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Motorcycles

5 Fast Suzuki Motorcycles For Seasoned Riders

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The Suzuki GSX-S750Z has the smallest engine on the listing, however measurement is not all the pieces. The engine powering the S750Z is a 749 cc four-cylinder engine, and that is nonetheless a quick motorbike. Its acceleration to a most of 142 mph does place it final on this listing for high velocity, however that is nonetheless lots quick for lots of people. Plus, the smaller measurement helps the bike keep its modern look. 

MSRP for this bike begins at $8,649, making it the most cost effective of all of the featured bikes. Although, typically, the smaller the engine, the decrease the highest velocity, this sacrifice might be price it for those who’re discovering your self saving hundreds of {dollars}. For instance, the distinction in high velocity between this bike and the GSX-8S is simply 3 mph, however it can save you over $300 by selecting up the S750Z as a substitute. Compared to the S1000, however, you are taking a look at paying round $3,000 extra for fewer than 10 extra mph of velocity. If you are on a funds, it is one thing price contemplating. A good value on an easy-to-handle bike with a stable engine is nothing to scoff at.

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The Most Affordable Harley-Davidson Motorcycle In 2024

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Summary

  • The Harley-Davidson Nightster is the smallest Sportster within the firm’s lineup.
  • Despite an absence of conventional Harley engine character, the Nightster presents agile dealing with.
  • Basic security options and distinctive styling make the Nightster a good selection for brand new riders.

Say what you’ll about them being heavy or sluggish, Harley-Davidson makes charming bikes. These bikes are identified for his or her loud V-twins, hefty weight, consolation, model, and oodles of low-end grunt. But all of it typically comes with a stonking sticker worth not many people can afford. Fortunately, H-D has lately began pondering rather a lot about luring in a price-centric demographic with bikes that you simply don’t should promote your home for. The greatest instance of this proper now could be the Nightster.

The Nightster is a part of the Sportster household, which has been in business since 1957. But this one (together with the Sportster S) is in contrast to another Sportster that got here earlier than it. Gone are the crude character and old-school underpinnings. This one is fashionable, with a liquid-cooled engine, agile dealing with, and rider aids. Also, it is one of the best middleweight cruisers you can buy today.

In order to provide the latest and correct info attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from Harley-Davidson and different authoritative sources, together with Motorcycle News and Motorcycle Online.

Press photo of the 2021 Harley-Davidson Sportster S

Related

10 Pictures That Illustrate The Evolution Of The Harley Davidson Sportster 

Harley-Davidson’s middleweight cruiser has gone by way of many adjustments over 5 a long time

Enough Power And Agility To Keep You Entertained

Power Output: 91 HP @ 7,500 RPM

The Harley-Davidson Nightster is powered by the Revolution Max 975T V-twin engine, which produces a flat torque curve with first rate acceleration and mid-range punch. But don’t think of this as just a downsized Revolution Max 1250T engine; this one will get VVT on the consumption. The engine is rev-happy and many of the energy is situated excessive up the rev vary.

This in flip means it lacks the low-end explosive character typically related to H-D engines. It’s clean and whirry and virtually feels too sterile. It’s in contrast to older Sportster engines, which felt thumpy. No, it’s not a foul engine, however you may find it difficult to form an emotional bond with it. Plus, this one doesn’t produce the signature potato-potato exhaust be aware!

Engine Highlights

  • It’s a liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin
  • Intake velocity stacks and airbox quantity are tuned to maximise efficiency throughout the rev vary
  • Unlike the 1250, which options VVT on each cams, this engine solely makes use of VVT on the consumption aspect
  • The twin overhead camshafts and VVT phasing are designed to spice up efficiency
  • Hydraulic valve lash adjustment eliminates the necessity for valve clearances and ensures quiet operation
  • Internal balancers cut back vibrations and enhance engine reliability
  • Balancers are additionally tuned to retain sufficient vibrations to make the bike really feel extra characterful

Engine And Performance Specifications

Engine Type

Revolution Max 975T liquid-cooled, DOHC, V-twin, VVT

Displacement

59.5 cu in (975cc)

Compression Ratio

12:1

Torque Output

72 LB-FT @ 5,750 RPM

Claimed Fuel Economy

52 MPG

Tank Range

216 miles

Top Speed

120 MPH

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson and Motorcycle News)

Harley-Davidson Nightster

Related

Why The Nightster Is The Perfect Harley-Davidson For Beginners

The Harley-Davidson Nightster has all the weather that make it a perfect newbie’s bike, with a little bit of spice.

Charming Handling With Urban Comfort And Likable Aids

The Revolution Max V-twin is housed in a nimble, light-weight chassis with a lightweight aluminum tail part and welded rectangular metal tube swingarm. Everything floats on beefy Showa Dual Bending Valve standard forks and twin rear shocks with preload adjustment. To enhance agility, the gas tank is situated underneath the seat, and what seems to be the gas tank is the airbox cowl.

Yep, it ain’t a lot, however the outcomes are nonetheless outstanding. The bike guarantees to be gentle, agile, and handle much better than its curb weight would suggest. You may even be a bit tough with it within the corners, the place the one factor you’d should watch out about is the bottom clearance. Even the old-school conventionally mounted Brembo brakes can sluggish you down effectively.

2024 Harley-Davidson Nightster
Harley-Davidson

The ergonomics and dimensions additionally make the Nightster a terrific city cruiser. The seat is low, and the profile is slender, permitting even shorter riders to flat-foot at stoplights. Once you get going, the driving triangle is impartial and comfy. The solely grievance right here can be the rear shocks. Their journey is low (as it’s on a cruiser), so you do not have sufficient to absorb large bumps.

Finally, there’s the electronics. This bike will get all the essential security rider aids you’d anticipate from a recent cruiser, together with dual-channel ABS, traction management, and drag torque slip management (DSCS). Unfortunately, not one of the rider aids are angle-responsive. You even have three modes — Rain, Road, and Sport.

Chassis And Dimensions Specifications

Frame Type

Tubular metal trellis

Lean Angle, Right

32 levels

Lean Angle, Left

32 levels

Front Fork

41mm Showa standard forks with aluminum triple clamps

Rear Shocks

Dual outboard, direct-acting emulsion know-how shock absorbers with coil springs and preload adjustment

Wheels

Aluminum forged, satin black

Front Tire

100/90 x 19

Rear Tire

150/80 x 16

Front Brakes

Axially mounted 4-piston Brembo caliper, 320 mm disc

Rear Brakes

Floating single-piston caliper, 260 mm disc

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson and Motorcycle News)

Pretty Enough To Hold Your Attention (At Most Times)

2024 Harley-Davidson Nightster static profile shot
Harley-Davidson

Think of a Sportster and a picture will type in your thoughts: minimalistic, walnut tank, and a lean fly line. The Nightster is identical, albeit in a contemporary interpretation. The design blends basic styling with fashionable cues, and it seems to be attractive. The lengthy and low stance, cool wheels, and bobber-ish parts make the bike stand out from the crowd.

But there’s a darkish aspect to the Nightster’s design. At first look, it comes off as a well-finished, well-built product, however a detailed visible inspection might disappoint you. The bike is roofed in plastic panels and it is not your typical American steel vibe.

Design Highlights

  • Exposed rear shocks, airbox cowl, and walnut gas tank are a throwback to older Sportster fashions
  • Solo seat, chopped fenders, and velocity display hark again to current Sportster fashions
  • Under-seat gas tank is neatly hid with aspect covers
  • Revolution Max engine is the centerpiece of the design
  • Snaking headers are completed in a Metallic Charcoal powder coat
  • Panels underneath the radiator conceal the battery whereas making the radiator much less apparent
  • Gorgeous wheels are completed in Satin Black

Wait, There’s A Cheaper Harley-Davidson

2023 Harley-Davidson X 440 Full
Harley-Davidson

Have we been mendacity to you about probably the most reasonably priced Harley-Davidson? Nope. The Nightster stays the most affordable Harley you should purchase within the US, however on the opposite aspect of the world, there’s a less expensive H-D. We’re speaking concerning the X 440, an entry-level roadster that lately went on sale in India. This bike is the fruit of Harley-Davidson and Hero MotoCorp’s partnership.

Sure, it is probably not a real Harley, due to its lack of V-twin engine and cruiser proportions. But it has managed to shake the segment in India nonetheless. It’s received a Harley-ish design, impressed by the XR1200 and different Sportsters, alongside class-leading torque figures.

It retails for INR 2,39,500 ($2,879), which is ridiculously low cost for a Harley. But this isn’t on sale within the US. The firm has additionally not hinted about it arriving at US shores any time quickly. So, whereas it might be the most affordable Harley-Davidson, you possibly can’t get one.

In Case You Want Something More Special

Starting MSRP: $11,999

2024 Harley-Davidson Nightster cruising at night
Harley-Davidson

The Harley-Davidson Nightster isn’t a foul bike; it’s peppy and enjoyable. But it might not be the replacement for the Sportster 883, as Harley-Davidson claims. But if you’re prepared to spend $13,499, you’ll get your arms on TopSpeed’s Best American motorcycle of 2024, the Nightster Special.

The Nightster Special fixes among the drawbacks of the usual Nightster with a couple of nifty upgrades. The styling is up to date with a brand new headlamp cowl, decals, and badging; the latter is a throwback to the ‘70s Sportsters. The bike additionally comes with a pillion seat, handlebar risers, cruise management, TFT show with Bluetooth connectivity, and TPMS as commonplace.

2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster Full

Related

2023 Harley-Davidson Nightster vs Nightster Special – Which One Should You Buy?

The Harley-Davidson Nightster has been stripped down in 2023, which does not bode effectively for its value-for-money prospects

Nightster vs The Rivals

As for rivals, the Nightster has two American rivals, the 2024 Indian Scout Sixty and the 2025 Scout Bobber. The Scouts look significantly better, due to their basic styling, and are well-finished merchandise. In the efficiency division, the Scout Bobber outperforms the Nightster, and each go away the Scout Sixty far behind.

The 2024 Scout Sixty retails for $11,749, and the 2025 Scout Bobber begins at $12,999. The Bobber might provide extra bang in your buck, however its poor rear suspension and underpowered brakes are worth considering before deciding. The Nightster’s suspension, regardless of being short-travel, works higher, at the very least comparatively, because the linked evaluation suggests.

All in all, we might have some complaints concerning the Nightster. But for being the most affordable Harley-Davidson cruiser, it’s fairly good with redeeming qualities, like distinctive styling, a robust engine, and agile dealing with. It can be correctly partaking for brand new riders, which is exactly its intent.

Featured

Honda City vs Honda Elevate: Space And Practicality Compared

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Which compact Honda is best for you – the sedan or the SUV?

City vs elevate, sedan or SUV

Honda has one of many smallest mannequin lineups for a profitable automotive model in India. The Japanese carmaker lastly entered the extremely aggressive compact SUV phase in 2023 with the Honda Elevate. It is predicated on the long-standing foundations of the extremely profitable Honda City sedan, which is presently in its fifth technology in India. Therefore, each fashions have a excessive variety of similarities. So, should you had been considering of shopping for a premium Honda mannequin in the present day, you would possibly discover it onerous to select between the Elevate and the City. Well, that’s precisely why we’re doing a breakdown of their variations that can assist you choose the appropriate one.

Design

From a design standpoint, it’s not as a lot a contest between them as it’s about private preferences between these siblings. Both have comparable design cues after all, however each use them otherwise. While the Honda Elevate has a comparatively protected design, its taller stance and butch profile provides it respectable street presence. It additionally will get larger 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in thicker tyres. However, that massive grille that dominates the entrance may have been extra premium.

In comparability, the Honda City sedan appears sharper and you may inform that this has been the carmaker’s favorite youngster (to this point) because of the eye to element. Those 9-piece LED headlights and Z-shape LED hind lights mixed with the sporty styling for the entrance and rear bumper give the fifth-gen City a sporty look.

Boot Space

The Honda City reminds us of the principle purpose why sedans had been the go-to physique sort for household street journeys earlier than SUVs took over the market. It will get a much bigger boot than the Elevate on paper: 506 litres in comparison with 458 litres for the SUV. 

Honda City boot space

We had been capable of show the sedan’s superiority on this regard with our very personal baggage take a look at. Both the City and Elevate can slot in a full-size suitcase, a medium-sized suitcase, a carry-on suitcase in addition to two duffel baggage with some room to spare (for a backpack or two). However, the City can match even larger baggage. The sedan’s urge for food for baggage is extra spectacular when you think about the design limitation of the boot-hinges that eat into the boot when closed.

Honda Elevate boot space

However, we want to point out that should you had been utilizing one among these Honda fashions to shift home, with out passengers, the Elevate has an added capability over the City. The compact SUV’s rear seat might be folded down (cut up fold 60:40 if wanted) to make extra room which is one thing that the sedan can’t do.

Getting In And Getting Out

Time to seek out out what the Honda vehicles have to supply contained in the cabin. But first, let’s begin with how simple it’s to get out and in of their respective cabins. Now, the Honda City has the everyday sedan’s low seating for a sportier and extra govt expertise. However, when it comes to practicality, the high-riding Honda Elevate has the benefit for climbing out and in of these seats, particularly for older members of the family. Also, the excessive driving place with a transparent view of the entrance does give extra confidence to new drivers.

Interior – Fit & Finish

Honda City interior

The Honda City has maintained a excessive bar for inside high quality in vehicles costing lower than Rs 20 lakh, with a deal with the match and end moderately than an abundance of options. With the creamy mild cabin theme, the inside of the City feels spacious and the premium supplies make for a nice expertise throughout.

Honda Elevate interior

Now, on condition that the Elevate is supposed to be the SUV-equivalent to the City sedan, it ought to a minimum of match it for the cabin high quality. However, it appears Honda could have fallen barely wanting its personal mark right here, with sure areas not utilizing the identical degree of supplies or end as one would count on within the Elevate. It does get a brown and black cabin theme for a extra upmarket visible enchantment however the giant surfaces of black plastics make it really feel much less premium than the City.

Both vehicles characteristic a picket trim end on the passenger facet of the dashboard, and the motive force’s facet is similar. However, the central console format has totally different designs. The City’s infotainment unit is flanked by the AC vents whereas the Elevate’s central AC vents are positioned under the freestanding show. They even have very totally different local weather management panels, with dials for the sedan and toggles for the SUV, the latter being extra frequent in fashionable SUVs.

Features

Both the Honda Elevate and Honda City are well-equipped when it comes to comforts however each endure from a scarcity of a “wow” issue within the options division, in comparison with their phase rivals. Yes, each fashions include a semi-digital driver’s show, a sunroof, lane-watch digicam, in addition to a collection of superior driver help programs (ADAS) for options like autonomous emergency braking, lane help and adaptive excessive beams.

At the identical time, these premium choices miss out on a 360-degree digicam, ventilated entrance seats and a premium audio system. When shopping for a completely loaded prime variant, these are anticipated comforts of their segments and Honda consumers do really feel a bit disregarded.

Then there are the odd misses between the 2, such because the Elevate’s bigger and newer touchscreen infotainment unit in comparison with the dated system on the City’s dashboard. Meanwhile, the sedan does get one-touch auto up-down energy home windows throughout whereas the SUV solely gives it for the motive force’s facet. Then there’s the matter of the boot launch: the City has a spring launch system with a devoted button on the important thing as nicely, for simpler entry, which is lacking on the Elevate.

Overall, each the Elevate and City current a full package deal of sensible options and are priced accordingly. However, there are two key comforts that I hope Honda plans to combine quickly: ventilated entrance seats, and a 360-degree digicam for the SUV.

Cabin Practicality

Even although Honda takes some criticism for its minimal strategy to premium options, it’s spectacular with its cabin ergonomics. The placement and positioning of assorted options feels wise for probably the most half, and the Elevate is clearly a replica of the City on this regard. 

Honda City front armrest

Both get a entrance armrest with storage and the door pockets are fairly accommodating as nicely. Even although the entrance armrest can’t slide ahead, the central console has extra storage design parts just like the slats that can be utilized to maintain the average-sized smartphone on its facet. The sedan and the SUV additionally include tilt and telescopic adjustment for the steering wheel so discovering an acceptable driving place is simple. However, the newer Elevate SUV takes the lead from the City right here.

 

The integration of the wi-fi charging pad within the Elevate shouldn’t be solely simple to make use of, but additionally will get the advantage of an on-off button proper in entrance. Most different manufacturers make you dive into the system settings from the infotainment unit to toggle that management. However, the City gives this characteristic as an afterthought – a tray-like design that takes up the cup holders when in place. This shouldn’t be an excellent commerce because the latter are much more essential any given day.

Honda City rear power socket

Both the Elevate and City get the identical variety of charging factors within the entrance: a 12 V socket and a pair of USB ports (not Type-C). The SUV will get a 12 V socket for the rear as nicely, whereas the City will get two, doubtless for individuals who plan to make use of them for charging their work laptops whereas on the go. However, the rear passengers ought to have acquired a extra up-to-date charging choice of a USB port as nicely.

Rear Seat Space And Experience

Honda City rear seats

Here too, the Elevate tries to repeat its sedan however their cabin variations are most notable right here. The SUV has a comparatively upright seating place with loads of legroom, headroom and kneeroom. In comparability, the Honda City has a extra relaxed angle for the rear seats which ought to be comfier over longer journeys and will get the advantage of a rear sunshade (guide). But the most important differentiator within the again is the availability for the center seat the place the Elevate misses out on a headrest in addition to a 3-point seatbelt, each of that are current within the City.

Honda Elevate rear seats

These Honda siblings are most comparable when it comes to storage and practicality. Both have the identical type of rear AC vents, a fold out centre armrest with cupholders that are inclined to droop, spacious door pockets, and intelligent pockets for smartphones and wallets within the backrests of the entrance seats. Honda additionally missed a trick by not providing both the Elevate or City with sunshades for the rear home windows.

Performance

Honda City and Elevate petrol engine

The Honda siblings are powered by the identical 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine which makes 121 PS and 145 Nm. It will get the selection of each 6-speed guide and 7-step CVT computerized transmissions, the latter with paddle shifters. This Honda i-VTEC powerplant revs freely and is well-tuned with the CVT computerized for a clean drive expertise.

Honda City and Elevate driving

Driving the City and Elevate back-to-back, we had been fast to note that the drive expertise is way smoother within the sedan than within the SUV. It’s additionally faster and extra environment friendly because of an Econ mode, the button for which is positioned proper subsequent to the drive selector on the CVT variant we examined.

Honda City econ mode

We additionally put each Hondas by means of our actual world assessments for efficiency and effectivity, and right here’s how they fared:

 

Honda City CVT

Honda Elevate CVT

City gas effectivity (as examined)

16.28 kmpl

12.60 kmpl

Highway gas effectivity (as examined)

20.62 kmpl

16.41 kmpl

0-100 kmph (acceleration)

10.94 seconds

12.35 seconds

100-0 kmph (braking)

41.88 metres

37.98 metres

Ride and Comfort

Even although each vehicles primarily have the identical underpinnings, there may be fairly the distinction between how they behave on the street. When it involves driving on tarmac, the Honda City is a transparent winner when it comes to the trip consolation particularly at freeway speeds. It offers with the delicate bumps with ease with out unsettling any of its passengers and offers a reassuring sense of stability to the motive force as nicely. Sure, you’re extra cautious with taking the sedan over tough patches with potholes, however with some cautious driving the City can conquer worse terrains than you assume.

Meanwhile, the Honda Elevate SUV shines on tough roads, and no-road stretches. Its longer suspension journey and better floor clearance eats up damaged patches fairly nicely. While the Elevate loses to the City in city driving environments, its trip high quality is respectable general.

Verdict

Honda City and Elevate

Picking between the Honda City and Honda Elevate is a bit like selecting between two siblings. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, every interesting to a special set of consumers. The sedan does get the advantage of having been developed and fine-tuned for Indian consumers for almost three a long time, the SUV offspring shouldn’t be far behind. 

The Honda City is extra refined when it comes to design, cabin high quality and drive expertise, whereas additionally providing a extra spacious boot. However, the Honda Elevate gives the benefit of upper seating, added practicality, extra floor clearance and extra fashionable options. 

They’re each equally priced as nicely, roughly between Rs 11.5 lakh to a little bit over Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), not together with the City Hybrid. You wouldn’t go improper selecting between both of those Honda vehicles, it’s only a matter of which one is best suited to your wants and preferences.

Read More on : City on road price

VolvoCars

Volvo EX30 LCA reveals lowest carbon footprint of any totally electrical Volvo automotive to this point

The Volvo EX30 possesses the smallest carbon footprint of any totally electrical Volvo automotive to this point1. That’s in response to the life cycle evaluation (LCA) of the Volvo EX30, out there here, which concludes that it has a complete carbon footprint of 23 tonnes per 200,000 km – approximately 60 per cent lower than the XC40 ICE (petrol)2.

The carbon footprint report identifies the important thing contributing supplies and processes to the automotive’s emissions. Exclusively targeted on greenhouse fuel (GHG) emissions, the report covers the automotive’s life cycle, beginning with the extraction and refining of uncooked supplies and ending with the automotive’s finish of life.

Using wind-based electrical energy to cost the EX30 considerably reduces the carbon footprint in contrast with world or European electrical energy mixes by roughly 42 per cent and 22 per cent respectively3. This underlines the necessity to speed up investments in renewable power infrastructure globally for electrical vehicles to achieve their full local weather potential.

“Transitioning to electric cars is key to limiting climate change, but increased transparency about its challenges is needed to reduce their emissions even further,” says Jonas Otterheim, Head of Climate Action at Volvo Cars. “By studying the EX30’s carbon footprint and identifying its primary materials and processes, we aim to provide valuable insights that can help guide decisions in our company towards becoming more sustainable, as well as among the wider industry.”

We have now accomplished complete LCAs of the carbon footprint for 3 of our totally electrical vehicles launched since 2019: the Volvo EX40, EC40 and now the EX30. By making these experiences out there to the general public, we hope to assist prospects make knowledgeable selections when selecting their subsequent electrical automotive.


An vital step in our journey in the direction of web zero greenhouse fuel emissions
A automotive is not only pushed. It can be designed, developed, constructed and transported – offering us with quite a few alternatives to cut back greenhouse fuel emissions and make progress in the direction of achieving every of our sustainability ambitions. With the Volvo EX30 we are taking an vital stride in the direction of our purpose of turning into a completely electrical automotive firm by 2030 and our intention to achieve web zero greenhouse fuel emissions by 2040. 

The proportion of recycled supplies within the EX30 is the best of any Volvo automotive up to now. Around one quarter of the aluminum and nearly one fifth of the metal is recycled materials. In addition, round 17 per cent of all plastics inside the automotive, from inside parts to exterior bumpers, are comprised of recycled materials. 

Thanks to initiatives throughout our provide chain and manufacturing, the LFP-equipped Volvo EX30 has a ‘cradle-to-gate’ affect of an estimated 14.8 tonnes – simply over 60 per cent of the mannequin’s complete carbon footprint4. This consists of emissions generated through the manufacturing of supplies and the automotive, however excludes emissions from the use and end-of-life phases of the EX30. 

We plan to scale back the EX30’s CO2 affect even additional by collaborating with suppliers throughout our total worth chain. By 2025 for instance, our battery suppliers are working in the direction of decreasing emissions from manufacturing the LFP battery by 20 per cent, and by 46 per cent within the case of the NMC battery. To do that, our suppliers intention to switch electrical energy utilization throughout cell manufacturing with renewable power sources, improve the share of recycled content material of their supplies and cut back their provide chain emissions.

Production of the EX30 started in November 2023, and the primary vehicles have been delivered to their new homeowners in European markets late final 12 months. To date, the EX30 has acquired a number of prestigious awards, together with Small SUV/Crossover of the Year within the News UK Motor Awards, Carwow Car of the Year 2024, Eco Warrior of the Year within the TopGear.com Awards 2023, and Car of the Year by The Sun.

1 The lowest carbon footprint of any totally electrical Volvo automotive to this point assertion pertains to globally out there merchandise over 200,000 kilometres of driving utilizing the identical power combine through the use section

 

2 Based on Single Motor geared up with an LFP battery (51kWh) with 15 years and 200,000 kilometres of driving, utilizing an EU28 common power combine

 

3 Based on Single Motor geared up with an LFP battery (51kWh) with 15 years and 200,000 kilometres of driving, utilizing an EU28 common power combine

 

4 Based on Single Motor geared up with an LFP battery (51kWh) with 15 years and 200,000 kilometres of driving, utilizing an EU28 common power combine

News

New Aprilia RS 457 Storms Into The Indian Market

At EICMA 2023, Aprilia unveiled its smallest performance-oriented mannequin up to now, the RS 457. Following within the footsteps of its larger sibling, the RS 660, the RS 457 caters to sporty riders trying to enter the grassroots of bike racing, or just on the lookout for a sensible and tractable sportbike for each the road and the observe.

That being mentioned, we’re already beginning to see the small-displacement sportbike roll into a number of markets. Interestingly, pricing information within the US was one of many first to be introduced, with the RS 457 beginning at a fairly engaging $6,799 for the Prismatic Dark and Opalescent Light colorways, and $6,899 fo the extra premium, racing-inspired Racing Stripes livery. Now, the sportbike has simply been launched in India on the not too long ago concluded India Bike Week, and its tremendous reasonably priced price ticket may make people from different markets a bit jealous.

2024 ApriliaRS 457 Headlight
2024 ApriliaRS 457 TFT Display

In the Indian market, the place the RS 457 is produced, it carries a price ticket of simply Rs 410,000, translating to about $4,918 USD. This makes it an much more reasonably priced possibility than the Kawasaki Ninja 400, a beginner-friendly sportbike which, fairly frankly, is wanting a bit lengthy within the tooth when in comparison with the cutting-edge tech and efficiency options the Aprilia brings to the desk. Could the brand new Aprilia RS 457 elevate the bar in the case of small displacement sportbikes? Only time will inform, however on paper, it positive looks like that is the case.

From a efficiency standpoint, we get a brand new 457cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft. Although it boils down to non-public choice, it’s typically agreed upon {that a} 270-crank parallel-twin delivers higher torque – to not point out sound and character – than that of a 180-degree twin. It’s no shock that different producers like CFMoto and even Honda are going for this configuration. In the case of the RS 457, it dishes out a decent 47 horsepower at 9,400 rpm and 43.5 Nm or about 32 pound-feet of torque at 6,700 rpm.

2024 Aprilia RS 457 - Riding

In phrases of know-how is the place the Aprilia RS 457 actually shines. The Noale model has all the time been related to cutting-edge tech, so it’s becoming that its entry-level premium mannequin ought to come out of the manufacturing facility decked out in all types of techie goodies.

Here, we discover a five-inch, full-color TFT show that retains tabs on all pertinent trip stats. A throttle-by-wire system affords three trip modes, in addition to three ranges of traction management. Meanwhile, suspension consists of a 41-millimeter inverted fork and monoshock combo. As for the brakes, it will get a single 320-millimeter disc up entrance and a single 220-millimeter disc on the again.

Motorsport

Morgan’s New Electric Three-Wheeler Only Weighs 1,540 Pounds

Even the smallest automakers should adapt to the inevitable electrical future. And for sports activities automobile producers targeted on weight, putting in a battery pack and an electrical motor is usually a robust process in comparison with the equal combustion engine.

Caterham confirmed that minimizing the load penalty is doable with its Project V electric coupe. Now, one other British marque is revealing what it has achieved up to now when it comes to a sporty, light-weight EV.

Meet the Morgan XP-1, an experimental prototype with an all-electric coronary heart. It’s based mostly on the Ford-powered Super 3, however it has had its oily bits yanked off to make room for the brand new {hardware}. Fun truth: This automobile makes use of Morgan’s first powertrain developed in-house, no matter whether or not we’re speaking a few combustion engine or an electrical motor.


News

Exclusive: Volkswagen Up production ends after 12 years

After 12 years on the market, the Volkswagen Up has ceased production, leaving the Polo as the smallest model in the company’s lineup. The last Volkswagen Up was manufactured at the VW Group’s factory in Bratislava, Slovakia. However, remaining units are still available from UK dealerships.

The Volkswagen Up was introduced in 2011 as the successor to the Volkswagen Fox. It initially had a starting price of £8256, making it one of the most affordable cars on the market. Over time, the starting price increased to over £15,000.

Throughout its production run, the Volkswagen Up offered a range of powertrain options. When it first launched, customers could choose between a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with 59bhp or 74bhp. In 2016, a facelift brought a turbocharged variant with 89bhp.

In 2014, Volkswagen introduced the electric Volkswagen e-Up with an 18.7kWh battery and a claimed range of 161 miles. From 2019, a larger 32.2kWh battery was offered, increasing the range to 161 miles, surpassing some of its newer competitors.

Earlier this year, the Volkswagen Up GTI, a high-performance variant of the Up, was also discontinued after being temporarily pulled from the market. The GTI featured 113bhp, a sportier design, and a six-speed manual gearbox.

The Up was part of the Volkswagen Group’s New Small Family (NSF) vehicle series, along with the Seat Mii and Skoda Citigo, both of which have already been phased out.

With the Up discontinued, the Volkswagen Polo now serves as the smallest model in Volkswagen’s UK lineup. However, there have been discussions about potentially removing the Polo from the lineup in the future due to new Euro 7 regulations and replacing it with a small electric vehicle, possibly the ID 2.

As a replacement for the Up, Volkswagen is planning to introduce an ultra-compact electric city car called the Volkswagen ID 1 within the next five years. The ID 1 is expected to have a starting price of less than £17,000.

Motorsport

Short Mercedes Sprinter Camper Packs Bunk Beds And Bathroom In Small Space

California-based Big Bear Vans has transformed the smallest Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – the short 144-inch wheelbase model – into a compact mini-motorhome called the Santa Monica. Despite its small size, the Santa Monica is equipped with all the amenities of a larger RV and manages to create a spacious interior.

One notable feature of the Santa Monica is the dual full-size beds at the back. Instead of a raised bed with storage beneath, there is a permanent bed that can be electrically lowered or raised. When raised, the space beneath serves as a dining area with two benches and a table. The second full-size bed, slightly smaller than the one above, can be converted from the dining area and comfortably sleeps two adults.

Big Bear Santa Monica Mercedes Sprinter Camper Beds

There is also a second mini-dining area at the front of the Mercedes Sprinter. A small table on a swivel arm is positioned between the front seats, allowing it to be swiveled rearward for use in the second row of travel seats. As a result, this 144 Sprinter can comfortably accommodate four people for travel, dining, and sleeping.

Between the front and rear dining areas, there is a well-appointed kitchen with a deep sink, a single-burner induction stove, and ample counter space. The kitchen also features two deployable shelves, one for exterior use when the door is open, and another parallel to the door. Additionally, there is a full bathroom opposite the kitchen, complete with a toilet and tiled shower.

The Santa Monica comes with a 30-gallon fresh water tank (optional 40 gallons) and a 25-gallon gray water tank. It is equipped with batteries providing 600 amp hours of power (optional 1,000 amp hours), along with solar panels on the roof. Interestingly, the air conditioning system is installed below, allowing for a rooftop terrace with a hammock. The van also features a diesel heater that draws fuel directly from the van’s fuel tank to heat both the van and provide hot water for showers.

Although the specific cost for the Santa Monica floorplan is not mentioned, the starting price for a rear-wheel-drive model with a gasoline engine on the Big Bear Vans website is $147,200. For more information, you can visit the company website or contact Big Bear Vans directly.

FiatUk

ICE CREAM ‘VAN’ OF THE FUTURE? FIAT UNVEILS WORLD’S SMALLEST, ZERO-EMISSION, GELATERIA

  • FIAT has created the world’s smallest gelateria for the UK: an all-electric, zero-emissions-in-use and compact solution to serving ice cream within city environments in and around the UK
  • ‘Gelateria Edition’ is a UK one-off concept based on the 500e Convertible
  • Unique two-tone exterior finish compliments a fully customised interior with frozen gelato display, two 15-litre freezers, retro-style canopy and Italian orchestral alert to notify customers of its presence
  • FIAT has created a new gelato flavour inspired by the home of the brand’s Turin routes
  • FIAT study reveals 83% of Brits agree that ‘ice cream vans are a quintessential part of British culture’ and nearly half would be upset if ice cream vans vanished from UK streets
  • Combustion-engined ice cream vans are already being restricted in London boroughs of Camden, Greenwich and Westminster City

 

FIAT has envisioned what the ice cream ‘van’ of the future could look like by unveiling the world’s smallest, zero-emissions-in-use, gelateria – a one-off concept of the all-electric Fiat 500e Convertible for the UK.

 

The stunning-looking Fiat 500e Gelateria Edition concept brings an Italian twist to the traditional ice cream van and a taste of la dolce vita to Britain’s streets.

 

With the UK finally set for a period of warm and sunny weather, despite the car’s compact size, it’s able to serve approximately 300 people per day in a sustainable fashion.

 

The ULEZ-beating 500e Gelateria Edition is a compact and sustainable solution to highly-polluting ice cream vans of old – many of which are powered by diesel engines that idle to power on-board appliances – that are increasingly restricted from the country’s urban areas.

 

Three London councils, Camden, Greenwich, and Westminster City have already either banned or restricted combustion-engined ice cream vans due to air and noise pollution concerns.

 

Furthermore, with 14 UK cities set to have low emissions zones in place by the end of 2024, including the significant expansion of ULEZ into all London boroughs on 29th August, further restrictions could hamper combustion-engined ice cream vans.

 

In light of these current and impending restrictions, FIAT research investigated Brits’ feelings towards ice cream vans. It found 92% have bought ice cream from an ice cream van, which is presumably why 83% agree that ‘ice cream vans are a quintessential part of British culture’. Also, nearly half (48%) said they would be upset if ice cream vans disappeared.

 

About the FIAT 500e Gelateria Edition

 

Based on the award-winning FIAT 500e, the 500e Gelateria Edition features an entirely bespoke interior as the passenger and rear seats are removed. The server is able to freely move around inside the car, serving gelato to customers over the rear of the car.  

 

Sporting a unique two-tone colour finish that evokes the spirit of a classic, local Italian gelateria of the 1950s, the interior and exterior of the Gelateria Edition are rich with light blue and cream colours – with wheels to match.

 

Frozen gelato trays are mounted above a bespoke cabinet containing dual battery-powered freezers storing up to 30 litres of gelato – enough to serve approximately 300 people per day – as well as additional accessories such as cones, tubs and spoons.

 

Placed on the boot and wings, a unique Gelateria badge in bronze cursive style denotes the model as a one-off concept.

 

With the folding fabric roof down, the retro-style canopy can be raised – matching the classical exterior colours – to provide shade to the onboard display of gelato flavours and server beneath.

 

No vehicle that serves gelato is complete without an appropriate chime, which is why the 500e Gelateria Edition features a jingle inspired by the operatic sounds of Italy, passionately, yet softly notifying customers of its presence at the push of a special button on the car’s dashboard.

 

The 500e Gelateria Edition also features a unique cream dashboard finish with bronze Gelateria badging alongside a reupholstered driver’s seat.

 

Deck chairs can be stored within the car so customers can enjoy their freshly served gelato in total comfort.

 

FIAT has also created a new gelato flavour that expresses the brand’s history. Bicerin – a traditional hot drink native to the Italian city of Turin and the birthplace of FIAT – is the inspiration for FIAT’s new gelato flavour, consisting of coffee, chocolate and oat milk ingredients.

 

The FIAT 500e is the first fully-electric FIAT designed from the ground up. The car provides a raft of best-in-class features such as Level 2 Autonomous Driving technologies, a variety of battery options and a substantial driving range of up to 199 miles (WLTP).

 

Damien Dally, Managing Director of FIAT UK, commented: “Understandably, the British public cherishes the ice cream van during summertime, yet the old-fashioned combustion-engine examples of the past are fast becoming outdated – and for good reason.

 

“While the one-off FIAT 500e Gelateria Edition remains a one-off UK concept, based on the 500e Convertible, it is a zero-emission solution that demonstrates the car’s versatility in city environments. It’s small, compact and electric, styled with the brand’s Italian heritage in mind. Plus, the open-top roof brings a touch of dolce vita wherever you go.”

ENDS

 

Media contacts:

Morgan Price

Performance Communications

fiat@performancecomms.com

Matthew Bendall

Head of PR – FIAT UK

matthew.bendall@stellantis.com

 

News

Fiat 500e Gelateria: The Tiny Electric Ice Cream Van

The Fiat 500 has undergone a transformation to become “the world’s smallest, zero-emission gelateria” in response to stricter emissions regulations for diesel ice cream vans in cities.

This development is a response to the introduction of clean air zones in and around most UK cities. By the end of next year, 14 clean air zones are expected to be operational.

Many existing ice cream vans are outdated commercial vehicles equipped with non-compliant diesel engines. This has resulted in a demand for cleaner alternatives.

Several London boroughs, including Camden, Greenwich, and Westminster, have either banned or restricted the use of combustion-engined ice cream vans due to excessive air and noise pollution. Additionally, the Ultra Low Emission Zone will expand to cover all 32 boroughs, effective August 29. Non-compliant vans within the M25 will incur a charge of £12.50 per day.

According to Fiat UK boss Damien Dally, the Fiat 500e Gelateria Edition is a one-off concept car based on the 500e Convertible that showcases the vehicle’s versatility in city environments. It is small, compact, and electric, designed with the brand’s Italian heritage in mind.

Fiat’s one-off modification of the 500 is inspired by a 1950s local Italian gelateria.

The rear seats have been replaced with a pair of battery-powered freezers. The van is adorned with blue-and-white paintwork and features a folding roof and canopy, adding to its cheerful appearance. Furthermore, it sports a bronze ‘Gelateria’ badge on the front wheel arch, signifying its uniqueness as a one-off creation.

Fiat has also developed a custom chime that takes inspiration from the “operatic sounds of Italy”.