Radford, known for its high-performance and bespoke automobiles, demonstrated its prowess once again at the 30th Goodwood Festival of Speed, showcasing the mesmerizing Type 62-2 Pikes Peak Edition. The Radford Type 62-2 Pikes Peak Edition, the first of the Track Editions, was unveiled at Goodwood amidst much anticipation after its incredible Pikes Peak victory. The car serves as a testament to Radford’s adeptness at developing bespoke race cars, equipped to face the most arduous challenges.
Having already established its pedigree at the renowned hill climb event, the Type 62-2 Pikes Peak Edition marked a new high point. It emerged as the Exhibition Class winner with a time of 09:37.326 at the 101st Pikes Peak, expertly driven by acclaimed Rally and Race Car Driver, Tanner Foust. This victory marked Foust’s first time breaking the esteemed 10-minute barrier.
The Track Edition series is limited to 12 vehicles, each meticulously tailored to the buyer’s specifications. The series showcases the pinnacle of Radford’s technology, from a carbon monocoque chassis that is 50% lighter yet three times stronger than its predecessor to exposed carbon construction in the interior panels. Buyers can choose between a high-quality leather finish or an exposed carbon one for a visceral racing feel.
These track cars come with an exclusive ‘Track Package’, offering an array of premium accessories including a bespoke Sparco driving suit, driving shoes, SALT sunglasses, and even a special edition car cover. Radford’s partnership with Yokohama ensures specialist tire support, with an extra set of wheels and tires, tire warmers, a laser alignment kit, and a toolset by Mac Tools. Additionally, customers are afforded the unique opportunity to train with racing legends Jenson Button and Tanner Foust at the Radford Racing School.
As Radford’s VP of Marketing, Izzy Roa, articulates, “Turning to motorsport to help refine and develop our cars is everything that Radford represents.” The brand not only focuses on creating visually stunning vehicles but also ensures top-notch performance. This competitive refinement, honed on the track, effortlessly translates to their customer cars.
The Type 62-2 Pikes Peak Edition is more than a performance car; it’s the embodiment of Radford’s tradition of excellence and innovation. It exemplifies the brand’s commitment to quality, power, and luxury, forging a path to a high-octane future.
As technology progresses, terms once reserved for textbooks are now becoming well-known to the general public.
The term ‘rare earths’ may not be commonly discussed at the breakfast table, but it has gained familiarity among those interested in cars, particularly since the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and the scrutiny surrounding rare earth materials.
So what exactly are rare earths and what are they used for? Contrary to their name, they are not particularly scarce, and their relevance extends beyond EVs. These metals are already widely used in various technologies commonly found in households, not just in internal combustion engine (ICE) cars.
Rare earth materials consist of 17 metals that appear on the periodic table of elements. In the automotive world, they are best known for their usage in the permanent magnet electric motors of EVs. However, it is important to note that not all car manufacturers choose to use permanent magnet motors to avoid relying on rare earth materials.
These rare earths have intriguing names that are pleasing to say. According to Porsche, which incorporates them in its EV drive motors, neodymium is the most prominent, but dysprosium and terbium are also utilized. Yet, if there are concerns about the sustainability of these materials, why use them at all?
The rationale behind their use lies in their ability to produce the world’s most powerful permanent magnets, generating a magnetic field significantly stronger than regular iron (ferrite) magnets. Porsche explains that its EV motors include magnets consisting of around 30% rare earth metals combined with iron.
These stronger magnets are also smaller and lighter than iron magnets, allowing permanent magnet motors to take up less space and weigh less compared to alternative motors powered by electrical windings instead of magnets.
Regarding rarity, Porsche clarifies that some rare earth materials are more abundant than lead. However, their extraction and processing are considerably more challenging, which in a sense makes them equally difficult to obtain.
EV motors are not the sole or initial application of rare earth materials. In fact, a rare earth material (distinct from precious metals) is used in the catalytic converters of ICE cars, as well as in catalysts for refining petrol and diesel fuels.
These materials are also utilized in the small electric motors present throughout vehicles for the same reason they are used in traction motors: more power in a smaller space.
In addition to cars, rare earths have various behind-the-scenes uses, such as sensor production and glass and mirror polishing. They are also employed in other industries, including computer hard drives, LED screens, and radar technology.
The fate of legacy automakers often seems grim as they become relics of the past. Brands like Pontiac and Buick have faded away in North America, but Chrysler has found hope in electrification. Under the Stellantis umbrella, Chrysler plans to go all-electric by 2028. The company has already introduced an electric car concept called the Airflow and is expected to release its first EV in 2025. There are even rumors that the Chrysler 300 will be part of this electrification project.
The Chrysler 300, known as Walter White’s car and a symbol of middle-class luxury, will have its final year as a gas-powered vehicle in 2023 before making a comeback as an EV. It is unclear whether the EV version will retain the same design or undergo changes, which leaves room for speculation.
What If The Chrysler 300 EV Was Just The Airflow Concept All Along?
While it may seem unlikely, it’s not far-fetched to think that the Airflow Concept could become the Chrysler 300 EV. The Airflow Concept is not scheduled for production, so it could easily be rebranded as the 300 EV. Additionally, the current consumer preference for crossovers, SUVs, and pickup trucks suggests that Chrysler might opt for a different body style for the 300 EV to appeal to a wider market. The success of electric crossovers like the Ford F-150 and Tesla Model Y indicates that the Airflow, with its crossover design, could compete in the same space. The Airflow Concept takes its name from a previous Chrysler icon, but beyond that, the EV version may bring new innovations.
The Airflow Concept features modern LED headlights, a sporty grille, and a sleek roof design. It has a dual motor setup for all-wheel drive and generates a combined 402 horsepower (300 kW). The estimated range is around 400 miles, which would make it one of the most efficient EVs available. Whether the Airflow Concept becomes the Chrysler 300 EV or not, the concept remains an important component in the brand’s move towards electrification.
The Chrysler 300c Is Back For One Last Ride
2023 Chrysler 300C RWD Specs
Engine
6.4 Liter, V-8
Power Output
485 horsepower, 475 pound-feet of torque
Drivertrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission
8-speed Automatic
Acceleration (0-60mph)
4.3 seconds
The 2023 Chrysler 300 will be the last gas-powered version of the car. The 300c variant will be equipped with a 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 485 horsepower, allowing it to reach 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The top-of-the-trim 300c version will feature adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, a premium cabin with carbon fiber accents, a 19-speaker Harman Kardon Audio System, and black leather seats. The 300s version, starting at a lower price, will have a 3.6-liter V6 engine, while the Touring L and Touring versions offer softer suspensions and more affordable prices. However, the interior design of the 300 models has not aged well and lacks a modern feel.
Chrysler Is Not Selling So Well Anymore
Currently, Chrysler only offers three vehicles: the 300, a dying sedan, and the Pacifica, a minivan available in both ICE and hybrid options. While transitioning to electric vehicles is a step in the right direction, Chrysler needs more innovative ideas to avoid becoming obsolete. The Airflow Concept and the possible 300 EV prototype are good starting points, but they lack the unique appeal that made Chrysler’s previous models stand out. To boost sales, Chrysler’s CEO, Chris Fuell, aims to bring “accessible innovation” to the brand, positioning it as a premium option for the middle class. Only time will tell if these efforts will be successful.
Munich. Various model refinement measures will once again be included in the BMW Motorrad program for model year 2024. The models can be ordered in the new configurations from all BMW Motorrad partners from August 2024.
As a cross-model change, the Intelligent Emergency Call is available from the factory as an option for the following models and series in the markets of the USA and Canada with model year 2024:
R 1250x (US).
CE 04 (US).
K 1600x (US).
S 1000x (US).
R 18x (US).
BMW G 310 R.
Version Sport: New color Racingblue met. Polarwhite uni / Racingblue met. no longer available.
Version Sport: Front Wheel Cover, Radiator Cover, Fuel Tank Cover, Rear Cover Racingblue met. / Front Cover, Badge Holder, Polarwhite uni / Main-/Rearframe Racingred uni / Red Wheels.
Version Passion: New color Granitgrey met. Racingred uni no longer available.
Version Passion: Front Cover, Badge Holder Granitgrey met. / Front Wheel Cover, Radiator Cover, Fuel Tank Cover Cosmic Black uni / Main-/Rearframe Racingred uni / Red Wheels.
BMW G 310 GS.
Version Rallye: new color Racingred uni. Kalamata-darkgold met. no longer available. Front Wheel Cover, Main-/Rearframe Middle Fuel Tank Cover Racingred uni Fuel Tank Cover Le/Ri Black uni mat.
BMW G 310 RR.
Version Basic: Cosmic Black uni 2. Cosmic Black uni no longer available.
New: Main-/Rearframe in Racingred uni, new large „RR“TapeStyle.
BMW F 900 R.
Version Basic: New color Racingred uni. Blackstorm met. no longer available.
Version Triple Black: New color Blackstorm met 2. Style Exclusive / Bluestone met. no longer available.
Version Version Basic and Triple Black: Side Panels Blackstorm met. / Front Wheel Cover, Middle Cover Fuel Tank Mineralgrey met. mat / Seat Black / Engine Avus Black met. mat / Wheels Night Black uni / Fork Tube Black.
Version Sport: New color Lightwihite uni. Lightwhite uni / Racingblue met. no longer available.
Version Sport: Front Wheel Cover, Side Panels Lightwhite uni / Middle Cover Fuel Tank, Radiator Cover, Engine Spoiler Racingblue met. / Seat Black / Engine Avus Black met. mat / Wheels Night Black uni / Fork Tube Gold.
BMW F 900 XR.
Version Basic: Lightwhite uni 2. Lightwhite uni no longer available.
Version Triple Black: Blackstorm met 2. Black: Blackstorm met. No longer available.
Version Sport: Racingblue met 2. Racingblue met. No longer available.
New: Front Wheel Cover, Side Panels Lightwhite uni Radiator-/Middle Cover Fuel Tank Mineralgrey met. mat / Engine Avus Black met. mat Wheels Night Black uni / Fork Tube Black
BMW K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL.
Intelligent emergency call (ECALL) for USA and Canada.
Option 719 “OLIVINE”: New color Velvet Green met., Mineral White met. no longer available.
Option 719 “OLIVINE” incl. Option 719 Seat Black incl. Option 719 Wheels Icon incl. Option 719 Design Package Aero Black Option 719 Fuel Tank Badge, Badges Airbox R18 with Option 719 Black Powertrain.
Only R 18 Classic: Option 719 “MOONSTONE” new color Mineral White met. incl. Option 719 Seat Black incl. Option 719 Wheels Aero incl. Option 719 Design Package Aero Option 719 Fuel Tank Badge, Badges Airbox R18 with Option 719.
BMW R 18 B.
New color Racingblue met. (Aditional).
Option 719 “BLACK PEARL”: New color Blackstorm met. 2. Option 719 Galaxy Dust met. / Titan Silver met. and Mineral White met. no longer available.
Option 719 “BLACK PEARL”: incl. Option 719 Design Package Aero Black Option 719 Fuel Fuel Tank Badge, Lettering Case Clip incl. OE Blacked-Out / Exhaust Black Chrom Black Powertrain.
BMW R 18 Transcontinental.
New color Racingblue met. (Aditional). Gravityblue met. no longer available.
Option 719 “MOON STONE”: New color Mineral White met. / Meteoric Dust Gold. Galaxy Dust met. / Titan Silver met, no longer available.
Option 719 “MOON STONE”: incl. Option 719 Seat Black incl. Option 719 Wheels Aero incl. Option 719 Design Package Aero Option 719 Fuel Tank Badge, Lettering Case Clip.
BMW C 400 X.
Version Passion: new color Racingred uni. Granitgrey met. no longer available. Seat Black / grey, Side Panels Racingred uni, Middle Cover and Battery Cover Granitgrey met.
BMW C 400 GT.
Version Exclusive new color Imperialblue met. Callistogrey met. no longer available. Seat Black, Side Panels Imperialblue met., Middle Cover and Battery Cover darkgrey met. mat.
BMW CE 04.
Version Avantgarde: new color Imperial Blue met., Magellan Grey met. no longer available.
Seat Black / Orange, Windschild Orange.
For further press material on BMW motorcycles and BMW Motorrad rider equipment, please visit the BMW Group PressClub at www.press.bmwgroup.com.
These days, almost everything in the automotive industry needs to be a crossover or an SUV in order to stay relevant. However, there seems to be no end in sight to the demand for SUVs and crossovers. During the unveiling of the new Toyota Alphard luxury minivan, a rumor that has been circulating for quite some time was confirmed—a Century SUV. This means that Toyota is officially creating an SUV version of its iconic full-size luxury sedan. Toyota’s Chief Branding officer, Simon Humphries, stated that the Century offers the ultimate Chauffeur experience and it will have to evolve. He also mentioned that more details will be shared later in the year about this new addition to Toyota’s chauffeur series.
The Century is a full-size flagship luxury sedan made by Toyota, and it is exclusive to the Japanese market. It is often compared to models like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Rolls-Royce Phantom. It is highly sought after by Japanese VIPs and high-profile businessmen. The current generation Century has been on sale since 2018 and is built on the rear-wheel drive N platform. The Century SUV will most likely debut before a next-generation Century sedan appears.
What We Wish The Century SUV Will Be
As Toyota’s flagship SUV, we hope that the Century SUV will be the epitome of Japanese prestige and luxury. It should not be based on a front-wheel drive architecture like many other Lexus and Toyota crossover SUVs. There are two possible routes for Toyota to take. The first is to utilize the TNGA-F platform, which would allow the SUV to have off-roading capabilities like the Lexus LX 600. The second option, and the one we prefer, is to use the TNGA-L platform, which is already used in the Lexus LS and LC. This platform offers high levels of comfort and on-road performance.
What Could It Look Like?
The Century SUV will likely resemble an SUV version of the Century sedan. However, it will not simply be a rugged version of the sedan. Toyota will combine vintage design elements with modern aesthetics, just like they did with the current Century sedan. The interior will follow a similar theme, with vintage and modern elements blended together. Rear seat comfort will be a highlight, with the possibility of an optional two-seater configuration.
Hybrid Propulsion As Standard
The Century SUV will most likely feature a hybrid electric drivetrain. It could either use a V-8 hybrid engine, similar to the one in the current Century sedan, or a V-6 hybrid engine used in the Lexus LS and LC. Both options offer a combination of power and fuel efficiency. There is also a possibility that Toyota will develop a completely new powertrain for the Century SUV.
How Much Would A Century SUV Cost?
In Japan, the current Toyota Century sedan has a base price of ¥20,080,000 ($140,000), making it more expensive than any Lexus or Toyota vehicle. The Century SUV will likely be even more expensive, possibly reaching the $200,000 mark. The limited production run and hand-built assembly process of the Century sedan contribute to its exclusivity and high price. It remains to be seen if the world is ready to pay nearly $200,000 for a Toyota SUV.
Tesla is once again reducing its prices. This is the sixth time the automaker has cut the prices of its models in 2023. Earlier this year, Tesla CEO Elon Musk surprised many by implementing price cuts of up to 20 percent in the U.S. and up to 17 percent in the European markets. As a result, the Tesla Model 3 became eligible for electric vehicle tax credits, solidifying its position as one of the most affordable EVs in the U.S. However, these price cuts have impacted Tesla’s profit margins, which have seen a sharp drop in the last quarter. Despite this, Musk believes that reducing prices is a calculated move to ensure long-term success for Tesla.
Sacrificing Today’s Profits For Tomorrow’s Rewards
Musk is willing to sacrifice short-term profits in order to set Tesla up for long-term success. The goal is to attract more customers and gain a competitive advantage over traditional automakers. Although the price cuts are eating into profits now, Musk believes it will pay off in the future. This strategy has sparked an EV price war, with other companies facing a dilemma on whether to follow Tesla’s lead. Only time will tell if this strategy will work in Tesla’s favor.
Tesla Is Striving To Capture A Larger Market Share
Tesla aims to capture a larger share of the automotive market currently dominated by traditional car manufacturers. Musk is pursuing a higher volume and larger fleet approach to achieve this. By slashing prices, Tesla has forced other automakers to adjust their EV prices in response. This move is aimed at enticing potential customers away from traditional automakers and towards Tesla. While competitors are hesitant to lower prices due to the impact on profit margins, Musk is confident that Tesla’s strategy will result in increased market share.
Musk Is Adapting To The Increasing Competition In The Market
Tesla is facing competition from both traditional automakers and new EV market entrants. Musk recognizes the need to adapt to this increasing competition, especially in key markets like China. The company is countering this competition by not only reducing prices but also by developing new models and employing innovative manufacturing techniques to lower production costs.
It’s The Best Way To Boost Sales
Musk believes that selling a large number of EVs at a lower margin is a more effective strategy. By reducing prices, Tesla aims to make EVs more affordable and accessible to a wider range of customers. This approach is intended to increase demand and penetrate the market further. Price cuts have already been implemented in various countries, resulting in increased demand and eligibility for electric vehicle tax credits.
Competition is inherent to the automotive industry. As Henry Ford once said, “Auto racing began five minutes after the second car was built,” and that really tells you all you need to know about the world of sports cars. But what does a car need to be dubbed the “best sports car”? Is it exclusivity, craftsmanship, significance, or style? We like to believe it’s all of those and more.
Picking a single vehicle as the best sports car is a difficult task, as personal preferences vary. However, the last 25 years have produced a diverse range of significant sports cars that have earned their place on any list. Whether you agree with the ranking or not, these 15 models have strong credentials to be called the best sports cars from the last 25 years.
So, let’s take a closer look at these amazing sports cars:
The Honda S2000 may not be the fastest car on this list, but it holds a special place among sports cars. While it may lack the outright performance of some of the others, it is always regarded as one of the best sports cars ever made. The S2000 was designed to be a practical sports car for everyday driving, and it succeeded in achieving that goal.
The Honda S2000 has a 5.4-second 0 to 60 mph time, a top speed of 151 mph, a curb weight of 2,833 pounds, and a 236-horsepower
As the world rapidly moves towards leaving internal-combustion-engines (ICE) once and for all, research and innovation have seen great speed, which is why the limitations that electric vehicles (EVs) had in the past have been left behind. The biggest issue the early EVs had was that the batteries weren’t engineered well enough to make them practical for daily use. The limiting factor that prevented EVs from being practical for daily use is now in the past, as EVs have evolved greatly. The Lucid Air, for example, has a staggering 516-mile range, demonstrating how far EVs have come. On April 5, 2023, Chevrolet introduced the production version of the 2024 Equinox EV, which is the cheapest 300-mile vehicle you can get your hands on. In the fall of 2024, Chevrolet will start delivering the base model (the 1LT Equinox EV) and it is expected to cost around $30,000.
A front shot of two 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EVs on a racing track
While Chevrolet will offer you five different trims, the base-model 1LT’s motor will deliver 210 horsepower to the front wheels and 242 pound-feet of torque, which is quite decent for an entry-level compact SUV. If you think this SUV needs more power, Chevrolet has you covered with an optional bigger battery and all-wheel drive (AWD) drivetrain. This increases the power output to 290 horses and 346 pound-feet of torque. All of this extra performance will enable your 1LT to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in six seconds. You have the option of getting a bigger battery pack for the 300-mile range, but it will cost slightly more than the $30,000 price tag. Nonetheless, 250 miles on the base trim is impressive nonetheless.
The Equinox EV’s Comparison With Rival SUVs
Chevy Equinox EV
Nissan Ariya
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Tesla Model 3
Model
2LT
Venture+ FWD
SE RWD
Long Range
Range
300 miles
304 miles
303 miles
358 miles
Price
$34,000 (est.)
$47,190
$45,500
$47,240
Chevrolet has confirmed that all models of the Equinox EV will feature a DC fast charging system. So, rest assured, you will not be waiting long for your Equinox EV to juice up to 100 percent. In this budget, potential buyers are looking for a long-range vehicle that makes their daily commute easy, and the vehicle shouldn’t be underpowered. 242 pound-feet of torque might be just enough. This SUV stands its ground against competitors such as the Nissan Ariya, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the Tesla Model 3, all of which have a 300-mile range or more. This is very crucial because nowadays, potential customers look at the numbers before purchasing, and this compact electric SUV has similar performance numbers to its rivals.
Good Looks And A Practical Interior – The Equinox EV Has It All
Chevrolet
Side angle shot of the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV in radiant red
The Equinox EV boasts futuristic looks, including single headlights, which extend across the entire front of the SUV, giving it a muscular, sporty look. The wide grille, which is flanked by two slim LED strips, adds to the SUV’s aggressive stance. The 1LT’s side has flush door handles and standard 19-inch wheels. Furthermore, the wide flared arches give this SUV a necessary muscular look. At the rear, you see animated taillights that showcase its futuristic looks, a shark fin, and a diffuser to provide that necessary downforce. This SUV has many of the safety and driver assistance features you would expect in a 2024 electric SUV. The standard features include a lane-keeping system, blind spot assistance, and an automatic emergency braking system. Also, you will get reverse automatic braking and rear-park assist to make your daily reversing maneuvers much easier.
However, GM’s Super Cruiseis reportedly only available in the 2LT and higher models, so, we will not be getting the Level 2 Autonomous Driving System in the 1LT. In the 1LT, your grocery runs are going to be stress-free thanks to the presence-sensing tailgate, which will open automatically when it senses the key fob near the rear of the vehicle. Additionally, the spacious trunk offers a maximum cargo capacity of 57.2 cubic feet (with the rear row folded), ensuring all your groceries fit in with ease. Furthermore, this SUV has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds with the AWD model.
The electric Chevy Equinox crossover’s interior is ultramodern, spacious, and filled with all the latest technology. On the base model, you get two 11-inch screens: one for the infotainment system and the other for the driver’s display. The 1LT’s interior will also have a moon roof, a two-tone interior, and ambient lighting to give you the feeling of being in your lounge. Chevrolet has gone with the traditional knobs for temperature control, and we welcome this change because having temperature control buttons on the touchscreen is distracting. In the infotainment section, Chevrolet is designing its very own infotainment system in collaboration with Google, and the first car to come equipped with that will be the Chevy Blazer 2024. This infotainment system is being developed in collaboration with Google and Chevy officials, who claim it will improve navigation and other driver assistance features like GM’s Super Cruise. It is not official whether the 2024 models of the Equinox EV will come with this new in-house infotainment system; however, we expect the Equinox EV to come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Even The Top-spec Equinox EV Costs Less Than $45,000
Chevrolet
Rear three-quarters shot of a red 2024 Chevy Equinox EV on the street
The 2024 Chevy Equinox EV’s deliveries will commence in the fall of 2024, pricing starts at $30,000. If you don’t quite have the $30,000 budget, we have a great piece of news for you: this EV qualifies for a $7,500 tax credit, which makes this SUV more lucrative and budget-friendly. If you’re eligible for it, you can get your Equinox EV for less than $23,000! There are other EVs with a 300-mile plus range like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 SE RWD with a 304-mile range with the price of $45,500, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range has an impressive 333-mile range, and it sets you back $47,240, the Nissan Ariya venture+ has a price of $47,190, and it comes with a 304-mile range. However, none of them comes close to the price that Chevrolet is offering for the Equinox EV 1LT.
Trim
GM Est. Range (FWD)
Est. Price
1LT
250 miles
$30,000
2LT
300 miles
$34,000
3LT
300 miles
$37,000
2RS
300 miles
$40,000
3RS
300 miles
$44,000
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