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Cars

Here’s What Made Ferrari’s Colombo Engine So Special

Before specializing in the engine, it is value understanding the person behind the machine. Born in Milan in 1903, Gioacchino Colombo (above, proper) was an Italian engine designer whose resume boasted work at Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Bugatti, MV Agusta, and Ferrari.

Colombo joined Alfa Romeo at age 21 and labored on the P2 Grand Prix race automotive. By 1928 (aged simply 25), he was promoted to go of the technical division, overseeing each Alfa Romeo’s highway and race automobiles. In 1937, he left Alfa to affix Ferrari, the place he started work on the corporate’s early V12 engines, however returned to Alfa only a yr later as head of the race staff’s design division. In that position, Colombo noticed his 1.5-liter, supercharged V12 engines win their first races and luxuriate in a profitable few years earlier than the competitors was suspended throughout World War II.

As effectively as a small capability and 12 cylinders, these early Colombo engines had been recognized for his or her gentle weight. They featured a block forged from a kind of magnesium known as Elektron as an alternative of the iron utilized by different producers, and the case was made out of two separate castings built-in with a shared head with twin overhead camshafts and a chrome nickel-plated crankshaft.

Colombo rejoined Ferrari in 1945 and was tasked with designing a 1.5-liter V12 engine to be used in highway automobiles in addition to Enzo’s beloved racers. Colombo agreed with Mr. Ferrari that the small-capacity V12 ought to have a single camshaft for every financial institution of six cylinders.

News

“`html 2024 Toyota Tundra Towing Payload Capacity

Summary

  • Toyota trucks are marketed towards the lifestyle market, such as surfing, adventuring, and off-roading, rather than heavy truck work targeting the American lifestyle.
  • The towing capacity varies by trim level, with the SR5 offering the highest tow rating of 12,000 lbs for the 2024 Toyota Tundra, which has improved towing capabilities thanks to a turbocharged engine and modern components.
  • However, it still falls short in towing capacity compared to domestic full-sized trucks like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado.

Toyota trucks are not designed to compete with American trucks in heavy-duty truck work but are tailored for the lifestyle market. They are aimed at people who enjoy activities like surfing, adventuring, and off-roading. This article focuses on the towing and payload abilities of the new Toyota Tundra.

Toyota Tundra

Related

10 Must-Have Off-Road Upgrades For The Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra is already capable, but these modifications will make it go even further – maybe even too far.

To ensure the most accurate information, data for this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and authoritative sources, including Toyota and Motortrend.

Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of the 2024 Toyota Tundra varies by trim level due to various factors impacting the weight a vehicle can tow such as 4×4 system and additional interior and exterior technology.

Each available trim level of the Toyota Tundra has different tow ratings:

Tundra Towing Capacities By Trim Level

Trim Towing Capacity
SR 8,300 lbs
SR5 11,010 lbs – 12,000 lbs
Limited 10,970 lbs – 11,450 lbs
Platinum 10,890 lbs – 11,380 lbs
1794 Edition 10,890 lbs – 11,380 lbs
TRD Pro 11,175 lbs
Capstone 10,340 lbs

(Source: Toyota)

The SR5 trim with the twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V-6 offers the highest tow rating of 12,000 lbs with Class IV hitch and integrated trailer brake controller as standard, with a starting price of $45,500.

In addition, Toyota offers an available towing tech package that includes rear-facing trailer lights and Straight Path Assist but does not increase the tow rating of the vehicle.

Toyota Tundra Payload Capacity

Tundra SR5 TRD Driving
Toyota

Payload capacities follow a similar trend based on the weight of the trim level, with the SR5 offering the highest payload capacity of 1,940 pounds.

The New Tundra Is Miles Ahead Of The Old One For Towing

Tundra Platinum Towing Caravan
Toyota

The 2024 Toyota Tundra has improved towing capabilities compared to its predecessor, thanks to the modern components and a turbocharged engine.

2023 Tundra Performance Specs

Engine Twin-turbo V-6 Twin-turbo V-6 Hybrid
Displacement 3.5L 3.5L
Power 389 hp 437 hp
Torque 479 lb-ft 583 lb-ft
Transmission 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic

(Source: Toyota)

The new Tundra’s turbocharged engine delivers its peak torque at lower RPMs, allowing it to tow heavy loads with more efficiency. In addition, the availability of a hybrid powertrain option in the Tundra showcases Toyota’s commitment to sustainability.

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Audi Q4 e-tron: 5 updates that make it even better

In sports, trainers often mention the concept of marginal gains: focusing on refining each individual element of the overall package to create a significantly improved overall product. This applies to the updated Audi Q4 e-tron.

The revised Audi Q4 e-tron boasts a more efficient powertrain with increased power, extended range, and faster charging capabilities. Additionally, it features an improved chassis for a more engaging driving experience, and enhanced in-car technology. Here are the key improvements that set the updated Audi Q4 e-tron apart.

Discover more about the updated Audi Q4 e-tron

#1 Improved Range Efficiency

The Audi Q4 e-tron SUV and Sportback have consistently offered significant all-electric range within their compact urban-friendly design. The updated Audi Q4 e-tron line-up now takes this even further.

This enhancement is made possible by a more efficient electric motor on the rear axle – a permanently excited synchronous machine (PSM) that utilizes optimized thermal management and energy-saving cooling to improve efficiency.

Consequently, the updated Audi Q4 e-tron range now offers increased mileage, with the Audi Q4 Sportback 45 e-tron providing up to 349 miles (WLTP).

#2 Enhanced Performance

In addition to extending the all-electric range, the more efficient rear-axle electric motor in the updated Audi Q4 e-tron also delivers improved performance.

For rear-wheel drive Audi Q4 45 e-tron models, the power output has been raised to 286PS, while the range-topping twin-motor Audi Q4 55 e-tron quattro models boast up to 340PS, achieving 0-62mph in just 5.4 seconds.

This added performance is accompanied by a unique acoustic signature within the e-tron range. As an optional feature, the new all-electric engine sound adapts based on the accelerator position and vehicle speed, delivering a distinct and progressive tone.

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CFMoto Introduces New 675cc Triple Engine for Performance

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto is breaking away from the traditional small-displacement bikes and focusing on high-performance models. At the EICMA 2023 event, CFMoto unveiled its latest engine, a brand-new three-cylinder 675cc engine. While the engine’s specs resemble the iconic Triumph 675cc engine, CFMoto claims it is a completely new design developed in-house.

CFMoto Goes For Performance With Brand-New 675cc Triple

CFMoto highlights that the new 675cc engine is lightweight and durable. The brand implemented a low inertia crank, resulting in quick engine response and acceleration, as well as smooth power delivery. Additionally, CFMoto incorporated an FCC slipper-assist clutch for seamless downshifts and an overall smoother riding experience.

Performance-wise, CFMoto claims the 675cc engine will produce over 100 horsepower and 68 Newton-meters (about 47.6 pound-feet) of torque. Comparatively, the Triumph Daytona 675 produced 123 horsepower and 53 pound-feet of torque. This indicates that CFMoto likely tuned their engine more for street use rather than track performance. The engine also has a rev ceiling of 12,300 rpm and can go from 0 to 62 mph in three seconds.

CFMoto Goes For Performance With Brand-New 675cc Triple

To achieve its low weight, CFMoto designed the engine with forged aluminum, resulting in a 10% weight reduction compared to other three-cylinder engines. The engine weighs just 55 kilograms, making it compact and lightweight. The use of forged aluminum pistons further reduces weight and inertia, resulting in rapid throttle response.

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Check Out These New Aftermarket Winglet Kits From Puig

Now more than ever, people are focusing on the small aspects when it comes to improving the performance of their motorcycles. If before, the focus was sheer riding enjoyment, these days, it’s shedding even the smallest amount of weight, squeezing out tiny bits of power, or improving downforce.

Speaking of the latter, we’ve seen more and more sportbikes enter the market with winglets fitted as standard – a feature that was once considered outlandish and excessive. Indeed, at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour, these winglets play a role in keeping the front wheel firmly on the ground, so it’s understandable that they’re fitted on some of the top-tier supersports. That being said, not all sportbikes are equipped with winglets, and for whatever reason, you may want to have a set fitted onto your bike.

Check Out These New Aftermarket Winglet Kits From Puig

Luckily, Spanish aftermarket specialist Puig has just released aftermarket options for a variety of motorcycles. According to Puig, its designs were tested in a virtual wind tunnel based on MotoGP models. The brand promises some real-world aerodynamic benefits, with some models producing up to 3.5 kilograms of downforce at speeds of 130 miles per hour. At 187 miles per hour – speeds achievable only at the circuit – the winglets are said to provide up to 8 kilos of downforce.

While this is cool and all, the majority of superbike owners who mainly ride on the street will benefit mostly from the aesthetic benefit this aftermarket upgrade provides. I mean, who doesn’t love a sportbike that looks like a MotoGP race bike for the road? As for rigidity and longevity, expect nothing less from Puig, as the Spanish brand has been making aftermarket accessories for the world’s top bikes for decades now. The winglets are made of four-millimeter thick, UV-resistant plastic, and depending on the model, are either bolted onto existing screw points, or mounted with adhesive.

Check Out These New Aftermarket Winglet Kits From Puig

Installation is super straightforward, too, according to Puig, with the winglet for the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade taking just 15 minutes to install. Of course, the installation procedure on different bikes will vary, but Puig states that its winglets don’t necessitate the drilling of additional holes to your bike’s precious fairings.

It isn’t just sportbikes that benefit from this upgrade, either. Naked bikes like the Kawasaki Z900 and Yamaha MT-09 can also be fitted with Puig’s winglets designed specifically for naked bikes. The brand new Honda CB750 Hornet will also get a set of winglets, though these bikes aren’t exactly known for being able to breach 140 miles per hour.

As for pricing, well it depends on your bike. For the Honda CBR1000RR, Puig’s winglets are priced at 219.90 Euros, or about $245 USD. Meanwhile, the naked bikes like the Z900 get theirs for 198.50 Euros, or $223 USD.

News

Lausitzring To Host FIM Record Attempts In September

The renowned German Lausitzring track, owned by Dekra, a specialized German entity focusing on homologations and certifications, is preparing to become the center of attention for racing enthusiasts around the world. This complex, which includes a conventional circuit, triangular oval, and a vast oval with remarkable cambers, will host the highly anticipated FIM Records attempts in short-distance racing from September 21 to 24, 2023.

This event is organized by SwissPerformance, a prominent event promoter, with the support of the German Federation (DMSB). The Lausitzring event will conclude an extensive program of attempts, with previous events held on August 16 at the picturesque Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia and on August 27 at the legendary Bonneville salt lake in the United States.

The visionary owner of SwissPerformance, Rudolf Steck, emphasized the significance of the Lausitzring event, particularly for European teams with more modest budgets. “The European venue allows teams from Europe to participate with more modest budgets since the cost of travel, technical infrastructure, and accommodation is a fraction of the cost of events outside of Europe,” Steck explained—translated from Italian. Steck further envisions this event evolving into an annual European tradition, expanding steadily as a compelling alternative to overseas events.


Bonneville Salt Flats In Jeopardy

8 Photos

One of the key advantages of choosing the Lausitzring as the event venue is the unique opportunity it offers to spectators. Unlike natural surfaces such as the Bonneville salt flats or the Uyuni salt flats, which have inherent security restrictions and lack barriers, the Lausitzring provides an unparalleled viewing experience. Spectators will have the rare chance to witness the racing action up close, bringing them closer to the thrills, high speeds, and the technical prowess and practical ingenuity required to achieve a prestigious FIM Speed Record.

The proximity to the racing action promises to be a draw for fans and competitors alike, fostering a greater appreciation for the sport and attracting a wider audience.

With its blend of thrilling racing, technical expertise, and proximity to the action, the FIM Record attempts at the Lausitzring are set to captivate racing enthusiasts and showcase the pinnacle of speed and skill. As September approaches, anticipation grows for this exceptional event, destined to leave an indelible mark on the motorsports landscape.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen Group Prioritizes Profitability and Cash Flow through Strategic Alignment and Performance Programs

Volkswagen Group is undergoing a strategic alignment to strengthen its profitability and cash flow. During its Capital Markets Day, the Group introduced leadership principles that emphasize customer orientation, entrepreneurship, and team spirit. The Group has assigned the responsibility for achieving return targets to each of its brands. For the first time, each brand will launch its own performance program with a focus on strengthening profitability, cash flows, and reducing capital intensity. This marks a shift from pure volume growth to prioritizing sustainable value creation based on the “value over volume” principle. The Group is also realigning its architecture, battery, software, and mobility services to fully leverage economies of scale. Regionally, Volkswagen is focusing its investments on the most lucrative profit pools globally, refining strategies for growth markets like China and North America. With a brand-focused approach and performance programs, the Group aims to achieve a strategic return on sales target of 9 to 11 percent by 2030.

“Our focus is on implementation, speed, and performance,” says Oliver Blume, CEO of Volkswagen Group. He further emphasizes the importance of clear priorities, operational and strategic focus, and the benefits this realignment brings to customers, investors, and the team.

The new steering model introduces direct responsibility for financial targets, strategy, and brand identities to the brands. The performance programs, managed at the brand group level, provide a framework for further development. By shifting the focus from volume to value creation, the brands aim to strengthen market positioning and improve performance in terms of margins, product mix, and vehicle features. Additionally, the brands will explore new business models such as mobility services to tap into additional profit opportunities. To support this, the Group will optimize economies of scale and implement cost-saving measures in various areas.

Volkswagen Group has adopted a new approach that prioritizes sustainable value creation over volume growth. Arno Antlitz, CFO and COO of Volkswagen Group, explains that the steering model focuses on profitability, lower fixed costs, and disciplined investment. The aim is to strike a balance between brand emotional power and scale benefits provided by technology and services offered by the Group.

The realignment also includes an explicit designation of the brand groups, which will be named Core, Progressive, Sport Luxury, and Trucks. This move aims to reinforce the Group’s commitment to technology platforms that provide an exceptional customer experience. The platforms cover architecture, battery, software, and mobility services allowing the brands to leverage scale benefits and increase profitability. In terms of technology, Volkswagen Group plans to establish the group-wide platform SSP by 2024, alongside competitive architectures such as PPE and the second-generation MEB+. The battery strategy and ramp-up of PowerCo will enhance flexibility and competitiveness through the Unified Cell concept.

CARIAD, the Group’s internal software supplier, will support the launch of new electric vehicles like the Porsche Macan and Audi Q6 e-tron. The next-generation E³ 2.0 will be developed in collaboration with CARIAD, VW, and Audi in a Software-Defined-Vehicle hub, reinforcing Volkswagen Group’s commitment to digitalization and e-mobility.

Volkswagen Group aims to strengthen its financial robustness and has set specific key performance indicators (KPIs) for each brand group, as well as the CARIAD and PowerCo technology platforms. The KPIs focus on operating results, return on sales, net cash flow, cash conversion rate (CCR), and investment ratio. The Group plans to develop its management incentive scheme further to include selected financial targets for brand and brand group performance. The Group’s sales growth target is set at 5 to 7 percent annually until 2027 and will be aligned with industry developments thereafter. The strategic return on sales target is expected to reach between 9 and 11 percent by 2030.

Volkswagen Group is also refining its regional strategies, particularly in China and North America. In China, the Group aims to maintain its position as the most successful international OEM by developing products tailored to the Chinese market. In North America, Volkswagen Group plans to expand its market share by investing in new electric vehicles and establishing a battery cell factory in Canada. Additionally, the relaunch of the Scout brand will focus on all-electric vehicles in the high-margin pickup and Rugged SUV segment.

The Capital Markets Day serves as the kick-off for a closer engagement with the capital market. Volkswagen Group plans to host further events to provide investors and analysts with more detailed information about brand group strategies, technology areas, and regional approaches.