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Category: Car

Desmo450 MX: Ducati’s Impressive Entry into Motocross Racing

The Ducati Desmo450 MX made its inaugural appearance in the Italian Motocross Prestige Championship last weekend. Spearheaded by former MXGP World Championship rider Alessandro Lupino, the Desmo450 MX immediately showcased its potential. Ducati is renowned for its superbikes and it stepped into the world of competitive motocross for the first time over the weekend. It has marked a significant debut in the sport.

Lupino is considered as a seasoned rider and winner of the 2021 Motocross of Nations with Team Italy. He has impressed everyone by securing pole position in the MX1-class on Saturday. He continued to demonstrate the capabilities of the Desmo450 MX by clinching victory in its first-ever competitive motocross race during the first moto on Sunday.

Despite a challenging start in the second moto, Lupino’s efforts earned him a commendable second overall position with consistent performances of 1-7 finishes throughout the day. The overall victory went to Isak Gifting, who transitioned to 450s this year after a successful stint in the MX2 World Championship. Riding a Yamaha YZ450F, Gifting showcased resilience by finishing sixth in the first moto despite a crash at the start, before claiming victory in the second race.

The race unfolded at the Circuito Internazionale Motocross Citta di Mantova, the same venue that hosted the prestigious 2021 Motocross of Nations. While Lupino narrowly missed out on the overall victory, the Desmo450 MX proved its mettle as a competitive motorcycle right from its debut. The Desmo450 MX demonstrated promising potential even in its maiden outing.

Ducati is committed to further showcasing the capabilities of the Desmo450 MX and Lupino throughout the remainder of this year’s Italian Championship. Anticipation is high for the anticipated debut of both the make and model in the MXGP World Championship in 2025.

March 19, 2024
EVs: Towards Equitable and Sustainable Transportation Solutions

Tech companies believe that electric vehicles (EVs) are the solution to climate change, but author Paris Marx disagrees. Transportation is crucial in the fight against climate change. Governments encourage people to buy cleaner EVs to reduce the environmental impact of travel. Car manufacturers are promoting new electric models to attract customers.

Marx argues that the focus on technology is misguided. Transportation shapes our cities and affects our daily lives. EVs emit fewer emissions than traditional cars, but they still have a carbon footprint due to the minerals used in their batteries.

Mining for these minerals in the global south has severe environmental and health consequences. Marx believes change should be fair and benefit society as a whole. Improving transportation should consider equity and not just benefit the wealthy.

We must understand that transforming mobility is just one part of necessary changes for a better future. Marx argues that the focus on technology is misguided. Transportation shapes our cities and affects our daily lives. EVs emit fewer emissions than traditional cars, but they still have a carbon footprint due to the minerals used in their batteries.

Mining for these minerals in the global south has severe environmental and health consequences. Marx believes change should be fair and benefit society as a whole. Improving transportation should consider equity and not just benefit the wealthy. People must understand that transforming mobility is just one part of necessary changes for a better future.

March 9, 2024
2024 Nissan Leaf: Affordable Electric Car with Very Good Price

Nissan is making its electric car called 2024 Nissan Leaf and the car is more affordable. Now, you can buy this compact electric hatchback for less than $26,000 thanks to a federal tax credit. The starting price for the 2024 Nissan Leaf was $29,280, but with the tax credit, it can now cost under $26,000. This makes it the cheapest new electric vehicle (EV) in the United States.

To get the discount, you must buy a 2024 Nissan Leaf built after March 6 and meet certain requirements set by the Inflation Reduction Act. Previously, the Leaf was only eligible for half of the $7,500 federal tax credit, but now it’s back to the full amount. This makes it one of only 10 electric 2024 models in the U.S. eligible for any federal credit, and one of seven that can get the full $7,500 credit.

With the tax credit applied, a new 2024 Nissan Leaf can cost as little as $25,530. This is much cheaper than other electric cars like the 2024 Mini Cooper SE, which starts at $31,895 but isn’t eligible for federal tax credits. Other electric cars like the Chevy Bolt EV and EUV are no longer available, so there’s not much competition for the Leaf.

The next cheapest new EV after the Mini is the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, which starts at $34,050 but doesn’t qualify for federal incentives. The new Fiat 500e is also an option, priced at $34,095, but its tax-credit eligibility is unknown. The Tesla Model 3, starting at $41,000, is only eligible for the federal tax credit if you buy the more expensive Performance model, which costs around $55,000. The 2024 Nissan Leaf is now even more affordable for those looking to switch to electric vehicles.

March 7, 2024
Project Titan: The Rise and Fall of Apple’s Electric Car Ambitions

Apple’s foray into the electric car market, once shrouded in secrecy and speculation, has now come to a halt, marking the end of a decade-long endeavor that captivated the tech world. Reports from U.S. media outlets on Tuesday revealed that Apple has abandoned its ambitious plans to produce an electric car, signaling a significant shift in its long-term strategy.

According to Bloomberg, Apple’s electric car project, internally known as “Project Titan,” had engaged nearly 2,000 employees over the years, with the goal of developing a fully autonomous vehicle. However, faced with intensifying competition in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, Apple ultimately decided to pull the plug on the project.

The decision to discontinue the car project was reportedly communicated internally on Tuesday, as disclosed by sources cited by Bloomberg and The New York Times. Despite investing billions of dollars in the endeavor, Apple has now redirected its focus away from electric cars towards generative artificial intelligence (AI) projects, according to reports.

The demise of Apple’s electric car ambitions comes after years of speculation and anticipation surrounding the company’s secretive efforts in the automotive industry. While Apple never publicly confirmed its EV plans, media leaks and occasional glimpses into the project fueled speculation about its progress and objectives.

In recent years, Apple’s electric car project encountered numerous challenges and setbacks, including the departure of key executives and internal disagreements over the project’s direction. The difficulties faced by the project were highlighted in a report by The Information in 2022, shedding light on the internal turmoil and lack of support from leadership.

Apple’s decision to shift its focus from electric cars to AI reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies are increasingly investing in artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. With the transfer of employees from the car division to AI projects, Apple aims to accelerate its efforts in developing innovative AI solutions.

Generative AI, a field propelled by advancements like ChatGPT from OpenAI, enables the creation of text, images, and other content through natural language requests. By harnessing the power of AI, Apple seeks to enhance its ecosystem and deliver cutting-edge experiences to users.

While the end of Apple’s electric car project may disappoint some observers, analysts see it as a strategic pivot towards AI, a technology with vast potential for innovation and growth. Dan Ives from Wedbush commented on the shift, noting both the disappointment over the abandoned car project and the optimism surrounding Apple’s renewed focus on AI.

March 2, 2024
The Rise of Car Washes: What’s Driving the Boom?

Car washes are becoming increasingly common across the United States, fueled by investments and a shift to subscription-based models. This surge has led to concerns in some communities about over saturation. For instance, in Streetsboro, Ohio, where cars are a significant part of the local landscape, Mayor Glenn Broska has received complaints from residents about the abundance of car washes. The town enacted a moratorium on new car wash businesses in response to these concerns.

Similar saturation bans have been implemented in other cities, including Stow and Parma in northeast Ohio, as well as in Buffalo, New York. Even places like New Jersey, Louisiana, and Alaska are experiencing their own car wash booms as national chains expand.

However, despite the pushback from some communities, investors see the car wash industry as a lucrative opportunity. With an estimated $14 billion market size and approximately 60,000 locations across the country, the sector has been growing at around 5% annually.

This growth is attributed to several factors, including a shift away from DIY car care habits and an increasing preference for professional car wash services. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic did not significantly impact car wash usage, indicating the industry’s resilience.

Investment groups have been actively acquiring or building new sites, with over $750 million invested in expansion plans in recent years. This surge in investment reflects optimism about the industry’s scalability and potential for high returns.

One key innovation driving the growth of the car wash industry is the adoption of membership and subscription-based models. Chains like Mister Car Wash offer monthly membership plans that provide customers with unlimited washes for a flat fee. This subscription-based approach has proven to be profitable, as it encourages frequent usage and generates recurring revenue.

Moreover, advancements in technology and automation have transformed the car wash business, making it more efficient and cost-effective. Automated payment kiosks and express exterior models have become increasingly popular, allowing owners to reduce labor costs and streamline operations.

Despite concerns about overbuilding and saturation in some areas, industry experts remain bullish about the long-term prospects of the car wash market. With a growing number of consumers opting for professional car wash services and the potential for international expansion, the future looks bright for the car wash industry.

February 25, 2024
Force Gurkha 5-Door: What to Expect from the Latest Off-Road Beast

The new -door is getting ready to hit the roads soon, as seen in the latest spy shots. This off-roader is expected to have a diesel engine like its 3-door counterpart, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Testing for the 5-door Gurkha started in early 2022, and now it’s getting closer to launch. One big change from the 3-door model is that it has a longer wheelbase and two extra doors, making it more spacious. The car is likely to come with circular projector headlights, a snorkel for better water wading capability, and stylish 18-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the cabin will have a dark grey color theme and various seating options, including bench and captain seats across three rows. Features in the cabin might include a 7-inch touchscreen, manual air conditioning, and power windows. The 4-wheel-drive system will have a rotary controller for easy switching between modes.

We expect the Force Gurkha 5-door to hit the market later in 2024, with an estimated starting price of around Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom). With its rugged looks and off-road capabilities, it’s sure to attract adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts.

The highly anticipated Force Gurkha 5-door variant has been making headlines with its frequent sightings during testing. This rugged off-roader is poised to offer enthusiasts a thrilling driving experience, boasting a robust diesel powertrain and a 5-speed manual gearbox.

With its elongated wheelbase and additional set of doors, the 5-door Gurkha promises enhanced space and practicality compared to its 3-door counterpart. Sporting circular projector headlights, a snorkel, and striking 18-inch alloy wheels, it exudes an unmistakable aura of adventure.

February 21, 2024
Aprilia RS-GP 2024 Model: Enhanced Aerodynamics and Great Performance

Aprilia has unveiled its new RS-GP 2024 model with significant advancements in aerodynamics and overall performance. Every aspect of the bike, from the V4 engine to the chassis, has been carefully redesigned and improved upon, while maintaining a strong connection to the successful 2023 base model.

The team will feature experienced riders Aleix Espargaró and Maverick Viñales, along with Miguel Oliveira joining for the new season on an RS-GP24. Additionally, Raúl Fernández will start with a 2023-spec bike before upgrading to the latest version.

Aleix Espargaró expressed his pride in the project’s growth over recent seasons and his confidence in the team’s capabilities for the upcoming season. He emphasized the need for consistency to compete effectively throughout the season.

Maverick Viñales echoed Espargaró’s sentiments, highlighting the high level of competition in MotoGP and the team’s commitment to maximizing their technical package at every opportunity.

Team manager Romano Albesiano emphasized the team’s continuous growth, particularly with the addition of Miguel Oliveira starting on a factory-spec RS-GP. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to be competitive in MotoGP.

The approach to the 2024 season builds upon the strong foundation established in previous years. The RS-GP represents Aprilia’s philosophy of continuous improvement, with innovative aerodynamic concepts and a thorough revision of every detail.

Having three bikes with the same specifications on the track from the start of the season will provide valuable data for further development. The team is poised to analyze and interpret this information to continue their upward trajectory in MotoGP.

February 20, 2024
Retro Full Face Helmet Comparison: Shoei vs DMD vs Biltwell

If you’re in the market for a retro-style helmet to match your classic bike, you’re in luck. Nowadays, there’s a range of full face options from different brands to choose from. We’ve been putting three of these helmets to the test: the Shoei Glamster, DMD Rivale, and Biltwell Inc. Gringo SV.

All three helmets offer a vintage-inspired design that harks back to the 70s and 80s. They boast a minimalist look that complements classic motorcycles perfectly. However, it’s important to note that these helmets have compact shells, which may not suit everyone’s head shape.

In terms of performance, all three helmets provide decent ventilation and noise reduction, but they may not offer the same level of cooling or noise isolation as more performance-oriented helmets. Safety-wise, they all meet Europe’s ECE standards, with the Biltwell Gringo SV also being DOT-certified for the US market.

Starting with the DMD Rivale, it offers a classic look reminiscent of 80s motorsports. Constructed from a fiberglass and carbon kevlar composite shell, it features a comfortable and plush interior with faux leather details. The Rivale’s compact design may feel snug for some riders, but it offers a secure fit straight out of the box. Ventilation is limited to chin vents, and while the Pinlock anti-fog visor insert works well, its positioning may be distracting for some riders.

Moving on to the Shoei Glamster, it boasts a stunning design with various color options. Featuring Shoei’s multi-layered AIM shell and EPS liner, the Glamster offers a premium feel with its synthetic nubuck and leather trim. However, its slim design may sacrifice some comfort for riders with larger heads.

The Biltwell Inc. Gringo SV offers a classic aesthetic with modern features. It’s constructed from an injection-molded ABS outer shell with a removable and washable interior liner. The Gringo SV provides a comfortable fit and easy shield swaps, but its ventilation may not be sufficient for extremely hot days. All three helmets offer a blend of style and functionality suitable for riders seeking a retro look. Riders should consider their head shape and comfort preferences when choosing between these options.

February 19, 2024
Toyota’s Next Frontier: Cars That Run on Water!

Toyota is planning to create a car that can run on water instead of petrol. This could make Toyota the leader in eco-friendly cars, surpassing even Elon Musk’s Tesla. Surprisingly, water, which is currently considered harmful to car engines, will become its fuel.

But how will Toyota achieve this? Well, Toyota has a history of not following trends but creating them. In 1990, when electric cars were not popular, Toyota introduced the world’s first hybrid electric car. Although this innovation set a trend for electric vehicles, Toyota wasn’t completely satisfied.

They found two major problems with electric cars. Firstly, while electric cars are environmentally friendly, the energy used to charge them often comes from coal, natural gas, or diesel, which are major sources of pollution. However, Toyota found a potential solution to this problem: hydrogen gas.

Hydrogen gas, with its small size, can be easily stored in a tank, making it a viable alternative fuel source. Toyota’s engineers demonstrated their skill by designing an engine that can run on water. Instead of dwelling on their past failures, they conducted research on petrol, hydrogen, and electric engines.

The new car will generate hydrogen gas from water, and the vehicle will run on the energy produced from that hydrogen. This innovative approach could revolutionize the automotive industry and set a new standard for eco-friendly transportation.

The concept of using hydrogen gas as a clean energy source is not new, but Toyota’s implementation of it in mainstream vehicles marks a significant milestone. By developing a system that can generate hydrogen gas from water on board the vehicle, Toyota has overcome one of the major hurdles in adopting hydrogen fuel cell technology. This innovative approach demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive industry.

February 17, 2024
2024 Genesis Electrified GV70: A Finalist in Luxury SUVs

The 2024 Genesis Electrified GV70 is a finalist in the world of luxury vehicles. Electric powertrains are a perfect match for luxury cars because they are quiet, strong, and fast. The quietness of the electric powertrain adds an extra touch of luxury to the GV70, making it stand out even more.

The GV70 is already an excellent luxury SUV with its beautiful design, luxurious interior, and advanced multimedia system. It also offers a range of fun colors both inside and out, something that many other luxury SUVs lack.

Genesis has replaced the gasoline powertrain of the GV70 with a 77.4-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack and two 160-kilowatt electric motors, one in the front and one in the rear. This new all-electric powertrain delivers 429 horsepower and 516 pounds-feet of torque, making the Electrified GV70 not only smooth and quiet but also incredibly fast.

Although its range of 236 miles is lower than some competitors, it can recharge quickly on a 350-kW DC fast charger. Despite being heavier than a typical GV70, the Electrified GV70 offers a fantastic driving experience thanks to its adaptive suspension.

Inside, it surpasses anything Tesla has ever made, with a genuinely attractive design and user-friendly equipment that outshines the latest Mercedes-Benz user interface. If you’re in the market for a mid-size electric SUV, the Electrified GV70 is a top choice. However, it may be difficult to find as it’s not yet available in all 50 states.

February 13, 2024