Author Archives: Gaurav Sood

LEGO Technic recreates working Mercedes-Benz G500 to the minutest of details

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LEGO Technic is on a roll this year with back-to-back impressive releases that are a treat to the eye for motorheads. I was utterly impressed with the detailing of the McLaren P1 LEGO set released a few days ago and now the Mercedes-Benz G 500 joins the ranks. This one is also part of the Ultimate Car Concept Series, poised to be one of the best sports car collectibles in a 1:8 scale.

The G 500 celebrates the 45th anniversary this year and LEGO Technic wasn’t going to let this opportunity slip. The result is a G 500 PROFESSIONAL Line model that is a 2,891-piece set for passionate builders. This set will also begin shipping from August 1 for a price tag of $250. Almost half the price of the P1 set and an absolute steal if you are into the off-roading SUV from the house of Mercedes-Benz. The good news is you can pre-order it right now.

Designer: LEGO Technic

LEGO has again delivered its promise of authentic details and recreation of even the most intricate sections of the 4×4 behemoth measuring 8.5 inches high, 16.5 inches long, and 8 inches wide. Under the hood is a replicated 6-cylinder inline engine mated to a 7-speed gearbox having drive, neutral and reverse settings. The internal mechanics are further hones in the form of a working steering wheel and raised suspension. The opening doors come with working locks, along with an opening tailgate and hood to reveal even the finer interior details. Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the addition of a ladder, spare wheel and roof rack to the mix.

Although the G Wagon has been around for more than four decades, the LEGO team decided to create this Impressive LEGO iteration on the 2017 model. That makes sense when it comes to visual presence as the 2018 version had smaller wheels and a bit lower ground clearance.

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‘Living’ Shoe thrives and feeds like plants, could help footwear industry minimize environmental impact

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Roughly 22 billion pairs of shoes are manufactured globally each year. The production process of all these shoes – and lot many made in the unorganized sector – emits crazy amounts of carbon dioxide, enough to contribute about 1.5 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. Even though sustainable materials have become a significant part of the production process, carbon emissions have not decreased in tune; this means the industry still awaits a revolutionary idea that can help.

While the major manufacturers are dealing with their ideas, a designer Jessica Thies, based out of Brooklyn has developed a pair of concept shoes that could help the shoe industry reduce its environmental impact. Dubbed Synthiesis, the idea is based on Thies’ research into engineered living materials and is part of her thesis at Parsons School of Design. The experimental shoe printed from ink containing living algae can absorb carbon dioxide from the surroundings, the designer believes.

Designer: Jessica Thies

Presently shoes have polyurethane foam soles which are always recyclable or biodegradable, amounting to waste. Thies believes this could be replaced in the production lines with engineered living materials, which could be beneficial both for the user and nature. “I believe that if we simply replace synthetic materials with bio-based ones, we haven’t addressed the core issues of overconsumption and exploitation of the natural world.”

The shoe concept by the designer is made from hemp fabric and printed with bio-based ink included with algae. The addition of microalgae cells in the printing ink makes the shoe an “active object” capable of acting like a living organism. The unique construction ensures that the shoe can absorb carbon dioxide from the environment, and “potentially be able to self-clean,” Thies informs.

The idea of a living footwear sounds immensely exciting. One that can change our outlook toward the way we conceive what we wear on the foot with the least consideration. Thies’ research with material affirms that the algae used in the construction can survive a month without supplementary nutrients, and if cared for, it can last much longer. For the later, the shoe conceptualized by Thies can feed on nutrients and oxygen-producing cyanobacteria using hydroponics, in a manner we grow plants.

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Innovative Hype-R Yacht Is A Tech-Savvy Concept Tailored for Young Innovators

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The world of yachts is largely centered around successful businessmen and rich retirees. But a designer in his youth believes the young, dynamic, and tech-savvy should also have a yacht premeditated to their needs and discerning tastes. And so, the concept yacht Hype-R is born.

From the looks of it, it doesn’t deviate too much from what we have seen in the yachts that have taken to the waters. But unlike them, youth-focused Hype-R is synonymous with luxury and modern lifestyle, which vividly appears in how it allows the users to transition from entertainment to relaxation seamlessly.

Designer: Davide Benaglia

The lavish and future-proof Hype-R concept yacht is designed by Davide Benaglia for the Feadship’s Young Designer of the Year competition. Not starkly different in approach but made with outrightly different intent, the Hype-R is 220 foot long and is designed to meet contemporary challenges while keeping the charm and style of the yachts intact. ”I envision the future of yacht design to continue its current trajectory,” Davide notes.

To make it appear traditional yet deviate from the norm, the Hype-R is flooded with uniqueness and modernity, which would appeal to the digitally-sound and young clientele. Suggesting how the idea for the yacht like this came to be, Davide said, “I have found the perfect fusion of…two (love for cars and architecture) perspectives in yacht design.”

The Hype-R is like a sports car for the waters, influenced by the designs of geniuses like Pininfarina and Giugiaro. Its exterior is very yacht-like with sleek lines defining the style carried on in the innovative features. The upper deck of the Hype-R has a sunset lounge that offers panoramic views of the breathtaking waters while the residents watch the sun fade away in the crimson horizon.

The sundeck is reserved for the techie-owner. It’s outfitted with a living room and private study. Each space has been specifically designed to serve a distinct function such as the beach area that’s usable to host a movie evening or a party in the discotheque. The highlight of Davide’s yacht may be the entertainment cum beach area, but it’s the youth-visioned idea of the Hype-R that would set a new vision in the industry.

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This LEGO Technic McLaren P1 is the closest thing to owning the exclusive supercar

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LEGO Technic has some impressive supercar builds under the Ultimate Car Concept Series and a new one joins the rank for motorheads to crave about. This 1:8 scale model of the McLaren P1 hybrid supercar boasts a lot of details inside out. Craftable in a 3,893-piece set format, the LEGO kit carries a price tag of $449 which is not surprising in the LEGO world.

Every penny is justified with the detailed 3.8-liter V-8 piston engine mated to a seven-speed transmission with 2 shifter paddles, functional suspension, adjustable rear spoiler and working dihedral doors. The set is designed in association with McLaren Automotive to emulate even the tiniest of details like shades of yellow or precise aerodynamic curves to the last millimeter. Remember it’s not easy to replicate these things in a small-scale creation.

Designer: LEGO Technic and McLaren

According to Tobias Sühlmann, Chief Design Officer, McLaren Automotive, “It’s amazing to see so many of the elements from the original P1 brought to life by the LEGO team for the LEGO Technic McLaren P1™. We worked on multiple variations of the car to test different designs. We also faced a huge challenge with the iconic butterfly doors because they needed a new mechanism to stay open.” Another perk is that each of the scaled McLaren cars comes with a unique serial number that reveals special behind-the-scenes content for passionate auto lovers.

Like all other LEGO Technic creations from the past, this one will be initially available to LEGO Insiders and with a special goodie – a McLaren P1 logo to flaunt. This cool set will be up for grabs starting August 1st for Insiders and post-August 7th anyone can buy the LEGO McLaren P1 for their shelves. Just as a refresher only 375 McLaren P1s ever rolled out of the product lines and this true-to-life replica is a testament to the hypercar’s desirability among purists.

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This electric monowheel is surprisingly easy to maneuver and packs a good amount of torque

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Creating extreme stuff from junk is a special skill that YouTube channel ‘Make It Extreme’ possesses. Their Monotrack bike made from a single recycled car tire was something of a shocker and they’ve upped the ante with another custom build. Called the Electric Monowheel this is a Herculine version that positions the rider inside the wheel.

The obvious challenge in making this big wheel was actually creating a perfectly round wheel measuring 9.1 inches in diameter. Due to the large shape, the metallic wheel acts as a base for the rubber tires salvaged out of a motorcycle and go-kart. These three recycled tires are connected to make the final giant wheel.

Designer: Make It Extreme

The chassis of this unique ride is the centric circle that stays stable even when the outside wheel is in motion. The trick here is to attach three rollers and a plastic encasing on which the wheel spins. To put it simply, just take for reference a hamster wheel. The power for this monowheel is derived from a go-kart’s electric motors attached to the tire. This explains the use of go-kart tires that are non-slip and provide transmission to the wheels without any wheel spin. The steering input is translated instantly to the movement of the wheel and so is the throttle input via the two controllers.

The current build has a better torque of the electromotion that is attributed to the faster-reacting motor. This is a major improvement over the earlier version. According to the makers, the vehicle feels very amazing to drive even though it is a bit dangerous if you don’t know how to handle it. There’s some good news for DIYers who are interested in this project as Make It Extreme is in the process of preparing the detailed plans of the monowheel motorcycle. That means you’ll have all the groundwork served on the platter for you to build on.

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Gundam x Crocs All-Terrain Clog is memorable tribute to the most iconic mobile suit

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Have you been a huge fan of the RX-78-2, but had been missing out on the 45th Anniversary celebrations of the original “Mobile Suit Gundam?” The Japanese mecha anime franchise has collaborated with Crocs to give you another chance to rejoice in love. The duo has idealized a pair of adventure Clogs created in theme with the interesting designs of the old-generation mobile suits.

The collaborative Gundam x Crocs All-Terrain Clog is an instant reminder of the Japanese anime. It is tailored for the outdoor adventure and is dressed in the color and gimmicks of the famous RX-78-2 aka Gundam that’s piloted by the protagonist Amuro Ray.

Designer: Gundam X Crocs

Since adventurers and the outdoorsy are the prime targets for the partnership footwear, it is designed to be durable enough to last whatever you through at it. Walk over uneven trails, leave footprints on sand, or splash your way home through slush on the road, this pair of inspired clogs will not disappoint.

But an outdoor-first mindset is not the only distinguisher of the Gundam x Crocs All-Terrain Clogs. This is, as informed, a canvas of creative Gundam fusion. The iconic clogs dressed in a combination of red, white, yellow and blue hues is a memorable tribute to the most iconic mobile suit we have known, and you would agree!

To keep up with the adventure theme, these clogs come with some interesting upgrades. The details you’ll see throw give this pair a mechanical vibe with its rugged outsole, protruding yellow TPU addition at the forefoot, molded Croslite foam uppers, and “RX-78-2“branded turbo heel straps for a snug fit. Gundam-themed Jibbitz charms are also included for more glam and style. The distinctly styled Gundam x Crocs All-Terrain Clog is slated to ship starting 23 July through the Crocs website. The adult sizing starts at $75, while the kid’s pairs will cost $60.

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Revolutionary Three-Wheel Electric Trike is like a Car with Joysticks and Pedal-Powered Battery

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The world of mobility is evolving rapidly. After electric cars and e-bikes, make way for Twike: an electric bike designed like a car and driven using joysticks, reminiscent of old arcade games. This is not fiction but a continuous endeavor by automaker TWIKE GmbH to create a human-powered hybrid vehicle aimed at providing a sustainable mode of transportation. The German manufacturer of battery-powered electric vehicles is introducing a drivable model of the electric car-bike, the Twike 5.

The Twike 5 is a pedal hybrid vehicle designed for those who pursue conscious consumption and a sustainable lifestyle. It is a three-wheel trike, with one wheel in the front and two at the back, combining an electric motor with a pedal drive. This two-seat trike weighs 600 kilograms and can reach top speeds of up to 190 kilometers per hour.

Designer: TWIKE GmbH

Range is a significant concern with electric vehicles. The Twike 5 can travel up to 500 kilometers on a single charge. The range can be extended by pedaling, which powers the battery and decreases its consumption. The pilot (as the company refers to the rider) can use two joysticks to turn left or right: pushing the right joystick forward turns right, and pushing the left joystick forward turns left. Leaving the joysticks untouched steers the Twike 5 straight. Buttons on top of the joysticks allow the pilot to control the lights, horn, wipers, and direction signals, among other functions.

As mentioned, this velomobile-style electric trike does not have a steering wheel, instead, there is a pair of joysticks on the side of the pilot to steer the vehicle in drive mode. The rider can shift to pedals in order to save power and simultaneously charge the battery, which is now 15 times better than the TWIKE’s previous variant of the e-trike. The Twike 3 like the Twike 5 accommodated two people and had similar interior configuration, but lacked the top speed, which was limited to just 85 km/h.

A few notches up from its sibling, the Twike 5, is in the testing phase for now. The Twike community – comprising people who actually want to drive it – has been testing “to see how it handles and how well everything works together.” The feedback is being used to perfect the Twike 5’s interior, exterior, and the overall riding experience. Twike 5, according to the users is a stable three-wheel electric vehicle, safe to make sharp turns, and even to drive on bumpy roads. It is likely to go into production this year, but the construction will be limited to 500 units. Since it will be delivered to community members – who have contributed toward its development – in a specially devised ranking system, you can try your luck by pre-ordering one right now!

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Orthopedic saddle chair is designed for gaming without a break and backache

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Seating ergonomics are constantly changing as working hours from the desk and individual video gaming sessions grow by the day. From adjustable chairs to those with lumber support and from cushiony backrests to airy ones, the chairs have not just evolved in style, but functionality and construction in a similar breath. To that accord, chairs with saddle-shaped seats are making an uncanny appearance as people who spend longer times in front of their computer screens prefer such stools and chairs above traditional seat types.

This transition is primarily credited to the back pain; which saddle seat configuration helps easily, at least that’s how we have come to believe. I believe back pain is generally because of static sitting; for long hours. It’s the lack of movement more than anyone sitting position that impacts the back. But if you are from the school of thought that believes a seat can make a difference to your backaches, an ergonomic saddle-shape gaming chair, with adjustable features, called the ‘Cross Mantis’ is here to address your woes.

Designer: Fyodor Lazariev and Farukh Imin

The Cross Mantis orthopedic saddle chair is designed for the gaming furniture brand SILIQS. The idea was to design a chair that combines the functionality of an office chair with the comfort and benefits of a saddle seat. Saddle seat, which allows an open hip position offering good leg circulation, erect spine position, and improved balance, is an orthopedically correct fit for the spinal cord, the designers believe.

After various iterations and toiling, the gaming chair – comprising a bent aluminum frame and highly cushioned mesh fabric – is made adjustable and usable with standing tables to do gaming in more positions than just sitting up front. Since the chair is conceived for a brand specializing in e-sports furniture, it is designed in contrasting color combinations with an aggressive shape. The adjustable back support, rotating headrest and armrests, and adjustable height all allow the chair to be more versatile to use.

It would take you closer to your gaming universe so you can reach further, sit up straighter, and have various adjustable positions to lock that perfect position to nail your opponent before the brink of an eye. The Cross Mantis saddle gaming chair is designed in individual modules. It can be shipped in a box and the modules can be assembled on site.

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Developed by former Samsung engineers, this walking assist wearable robot also lets you tone your legs

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Wear it as a harness: fasten the thigh braces and buckle up the fanny pack-like device around your waist and you can be in command of a mobility wearable robot that can assist you walk with better efficiency or provide resistance to your legs so you can add strength to your lower body.

While existing mobility assist robots are made for seniors with leg discomforts or are intended to help the differently abled to move with more freedom; the WIM mobility assist wearable device created by WIRobotics, is designed for younger consumers to walk better and exercise with the new age technique.

Designer: WIRobotics  

WIRobotics is a company formed by former Samsung Electronics robotics engineers with the intent to help people with limited abilities leverage the freedom of movement that new technologies can permit. With the Wearable Mobility WIM robot, the idea is slightly different. Even though it is a device for those who have issues with their legs and have problems walking longer distances, it would also cater to those who spend hours in the gym trying to strengthen their lower body.

Weighing much lighter than most other assist robots on the market, the WIM robot is also slimmer and more compact, but absolutely effective at providing powerful assistance force to the limb. It also analyses the gait of the user – and corrects it – in real-time. It comes with two different use modes: the assist mode, which does what it means – assist the user walking with more confidence and freedom while saving user energy by up to 20 percent. The exercise mode provides resistance – force comparable to walking in water – to the legs of the user for lower body strength.

Since this harness-style wearable exoskeleton is not a typical medical device, it doesn’t look like one. Provided in vibrant orange, electric blue, and subtle gray color options, the exoskeleton for hiking and exercise is designed like a fashion accessory that the Gen Z or even the millennial population wouldn’t mind wearing in their everyday routine.  The robot has a single-motor in the fanny pack-like belt strapped to the front of the waist, while both the thigh extensions have individual actuators. The ergonomics of the robot are maintained by aluminum joints in a plastic body to provide a non-restrictive design that can provide free and natural movement. The entire structure can be completely disassembled for convenience of storage and transportation.

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NASCAR’s first electric racecar prototype lacks the roar of a V8 engine

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Formula-1 and NASCAR are the two top names in circuit racing Motorsports with the responsibility to lessen carbon emissions in the future. Formula-1 has already started working on sustainable fuels that have minimal environmental impact. They even have Formula-E dedicated to clean racing. Now, NASCAR has shown its intent to go all-electric by the year 2035.

Last weekend they revealed their first ever prototype electric racecar at the Chicago Street Race. The $1.5 million crossover developed in association with ABB, Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota is a part of the NASCAR Impact program. According to NASCAR’s head of sustainability Riley Nelson, the series wants to explore the interest of fans in electric racing and its future. The prototype has only been driven by NASCAR driver David Ragan and he has some interesting insights to share.

Designer: NASCAR

David explored the car’s limit at the Martinsville Speedway in Virginia and was just two-tenths away from the average time of a V8-powered NASCAR racer. Even though the electric racer has twice the acceleration and impressive braking ability, the overall weight limits it on the corners where it cannot carry more speed. The champion racer did admit though that he could have taken it faster, but the aim right now is to derive as many test results as possible and not necessarily risk damaging any hardware.

The electric racecar built on a modified Next Gen chassis is powered by three STARD UHP 6-Phase motors one at the front and two at the rear. They feed the powertrain capable of generating 1,000 kW peak output. The motors get their power from a liquid-cooled 78 kWh battery. To get more juice, the car employs regenerative braking to convert the kinetic energy of braking on turns into extra power.

Sustainable qualities are not just limited to the powertrain, as the All-Wheel Drive car has a body made out of sustainable flax-based composite material. Other components of the racer including the steering wheel, suspension, brakes and wheels are all salvaged from a 2022 NASCAR Cup Series car. Just like any other electric vehicle, this monster doesn’t roar when compared to a gas-powered V8. That element will only have to be artificially added in the form of sound coming from an exterior speaker.

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