Tag Archives: Element

News

How the Czinger 21C will change automobile manufacturing for good

‘Doing the naked minimal’ as a phrase has pejorative connotations. 

It implies a component of coasting, refusing to surpass expectations and settling for mediocrity – even, maybe, giving up. But right here we’re in 2024, when producers (not simply of vehicles) are confronted with hovering manufacturing prices and are rigidly dedicated to lowering their affect on the surroundings.

Products mustn’t simply be cheaper to make: they need to even be lighter than ever earlier than, use minimal supplies of their make-up and be fabricated quickly, utilizing as few sources as attainable. Doing the naked minimal, it’s clear, is now nothing lower than an overarching goal for the business.

Nowhere is that felt keener than at 19601 Hamilton Avenue, Torrance, California, in any other case referred to as the headquarters of producing masterminds Divergent – or, as it would little question quickly come to be recognized, the epicentre of a daring new period for the automotive business.

Divergent is finest recognized for being the dad or mum agency of Czinger, creator of the ludicrously highly effective and fascinatingly engineered 21C hypercar – a 1233bhp V8-powered showcase of what could be achieved with the agency’s new-school strategy to car manufacturing.

When it was revealed again in 2020, the 21C shortly got here to be referred to as the ‘3D-printed hypercar’, which is an outline that’s directly each vaguely correct and one thing of an undersell. Because there’s absolutely no automobile, road-going or in any other case, being constructed proper now, wherever on the earth, that may lay declare to such magnificence in its engineering.

Its rear subframe twists and wraps hypnotically round its masterfully offered engine, freed from ugly welds and clearly as mild because it might presumably be with out sacrificing a mite of structural integrity.

Its intimidating, ground-sucking aerodynamic addenda – producing 2000kg of downforce at 190mph – speaks of its track-honed efficiency potential. And its cockpit would appear to have been lifted straight from a Le Mans Hypercar have been it not for a centrally positioned driver’s seat and one other behind for a fortunate passenger.

Featured

2024 Tata Harrier Facelift Spied Again, This Time With New Nexon-like Fascia


It had a similar split-headlight setup and sleeker LED DRLs, likely with a connecting element as seen on the new Nexon EV

Tata Harrier facelift

  • Tata is expected to launch the Harrier facelift in early 2024.

  • Older spy shots have already revealed new alloy wheels, connected LED taillights and dynamic turn indicators.

  • Its cabin is likely to get a redesigned dashboard, new steering wheel, and a bigger touchscreen.

  • Other features could include a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and ADAS.

  • The facelift is expected to retain the existing model’s diesel engine and could also be offered with a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit.

  • It is expected to be priced at a premium over the current model.

It’s been around a year now since we first saw the test mules of the Tata Harrier facelift on the road. Even in 2023, the updated SUV has been spotted on test quite a few times, with the latest test mule revealing interesting details and a design that appears to be closer to the production version.

What Was Seen?

The Harrier facelift’s test mule, although still covered in heavy camouflage, gave us a look at its updated front. We can spot similarities with the design of the new Nexon and Nexon EV, including sleek LED DRLs (probably connected by a lighting element in between) and a split-headlight setup. The latest spy shot also gives us a peek at the updated SUV’s vertically stacked LED headlights.

While the SUV’s side and rear profiles weren’t clicked, previous sightings have confirmed that it will get a fresh design for the alloy wheels, connected LED taillights, and dynamic turn indicators.

Cabin Updates In Plenty

Tata Harrier cabinExisting Harrier’s cabin image used for reference

Tata will also revamp the cabin of the Harrier, with tweaks likely coming in the form of a redesigned dashboard and a new two-spoke steering wheel with the backlit Tata logo. A recent test mule sighting also revealed a bigger touchscreen system as prevalent on Land Rover SUVs, which is a 13.1-inch unit. However, it could be the 12.3-inch unit debuted in the top-spec Tata Nexon EV. Other expected features include a fully digital driver’s display, wireless phone charging, ventilated front seats, and push-button start/stop.

Occupant safety is likely to be taken care of by six airbags, electronic stability programme (ESP), 360-degree camera, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Also See: Tata Nexon EV Facelift Creative Base Variant Detailed In 5 Images

Petrol Engine On The Cards Too

New 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine

The Harrier facelift is expected to get a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (170PS/280Nm) and could be offered with manual and DCT automatic transmissions.

On the other hand, the SUV’s existing 2-litre diesel unit (170PS/350Nm) is likely to be retained. It should continue to be available with 6-speed manual and automatic transmission options.

Launch And Price

We expect the carmaker to roll out the facelifted Harrier in the early part of next year. It will likely command a nominal premium over the existing model, which is priced from Rs 15.20 lakh to Rs 24.27 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The Tata Harrier facelift will compete with the Mahindra XUV700, MG Hector, Jeep Compass, and the higher variants of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.

Also Check Out: Take A Detailed Look At The Exterior Of Tata Nexon Facelift In 10 Images

Read More on : Tata Harrier diesel

News, Smartphones

The iPhone 15 Pro Color Options Are Going To Upset Some People

Apple’s decision to use titanium as the material for its premium phones, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, is likely to upset some people. Titanium is a natural element known for its high resistance to chemical erosion and its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it an obvious choice for Apple. Not only does titanium offer superior qualities compared to stainless steel, but it is also lighter.

In recent years, gold has been a popular color option for the stainless steel finish of iPhones, starting with the iPhone XS in 2018. However, with the switch to titanium, Apple will no longer offer a gold color option. Instead, Apple plans to showcase the natural beauty of titanium with a titanium gray option. Apple’s rationale seems to be that if they are using the best material available, there is no need to hide it. The titanium iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone Pro Max will also likely come in space black and silver colors.

Although fans of purple and gold may be disappointed to learn that these colors may be discontinued, the introduction of a new dark blue option and the stronger, lighter titanium build may provide some consolation. It is important to note that titanium is more expensive than stainless steel, so it remains to be seen how this change will impact the cost of the iPhone 15 Pro. However, we won’t have to wait long to find out. Soon, we will get a closer look at the new color options available for the iPhone 15 lineup.

Motorsport

Owner Converts Honda Element into Camper with Rooftop Tent

The Honda Element may no longer be in production, but that hasn’t stopped enthusiasts from turning it into a versatile camper. One particular owner has taken it a step further by adding a rooftop tent to their 2008 Honda Element EX AWD, creating a compact and functional camping setup.

The Ursa Minor ECamper rooftop tent, which starts at $7,500, is made of lightweight composite construction to keep the weight down. It features a seven-by-four-foot mattress and has low-current interior LED lighting. With gas springs for easy opening and closing and zippered screen windows on all four sides, the tent offers panoramic views.

Inside the Element, the owner has fully utilized its boxy design. The rear seats have been removed, and swivel front seats have been added to create a comfortable living space. The owner has also incorporated accessories such as the Fifth Element center console ($795), the Lagun swivel table ($199), and a wall-mounted cabinet from Fifth Element ($2,195) for additional storage.

A large table with storage underneath is installed at the back of the interior space. The lower portion of the Element’s hatch provides extra storage for tools and other items. The hitch holds a modified Yakima bike carrier that serves as a convenient cooking space.

The 2008 Element EX originally came with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. However, the owner has swapped it with a more powerful 2.4-liter engine from an Acura TSX, increasing the estimated horsepower to 225-230.

The rooftop tent also features a roof rack with a 100-watt solar panel, a Pelican V700 case, and a lightweight awning. Toyo Open Country tires provide traction on all four corners. The owner has also upgraded the suspension and installed the brakes from the Acura TSX to improve the Element’s stopping power.

Although the Honda Element may not be the largest vehicle for overlanding, its spacious design and reliable Honda package make it a popular choice among camping enthusiasts. For those looking for a more affordable camping option, Honda offers an OEM tent that attaches to the hatch, available online for around $300.

Science

NASA Trains Robot to Explore Mars’ Caves

NASA is working on training a robot called ReachBot to navigate and search through the extensive cave systems on Mars. Exploring these caves is crucial for future missions, as they present an unknown and potentially hazardous environment. Using a robot instead of a human reduces risks and costs, and ReachBot’s size, weight, and optimized mode of exploration increase its chances of success.

Mars has always been a top contender in the search for signs of extraterrestrial life. However, the planet’s current conditions, such as extreme cold, dryness, and lack of protective atmosphere and magnetic field, make its surface inhospitable. It is challenging for life or any evidence of life to survive there. However, caves on Mars could offer varying levels of protection from these harsh conditions, making them ideal places to search for living organisms.

While ReachBot was originally designed for Mars exploration, its capabilities make it suitable for other targets within our solar system. Planets, moons, and asteroids with rocky compositions and low gravity could also be potential exploration destinations for ReachBot. This includes our own Moon, where ReachBot could be used to maintain the Lunar Gateway space station during uncrewed periods. It’s worth noting that ReachBot did not receive the name HAL.

Cars

Top 5 Reliable and Affordable Used Hondas to Consider

The Honda Element may not be visually appealing for some drivers due to its boxy design, but if you prioritize reliability and are not concerned about aesthetics (or actually like the look), it can be a great option for a used SUV. This is especially true if you enjoy outdoor activities like biking, camping, surfing, hiking, where the Element’s unique layout and bi-parting side doors make it perfect for carrying bulky equipment such as surfboards, skis, and mountain bikes.

According to consumer feedback from J.D. Power, the 2011 model, along with the previous models, is considered the most reliable version of the Element. The 2011 Honda Element received high ratings of 81 for quality and reliability and 80 for driving experience, with particular praise for its excellent forward visibility and spacious interior. However, some owners reported issues with the interior quality, slow acceleration, and difficulty in handling curves.

Despite these drawbacks, the 2011 Honda Element offers four-wheel drive and comes with a five-speed automatic transmission, as well as front and side airbags. Compared to other used Honda models, the Element is reasonably priced and definitely worth considering if you are looking for a cheap, reliable, and spacious pre-owned Honda.