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BMW

Electrification Completed: New BMW 5 Series Sedan Now Available with Plug-in Hybrid Drive

Munich. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan now offers a full range of electrified drive technology. Just a few weeks after the launch of the all-electric BMW i5 and the combustion engine variants with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, two plug-in hybrid models will be launched in November 2023. The BMW 530e Sedan and the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan can now be ordered. The prices start at 65,300 euros for the BMW 530e Sedan and 77,300 euros for the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan.

The plug-in hybrid models in the eighth generation of the BMW 5 Series Sedan offer improved power delivery, increased efficiency, and a significantly extended electric range. Both models feature the latest BMW eDrive technology for plug-in hybrid systems and come with different engine variations.

Integrated Drive Unit with High Efficiency

The electric motor, specifically designed for the hybrid drive, is integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission along with its power electronics. This highly integrated drive unit is exceptionally efficient and contributes to the maximum system output of the two plug-in hybrid sedans.

The combination of BMW eDrive technology and the 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan generates a maximum system output of up to 360 kW/489 hp. The plug-in hybrid system has BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive and can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan has a maximum speed of 250 km/h and can operate purely on electric mode at speeds up to 140 km/h.

The BMW 530e Sedan is equipped with a 2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol engine and can generate a maximum system output of 220 kW/299 hp. It can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 230 km/h.

Innovative Technologies for Improved Range and Agility

The new plug-in hybrid models utilize a patented BMW innovation to increase the power development of the electric motor. This results in improved acceleration and performance. The electric range of the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan is 83 to 90 kilometres, while the BMW 530e Sedan has a range of 93 to 103 kilometres. Both models have aerodynamic properties that help optimize their range and reduce CO2 emissions.

The lithium-ion high-voltage battery is positioned in the vehicle underbody, which positively affects the vehicle’s center of gravity and the luggage compartment. The battery has an increased usable energy content and can be charged from zero to 100 percent in about 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Enhanced Standard Equipment

The BMW 530e Sedan and the BMW 550e xDrive Sedan come with an extended range of standard equipment compared to the models with mild hybrid technology. Some of the notable features include 19-inch light alloy wheels and the BMW IconicSounds Electric system, which provides authentic acoustic feedback when driving in electric mode.

The BMW 550e xDrive Sedan also includes Adaptive Chassis Professional, which enhances driving comfort and agility. The BMW Interaction Bar, part of the ambient lighting equipment, combines functionality and design.

BMW 530e: Fuel consumption combined: 0.8 – 0.6 litres/100 km; Power consumption combined: 21.7 – 19.9 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 17 – 13 g/km

BMW 550e xDrive: Fuel consumption combined: 1.0 – 0.8 litres/100 km; Power consumption combined: 23.2 – 21.6 kWh/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 23 – 19 g/km

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2024 KTM 450XC-W: FULL TEST

KTM continues to dominate the off-road market with their aggressive and innovative approach. The 2024 KTM 450XC-W boasts a range of upgrades, including a new frame, suspension, engine, and improved handling. In comparison to its predecessor, the 2023 KTM 450XCF-W, this version is meaner, stiffer, and hungrier for action.

THE PUZZLE

The 450XCF-W is based on the 450SXF motocross platform, but with modifications to suit off-road riding. Notably, it features PDS rear suspension without linkage, which sets it apart from other bikes on the market. For the 2024 model, the PDS rear end is equipped with a straight-rate spring. The front end has been upgraded with a new coil-spring fork, similar to the one used in the motocross line. The engine has its own mapping with two options available through a handlebar switch, as well as traction control. Generating almost 58 horsepower, the 450XCF-W has been designed for improved center of gravity and possesses a 6-speed gearbox, hydraulic clutch, fuel injection, and a radiator fan.

CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION

The new hydro-formed frame is engineered to absorb harsh impacts, acting as a shock absorber. The shock mount has been relocated to minimize squat in the chassis. The subframe has been redesigned to be shorter, more compact, and lighter, integrating all electrical components.
The “W” range features CNC-machined triple clamps, which provide improved stability and control. However, these models no longer have rubber-mounted bar mounts or multiple mounting points. KTM has replaced the XPLOR fork with a new 48mm WP XACT closed-cartridge spring fork that offers off-road valving and adjustable compression and rebound without the need for tools.

The new shock mount design enhances the performance of the WP XPLOR PDS shock. It is now more compact, improves anti-squat behavior, and is fully adjustable using hand clickers. The swingarm has been redesigned using lightweight and durable die-cast aluminum, ensuring optimal stiffness and reliability at the lowest possible weight. To match the new chassis flex characteristics, a new 22mm rear axle has been incorporated.

The 2024 model features all-new bodywork, saddle, and fuel tank. The fuel tank has a capacity of 2.1 gallons and includes a one-piece fuel pump and filter, allowing for improved fuel supply. The slimmer bodywork improves rider mobility, while the redesigned seat offers better traction.

Additional improvements include a new chain guard and chain sliders, enhancing durability and reducing the chances of hooking on boots or external objects. The chain-adjustment markings are now visible from above for quick and easy adjustments. The new front fender incorporates mud fins to redirect dirt and mud away from the rider and radiators during wet conditions.

GETTING THE BUZZ ON

The engine in the KTM 450XCF-W offers incredible versatility. It delivers ample torque from low-end to midrange and offers a long and smooth top end. The bike features two engine maps that can be selected through a switch on the handlebar. The white map provides a linear and smooth power delivery, ideal for challenging terrain with loose rocks or slippery conditions. The green map, on the other hand, offers a more aggressive power delivery, capable of lifting the front wheel with ease. Traction control can be activated to provide better control and reduced spinning in the green map. The bike also features a Quickshifter, allowing for clutchless upshifting from second to sixth gear with the throttle wide open. The clutch still functions, but this feature is particularly useful for high-speed desert racing.

Notably, the clutch of the 2024 KTM 450XCF-W offers exceptional feel, engagement, and ease of use. The bike also delivers reduced vibrations, resulting in a more comfortable riding experience. The spark arrestor-equipped muffler produces a wonderfully quiet tone.

The new-generation chassis of the XCF-W models provides improved stability and control at higher speeds, which has been a weak point in previous PDS models. The bike’s turning radius is sufficient, and it handles tight trees with ease. The repositioned footrest mounts help prevent hooking on obstacles. The forged one-piece side stand is a neat addition, offering a sturdy footprint to prevent sinking into the ground. However, it is disappointing that the bike does not come with a skid plate to protect the new frame. The redesigned seat offers increased comfort and a wider base for the rider.

Overall, the new closed-cartridge XACT fork and shock greatly enhance the bike’s performance and versatility. The fork allows for easy adjustment of compression and rebound without the need for tools, resulting in improved rider comfort and confidence at high speeds. The fork also offers excellent performance on rough trails, with minimal deflection and absorption of trail obstacles. The new fork guards provide additional protection for the lower tubes. The XACT shock is lighter, more compact, and fully adjustable for compression and rebound. It helps keep the bike planted, resisting squatting under acceleration and providing a smooth and controlled ride.

MISCELLANEOUS BITS

The 2024 KTM 450XCF-W incorporates several new components and improvements. The redesigned fuel tank reduces the bike’s overall weight and features a capacity of 2.1 gallons. Up front, the radiators and plastic cap have been updated. The bike now includes an off-road control unit that eliminates fuses to simplify the electrical system. LED headlights have been introduced, allowing for night riding adventures. The Brembo hydraulics perform excellently, and the cooling fan is a useful feature for hotter rides.

The bike boasts a flush and smooth chainguide, preventing hang-ups and trail damage. The handlebars feature a combined start and stop button, freeing up space on the handlebar. Air-filter maintenance remains tool-free, with improved visibility of the air filter in the new airbox. The quick-disconnect fuel line has also been redesigned for better reliability. The bike comes equipped with Dunlop tires (MX33 in front and AT81 in the rear), offering exceptional performance in dry conditions.

AND, IN THE END…

The 2024 KTM 450XC-W is a highly versatile off-road bike, suitable for various riding styles. It excels as a trail bike but also offers the potential for dual-sport riding with minor registration adjustments. Additionally, it provides a great platform for desert racing, offering impressive power and a 6-speed gearbox. The improved suspension adds to the bike’s overall versatility, making it capable of handling challenging terrains with ease. Overall, the 450XC-W is an exceptional machine that delivers on all fronts.

Featured

Innovation and Tradition: Rolex’s Exclusive Look at Monterey Car Week 2023

No other car show in the world can compare to Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance and the entire Monterey Motorsports week with events that range from the Tour d’ Elegance to The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion races, and the Concourse. It is like having multiple phenomenal auto museums all put together in different locations for various events. From vintage cars to classic cars, supercars and concept cars, Pebble Beach has it all during this week. And Rolex, whose precision mechanical watches rival the finest cars, is right there in the excitement of it all.

This past week, I was able to attend several days of the events week with Rolex and experience the excitement firsthand, which I am happy to share here.

Source: Rolex
Source: Rolex
Source: Rolex

The Quail –perhaps the most luxurious and experiential garden party ever – showcases some of the finest cars in the world, from past to present and even the future. This year the event,  held at the Quail Lodge & Golf Club, witnessed the 20th anniversary of this magnificent motorsports event, and more than 400 cars and motorcycles came together on the lawn, with many brands unveiling their newest automobiles and prototypes. 

Among the new releases were several from Lotus. In fact, Rolex testimonee (ambassador) and F1 World Champion Jenson Button, released the completely bespoke Lotus Evija hypercar at The Quail. The car, which boasts a unique Arctic White, Verve Yellow, and Carbon Black color scheme that recalls the colors of the 2009 Champion-winning Brawn GP car he drove. The car has a deployable door mirror housing with the number 22 on it (Jenson’s race number during that incredible 2009 winning season) and even has a laser-etched aluminum strip that runs through the seat center and showcases the date and place of each of Jenson’s 15 F1 wins. The car has a confirmed output of 1500kW/2039 PS.

“I absolutely love The Quail. Every year the event gets bigger and better, and it’s so cool to see the new prototypes and models being launched. Having the old and the new sitting side by side, as well as the ‘restomod’ cars that look vintage but have modern technologies, is very special,” said Button, noting that Rolex, with its storied past, innovative technology, and precision mechanics, fits right in.

Visitors to the event, which costs about $1,500 a ticket, get to vote for their favorite car. The winning car is named the Rolex Best of Show.  This year, the one-of-a-kind 1956 Ferrari 410 Superamerica ‘Super Fast,’ owned by Anne Brockinton Lee, was crowned the winner and welcomed into the 2023 Rolex Circle of Champions.  The owner was gifted a Rolex green-dial Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 in Oystersteel with a white gold fluted bezel and a Jubilee bracelet that sells for $8,950. Rolex has partnered with The Quail since 2005 as the Official Timepiece.

Source: Rolex
Source: Rolex
Source: Rolex

On Saturday, we attended the  Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, which runs for four days throughout the week. Held at the renowned WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, the racing event witnesses 400 vehicles showcasing nearly a century of motorsport heritage. This year, the event celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Corvette and the 100 years of the 24 Hours of LeMans by displaying the first ‘vettes to compete at Circuit de le Sarthe in 1960.

There was also a special F1 race, and a host of other impressive competitions. They were Gentlemen’s races since many of these cars are worth millions in their restored conditions. We even had to opportunity to go where most visitors cannot:  up to the photographer’s tower at the top of the famed corkscrew turn – considered one of the most challenging turns in the world thanks to the 59-foot drop in elevation and the blind crest and apex. The Rolex signage is omnipresent during the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, but it is particularly eye-catching at the corkscrew turn.

Source: Rolex
Source: Rolex
Source: Rolex

The festivities concluded on Sunday 20 August with the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance®. Held on the 18th fairway of the legendary Pebble Beach golf course, more than 210 spectacular cars from 1906 to 1998 were on display as they competed for special classes and the ultimate win: Best of Show. Among the highlight automobiles were at least 40 entries from more than 20 countries around the world. The cars are judged on their restoration and authenticity – translating to an exacting replica of  the original automobiles, both inside and out.

This year, the 72nd, celebrated innovative designs from classic and modern eras, with classes such as Figoni, Mercedes-Benz, Pegaso and others, including the 60th anniversary of McLaren, the 60th anniversary of Lamborghini, the 75th anniversary of Porsche, the Vanderbilt Cup era cars, post-war luxury and American Dream Cars of the 1950s. On the other side of the course, the concept lawn showcased the future of automobiles.

Source: Rolex

Rolex clocks and signage were naturally present everywhere and when the Best of Show car was named – this year the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster – Rolex presented the owner, Jim Patterson, with a specially engraved Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 in Oystersteel with a yellow gold fluted bezel and a jubilee bracelet ($12,700 retail). Patterson had purchased the car at an auction in 2022 for $9.9 million with the intent to restore it to its original glory. The restoration was conducted by RM Auto Restoration and the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center.

Rolex Testimonee and Record nine-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Tom Kristensen, was an Honorary Judge at the Concours and commented on the winners. “For a car to take home the honors at Pebble Beach it must be the ultimate. The precision engineering, the authenticity of every mechanical part and the style of its presentation are everything – it takes a huge amount of preparation and passion to succeed. To then receive a Rolex watch rewarding this dedication is something that stays with you forever. It’s a timeless reminder.”

Rolex’s history of motorsports spans approximately 100 years, and the brand continues to commit to the sport whether it is classic cars, F1 racing, or endurance racing.

Featured

Czinger Vehicles Teases The New 21C Blackbird Edition

Automotive manufacturer Czinger Vehicles caused a stir in the industry with its high-performance 21C hypercar. The 21C features a unique design, with a two-seat configuration that places the passenger seat directly behind the driver seat, creating a fighter jet-like experience, especially on the track where similar speed and thrill are involved.

Last year, Czinger Vehicles made waves at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, one of the most prestigious automotive events in the world, when it unveiled the Czinger 21C VMAX. Now, the manufacturer has announced that this year’s The Quail event will be the platform for the unveiling of its new hypercar: the Czinger 21C Blackbird Edition, which the company describes as “an icon reborn.” A teaser video shared on Instagram showcases close-up shots of the black-on-black Czinger 21C, hinting at the upcoming Blackbird Edition.

The Czinger 21C is already a groundbreaking vehicle, featuring cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing and artificial intelligence in its engineering. The announcement of the Blackbird Edition adds to the excitement surrounding this milestone in automotive history. The unveiling of the Blackbird Edition is expected to be one of the highlights of the highly anticipated Monterey Car Week.

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Yamaha Motor Sets New Sales Record In First Half Of 2023

Yamaha, one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers globally, has achieved unprecedented sales growth in the first half of 2023. With a diverse range of models tailored to specific markets, Yamaha continues to expand and meet the evolving needs of riders worldwide.

On August 8, 2023, Yamaha Motor released its sales report for the first half of the year. The company’s President and CEO, Yoshihiro Hidaka, announced that they have set new sales records for this period. Hidaka stated, “We achieved new records for net sales and incomes in the second quarter of fiscal 2023. The strong demand for motorcycles and marine products drove higher unit sales, resulting in a significant increase in overall sales and profits.”

The demand for motorcycles was the primary driver of the sales growth in the first half of 2023. Asian and European markets experienced rising demand as more individuals seek sustainable transportation options. Hidaka also mentioned that the US market maintained robust demand. It is worth noting that Yamaha’s Land Mobility Business includes various vehicles such as ATVs, ROVs, Snowmobiles, Smart Power Vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters, as well as electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters, in addition to motorcycles.

For the first half of 2023, Yamaha reported net sales of 795 billion yen (approximately $5.5 billion USD), representing a remarkable 15.4% growth compared to the same period in 2022. The operating income also saw significant growth, reaching 69.4 billion yen (about $483 million USD), an impressive 88.9% increase compared to last year.

Reflecting the increasing popularity of electric motorcycles, Yamaha announced a potential merger with its subsidiary, Yamaha Motor Electronics Co., Ltd. This subsidiary specializes in producing electric motors and essential electronic components for vehicles, indicating Yamaha’s commitment to electric initiatives in the future.

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FIRST RIDE: 2024 GASGAS EX450F

GasGas recently showcased its complete lineup of motorcycles for 2024 at a public event near San Moreno, Italy. Our team at Dirt Bike had the opportunity to ride all the different motocross and off-road bikes, and among them, the EX450F cross-country model left the biggest impression. It is worth noting that this model is exclusive to the U.S. market. At first glance, the EX450F appears to be heavily influenced by motocross. It shares many similar components with the MC450F MX bike, including the five-speed gearbox. However, there are a few adaptations for off-road riding, such as the 18-inch rear wheel and the inclusion of a kickstand. Overall, the GasGas EX450F is better suited for cross-country racing compared to its counterparts in the KTM and Husqvarna lineup. The power delivery is smoother and less intimidating. It is still incredibly fast but provides a less exhausting experience. The bike comes with two preprogrammed maps on the ECU, and the version we tested was set to the milder option. We had the opportunity to observe Gary Sutherlin putting the EX450F through its paces on GasGas’ specially prepared motocross, cross-country, and grass track test loops.

Motorsport

BMW i4 Facelift Spied With Camo That Can’t Hide New Headlight Design

BMW is giving the 4 Series a makeover, and this update will also extend to its electric counterpart, the i4, as shown in new spy photos.

The i4 is heavily camouflaged at the front and rear, but it seems that the changes in styling are not drastic. The most noticeable updates are in the headlights and taillights, which now have new internal graphics. The front and rear bumper appear to be unchanged, although there could be some minor revisions hidden beneath the covers.


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Toyota Innova Crysta Can Now Be Customised As An Ambulance

The entire rear half of the MPV’s cabin has been modified to offer the necessary equipment for emergency medical purposes.

Toyota Innova Crysta Ambulance

  • The Innova Crysta Ambulance is available in two variants: Basic and Advanced

  • Gets more than just ambulance-specific stickers and graphics on the outside.

  • Inside, the second and third row seats have been removed to accommodate the stretcher.

  • Top-spec comes loaded with medical equipment such as Multiparameter Health Monitor, an oxygen delivery system, and Kendrick Extrication device.

  • The Innova Crysta is only available with a diesel-manual powertrain.

The Toyota Innova Crysta MPV is a well-known and popular people mover in India, especially when a blend of driving dynamics and passenger comfort are a priority. Now, those aspects of the premium MPV are being leveraged for medical purposes with a detailed conversion that can transform the Innova Crysta into an ambulance.

This ambulance conversion process is carried out in partnership with Pinnacle Industries Ltd, and there are two versions available – Basic and Advanced.

How Is It Different?

Toyota Innova Crysta Ambulance

While the Innova Crysta Ambulance looks no different from its regular version in terms of overall design, it features ambulance-specific red and yellow stickers all around and  emergency flashing lights have been mounted on the roof.

Inside, the front of the cabin is separated from the rest by a partition to separate the patient and paramedic from the driver. The Innova Crysta’s second and third-row seats have been removed to accommodate the stretcher, a front-facing paramedic seat and other emergency equipment, such as portable and stationary oxygen cylinders and a cabinet for storing medical equipment. 

Ambulance Features

Toyota Innova Crysta Ambulance Interior

The entire right-wall of the modified cabin in the Ambulance version of the Innova Crysta is equipped with all the necessary equipment needed for emergencies. The fully loaded Advanced trim comes with features such as the Multiparameter Monitor, which helps monitor the health parameters of a patient, an oxygen delivery system, the Kendrick Extrication Device (used for head, neck, and torso support), portable suction aspirator, and a spine board. 

Additional power sockets are also provided inside the cabin to operate all the electronics.

Also Check Out: This Could Be The Look For The India-spec Toyota Rumion

Same Engine

The Innova Crysta Ambulance uses the same 2.4-litre diesel engine (150PS and 343Nm) as the regular Innova Crysta. This unit is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. 

Why An Innova Ambulance?

Toyota Innova Crysta Ambulance

While a conventional ambulance seems to be ideal as it is built for that specific purpose, it is not perfect for every situation. Furthermore, they are quite expensive and are best used for emergency medical situations, whereas other vehicles can be considered for simpler uses like transporting patients that are not in severe need for medical attention.

That’s where the Innova can act as an alternative for a single-patient transport and its relatively smaller size makes it easier to navigate through city conditions. Addtionally, its pliant ride quality can be beneficial for long-haul hospital transfers.

The Regular Innova Crysta 

The 3-row Toyota Innova Crysta, most commonly used as a family MPV, is priced from  Rs 19.99 lakh to Rs 25.68 lakh (ex-showroom India). The additional cost of the ambulance conversion has not been revealed. The Innova can be considered as an premium alternative to the Mahindra Marazzo and the Kia Carens, the latter of which is also offered with an emergency vehicle conversion.

Read More on : Innova Crysta diesel

ToyotaUk

Toyota Tacoma Teams Up with Blue Beetle in Exciting New Film

The Toyota Tacoma Appears Alongside Xolo Mariduena, George Lopez and the Entire Cast of the Upcoming Epic Action Adventure Film from Warner Bros. Pictures

This summer, the highly anticipated first-ever Blue Beetle film will take audiences on an action-packed journey with Jaime Reyes and his family as he transforms into Blue Beetle.

Toyota has partnered with Warner Bros. Pictures as the official automotive partner for the film, which will be released in theaters on August 18, 2023. Directed by Ángel Manuel Soto, the film features Xolo Mariduena in the lead role as Jaime Reyes, also known as Blue Beetle.

The story follows Jaime Reyes, a recent college graduate who returns home with big dreams but finds that things are not as he left them. Fate intervenes when Jaime comes into possession of an ancient alien biotechnology relic called the Scarab, which bonds to him and grants him a powerful suit of armor with incredible abilities. This event changes his destiny forever, as he becomes the superhero Blue Beetle.

The Tacoma plays a significant role in the film as the Reyes family’s beloved vehicle, affectionately referred to as the “Taco.” With its rugged capabilities, the Tacoma joins the thrilling adventure as a star in the movie. Additionally, the new 2024 Tacoma makes a special cameo appearance.

“We are excited for audiences to see the unstoppable Tacoma on the big screen in Blue Beetle,” said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president of Toyota Marketing, Toyota Motor North America. “The Tacoma was the perfect co-star for this thrilling and action-packed adventure, marking Blue Beetle’s debut in theaters.”

To support the film partnership, Toyota has launched a Blue Beetle-inspired campaign featuring the 2024 Tacoma. In a commercial starring Blue Beetle actor Xolo Mariduena, a lively debate about the Tacoma’s capabilities versus Blue Beetle’s heroic powers ensues, ultimately leading to the conclusion that the two should team up.

“We were thrilled when the Blue Beetle filmmakers decided to give a real ‘role’ to the Tacoma in the film, allowing it to drive the action alongside our stars,” said Louise Soper, Senior Vice President of Global Brand Partnerships at Warner Bros. Pictures. “Toyota is an iconic brand, and we are excited to bring the action to audiences worldwide when the film hits theaters.”

Don’t miss the chance to watch Blue Beetle, exclusively in theaters starting on August 18, 2023. For more information, please visit https://www.bluebeetlemovie.net/.

About Blue Beetle

Blue Beetle is a feature film from Warner Bros. Pictures, bringing the DC Super Hero to the big screen for the first time. Directed by Ángel Manuel Soto, the film stars Xolo Mariduena as Jaime Reyes, who becomes Blue Beetle. After returning home from college, Jaime discovers an ancient relic of alien biotechnology called the Scarab. When the Scarab chooses Jaime as its host, he gains an incredible suit of armor with extraordinary powers, transforming him into the superhero Blue Beetle. Gareth Dunnet-Alcocer wrote the screenplay based on DC characters, with John Rickard and Zev Foreman producing, and Walter Hamada, Galen Vaisman, and Garrett Grant serving as executive producers.

Blue Beetle will be released internationally in August 2023 and in North America on August 18, 2023. It is a Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, produced by Safran Company, and will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

About Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group

Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group consists of Warner Bros. Pictures, New Line Cinema, and Warner Bros. Pictures Animation. The group collaborates with talented storytellers worldwide to create exceptional entertainment for global audiences. With a long-standing presence in the industry, Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group produces a diverse range of films for theatrical release worldwide.

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Spotted: 2024 KTM 990 Duke Prototype Winds Down A Sunny Mountain Road

In the 2020s, KTM is rumored to be developing a new 990 Duke, which would be a successor to the KTM 990 Super Duke that was last seen in their lineup 10 years ago. The speculation about a new 990 Duke gained strength in January 2023 when engine drawings from China suggested that the cylinder of the LC8c engine was elongated, indicating significant changes. Now, the existence of the 990 Duke prototype has been further confirmed by spy photos taken during testing. The photos show a partially undisguised prototype, with the rider wearing a matching set of leathers and helmet.

The test mule featured in the photos has a black-and-white color scheme, with hints of KTM’s signature orange on the front fork and the piping around the soft panniers attached to the tail. The rider’s helmet, boots, and race suit also have orange accents. However, the right side of the bike is not visible in these shots, only the front, left side, and rear. The test bike has black alloy wheels with a different spoke pattern compared to the 2023 890 Duke R. The mirrors appear to be similar between the test bike and the 890 Duke.

One noticeable difference between the test bike and the 890 Duke R is the front headlight and cowling design. The 990 Duke prototype features a smaller, angular lattice surrounding a smaller headlight, which gives the impression of brightness despite its size. The swingarm of the test bike also appears to be revised compared to the existing 890 Duke R.

Although the 990 Duke’s styling stays true to Kiska’s signature sharp and angular design language for KTM, it offers a unique take on naked styling. It is expected that the official debut of the completed KTM 990 Duke will take place towards the end of 2023 as a 2024 model. However, it is unclear if the unveiling will happen at EICMA 2023 in November or at a different event. Regardless, motorcycle enthusiasts will be keeping a close watch for updates on this highly anticipated model.