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Electric Vehicles, News

Prius Winning This World Car Of The Year Award Would’ve Been Unthinkable 18 Months Ago

When the first-generation Toyota Prius was launched nearly 27 years ago, the automobile wasn’t significantly identified for its enticing seems. What it was well-known for, nonetheless, was its credentials because the world’s first mass-produced hybrid automobile. So necessary was this label that Toyota was capable of maintain individuals fixated on the automobile’s eco-friendliness regardless of having some obvious points with the design.

Toyota would quickly discover that there are sufficient takers for a automobile that promotes itself as a inexperienced automobile that not solely pollutes much less but additionally boasts unimaginable gasoline effectivity figures. For some, the automobile’s ungainly design additionally meant their automobile stood out from the remainder of the automobiles on the street, giving them an odd sense of exclusivity. Despite the arrival of newer Hybrid automobiles, the Toyota Prius nonetheless sells in massive numbers within the U.S. and Japan.

An older generation Toyota PriusSue Thatcher/Getty

Between the first-gen Prius from 1997 and the fifth-generation Prius from 2022, there have been three separate generations of Prius automobiles that endured with the oddball design. The Prius has been promoting fairly properly for Toyota within the U.S. for a number of years. However, the numbers for the U.S. market plateaued round 2014 and have been taking place ever since.

With the arrival of handsome EVs and PHEVs out there, it now not made sense for Toyota to stick with an odd design for the 2023 Toyota Prius. It can be fascinating to see how a lot of an affect this design revamp has on precise gross sales figures, although.

Car review

Nissan Qashqai

The space the place the previous Qashqai significantly confirmed its age was in its inside, however this has era made some large steps on this respect.

That stated, it’s averted taking over digital know-how for the sake of it. With a classier dashboard, some horizontal trim strips and a giant touchscreen within the center, it seems to be proper updated. 

All the supplies you’re more likely to contact recurrently within the automobile have a pleasing soft-touch end, and the plentiful buttons and switchgear have a pleasant heft. The inside mouldings really feel solidly screwed collectively, too.

This automobile is extraordinarily simple to leap in and familiarize yourself with as a result of the entire essential features are operated by a bodily button or knob. There is a separate panel for the HVAC controls, and even driver help options just like the steering help and head-up show could be turned on or off with a button. It’s all remarkably frequent sense, with not a touch-sensitive panel in sight aside from the massive infotainment display screen.

Continuing the frequent sense theme, the Qashqai permits occupants to cost their gadgets in any means they want, with a number of 12V sockets, two USB-A and two USB-C ports, and a wi-fi charging pad on most trim ranges. Here, as elsewhere, comfort is king, and the Qashqai gives loads.

Accessing the rear cabin is straightforward because of doorways that open to 90deg. Once there, leg room is about common for the category, with loads of head room even with the panoramic sunroof (which is a hard and fast panel and doesn’t really open). 

It means tall adults match with out difficulty however they’d be solely averagely comfy on longer journeys. The again seats don’t do something fancy akin to recline or slide, they usually fold in a 40/60 cut up, fairly than a extra versatile 40/20/40 format. 

Flexibility methods have been reserved for the boot, which is kind of cleverly conceived. It has detachable flooring panels that may be raised or lowered, or set upright to create a divider that stops groceries from sliding round. The panels can be flipped over to disclose a wipe-clean floor to place muddy or soiled objects on. When they’re all in place, they create a flat load space with some helpful further house under.

The Qashqai’s 504 litres of boot house is common for the category, however far forward of the Ford Kuga’s 412 litres. However, it’s crushed by the Volkswagen Tiguan’s 520 litres and outclassed by the Honda CR-V hybrid, which gives 596 litres. 

Nissan Qashqai infotainment and sat-nav

Visia trim is so primary that it doesn’t even get a touchscreen, however Acenta Premium has a 7.0in display screen, and on N-Connecta that turns into a 9.0in display screen accompanied by a 12.3in digital driver show. 

Both variations of the touchscreen have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. On the bigger model, CarPlay is wi-fi.

The larger system discovered within the Tekna automobile is the extra responsive unit and, because of loads of shortcut buttons (each bodily ones under the display screen and digital ones on the underside), it’s pretty simple to navigate. The means the display screen is mounted on the dashboard means you even have a small ledge to relaxation your hand on, so it stays regular when tapping the display screen on the transfer.

It’s a pity the graphics already look dated, the centre display screen extra so than the driving force show. When CarPlay is wi-fi and there’s a wi-fi charging pad as effectively, it’s tough to give you a cause to make use of the built-in navigation and audio programs, particularly for the reason that smartphone mirroring is built-in so effectively.

News

Check Out The New Scorpion Exo-930 Evo Modular Helmet

Modular helmets are notably helpful in terms of each metropolis using and long-distance touring. Their setup primarily means that you’ve got two helmets in a single, particularly if the modular lid you’re rocking has twin homologation – that means it’s licensed secure in each open and closed configurations. Lots of modular helmets catering to a variety of budgets can be found available in the market, and Scorpion has simply launched a brand new modular helmet that’s positive to draw entry-level riders on a finances.

The new Scorpion Exo-930 Evo delivers all of the hallmark options of a premium modular helmet at a fraction of the value of its extra premium counterparts. Starting at £150.70, or about $192 USD for the plain colours and £164.06 ($209 USD) for the Sikon graphic, it guarantees very spectacular worth for cash. For starters, it options dual-homologation characterised by its P/J marking. This implies that it’s licensed secure with the chinbar in each the open and closed positions. Of course, like all fashionable motorbike lids, the Exo-930 Evo is compliant with the newest ECE 22.06 security customary.

Check Out The New Scorpion Exo-930 Evo Modular Helmet

When we transfer to the within of the helmet, it’s clear that Scorpion prioritizes not solely security, however rider consolation, too. Modular helmets are used for each metropolis and touring functions, and Scorpion’s Kwikfit cheek pads are designed for max consolation. They function a pre-cut channel that enables the simple and handy use of eyewear, whereas guaranteeing most assist and luxury on longer rides. As for the internal liner, the Scorpion Exo-930 Evo boasts Kwikwik II and III internal lining. According to Scorpion, Kwikwick III is softer and extra supple, and is made from hypo-allergenic cloth mixed with moisture wicking properties. This provides a layer of consolation whereas conserving the helmet recent for longer.

Like most modular helmets, the Scorpion Exo-930 Evo is provided with a dual-visor setup. On the surface the clear visor comes customary with a Pinlock 70 Maxvision movie to maintain your imaginative and prescient clear whatever the climate. Meanwhile, the inside visor makes use of Scorpion’s Speedview expertise, permitting all-weather comfort. Furthermore, an EverClear coating on the internal visor prevents fog buildup in chilly and humid climate.

Check Out The New Scorpion Exo-930 Evo Modular Helmet

On the tech aspect of the equation, the Scorpion Exo-930 Evo is able to accommodate Scorpion’s proprietary Exo-Com system, nonetheless, judging from the pretty impartial aspect profile of the helmet, it appears that evidently the helmet may also be appropriate with different intercom techniques. It will get a normal polycarbonate shell, with a handy quick-release micrometric buckle. Lastly, similar to all Scorpion helmets, it will get a normal five-year guarantee.

Motorsport

Here’s What It’s Like To Drive A Porsche 911 With A Eighties F1 Engine

There’s a cliche within the automotive world that refers to notably hardcore track-focused machines as a “race cars for the road.” This is seldom true, in fact. The traditional Porsche 911s from British firm Lanzante are nearer than most, although, as they’re powered by race-used McLaren TAG turbo V6 Formula One engines.

Lanzante has slowly been constructing these F1-powered 911s for a few years, however the one on this video is exceptionally cool. O’Gara Coach in Beverly Hills, California was liable for the fee, enlisting Former F1 racer Stefan Johansson to present the automotive a customized paint scheme, because it makes use of the engine from his McLaren on the 1987 Austrian Grand Prix, the place he finished in seventh place. The pairing is sensible, as he is grow to be an artist with a studio in Santa Monica since retiring from racing.

Lanzante reportedly costs $1.45 million for every of those builds. The powerplants, sourced straight from McLaren, had branding from the corporate Techniques d’Avant Garde (TAG) – greatest identified for the TAG-Heuer watch model. However, Porsche really developed the powerplant in-house.

Cosworth assisted in revising the F1 engine in order that it might work in a highway automotive. The tweaks included smaller turbos, decreased enhance stress, and an adjusted air-fuel ratio. The outcome was a powerplant reportedly making round 503 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. In race trim, the mill would have made about 900 hp and roughly 1,200 hp throughout qualifying.

Johansson raced with a helmet that includes three leaves in numerous shades of darkish inexperienced. He included these colours on this artwork automotive whereas additionally together with blue, yellow, and pink hues. Beyond the design, driving Lanzante’s 911 seems thrilling. The modified engine revs to 9,000 rpm and sounds terrific. Plus, flames shoot out of the exhaust. Modified Porsches are hardly uncommon, however packing a race-used F1 engine makes this one notably particular.

News

MBP Tackles Entry-Level ADV Segment With New T502X

The journey bike phase retains on rising, and new producers, significantly these from China, are making the most of this. EICMA 2023 revealed a handful of recent Chinese-made journey bikes starting from small-displacement entry-level fashions to premium bikes with cutting-edge tech and efficiency. The newest of which comes from a reasonably new firm known as Moto Bologna Passione, and whereas its title might sound Italian, it really isn’t as Italian as you suppose.

You see, MBP is a brand new firm based by the Keeway group. Subsequently, Keeway’s mum or dad firm is none apart from Chinese bike empire Qianjiang Motor, also called QJ Motor. So sure, MBP might have European roots, but it surely’s properly and really a Chinese firm, and its merchandise are made in China by Chinese staff. That being stated, MBP hopes to take the European market by storm with its latest journey bike, the T502X.

MBP Tackles Entry-Level ADV Segment With New T502X

From a styling perspective, the MBP T502X is completely different from different journey bikes in its class. Its styling jogs my memory of the Harley-Davidson Pan America, particularly when checked out from up entrance. Meanwhile, there are hints of Benelli’s BKX sequence of journey bikes on the aspect profile of the T502X. After all, Benelli and MBP are beneath the identical mum or dad firm, so chances are high they’re developed and designed by the identical crew.

From a efficiency standpoint, the brand new MBP T502X is supposed for newbie riders with A2 licenses. It’s powered by a 486cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with 47.6 horsepower and 43 Nm (about 32 pound-feet) of torque. This guarantees a high pace of 160 kilometers per hour (100 miles per hour).

MBP Tackles Entry-Level ADV Segment With New T502X
MBP Tackles Entry-Level ADV Segment With New T502X

According to MBP, the T502X is designed for each on and off-road use. It rolls on a 19-inch and 17-inch entrance and rear wheel combo shod in Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires. Suspension consists of adjustable inverted entrance forks and a rear monoshock which offer a formidable 180 millimeters of journey. This offers the bike a beneficiant 210 mm of floor clearance and a reasonably accessible seat top of 830 mm. Dry weight is at 195 kilos (about 430 kilos), however with the 16-liter tank stuffed to the brim, we’d be taking a look at about 470 kilos.

As of this writing, MBP has but to announce pricing and availability for the brand new T502X. It’s price noting, nevertheless, that this mannequin, together with the opposite bikes in MBP’s lineup, will possible be confined to the European and Asian markets.

Motorsport

Someone Is Willing To Pay $6.7 Million For This Australian License Plate

In some nations, it is attainable to switch license plates between folks, and significantly fascinating ones will be price hundreds of thousands of {dollars}. For instance, the Lloyds public sale home is providing the “1” plate from the state of New South Wales, Australia. The present value is the equal of $6.7 million (10,010,000 Australian {dollars}), and the bidding would not finish till January 27 at 10:00 AM native time, that means it may go for much more cash.

The “1” license plate from New South Wales has by no means been obtainable at public sale earlier than. The plate was first issued to the primary police commissioner earlier than Sir Frederick Stewart, the founding chairman of Australian National Airways, acquired it within the Thirties. After his passing, his spouse took over possession. She died in 2000, and now, the plate is up for grabs.

From 1910 to 1937, every Australian state issued license plates numerically. They began with 1 and ran via 274-000. There have been separate plates for passenger vehicles, bikes, and industrial automobiles. Collectors within the nation seek for these early plates and are willing to pay a lot for them.

The New South Wales “1” plate is certain to set a brand new document for an Australian license plate. The “4” plate from that state offered for the equal of $1.6 million (2.45 million Australian {dollars} on the time) in 2017, in line with the Sydney Morning Herald.

The New South Wales 1 motorbike plate offered for an undisclosed value in 2018. Estimates suggested it went for between $335,000 and $669,000 (500,000 to 1 million Australian {dollars}).

Elsewhere on this planet, there have been much more costly license plate gross sales. “AA8” went for $9.5 million in Dubai, and the “P7” one there sold for $15 million. The European plate “F1,” thought-about essentially the most precious plate on this planet, was listed on the market in 2018 for simply over £12 million (round $15.3 million). According to regtransfers.co.uk it has but to be offered, with the asking value now sitting at £15 million (over $19 million). 

News

Chinese Manufacturer Zontes Has A New Maxi-Scooter Range For Europe

Chinese bike producer Zontes has been occupying the beginner-friendly house, significantly within the European market, for a while now. At EICMA 2023, the model showcased quite a few new choices, signifying its intention of branching out into the premium phase. Zontes appears to have a eager curiosity within the rising maxi-scooter phase, as evidenced by its current launches, with probably the most premium of which being the 501 collection.

Chinese Manufacturer Zontes Has A New Maxi-Scooter Range For Europe

Maxi-scooters have grow to be a preferred subsegment of the scooter world lately, as they provide the long-distance consolation and facilities of touring bikes, coupled with the practicality and ease-of-use of a scooter. This implies that maxi-scooters are each wonderful commuters round city, whereas on the identical time succesful long-distance two-wheelers for out of city journeys. That being stated, whereas many different high-capacity scooters decide to utilize twin-cylinder engines, Zontes has determined to stay to a single-cylinder engine.

Chinese Manufacturer Zontes Has A New Maxi-Scooter Range For Europe
Chinese Manufacturer Zontes Has A New Maxi-Scooter Range For Europe

With a displacement of 491cc, this liquid-cooled, fuel-injected unit will certainly have some heavy counter balancers to scale back vibration. Nevertheless, it has a good energy output of 35 kilowatts (47 horsepower) and 53 Nm (39 pound-feet) of torque. In the European market, the place the scooter has been launched, it’s compliant with A2 licensing rules, permitting each newbie and intermediate riders to swing a leg over this sensible machine. Top pace is a claimed 175 kilometers per hour (108 miles per hour), and the scooter will get a quite giant 17-liter gasoline tank for prolonged vary in between fill-ups.

Chinese Manufacturer Zontes Has A New Maxi-Scooter Range For Europe

Now, Zontes is providing the 501 vary of maxi-scooters in quite a lot of flavors. The first of which is the 501E, which is an evolution of the smaller 350E designed as a GT maxi-scooter. The Zontes 501H, in the meantime, is the sportiest of the bunch that includes contoured traces and a minimalist accent package deal. The 501K is technically much like the 501E, however will get extra rounded bodywork giving it a extra streamlined look.

Chinese Manufacturer Zontes Has A New Maxi-Scooter Range For Europe

Last however not least, the 501G units itself aside with an adventurous design full with crash bars and wire-spoke wheels. It’s with the 501G that Zontes hopes to penetrate the rising journey scooter phase, popularized by fashions just like the Honda X-ADV and the not too long ago launched Peugeot XP400.

As of this writing, Zontes has but to announce pricing and availability of the brand new maxi-scooter lineup. However, judging from its earlier fashions, chances are high the brand new 501 collection of maxi-scooters can be priced very competitively compared to its extra established counterparts.

Featured

Tesla Cybertruck Gets Even Cooler With These Accessories For Your Adventures


Tesla is offering a variety of accessories for the Cybertruck, some specifically designed for off-road trips such as crossbars and a tailgate ramp

Tesla Cybertruck accessories

Back in late 2019, the world got its first glimpse of the remarkable Tesla Cybertruck. Since then, there has been a global frenzy over the design and versatility of this unique all-electric pickup. Tesla has now begun delivering the Cybertruck, and is offering a range of accessories to complement its adventurous nature:

Light Bar

Tesla Cybertruck light bar

In addition to the full-LED light strip at the front of the electric pickup, Tesla has introduced a slim white-light bar that can be mounted on the roof. This additional light is capable of illuminating up to 525 yards (480 meters) of the road ahead.

Basecamp

Tesla Cybertruck basecamp

For outdoor adventures, a tent to set up camp at the rear of your Tesla pickup is essential. The Cybertruck’s basecamp includes the tent assembly, awning and awning poles, and an air pump. Tesla claims that the basecamp can accommodate two adults and can be inflated within minutes.

Spare Wheel With Tool Kit

Tesla Cybertruck spare wheel and tool kit

For off-roading, a spare wheel is essential in case of a flat tire. Tesla offers a covered spare wheel in the pickup’s payload bay along with a tool kit. The Cybertruck also includes a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a 20-inch wheel with large all-terrain tires, and a tool kit comprising a jack, hex tool, and a wheel cover removal tool. This may impact on storage space but could be a valuable option depending on the terrain.

Range Extender

Tesla Cybertruck Range Extender

For those needing more range than the claimed 550 km, Tesla also offers a range extender as an accessory. This additional toolbox-sized battery pack, placed in the pickup’s bed, provides a total claimed range of over 750 km.

Body Wrap

Tesla Cybertruck body wrap

Another surprising accessory on the list is the body wrap, which is useful as the Cybertruck’s stainless steel body will be produced in the same color. Tesla’s body wrap is a urethane-based self-healing film that protects the pickup from scratches during off-road journeys. The EV manufacturer offers two body wrap options: Satin Black and Satin White.

Tailgate Ramp

Tesla Cybertruck Tailgate Ramp

Initially showcased alongside the Cybertruck was an all-terrain 4-wheeled vehicle called the Tesla Cyberquad, which can be carried in the payload bay of the pickup. To help you load your off-roading equipment onto the Cybertruck, the EV maker offers a 3-fold tailgate ramp, capable of carrying equipment weighing up to 350 kg.

Also Read: The Last 3 New Cars That You Will See In 2023: An Electrified Lambo And Two Small SUVs

Crossbars Roof-rack

Tesla Cybertruck Crossbars

For carrying off-road items like bikes and other gear, the Cybertruck can be equipped with two crossbars on the roof. They are capable of carrying equipment weighing up to approximately 100 kg.

These are the adventure-specific accessories available for the Tesla Cybertruck, with many other convenience-enhancing accessories also being offered. These include items like hooks and bins for managing storage in the rear payload area, floor mats, glass roof sunshade, and cabin storage organizers.

Tesla Cybertruck

The entire variant lineup and electric powertrain options were recently revealed, along with many other interesting design and practicality details. Tesla’s arrival in India still remains uncertain, but speculation on when that may happen is ongoing.

Technology

5 Of The Best Raspberry Pi Projects For Kids

Kids can have fun while learning with Raspberry Pi projects. One particularly fun project for kids is making their very own Raspberry Pi-powered Whoopi cushion, developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. The instructions for this project are available for free on the organization’s website.

This project has a do-it-yourself feel to it, as it primarily uses commonly found household items. It requires a Raspberry Pi, SD card, crocodile clip cables, pin-to-socket jumper leads, a speaker, paper plates, cardboard, aluminum foil, glue, scissors, a sponge, paper clips, and tape. The setup involves Python coding, but the instructions are readily available through the Raspberry Pi Foundation site. The process is easy to understand and provides a clear walkthrough.

The project works by attaching foil squares onto the cardboard as contacts to complete a circuit and then using the leads to signal the Raspberry Pi to play pre-downloaded sounds to the speaker. One great aspect is the ability to program virtually any sound, offering a wide range of options beyond traditional Whoopi cushion noises.

News

Moto Guzzi Reveals the Stelvio Adventure-Tourer Ahead of EICMA 2023

The Moto Guzzi Stelvio adventure-tourer is set to make a grand entrance at EICMA this November. The bike, which was discontinued due to poor sales, is making a comeback to capitalize on the growing big-displacement ADV segment.

Moto Guzzi has already unveiled the Stelvio on its official website, providing all the specifications and details. The new Stelvio shares its platform with the V100 Mandello, evident from its styling.

2024 Moto Guzzi Stelvio - Parked

Embodying the spirit of Stelvio Pass

The Moto Guzzi Stelvio takes inspiration from the famous Stelvio Pass in Italy, known for its challenging 48 turns and steep inclines. The new Stelvio is designed for road-focused touring, unlike the V85TT’s off-road design. It features 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked wheels with tubeless dual-purpose tires, and adjustable suspension.

2024 Moto Guzzi Stelvio - Parked

Cutting-edge performance and technology

The Stelvio is powered by a 1,042cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, V-twin “Compact Block” engine, delivering 115 horsepower and 85 pound-feet of torque. It offers advanced technology such as cornering ABS, traction control, and customizable riding modes accessible through the full-color display.

2024 Moto Guzzi Stelvio - Parked

4D Radar Technology

The Stelvio offers Moto Guzzi’s PFF (Piaggio Fast Forward) Rider Assistance Solution as a factory option. This technology utilizes 4D Imaging Radar technology, providing enhanced safety features like collision detection, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

2024 Moto Guzzi Stelvio - Riding

Wide selection of factory accessories

The Moto Guzzi Stelvio can be equipped with various accessories to enhance its long-distance touring capabilities. Options include heated seats with customizable settings, a large 52-liter top case for extended trips, and seamlessly integrated side bags.

Pricing details for the new Moto Guzzi Stelvio have not yet been announced. More information can be expected at EICMA 2023, where the Stelvio will be showcased alongside other Moto Guzzi models.


2024 Moto Guzzi Stelvio - Riding

10 Photos