Tag Archives: preparation

BMW

24h Nürburgring Qualifiers: BMW M Motorsport groups face a very powerful endurance check earlier than the 24-hour race.

Nürburgring. The brief and intensive preparation section for the Nürburgring 24 Hours (GER, 1st/2nd June) reaches its climax this coming weekend on the 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers. There, BMW M Motorsport groups RMG and ROWE Racing will compete in necessary preparatory races for the season spotlight. Nine BMW M works drivers shall be deployed in three BMW M4 GT3s.

BMW M Team RMG is as soon as once more counting on a younger, extremely proficient line-up of drivers in 2024, with three members of the Gen2K group created by BMW M Motorsport (BMW M works drivers born in 2000 or later). Dan Harper (GBR) and Max Hesse (GER) will compete for the fourth time along with the workforce led by Team Principal Stefan Reinhold within the prime class on the 24-hour race. Joining them within the cockpit of the #72 BMW M4 GT3, sporting the design of BMW M Motorsport Premium Technology Partner Shell, is Charles Weerts (BEL). The 23-year-old will make his debut on the 24h Nürburgring however already has a formidable and profitable GT3 profession, particularly within the Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, the place he was the general winner in 2021. In current weeks, Weerts, Harper, and Hesse have already accomplished a number of check laps on the Nordschleife and have been intensively making ready for his or her race entries.

ROWE Racing will area two vehicles. This coming weekend, BMW M works drivers Raffaele Marciello (SUI), Maxime Martin (BEL), and Marco Wittmann (GER) will take turns within the #98 BMW M4 GT3. In the sister #99 automobile, Augusto Farfus (BRA), Sheldon van der Linde (RSA), and Dries Vanthoor (BEL) shall be within the cockpit. As the seventh driver, Robin Frijns (NED) will compete within the 24-hour race, nonetheless he shall be absent from the Qualifiers as a consequence of a scheduling battle with Formula E. Nevertheless, Frijns has additionally managed to finish a number of check laps on the Nordschleife previously weeks.

At the season opener of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) final weekend, no BMW M4 GT3 might participate as a result of most drivers had been taking part within the concurrent GT World Challenge Europe occasion at Le Castellet (FRA), the place Harper, Hesse, and Farfus gained along with the ROWE Racing Team.

BMW is the official automobile companion of the Nürburgring.

Good information for all BMW followers got here a couple of weeks in the past at the beginning of the Nürburgring season. From the 2024 season, BMW is the official automobile companion of the Nürburgring. At least till 2026, the service and monitor security autos for the racetrack employees will come from BMW. In addition to the prevailing dedication of BMW M on the Nürburgring, the newly determined automobile partnership represents an extra enlargement of collaboration and the presence of BMW on the legendary racetrack.

A complete of 25 new BMWs will initially strengthen the Nürburgring’s fleet. Nine of them shall be used on the racetrack as a part of monitor security. Eight BMW 3 Series Touring and one BMW X1 shall be deployed on the Nordschleife and Grand Prix circuit to make sure security. For this objective, the autos shall be given a particular Nürburgring design with warning components to be simply seen by all racetrack customers, corresponding to vacationer drivers or members in driver coaching classes. As service autos, the 1 Series, 3 Series, and the X1 and X3 shall be out there to workers, additionally that includes design components of the Nürburgring silhouette and the Nürburgring emblem, making them interesting representatives of the versatile occasion location.

Comments on the 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers:

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “The 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers are very important for us, as they are every year. This coming weekend, we will test all our race procedures and prepare ourselves as well as possible for the season highlight. Our advantage is that the BMW M Motorsport engineers, as well as our teams ROWE Racing and RMG, have a lot of experience on the Nordschleife and do not need much time to optimally adjust to the 24-hour race. Accordingly, we approach the coming weeks with confidence. Seeing that BMW is now even more prominently represented at the Nürburgring as the official vehicle partner pleases me greatly. The brand is extremely popular with fans – whether in racing or for everyone on the road.”

Stefan Reinhold (Team Principal BMW M Team RMG): “This season, the preparation for the 24-hour race is extremely short. Therefore, the two races we will compete in this coming weekend are all the more important. Our team now has experience on the Nordschleife, which will surely help us. Nevertheless, it is always about training all procedures under competitive conditions to be optimally coordinated when it comes to racing in the big one in June. We have already completed several test days under various weather conditions in advance, during which we covered many kilometres and collected valuable data. Our new driver Charles Weerts also had plenty of time to adjust to our team and the BMW M4 GT3 on the Nordschleife. He has made a great impression and harmonises very well with Dan Harper and Max Hesse. I am convinced that we will present ourselves as a strong team.”

Hans-Peter Naundorf (Team Principal ROWE Racing): “After the fantastic start to the season at Le Castellet, we want to continue in the same vein this coming weekend. The Qualifiers are not just a preparation programme for the big race at the beginning of June for us. We want to race this weekend, push hard, and as always, fight for podium places. Our driver line-up is already well sorted out; five of the six BMW M works drivers who will be competing this weekend know the team and our processes, some for many years. The schedule gives us enough opportunity to give Raffaele Marciello as many kilometres as possible in the BMW M4 GT3 on the Nordschleife.”

ToyotaUk

Toyota’s Driving Possibilities Program Invests in Future STEM Leaders

When a student’s confidence, preparation and skills come together, it sparks a powerful transformation. Toyota is committed to ensuring that students are aware of the numerous post-graduate STEM opportunities available to them.

The Driving Possibilities initiative empowers students and provides access to educational programs that are inclusive, future-focused, and responsive to workforce demands. This initiative is funded by the Toyota USA Foundation, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA), and Toyota Financial Services (TFS).

“We need to help prepare the workforce of the future by providing a broader education and getting the next generation ready for high-growth careers,” says Ted Ogawa, CEO at Toyota Motor North America. “In addition, addressing inequities that create barriers to success will help improve lives throughout the U.S.”

For Toyota, this approach focuses on supporting local groups to contribute to student success in a holistic manner.

The program is being implemented in the company’s operational communities nationwide, focusing on addressing food insecurity, literacy, mobility solutions, career readiness, and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.

Driving Possibilities is based on the program at the West Dallas STEM School (WDSS), and aims to close educational gaps for all students through innovative, hands-on STEM programming.

Accelerating Career Readiness 
In Southeast Michigan, a similar program will propel students toward a future STEM career.

The program in this region focuses on improving access and coordination of STEM resources to underserved students. This includes a newly-created STEM Institute, professional learning for teachers, and a multi-year transportation study.

The program’s funding is being administered between Eastern Michigan University (EMU) and the Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA).

“We are proud to partner with Toyota USA Foundation’s Driving Possibilities initiative as it puts community expertise and voice at the center of community engagement,” says Ryan Evely Gildersleeve, Ph.D., EMU’s College of Education Dean. 

Continuing a Path for Success
In Kentucky, the program aims to better connect school systems with industry partners and resources to increase access to key programs.

Collaborating with Scott County, Fayette County, and the Ignite Institute in Northern Kentucky, the program expands literacy and language resources, builds education and industry partnerships, and addresses transportation barriers.

In addition, partnerships with community partners and businesses will focus on STEM/STEM Career Technical Education (CTE) curriculum, field trips, job shadowing, apprenticeships, and mentorships. Programs will also provide resources for English-learner students and families.

“Over the last 32 years, Toyota has partnered with National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) to spread high-impact practices to support families learning together,” says Shea Coughlin, SVP, Operations & Strategy, NCFL. “Toyota USA Foundation’s Driving Possibilities initiative has challenged us to take another step forward in engaging with families and communities.”

Dia Davidson-Smith, the chief communications and public engagement officer for Fayette County Public Schools, is hopeful that the program will empower students to pursue rewarding STEM careers and prepare them for success in the classroom and in life.

Creating Limitless Possibilities 
In Southern Indiana, the program focuses on increasing access to quality PreK education and providing additional support to student mental health services, multi-language learning, and hands-on STEM programs for students and teachers.

This program aims to prepare area students for future STEM careers by introducing powerful learning experiences.

Connecting STEM and Career Technology Education
In Alabama, the program aims to bridge students to STEM-based Career Technology Education programs and support new teachers in educating students across grade levels.

This grant supports the recently announced HCS Career Tech Center in Huntsville City Schools by providing funds to the Huntsville Chamber Foundation as its coordinating partner.

“High-quality education is essential for a well-educated and capable workforce,” says Elizabeth Goodson, induction program specialist & director of public development, Huntsville City Schools. “Supporting teacher induction programs not only benefits students but also contributes to the overall health and vitality of the community.”

Through the New Teacher Center, up to 70 new teachers at both Jemison High School and Lee High School will receive training and mentorship.

Building a Solid STEM Future
As the Driving Possibilities initiative is rolled out across the U.S., collaborating with school districts, nonprofits, and local communities to improve educational programs for future STEM professionals remains a top priority for Toyota.

“Through our active partnerships with communities across the U.S., we collaborate to improve education and help shape the future for the next generation,” says Mark Templin, CEO, Toyota Financial Services. “We invite other businesses to join with us in this shared purpose.”

Check out the map below to see how Toyota USA Foundation is driving this initiative forward:

Motorsport

Nissan Hyper Adventure Concept Revealed With Retractable Trunk Steps

Nissan has unveiled its latest electric vehicle concept, the Hyper Adventure Concept, designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind. This zero-emissions show car features traditional front doors and butterfly rear doors.

Nissan aims for the blue crossover to be the ideal companion for both weekend trips to the mountains and long journeys to remote areas. Its large-capacity battery and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) feature allow it to excel in these environments.

While the automaker does not disclose the battery’s exact capacity, it emphasizes the V2X capability that enables power export to various devices. This includes simple items like a kettle for making tea, as well as homes (via vehicle-to-home, or V2H) and even the grid (via vehicle-to-grid, or V2G) if the battery has sufficient charge.

Regarding design, Nissan boasts “dynamic body panels that express activity” and a front spoiler that enhances aerodynamic performance by redirecting airflow. Additionally, the Hyper Adventure Concept is equipped with crampons on all four tires, front, and rear bumpers, allowing it to navigate snowy areas effortlessly.


BMW

BMW M Team WRT Tests BMW M Hybrid V8 at Spa-Francorchamps, BMW M4 GT3 EVO Expected in 2025

The BMW M Team WRT continued its preparation for the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) by conducting three days of testing at Spa-Francorchamps. The testing sessions provided valuable insights for the BMW M Hybrid V8, which is set to compete in the FIA WEC in 2024. Simultaneously, BMW M Motorsport also tested the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, the upgraded successor to the current BMW M4 GT3, which will hit the race tracks in the 2025 season.

During the testing, eight BMW M works drivers took turns behind the wheel of both vehicles. Robin Frijns, Maxime Martin, René Rast, Marco Wittmann, and Nick Yelloly drove the BMW M Hybrid V8, with Yelloly and Wittmann bringing their experience from racing the LMDh prototype in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship 2023. Meanwhile, Augusto Farfus, Jens Klingmann, and Bruno Spengler tested the BMW M4 GT3 EVO.

For the BMW M Team WRT, the focus was on optimizing systems and performance for the BMW M Hybrid V8. The team is still in the process of familiarizing themselves with the complex vehicle, like most drivers.

As for the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, the testing phase has started early, and BMW M Motorsport plans to work intensively on refining the already successful BMW M4 GT3 throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The emphasis will be on expanding vehicle functionalities, enhancing component reliability, improving handling, and further enhancing drivability for the teams.

After the test, Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the BMW M Hybrid V8 testing. He emphasized the benefits of having the vehicle in race action in the IMSA series and testing in Europe, as it provides a dual pool of experiences that benefits all sides. Vincent Vosse, Team Principal of BMW M Team WRT, also praised the successful test days and the valuable learning experiences gained.

Robin Frijns, a BMW M works driver, mentioned his ongoing learning process with the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the significant progress made during testing at Spa-Francorchamps. Bruno Spengler, another BMW M works driver, expressed his excitement about being involved in the development of the BMW M4 GT3 EVO from the beginning and highlighted the improvements in drivability and tire durability.

Technology

Surviving a Nuclear Bomb: 10 Essential Tips

To increase your chances of surviving a nuclear bomb, it is important to be prepared. Understanding the nature of a nuclear bomb and its dangers is the first step. A nuclear bomb is an extremely destructive weapon that releases a massive amount of energy through explosions, heat, and radiation. Your emergency kit, supplies, and disaster plan should address these specific circumstances.

1. Have a well-stocked first aid kit including bandages, aspirin, antiseptic wipes, and potassium iodide tablets. If any family members are on prescription medications, keep at least a seven-day reserve.

2. Water and food will be crucial as you may not be able to leave your shelter for a while. Plan for a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day, with a supply of up to two weeks if possible. Bottled water and sealed barrels are recommended. Choose non-perishable foods that are easy to prepare and aim for a two-week supply, with canned foods being a priority.

3. Consider storing additional supplies such as a change of clothes, a flashlight with spare batteries, personal hygiene items, a radio, a multi-purpose tool, blankets, and extra cash.

4. Create a disaster plan with your family or friends. Discuss where you will meet, what actions should be taken, and assign responsibilities to each person.