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Car Makes

IIHS gives Genesis GV80 TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS award

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) announced that the first-ever 2021 Genesis GV08 SUV has been awarded the TOP SAFETY PICK PLUS recognition, the institute’s highest possible award. By achieving this recognition, the GV80 joins the 2021 G70 sport sedan and 2021 G90 flagship sedan, G70, G80, and G90 that all received TOP SAFETY PICK+ two years in a row in 2019 and 2020.

All Genesis models are geared with numerous features and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance and safety technologies. Such include Forward Collision Avoidance-Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and more.

Furthermore, GV80 is geared with 10 airbags, including one of the only Center-Side airbags on the market, Junction Crossing and tuning, and the world’s first Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, which helps with the reduction of the chance of potential impact.

SEE ALSO: Acura reveals first details for the new 2021 Type S

The all-new platform, which focuses on enhanced safety, includes passenger compartment protection and reinforcement areas. It also incorporates advanced high-strength steel for more rigidity.

All these technological advancements are complemented by a beautiful exterior design with aggressive expression and elegant lines.

Source: Genesis

March 19, 2021
Acura reveals first details for the new 2021 Type S

Acura announced the on-sale timing for the new 2021 TLX Type S, which returns the Type S performance to the showrooms for the first time in more than 10 years. Inspired by the award-winning second-generation Acura TLX, the new Type S comes with an exclusive V6 power unit, a sport-tuned chassis with double-wishbone front suspension, and a Brembo brake system.

The heart of the drivetrain system is a revised 3.0-liter Type S Turbo V6 and produces a total of 355hp and 354lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful engine ever featured in a Type S. The double-wishbone suspension comes with selectable driving modes and is specially engineered to provide some additional engine power. Also, this is the first Type S to come with Acura’s Super Handling AWD system with true torque vectoring.

In terms of exterior, the new 2021 TLX Type S can be specified in one of six available colors. The vehicle also features exclusive design components like an open-surface diamond pentagon grille, large quad exhaust outlets, and two-wheel options, including the NSX lightweight wheels wrapped in 255-series Pirelli P-Zero.

SEE ALSO: McLaren team reveals a street-legal version of the beloved 720S GT3

Inside, Type S features Ultrasuede trimmed 16-way power seats and exclusive embossing. Also, customers can benefit from the optional TLX Advance Package, which includes the award-winning ELS STUDIO 3D 17-inch speaker premium audio system. More details about the interior will be available soon.

Stick with us for more details!

Source: Acura

March 19, 2021
McLaren team reveals a street-legal version of the beloved 720S GT3

McLaren Customer Racing has confirmed that the unrestricted version of the 720S GT3 racecar, the 720S GT3X is available to order through the McLaren Retailer Network. Especially designed by the motorsport team of McLaren Automotive, the new vehicle comes with tons of power, an advanced drivetrain system and numerous cool features. Also, it is street-legal. Cool!

The heart of the beast is a hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged power unit, optimized for a combination of both track and street capabilities. It features a unique blueprint cylinder head, strengthened pistons. Diamond-Like Carbon coating and lightweight performance exhaust system. The engine is paired to a six-speed sequential sporty gearbox and altogether they deliver a total of 720hp.

The entire project has been focused on innovative aerodynamics and efficient design with numerous fine-tuning approaches. The vehicle is performance-focused and comes with a special body shape based on the “Computational Fluid Dynamics” and F1 wind tunnel technology. The aerodynamically sculpted shape is hand-finished in metallic MSO Carbon Black Paint.

SEE ALSO: BMW Group announces new sustainability approaches with the new xDrive 50

The cabin features numerous carbon-fiber components and is exclusively designed to aid the driver in any high-performance journey. There’s a carbon-fiber and Kevlar FIA-approved set of race seats, and pedal box and steering wheel adjustment options for optimal comfort.

Source: McLaren

March 18, 2021
BMW Group announces new sustainability approaches with the new xDrive 50

BMW announces the second generation of the all-electric iX lineup. This model line showcases brand’s new approaches towards design, connectivity, electrification technologies, and all different kinds of services. However, the main goal of the BMW team remains sustainability. Let’s find out more!

BMW and its sustainability ambitions

The brand focuses on the responsible use of resources and minimization of the overall carbon emissions of all stages of any vehicle’s lifecycle. To achieve this, advancements have been made across all areas of vehicle-building and maintenance.

This means that BMW would use more raw materials and the new iX xDrive50 will feature numerous recycled components as well as such facets that require minimum CO2 emissions.

Technologies

The vehicles in the lineup will be run by two high-efficiency motors, driving four wheels and delivering about 500hp. These high levels of drive system efficiency and higher density high-voltage batteries are expected to improve the driving dynamics and electric power consumption. The engine system and battery technology are based on an intelligent lightweight construction and aerodynamic body shape that altogether contribute to a more sustainable future and impressive practicality.

Furthermore, the fifth generation of BMW eDrive is focused on a design approach that enables a power density around 30 percent greater than earlier electric drive systems. This highly integrated electric drive system plays a key role when it comes to the efficiency of the xDrive50.

New battery approach

The battery technology included in the new BMW eDrive incorporates a new and advanced kind of battery cell. The overall energy output has been increased by about 20 percent over previous generations and delivers enhanced performance rates. Also, the unit is cased in an aluminum compartment low on the vehicle floor as an integral part of the body.

SEE ALSO: PEUGEOT reveals the striking new 308 model

Additionally, there’s a new liquid cooling system for the high-voltage battery which provides the optimal temperature control in highly dynamic driving situations.

New charging capabilities

What is also new is the new charging technology. The new iX xDrive50 comes with a Combined Charging Unit which offers high levels of flexibility when it comes to using charging stations of any type. This system brings together the functions of the voltage transformer, charging electronics, and power distribution, as well as the management system for the drive.

Stick with us for more details!

March 18, 2021
PEUGEOT reveals the striking new 308 model

New PEUGEOT 308 blends an attractive contemporary design, cozy and functional interior, and some neat class-leading technologies. The vehicle also comes with an agile and efficient hybrid set of engines and a choice between petrol and diesel variants.

Exterior design

New PEUGEOT 308 features a sleek and dynamic look with some sharp lines and an overall bold visual concept. At the front, the vehicle showcases the brand’s new logo and revised LED headlights design. This distinctive design contributes to a more menacing and instantly recognizable face.

The sides, on the other hand are shaped with the concept of minimalism in mind. They feature straight lines and a clean surface which completely resembles the general design idea of the new 308. This visual impact is finished by the large and exclusive wheels that further enhance the sporty spirit of the vehicle.

The rear-end strikes with an incredible and distinctive design with numerous lines and facets. The new backlights design completely fits the dramatic curves and the new set of exhaust pipes.

In terms of aerodynamics, all bodywork has been specifically designed to improve airflow and even the wheel design helps for the drag coefficient figure of Cd 0.28.

Buyers will be able to specify their 308 in seven colors: Olivine Green, Bianca White, Cumulus Grey, Nera Black, Pearlescent White, Vertigo Blue, and Elixir Red.

Interior design

New PEUGEOT 308 is based on the brand’s new and adaptable EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform) structure, which allows for a more spacious and safer interior. It also allows the option of electrified engines.

The quality of the materials enhances the overall feel of comfort and luxury with mottled fabric, technical mesh, Alcantara, embossed leather, and colored Nappa leather. Alongside these, occupants will also benefit from new conditioning system with AQS technology (Air Quality System) which monitors the quality of the air and automatically engages recycling when needed.

Furthermore, the interior offers tons of leg and knee room which allow even the tallest of drivers and passengers to stretch out. This capability is further enhanced with the new 10-way electric adjustable seats and two memory settings.

As with any other advanced vehicle, the new PEUGEOT also comes with the i-Cockpit interior concept. It incorporates numerous technologies within the cabin and allows for their quick and beneficial usage. For example, the conveniently located 10-inch digital instrument cluster grants drivers access to some vital information without having to take their eyes off the road.

A neat addition is also the small steering wheel with sensors that detect driver’s grip levels when using driving aids. With ergonomics in mind, it also includes fingertip controls for the infotainment system.

Upper trim levels also come with PEUGEOT 308 fully configurable virtual i-toggles. These are positioned alongside the central screen and deliver elegant design and enhanced ease of use. Each unit offers a personal shortcut key to many functions, including eye conditioning, telephone contacts, and App launch.

Starting at the Allure level, the new PEUGEOT 308 features fully configurable virtual i-toggles. Positioned alongside the central screen, they deliver both a sleeker design and enhanced ease-of-use. Each touch sensitive i-toggle offers a personalized shortcut key to numerous functions, including the air conditioning settings, a telephone contact, a radio station or an application launch.

Drivetrain system

In order to make the new 208 more agile, PEUGEOT engineers have included two plug-in hybrid options:

HYBRID 225 e-EAT8 – it is a combination of a 180hp PureTech power unit and an 81kW electric motor mated to the e-EAT automatic gearbox. This setup emits as little as 26g/km of CO2 and about 36 miles of coverage with the electric engine.

The second option is named 180 e-EAT8, a blend of a 150hp PureTech power unit and an 81kW electric motor, mated to an e-EAT8 gearbox. This setup has an emissions estimation of 25g/km of CO2 and can cover about 37 miles with only the electric engine allowed.

SEE ALSO: BMW Team reveals beautiful new livery

Both versions are powered by a 12.4kWh lithium-ion battery and can be specified with either a standard 3.7kW charger or a 7.4kW fast charger.

As it comes to the petrol units, the new 308 can be geared with a 1.2-liter PureTech 130 S&S with an eight-speed automatic. The diesel option includes a 1.5-liter BlueHDi 130 S&S with an EAT8 eight-speed automatic.

New PEUGEOT 308 will be produced in France at the Mulhouse plant and will be available to order later this year. Stick with us for further information!

March 18, 2021
SKODA presents new Kushaq: the first production car of the INDIA 2.0 project

New SKODA Kushaq is the first production car from the INDIA 2.0 project. Based on the MQB-A0-IN, a variant of the modular MQB platform, the vehicle will be available with new features, a plethora of safety features, and a brand-new SUV design.

Exterior design

The vehicle proudly presents a muscular and yet elegant body stance that completely resembles the new Indian approach. New Kushaq comes with high ground clearance, large wheels, and elegant curves, and neat lines. The vehicle also features LED lights, metallic Honey Orange, and Tornado Red paintwork, exclusive for the Indian market and exclusive features.

SEE ALSO: BMW Group announces new sustainability approaches with the new xDrive 50

The design features a prominent front bonnet, wide grille, and a straight roofline. There’s also a tornado line at the height of the door handles and powerful wheel arches with black plastic trim. At the rear, the vehicle is characterized by an elongated roof spoiler and a robust rear diffuser.

Interior design

New SKODA Kushaq comes with an elegant and cozy interior with tons of features and utilities. The entire interior is dominated by a central and free-standing infotainment touchscreen, which perfectly accompanies the two-spoke multifunctional steering wheel. Some of the upper trim levels also come with leather seats and shift paddles.

Drivetrain system

In terms of engine setup, the vehicle can be specified with either an efficient 1.0 or 1.5 TSI engine type. These provide a total of 115 or 110hp of total output and can be paired to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox. There’s also a special 7-speed DSG variant.

March 18, 2021
Hyundai annoucnes Tucson Plug-In Hybrid and N Line models
Hyundai announces the addition of N Line and Plug-In Hybrid models to the 20222 Tucson lineup. All machines in the new series are shaped by the experts from Hyundai Design Center and all of them are based on the Sensuous Sportiness global design concept.

The Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain technology

Tucson’s plug-in hybrid and hybrid models deliver a balanced blend of agile performance and excellent economy rates. Speaking of performance, the Plug-In Hybrid version is capable of generating a total of 261hp via the 1.6-liter turbocharged and direct-injected hybrid engine. This unit is paired to a 13.8 kWh battery, which ensures an all-electric range of 32 miles.

Along with the engine, the lineup now comes with Continuously Variable Valve Duration which optimizes the valve opening duration for optimal power, efficiency and emissions with minimized losses of engine performance.

Tucson Plug-In Hybrid models will also offer the mechanical HTRAC AWD system that would meet the needs of all eco-focused buyers and the driving flexibility of several selectable driving modes, among is a new one – Snow mode. Also, the system is fine-tuned in order to provide the best possible traction and vehicle control over a wide variety of surfaces and road conditions.

Last, but not least, new Tucson vehicles come with Hyundai’s e-handling technology, which applies electric torque control that varies according to the dynamic inputs and road conditions. This setup allows for improved cornering performance and stability and enhanced pleasure of driving.

SEE ALSO: Ford reveals new F-150 Police Responder vehicle

Tucson plug-in hybrid and hybrid models feature Hyundai’s e-handling technology, which precisely applies electric motor torque control according to dynamic inputs and road conditions to improve cornering performance for a new level of fun-to-drive dynamics. As a Tucson hybrid model turns-in to a corner, the electric motor system applies precise incremental braking force to the front wheels, increasing their tire contact patch on the road surface for enhanced traction and steering response while initiating turn-in. Then, as the vehicle moves to exit the corner, the electric motor applies precise torque to the rear axle, increasing the rear tire contact patches for enhanced traction and control accelerating out of the corner.

The N Line additions and features

All N Line vehicles offer exclusive features and technologies both for the exterior and the interior of the vehicle. New Tucson N Line manages to incorporate all these features and presents a dynamic silhouette and cozy interior.

The exterior features include:
- N Line front and rear bumper fascia
- N Line grille
- Black headlamp bezels
- Fender N line badging
- Unique 19-inch black alloy wheel design
- Black side mirrors and window surrounds
- Dual-tipped exhaust
- N Line rear spoiler
In terms of interior, the vehicle in the lineup comes with:
- N Line logos: steering wheel, shifter and seats
- Leather and fabric seating surfaces
- Red accents on seats and door trim
- Black headliner
- Metal pedals and door sill plates
- Bose® premium audio system
March 17, 2021
Ford reveals new F-150 Police Responder vehicle

Ford reveals all-new 2021 F-150 Police Responder, the brand’s purpose-built and pursuit-focused pickup truck. The vehicle comes with increased capability, improved top speed of 120mph, automatic four-wheel driving mode and torque-on-demand transfer function.

Performance and drivetrain system

F-150 Police Responder comes with a 3.5-litre EcoBoost power unit that produces a total of 400hp and 500lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired to a 10-speed SelectShift automatic gearbox which is carefully calibrated to meet the needs of any law enforcement team.

Also, in order to withstand the high speed, it is capable to achieve, F-150 Police Responder comes with exclusive Goodyear LT265/70R18 LRC BSW Wrangler Enforcer all-terrain tires. These are specially designed to handle fast acceleration and high speed, as we as aggressive cornering on any road surface.

As it comes to the torque-on-demand transfer case, it includes 4-auto mode with an electrically actuated clutch that automatically adjusts torque to provide some better capability and seamless performance on any terrain. On high-friction surfaces such as dry pavement, the system runs in two-wheel drive for enhanced performance and better handling, whereas on slick or loose surfaces, the 4-auto system directs power to all wheels and allows driver and passengers to remain focused on the job at hand.

SEE ALSO: OPUS reveals more details about its Mercedes-AMG tuning project

For the departments that need some towing capabilities, the 150 Police Responder offers some segment-leading power. The standard towing capacity is 11,200 and the payload capacity is 2,020 pounds.

In terms of special equipment, the vehicle comes with Tow Technology Package adds a 360-degree camera, Trailer Reverse Guidance and integrated Trailer Brake Controller. Smart Trailer Tow Connector is standard on Class IV hitch-equipped vehicles and adds Trailer Coverage to the available Blind Spot Information System.

Equipment features

Purposely built for law enforcement teams, the new F-150 includes all kinds of tech systems that aid those who are part of a law enforcement team. Such is the SYNC 4 with cloud connectivity as a standard feature. It comes with an 8-inch touch screen in the central stack and an embedded modem with wireless updates. This setup allows agencies to receive all software updates. Also, there’s a new 4-inch productivity screen.

Just like all Ford vehicles, the F-150 Police Responder also comes with Ford Telematics. This is an intelligent fleet management tool that improves uptime, optimizes the running costs, enables predictive planning of unscheduled maintenance tasks and improves the driver behaviour over time.

Speaking of the driver, the vehicle also includes new driver-assist features like Reverse Sensing System, Pre-Collision Assist, Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking. There’s also a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert. All of these are part of the standard equipment.

Interior design and features

The interior is characterized by police-grade heavy-duty cloth front seats, built-in intrusion plates in both front seatbacks for enhanced safety, and red-and-white task lighting. The LED police warning beacons are available in red and blue or amber and white colour combinations.

The F-150 Police Responder comes with more interior passenger volume and more room for all occupants. The fitting is now easier thanks to the front console-delete, universal top tray on the instrument panel and rear power lug. The 40-blank-40 front seat setup allows for the instalment of a department-specific central console. Also, there’s an optional Upgrade Package that provides Interior Work Surface suite with an adjustable flat surface for writing on a computer.

Source: Ford

March 17, 2021
Toyta celebrates the 13 millionth vehicle ensembly
A special RAV4 Hybrid rolls out of Toyota’s largest plant, Georgetown, Ky. Along with the vehicle’s striking exterior design and fine-tuned hybrid engine, the SUV also marks the 13^th million vehicles assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky.

The factory began production of the RAV4 Hybrid in January 2020 as the result of many investments by Toyota – these are also part of a larger commitment by the brand’s overall investment strategy in North America. Along with enhanced production, the goal is to reach 6,500 employers.

The Georgetown campus is the brand’s first in North America and is the realization of 8 billion dollars of investment and employs over 10,000 Kentuckians. This is also the home to an engine factory, which also scored a record by ensembling its 13 millionth engine.

Toyota remains the leader in alternatively powered vehicles and the goal is to have 40 per cent of new sales be electric by 2025. By 2030, expert make plans to increase this number to 70 per cent. Globally, this commitment would result in the avoidance of about 139 million tons of greenhouse gas into the atmosphere.

SEE ALSO: BMW Team reveals beautiful new livery

Toyota Kentucky also boosts STEM education and workforce development program across the Commonwealth. Funds will be invested for:
- Rise STEM Academy for Girls
- Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG)
- Black Male Working (BMW) Academy
- Prichard Committee
- Partners for Youth
March 17, 2021
New Rimac C_Two undergoes an extreme temperature testing [VIDEO]

The Rimac C_Two is at its final stages of the multi-year global homologation program, which means that it can already be sold all over the world, from Canada to the Middle East.

The vehicle has undergone some demanding tests and engineers have added their seal of approval to the HVAC system that was tested that was put to the ultimate weather test. By using a Climatic chamber, capable of creating temperatures as high a 48 degrees (118F) and as low as -28C (-4F), the Rimac C_Two has proven that its compressors, pumps and fans were still working as new. Although the temperature in the cabin has reached some extreme temperature levels, the vehicle was still in perfect technical condition.

When it comes to extreme colds, the prototype was left overnight in -28C (-4F) with the doors wide open. Yet, despite the cold and ice, all pumps and components worked faultlessly and the vehicle was still in good condition after the defrost process.

SEE ALSO: Gordon Murray team makes the first road test of the new T.50 supercar

Following the latest tests, the Rimac C_Two prototype will undergo the final stages of the homologation test, durability evaluations, some trim expectations, NVH fine-tunings, and global product evaluations before entering the production phase and offering it through dealers.

https://youtu.be/vleo2221GQo

Source: Rimac

March 16, 2021
Gordon Murray team makes the first road test of the new T.50 supercar

Gordon Murray Automotive’s T.50 supercar has had its first-ever development test drive and marked a milestone for the world’s most driver-centric supercar.

The XP2 prototype with limited revs was first put on a test drive at the Top Gear test track in Dunsfold, Surrey, UK and its first test drive were undertaken by Professor Gordon Murray.

The new T.50 supercar is powered by the world’s highest-revving and yet lightest naturally aspirated road car V12 power unit that delivers a total of 663hp. It weighs about 986kg and features the most advanced aerodynamics yet seen on a road car.

The Gordon Murray Automotive creates exclusive and low volume sports cars. The T.50 is the brand’s first model with customer cars built-in 2022. Its sibling, the T.50s Niki Lauda goes into production in 2023.

SEE ALSO: VW will make the new Golf R the most powerful in the lineup so far

Professor Gordon Murray CBE: The XP2 prototype is currently running at considerably less revs than its 12,100rpm limit, yet the T.50 felt fantastic on my first drive. The car was responsive, agile and rewarding to drive. It was a fantastic experience to be sitting in the centre of the car once again with great all-round visibility and I can see how much the owners will enjoy this experience. Obviously, there’s still a lot of development miles to be completed and many more prototypes to build. But the trajectory of the T.50 development is where we want it to be.

March 16, 2021
VW will make the new Golf R the most powerful in the lineup so far

The new 2022 Volkswagen Golf R will arrive later this year and will offer the best output in the Golf R to date with 315hp and 310 pound-feet of torque. In order to distribute this power more efficiently and get the maximum out of it, engineers have also included a revised 4Motion AWD system with rear-axle torque vectoring.

This new torque vectoring system uses a rear differential with two multi-plate clutches that can distribute up to 100 per cent of the rear torque to an individual rear wheel. This approach ensures that the distributed power is just enough to get the vehicle and drier out of the situation.

Also, for the first time ever, the 4Motion system has been connected to the Vehicle Dynamics Manager, a smart system that integrates the torque vectoring axle, the electronic differential locks and the cornering performance of the DCC adaptive damping system. The Vehicle Dynamics Manager monitors the vehicle’s behaviour on every corner and uses a combination of selected single-wheel braking.

SEE ALSO: ROUSH reveals its new tuning project. It involves an F-150 this time

The torque vectoring technology was also the key function of the new track-only “Drift” mode which changes the stability control parameter and the torque vectoring sends all available rear torque to the outside wheel.

Source: Volkswagen

March 16, 2021