Tag Archives: It’s

Gaming, News

City Document Reveals E3 2024 And 2025 Have Already Been Canceled

In recent years, independent showcases by platform leaders and standalone events from big-name studios have overshadowed E3, stealing its thunder. Furthermore, Geoff Keighley’s Summer Games Fest show now dominates the June slot that was once reserved for E3 announcements.

Opinions on E3 differ. In a podcast interview with VGC earlier this month, Keighley said, “I think E3 sort of killed itself in a way.” The absence of Microsoft and Sony, the platform overlords, from E3 has reduced the incentive for the event. Additionally, the recent rivalries and conflicts over multi-billion acquisitions have driven the competitors further apart.

It is possible that Xbox and PlayStation may never share the E3 stage again, especially given the tension between Microsoft and Sony over the Activision Blizzard fiasco. In June, Microsoft hosted its Xbox Games showcase event, followed by a dedicated show for a Starfield deep-dive. On July 11, the company will host the next ID@Xbox Showcase to reveal trailers and gameplay details of new titles. Sony and Nintendo also held their own events in June, and Keighley had his own gaming event during the same window. This does not mean that E3 is doomed, but the opportunity for E3 to regain its former glory is diminishing.

Motorsport

Infiniti Unveils Updated Logo, Scent, and Sound to Refresh Brand Image

Today, Infiniti made an announcement regarding the update of its brand identity. The luxury automaker has introduced a refreshed logo and badge, as well as a new retail experience.

The new Infiniti logo is not a drastic departure from the current design, and the changes made are subtle. This marks the fourth iteration of the logo since the company’s establishment in 1989. The logo symbolizes an infinite road leading towards the horizon, and the updated emblem further accentuates this concept. The bottom opening of the logo is now wider, which narrows the outline of the road. The road no longer terminates at a point, which places greater emphasis on the horizon.


News

2026 Lotus Type 135: Electric Elise still in works after Alpine split

Lotus is continuing its legacy of excellence in dynamics, aerodynamics, and lightweighting with the upcoming release of the Type 135, an all-electric sports car. Although it will have a different propulsion system, Lotus aims to maintain its signature qualities while also benefiting from features like instant torque, easier cooling, and better packaging. As a result, the Type 135 will offer ample storage and packaging benefits.

The E-Sports platform, which will underpin the Type 135, will support both single- and twin-motor powertrains. The power output is expected to range from 469bhp to 872bhp, offering significantly more power than the current Elise models. The higher-powered versions of the Type 135 could even fill the gap left by the track-focused Exige.

The E-Sports platform is designed to accommodate both rear- and four-wheel-drive powertrains. Although the showcased concepts have so far featured rear-mounted drive systems, Lotus remains open to the possibility of offering a torque-vectoring setup similar to the one found in the flagship Evija. As a result, certain defining features from the Evija may find their way into future Lotus sports cars.

Lotus is also focused on making the Type 135 as aerodynamically efficient as possible. Taking inspiration from the Venturi tunnels of the Evija, the car will feature aerodynamic aids that run throughout its design. This design approach takes advantage of the compact nature of an electric drivetrain. However, while the Type 135 will have similarities to the hypercar, it will be far more accessible and affordable.

Lotus plans to leverage the efficiencies within the broader Geely group, which includes Volvo, Polestar, Lynk&Co, and LEVC, to keep development and retail costs down. By utilizing components and systems from other brands, Lotus aims to deliver affordable performance. While it may not be possible to offer the Type 135 at the same price as the entry-level Elise, the cost of necessary materials and components is expected to decrease significantly. This could potentially position the Type 135 in the price range of the retired Exige line-up, estimated to be between £80,000 and £100,000.

Technology

Easy Tips on How to Soundproof Any Room for a Quiet Space

When it comes to soundproofing a room, it’s important to first assess the existing makeup of the space. You may be experiencing sound leaks through windows, doors, or walls, either from outside noise or noise escaping from within. Take some time to quietly walk around the room and listen carefully to identify areas where sound is entering or leaving. If you’re dealing with particularly loud issues, you can even use an Apple Watch as a makeshift decibel detection tool, as it can help you measure the noise levels. Older windows might simply need some new caulk, and your door may have small gaps where it meets the frame that need to be addressed.

To gain valuable insights for your soundproofing project, listen for external noises or play music inside the room and explore the boundaries from outside. This will help you determine the best strategies for your specific needs. For example, if you want to reduce the sound of traffic coming from outside, focusing on the windows and adding insulation to the ceiling might be the most effective solution. On the other hand, setting up a home studio will require additional steps to achieve proper soundproofing.

Technology

10 Military Aircraft That Pose Greater Danger Than Their Appearance Suggests

Although the MQ-9 Reaper has a sleek design, it is not an aircraft that anyone would want to underestimate. Equipped with a range of air-to-ground missiles including the Hellfire and GBU-12 Paveway II, the Reaper can deploy these munitions with incredible precision using laser guidance. Once it locks onto a target, there is very little chance of missing.

The Reaper is remotely piloted and has the capability to carry out long-range missions due to its external fuel tank capacity of 1,300 pounds. The aircraft is operated by a crew based in the United States, who maintain complete control over the craft while it carries out its mission. With the ability to be piloted remotely, the Reaper provides increased efficiency without the need to send additional pilots into combat.

The MQ-9 Reaper is not only sleek and stealthy, but also technologically advanced and highly accurate in terms of firepower. Its ability to remain undetected until it’s too late makes it an especially dangerous aircraft to encounter in battle.

Motorsport

McMurtry Spéirling Pure Revealed: Tiny 1,000-HP Electric Hypercar, Giant Price

The McMurtry Spéirling is a small electric hypercar that made headlines last year by breaking the Goodwood Hill Climb record. It completed the course in just 39.08 seconds with former F1 driver Max Chilton at the wheel, surpassing the previous record set by Romain Dumas in the VW ID.R by 0.8 seconds. The one-seater vehicle also impressed with its acceleration, going from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in a blistering 1.4 seconds.

Now, in June 2023, McMurtry Automotive has announced that the Spéirling will go into production. However, only 100 units will be produced, making it a very limited edition. The company plans to reveal a validation prototype next month at the Goodwood FoS, with pre-production prototypes expected to follow in 2024. Customer deliveries are set to begin in 2025.

Now, let’s talk about the price. The Spéirling Pure comes with a hefty price tag of £820,000 before taxes. For those using different currencies, that’s approximately $1.04 million or €954,000 according to current exchange rates.


Cars, News

Hacker Claims Tesla Full Self-Driving Has Secret ‘Elon Mode’

According to a hacker named GreenTheOnly, there may be a secret setting in Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system called ‘Elon Mode.’ While this hasn’t been officially confirmed, GreenTheOnly’s observations suggest that the alleged mode has some promising features. They note the absence of frequent reminders while driving for 600 miles in busy traffic and mention progress in detecting debris. However, they also point out that the alleged mode is still a work in progress, experiencing unexpected lane changes and a relatively slow driving speed as issues.

Considering the current state of development, it’s likely that even if Elon Mode is being worked on, it will take some time before it becomes available to FSD drivers, if it ever does. Nonetheless, it’s encouraging to see Tesla addressing the nagging problem that users have complained about as a distraction from the road. However, the concern of random and unprompted lane switches, which poses serious risks for drivers using an already controversial system, is still being addressed. It remains to be seen if Elon Mode will be confirmed and released, but it would be wise to keep it as an internal codename.

News

Dirt Freak Enhances the Honda CT125 with Adventure-Ready Accessories

If you’re an owner of a Honda Hunter Cub or a Trail CT 125 (also known as the Honda CT125 in the U.S.), then this article is for you. But even if you don’t own one of these charming two-wheelers, stick around because who doesn’t love the little Honda Hunter Cub, especially when it’s equipped with adventure-ready accessories?

Dirt Freak, a popular aftermarket parts maker from Japan, has released a range of accessories specifically designed for the Honda CT125. The result is an adorable, rugged machine that’s ready to take on any adventure, even a zombie apocalypse. The CT125 is already the most off-road capable scooter out there, with features like long-travel suspension, wire-spoke wheels, and dual-purpose rubber. It’s essentially a dual-sport bike in scooter form.

Dirt Freak Decks Out The Honda CT125 In Adventure-Ready Accessories

To enhance its off-road capabilities, Dirt Freak has added a range of accessories that are typically found on full-size adventure bikes. These include hand guards, engine protection, and various luggage options to carry camping supplies for a few days’ worth of adventure. The bike also features a large windscreen to keep bugs and critters away, as well as a spacious luggage rack above the headlight for easy storage.

In addition to these aftermarket accessories, Dirt Freak offers customization services for the Honda CT125. You can choose from various finishes for the swingarm and wheels, such as sleek black powder coat or other custom colors. Unfortunately, these services are currently limited to the Japanese market.

Dirt Freak Decks Out The Honda CT125 In Adventure-Ready Accessories

Overall, Dirt Freak has transformed the Honda CT125 into a capable and stylish adventure machine. So, if you’re a CT125 enthusiast in the U.S., importing these accessories could be a great way to customize your rugged little bike.

Dirt Freak Decks Out The Honda CT125 In Adventure-Ready Accessories

News

On Board With Pol Tarres At Erzbergrodeo 2023

Pol Tarres is back in action, but this time it’s not about stunts or showcasing his skills. He’s fully focused on the dirt, armed with his camera and his trusty T7 motorcycle.

Tarres has made a name for himself by riding dirt on one of the best adventure bikes on the market, the Yamaha Tenere 700. He joins the rest of the grid at Erzbergrodeo, where everyone is riding enduro bikes that are lighter and more agile. Despite the competition, Tarres managed to get the holeshot and remained unfazed in the early sections of the race, even against the lighter bikes.

As the race progressed to the rockier sections of Erzbergrodeo, Tarres faced some challenges. A tip-over caused him to lose the lead temporarily, but he quickly caught up in the faster sections of the course. However, the real challenge for Tarres and his T7 awaited beyond the gravel and rocks.

When the terrain became thicker with greenery and the trail muddier, all riders started to struggle. Climbing up a single track hill proved to be difficult for many competitors with their lightweight enduro machines. Tarres, on the other hand, seemed largely unaffected in comparison. It’s incredible to witness how calm and composed Tarres was during the run and how well he managed his machine.

The climb was brutal, with rocks, shrubs, and mud posing a constant challenge for the racers. There were moments in the hour-long video where I couldn’t help but hold my breath. Yet, Tarres managed to put on a show and tackle the obstacles with his adventure bike.

Unfortunately, the video ended before Tarres’ run concluded. He finished 131st out of 500 riders at the 16th checkpoint, “One Way Train.” This achievement is remarkable considering Tarres was riding his T7 and competing against a field of lightweight enduro bikes. It’s worth noting that this is not Tarres’ first rodeo (pun intended) – he made history by finishing 77th in 2022 at Erzbergrodeo.

Motorsport

Watch VW Polo Diesel Perform an Impressive 500-HP Dyno Pull

Modifying the engine of a vehicle can lead to impressive results, especially when it comes to an unassuming car like a regular city car. With some clever modifications and a bit of bravery, a boring hatchback can be transformed into a powerful sleeper. And that’s exactly what happened with the Volkswagen Polo featured in the video above.

Posted on the CCD Video YouTube channel, the 8-minute video showcases how the modest 1.9-liter turbo-diesel engine of the Polo can outperform stock cars that cost more than ten times its price. The base price for a Polo in Germany is around $22,800 (20,830 Euro).

Of course, the Polo in the video is far from stock. It has been upgraded with enhanced injectors, a better cam, a larger turbocharger, and improved intake and exhaust pipes. The sub-assembly remains stock, but there’s a surprising addition to the blacked-out Polo—nitrous oxide.

The first dyno run was done using only the boost from the turbocharger. The 1.9-liter TDI produced 366 horsepower and 587 Newton-meters of torque with approximately 40 pounds per square inch (2.8 bar) of pressure from the hybrid turbo.

When nitrous was introduced, the car achieved 472 hp and 789 Nm. But it didn’t stop there. After a couple more dyno runs, the small Polo managed to reach an impressive 513 hp and 865 Nm from its highly modified diesel engine.

This power output exceeds that of a base Porsche 911, which generates 379 hp from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine. It’s also more powerful than a Dodge Charger Scat Pack with its 485 hp 6.4-liter V8 engine. The Porsche starts at $114,400, while the Charger has an MSRP of $50,330.

Furthermore, the interior of the Polo has been stripped down, resulting in some weight reduction. This makes it a true sleeper car that can likely outperform many vehicles that are much more expensive than the modest Polo.

What do you think about this impressive performance? Watch the video above and share your thoughts in the comments section below.