Tag Archives: structure

Technology

Everything To Know About The T28 Super Heavy Tank

The National Interest notes that this automobile was nearer in construction to a “self-propelled gun.” Typical tanks typically characteristic a revolving turret, however on this case, the gun was mounted to the entrance hull and will solely fireplace ahead, leaving the T28 weak to assaults from the again.  So whereas it was initially designated merely because the T28 tank, the Army re-designated it because the 105 mm gun motor carriage T95 in 1945. However, in 1946 they switched it again and renamed it the T28 Super Heavy Tank. 

Unfortunately for the tank, the naming battle was the one one it noticed. By the time the automobile handed trials, the mission for which it was commissioned —  breaching the heavy fortifications of the German Siegfried Line — had already been completed by that time within the struggle. By the time the primary tank was delivered in December 1945, the struggle was three months over. So the tank remained within the U.S. as an engineering research, with solely two prototypes constructed, and neither went into service attributable to heavy weight and excessive upkeep prices.

But the streak of dangerous luck did not finish there. In 1947, one of many T28s was broken in an engine fireplace and finally bought for scrap. In 1974, the opposite was found deserted in a subject at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and now has a correct dwelling at Fort Moore, Georgia. There it retired, apart from a small accident in 2017 reported by the National Armor and Cavalry Museum, when the T28 slid off a trailer throughout transport and rolled right into a ditch.

[Featured image by Randen Pederson via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC SA 2.0 Generic]

BMW

BMW Motorrad Motorsport units course for strategic realignment.

Munich. With a brand new administration construction, BMW Motorrad emphasizes its ambitions to considerably strengthen the model’s dedication to motorsport. As of June 1st Sven Blusch will take over as the brand new head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport. Marc Bongers will totally consider the operational administration of the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) engagement.

As the brand new head of BMW Motorrad Motorsport Sven Blusch will concentrate on the strategic realignment and improve the stable base for profitable motorsport sooner or later. Due to his earlier duty for race and check group at BMW M Motorsport, he contributes over a decade of motorsport experience to his new position. Since becoming a member of
BMW M Motorsport in 2013 he has celebrated a number of motorsport successes with the groups. Blusch has additionally been extremely profitable in selling younger expertise at BMW, creating Dan Harper, Max Hesse, and Neil Verhagen into BMW M manufacturing facility drivers. His skilled profession additionally consists of positions as a race engineer and information engineer, underlining his complete understanding of racing dynamics.

From June 1st  Marc Bongers will concentrate on the WorldSBK and lead BMW Motorrad Motorsports manufacturing facility engagements to additional successes. He has constructed the bottom for at the moment’s factory-supported groups within the WorldSBK and FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC), top-notch racers have been delivered to BMW Motorrad Motorsport, and the BMW Motorrad Motorsport challenge was set on monitor to success.

The organizational modifications underline BMW Motorrad’s dedication to a long-term and success-oriented motorsport technique. The objective is evident: to proceed dwelling the racing spirit, to strengthen the model on and beside the racetrack and to share the eagerness for bike racing with followers and companions worldwide.

News

McLaren share deal raises hopes of long-term safety

The McLaren Group has introduced it has achieved the long-awaited overhaul of its complicated share construction in a take care of its largest shareholder, elevating hopes that the corporate has additionally been given the money to fund future fashions and its electrical transformation to the tip of the last decade.

McLaren praised the so-called recapitalisation of its firm, agreed with Bahrain sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat, as “a significant step in the ongoing transformation of the group”, with out giving particulars. The firm didn’t instantly reply to requests about what it means by way of the shareholder construction and capital injection.

The adjustments imply McLaren is now successfully wholly owned by the Bahraini fund, Sky News reported, citing sources.

Motorsport

Toyota Chairman Expresses Concern About Potential Return to Mediocrity

In January 2023, Toyota made significant changes to its leadership structure. Akio Toyoda stepped down from his role as CEO to take on the position of chairman, and now we’re getting insights into the challenges and apprehensions he faced during his tenure. At the Japan Mobility Show, Toyoda fielded questions from dealer representatives, journalists, and other guests, offering candid responses.

Toyoda revealed the difficulty he encountered in transforming the company’s approach to new product development, a process he initiated 14 years ago when Lexus unveiled the then-new GS. The prevailing feedback at the time was that the brand was lackluster. Additionally, during tests at the Nurburgring, European automakers reviewing Toyota’s projects remarked, “Toyota can’t do it.”

This was just one aspect of the bigger picture. With a firm belief that the company needed to evolve and create more captivating cars, Toyoda collaborated with the company’s executives and engineers, urging them to be more open to his concerns. At the same time, Toyoda personally tested most of the brand’s new vehicles, providing direct feedback to the R&D department.

Toyota has now undergone a profound transformation since Toyoda assumed the role of CEO, offering exciting products like the Supra, Yaris GR, and the new Crown range. However, this change has also sparked new apprehensions. The chairman is concerned that the company could regress to its former ways from 14 years ago.

Motorsport

2025 Ram 1500 Tungsten Has This Fancy VIN Plaque Inside

The Ram 1500 for the 2025 model year brings some significant changes to its trim structure. The powerful TRX with its V8 engine has now been replaced by the TRO, which features a smaller inline-six engine. Additionally, the highly-anticipated return of the Ramcharger is here, now as an electric truck with a V6 range extender, producing a whopping 663 horsepower. Alongside these updates, Ram introduces the Tungsten, aiming to surpass the 1500 Limited and Limited Longhorn models by competing with the likes of the luxurious GMC Sierra Denali and Ford F-150 Limited.

The Tungsten name has made appearances in the past on certain 1500, 2500, and 3500 models. This time around, it signifies the most deluxe offering in the lineup. The Tungsten is packed with features, such as a new power tailgate and a “premium LED taillight design.” However, the most impressive upgrades can be found inside the leather-filled cabin. One particular standout is the exquisite plaque located on the center console. The plaque boasts metal lettering and diamond knurling, showcasing the trim level’s name and displaying the vehicle identification number (VIN). While this feature is not entirely new to full-size trucks, it has been a long-standing feature of the Ford F-150 Limited for several years.


News

Skoda Enyaq Mk2 Expected in 2028 with 12-Minute Charging

The upcoming Skoda Enyaq Mk2 will feature several technical advancements, including a new ‘Unified’ battery structure developed in-house. This battery structure will be utilized across most VW Group model lines, resulting in cost savings through economies of scale.

While specific details regarding capacities and ranges have yet to be confirmed, early reports suggest that the Enyaq Mk2 will have 800V compatibility. This will allow for a significantly improved charging time, with estimates suggesting a 10-80% charge in as little as 12 minutes on average. In comparison, the current Enyaq takes around 35 minutes to charge.

VW Group CEO Oliver Blume has expressed optimism regarding this new modular approach, as it will enable a higher percentage of components to be shared between cars and brands. This scalability is expected to contribute to cost parity between electric vehicles based on the SSP platform and traditional combustion cars.

As a result, it is reasonable to anticipate a decrease in price for the next Enyaq, potentially positioning it at a similar price point as the five-seat Kodiaq. Additionally, the Enyaq Mk2 will introduce a new software stack, denoted as 2.0. This upgraded software will enhance usability and functionality, with features such as hands-free driving up to level four.

Q&A with Klaus Zellmer, Skoda CEO

Klaus zellmer

Will the new Kodiaq be as popular as the last one?

“We’re hopeful that the new Kodiaq will surpass the popularity of its predecessor. However, the current landscape is different from 2016. We are introducing battery-electric vehicles, increasing complexity, offering subsidies, and providing tax advantages. The success of the new Kodiaq will depend on how these factors play out. The plug-in hybrid version with an EV range of 100km [62 miles] has the potential to attract customers who may have range anxiety and are not fully convinced about battery-electric vehicles due to their long-distance travel requirements.”

Is Skoda targeting premium players with its high-end cars?

“While it is not our explicit objective, we strive to evolve with the market and meet our customers’ expectations for haptics, quality, functionality, and intuitive design like the ‘smart dials.’ Ultimately, our focus is on providing value for money. Skoda has always emphasized offering a lot of value for a reasonable price, rather than solely being the cheapest option.”

ToyotaUk

Toyota GR Corolla Adds Premium Grade to its Lineup of Hot Hatch Cars

  • In 2024, Toyota introduces a new Premium Grade to the GR Corolla lineup
  • The Premium Grade comes with standard high-performance features like front and rear Torsen limited slip differentials, red GR brake calipers, and GR logoed suede-trimmed seats
  • The GR Corolla Circuit Edition will continue for 2024 in a stunning Blue Flame color
  • Enhancements have been made across the GR Corolla lineup to improve stability
  • Performance parts like GR Performance lowering springs, shocks, and more are available

PLANO, Texas (Sept. 25, 2023) – Toyota GAZOO Racing is turning up the heat on the already hot GR Corolla in 2024 by introducing the new Premium Grade and continuing the Circuit Edition. The Premium Grade takes the features from the optional Performance Package and makes them standard, offering high-performance components and an upgraded interior for enthusiasts.

According to Mike Tripp, Vice President of Toyota Vehicle Marketing and Communications, the response to the GR Corolla has been incredible. He stated, “This model has captured a passion for driving, and by adding the Premium Grade with standard high-performance components and an upgraded interior, we can give fans even more ways to enjoy this rowdy hot hatch.”

The new Premium Grade of the GR Corolla is focused on delivering an exceptional driving experience. It features a dual LSD (limited slip differential) that can split power between the left and right axles, allowing for maximum traction and torque distribution on the outer wheels during cornering. Brake cooling ducts are also included to minimize brake fade. In addition, the Premium Grade comes with an upgraded interior featuring Brin Naub suede-trimmed seats that are heated and a heated steering wheel. It also includes convenient features like front and rear parking sensors, JBL Premium Audio, and a wireless cell phone charger. The Premium Grade will be available in a choice of Heavy Metal, Ice Cap, Black, or Supersonic Red.

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition, which will be available in Blue Flame and Ice Cap colors for 2024, features black forged aluminum 18-inch BBS wheels that help reduce weight. It also comes with a bulge hood, forged carbon fiber roof, gloss black high-mounted rear spoiler, black side rocker graphics, leather-wrapped shift knob with a blue sightline, and a forged carbon fiber accent on the shifter top plate.

Toyota will also offer an expanded lineup of official TOYOTA GAZOO Racing performance parts for the GR Corolla later this year. These include performance lowering springs, shocks, and the option to add a Rear Sport Wing for a more stylish look.

Updates have been made to the chassis and aerodynamics of the GR Corolla for 2024 to improve stability. The rally racing developed GR-FOUR All-Wheel-Drive system allows for adjustable four-wheel drive performance, providing maximum traction and control. The GR Corolla is powered by a turbocharged G16E-GTS 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine that produces 300 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque. It also features a six-speed intelligent Manual Transmission with rev matching and a super-rigid structure for enhanced performance.

All GR Corolla models come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beams. The Circuit Edition also includes Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Hill Start Assist Control, and Rear Seat Reminder.

The 2024 GR Corolla will be available in three grades: Core Grade, Premium Grade, and Circuit Edition. The Core Grade features GR logoed fabric sport seats, functional fender and rear fascia aero vents, 18-inch 15-spoke Cast Alloy Wheels, sports-tuned suspension, aggressive front and rear bumper styling, and GR-FOUR stamped side rockers and wide-fender flares. The Premium Grade includes everything from the Core Grade and adds GR logoed Brin Naub Suede-trimmed seats, front and rear limited-slip differentials with red GR calipers, JBL Premium Audio, heated steering wheel and front seats, front and rear parking sensors, and brake cooling ducts. The Circuit Edition includes everything from the Premium Grade and adds features like a forged carbon fiber roof, bulge hood with functional air vents, 18-inch black 10-spoke forged-alloy BBS wheels, black side rocker graphics, leather-wrapped shift knob with a blue stripe, gloss black high-mounted rear spoiler, and a choice of Blue Flame or Ice Cap color.

With the purchase of a 2024 GR Corolla, customers will receive a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) which includes benefits like one free High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) and discounted admission to NASA-sanctioned events.

The 2024 GR Corolla also comes with a variety of convenient and connected features. It includes Toyota Audio Multimedia with an 8-inch touchscreen, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a color Multi-Information Display, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. Additional features include a cloud-based native navigation system, simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, Wi-Fi Connect, Apple Music and Amazon Music integration, Remote Connect, Safety Connect, and Service Connect.

The GR Corolla is assembled at Toyota’s dedicated GR Factory in Motomachi, Japan, which is known for producing legendary cars like the Lexus LFA and Supra A80. The GR Factory uses manual assembly techniques and precise quality checks to ensure that each GR Corolla is crafted with exceptional care and attention.

The 2024 GR Corolla comes with Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty and additional warranties for the powertrain and corrosion. It also includes ToyotaCare, which covers factory-scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles.

News

New Volkswagen Passat: More Spacious and Improved EV Range

The latest Volkswagen Passat has undergone several updates to enhance the interior experience and overall quality. The infotainment system now features a new interface and menu structure, making it easier for drivers to operate.

Equipped with a powerful turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, the Passat delivers excellent performance, especially when starting and accelerating. The engine has impressive flexibility at low to mid-range speeds and runs smoothly.

The car’s seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) is responsive, working well with the engine’s low-rev flexibility. This combination creates a comfortable driving experience, particularly during long journeys on the motorway. However, the DSG may delay downshifting for faster acceleration when requested.

The steering of the new Passat is precise and has good weight, offering improved feedback compared to its predecessor. The changes in suspension provide better control and agility, resulting in an enjoyable and responsive driving experience. Although it is not a sports car, it is easy to handle and maneuver on the road.

The introduction of twin-valve dampers contributes to a smoother ride quality, even on uneven roads. The Passat effectively absorbs bumps and irregularities, ensuring a comfortable journey for passengers.

Although still under development, our initial test drive indicates that the new Passat surpasses its popular predecessor. It maintains the practicality and core values that buyers appreciate, while offering more precision, better handling, and superior comfort. With the decline of competitors with combustion engines, the new Volkswagen Passat provides reassurance and reliability.

BMW

Expanded structures: BMW Motorrad Motorsport sets course for the future.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport is undergoing a new and expanded structure to position itself for the future. Under the leadership of BMW Motorrad Motorsport Director Marc Bongers, the roles of Technical Director and Head of Customer Racing have been established. Christian Gonschor is now the Technical Director, while Uwe Geyer takes on the role of Head of Customer Racing in addition to his position as Head of Marketing. Both Gonschor and Geyer report directly to Bongers. BMW Motorrad Motorsport has also created specialized teams, including an independent test team. The Development and Test departments in Munich and Berlin are being expanded, and the synergies between BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the production development of the BMW M 1000 RR are being fully utilized.

Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, states that the new structure optimizes the development and test work for works projects and customer racing. This allows for increased capacities in Munich and the engine plant in Berlin, strengthening the development and test work for the FIM Superbike World Championship, FIM Endurance World Championship, and Customer Racing program. The connection to production development has also been intensified under the leadership of Christoph Lischka. Schramm expresses confidence in the reforms, believing that BMW Motorrad Motorsport is well-positioned for the future.

Christian Gonschor, as the Technical Director, is responsible for optimizing the technical organization of development and test work at BMW Motorrad Motorsport. This involves the formation of specialized teams for various areas such as the test team, chassis, engine, electronics, and aerodynamics. These teams primarily operate in Munich, where they have dedicated workshops, test and development motorcycles, testbeds, and wind tunnels for developing and testing the BMW M 1000 RR and new racing components. Collaboration with the BMW Motorrad plant in Berlin is essential for engine-related work. The capacities for internal development and test work will be increased in both Munich and Berlin. The close proximity between BMW Motorrad Motorsport and the production development department of the BMW M 1000 RR allows for optimal utilization of synergies.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport has established a separate test team that focuses solely on test work at the racetrack, independent of race outings. This team will have a dedicated pool of test riders and primarily work on the WorldSBK project. However, the creation of new motor racing components will benefit the entire motorsport department in the future.

Customer Racing is considered a fundamental pillar of BMW Motorrad’s motorsport activities alongside their works involvement in the FIM Superbike World Championship and FIM Endurance World Championship. Uwe Geyer is now responsible for Customer Racing as the Head of BMW Motorrad Customer Racing in addition to his role as Marketing Director. Customer Racing projects are developed for BMW riders worldwide, including those who compete in the Supersport segment professionally, semi-professionally, or as a hobby. The race package offered by BMW Motorrad is developed at the highest level of production-based motorsport in the Superbike World Championship and adapted to meet local Superbike series regulations. Parts for customers, including engines, are available directly through BMW Motorrad Motorsport or via distribution partner alpha Racing. The optimization of parts planning, production, and delivery times is part of the future plans. BMW Motorrad Race Support provides support in electronics for Customer Racing, and BMW Motorrad will continue investing in this area.

Starting August 2023, Dominic Thönnes will replace Benedikt Torka as Spokesperson for BMW Motorrad Motorsport.