Tag Archives: hasn’t

Motorsport

The USPS Ordered Six Vans From EV Startup Canoo For “Exploratory” Reasons

Canoo nonetheless hasn’t delivered a single automotive to shoppers, but the upstart EV firm is inking offers left and proper with authorities companies. First, they teamed up with NASA for shuttle transport automobiles, then the Oklahoma state authorities – even the US Army evaluated Canoo’s capabilities. Now the United States Postal Service (USPS) is pinging Canoo for a pint-sized fleet of mail supply vans.

The USPS positioned an order for six right-hand-drive variations of the Lifestyle Delivery Vehicle 190 – an prolonged variant of its electrical van with an enclosed rear cargo maintain. Yes, simply six automobiles.

The USPS ought to have the ability to get round 200 miles of vary with the Canoo LDV 190, which has a 79.0-kilowatt-hour battery pack with DC quick charging capabilities, and 200 horsepower on the bottom model (or as much as 350 hp on sure specs). The cargo maintain can carry as much as 172.0 cubic toes and haul as much as 1,624 kilos of mail. Converting the Canoos to right-hand drive was a comparatively easy course of, notes Canoo CEO Tony Aquila.

Canoo Lifestyle Delivery Vehicle 190
Canoo Lifestyle Delivery Vehicle 190

“The multi-purpose platform with steer-by-wire technology and a unique low-profile suspension system allows for a readily configurable right-hand drive system,” says Aquila.

The electrical vans play a small position within the Postal Service’s bigger $40 billion funding towards upgrading and enhancing its fleet. In 2022, the federal government introduced Oshkosh Defense would construct a brand new fleet of mail vehicles for the USPS, however after delays surrounding powertrain points, these upgraded mail vehicles have been put on hold till later this yr.

The six Canoo vans shall be delivered to the USPS early this yr, and by the tip of 2024, we might see these USPS EVs and Oshkosh mail vehicles on the street concurrently.

In an announcement from the USPS to Motor1, the group mentioned that’s persevering with to “explore commercial-off-the-shelf electric delivery vehicles that have the potential to meet the unique requirements of our delivery mission.” So if it likes the Canoo’s efficiency, we might be seeing an entire lot extra Government-owned startup electrical vans sooner or later. 

Motorsport

Audi Suggests Q9 Large Luxury SUV Is Coming

It’s nonetheless puzzling why Audi hasn’t launched a full-size luxurious SUV. Mercedes has been promoting the GL/GLS since 2006 whereas the BMW X7 has been round since 2018. But lastly, that would change. With experiences of a Q9 swirling for years, Audi Australia director Jeff Mannering mentioned in an interview with CarSales {that a} flagship SUV may arrive by 2026.

When requested whether or not a bigger and dearer Q mannequin would make sense, he mentioned: “Yes of course. If you just look at volume versus different brands, we’re not in some segments that others are in. Let’s see what happens in the next 24 months.” When requested to speak in regards to the mannequin’s moniker, Jeff Mannering smiled and agreed “Q9” is a catchy identify.


Motorsport

Before The Honda Prelude Returns, Here’s A Classic Review Of The Fourth Gen

The Honda Prelude Concept has sparked excitement for the iconic nameplate, although the company has not officially confirmed where a production version will be available. Motorweek has seized on the renewed interest in this sports coupe by revisiting the TV show’s review of the fourth-gen model from March 13, 1992. Host John Davis starts by expressing his frustration with the homogeneous look of many new cars, but he makes an exception for the fourth-gen Prelude, praising its distinctive design features.

The model was lauded for its wedge-shaped crease on the hood leading to the center of the nose, and the rear was likened to a Jaguar XJS. The up-level Prelude Si, which MotorWeek tested, was equipped with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 160 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque, with a four-speed automatic transmission.

In comparison, a 1992 Toyota Celica GT-S made 135 hp and 145 lb-ft from a 2.2-liter four-cylinder, while a 1993 Mazda MX-6 with a 2.5-liter V6 produced 164 hp and 160 lb-ft. On MotorWeek’s track test, the Prelude achieved a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds and covered the quarter-mile in 16.3 seconds, placing it on par with its competitors at the time.

Motorsport

Volvo EM90 Minivan: A Sophisticated Multipurpose Vehicle

The EM90, touted as Volvo’s first minivan, offers more than just practicality. Boasting dual-chamber air suspension, road noise cancellation technology, and lounge-like seating, this electric vehicle is a luxurious alternative to conventional minivans. Notably, luxury vans have gained traction in China with models like the Buick GL8 and the Lexus LM gaining popularity.

In addition to its upscale interior, the six-seater minivan features a large folding screen on the roof, making it suitable for a mobile office. The second-row occupants can enjoy armchair-style seats with folding tray tables, while the 15.6-inch screen supports video conferences and mobile screen projection, catering to business needs on the go.


Audio, News

Apple Music’s Cheapest Plan Has Been Discontinued

Apple has discontinued the Apple Music Voice Plan without publicly stating a reason. This decision comes in the wake of recent price hikes for several of Apple’s subscription services.

One such service is Apple TV+, the company’s streaming platform that has gained popularity with shows like “Ted Lasso.” Its monthly price will be raised from $6.99 to $9.99. This increase has been met with disappointment from existing subscribers, as Apple TV+ has a smaller library compared to its competitors.

Apple Arcade and Apple News will also see price increases, with prices going up to $6.99 and $12.99, respectively. Apple has been encouraging its users to subscribe to Apple One, a bundle that offers a discount and includes access to services like Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, and iCloud+. However, the monthly rate for Apple One has also increased, with individual plans now costing $19.95 and Family plans costing $25.95. The Premier plan, which includes Fitness+, News+, and additional iCloud storage, has been raised to $37.95. These price changes are effective immediately for new customers, while existing subscribers will see an increase in their bills within a month.

Subscribers who were on the Apple Music Voice Plan and want to continue using Apple Music will need to upgrade to either the $10.99 per month Individual plan or the $16.99 per month Family Plan. However, students can still take advantage of the cheaper $5.99 per month Student tier, which offers more features than just Siri control.

News, Technology

Elon Musk’s Ambitious Plan to Transform Twitter into an All-In-One App

Elon Musk has been open about his plans to expand Twitter’s capabilities beyond being a social media platform. He envisions turning the company into an “everything app,” similar to popular super apps like China’s WeChat. These super apps serve as a one-stop-shop for various functions on your phone, including messaging, calling, appointments, games, and ordering food.

In August, it was reported that Twitter, now called X, was exploring the addition of a stock trading hub. This move aligns with Musk’s banking ambitions, which he started discussing shortly after acquiring Twitter. In November 2022, Musk reportedly met with Twitter employees to discuss his idea of implementing payment features, such as debit cards, instant money transfers, and even loans, according to The Verge.

Musk’s plans have attracted mixed reactions. Some people express concerns about trusting X and its owner with their financial information, while others point out the challenges of introducing a WeChat-like service in the U.S. and Europe due to existing laws and regulations.

Motorsport

Watch 1971 Dodge Challenger With Missing Floor Receive First Wash In 40 Years

This 1971 Dodge Challenger hasn’t been washed in 40 years and has been sitting in a garage for quite a while. The car only has 19,000 miles on it but is in rough shape. The clip starts with the guys from WD Detailing hauling it away and then heading to their shop.

On the outside, this Challenger appears to be in fair condition. The rear bumper is missing, but there doesn’t seem to be any major body damage. However, the vinyl top is peeling and the tires no longer hold air.

This Challenger is equipped with a 318-cubic-inch (5.2-liter) V8 engine. While it was the smallest eight-cylinder powerplant available for this model, it was still considered large at the time. Buyers could also choose from 383-, 440-, and 426- Hemi V8 engines.

In the shop, the WD Detailing team places the Dodge on jack stands because the tires can no longer support the weight of the car. Powerwashing the body reveals the eye-catching ochre paint. However, the exterior is missing the door handles.

The interior of the car is in worse condition. The trunk is full of miscellaneous parts and junk. Additionally, the seats are somehow attached to the carpet. Removing the driver’s seat reveals a major issue – the floor on that side is completely deteriorated. The WD Detailing team has to cut out a portion of the floor and use stools to prop up the seat.

The team cleans under the hood but does not attempt to start the engine. It is unclear whether the engine is no longer functioning or if it requires maintenance.

WD Detailing does their best with what remains of this Challenger. The exterior continues to look great, but there isn’t much left beyond that. It is possible that the powertrain still works, but this cannot be determined from the video.

The guys from WD Detailing consider using this car as a donor vehicle. The body panels, seats, and door panels are still in good condition. However, restoring the car would likely be too expensive given its current state.

Autonomous Driving, Electric Vehicles, News

Polestar 4 ‘Chauffeur’ Self-Driving Tech Promised For New EV SUV: What It Can Do

Polestar is planning to introduce Chauffeur, its self-driving technology, to the Polestar 4 electric SUV. Although no specific timeline has been provided, the release of Chauffeur will follow the launch of the EV. Similar to other advanced driver assistance systems, it is likely that Chauffeur will be an optional upgrade and will come at an extra cost. For example, Tesla’s “full self-driving” suite is priced at an additional $15,000, while Ford offers its BlueCruise functionality for $2,100 for three years if selected at the time of vehicle purchase.

On the other hand, the Polestar 3 electric SUV, which is scheduled to start deliveries in 2024, will feature ADAS and autonomous driving technology. Interestingly, the Polestar 3 will not rely on MobileEye’s technology but instead use Luminar sensors, thanks to Volvo’s investment in the LIDAR startup.

The Polestar 4 will be the most powerful vehicle in Polestar’s lineup. The long-range dual-motor version of the car is expected to have a motor with 544 horsepower and 506 lb-ft of torque. It boasts a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds and a range of 438 miles on a single charge. In addition, the Polestar 4 supports 200kW fast charging, features a 15.4-inch central display, and has a unique design element using a camera instead of a rear glass window.

Motorsport

2024 Kia Sorento Walkaround Video Captures Every Detail Of Refreshed SUV

The 2024 Kia Sorento has not yet been officially introduced, but we have received official photos of the refreshed model. However, details about the updates under the skin remain a mystery. Despite this, a new walkaround video from CarSceneKorea provides a close-up tour of the popular SUV.

In the video, we get a detailed look at the redesigned Sorento taillights, which have a similar appearance to the outgoing model but are now connected at the top and feature new internal structures. The video also zooms in on the SUV’s completely new face, which includes vertically oriented headlights with T-shaped LED running lamps that also function as turn signals. These headlights flank a slightly larger grille, and the video provides a close look at the new mesh grille pattern from Kia. Additionally, the video showcases the new wheels in detail.


Cars, News

VinFast’s VF9 Has the EV Range, But What About the Quality?

One reason to doubt the VF9 is that it hasn’t been extensively tested on North American roads yet. Currently, it has only been available for purchase in Vietnam, where its parent company, VinFast’s conglomerate, is located. VinFast is a relatively new player in the market, having launched in 2017, and doesn’t have as much EV development experience as major competitors like Tesla, Ford, Chevrolet, and Hyundai. The VF9 has not yet undergone testing by reliable car review sources such as Kelley Blue Book, Motor Trend, and Edmunds.

However, if the VF9 is similar to VinFast’s previous EV, the VF8, its battery range may not justify buying it. In a recent test by SlashGear, the VF8 City Edition Plus faced criticism for various issues. The reviewer found problems with rear visibility, suspension, drivetrain, and electrical systems. There were also complaints about drive assist features being more bothersome than helpful, an uninspiring exterior design, an unattractive interior, and a problematic user interface that heavily relied on touch controls. The VF8 also lacked throttle response from its gas pedal.

Despite the mixed response to the VF8, VinFast remains confident that the VF9 can attract buyers with its extended battery range and other features. Le Thi Thu Thuy, the Global CEO of VinFast, states, “VinFast always strives to bring high-quality products, reasonable prices, and outstanding aftersales services to our consumers globally. The VF9’s 330-mile battery range is one of the best in the market, which confirms our commitment to producing competitive vehicles.”