Tag Archives: press

QUICK RELEASE LUGGAGE FROM RIGG GEAR ADVENTURE

PRESS RELEASE: Nelson Rigg USA, Inc. continues to increase their Rigg Gear Adventure line of off-road equipment, with the introduction of rugged Quick Release Luggage Plates (RG-QRP) that match most OEM and aftermarket 18mm spherical bar pannier racks.

Sold as a pair, a fast “set and click” latches them into place and easy “pull and lift” removes them from the motorbike rack.  These fast launch plates have a common design permitting set up of a variety of soppy saddlebags, together with the favored Rigg Gear 100% waterproof Hurricane Saddlebags (SE-4050) and Sierra Saddlebags (SE-3050).  These baggage plates dramatically cut back the set up and elimination time of most tender saddlebags onto pannier racks from minutes to mere seconds.

The plates and mounting {hardware} are constructed from powder coated and anodized plane grade aluminum for optimum sturdiness.  The prime latch and mounting ft are totally adjustable to securely match a variety of racks. When mounting to spherical bars bigger than 18mm and as much as 20mm corresponding to Tusk racks, there’s an elective alternative latch. (#RG-QRP-20MM) For bikes with an off-set rack for the exhaust like on the BMW-GS and Yamaha Tenere’ merely use the elective extension block (RG-QRP-EXT) for an ideal set up. The launch latch has been designed with a strategically positioned locking gap which permits the addition of a baggage or gun protected lock. These plates are even pre-drilled to accommodate a RotopaX.

Like all Nelson Rigg and Rigg Gear Adventure baggage these Quick Release Luggage Plates carry a LIFETIME WARRANTY giving the rider the utmost confidence within the high quality of any baggage alternative for “wherever the journey takes you”.

For over 41 years, Nelson Rigg has been a family-owned enterprise that has specialised within the design and manufacturing of high quality Motorcycle Covers, Luggage and Rainwear. For extra info, please go to your native seller or go to our web site at www.nelsonrigg.com

NATIONAL HARE & HOUND ASSOCIATION PREPARES FOR 2024

PRESS RELEASE: The National Hare & Hound Association (NHHA) is thrilled to move into 2024 as soon as once more as the marketing physique for each the AMA National Hare & Hound Championship Series and the AMA West Hare Scrambles (WHS) Regional Championship Series.

Hare & hound (H&H) racing has been a staple of motorbike competitors within the western U.S. and is, by AMA definition, an off-road race normally within the desert and on unimproved terrain over a marked course with a minimal distance of 60 miles. It might be both point-to-point or run over at the very least two loops, nearly all of every loop run solely as soon as.

A hare scrambles, then again, “…is carried out over a closed course, utilizing trails and paths over pure terrain. These races are run for both a specified variety of laps or chief’s general time; for the Pro/AA race, that is two and a half to a few hours. Hare scrambles are usually on tighter trails within the woods on programs 10-15 miles lengthy.

While the AMA is the game’s sanctioning physique, the NHHA is a promotions group initially created in 2009 by 4 AMA District 37 golf equipment—100s M.C., Desert M.C., Four Aces M.C. and Vikings M.C.—who’d earned the marketing rights from the AMA. The NHHA acquired the rights to the WHS sequence in 2014.

Since 2015, Meg Argubright and Jacob Michna have captained the NHHA, Argubright serving as Chairman and Michna the Race Director. Since then, the duo have grown and advanced each sequence’ right into a constant, skilled, trendy expertise for racers, spectators and sponsors alike. Most not too long ago, Argubright acquired NHHA possession in early 2023, alongside Michna.

Change is, nevertheless, inevitable and after eight years of continued innovation and development in each sequence, Jacob Michna has determined to shift gears and transfer on to a brand new profession path. While he’ll be sorely missed, his effort within the sport has laid a strong basis for the NHHA group to proceed constructing on.

Argubright will assume the NHHA management position going ahead and notes, “Our organization is what it is today thanks to the efforts of Jacob Michna and his relentless hard work and passion for the sport of off-road motorcycle racing. The impact he made for our sport raised the bar of expectation for professional off-road motorcycle racing in the greater Western United States and we are better because of him.”

“Moving into the 2024 season, I am incredibly excited to continue pursuing our vision—alongside our talented NHHA team—through our mission of elevating the National Hare & Hound and West Hare Scrambles series by providing a truly authentic, consistent and professional experience.”

SUZUKI ANNOUNCES 2024 MX & SX TEAMS

PRESS RELEASE: Suzuki Motor USA, LLC (Suzuki) is happy to call its riders for the upcoming 2024 Supermotocross season. The HEP Motorsports and BARX Suzuki groups arrive again to characterize Suzuki with robust returning expertise together with promising new recruits. The Pipes Motorsports Group’s twin staff effort will once more compete within the 450-class championship. The 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki squad will area a stable lineup of 5 riders competing for motion throughout each 250 and 450 courses.

For 2024, HEP Motorsports returns with two squads beneath the HEP cover: Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki and Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance.

The 2024 Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki staff options elite rider Ken Roczen (94) competing on the confirmed Suzuki RM-Z450. Roczen had an especially profitable season in 2023 in his return to Suzuki; earned an emotional win on the Indy Supercross and captured a number of podium finishes all through 2023. Roczen’s clever, technical driving type and stable performances resulted in a robust second-place end within the 2023 Supermotocross Championship, and tied for third place within the 2023 Supercross season. Roczen was additionally topped the general winner of the MXGP class on the MX of Nations in France and capped off the season because the 2023 World Supercross Champion.

“I am excited to be back for 2024 with the Progressive Insurance ECSTAR Suzuki Team. We have built a great foundation, and I am eager to continue to try and put our Suzuki on the podium. The team and I are very motivated!” stated Roczen.

Ken Roczen (94) is able to prolong his 2023 momentum into continued robust 2024 success.

HEP Motorsports’ Twisted Tea Suzuki Presented by Progressive Insurance effort continues in 2024 with veteran riders, crowd favourite Kyle Chisholm (11) from Clearwater, FL, and established professional Shane McElrath (12)  who hails from Canton, NC.

 

With low season coaching persevering with, Kyle Chisholm (11) brings his setup experience to the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship.

In 2023, Chisholm introduced stable competitors and race bike set-up expertise to the HEP staff whereas additionally racing to seventeenth within the 2023 Supermotocross World Championship. Chisholm earned constant finishes throughout the supercross and motocross segments of the season. His testing and growth abilities behind the scenes have been a key aspect to the HEP staff’s 2023 success. With Chisholm’s intensive background in each SX and MX, Chisholm’s behind-the-scenes work, and insights can be instrumental to the HEP staff’s continued development.

“I’m looking forward to the 2024 season with the team. This will be my second year with the team, and I am pleased with all the progress made in 2023 with the RM-Z450 and with the team as a whole. Everyone worked great together, and we are looking to build on that and be even better in 2024. The team is working extremely hard, and we have such a good starting place, I feel we are going to do great things. I am looking forward to the season and having fun and more success with the team,” acknowledged Chisholm.

Shane McElrath (12) eagerly preps for the Supermotocross World Championship at Anaheim 1.

Alongside Chisholm, the staff fields Shane McElrath who returns for 2024 and additional augments the staff’s 450-class effort to guide the RM Army. A two-time 250 West sequence championship runner-up, McElrath is anticipating making severe strides in 2024.

“I’m excited to be back with the Twisted Tea Progressive Suzuki Team for the full 2024 season, and am looking forward to continuing to grow and build off of everything learned last season. It’s a strong team, a really good group of people with a lot of experience; so I’m looking to apply their wealth of knowledge this year. I think that will do a lot for me and I’m eager to go racing. We’ll see you all in Anaheim!” stated McElrath.

Pipes Motorsports Group Team Principle, Dustin Pipes echoes his riders’ enthusiasm for the upcoming season. “I am genuinely excited for the 2024 season. The team is working extremely hard in preparation for the season ahead, and we are optimistic to see how it pays off. We have a great group returning with Ken, Shane, and Kyle where we hope to build on the continuity achieved during last season. All our athletes represent the team to the highest standard, and I couldn’t ask for a better group of guys to race with,” commented Pipes.

Respected chief Larry Brooks will proceed as HEP’s staff supervisor, and Brooks anticipates continued robust outcomes from each squads. “We are anxious for this upcoming season and motivated for another successful year! We have been working hard this off-season to come into Anaheim 1 ready to race. It’s great to have Ken, Kyle, and Shane return for another season. We made a lot of progress in 2023. We’re looking to continue building in 2024. Ken is coming off a great off-season, winning the World Supercross Championship. Kyle and Shane both had strong off-seasons. A lot of work goes into racing. I look forward to seeing it play out come January 6th at Angel Stadium!” acknowledged Brooks.

The 2024 HEP Motorsports staff’s Suzuki RM-Z450s are prepared for 2024.

Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki Team

For 2024, Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will primarily race the sharp-handling Suzuki RM-Z250s whereas additionally fielding one rider within the 450 class with the Suzuki RM-Z450. BARX will area a staff of 5 younger rivals with numerous, progressive backgrounds in a number of SX and MX sequence. Each has the identical want and goal of placing BARX Suzuki on the rostrum in 2024.

Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki will area up-and-coming rider Preston Boespflug (128), a fierce, younger competitor climbing up the SMX ranks. From the aptly named Battle Ground, WA, Boespflug carded a promising sixth place within the 250 All-Stars fundamental occasion on the 2023 SMX World Championship finale. Boespflug brings his robust work ethic and a targeted, aggressive spirit to the BARX squad. He will acquire priceless expertise competing within the first spherical of the Supercross Futures at Anaheim 2 earlier than shifting to contest the 250 East sequence in 2024, his first full SMX season as a professional.

“I’m incredibly excited to start my rookie season on a solid bike. The Suzuki RM-Z250 has been great this preseason and my team has been behind me each step of the way!” exclaimed Boespflug.

Preston Boespflug (128) appears to make an impression with Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki in his first professional season.

Former nationwide French 250-class phenom, Anthony Bourdon (945) appears to switch his world expertise to SMX success for BARX in 2024.

Another substantial addition to the 2024 BARX staff is Anthony Bourdon (945), the seven-year professional and the 2020 French Elite nationwide MX2 champion. Hailing from the browsing hotbed of Europe- Seignosse, France, Bourdon has been a stable and classy SX2 competitor on the world stage, with a robust general podium outcome on the 2023 Paris Supercross together with a fundamental occasion win; Bourdon joins BARX to deliver his ample driving abilities to SMX on the Suzuki RM-Z250.

“I am incredibly happy to race in the US riding with Suzuki. I began my career racing a Suzuki RM85, and I have great memories of the bike; so I am excited to ride again with Suzuki. Coming to the US to ride Supercross is the dream of any Supercross rider, and I am glad Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki and Myron gave me this opportunity. I had a good 2023 season, and I feel great mentally and physically. I will give my absolute best to put the yellow bike on the podium. Let’s keep training and see you at A1,” stated Bourdon.

Max Miller (87) joins BARX to problem for the 250 West sequence crown.

Another stable rider for the 2024 BARX squad is Max Miller (87) from Springfield, OR additionally competing within the 250 West sequence. An established professional in his fourth season, Miller brings stable SX expertise to the BARX staff for 2024. Returning to the BARX fold for 2024 is Alpine, CA racer Dilan Schwartz (40). Schwartz returns having earned top-15 leads to the ultra-competitive class in 2023 and can journey the 250 East sequence.

Dilan Schwartz (40) returns to BARX Suzuki for 250 East racing in 2024.

Derek Drake (52) heads up BARX’s 450-class SMX effort for 2024.

Riding for BARX’s 2024 450-class effort, is San Luis Obispo, CA’s Derek Drake (52). Drake will race the Suzuki RM-Z450 and proceed to point out the unimaginable velocity displayed throughout choose motocross races final 12 months. Named the 2018 AMA Horizon Award winner, and beginning his fifth 12 months as a professional, Drake earned a number of top-twelve leads to the 250 West class in 2023.

“I am looking forward to the RM-Z450 this season, this will be a whole new challenge for me that I’m incredibly excited about. We also have some new personnel this year that I enjoy working with so it will be a great year!” stated Drake.

Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki is prepared for the 2024 season.

Also supported by Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki within the 250 class are three up-and-coming beginner riders, every with stable momentum as they strategy the professional sport and acquire priceless expertise in opposition to the game’s finest. Nathan Abbott from Simi Valley CA,  Cole Timboe from  Calimesa, CA, and Leo Tucker from East Dubuque, IL be part of the BARX squad. With extra help from Suzuki seller Simi Valley Cycles, these BARX beginner riders will acquire stable expertise all through the 2024 Supermotocross season.

For 2024 Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki can be managed by James Coy. Coy brings a stable staff administration background in addition to robust beginner rider growth expertise gained over the past decade. Coy seeks to deliver BARX collectively as an actual pressure in each SMX courses whereas persevering with to develop younger riders into important rivals.

“I am thrilled about this new challenge, I eagerly anticipate contributing to the success of the Toyota Redlands BARX Suzuki team throughout the 2024 Supermotocross season,” claimed Coy.

Suzuki is happy to race with BARX within the 2024 Supermotocross World Championship and anticipates seeing your complete RM Army on the venues and tracks all through 2024.

The 2024 Supermotocross season kicks off as soon as extra at Angel Stadium on January sixth, 2024, at Angel Stadium for Anaheim 1.

ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST: A SYMBOL OF ENDLESS PURE EXPRESSION

This Press Kit gives an outline of the present Ghost mannequin household, its design philosophy and place throughout the Rolls-Royce product portfolio. The unique launch launch for Ghost is offered on PressMembership, the place you may as well discover details about earlier generations, variants and fashions, together with Ghost Extended and Black Badge Ghost .


BACKGROUND

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars launched the primary Ghost in 2009 on the Frankfurt Motor Show. More compact than the marque’s pinnacle product, Phantom, it was created for a brand new group of purchasers who desired a extra modest, minimalist expression of Rolls-Royce perfection in design, engineering and craftsmanship. The Ghost Extended variant adopted in 2011. An up to date Series II Ghost was unveiled on the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, with the primary Black Badge Ghost making its debut two years later.

Over the course of its 10-year lifecycle, the first-generation Ghost grew to become probably the most profitable product within the firm’s historical past, enabling Rolls-Royce to scale up manufacturing, put money into its capabilities and set up itself as a really world luxurious model. Production led to 2019, an occasion commemorated within the Ghost Zenith Collection.

The current Ghost, constructed on the identical Architecture of Luxury spaceframe as Phantom, Cullinan and Spectre, was launched in 2020: the line-up additionally consists of Ghost Extended and Black Badge Ghost, launched in 2021.


GHOST PHILOSOPHY AND POSITIONING

Ghost is a examine in discount, minimalism and ease. Its purity gives the best clean canvas for Bespoke commissions, with purchasers in a position to train their formidable creativity and categorical their preferences nearly completely freed from technical and aesthetic constraints.

That purity presents chance. It creates potential as boundless because the proprietor’s creativeness, emboldening them to convey color, power and vibrancy to their fee and to permit stunning supplies, skilled craftsmanship and beautiful particulars converse for themselves, delicate and unadorned.


A NEW APPROACH TO LUXURY

Ghost’s design displays a marked shift in purchasers’ attitudes to luxurious that has occurred since its first incarnation. Today’s luxurious shoppers consciously reject extravagance and ostentation: their tastes are outlined by discount, simplicity and substance, and the clever, thought-about choice and unobtrusive software of remarkable supplies and craftsmanship. Every ingredient of Ghost subsequently has relevance, goal and integrity. This philosophy is the antithesis of ‘premium mediocrity’, a time period coined by the style business for in any other case unremarkable merchandise that depend on contrivance, superficial particulars and meaningless aesthetic artifice to create an phantasm of luxurious.

Ghost can also be designed for a youthful shopper cohort, typically self-made and invariably self-confident and self-reliant, who are typically self-drivers by default, and thus take a eager curiosity of their motor automotive’s driving expertise and dynamics.

THE CURRENT GHOST MODEL

Ghost is ideal in its simplicity; however creating this purity of expression was one of many marque’s greatest-ever technical challenges. It incorporates state-of-the-art tools and features together with:

  • LED and laser headlights with greater than 600m of illuminated vary, plus imaginative and prescient help
  • Alertness assistant
  • Four-camera system with panoramic view, all-round visibility and helicopter view
  • Active cruise management
  • Collision, cross-traffic, lane departure and lane change warnings
  • Industry-leading 7×3 high-resolution head-up show (HUD)
  • On-board Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Self-park system
  • Bespoke navigation and leisure techniques.

ENGINEERING

Proprietary Architecture of Luxury

Ghost is constructed on the marque’s proprietary Architecture of Luxury spaceframe, as utilized in its flagship Phantom, Cullinan SUV and all-electric Spectre. The aluminium spaceframe’s flexibility and scalability creates an acoustically superior, extremely inflexible and dynamic platform, based mostly round 4 mounted factors, one at every nook of the motor automotive. The moveable aluminium bulkhead, ground, crossmembers and sill panels are positioned particularly to make Ghost as gratifying to drive as it’s to be pushed in. Pushing two of the solid suspension mounting assemblies to the very entrance and inserting the 6.75-litre V12 behind the entrance axle, provides an optimum 50/50 weight distribution.

Ghost has all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering and a Planar Suspension System particularly designed to reinforce the marque’s hallmark ‘magic carpet ride’.

All-aluminium bodyshell

Ghost’s metallic superstructure is 100% aluminium, rendered as one clear, expansive piece, flowing seamlessly from the A-pillar, over the roof and right down to the rear of the motor automotive. To eradicate shut strains and physique seams, 4 craftspeople hand-weld the physique collectively concurrently; Ghost can also be fitted with 100% aluminium, laser-welded doorways. As properly as lowering the motor automotive’s total weight, aluminium provides a exceptional 40,000Nm/deg stiffness, and a decrease acoustic impedance than metal, bettering cabin atmosphere.

6.75-Litre Twin-Turbocharged V12

Ghost’s bespoke V12 engine ensures dynamic efficiency, delivering 563bhp/420kW and 850Nm/627lb ft of torque, with most torque accessible from 1600rpm – simply 600rpm above tick-over. The air consumption system incorporates massive ports designed to cut back engine noise within the inside.

Planar Suspension System

The Planar Suspension System is the results of 10 collective years of testing and growth, creating a way of ‘flight on land’ by no means achieved in a motor automotive earlier than. Created via bodily engineering developments, and complex scanning and software program expertise, it incorporates a world-first Upper Wishbone Damper unit, reserved completely for Rolls-Royce and by no means beforehand utilized in a manufacturing motor automotive. Located above the entrance suspension meeting, this assists the constantly variable, electronically managed shock absorbers and self-levelling high-volume air strut assemblies, making a secure, easy experience.

The marque’s Flagbearer system makes use of cameras to learn the street forward and modify the suspension proactively relatively than reactively at as much as 100km/h. This permits Ghost to anticipate and react to probably the most demanding street surfaces. It operates in live performance with the Satellite Aided Transmission system, which pulls GPS information to pre-select the optimum gear for upcoming corners, all managed by the planar software program system.

The five-link rear axle advantages from self-levelling high-volume air suspension expertise and rear-wheel steering.

Effortless Doors

Rolls-Royce purchasers have loved self-closing doorways because the first Goodwood Phantom. In Ghost, purchasers open the rear door with one pull of the inside deal with, then permit it to return to its resting place whereas they test for potential hazards. They then pull and maintain it for full energy help on opening. Once the door is opened sufficiently, they merely launch the deal with, which engages a door brake. The door might be closed fully robotically on the push of a button on the outside deal with.

If purchasers want to shut the door manually, the operation is energy assisted. On-board longitudinal and transverse sensors, in addition to G-force sensors fitted to every door, permit the identical velocity of operation no matter hill or driveway angles.

Micro-Environment Purification System (MEPS)

Ghost advantages from a Micro-Environment Purification System (MEPS), incorporating a full suite of {hardware} and software program. They embody extremely delicate Impurity Detection Sensors that robotically change recent air intakes to Recirculation Mode if unacceptable ranges of airborne contaminants are current. This channels all cabin air via a nanofleece filter, which is able to eradicating almost all ultra-fine particles from the Rolls-Royce’s micro-environment in lower than two minutes.


ACOUSTICS

Ghost applies the marque’s Formula for Serenity, designed to supply a peaceful, serene and near-noiseless inside setting.

The first ingredient of this components is the Architecture of Luxury. Its aluminium development has the next acoustic impedance than metal, and contains advanced varieties, relatively than flat, resonant surfaces. The bulkhead and ground sections are double-skinned and stuffed with composite damping felts to cut back street noise intrusion. In whole, Ghost incorporates 100kg of acoustic materials within the doorways, roof, between the double-glazed home windows, contained in the tyres and all through the underpinning structure.

During growth, each element was interrogated and, the place essential, re-engineered to eradicate unacceptable noise. For instance, the within of the air con ducting is polished to cut back wind noise; the diameter of the prop shaft was adjusted and its rigidity elevated to enhance acoustics.

The growth course of additionally revealed {that a} fully silent inside is definitely relatively disorienting for occupants. Ghost subsequently displays a ‘whisper’ – a mushy undertone skilled as a single, delicate be aware. This is achieved by tuning every element so it shares a standard resonant frequency. Again, this requires particular engineering options, corresponding to damping items within the seat frames, and ports beneath the rear parcel shelf that permit low-frequency sounds produced within the 507-litre boot cavity at motorway velocity to flee.


EXTERIOR

Ghost is outlined by minimalism and purity, underpinned by nice substance. Sharp bow strains intersect with an angular gentle signature, creating an assertive but stunning entrance finish. Twenty LEDS set beneath the highest of the radiator grille subtly illuminate the vanes: the backs of the vanes are brushed, making them much less reflective and making a restrained glow impact. The Spirit of Ecstasy will not be surrounded by panel strains however relatively stands inside her personal unbroken ‘lake’.

The hand-welded aluminium physique seems as one fluid complete, uninterrupted by shut strains, with a single straight stroke within the flanks emphasising the motor automotive’s size. The decrease ‘waft line’ borrows from boat design and makes use of reflection to lighten the surfacing and create a pure sense of movement. The subtly arched roof line and rear finish observe this sense of motion and resolve in a taper. The near-square rear gentle graphic, a longtime tenet of latest Rolls-Royce design, has a slight ahead tilt and seems as an ‘island’ throughout the painted floor.

In the intentionally impartial higher part, the home windows are equally proportioned, balancing Ghost as each a driver-oriented and chauffeur-driven automotive.


INTERIOR

The inside aesthetic pursues the identical minimalist rules as the outside. Free of busy particulars and superficial adornment, it creates a soothing refuge and maximises the influence of Bespoke color personalisation.

Producing an setting outlined by discount, simplicity and magnificence is an especially advanced endeavour, since even the very most interesting supplies will, when left unembellished, invite shut scrutiny. The leather-based utilized in every of Ghost’s 338 particular person panels, nonetheless small and unobtrusive, is topic to the automotive business’s most exhaustive high quality management checks: the stitching is minimal and varieties lengthy, completely straight strains, once more inviting minute inspection.

Ghost options specifically developed wooden veneers in open-pore end, which showcase the supplies of their bare type. Obsidian Ayous is impressed by the wealthy combine of colors present in igneous rock, whereas Dark Amber introduces delicate glamour with fantastic aluminium particles built-in into the darkish wooden. The wooden is left uncovered as lengthy, single-veneer leaves, punctuated solely by cold-to-the-touch strong metallic air vents.


BESPOKE FEATURES

Illuminated Fascia

Ghost’s Illuminated Fascia subtly echoes the Starlight Headliner, which itself has turn into as a lot part of Rolls-Royce iconography because the Spirit of Ecstasy, Pantheon Grille and ‘Double R’ monogram.

Developed over two years and greater than 10,000 collective hours, the fascia consists of an ethereal glowing Ghost nameplate surrounded by greater than 850 ‘stars’. The illumination comes from 152 LEDs mounted above and beneath the fascia, every meticulously colour-matched to the clock and instrument dial lighting. The Ghost wordmark is lit by a 2mm thick gentle information, that includes greater than 90,000 laser-etched dots throughout the floor. This not solely disperses the sunshine evenly however creates a twinkling impact as the attention strikes throughout the fascia.

Located on the passenger facet of the dashboard, the constellation and wordmark are fully invisible when the inside lights are usually not in operation. This is achieved utilizing three layers of composite supplies. The first, a piano-black substrate, is laser-etched to permit gentle to shine via the wordmark and star cluster. This is overlaid with a layer of dark-tinted lacquer, hiding the lettering when not in use. Finally, the fascia is sealed with a layer of subtly tinted lacquer earlier than being hand polished to attain a wonderfully uniform, 0.5mm thick high-gloss end, matching different high-gloss accents integrated into the inside.

Bespoke Audio

As properly as making a serene inner setting, Rolls-Royce’s pursuit of acoustic perfection creates an impressive sound stage for Ghost’s Bespoke Audio system, which is engineered into the motor automotive’s very material. A resonance chamber into the physique’s sill part basically transforms the motor automotive right into a subwoofer: exciter audio system bonded to the Starlight Headliner flip the ceiling right into a single massive speaker. A robust 1300W amplifier drives 18 particular person loudspeakers: state-of-the-art optimisation expertise and high-precision magnesium-ceramic compound cones present excellent frequency response. Two lively microphones detect anomalous frequencies, then set off the amplifiers to counteract them, ensuing a pure and completely balanced listening expertise.


PERFECTION, EVOLVED

The solely elements within the present Ghost mannequin to be carried over from its predecessor are the Spirit of Ecstasy mascot and the beloved umbrellas hid within the doorways: all the pieces else was designed, crafted and engineered from the bottom up. It distils the Rolls-Royce model values into a good looking, minimalist, but extremely advanced product that’s completely in concord with purchasers’ evolving wants, and exactly in tune with the occasions.

Meet Kymco Ionex, The EV Platform That Will Power Future LiveWire Bikes

During its EICMA 2023 press conference, established Taiwanese motorbike manufacturer Kymco showcased its Ionex EV Solution. The program consists of three things, intended to address the needs of both stakeholder businesses and future riders.

For riders and network operators, Ionex Energy Stations will allow quick and simple battery swapping for vehicles on the Ionex platform.

On the energy company side, the plan involves offering Ionex batteries in a “Battery-as-a-Service” format. This setup is designed to alleviate concerns for owners of Ionex-powered vehicles about battery health.

Kymco states that under this system, the batteries aren’t part of the ownership equation for vehicle buyers. This could ultimately lead to lower costs for purchasing electric motorbikes. As older batteries lose their ability to fully charge, network operators can recycle them and supply customers with new, fresh batteries.

Finally, Kymco’s Battery Metering Unit aims to simplify the adoption of the Ionex system for multiple motorbike designs by various manufacturers.

While Kymco is known for manufacturing scooters and motorcycles, its Ionex proposition is an entire ecosystem. Ionex Battery Metering Units would exist on any motorbike making use of the Ionex platform, allowing all interested manufacturers to integrate the Ionex Common Battery into their design.

Kymco has described a common Ionex platform as a solution to the biggest obstacles in making electric motorbikes. For riders, potential benefits include reduced worries about range anxiety, battery health, and up-front vehicle cost.

4 Questions About Ionex With Kymco Chairman Allen Ko

Following Kymco’s Ionex presentation, RideApart had a few additional questions that Kymco chairman Allen Ko answered.

Is Kymco’s Ionex technology expected to power future LiveWire bikes?

Yes, Kymco’s Ionex technology is anticipated to be the driving force behind potential cooperation between LiveWire and Kymco for smaller electric motorbikes.

Where does Kymco plan to roll out the Ionex ecosystem?

Kymco plans to gradually introduce the Ionex ecosystem worldwide, with strong interest from potential partners in countries outside Europe and Southeast Asia.

How is Kymco exploring the feasibility of using the Ionex system in various areas?

Kymco is exploring the feasibility of using the Ionex system in multiple areas. For example, at the Smart City Summit & Expo in 2022, Kymco showcased an Ionex Smart Streetlight, combining a solar power generator and Ionex battery swapping cabinet to power streetlights at night.

Challenges in the Battle for Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) have been facing negative publicity due to instances of electrical fires in garages and after accidents, as well as concerns about the environmental impact of mining rare-earth metals for EV batteries.

The safety issues with lithium-ion batteries catching fire during charging or transport are primarily associated with batteries that have been physically damaged. However, these incidents have left a lasting impression on potential buyers, with images of burnt Teslas and smoking cargo ships influencing their perceptions. Additionally, changes to the federal EV tax credit will reduce the financial incentives for purchasing EVs in the future, further dampening interest in these vehicles.

The decline in consumer enthusiasm for EVs has prompted some manufacturers to delay their EV rollout plans. For example, Tesla’s Cybertruck, initially unveiled in 2019, has faced multiple production delays, with customers now having to wait until at least 2024 to get their hands on the futuristic, supposedly bulletproof EV. General Motors has also adjusted its EV production timeline, delaying the conversion of its Orion plant to EV production from next year to 2025.

A GM spokesperson, Kevin Kelley, mentioned to the Detroit Free Press that the decision to postpone the plant conversion was influenced by the decreasing customer interest in EVs, stating, “We’re looking at EV demand, and the trendline for EVs is stabilizing. It is not rising as fast as originally forecasted.” This shift in customer interest has had a significant impact on automakers’ EV plans.

The 2024 Beta 450RX Production Motocross Bike

Beta has finally unveiled the production version of its highly anticipated 450RX motocross bike. After over 4 years of prototype testing, the Italian manufacturer is ready to release the all-new 2024 450RX Motocross model to the public.

Beta has made it no secret that they have been focused on entering the world of motocross. They introduced the 300 RX 2-stroke model in the USA in 2021, around the same time the prototype 450 RX 4-stroke model was seen racing in the MXGP championship. This 450 RX model is the first four-stroke motocross bike built by Beta and is designed to continue the company’s tradition of rideability. It offers a forgiving ride while still delivering the performance needed for aggressive riding.

The design of the 2024 450 RX is completely new, with a frame, engine, and other components that prioritize performance and lightness. Beta motorcycles have been hand-built in Florence, Italy for over 115 years. The engineering team consists of everyday riders who understand what motocross riders are looking for. The 450 RX includes quality features such as a push-button seat and a quick-release side access air filter.

The technical features of the 2024 450 RX include:

– Frame: Specifically designed for motocross, the frame is wide to handle the stresses of repeated landings, providing stiffness for stability in corners while still allowing a light and agile feel in the air. The frame is powder-coated in Italian red.

– Rear sub-frame and filter box: The new aluminum rear sub-frame adds rigidity while remaining lightweight. It is integrated with the new air filter box, which, combined with the 46 mm throttle body, ensures optimal airflow for the new engine.

– Bodywork: The bike features sleek bodywork, similar to the Beta Off Road Race Editions. The rear fender and side panels are made of three pieces and fit into the new aluminum rear sub-frame. A quick-access side panel allows easy access to the filter box. The fuel tank has a capacity of 1.8 gallons.

– Fork and Shock: The bike is equipped with 48 mm Kayaba (KYB) tubes at the front and a 50 mm piston shock at the rear. Both components are fully adjustable, including compression, rebound, and spring preload, to provide a balance between rideability and performance.

– Wheels and Brakes: The bike has 21-inch wheels at the front and 19-inch wheels at the rear, fitted with Maxxis tires. The braking system features Nissin floating calipers and 260mm and 240mm discs at the front and rear, respectively. The front brake caliper design is smaller and more modern, providing advanced braking technology. The rear brake master cylinder is a shorter design to accommodate the larger exhaust pipe.

– Engine: The all-new engine is developed specifically for motocross, in partnership with the Official MXGP Team. It features a five-speed transmission with dedicated ratios for MX. The clutch is a diaphragm style with three adjustments for optimal grip and progressiveness. The compact engine package is designed for motocross, with minimized components. It is electric start and includes a counterbalance to reduce vibration.

– Engine maps: The 450 RX comes with two specific engine maps (wet and dry) and four levels of Traction Control. This allows riders to manage the bike’s power in all terrain conditions. The map and TC selection button is located on the handlebar pad.

The 2024 450 RX also includes other notable features such as minimal handlebar controls, a lithium battery, and special components to enhance its trim level. These components include anodized red chain tensioner blocks, blue anodized Excel rims, a red chain block, a red anodized rear sprocket, and extra-wide machined aluminum footpegs with stainless steel pins. The bike will be delivered with a customized bike stand and four different throttle pulleys to customize the throttle response.

Mercedes C-Class

The Mercedes C-Class test car we had was unusually basic for a premium brand, with the only optional extra being metallic paint. Despite its simplicity, the car still provided a luxurious and well-equipped environment, affirming its status as a modern luxury product.

While the comfort and quality of the on-board features of the C-Class are not exceptional, they are still satisfactory. The driver’s seat offers plenty of room and adjustable controls. However, the sports seats are not very comfortable or supportive, and the footwell feels restrictive with flimsy plastics.

The cabin fittings generally feel of high quality, but there are some dull and plain areas with sharper edges, which may indicate cost-cutting measures that are not expected from Mercedes.

The control layout is highly digitalized. The digital instrument screen in front of the driver provides a lot of information and can be customized with practice. The center console features an 11.9-inch touchscreen for infotainment purposes, with the heating and ventilation controls at the bottom.

The rear passenger area is average in terms of space, suitable for most adults and growing kids but not ideal for taller individuals.

The boot is wide and can be extended by folding the rear seatbacks, but due to the battery placement, it is not very deep. The loading height is conveniently low but may not accommodate larger items. The estate bodystyle is recommended for everyday carrying needs.

Multimedia System

The Mercedes C-Class is equipped with an 11.9-inch MBUX touchscreen infotainment system, similar to the one found in the new Mercedes S-Class. It has all the necessary features but was not as intuitive to use as some testers expected. The screen’s angle also makes smudges more visible during the daytime.

There is no separate input device, making it harder to use the system while glancing away from the road. The alternative is to use the touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel, which can be accidentally activated. The natural speech recognition feature makes some functions easier, but the system lacks certain quick-fire shortcuts. Wireless smartphone mirroring and device charging are included at no extra cost.

Ford’s Most Ambitious Engine Was Also One Of Its Biggest Disasters

In a press release in 2008, Ford introduced its first EcoBoost engine, a V-6 turbocharged 3.5L that was initially used in the Lincoln MKS. Ford claimed that this engine would provide an approximate 2 mpg improvement and emit up to 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions compared to traditional engines. Along with a promised 20% increase in fuel economy, the EcoBoost family had high expectations.

As the EcoBoost line expanded, the goal was to apply these advantages to even smaller engines. The EcoBoost 1.0L, the smallest of them all, made its debut at the Beijing Auto Show in 2010. This engine incorporated the Ti-VCT (twin independent variable camshaft timing) technology, turbocharging, and other benefits of EcoBoost into Ford’s tiniest engine. It was a daring move. However, this ambitious little engine turned out to be quite problematic in some cases and potentially very hazardous.

That being said, it doesn’t mean that the EcoBoost 1.0L was not a successful engine. In fact, it won the International Engine and Powertrain of the Year award in the Sub-150 PS (approximately 147 horsepower) category in May 2019. This was the 11th award received by the EcoBoost engines in the seven years they had been on the market. Dean Slavnich, the co-chairman of the awards, even described the engine as “one of the finest examples of powertrain engineering” after it won the award three years in a row.

While achieving practicality and performance at a 1.6L level is impressive, it came at a significant cost in certain situations.

Yamaha Buggy Unveiled With Hydrogen-Burning Combustion Engine

Scheduled to start out with the primary press day on October 25, the 2023 Japan Mobility Show can be extra than simply about vehicles as corporations may also current different forms of mobility options. Yamaha has introduced it will attend the occasion previously often known as the Tokyo Motor Show with bikes, scooters, and e-bikes in addition to different ideas that includes greater than two wheels.

Pictured above, the present YXZ1000R has been transformed to run on hydrogen whereas holding the interior combustion engine. It’s a leisure off-highway car (ROHV) serving as an try to keep up the advantages of an ICE however with zero emissions. Yamaha needs to “keep the unique appeal of these engines alive, such as their sound and feel when on the go, well into the future.”

Yamaha Tricera

Yamaha Tricera

Yamaha TMW

Yamaha TMW

Perhaps much more uncommon is the Tricera (pictured on the left), a three-wheeler autocycle with an electrical drivetrain and an open-top configuration. The idea has been developed with rear-wheel steering for even larger maneuverability round a metropolis’s crowded streets. Additional particulars should not accessible however the concept behind it seems to be a much less flashy and presumable extra inexpensive various to the likes of the Polaris Slingshot.

As for the TMW (pictured on the precise), it’s Yamaha’s first Leaning Multi-Wheeler (LMW) with off-road chops. It has a hybrid powertrain with electrical hub motors driving the entrance wheels whereas the rear wheel is motivated by a combustion engine. It seems to have beneficiant suspension journey and might accommodate a giant service rack on the entrance. We’re being informed the cargo space stays stage even when going over tough terrain in addition to in a lean or on an incline.

Besides Yamaha, different main home manufacturers have introduced plans to unveil new ideas on the Japan Mobility Show. Relevant examples embrace Mazda with a possibly electric MX-5 Miata and Honda with a mysterious Specialty Sports Concept.