December 14, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
Toyota Debuted The New Prius vehicle In Korea.
With a Latin name, this innovative hybrid has sold over 5.9 million units globally since 1997 and was a major contributor to the rise in popularity of hybrids prior to the introduction of completely electric vehicles. The first comprehensive redesign of the Prius in eight years has resulted in the conventional and plug-in variants.
The plug-in variant obtains 19.4 km/liter, while the normal version’s combined fuel economy is 20.9 km/liter. After a single charge, the plug-in can go up to 64 kilometers on electricity alone.
Because of its lower chassis, which lowers the center of gravity, it offers better driving performance. Its appearance is sleeker than that of the previous model as well.In January, the new Prius went on sale in Japan, where it was just crowned the finest car of the year.
The Latest Creation From The Borgo Panigale Firm Is The Ducati Diavel For Bentley
December 12, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
Ducati and Bentley are working together on a motorbike that honors the finest aspects of both brands for the first time. The Ducati Diavel for Bentley was unveiled at a ceremony held during Art Basel week in Miami Beach, the overseas version of the continent’s most prominent art festival.
This innovative partnership connects the two companies in an exceptional bond of performance, luxury, and craftsmanship.
Ducati Diavel for Bentley – the Borgo Panigale company’s new work of art
Constructed using the technological framework of the Diavel V4, the bike has been endowed with several design cues from the Batur, a limited-edition vehicle that foreshadows next styling trends from Bentley. A limited edition of 500+50 units, with the latter reserved for Bentley clients, will be created in a numbered run.
For this unique motorbike, the Ducati Design Center worked with Bentley designers to produce a fresh design. The Batur served as inspiration for the side view lines. Scarab Green is a stylish and polished hue that is rich in metallic tones and is exclusively available on Bentley Mulliners.
It is utilized throughout the fairing. New technological components have also completely refreshed the strong, aggressive looks of the Diavel V4. Specifically designed for this bike, the forged steel wheels share the same design as the automobile and are coated in the same Dark Titanium Satin, revealing some of the machined surfaces.
New Ducati Diavel for Bentley
The rear triangular pieces are based on the equivalent parts located above the car’s trunk, while the air intake grilles mimic the two-tone radiator grille, which is one of the most identifiable features of the Batur. The tiny fairing is modeled after the windshield portion of the hood, the front mudguard and tank cover mimic the hood ribs, and the single-seat rear—which may be swapped with a passenger seat—replicates the double-layer idea of the car’s rear part.
High-quality carbon fiber is used to make a large number of the superstructure’s parts, including the backing plate, side panels, tail piece, exhaust and radiator guards, headlamp cover, and engine cover.
Inspired by the inside of the vehicle, the driver’s seat’s black Alcantara construction meticulously reveals the red fabric underneath. It has the same feel as the Batur seats and an embroidered Bentley emblem on the back cushion. The bike’s elegant lines have been complemented by the redesign of the twin exhaust, complete with a cover.
The 1,158 cm V4 Granturismo engine, a key component of the Diavel for Bentley’s design, is also a very sophisticated technological option.
It has 168 horsepower and very light and small, yet it has a lot of torque and is smooth and powerful even at low speeds. The exhaust has a distinct sound that is characteristic to the Twin Pulse starting technology and the particular exhaust system.
Toyota Wins The Pioneering & Innovation Award In Autosport
December 6, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
The World Endurance Championship, Formula One, and Formula Two were represented on the Pioneering and Innovation Award shortlist, which was a part of a new B2B component of the Awards created to honor top performers from the larger racing sector.
Alongside Toyota, the other nominees included Lewis Hamilton’s Mission 44, which pioneered the push for greater accessibility and minority representation in motorsport, McLaren Racing, for their creative “circular car” concept and method of recycling carbon composite, and the FIA F2 car, which has new features that encourage greater female participation and set new standards for support categories.
All of the nominated candidates pleased the judges, but Toyota had the upper hand because of its forward-thinking approach to developing racing technology and its conviction in the potential of hydrogen in motorsports. Toyoda has given the project his whole backing, going so far as to frequently drive the prototypes and compete in a 24-hour race at Fuji using a Toyota powered by liquid hydrogen.
“I think the project started my new job in Toyota,” stated Kamui Kobayashi, who collected the honor on behalf of the company. Toyoda and I had a lengthy conversation about it three years prior, and the next day at breakfast, he inquired about taking turns driving the automobile. As soon as we were done, he opened the boot and showed me the large tank, even though it still sounded like a typical combustion engine. I wanted to give racing it a go.
“We announced at Le Mans this year that we want to race the hydrogen in 2026 or 2027, so I hope to race with this car.”
Six judges from the motorsports business cast their votes for the Award, with former Alpine and Aston Martin F1 team principal Otmar Szafnauer serving as the panel’s head. Research guru Nigel Geach, racing consultant and former CEO of FIA WEC Gerard Neveu, former F1 executive Kate Beavan (now with More than Equal), and motorsport sponsorship specialists Matthew Marsh and Melissa Berry were on the panel.
The Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year Award, the Autosport Williams Engineer of the Future Award, the Autosport Gold Medal with the Gregor Grant Award for lifetime legacy, the John Bolster Trophy for technical achievement, the Brand Partnership Award, Moment of the Year, and Promoter of the Year are among the other honors that are determined by knowledgeable judging panels.
November 30, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
The Duke line of bikes from KTM is undoubtedly something worth trying if you’re a fan of naked streetfighters like myself. Although some may not find the ultra-futuristic and cutting design of this brand appealing, there’s no doubting the performance and technology these motorcycles provide. Indeed, KTM has always strived to be at the top of its class, from the little 125 Duke to the fire-breathing 1290 Super Duke R bikes.
Three decades of innovation are embodied in the new KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo.
2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo Side Profile
The 1390 Super Duke R Evo was unveiled by KTM, shocking us into believing that the 1290 Super Duke R line of hypernakeds could not be any better. It’s interesting to note that KTM chose to reveal the 990 Duke at EICMA rather than this bike. It would turn out that this affront to Team Orange fans would only serve to heighten the anticipation for its next flagship hypernaked machine. Put on your helmet and get ready for a ton of wicked wheelies since the new bike is reportedly better, more powerful, and more high-tech than any of its predecessors in every way.
According to KTM, the 1390 Super Duke R Evo, especially in the naked class, is the epitome of sheer power and innovation. The 1390 Super Duke R Evo has a more angular and athletic appearance than the 1290, and one of the most noticeable cosmetic updates is a newly redesigned headlamp. Opinions on said headlamp are bound to differ, however I personally think the split-LED headlight from the prior generation is better. However, I’m sure that with time, this new design will win over many other high-performance naked bike aficionados as well as myself.
2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo – Lean
The 1390 Super Duke R Evo’s whole construction has also been updated to provide a more aggressive look and better performance. With its lightweight construction, compact frame, and reduced profile, the bike maintains a relatively low weight of 467 pounds wet while taking on an aggressive posture. The 1390 Super Duke R Evo, like its predecessor, doesn’t do much to disguise its power. Its huge engine, exposed orange frame, and one-piece subframe are eye-catching features, and even from a distance, its distinctive angular lines and loud orange paint make it easy to spot.
2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo – Wheelie
The 1390 Super Duke R Evo has a ton of performance to offer. To say it is extravagant would actually be a vast understatement. The revised LC8 engine, which has been bored to 1,350cc, powers it. Additionally, an integrated cam shift is included for increased economy and performance. The upgraded V-twin engine, which is fuel-injected and liquid-cooled, produces an incredible 188 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. Moreover, a larger capacity fuel tank that has been modified increases range, while an improved airbox enhances performance.
2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo Parked
Regarding technology, the 1390 Super Duke R Evo represents the pinnacle of KTM’s technological capabilities. Now, Team Orange has never been afraid to include a wide range of technology in its bikes, even entry-level models intended for novices.
Having said that, the 1390 offers almost every performance-focused technological feature you can imagine. Yes, it has traction control, cornering ABS, and different riding modes. Of course, WP offers electrically adjustable suspension as well. Aside from all of this, riders wishing to improve the bike’s already outstanding performance may choose for extra technological enhancements like engine brake control and upgraded suspension modules.
2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo – Parked
As it happens, the polarized headlamp I described before isn’t only decorative. Not only is the new headlight lighter than the old one, but it also has “Smart” features that should increase visibility in low light. The headlamp automatically modifies its brightness based on the surrounding lighting. Since KTM’s second-generation Dukes, a comparable function has always been available, so it will be fascinating to see how much better this is on the new 1390.
PRICE:
A hypernaked of this level will undoubtedly fetch a high price, both in terms of availability and cost. The MSRP of the 2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo is $21,499 USD. I advise getting in contact with your local KTM dealer if you want to order this beast right now or would want to see it in person.
2024 KTM 1390 Super Duke R Evo
It’s important to note that KTM’s 1390 Super Duke was introduced to commemorate 30 years of the Duke brand. As a result, it honors its heritage, as seen by hues that pay respect to the original Super Duke, which made its debut in 2005. Moreover, KTM PowerParts and PowerWear may be used to customize the 1390 Super Duke R Evo.
The “Impressive” Lamborghini LMDh Test Form Gives Grosjean Confidence
November 29, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
The Italian sportscar maker Lamborghini, which has never fielded a prototype like the Ligier-chassised SC63 vehicle, is getting ready for the largest program in its history.
However, a few weeks after testing began, the project suffered a significant setback when Bortolotti severely damaged the tub in a vehicle collision at Paul Ricard.
Since then, Lamborghini has managed to put a lot of miles on a new chassis. The vehicle has successfully completed two comprehensive testing in Spain at Almeria and Jerez, and it is currently being delivered to the US in preparation for the IMSA-sanctioned Daytona race next month.
Among the drivers who tested the SC63 LMDh since testing commenced in Spain was Grosjean, who was pleasantly pleased by how well it performed and how few serious technical problems it encountered, particularly with the standard electrical hybrid system. “The testing went really, really well; it was very impressive with how smoothly it went,” the Frenchman said to Autosport.
Being a year later [than the opposition], we haven’t experienced any problems with the hybrid – praise be – and it’s been a pleasant surprise for all of us that a new automobile has been operating so smoothly. I’m hoping the upcoming exams go as smoothly as the previous one!
“That should give us a good idea of where we are,” the manufacturer said, referring to their participation in the group test at Daytona on December 6 and 7.
Similar to Alpine, Lamborghini signed off on the initiative in the summer of 2022, thus it is also joining the LMDh ranks a year later than its competitors.
Six weeks before the vehicle’s first comprehensive test at Paul Ricard, in July of this year, the SC63 was formally unveiled to the public.
Considering the little lead time Lamborghini had to work with, Bortolotti expressed his admiration for the program’s current status and his desire to assist in furthering the car’s development in the US before its competitive debut in Qatar in March of next year.
The Italian informed Autosport that “everything is going according to plan.”
“I’m looking forward to an intense test phase in the coming weeks till the end of the year to prepare for the upcoming season. European test sessions are now complete, and we will move to America in the coming weeks to continue the development.”
“I have to admit that the job we have already completed has pleased me. Thus, the automobile demonstrated its dependability early on in the testing process.
“It’s evident that during the development period, things don’t always go as planned, but I must admit that we were able to go a great distance throughout Europe, which makes me extremely happy and also provides us with an opportunity to work with and learn more about the automobile.
“I have to admit that, given the situation right now, I’m really pleased with how things turned out.”
With the exception of the Daytona 24 Hours curtain-raiser in January, Lamborghini will field a single car in both the WEC and IMSA endurance races during its inaugural year in the prototype categories.
It is anticipated that a second SC63 would compete in the Le Mans 24 Hours in June alongside the WEC entry for the entire season.
Along with Daniil Kvyat and Andrea Caldarelli, Grosjean, who will be racing for the WEC team at Le Mans, and Bortolotti are the other two factory drivers enrolled in the program.
Edoardo Mortara is being considered for the last spot on Lamborghini’s six-person LMDh lineup, with current Porsche-contracted driver Matteo Cairoli in the driver’s seat.
First Images Of Marc Marquez Riding Ducati MotoGP Bike Revealed
November 29, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
After moving up from Moto2 as the championship winner, the eight-time world champion made his MotoGP debut in the Valencia test in 2012 with the official Honda squad.
Between 2013 and 2019, he won six world titles and 59 grand prix during his 11-season tenure with Honda.
Marc Marquez, Gresini Racing MotoGP
After suffering a severe break to his right arm at the 2020 Spanish Grand Prix, Marquez has found it difficult to regain his form. This has been the result of the Honda’s lack of competitiveness as well as a protracted recuperation period and several surgeries.
This reached a low point in 2023 when Marquez finished on the podium in only one grand prix out of 20 rounds and broke his own season record for accidents with 29—five of which occurred during a German Grand Prix weekend that cast considerable question on his future with Honda.
He agreed with Gresini to ride a year-old Ducati for 2024 after telling Honda that he would be ending his contract a year early following the Japanese Grand Prix.
Even though Marquez was still bound by contract till the end of the year, Honda gave him permission to ride the Ducati during the post-season test in Valencia on November 28.
He was seen on the track on Tuesday morning riding a blacked-out Gresini Ducati, which is believed to be the same bike that Johann Zarco raced at Pramac this season.
Due to his Honda contract, Marquez will not talk with the media following the test on Tuesday.
Frankie Carchedi, who worked with Fabio Di Giannantonio in 2023 and with Joan Mir at Suzuki from 2019 to 2022, will be his new crew chief. He will be leaving behind the majority of his Honda crew and bringing just tire technician Javi Ortiz to Gresini.
In addition, Luca Marini, who will take over Marquez’s technical crew, will be making his Honda debut on Tuesday in Valencia.
Zarco will ride a Honda for the first time since the 2019 Valencia GP with LCR, while Franco Morbidelli will ride a Pramac Ducati in place of the factory Yamaha.
On the Yamaha, Alex Rins will be riding for the first time, while on the Tech3 GasGas, Pedro Acosta will be making his public MotoGP debut. VR46 will be Di Giannantonio’s ride on the circuit.
The MotoGP Bike Number Of Pedro Acosta Was Revealed
November 28, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
Pedro Acosta, driving for GasGas Tech3, will compete in the MotoGP World Championship for the first time in 2024. He advances to the premier class after winning the Moto2 championship, but he won’t be able to ride with his regular bike number.
Like in Moto2, the Spanish rider is unable to wear #37 since Augusto Fernández has already selected it and is the paddock senior. Acosta chose #51 in 2022, but it is likewise not accessible since Michele Pirro, Ducati’s test rider, uses it.
Pedro Acosta KTM
The Moto2 and Moto3 World Champion was forced to choose a number—#31—that he had never worn in the paddock as a result. As of right moment, no details are available on the rationale behind this decision or whether it has any particular meaning.
5 Minutes Of Charge & Gain 89 Miles Of Range With A Strong Lotus EV Charger
November 28, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
In 20 Minutes, The 450 kW DC Charger Recharges The Battery From 10 To 80 Percent
Lotus Flash Charger all-in-one, liquid-cooled DC charger
Since the Emira is essentially the final ICE model made in Norfolk, Lotus is bidding adieu to internal combustion engines with this sports vehicle. The brand, which is owned by Geely, has promised to transition entirely to electric vehicles by 2028.
To that end, it has already introduced the Eletre SUV and Emeya sedan. A sports vehicle with no emissions is also in the works, as is a smaller crossover. The British company is launching a variety of charging options to complement its expanding line of electric vehicles.
Lotus has created a liquid-cooled DC charger that can charge a battery at 450 kW in an effort to alleviate charging anxiety.
Lotus Flash Charge liquid-cooled power cabinet
With the charging cord put in, you can restore 88.5 miles (142 kilometers) of range in only around five minutes for the Eletre R. To put that in perspective, a Hyundai Ioniq 5 recharges the battery for 62 miles (100 kilometers) in the same amount of time as a Tesla Supercharger V3, which refills the battery for 75 miles (120 kilometers).
When charging at 450 kW, the liquid-cooled DC charger allows the Eletre R to move from 10 to 80 percent in 20 minutes. It will increase range by 74 miles (120 kilometers) at 350 kW in five minutes. This robust charger is matched with a liquid-cooled power cabinet that is perfect for rest stops along roads. Additionally, Lotus designed a charging station that can simultaneously accommodate up to four electric vehicles.
In the second quarter of 2024, these incredibly potent charging options—which are now operational in China—will be deployed throughout Europe and the Middle East. In due future, other nations outside of these zones will be included.
Lotus Flash Charge liquid-cooled charging unit
Lotus is a subsidiary of the Geely conglomerate, which also includes Polestar in its business group. We are bringing this up since Polestar and StoreDot are developing an even quicker charging option.
Working together, the two are developing a technique that can increase range by 100 miles (161 kilometers) in only five minutes. The technology, called extreme fast charging (XFC), is still under testing, but according to the developers, it won’t deteriorate batteries.
NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Unveiled The Updated Camry XSE
November 28, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
A brand-new Camry XSE vehicle from Toyota was presented; it will compete in the 2024 NASCAR Cup season. The Toyota Camry TRD Next Gen, which finished the past two competitive seasons with 18 wins and 25 poles, is followed by the Camry XSE Next Gen.
2024 NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Camry XSE Front View
Based on the seventh-generation Mustang, the “Dark Horse,” Ford Performance presented a new version of the Mustang earlier this month that will compete in the Cup starting in the next season.
Calty Design and Toyota Racing Development collaborated to make sure the body style elements closely resembled the newly revealed 2025 Toyota Camry XSE.
A unique hammerhead design on the front fascia with an upper grille slot integrated into the redesigned sleek and broad headlamps is one of the new characteristics of the Toyota XSE. C-shaped corner vents are also located on the exterior of the wider lower grille area, and the hood has new character lines and hood duct outlets. The car’s rear fascia has chamfered bumper corners on the back of the corner panels that merge into the rear bumper in addition to updated quarter panel style.
2024 NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Camry XSE Side View
The revised, slimmer rear lights and these characteristics offer the 2019 Camry racing car a more contoured look.
“As demonstrated by the new street-based Toyota Camry, Toyota’s attention to detail will be aptly displayed in the 2024 Camry XSE racing vehicle. Paul Doleshal, general manager of motorsports for Toyota Motor North America, stated, “We are thrilled to take this car to the track and continue to achieve success with it for years to come.
“We thank everyone at TRD and Calty Design for their efforts in creating a premier vehicle for our team partners to compete for wins and championships. The amount of work that went into the production of this car cannot be overstated.”
With the Camry in the NCS, the GR Supra in the Xfinity Series, and the Tundra TRD Pro in the Trucks division, Toyota is still the only manufacturer in NASCAR to have three nameplates on display throughout the three national series.
2024 NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Camry XSE Back View
Toyota has won 180 Cup races, three championships, 201 Xfinity victories, and four series crowns since entering both Cup and Xfinity in 2007. Toyota has won 228 races and nine truck championships since entering the truck market in 2004.
Toyota’s dedication to ongoing development both on and off the racetrack is the cornerstone of our company’s involvement with NASCAR. According to David Wilson, president of TRD, “Our Camry XSE race car embodies that motto and faithfully captures the essential design elements of the all-new production Toyota Camry.”
2024 NASCAR Cup Series Toyota Camry XSE
“We look forward to working closely with our race team partners to optimize the performance of the newly designed Camry race car as we get ready for the 2024 season. That way, we can carry on our tradition of setting lap records, winning races, and going for championships while driving a Camry.”
The yearly preseason Clash demonstration, which will once again take place on a quarter-mile asphalt track inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, will mark the first race for the Camry XSE in February.
Honda Appoints Marini To Replace Marquez In The MotoGP
November 27, 2023 / By Zunair Tahir / Automotive News
After 11 years together that have produced 59 wins and six world titles, Marquez confirmed in October that he will be departing Honda at the conclusion of the 2023 season to join Gresini Ducati.
When Honda insisted on giving Marquez a one-year contract in order to retain its options open until 2025, Miguel Oliveira was initially touted as the front-runner to replace Marquez. However, this didn’t work out.
Following Marquez’s defeat in the Gresini Ducati ride, Fabio Di Giannantonio emerged as the next contender.
Honda team manager Alberto Puig said during the Malaysian Grand Prix that the company was considering three candidates: Di Giannantonio, Marini, and Pol Espargaro.
While Marini was the clear favorite, Espargaro, who rode for Honda in 2021 and 2022, swiftly decided to stay with KTM as a test rider the following year. Honda has made Marini an intriguing two-year offer to join its factory squad for 2024, joining Joan Mir the following season, notwithstanding its original approach.
With support from VR46, Marini made his MotoGP debut in 2021 with the Avintia team. In 2022, VR46 completely transitioned to the premier class with Marini and Marco Bezzecchi.
Before the Honda option surfaced, Marini, who finished on the podium in two Grand Prix in 2023, had already re-signed to stay with VR46 for a further season in 2024.
A Honda statement said, “Honda Racing Corporation is pleased to announce the signing of Luca Marini for the 2024 and 2025 MotoGP World Championship seasons.”
After placing second in the 2020 Moto2 World Championship and winning six races and fifteen podiums, the 26-year-old entered the elite class in 2021.
“Since entering the top division, Marini has placed second in two grand prix, claimed two pole positions, and finished fourth in four sprint races in 2023. He will sign a two-year contract to join Joan Mir on the factory team.
Tuesday’s post-season Valencia test, where Marc Marquez will also make his debut on a Ducati, will give Marini his first taste of the Honda.
Twenty years after Rossi’s final race for HRC, Marini’s signing with the factory Honda squad brings the Japanese manufacturer back into Rossi’s orbit.
Between 2001 and 2003, Rossi won three of his seven premier class titles with Honda. In 2004, he left to join Yamaha.
Given that Di Giannantonio hinted at taking Marini’s spot on the VR46 squad during the Valencia Grand Prix weekend, it is now widely anticipated that he will do so next season.
Before the Italian won his maiden grand prix at Losail, VR46 team director Uccio Salucci stated during the Qatar weekend that Di Giannantonio wasn’t really a viable choice for 2024.
