Tag Archives: part

Long-Term Review

Ora Funky Cat 2023 long-term test

Mileage: 3,450

Life with an Ora Funky Cat: Month 4

Just one small part can prevent the whole machine from working – 24 May

It’s frustrating. I can’t insert the 50kW CCS plug into the charging port of the Funky Cat. Let’s try the 43kW Type 2. Nope, same issue: it goes most of the way in but doesn’t click into place, and as a result, the charger can’t communicate with the car.

We’ve already spent half an hour on a beautiful Sunday afternoon trying to find a charger and get enough power for a half-lap of the M25. My patience is wearing thin. I won’t go into detail about my reaction here.

My partner, who is more level-headed than me and less emotionally invested in the situation, takes a calmer and more logical approach. While I hadn’t thought of it, she suggests searching online for a solution.

I assumed that because the Funky Cat is new and rare, I wouldn’t find much helpful information from experienced owners on forums. But luckily, someone else had recently encountered the same problem, and their situation was even more urgent than ours.

“Urgent help needed,” reads the post she found on an EV forum. “I’m on holiday in Cornwall and the pin inside the charging port seems to be locked, so I can’t fully connect any charger. It usually slides into the hole in the charging cable when pushed in. I need to go home on Wednesday and cannot charge!”

Reading this, the idea of me being a bit late for a family barbecue doesn’t seem so important anymore.

This is great information. With this knowledge, we point our phone torches into the port and see the tiny pin causing all the trouble.

One person on the forum had suggested disconnecting the 12V battery to reset the system and clear any issues, but I don’t want to do that because it would reset all the settings to their factory defaults, and I don’t have the necessary socket with me. It’s at home, which is now a 20-minute walk away.

Featured

Mecum Monterey 2023: 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4

As part of the Monterey 2023 auction, Mecum Auctions is showcasing the impressive 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4. This stunning car is not only a symbol of automotive elegance but also holds a significant place in racing history. With its captivating Nero 20-B-50 (Black) finish, vibrant Pella Orange Connolly leather seats, and complementing Red carpets, this automobile effortlessly combines style and performance in true Ferrari fashion.

What sets this particular 275 GTB/4 apart is its rarity, being one of only six originally painted in Black. It has recently been refinished in its original color scheme, perfectly blending classic aesthetic charm with contemporary refurbishment. Beneath its striking exterior lies the heart of a true racer – a robust 3286cc four-cam V-12 engine.

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The car’s lineage is as remarkable as its aesthetics. It was originally owned by Dr. Luigi Ravizza of Verona, Italy, who raced it in various Italian gentleman hillclimb races under the pseudonym “Meo.” Vintage photos from 1967-68 beautifully capture these racing adventures.

Throughout its time with Ravizza, the car received regular maintenance and servicing at the Ferrari factory’s Assistenza Clienti in Modena. Its significance in Ferrari’s illustrious history was further solidified by being featured in the Ferrari 1968-69-70 Yearbook.

In 1971, the 275 GTB/4 made its way to the United States, specifically to Gerry Sutterfield of Mount Vernon, Ohio, a prominent figure in the Ferrari enthusiast community. Sutterfield, a member of the first Ferrari Club of America Board of Directors, served as the National President in 1969-70 and gained recognition for his participation in vintage racing with a Porsche 917.

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The car’s third owner, Don Vitale, an attorney from Southbury, Connecticut, purchased it in 1984. Under Vitale’s ownership, the Ferrari underwent a restoration, receiving a new Red finish and Black interior. The restoration was completed in 1990, and the car proudly participated in the 1990 FCA National Concours in Watkins Glen, New York, as well as the 1991 FCA National Concours in Washington.

In 1999, the Vitale family sold the car to Rick Grant III through Peter Sweeney’s Forza Motors. The 275 GTB/4 continued to dazzle spectators at prestigious events, including the 1999 Cavallino Classic Concorso D’Eleganza and the Cavallino Classic track event at Moroso Motorsports Park.

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Now, this beautifully restored 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 will be one of the highlight attractions at Mecum Auctions’ Monterey 2023 event. Its captivating history, rare original color, and outstanding provenance make it an irresistible opportunity for serious car enthusiasts and collectors alike. As this remarkable vehicle heads to auction, it carries with it a rich heritage of speed, elegance, and the finest Italian craftsmanship.


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News, Science

Blue Origin Investigating Explosion Of Rocket Engine Made For ULA

Blue Origin is investigating an explosion of its BE-4 rocket engine, which is known as the “most powerful liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled rocket engine ever developed.” The engine is being developed for United Launch Alliance (ULA) and is also intended to power Blue Origin’s New Glenn reusable launch vehicle. Blue Origin has been working on the BE-4 engine since 2011, but it wasn’t until 2014 that the company signed a deal with ULA.

Since then, Blue Origin has faced setbacks, including multiple powerpack failures, which have delayed the development and deployment timelines. It was only in October 2022 that Blue Origin announced the delivery of two BE-4 engines to ULA for the first flight of the Vulcan rocket. The launch of Blue Origin’s New Glenn, which competes with SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy, has been repeatedly delayed to accommodate the BE-4 development delays.

The original schedule for New Glenn’s first flight was in 2021, but it was pushed to the fourth quarter of 2022. However, the launch did not happen during that time. Blue Origin’s senior commerce executive, Ariane Cornell, has stated that New Glenn will be ready for NASA’s ESCAPADE mission to Mars in 2024.

News

Peugeot 208: Europe’s Best-Selling Car Gets Hybrid Powertrains and a Sportier Look

The popular Peugeot 208 has undergone a comprehensive upgrade, including the addition of two new hybrid powertrains, an enhanced exterior design, and various interior improvements.

The new hybrid options, which are also available in the facelifted Vauxhall Corsa, combine 99bhp and 134bhp petrol engines with a six-speed automatic gearbox that features an integrated 48V electric motor. This electrification results in a torque boost at low revs and a 15% increase in fuel efficiency. Peugeot claims that these hybrids operate in pure-electric mode for more than 50% of the time in urban environments.

The existing 74bhp and 99bhp petrol engines remain in the lineup, paired with a five-speed manual and a six-speed manual respectively. However, the 100bhp diesel engine has been discontinued.

The electric variant of the Peugeot 208, known as the e-208, now comes with a new 154bhp motor and a larger 51kWh battery, providing a range of 248 miles on a single charge. Peugeot asserts that the battery can be charged from 20% to 80% in less than 25 minutes using a 100kW charger.

The exterior design of the Peugeot 208 has been updated to match the refreshed 508 and 2008 models. It features a more prominent tri-fang daytime running light signature, a wider front grille, and a rear light bar with three red ‘claws’ extending across the entire width of the boot.

Inside the car, a 10.0in touchscreen is now standard across all trim levels, although a high-definition panel is reserved for Allure and GT models. The distinctive i-Cockpit dashboard design remains, with a small, uniquely shaped steering wheel positioned below the instrument cluster.

A range of advanced driver assistance systems has been added to the Peugeot 208 to meet the new GSR2 safety standards set by the European Union. These include adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, lane-keeping assistance, and an optional 360-degree parking camera.

The Peugeot 208 is available in three trim levels: Active, Allure, and GT. The price of each trim level is expected to increase slightly. Currently, the 208 starts at £20,610 for the 1.2 Puretech Active and goes up to £34,845 for the e-208 GT.

Motorsport

Mitsubishi Lineup Offers Free Oil Changes in 2024 Model Year Updates

Mitsubishi has announced updates to their 2024 model lineup, which now includes two years of limited maintenance coverage. As part of this program, customers will receive three complimentary oil and filter changes, three tire rotations, and one cabin air filter replacement. Additionally, there are significant changes for individual vehicles within the lineup.

One of the notable updates is the introduction of the 2024 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid in a new Platinum Edition. This edition features a Black Diamond body with an Alloy Silver roof. Mitsubishi will release pricing and further details about this model at a later date. Another addition to the PHEV model is the availability of the Black Edition SEL, which comes with black semi-aniline leather upholstery, a black dynamic shield, black chrome window trim, and black roof rails.


News

Used car buying guide: Honda Integra Type R Mk1 and Mk2

The Honda Integra Type R Mk1 and Mk2 are not only visually appealing with their clean and aggressive design, but they also offer functional features. The rear wing reduces lift and improves aerodynamics. Inside the car, you’ll find Recaro seats, a Momo leather steering wheel, and polished aluminum accents for the pedals and gearstick.

Equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, the Type R delivers precise and satisfying shifts. Its impressive performance capabilities include a 0-60mph time of around 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 148mph, allowing it to rival most hot hatches and outperform its predecessor.

In terms of reliability, the DC5 Type R is built to handle demanding driving conditions. Honda sold a substantial number of these cars in Japan, but they are not infinitely available. Finding a well-maintained model with fewer than 100,000 miles can be a challenge, and prices are not getting any lower. If you’re considering buying one, it’s best not to delay.

What we said then

In September 2001, we said, “Not as wild as its predecessor, but still a quick and desirable option. Encourage your Honda dealer to import one.”

An expert’s view

Simon Clarke, Midland Honda Services: According to Simon Clarke from Midland Honda Services, the DC5 is an evolution of the DC2. It addresses previous shortcomings by featuring a slightly larger engine and improved suspension. The DC5 offers an exceptional driving experience and can be set up to handle like a go-kart. Its mechanical grip is excellent when properly configured. The car boasts reliable performance and is also a good investment. While finding parts for the import model can be challenging, aftermarket options are available, and some parts can cross over from the EP3 (Civic Type R).

Buyer beware

Engine: As the Integra Type R ages, engine mounts may deteriorate. Fortunately, there are various replacement options with different levels of rigidity to choose from.

Long-Term Review

Alpina D3 S 2023 long-term test

In Germany, Alpina’s diesel models are popular because people prefer to commute long distances rather than fly internally. In Japan, which is traditionally a petrol market, they have also started to embrace diesel models, similar to the trend in the early 2000s.

From a dynamic perspective, the Alpina D3 S is quite impressive. It has a firm yet controlled ride, low noise levels, and heavy but consistent steering. The car feels incredibly stable at high speeds and has a reliable and uncompromising approach.

It’s common to compare Alpina models with their BMW M counterparts, but since the D3 S is a diesel and BMW doesn’t offer this engine, I won’t be making a direct comparison to the M3 Touring. These two cars are quite different, and the D3 S lacks the agility of the M models.

If there is an issue with the D3 S, it’s not entirely its fault. The 20-inch wheels with 30-profile Pirelli P Zero tires provide a nicely balanced four-wheel-drive setup with even weight distribution. However, on a couple of occasions, I encountered unexpected British potholes at night that made me fear damaging a tire. It might be worth considering the 19-inch wheels instead, although they have a different design compared to the sleek Alpina classic spokes that I’m personally fond of.

Stay tuned for more updates, including how the tires fare on continental Europe roads.

Second Opinion

Prior’s enthusiasm for the diesel V6 engine in Alpina’s D4 S Gran Coupé is well-founded. Earlier this year, I was thoroughly impressed by its refined cruising and effortless performance and efficiency. I even speculated that you could achieve 40mpg while cruising at speeds over 100mph on the autobahn.

First Drive

Skoda Enyaq iV Coupe 80 Studio

The Skoda Enyaq iV has been on the market for several years now, marking Skoda’s entrance into the growing electric SUV market. The Enyaq has been successful in attracting customers with its stylish design, and the introduction of the Skoda Enyaq iV Coupé last year further boosted sales, helping Skoda become the sixth most popular brand in Europe in 2022.

Today, we will be looking at the Enyaq iV Coupé. It comes in four trims and is equipped with Skoda’s largest 82kWh (75kWh usable) battery, offering an impressive range of 345 miles. The starting price for this streamlined electric vehicle is a modest £44,825, considering the current market for electric family cars in 2023. Competitors include the user-friendly Volvo C40 Recharge, Volkswagen’s ID 5, and the unique Hyundai Ioniq 5.

We are testing the Suite-trim Coupé, which falls in the middle of the trims. For an additional £1380 compared to the standard Loft trim, you get a premium upgrade with soft black leather on the dashboard, doors, and seats. It adds a more luxurious feel to the car, although the absence of electric seats at this price point is somewhat surprising and feels a bit cheap.

Our test car also features Race Blue metallic paint (£660) and the Clever package (£2755), which includes keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, and other tech upgrades, along with a stylish two-spoke steering wheel. The total price for our configured car comes to £49,620. It’s not cheap, but the cost of electric family driving nowadays is expected to be higher.

News, Technology

The Controversial Tech Behind The Missing Titanic Submersible

CBS reporter David Pogue was part of a Titan crew in 2022, during which he revealed some concerning details about the design of the submersible vessel. Pogue mentioned that the vessel was operated using a modified Logitech F710 wireless game controller, with custom sticks replacing the direction joysticks for improved navigation.

There is a comparison to be made with the U.S. Navy’s use of Xbox 360 controllers for its submarines. However, there is an important distinction: the Navy utilizes the controller to operate periscopes, not for maneuvering the submarine itself. Furthermore, the Logitech F710 is an inexpensive controller that was first introduced over a decade ago. Given the gravity of the situation, it seems peculiar to rely on such an old and economical controller for such a critical task.

Additionally, the submersible reportedly only has a single button inside for turning it on, with the rest of the control systems relying on computers and digital displays. This is similar to the trend in modern cars, where buttons and dials are being replaced by touch screens. While this design was intended to make operating the submersible easier, it could become problematic if the vessel loses all electrical power, especially since it relies on Starlink for communications.

Volkswagen

Transformation of Mobility in Astypalea: The Future of Sustainable Transportation

The Greek island of Astypalea is serving as a test bed for sustainable, smart mobility initiatives. The Volkswagen Group and the Hellenic Republic have partnered to slowly transform the island’s transportation system to include e-mobility, digital mobility solutions, and green energy. The initial results are promising. The digital mobility solutions, such as the ASTYBUS ride sharing service, show positive acceptance rates with 25% of the island’s population taking advantage of the service. In the last year alone, the service has completed over 200,000 customer kilometers. Electrification of the transportation system is also making strides. Almost all of the new cars registered on Astypalea are now fully electric.

The Volkswagen Group is investing its knowledge and expertise in mobility to help Astypalea achieve its goals. Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Ducati, and SEAT MÓ have all provided vehicles to support the project. The transformation of Astypalea’s mobility sector is nearly complete. This includes the implementation of a public charging infrastructure, a special subsidy scheme for private customers and companies, the electrification of authority vehicles (such as police and airport vehicles), as well as mobility services such as ASTYBUS and astyGO. The number of electric vehicles on the small island has gone from zero to 84 in a short period of time.

ASTYBUS, the ride-sharing service, displace the limited traditional bus line that was the only means of local transportation on Astypalea. Unlike the bus line, ASTYBUS operates all year round, connecting many more places on the island. Depending on the season, up to five vehicles are used for this service. With astyGO, customers can rent electric cars from Volkswagen, e-scooters from SEAT MÓ, and e-bikes from Ducati. Users can easily book these vehicles through their smartphones by using the integrated astyMOVE app.

Maik Stephan, Head of Business Development of the Volkswagen Group, has commented “Over the next two decades, we will see many of the changes that make up the Astypalea project in other regions of Europe as well. Particularly impressive is the people’s change in mood from initial skepticism to great approval. This shows that rapid transformation is possible if companies, politicians, and society work together.”

Green Energy: 3 Megawatt Solar Park

The next phase of the project includes the renovation of the energy system, with a gradual switch towards locally produced renewable energy. The smaller existing solar plants currently power parts of the island’s electrical fleet with renewable energy. The construction of a hybrid power system is the next milestone in the project. This system is set to begin operating in 2024 and will consist of a 3.5-megawatt solar park and battery storage system. This park will provide 100% of the island’s energy needs for e-mobility transportation and 60% of its general energy needs. The Greece-first tender for this energy project has just recently closed.

By 2026, the island aims to have an energy system that covers around 80% of the total energy demand. Previously, Astypalea relied mainly on diesel generators to generate electricity that emitted up to 5,000 tons of CO2 per year.

Accompanying Scientific Study

An accompanying scientific study shows that people on the island overwhelmingly support the transformation – with 80% of the island residents having a positive view of e-mobility and mobility services. This signifies a significant improvement compared to the first survey taken at the beginning of the project in 2021, proving that providing relevant information about new technologies and services is crucial. Particularly impressive, the flexible and affordable ASTYBUS ride-sharing service is rated with a remarkable 97% approval. The study took place in two phases: in the winter of 2022-2023 and the summer of 2021, with a total of 211 and 221 people participating. Scientists from the University of the Aegean (Greece) and the University of Strathclyde (Scotland) will evaluate the project over several years.

Sustainability in the Volkswagen Group

Sustainability is among the 10 strategic fields of action that the Volkswagen Group is significantly prioritizing under the leadership of CEO Oliver Blume. This is evident in their emphasis on e-mobility and their ramp-up plans for all of the Group’s brands. In 2021, Volkswagen also strengthened their CO2 targets in production and intends to reduce CO2 emissions from passenger cars and light commercial vehicles by 50% by 2030.