Tag Archives: within

BMW

The new MINI Cooper with petrol engine: The new MINI Cooper C and the brand new MINI Cooper S.

February 7, 2024 Prafful Singh

Munich. Within the brand new mannequin household, MINI designates the efficiency ranges of its petrol engines for the MINI Cooper utilizing the letter C and for the performance-enhanced mannequin utilizing the letter S. The engaging powertrain portfolio of the brand new three-door MINI is thus complemented by two environment friendly petrol engines with a selection of three or 4 cylinders. The model’s iconic go-kart feeling is dropped at the highway within the new technology MINI. The MINI Cooper’s minimalist design is a mixture of conventional model values and spectacular readability.

“At MINI, ‘Power of Choice” signifies that along with all-electric MINI fashions, we additionally provide fashions akin to the brand new MINI Cooper with petrol engine. The automotive is right for all these individuals who need to drive a traditional MINI 3-door and respect the standard efficiency and attribute sound of a combustion engine,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI.

The inside focuses on typical MINI, minimalist design and new supplies. Technical improvements such because the MINI Operating System 9, the brand new MINI Experience Modes and a variety of digital capabilities create an immersive person expertise.

Two highly effective drive variants.
With an output of 150 kW/204 hp, the four-cylinder engine of the MINI Cooper S (mixed gasoline consumption: 6.7 – 6.1 l/100 km, mixed CO2 emissions: 150 – 138 g/km in line with WLTP) accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds with a most torque of 300 Nm. The 115 kW/156 hp three-cylinder engine of the MINI Cooper C (mixed gasoline consumption: 6.5 – 5.9 l/100 km, mixed CO2 emissions: 146 – 133 g/km in line with WLTP) delivers a torque of 230 Nm and accelerates the automobile from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds.

The MINI Cooper is supplied with a suspension and damping system designed for agile dealing with. The exact typical MINI steering mixed with highly effective brakes ensures a excessive stage of driving pleasure, security and luxury.

The exterior: cult standing included.
With a puristic design and compact silhouette, the MINI Cooper is the embodiment of the model’s fundamental thought: most driving pleasure with a minimal ecological footprint. The up to date minimalism of the brand new design characterises the clear surfaces of the physique. Short overhangs and a brief bonnet distinction with the lengthy wheelbase, giving the automotive typical MINI proportions.

At the entrance, the brand new octagonal grille with its filigree contours defines the MINI Cooper’s attribute face much more. The BMW Group’s smallest radar sensor up to now is positioned on the horizontal strut between the air intakes. A complete of 12 ultrasonic sensors within the MINI Cooper help the motive force help methods and enhance driving security.

Horizontal LED daytime working lights underline the brand new look in the usual setting. The placing look is additional enhanced by three selectable mild signatures for the daytime working lights of the MINI LED headlights and the redesigned matrix taillights.

All three selectable mild signatures start and finish with a specifically orchestrated welcome or goodbye animation.

The inside: traditional, revolutionary, MINI.
The MINI Cooper’s elegant, minimalist inside design is impressed by the traditional Mini. The new steering wheel, the spherical OLED Display, the standard MINI toggle bar and the two-tone textile dashboard create a way of spaciousness within the cockpit. Clean strains are the hallmark of the trendy inside with its beneficiant quantity of area. The panoramic glass roof provides to the brilliant and pleasant ambiance. By folding down the rear seat in a 60:40 ratio, the bags compartment could be flexibly expanded from 210 litres to offer a quantity of as much as 725 litres.

The most vital driving capabilities (parking brake, gear selector, begin/cease key, expertise mode toggle, quantity management) are immediately accessible through the distinctive toggle bar. The gear selector within the heart console makes method for the brand new Wireless Charging Shelf 2.0. Smartphones could be saved right here and charged wirelessly.

The MINI Interaction Unit has been moved nearer to the motive force within the MINI Cooper cockpit. The diameter of the high-resolution, skinny OLED show with high-quality glass edge is 240 mm. Its working logic is just like that of a smartphone and could be operated intuitively by contact.

Relevant vehicle-related info, akin to velocity and gasoline consumption, is displayed on the high of the display. In the primary menu, the capabilities are organized horizontally as widgets and could be chosen by swipe and contact. In the decrease space of the OLED show, the menu objects Navigation, Media, Telephone and Climate could be chosen immediately at any time.

Digital improvements for an immersive person expertise.
As a part of the optionally available MINI Experience Modes, two projector models beam numerous illuminated graphics onto the dashboard. The interaction of visible design, ambient lighting and sound design adjustments the looks of the cockpit and opens up new potentialities for personalising the MINI Cooper.

Each mode has its personal dynamic background and could be chosen in line with the motive force’s private preferences. In private mode, an private photograph could be set because the show background through the MINI app. The dominant colors of the photograph then lengthen throughout the textile surfaces of the dashboard and the door panels as illuminated graphics.

Drive safely, arrive relaxed.
The new MINI Cooper presents quite a few driver help methods for protected and cozy driving pleasure. As commonplace, the Safe Exit perform screens the realm across the parked automobile and warns approaching highway customers earlier than the door is opened. The perform not solely delays the unlocking of the doorways, but in addition makes use of mild indicators outdoors the automobile to warn of a doable collision.

On the highway, the MINI Navigation bundle optionally supplies help with 3D visualisation and Augmented View, shows the present visitors scenario, supplies details about parking choices together with digital fee choices, and rather more in addition to. Camera and radar-based help capabilities enhance security by supporting steering and lane preserving as a part of the excellent Driving Assistant Plus bundle. Automatic velocity and distance management makes metropolis driving much more snug.

Just say “Hey MINI” to activate the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) on the OLED show. A 3D visualisation then seems within the type of a “car” avatar or the digital MINI companion “Spike”. Interacting with the MINI IPA, the motive force can use his voice to regulate a variety of choices akin to navigation, telephony, leisure and different automobile capabilities.

The revolutionary MINI Digital Key Plus perform turns the smartphone into the automotive key through the MINI app. The welcome animation of the entrance and taillights begins as quickly as the motive force is lower than three metres away; the doorways are unlocked when the motive force is at a distance of lower than one and a half metres. This handy automobile expertise could be digitally transferred to completely different customers, together with their private automobile settings.

Four trims for a person look.
The new Essential, Classic, Favoured and JCW trim variants provide a variety of customisation choices. Depending on the trim, the brand new MINI Cooper C and MINI Cooper S can be found with completely different physique paint finishes and inside trims.

The colors could be mixed with one in every of 4 roof colors and create quite a lot of contrasts. An unique possibility along with the Favoured Trim bundle is the Spray-Tech design of the distinctive Multitone Roof. This includes a three-colour gradient. New, aerodynamically optimised designs can be found for the 16-inch to 18-inch aluminium rims.

Featured

Mahindra Scorpio N Production Crosses 1 Lakh Units

February 3, 2024 Prafful Singh

The Scorpio N garnered 1 lakh bookings inside simply half-hour, but it surely took Mahindra a 12 months and a half to supply an equal variety of models of the SUV

The Mahindra Scorpio N was launched in 2022 because the generational improve for the extremely in style Scorpio. Everything in regards to the Scorpio N was new, from platform to design to options. The Scorpio N is among the greatest promoting Mahindra SUVs right now, bought alongside its predecessor which is retailed because the Scorpio Classic. Now, Mahindra has achieved a brand new manufacturing milestone for the Scorpio N with the 1,00,000th unit rolling out of the Chakkan manufacturing unit, 19 months after the primary production-spec unit.

Journey Till Now

The Mahindra Scorpio N garnered appreciable consideration even earlier than its launch, with quite a few spy pictures of the SUV surfacing on the web. When Mahindra opened the order books for the SUV, it obtained over 1 lakh bookings within the first half-hour. Since then, the Scorpio has continued to expertise prolonged ready durations whereas working to extend its manufacturing capacities. Finally, in 2024, Mahindra efficiently produced 1 lakh models of the SUV.

While Mahindra hasn’t launched any vital modifications to the Scorpio throughout this era, the SUV has managed to remain within the headlines, whether or not for remembers, function shuffling, or a brand new crash take a look at security score.

Also Check Out: Mahindra Scorpio N Achieves 5-Star Rating In Global NCAP Crash Tests

Recently as properly, Mahindra rejigged the function checklist for the mid-spec variant of the Scorpio N, which additionally acquired pricier with the 2023 worth hike These modifications are relevant to all orders for the Scorpio N ranging from 2024.

Features & Safety

The Mahindra Scorpio N additionally turned extra function oriented as properly and comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone AC, cruise management, and wi-fi cellphone charging. It additionally will get a 6-way-power driver’s seat, and a single-pane sunroof.

The security options embrace up six airbags, digital stability management, hill-assist management, and a tire strain monitoring system (TPMS).

Also Check Out: A Technicality Has Resulted In The Mahindra Scorpio N Scoring 0 Stars From Australian NCAP Crash Tests

Powertrain Options

Mahindra affords the Scorpio N with two engine choices: a 2.2-litre diesel engine (producing 132 PS/ 300 Nm or 175 PS/ as much as 400 Nm) and a 2-litre turbo-petrol engine (203 PS/ as much as 380 Nm). Both are provided with the selection of 6-speed guide and 6-speed automated transmissions. The extra highly effective diesel engine variants are additionally accessible with possibility of a four-wheel-drive (4WD) drivetrain.

Price & Rivals

The Mahindra Scorpio N is priced between Rs 14 lakh and Rs 24.54 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It rivals the Tata Harrier/Safari, and Hyundai Creta/Alcazar.

Read More on : Mahindra Scorpio N Automatic

Motorsport

Tuning Firm Thinks The BMW XM Doesn’t Look Outlandish Enough

December 28, 2023 Prafful Singh

The BMW XM lives in a world of its personal inside a crowded phase of efficiency SUVs. However, as we found throughout our test drive last month, it isn’t snug sufficient to be an incredible luxurious automotive and never sporty sufficient to be an excellent M automotive. It may appear to be it got here from one other planet however Larte Design determined so as to add much more exclusivity, if that is potential in any respect.

In a end result of six months of engineering and design efforts, Larte reveals its most bold mission but. The automobile you see within the connected gallery is definitely the XM Label (previously known as the XM Label Red), of which simply 500 items shall be constructed. It will get a particular Frozen Carbon Black exterior however that’s the smallest of the visible enhancements.

News

Lucid primes £40,000 Tesla Model 3, Model Y rivals

December 21, 2023 David

American EV maker Lucid will launch within the UK throughout the subsequent two years earlier than increasing its vary with an reasonably priced mid-sized mannequin line to rival the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.

Lucid launched the Air saloon in 2021 and earlier this month revealed its long-awaited SUV sibling, the Gravity, that are each priced from round $80,000 (£64,000) and aimed on the luxurious finish of the market.

But the following mannequin line to be launched will take the model boldly into extra mainstream territory, with CEO Peter Rawlinson suggesting to Autocar a beginning worth of “about $50,000” (£40,000) and laying naked his ambition to drastically improve Lucid’s gross sales volumes.

“We have to go with volume, because that’s what we’re about,” he mentioned, explaining that Lucid needed to launch the high-end Air and Gravity first due to the prices concerned in establishing a brand new automotive firm.

Details of what to anticipate from the following Lucid stay underneath wraps, however Rawlinson did recommend that it could seem a lot sooner than has beforehand been reported.

He mentioned: “I’ve formally stated mid-late decade, and that has been completely misquoted as the end of the decade – 2030. What I mean is ‘not 2025’. It’s a few years away, but it’s close. It takes three and a half years to do a car, and we’ve started… and that wasn’t yesterday.”

Rawlinson – who beforehand led growth of the Tesla Model S whereas serving as chief engineer on the pioneering EV maker – additionally revealed to Autocar that the brand new merchandise are designed to tackle his former employer.

He mentioned: “The mid-sized [line] goes to be overtly a Tesla competitor – Model 3, Model Y. This is the primary time I’ve ever mentioned it: we’re going to compete in that market – high-volume family car.

“And how can we compete? Because we’ve got the most advanced technology, which means we can go farther with less battery, and the battery is the most high-cost item of an electric car. So if you can go a certain distance with less battery, you can make that car more cheaply than anyone else.”

News

Here’s What EPA Has Shared About The Tesla Cybertruck’s Battery And Charging

December 19, 2023 David

Since its much-anticipated debut, the Tesla Cybertruck has remained a focus of dialogue inside the automotive neighborhood. Recent developments from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have added a brand new layer of perception into this groundbreaking electrical automobile.

On November seventh, 2023, Tesla formally submitted a request to the EPA for a Certificate of Conformity, protecting two particular configurations of the Cybertruck. Notably absent from the request was the rear-wheel drive model, slated for launch in 2025.

The configurations accepted for certification testing included the “Beast” mannequin and four-wheel drive setups, incorporating three and two motors, respectively. Tesla efficiently secured Certificates of Conformity for each variants on November twenty first, simply days forward of the vehicle’s highly anticipated delivery event at the Gigafactory in Texas. This strategic transfer units the stage for a complete understanding of Cybertruck’s efficiency and adherence to regulatory requirements.

Here’s How The Tesla Cybertruck Stands Out From The Conventional Electric Trucks

The Cybertruck challenges the standard pickup truck design with a chrome steel exoskeleton and futuristic seems.

In order to provide the latest and correct info potential, the information used to compile this text was sourced from the producer’s web site and the EPA’s official website.

Cybertruck’s Cutting-Edge Heat Pump Technology Revealed

Tesla Cybertruck side left studio shot with headlights on — Tesla

Unveiling options not beforehand highlighted in Tesla’s latest presentation, it has come to gentle that the Cybertruck is equipped with a heat pump system – a know-how beforehand launched in different automobiles inside Tesla’s lineup. While glimpses of the warmth pump had been noticed in pre-production examples, its definitive integration into Cybertrucks destined for patrons has now been confirmed.

Several years in the past, Tesla launched the warmth pump as a powerful answer to deal with the problem of vary degradation in colder climates. Detailed details about the Cybertruck’s warmth pump is accessible within the EPA paperwork, the place Tesla outlines its performance.

Tesla’s Cybertruck Heat Pump Revolutionizes Energy Consumption

According to EPA’s documentation on Tesla, the warmth pump on the Cybertruck serves to decrease the power calls for of the HVAC system in each heating and cooling situations. The power wanted to heat the cabin varies relying on climate situations and occupant consolation preferences. On common, this course of consumes roughly 10-percent of the overall power out there for driving. However, in reasonably chilly temperatures (0°C), consumption can escalate to 25-percent or extra.

The heat pump operates by consuming a minimal amount of electrical energy to thermodynamically “upgrade” low-temperature (much less helpful) thermal power to higher-temperature (extra helpful) thermal power. This transformation is crucial for making certain occupant consolation. In sensible phrases, for a given electrical energy enter, a warmth pump yields 1 to five occasions the helpful heating energy. In distinction, {an electrical} cabin heater supplies a 1:1 ratio in heating energy, making it considerably much less environment friendly.

For these unfamiliar with it, Tesla’s revolutionary warmth pump design represents a strategic method to reduce warmth losses and optimize each vary and effectivity. Essentially, warmth pumps function by repurposing the warmth generated by the battery and drive models to warmth the cabin, thereby conserving power and enhancing the vary, significantly throughout prolonged journeys. This know-how proves particularly vital in winter situations, the place vary losses usually change into extra pronounced.

The Tesla Cybertruck Is A Perfect Fusion Of Quirky And Versatility

Three trims, 250 miles of vary within the base trim, and a beginning value of $60,990 – the Tesla Cybertruck has lastly arrived!

The Tesla Cybertruck’s Battery Technology And Design Innovations

The esteemed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched an in-depth report on Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybertruck, focusing on the vehicle’s cutting-edge battery technology. The complete doc meticulously dissects Tesla’s revolutionary battery pack, unveiling spectacular particulars equivalent to its complete voltage capability and substantial power storage functionality.

This detailed examination serves because the core of the report, shedding gentle on Cybertruck’s innovation. It supplies a radical understanding of the automobile’s superior options, showcasing how Tesla’s battery know-how is a key driver in shaping the distinctive and extremely anticipated traits of the Cybertruck.

EPA Unveils Impressive Outcomes of Tesla Cybertruck’s Battery Technology

The report sheds gentle on the Cybertruck’s formidable battery pack, showcasing a powerful complete voltage capability of 816 volts and a considerable power storage functionality of 150 amp-hours. Collectively, these specs quantity to a outstanding complete power capability, nearing an estimated 122.4 kilowatt-hours.

Understanding and evaluating the electrical automobile’s revolutionary efficiency attributes and multifaceted capabilities necessitate a radical exploration of those detailed specs. The illuminating doc supplies invaluable insights into the Cybertruck’s superior battery know-how, highlighting its strong options that contribute considerably to the automobile’s anticipated efficiency.

Cybertruck’s Charging Port and State-of-the-Art Indicator System

Highlighted within the paperwork is an fascinating side of the Cybertruck’s design related to its charging port. Unlike typical placements, the charging port is uniquely positioned on the rear left fender and incorporates a particular and purposeful contact—a vibrant indicator within the type of the Cybertruck itself, representing its state of cost (SoC). The indicator serves a sensible goal: a strong white illumination communicates that the charging cable is safely detachable or insertable.

Conversely, an orange gentle indicators that the cable will not be securely latched, whereas a flashing blue gentle signifies that the charging course of is underway as anticipated. This user-friendly function not solely enhances the practicality of the Cybertruck’s charging expertise but additionally introduces a visually partaking factor, including a contact of aptitude to the general design.

2024 Tesla Cybertruck: Everything We Know So Far

After a number of years, the Cybertruck is sort of on public roads. But, has it remained the identical?

Decoding Tax Incentives: Navigating Eligibility For Tesla Cybertruck Models

In the realm of electrical automobiles, the Tesla Cybertruck has garnered vital consideration, not just for its revolutionary design and superior know-how but additionally for the potential tax incentives it offers. This exploration dives into the eligibility standards for tax incentives associated to Tesla’s Cybertruck fashions.

Tax Incentive Eligibility for Tesla Cybertruck Models

As per info supplied by the U.S. Department of Energy, sourced from Internal Revenue Service knowledge as of December 7, 2023, it’s highlighted that two variations of the Tesla Cybertruck qualify for the full $7,500 incentive. Specifically, the all-wheel-drive variant and the high-end tri-motor Cyberbeast version meet the standards, whereas the rear-wheel-drive mannequin, slated for a 2025 launch, will not be at present listed, probably because of the ahead timeline of its launch.

An important situation for eligibility is that the motivation is relevant solely to pickup vans with a value not exceeding $80,000. This criterion presents a major side, because it raises the query of whether or not any Cybertruck offered in 2023 would meet this pricing requirement.

A Look at Cybertruck’s Pricing Initial Release and Future AWD Model

Exploring Tesla’s official web site reveals that the bottom value for the preliminary launch of the Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast is $99,990. Although, in principle, the Tesla Cybertruck AWD may qualify for the motivation with an estimated value of $79,990, Tesla clarifies that deliveries for this variant will start solely in 2024. In essence, this means that there may not be a tax credit score for Cybertrucks within the present yr.

Why The Tesla Cybertruck Is Better Than The Ford F-150 Lightning

The F-150 Lightning is the truck everybody needs, however the Cybertruck is what individuals simply may want.

Cybertruck’s Weight: Insights From EPA Documents

Tesla Cybertruck action shot on a test track — Tesla

Delving into the intricacies of the Tesla Cybertruck’s bodily attributes, this exploration goals to make clear the load dynamics of this extremely acclaimed electrical automobile. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) paperwork function an important supply, offering invaluable insights into the Cybertruck’s weight traits.

Cybertruck’s Weight Dynamics

For people considering understanding the load traits of the Cybertruck, the EPA paperwork supply invaluable insights. In the Cyberbeast trim, the Cybertruck boasts an imposing curb weight of 6,898 kilos, whereas the all-wheel-drive variant will not be far behind at 6,669 kilos.

Both iterations share a commendable gross automobile weight score (GVWR) of 9,169 kilos, underscoring their sturdy building and spectacular capability. In addition, in response to Tesla, this battery-electric pickup truck not solely has the potential to tow as much as 4,990 kilos but additionally boasts speedy acceleration, covering 0 to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds.

Information Regarding the 2025 Rear-Wheel-Drive Cybertruck

Tesla Cybertruck aerial shot of the bed. — Tesla

Details relating to the rear-wheel-drive Cybertruck, anticipated for launch in 2025, are at present undisclosed. This ignorance stems from the truth that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not made the precise recordsdata pertaining to this variant publicly out there right now.

Technology

Steam Disk Write Error: Explained and Resolved

December 3, 2023 David

If you encounter the disk write error in Steam and the usual fixes don’t work, you may need to make changes to the files using Windows Explorer.

Before making any changes, start by closing Steam and reopening it with administrator privileges. This can often resolve unusual errors. You can do this by right-clicking on the Steam executable or desktop shortcut and selecting “Run as administrator.” It’s also worth temporarily disabling any antivirus or firewall software to see if it is causing the issue. If this resolves the problem, consider adding an exception for Steam in your security software.

If the issue persists, it’s possible that your Steam directory is set to Read-Only, preventing new data from being written to it. To address this, navigate to your C: drive and locate your Steam folder in either the Program Files or Program Files (x86) directories. If your games are stored on a separate drive, locate the Steam folder there as well. Right-click on the Steam folder, select Properties, and uncheck the Read-Only box under Attributes.

Daniel Trock/SlashGear

As a last resort, consider moving your Steam folder to a different storage drive. If you have a second internal drive or a fast external drive, close Steam, move the Steam folder out of the Program Files directory to the other drive, and then relaunch Steam and attempt to install a game.

Featured

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Reaches A Big Sales Milestone In India

November 29, 2023 Prafful Singh

The Ioniq 5 has crossed 1,000-unit sales mark within a year of its presence in the Indian market

Hyundai released the Ioniq 5 in India at the 2023 Auto Expo.
It is the most expensive electric vehicle from Hyundai in India.
It has a 72.6 kWh battery pack, providing a claimed range of 631 km from its 217PS e-motor.
Features on board include dual 12.3-inch screens, six airbags, and ADAS.
It is locally assembled and is priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has almost completed a year in India since it was launched at the Auto Expo 2023 in January. It has now been revealed that the electric crossover has surpassed 1,000-unit sales in our market, achieving this milestone in less than five months after reaching the 500-unit mark in July 2023. Here’s a summary of the EV:

Most Expensive Hyundai Vehicle

When the Ioniq 5 was introduced in early 2023, it became both the priciest EV and car from Hyundai available in India. The electric crossover had received over 650 orders in less than two months since bookings were opened in December 2022.

Despite being the most expensive Hyundai here, local assembly means the Ioniq 5, priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom), offers great value for money. For context, the Kia EV6 RWD, which is the Ioniq 5’s direct competitor and is being imported here, starts at Rs 60.95 lakh (ex-showroom) due to additional taxes on completely built-up units (CBU).

Electric Powertrain And Charging Details

The India-spec Ioniq 5 comes with a 72.6 kWh battery pack coupled with a single motor producing 217 PS and 350 Nm. It has a rear-wheel drivetrain (RWD) and offers an ARAI-claimed range of 631 km.

Hyundai provides two charging options: a 150 kW charger that can charge it from 0 to 80 percent in 21 minutes and a 50 kW charger that can do the same in an hour.

Also Read: All The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Buying A New Car At The End Of A Calendar Year

What Features Does It Include?

Hyundai has equipped the Ioniq 5 with dual 12.3-inch displays (one for infotainment and the other for driver instrumentation), powered front and rear seats, dual-zone climate control, and wireless phone charging.

In terms of safety, the Hyundai EV comes with six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a 360-degree camera, and multiple advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Price And Competition

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is locally assembled and is priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Its only direct rival is the Kia EV6, while it also competes with the Volvo XC40 Recharge, BMW i4, and the upcoming Skoda Enyaq iV.

Also Read: Hyundai Will Make Its Showrooms Easier To Use For The Differently Abled, To Launch Specialist Accessories

Read More on : Hyundai IONIQ 5 Automatic

NewsNew

2024 KTM 300SX TWO-STROKE: FULL TEST

November 21, 2023 David

Occasionally, you come across a new bike that just feels right. Within a few laps, you feel like you’ve been riding it for years; you know exactly how it handles and responds.

The KTM 300SX is not one of those bikes. This bike shook things up when it was introduced last year. It was a completely new model, a whole new concept, and a different take on two-stroke motocross bikes. Only now, with the release of the 2024 model, are we starting to grasp what this bike means for motocross.

STARTING OVER

Prior to last year, KTM had never offered a 300SX for the U.S. market; buyers would have to build one from a kit or start with a modified off-road bike. Some riders attempted to race the 300XC in motocross, but it wasn’t quite the right fit, especially with the transfer port fuel injection (TPI) introduced in 2018.

The brand-new two-stroke engine platform that KTM introduced with the 2023 300SX had electric start, an electronic power valve, and throttlebody fuel injection. While each of these features had been seen before individually, the way KTM integrated them in the 300SX was entirely new. The bike’s CPU controlled everything, including the power valve’s opening distance and timing, a first for a production bike. The chassis was given the same general specs as the four-strokes, making it more rigid with more anti-squat tendencies than the older frames. The suspension still featured a WP Xact air fork in front and an Xact shock in the rear. The brakes and hydraulics were still Brembo, and premix was done manually by mixing oil and gas together.

the 300sx has an msrp — The 300SX has an MSRP of $9399. Consider how much cars and houses sell for these days.

This bike appeared and left us amazed. It was fast, aggressive, and demanded a change in how we approached motocross. We spent a year trying to adapt. Now, with the 2024 model unchanged, it gets a second chance to make a first impression. This time we’re ready for it. We know that the 300SX is something entirely different, and we’ve been honing our two-stroke skills.

PRESS THE GREEN BUTTON AND HOLD ON

The first thing to note about this bike is that it has two maps available on the handlebar switch, each with very different characteristics. The green map at the bottom provides an exhilarating and incredibly fast ride. While modern 450 four-strokes might technically produce more peak power on a dyno, the 300SX feels more potent on the track due to the way the power is delivered. It starts off smooth down low and runs extremely clean. With good throttle control, it can be ridden in the lower range where it still delivers respectable lap times. However, the power kicks in with a steep, rapid surge. This kind of power delivery might catch modern four-stroke riders off guard. While the 300SX is more manageable than a traditional 250 two-stroke, it’s still more challenging to control than a 450. On the flip side, it opens up opportunities for different riding techniques. Most 450 riders have learned to use the clutch to manage hard braking; with the 300SX, you can brake without touching the clutch and then apply throttle old-school style. This bike teaches real technique, making you a better and more precise rider.

according to the dyno the 300sx — ***According to the dyno, the 300SX is faster than some 450 four-strokes. According to the seat of your pants, it’s faster than all of them.***

the electronic power valve is self contained — ***The electronic power valve is self-contained on the side of the cylinder and does away with the remote servos and cables used on earlier versions.***

Most riders opt for the green map because it’s exciting. For professionals, this is perfectly fine. However, for most others, the gray map is a better choice. It doesn’t deliver the intense hit and isn’t as thrilling, but it’s less tiring and offers improved overall performance. It can be hard to accept this trade-off. During a race, riders often switch back and forth between maps, and it’s easy to do on the fly. They usually start with full power and then switch to the mild map when they start feeling tired, although they often feel like they are leaving something on the table. KTM could benefit from offering more than just two maps, perhaps around five, to cater to a wider range of preferences. JD Jetting already has a piggyback fuel controller that allows some mapping adjustments, providing more adjustability, although not on the fly.

Despite KTM’s claim that there are no changes to the 2024 bike, it wouldn’t be surprising if mapping updates are offered by dealers throughout the year. Reports have indicated occasional glitches, similar to what happened with the transfer port injection two-strokes, which took over a year to resolve. In this case, the 300SX may occasionally bog down when the throttle is closed and reopened at high rpm, typically on fast downhills like the one at Glen Helen, albeit not every time. While it might not be a significant issue, it’s hard to imagine a scenario where the hesitation, more of a hiccup, would pose a risk during a fast downhill.

the handlebar switch gives you more — ***The handlebar switch gives you more than a choice of what map to use. It gives you a choice of who you want to be.***

THE KTM FEEL

In terms of handling, much has already been said about the new frame on KTM’s four-strokes. The 300SX isn’t too dissimilar. Overall, KTMs consistently deliver excellent performance in turns. They are easy to steer without being overly busy. Weighing 223 pounds without gas, the 300SX is very lightweight, 6 pounds lighter than the 450SX. It’s effortless to initiate a turn and maintains a stable platform throughout. However, the power delivery of a two-stroke significantly differs from a four-stroke as you accelerate out of the turn, resulting in a more aggressive behavior. The shock is superb, but the 300SX lacks the rotating mass of a four-stroke, making it more susceptible to being thrown off course by square edges and off-center impacts.

The same applies to the fork. The WP air fork is highly regarded and provides a light, plush, and highly adjustable ride. Irrespective of adjustments, a 300 two-stroke tends to feel the impact of bumps more significantly than a 450 four-stroke, an advantage that the latter is hard to match even with suspension tuning alone.

THE NEXT LEVEL

If it seems like we’re criticizing the revered tradition of two-stroke motocross, that’s not the intent. Few people love two-strokes more than us. The fact that the 300SX isn’t as stable as a KTM 450SX-F won’t surprise anyone who has ridden both, and it’s not unique to the 300SX. Despite the challenges, riding the KTM 300SX inevitably reignites the excitement for two-stroke MX. It’s exhilarating to ride and rewarding to race. Moreover, nothing else on the track sounds as impressive.

Car review

Audi Q8

November 8, 2023 David

The Audi Q8 is positioned as a flagship SUV within Audi’s Q-series. While the cabin may not offer any extraordinary visual or material features compared to other large vehicles, it still maintains a high level of fit, finish, and practicality. The interior features brushed metal and gloss-black panelling, creating an upscale and desirable ambiance. The facelift has introduced new trims, including attractive grey ash and matt carbon twill finishes.

One noticeable feature taking up a significant portion of the dashboard is Audi’s dual-screen MMI infotainment system. It consists of a primary 10.2-inch screen and a smaller 8.6-inch unit. The upper screen controls the Q8’s features and functions, such as navigation and phone connectivity, while the lower screen displays frequently used features like air conditioning and radio. Although these are touchscreens, a firm press is required for a response. The software is highly responsive, and the graphics are of excellent quality.

The Audi Q8 also offers an impressive sound system, with an optional Bang & Olufsen upgrade available. However, the standard sound system is unlikely to disappoint. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit replaces traditional analogue instrument dials with digital screens, giving the interior a sleek and minimalistic feel. Physical dials and buttons are minimal, emphasizing the modern design.

Despite its coupé-style roofline, the Q8 provides ample rear head space for taller passengers. However, it falls slightly short in rear legroom compared to the Porsche Cayenne, although the difference is minimal. The boot volume offers a satisfactory 605 litres of storage space.

Motorsport

Manual Transmissions: The New Rarity In The Industry Around The World

November 5, 2023 Prafful Singh

Rapid evolution within the automotive industry is simultaneously a nursery for new technology and a graveyard for obsolete equipment. Case in point: as we await the arrival of true self-driving cars with advanced systems, other features that were once standard are gradually disappearing.

Such is the case with the manual gearbox. This multi-speed transmission system, in which shifting requires the driver to manually select gears, is becoming a rarity in many markets. And it’s not just North America, where automatic transmissions have long dominated the motoring landscape. Information from JATO Dynamics shows that this type of transmission is losing popularity everywhere.

Two-Pedal Europe

Europe is a great example of this transition. In 2000, almost all new cars registered were equipped with a manual transmission. Specifically, the percentage was 89 percent and some countries such as Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, and Portugal exceeded 95 percent. Norway and Switzerland were exceptions, where approximately 25 percent of new cars were automatics.

This percentage remained high for a few years until different types of automatic transmissions reached the market. In 2017, the overall manual take rate had fallen to 78 percent of new cars, and it’s plunged since then. In 2022 it was down to 34 percent, and through the first half of this year, we’re sitting at 32 percent.

There are several reasons for this. Drivers are more aware of the advantages and ease of operation of an automatic. Traffic jams are getting worse in many cities. And the price gap between manuals and automatics is shrinking. The influx of EVs, led globally by Tesla, certainly adds to this. These vehicles don’t need transmissions with multiple gears to use power from torque-happy electric motors, be it automatic or manual.

Auto In North America

JATO data shows that in the year 2010, only 6 percent of new light-duty vehicles sold in the United States featured a manual transmission. This percentage dropped to 4 percent in 2019, then 2 percent in 2020. For the last two years, the manual gearbox has barely registered in the US market with take rates of just 1 percent. And this year it’s even less, showing just 0.9 percent through the first half of 2023.

Not Dead Yet

On the other hand, cars with manual transmissions remain a valid choice for buyers in emerging economies. Markets such as Latin America or South Africa still see a sizable portion of new vehicles registered with row-your-own gearboxes, accounting for more than 30 percent of sales. Although the price gap between manuals and automatics has decreased dramatically over the past 20 years, it is still an important aspect to consider among low-income consumers.

Will the eventual arrival of affordable electric cars change the situation? Seeing the significant drop in manual-equipped cars in China – where lower-priced EVs are gaining popularity – certainly paints a bleak picture for those who enjoy three-pedal driving.

The author of the article, Felipe Munoz, is an Automotive Industry Specialist at JATO Dynamics.