Tag Archives: post

Motorsport

Volvo’s Sales Prove EVs Are Tanking While Hybrids Are Hot

Volvo is the most recent automaker to publish sturdy hybrid stats amid diminishing EV demand within the US by way of the primary quarter of 2024. The Swedish model is off to a optimistic begin with a year-over-year gross sales improve of 17 %, and hybrids are the explanation why.

Specifically, Volvo plug-in hybrids have been sizzling commodities by way of the tip of March. These fashions have been up 44 % for the interval, totaling 7,118 items. Mild hybrids have been up 5 %, main the general gross sales cost with 8,088 autos. EV gross sales, nonetheless, fell off a cliff. Just 970 absolutely electrical Volvos have been bought for the primary three months of 2024, in comparison with 2,782 final 12 months; a drop of 65 %.


Technology

Why Everyone Thought Gmail Was An April Fools’ Day Joke

In the weblog publish asserting Gmail, Google claimed that the brand new electronic mail service got here with 1 GB of storage. While this would possibly sound ridiculously low by right now’s requirements, it was fairly unimaginable again in 2004. To put issues into perspective, Gmail provided greater than 100x the area accessible on alternative email services from Yahoo and Hotmail, which provided a paltry 4 MB and a couple of MB of area, respectively, on their free tiers on the time.

These unimaginable claims (for the time) cemented hypothesis about Gmail being simply one other April Fools’ joke. After the preliminary hullabaloo, individuals (and opponents) rapidly famous that Gmail was, certainly, the true factor and that Google meant enterprise when it mentioned each Gmail account would get 1 GB of free storage. This finally led to rivals responding by rising their storage capacities by respectable quantities. For instance, Yahoo went from 4 MB to 100 MB, whereas Hotmail went from 2 MB to 250 MB inside the span of some months.

Google would go on to additional add storage capability at common intervals, with free storage rising to 2 GB in 2005. Another unimaginable announcement made in 2005 was the promise that Google would preserve including more room to Gmail perpetually. Gmail’s internet interface even confirmed a ticking counter of the perpetually rising storage capability. Google would finally break that promise and, as of 2024, all free Google accounts get 15 GB of area, with this capability being shared throughout a number of Google providers. So, in the event you barely use your Gmail however find yourself storing 15 GB of photos in your Google Drive, you will not be left with any area on your emails.

Motorsport

2025 Infiniti QX80: This Is It

We would not be shocked in the event you double-check our Infiniti QX Monograph concept post from August 2023. The automobile you see right here seems just about similar, from the vertically-oriented nook vents and lights flanking the massive grille, to the black roof, and even the flush door handles. There is one notable distinction, nonetheless. This is not an idea. It’s Infiniti’s new QX80 three-row SUV. And there’s a lot to debate.

The Anti-Wedge

We will not spend a lot time on the outside styling. This primarily is the Monograph idea in manufacturing type, stretching 17.5 toes nose-to-tail with its chunky physique mounted on an old-school body. In truth, Infiniti makes it a degree to speak in regards to the QX80’s very upright stature, calling it an “anti-wedge profile” with a hood that is almost flat because it extends ahead.

2025 Infiniti QX80
2025 Infiniti QX80
2025 Infiniti QX80

As with the Monograph idea, an illuminated Infiniti brand holds station within the double-arch grille. The tall greenhouse stands out with black trim and an out there black roof, whereas down low, electrically-powered flush door handles lengthen when the SUV is unlocked.

The cumbersome exterior interprets to extra room on the within. Infiniti does not have particular figures to share simply but, except for 161.1 cubic toes of complete passenger house. Compared to the outgoing mannequin, we’re advised there’s 18 p.c extra space behind the second-row seats and 54 p.c behind the third. A two-row model is not supplied.

We did not see the Monograph idea’s inside, however now we want we had. It’s a really good-looking leather-clad cockpit with the range-topping Autograph trim getting semi-aniline quilted seats complemented with wooden and aluminum trim. As you’d count on, instrumentation is a digital affair with two 14.3-inch show screens merged to create a large show occupying many of the sprint. A 3rd display screen measuring 9.0 inches sits on the entrance of the middle console, tilted as much as function the bottom of operations for the QX80’s local weather controls, heated/cooled seat capabilities, and drive modes.

2025 Infiniti QX80 Interior

The smaller display screen makes use of haptic suggestions when numerous capabilities are operated, giving the motive force a minimum of some tactile sensations when doing issues like turning up the warmth. Infiniti does not clarify the system additional or if the suggestions modifications relying on what you are touching. But this is not a wholly buttonless affair. The steering wheel gives some tactile controls, together with the means to change up the motive force show by means of a variety of appearances. And gear choice is achieved by means of a set of buttons on the middle console.

And the QX80 has no scarcity of issues to regulate. Of specific curiosity is an assortment of cameras that provide all types of views each exterior and inside, together with one thing known as Front Wide View. It takes digital camera info and creates a 170-degree ahead view that shows on each screens, giving the motive force the flexibility to see round parked automobiles in keeping with Infiniti. There’s additionally an Invisible Hood view that gives a glance immediately in entrance of the QX80, and we imply proper in entrance. It’s helpful for seeing obstacles close to the entrance tires, or how shut you’re to a parking curb.

A characteristic known as Enhanced RoundView is actually a tweaked exterior 360-degree digital camera that aids with parking and tight conditions. In-car cameras present front-seat passengers what’s taking place within the again, and it is also accessible by means of a smartphone so you possibly can take a peek anytime. And as a result of we dwell in a linked society that may’t perform with out social media, Infiniti has one thing known as Journey Diary. This will seize pictures or movies from forward-facing or in-car cameras and add them to your social channels, for higher or worse.

2025 Infiniti QX80 Interior

The tech prepare does not cease with cameras. The QX80 actually retains passengers cool with Biometric Cooling—infrared sensors situated within the headliner detect when somebody is sizzling and robotically adjusts particular person local weather settings. Heated and cooled seats additionally assistance on that entrance, and within the new QX80, you will discover heated seats manner again within the third row. Massaging seats can be found for second-row passengers, and everybody can profit from a 24-speaker, 1,200-watt Klipsch audio system. It’s optionally available on all however the range-topping Autograph trim, however the usual system remains to be a 14-speaker rig with 600 watts.

Infiniti InContact with Google Built-In runs the present. Wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are commonplace, as are a bunch of Infiniti driver help and security techniques that include ProPilot 1.1 Upgrade to ProPilot 2.1 and you will get hands-free driving in sure conditions. There’s an optionally available heads-up show for the primary time, too.

More Power, More Gears, More Money

There’s lots to maintain passengers occupied, however what in regards to the driver? Gone is the previous 5.6-liter V-8 engine, changed with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 making 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. That’s a notable enhance over the V-8, and it sends energy to both the rear wheels or all 4 by means of a 9-speed computerized transmission. Infiniti says the body-on-frame development has 57 p.c extra lateral stiffness versus the previous mannequin, and when outfitted with the air experience suspension, the QX80 lowers itself 1.2 inches at increased pace for higher effectivity. When parked, it will possibly drop 2.8 inches to assist of us get out and in.

2025 Infiniti QX80

Making the many of the QX80’s energy bump are 5 drive modes: Standard, Eco, Sport, Snow, and Tow. If none of these fit your tastes, a sixth mode for customized settings is included. Speaking of customization, you possibly can tweak the inside lighting with 64 colours that shine by means of LED lights within the doorways and sprint. Nine exterior colours can be found at launch, and you may select wheels as much as 22 inches in dimension. Should you have to tow, the QX80 is rated for 8,500 kilos.

At launch, the 2025 Infiniti QX80 is accessible in 4 trims: Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and Autograph. Here’s a value breakdown per trim, together with a compulsory $1,995 vacation spot price.

Model Price
2025 Infiniti QX80 Pure RWD $84,445
2025 Infiniti QX80 Pure 4WD $87,545
2025 Infiniti QX80 Luxe RWD $91,545
2025 Infiniti QX80 Luxe 4WD $94,645
2025 Infiniti QX80 Sensory 4WD $102,640
2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph 4WD $112,590

The new QX80 is actually costlier than the outgoing mannequin—considerably extra in range-topping Autograph guise. By comparability, the BMW X7 slots neatly into the Infiniti’s value vary. However, the Lexus LX600 nonetheless instructions a bit extra general with costs reaching past $130,000.

Will consumers shell out extra cash than ever for this new Infiniti flagship? We will discover out later this summer time when the 2025 QX80 goes on sale.

Motorsport

Watch Porsche Reveal The Taycan Turbo GT: Livestream

Update: The livestream is over and the Taycan Turbo GT is right here! Read all about it in our debut publish full of data and images of this very potent EV.

The “most dynamic Taycan of all time” will go official later at present as a extra highly effective model of Porsche’s sizzling EV. Likely to realize the “Turbo GT” suffix, the high-performance electrical sedan may have the Tesla Model S Plaid and Lucid Air Sapphire in its crosshairs. It already has a feather in its cap by setting a Nürburgring lap record for purely electric models.

Porsche has been tight-lipped in regards to the Taycan Turbo GT however the spy pictures of nearly undisguised prototypes operating across the ‘Ring revealed a extra aggressive physique. The complete aero package deal will embrace that look-at-me rear wing and extra delicate tweaks for higher airflow. The engineers from Zuffenhausen might need put the Taycan on a weight-reduction plan earlier than sending it to the gymnasium to construct some muscle. It’s a logical assumption for the reason that Cayenne Turbo GT additionally acquired extra energy and misplaced weight.


News

Hybrid And Electric Trucks To Watch Out For In 2024

Read update
  • This publish has been refreshed with new photographs and specs associated to every talked about mannequin. Between EVs, PHEVs, and customary hybrids, the market seems promising for customers in 2024 and 2025. Pricing has additionally been added for fashions which have it obtainable, though that is topic to alter.

The pickup truck world is being turned the wrong way up by an onslaught of recent hybrid and electrical vans getting into the market. These new hybrid pickup vans promise improved gas mileage, extra energy, and a lot better emissions. By that very same token, the newly added electrical vans convey a number of new zero-emissions fashions with wonderful driving ranges and energy to the combo.

Long gone are the times when a Toyota Prius was your only ‘green option,’ and with mega-brands like Ford, Dodge, Chevy, and even Tesla launching high-power EVs and hybrid vans, you’ve gotten loads of selections. Again, instances are altering quickly, particularly within the PHEV sector. Most individuals love the thought of a half-gas, half-electric powertrain, particularly for his or her work vans.

There’s no denying the gas-guzzling features of a standard full-size pickup truck with a V-8 engine. Many automakers are transitioning away from these bigger engines by adding hybrid electric motors to V-6 or four-cylinder engines to offer as a lot, if no more, energy than the V-8s supplied.

UPDATE: 2024/02/23 20:30 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This publish has been refreshed with new photographs and specs associated to every talked about mannequin. Between EVs, PHEVs, and customary hybrids, the market seems promising for customers in 2024 and 2025. Pricing has additionally been added for fashions which have it obtainable, though that is topic to alter.

To provide the most recent and correct data, we’ve compiled information from official automotive producers, in addition to authoritative sources, together with Kelley Blue Book, MotorPattern, Edmunds, and Car And Driver, to convey you 10 hybrid and electrical vans which are quickly hitting the market.

Yellow 2004 Chevrolet SST

Related

10 Pickup Trucks That Are Perfect For On-Road Adventures

While pickup vans by definition are purported to work off-road, the next fashions carry out greatest whenever you’re on the pavement

1 Tesla Cybertruck – Tesla’s Swing At Pickup Truck Excellence

One of the extra iconic EV debuts of 2023 and 2024 has been the Tesla Cybertruck. This model boasts up to 340 miles of range per charge, a 2.6 second 0-60 check time, can tow 11,000 kilos, and has a glossy, stainless-steel physique solely Tesla might pull off. This mannequin started fulfilling its preliminary pre-orders in late 2023 and can proceed to ramp up manufacturing and supply heading by means of 2024.

Performance Specifications

Motor

Dual electrical motor

Horsepower

600-845 horses

Torque

7,435 pound-feet

Driveline

AWD

Battery

123 kWh lithium-ion or +50 kWh (non-compulsory vary extender)

Range/MPG

250-340 miles

Towing Capacity

11,000 kilos

MSRP

$60,990

(Data sourced from Tesla)

You additionally see a little bit of a boxier look in comparison with different present Teslas with the Cybertruck. It weighs 6,603 pounds, so this isn’t the kind of car you may park in a compact spot.

2 Chevrolet Silverado EV – Ready To Battle The Ford F-150 Lightning

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV has been part of the electric truck conversation for a lot too lengthy for it to nonetheless be a truck we’re ready to drive. This mannequin has debuted as one of many hottest pickup vans for this yr, boasting as much as 400 miles of vary and as much as 754 horsepower; the bottom WT trim makes do with 510 horsepower and entrance and rear electrical motors. You have the non-compulsory 200 kWh battery, in addition to the 450-mile 4WT. This truck is glossy and highly effective and is available in a number of completely different choices, Much like its common gasoline counterpart.

Performance Specifications

Motor/Engine

Dual electrical motors

Horsepower

510-754 horsepower

Torque

615-785 pound-feet

Driveline

AWD

Battery

135-200 kWh

Range/MPG

400/450 miles

Towing Capacity

8,000 lbs (WT)/10,000 lbs (RST)

MSRP

Est. $100,000+

(Data sourced from Chevrolet)

The two trims of the Silverado EV will hit the ends of the spectrum, with the RST full of bells and whistles and the WT offering fleet operators a superb work truck for the each day grind. Eventually, different trims will be a part of these two as the brand new Chevrolet Silverado EV works to take drivers away from the Ford F-150 Lightning.

Yellow Foton Tunland EV Parked Outdoors

Related

10 Chinese Electric Trucks That Might Actually Compete With American Pickups

Electric pickup vans are the following large EV alternative, and Chinese automakers are stepping as much as the plate.

3 Ford Ranger Hybrid – Added Power And Efficiency In The Midsize Truck Market

The midsize pickup truck market is in a severe state of flux, which may very well be thrilling. While GM modified the Canyon and Colorado, Ford is ready to provide a hybrid version of the favored Ranger. Could this be the beginning of hybrid vans on this market?

Performance Specifications

Motor

2.3-liter Ford EcoBoost petrol engine with electrical motor

Horsepower

270-315 horsepower

Torque

400 pound-feet

Driveline

AWD

Battery

TBD

Range/MPG

28 miles

Towing Capacity

7,500 kilos

MSRP

TBD

(Data sourced from Ford)

With the Ranger and Tacoma entering as new hybrid trucks, the stress is on for GM and Stellantis to step up. As of proper now, we all know this PHEV will boast a 28-mile zero-emission vary, in addition to hit 270-315 horses, relying on the trim. All stated, it should be famous that it isn’t coming Stateside.

4 GMC Sierra EV – Luxurious Electric Pickup Truck Power

When the brand new 2024 GMC Sierra EV comes out of the gates, will probably be supplied within the Denali Edition 1 trim. This mannequin is anticipated to have all of the bells and whistles related to the GMC title in a formidable, top-tier electrical pickup truck.

Performance Specifications

Motor/Engine

Dual-electric motor

Horsepower

754 horsepower

Torque

785 pound-feet

Driveline

AWD

Battery

Ultium battery with 800-volt structure

Range/MPG

400 miles

Towing Capacity

9,500 kilos

MSRP

$107,000

(Data sourced from GMC)

Using the Max Power mode, the brand new GMC Sierra EV can speed up to 60 mph in solely 4.5 seconds, which is fairly spectacular. This new GMC truck is the third within the GM lineup of recent electrical pickups, giving us one other competitor to challenge the F-150 Lightning. Of course, this will likely be extra of a luxurious truck than a number of the others on this listing, so anticipate a steeper worth. Current pricing for the Denali Edition 1 sits round $107,000 beginning MSRP.

Ram 1500 REV

Related

10 Electric Trucks With The Best Range

With EV expertise persevering with to evolve, extra pickup vans will optimize vary capabilities to additional convey concerning the new age of electrical mobility.

5 Fisker Alaska EV – Could Fisker Compete With An Electric Truck?

The new Fisker EV lineup is moving quickly with two brand-new electrical autos, the Ocean SUV and now the Alaska truck. Photos of the brand new truck weren’t supposed to be shared yet, however they had been (how might that occur, wink), which suggests the world is aware of concerning the new truck’s existence. Current specs we all know embody 340 miles of vary, 275 horsepower, and 0-60 MPH instances in as little as 3.9 seconds.

Performance Specifications

Motor/Engine

Single or dual-electric motor

Horsepower

275-540 horsepower

Torque

514-543 pound-feet

Driveline

FWD or AWD

Battery

75 kWh and 113 kWh

Range/MPG

230-340 miles

Towing Capacity

TBD

MSRP

~$45,400

(Data sourced from Fisker)

This could be Fisker’s first electrical truck supplied, so there’s a lot using on Alaska. However, with this section turning into more and more extra worthwhile to producers, we aren’t shocked an EV firm hopped on the bandwagon.

6 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid – This Could Be The First Midsize Hybrid Truck

Toyota is on a hybrid kick, including i-Force Max powertrains to every thing from the Tundra right down to the 4Runner. The new Toyota Tacoma Hybrid could be the first of the midsize hybrid pickup trucks to hit the market. Toyota has already proven it has the hybrid know-how to make this occur.

You can even anticipate a reasonably perky motor right here, with Toyota providing a 48-horsepower motor on prime of the two.4-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. You do not have a PHEV choice with this launch, though we’re positive Toyota will take into account it (or just go electrical) sooner or later. The brand has been making major strides in hydrogen and solid-state battery tech as of late.

Performance Specifications

Motor/Engine

2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine plus 48-hp electrical motor

Horsepower

326 horsepower

Torque

465 pound-feet

Driveline

AWD

Battery

1.87kWh NiMH

Range/MPG

27 MPG

Towing Capacity

6,500 kilos

MSRP

~$43,000

(Data sourced from Toyota)

Toyota positioned the electrical motor between the engine and transmission to offer added energy to the wheels always. Although this makes the Tacoma Hybrid a standard hybrid truck, it provides energy and effectivity to this spectacular new pickup.

Alpha Motor Wolf EV Single Cab Pickup 

Related

Every New Electric Truck You Probably Haven’t Heard Of

With all types of recent electrical vans getting into the market, this listing will give you 10 choices that you just seemingly haven’t but heard of.

7 Toyota Tundra Hybrid – A New Way To Drive The Full-size Toyota Truck

With Toyota quickly transferring in direction of electrical manufacturing, its Tundra has seen a hybrid overhaul. This 2024 mannequin provides you a Twin-Turbo V6 with an electrical motor, in addition to 437 horsepower with an incredible 583 pound-feet of torque. Through this yr’s obtainable i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, we see a perkier response from Tundra’s engine. This makes it a beast on-road, in addition to extra responsive off-road.

Performance Specifications

Motor/Engine

Twin-Turbo V6 with an electrical motor

Horsepower

437 horsepower

Torque

583 pound-feet

Driveline

4WD or RWD

Battery

1.87 kWh 288 V nickel-metal hydride

Range/MPG

20 MPG mixed

Towing Capacity

12,000 max kilos

MSRP

$39,965

(Data sourced from Toyota)

A brand new hybrid Tundra could be way more highly effective and environment friendly than the gas-powered mannequin, particularly by means of its added electrical motor. All for underneath $40,000 makes this an important entry truck for these out there for one. You additionally get to take pleasure in the advantages of electrical powertrains: So it is a win-win!

8 Ram 1500 REV – Revolutionizing The Electric Truck World

When the new Ram 1500 REV arrives, it’s anticipated to offer as much as 14,000 kilos of towing and a couple of,700 kilos of payload capability. Both figures are tops within the electrical truck market. There will likely be two completely different battery packs for the Ram electrical truck, providing spectacular energy and pace. You additionally see twin electrical motors with a possible max output of 654 horses. This truck is a beast.

Performance Specifications

Motor/Engine

Dual-electric motors

Horsepower

654 horsepower

Torque

610 pound-feet

Driveline

AWD

Battery

LG Chem 168 or 229 kWh lithium-ion, NMC cathode

Range/MPG

350-500 miles

Towing Capacity

14,000 kilos

MSRP

TBD

(Data sourced from RAM)

This automaker is at the moment taking reservations for it and is rumored to be launched in This fall of this yr.

Tesla Cybertruck action shot on a test track

Related

The Fastest Electric Trucks In The World, Ranked By 0-60 MPH Sprint

The period of highly effective vans being gas-guzzlers is coming to an finish with the period of electrified pace and efficiency dawning upon us.

9 Ford Maverick Hybrid – The Next Step In Electric For Ford

Despite being round for some time, we really feel it deserves a spot right here due to the area of interest it is carving out. The subsequent hybrid/EV truck to look out for this yr comes from Ford: the all-new semi-electric Maverick. This model boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine, in addition to provides 191 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque to the entrance wheels. There is an AWD improve for larger trims, in addition to off-roading packages obtainable. This truck has carried out nicely for Ford up to now, with rumors flying of a possible PHEV and EV model on the way in which.

Performance Specifications

Motor

2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine

Horsepower

191 horses

Torque

155 pound-feet

Driveline

FWD

Battery

N/A

Range/MPG

37 MPG mixed

Towing Capacity

2,000 kilos

MSRP

$23,815

(Data sourced from Ford)

For this yr’s Ford Maverick, your customary EcoBoost engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder able to 250 ponies. Either method, this pickup truck provides nice gas financial system.

Featured

FASTag Paytm and KYC Deadlines Explained: Will My FASTag Still Work After February 2024?

Post February 29, 2024, your FASTags might be blacklisted, whereas these issued through PayTM will be unable to top-up on stability

FASTag Deadlines February 2024

The main technique of creating toll funds, the FASTag, has been within the information these days as a result of main developments on two fronts. First is that the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) put a deadline of getting the whole KYC performed to your FASTag, and the second includes FASTags issued by PayTM following a choice from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), asking the monetary tech platform to close down its funds financial institution. We have summed up what you’ll want to know concerning the points, and what you’ll want to do.

NHAI Pushes For Full KYC With FASTag

The NHAI just lately introduced an initiative referred to as “One Vehicle, One FASTag” in an effort to optimise toll assortment and minimise delays. As a part of the push, NHAI has directed automobile homeowners to finish the KYCs for his or her FASTags in accordance with RBI tips. The authentic deadline was January 31 however has now been pushed to February 29. 

Why now?

One of causes behind that is that NHAI noticed quite a few situations the place one automobile was issued a number of FASTags and instances the place a single FASTag was being utilized by a number of autos. Once KYC has been accomplished, every automobile will solely have one legitimate FASTag registered to it. 

What if I don’t full FASTag KYC?

If the KYC remains to be not accomplished earlier than the deadline, the FASTag of your automobile might be deactivated, even when it nonetheless has some stability left. Also, when you have a number of FASTags registered to your automobile with legitimate KYC, solely essentially the most just lately bought one will stay lively, and the others might be blacklisted.

Also Read: Bharat Mobility Expo To Be Held Annually–Could It Replace The Auto Expo? 

For homeowners, the most effective factor to do proper now’s to get the KYC performed for his or her FASTag, which might be performed each on-line and offline, and use just one FASTag transferring ahead. You can verify the KYC standing of your FASTag both by logging in to the official website, or verify the associated financial institution web site that issued your specific FASTag.

Paytm Payments Bank FASTag Crisis

Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has requested Paytm to close down its funds financial institution as a result of irregularities, and to cease accepting recent deposits in present accounts and wallets submit February 29, which incorporates FASTags issued by PayTM. Since FASTags grew to become necessary for making toll funds with out penalties, PayTM is among the hottest providers issuing the RFID tag and so this newest improvement may cause points for numerous individuals. 

Until the top of February 2024, customers can nonetheless prime up their PayTM FASTags and might nonetheless use them after the deadline. But as soon as the stability runs out, you will be unable to recharge the PayTM FASTag and subsequently not use it to make funds at tolls.

While CEOs of a number of startups are urging RBI to take again their ruling, we nonetheless don’t know if RBI will take it again anytime quickly. To be on the safer aspect, and keep away from issues within the close to future, we advocate you get a brand new FASTag from one other supplier, like a financial institution, and full your KYC for a similar. 

We might be looking out for another developments concerning FASTags within the coming days, so keep tuned to CarDekho for the most recent updates.

News, Smartphones

Beeper Mini’s iMessage For Android Offline For Some As Apple Reportedly Pulls The Plug

The extent of the Beeper Mini outage is unclear. In response to the corporate’s put up on X in regards to the ongoing points, customers gave conflicting studies relating to their potential to make use of the service, however it seems that a few of these customers aren’t utilizing Beeper Mini, however moderately Beeper Cloud, which makes use of a unique methodology of accessing iMessage. Internally at SlashGear, some workers are experiencing the reported Beeper Mini outage whereas others stay ready to make use of the service.

According to a press release obtained by TechCrunch from Beeper CEO Eric Migicovsky, “all data indicates” that the outage is the results of Apple discovering a strategy to lower Beeper Mini off from its companies. Apple, which has lengthy seen iMessage as a powerful type of platform lock-in for iOS, has probably been working to unplug Beeper Mini from iMessage for the reason that service went stay. Cutting the Android app off on Friday may additionally have been a strategic play since Beeper workers will now must scramble because the weekend begins in the event that they hope to engineer a brand new strategy to maintain the service operating.

Apple has introduced RCS chat support for iPhone shall be coming at a while in 2024, however as of now, Beeper Mini was the one method for Android customers to ship wealthy messages and high-resolution media to iPhone customers with no third-party service like WhatsApp.

News

Is the 1877bhp Rimac Nevera still enjoyable to drive on public roads?

Meeting the world’s fastest electric car, the Rimac Nevera, at a charging post in Milton Keynes may not seem like the most obvious location. However, with the car’s chief engineer and limited time together, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore how this hypercar performs as an everyday sports car on the road.

The Croatian creation is required in pristine condition tomorrow at the Salon Privé concours in London, where potential buyers can admire and potentially order one. So, before that, we’ll hit the road and experience what it’s like to drive this car under normal conditions.

For me, this aspect is just as important as its impressive top speed of 258mph. I’m not claiming to be completely accustomed to 1877bhp hypercars, but the traditional question of “how fast can it go?” is not as relevant today. Discovering the top speed of even modest sports cars is now reserved for manufacturer test drivers or those serving time in prison.

As we make our way through the picturesque areas of Bedfordshire, passing towns, villages, and suburban buses, and eventually reaching the narrow, winding, and poorly surfaced B-roads typical of the British driving experience, Matija Renić, the chief engineer, jokes about forgetting his pace notes. It’s a humorous reminder of the daunting task of driving a 1.99-meter-wide, £2.4 million hypercar that aims to go from 0 to 62mph in just 1.95 seconds.

Fortunately, Renić assures me that the Nevera is not a one-trick pony. With its four electric independent motors, nearly 2000 horsepower, and impressive torque, he claims that it’s both interesting and entertaining to drive, even on challenging roads like these.

Rimac Nevera chief engineer Matija Renić (left) talking to Matt Prior (right)

I contemplate the significance of this statement. Renić explains, “It was one of the main goals for us. Many people in the company are enthusiasts about petrol-powered cars, or ‘gearheads’ as some would say. Our aim was to create an electric car that is engaging and fun to drive. Ultimately, it’s a driver’s car.”

Smartphones

This Secret Google Maps Feature Makes Tracking Your Favorite Spots Easy

Google Maps has recently introduced a new feature that allows users to use emoticons as placeholders for their favorite spots. Here’s how you can use this feature on your mobile device:

  1. Open the Google Maps app and sign in if you haven’t already.
  2. If you have the Saved option on the bottom navigation bar of the main Google Maps screen, tap on it. Otherwise, tap on your profile photo on the top-right corner of the screen and select “Your places.”
  3. In the Lists or “Your lists” section, tap on “New list” or the “+” icon to create a new list of places.
  4. Give your list a name, description, and select the type of list you prefer.
  5. Tap on “Choose icon” at the top of the screen.
  6. Select your preferred emoji.
  7. Tap on Save to save the new list.

After saving the list, a notification shade will appear. You can add suggested places to your list by tapping on “Add” next to the address, or you can manually search for and add places by tapping on “Add” below the list name. The places you add will be marked with the emoji you selected for the list.

If you already have saved lists and want to update them with emoticons:

  1. Follow the previous instructions to access your saved places.
  2. In the Lists tab, tap on the three-dot icon next to the list you want to modify, and select “Edit list.”
  3. Tap on “Choose icon” at the top of the screen.
  4. Select an emoticon to represent the list.
  5. Tap on Save to apply the changes.

Besides changing the icon, you can also modify the list type to allow others to view or edit it.

Smartphones

The Forgotten Android Mascot You Didn’t Know Existed

The Android mascot has become an iconic symbol of the operating system, but there’s a lesser-known version that many people are unaware of. This information comes from a post by Dan Morrill, a member of the Android team at Google. Interestingly, Morrill also revealed that the mascot does not have an official name, but it is commonly referred to as the bugdroid.

The design of the green Android logo we are familiar with today was created by Irina Blok, a graphic designer at Google. According to The New York Times, Blok and her team were tasked with creating a logo that would be easily recognizable and represent the Android operating system. Blok drew inspiration from science fiction, space opera, and restroom door pictograms of the universal man and woman.

While the Android mascot has maintained its basic identity over the years, it differs from typical marketing strategies in one important aspect. Just like the operating system itself, the design of the Android mascot is open source. Google states that the bugdroid can be freely used, reproduced, and modified in marketing materials as long as proper attribution is given, as outlined in their brand guidelines.

The openness of the Android mascot has contributed to the brand’s popularity, and Google has embraced its mascot in various ways. In 2011, they introduced Androidify, a tool that allowed users to create personalized Android avatars. However, in 2020, the project was discontinued. Additionally, Google has a lawn at their Mountainview campus dedicated to displaying statues representing different Android versions released over the years. Unfortunately, the Dandroids mascot is not among them.