Scientists are using NASA’s AVIRIS-NG instrument to detect signs of GLRaV-3, a grapevine disease. AVIRIS-NG is typically used for ecological research, such as studying wildfires and air pollution. However, in this case, it was used to observe how grape plants interact with sunlight. By analyzing the composition of light absorbed by the plants, researchers were able to identify infected plants with up to 87% accuracy even before they exhibited symptoms. The study, published in the journal “Phytopathology,” utilized machine learning and data from 11,000 acres of vineyards. This technology has the potential to assist grape farmers and could be extended to monitor crop diseases globally.
Tag Archives: inside
Autocar product test: What is the best interior trim cleaner?
Choosing a good cleaning product for the inside of your car is important, but it’s often overlooked. While the outside of the car gets regularly cleaned, dust, fingerprints, and odors can easily build up on the inside.
In this article, we will be looking at the best car interior trim cleaners available. Our testing criteria focused on products that are easy to use, cost-effective, and versatile. We didn’t prioritize the “mega-sparkle” effect, but instead looked for products that restore the natural finish.
BEST BUY: AutoGlym Interior Shampoo
Price: £8.15
What’s included: 500ml
Buy from: Amazon
AutoGlym’s Interior Shampoo is an excellent, versatile product that offers great value for money. It can be used to remove heavier dirt and stains or simply freshen up your interior. The application is easy – just spray it directly onto surfaces, massage it with a microfiber cloth, and wipe it off with a clean cloth. For tougher stains on seats, an interior brush can be used. This product is suitable for all car interior trims, including cloth and leather seats, dashboards, steering wheels, and seatbelts. It also leaves behind a pleasant smell.
Autocar says: 5 stars
RECOMMENDED: Dodo Juice Total Wipe Out
Price: £10.00
What’s included: 1000ml
Buy from: Amazon
Total Wipe Out by Dodo Juice is a great value for money product, offering a generous 1000ml quantity. It can be diluted further if desired. This versatile cleaner can be used on every surface, both inside and outside of the car. It effectively removes greasy marks without leaving behind any sticky residue or smears on glass. It leaves surfaces clean and matte, with a fresh fragrance that doesn’t overpower. It also restores that new car smell.
Autocar says: 5 stars
Others to consider
Gyeon Q²M InteriorDetailer (+ Q²M PolishWipe)
Price: £14.00
What’s included: 500ml
Buy from: Amazon
Gyeon’s InteriorDetailer is a great choice if you don’t want to be overwhelmed by fragrance after cleaning your car. It has a fresh and clean scent without being overpowering. This product leaves a streak-free, smudge-free matte finish. It is effective on various materials and finishes, and it easily removes fingerprints from piano black trims.
The “Toyota Fronx” Exists, And May Arrive In 2024!
The Toyota-badged Fronx will likely get cosmetic and badging differences inside and out as seen on other shared models between Toyota and Maruti
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It will be the fifth shared model between Toyota and Maruti.
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Toyota could benefit from having its own Fronx as its new sub-4m ‘SUV’ offering.
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Will likely share its engine options with the Maruti Fronx, including the CNG powertrain.
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It’s also expected to have the Fronx’ features including the 9-inch touchscreen and auto AC.
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Launch expected in 2024, with prices likely to start from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).
By now, you must have noticed the few models being introduced are cross-badged products as part of the Maruti Suzuki-Toyota alliance. Some popular names include the Maruti Grand Vitara-Toyota Hyryder SUVs and the more recent duo of the Toyota Innova Hycross-based Maruti Invicto premium MPV. It has now come to the fore that Toyota will launch its own version of the Maruti Fronx, sometime in 2024.
Why Does Toyota Need A Fronx?
One of the main reasons for Toyota to offer a rebadged Fronx is that it lacks a sub-4m SUV in its Indian portfolio. In contrast, its alliance partner – Maruti Suzuki – has two models in this category, making its SUV range more accessible with a potential starting price well under the Rs 10 lakh mark.
To recap, Toyota did previously offer its own version of the Maruti Vitara Brezza called the Urban Cruiser, but it was discontinued towards the end of 2022. Currently, the Toyota SUV range directly starts from the Urban Cruiser Hyryder compact SUV with a starting price beyond Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).
A Familiar Treatment
The Toyota-badged Fronx will likely get a few cosmetic and badge differences inside and out over Maruti’s crossover SUV as seen on some shared products between the two carmakers like the Baleno-Glanza and the Innova Hycross-Invicto duo. The most prominent visual changes are expected to be the grille, headlights, and interior color scheme.
Also Read: 5 Key Differences Between The Maruti Invicto And Toyota Innova Hycross
Powertrain Details Of The Maruti Fronx
|
Specification |
1.2-litre Petrol |
1-litre Turbo-petrol |
1.2-litre Petrol+CNG |
|
Power |
90PS |
100PS |
77.5PS |
|
Torque |
113Nm |
148Nm |
98.5Nm |
|
Transmission |
5-speed MT, 5-speed AMT |
5-speed MT, 6-speed AT |
5-speed MT |
|
Claimed Mileage |
21.79kmpl, 22.89kmpl |
21.5kmpl, 20.1kmpl |
28.51km/kg |
The Maruti Fronx’ 1-litre turbo-petrol engine comes with mild-hybrid technology. We expect Toyota’s version of the Fronx to come with the same set of powertrains, while the CNG variants might be launched later.
A Shared Features List
We expect the Toyota-badged Fronx to come with a near-identical equipment list as the Maruti crossover SUV. This includes a 9-inch touchscreen, a heads-up display, auto climate control, and cruise control. Its safety net is also likely to include up to six airbags, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, and electronic stability program (ESP). It helps that nearly all of these features are also offered on the Baleno-Glanza hatchbacks.
Also Read: Upping The Coolness Quotient Quite Literally: Cars With Dual Zone Climate Control Under Rs 30 Lakh
Price And Rivals
We expect Toyota to price its version of the Fronx from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Its rivals will include the Maruti Fronx, Citroen C3 and other sub-4m SUVs such as the Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, and Hyundai Venue.
Read More on : Maruti FRONX AMT
Triumph TR2 returns as a lightweight electric sports car
The Triumph TR2, a classic sports car from the 1950s, is making a comeback in the form of a lightweight electric version called the TR25. The design of the steering wheel pays homage to the original spoked steering wheels of Triumph cars from the 1950s, with a single dial in its hub. The central binnacle features three additional dials that show speed, charge level, and range.
The TR25 boasts impressive specifications, including an estimated weight of 1095kg, which is 200kg lighter than the i3 S. It also has a projected acceleration time of 5.2 seconds for the 0-62mph sprint and a top speed of 115mph. The lighter weight of the TR25 contributes to an estimated touring range of 190 miles.
The original TR2 broke records in its time, achieving a speed of 124.889mph, surpassing its rival, the Sunbeam Alpine, which had set a mark of 120mph. The TR2 is now on display at the British Motor Museum in Gaydon, after being purchased for £250,000 with funding from the National Heritage Memorial Fund in 2020.
While the TR25 may signify a revival for Triumph cars, it is unlikely to enter mass production. Instead, it is expected to help Ani and Makkina, the builders of the TR25, progress their business into a new phase. Nevertheless, the TR25 achieves its creators’ goal of creating a small, desirable EV roadster reminiscent of classic roadsters.
Mini Introduces Interactive AI Persona for Inner Monologues
For individuals who have an active inner monologue, Mini USA has devised a way to engage with and explore this introspective conversation. Mini has partnered with Pereira O’Dell, an independent creative agency, to create an interactive generative artificial intelligence (AI) experience on the Mini USA website. This experience enables users to ask themselves questions about the Mini electric vehicle, essentially fostering an inner “Mini-logue.”
By using the AI feature, individuals can record their own questions, such as “Why should I choose a Mini Electric?” The AI then utilizes advanced technology, including voice cloning and deep learning, to generate a version of the user that closely resembles them.
Explained: 2023 Kia Seltos And Its Variant-wise Colour And Powertrain Options
Apart from design changes inside and out and feature additions, the 2023 Kia Seltos also receives a new Pewter Olive exterior shade.
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Bookings for the 2023 Kia Seltos will start from July 14.
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The compact SUV will now be offered in three broad variants: Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line.
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The facelifted Seltos now also gets the option of a new 160PS 1.5-litre T-GDi (turbo) petrol engine.
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Now gets an enhanced feature list, including a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone control and full suite advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features.
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Expected to be priced from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.
The 2023 Kia Seltos has been unveiled in India, showcasing its refreshed design and improved range of features. While the prices for the updated Kia SUV are yet to be revealed, interested buyers can start placing their orders from July 14. Ahead of that, the carmaker has provided a list of variant-wise color and powertrain options for the 2023 Seltos.
The 2023 Seltos can be had in three broad variants – Tech Line, GT Line and X-Line. The Tech Line variant is further categorised into HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX and HTX+ trims, while the GT Line gets a single fully loaded trim, namely GTX+. The X-Line variant on the other hand comes in an exclusive Matte Graphite colour option.
Colour Options
Sparkling Silver (HTE, HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)
(New) Pewter Olive (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)
Gravity Grey (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)
Intense Red (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)
Imperial Blue (HTK, HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)
Glacier White Pearl (HTK+, HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)
Aurora Black Pearl (HTX, HTX+ and GTX+)
Glacier White Pearl With Black Roof (HTX+ and GTX+)
Intense Red With Black Roof (HTX+ And GTX+)
Clear White (HTE and HTK)
Xclusive Matte Graphite (X-Line variant)
As seen above, the 2023 Seltos is available in two distinct white shades. The Clear White color is offered on the base-spec HTE and HTK variants, while the Glacier White Pearl option is available on all other higher-spec trims starting from HTK+. Furthermore, the dual-tone paint schemes are exclusively offered in Glacier White Pearl and Intense Red color options, limited to the top-spec HTX+ and GTX+ variants.
On the other hand, the Aurora Black Pearl shade is not offered with HTE, HTK and HTX+ variants of the facelifted Kia SUV. The Sparkling Silver colour is standard across all trims of the 2023 Seltos.
Variant-wise Engine/Gearbox Options
|
HTE |
HTK |
HTK+ |
HTX |
HTX+ |
GTX+ |
X-Line |
|
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1.5-litre Petrol MT |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|||
|
1.5-litre Petrol CVT |
Yes |
||||||
|
1.5-litre Turbo-petrol iMT |
Yes |
Yes |
|||||
|
1.5-litre Turbo-petrol DCT |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
||||
|
1.5-litre Diesel iMT |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
||
|
1.5-litre Diesel AT |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
The 2023 Seltos is offered with a total of three engine and five transmission options, with their combinations varying depending on the chosen variants. The 1.5-liter engine delivers an output of 115PS and a torque of 144Nm, available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic transmission. As for the 1.5-liter diesel engine, it generates 116PS of power and 250Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed clutchless manual (iMT) or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
The Seltos now also come with a new 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, which makes 160PS and 253Nm, and comes paired with either a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT).
Expected Price and Rivals
Prices of the 2023 Kia Seltos, with its updated looks and amenities, are expected to start from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. Once launched, it will continue its rivalry with other compact SUVs like Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun and MG Astor.
Read More on : Kia Seltos diesel
Five Things To Know About the All-New 2024 Toyota Tacoma
When you step into the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma, you’re in for boundless adventures. This cool, agile, and powerful fourth-generation mid-size pickup truck is ready to hit the road and take you on a journey like never before. Whether it’s the design, performance, technology, or anything in between, this go-anywhere truck is entering a new era with innovative updates and advancements across the board.
The Tacoma has been a dominant force in the mid-size pickup truck segment for almost thirty years. Its unique features, attention-grabbing details, and capabilities make it a must-have for owners and enthusiasts year after year. Combine that with Toyota’s reputation for quality, durability, and reliability, and you have a machine that exudes rugged sophistication.
Here are five things to look forward to when the all-new Tacoma arrives later this year and early next year:
Ramped-Up Powertrains
The all-new Tacoma is designed, assembled, and manufactured for North America. It comes with powerful acceleration speeds. The standard model is equipped with the i-FORCE turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. For those seeking an even more thrilling driving experience, the hybrid i-FORCE Max offers an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, making it the most powerful powertrain ever offered on the Tacoma.
Equipped for All-Terrain
No matter where you’re headed, there’s a Tacoma for you. Whether you’re traversing Western deserts or embarking on epic off-road trails, the Tacoma has you covered. It comes in eight unique grades, including the new Trailhunter, a factory-developed overlanding rig built with the latest integrated off-road equipment. The Tacoma is rugged and capable, delivering the handling and maneuvering that off-road enthusiasts expect.
Outstanding Control and Comfort
The Tacoma puts handling and control to the test. With the Baja-inspired TRD Pro debut of the segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat, drivers can experience increased off-road driving control and comfort. This patent-pending seat aims to provide a smooth and confidence-inspiring ride by stabilizing the driver’s field of vision and reducing fatigue. It’s perfect for adventurous drivers exploring new multi-terrain paths.
Precious Cargo Space
For those needing to tow cargo, the Tacoma offers ample space. The new XtraCab long bed is designed for enhanced interior functionality and cargo capacity. It’s perfect for large hauls, whether you’re packing for a cross-country road trip or simply transporting furniture and other bulky items. The XtraCab long bed is available on select grades and comes with seating for two.
Tech-Driven Amenities
While the Tacoma is built for adventure, it doesn’t compromise on technology. It comes equipped with a wide range of features, including a 14-inch touchscreen display, Wireless Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and a new premium 10-speaker JBL® audio upgrade. The Tacoma also prioritizes safety with features like the Trailer Camera, 3D Multi-Terrain View Monitor, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota’s suite of active safety systems.
With its powerful performance, rugged design, and advanced technology, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma is ready to create unforgettable experiences on and off the road.
So, get ready for endless adventures and exciting excursions with this all-new pickup truck. With the Tacoma, the journey is just as fun and memorable as the destination.
See How a Disgusting Dodge Dart is Transformed with a Thorough Clean
We’ve all forgotten some trash inside our cars at some point, whether it’s a parking ticket or a receipt from the grocery store. But it’s hard to understand how some people let the interior of their cars get so dirty that it looks like a vacuum cleaner. Case in point, the video above shows a red 2013 Dodge Dart that is in desperate need of cleaning, especially on the inside.
The owner of the car had to take an unpaved road to get to the shop of The Detailing Geek, where the video was posted on YouTube. This explains why the exterior is covered in mud. But what’s even more interesting is the condition of the interior.
And by interesting, we mean absolutely filthy. It’s gut-wrenching to see and probably smell. The 2013 Dodge Dart shown in the video needs a lot of love to make it a bearable driving experience.
Fortunately, the person cleaning the car seems to know what they’re doing. They start by removing all the mud from the bodywork and then move on to cleaning the interior step by step.
The trunk liner is thoroughly cleaned using a pressure washer and a round brush attached to a cordless drill. The carpets are vacuumed meticulously, but not before removing all the trash, plastic cups, and toilet paper.
The back seat is particularly concerning, with nasty stains that would make any germaphobe panic. However, with the help of a special carpet cleaner and the round brush attached to the cordless drill, the stains magically disappear, leaving an impressive result.
If you think this is bad, you should see the Fiat 124 Spider that spent 38 years in a garage and became a cozy home for unwelcome mice.
Returning to the Dodge Dart, nothing is left behind. By the end of the cleaning, it looks like it just rolled off the assembly line. But don’t take our word for it, watch the video at the top of this page and share your thoughts in the comments section below.