Tag Archives: improve

News

How Lithium–Silicon Technology Breathes New Life Into Lithium-Ion Batteries

Summary

  • Lithium-silicon batteries enhance efficiency by way of silicon-anode integration, which boosts power density by 20-40%.
  • Group14’s SCC55 expertise enhances lithium-ion batteries by controlling silicon swelling, decreasing cost occasions and increasing lifespan.
  • SCC55 elevates conventional lithium-ion batteries and has a cheap scaling potential.

With solid-state batteries simply across the nook, in addition to massive strides being made in different battery chemistries such as LFP (for lithium iron phosphate), it will be completely correct to imagine that the electric vehicle (EV) race is shifting quick. So quick, the truth is, that it is changing into more durable and more durable to maintain up with the most recent traits and, maybe extra importantly, complicated for you, the patron.

After all, why would you decide to a current-generation lithium-ion electrical car when you already know {that a} newer, sooner, extra environment friendly battery expertise is simply across the nook, proper?

As it seems, lithium-ion batteries aren’t going anyplace quickly. Group14 Technologies, based mostly out of Woodinville, Washington, has been preserving itself busy with silicon to enhance the efficiency of lithium-ion batteries. It believes that we’re solely starting to faucet into their full potential, attracting the eye of some big-name carmakers within the course of.

Solid-State Battery Concept

Related

10 Companies Relentlessly Working On Solid State Batteries

By making EVs extra sensible and environment friendly, solid-state batteries will reshape the way forward for sustainable power.

The Lithium–Silicon Battery Explained

Battery schematics of the Porsche Mission E Concept
Porsche

Lithium-silicon batteries are basically lithium-ion batteries that combine silicon of their anode for improved battery effectivity. Silicon has as much as ten occasions the lithium capability of graphite (3600 mAh/g versus 372 mAh/g) – the present dominant materials used – making it a way more alluring prospect for battery efficiency.

By utilizing silicon as an alternative of graphite as a conductive materials for the discharge of lithium ions, you inherently enhance the battery’s total efficiency; whether or not or not it’s vary, cost occasions or the variety of cost cycles it will possibly endure.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6
Hyundai

On paper, then, lithium-silicon batteries represent the proper answer to mitigate the present weaknesses of the lithium-ion battery, comparable to lengthy cost occasions, cold-weather lack of vary and early degradation, all with the promise of a 20 to 40% enhance in power density.

There is, after all, a catch. Silicon has a a lot greater quantity cost than graphite, resulting in a phenomenon identified within the trade as silicon “swelling”. This results in anisotropic stress, or instabilities throughout the anode, which negatively impacts the battery’s longevity.

SCC55 Is Changing The Lithium-Ion Game

Group14 Lithium–Silicon Batteries 002

That’s the place Group14’s SCC55 expertise is available in. By using a patented silicon-carbon composite that helps management silicon’s speedy growth, it will possibly enhance the anode’s longevity and extract extra power density from the battery. Grant Ray, Group14’s vice-president, eloquently calls this a carbon casing, designed in home, to manage silicon’s increasing habits.

Translation? SCC55 helps conventional lithium-ion batteries pace up their charging occasions right down to mere minutes, all whereas enhancing their lifespan by 50%, as per Group14’s claims.

In a current collaboration with one in every of its companions, StoreDot, SCC55 expertise enabled a lithium-ion battery to cost to 80% in solely 10 minutes. The fantastic thing about SCC55 is that it may be scaled to be extremely cost-effective, and built-in into current lithium-ion battery provide chains. As a matter of truth, StoreDot is at present working with Polestar to scale back the cost occasions of its future fashions.

BMW Neue Klasse Vision Concept
BMW

Now, does this imply silicon expertise will render solid-state batteries out of date? Not out of date, as SCC55 can even be suitable with that expertise. But Grant Ray believes SCC55 will assist elevate sure battery suppliers within the lithium-ion world, permitting them to stay aggressive even within the solid-state period, at any time when it arrives. He jogged my memory through the interview that though lithium-ion batteries exist, we’re nonetheless utilizing lead battery expertise. It all comes right down to a matter of wants and cost-effectiveness.

We nonetheless see great potential in lithium-ion batteries. Look on the work that is at present being achieved with LFP. It’s obtained actual legs! The prospects of LFP from a value perspective, particularly once you mix it with silicon, I imply, wow! On paper, a silicon-based LFP battery delivers all the pieces a battery provider might hope for: battery efficiency, cost efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness.

So, what is going to SCC55 imply for the way forward for EVs? While Ray most well-liked remaining tight-lipped in regards to the partnerships his firm has been busy securing, it is a identified incontrovertible fact that big-name carmakers like Porsche have shown interest and will combine the expertise in its lithium-ion batteries as early as this 12 months. Group14 says that by wanting on the corporations it is at present partnering with, like SK, you possibly can simply get an thought of which electrical autos will quickly make the most of Group14’s SCC55 expertise.

The Lithium-Ion Revolution Is Upon Us

Porsche Taycan Turbo GT Purple in action
Porsche

Interestingly sufficient, my interview with Grant passed off the day after BMW unveiled its Neue Klasse X electrical crossover idea, an EV that ought to, in line with BMW, make large strides when it comes to lithium-ion battery efficiency.

According to BMW, its all-new cylindrical lithium-ion cells, developed in partnership with Chinese battery agency EVE Energy, have 20% greater volumetric power density than its current prismatic cells, all whereas providing as much as 30% extra vary. When requested if SCC55 expertise will make its approach inside future BMWs, Grant Ray most well-liked not commenting.

We’ve been engaged on making lithium-ion batteries higher for 3 a long time. For silicon expertise, we’re barely even scratching something. Because it is new. We are the corporate that has been able to delivering these supplies at scale, and we’re quickly going to see this expertise at play in a variety of functions.

News

Toyota Engineer Shares How Million Mile Tundra Influenced The Current Model

Summary

  • Studying a truck with 1,000,000 miles helped Toyota enhance elements for the 2022 mannequin.
  • The extraordinary sturdiness of the driving force’s seat shocked the Toyota group.
  • The resin mattress and V-6 engine upgrades displayed a give attention to sturdiness and effectivity.

In 2016, Toyota approached a buyer from Louisiana named Victor Sheppard with a proposition: they supplied to offer him a model new Toyota Tundra pick-up truck in change for his 2007 mannequin. Why, would you ask?

Well, it seems that the truck had over a million miles on the clock! To put the million miles into perspective, that is equal to driving across the planet 24 instances, and but, the truck was able to go for extra. The purpose of this initiative was to take that truck and see what labored so nicely to face up to so many miles, and what could be improved.

When the advertising and marketing people requested Mike Sweers, chief engineer for Toyota trucks, if he wished this truck that had carried out 1,000,000 miles, he was actually intrigued. That’s why, when Sheppard agreed to make the change, Mike led a group of engineers on the Toyota Motor North America Research & Development Center (TMNA & RD) to review Sheppard’s pick-up.

From the inside to the mattress and passing by the engine, the Toyota group completely analyzed the specimen to raised perceive it and utilized the required adjustments and classes discovered to the subsequent iteration, the 2022 Toyota Tundra.

In order to provide the most modern and correct data doable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from numerous producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Toyota and EPA.

Tundra 1794 Edition driving

Related

2024 Toyota Tundra: A Comprehensive Guide On Features, Specs, And Pricing

Powerful engines and optionally available factory-installed TRD upgrades elevate the Tundra’s functionality, whereas premium inside and tech promise satisfaction.

The Inside Held Up Admirably, With Only Minor Upgrades Required

Just as Sheppard’s million-mile Tundra was no ordinary truck,Sheppard was no abnormal driver. At six ft six inches and weighing 425 kilos, he was constructed like an NFL lineman and used this truck to make deliveries for an oil firm, which led him to drive roughly 125,000 miles per yr.

Naturally, that piqued Sweers’ curiosity within the situation of the seats. This is the rationale why, as an alternative of specializing in the engine or transmission, they determined to start out by one thing relatively easier: the entrance seat.

Even After Heavy Usage, The Driver Seat Remained Virtually Flawless

Mike Sweers Million Mile Tundra
Toyota

As Toyota staff took the truck aside and went to examine Vic’s outdated seat, anticipating to seek out plenty of harm, they realized it was remarkably unbowed. Despite the extremely excessive use, not solely was the body unbent and the froth unworn, however the seat itself, according to the remainder of the truck, confirmed solely mild put on and tear, one thing superb contemplating the truth that Vic had virtually lived in that seat.

This discovering absolutely made them rethink the best way of designing and testing the vehicles, as a result of the reality is that real-life utilization can undoubtedly function a greater benchmark than any laboratory check.

The Seat’s Comfort Level Was Upgraded Through Material Swapping

While the seat body’s energy was adequate, it proved essential to make it lighter in an effort to improve consolation and longevity.

However, introducing higher-strength supplies requires warning to keep away from compromising sturdiness. Finding the correct stability between energy and adaptability was essential, making an allowance for not solely bodily dimensions but additionally the life-style of drivers like Vic.

Concerns Regarding Odometer Limits Were Addressed

1 Million Mile Toyota Tundra
The Fast Lane Truck through Youtube

Looking at Vic’s expertise, Mike Sweers realized that even small elements just like the solar visor matter. The put on and tear on it confirmed Toyota the challenges drivers face on lengthy journeys. Based on this, it was finally redesigned to extend its longevity and, by the way, to reinforce user-friendliness.

Additionally, the concern of odometer limits surfaced, highlighting some unexpected penalties when setting digital limits on mileage. Vic’s truck challenged typical expectations, prompting a reevaluation of the established requirements and the necessity for flexibility as some drivers go well beyond the same old mileage.

Blue 2008 Toyota Tacoma

Related

The Highest-Mileage Truck In The World In 2024

Getting a pickup truck previous the 200,000-mile mark is an enormous achievement, however to exceed 1.6 million appears virtually inconceivable… aside from one.

The Cargo Box Showed Visible Signs Of Wear From Years Of Hauling

1 Million Mile Toyota Tundra
The Fast Lane Truck through Youtube

The dialogue surrounding the truck’s mattress is a subject that has gotten lots of buzz with this truck, being maybe probably the most vital takeaway. Despite its million-mile journey, most elements regarded surprisingly first rate, aside from the mattress, which regarded prefer it had taken a beating.

Moreover, upon teardown, sure areas, significantly across the deck, had been recognized as locations the place weld energy wanted enchancment. Vic’s line of labor as a hotshot driver typically took him to grease rig websites, the place dropping heavy drill bits immediately into the mattress left noticeable marks. This highlighted the necessity for a mattress materials that might stand up to such abuse.

The Resin Bed Emerged As The Optimal Solution

To treatment this drawback, Sweers and his group launched what they referred to as a “resin bed” or, in engineering phrases, the deck. Now, why did they go for this selection?

The dialogue initially revolved across the selection of supplies. While aluminum offered corrosion resistance and weight financial savings, it lacked sturdiness. On the opposite hand, high-strength metal was sturdy however inclined to corrosion. So, which choice was extra appropriate?

This dilemma led to the concept of a composite deck, similar to what is used in the Tacoma. Despite being dearer, it was a success amongst Tacoma prospects, so it emerged as the most effective answer.

The composite deck offered a number of benefits, equivalent to:

  • Being light-weight, corrosion-resistant, and straightforward to restore.
  • It allowed for modern options, equivalent to molded-in pockets for two-by-fours, catering to the various wants of truck homeowners.
  • The sloped design, wanted by the manufacturing course of, offered a simple cleanup, eliminating the effort of filth buildup alongside seams.

They Went As Far As Throwing A V-8 Engine To Guarantee Its Endurance

Toyota torture-tested the mattress earlier than approving it for manufacturing; they dropped rocks, cinder blocks and even a V-8 engine onto the again of the Tundra. With a payload capability of as much as 1,940 kilos, the composite mattress survived with no dent.

The resin mattress represented an enormous leap ahead as a result of it took care of the noticed shortcomings in conventional mattress supplies. Besides, its purpose was not solely at enhancing sturdiness but additionally to enhance performance and person expertise.

2007 Toyota Hilux

Related

History Of Toyota Pickup Trucks

We look again on the evolution of Toyota pickups over the a long time and the way they’ve earned a status for turning into among the hardest vehicles ever

Despite The Minimal Modifications Needed, The V-8 Was Swapped Out For A V-6

1 Million Mile Toyota Tundra
The Fast Lane Truck through Youtube

The 4.7-liter V-8 engine took a couple of victory laps round factories in North America earlier than ending up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the place it was initially designed.

The 2007 Tundra is without doubt one of the earliest fashions geared up with that actual engine. Despite the truth that its proprietor drove round 125,000 miles per yr, totaling 1,000,000 miles throughout his possession, the truck’s unique powertrain remained largely untouched, with solely minor repairs revamped time, equivalent to changing an alternator and a water pump.

Moreover, the transmission skilled a problem with the reverse at round 770,000 miles, however in any other case it additionally remained the identical. How typically are you able to say that about any automobile or truck?

Some Components Were Upsized To Withstand The Demands Of The Improved Torque Ratings

As defined by Mike in an interview carried out for Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk, Toyota’s requirements are set by the Land Cruiser 70 sequence; they function a benchmark for all their vehicles globally.

As they transitioned the powertrain, together with the switch case, that they had to make sure that it might deal with elevated torque calls for, particularly for heavy-duty purposes. This required scaling up parts just like the switch case chain to accommodate larger torque outputs.

Previously, the switch case used an inch-and-a-half chain, which was upgraded to an inch-and-three-quarters chain to fulfill the calls for of the improved torque rankings. While this will likely seem to be a minor adjustment, it significantly impacts durability and reliability under heavy loads.

Additionally, gear ratios had been revised, transitioning from 4.30 to three.31 to optimize efficiency with out compromising sturdiness. Contrary to well-liked perception, gear ratios do not have an effect on sturdiness; as an alternative, it is the dimensions of the ring gear and its cooling capability that decide longevity.

Moving on to prop shafts, Sweers’ group adopted a strong design to face up to the elevated torque output. By utilizing bigger shafts and high-quality supplies, the chance of failures was minimized, particularly below heavy masses.

Ballistic Nylon Skid Plates, Another Remarkable Innovation

Million mile Toyota Tundra
Toyota

Another innovation value mentioning is the ballistic nylon skid plates, a light-weight and sturdy different to conventional metal plates.

Originally sourced from a army provider, they provide superior safety towards impacts and corrosion. Their flexibility permits them to soak up shocks with out denting, making certain lasting sturdiness even in harsh off-road situations.

Setting Aside Durability Improvements, The Engine Was Transitioned To A V-6 To Improve Fuel Economy

Not all of the enhancements that Toyota made to the third-generation Tundra had been associated to sturdiness. The firm additionally improved gasoline financial system by replacing the last-generation model’s V-8 with a V-6 that is both naturally aspirated, twin-turbocharged or part of a hybrid system, and it fitted the rear suspension system with coil springs to ship a extra snug journey on and off the pavement.

Although the 4.7-liter V-8 proved to be a dependable workhorse, its gasoline financial system left a lot to be desired, offering a paltry 15 MPG on the street and 17 MPG on the highway – when you’re fortunate, which may’t compete with the six-cylinder choices.

For Having Over 1 Million Miles, It Was Remarkably Well-Preserved

Million Mile Toyota Tundra
Toyota

The most intriguing a part of the entire course of is that, when Toyota tore down the truck, they observed put on and tear, however not within the quantity of 1 million miles value.

“This is how I’d expect a Tundra with 100,000 miles on it to look, but this one has a million”, exclaimed Frank Di Maggio, the analyst on the Toyota Collaborative Benchmarking Center.

It’s exceptional {that a} truck used so ceaselessly and used because it was designed might present such little put on. The key to attaining this excessive mileage, in response to Vic, was performing month-to-month oil adjustments and common tune-ups. It might sound extreme, however the outcomes converse for themselves.

Motorsport

Watch This Audi S3 Go 149 MPH On The Autobahn Before Blowing Out Its Intercooler Pipe

Need to enhance your sense of listening to? Buy a automotive and begin tinkering with it. Never has there been an ear extra delicate to the faintest of sounds than one belonging to somebody with a modified automotive. Every rattle, click on, thump, and whistle is amplified to the nth diploma with the concern one thing may be unsuitable. Sometimes, although, the sounds are loud sufficient for anybody within the automotive to listen to.

The people at AutoTopNL obtained an opportunity to take an Audi S3 8L — constructed from 1999 by means of 2003 — onto the speed-limitless highways of Germany’s Autobahn. Under the hood is a turbocharged 1.8-liter 20-valve four-cylinder that made as much as 222 horsepower in inventory trim. Per the video, this one is an earlier mannequin with 207 hp, nevertheless it’s been modified to a good 300 horses with 325 pound-feet of torque.

The first freeway pull sees the S3 run from 62 mph (100 kph) to 134 mph (215 kph) in 18 seconds. It will not cling with Bugatti Chiron, however for a small 24-year-old hatchback, that is not unhealthy. It sounds good too, emitting a pleasant growl full with a deliciously chirpy blow-off valve between shifts. Highway site visitors foils the following couple of runs, although we finally get a transparent stretch that sends the needle to 240 kph (149 mph). Importantly, the speedo was nonetheless climbing steadily when the motive force lifted. Clearly the Audi has extra to provide.

Before the motive force is ready to extract this S3’s true potential, issues go south. The subsequent pull is reduce brief virtually instantly by a loud bang. From the angle of the video it isn’t clear the place the sound comes from, however the driver instantly lifts the throttle, upshifts, then takes it out of drugs whereas coasting onto the shoulder. A fast name for backup brings a BMW on-scene for a tow off the freeway, the place the AutoTopNL workforce discovers the reason for the issue: An intercooler pipe has blown itself off its connection level.

Audi S3 Repair

Fortunately, it is a easy repair, and one we suspect many forced-induction followers are accustomed to. The video ends with the crew making use of gaffer tape across the hose for a brief repair. So whereas an enormous bang on the autobahn isn’t a very good factor, this journey actually may’ve ended a lot worse.

Technology

Google Chrome Not Loading Images? Here’s How To Fix It

Regular updates handle potential compatibility points and enhance the general efficiency of the browser. If you are experiencing issues with picture loading, utilizing an outdated model of Chrome may very well be a contributing issue. The best method to repair the issue on this case is by updating Chrome to the newest obtainable model. To replace Chrome:

  1. Click on the three-dot menu within the top-right nook. 
  2. Hover over Help within the dropdown menu and click on on About Google Chrome. 

The browser will mechanically verify for updates, and if one is on the market, you may see an possibility to put in it. After updating, restart Chrome to use the adjustments. Revisit the web sites the place you encountered picture loading issues to see if the difficulty persists. At occasions, maintaining your browser updated improves compatibility with numerous web sites and resolves image-related points.

If, regardless of making an attempt these steps, the issue persists, contemplate that reinstalling Chrome is perhaps an answer. Reinstalling includes uninstalling the prevailing Chrome utility after which downloading and putting in the newest model from the official Chrome website. This step ensures a recent set up, doubtlessly resolving any underlying points which may be affecting picture loading.

News, TVs

LG’s 2024 QNED TV Lineup Includes A 98-Inch Behemoth And An Even Bigger Focus On AI

LG claims that the AI Picture Pro picture tuning makes use of deep studying to enhance picture constancy in numerous methods. As specified by the press launch, AI Picture Pro can distinguish faces, objects, and backgrounds from one another, with small particulars being significantly emphasised. Functionally talking, LG says that the Dynamic Tone Mapping characteristic divides the image right into a grid of separate “blocks” that it does real-time evaluation on to find out the brightest and darkest sections of the picture.

As for AI Sound Pro, LG describes it as producing “virtual” 9.1.2 {surround} sound — a la a soundbar’s pseudo-surround sound modes — when utilizing the TV’s built-in audio system. If you even have an LG sound bar, the included WOW Orchestra know-how makes use of each units of audio system collectively to create a extra immersive {surround} sound surroundings. The new TVs are significantly skinny, measuring at simply 29mm. In phrases of good TV performance, it consists of an up to date model of LG’s webOS platform; along with its native apps, LG’s TVs are among the many uncommon gadgets that assist each Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast to permit customers to forged from telephones, tablets, and computer systems.

Motorsport

Toyota’s 1977 Shoe-Shaped Aluminum Concept Weighed Just 992 Pounds

Today, cars more and more use aluminum physique panels to cut back weight and enhance effectivity. The light-weight materials was far much less frequent in automobiles within the Seventies exterior of high-end efficiency purposes. Toyota made an early effort to vary this and produce the steel to extra mainstream machines with its weird-looking 1977 Toyota Aluminium Body Experimental Vehicle idea at that yr’s Tokyo Motor Show.

Let’s be sincere, the ABEV has a weird exterior design. You would possibly anticipate the lengthy hood cover a giant engine, however that is not the case. The idea’s powerplant displaces a mere 547 cubic centimeters.

 

The huge entrance finish results in a stumpy passenger compartment. Unfortunately, we could not discover any pictures of the cabin, however the doorways slide rearward to open, just like the rear doorways you’d discover on a minivan. There’s room for 2 individuals inside.

Toyota’s 1977 press launch concerning the ABEV stated the idea got here “in response to social calls for the conservation of energy and natural resources.” The aim was to create a light-weight car with improved gas effectivity. “Its development was guided by the principle of a minimum of consumption for a maximum of work,” the corporate stated.

The idea measured 140.2 inches (3,560 millimeters) lengthy, 58.74 inches (1,492 mm) huge, and 45.51 inches (1,156 mm) tall. For comparability, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback presently out there within the US is 172 inches lengthy and 70.5 inches huge, that means the ABEV is a critically compact machine.

The aluminum physique stored the idea’s weight down to only 992 kilos (450 kilograms). Toyota claimed the ABEV obtained an estimated 82 miles per gallon (35 kilometers per liter) whereas touring 37 miles per hour (60 kilometers per hour). 

After Toyota displayed the ABEV on the 1977 Tokyo Motor Show, the idea appeared on the duvet of the automaker’s 1978 company brochure, proven under.

 

Modern Toyotas make intensive use of aluminum. For instance, the newest Tacoma makes use of the steel in its higher physique and tailgate to save lots of weight. The GR Corolla has the light-weight materials for the hood and entrance doorways. So it is secure to say the ABEV was a profitable precursor for Toyota’s future endeavors. 

News

10 Ford Engines That Are Almost Too Reliable

# 10 Ford Engines That Are Almost Too Reliable

Known for adapting the moving assembly line to improve the efficiency of how his cars were built, [Henry Ford revolutionized the automotive manufacturing industry](https://www.topspeed.com/cars/guides/all-you-need-to-know-about-the-ford-model-t-america-s-first-mass-produced-automobile). Also, with the introduction of the Ford Model A, the Ford name became synonymous with building cars. But Ford’s first invention was actually an engine. Completed by the late 1890s, his first engine was a gasoline-powered inline-two cylinder that displaced 59 cubic inches and spun a 2-speed manual transmission. Henry Ford, then, continued to improve the engine and, in 1896, was used to power his first car, called the Quadricycle.

Since that first engine in the 1890s, [Ford](https://www.topspeed.com/tag/ford/) has been developing engines along with their cars, and with each new model, came a more advanced, efficient, and higher-performing engine. Design and engineering of a new engine is no small task and yet, throughout the years, [Ford has been constantly improving the quality of their powertrains](https://www.topspeed.com/heres-what-fords-v-8-engine-lineup-currently-looks-like) for better reliability and longevity without sacrificing performance.

Engine reliability is a difficult topic to discuss. With so many factors affecting an engine’s efficiency and performance, it makes the reliability and longevity of an engine almost relative. But [their long history of manufacturing cars and engines](https://www.topspeed.com/most-iconic-ford-cars-in-company-history) has proven Ford’s reputation for not only building reliable cars but equally reliable engines. Here are some from the Blue Oval’s long tenure, which are “Built Ford Tough”.

![The Most Durable American Engines Ever](https://static1.topspeedimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/jpg/202209/the-most-durable-ame.jpg)

_In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Ford Authority, Vehicle History, and MotorTrend. These engines have been chosen for their reputation for accomplishing high mileage without much more than just regular maintenance. These engines have been ranked from the least to the highest expected mileage._

## Flathead V8
### Expected Average Mileage: 50,000-70,000 Miles

Credited for single-handedly sparking the aftermarket industry in America, where hot rodding was and is still the craze. The Flathead V8 is arguably more iconic than the car it came in. It was introduced in 1932 powering the Ford Model 18, which is more simply known as the “Ford V8”. While it **wasn’t** the first V-8 ever made, it is widely regarded as the V-8 that democratized the engine configuration.

#### Engine Specifications And Applications
| Manufacturer | Ford |
|————————|————-|
| Production Years | 1932 to 1953|
| Configuration | V8 |
| Displacement | 2.2-5.5 liters |
| Power | 60-152 HP |
| Torque | 94-265 LB-FT|
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Noteworthy Application | Ford V8 |

Combining power and smoothness that were considered to be reserved for [cars for the wealthy, like Rolls-Royce](https://www.topspeed.com/best-rolls-royce-cars-ever-produced) and Cadillac, Ford had a genuine hit on their hands. It was also because of this that Flatheads that were left as they came from the factory gained a reputation for reliability and longevity. 50,000 miles in 2023 may not sound like much, except to maybe Ferrari collectors, but back in 1932, the newfangled contraption out-lived a horse, and then some.

## 289 V8 Small Block
### Expected Average Mileage: 100,000-120,000 Miles

Much in the fashion of the Flathead V8, the 289 Small Block became just as [iconic as the Mustang](https://www.topspeed.com/10-reasons-1967-ford-mustang-fastback-is-iconic) that it was first sold with. Continuing their dedication to improvement, the 289 took the role of the 260 V8 in 1963, bringing a bigger displacement, which in turn meant more power. By the following year, the 289 small block powered all of Ford’s full-sized sedans and thus started its long and storied career.

#### Engine Specifications And Applications
| Manufacturer | Ford |
|————————|————-|
| Production Years | 1963 to 1967|
| Configuration | V8 |
| Displacement | 4.7 liters |
| Power | 195-271 HP |
| Torque | 285-312 LB-FT|
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Noteworthy Application | Ford Mustang|

The 289 has a cast-iron block but was significantly lighter than the big blocks of the time. It was dependable, relatively thrifty to maintain, and was even durable enough to stand up to high-horsepower upgrades, providing desirable characteristics across all Ford models that utilized the Windsor-manufactured V8. Available in several configurations, the 289 also proved to be versatile. From a two-barrel carburetor, 195-horsepower standard mill to the four-barrel, 271-horsepower HiPo K-code engine that also used a more aggressive camshaft, higher flowing fuel pump, along with cylinder head and bottom end improvements.

## FE V8 Big Block
### Expected Average Mileage: 120,000-130,000 Miles

Straddling between big-block and small-block Ford engines, the FE engine was the bread-and-butter powertrain for the Blue Oval for quite some time, fitted to almost anything except for their heavy-duty trucks. Just like the 289, the Ford FE engines were just as versatile, being used in cars, trucks, and even in marine and industrial applications.

#### Engine Specifications And Applications
| Manufacturer | Ford |
|————————|————-|
| Production Years | 1958 to 1971|
| Configuration | V8 |
| Displacement | 5.4-7.0 liters |
| Power | 220-425 HP |
| Torque | |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Noteworthy Application | Ford GT40 and Shelby Cobra|

With such broad application, the FE engines were known to be a robust and hearty motor that could take quite a lot of abuse especially when fitted with the side-oiling system that lubricated its main bearings first. Notably, Ford’s race cars in the 60s, from NASCAR, drag racing, and even the [Shelby Cobra](https://www.topspeed.com/this-shelby-427-competition-cobra-has-a-unique-history) and GT40s that dominated Le Mans mostly featured a configuration of the FE V-8 engine.

## 302 V8
### Expected Average Mileage: 140,000-200,000 Miles

Falling under the small-block family of Ford engines, the 302 was widely used across the Ford line-up from the Fairmont, Crown Victoria, Ranchero, and, of course, the Mustang. As was the norm, the 302 also found itself in Mercury vehicles like the Zephyr, Grand Marquis, Capri, and the Cougar. During the oil crisis, the Ford 302 found itself modified for fuel efficiency and dropped power to just under 130 horsepower. But the 302 proved itself as a durable and versatile engine, providing a base for [the legendary Boss 302 Mustang](https://www.topspeed.com/things-you-should-know-about-the-iconic-ford-mustang-boss-302). The key to its durability was its simple construction and its ability to adapt to different applications across the Ford and Mercury lineup.

## 5.0 Coyote V8
### Expected Average Mileage: 200,000 Miles

Specifically designed to provide thrust for the 2011 Mustang GT and F-150, the Coyote V-8 is part of the Modular engine family. While it’s still in use today, the 5.0 Coyote has gone through three generations of developments to build on the power and durability that the first Coyote brought to the newer generation of Mustangs.

## 4.2-Liter V6
### Expected Average Mileage: 150,000-250,000 Miles

For 46 years, the F-150 has been the top-selling truck in America, so it isn’t a surprise when Ford develops a new engine to primarily power their [F-series line-up](https://www.topspeed.com/history-of-the-ford-f-series-pickup-truck). The Essex V-6 powered Ford’s light and medium-duty trucks as well as its E-series vans and the Mercury Monterey. The Essex V-6 proved to be reliable once Ford had rectified these concerns and is known to last over 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance.

## 3.5 V6 EcoBoost
### Expected Average Mileage: 250,000-300,000 Miles

Taking over the heavy lifting as Ford’s primary power source, the EcoBoost family has itself in everything from the Ford Fiesta to their Ford GT halo-car. Being a relatively new engine and technology, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost has already proven itself to match the toughest V-8s Ford has ever produced.

## 3.0-Liter Vulcan V6
### Expected Average Mileage: 300,000 Miles

Designed from the ground up to be reliable, fuel-efficient, and cheap to maintain, the 3.0-liter Vulcan V6 is Ford’s often unsung hero of the 1990s. Its simple construction and use of electronic fuel injection allowed the Vulcan to be versatile and long-lasting, making it one of Ford’s most reliable engines.

## 5.4-Liter Triton V8
### Expected Average Mileage: 300,000-450,000 Miles

As a distant relative to the 5.0 Coyote under Ford’s Modular engine family, it’s no surprise the Triton V8 is as reliable as its younger cousin. The inherent robustness of the Triton V8 and its adaptability made it a staple in Ford’s engine lineup across a variety of vehicles, including the iconic F-150 SVT Lightning and Ford GT.

## Power Stroke Diesel V8
### Expected Average Mileage: 200,000-500,000 Miles

Available in several displacements throughout its generational development, the Power Stroke diesel turbo engines are undoubtedly the most durable engines with the Ford name. Praised for new turbo-diesel tech, the first Power Stroke engine was introduced in 1995 in the Ford F-250, and fast-forward to 2020, the Ford Super Duty is motivated by the most powerful non-commercial iteration of Ford’s turbo-diesel superstar.

Overall, Ford’s long history in the automotive industry has allowed them to develop some of the most reliable and long-lasting engines in the market. These engines have stood the test of time and continued to provide superior performance and reliability for decades.

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Toyota Supra May Use BMW M2 Engine to Revive GRMN Badge

In order to improve cooling and maintain consistent performance during intense use, such as on a race track, the brake discs of the Toyota Supra have been drilled.

There is speculation that the car is being fine-tuned at the Nordschleife, which suggests that Toyota may revive its GRMN nameplate for a hot new Supra. GRMN stands for ‘Gazoo Racing, tuned by the Meister of the Nürburgring’.

Toyota yaris grmn 2018 review cornering 0

So far, the GRMN badge has only been used in Europe for a supercharged version of the previous-generation Yaris. The introduction of the new Supra follows Toyota CEO Koji Sato’s hint that the GR performance division will continue to play a crucial role in the company’s strategy.

Sato mentioned, “The Gazoo brand will be acknowledged for the future – and maybe we can even speed it up.” He also indicated that Akio Toyoda, the former CEO and an avid racer who now serves as the chairman of the company, will heavily contribute to the development of new GR products.

Sato added, “Our ‘Master Driver’ [Toyoda] was also the president of the company while he had a steering wheel in his hand for Gazoo. Now that he is only chairman, perhaps he will have more time to develop cars for them?” The Supra GRMN may be launched alongside a mid-life facelift for the standard model.

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First drive: 2024 Toyota C-HR

The PHEV variant of the Toyota C-HR features new twin-piston brakes and ZF frequency-sensitive shock absorbers. These shock absorbers can adjust their firmness to improve the ride over high-frequency bumps and reduce body roll in other situations.

In addition, there is a new powertrain option available for the 2024 Toyota C-HR. Alongside the existing 1.8-liter and 2.0-liter hybrid systems, there is now a 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid system. The plug-in hybrid system is based on Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid technology and consists of a 150bhp four-cylinder 2.0-liter petrol engine, a new 161bhp electric motor, and a larger 13.8kWh battery.

The plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota C-HR has an official electric-only range of 41 miles, although during the test drive, it achieved a range closer to 30 miles. Like most plug-in hybrid vehicles, it offers the option to operate in electric-only mode or use its hybrid capabilities. The hybrid mode can optimize power usage based on the sat-nav system and employ geofencing to prioritize electric power in clean-air zones. Additionally, drivers can adjust the regenerative braking strength, even enabling a B mode that allows for more efficient one-pedal driving.

The recent improvements to the Toyota C-HR’s ride quality are noticeable in different driving environments. Whether driving through tight urban areas or on fast, flowing roads, the vehicle remains comfortable, well-balanced, and composed over bumpy surfaces. While the C-HR is not particularly dynamic (due to its nature as a crossover), it still provides a pleasant driving experience that can put a smile on your face.

The performance of the plug-in hybrid powertrain is well-tuned. The transition between the two power sources is seamless, and the vehicle exhibits instant acceleration in electric mode. The petrol engine also delivers good response with smooth pickup and acceleration, responding well to driver inputs.

Unfortunately, the sound produced by the powertrain does not match its performance. It lacks excitement and occasionally sounds rough. However, it is an improvement over the regular hybrid powertrain’s noise characteristics.

It is worth noting that the plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota C-HR does not offer significantly higher top speed or acceleration compared to the regular hybrid model. Therefore, choosing the plug-in hybrid option may depend on factors such as price and potential tax benefits, especially for company car drivers who can benefit from the 8% benefit-in-kind tax bracket due to the 41-mile electric range.