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News

The Evolution Of Cruise Control And How It Works Today

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Summary

  • Cruise management is a typical function in trendy vehicles, making driving simpler and doubtlessly saving cash on gasoline.
  • Ralph Teetor, a sightless engineer, created the primary cruise management in 1948, influencing nearly all of vehicles as we speak.
  • Adaptive cruise management makes use of radar sensors to keep up a secure distance from automobiles forward, enhancing security and comfort.

It might be intuition so that you can be driving alongside a freeway and clicking on cruise management, giving your foot a relaxation, and watching the street. You in all probability do not even give it some thought now as you cruise alongside the stretch of street the place you normally get to work or to see household often.

Or, you possibly can be a driver who would not notice that your automotive options it, however, cruise management is featured within the majority of recent vehicles, whether or not that be a brand new electrical automotive, a frugal hybrid car, a pick-up truck, a sports activities automotive, or a powerful sedan. All are more likely to boast cruise management, or on the very least, it comes as an elective additional. Cruise management is likely one of the trendy auto world’s most helpful and handy options that not solely makes your life simpler however, additionally may doubtlessly prevent cash on gasoline. Something all of us want now that gas prices have recently gone up.

If you might be like us and wish to know the way vehicles and electric cars work, you could have in all probability thought to your self earlier than, how does cruise management work? Modern examples of cruise management have come a good distance because the unique mannequin, and have turn into a security measure in vehicles, so it’s now an integral a part of driving for lots of people. For these causes, we’ve got scoured a variety of sources to seek out out the place cruise management got here from, the way it works, what vehicles function cruise management, and the way it has advanced from the primary instance, to what it’s as we speak.

In order to provide the most modern and correct info potential, the information used to compile this text was sourced from numerous Kia’s web site, Ford’s web site, and different authoritative sources, together with Kelley Blue Book, The Rolls-Royce and Bentley Technical Library, The Smithsonian Magazine, MIT, Car Buzz, JD Power, Department Of Energy.gov, and Fuel Economy.gov.

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The Beginning Of Cruise Control

The earliest known example of cruise control was created by an engineer named Ralph Teetor in 1948. Legend has it that the concept got here to him after being pushed by an acquaintance who would decelerate his driving each time he needed to speak to Ralph. Ralph Teetor was sightless and, based on his household, had a ‘legendary sense of contact’, so the small deviations in velocity would have been noticeable to him.

Others, together with his members of the family, have mentioned that the necessary gas-saving velocity restrict of 35 MPH imposed by the American authorities throughout WWII may have additionally been an affect. The elevated want for street security may have performed a component. For no matter purpose, Ralph Teetor created one thing that has gone on to affect practically all of the vehicles on our roads as we speak.

The first instance of cruise management was referred to as the Speedostat, and consisted of a dashboard velocity selector related to an engine compartment mechanism. As the driver-set velocity obtained nearer, the governor mechanism overcame spring pressure to activate a piston able to pushing again towards the gasoline pedal, making it arduous for the driving force to push down the gasoline and achieve any extra velocity till it was deactivated. Teetor obtained a patent for the Speedostat in 1950.

Early Models With Cruise Control

Over the subsequent 5 years after 1950, the Speedostat was improved and a velocity lock, which consists of an electro-magnetic motor that enables the driving force to achieve the wanted velocity and faucet the brakes to keep up the velocity, was added.

The first automaker that provided the Speedostat as an elective additional of their luxurious fashions was Chrysler in 1958. The Nineteen Fifties Chrysler fashions that function the early model of cruise management are:

A few years later, Cadillac provided cruise management, as that they had re-named it, in all of their fashions as an elective additional. The earliest Cadillac fashions to function cruise management are:

  • 1960 Cadillac deVille
  • 1960 Cadillac Eldorado
  • 1960 Cadillac Coupe deVille

How Cruise Control Has Progressed

Cruise management was not seen as a wanted addition to vehicles till 1973 when an oil embargo towards the united statesA. created the necessity to save gasoline wherever potential. Meaning, that the implementation of cruise management turned way more widespread and greater than only a handy function to have. It turned a gas-saving machine that was wanted on the time. Today, cruise management is likely one of the commonest options of recent vehicles, alongside advanced safety features, which make the roads a safer place.

The change in cruise control comes in the form of throttle control and works within the following steps:

  • Speed is selected by the driver via buttons on the steering wheel or dashboard (depending on the automotive mannequin).
  • An electrical motor (a part of cruise management which is managed by your automotive’s engine administration unit), controls the place of the throttle with help from sensors and an actuator.
  • The throttle place is about on the angle the place the correct quantity of air will be let into the combustion chamber of the engine and the correct quantity of gas will be injected to match your required velocity.
  • The throttle is held in that place till you deactivate the cruise management by urgent the brake or accelerator to both enhance or lower your automotive’s velocity manually.
  • Your automotive’s cruise management may speed up or decelerate relying on the street floor and inclination of the street, however this relies on what automotive you could have (we’ll cowl this under).

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How Cruise Control Works In Modern Vehicles

Nissan Ariya cruise control
Nissan

With increasingly vehicles on our roads than ever earlier than, simply setting a velocity and leaving at that velocity could be nice. It would make each journey so much simpler, however, in fact, there are different street customers to consider. This is how cruise management has turn into a really helpful security function in addition to a good way of saving fuel, getting a long driving range from your car, and making your journey simpler.

In trendy vehicles, radar-controlled cruise management, or adaptive cruise management, is used extensively to make sure you have a handy experience and your drive is secure. Adaptive cruise management makes use of the next elements to maintain you at a secure distance from a car forward of you:

  • Radar sensor
  • Digital sign processor
  • Longitudinal controller

Like the usage of cruise management, an actuator controls the place of your throttle at your required velocity. The essential distinction between older variations of cruise management and adaptive cruise management is {that a} radar is positioned behind the grille of a automotive and can assist to keep up a secure distance from different automobiles in entrance of you.

Information is handed from the talked about adaptive cruise control components to your engine administration pc after which to the actuator that controls the throttle and reduces, or will increase your velocity.

Why Automakers Use Cruise Control

Automakers like Ford have implemented Active Cruise Control in a lot of their cars, and it’s an elective additional for a variety of their fashions too. Like Ford, many automakers have mentioned that the usage of cruise management and adaptive cruise management is being applied for the next causes:

  • To save gas
  • To present a safer drive
  • To assist cut back fatigue and lack of focus
  • To assist you to keep inside velocity limits

The Benefits Of Convenience

One of the primary issues that cruise management or adaptive cruise management is helpful for within the trendy world, other than security, is for saving gasoline. With rising costs just about in all places in everybody’s lives, this can be of paramount significance to you.

According to Fuel Economy.gov, the use of cruise control can potentially help you save gas as a result of there can be fixed velocity of driving upheld. The extra you speed up and decelerate, or change speeds, even unintentionally, the extra gasoline you utilize. The Department Of Energy has additionally mentioned that the usage of cruise management can assist you save gasoline by sustaining a relentless velocity on the freeway or in low-traffic conditions.

Close up shot of a 2000 Honda S2000 showing the VTEC Engine

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Models Of Modern Cars With Cruise Control

Gray 2024 BMW 5 Series
BMW

Most new and a few used vehicles and pickup vehicles, relying on the age, and on the auto market include cruise management or adaptive cruise management as customary. Even for those who purchase certainly one of 2024’s most fuel-economical gas-powered cars, no matter what engine is featured, it should seemingly come geared up with both cruise management or adaptive cruise management as customary.

Along with efficient engines that are boasted in mainstream cars, top-of-the-line potential gas-saving options is cruise management. We have taken a go searching and located some stand-out examples of pickup vehicles and cars that feature cruise control as standard.

Best Trucks And SUVs With Cruise Control

Though pickup vehicles will not be essentially the most fuel-economical automobiles on our roads, they are often made comparatively gas frugal due to their powertrains and options, that assist to deliver down their mixed MPG score. Of course, the velocity you set your pickup truck or SUV at, and the way you utilize cruise management, can have an effect on your mixed MPG.

We have written earlier than about the best hybrid cars, trucks, and SUVs for 2024 and 2025. From our record, the next pick-up vehicles and SUVs not solely function some nice luxurious options, work capabilities, and highly effective powertrains, but additionally function cruise management or adaptive cruise management:

  • 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV
  • 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
  • 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e
  • 2024 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid
  • 2024 Kia Niro PHEV

Best Cars With Cruise Control

Featuring in lots of vehicles available on the market in the intervening time, cruise management is quite common. Adaptive cruise management, as an ordinary function although, is rather less widespread in 2024 budget cars.

Model

2024 Mini Hardtop

2024 Kia Forte

2024 Genesis G70

2024 BMW 330i

2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

MRSP

$25,800

$19,790

$41,500

$44,500

$62,300

Segment

Compact Car

Compact Car

Compact Executive Car

Executive Sedan

Executive Sedan

Cruise Control As Standard

Yes

Yes

–

Yes

Yes

Adaptive Cruise Control As Standard

No ($500 elective additional)

Unavailable, auto-braking is offered

Yes

No, auto-braking is included

No, auto-braking is included

If you’re looking at buying a new car in 2024, it’s at all times price asking, in fact, however it’s seemingly that it’ll function cruise management as customary. From its humble beginnings within the mid-Twentieth century to the just about required security and gas-saving machine in trendy vehicles, cruise management has had a protracted historical past. A historical past filled with variations to swimsuit the wants of the driving force and the altering street surroundings. Cruise control has even been rolled out in a few motorbike models as properly. It is turning into arguably obligatory and customary on our roads.

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Gaming Accessories, Technology

What Is A Nintendo Switch Flash Cart, And Can It Get You Banned?

So, the million-dollar query, doubtlessly actually given Nintendo’s notorious authorized division, is whether or not or not utilizing a flash cart in your Switch would get you banned. The reply to that could be a bit murky because the builders of the MIG Switch cannot communicate for Nintendo or its insurance policies. That mentioned, your odds of being banned are typically decrease so long as you adhere to sure guidelines.

The most vital factor is that the MIG Switch is barely supposed for backing up video games that you’ve legally bought. Every Switch sport cartridge has a particular identification code that marks you as its person whereas enjoying on-line. If you are utilizing the MIG Switch in lieu of your precise copy whereas enjoying on-line, that ought to be high quality. If you tried to cross the copied model to a buddy and each of you went on-line on the identical time, Nintendo’s servers would swiftly ping the identical cartridge working in two locations, which is an instantaneous ban flag.

It’s additionally value noting that completely different nations and territories regard the method of sport backups in a different way. Flash cart use continues to be a grey space within the United States, as an illustration, whereas within the United Kingdom, following a 2010 lawsuit, using flash carts is totally outlawed. You’d do effectively to perform a little research on native copy safety legal guidelines earlier than you try to make use of a flash cart. Even if you do not get banned, you would possibly get sued.

Featured

“Armada” Among 7 Names Trademarked For Upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door

The different names may doubtlessly be used for particular editions of the Thar, or to undertake a brand new naming technique for the variants (like Tata)

Mahindra Thar 5 door

The Mahindra Thar 5 door has been one of the crucial anticipated SUVs, for over a yr now. Its launch has been scheduled for 2024, and the SUV was additionally caught testing in a closer-to-production guise just lately. It now looks like Mahindra is within the technique of finalising a reputation for the manufacturing model of the Thar 5-door, and has just lately trademarked 7 names.

What Names Have Been Trademarked?

Mahindra has filed for logos for the next names:

  • Thar Armada

  • Thar Savannah

  • Thar Gladius

  • Thar Centurion

Also Check Out: Maruti Jimny vs Mahindra Thar – Which Petrol Automatic 4×4 Is Quicker?

What Would Be The Best Pick?

5-door Mahindra Thar render

Of the 7 seven names, the ‘Thar Armada’ is the top contender, as the new name for the upcoming 5-door Mahindra SUV. If Mahindra does choose the identical, it nonetheless leaves 6 different Thar-based logos free to make use of.

We imagine the carmaker may use these names for the Thar 5 door’s variants. Tata just lately rebranded its variant nomenclature with the facelifted Nexon, Harrier, and Safari SUVs from simply letters to correct phrases. It may additionally use among the newly trademarked identities to launch new variants within the Thar 3-door mannequin’s lineup as effectively. 

That mentioned, these logos may additionally trace at the opportunity of Mahindra rolling out particular editions of each the 3-door and 5-door variations of the Thar, one thing just like what Jeep has finished with the Wrangler SUV within the worldwide markets.

Powertrains And Launch Timeline

The Mahindra Thar 5-door is predicted to get the identical 2-litre turbo-petrol and a pair of.2-litre diesel engines as its 3-door iteration, probably with elevated outputs. Both engines ought to get handbook and automated transmission choices. The Thar 5 door may additionally provide a alternative of each rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and 4-wheel-drive (4WD).

Mahindra Thar 5 door rear

We count on the extra sensible Thar to go on sale within the first half of 2024 at an anticipated beginning worth of Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom). It will likely be an even bigger various to the Maruti Jimny, whereas additionally going up in opposition to the soon-to-be-launched 5-door Force Gurkha.

Read More on : Mahindra Thar Automatic

News

How Hybridization Could Bring The V-8 Back To The Mercedes C-Class And E-Class

Summary

  • Mercedes-AMG is considering reintroducing V-8 engines in their C-Class and E-Class models, potentially bringing back the raw power and performance that enthusiasts love.
  • The rumored V-8 hybrid configuration could launch as early as 2026, satisfying the desire for a powerful engine while also incorporating greener technology.
  • Mercedes recognizes the importance of the V-8 engine in its brand’s reputation and dominance in the luxury market, and the reintroduction of this engine could help attract customers back to its vehicles.

In a striking turn of events for performance drivers, a seismic shift might be on the horizon for Mercedes-AMG’s acclaimed C-Class and E-Class models. Amidst speculation and insider murmurs, the resounding opinion suggests that the V-8 engine could soon reclaim its throne in these high-octane marques, rekindling our passion for raw power and exhilarating performance. Mercedes-AMG, renowned for pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering, is considering the revival of the V-8 powertrain in their C-Class and E-Class iterations.

Whispers of this exciting endeavor with the AMG GT63 S E Performance and AMG S63, where the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine combines with an electrifying hybrid configuration. Insiders reveal that these V-8 entrants could make a comeback as early as 2026, unleashing performance that resonates through the very soul of Mercedes buyers. Yet, as anticipation mounts, so does skepticism within the AMG community, which yearns for the original V-8 engine that once dominated the C and E-Class models.

Again, Mercedes has been somewhat lock and key regarding this idea, but countless outlets are reporting and alluding to the V-8 engine being reintroduced into these hybrid designs.

Related: 10 Things BMW And Mercedes Could Learn From Tesla

Mercedes Could Be Adding A V-8 Engine Back Into Its C-Class And E-Class Models

Mercedes C-Class
Mercedes

In a shocking turn of events, Mercedes-AMG has been considering adding a V-8 hybrid engine back into its highly-successful C-Class and E-Class models, which would be a blast from the past we all would enjoy. Not only is this being speculated and discussed, but it’s even rumored that these V-8-powered hybrids could launch as soon as 2026. Considering OG, Mercedes drivers remember when the C-Class and E-Class had V-8 engines, with them being swapped out in 2022. Many drivers weren’t thrilled with this decision by the company, which could have led to these current discussions.

After all, consumers generally have the largest voice when dealing with automakers of this caliber. Mercedes are known for their finely tuned, well-calibrated, and potent engines. One of the reasons people happily spend so much for their Mercedes-made cars is the long-standing reputation they have acquired, which the V-8 heavily contributed to. A C-Class or E-Class without a V-8 engine doesn’t purr the same or perform as we’d all prefer: and Mercedes knows it. Luckily, with 2026 only a few years away, we could witness the rebirth of C and E-Class vehicles powered by both electric and V-8 engines before our very own eyes.

Related: 10 Things That Make The Mercedes EQS SUV Special

How Mercedes Shifting Hybrid Could Give Us Back Our Powerful V-8 C-Class And E-Class

Blue 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz
  • It’s rumored that the 2026 C-Class and E-Class will be reintroduced with the M177 4.0-liter V-8 engine.

It’s worth noting that because Mercedes is in talks of shifting greener, this could also come with a few gas-powered benefits. Of course, we’d love to see further initiatives by the German automaker to go 100 percent electric with most, if not all, of its model: but that’s not logical for the present market. People aren’t ready to let go of their loud, high-performance vehicles, and we don’t blame them. A significant market that Mercedes dominates is the higher-tier sportscar customer, which would otherwise shift to Porsche, BMW, Audi, or Ferrari. Again, the C and E-Class aren’t comparable to some of these brands’ most prestigious cars but are a favorite among wealthier drivers.

Mercedes, a global powerhouse brand, has aligned with the high-performance engine, so eliminating the V-8 configuration in 2022 up until 2026 or later will hurt the company. Regardless, with the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 returning with its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 and an expected release of an E-Class with the V-8 rather than V-6, Mercedes could grab hold of the luxury market once again in massive numbers. The magic about the hybridization of Mercedes is giving us the best of both worlds in more ways than one. The brand could realize that with a V-6 engine and hybrid electric capability, its cars won’t be as loud or impressive as with the initial V-8.

Again, that’s not to say V-6 engines aren’t good for the brand, but with a hybrid build, they may not be exciting enough to grab hold of customers. Another theory that’s circling is that Mercedes did this on purpose, pulling back on V-8 only to reintroduce it with a more premium hybrid model.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV

Future Hybrid Mercedes C-Class And E-Class Sedans Won’t Need Much Exterior Tweaking

2024 Mercedes E-Class
Mercedes

Another critical point to remember is that with the C-Class and E-Class embarking on a hybrid x V-8 overhaul, many speculate the two models won’t need much change appearance-wise. With minor adjustments, both models can easily fit the twin-turbo V-8 under the hood along with the motor, battery, and other plug-in hybrid components: all good signs for this happening. After all, many brands are forced into eco-friendly designs for their highest-performing cars because governments and consumers want this.

Mercedes is currently testing the V-8 hybrid configuration to pass Euro 7 emissions standards requirements: so we’d expect a press release in the next year or so. Mercedes doesn’t want to get our hopes up, and we respect the secrecy (for now). Again, we’re seeing brands like Maserati ditch their V-8 range with special edition limited production models, as they can’t comply with the European manufacturing standards for cleaner driving. Europe being harsher on its car companies is ultimately setting the world up for a different landscape come 2030, 2040, and 2050, so it’s best these brands cooperate and evolve rather than fight the change. As we’re learning now with Mercedes’ ambitious V-8 hybrid plan: this is possible.

Related: Mercedes-Benz Vision One Eleven Concept: Everything You Need To Know

We’re Seeing The Inevitable Electrification Of Mercedes-Benz

A parked 2023 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Mercedes-Benz USA

Even though Mercedes hasn’t jumped straight into the idea of electric driving, this brand has made significant strides in shifting to hybrid/electric design from traditional gas-powered. According to a press release from the company, Mercedes has an ambitious plan to go fully electric by the end of this decade. That would mean the next release of a V-8 engine could be one of its final: ever. From 2025 onwards, the brand has promised to nearly entirely shift its designs to electric rather than hybrids or gas-powered luxury sedans, SUVs, etc.

That said, with murmurs of this hybrid V-8 C-Class and E-Class models coming to market within the decade, what could this mean for Mercedes’ ultimate vision? It’s undoubtedly curious especially considering this press release has been updated into 2023, and the company continues to push the message of green, emission-free driving into 2030.

Moreover, here are the three electric-only architectures MB has mentioned creating by 2025:

  • MB.EA will cover all medium to large size passenger cars, establishing a scalable modular system as the electric backbone for the future EV portfolio.
  • AMG.EA will be a dedicated performance electric vehicle platform addressing technology and performance-oriented Mercedes-AMG customers.
  • VAN.EA ushers in a new era for purpose-made electric vans and Light Commercial Vehicles, which will contribute to emission-free transportation and cities in the future.

So, we’ll have to wait and see if Mercedes can somehow fulfill this promise of electric architecture while also giving us a V-8 hybrid like currently speculated. Things are set to become more interesting in the world of European-created vehicles.

News

20 Things You Need To Know About The 2025 Toyota MR2

Summary

  • The 2025 Toyota MR2 may feature an engine from Suzuki, such as the 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-three with 120 horsepower and 144.5 pound-feet of torque.
  • Porsche and Lotus collaborations are possible, resulting in a higher-priced MR2 with components from these high-end carmakers.
  • Lexus, as a subsidiary of Toyota, could also contribute to the development of the MR2. A manual transmission option will be available for enthusiasts.

Toyota’s MR2, a popular JDM icon, is set to make a comeback in 2025. The new generation MR2 is expected to feature collaborations with Suzuki, Porsche, and Lotus, resulting in an exciting mid-engine model. Here are 20 things you need to know about the 2025 Toyota MR2:

1. The 2025 MR2 Won’t Have a Toyota Engine: Toyota may partner with Suzuki and Daihatsu for the new MR2. The 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-three engine from Suzuki is a potential candidate for the MR2.

2. The MR2 May Have Porsche Components: Toyota could collaborate with Porsche and Lotus, potentially resulting in a higher-priced MR2 with components sourced from these high-end carmakers.

3. Lexus Could Play a Role in MR2’s Development: As a subsidiary of Toyota, Lexus may contribute to the development of the MR2, bringing its expertise in luxury and performance.

4. Manual Transmission Option Available: Toyota understands the importance of the driving experience for sports car enthusiasts, so a manual transmission option will be offered.

5. The MR2 Will Be Compact and Lightweight: As with previous MR2 models, the 2025 version will prioritize compactness and lightweight construction to deliver nimble handling and agility.

6. Potential Collaboration with Suzuki: Toyota’s partnership with Suzuki may result in the use of Suzuki’s 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-three engine for the MR2. This engine is already showcased in various Suzuki models.

7. Possibility of Porsche Components: Toyota could seek assistance from Porsche and Lotus to develop the MR2 as a high-performance sports car, potentially replacing the entry-level GR86 model.

8. Development Led by Daihatsu: Toyota’s subsidiary, Daihatsu, is reportedly leading the design and development of the MR2, ensuring a new corporate design for the sports car.

9. Lightweight Construction: Toyota aims to make the 2025 MR2 as light as possible to enhance performance and fuel efficiency. It will utilize the brand’s TNGA platform, optimized for compactness and weight reduction.

10. Potential Lotus Rivalry: The MR2 is rumored to be targeting the Honda NSX (Acura NSX) as a direct competitor, potentially offering a more upscale and generously equipped version compared to Suzuki’s model.

11. Suzuki-Badged Version Possible: There could be a Suzuki-badged version of the MR2, aiming to offer a more budget-friendly alternative with Suzuki’s brand identity.

12. Potential Replacement for Toyota’s GR86: The MR2 may replace Toyota’s GR86 as the brand’s entry-level sporty proposition, offering a more powerful and performance-focused alternative.

13. Mild-Hybrid Powertrain: The MR2 could feature Suzuki’s K10C engine upgraded with a mild-hybrid system, ensuring consistent power delivery and addressing emissions requirements.

14. Compact Dimensions: The MR2’s dimensions are expected to be compact, with an overall length of approximately 4,200 mm, a width of 1,720 mm, and a height of 1,220 mm. The wheelbase is projected to be around 2,550 mm.

15. Lightweight: The 2025 MR2 will prioritize lightweight construction to optimize performance and handling. The target weight is approximately 2,000 to 2,200 pounds.

16. Potential Toyota MR2 GR Version: There are rumors of a high-performance GR version of the MR2 exclusively offered by Toyota. This version could feature an upgraded engine or turbocharged powertrain.

17. Possible Name Change: Toyota may choose to give the mid-engined offering an all-new name instead of using the MR2 moniker.

18. Limited Availability in the United States: It is uncertain if the MR2 will be available in the United States, as Toyota may focus on local markets first. Import regulations and market demand could delay its introduction to American soil.

19. The Hype May Be Premature: Since Toyota has not officially announced the new MR2, the rumors and information should be taken with caution. The possibility of a new MR2 may not materialize as expected.

20. Toyota’s Continued Interest: However, the strong interest and demand for a modern MR2 from fans and enthusiasts may eventually persuade Toyota to bring the iconic sports car back to life.

News

Chrome plating set to be banned over cancer concern

The use of chrome plating is facing a potential ban due to health concerns related to the creation of hexavalent chromium, a known carcinogen. The emissions produced during the plating process are reportedly 500 times more toxic than diesel and contribute to chronic lung cancer.

Attempts to reduce these emissions with chemical fume depressants have introduced another toxic substance called Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).

The European Union (EU) has proposed a ban on chrome plating starting from 2024, with California and other regions also considering similar measures. This ban is expected to have a significant impact on car design since chrome plating is widely used in the automotive industry for creating a premium look.

In addition to its use in car parts, chrome has been commonly employed in everyday household items like kitchen sinks and light fittings. It is also utilized in components requiring rust resistance, such as aircraft landing gear and fishing tackle.

Gilles Vidal, chief designer at Renault, expressed his hope that alternative materials will be explored even if a replacement for chrome is found. He believes it is time to move beyond chrome and embrace more sustainable alternatives. Renault has already started using materials like slate and cork finishes, as well as incorporating 60% recycled Alcantara.