Despite the growing popularity of crossovers, Kia is not neglecting its sedans. The K5, formerly known as the Optima, is receiving a mid-cycle facelift after four years since its fifth-generation debut.
While the version shown here is the domestic model available in South Korea, the global version is expected to be identical. Although previous Kia facelifts have been quite extensive, the changes to the K5 are more subtle. It features redesigned headlights and taillights that follow the styling seen on recent electric vehicles (EVs). Additionally, there is a new front bumper with larger faux air vents.
The popularity of SUVs has resulted in a decrease in demand for regular cars, leading some automakers to discontinue traditional models. However, the Volkswagen Passat sedan continues to exist in Europe as a wagon. The Opel/Vauxhall Insignia (Buick Regal) and the Ford Mondeo/Fusion have been discontinued in most parts of the world, although they are still available in China where they are locally produced.
In an effort to keep regular cars alive, Skoda is planning to introduce another generation of its flagship model with combustion engines. The new Superb, which shares mechanical components with the 2024 Passat Variant, will be officially unveiled on November 2. The design sketches of both the liftback and wagon body styles have already been released. It may be seen as unfortunate timing, considering the number of debuts occurring at the Japan Mobility Show.
The rise of electric vehicles has led to an influx of innovative car offerings. One such offering is the Fisker Ocean by California-based company Fisker, helmed by industry expert Henry Fisker. The Ocean is designed to combine sustainability, luxury, aesthetics, and performance in the electric vehicle sector. Now, Fisker has introduced a derivative model called the Fisker Ocean Force E, aimed at off-road driving and eco-friendly adventures.
Fisker recently unveiled three new electric concepts, including the Pear compact crossover, the Alaska pickup truck, and the Ronin flagship luxury convertible. Alongside these models, Fisker showcased the Ocean Force E, an off-road package that can be added to the electric SUV. The Force E features 33-inch off-road tires, specialized shock absorbers, front and rear skid plates, and increased ground clearance compared to the standard model.
The Force E package is designed to enhance the Fisker Ocean’s capabilities for off-road exploration. It includes larger off-road tires, distinct bumpers, undercarriage shielding, a raised suspension with improved shock absorbers, and a roof-mounted cargo rack. Customers can also opt for extra grip handles and a rubber floor covering for easy cleanup after outdoor adventures. The package comes with a dedicated off-road mode and tailored powertrain settings provided through an over-the-air software update.
The Fisker Ocean remains an impressive electric SUV even without the Force E package. It boasts a fully electric powertrain, a cabin incorporating recycled materials and synthetic leather, and a unique exterior design. The interior showcases simplicity and upscale luxury, featuring a rotating screen on the dashboard and a digital instrument cluster. However, the rear seating area may feel confined for larger families.
The performance of the Fisker Ocean varies across different trim levels. The entry-level model offers 275 horsepower and a 0-60 mph sprint in 6.9 seconds, while the range-topping version boasts 550 horsepower and a 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.6 seconds. The range of the Ocean also varies, with the base model offering 250 miles and the higher-end models providing up to 350 miles.
Overall, the Fisker Ocean and its Force E package offer a combination of sustainability, luxury, and performance in the electric SUV market. The Force E package enhances off-road capabilities, while the Ocean’s unique design and eco-friendly features make it an appealing choice for nature enthusiasts.
A recent report has revealed that the increase in UK fuel prices is said to be unjustified. The investigation conducted by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) determined that Asda and Morrisons, the two cheapest fuel sellers, initiated the rise by targeting higher profit margins. As a result, Asda’s fuel margin target for 2023 was over three times what it was in 2019, while Morrisons doubled its margin target in the same period.
Other retailers such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco did not respond in a competitive manner. Instead, they raised their prices in line with the changes made by Asda and Morrisons. This lack of competition has weakened the market, leading the CMA to emphasize the need for action.
The report also highlighted the slow decrease in diesel prices, largely due to Asda gradually reducing its prices as wholesale prices fell. Additionally, other companies failed to respond competitively to this price decline. The CMA estimated that drivers paid 13ppl (pence per liter) more for diesel from January 2023 to the end of May 2023 compared to the historic average margins.
To address these issues, the CMA has suggested implementing a “fuel finder scheme” that would provide drivers with real-time fuel prices through their phones or satellite navigation systems. This scheme aims to revive competition in the retail road fuel market. The CMA also recommended the establishment of a monitoring body to hold the industry accountable.
The RAC spokesperson, Simon Williams, highlighted that the increase in retailer margins has resulted in drivers paying nearly £1 billion more for fuel, which is concerning given the current cost of living crisis. This confirms ongoing concerns about supermarkets treating drivers unfairly at the pumps.
The Nissan 300ZX twin turbo was an integral factor in the rise of the known and loved Z car. Two generations, the Z31 and Z32 were featured after the popular 240Z and 280ZX but stepped it up quite a bit in terms of performance and handling. Whether you prefer the looks of the older 240Z and 280ZX or the more modern design featured on the 300ZX, it is hard to deny its incredible performance that truly set it apart back in the ’90s.
Back when this car was being sold (1990-1996 in the US), it was known as one of the most advanced cars on the market at the time. There were many factors that allowed the 300ZX twin turbo to make a name for itself among other competitors such as the MK3 Toyota Supra, the Mitsubishi 3000GT, or the Ford Mustang. To this day, the Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo is still a worthy sports car with the potential to become an absolute monster with the proper upgrades.
Pricing was taken from Kelley Blue Book, while information was referenced from sites like MotorTrend and Car & Driver.
10Adjustable Suspension And Four Way Steering Named “Super HICAS”
Nissan
The suspension was very modern for its time, with a two-mode adjustable suspension using unequal-length control arms for the front and a multi-link setup for the rear. It works by stiffening the adjustable dampers under heavy acceleration to help reduce squatting. This setup was similar to another popular sports car of the time, the Nissan 240SX.
The Nissan 300ZX twin turbo also featured the Super HICAS system or the Super High Capacity Actively Controlled Steering system. This system, also seen on the R31 Skyline, worked by sensing the driver’s steering wheel inputs and calculating the proper amount of steering angle to provide to the rear wheels in a tight corner.
9MotorTrend’s 1990 Import Car Of The Year
Wikimedia Commons
In the tuner era of the Z32 Nissan 300ZX twin-turbo, there were many import cars being sold on the US market that offered extremely good performance. 1990 saw the Z32 version of the 300ZX come to the market, with a new design as well as a new powertrain.
Its first year ended up being such a good car that MotorTrend gave it the “Import Car of the Year” award. This didn’t come easy either – with opponents like the Mazda RX-7, Toyota Supra, Mitsubishi 3000GT, and more all looking to get their hands on the title. On top of this award, it also made Car & Driver’s “10Best” list for seven consecutive years, up until 1996 when Nissan chose to stop importing the car to America.
8Twin-Turbocharged V-6 has impressive performance but is packed tightly
Mecum Auctions
Unlike the Z31’s V-6 engine, the Z32 featured a dual overhead cam setup instead of the previous single overhead cam. Both the Z31 and Z32 had a 3.0-liter engine, however, two turbochargers were added to further increase the performance of the Z32. This car ended up making 300 horsepower and 283 pound-feet of torque, over 70 horsepower more than the Z31 300ZX Turbo.
A downside to the updated V-6 with turbos strapped to each side, is the fact that the engine is stuffed in the engine bay without very much room to spare. If you’re a person who prefers to fix or upgrade a vehicle on your own, this makes things a bit more challenging. However, if you love Nissan enough to own one of its 30-year-old sports cars, this probably won’t matter.
7The Look Was Ahead Of Its Time – Diablo Headlights
Nissan
The Z32 featured aggressive styling and a new design that wouldn’t have been possible without the help of a designer named Toshio Yamashita. He started working with Nissan in 1968, but his true time to shine didn’t come until 1984 when Nissan requested designs for the up-and-coming Z32 300ZX and Silvia/240SX be submitted.
Yamashita only ended up submitting a design for the 300ZX, but it did such a great job of embodying the previous Z cars while looking modern, that Nissan chose him to be the lead designer for the new Z32. One of his most advanced features added to the 300ZX was the headlights – they featured large clear covers to pay respect to the original 240Z and sat at a 60-degree angle to maintain the aerodynamic shape of the car. This design worked out so well, that Lamborghini actually ended up using the same headlights on its Diablo supercar.
6Well-Designed Cockpit With Easy To Reach Controls
Mecum Auctions
What’s a good sports car without an equally viable cockpit? In the past, sports cars like the Dodge Viper have had incredible potential to be all-around great cars, just to be held back by a poorly designed or low-quality interior. The Nissan 300ZX twin turbo certainly doesn’t fall into this category with an exceptional-looking interior for its time and practicality that still works to this day.
To make things easier on you during a cruise, ancillary controls are placed on easily accessible pods that surround the steering wheel and gauge cluster. The 300ZX twin turbo was only offered in America with T-tops, said to be one of the best ones tested by Car & Driver, noting that it is “tight, leak-free, and easy to remove”.
5Twin-Turbo Version Only Offered Front Seats
Nissan
The Z32 300ZX featured a 2+2 trim on the non-turbo version, however, the twin-turbo trim was not available with rear seats. This lightened up the weight a bit and allowed the Nissan 300ZX twin turbo to fully embrace its true goal – which was to provide a breathtaking driving experience, and that is exactly what it does. This car is obviously not your ordinary 300ZX, and probably has much more than the rear seats removed, but still shows how much of an impact weight can have on the acceleration and top speed of a vehicle.
When the second generation, or Z32 300ZX was released, to the surprise of many it ended up a great success. By cleaning up some of the rough edges that were consistent with the Z31 generation and adding modern tech, Nissan and its lead designer Toshio Yamashita were able to turn the 300ZX into a very successful machine.
In 1990, the first year of the Z32 generation, it reached over one million sales in the United States, making it the best-selling sports car at the time. Its success continued until 1996 when it was no longer brought to America due to the rising Yen to Dollar ratio and the increasing demand for SUVs in the market.
3Was Quite Expensive When It Was Being Sold New
Nissan
The Z32 300ZX could be had from the low $30,000s to the mid $40,000s back when it was still being produced, which translates to about $60,000-$80,000 in today’s money. This means you were definitely paying for every bit of performance, especially if we compare it to a sports car like the current Nissan twin-turbo, the 2023 Z, which starts at $40,990.
And while the Z32’s price tag certainly wasn’t a bargain, it was actually comparable to its competitors at the time like the 1992 Toyota Supra Turbo Liftback which went for $38,462, or the 1992 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 Coupe which went for $34,288, just to name a few. Nowadays, a used Z32 Nissan 300ZX twin-turbo in good condition can run anywhere from $20,000 up to $40,000.
The original Nissan Z was the Fairlady Z, also known as the 240Z in the United States. Its creation began in 1969 for the 1970 models, and its headlights were one of the features that the Z32 drew its inspiration from. It was manufactured for 9 years, before being replaced with the second generation of the Z, the 280ZX.
After the 300ZX, came the third generation, the Z31 300ZX. This car provided a huge bump in performance and aesthetics over the 280ZX and was brought to American markets in 1983. This generation lasted up until 1989 when the Z32 came to fruition and took the market by storm. The Z32 continued to be known as one of the best sports cars up until the United States was unfortunate enough to stop seeing them imported, in 1996.
1Plenty Of Upgradability
Youtube/BeDistinct
One of the factors shared by many of the older Nissan cars is the sheer amount of upgrades that can be done to the car. Whether it is bigger turbos, upgraded camshafts, exhaust, intake, or basically anything else, the Nissan 300ZX twin turbo has an incredible amount of potential when it comes to modifications.
Just to give you an idea of what this car is capable of – let’s use the “Devil Z” as an example. It is the fastest stock chassis 300ZX around, able to achieve sub-nine-second times on a quarter-mile drag strip. It’s able to produce 785 horsepower at 36 pounds of boost, all while utilizing the stock valvetrain and internals. It went up against some formidable opponents on the strip – a nine-second C6 Corvette and a high eight-second Chevy Nova and surprisingly came out on top in every single race.
Electric vehicles are on the rise in terms of popularity and adoption, yet a couple of manufacturers are considering hydrogen as an alternative propulsion method. Toyota is among those exploring this avenue and has recently unveiled its prototype of a hydrogen fuel cell electric Hilux pickup truck. Although currently in the concept phase, Toyota plans to deliver 10 examples for rigorous safety, functionality, and durability assessments. As electric power technology still raises some uncertainties, the exploration of hydrogen power serves as a prudent measure for future-proofing. The insights derived from Toyota’s testing efforts could potentially have a significant impact on the automotive industry, further shaping its trajectory.
Since 2015, three car manufacturers have introduced hydrogen-powered vehicles for sale, including the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell, the Hyundai Nexo SUV, and the Toyota Mirai. However, Honda has recently ceased production of all Clarity models, and Hyundai has seen limited sales, with fewer than 1,500 Nexo SUVs sold to date. Toyota, which has shown a strong commitment to hydrogen power as an alternative to battery-electric vehicles, has successfully sold approximately 10,700 Mirai sedansover two generations in the U.S. It’s worth noting that at times, Toyota resorted to significant discounts to boost Mirai sales. It’s also important to note that Honda does not provide separate sales figures for its Clarity Fuel Cell model in comparison to the plug-in hybrid and battery-electric Clarity versions. That said, here’s everything we know so far about the Hilux hydrogen pickup truck:
Before we get to the crux of the matter, let’s get the basics out of the way. A hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle, abbreviated as HFCV, employs a similar electric motor as a battery-electric car to propel the wheels. However, instead of relying on a large, heavy battery, it utilizes a fuel-cell stack. In this stack, pure hydrogen (H2) flows through a membrane, where it combines with oxygen (O2) extracted from the air. This chemical reaction generates the electricity needed to power the vehicle’s wheels and produces water vapor as a byproduct. Essentially, a fuel-cell vehicle operates as a series hybrid, which is why it is occasionally categorized as a fuel-cell hybrid electric vehicle (FCHEV).
In scientific terms, hydrogen is considered an energy carrier rather than a conventional fuel source. Nevertheless, for HFCV drivers, the process of refilling their vehicles’ carbon-fiber high-pressure tanks resembles a visit to a “hydrogen fueling station,” akin to a traditional gasoline station, offering a quick five-minute refueling experience. While it’s true that hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe at the atomic level, it is rarely found in its pure form; it typically combines with other elements. Its strong affinity for bonding with other elements makes it an efficient energy carrier.
To produce pure hydrogen for use in vehicles, a substantial amount of energy is required to “crack” compounds like natural gas (CH4) into pure H2, with carbon dioxide (CO2) as a byproduct. Currently, the majority of hydrogen is derived from fossil fuels such as natural gas. Once introduced into a fuel cell, the hydrogen promptly releases that stored energy in the form of electricity as it combines with oxygen, resulting in only water vapor (H2O) being emitted from the vehicle’s exhaust.
Toyota has established itself as a trailblazer in the realm of hydrogen propulsion, notably exemplified by the Mirai, one of the select hydrogen vehicles accessible to the public. Toyota’s pursuits with the Hilux prototype are inherently motivated by their commitment to advancing a zero-carbon future. In contrast to other automakers, Toyota has wholeheartedly embraced a multifaceted strategy aimed at identifying the most optimal powertrain solutions for future vehicles. This approach encompasses hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid electric, and battery electric options, each potentially suitable for diverse operational contexts worldwide.
Paradoxically, Toyota finds itself trailing behind other manufacturers in the fully electric vehicle race. The development of this novel Hilux prototype draws from the foundational elements of the Mirai sedan, a vehicle that has seen nearly a decade of production. Notably, the hydrogen fuel cell system employed generates zero tailpipe emissions, emitting only pure water as a byproduct, with the hydrogen stored within the Hilux in three high-pressure fuel tanks. Furthermore, the hybrid battery for the Hilux has been strategically placed on the rear load deck, ensuring that there is no sacrifice of cabin space for the occupants.
Toyota has provided substantial statistics regarding the hydrogen-powered Hilux, indicating an impressive range of 365 miles between refueling stops. However, this figure still falls short of the range achievable with conventional internal combustion engine-equipped Hilux, which can travel up to 715 miles on a single tank of turbodiesel 2.8-liter fuel in the Australian market. It’s important to note that the hydrogen fuel cell pickup remains a concept vehicle at this stage, leaving room for potential advancements and modifications as it progresses toward production. While this particular Hilux prototype won’t go into production. Toyota is actively working on developing a production version of a hydrogen-powered truck.
In 2022, Toyota announced its collaboration with “allied automakers” to create compact electric commercial vans and a light-duty electric pickup truck featuring hydrogen fuel-cell technology. Toyota is not embarking on this endeavor alone but is partnering with Isuzu and Hino to bring hydrogen fuel-cell trucks to reality. These efforts are part of a larger project aimed at deploying 600 electric vehicles for transporting goods between Tokyo and Fukushima prefecture.
Although there isn’t a specific timeline available for these trucks, they are indeed planned for production rather than remaining in the prototype phase. This project, in conjunction with the Toyota Hilux prototype, underscores Toyota’s continued commitment to promoting hydrogen as a viable alternative fuel source. The newly appointed Toyota CEO, Koji Sato, firmly believes in the potential of hydrogen technology and envisions its future relevance within Toyota and the broader automotive industry. Sato’s philosophy revolves around the idea that reducing emissions should encompass more than just electric and hybrid powertrains. Additionally, Toyota has hinted at the possibility of exploring sportier vehicles equipped with hydrogen fuel cells.
At the 2023 Fuji 24 Hours event, Toyota unveiled the Mirai Sport Concept, a visually striking iteration of the hydrogen sedan with a more angular and muscular design. Toyota has remained relatively tight-lipped about this vehicle, refraining from releasing an official press statement to confirm its existence. Nevertheless, it serves as a clear indication that Toyota envisions a wide range of applications for hydrogen power. The company even showcased a hydrogen-powered GR Yaris H2 at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed, driven by the renowned Rowan Atkinson, popularly known as Mr. Bean.
Electric Vehicles Are The Future But Hydrogen Is Still Relevant
Toyota
How does it feel to drive a Hydrogen Vehicle? In practical terms, a driver of an HFCV will encounter a driving experience nearly indistinguishable from that of a battery-electric vehicle, albeit perhaps not one of the swiftest varieties. These vehicles lack a traditional transmission and are equipped with regenerative braking systems designed to recapture and utilize energy that would otherwise go to waste during deceleration. The primary challenge facing automotive engineers lies in the fact that hydrogen fuel cells operate most efficiently at a consistent power output, which makes them suitable for applications such as backup power generation.
However, the power demands within an average automobile can vary significantly, spanning an order of magnitude. For instance, power requirements may range from approximately 15 kilowatts (equivalent to 20 horsepower) to maintain a steady highway speed on a level road, to potentially 10 to 20 times that amount during rapid acceleration, such as when reaching speeds of 60 mph or higher. The fuel cell integrated into the Toyota Mirai, currently the top-selling hydrogen car in the U.S., boasts a rating of 90 kW (equivalent to 120 horsepower). Nevertheless, this power output may not be sufficient for swift highway merges.
To address this limitation, Toyota, along with other manufacturers of HFCVs, incorporates a high-voltage, low-capacity battery into the vehicle’s design, closely resembling those employed in gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles. This battery serves the purpose of providing additional power during brief intervals of intense acceleration and is recharged either from excess fuel-cell output when the vehicle cruises at a constant speed or via regenerative braking when the vehicle decelerates. Notably, all three of the hydrogen-powered cars sold in recent years have received EPA-rated ranges exceeding 300 miles, although, akin to electric vehicles (EVs), the range tends to diminish notably at higher speeds.
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs) are generally regarded as safe on par with any other conventional car. This is primarily because the high-pressure tanks used to store hydrogen are engineered to withstand even high-speed collisions without leaking or rupturing. While skeptics of hydrogen technology often reference the Hindenburg disaster of 1937, it’s worth noting that the hydrogen tanks and associated components in modern HFCVs are designed to survive crashes intact. In the event of a severe accident, these tanks and their hardware would likely remain undamaged, even if the rest of the vehicle were extensively impacted. Importantly, there have been no recorded injuries or fatalities specifically attributed to the hydrogen components in the relatively limited number of HFCVs sold to date.
Refueling a hydrogen car becomes more natural with experience, but it requires aligning the bulky nozzle and ensuring a proper seal for electronic communication between the vehicle and the pump, which may take some practice. Present-day hydrogen stations often serve only two to five vehicles before going offline for up to 30 minutes or more for repressurization. As HFCV drivers in the San Francisco Bay Area discovered in June 2019, the hydrogen supply infrastructure for retail outlets can be quite limited. An explosion incident disrupted the supply to nine out of the 11 hydrogen stations in the area, necessitating the use of diesel trucks to transport compressed hydrogen tanks hundreds of miles overnight from Southern California. Drivers who relied on their hydrogen vehicles for daily commuting had to set early alarms in hopes of reaching a fueling station in time to secure some of the limited hydrogen fuel available.
Toyota ultimately provided several months’ worth of lease payment refunds to Mirai drivers throughout the state who faced reliability issues in using their vehicles. The key distinction, and a significant drawback, of hydrogen cars compared to electric vehicles (EVs) is their inability to be refueled or recharged at home overnight. Unlike gasoline cars, which can access a well-established network of over 100,000 fuel stations nationwide, hydrogen drivers depend entirely on a reliable supply of hydrogen gas and the availability of properly functioning high-pressure fueling stations. Given that hydrogen fuel remains a specialized commodity for the general public, the limited network of retail stations typically charges high prices.
Toyota
According to the California Hydrogen Business Council, “Currently, a kilogram of hydrogen costs between $10 and $17 at California hydrogen stations, which equals about $5 to $8.50 per gallon of gasoline” to cover the same distance. For reference, a Toyota Mirai hydrogen car typically holds about five gallons of hydrogen fuel. To mitigate this disadvantage, Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota have all offered lessees and buyers free hydrogen fuel for varying durations. Each manufacturer has its unique offer: A Toyota Mirai, for instance, includes up to $15,000 worth of complimentary hydrogen, while a Hyundai Nexo offers the same amount over a three-year lease or up to six years of ownership. Once these promotional offers expire, however, the driver is responsible for covering the cost of hydrogen. It’s worth noting that, in comparison, charging an EV overnight generally equates to the cost of gasoline at just $1 to $2 per gallon.
Like electric cars, hydrogen vehicles require special precautions when serviced at dealership service centers. HFCVs feature high-voltage battery packs similar to those found in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric cars. Additionally, they include one or more armored, carbon-fiber tanks designed to store pure hydrogen at extremely high pressure, typically around 10,000 pounds per square inch (psi), or 700 bar in metric units. Routine service for a hydrogen car that doesn’t involve the hydrogen tanks, the fuel-cell stack, or the associated plumbing is no different from servicing any other vehicle.
However, when handling any of these specific components, the state of California has established a set of rules to ensure that any released hydrogen does not pose the risk of an explosion. These measures often entail completely draining the hydrogen tanks in designated outdoor areas away from buildings, followed by purging the remaining hydrogen from the system by flushing it with various gases—a process that can take between 30 and 180 minutes.
Hydrogen presents several advantages that make it a compelling alternative to electric vehicles. A hydrogen fuel-cell engine operates in a manner akin to an internal combustion engine (ICE), with hydrogen serving as the fuel source. What sets hydrogen apart is its refueling process, which mirrors that of gasoline or diesel, involving a simple visit to a pump. This eliminates the need for extended waits at charging stations, which can be as long as half an hour or more for electric vehicle recharging. By harnessing hydrogen to power an electric powertrain, Toyota can effectively combine the strengths of both worlds without the burden of carrying large, heavy batteries.
Such a development could, in many respects, revolutionize the automotive industry. Internal combustion engines might become obsolete, leading to reduced demand for battery production. This, in turn, would alleviate the pressure on sourcing rare materials like lithium, nickel, and cobalt. While not necessarily a dealbreaker, the ability to quickly refill a vehicle at a conventional pump would address consumer concerns about lengthy waits at charging points for energy replenishment. Unlike lithium, which may face supply shortages by the end of the decade according to experts, hydrogen is abundantly available as it is readily accessible in the atmosphere.
BMW
Despite the promising developments by Toyota, it’s important to acknowledge that hydrogen does come with a few challenges. One of the most apparent issues is its range limitation, although it’s worth noting that some electric vehicles also grapple with this concern, struggling to meet the expectations of many consumers. Another challenge lies in the extraction and management of hydrogen, which can be intricate due to its volumetric energy density doubling when transitioning from a gas to a liquid. Achieving this liquid state requires extremely low temperatures, specifically at around -423.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Consequently, any hydrogen fuel tank must be meticulously insulated, and the pump system must be designed to resist freezing and potential breakage. Furthermore, both the storage and production of hydrogen can be expensive endeavors, and it’s worth noting that compressed hydrogen is highly flammable and explosive. While hydrogen does offer substantial advantages, such as its minimal environmental impact and rapid refueling capabilities, it still has a considerable journey ahead before it can establish itself as a mainstream and cost-effective fuel source.
Nevertheless, experiments like Toyota’s Hilux prototype could serve as a catalyst for overcoming these challenges. If hydrogen can become more cost-efficient, easier to store, and safer to handle, it has the potential to revolutionize the automotive industry, and once those hurdles are surmounted, the automotive world may indeed never look back.
The Mirage Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.8, known for its role as the Autobot in “Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” will be showcased at Rennsport Reunion 7. This highly anticipated event will take place from September 28 to October 1 at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Apart from the rare 964 series Carrera RS 3.8, attendees can expect to see a display of legendary cars.
Both fans and car enthusiasts will have the chance to view the latest hero car from the Transformers franchise. They will also be able to admire 15-foot-tall versions of Mirage, Optimus Prime, and Optimus Primal Autobots. As an added treat, attendees will have the opportunity to watch a special screening of the action-packed film, which generated an impressive $439 million in global ticket sales this summer.
Bike racks have become very popular motoring accessories, thanks to the increase in biking and staycations. But with so many options available, which rack should you choose?
Bike racks can be fixed to the roof, the bootlid, or a tow bar. Roof-mounted racks are the most popular, followed by towbar-mounted racks. However, racks that go on the bootlid are not as popular anymore, mainly because they can’t be used on lightweight plastic boot panels.
In this article, we will focus on roof-mounted and towbar-mounted racks. Roof-mounted racks are generally more affordable, easy to store, and can fit most vehicles. However, they can be difficult to load, especially on tall SUVs or vans, and they may not fit in car parks with height barriers.
Towbar-mounted bike racks, on the other hand, are a universal fit and make it much easier to load the bikes. They have also overcome some of the traditional issues with boot access and storage. Some towbar racks even have the option of doubling up as luggage racks or cargo box carriers. Additionally, some brands provide a dedicated mount on the tow bar assembly, allowing the tow ball to remain free for other uses like a caravan or trailer.
Before choosing a rack, always check the maximum weight your vehicle’s roof or tow bar can support. Consider the weight of the bikes, the rack itself, and for roof systems, the weight of the roof bars and their maximum load limits. Racks with lower weight and higher load capacity offer more flexibility.
A recent report has revealed that fuel profit margins have significantly increased since the war in Ukraine began. Asda and Morrisons, the two cheapest fuel sellers, were found to be the main instigators of this rise. However, Asda was also fined £60,000 for not fully co-operating with the investigation conducted by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
In 2023, Asda aimed for a fuel margin target that was over three times higher than the target set in 2019. Similarly, Morrisons doubled its margin target during the same period.
It was also highlighted in the report that other retailers, such as Sainsbury’s and Tesco, did not respond competitively to the changing market conditions. Instead of lowering their prices, these retailers raised them. The CMA expressed concern about this lack of competition and emphasized the need for action.
Moreover, diesel prices have been slow to decrease due to Asda gradually reducing their prices in response to falling wholesale prices. This, combined with other firms’ failure to respond competitively, resulted in drivers paying an additional 13p per litre for diesel between January 2023 and the end of May 2023.
“Competition at the pump is not functioning as effectively as it should, and immediate changes are required to address this issue,” said Cardell, spokesperson for the CMA.
The 1960s was a transformative decade in many ways, and it was no different for the world of motorcycles. While British manufacturers were losing ground to the rising influence of Japanese motorcycles, the 1960s still produced some iconic bikes that are remembered fondly today. This article takes a look at 15 such motorcycles from the 1960s that made an impact on the industry and continue to be celebrated.
Updated July 2023: This article will be periodically updated to include any interesting, classic models from the 1960s that may have been missed.
Motorcycle standing in front of brick wall facing right.
The Triumph Bonneville T120 is often considered the most iconic motorcycle of the 1960s. It built upon the reputation of its predecessor, the original Speed Twin from 1938, under the guidance of Edward Turner. Known for its style and performance, the Bonneville became synonymous with motorcycling in the 1960s. While it wasn’t the best handling bike, it was fast and attractive, leading to the development of the Triton café racer – a combination of a Triumph engine with a Norton ‘Featherbed’ frame. The Bonneville name was inspired by Johnny Allen’s record-breaking runs at the Bonneville Salt Flats in a Triumph-engined streamliner in 1956.
Vintage scooter in front of an industrial area, facing right.
If British motorcycles were associated with Café Racer and Rocker culture, the Vespa Allstate Cruisaire was the epitome of the opposite lifestyle embraced by the Mods. These riders preferred scooters over motorcycles, and Vespa was the go-to brand for them. The Allstate Cruisaire was Piaggio’s attempt to break into the American market. Sold exclusively by Sears, this Vespa model became popular all around the world and is still recognized for its stylish design and practicality.
131961 Honda CB77
Mecum
Honda CB77 Super Hawk in red
The Japanese motorcycle manufacturers, particularly Honda, had a significant impact on the industry in the 1960s. The Honda CB77, also known as the Super Hawk, was a prime example of this influence. With its twin-cylinder, 305cc engine producing 28 horsepower, the CB77 offered exceptional performance and reliability. The introduction of a tubular steel frame improved the bike’s stability and allowed it to reach speeds of 100 mph, on par with larger British motorcycles. The CB77 was a testament to the changing tides in the motorcycle industry, as Japanese manufacturers began to challenge the dominance of British motorcycles.
121961 Harley-Davidson Sprint C
Dmitry Pavlovsky
Classic motorcycle in museum.
The Harley-Davidson Sprint C was an interesting addition to this list. It wasn’t necessarily a groundbreaking or iconic motorcycle, but it represented a significant shift for Harley-Davidson. In the 1960s, the American motorcycle manufacturer faced tough competition from Japanese manufacturers in the lightweight motorcycle segment. Instead of investing in new designs and development, Harley-Davidson decided to import and re-brand an existing motorcycle. The Sprint C was an Aermacchi motorcycle that was re-badged and sold by Harley-Davidson. While it didn’t have the same level of success as its Japanese counterparts, this move showed that Harley-Davidson was willing to adapt to changing market dynamics.
The Ducati Scrambler was a response to the demand for road-going scrambler-style motorcycles. The Berliner Corporation, a U.S. distributor, recognized this market and convinced Ducati to build a road-going scrambler model. The resulting Ducati Scrambler, based on the Diana model, offered both 250cc and 350cc versions. It featured a bevel-drive single-cylinder engine and became massively popular in the U.S. market. While it wasn’t a dedicated off-road model, the Scrambler played a significant role in Ducati’s success in the U.S. and set the stage for the brand’s future achievements in the 1970s and beyond.
101963 BSA Gold Star
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Vintage motorcycle parked in front of windows, facing right.
The BSA Gold Star had a long history before the 1960s, but it was in 1963 that this British icon came to an end. Outdated technology and discontinued parts contributed to BSA’s decision to discontinue the Gold Star. However, its timeless design and vintage character make it a popular choice for motorcycle enthusiasts looking for classic rides. The Gold Star’s reputation for British charm and quality craftsmanship lives on.
The Ducati Mach 1 was a powerful single-cylinder motorcycle that became popular for its performance. With its 27.5 horsepower, the Mach 1 was the fastest 250cc road motorcycle of its time, reaching top speeds of just over 100 mph. It was equipped with all the features that enthusiasts of the era desired, including clip-on handlebars, rear set foot pegs, a racing single seat, and excellent performance and braking capabilities. The Mach 1’s success was further solidified by its victory at the Isle of Man TT races in 1969.
Price: £320.00
