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Autocar reveals winners of the 2023 Great Women: Rising Stars awards

The winners of the 2023 Autocar Great Women: Rising Stars awards have been announced. These awards recognize the top up-and-coming female talent in the motoring industry across 11 different categories.

The Autocar Great Women awards, organized in collaboration with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and supported by executive search specialists Ennis & Co, aim to celebrate the success of rising stars in various roles within the industry. These individuals are employed by companies such as JLR, Mini, and Pendragon.

A total of 124 Rising Stars were recognized across the 11 categories, with each category having a winner. All of these Rising Stars were regarded as exceptional in their respective fields and were honored at the annual Autocar Great Women event, which took place this year at Stellantis’s UK headquarters in Coventry.

Among the winners were Julie Stears, chief engineer at JLR, who is responsible for engineering quality; Megan Harrall, Mini UK’s strategy, planning, and operations manager; and Emma Whyld, Toyota UK’s section manager for employee relations. Whyld was recognized as the winner in the new ‘Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion’ category, which acknowledges individuals making efforts to make the automotive sector more inclusive and appealing to a wider range of people.

Autocar’s editor, Mark Tisshaw, commented on the high standards of this year’s entries. He said, “The quality of our entries was so strong that it made judging not only more difficult but more enjoyable than ever before. I know all of our winners will continue to showcase our industry at its best, both in their fast-progressing careers and personal development. We will watch their careers grow with great interest.”

Rachael Prasher, the Chair of the judging panel and managing director of Haymarket Automotive, added her congratulations to all the winners and highlighted the inspiring variety of talent and roles in the automotive industry. She emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives and talents during this period of significant industry change.

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the SMMT, also commended the winners, describing them as rising stars in their respective fields and emphasizing the career opportunities available in the automotive industry. He expressed hope that recognizing the achievements of these future business leaders would encourage more talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in automotive, contributing to the industry’s transformation in the UK and globally.

The event featured several speakers, including Lynn Calder, CEO of Ineos Automotive; Diane Miller, plant director for Vauxhall Motors; and Claire Miller, advisor and former director at Octopus Electric Vehicles. Additionally, a panel debate was held with industry experts such as Lynda Ennis, founder of Ennis & Co, Tina Lovelock of Brompton Bicycle, Kristian Elvefors, managing director of Volvo Car UK, and Ivan Sarti, IT director of Group Lotus.

Cutting-Edge Off-Road Performance: Pohlbock eBock2 Electric Enduro

In recent years, electric motorcycles have gained popularity not only for scooters and commuters, but also for off-road applications. Electric dirt bikes such as enduros, trail bikes, and motocrossers are especially useful as they solve one of the biggest problems in powersports: noise.

Thanks to advances in electric motor and battery technology, manufacturers are now able to achieve impressive levels of performance from electric motors. One example of this is the Pohlbock eBock2, an electric off-road platform that offers remarkable performance. Created by German enthusiasts Romano Pohl and Florian Bockstaller, the eBock2 is available in three configurations: enduro, motocross, and supermoto.

Cutting-Edge Off-Road Performance: Pohlbock eBock2 Electric Enduro

The eBock2 uses a unique axial flow motor, which offers significantly higher torque output compared to a standard brushless electric motor. This design involves two discs placed side by side, with coils and magnets facing each other to produce thrust. As these discs rotate, they generate a substantial amount of torque. The motor’s benefits include higher energy density, improved cooling, and a narrower profile, making it ideal for motocross and enduro applications.

In terms of performance, the Pohlbock eBock2 boasts power equivalent to that of a 350cc four-stroke machine, delivering 30 kilowatts (41 horsepower). Moreover, the motor generates an impressive 160 Newton-meters of torque (about 112 pound-feet). The bike has an electronically limited top speed of 62 miles per hour.

Cutting-Edge Off-Road Performance: Pohlbock eBock2 Electric Enduro

One interesting feature of the eBock2 is its rear engine brake configuration. By utilizing the motor’s torque output, Pohlbock has designed a unique rear engine brake controlled by a hand lever. This brake system offers a similar feel to that of a hydraulic brake. However, riders can also opt for a more traditional rear hydraulic disc brake.

When it comes to the battery, Pohlbock has prioritized safety and minimized environmental hazards with the eBock2. The bike is equipped with a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack that does not contain cobalt and does not burn if damaged. LFP batteries are known for their higher discharge current and extended service life due to a higher number of charging cycles. Additionally, Pohlbock’s proprietary fast charging technology claims to offer a charge time of less than one hour.

Cutting-Edge Off-Road Performance: Pohlbock eBock2 Electric Enduro

In conclusion, the Pohlbock eBock2 is a cutting-edge electric dirt bike that offers impressive performance. However, all this technology comes at a price. With a starting price of 15,999 Euros, the eBock2 may be a significant investment for enthusiasts. Additionally, the price can increase significantly with the addition of optional features like a fast charger, larger battery, rear braking system, and reverse gear.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 Single-Cylinder Naked Street Bike Breaks Cover

The partnership between British motorcycle maker Triumph and Indian motorcycle maker Bajaj has finally produced its first results. Triumph Motorcycles has officially announced its first two TR-series motorcycles, made in cooperation with Bajaj Motorcycles. These motorcycles are powered by a 400cc single-cylinder TR engine and draw styling cues from other Triumph models.

2024 Triumph Speed 400 Engine

The 2024 Triumph Speed 400 is equipped with a new liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, 398cc single-cylinder TR-series engine. It produces 39.5 brake horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 27.6 pound-feet of torque at 6,500 rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Wheels, Tires

The Speed 400 features an all-new hybrid spine and perimeter frame design made from tubular steel. It has a pair of 43mm upside-down Big Piston Forks in the front and a remote preload adjustable monoshock in the rear. The bike is equipped with ABS, stainless steel brake lines, and 17-inch cast aluminum alloy wheels with Metzeler Sportec M9RR tires.

Dimensions

The 2024 Triumph Speed 400 has a 54.2-inch wheelbase, 24.6-degree rake, and 4-inch trail. It has a fuel capacity of 3.43 gallons and a claimed curb weight of 375 pounds.

Rider Aids and Technology

The Speed 400 is equipped with ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, ABS, and a torque-assist clutch. It has an analogue speedometer with an integrated LCD screen and a USB-C charging port.

Other Features

The 2024 Triumph Speed 400 has full LED lighting, integrated front and rear lights (in applicable markets), separate turn signals (in markets with regulations), a steering lock, immobilizer, and a transponder chip in the key for added security.

Pricing, Availability, And Colors

The 2024 Triumph Speed 400 comes in three two-tone paint schemes: Carnival Red, Caspian Blue, or Phantom Black. It will be available in various markets worldwide, starting with India in July 2023. Pricing will be announced upon availability, and the bike is expected to be available in Q1 of 2024.

2024 Lotus Emira Vs. 2023 Chevy Corvette C8 Stingray

Compared to their European counterparts, American sports cars have always seemed to be a step behind the refined sports cars across the pond. But in recent years, that stereotype seemed to have changed with a few choice sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette, and to a certain degree, the Dodge Viper. But they were still behind in terms of interior materials and technology.

The C8 Corvette broke the internet after its release and is no doubt the hottest car to hit the sports car market in recent times. It was set up for ultimate success from on-set with its new mid-engine layout, exotic looks, updated interior and technology, superb handling, and affordable price. It was so good that MotorTrend named it their Car of the Year which is no easy feat. But the Corvette isn’t the only one making a buzz.

The Lotus Emira looks like a sportscar that costs way above its current price. It is all new and features many new updates never found in past Lotus vehicles. You even have two engine and transmission options. It is the most important car in the brand’s history as it aims to be a more mainstream car than a niche vehicle.

RELATED: 10 Best Sports Cars Of 2023

The Lotus Emira Is Very Beautiful

Lotus Emira
Lotus
Stiil shot of a Lotus Emira in Hethel Yellow

The Emira is no doubt one of the most gorgeous sports cars under $100,000. It takes design cues from the multimillion dollar Electric Evija Hypercar, so you get Hypercar looks for Sports car money. You also see a lot of similarities in design with McLaren and Ferrari especially with air intakes behind the doors. It has smooth bodywork with flowing lines that exude class and sophistication. The Emira wears its look so well that you would always take a second look when you walk away from it.

The C8 on the other hand hasn’t failed to remind us of its American roots, it may have gone mid-engine but it is more edgy than ever. Its face has so many sharp edges similar to what a Lamborghini would have but it may look better with fewer straight lines. The door to the rear seems to have been designed separately from the front.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Coupe
Mecum Auctions
A front 3/4 shot of a 2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Coupe

Its big intakes tease us of what lurks in its engine bay and give it a muscular stance. At the rear things seems to fall apart a bit, unless you opt for the Z51 package which comes with a rear spoiler the car looks incomplete. Don’t even mention those exhaust tips, they don’t look good on this car and many owners have swapped them with circular tips that look much better.Both vehicles also allow you to see the engine bay which is a trademark among supercars. Chevy does score some points for being able to take the roof off.

RELATED: 10 Things Every Lotus Fan Should Know About The Emira

The Corvette Has The Better Engine But The Emira Is More Engaging

Lotus Emira gear shifter
Lotus
Six-speed manual gear shifter in the Lotus Emira

This isn’t just because the Corvette has a V-8 and the Lotus makes use of a V-6, the V-8 has character which the V-6 just can’t seem to match. Once the C8 starts up the soundtrack reminds you that you have a powerful motor sitting behind your head. It is also much quicker than the Emira with a claimed 60 MPH Time of 3.0 seconds.

Testing has shown them regularly at 2.8 seconds, the Emira would be destroyed in a drag race. But speed isn’t all there is to it, the DCT transmission also adds to the excitement of the V-8 soundtrack. Downshifts are especially crisp with this engine, each shift produces a rumble that the Emira’s V-6 just can’t make.

Engine Specifications

C8 Corvette

Lotus Emira V-6

Lotus Emira i4

Manufacturer

General Motors

Toyota

AMG

Engine

NA V-8

Supercharged V-6

Turbo inline four

Displacement

6.2 liters

3.5 liters

2.0 liters

Power

490 horsepower

400 horsepower

360 horsepower

Torque

495 pound-feet

310 pound-feet

310 pound-feet

Acceleration (0-60)

2.8 seconds

4.3 seconds

4.2 seconds

Top Speed

194 MPH

180 MPH

176 MPH

Transmission

Eight-speed DCT

Six speed manual/auto

Eight-speed DCT

Layout

Mid-engine RWD

Mid-engine RWD

Mid-engine RWD

Handling has always been the reason you bought a Lotus, speed was secondary. But Lotus has at least given buyers a few choices, a supercharged V-6 Toyota and a turbocharged inline-four from Mercedes AMG. You get a six-speed manual and automatic with the V-6 but the turbo-four is DCT only, but both have similar acceleration times of 4.3 and 4.2 seconds respectively. No matter your powertrain choice you still get a responsive and dynamic chassis that will keep up with Corvette, especially on twisty roads.

RELATED: Daily Driving A C8 Chevrolet Corvette

The Corvette Has The Better Interior

C8 Corvette interior
Chevrolet
Interior shot of a white interior in the C8 Corvette spyder

Both cars have come a long way from their predecessors with cheap plastic in Corvettes and sparse interior for Lotus. The C8 and Emira have updated and better-looking interiors with nice materials like leather and Alcantara with various color finishes. Both have fully digital instrument clusters which are configurable, the lotus display is slightly bigger at 12.3 inches while the C8 makes do with just 12 inches. The Emira also has the C8 beat with its center screen at 10.25 against just 8 inches with both offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other infotainment features.

Despite sharing similarities in interior features, the Corvette is a nicer place to spend time. Lotus may have updated its interior but it is still sparse and has fewer gimmicks than the Chevy. The quality, feel, and layout of the C8’s interior are much better than the Emira. Simplicity is seen all over the Emira’s interior which has a lot to do with the Lotus DNA but The C8 has taken it a step further.

2023 Lotus Emira interior
Lotus
Interior shot of the 2023 Lotus Emira V-6

You get better leather materials stretching the full length of the interior, brighter colors, a clearer display, and quirky square steering. Lotus has retained a nice feature found in its manual cars, a mesh in the center console which exposes the gear linkage. This allows you to see the shift action work which is so cool and is a feature you find in cars like Pagani and Spyker.

RELATED: The 2023 Lotus Emira Is, Basically, The New Toyota MR2

Great Daily Driver Sports Cars

Blue Lotus Emira
Lotus
Front shot of a Seneca blue Lotus Emira in motion

Daily driving a sports car has been made much easier with new technologies at our disposal. Breaking the norm for Lotus, the Emira has features like auto emergency brakes, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control. These were never found on previous Lotus products because of their focus on being lightweight. They’ve managed to add all these without adding much weight to the vehicle while the Corvette weighs much more.

Dimensions

C8 Corvette

Lotus Emira

Wheelbase

107.2 inches

101.3 inches

Length

182.3 inches

173.7 inches

Weight

3647–3913 pounds

3175 pounds

The C8 Corvette also gets these features but with added blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Both cars have ample luggage capacity at the rear despite their mid-engine layout which can fit sizable luggage for short trips. But unlike most mid-engine cars the Emira doesn’t have a frunk (front trunk), the ‘Vette beats it in this aspect being able to carry more luggage.

Since both cars aren’t that big and wide, they are easy to maneuver around town. The smaller Lotus may find this task easier. GM’s latest Magneride suspension is so good and gives the car the ability to stiffen the suspension depending on each mode. Most owners have reported that this makes big changes in suspension compliance. On the other hand, in keeping with the Lotus ethos you have a choice of a sport or touring chassis from the factory. Once chosen you can’t make changes so you need to make a sacrifice.

RELATED: The One Thing That Kills The C8 Chevy Corvette’s Appeal

The Corvette Is A Bargain Sports Car

Chevrolet-Corvette_C8_Stingray-2020
Chevrolet 
Front 3/4 view of red Chevrolet Corvette Z51 and rear 3/4 view of Chevrolet Corvette Stingray parked.

With a starting price of $60,000, the C8 Corvette is the performance bargain of the century. Realistically, this is with no options which is impossible, but a well-optioned C8 will cost under $90,000. It’s a lot of money but also a lot of car for what you get but in comparison, an Emira has a starting price of $77,000. First edition models of the Emira cost around $94,000, in this regard they are similarly priced vehicles.

Choosing between both cars may seem a bit easier than you think. Lotus and Corvettes may not have been directly cross-shopped in the past but they now will. The buyer’s mindset will ultimately determine the purchase. The C8 Corvette offers a lot more in terms of performance and overall sports car value beyond what the Emira offers. But the Emira has evolved into an everyday sports car with better amenities while retaining the characteristics of a Lotus. But the ‘Vette has gotten a head-start and the Lotus has to play catchup.

Ferrari SF90 Stradale With $200K In Carbon Fiber Options For Sale

In recent years, Ferrari has shown that its iconic red color is not the only option for its cars. Collectors now have the opportunity to add Ferraris in various colors to their garages. One of the models that exemplifies this new approach is the SF90, a hybrid all-wheel drive supercar that outperforms even the LaFerrari on the Fiorano Circuit.

Available for sale at Porsche Woodland Hills, this particular Ferrari SF90 Stradale stands out with its Grigio Ingrid exterior paintwork and a stunning Iroko-finished interior. What sets this car apart is the extensive use of carbon fiber options, totaling an impressive $200,000 worth of upgrades, including the wheels. Despite its unique specifications, this SF90 Stradale maintains a timeless and elegant look that would complement any collection.

If you’re interested, you can view the price and listing here.

Illuminating The History Behind America’s Power Grid: A Marvel Of Engineering

When it comes to the electricity grid, the focus is often on the massive construction projects and the impressive figures of homes powered and carbon reduction metrics for renewable energy. However, there is a crucial but often overlooked part of the U.S. power grid: its defensive capabilities and the people who guard it.

The responsibility of protecting the power grid is immense. Natural disasters can cause power outages that leave homes and families vulnerable for days or even weeks. While efforts are made to restore power after a system failure, the primary role of energy defense and recovery is to guard against potential attacks. Similar to how the military and intelligence organizations defend the country from threats, there are public servants dedicated to safeguarding the power grid from possible incursions.

In 2015, a testing team, working in collaboration with authorities, managed to gain control of north Seattle’s electrical systems within just 22 minutes. Throughout history, power system sabotage has been a tactic employed in both covert and overt battle strategies. For as long as electricity has supported populations and militaries, it has been targeted. Ukraine, for example, has accused Russia of hacking its power grid, and during the 2006 invasion of Lebanon, Israeli air assets targeted power stations, bridges, and other infrastructure to disrupt the country’s electricity supply.

Volkswagen Confirms the Beetle Will Not Make a Comeback

Speculations about the resurrection of the iconic Volkswagen Beetle in the form of an electric vehicle have been circulating for years. However, the German automaker has officially declared that there are no plans to revive the Beetle. In an interview with Autocar, Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schafer explained that the decision is primarily driven by marketing considerations.

During the pre-production test drives of the third-generation Tiguan, Schafer confirmed that an electric Beetle is not currently being considered. He clarified that it is not due to a lack of resources, finances, or time, but rather because it does not align with Volkswagen’s marketing strategy. When asked about the possibility of the Beetle returning for the modern era, Schafer stated:

“I don’t think so, because there are certain vehicles that have had their day. It wouldn’t make sense to bring it back. I wouldn’t say with 100 percent certainty. But from where I stand now, I wouldn’t consider it. It’s the same as Scirocco: it had its day, then there was a new model based on a reinterpretation. To do that again? I don’t think so. And going forward with balancing all these technologies and the cost that is associated with it, you’ve got to invest money in the best possible place.”

Here’s The Cheapest EV With 300 Miles Of Range – The Chevy Equinox EV

As the world rapidly moves towards leaving internal-combustion-engines (ICE) once and for all, research and innovation have seen great speed, which is why the limitations that electric vehicles (EVs) had in the past have been left behind. The biggest issue the early EVs had was that the batteries weren’t engineered well enough to make them practical for daily use. The limiting factor that prevented EVs from being practical for daily use is now in the past, as EVs have evolved greatly. The Lucid Air, for example, has a staggering 516-mile range, demonstrating how far EVs have come. On April 5, 2023, Chevrolet introduced the production version of the 2024 Equinox EV, which is the cheapest 300-mile vehicle you can get your hands on. In the fall of 2024, Chevrolet will start delivering the base model (the 1LT Equinox EV) and it is expected to cost around $30,000.

Related: Comparison: Chevy Equinox EV vs Volvo EX30

There’s Enough Oomph And Enough Stamina!

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV racing
Chevrolet
A front shot of two 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EVs on a racing track

While Chevrolet will offer you five different trims, the base-model 1LT’s motor will deliver 210 horsepower to the front wheels and 242 pound-feet of torque, which is quite decent for an entry-level compact SUV. If you think this SUV needs more power, Chevrolet has you covered with an optional bigger battery and all-wheel drive (AWD) drivetrain. This increases the power output to 290 horses and 346 pound-feet of torque. All of this extra performance will enable your 1LT to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in six seconds. You have the option of getting a bigger battery pack for the 300-mile range, but it will cost slightly more than the $30,000 price tag. Nonetheless, 250 miles on the base trim is impressive nonetheless.

The Equinox EV’s Comparison With Rival SUVs

Chevy Equinox EV

Nissan Ariya

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Tesla Model 3

Model

2LT

Venture+ FWD

SE RWD

Long Range

Range

300 miles

304 miles

303 miles

358 miles

Price

$34,000 (est.)

$47,190

$45,500

$47,240

Chevrolet has confirmed that all models of the Equinox EV will feature a DC fast charging system. So, rest assured, you will not be waiting long for your Equinox EV to juice up to 100 percent. In this budget, potential buyers are looking for a long-range vehicle that makes their daily commute easy, and the vehicle shouldn’t be underpowered. 242 pound-feet of torque might be just enough. This SUV stands its ground against competitors such as the Nissan Ariya, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the Tesla Model 3, all of which have a 300-mile range or more. This is very crucial because nowadays, potential customers look at the numbers before purchasing, and this compact electric SUV has similar performance numbers to its rivals.

Related: Why The Chevy Equinox EV Is A Masterstroke From GM

Good Looks And A Practical Interior – The Equinox EV Has It All

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV in radiant red
Chevrolet
Side angle shot of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV in radiant red

The Equinox EV boasts futuristic looks, including single headlights, which extend across the entire front of the SUV, giving it a muscular, sporty look. The wide grille, which is flanked by two slim LED strips, adds to the SUV’s aggressive stance. The 1LT’s side has flush door handles and standard 19-inch wheels. Furthermore, the wide flared arches give this SUV a necessary muscular look. At the rear, you see animated taillights that showcase its futuristic looks, a shark fin, and a diffuser to provide that necessary downforce. This SUV has many of the safety and driver assistance features you would expect in a 2024 electric SUV. The standard features include a lane-keeping system, blind spot assistance, and an automatic emergency braking system. Also, you will get reverse automatic braking and rear-park assist to make your daily reversing maneuvers much easier.

However, GM’s Super Cruise is reportedly only available in the 2LT and higher models, so, we will not be getting the Level 2 Autonomous Driving System in the 1LT. In the 1LT, your grocery runs are going to be stress-free thanks to the presence-sensing tailgate, which will open automatically when it senses the key fob near the rear of the vehicle. Additionally, the spacious trunk offers a maximum cargo capacity of 57.2 cubic feet (with the rear row folded), ensuring all your groceries fit in with ease. Furthermore, this SUV has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds with the AWD model.

Related: Chevrolet Bolt EUV vs Chevrolet Equinox EV

No Dearth Of Tech Features

2024 Chevy Equinox EV
Wikimedia Commons
Interior of a 2024 Chevy Equinox EV

The electric Chevy Equinox crossover’s interior is ultramodern, spacious, and filled with all the latest technology. On the base model, you get two 11-inch screens: one for the infotainment system and the other for the driver’s display. The 1LT’s interior will also have a moon roof, a two-tone interior, and ambient lighting to give you the feeling of being in your lounge. Chevrolet has gone with the traditional knobs for temperature control, and we welcome this change because having temperature control buttons on the touchscreen is distracting. In the infotainment section, Chevrolet is designing its very own infotainment system in collaboration with Google, and the first car to come equipped with that will be the Chevy Blazer 2024. This infotainment system is being developed in collaboration with Google and Chevy officials, who claim it will improve navigation and other driver assistance features like GM’s Super Cruise. It is not official whether the 2024 models of the Equinox EV will come with this new in-house infotainment system; however, we expect the Equinox EV to come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Even The Top-spec Equinox EV Costs Less Than $45,000

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV in red
Chevrolet
Rear three-quarters shot of a red 2024 Chevy Equinox EV on the street

The 2024 Chevy Equinox EV’s deliveries will commence in the fall of 2024, pricing starts at $30,000. If you don’t quite have the $30,000 budget, we have a great piece of news for you: this EV qualifies for a $7,500 tax credit, which makes this SUV more lucrative and budget-friendly. If you’re eligible for it, you can get your Equinox EV for less than $23,000! There are other EVs with a 300-mile plus range like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 SE RWD with a 304-mile range with the price of $45,500, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range has an impressive 333-mile range, and it sets you back $47,240, the Nissan Ariya venture+ has a price of $47,190, and it comes with a 304-mile range. However, none of them comes close to the price that Chevrolet is offering for the Equinox EV 1LT.

Trim

GM Est. Range (FWD)

Est. Price

1LT

250 miles

$30,000

2LT

300 miles

$34,000

3LT

300 miles

$37,000

2RS

300 miles

$40,000

3RS

300 miles

$44,000

The Evolution Of Toyota’s Hydrogen Combustion Engine

Automotive manufacturers have been attempting to revolutionize the fuel industry for a few decades now. Toyota was one of the front-runners in this effort with their hybrid systems, first introduced in the Prius. While many believe that electric vehicles (EVs) are the way forward, Toyota and others are skeptical about their practicality and environmental impact. As a result, Toyota has invested significant time and resources into hydrogen power, and their efforts may just save the internal combustion engine.

Hydrogen is seen as one of the most promising environmentally friendly power sources for vehicles. Toyota has used hydrogen in combination with batteries to eliminate charging time and reduce emissions. With this technology, vehicles can be refueled with hydrogen at fuel stations, offering convenience to drivers. Additionally, hydrogen-powered vehicles require smaller and fewer batteries compared to traditional EVs, making them more environmentally friendly. Toyota has even explored the idea of using hydrogen in conventional internal combustion engines as a replacement for petrol. Since hydrogen fuel produces water as a byproduct, successfully implementing this technology would revolutionize the automotive industry.

Toyota has made significant progress in this area, developing hydrogen-powered engines such as the 1.6-liter Yaris and the 5.0-liter V-8 from the Lexus RC-F, in collaboration with Yamaha. These engines retain the power and performance of their petrol counterparts, with minimal modifications required. This means that existing production lines and engine designs can be used, further benefiting the environment. In the future, Toyota may even offer hydrogen conversion kits for petrol-powered vehicles, allowing classic car enthusiasts to keep their beloved machines on the road without the need for costly conversions or excessive road taxes.

However, there are some downsides to hydrogen engines, specifically related to the storage of hydrogen. The fuel requires large tanks, reducing interior space in vehicles, and it is highly flammable, necessitating leak-proof and durable storage systems. Once these storage challenges are addressed, the installation of hydrogen fuel stations could be more straightforward compared to EV chargers, as they can utilize existing infrastructure for normal fuels.

Porsche Macan EV Teased In All-Electric Frauscher Boat Sketch

Porsche and Austrian shipyard Frauscher have announced a collaboration to create an all-electric, 28.4-foot sports boat that uses the same powertrain as the upcoming Macan EV. And as part of the announcement, the next-gen electric crossover has made an appearance in the official sketch released by the two companies.

Spy shots of the first-ever zero-emissions Macan are nothing new, as we’ve seen multiple mules, including during winter testing, but this new sketch gives us something fresh, at least in terms of design.

The digital drawing shows the new crossover from the side and by the looks of it, the rear seems to be much more raked than it is on the current-gen model, all while resembling the profile of the Panamera and Taycan.

Porsche Macan EV teaser included in electric boat sketch
Porsche Macan EV teaser included in electric boat sketch

The tail lights also seem to be similar to those of the Taycan, in the sense that it’s a continuous beam of red light that runs across the width of the car.

Specs-wise, we already knew that Porsche’s upcoming model will be underpinned by the new PPE architecture that uses 800-volt technology, as well as making use of a roughly 100-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack. This has been confirmed once again in the official release that details the collaboration between the German car brand and the Austrian shipyard.

The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air, which is based on the Frauscher 858 Fantom Air day cruiser, will integrate everything from the permanently excited synchronous electric motor and the 800-volt architecture to the high-voltage battery and related power electronics.