Tag Archives: public

Motorsport

Land Rover Defender SVX Could Potentially Arrive in the US, According to Recent Spy Shots

After a considerable break, a camouflaged Land Rover Defender SVX was spotted in public. The testing of this rugged and high-powered off-roader is still ongoing, and the latest sighting provides an intriguing clue. If you focus your attention on the strip between the headlights, you’ll notice a hint of orange. However, in a couple of images, three distinct orange squares are clearly visible.

These squares appear to be amber marker lights, which are mandatory for vehicles wider than 80 inches in the United States. This means that the Defender SVX might be wider than the standard model, making these lights necessary for compliance with US regulations. However, it’s worth noting that these lights could also be installed solely for testing purposes, rather than for legal use in the US.


Motorsport

Experience the Thrill of a 950-HP McLaren 720S on the Autobahn

The unrestricted parts of the autobahn offer a rare opportunity to test a car’s top speed without the fear of hefty speeding fines. In this exciting video from AutoTopNL, we witness a modified McLaren 720S with upgraded turbos, generating an impressive 950 horsepower.

Initially, the autobahn is quite busy, forcing the driver to exercise caution. However, as the traffic gradually clears, he seizes the opportunity to accelerate to a breathtaking GPS-indicated speed of 195 miles per hour (313 kilometers per hour).


VolvoCars

Volvo Cars boosting EV ownership experience with an enhanced public charging offer in Europe Volvo Cars is improving its public charging service in Europe, introducing new features accessible through the Volvo Cars app to simplify access, payment, and charging for customers. The company has partnered with Digital Charging Solutions, one of the largest electromobility providers, to offer this enhanced service, which will be available to European customers by the end of November. A major challenge for drivers of electric cars has been accessing a reliable and seamless public charging infrastructure. However, Volvo Cars aims to address this issue by using the Digital Charging Solutions platform. By doing so, the company aims to make public fast-charging usage and accessibility even easier, making it a far more convenient experience than before. All of this can be done through the Volvo Cars app. This advanced service will allow owners of Volvo’s fully electric models, such as the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, as well as customers of upcoming models like the EX90 and EX30, to access a wide network of over 1,000 charge point operators and more than 590,000 public chargers across 30 countries in Europe. The expanded network will make cross-border travel more convenient and enable drivers to access a greater number of publicly available chargers. Volvo Cars is dedicated to continuously enhancing the public charging offer for customers, both private and business. To cater to evolving needs, the company is introducing various new features. Plug & Charge functionality will be compatible with Volvo’s flagship fully electric SUV, the EX90, ensuring a seamless experience at public chargers, eliminating the need for complex transactions. Customers will have the ability to remotely start and stop charging sessions through the Volvo Cars app, providing flexibility and control. Additionally, a new functionality allows customers to set up business driver accounts for VAT and company invoicing purposes. Furthermore, subscription offers will be available, providing customers with preferential pricing on high-power charging stations, with offers varying by market. Julia Sandén, Business Owner for Charging at Volvo Cars, expressed that the company’s focus remains on understanding customer needs when driving their electric vehicles. The ability to access more public chargers through a single app will enable customers to make more electrified journeys. Markus Bartenschlager, Chief Commercial Officer of Digital Charging Solutions, expressed excitement over the partnership with Volvo Cars and the opportunity to support the company’s goal of 100% electrification. The collaboration will allow Volvo Cars customers throughout Europe to benefit from the growing public charging network.

News

New 2024 Audi SQ8 makes public debut at Qatar motor show

The updated Audi Q8 has made its first appearance in the performance-focused SQ8 version at the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar. The vehicle will be available for sale later this month.

The Audi Q8 flagship SUV has undergone significant technology upgrades, improved quality, and simplified exterior design.

The new Audi Q8 range starts from £75,500 and is available in three core specifications in the UK: S Line, Black Edition, and Vorsprung. It offers a selection of petrol and diesel powertrains. The top model in the range is the performance-focused Audi SQ8, available in Black Edition and Vorsprung variants.

The S Line entry-level models come equipped with electric sports seats, keyless go, a digital cockpit, a head-up display, four-zone climate control, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, all as standard.

The Black Edition models, priced from £80,050, feature black trim inside and out, including 22-inch wheels, door mirrors, and Audi badges.

Priced from £99,300, the high-spec Vorsprung models come with additional features such as a panoramic sunroof, all-wheel steering, powerful LED headlights, leather upholstery, massage seats, heated rear seats, and power-closing doors.

Audi SQ8 side Qatar motor show

The powerful SQ8, priced from £97,245, boasts unique exterior styling and comes standard with 23-inch alloy wheels, Quattro all-wheel drive, adaptive air sports suspension, and parking assistance.

Following the example set by the recently updated Audi Q8 E-tron, the Audi SQ8 has received subtle styling changes, including matrix LED lights, smoother surfacing, larger front air intakes for a more aggressive appearance, and an upgraded exhaust system for an enhanced engine sound.

The most noticeable visual change is the redesigned grille, which features vertical inlays with a brushed aluminum effect specific to Audi’s flagship models. Higher-trim cars have color-coded body trim for a more streamlined look. 

Smartphones

The Forgotten Android Mascot You Didn’t Know Existed

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

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

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

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

DSAutomobile

DS AUTOMOBILES LAUNCHES PUBLIC ART TOUR, AS GALLERY COSTS POSE BARRIER FOR BRITS TO ENJOY CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

  • Premium French car maker, DS Automobiles, introduces public art tours for drivers to enjoy local culture on the move
  • ‘Art Tour’ initiative comes after research showed that 55% of British public say entrance fees put them off visiting galleries and exhibitions
  • 61% of Brits said that public art enhances the cultural identity of their community, with over half believing that public art has a positive impact on the local economy
  • DS Automobiles public ‘Art Tour’ offers five curated routes across the country for drivers to take in free and accessible art as they drive
  • Routes available to experience on DS Automobiles website here and users are invited to share their travels using #DSArtTour

DS Automobiles has launched a new series of public art tours to allow drivers to experience the best of their local culture while on the road. The five specially curated routes allow drivers to experience the French art of travel across all four corners of the country.

The Art Tour routes, available in London, North-East, North-West, East Anglia, and Central Scotland, provide drivers with greater access to the UK’s diverse range of art collections. The tours showcase a mix of sculptures, installations, and paintings, all free of charge.

The initiative was developed in response to research findings that 55% of British individuals are discouraged from visiting galleries and exhibitions due to entrance fees. Additionally, 33% of respondents expressed a need for more guidance on local art initiatives, galleries, or public art installations.

To access the Art Tour routes, drivers can visit the DS Automobiles website. All tours begin at local DS retailers and can be completed during a DS 24 Hour Test Drive, allowing potential customers to borrow a car for a whole day. The tours also provide recommendations for high-end restaurants and hotels along the way.

The available routes include Manchester to Liverpool, Edinburgh to Glasgow, Newcastle to Durham, Norwich to Aldeburgh, and London.

For example, the Manchester to Liverpool route suggests starting at the DS retailer in Manchester and visiting various art sites such as the street art of Withington, the ‘Dream’ sculpture, Barbara Hepworth’s sculpture on Liverpool University Campus, the abstract ‘Penelope’ in Wolstenholme Square, and the iconic Beatles statue on Liverpool waterfront.

In Scotland, the Edinburgh to Glasgow route allows drivers to see well-known pieces of public art such as The Kelpies near Falkirk, The Hope Sculpture on the Clyde, and the Central Glasgow Mural trail.

Drivers who complete the tours are encouraged to share their experiences using #DSArtTour.

DS Automobiles is known for its close association with the worlds of art and design. The brand offers a range of models, including the DS 3, DS 4, DS 7, and DS 9, each embodying French luxury savoir-faire. DS has been a partner of the Louvre Museum in Paris since 2015 and an official partner of Paris Fashion Week since 2019.

Julie David, Managing Director of DS Automobiles UK, stated, “We hope that our new Art Tour routes offer drivers the opportunity to experience more of the cultural experiences that the UK has to offer, while bringing a little bit of the French Art of Travel to the roads of the UK.”

Research conducted by DS also revealed that 60% of Brits feel uninformed about art and artists, despite acknowledging the positive impact of art on the local economy. Claude Monet was the most recognized artist, while Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’ was the most recognizable individual work of art.

DS offers plug-in hybrid and 100% electric models across its range.

NewsNew

TRIUMPH 250 MX BIKE REVEALED AT LA COLISEUM

Ricky Carmichael and Jeff Stanton presented the first public glimpse of the upcoming Triumph 250 motocross bike this week. They rode a few laps around the SMX track at the LA Coliseum before the last round of the Supermotocross playoffs on Saturday. Both riders appeared to be already familiar with the bikes, which seemed to be near production-ready. The official release date was announced as November 28, 2023. The official press release from Triumph is as follows:

Triumph’s new 250cc motocross bike was unveiled for the first time during the SuperMotocross World Championship Final on Saturday, September 23, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in California. Spectators witnessed two new Triumph motocross bikes entering the arena amid pyrotechnics and fanfare.

The highly anticipated production-specification bike was ridden by Jeff ‘Six Time’ Stanton, who won his last Championship at the Coliseum and currently manages Triumph’s Adventure Experience in the US. He was joined by the GOAT, Ricky Carmichael, whose bike featured his own graphics and non-standard specification components.

The full reveal of the new bike is scheduled for November 28, 2023, as announced on giant screens throughout the stadium.

Ricky Carmichael expressed his satisfaction in showing the fans what they have been working on for the past four years. He said, “The bike feels great, it looks great, and it’s fast. I’m really pleased with what we’ve delivered, and I can’t wait until we can share the final details on November 28th.”

Jeff Stanton added, “The Coliseum is a special place for me, and to be back here on the Triumph is an absolute honor. The new graphics look like nothing else in the paddock and give the bike a really sharp and distinctive new look that I think the fans are going to love.”

Watch the bike in action at the Coliseum here.

To commemorate the occasion, Triumph also launched its new Triumph Racing website and social channels. Follow the action @OfficialTriumphRacing on Instagram and Facebook.

Space

This Website Allows You to Track Starlink Satellites and See Their Current Locations

In the past, the Starlink map was available to the public, but it was primarily used to check for coverage in specific areas. However, with the introduction of Find Starlink, users can now see the Starlink satellites in real time. In some cases, these satellites can even be seen from the ground without using a telescope. When they are grouped together, they often resemble a line of lights crossing the sky, rather than a single light.

Find Starlink also provides a helpful tool that allows users to input their location or coordinates. This tool shows the visibility of the satellites, the best time to view them, and their brightness values. However, just because a satellite appears to be directly overhead does not guarantee that you will be able to see it. The satellites are constantly moving at a speed of 300 miles per minute, making it easy to miss a cluster of satellites. So, if you find yourself in a situation where you timed it perfectly but still couldn’t see it, don’t be surprised or disappointed.

It’s important to note that the Find Starlink tool is not officially affiliated with SpaceX or Starlink. Instead, it uses coordinates to track the paths of these satellite megaconstellations as they orbit the Earth.

Motorsport

Introducing the Ferrari KC23: A Track-Only Marvel With Motorized Body Panels

Ferrari has recently unveiled its special creation, the one-off KC23, which first made its appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Designed exclusively for the track, this remarkable vehicle boasts active aerodynamic panels that are showcased in an exciting promotional video.

The KC23 is based on the 488 GT3 and serves as a testament to Ferrari’s ability to elevate an already impressive car to extraordinary levels. Drawing inspiration from the Vision Gran Turismo and the triumphant 499P endurance hypercar, this masterpiece features butterfly doors that add an extra touch of rarity and exclusivity.


Volkswagen

Open, inclusive, accessible: Volkswagen encourages dialogue at IAA MOBILITY

The Volkswagen brand will showcase a new approach at the IAA Mobility event in Munich. Their urban discovery platform, located in the Open Space at Odeonsplatz, will emphasize dialogue and accessibility under the theme of #OneFuture. This reflects Volkswagen’s dedication to corporate responsibility and their diverse product range, including concept cars and electric vehicles like the ID.4, ID.5, and ID.7. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore efficient vehicles with internal combustion engines and plug-in hybrids like the new Passat and Tiguan. The goal is to engage in meaningful conversations with the brand. The stage program will cover various topics related to products, social issues, and mobility.

Imelda Labbé, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Brand responsible for Sales, Marketing and After Sales, stated, “People have individual abilities, needs, and visions. Despite our differences, we all share one thing: the future. It is our responsibility to shape this future. This is the central message of Volkswagen at IAA MOBILITY, encapsulated in the hashtag #OneFuture.”

Volkswagen’s Open Space is designed to be communicative, inclusive, and barrier-free, reflecting the brand’s welcoming nature. The booth concept aims to spark curiosity, inspire ideas, and encourage conversations. The single-story pavilions are transparent and visible from all angles, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. Wood and glass materials contribute to a friendly ambiance, and after the exhibition, they can be reused for other purposes.

All touch points within the Open Space are designed to be barrier-free, including a floor guidance system with tactile guide strips, stairlifts, ramps, and wheelchair-accessible counters. The staff is trained in sign language, and acoustic instruments in the stage area can act as hearing aids. QR codes are available on display stelae for visitors to access information written in simple language. The exhibits themselves promote inclusive access, allowing visitors to touch and feel sustainable interior materials and rims. This design was developed in consultation with organizations representing the blind, hearing impaired, and severely disabled employees at Volkswagen.

“The Open Space represents Volkswagen’s commitment to diversity and inclusion,” said Labbé. “Our brand encompasses all people, which is why we aim to remove barriers and engage with as many people as possible. Only through dialogue can we learn about our customers’ interests in vehicle design and operation.”

In addition to showcasing vehicles and technologies, the Open Space will host various event formats during September 5–10:

#OneFuture Talks: Volkswagen experts and guests will discuss socially relevant issues, including the impact of artificial intelligence and ways to promote social responsibility.

Living Room Concerts: Four concerts featuring artists like Ian Hooper, Lauraine, and Tom Dibb. Fans can meet the artists, take photos, and get autographs.

“Volkswagen up close” powered by Volkswagen Talent Marketing: Volkswagen employees will share insights into their work and provide information about entry-level job opportunities within the company.

Product Talks: Volkswagen experts will present highlights of the vehicles on stage, including design and development details. Visitors can also observe a Volkswagen designer at work.

ID. Drivers’ Club Talk: A panel discussion on electromobility and the ID. family, involving guests who have played a role in shaping ID. models.

Community Love Stories: A focus on “My Volkswagen Moment,” where people will share their memorable journeys and experiences with cars against a visual backdrop.

The Open Space will be open to the public from September 5 to September 10, with free admission. A detailed program overview can be found at http://www.volkswagen.en/iaa.