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News

GoPro To Acquire Australian Smart Helmet Maker Forcite

On January 16, 2024, GoPro and Forcite Helmets each introduced that they’d signed agreements for GoPro to accumulate Forcite Helmet Systems. The deal has not been accomplished but, however is predicted to shut someday in Q1 of 2024.

According to their statements, the quick plan is for the groups to proceed working collectively in tandem. Part of GoPro’s assertion reads, “GoPro intends to accelerate Forcite’s vision to provide a safer, more dynamic motorcycling experience through tech-enabled motorcycle helmets with the long-term goal of tech-enabling other categories of helmets over time.”

“The greater helmet market represents a meaningful TAM [total addressable market] expanding opportunity for GoPro, and we’re excited for the Forcite team to join us so that together we can work towards enhancing the performance and safety of various types of helmets, starting with motorcycle helmets,” GoPro founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman stated in a press release.

“GoPro has built a strong brand internationally across all forms of motorsports and has enjoyed a strong following with motorcycle enthusiasts. We’re excited to leverage our brand reputation along with our technical and operational capabilities to address what we believe is a long-term growth opportunity for our business,” he continued.

“In addition to our plan to develop our own GoPro-branded line of helmets, we are excited to partner with other leading helmet brands to help tech-enable their own helmet lines. We have great respect for established brands, and we look forward to working with them to help drive the industry forward, together,” Woodman concluded.

Forcite’s personal assertion reads, “We have some exciting news to share. Forcite has signed an agreement to be acquired by GoPro. As many of you know, GoPro is a major global brand and digital imaging company with millions of people around the world enjoying their market leading products and technology. Notably, GoPro has a long heritage and very strong brand in motorsports, and the Forcite team is beyond thrilled to come together with them to scale our collective businesses and innovate in an outstanding way.”

GoPro says that extra particulars in regards to the acquisition can be offered in its upcoming earnings name with buyers in February. 

Are you excited to see what GoPro and Forcite do collectively? Let us know within the feedback.

Concept Cars

This Stylish Ford F-150 Concept Never Made It to Production, But We Really Wish It Did

The Triton concept provided a glimpse of what buyers could expect from the updated F-150 in 1997. According to Motor Trend, then-design director for Ford, Gary Hass, mentioned, “There are many styling cues and functional options on the Triton that you’re likely to see in Ford’s pickup trucks of the future.”

While still featuring a pickup bed, the front end of the vehicle, particularly its softened grille, represented a significant departure from Ford’s traditional trucks. However, the 1997 F-150 didn’t turn out to be that different from the Triton concept. The “soft” look didn’t resonate with customers seeking a more rugged truck. Jalopnik pointed out that in 2004, Ford reverted to its more angular design.

Even though the vehicle quickly faded into obscurity, Triton became the name for Ford’s 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter V8 engines.

News

Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series Lives On And Here’s What You Need To Know

The 70 Series Land Cruiser is a truck that many people admire but is only sold in select countries. It is primarily used as a work vehicle, particularly in the mining industry. Toyota has a reputation for keeping models like the Land Cruiser around for many years without significant updates, and the 70 Series is no exception. However, Toyota has recently given the 70 Series a refresh with some much-needed features.

There are different variants of the 70 Series Land Cruiser, including the Long Wheelbase 79 Series (pickup), the 76 Series Wagon, and the Troop Carrier. The 70 Series is designed to be a simple and rugged truck that can handle harsh environments. It features solid front and rear axles, a thick leaf spring pack in the rear, and front and rear differential lockers for hauling heavy loads.

The latest update to the 70 Series includes a smaller 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine that can be paired with an automatic transmission. This engine is more economical and refined compared to the previous options. However, the 4.5-liter V-8 engine, which is still available, cannot be paired with the automatic transmission. The power figures for both engines are relatively similar, but the V-8 has more potential for power with a simple tweak.

In terms of safety, the 70 Series now has radar systems for crash avoidance, as well as road sign assist, automatic high beams, and lane departure warning. The front end of the vehicle has been updated with LED headlights and retro-style round headlight look.

While the interior of the 70 Series remains relatively simple, Toyota has made some improvements. All trims now have electric windows, a 6.7-inch infotainment screen with Apple Car Play and Android Auto support, USB C ports, and a small information display next to the analog dials.

The off-road capabilities of the 70 Series remain impressive, thanks to its solid axles and differential lockers. However, there are some limitations, such as the low-hanging leaf pack in the rear and the different track width between the front and rear wheels.

Overall, the updates to the 70 Series Land Cruiser show that Toyota is paying attention to the needs and desires of buyers who want the vehicle for personal use. Although the 70 Series is not available in the United States, it has the potential to compete with other off-road vehicles with a few tweaks. Toyota may consider selling it in the future.