Tag Archives: with

News

The CFMoto 800NK is Now Available for Sale in the Philippines

CFMoto Philippines has made a significant announcement on its social media pages regarding the launch of its groundbreaking naked bike, the 800NK. This new model for the country is based on the 800 platform and comes with an incredibly attractive price tag of 458,000 PHP, which is approximately $8,200 USD.

The NK series has been in CFMoto’s lineup for some time now, and prior to its international announcement, the largest bike in the NK line was a 650cc model. Following the global unveiling, the 800NK became the most powerful bike in the NK series, and now, with the official announcement from the country’s distributor, it’s also the most exciting NK model to date.

The CFMoto 800 NK shares its engine with the KTM 790 Duke, which is also manufactured locally in the Philippines. These two models are expected to compete for dominance in the Southeast Asian market in the near future. While many comparisons will be drawn, there are both similarities and differences worth noting after experiencing both bikes in person.

CFMoto Philippines 800 NK Announcement

First and foremost, the frame on the 800NK is a bit different. Although it uses the same LC8C engine, the frame built around it has some variation. The swingarm, for instance, is not the open-lattice design found on KTM bikes; instead, it features an aluminum swingarm that is shorter compared to Team Orange’s rendition. The 800NK has a wheelbase of 1,465 millimeters, while the KTM 790 Duke measures at 1,475 millimeters. This means that the 800NK will provide a more agile and nimble riding experience, although its rake is less aggressive than its Austrian counterpart.

As for engine specifications, the 800NK is powered by the same motor as the KTM, but the CFMoto has made slight adjustments. The model produces 94 horsepower and 81 Nm of torque, which is slightly lower compared to when the 790 Duke was first launched in 2017 with 105 horsepower. The decrease in power figures is mainly due to emissions regulations, as KTM also experienced a reduction in power when it released the Euro 5-compliant version of the 790 Duke.

The bike also features fully-adjustable separate function forks and pre-load on the suspension front, 17-inch wheels with Maxxis tires, 320mm brake discs in the front, and a 260mm disc at the rear with J.Juan calipers. It also comes with dual-channel ABS as standard.


CFMOTO 800 NK Philippines

13 Photos

The weight of the 800NK is only 189 kilograms or 416 pounds, and its seat height is an accommodating 795 millimeters or 31.2 inches.

The NK also boasts an interesting tech package. While it lacks the KTM’s six-axis inertial measurement unit, it compensates with a larger gauge cluster and keyless ignition. The bike also offers ride modes, including Rain, Street, and Sport.

Perhaps the most astonishing aspect of the CFMoto 800NK is its launch price of P488,000, or about $8,750 USD. This special sales price places the bike in an extremely competitive position in the market.

BMW

Sheldon van der Linde and Schubert Motorsport Achieve DTM Podium Finish in Zandvoort

Zandvoort. The 2023 DTM season saw its first podium finish for the BMW M4 GT3, with Sheldon van der Linde and Schubert Motorsport securing second place in the first of two races in Zandvoort (NED). In the second race, Marco Wittmann from the Project 1 team fought hard for a podium spot but ultimately finished fourth by a narrow margin. Dries Vanthoor, standing in for René Rast at Schubert Motorsport, also had a solid performance, securing a top-ten finish in the opening race. This event took place at the dune circuit in Zandvoort, marking the second event of the season.

The weekend started well with a promising first qualifying session on Saturday morning. Van der Linde and Wittmann secured second and third fastest times, respectively, giving them good starting positions for race one. Vanthoor qualified 16th.

In race one, van der Linde posed the biggest challenge to Maro Engel, the eventual winner from the Mercedes team. Van der Linde’s impressive performance earned him second place, securing his first podium of the season. Wittmann initially stayed close to van der Linde but dropped two positions after the pit stop. He finished fifth, his best result of the season so far. Vanthoor showed determination, starting from 16th on the grid and finishing ninth in the #33 BMW M4 GT3.

The second qualifying session on Sunday was disrupted by two crashes, causing the remaining three minutes to become unpredictable. Wittmann qualified seventh for race two, Vanthoor 14th, and van der Linde had to settle for 17th position.

Wittmann and van der Linde demonstrated their skills in race two, thrilling spectators with daring overtakes and impressive comebacks. Wittmann fought his way to fifth place and climbed to fourth after the pit stop. He continued battling for a podium spot until the end, narrowly missing the top three. Nevertheless, fourth place was his best result of the season. Van der Linde climbed from 17th to tenth place. Unfortunately, Vanthoor had to retire due to a puncture caused by a collision at the start. The race was won by Ricardo Feller from Audi.

The third race weekend of the 2023 DTM will take place from 7th to 9th July at the Norisring (GER).

Reactions from the DTM weekend in Zandvoort:

Sheldon van der Linde (BMW M4 GT3, Schubert Motorsport): “I am thrilled to be back on the podium yesterday, which was definitely the highlight of our season so far. It was unexpected, which makes it even sweeter. This result puts us back in the championship mix, although it’s still early days. It demonstrates that we have a strong package and motivates us to strive for more podium finishes. I can’t wait for Norisring in two weeks.”

Marco Wittmann (BMW M4 GT3, Project 1): “It was a much better weekend for us compared to the season opener in Oschersleben. We collected some good points with fifth and fourth place finishes. As a new team, we need to keep working hard to challenge for podiums and be at the front. Our battles in the races showed that we have found a positive race pace with a great balance and setup. There are areas where we still need to improve, but overall, it was a step forward with two strong results. We fought hard and gave it our all.”

Dries Vanthoor (BMW M4 GT3, Schubert Motorsport): “Overall, it was a fun weekend, and I was delighted to make my DTM debut. While the results weren’t what we expected, we did our best to fine-tune the car for my performance. It’s challenging to join a different racing series and team and immediately deliver a good performance. However, we had a fantastic race yesterday, coming back from 16th to 9th. Unfortunately, today’s qualifying was disrupted, forcing us to start from the back. I suffered an early puncture due to a touch in the race, but that’s part of racing. I had a great time working with the team and enjoyed the weekend with Sheldon.”

Featured

Maserati Confirms Long-Term Commitment To Formula E

Maserati recently held a roundtable discussion to talk about its performance and future in Formula E, reaffirming its long-term commitment to the sport. The discussion was led by Giovanni Tommaso Sgro, head of Maserati Corse, along with drivers Edoardo Mortara and Maximilian Günther. The team achieved its first victory in the sport at the 2023 Jakarta E-Prix, which was also Maserati’s first single-seater victory since 1957.

Prior to the race in Portland, OR, Sgro emphasized the importance of Maserati being the first Italian carmaker to compete in Formula E. This aligns with Maserati’s goal of offering electric versions of its cars by 2025 and transitioning to full electric by 2030. As a result, Maserati plans to stay in Formula E for the long term.

In addition to striving for high-level performance in a growing sport, Maserati recognizes the significance of its fanbase in Formula E. Sgro highlighted that the fanbase is not only comprised of traditional car enthusiasts but also includes a large number of tech enthusiasts. Maserati sees this as an opportunity to tap into a previously untapped customer base.

Maserati’s participation in Formula E allows it to reach a new audience while showcasing its electric vehicles, such as the recently released all-electric GT Folgore and upcoming EVs like the Grecale Folgore.

Although Maserati is committed to electrification and Formula E, it also plans to compete in other areas of motorsport. This includes the MC20 GT2, which was recently unveiled, and the limited production track-only Project 64. These endeavors demonstrate Maserati’s dedication to its racing heritage and long-term involvement in motorsport.

Featured

Oceanco Project H: A 344-FT Superyacht Gets a Sustainable Makeover

The Oceanco Project H superyacht is a stunning creation that may appear to be a new build, with its newly-designed interior, modern exterior, and compliance with IMO Tier III standards. However, it is actually a renovation of a massive vessel that has been completely transformed into the pinnacle of luxury seafaring for the present and future.

The superyacht, measuring a staggering 344 feet, underwent a renovation with a contemporary exterior and an interior that were both redesigned by the renowned Reymond Langton Design studio. One of the remarkable aspects of this revived yacht is its commitment to sustainability, despite not being a newly-constructed vessel. This is of utmost importance in a time when sustainability is a paramount concern for yacht owners. The improvements made to an existing vessel can have just as much, if not more, positive impact than creating a new sustainable build. Therefore, the past should not be overlooked when it comes to shaping the future of luxury superyachts.

Read More Marine News

Read More Lifestyle News


Oceanco Project H

5 Photos

News

Volkswagen plans to release affordable electric ‘ID 1’ hatch for under £17,000

Volkswagen is moving forward with the development of an electric hatchback called the ‘ID 1’, which is expected to be priced at under £17,000. This is part of a larger effort by car manufacturers to produce affordable electric models.

The ID 1 will serve as a successor to the e-Up city car and will offer a combination of compact design and simple technology.

It will be built on a new electric platform that will also be used for similar models by Volkswagen’s sister brands Cupra and Skoda. The ID 1 will be positioned below the production version of the recently unveiled ID 2all concept, which is expected to be priced at around £22,500.

Volkswagen Group’s chief financial officer, Arno Antlitz, believes that the company can achieve this price point for electric cars, thanks to advancements in battery materials and production methods.

“We’re confident that we can achieve that price point,” he said. “There are many technological innovations on the horizon. This car will feature the first in-house battery cells from our Valencia plant. We’re expanding our production capacity, which will allow us to achieve better economies of scale.

“We’ve also seen a decrease in raw material costs. For example, the cost of lithium and nickel has come down. So we’re confident that we can reach our target of €25,000 [£22,500] and still maintain a decent profit margin.”

While Antlitz’s comments specifically refer to the production feasibility of the ID 2, these developments could also have significant implications for the rumored ID 1.

Specific details about the architecture of the ID 1 have not been revealed yet, but it will be a separate platform from the MEB Entry platform that will be shared by the ID 2, Cupra Raval, and Skoda’s compact crossover. These models will all be manufactured in Spain starting from 2025.

The Volkswagen Group will develop the new platform, with Skoda playing a key role, and it will be designed for vehicles with interior space similar to that of the VW Polo.

News

2026 Bentley EV to Feature Hands-Off Driving Technology

Bentley’s CEO, Adrian Hallmark, has confirmed that the company’s first electric car, set to be released in 2026, will be equipped with hands-free driving capabilities.

The upcoming electric vehicle, to be revealed in 2025, will be built on the new Performance Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, which was developed in collaboration with Audi and Porsche. It will also utilize the Volkswagen Group’s 1.2 software, enabling hands-free driving.

Hallmark verified that Bentley will incorporate Mobileye’s SuperVision technology, which has recently been approved for use in the Porsche e-Macan. This technology utilizes 11 cameras, Mobileye’s EyeQ5 chip, and crowd-sourced high-definition maps to enable hands-off, eyes-on level two-plus autonomy.

Initially, the Bentley EV will offer partial hands-off driving on motorways and automated parking, with full autonomous capabilities to follow at a later stage, according to Hallmark’s statement to Autocar magazine.

Mobileye claims that SuperVision enables level three autonomy, allowing for hands-free and eyes-off driving on motorways.

The Bentley EV, along with the Porsche e-Macan and Audi Q6 E-tron, has experienced delays due to the sluggish development of the 1.2 software within the Volkswagen Group.

The final approval process for the 1.2 software, which is intended for premium vehicles within the group, is currently being overseen by Peter Bosch, former Bentley manufacturing head and current head of the Cariad software unit.

The PPE electric architecture, as stated by Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume, will allow for power outputs of up to 939bhp, revealing the potential performance that can be expected from the Bentley EV.

Hallmark has previously mentioned that the electric vehicle will be an incremental addition to the existing Bentley lineup. He expressed the company’s intention to not only introduce an EV but also to carve out a new segment in the market.

Bentley has announced its plans to launch five new electric cars within a span of five years, starting with the groundbreaking model in 2025.

Car review

Human Horizons HiPhi Z

hiphi z review 2023

The Human Horizons HiPhi Z is a five-meter long, all-electric, four-door shooting brake GT. It boasts 663bhp of power, an electric range of nearly 350 miles (WLTP certified), and a unique design inspired by Japanese manga and BMW i-brand. The car also pays tribute to the digital technology that Human Horizons believes to be the future of mobility.

The design of the HiPhi Z is quite unconventional, with flashing LED light strips and bulky sensors covering the exterior. It stands out among other electric vehicle (EV) makers who often rely on a more conventional design. Although it may not be as visually appealing as other models like the Porsche Taycan, the HiPhi Z definitely grabs attention.

Inside the car, the digital technology is even more prominent. The car features a motorized door for entry and a slightly high driving position. While the headroom may be tight by luxury car standards, the second row offers ample space for adult passengers. The materials used in the cabin are of high quality, surpassing Tesla at a similar stage of development. The overall ambience is rich and inviting.

One of the main highlights of the cabin is the 15.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system called the HiPhi Bot. It is mounted on a robotized arm, capable of automatically pivoting towards the driver or the front passenger based on their gaze. The system is highly responsive and clear, although the pivot mounting is seen as more of a gimmick than a practical addition. The HiPhi Z caters to those who enjoy the latest mobile phones with large screens and fancy cameras, or those who own the largest OLED TVs for their living rooms.

Technology

Essential Apps for Amazon Fire Stick Users

While a TV is primarily used for watching content, an Amazon Fire Stick can enhance its functionality. Apart from streaming movies and shows, you can transform your Fire Stick-equipped TV into a cost-effective home sound system using various apps. One such app is Spotify.

With the Spotify app on your Fire Stick, you can enjoy the same features available on mobile and desktop devices. It provides access to a vast music library, live radio stations, podcasts, and more. While Spotify Premium offers the option to save music offline and enjoy the highest audio quality, you can still use the app’s basic features for free, with occasional advertisements. Additionally, since the Fire Stick is an Amazon product, you can easily sync the Spotify app with Alexa. This allows you to control your music playback through verbal commands, making it convenient to stream music from your TV.

Featured

Maruti Invicto’s Clearest Images Yet Surface Online Ahead Of Launch


The Maruti Invicto will share its features and powertrain with the Toyota Innova Hycross

Maruti Invicto spied

  • Based on the Innova Hycross, the Maruti Invicto has some visual differences.

  • Maruti is accepting bookings for the MPV for Rs 25,000.

  • New images reveal a revised grille with chrome slabs, tri-piece LED elements in the taillights, and different alloy wheels. The variant badge on the tailgate is missing.

  • The interior of the Maruti Invicto will have a black theme instead of the tan upholstery found in the Toyota MPV.

  • The Maruti Invicto is expected to come with a 2-liter strong-hybrid powertrain.

  • Features that are expected to be included are a 10-inch touchscreen, dual-zone AC, and a 360-degree camera.

We are just 10 days away from the launch of the Maruti Invicto, which is based on the Toyota Innova Hycross. Bookings for the MPV are currently open for Rs 25,000, and the launch is scheduled for July 5. Before the price announcement, the uncamouflaged model of the premium Maruti MPV has been spotted again, providing a clearer look at its design.

Any Visual Changes?

The Maruti MPV, which was spotted in a white shade, shares a similar design to the Innova Hycross, with the main difference being the tweaked grille. The Invicto now features twin chrome slats and a thick chrome underlining. The spotted model seems to be a lower variant of the Invicto as it lacks fog lamps and a panoramic sunroof, which are available on the top-spec Innova Hycross.

Maruti Invicto rear spied

The Invicto also comes with a different set of alloy wheels, while the overall profile remains the same. At the back, the LED taillights feature a tri-piece element, similar to other modern Nexa offerings. Apart from the inclusion of the ‘Invicto’ moniker, the rest of the rear profile remains unchanged. The Invicto also lacks the variant badge that is found on its Toyota sibling.

Differences Inside The Cabin

Maruti Invicto seats

As is typical of Maruti Nexa cars, the Invicto will have an all-black cabin theme (confirmed in one of its latest teasers). We don’t expect any other changes between the interiors of the two MPVs.

Maruti is also expected to include features from the Hycross, such as a dual-zone climate control, a 10-inch touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, and an ottoman function for the second-row captain seats.

In terms of safety, the Invicto is expected to have up to six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera. However, the spied Invicto model does not seem to have ADAS (advanced driver assist systems) like its Toyota counterpart.

Also See: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Begins, Interior Details Seen Too

Strong-hybrid Only

If reports and dealer sources are correct, the Invicto will only be offered with the 184PS 2-liter strong-hybrid powertrain from the Innova Hycross. It will come with an e-CVT gearbox and offer a claimed mileage of 21.1kmpl.

However, this sighting contradicts an earlier report that stated the Maruti Invicto would be offered as a single fully loaded variant for booking. It is possible that the rebadged MPV will simply rearrange the equipment list from the Toyota MPV to lower its price.

Prices And Rivals

Maruti Invicto teaser

If the Invicto is offered as a hybrid-only model, Maruti is expected to price it starting from Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom). Its direct competitor will be the Toyota Innova Hycross, while it will be positioned higher than the Maruti XL6 and Kia Carens in the MPV category.

Image Source

Featured

Would You Buy This Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino Edition?


The Rhino edition has been introduced in Malaysia with the SUV’s three-door version, limited to just 30 units

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

  • The Maruti Jimny Rhino edition only receives visual changes and there are no alterations to the features or powertrain.

  • Highlights of the Rhino edition include a vintage mesh grille, more cladding, decals, and the ‘Rhino’ badging.

  • The all-black interior remains unchanged, except for more premium foot mats.

  • It is equipped with the same 1.5-liter petrol engine with 4WD as the India-spec model.

  • The launch of the Maruti Jimny in India is expected in the future, with the possibility of other limited editions.

The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is available as a three-door model in various international markets. It is particularly popular in Malaysia, where it has received a stylish Jimny Rhino Edition. While the changes are purely cosmetic, its unique appearance is quite appealing. The ‘Rhino’ name is associated with Suzuki’s off-roading club, which consists of Jimnys and older Grand Vitaras.

Exterior Design Changes

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

The Jimny Rhino features an old-school grille with ‘Suzuki’ lettering instead of the logo. The mesh grille is surrounded by a dark chrome panel that also houses the round headlights. The front bumper has been slightly modified with new sturdy cladding.

On the hood, there are exclusive decals that also run along the sides of the vehicle. The mudguards are red, and there is a large decal along the bottom half of the door. The side of the vehicle is equipped with additional claddings to enhance its off-roading capabilities.

The rear profile remains unchanged, except for the ‘Rhino’ logo on the boot and a similar covering for the spare wheel.

Also Read: Maruti Jimny Waiting Period Already Extends Beyond 6 Months

Few Interior Changes

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

The interior design remains unchanged, except for the addition of premium foot mats. It retains the same all-black theme without any upgraded features. While the Jimny in Malaysia is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen system, the India-spec five-door model comes with a more premium 9-inch unit that includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the top variant.

No Changes To The Powertrain

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

The Jimny in India and Malaysia is powered by the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 4×4 capability as standard. In India, buyers have the option of a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the three-door version in Malaysia is only available with the latter.

Also Read: Here’s How You Can Personalise Your Maruti Jimny

Heading To India?

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Rhino

While it is too early to say for certain, it is possible that we may see this Jimny Rhino Edition or similar limited editions in India in the future. The Rhino Edition is considered a collector’s version as only 30 units will receive this treatment. In order to make it more appealing, it is expected that there will be special editions for the five-door Jimny in the coming years. The current price range for the Jimny in India is between Rs 12.74 lakh and Rs 14.89 lakh (ex-showroom).

Read More on: Jimny on road price