Tag Archives: Automotive

This futuristic dirt bike makes rugged details look less industrial and more eye-catching

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There’s nothing glamorous about an MRI machine. There’s nothing glamorous about a welding machine. There’s nothing glamorous about a bare-basics car chassis. All these details were designed to fulfill non-aesthetic requirements which is why they opt for a more functional visual language instead of something conventionally eye-catching. But designer Enrico Balsamo asked himself – why must industrial detailing look boring? Form follows function, but it also follows emotion, which is why Balsamo decided to take a new approach when designing his dirt bike. The X Tecnica isn’t your average-looking dirt bike – it ditches the overtly rugged, mechanically-defined aesthetic for something that’s a little more glance-worthy. The X Tecnica tries to fulfill the functional needs of an all-terrain two-wheeler without necessarily looking like a hunk of metal and fiberglass. Instead, it exaggerates details wherever possible, creating a bike that looks as attractive as it is capable. The X Tecnica could just as easily grab eyes in a showroom as it could on the terrain.

Designer: Enrico Balsamo

For Balsamo, motorcycle design is a fine line between overdesigning and underdesigning. Bikes today either look like they were designed by engineers with zero aesthetic sensibilities, or like they were designed for Instagram likes only. “In recent years, many motorcycle products have resulted in overdesign and aesthetic complications,” Balsamo says, “X Tecnica is a concept that wants to create the aesthetics of the bike starting from the essential technical components that characterize the bikes Adventure/Enduro, without adding unnecessary components and plastics.”

The X Tecnica’s design is a masterclass in marrying functionality and aesthetics. The frame, sub-frame, crash-bar, and swingarm are all machined from Aluminum, with an edgy aesthetic that doesn’t sacrifice the frame’s load-bearing nature. The frame and sub-frame get a metallic blue paint job that give the bike its electrifying appeal, coupled with the judicious use of metallic orange accents in the suspension springs, windshield, and transparent panels mounted on the front of the crash-bar.

The fuel tank, headlight housing, and frontal mud-flap are crafted from PA6 Nylon that is coated with the same electrifying blue finish, and although Balsamo doesn’t mention the material used in the rear exhausts, chances are it’s either some form of FRP or metal with the same blue color. The seat and a rubber guard around the fuel tank give the X Tecnica a splash of black, creating a rather eye-catching black, silver, metallic blue, and metallic orange palette that helps the bike shine.

The bike’s overall aesthetic perfectly embodies being rugged without looking ‘ugly’. The design DNA of the X Tecnica stands out beautifully in every detail from the headlight to the taillight and everything in between. Plus, let’s not discount that blue and orange colorway which gives us strong Ford GT 40 vibes!

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Genimax HR off-road trailer is versatile enough to wear skis and tow behind a snowmobile

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Tiny off-road trailers have their own charm. They provide a quaint way to live a weekend amid the trees out in the wilderness, where your ATV or an off-roading vehicle can go. This adventurous freedom is cut short for some months of the year when the snow blankets the earth. But with the Genimax HR, the fun is never going to be limited, thanks to its ability to wear skis and ride on snow behind your snowmobile.

Given the core functionality, the Genimax HR – an affordable pop-up roof camper – is developed for around-the-year camping. The lightweight body, made from aluminum and rust-resistant, durable composite materials, renders this 375 lbs (170 kg) trailer camper to go places without a fuss. Measuring some 60 inches in width (48 inches on snow), the camper rides on a high-performance independent suspension, which provides handsome ground clearance to enhance its off-road ability and be the skill to ride smoothly on snow.

Designer: Genimax Trailers

Designed specifically as a “ready-to-camp solution to go on an adventure with his little family,” the HR is the brainchild of Genimax Trailers, which has been in business (developing trailer solutions) since 2017. Besides its lightweight construction, the HR is readied for all seasons of the year with high-resistance polyurethane adhesive sealing up the spaces in the roof and walls.

The versatility of this easy-to-configure wilderness camper becomes manifold when riding behind an ATV on the unbeaten paths and/or behind a snowmobile when the adventure takes you on snow. And when you halt, just 2 sliding, lockable drawers, with a capacity of 200 lbs each, make for your facility. For instance, one of the side drawers of the trailer functions as a kitchen. It features a removable stainless-steel countertop alongside a folding built-in sink provided with a 10L water tank and faucet.

To elevate a family’s stay out in the wild, the Genimax HR can comfortably sleep 2 adults, and a child in the option roof tent. The camper becomes even more versatile with optional accessories and features that allow the residents to make the most of their ride. For instance, you can opt for an 80W rooftop solar panel with adjustable tilt or a retractable awning for the side of the trailer. Without the optional accessories, the base model of the Genimax HR starts at CAD 8,495 (approximately $6,200).

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This Eclipse-themed Outdoor Trailer is perfect for the Wanderlust who wants to live on the road

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The most recent celestial phenomenon – the solar eclipse – has inspired a lot of things including individuals who traveled hundreds of miles to be left spellbound by the sight of a total solar eclipse on April 8. If you missed it for some reason, you won’t get another chance any time before the next predicted total eclipse to happen in August of 2026.

So, before that happens, Taxa Outdoors, the name behind the Mantis travel trailer, has unveiled a solar eclipse-inspired rendition of the Mantis. The upgraded Mantis travel trailer – Dark Sky Mantis – is sleek in design, and follows a dark color scheme to substantiate its name.

Designer: Taxa Outdoors

Taxa Outdoors has been designing travel trailers for outdoor adventures for years, and their expertise and knowledge are squeezed fully into the Mantis. This is why there is no surprise that the company chose this model to pay ode to the once-in-a-lifetime celestial magic. The resulting Dark Sky Mantis is going to be just like the eclipse itself; it is strictly limited promotional built and will be available only between April 8 and 15, 2024.

The limited-edition Dark Sky Mantis, except for the matte black color and certain exterior graphics, is almost the same as the Mantis travel trailer. To that accord, the trailer is designed for the adventures of off-grid living. It is ready to go wherever you want, following the astronomical phenomenon or just for a drive to a location in the wilderness.

The off-road capable Dark Sky Mantis – in addition to the matte back finish and special graphics on the exterior – has off-roading tires to match the dark color theme of the trailer. On the other hand, the eclipse-inspired trailer has increased ground clearance, axle-less suspension and articulating Lock ‘N’ Roll hitch. Like the OG Mantis, this new model also measures 19 feet long, enough to accommodate four adults in a bed that converts to a dining or lounging space, and an additional convertible bunk bed.

The interior space is enhanced by a pop-up roof, while the people opting for the strictly limited trailer will get a well-laid-out kitchen, equipped with a two-burner stove, cooler, and sink, and a functional bathroom. Taxa Outdoors has not named the price of the Dark Sky Mantis, but we can expect it to cost over $45,750, that Mantis fetches.

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Top 10 Sleek & Swift Bicycles Designed For Some Old-School Eco-Friendly Commuting

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We’re in a time and age where people have started living more sustainably and consciously, and this is reflected in their everyday decisions. They’re making changes in their daily lives, consumption, and even means of transportation! People are slowly but surely adopting bicycles as they are eco-friendly alternatives to the pollution-causing automotive, but also they’re an excellent source of exercise. I mean, not only do we get to save the Earth from air pollution, but we can also get some intense cardio done. And, we’ve curated a whole range of innovative designs for you that caught our attention. From a “wheel-less” bicycle to a bicycle with triangle wheels – these impressive bicycles will surely convert you to Team Cycles!

1. The Wheelless Bike

Meet the Wheelless Bike – an innovative and extraordinary innovative by the US-based YouTuber The Q! This mindboggling bicycle literally has NO wheels. Since the bicycle lacks wheels, it has been integrated with rotating elements that help it move forward. It is equipped with two sets of wheel belts that have been mounted at unusual angles, to form fascinating silhouettes. The unique Wheelless Bike is designed to function like a tank, allowing the bike and you to be moved forward by the rotating wheel belts.

2. Firefly MiniVelo Travel Bike

This customized bike is the Firefly MiniVelo travel bike for Ming Thein! It is a titanium bicycle specially tailored for Ming Thein, and designed to fit perfectly into a Rimowa travel case. The bike is custom-made, and it can be easily assembled and disassembled like a puzzle, to fit snugly into a briefcase, and back to ride without a single flinch or issue. It features a lightweight and durable chassis that can be efficiently unfastened into two halves, with the other parts also following suit.

3. The J.Laverick Aston Martin .1R

Meet the J.Laverick Aston Martin .1R – an alluring advanced titanium road bike that is created using a mix of 3D-printed titanium lugs, and sculpted carbon fiber tubes which builds a lightweight yet sturdy bicycle without any kind of exposed bolts on the outer body. According to Aston Martin’s designers, this is the world’s first and is also described as a “titanium hypercar on two wheels”. You can also choose between a saddle or a handlebar type, and currently, the exact pricing of the bicycle isn’t known.

4. Bike With Treads

Sergii Gordieiev aka The Q on YouTube is known for his ingenious and out-of-the-box bicycle designs, and this time he is back with a bicycle with treads instead of wheels! The handlebars, frame, and seat have all been assembled from scratch to accommodate the other not-so-ordinary elements of the custom bike. The body features a lower profile at the rear than the front fork. The handlebar and the cushioned seating are aligned, making the bike comfy to fit on, however, with those treads constantly moving, I wonder how comfy this bike might be.

5. Moccle

Dubbed the Moccle, this rather adorable-looking bicycle with a fun and unique aesthetic, is designed to help you truly enjoy riding. The simple bike isn’t equipped with gears, a dashboard, or even shock absorbers, but it does have a bent-wood frame to absorb shock. The bent plywood frame is fixed in place with the help of a metal fixture, and this frame flexes when pressurized, absorbing any stress from bad rocky terrains or undulating surfaces. The Moccle truly brings back the joy of old-school peddling!

6. Gordieiev’s Bicycle with Square Wheels

Meet another spectacular creation by Sergii Gordieiev – a bicycle with square wheels! This innovative bicycle features wheels that don’t roll, but instead, they move on a conveyor belt-like platform that rotates as you hit your foot on the pedal. The best imagery to understand how it works would be to imagine war tanks moving on their metal tracks without any wheels, except in this case it is a cycle and the wheels are square-shaped!

7. RE:CYCLE

Named RE:CYCLE, this innovative bicycle design is made from recycled aluminum coffee capsules. The aluminum in the coffee capsules has been melted down and then utilized to build this durable, sturdy, and powerful bike. It perfectly merges sustainability and clever design, while maintaining Vélosophy’s iconic and subtle design philosophy and language. It features a lovely purple frame that draws inspiration from Arpeggio – the famous Nespresso coffee, while the bell looks like a coffee capsule!

8. Wing Cycle

Named the Wing Cycle, this beautiful roadster bike is inspired by avians! It doesn’t go for the traditional diamond shape and instead adopts a form inspired by a bird wing. The bike includes a cable wire design that supports the seat, and the cable rope system can be easily adjusted to change the positioning of the seat for diverse riding moods. It features a material palette of chrome, leather, and wood, creating a sleek and skeletal bicycle that grabs attention.

9. Infinity All-Wheel Drive Bicycle

Stephan Henrich designed an innovative and uniquely shaped bicycle called the Infinity All-Wheel Drive Bicycle. It is one of the most out-of-the-box automotive designs I’ve seen in a while, and it moves forward with the help of a monotyre-clip chain system that creates a temporary rim in the wheel sections as well as a dental belt drive in the interior groove. The unique bicycle sets into motion using a short chain, and an 8-speed gearbox which is unlike anything we’ve seen before.

10. Bicycle With Triangle Wheels

Designed by the Q, this mind-boggling bicycle is equipped with triangle-shaped wheels. It is a cleverly designed bicycle that moves in a linear form, creating adjacent lines between each of the rollers, and the flat surface it is riding on. This allows the triangular wheels to overcome their limitations, and roll quite comfortably without any hurdles. The triangle-shaped wheels are truly far more comfortable than you can imagine, and also so fun to ride!

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65 Mile Range and a 500W Motor make this E-Bike Perfect for roads and rough terrain alike

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Even without bringing the economy up, needing to own two sets of e-bikes just sounds like a silly idea. Most urban commute bikes can’t endure off-road adventures, and rugged terrain-ready e-bikes aren’t really meant for lightweight long-range last-mile commutes. If you’re going to design an e-bike, the holy grail is to make one that serves both those needs perfectly. The perfect e-bike needs to have a powerful motor, a durable design, a lightweight build, adaptable riding modes, and a range that serves longer journeys well. The Elixe eBike hopes to embody that definition of perfection – with a rugged 6061 aluminum frame that weighs a mere 42 pounds, punctureless tires, a 500W motor coupled with a torque sensor, 5 riding modes, and a range of 65 miles with a top speed of 28mph, the Elixe is quite the contender for the ideal all-purpose e-bike. Oh, and it has a removable battery, a smartphone app, and anti-theft features.

Designers: J Goyal, Frank Butcher and Sashi K

Click Here to Buy Now: $679 $1699 (60% off). Hurry, exclusive deal for YD readers only! Raised over $161,000.

The heart of the Elixe experience is its robust frame. Constructed from lightweight yet robust 6061 aluminum alloy, the frame prioritizes rider comfort with a strategically placed seat and upright handlebars that promote a relaxed posture, minimizing strain on joints for extended journeys. This ergonomic design is seamlessly integrated with advanced technology, creating an unparalleled level of freedom and ease on two wheels. The frame’s impressive 42 lbs weight keeps the overall eBike maneuverable, while the sturdy construction ensures it can handle any adventure, from city streets to rugged trails.

Elixe’s Five Dynamic Pedal Assist Modes

The frame features an integrated removable 14Ah battery that sits flush inside the e-bike’s main pillar. Made from EV-grade Samsung cells, the battery gives the Elixe a range of 65 miles, delivering power to the 500W rear-wheel Bafang motor (EU riders get a 250W motor as required by EU guidelines). Riders can personalize their experience with Elixe’s five distinct pedal-assist modes. Glide effortlessly through cityscapes or conquer demanding terrains – the perfect level of assistance awaits to match any rhythm and riding style. Elixe also offers an intuitive throttle mode for effortless power on demand. With a simple twist, you can get a quick boost on inclines or navigate busy streets without the constant pedaling. An integrated torque sensor detects the force applied to the pedals, seamlessly adjusting motor output for a natural and responsive ride. Whether you’re cruising effortlessly or tackling a steep incline, the torque sensor ensures a perfect balance of power and effort, making every ride feel smooth and enjoyable.

Swap-and-Go: The Removable Battery

Mastering Terrain with Elixe’s Front Fork Suspension

Elixe’s Puncture-Protected Tires Ensure A Safe Journey

The puncture-proof tires are just a clever feature that sets the Elixe apart. Most e-bike riders have range anxiety… but a flat tire is just something nobody looks forward to. Ensuring that your e-bike doesn’t give up on you in the middle of a ride makes the Elixe feel much more reliable as you ride it, knowing that the e-bike can absolutely handle anything you throw at it. Meanwhile, the hydraulic front fork suspension absorbs bumps and jolts with ease, providing a smooth ride across any landscape. This advanced suspension system enhances handling and stability, allowing riders to navigate even the roughest terrains with confidence and control.

Instant Power with Elixe’s Throttle Mode

Ride Easy with Torque Sensor

A sleek and intuitive dashboard displays key metrics like speed, battery life, and distance traveled, allowing riders to stay informed and plan their journeys effectively. Like any good e-bike, it also comes with anti-theft features that prevent the e-bike from being stolen or towed away without your knowledge. The frame is embedded with a GPS tracker, accessible through the Elixe smartphone app. This app not only tracks the eBike’s location in real time but also sends instant alerts for suspicious activity. Additionally, the app allows riders to remotely lock the motor, deterring potential theft. The Elixe app goes beyond security; it enhances the entire riding experience. Riders can utilize the app to effortlessly track trips, analyze metrics like calories burned, and set fitness goals. The app also allows for remote customization of pedal-assist modes and access to a variety of additional features designed to maximize enjoyment and performance. With the Elixe app, every ride becomes a connected, informative, and secure experience.

Available in two styles – a step-thru frame for shorter riders, and a step-over frame for taller patrons, the Elixe offers 5 color variants to choose from. The 250W motor variant ships globally (although it’s specifically designed for the EU market) and is priced at $679, while the US-only 500W motor version is priced at $849. For the price, you get the e-bike, a charger for the battery (which takes 2.5 hours to charge fully), a kickstand, a toolkit, and a 3-year warranty. You can add more accessories to your pledge like an extra battery, a fast charger, a rear rack, a front basket, a tire inflator, or if you’re feeling very experimental, a cargo trailer!

Click Here to Buy Now: $679 $1699 (60% off). Hurry, exclusive deal for YD readers only! Raised over $161,000.

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Top 10 Automotive-Inspired LEGO Builds That Will Have Automobile + LEGO Aficionados Drooling

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Building LEGOs was something I loved as a child. I could spend hours putting together intricate and mesmerizing LEGO builds, that did have the potential to fall apart in mere seconds. However, LEGO is no longer simply considered child’s play. Masterbuilders and creators spend days and weeks building precise and astounding LEGO creations that will truly blow your mind away. And, this collection of LEGO designs is dedicated to automotives! We’ve put together a collection of exquisite and finely detailed LEGO builds inspired by cars and bikes. These creations will have motorcar aficionados drooling at the mouth!

1. LEGO Yamaha MT-10 SP

This LEGO Yamaha MT-10 SP is put together with the same attention to detail as all Technic creations usually possess. As you put it together, piece by piece, you are overcome by an extreme sense of satisfaction. It is equipped with realistic function and movement of a chain drive, 3-speed transmission, 4-cylinder engine, working steering, as well as front and rear suspension. These little features are like a cherry on the icing, adding more realism to an already excellent LEGO build.

2. LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set

This LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set is the latest addition to LEGO Technic’s collection of motorsports replicas. It is a 1/8 scale model that you can build piece by piece using the 1642 individual LEGO bricks, in turn creating a LEGO build that is 13 cm tall, 63 cm long, and 26 cm wide. It has a stark black color, to ensure the carbon parts don’t get painted, which in turn reduces that tiny amount of weight. The exquisite F1 car is crafted with extreme attention to detail.

3. LEGO Batmobile

TaeYang Lee designed a Batmobile inspired by the movie’s insane rollercoaster plot! He discovered Mecabricks, a LEGO modeling tool, and used it to create this super cool build. Much like the on-screen Batmobile, this mesmerizing creation is also set in a dark gloomy world, which adds layers of depth and darkness to the automotive’s sinister character. It features a matte black color, toughened wheel rims, and a reinforced bumper build for the kill.

4. 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons Set

This adorable little 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons set pays tribute to the first-ever Vette which rolled out on June 30, 1953. It has a beautiful build accentuated with a bright red exterior, which perfectly displays the original key details of the real version. These little details include the hard or open-top configuration, opening hood, and the truck that accommodates the V8 engine replica with a spinning radiator fan.

5. LEGO McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna

LEGO Speed Champions and Technic lineup added a LEGO build in the form of the McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna in a beautiful tribute to Ayrton Senna – an undisputed legend of motor racing. This wonderful set includes 693 pieces, and it features a Senna minifigure on a podium, holding the winner’s trophy with a plate engraved with the photo and quote, with the Mclaren next to him in power mode.

6. LEGO Back To The Future Time Machine

The LEGO Back to the Future Time Machine is improved, detailed, and better than ever! The jazzed-up build features a Flux Capacitor light brick, gull-wing doors, and printed dashboard dates. You can add the different equipment from the different parts of the movie – including the lightning rod from the first film, and the hood-mounted circuit from Part III.

7. LEGO Peugeot 9X8

LEGO builder Brick-A-Brac paid tribute to Peugeot’s 9X8, and returned to the FIA World Endurance Championship with his own LEGO build of the 9X8 supercar. The creation is made from 1320 parts, and it measures 20 inches long. It features an extraordinary amount of detail, including all the branded graphics on the car’s body. The build features a sleek design, impressive size, and immense attention to detail, making it a rare GEM that LEGO + car enthusiasts will love!

8. LEGO FedEx Iconic Truck

LEGO fan David Clavijo designed FedEx’s iconic truck using LEGO bricks in celebration of FedEx’s 50th anniversary. The company boasts an inspiring workforce of over 500,000 employees, a fleet of 700+ aircraft, and 200,000 vehicles. This unique build pays tribute to the company! The truck is covered in white, with the FedEx logo on the front, and the side. It even features a diamond-shaped DOT hazardous chemicals flip sign on the front.

9. LEGO McLaren F1 Car

This LEGO replica of the 2021 season Formula-1 car is truly jaw-dropping! It is nine times the size of the collectible LEGO version which was a massive hit. But, the 1:1 LEGO variant is at a completely different level altogether. A lot of time and effort was put into creating, precisely 1893 man-hours of putting together 288,135 LEGO bricks, to build this 5.7-meter-long, 2.4-meter-wide structure.

10. The LEGO M 1000 RR

This LEGO interpretation of the M 1000 RR measures under 18 inches long and is 10 inches tall. It is made using 1920 individual LEGO pieces, which makes it a satisfying exercise of putting it together! It is one of the largest ever bike sets, and it is a must-have for model building and bike aficionados since the realism is mirrored. It features functional intricate components, including the 4 piston engine, a three-speed gearbox, an upside fork with the rear swingarm suspension, and the dashboard with the three display options.

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Could a Luxury Car Brand like Audi get into Fitness Equipment?

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Luxury car brands don’t sell transportation… they sell a lifestyle, so what if you carried that idea to any other category? Designer Qingsheng Meng asked themself the same question, wondering what would happen if you took a luxury car brand like Audi’s DNA and applied it to another category, for example, exercise equipment. Sure, it sounds odd on the face of it, but Bose makes speakers and truck seats. Yamaha makes motorcycles and pianos… so why couldn’t Audi make a stationary exercise bike? After all, the company already builds electric bicycles, so the transition seems like a natural one. Meet the Audi Smart Spinning Bike, an exercise bike built with Audi’s luxury automotive DNA. After all, luxury car brands sell a lifestyle – why not a healthy one?

Designer: Qingsheng Meng

The Audi Smart Spinning Bike concept carries the company’s automotive aesthetic to home workout equipment. This translates to clean surfaces, chiseled forms, a forward-leaning stance that indicates speed, and a gorgeous matte black and silver colorway that adds to the bike’s appeal. “Different from traditional spinning bikes, this product intelligentizes traditional spinning bikes,” says Meng, the China-based designer responsible for the Audi Smart Spinning Bike concept. “At the same time, it uses simple styling techniques to draw lessons from Audi’s design language, emphasizing Audi’s intelligent and simple brand attributes, and is in line with the market.”

The spin-bike is different from Peloton or any of the other stationary bikes you’d otherwise see. It looks different, feels much more advanced, and comes with features that set it in a class apart. The bike sports an adjustable frame, that lets you manipulate the seat distance, height, or even handlebar heights with the simple push of a button. A dashboard gives you a comprehensive breakdown of your workout, and the energy that you put into the exercise doesn’t go to waste. It charges the e-bike as well as a detachable power bank that sits underneath the dashboard, giving you actual battery power that you can then use to charge your smartphone or other devices around the house.

The handlebars facilitate a sturdy grip while cycling, and a touchscreen LCD dashboard lets you brows through your workout stats, giving you a comprehensive breakdown of how long you cycled, how many calories you burned, your cadence, cardio, etc. The dashboard also lets you choose difficulty settings before each workout. Meanwhile, your exercise doesn’t go in vain – the muscular energy you exert during cycling gets converted into kinetic energy, which then gets stored as electrical energy in a battery pack attached to the base of the handlebars.

With the ability to hold as many as two battery packs, the Audi Smart Spinning Bike gives you impetus to exercise, also allowing you to measure your workout in a unique way. You can compare a single exercise session to literal milli-amp hours, understanding how much physical exertion you’d need to charge your entire smartphone from 0 to 100! Sounds fun, doesn’t it??

It’s precisely that fun that helps the Audi Smart Spinning Bike stand apart from other stationery bikes, that just provide you with ‘exercise’. Quite like how Audi cars are fun to ride and immerse you in the luxurious thrill of style and speed, the spin bike helps elevate your workout to another level, giving you the kind of workout you could only experience from a state-of-the-art bike designed by one of the world’s leading automotive marques!

The post Could a Luxury Car Brand like Audi get into Fitness Equipment? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Cubicle-like urban car concept envisions commuting havens of the future

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Everyone travels, whether alone or with others, for work, school, or even leisure. Not everyone, however, enjoys traveling in the same way, especially those who prefer some quiet, solitary time during commutes. Unfortunately, most of the self-driving vehicle concepts seem to focus on turning cars into social spaces, practically removing boundaries between passengers. That’s probably fine for families and friends on their way to a vacation destination, but some people going to and from the office might prefer a bit of quiet downtime on the road. In contrast, this forward-looking design offers an alternative experience, one that envelopes the passenger in their own private space, and it seems to take inspiration from one of the most isolating designs man has ever made: the office cubicle.

Designer: Chloe Gao

The idea of self-driving cars is for people to spare themselves the drudgery and exhaustion of driving so that they can spend more time on more important things. For some people, that might be making connections with other people in the vehicle, but others might prefer some “me time” instead. It’s for these people, especially the “Gen Z” group who value independence and personal immersion, that this urban commuting concept was designed.

As its name suggests, the H-BOX concept turns the car into a box-like machine, and the two-seater model the chairs set to the back of the cabin. Unlike most self-driving automobile concepts, however, this seems to still pay heed to the need for manual control from time to time, so the “driver’s seat” can slide forward to take hold of the futuristic steering well if needed. That further widens the separation between the two seats, which might be a preferred configuration for two people who really want to be immersed in their own little corners.

What makes the H-BOX distinctive, however, are the seats themselves. Where most designs would feature reclining seats that seem to offer the ultimate comfort, these surround the passenger from almost all sides except the front. In other words, it boxes them in, shielding them from the other person in the vehicle while still giving them a clear view of their surroundings. Admittedly, it doesn’t look like the most comfortable design, though it wouldn’t be impossible to have the seat move forward and the backrest lean backward for that same reclining effect.

Then again, the purpose of this self-driving vehicle is to quickly get commuters to their destinations with minimum fuss and perhaps minimum interactions. At the same time, however, the interior of the vehicle still offers a convenient and advanced experience complete with a display that wraps around the interior of the cabin. It does seem to cater to a very niche audience, a generation that might no longer even be around by the time self-driving cars fully take root, but it could offer a more solitary experience for people who prefer to travel in peace and quiet.

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Top 10 Camping Automotives That Are The Ultimate Companions On Your Outdoor Adventures

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After a tiring week at work, with the weekend joyfully looming ahead of me, I often find myself fantasizing about a short sweet getaway! Just a few days away from my hectic life, and this hectic world, in a bubble of my own, where all my worries are nowhere to be seen. And I do think Camping is a plausible plan! There’s nothing more comforting or exciting than lounging about in a cozy camper while you explore the countryside. You never feel out of place, because these little campers manage to feel like a home on wheels. Fill it up with your dear belongings, and it’s your home away from home. Not to mention the camper designs today are super innovative and inventive! From a VW ID Buzz electric camper to a tiny Japanese all-aluminum camper – these resourceful campers manage to cater to almost all of our needs, solving various problems, and turning our camping experience into a fulfilling and comfortable one.

1. Wilderness Vans Range Slide-In Truck Campers

Meet the Wilderness Vans Range slide-in campers – the R1 and R2! These campers are designed for all-year-round off-grid camping, and they’re quite spacious with loads of amenities onboard. They feature multiple windows and skylights, which provide a consistent flow of natural light and fresh air, maintaining a pleasant and free-flowing interior.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Range campers are completely insulated for all weather usage. They’re equipped with natural fiber and wool installation in the ceiling and walls, as well as cushioned wood layering with cell foam which makes the interiors warm during winter, and cool during the summer season.

What we like

  • Features storage options everywhere
  • Equipped with a 200-watt solar charging station to provide power in off-grid locations

What we dislike

  • The headroom on the bed is quite limited since there is no pop-up option

2. X-Cabin 300

Dubbed the X-Cabin 300, this lightweight and all-aluminum camping trailer by the Japanese startup X Cabin is everything you could want in a trailer. It is designed to completely transform and revamp your outdoor adventures by providing you with an innovative and sleek automotive with high-efficiency features.

Why is it noteworthy?

When you first catch a glimpse of the X-Cabin 300 you are attracted by its glistening riveted aluminum exterior and classic rounded corners, which instantly remind you of the Airstream trailers. However, the X-Cabin 300 is distinguished from them with a plain and boxier design, equipped with a high-efficiency floor plan that makes optimal use of the floor plan.

What we like

  • The X-Cabin 300 has a solid foundation with a steel chassis made by the renowned German manufacturer AL-KO

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag, which isn’t preferred by everyone

3. Citroën Type Holidays

Named the Citroën Type Holidays, this camper van is a beautiful tribute to the iconic Type H, which dynamically pushes the boundaries of alternative travel. This stunning masterpiece is inspired by the versatile Citroën SpaceTourer, and it is designed to offer complete comfort and loads of clever features that will be loved by travelers.

Why is it noteworthy?

This camper van features a retro exterior and interior that are designed to turn heads. The Type Holidays teaser displays a beautiful blend of modernity and heritage with its grey color, which is an ode to the Type H.

What we like

  • The two-row bench converts into a bed at night, and can also be removed to create storage space. The camper has smart space-saving features

What we dislike

  • The amenities are quite basic, and some people may want and expect more

4. Ultralite TB50

Named the Ultralite TB50, this camper takes a different route from the familiar pop-top designs. It features a single-piece composite truck bed camper shell that challenges norms and elevates truck camping to a whole new level. It has a fixed roof, four hard walls, and a floor resting above the truck bed.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Ultralite TB50 is a much better option than the flimsy tent fabrics. It features foam-insulated hard-walls, to offer protection from the elements with sacrificing the fun and thrill of being on the back of your truck through the night.

What we like

  • Provides a canvas to build  your dream camping setup with the Ultralite TB50

What we dislike

5. Earth Camper

Dubbed the Earth Camper, this camper by ARB is designed to accompany and support adventures with their nomadic lives and off-road expeditions. Equipped with long-travel independent suspension, and all-terrain tires, the camper lets adventurers deal with and handle all kinds of terrains.

Why is it noteworthy?

The gray gel-coated fiberglass-reinforced plastic shell of the Earth Camper, inside a one-piece exoskeleton shell, ensures durability and longevity, while 25 mm thick walls offer exceptional temperature and noise control.

What we like

  • Equipped with 120W roof-mounted solar panels
  • It is designed to cater to all your off-grid needs and requirements

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag, which may not be preferred by most people
  • It is only available in Australia, so limited availability

6. T2.3

Hearth Gardella and Ryan Schassen designed a VW-themed pop-up camping trailer from aircraft steel construction in a compact form factor that is quite swift to build. It functions as a sizable inroad, and has a “lightweight, affordable, and timeless design.” It is available in three different variants with one classic pop-up roof which elevates the internal standing headroom to 6 feet 4 inches.

Why is it noteworthy?

Named the T2.3, the camper is inspired by the 1940s Volkswagen bus, and it features aero-grade steel panels. This ensures that the camper is lightweight and durable! Since it is equipped with steel panels, the camper and its pop-up roof are faster to produce, and also quite easy to tow behind a compact electric vehicle.

What we like

  • VW-inspired aesthetics
  • Features a pop-up roof

What we dislike

  • Only one of the three models features a kitchenette

7. The Habiton

Named the Habiton, this mini camper is an excellent option for singles and couples who want to take up a life on the go. The camper has a sleek design, and is an innovative modular concept that will offer you the comfy and cozy feeling of being at home when you’re on the road!

Why is it noteworthy?

At the heart of the Habiton allure is its commitment to the “Travel small, live large” philosophy of Bürstner. This micro camper features an inflatable roof tent, seamlessly integrated into the vehicle’s silhouette, adding a touch of whimsy and practicality.

What we like

  • You can effortlessly park it in multi-story car parks
  • Cleverly uses space

What we dislike

  • Being situated above the vehicle, it may be difficult for older people to enter/exit the camper

8. Cube 1

Designed by the master crafters at the German outfit Sportcaravan, the Cube 1 is one of the tiniest trailers out there. The Cube 1 features a 320-odd kg body, and although it may not be super small, it is tiny and compact enough to be accommodated in a standard garage or an underground car park.

Why is it noteworthy?

Measuring just 10.5 feet in length and 5.4 feet in height, the Cube 1 pushes the boundaries of conventional micro-caravans and establishes new standards with its tiny dimensions and ease of usability. The Cube 1 “requires a trailer license and can easily be towed by a small car or an electric vehicle.”

What we like

  • Compact and comfy trailer design
  • Features an  optional roof tent that builds space in the compact body

What we dislike

  • The trailer size may be too tiny for some

9. Love Campers VW ID. Buzz Camper Van

Meet this wonderful collaboration between Love Campers and Wild Drive. Called the Love Campers VW ID. Buzz camper van, this fun and whimsical camper features a lime yellow and bright white dual-tone exterior, as well as a matching interior. It can be rented in the UK!

Why is it noteworthy?

The interior has been created to maximize the space available. A sofa subtly slides out, converting into a double bed, while the kitchen area contains a sink with a foldaway faucet and an induction hob.

What we like

  • It is a sustainable automotive intended for couples and solo traveler

What we dislike

  • The camper only features a portable toilet, which isn’t a comfy option for everyone

10. The GMC Hummer EV EarthCruiser Upfit

Meet the GMC Hummer EV EarthCruiser Upfit, designed by EarthCruiser and Hummer. The powerful car combines the raw power of an all-electric Hummer pickup with the comfort and coziness of an EarthCruiser truck camper!

Why is it noteworthy?

As you step into the camper, you are welcomed by 80 inches of headroom space at the entry, and 76 inches as you enter the hallway. You also get a tri-layered pop-up roof, which adds a feeling of spaciousness to the camper, creating a comfy atmosphere within.

What we like

  • Equipped with a 650W solar system and a convenient flat-pack toilet as well

What we dislike

  • There do not seem to be any options for customization

The post Top 10 Camping Automotives That Are The Ultimate Companions On Your Outdoor Adventures first appeared on Yanko Design.

Koenigsegg Envera portable EV charger sets new precedence for convenience, versatility and luxury

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The number of electric cars on the roads is increasing exponentially, and so is the need for charging stations required for them. Options for personal charging stations that can be installed in your garage are also rising. Not only the conventional manufacturers, but the supercar makers also have the transition to electric vehicles as their long-term agenda. Mercedes Vision EQXX Concept, Maserati GranTurismo Folgore, Ariel Hipercar, and of course the Tesla Roadster are some good examples.

Along the same lines, a pair of designers have proposed a portable battery charging station for the Koenigsegg brand known for its high-performance vehicles. The reason is, to enhance the whole experience of buying an electric supercar and the premium experience of plugging it into a portable charger.

Designer: Aditi Aagrwal and Harsh Ambarkar

Just like the Koenigsegg brand known for its groundbreaking engineering innovations like the Direct Drive transmission and Freevalve engine technology, this concept charger also boasts innovative features including dihedral synchro-helix doors. The use of advanced materials like aerospace-grade alloys and carbon fiber further adds to the exclusivity. The form is important to make it distinct from other similar products, hence the aggressive design honed by the sleek and aerodynamic lines.

Dubbed the Envera, this portable EV charger is tailor-made for on-the-go charging of your power-hungry hypercar or supercar. Capable of supplying 7.2 kW of power it supports Level 2 charging with voltage compatibility from 100 – 400 volts AC. It has Type 1 and Type 2 AC charging ports too and an optional DC rapid charging adaptor. The designer is also mindful of safety, hence the inclusion of overcurrent, over-voltage, short circuit and ground fault protection. In case the charger overheats, there is an automated shutdown in place.

The sleek body of the charger is inspired by the Koenigsegg Agera, and is not limited to just charging this speed beast. It can charge any other Koenigsegg supercar, or any other electric car from other brands. It is built from an IP65-rated shell for premium protection against wear and tear with the ability to operate in temperatures from -20 Degrees Celsius to 50 Degrees Celsius. To make charging the least of the hassles, it comes with a 20-foot flexible charging cable. Just like other portable chargers, this one gets an LCD to show the real-time charging status and diagnostics.

Truly, the Koenigsegg Envera sets new standards for portable EV chargers, giving us a glimpse of how cool the future is going to be. Of course, the unparalleled convenience, versatility of use, and luxury quotient of using a premium brand’s product will always be there.

The post Koenigsegg Envera portable EV charger sets new precedence for convenience, versatility and luxury first appeared on Yanko Design.