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Motorsport

Ford’s Commitment to Keeping V8 Engine in Mustang

Ford is determined to maintain the iconic V8 engine in the Ford Mustang, without any plans of replacing it with electric power anytime soon. The company is committed to offering the Mustang with an internal combustion engine and has no intention of phasing out the powertrain in the model.

According to Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsport, the V8 engine will be built “for as long as we can.” He stated that Ford has not set a retirement date for the eight-cylinder engine. Jim Owens, Mustang’s global brand manager, expressed a similar opinion, emphasizing that the company is continuing to invest in V8 engines for future models despite the increased focus on battery-electric vehicles.


News

Volkswagen partners with Xpeng for Chinese electric cars

Volkswagen has formed a long-term partnership with Xpeng, a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker, with plans to build Volkswagen models on Xpeng’s platforms. As part of the partnership, Volkswagen will invest $700 million to acquire a 4.99% share in Xpeng and secure a seat on the company’s board.

The collaboration, described as a “technological framework agreement,” will begin with the joint development of two mid-size EVs exclusive to the Chinese market. These models will be sold under the Volkswagen brand starting in 2026. The partnership aims to expand Volkswagen’s EV lineup to cater to the growing demand in China, in addition to their existing lineup of ID models based on the company’s MEB platform.

Volkswagen is also working on a new platform called SSP to replace MEB. However, due to software issues, the introduction of SSP has been delayed. The collaboration with Xpeng will help bridge this gap and ensure that Volkswagen can continue expanding its EV offerings in China.

Founded in 2014, Xpeng currently offers a range of premium EVs, including the G9 SUV and P7 saloon, in China and select European countries. They recently launched a new SUV called the G6, which features a bespoke platform called SEPA 2.0. This platform enables rapid-charging at rates of up to 480kW with its 800V electrical architecture.

The specific Xpeng platform that will be used for the two planned Volkswagen EVs has not been confirmed yet. This partnership follows Audi’s collaboration with SAIC, the parent company of MG, to develop China-only cars using SAIC’s platforms.

Both Volkswagen and Xpeng will contribute their core competencies to the development of these new EV models. This partnership will allow Volkswagen to enhance its presence and offerings in the Chinese EV market.

Featured

Watch Tyshawn Jones Perform an Ollie Over a Ferrari Monza SP2

The Ferrari Monza SP2, part of the Icona series of Ferraris, is a highly exclusive and rare creation from the Prancing Horse brand. It features a barchetta silhouette without a windshield, inspired by Ferrari’s classic race cars. Underneath its elegant design, it houses a powerful V12 engine that produces nearly 800 horsepower, offering a thrilling driving experience for any Cavallino connoisseur. One of the esteemed owners of this exceptional vehicle is Steven Victor, an artist and record executive known for his strong presence in the hip-hop universe.

In New York City streets, the illustrious hip-hop magnate Steven Victor decided to showcase the skills of skateboarder Tyshawn Jones in a unique, epic, and nerve-wracking way for car enthusiasts: by performing an ollie over his stunning white Ferrari Monza SP2 supercar. With a crowd gathered around the car, parked perpendicular to the street, Tyshawn successfully jumped over the valuable vehicle, provoking excitement and cheers from the onlookers. Whether you’re a skateboarder or a car enthusiast, this incredible four-wheeled feat is something to appreciate. Victor shared a video of the stunt on Instagram, where his fellow Ferrari Monza owner and celebrity car enthusiast friend Swizz Beatz left a comment, with Victor referring to them as the “Monza Boyz” in the thread. This moment is a dream come true for fans of hip-hop, skateboarding, and Ferrari, and you can watch the video below.

View All Ferraris For Sale

 
News

Hepco & Becker Releases New Range Of Accessories For Honda XL750 Transalp

Hepco & Becker Releases New Range Of Accessories For Honda XL750 Transalp


Adventure-tourers are usually equipped with the necessary features for both on and off-road exploration right from the factory. While Honda’s new middleweight adventure bike, the XL750 Transalp, is already one of the more off-road capable ADVs on the market, the aftermarket for this bike has been growing rapidly, with various brands offering upgrades and accessories.


German manufacturer Hepco & Becker, known for its adventure and touring accessories, has introduced an impressive range of products specifically designed for the Honda XL750 Transalp. These accessories include essentials for both long and short trips, as well as protective measures to safeguard the bike in case of a tip-over.





Hepco & Becker offers a C-Bow luggage rack specifically designed for the XL750 Transalp, allowing you to attach compatible side bags and panniers. They also provide a top case bracket and an aluminum easy rack for mounting a top case, as well as a luggage bridge extension for carrying larger items. These accessories range in price from 185 Euros to 230 Euros.



For daily rides, Hepco & Becker offers tank ring locks for compatible tank bags, as well as a Basic tank ring. These smaller luggage solutions retail for 35 Euros and 55 Euros respectively.


To protect the XL750 Transalp, Hepco & Becker provides several accessories. Engine crash bars are available in both black and silver, and a fuel tank protection bar adds an extra layer of safety. A headlight grill helps protect the bike’s headlights from debris, and auxiliary lights can be mounted onto the crash bars for enhanced visibility. Lastly, a side stand plate allows for stable parking on loose terrain.




Hepco & Becker’s accessories are also available for lighting upgrades, and they offer a side stand plate for stable parking on loose terrain. Interested customers can find these accessories and more on Hepco & Becker’s official website.


Note that pricing and availability may vary depending on the region, so it is advisable to contact local dealers for more information.

VauxhallUk

VAUXHALL REVEALS PRICING AND SPECIFICATION FOR NEW CORSA

  • The pricing and specification for the new Corsa have been unveiled by Vauxhall.
  • The new Corsa will be offered in three trims: Design, GS, and Ultimate.
  • It features Vauxhall’s Vizor front end, upgraded styling, and interior enhancements including a 10-inch touchscreen.
  • The Corsa Electric variant comes with a next-generation 51kWh battery and a 156PS electric motor, providing a range of 246 miles (WLTP).
  • The existing 136PS electric powertrain will still be available in Design and GS trims.
  • The new Corsa also offers a choice of petrol powertrains.
  • Hybrid powertrains will be introduced later in the year.
  • The prices for the new Corsa start from £19,625.
  • Orders are now open, and deliveries are expected in Q4 2023.

 

Vauxhall has released the pricing and specification details for the new Corsa. The popular supermini will be available in three trims: Design, GS, and Ultimate, with prices starting from £19,625. Customers can now place their orders, and the first deliveries are expected in Q4 2023.

 

The new Corsa features Vauxhall’s bold Vizor front end design across the entire range, along with various styling and technology upgrades. The electric version of the Corsa benefits from Vauxhall’s latest battery technology, improving both range and performance.

 

The Vauxhall Corsa was the best-selling supermini and the second best-selling car in the UK in 2022. It also topped the overall sales charts in 2021 and continues to be the best-selling car in its segment this year. These achievements contribute to Vauxhall’s goal of becoming an electric-only manufacturer from 2028.

 

Vauxhall Vizor

 

The new Corsa incorporates Vauxhall’s distinctive Vizor front end design, which consists of a single smooth panel between the LED headlights. This panel houses advanced driver aids and safety technologies, with the iconic Griffin logo at the center.

 

Other updates to the exterior styling include 17-inch black alloy wheels, black roof, black badging, and black Corsa lettering on GS and Ultimate models.

 

All Corsa models come with LED headlights as standard. The Ultimate trim features Vauxhall’s IntelliLux LED® Pixel Matrix light technology, which automatically adjusts the beam to avoid dazzling oncoming road users and ensures clear visibility in dark and poor conditions.

 

Upgraded Interior

 

The interior of the new Corsa has been upgraded, including an enhanced infotainment system with a new 10-inch touchscreen. This system offers Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility, with wireless connectivity available on Electric models equipped with the upgraded 156PS powertrain, as well as petrol GS and Ultimate trims. The Corsa Electric 156PS variant also includes wireless phone charging, Vauxhall Connect, and Connected Navigation. The latter is also available on petrol Ultimate models.

 

The petrol Design models come with a standard 3.5-inch digital instrument cluster, while all other trims feature a larger 7-inch display. The display in GS, Ultimate, and Electric 156PS models boasts new graphics.

 

The new Corsa features an updated steering wheel design and offers new front sports seats on GS and above trims. The Ultimate trim enhances comfort with heated and massaging seats finished in Alcantara®, a luxury material. Ultimate models also come with a heated steering wheel.

 

New Corsa Electric

 

The updated Corsa Electric now features Vauxhall’s next-generation 51kWh battery combined with an upgraded electric motor, delivering 156PS. The new powertrain offers improved performance and a range of 246 miles (WLTP) between charges.

 

Starting from 3rd August, customers will have the option to choose between two powertrain options for the Corsa Electric. The existing 100kW (136PS) powertrain will still be available, providing up to 222 miles of range (WLTP). This powertrain option will now be offered in Design and GS trims as well.

 

All Corsa Electric models come with an 11kW on-board charger as standard, allowing for a full 0-100% charge in 5 hours and 15 minutes. Using a 7kW home wallbox, a full charge is estimated to take 7 hours and 30 minutes. The Corsa Electric supports 100kW rapid charging, enabling a 10%-80% charge in just 30 minutes.

 

In addition to the electric variants, the new Corsa is also available with a choice of efficient 1.2-litre petrol engines. Customers can select from a naturally-aspirated 75PS engine with a five-speed manual gearbox, a turbocharged 100PS engine with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, or a 130PS unit offered as an eight-speed automatic.

 

Later this year, Vauxhall will introduce a new 48-volt hybrid powertrain that provides improved efficiency without the need for charging.

 

Specification

 

As part of Vauxhall’s simplified range, petrol variants of the new Corsa are available in three trims: Design, GS, and Ultimate. The Corsa Electric is available with the next-generation 156PS powertrain in GS and Ultimate trims, while from 3rd August, the existing 136PS powertrain will also be offered in Design and GS trims.

 

All Corsa models come with LED headlights as standard. The Design trim offers automatic headlights and wipers, and rear parking sensors for added convenience. Safety features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, and speed sign recognition.

The GS trim adds a rear-view parking camera with a high-resolution panoramic display for Electric 156PS models. The alloy wheels are upgraded to 17 inches, and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster is included. Electric GS 156PS models also come with keyless entry and start.

The Ultimate trim enhances the headlights with Vauxhall’s IntelliLux LED® Pixel Matrix light technology. Additional driver assist features include Blind Spot Alert (also available on Electric GS 156PS models) and Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Positioning Assist. Comfort is improved with heated and massaging seats finished in Alcantara® and a heated steering wheel. Keyless entry and start are available on both petrol and Electric variants.

Pricing

Orders for the new Corsa are now being accepted, and prices start from £19,625.

Model

EV Range (WLTP)

BiK rates (2023/24)

CO2 (g/km)

Insurance group

OTR RRP

New Corsa Electric Design 136PS

222

2%

0

TBC

£32,445

New Corsa Electric GS 136PS

222

2%

0

TBC

£34,080

New Corsa Electric GS 156PS

246

2%

0

TBC

£35,475

New Corsa Electric Ultimate 156PS

246

2%

0

TBC

£38,585

New Corsa Design 1.2 75PS 5 Speed Manual

N/A

29%

121

12E

£19,625

New Corsa Design 1.2 100PS 6 Speed Manual

N/A

27%

114

21D

£20,525

New Corsa Design 1.2 100PS 8 Speed Auto

N/A

29%

122

19D

£22,255

New Corsa GS 1.2 75PS 5 Speed Manual

N/A

29%

122

12E

£22,005

New Corsa GS 1.2 100PS 6 Speed Manual

N/A

28%

116

19E

£22,905

New Corsa GS 1.2 130PS 8 Speed Auto

N/A

29%

124

TBC

£25,605

New Corsa Ultimate 1.2 100PS 6 Speed Manual

N/A

28%

117

17E

£25,685

New Corsa Ultimate 1.2 130PS 8 Speed Auto

N/A

29%

124

23E

£28,385
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.

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.

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.

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.


12 Photos

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.