In 1900, Torakusu Yamaha constructed the primary Japanese piano, and the corporate hasn’t stopped since. Yamaha grew to become a staple for pianists worldwide, who loved its merchandise, from the comforts of their houses to the grand live performance halls the place they play professionally. Among its improvements that also affect the music trade at this time is a line of high-tech pianos.
One distinctive technology-powered piano is Yamaha’s TransAcoustic Piano, providing a built-in transducer system that may let pianists create digital results, like electrical pianos, strings, and even a choir. In addition, the TransAcoustic Piano lets pianists document music by way of USB or Bluetooth-enabled gadgets simply. However, this is not even its top-of-the-line mannequin.
Yahama refers back to the Yamaha Disklavier as “the world’s most advanced piano.” The Disklavier is available in 4 variations: Enspire Pro, Enspire ST, Enspire CL, and DKC-900. In addition to a high-quality recording and playback system that may work in a wide range of codecs, the Disklavier collection additionally presents streaming companies, auto-calibration, motorized muting methods, built-in audio system, app integration, and extra.
In current years, Yamaha has continued to push the boundaries of what it might probably do with musical devices. In 2018, working with Tokyo arts universities Yamaha used AI to turn a dancer’s movements into piano sounds. Titled “Mai Hi Ten Yu,” the efficiency was carried out in tandem with dancer Kaiji Moriyama and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra Scharoun Ensemble.
Toyota has hiked costs of the VX and ZX Innova Hycross hybrid trims by as much as Rs 30,000
Toyota had stopped taking bookings for the top-spec ZX and ZX(O) hybrid within the first half of 2023.
Prices of the VX hybrid trims have been elevated by Rs 25,000.
The Innova Hycross ZX and ZX(O) now price Rs 30,000 extra.
Feature highlights of ZX and ZX(O) embrace a ten.1-inch touchscreen, six airbags and ADAS.
Prices of the Innova Hycross hybrid now vary from Rs 25.97 lakh to Rs 30.98 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
The totally loaded ZX and ZX(O) hybrid variants of the Toyota Innova Hycross at the moment are obtainable for reserving as soon as once more after new orders had been suspended within the first half of 2023. Toyota has now additionally hiked costs of those variants, that are given within the desk beneath:
Variant
Old Price
New Price
Difference
VX 7-seater/ VX 8-seater
Rs 25.72 lakh/ Rs 25.77 lakh
Rs 25.97 lakh/ Rs 26.02 lakh
+Rs 25,000
VX (O) 7-seater/ VX (O) 8-seater
Rs 27.69 lakh/ Rs 27.74 lakh
Rs 27.94 lakh/ Rs 27.99 lakh
+Rs 25,000
ZX
Rs 30.04 lakh
Rs 30.34 lakh
+Rs 30,000
ZX (O)
Rs 30.68 lakh
Rs 30.98 lakh
+Rs 30,000
Both the VX and ZX hybrid trims of the MPV have been subjected to the value increment, with the utmost hike of Rs 30,000 affecting the latter. The VX variants within the MPV’s hybrid lineup have been obtainable to consumers because the MPV’s launch in late 2022. Prices of the common petrol-only variants stay unchanged on the time of publishing this text, and they’re nonetheless priced between Rs 19.77 lakh and Rs 19.82 lakh.
Powertrain Check
Toyota gives the Innova Hycross with two powertrains:
Specification
Toyota Innova Hycross (Petrol)
Toyota Innova Hycross (Hybrid)
Engine
2-litre naturally aspirated
2-litre strong-hybrid petrol
Power
174 PS
186 PS (mixed)
Torque
209 Nm
187 Nm (mixed)
Transmission
CVT
e-CVT
The MPV, with the strong-hybrid setup, is claimed to return an mileage of 21.1 kmpl. Toyota gives the brand new Innova Hycross with front-wheel-drive (FWD). For these keen on a diesel-powered rear-wheel-drive Toyota MPV, the Innova Crysta continues to be on supply.
In phrases of kit, the totally loaded hybrid variants of the Innova Hycross MPV include a ten.1-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone local weather management, and ventilated entrance seats. Their security internet contains six airbags, a 360-degree digital camera, and, on the ZX (O) variant, superior driver help techniques (ADAS).
Tesla has stopped manufacturing at its Berlin manufacturing facility after a bunch of activists set hearth to an electrical energy pylon servicing the manufacturing facility and close by cities.
The activists, who name themselves the Volcano Group, printed a 2500-word letter claiming accountability for the assault whereas calling CEO Elon Musk a “technofascist”.
It accused Tesla of “consuming earth, resources, people, workers and in return spitting out 6000 SUVs, killer cars and monster trucks each week”.
The letter was signed Agua De Pau – the identify of a volcano within the Azores – and described the arson assault as a “gift” to mark this yr’s International Women’s Day (8 March).
These are both the dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth or they’re puppets of those that don’t have good environmental targets.Stopping manufacturing of electrical autos, quite than fossil gas autos, ist extrem dumm.
Musk has responded to the assault, posting on X: “These are either the dumbest eco-terrorists on Earth or they’re puppets of those who don’t have good environmental goals. Stopping production of electric vehicles, rather than fossil fuel vehicles, ist extrem dumm.”
According to German information company DPA, Michael Stübgen, the inside minister of the Brandenburg area, mentioned the fireplace seemed to be intentional.
He mentioned: “If the preliminary findings are confirmed, it is going to be a perfidious assault on our electrical energy infrastructure.”
The hearth did not unfold to the manufacturing facility itself however did go away it and the encompassing cities with out energy, due to warmth harm to a high-voltage transmission line.
In the letter, the activists broke down precisely how they broken the pylon: “We started the fire big and high with lots of car tires to weaken the steel structure and cause the mast to become unstable … this can lead to buckling effects, twisting or deflection. That was our intention.”
All of the power’s 12,500 staff have been evacuated and despatched dwelling however have been advised the constructing is in a “safe state”.
In day-to-day operation, the power produces the Tesla Model Y crossover and battery cells for all Tesla EVs.
The assault got here after Tesla revealed plans to develop the manufacturing facility – which it opened in March 2022 – to incorporate a freight depot, warehouses and a kindergarten for staff’ youngsters.
Open-class two-strokes are all however extinct. The Japanese producers stopped making them within the early 2000s, and now the elements for these iconic machines are not out there. However, the aftermarket group is refusing to let the 500cc sector die out utterly. As a matter of truth, firms like BRC Racing and mXrevival are giving it an enormous shot of adrenaline. This GasGas MC500 is a testomony to only that.
So cool after we see firms go that further mile with customization to carry a construct to life.
This construct began with the acquisition of a barely used 2023 GasGas MC250 from Carl’s Cycle Sales in Idaho. Overall, the machine was in nice form, however Charles at mXrevival had some large plans for it from the beginning—double the displacement, give it an all-new look and make it deal with like nothing else on the planet. Pretty customary objectives, proper?
Doubling the displacement may sound utterly loopy, however which may have been the best factor to perform on this undertaking with the assistance of Riley and the crew at BRC Racing in Canada. The BRC’s 500cc engine conversion is designed to bolt proper into the last-generation KTM, Husqvarna and GasGas metal body with out main modifications. Select “donor” inside (full transmission with clutch) and electrical elements had been wanted from the MC250 engine. We did should supply out all the electrical starter elements from KTM, as a result of our donor engine was a kickstart-only mannequin. Tony Jeske from Elite Moto Factory dealt with all of the meeting of the BRC engine package and the switching over of elements from the MC250 engine that was wanted.
With the addition of huge energy, it’s by no means a foul thought to improve the suspension, brakes and drive, too. Brandon at AHM Factory Services dealt with all of the suspension wants for the Helfyre undertaking. AHM customized anodized the inventory fork tubes and shock physique gold, and so they additionally DLC-coated all of our decrease shafts. Perhaps essentially the most substantial modification AHM carried out was they totally transformed the center of the AER air fork with the whole Yamaha KYB/SSS spring parts.
A 500cc GasGas motocross bike? No approach, that’s not attainable! Charles from mXrevival and Riley at BRC Racing Canada informed us, “Stand back and watch this.” They had been proper.
Just after we assume now we have seen all of it, one thing comes alongside that surprises us and makes us simply stand again and benefit from the completed product. What’s actually nice about this BRC Racing engine conversion is that we had been in a position to not solely double the engine displacement, however the BRC package additionally permits us to maintain a counterbalanced, exhaust-valve-equipped engine and add electrical begin to this as soon as “kick-only” GasGas mannequin.
The BRC Racing engine package is spectacular on many ranges. Check out that fitment, each inch of area is used.
Overall efficiency of the BRC engine may be very spectacular and has good tractable energy. Just like most big-bore configurations, short-shifting utilizing the midrange meat of the powerband produces essentially the most smiles. The Lectron metering rod-style carburetor does take a while to dial in, and admittedly we by no means acquired it good throughout. Brandon and his crew at AHM Factory Service completely nailed the suspension setup! Not solely does it have that trick manufacturing unit look that is supplied with all of the completely different specialty coatings, nevertheless it performs nearly as good because it seems to be. We take pleasure in working with Charles and all the businesses he incorporates into the builds he does, and now we have much more tasks deliberate with him sooner or later, you’re undoubtedly going to need to keep tuned for what’s subsequent.
Electrification of motorcycles,whether we like it or not, is becoming a freight train that cannot be stopped. Though not as mainstream as their car counterparts, electric bikes are gaining footing in the market with heavyweights like Harley-Davidson and Kawasaki introducing new models. They’re well-designed, with top of the line components and have next generation battery specs. Companies that are startups, comparatively speaking, like Zero, Energica and Damon are focusing on bringing costs down, while at the same time making sure that the battery technology is progressing forward.
But despite all that progress, it may be a long time before full-size motorcycles replace gas powered ones as the main choice for touring, adventure riding and track riding. However, there may be a perfect electric alternative for commuting, going to get groceries or heading to class in a city environment. And with battery technology so prevalent these days, any company with a vision and a bit of cash can build themselves a capable electric moped or scooter. While there are many more of these little scooter startups, BMW, Honda and Vespa haven’t been sleeping on this market either.
Pulling data directly from manufacturers like BMW, Piaggio, Honda and many others, we’ve put together a list of the best electric scooters for commuting in a city.
We’ll start with the least practical option, though probably one of the more exciting ones. Built on the legacy of the original 1980’s Motocompo version, this new Motocompacto will be an interesting product to follow. Priced under $1,000 and available at the end of 2023, the Motocompacto is made for short runs in a busy city. Whether you bring it with you in your car to use throughout the day while your car is parked or run around the school campus between classes, this little scoot will be a breeze to collapse into itself and stow away until it is needed again. There’s no storage to speak of, max speed is appropriate for its tiny wheels and the range is a mere 12 miles, but for such a tiny package, it may be the one option that is the most fun for your average person with no interest or experience with motorcycles or scooters.
Building on their previous effort of the CE 04, BMW perhaps realized that maybe it wasn’t the coolest kid on the block, despite that mode’s futuristic looks. That’s why its newest offering is the Grom-killing CE 02. Handsomely styled for urban riding, this electric scooter comes with some great features. It has two riding modes, SURF and FLOW, a reverse gear, phone connectivity, front wheel ABS, keyless start, a small TFT screen and a USB-C charging socket. BMW is also offering some key optional features like a third ride mode called FLASH, heated grips, external quick charger and additional color schemes. On top of that, there are some optional accessories to personalize the CE 02 with. You can outfit it with a more comfortable seat, a top case and side bags, a cockpit fairing and additional footrest options. All that adds up to be one of the cooler and practical options for city dwellers on the move.
Model Specifications
Motor
Externally excited air-cooled synchronous motor
Battery
48 V
Range
Not Specified
Charge Time
1:40 hrs for 20-80% (quick charge), 2:40 hrs for 20-80% (standard charge)
A California company by the name of Aventura X has been producing a “Vespa-styled” electric scooter for a hot minute now. Though Vespa does manufacturer an electric scooter of their own (more on that later), those looking for a vintage look, with modern technology underneath to use during their commute may not find a cheaper alternative. Coming in several attractive colors, some of which fully embrace the playful retro nature of the bike, the Aventura X Electric is as basic as they come. Despite the lack of any serious technology, which is perhaps fitting given its style, the scooter does have a range of 35-70 miles, making it the ideal method of transportation to work, café and other city destinations. And with accessories that include windshields, front racks and even a woven basket, anyone can outfit this ride to suit their personal tastes.
Model Specifications
Motor
2900W Brushless DC Motor
Battery
72V20AH Lithium Ion (removable battery)
Range
35/70 miles
Charge Time
2 hours with the fast charger(add on), 5-6 hours with the regular charger(included)
Top Speed
30 mph
Source: Aventura
7Zoom Electric Scooter
Starting MSRP: $2,699
Zoom
Zoom is another one of those small companies that only does one thing, but does it well. Though the scooters themselves are very similar to those made by Aventura, these are slightly more modern looking, have entirely different color schemes and are a bit cheaper if you can catch them on sale. There is plenty of storage under the seat as well as an optional top box. USB phone charger, cup holder and bag hook come standard. And there’s even an anti-theft alarm with motor immobilizer included with the scooter.
Model Specifications
Motor
1500W Brushless Hub
Battery
72V
Range
60 miles
Charge Time
3-6 hrs
Top Speed
30 mph
Source: Zoom
6Vespa Elettrica
Starting MSRP: $7,999
Vespa
Much like everyone thinking all cruisers are Harleys, most people tend to think of Vespa when they encounter a retro looking scooter. They are the epitome of Italian vibes, mod culture and running around European cities while looking dashing and cool. Vespa knows this. We know this. Vespa knows that we know that it knows this. But it doesn’t mean the Italian company is stuck in its old ways. And the Elettrica is its long term future strategy. With features like the multimedia system (MIA) that connects the scooter’s 4.3-inch TFT display with the rider’s phone, phone calls could be answered, messages replied to and songs skipped into perpetuity. Above all, however, it is the calming knowledge that this scooter was built by a company that’s been doing it for decades, that raises it above many of its imitators.
Model Specifications
Motor
3.5 kW (4 kW peak) electric Piaggio brushless motor with KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System)
Battery
Piaggio 4.2-kWh lithium battery, LG Chem cells, built-in battery charger, 48 V 86 Ah
Range
62 miles
Charge Time
4 hrs
Top Speed
45 mph
Source: Vespa
5GIO Italia Ultra
Starting MSRP: $1,899
GIO
The Italia Ultra is a cheap yet funky bit of scooting business. It is made by a Canadian company called Gio, which has been in the powersport business for over twenty years. Made to resemble, but not outright steal the design of a Vespa, this little champ costs less than $2,000, which is a fraction of the Italian real deal price. It’s also quite cheaper than the rest of its small company competitors, which is one of the reasons for its high placement on this list. And when you consider its main specifications, the rest of the reasons fall into place as well. Yes, it has an alarm, a USB port, an LCD screen and a rear storage compartment. What else do you need for your 15 minute trip to work and back?
Model Specifications
Motor
Permanent Magnetic 800w LSM
Battery
60V20AH Lead Acid
Range
44 miles
Charge Time
5- 6 hrs
Top Speed
31 mph
Source: GIO
4Aventura-X Electric Sidecar Scooter
Starting MSRP: $7,495
Aventura
Despite the fact that most motorcycle riders don’t like trikes, or three-wheel bikes, sidecars have always remained on the cool side. Their rugged capabilities, pet-friendly seating and decades long history have somehow made them immune to biker scorn. Perhaps capitalizing on all of that goodwill, Aventura introduced the world to their X Electric Sidecar scooter. Built on the same concept as the standard X Electric, this version of the bike gives scooter lovers the same joy that an Ural would give to a motorcycle rider. It doesn’t hurt that the sidecar would be handy in a city commute if the need arises to deliver something, or someone, from one place to another. Whether it’s your pet, a bag of groceries or a friend in need, the Aventura X Electric Sidecar is there to be your urban mule.
Model Specifications
Motor
2000W Brushless DC Motor
Battery
72V20AH Lithium Ion (removable battery)
Range
25/50 miles
Charge Time
2 hours with the fast charger(add on) , 5-6 hours with the regular charger(included)
Top Speed
30 mph
Source: Aventura
3Piaggio 1 Active
Starting MSRP: $4,799
Piaggio
There’s nothing like getting a product that was well-thought-out, manufactured using modern processes and designed to look great. Piaggio, the parent company of Vespa, did just that with the 1 Active. Somewhere between modern and retro, this electric scooter looks like it means serious business. With a large under-seat storage compartment, big enough to fit a helmet, comfortable ergonomics, on the road charging via a KERS system and a 5.5-inch color LCD display, 1 Active is one of the best, well-rounded electric scooter options for navigating a busy city.
Model Specifications
Motor
2.0 kW (3.0 kW peak)
Battery
2.3 kWh
Range
85 @ Eco mode*, 66 @ WMTC
Charge Time
6 hrs
Top Speed
38 mph
Source: Piaggio
2SEAT MÓ 125 Performance
Starting MSRP: TBD
Seat
SEAT is pushing for a premium electric scooter experience. While other manufacturers scramble through their part bins to coble together a respectable scooter, SEAT is including premium equipment as standard. The brakes are from Galfer. The seat is made by SHAD. The suspension is from Öhlins. There are 3 riding modes plus a reverse gear. And the SEAT MÓ app allows the rider to seamlessly connect with the scooter. But the biggest ace up its sleeve is the removable battery. Pull it out in your high rise office parking lot, roll it with you and plug it in at your desk. Or get multiple batteries and always have one charged and ready to go. No word on how much it would cost, as it is to be released in 2024.
Model Specifications
Motor
Brushless hub motor
Battery
5.6kWh lithium-ion battery
Range
83 miles
Charge Time
6 – 8 hrs
Top Speed
65 mph
Source: SEAT
1BMW CE 04
Starting MSRP: $12,195
BMW
There’s a lot to be admired about a company that is willing to take risks. Some risks don’t really pay off, as was the case with Yamaha’s Niken. But others seem to work out well. BMW’s electric scooter, the CE 04 seems to be doing alright as its entering its fourth year on the market. It’s a pricey vehicle, especially so for a scooter with a sibling that’s half the price (CE 02). But BMW has made an exceptional bike, with a great ride quality, premium components and excellent features like a 10.25-inch TFT display, three ride modes, ABS, reverse gear, ventilated storage compartment with USB-C socket, side loading compartments, ECall emergency calling and a slew of optional equipment and accessories.
Model Specifications
Motor
Permanent-magnet liquid-cooled synchronous motor
Battery
Traction storage with high-voltage technology integrated into the vehicle underbody, 8.9/8.5kWh (gross/net) (8.9/6.2 kWh, 11 kW with optional power reduction)
Range
80 miles
Charge Time
4h:20min for 0-100% and approx. 3h:30min for 0-80% @ 10A / 230V / 2.3 kW, with quick charger 1h:40min for 0-100% and approx. 1h:05min for 0-80% @ 30A / 230V / 6.9 kW
Honda stopped producing two-stroke motorcycles over ten years ago, and there are no indications of that changing in the near future. However, dedicated two-stroke enthusiasts like John Murray are taking matters into their own hands. Murray has taken the concept of two-stroke conversions to the next level with his “Under Construction” project, a Honda CRF450R powered by a KTM 300SX engine.
John Murray, a self-proclaimed “Honda guy,” is an avid dirt bike rider and tinkerer when he’s not running his family business. As a fan of both Honda and KTM, Murray had the idea to combine his love for Honda with a modern two-stroke engine platform. With a Honda CRF450R and a KTM 300SX in his garage, Murray set out to make this idea a reality.
After some rough measurements, Murray and his friends realized that the KTM engine could almost fit into the Honda frame. However, modifications were needed to reconfigure the intake system to accommodate the Honda’s downdraft design. They also had to make adjustments to clear the KTM’s two-stroke cases and ensure proper engine placement and drivetrain alignment. Despite the challenges, Murray’s vision was becoming a reality.
The conversion process involved minimal cutting and welding on the Honda CRF450R chassis. The main frame required some grinding, and new engine brackets and pipe mounts were created to fit the KTM engine onto the Honda frame. The coolant hose routing posed some challenges, but they found solutions without significant radiator modifications. The air-intake system utilized components from both the KTM and Honda, incorporating “real-world application techniques.”
The exhaust system required modifications to align with the cylinder’s exhaust port angle, ensuring clearance with the frame’s “Y” junction. Although the modified exhaust worked well, it is not a commercially available option from FMF. It is unlikely that we will start seeing KTM 300-powered Hondas everywhere because building a usable bike from two brand-new bikes can be quite expensive. However, Murray’s project showcases what can be achieved with determination and a vision in a garage.
Despite its rough appearance, Murray’s CR300 project delivered excellent performance during testing. Minor issues were quickly resolved, and the bike was a joy to ride. The only downside was having to return the bike after testing, as it was shipped far away. Murray’s project demonstrates the potential of a modern-day Honda two-stroke and highlights what can be accomplished by an average person with determination and a vision. Thank you, John!
In a shocking incident in Iberia Parish, Louisiana, a BNSF train crashed into a semi-truck that was stuck on the railroad tracks, causing a derailment. Videos of the incident were captured and show the dramatic scene. Cleanup operations are still ongoing a day after the crash.
The collision occurred at around 5:00 PM local time on August 21, 2023, at the intersection of LA Highway 182 and Airport Boulevard. As a result, the police had to close off the area and redirect traffic. Initially, the authorities evacuated the surrounding area for safety reasons, but people were allowed back after two hours.
The video above combines two separate clips. The first clip starts just as the train is about to hit the semi-truck, followed by a massive cloud of smoke that obscures the area. The second clip provides a better view of the vehicle stuck on the railroad crossing and the ensuing collision.
Motor1.com reached out to BNSF for a statement regarding the incident. According to a spokesperson from the railway company, “At approximately 5 PM CST on Monday, a train struck a semi-truck that was occupying the Airport Boulevard crossing in New Iberia, Louisiana. This resulted in the derailment of 20 railcars and two locomotives, which were carrying mixed freight including plastic pellets. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the crew, and no hazardous materials were compromised. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation. Highway 182 is closed in both directions from the Iberia Parish line to Darby Lane while BNSF personnel work alongside local law enforcement to clear the incident.”
In addition to the plastic pellets, the train was also transporting acrylic acid. “That commodity was not compromised,” confirmed a BNSF spokesperson to Motor1.com.
A separate statement on BNSF’s website indicates that the estimated time for reopening the main track is Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at 4:00 AM.
According to The Daily Iberian, a local newspaper, the semi-truck driver managed to escape the vehicle before the crash. While some debris struck a white van, fortunately, no one inside the van was injured.
Stellantis, the automaker, has made the decision to no longer stock combustion-only vehicles in 14 states across the United States. This choice is a response to the emissions regulations established by the California Air Resources Board, which are more stringent than the nationwide standards. However, customers in these 14 states can still place orders for gasoline-powered vehicles with Stellantis.
The company has announced that it will only allocate models with internal combustion engines and no electric support to dealerships if there are specific customer orders. On the other hand, dealerships in states that do not follow the California Air Resources Board regulations will no longer receive deliveries of plug-in hybrid models unless there are customer orders.
The 14 states that adhere to the emissions guidelines established by the California Air Resources Board are Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.
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