team will get this thing back together and we’ll be ready for Sebring.”

AARON TELITZ, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3

Can you’re taking us via the race for your self and all the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus workforce?

“I feel so bad for the Vasser Sullivan Lexus crew. I felt like we had a shot at the podium today. The whole team was operating at such a high level. To see it go away like that hurts a lot. My co-drivers did an amazing job throughout the race. Parker (Thompson), Frankie (Montecalvo) and Ritomo (Miyata) absolutely nailed their stints. Everyone contributed and the pit stops were excellent. Just a big bummer at the end, but I know this team will regroup and we’ll be hungry for Sebring.”

RITOMO MIYATA, No. 12 Lexus RC F GT3

Can you describe your first expertise on the Rolex 24 and with the Vasser Sullivan Lexus workforce?

“I tried to take everything step-by-step since it was the first time for me at the Rolex 24 and with the Vasser Sullivan Lexus team. The main focus for my stints was to conserve the car overall, tires, fuel, brakes, everything else. Once we were able to do that, our focus shifted to the finish and the target was going for the win. Unfortunately, it didn’t go the way we had hoped.”

BEN BARNICOAT, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3

Can you describe the eventful Rolex 24 that the No. 14 Vasser Sullivan Lexus workforce had?

“Yeah, obviously, on a day like today that we had as a group, team, and family, you can only look to the positives that came from this race. We had a great qualifying result last week and got to start the Rolex 24 from the front row for the first time and take the lead in the first corner, which was special. First stint felt like we had great pace in our Vasser Sullivan Lexus RC F GT3. We were in good control and comfortable, but what happened when Mike (Conway) was in the car was unavoidable. Wrong place, wrong time. That happens sometimes in motorsports. Just bummed for everyone that put so much effort into this race. We kept going after that incident to get as many points as we could. Fantastic job by the Vasser Sullivan crew to get the car ready to go. We were still able to get some points from the day and we did everything we could to maximize what we could. No one in this group deserves what happened to us and the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan RC F GT3 team today, but we are champions and we have a champion mindset. We have championship drive and we’re not going to let this race deter us from going on to achieve great things this year. We’re going to get our heads down and get ready for Sebring.”

MIKE CONWAY, No. 14 Lexus RC F GT3

What occurred to take the No. 14 out of the race early?

“Really gutted we had the incident there in the first hour of the race. Not much I could do to avoid the spinning car in front of me. Maybe I could’ve seen it coming, but once it happened, I had nowhere to go. I’m really disappointed as I thought we had a good shot at the podium, so unfortunate we couldn’t achieve that. Also bummed for the No. 12 Vasser Sullivan Lexus team as they had a great shot at a podium as well. Tough day for the entire Vasser Sullivan team, but they’re a strong team and they’ll come back swinging. Big thank you to Vasser Sullivan and Lexus for the opportunity to drive the car again. And thanks to Jack (Hawksworth), Ben (Barnicoat) and Kyle (Kirkwood) for helping me. Hopefully we get to do it again.”

Cars

These Tires Have Retractable Snow Chains You Don’t Have To Put On

“During normal driving, the shape memory alloy located inside the wheel is compressed into the shape of the letter ‘L’ and does not contact the road surface,” Hyundai says. “When the driver activates the function, an electric current is applied, causing the shape memory alloy to revert to its original profile: the material forms a ‘J’ shape, pushing the module out of the tire to make contact with the surface, improving grip, stability, and safety on snowy roads.”

One added function prevents any alloy spokes from breaking ranks and protruding earlier than their time (resulting from a worn-out tire). If the floor of the tire is worn out, the driving force is signaled to switch it so the automobile would not begin grinding like a Flintstones automotive with a foul tire. Hyundai says the expertise is patent-pending in each South Korea and the U.S., and plans to think about mass improvement after additional testing. While prompt tire chains will probably be a welcome reduction, clearly, it is solely a matter of time earlier than a button causes the tires to shoot out fireplace and soften the ice, or simply hover above it.

News

Dakar 2024: Carles Falcón Dead After Crash In Stage Two

During Stage Two of the 2024 Dakar Rally, TwinTrail Racing rider Carles Falcón was airlifted to the hospital following a foul crash. At the time, racing director David Castera informed the press that the rider did not have a pulse when medical assist arrived, however that the primary physician on scene was fortunately capable of resuscitate him. 

From that time till January 15, 2024, additional updates relating to Falcón’s situation hadn’t been made public. It was on January 15 that TwinTrail Racing Team took to its social media accounts to interrupt the horrible information to the worldwide neighborhood. 

 

“This Monday January 15th Carles has left us. The medical team has confirmed the neurological damage caused by cardiovascular arrest at the time of the accident is irreversible,” the group’s assertion begins.

“Carles was a smiling, always active person, who enjoyed with passion everything he did, especially motorcycles. He’s left us doing something that was his dream, running the Dakar. He was enjoying he was happy on the bike. We must remember him for his smile and for the happiness he created in everyone,” it continues.

“Computer Engineer in training. Motorcycle instructor and motorcycle tour guide by passion. There are many who have learned by his side. He taught with patience, energy and happiness, made everyone enjoy the bike. This is what he has left us and we will always keep with us, all of us who have been close to him, family, friends, teammates and supporters,” TwinTrail Racing’s assertion reads.

It goes on to ask for privateness for Falcón’s family and friends as ceremonies to honor his life and demise are deliberate within the coming days, and thanks everybody for his or her understanding throughout such a time.

We at RideApart ship our condolences to all who had been near Falcón, and are grateful for the time that he spent sharing his love of motorcycling with the world, from these he instructed to others within the two Dakar Rallies he participated in. We ship our greatest to all who cared for him, wherever they could be on the planet.

Technology

Tim Cook Vs. Steve Jobs: A Detailed Comparison Of Their Leadership Styles

At the core of Steve Jobs’ management philosophy throughout his tenure at Apple had been two intertwined rules: perfection and ease. Jobs was not only a artistic visionary; he was a perfectionist who believed in crafting merchandise that seamlessly merged cutting-edge know-how with elegant design.

The pursuit of perfection was manifested in each side of Apple’s merchandise. From the {hardware} to the software program, Jobs demanded excellence. He was identified to iterate relentlessly till a product met his exacting requirements. This dedication to perfection was not pushed solely by technical specs but additionally by a deep-seated perception that customers deserved the very best expertise along with viewing Apple’s merchandise as artwork.

Simplicity, in keeping with Jobs, was the final word sophistication. He championed the concept that know-how ought to be accessible to everybody, and complexity was a barrier to that accessibility. Apple merchandise, below Jobs’ management, had been characterised by their intuitive interfaces, minimalist design, and user-friendly performance. The removing of pointless complexity grew to become a trademark of Apple’s strategy, permitting customers to interact with know-how effortlessly.

Jobs’ obsession with simplicity prolonged past the merchandise themselves; it permeated Apple’s advertising and marketing, packaging, and retail expertise. The clear strains of Apple shops, the elegant packaging of its merchandise, and the long-lasting design of commercials — all mirrored Jobs’ dedication to simplicity as a guideline.

These values weren’t nearly aesthetics; they had been about creating an emotional reference to customers. The simplicity of Apple merchandise was meant to reinforce the person expertise, making know-how extra approachable and, in Jobs’ imaginative and prescient, a seamless a part of on a regular basis life. The enduring legacy of perfection and ease continues to form Apple’s design philosophy lengthy after Jobs’ management, underscoring the profound affect of those rules on the tech business as a complete.