Tag Archives: July

News, Technology

Elon Musk’s xAI Set to Release its First Product Secretly

When Musk announced the establishment of xAI in July, the company had a bold mission of understanding “the true nature of the universe.” So far, the company has been quiet while employees from OpenAI, Microsoft, Google, and Tesla work on the secretive project.

However, Musk seems confident in what xAI is building. “In some important respects, it is the best that currently exists,” he wrote in a post on X. Greg Yang, the leader of xAI, mentioned that the AI lab was developing a “theory of everything” for neural networks.

“AI will enable everyone to understand our mathematical universe in ways unimaginable before,” Yang wrote, which sounds just as vague as Musk’s claims about demystifying the tangible universe. However, both Musk and his EV brand Tesla have experience with AI.

Musk was on the founding board of OpenAI, and Tesla currently uses advanced machine learning models for its self-driving technology. Interestingly, Musk also signed a letter urging a pause in the development of cutting-edge AI technology due to risks to humanity. It is unclear whether xAI falls under this umbrella or if Musk’s company has different plans for its artificial intelligence project.

Motorsport

Automakers Debuted 45 New Vehicles Globally In Q3 2023

Automakers around the world debuted a total of 45 new vehicles in the third quarter of 2023. This number includes the final production versions of cars, some of which may not be available for purchase just yet. The count does not include light commercial vehicles but does include pickup trucks. The new vehicles were launched in various countries, including China, Japan, Korea, the United States, Europe, and India, among others. However, the Iranian auto market was not included in the count. Despite the slow growth in new car sales globally, the automotive industry remains busy. In fact, in the last six months leading up to Q3, a total of 90 new models were introduced. Many of these new models are electric vehicles, but there are also plenty of cars powered by internal combustion engines.

China accounted for half of the new car launches in the third quarter, with 23 new models being introduced. This highlights the strong push of China’s auto industry, as many of these cars have the potential for global markets. The remaining new car submissions in Q3 came from Europe, the United States, Korea, and Japan. Europe saw the introduction of 11 new cars, including models from German, British, French, and Italian brands. Japanese manufacturers launched five new models, while South Korean colleagues introduced four. American manufacturers, on the other hand, only presented two new models.

Among automakers, the Hyundai Group unveiled the largest number of new cars during this period. Their launches included the fifth-generation Santa Fe, the Kia K3 (to be built in Mexico for emerging markets), the Kia EV5 (a fully electric alternative to the Sportage), and the coupe version of the Genesis GV80. Mercedes-Benz followed closely with three new launches, including the second-generation AMG GT, the CLE Coupe, and the CLE Cabriolet. In China, several brands introduced three new models, including Geely, FAW, and BYD. Additionally, 12 automakers presented two new models each, while five automakers showcased a single debut.

Overall, the automotive industry continues to introduce a significant number of new vehicles, catering to various markets and consumer preferences.

Motorsport

2024 Subaru BRZ STI Sport Debuts In Japan With Hardware Upgrades

The 2024 BRZ STI Sport has been officially revealed in Japan, following its North American counterpart’s debut in July. Although it has a different name, the STI Sport offers similar features as the American version. It comes equipped with 17-inch Brembo brakes, both front and rear ventilated discs, gold calipers, 18-inch dark metallic wheels, and high-performance tires measuring 215/40 R18.

In terms of suspension upgrades, Subaru has installed an STI-tuned Hitachi Astemo sensitive frequency response damper (SFRD) at the front axle, as well as a modified rear damper developed by Subaru Tecnica International. On the cosmetic front, the changes are relatively minor, with black side mirror caps, a black roof antenna, and a cherry red finish on the BRZ logo within the headlights. Inside the cabin, the BRZ STI Sport stands out with burgundy/black suede/leather seats, dark metallic accents, and an STI-branded red start/stop button.


Motorsport

Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Coupe Spotted Quietly Driving in Traffic

In July of this year, the first-ever Mercedes-Benz CLE was unveiled, replacing the coupe and convertible versions of the E-Class and C-Class. It comes with an optional six-cylinder turbocharged engine. Currently, an AMG version is in development, and a recent spy video shows a fully camouflaged prototype. Interestingly, the range-topping variant of the CLE could potentially be powered by a four-cylinder engine, which would explain its silent operation in German traffic.

A few weeks ago, we caught a glimpse of the AMG 63 variant of the CLE for the first time, and this new prototype appears almost identical. It sports its production body and lights, and there are rectangular exhaust pipes at the back, indicating that it is the 63 model rather than the less powerful 53 model. Notably, the unusual wheel setup seen on the previous prototype is absent on this test car, which is equipped with a set of multi-spoke alloys.


Motorsport

Introducing the Ferrari KC23: A Track-Only Marvel With Motorized Body Panels

Ferrari has recently unveiled its special creation, the one-off KC23, which first made its appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Designed exclusively for the track, this remarkable vehicle boasts active aerodynamic panels that are showcased in an exciting promotional video.

The KC23 is based on the 488 GT3 and serves as a testament to Ferrari’s ability to elevate an already impressive car to extraordinary levels. Drawing inspiration from the Vision Gran Turismo and the triumphant 499P endurance hypercar, this masterpiece features butterfly doors that add an extra touch of rarity and exclusivity.


News

Watch the First Run of a Custom Turbo Hayabusa Hybrid VW Pickup

In July 2023, Rich Rebuilds gave us a sneak peek at their latest project: a turbo Suzuki Hayabusa Volkswagen Rabbit pickup. The idea was to take a lightweight VW Caddy from the 80s, install a Gen One Hayabusa engine in the bed, and make it a mid-engine truck. Sounds simple, right? Well, not really.

Problem-solving has been a major theme in the past two episodes of this series. In the previous episode, they encountered issues with mounting the ‘Busa engine due to the angle not aligning with the driveshaft. They also had to address the lack of a reverse gear and the imbalance caused by the rear-wheel power. But the team has been hard at work finding solutions.

One solution they came up with was to convert the VW into a hybrid electric vehicle. They added an electric motor and battery setup to power the front wheels and handle reverse gear duties. This solved the problem of reversing and improved control of the front end.

Another major breakthrough was the decision to cut out the entire bed and create a subframe to mount the ‘Busa engine lower down. This allowed for better shaft angle and the possibility of incorporating a fuel cell.

In the latest video, we get to witness the Turbo Hayabusa Hybrid VW Caddy Pickup running under its own power. Although the engine and electric motor are not connected yet, the build is coming together nicely. There are still some challenges to overcome, such as figuring out how to shift the ‘Busa engine, but the Rich Rebuilds team is up for the task. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project!

Featured

Honda Elevate SUV Reaches Showrooms Across India


Bookings opened for the Honda Elevate at the start of July, and it is set to be launched in September

Honda Elevate

  • Honda unveiled the Elevate SUV in June 2023.

  • To be offered in four broad variants: SV, V, VX and ZX.

  • The SUV shown here is finished in the Meteoroid Gray Metallic shade with 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

  • On the inside, it has a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging and a 7-inch semi-digital driver’s display.

  • Honda will offer the Elevate with the City’s 121PS 1.5-litre petrol engine.

  • Prices are expected to start at Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

Almost everything there’s to know about the Honda Elevate has been revealed, including its variant lineup, powertrain details and colour options. While we wait for Honda to announce its prices, the SUV has now reached dealerships across the country. Bookings and series production of the Elevate have already been in action since July 2023.

Details Of The Model Seen

The pictured model was finished in the Meteoroid Gray Metallic shade. It was the top-spec ZX variant of the SUV as it had chrome outside door handles and the front windshield-mounted camera for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The SUV was also seen with 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, available from the VX trim onwards.

Premium Cabin And Features

Other details which confirm it to be the ZX trim are the brown and black cabin theme,  10.25-inch touchscreen system, and a 7-inch semi-digital driver’s display. Honda has also equipped the range-topping variant of the Elevate with auto climate control, a single-pane sunroof, cruise control and wireless phone charging.

Apart from ADAS tech, the Elevate also gets up to six airbags, a LaneWatch camera (located on the left ORVM), ISOFIX child seat anchorages and reversing camera as part of its safety kit.

Related: Honda Elevate vs Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos vs Maruti Grand Vitara vs Toyota Hyryder: Specification Comparison

Powertrain Options

Honda Elevate petrol engine

The Honda Elevate gets the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (121PS/145Nm) as the City. It comes coupled with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT. There won’t be a hybrid version on offer but the carmaker will introduce the SUV’s EV derivative by 2026.

Launch, Price And Competition

Honda Elevate rear

Honda is set to launch the Elevate sometime in early September, with prices likely to start from Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom). It will be sold in four broad variants: SV, V, VX and ZX. The SUV will face competition from the Kia Seltos, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hyundai Creta, Volkswagen Taigun, Maruti Grand Vitara, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq and the upcoming Citroen C3 Aircross.

Also Check Out: Watch: How Many Suitcases Can The Honda Elevate Fit In Its Boot?

Featured

Honda Elevate SUV Reaches Showrooms Across India


Bookings opened for the Honda Elevate at the start of July, and it is set to be launched in September

Honda Elevate

  • Honda unveiled the Elevate SUV in June 2023.

  • To be offered in four broad variants: SV, V, VX and ZX.

  • The SUV shown here is finished in the Meteoroid Gray Metallic shade with 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

  • On the inside, it has a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging and a 7-inch semi-digital driver’s display.

  • Honda will offer the Elevate with the City’s 121PS 1.5-litre petrol engine.

  • Prices are expected to start at Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).

Almost everything there’s to know about the Honda Elevate has been revealed, including its variant lineup, powertrain details and colour options. While we wait for Honda to announce its prices, the SUV has now reached dealerships across the country. Bookings and series production of the Elevate have already been in action since July 2023.

Details Of The Model Seen

The pictured model was finished in the Meteoroid Gray Metallic shade. It was the top-spec ZX variant of the SUV as it had chrome outside door handles and the front windshield-mounted camera for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The SUV was also seen with 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, available from the VX trim onwards.

Premium Cabin And Features

Other details which confirm it to be the ZX trim are the brown and black cabin theme,  10.25-inch touchscreen system, and a 7-inch semi-digital driver’s display. Honda has also equipped the range-topping variant of the Elevate with auto climate control, a single-pane sunroof, cruise control and wireless phone charging.

Apart from ADAS tech, the Elevate also gets up to six airbags, a LaneWatch camera (located on the left ORVM), ISOFIX child seat anchorages and reversing camera as part of its safety kit.

Related: Honda Elevate vs Hyundai Creta vs Kia Seltos vs Maruti Grand Vitara vs Toyota Hyryder: Specification Comparison

Powertrain Options

Honda Elevate petrol engine

The Honda Elevate gets the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (121PS/145Nm) as the City. It comes coupled with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT. There won’t be a hybrid version on offer but the carmaker will introduce the SUV’s EV derivative by 2026.

Launch, Price And Competition

Honda Elevate rear

Honda is set to launch the Elevate sometime in early September, with prices likely to start from Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom). It will be sold in four broad variants: SV, V, VX and ZX. The SUV will face competition from the Kia Seltos, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hyundai Creta, Volkswagen Taigun, Maruti Grand Vitara, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq and the upcoming Citroen C3 Aircross.

Also Check Out: Watch: How Many Suitcases Can The Honda Elevate Fit In Its Boot?

News

Watch the Ducati DesertX Conquer the Australian Outback in this Trailer

In July 2023, Ducati made an impressive announcement regarding its DesertX motorcycle. The Tatts Finke Desert Race is a challenging off-road event that spans two days in the Northern Territories of Australia. To test the capabilities of the DesertX, Ducati product specialist and chief instructor of the Ducati Riding Experience Adventure Academy, Nick Selleck, planned to travel from Alice Springs to Finke and back on a single tank of fuel.

The journey covered a total distance of 460 kilometers or approximately 286 miles. The Ducati DesertX used for this challenge remained in its stock form and was not modified to accommodate a larger fuel tank. In August 2023, Ducati proudly announced that Selleck successfully completed the journey.

If you’re interested in seeing the adventure on video, Ducati recorded the feat and is currently producing a documentary film called Un-Finkeable. Although the full film is not yet available, the official trailer has been released to give a glimpse of what to expect.

The trailer showcases the stunning beauty of the terrain and the DesertX’s ability as Selleck maneuvers through the course. While it may not be a typical race, it’s certainly a race against time. Although we can’t know exactly what was going through Selleck’s mind during the ride, it’s safe to assume that adrenaline was running high.

The Finke Desert Race has been taking place annually since 1976. What started with a small group of motorbike riders has now expanded to include cars and off-road buggies. Alongside motorcycles, both two- and four-wheeled vehicles compete for the prestigious title of “King of the Desert” in various categories.

If you’re interested in experiencing the thrill of the Finke Desert Race yourself, the event occurs during the second weekend of June every year. Check out the official Finke Desert Race website for more information.

JeepUk

Jeep® Avenger Makes TV Debut in the UK with “Escape to the Real World” Campaign

  • The “Escape for the Real World” campaign launched in the UK on July 28th and utilizes digital and traditional media in an integrated omnichannel approach.
  • The video focuses on the new Jeep® Avenger and showcases a transition from the virtual to the real world, emphasizing the brand’s core values of freedom and adventure.
  • The Avenger is Jeep’s first all-electric model and has received international awards.

Jeep®’s “Escape for the Real World” campaign for the new all-electric Avenger model premiered in the UK on July 28th.

The video on demand (VOD) features a Jeep Avenger driving through imaginary settings in a virtual world, with a fictional character behind the wheel. The turning point occurs when the protagonist removes a virtual reality headset and returns to the real world. The video then shows a woman driving the actual model of the 100% electric SUV, embarking on a real Jeep adventure. The voiceover emphasizes the transition from the imaginary to the real world, stating, “There’s a world full of freedom and adventure and the all-new Jeep Avenger lets you get out and experience it for real.”

The campaign highlights the evolution of the Jeep brand, bridging the gap between its past and future. The Avenger is seen as an important milestone in the brand’s journey.

The commercial, created in collaboration with the agency Leo Burnett/Saatchi & Saatchi, was entirely produced in Europe. The video was filmed in Portugal, and all parties involved were from the continent. The Jeep Avenger, designed specifically for the European market, represents a European campaign for a European vehicle.

Throughout the video, key features of the Jeep Avenger are highlighted using a combination of images and overlaying text. The vehicle offers a standard 10.25-inch radio screen with Uconnect Infotainment and a full digital cluster, showcasing its connectivity.

The new Avenger is a compact all-electric SUV positioned in the rapidly growing B-SUV segment. With a length of just four meters, it is designed for active individuals seeking an SUV with compact dimensions but ample space and storage options. As a fully Jeep-designed vehicle, the Avenger embodies the brand’s DNA, combining capability, style, functionality, and technology in a compact SUV.

Equipped with a new electric powertrain, the Avenger offers a range of up to 250 miles* in the WLTP cycle. It features a unique 400-volt electric motor with 115 kilowatts, 260 Nm of maximum torque, and a new 54 kWh battery.

The introduction of the Avenger in Europe marks the beginning of the next phase of Jeep’s electrification journey, with the goal of achieving 100% pure electric European sales for the Jeep brand by the end of 2030.

Jeep® Brand

With over 80 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV brand that brings capability, craftsmanship, and versatility to those who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep® brand offers a broad range of vehicles that inspire owners to live life to the fullest, providing a sense of safety, security, and confidence to tackle any adventure. The Jeep® vehicle lineup includes the Avenger BEV, Compass e-Hybrid & 4xe, Grand Cherokee, Renegade e-Hybrid & 4xe, and Wrangler. The brand also offers Jeep® Wave, a premium owner loyalty and customer care program filled with benefits and exclusive perks. The brand’s global electrification initiative, transforming 4xe into a new 4×4, aims to enhance Jeep’s legendary off-road capability while achieving Zero Emission Freedom. By 2025, all Jeep® brand vehicles will have an electrified variant.

*estimated WLTP electric range.

Credits

Agency: Leo Burnett

Production Company: Movie Magic International

TV Department: Prodigious

Postproduction: B612

Music: “Welcome to the Future” – Luciana Caporaso, Kobalt Music Publishing America, Inc., SUGAROO!

Media: Starcom

Contacts

Alice Cross-Watson, PR Manager, Jeep

alice.cross-watson@jeep.com

07395 375272

Matthew Bendall, Head of PR, Jeep, Fiat, Abarth, Vauxhall

matthew.bendall@stellantis.com

07920 163854

ENDS