Tag Archives: named

News

From the motorsport archive: on this day in 1968

In 1955, Jean Rédélé decided to name his new sports car company Alpine as a tribute to his successful performances in the Alpine Rally, where he drove his highly modified Renaults.

However, despite the company’s name, Alpine cars were unable to win the famous race held in the mountains of southern France. The cars often faced mechanical issues, which prevented them from achieving victory.

Eager to overcome this ongoing challenge, Alpine entered five factory-prepared A110s, along with 13 other Alpine vehicles, into the 1968 event. They faced tough competition from Renault-Gordini 8s, Ford Escorts, Lancia Fulvia Coupés, Daf 55s, Alfa Romeo GTAs, Porsche 911s, and more. Surprisingly, there were no Mini Coopers, but there were some unusual entries like a “simply hideous” truncated Citroën DS and a Vauxhall Ventora.

Unfortunately, the race was marred by heavy rain and fog during the first leg, resulting in accidents and failures for many participants. Out of the initial 64 vehicles, only 25 managed to survive the 845-mile journey from Marseille to Aix-les-Bains. At the front, three Alpines battled with two Alfas.

For the following 520-mile mountain loop, the treacherous conditions persisted, reducing the number of remaining competitors to just 16 by the end of the night. An Alpine led the race, followed by a Lancia and an Alfa Romeo.

The final leg involved a 955-mile journey back down to Antibes. The focus was on the intense competition between René Trautmann and Jean-Louis Barailler, who were separated by a mere 15 seconds. Meanwhile, Jean Vinatier was already 11 minutes behind. To everyone’s delight, Vinatier achieved victory in the glorious sunshine, redeeming the disappointment of previous years.

News

Polestones 01: A Luxury 4×4 with a Built-in Kitchen

Chinese start-up Polestones has introduced its first car, the 01, a luxurious 4×4 designed by Pininfarina.

The Polestones 01 is equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that generates electricity for two electric motors—one for each axle.

The total power output of the system is 469bhp and 546lb ft, enabling the 01 to accelerate from 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds.

With a 56kWh battery from CATL, a Chinese battery manufacturer, the 01 has an electric range of 146 miles according to the CLTC test cycle. When the engine is utilized, the range extends to 692 miles.

The 01 is also equipped with a roof-mounted lidar system, developed by Hesai Technology, which is claimed to be the first solid-state unit integrated into a production car. This system provides level-two driver assistance and can be upgraded with future software updates.

In terms of dimensions, the 01 is 5050mm long, 1980mm wide, and 1869mm tall, similar in size to the Land Rover Defender 110.

The design of the 01 bears a resemblance to successful British 4x4s, such as the Land Rover Defender, which has become a common trend among Chinese SUVs.

One unique feature of the 01 is its integrated camper-van-style kitchenette located in the tailgate. This kitchenette includes an induction hob and a water dispenser, allowing users to enjoy their meals outdoors.

In addition, the car comes with an integrated gazebo that can be assembled in just five minutes, providing a comfortable space to dine under.

The 01 offers a choice between a six-seat and seven-seat interior configuration. The six-seat option features three rows of two seats, with the third row consisting of reclining thrones similar to those found on airplanes.

Wearables

Why The CIA Doesn’t Allow Fitbits Or Apple Watches In Its Annual Pedometer Challenge

The CIA has specific security protocols for its annual Pedometer Challenge, as outlined by Greg (CIA rules only allow the use of first names), the coordinator of the challenge. The agency has a list of pre-approved devices that are not connected to the internet and have been cleared by security for step counting. This includes specialized pedometers for CIA personnel with disabilities.

The challenge involves teams of eight to ten people who aim to reach a specific number of combined steps in order to progress to the next round. Each level of the challenge requires increasingly higher step counts. This year, the theme of the challenge was “Battle of the Bands,” and the team names were clever puns such as “Red Hot Chili Steppers.” Surprisingly, despite working for the CIA, the competition relies on the honor system for submitting step counts.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the winning team this year was Team Buttsteak, who won for the third consecutive time with 7,550,224 steps. Team 2 Much Stepz 4 U came in second place with 6,516,821 steps, and Happy Feat secured third place with 5,779,997 steps. The name of Team Buttsteak is now engraved on a trophy displayed at the CIA’s gym in Langley Field House.

Cars, News

This Amazing Droptail Roadster Redefines Minimalism with Rolls-Royce Style

The automaker introduces La Rose Noire, a stunning roadster featuring a deep red paint color named True Love. It took an incredible 150 layers to achieve the perfect shade. Inside, the vehicle boasts 1,603 hand-inlaid wood pieces, adding a touch of elegance. However, the true masterpiece of La Rose Noire is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch, which alone costs around $200,000.

Rolls-Royce

Equipped with 22-inch wheels painted in a color named Mystery, La Rose Noire flaunts the iconic rear-hinged doors commonly found in Rolls-Royce models. The exact price of the Droptail remains undisclosed. However, considering the limited production of only four units and the inclusion of a $200,000 watch, affordability is not a trait associated with this vehicle. It seems that only those with royal associations may have the chance to own one. To put it in perspective, the previous car in the Coachbuild series, the Boat Tail, had an estimated cost of $25 million.

Rolls-Royce Droptail dashboardRolls-Royce

Despite its exorbitant price, the Droptail represents Rolls-Royce’s display of self-control by producing an ultra-exclusive car. It goes beyond being a luxury vehicle and enters the realm of extraordinary.

RollsRoyce

Rolls-Royce Unveils La Rose Noire: The First Droptail Coachbuild Commission

  • The first of four unique Rolls-Royce Droptail commissions, named ‘La Rose Noire’
  • Inspired by the romance and allure of the Black Baccara rose
  • Features the most complex expression of parquetry in Rolls-Royce history
  • 1,603 wood pieces hand-finished and placed over nearly two years
  • New exterior paint process required 150 iterations to perfect
  • Includes a matching Champagne Chest and an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept timepiece


 Rolls-Royce has unveiled the La Rose Noire Droptail, a stunning coachbuilt motor car that represents a love story and the deep partnership of a prominent international family. It is a testament to the brand’s pursuit of perfection and the harmonization of artistry and a client’s vision. La Rose Noire Droptail incorporates design elements that echo Rolls-Royce’s heritage and the character of the clients. This historic commission will forever be a part of Rolls-Royce history.

The design team behind La Rose Noire Droptail explored new artisanal processes and expressive gestures to create a unique luxury language. The wood elements of the motor car, in particular, showcase the brand’s dedication to exquisite craftsmanship. This commission showcases the ambition of Rolls-Royce clients and the creative capabilities of the brand’s designers, positioning Rolls-Royce as a leading force in applied art.

La Rose Noire Droptail draws inspiration from the Black Baccara rose, capturing its dark, bold, and powerful allure. The motor car has a captivating form and flawless, elegant details. The exterior is finished in a lustrous and complex red shade named ‘True Love’. The surface finish specialists developed a new paint process to achieve the rich variation of the color. The dark finish of the brightwork, named Hydroshade, and the treatment of the alloy wheels further enhance the motor car’s formidable and glamorous character.

The interior of La Rose Noire Droptail is the most remarkable feature. It showcases the most complex expression of parquetry ever created by Rolls-Royce. The artwork symbolizes falling rose petals and is made from 1,603 handcrafted wood veneer triangles. Each triangle is cut, sanded, and precisely positioned by hand. The intricate pattern on the wood veneer took nearly two years of development and precise craftsmanship to achieve. It creates a luxurious and embracing environment for the passengers.

In addition to its breathtaking design, La Rose Noire Droptail features a one-of-a-kind timepiece by Audemars Piguet, specially commissioned by the clients. The timepiece is integrated into the motor car’s fascia and can also be removed and worn on a strap. The motor car also comes with a bespoke Champagne Chest, designed to match the color palette and materials of La Rose Noire Droptail.

Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail is a celebration of the commissioning family’s passion for detail and their commitment to creating meaningful and memorable experiences. It is not only a testament to their legacy but also adds to the rich history of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Motorsport

2024 Subaru Levorg Layback Teased As Wagon Turned SUV

The Subaru Levorg, which is named after the words “legacy,” “revolution,” and “touring’,” is a midsize wagon that has been available since 2014. The second generation was introduced in 2020 and, like its predecessor, it is primarily sold in Japan. However, the Levorg is also available in a few export markets such as Australia, where it is known as the WRX Sportwagon, and New Zealand, where it is called the WRX GT Wagon. In the coming month, Japan will see the debut of a new version of the Levorg.

Official teaser images have been released, providing a sneak peek of the upcoming Levorg Layback, which is essentially an SUV version of the wagon. Subaru has stated that this high-riding variant is specifically intended for the Japanese market, with preorders set to begin on September 7. While the exact debut date has not been revealed, it is likely to coincide with the start of preorders or perhaps even earlier.


ToyotaUk

Toyota Scientist Dr. John Muldoon Recognized for Contributions to Battery Technology

Named Fellow of The Electrochemical Society

Receives prestigious 2023 Battery Division Technology Award

Recognitions honor significant advances in the ‘beyond lithium-ion’ battery field

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Dr. John Muldoon, senior principal scientist at the Toyota Research Institute of North America (TRINA), has been recognized by The Electrochemical Society (ECS) as a Fellow in its Class of 2023. He has also received the prestigious Battery Division Technology Award for 2023, making him the first representative of an automotive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to receive this award in its 30-year history.

Dr. Muldoon’s groundbreaking research has greatly contributed to Toyota’s ‘beyond lithium-ion’ battery research programs. His work has influenced global research trends in multivalent ion, lithium sulfur, and solid-state lithium metal batteries. Dr. Muldoon will be officially recognized for these achievements in October at the 244th ECS Meeting in Gothenburg, Sweden.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Battery Technology Award and to be named a Fellow of the ECS, Class of 2023. I am deeply appreciative of all the strong support of my colleagues,” said Dr. Muldoon. “I am confident that Toyota will continue to push the boundaries of beyond lithium-ion and lithium-ion technologies to pave the way for the next generation of batteries.”

The ECS Fellow designation, established in 1989, is reserved for individuals who have made significant technological contributions in the field of electrochemical and solid-state science and technology and have provided service to the Society. The Battery Division Technology Award, created in 1993, recognizes notable achievements in battery and fuel cell technology development.

“These recognitions are among the highest levels of recognition from the world’s scientific community, and Toyota joins a small handful of organizations with significant contributions to the battery field,” said Kristen Tabar, group vice president of Advanced Mobility Research and Development at Toyota Motor North America. “It is a testament to our commitment to innovation with superior research expertise that Toyota has in-house.”

Dr. Muldoon is an elected member of the ECS Battery Division committee and has played a crucial role in the establishment of ECS symposiums on ‘beyond Li-ion’ battery technologies. He also advocates for bridging fundamental research to application and supports younger scientists. His efforts in fostering a relationship between ECS and Toyota led to the establishment of the ECS Toyota Young Investigator Fellowship in 2016. This award supports young professors and scholars pursuing innovative electrochemical research in green energy technology.

In addition to his technical contributions and involvement in ECS activities, Dr. Muldoon is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Chemistry and an active member of the American Chemical Society and Material Research Society.

Citreon

CITROËN C4 AND Ë-C4 NAMED BEST CARS TO OWN IN THE UK ACCORDING TO DRIVER POWER SURVEY 2023

  • Citroën C4 and ë-C4 have won the ‘Car of the Year’ title in the Driver Power survey 2023.
  • Citroën C4 and ë-C4 have secured the top spot in the list of 75 most satisfying models to own in the UK.
  • The model has also been named the ‘Best Compact Family Car’ in this year’s survey.
  • Citroën ë-C4 can now be purchased with two all-electric powertrains that have a maximum WLTP range of 260 miles.

 

The Driver Power survey 2023, conducted and published by Auto Express, has crowned Citroën C4 as the most gratifying car to own in the UK. The C4 and ë-C4 have also been declared the ‘Best Compact Family Car’. Auto Express performs the survey each year, and this year more than 60,000 car owners provided their feedback on various aspects, including running costs, performance, and technology. Recognition in the Driver Power survey is valued by industry commentators and media worldwide as a fair and unbiased evaluation of car owners’ opinions.

 

Citroën C4 and ë-C4 outperformed their competitors according to the scores given by their respective owners. The car owners seemed satisfied with the good MPG or all-electric efficiency, running costs, safety features, and reliability. The quality of ride and handling left an excellent impression on the owners, irrespective of the chosen powertrain.

 

Both C4 and ë-C4 are beneficiaries of the Citroën Advanced Comfort® Program. Citroën Advanced Comfort® seats are constructed specifically with high-density foam in the core of the seat, providing additional support, along with an additional layer of 15mm memory foam just under the fabric. The Advanced Comfort® suspension system, which is exclusively available in Citroën cars, improves the absorption of imperfections in the road and ensures that passengers experience a comfortable ride, creating a real ‘flying carpet’ consistency. This experience is further enhanced by the serene soundless electric powertrain of ë-C4.

 

Steve Fowler, auto express editor-in-chief, commented on this achievement, stating that, “We’ve been greatly impressed by this sleek and stylish Citroën from the outset, and it’s clearly making a huge impression on its owners. It’s a remarkable win for the French firm, which has not only transformed its product range in recent years, but has also invested hugely in improvements to quality.”

 

Citroën C4 is available with a collection of efficient petrol and diesel engines, and the ë-C4 comes with two electric powertrains, one with a 50kW battery that promises a maximum of 222 miles of range (WLTP), and the other with a 54kW battery that ensures up to 260 miles of range (WLTP). Citroën ë-C4 supports 100kW rapid charging, implying that you can charge from 0-80% in only thirty minutes from a public rapid charger.

 

Citroën UK’s Managing Director, Greg Taylor, commented, “This is a wonderful accolade for everyone at Citroën UK, but much more importantly it’s fabulous news for present and future Citroën customers. An enormous amount of work has gone into our latest products to ensure they’re best in class in terms of quality and ownership experience. And now, the outstanding service delivered by our retailer partners means Citroën can proudly say that we are the maker of the most satisfying car to own in the UK right now.

 

To learn more about C4 and ë-C4 and the rest of the Citroën range, visit: https://www.citroen.co.uk/

 

 

JeepUk

Jeep® Avenger named ‘Best Small Car’ at Autocar Awards 2023

  • All-new, fully-electric Jeep® Avenger is named ‘Best Small Car’ at the Autocar Awards 2023
  • Panel of expert judges praise the Avenger’s compact form and sophistication
  • Prestigious Autocar Awards recognises the best new cars on sale in the UK
  • Latest award from Autocar adds to the Avenger’s expanding collection of international accolades – including European Car of the Year
  • Available to order now; designed and built in Europe, the Jeep Avenger compact SUV is the brand’s first-ever battery-electric vehicle (BEV)

 

The all-new, fully-electric Jeep® Avenger has added to its collection of international accolades after being named ‘Best Small Car’ at the Autocar Awards 2023.

The Autocar Awards, which celebrates the finest new cars on sale in the UK today, are curated by some of the most informed and experienced automotive journalists in the industry, hand-picking the best of the best in highly competitive categories.

Commenting on the Avenger’s win, Mark Tisshaw, Editor, Autocar, said: “Spend time with the team that made the Avenger and you’ll be aware just how committed these passionate individuals have been and how they have worked hard to create a car that brings something truly different to the small SUV class.

“The Avenger’s design is every bit a true Jeep, and it has a real rugged character. The proportions are spot on, and, like the best small cars, it has real charm and character. Those qualities transfer to the way the Avenger drives. There’s a maturity to its ride, handling and steering, and the electric power is a boon around town. It feels far more sophisticated than a car this small has any right to. While the Avenger might be small on the outside, it never really feels it inside.”

Jules Tilstone, Managing Director, Jeep UK, commented: “We are delighted to see yet another highly respected automotive publication recognise the Avenger’s exceptional customer offering in the compact car sector. The Avenger is rich with Jeep DNA, now in compact form with no compromise on interior spaciousness. We are charging forward with the next generation of electrified Jeep vehicles, and the Avenger is at the forefront of this exciting new chapter.”

The new Avenger is an all-electric compact SUV that, at just four metres in length, is positioned in the rapidly growing B-SUV segment. Aimed at active people who are looking for an SUV with compact dimensions, the Avenger offers plenty of room and storage possibilities. Designed and built as a Jeep vehicle from day one, the Avenger packs the Jeep DNA into a compact SUV with a unique combination of capability, style, functionality and technology.

With a range of up to 250 miles* in the WLTP cycle, a new electric powertrain combines 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 the electrification of the Jeep brand – the BEV wave. By the end of 2030, the Jeep brand’s European sales will be 100% pure electric.

The all-new, fully-electric Jeep Avenger is available to order now from £34,800 OTR.

 

 

FiatUk

FIAT REVEAL THE TOP 10 SCENIC ROUTES IN THE UK

The stunning North Coast 500 which takes in the sights of Northern Scotland has been named the most scenic road to drive in the UK according to research from Fiat.

A study of 2,000 motorists saw the 516 miles of epic coastal scenery, sandy beaches and rugged mountains, which starts and ends at Inverness Castle, come out on top, followed by the Kendal to Keswick road trip in the Lake District.

North Somerset’s Cheddar Gorge through the Mendip Hills was third and Cornwall’s route from St Ives to St Just came in at fourth.  The coastal A39 linking Minehead to Barnstaple, the A82 leading to mystical Loch Ness, and The Black Mountain Pass in the Brecon Beacons were also among the top 10 beautiful roads to drive in the country.

It also emerged 78 per cent of drivers prefer to take the scenic route when travelling to a destination – to make the most of the view.

Research was commissioned by Fiat to launch the guide Scenic Drives Near Me: The Best Drives In The UK 

The interactive map, which takes into consideration those that drive electric cars like the fully electric convertible Fiat 500 – details great roads, interesting waypoints, electric charge points and features a pre-loaded route that can be downloaded to a mobile phone.

Greg Taylor, Managing Director, Fiat and Abarth, said: “It’s interesting to see the best open roads in the country to drive.  The NC500 in Northern Scotland has always been a popular choice, with its additions of remote fishing villages and a wealth of unforgettable experiences along the way. But let’s not forget the Snake Pass in the Peak District, the Cotswolds or even the best of the Moors in Yorkshire – all incredible roads to explore on any given day. Clearly there are motorists who are keen on taking a more scenic route to their destination.”

The study also found 72 per cent believe the UK has some of the most scenic roads in the world.

Further findings revealed 54 per cent prefer taking a picturesque journey even if it takes them longer to get to their location.

Of those, 44 per cent said driving on longer roads helps them de-stress while 41 per cent enjoy going somewhere they haven’t been to before.  And 38 per cent said it gives them more freedom in the open road – with 57 per cent finding driving in general relaxing.

It also emerged the ocean, rolling hills and mountain cliffs were also among the types of beautiful scenery drivers want to see while driving.  Scotland was named the best region to drive in the UK, followed by London and the South-West of England.

Nearly two in 10 motorists prefer to drive a convertible, with 29 per cent envious whenever they drive one with the rooftop down.  According to OnePoll data, poor road conditions often prevent drivers from taking a scenic route while 29 per cent were put off by poor traffic. Other reasons for avoiding a longer journey include having to talk to passengers, worrying about the fuel tank and driving on unfamiliar roads.

Over half, 56 per cent, of drivers who have driven through a scenic route said they get jealous of other passengers who can concentrate on the beautiful views.  While seven in 10 have pulled over the side of the road to admire the scenic views.

Greg Taylor, Managing Director, Fiat and Abarth, continued: “Our research found that drivers think the UK has some of the best scenic roads in the world. There’s no better way to experience great driving roads than in an electric convertible like the 500. We know there can be some anxiety around going on long journeys when in an electric car which is why our guide highlights where people can charge their car en-route, giving them the peace of mind to simply enjoy the beautiful open road and quiet of an electric car.”

TOP 10 BEST SCENIC ROADS IN THE UK

  1. The North Coast 500 route starting from Inverness in Northern Scotland
  2. Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District
  3. Cheddar Gorge through the Mendip Hills
  4. St Ives to St Just in Cornwall
  5. Snake Pass in Peak District National Park
  6. Best of the Moors (A169 and A170) in Yorkshire
  7. The Cotswolds – Cheltenham to Stratford
  8. A82 road which goes towards the mystical Loch Ness
  9. A39 coastal route linking Minehead to Barnstaple (Cornwall and Devon)
  10. The Black Mountain Pass A4069 in the Brecon Beacons, Wales

ENDS