Tag Archives: firm’s

News

Lamborghini Huracan STJ is swansong for famed V10

Lamborghini has revealed the ultra-limited Huracán STJ – the agency’s ultimate ever automotive to be fitted with a V10 engine and the collectively strongest Huracán ever constructed. 

Just 10 examples of the STJ – Super Trofeo Jota – can be constructed. That will successfully see out the Huracán’s manufacturing, which began again in 2014, earlier than the mannequin is changed by a brand new hybrid sports activities automotive later this yr. 

Power comes from the identical naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 because the Huracán STO, with 630bhp and 417lb ft, managed by a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

Despite the automotive receiving no enhance in energy, Lamborghini says the Huracán STJ can lap the Nardò take a look at circuit one second sooner than the usual automotive due to some modifications beneath and above the steel.

A particular aerodynamic bundle provides two new carbonfibre appendages and adjusts the angle of the Huracán’s rear spoiler by 3deg. Lamborghini says downforce has been improved by round 10%. 

A stronger set of race-derived, four-way adjustable shock absorbers have been fitted, which permit for elevated stiffness and improved dealing with. The STJ additionally makes use of Bridgestone Potenza racing tyres.

The sports activities automotive is offered in a selection of two unique, eye-catching exterior designs. One options gray Grigio Telesto exterior paint, matched with a black roof and purple and white trim. Inside, it positive factors black Alcantara seats with purple stitching. 

ToyotaUk

Toyota Ventures Raises Another $300 Million to Expand Early-Stage Investments in Frontier Technology and Climate Solutions

Firm’s dedicated capital grows to over $800 million, underscoring Toyota’s dedication to investing in groundbreaking startups across the globe

LOS ALTOS, Calif. (April 10, 2024) – Toyota Ventures, the early-stage enterprise capital arm of Toyota, introduced two $150 million funds to increase its investments in startups growing disruptive applied sciences and enterprise fashions on the forefront of innovation. The addition of the new funds, Toyota Ventures Frontier Fund II (TVFF II) and Toyota Ventures Climate Fund II (TVCF II), brings the agency’s whole property underneath administration to over $800 million.  

Since its founding in July 2017, Toyota Ventures has furthered its mission of serving to Toyota uncover what’s subsequent by investing in additional than 75 startups throughout areas starting from synthetic intelligence and robotics to hydrogen options and renewable power. Toyota Ventures is based mostly within the San Francisco Bay Area and has portfolio corporations in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. With these new funds, the agency can help extra entrepreneurs all over the world as they sort out powerful challenges to construct a greater future for society and the planet.  

“At Toyota Ventures, we are explorers. Our role is to understand technology trends that could advance Toyota’s mobility transformation in the near term and embrace the next generation of disruptive innovation in the long term,” mentioned Jim Adler, founder and normal companion of Toyota Ventures. “At a time when some investors have scaled back, we’re scaling up by doubling down on our initial Frontier and Climate Funds. With seismic breakthroughs in generative AI, e-fuels, space commercialization, carbon capture, and synthetic biology, it’s a crucial time to be investing for Toyota.”  

TVFF II will deal with startups on the slicing fringe of deep know-how in areas like AI, robotics, mobility, cloud, and quantum computing, with a watch in direction of increasing Toyota Ventures’ worldwide presence. The new fund shall be led by Frontier Fund companion David Sokolic, a veteran investor and working government. Portfolio corporations within the preliminary Frontier Fund embrace satellite tv for pc servicing supplier Starfish Space, biosensor maker Scentian Bio, and quantum computing software program startup Haiqu, amongst others.  

TVCF II will search out startups growing sensible, scalable options that fight local weather change and promote environmental sustainability. It will construct on the agency’s inaugural climate-focused fund, which launched in 2021 and grew to a portfolio of 18 corporations underneath the management of Climate Fund companion Lisa Coca. The first Climate Fund portfolio contains corporations in renewable power like Avalanche Energy; power storage and batteries like e-Zinc and AM Batteries; carbon seize, removing and utilization like Air Company and Living Carbon; hydrogen options like Ecolectro; and different areas aligned with Toyota’s carbon neutrality targets.  

“Innovation is a team sport, and today, more than ever, it’s important for leaders like Toyota to collaborate with up-and-coming startups to take on the critical challenges we all face in a rapidly evolving world,” mentioned Gill Pratt, chief scientist of Toyota Motor Corporation, CEO of TRI, and board member at Toyota Ventures. “These new funds underscore our dedication to supporting entrepreneurs who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and I’m thrilled to continue this journey alongside the Toyota Ventures team and portfolio.”  

Going past capital, Toyota Ventures goals to leverage Toyota’s international community, deep technical experience, and strategic partnerships to help startups in its portfolio. It has a portfolio help workforce devoted to offering steering in product and enterprise improvement, fundraising, advertising and marketing, and different areas to assist corporations scale successfully. Some of the agency’s early portfolio corporations that proceed to companion with Toyota embrace aerial ridesharing pioneer Joby Aviation and autonomous car chief May Mobility.  

Entrepreneurs searching for early-stage funding are invited to be taught extra and submit an internet pitch on the Toyota Ventures website.  

Supporting quotes and testimonials  

“The team at Toyota Ventures has been instrumental in our growth, having gone above and beyond by not simply offering capital support but also their mentorship in navigating various challenges and paving pathways into Toyota as an early customer,” mentioned Dor Skuler, co-founder and CEO of Intuition Robotics.  

“Toyota Ventures has been a committed strategic partner to Revel since 2018, working with us hand-in-hand as we expanded our business into all-electric rideshare and public fast charging infrastructure in dense cities like New York,” mentioned Frank Reig, co-founder and CEO of Revel. “Beyond financial investments, Toyota Ventures has been essential in creating new relationships to support and develop our mission — the best kind of partner a founder can ask for.” 

“The Toyota Ventures team had a deep level of understanding and appreciation of the technical aspects around the large problems we are solving in the green hydrogen space,” mentioned Gabriel G. Rodríguez-Calero, co-founder and CEO of Ecolectro. “On top of this, the level of guidance we received was well beyond the technical aspects of our business, and it has created enormous value for Ecolectro. Toyota Ventures’ unique approach and engagement shows the holistic support they provide around our whole business beyond just capital.”  

“AM Batteries has experienced significant growth over the past year, thanks in no small part to the invaluable support from Toyota Ventures, “ said Lie Shi, CEO of AM Batteries. “In the time we’ve been working together with Lisa Coca and her team, it has become clear that Toyota Ventures possesses a deep understanding of how corporate venture capital can effectively cultivate successful alliances with startups. Their insight, financial backing, and partnership have been pivotal as we chart the course for AM Batteries’ future endeavors.”

About Toyota Ventures
Toyota Ventures is the early-stage enterprise capital arm of Toyota. Founded in July 2017, its mission is to find what’s subsequent for Toyota by serving to startups carry disruptive applied sciences and enterprise fashions to market rapidly. With greater than $800 million in property underneath administration, the agency is devoted to investing in gifted entrepreneurs all over the world who’re driving innovation in frontier applied sciences and local weather options. For extra details about Toyota Ventures and its portfolio corporations, please go to www.toyota.ventures.

News

Volkswagen brings again bodily buttons for all new vehicles

When it reaches manufacturing, it would sit beneath the ID 3 within the agency’s EV line-up, with VW describing it as being “as spacious as a Golf and as inexpensive as a Polo”. 

Significantly, the ID 2all showcases a completely new design language that may characteristic on all the agency’s future EVs. This is a part of a serious model revamp that is meant to, within the phrases of boss Schäfer, “make Volkswagen a genuine love brand”.

VW ID 2all

That philosophy includes the agency embracing its heritage as a key level of distinction from new EV rivals, and the ID 2all reveals clear influences from the Polo and Golf, with extra conventional styling than the ID 3.

Volkswagen beforehand revealed an ID Life crossover idea that was meant to preview the primary MEB Entry mannequin, however that has now been shelved after it obtained a poor reception.

Remarkably, Mindt and his group designed the brand new idea mannequin in simply six weeks, and needed to work across the already established mounted factors of the MEB Entry platform.

The ID 2all is 4050mm lengthy, making it barely shorter than the present Polo, however its 2600mm wheelbase is considerably longer, permitting for a lot higher inside house. 

It includes a 490-litre boot, with 1330 litres of capability when the rear seats are folded down.

News

Polestar 3 is first blank-sheet design by Chinese-Swedish firm

The upcoming Polestar 3 is set to debut in the second quarter of next year as the company’s inaugural SUV model, boasting a sleek design, luxurious features, and cutting-edge technology.

With a maximum power output of 510bhp in its twin-motor configuration, the vehicle incorporates advanced safety technologies and utilizes sustainable materials, aligning with the company’s commitment to creating a more relevant and environmentally responsible SUV.

The Polestar 3 made its first appearance in the UK at Salon Privé earlier this year, showcasing the Long Range Dual Motor variant finished in ‘Snow’ white paint and equipped with 22-inch four-spoke forged alloys.

Positioned as a direct competitor to the BMW iX and Jaguar I-Pace, the Polestar 3 follows the Volvo spin-off brand’s Polestar 2 electric saloon as the second model in its series production.

Built on the advanced new SPA2 platform, the Polestar 3 shares many of the same underlying technologies and systems with the upcoming Volvo EX90, effectively creating a close relationship between the two models. Unlike the Polestar 1 and 2, which were based on Volvo concept cars, the Polestar 3 is the first vehicle to be designed from the outset as a Polestar.

Despite being a large SUV, the Polestar 3 emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency with its sleek silhouette and various aero-channeling additions.

Drawing inspiration from the Polestar Precept concept, the vehicle features dual-blade headlights, a rear spoiler with an integrated wing, and a front aero wing, below which is a ‘Smartzone’ panel containing various sensors. Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath has highlighted these elements as defining characteristics of the brand.

In line with Polestar’s performance-oriented approach, the Polestar 3 will be launched with a rear-biased dual-motor powertrain, delivering 483bhp and 618lb ft of torque in standard form. This power enables the 2584kg-plus SUV to accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 130mph.

An optional Performance Pack offers an additional 27bhp and 51lb ft, reducing the 0-62mph sprint time by 0.3 seconds.

Car review

Audi E-tron GT

This side of an Audi R8, you won’t sit closer to the road in one of the firm’s cars. The E-tron GT’s Porsche roots are on display front and center here: the cosseting driving position places you at the center of the action, especially so given the panoramic view forward offered by the wraparound windscreen (the shallow side and rear glass is less conducive to a good view out).

There’s a wide range of seat and wheel adjustment, while the pedals are arranged well, with the centrally located brake allowing comfortable use by either the right or left foot. The steering wheel has a nicely thin rim, while metal paddles on the back of the spokes give quick access to the three-stage regenerative braking. Ahead of you is the brand’s trademark Virtual Cockpit.

Given Audi’s recent obsession with touchscreens, it’s gratifying to see that the E-tron GT (arguably its highest of hi-tech offerings) has ditched the multiple TFT screens of lesser models for a better balanced combination of glossy infotainment display and more traditional push-button climate control unit. Yes, the blocky temperature display graphics look a bit old hat, but it’s a price we’re willing to pay for an intuitive heating and ventilation system that’s a doddle to use on the fly.

Sitting above this is the large 10.1in MMI infotainment screen, which is also fairly straightforward to use, with crisp graphics and a logical menu layout. There are no hot keys or rotary controls whatsoever, though, and if you want to skip musical tracks or adjust the volume without using the screen, you have to use a bizarrely small touchpad that that sits on the transmission tunnel behind the gear selector and wouldn’t look out of place on a cheap MP3 player (remember those?).

It’s generally a quiet and relaxing place to pass the time, with wind noise well checked and road roar only becoming noticeable on coarse surfaces. Of course, the motor is unobtrusive, but over bumps this only highlights the surprising amount of creaks from the interior trim; perhaps a corollary of being made as light as possible to offset the weight of the motor and batteries. The materials all look like they’re up to Audi’s top-notch standards, but squeeze and poke a little and you’ll discover they’re underpinned by fairly flimsy materials – much like the set on Neighbours or Crossroads.

Given its generous external dimensions, the E-tron GT is no more than adequately practical, matching its close relation the Porsche Taycan, but both fall behind the roomier Tesla Model S.

There’s plenty of room for the driver and passenger, while even those sitting in the second row get more space than you’d think, especially for a car with such a low-slung roofline, although those over six foot might find their head just scraping the ceiling. Oddment stowage isn’t particularly impressive, running to a couple of cupholders in the center console, a small compartment under the armrest between the front seats and shallow door bins.

The 405-liter boot is a decent size, however, even if the opening is narrow, while the rear seats can be folded flat quickly and easily. Under the bonnet is a small area for overflow luggage, plus it holds the tire mobility foam and compressor, as well as the first aid kit.

News

McLaren introduces a special edition 750S to honor ‘Triple Crown’ triumphs

Formula 1 driver Lando Norris revealed McLaren’s most detailed bespoke livery to commemorate its ‘Triple Crown’ motorsport victories.

The uniquely painted McLaren 750S pays tribute to McLaren’s triumphant wins at the Monaco Grand Prix, 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Indianapolis 500, as part of the company’s 60th anniversary celebrations.

At the Velocity International motorsports festival in California, IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward and Le Mans winner Derek Bell joined Norris in unveiling the 750S supercar. Six cars have now been sold, with five more to be produced as either coupe or Spider, all featuring the distinctive ‘3-7-59’ livery.

The numerical references in the livery denote the 1974 Indy 500 winner, the company’s first Monaco Grand Prix victory in 1984, and the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans triumph of the McLaren F1 GTR.

With over 1200 hours of work by McLaren Special Operations (MSO) paint technicians, the intricate design incorporates 20 different colors, drawing inspiration from the winning race cars.

The supercar showcases the white and red livery of the McLaren MP4/2, featuring the car’s ‘7’ race number, as well as the grey color scheme and ’59’ race number tribute to the McLaren F1 GTR on both sides.

Additionally, the hand-painted key fobs reflect the multi-colored exterior of the car, adding to the overall attention to detail.

News

Polestar’s Interest in Producing Synergy Supercar

Polestar has expressed interest in developing a supercar based on the Synergy concept, as stated by design boss Maximillian Missoni. While there are no concrete production plans yet, the positive feedback received for the concept and the confidence in the engineering team have made this a compelling prospect for Polestar in the future.

Missoni emphasized that there are no guarantees, but the desire to pursue this project is there. The UK-based engineering team at the Horiba MIRA facility could make the production of a low-volume car a feasible possibility. This team, responsible for the aluminum architecture of the Polestar 5 and Polestar 6 models, is well-equipped to create specialized and high-performance vehicles.

If the Synergy were to enter production, it would be based on a monocoque rather than the new aluminum architecture, according to Missoni. He expressed confidence in the Polestar brand’s ability to create a supercar and is excited to see the brand’s future direction.

The Synergy concept, initially described as a “fantasy supercar,” is a combination of three models created for a design contest. After an extensive selection process, the final design was a result of collaboration between contest winners and the Polestar design team. The concept car, standing at 1.07 meters tall and 4.65 meters long, boasts striking features such as imposing wheel arches, a large front splitter, and a dramatic rear lightbar.

The exterior design draws inspiration from a hammerhead shark, encapsulating the concepts of “emotional durability” and “technical upgradability,” according to Polestar.

News

Genesis GV80 Coupe powered by a 409bhp supercharged hybrid

Genesis has introduced the GV80 Coupe as its first entry into the coupe-SUV market, alongside the redesigned traditional-bodied SUV version. The luxury models were unveiled in South Korea and are considered an important step in Genesis’ journey to success.

The Genesis GV80 Coupe draws heavy inspiration from the concept car of the same name, which was revealed in April 2023. It boasts a sleek design, featuring a curved rear end and a spoiler positioned just above the tail-lights. This more rakish design aims to enhance both practicality and sportiness, creating a distinctive package.

The coupe is equipped with an active air flap and four front air vents to improve cooling. The GV80 Coupe is offered with a choice of 20-inch or 22-inch wheels and features carbon materials and patterns, bespoke upholstery stitching, and metal trim details in its interior.

The GV80 SUV has also received a design refresh, including a new front grille, slimmer headlights, and various interior upgrades. Its cabin boasts a large 27-inch infotainment system with sat-nav and video playback, as well as touch pads for climate control adjustment. The SUV also features a two-tone steering wheel, premium materials such as wood, leather, and aluminum on the center console.

Both models offer convenient features such as a wireless phone charger, a larger center console cupholder, and a rotary dial for radio tuning or volume adjustment. Additional equipment includes fingerprint authentication, heated armrests, and a fragrance system. Back-row passengers in the GV80 SUV can enjoy a 14.6-inch rear display with a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system and video streaming.

The GV80 SUV is available with two powertrain options: a 299bhp 2.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 311lb ft of torque, or a 374bhp 3.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine with 390lb ft. Meanwhile, the GV80 Coupe offers the same two engines and an additional range-topping option: a 3.5-liter supercharged 48V hybrid with 409bhp and 405lb ft. This powerful hybrid includes launch control, a Sports+ driving mode, and adjustable brake responsiveness.

Both the SUV and Coupe models are equipped with a range of safety features, including electronic stability control, electronic control suspension, crosswind stabilization, and an AI-driven terrain analyzer.

News

First Look at BMW Neue Klasse SUV for 2026: A Radical Take on Electric SUVs

BMW has given us a glimpse of their upcoming electric SUV, set to be released in 2026, as part of their exciting Neue Klasse EV lineup. This new SUV, revealed briefly during the presentation of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse concept, will be a crossover similar in size to the BMW iX3. Its aim is to compete against other electric SUVs like the Audi Q6 E-tron and Mercedes EQC.

The Vision Neue Klasse, showcased as a stylish sedan, sets the stage for this new line of SUVs. However, BMW remains committed to the SUV segment, indicating that electric replacements for popular models like the X3, X5, X6, and X7 are in the works. BMW CEO Oliver Zipse has confirmed that BMW plans to introduce “six Neue Klasse models in 24 months [starting from 2025]. From SUV to sedan, we will have something for every customer.”

Design chief Domagog Dukec has previously stated that while the Neue Klasse will feature traditional three-box designs, there will also be SUV options, as the demand for SUVs is expected to continue. The first model in the Neue Klasse lineup will be a sedan similar in size to the BMW 3 Series, heavily inspired by the new concept car. The second model will be a closely related SUV, likely replacing the current iX3.

The upcoming SUV is estimated to be 25% more efficient than its predecessor, resulting in a range of around 360 miles (compared to the iX3’s 286-mile range). With a charging capacity of 270kW, it will compete effectively with other innovative German electric SUVs. Furthermore, BMW’s next-generation batteries will be slimmer, providing a roomier cabin compared to the current iX3’s platform.

Inside, the Neue Klasse SUV will feature the advanced ninth generation of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. It will include a panoramic head-up display, gesture-controlled interfaces, and voice control. The focus will be on sustainability, space, and creating a warm and familiar environment, quite different from BMW’s current EV offerings.

News

Lamborghini Lanzandor EV concept leaks ahead of official unveiling

The Lamborghini Lanzandor concept, which gives us a preview of the company’s first fully electric car, has been revealed earlier than planned after images were leaked on social media prior to its debut at Monterey Car Week.

The leaked images confirm that the Lanzandor will be a high-riding 2+2 vehicle, incorporating design elements from the Lamborghini Urus and Sián, with a silhouette similar to the Estoque concept from 2008, which never made it into production.

Inside, the Lanzandor features two digital displays: an instrument panel in front of the driver and a matching infotainment screen for the front passenger. The switchgear, including a fighter-jet-like starter button, is distributed along the length of the center console.

Each occupant sits in a thin, frame-like bucket seat, with the rear seats capable of folding over their bases, though not completely flat, in order to create more cargo space. Practicality seems to have been an important consideration in the design of the Lanzandor, as the leaked images show a spacious hatchback boot and a frunk (front trunk) that can fit specially-made overnight bags.

A limited number of Lanzandors will be produced, following a similar strategy to the Sián, which gave a preview of the design and technology of the upcoming hypercar, Revuleto.

Lamborghini Lanzandor side profile

When announcing the unveiling of the concept at Monterey, Lamborghini stated: “Since its establishment in 1963, Automobili Lamborghini has created one-off models that showcase the technical and stylistic direction the company will take in the near future. These models serve as prototypes for design and technology experiments, shaping the Lamborghinis to come. In the 1960s, these one-offs were often show cars used in motor show parades.

“In more recent years, Lamborghini has developed a category called “few-offs” to describe limited runs of cars offered exclusively to the most loyal customers. These “few-offs” feature advanced technical solutions that will be incorporated into future production cars. This same strategy will be repeated at the upcoming Monterey Car Week in California, where Lamborghini will present the prototype of its first fully electric car.”