Tag Archives: Automotive

Molding the Future: The Design Journey of the Audi RS 6 Avant GT

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In the heart of Audi’s creative forge, a groundbreaking project unfolded, marking a blend of heritage and innovation. The Audi RS 6 Avant GT is a canvas where past and future collide. This design journey began with a visionary apprentice project: the 2020 RS 6 GTO concept. In this project, a dozen apprentices from various disciplines, from bodywork to automotive mechanics, painting, and tooling mechanics, brought their dreams to life under the guidance of Audi Design.

Designer: Juergen Loeffler, Exterior Designer at Audi

Drawing deep from the well of history, these young talents channeled the indomitable spirit of the 1989 Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO race car. Their six-month journey was more than an exercise in automotive design; it was a dialogue between eras, a reimagining of what a car could embody.

The Audi RS 6 Avant GT emerges as a sculptural masterpiece, distinct in its lineage yet boldly forward-looking. Its design language speaks of power and grace, with a front visage that commands attention. The high-gloss black Singleframe and menacing air intakes sculpt a lower and wider facade, a homage to its racing DNA. The introduction of vertical blades, a new intake grille, and a front splitter crafted into the bumper sharpens its predatory stance.

Audi Sport ventures into new territories with a carbon fiber redesigned hood, underscoring the unique identity of the RS 6 Avant GT. This hood is more than just a part; it’s a standout feature, accentuated by the body color, making the carbon weave a spectacle. The air outlets behind the 22-inch wheels intelligently combine aesthetics with aerodynamics.

The car’s side features carbon fiber fenders housing the wheels, showcasing Audi’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. The side profile is accentuated with glossy carbon inserts and mirrors alongside the bespoke 6-spoke wheels, exclusive to this model.

At the rear, the RS 6 Avant GT wears its “RS 6 GT” lettering like a badge of honor, complemented by a tailgate that seamlessly blends into the car’s silhouette, a functional diffuser, and a motorsport-inspired double wing, directly influenced by the apprentices’ concept.

For the first time, the RS 6 Avant sees its roof rails omitted, crafting a sleeker, more streamlined profile that whispers speed even in stillness.

The palette of options for the RS 6 Avant GT is a tribute to Audi Sport’s heritage, offering decals in striking color schemes that echo the brand’s racing legacy. Whether it’s the stark contrast of Arkona White against the vibrant decals or the subdued elegance of Nardo grey or Mythos black, each choice is a statement of individuality.

Inside, the RS 6 Avant GT is a model of simplicity, where the RS design package is the main feature. Black interiors are punctuated with red and copper accents, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors that dance across the steering wheel, center console, and the luxurious RS bucket seats. The meticulous stitching in Express Red and Copper weaves a narrative of attention to detail and craftsmanship.

The use of Dinamica microfiber throughout the cabin, from the armrests to the dashboard, elevates the tactile experience, offering a glimpse into the future of luxury materials. The optional open-pore carbon twill inlays add another layer of depth, bringing the exterior’s carbon motif inside.

Each RS 6 Avant GT is a piece of history, marked by its unique serial number in a limited series of 660, a reminder of the exclusivity and passion that drives Audi’s design ethos.

The RS 6 Avant GT is not just a car but a symbol of youthful creativity and a bridge between generations. It represents both Audi’s design legacy and its future. More than just being built, the RS 6 Avant GT is crafted. Each line, curve, and stitch tells a story of innovation, heritage, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.

The RS 6 Avant GT ramps up the performance with a power output of 463 kW (630 PS) and torque of 850 Nm, marking an increase of 22 kW (30 PS) and 50 Nm over the base RS 6 Avant model. This allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.3 seconds, 0.3 seconds quicker than the base model, and reach 200 km/h in 11.5 seconds, 1.5 seconds faster. The top speed is capped at 305 km/h (190mph). The car comes standard with RS ceramic brakes for effective deceleration.

Power from the 4.0 TFSI engine is delivered through an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox to the quattro all-wheel-drive system, featuring an optimized center differential that improves handling and reduces understeer by adjusting the torque distribution between the front and rear axles as needed.

The RS 6 Avant GT also gets a specially tuned quattro sport differential for the rear axle, enhancing agility and precision, especially in dynamic driving mode. It comes standard with adjustable coilover suspension, lowering the ride height by ten millimeters compared to the base model and balancing dynamic driving and comfort. The suspension setup includes higher spring rates, triple-adjustable dampers, and stiffer stabilizers to reduce body roll and enhance driving enjoyment. Customers can choose between this setup, the RS sport suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), or the RS adaptive air suspension.

The post Molding the Future: The Design Journey of the Audi RS 6 Avant GT first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mayla Yacht’s speedboat combines powerboat performance and swanky automotive luxury into one

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Mayla Yacht is already well known in the arena of sports car manufacturing, so why not extend that skill to the waters? That’s the very reason behind the development of this 44-foot GT superboat that supersedes the current designs in both aesthetics and visual presence. Not to mention it’ll come with an option to choose from gas, diesel, electric and hybrid powertrains delivering 3,000 HP. Each one of these monster engines is capable of hurling the speedboat to a top speed of 100 knots.

The German marque currently designing winning yachts, knows this space well, therefore, justifying their foray into the superboat design world. This sharp pointed nose vessel made from high-end carbon fiber material has a spacious cockpit section to enjoy the summer rides and a water toy garage that doubles as a beach club. If all this already excites you, mark your calendars for the Mayla GT world premiere at Boat Düsseldorf 2024.

Designer: Mayla Yacht

The use of carbon prepreg keeps the overall weight well below 3.8 tons which helps both in efficiency and range. To help the boat achieve hair-raising speeds between 50 – 100+ knots, there’s the deep-V monohull with twin transversal steps that create air bubbles to reduce surface friction. Also, the Petestep deflectors push the water spray downwards to facilitate power efficiency, stability and reduced noise.

When it’s time to finally settle down and have a lounge party in the open seas, the boat accommodates up to 8 passengers in the multipurpose cockpit section. There’s everything from sundeck with sliding loungers, and foldable dining tables to a wet bar or BBQ. If you feel the urge to get up close and personal with the inviting waters, the beach club platform is the section to settle down. Under the deck, the GT has a double bed, sofa lounge, wardrobe with vanity, entertainment system and separate shower sections. For a comfortable stay, the vessel has on board 200 liters of fresh water and 22 liters of hot water system.

According to Mayla, the entry-level GT superboat will make its first appearance at the Boat Düsseldorf with a price tag of approximately $1.8 million. If interested buyers have more cash to burn, they can opt for more options to spoil themselves in luxury. If you are someone who wants to try out the vessel but doesn’t have that amount of money to spare, the German company is also offering trials beginning in Spring 2024.

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This shape-shifting rikshaw converts into an e-scooter in less than three minutes

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Having witnessed countless shape-shifting concepts and working prototypes, I always yearn for a set of wheels that is practical in real-life usage and easy enough to transform from one form to the other. To my amazement, an Indian automotive startup has that desire half-fulfilled. Meet the S32 EV that’s an electric scooter transforming into an e-rikshaw and vice versa.

While you won’t be seeing me driving an e-rikshaw in this lifetime atleast, the vehicle seems like a very good option for commercial use. Given the sheer intensity of commute, home delivery and logistics requirements of the nation, this is going to be a successful product. Designed specifically for the Indian subcontinent, the e-scooter can solve a lot of purposes – be it your commute to the supermarket to grab groceries or hauling medium-sized cargo across the city.

Designer: Surge EV

The interchangeable body frame is an industry-first innovation and it’s as easy as popping open the front section (fascia) of the rikshaw and sliding out the two-wheeler. This transition takes less than three minutes courtesy of the specially engineered spring-loaded mechanism, turning the three-wheeled e-rickshaw into an electric scooter so fast you’ll be amazed to see it in real time. All this is done at the touch of a button without the need for any tools. The result is a flexible vehicle that can take either of the two shapes depending on the needs.

The transforming vehicle has very little scope for personal usage, it is a great option for commercial use. For instance, a delivery vendor could configure the S32 on the fly depending on the needs of the client without needing to keep two separate vehicles for each usage. Each module has its separate batteries (independently charged) and motors to make them as independent as they can be. On the inside the vehicle is fitted with LED lighting, digital speedometer and switchgear.

When both of them are combined the three-wheeled rickshaw mode is activated – kicking into action the larger 11 kWH battery, generating 6bhp. It’s powerful enough to haul a weight of 500 kg and has a top speed of 50 km/h. When separated, the electric scooter’s 3.5 KWH battery is activated for commuting, having a top speed of 60 km/h thanks to the 4 bhp output.

Hero Motor Corp says the rikshaw module can be bought in either the hauling option with a cargo bed or the passenger configuration with seats at the back. The company has not revealed the pricing or actual release date but they’ve hinted at a probable production timeline of 2025.

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2024 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato Review

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PROS:


  • Stellar all-weather performance

  • Dramatic styling

  • Amazing sound

CONS:


  • Terrible rearward visibility

  • No more Corsa mode

  • The cost

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

A beautiful all-weather supercar, a true joy in inclement conditions, and a hell of a lot of fun even when the roads are dry and smooth.

The Huracan is getting on a bit. Now entering its 10th year of production, it’s not quite as long in the tooth as the venerable Aventador became before it was finally replaced last year, but it’s getting there.

To keep things feeling fresh, the Huracan formula must keep tweaking and extending. Typically, Lamborghini does this by slapping letters like S, SV, and SVJ to its cars, dialing up the power and asking price all the while. The Sterrato, though, is something new, something different, and, as it turns out, something extraordinary.

The concept

The Huracan Sterrato is, quite simply, the ultimate off-road Lamborghini. Sure, the Urus has more ground clearance and would surely be better for climbing up a rocky trail, but the rest of the time it offers little in terms of Lamborghini feel and flare. There was also the LM002 SUV of the 1980s. That thing was a true off-road beast, but having piloted one around Northern Italy, I can tell you that when it comes to actual driving enjoyment, there’s not much to be had.

Meanwhile, the Sterrato looks and drives like a true Lamborghini, just one that’s had a few subtle additions and enhancements to ensure that the fun doesn’t stop when the asphalt does.

That starts with the suspension, which raises the car by 44 mm. Part of that lift is helped by the tread on a set of chunky Bridgestone Dueler AT002 tires mounted to 19-inch wheels. Five wheels, as it happens, with the car you see here outfitted with an optional spare mounted to the roof. That, though, is one option that I can’t recommend against strongly. The Sterrato, you see, doesn’t come with a jack, so even if you get a flat, you’ll have no way to change that wheel.

The engine, the Huracan’s brilliant 610-horsepower 5.2-liter V10, comes with top-mounted air intake, which not only looks fantastic but should help the engine suck in a little less grit on a dusty rally trail.

The rest of the changes are more on the lifestyle side, as ever, “style” being the most important part. The Sterrato comes with a pair of permanently affixed roof rails, to which you can mount crossbars and put whatever accessories you like. The car you see here came into my life with a top cargo basket of sorts, but given my wintery testing, a ski rack would have been more appropriate.

Chunky, bolted-on fender flares at every corner add stance and aggression, while some light underbody protection should keep gravel and the like from damaging that aluminum and composite chassis.

The overall shape and appearance of the Huracan isn’t much impacted. It looks essentially the same as it ever did, just slightly angrier and, most importantly, more ready for adventure.

Interior

On the inside, Sterrato-specific changes are few. Lamborghini offers a pair of all-weather, rubber floor mats that fit perfectly and extend up the sides of the Huracan’s microfiber-lined interior. They’re a must-have if you’ll be braving inclement conditions.

But otherwise, it’s much the same interior as we’ve seen elsewhere in the Huracan. Alcantara is the material of choice, feeling luxurious and looking great, especially with the contrasting yellow stitching and the lurid seatbelts to match. The attention to detail here is impressive, and while many will find the styling a bit excessive, it’s absolutely on-point for a Lamborghini.

The Huracan was recently updated with a new touchscreen interface that is simple but effective. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are on offer, but only wired. There’s also Alexa in here if you have an active Amazon account.

More importantly are the various telemetry screens on offer, including a new one for the Sterrato that shows off-road angle information, plus GPS coordinates, just perfect for when you’re really going out there. I found the differential display far more interesting, showing in real-time where the Huracan is sending its power, front-to-rear and side-to-side. As much of my testing was done in low-grip situations, it was a never-ending source of entertainment to see the flow of torque.

While entertaining to watch, you won’t need to spend much time stabbing at that touchscreen. Most of the essential driving controls are right on the steering wheel. Your left thumb controls the turn signals plus flashing or toggling the high beams. On the right, you’ll find the windshield wiper button.

The mode toggle is on the bottom, customized for the Sterrato. Strada is the default mode on top, followed by the racier Sport, and then Rally, a new dedicated, low-grip, high-performance mode that is the hallmark of this car. The final controls within reach are the column-mounted shift paddles, made of metal and standing proud behind the wheel.

While most inputs are on the wheel, the Huracan still has plenty of physical controls elsewhere, including a row of plastic toggles that run above the touchscreen and that iconic, crimson ENGINE START/STOP button in the center console lurking under a plastic protector. Flip that up, stab the button, and everything changes.

Ignition

The Sterrato’s V10 is situated just about a foot behind the driver’s right ear, so when it spins into life, you absolutely know it.

However, to enjoy the engine’s sound, you need to toggle to Sport mode, which opens up the exhaust and adds a fair bit of bass to the experience.

In fact, you’re better off avoiding Strada mode almost entirely. The Sterrato’s default drive mode is extremely, oddly tame. It’s always trying to run you a gear or two higher in the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission than you might like and feels quite reluctant to downshift. It also enables the somewhat annoying engine start/stop feature (which you can quickly disable if you like). Finally, it’s all too eager to drop the V10 down to an inline five-cylinder whenever you’re light on the throttle.

Driven in this way, I managed 15.1 mpg during my testing, which is quite reasonable for a 600-plus hp car. Indeed, that’s precisely why that mode exists. But if you want an engaging drive, step on up to Sport.

In Sport, everything just feels better. The shifts are rougher than before, but they’re lightning-quick and exactly where you want them to be. The exhaust sounds better, the engine is more responsive, and the Sterrato just feels ready to play.

However, it’s in Rally mode when things get wild. This new mode was designed to provide a much more playful experience in low-grip situations, allowing the Sterrato to spin up its wheels with more aggression than would normally be beneficial for a high-grip situation like the Corsa mode was designed for, which is found on other Huracans.

In Rally, the Sterrato is happy to let you let loose, not cutting power for me even when all four wheels were spinning wildly on an icy surface. It did cut power when I made larger steering inputs, being somewhat selective in how much counter-steering was allowed before it decided I needed some help. But it certainly didn’t ruin the fun.

I do, though, lament the loss of the Corsa mode. While the Rally mode is a good trade, it’s a shame you can’t have both. After all, though its suspension is softer, with a proper set of tires the Sterrato would still be a wonderful track day toy.

Regarding the tires, the Sterrato’s Dueler AT002s are rated for mud and snow, but certainly seem better suited for the former. While I wasn’t able to test that condition, I did spend lots of time amid wintery stuff with the Sterrato you see here. The tires didn’t provide the confidence offered by a dedicated snow tire, especially in more icy conditions, but they delivered plenty of grip to have fun. Most importantly, when they gave up that grip, they did so in a clean, predictable manner.

Options and pricing

The Huracan Sterrato starts at $273,177, plus a $3,695 destination charge and a $2,100 gas guzzler tax. The car you see here had a suite of mostly cosmetic options, including $9,800 for the lovely Giallo Inti paint and $7,600 for the sports seats.

It doesn’t take long to add another six figures onto the price of your Sterrato, with this one costing $348,649 in total, but that’s the name of the game with a car like this.

The Sterrato’s performance, however, is anything but predictable. It’s a beautiful all-weather supercar, a true joy in inclement conditions, and a hell of a lot of fun even when the roads are dry and smooth. It’s even more comfortable to drive than a regular Huracan and much less likely to dig its nose into the slightest inclines, too.

It’s the complete package, and while you’ll certainly have to pay for it, it feels very much worth every penny.

The post 2024 Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato Review first appeared on Yanko Design.

This two-story pick-up rooftop tent gives you a vantage point to live and stargaze

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The overlanding experience in your pick-up only gets better with an efficient and functional truck topper. And when that truck camper is a two-story complex with its own awning and touch of a button control; you can think, but won’t want to own anything else!

Inquisitive? Wild Land has come up with an interesting idea of Safari Camper, which is more than every day pick-up bed camper. After giving us the world’s first wireless remote-controlled rooftop tent, the Chinese overland product manufacturer has revealed the remote-controlled Safari Camper that rests on the truck bed and gives us a two-story tent to sleep and play on the press of an open button. Shutting it close is equally easy: Press close!

Designer: Wild Land

The Safari Camper is designed for the Chinese market and is already available there, state wise delivery is still in oblivion at the time of writing. That said, what intrigues an adventurer’s attention is the Safari Camper’s unique automatic lift system that opens from truck bed top to two stories to accommodate a few people easily. The lift is kicked into action from a keychain remote control – a little manual intervention is required to flip a few extensions – and you have a truck bed section and a high-perched rooftop tent above.

Of course, the kind of height the upper rooftop tent has, it is going to be somewhat vulnerable to the winds. But that little peril hasn’t stopped Wind Land from packing ample interior space here. The tent is accessed via a ladder from the pick-up bed and it has a 5.6-foot headroom extendable using the fold-out tent floor extensions on the front and back –pulled down manually – that increase sleeping space. The mesh windows in the tent offers 270-degree views, while the openable skylight lets you stargaze when the surroundings are engulfed in darkness.

The Safari Cruiser weighs about 250 kg, and rests on the top of the truck’s bed rails. When it’s closed it rests comfortably on the pick-up’s shell and can carry about 30 kg load of your adventure gear. At camp when you open it, in addition to the top tent, you have a second low tent below which doesn’t have much headroom and can be used as a kid’s room or for dining and lounging.

Interestingly, the top rooftop tent is laid with a 30W solar panel to power the LED lighting and lift system battery. Attached to the lower section is a 360-degree awning that provides shade from the sun and gives additional living space just outside, which can be fun at the beach or when fishing in the lake.

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LEGO McLaren MP4/4 with Ayrton Senna minifig arriving in March to grace F1 fans’ shelves

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Ayrton Senna is the undisputed legend of motor racing and he could have achieved timeless greatness (not that he has already not achieved the feat) hadn’t it been for that fateful corner at the Imola Circuit in Italy during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. Hence, Ffor a Formula-1 fanatic, any memorabilia or piece of history that recalls the legend’s memories is a prized possession.

For such fans, LEGO Speed Champions and Technic lineup will add to the proud collection in the form of the McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna LEGO set. The set comprising of 693 pieces will go on sale from March 1, 2024 for a suggested price tag of $80. Highlight of this set is the Senna minifigure on a podium holding the winner’s trophy with a plate displaying the photo and quote,  alongside the McLaren in action mode.

Designer: LEGO Group

The main focus here is the successful F1 MP4/4 car powered by the Honda turbocharged engine that was used during the 1988 Formula 1 season. Ayrton alongside his teammate Alain Prost pushed this beast to its limits in a spectacle of racing craft dominating the competition winning 15 out of the 16 races during the season. Ayrton stole the limelight with eight wins for the team, securing his place as the world champion, while Alain just missed the bar winning seven races.

The MP4/4’s reliability and pure performance made it one of the most dominant cars in the history of F1 to date. Of course, one can attribute that feat to the skill of Ayrton who showed some of the most mind-blowing driving craft during the season. Coming back to this LEGO build, it looks like Shell is again on good terms with the LEGO Group after a lull of a decade. You can spot the Sheel and Honda logos while the controversial Marlboro branding has been given a pass.

The 1:8 LEGO model is 553 mm long, 257 mm wide, and 125mm high. It comes with functional suspensions, a steering wheel, a V6 engine, a turbo compressor (with intercooler radiators), snorkels and exhaust blowing under the rear diffuser. What more could you ask for?

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2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron Review

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PROS:


  • Engaging handling

  • Comfort seating

  • Plenty of storage

CONS:


  • Range still a bit short

  • No hands-off tech

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

A refresh that moves Audi's E-Tron forward in all the right directions.

As far as EVs go, the E-Tron has been around long enough to have seen a few things. Debuting back in 2018, Audi’s first battery-powered ride was a great car in many ways, but it also felt lacking in others. Most notably, its range was on the middling side and its handling made it a pleasant drive but far from a memorable one. Finally, there was the name: E-Tron. It just didn’t really fit in with anything Audi had done before or since.

For 2024, it’s back, and now it’s called the Q8 E-Tron. Despite the new name, now fitting squarely within Audi’s model taxonomy, this is actually a subtle refresh. It’s so subtle that you’d be forgiven for not being able to identify the new car from the old were they sitting side-by-side. But, after having driven both quite extensively, I’m happy to say it’s a refresh that moves the car forward in all the right directions — though perhaps not far enough in some.

By the numbers

The Q8 E-Tron is, like before, a five-passenger SUV that, to my eye, looks more like a tall station wagon. Its height of 64.3 inches splits the difference quite handily between the regular Q8 SUV and the A8 sedan, so it really is its own thing.

It’s available in three trims, with starting prices in the U.S. just under $75,000 on the low end and $85,000 on the high end. The car tested here is a Prestige trim with just a few options added.

It has a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system offering a total system output of 402 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque. The range from the new and larger 114-kilowatt-hour battery is 285 miles per the EPA, while the maximum charging rate is 170 kW. In my testing, I didn’t come anywhere near that EPA rating, averaging 2.3 miles per kilowatt hour at best, for an estimated 243 miles from the 106 usable kWh in that new battery.

But don’t hold that against it. I did all my testing in the winter months, and that result is actually quite good given the low temperatures. Even the best EVs hate the cold. In the summer, I have no doubt that drivers will meet or exceed that EPA figure.

More importantly, the Q8 E-Tron did an excellent job of providing accurate, reliable range estimates based on weather conditions and terrain, something that many other EV makes still struggle with.

Deja-Q

Squint, and you’ll hardly be able to tell the difference between the Q8 and the E-Tron that came before. Put on your glasses, and the differences are still easy to miss. The highlights are definitely in the front facia, which is sharper, cleaner, and fresher than before. Revised lighting, too, makes the Q8 E-Tron have a subtly greater presence than before.

New 20-inch wheels also provide more visual intrigue from the side without compromising ride quality too much, but the overall visual aesthetic of the Q8 is still very much an understated one. That’s doubly so, thanks to a decidedly muted selection of colors. The shade you see here, Plasma Blue, is the most dramatic of the bunch, and yet it easily blends into your average parking lot palette.

Even less has changed on the inside, and that doesn’t bother me so much. The original E-Tron’s interior was a standout, and while it’s perhaps a bit familiar now, it still delivers in all the right ways. It also still bears the indentations in the door cars where the digital side-view mirrors would live in the American version of the Q8 E-Tron, were they legal. Five years after the original E-Tron’s launch, they’re still not.

Though mostly dark and dominated by soft-touch rubbers and plenty of harder, harsher stuff, the look is clean, and everything feels durable. The slash of open-pore wood across the dash, though desaturated and still not providing much visual flare, does at least add some organic appeal to what would otherwise be too cold a space. (Brown leather is also on offer, as well as off-white.)

The primary interface is a pair of touchscreens stacked vertically. The lower is primarily dedicated to HVAC controls and other features like smart home integration, charging, and toggling hill descent control.

The touchscreen above is the more significant of the two, where the bulk of Audi’s MMI lives and where either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto will be wirelessly displayed should you choose to enable it. To the left, there’s Audi’s Virtual Cockpit Plus, augmented further by a heads-up display.

That’s plenty of displays for sure. Though this version of MMI feels more than a little dated at this point, its voice recognition in particular offering little assistance compared to the more recent offerings from BMW or Mercedes-Benz. That said, it’s quick and easy to use, and the haptic pulse received when selecting touch controls is still a pleasant thing.

Interior comfort

At 193.5 inches long, the Q8 E-Tron is a big car, and it makes use of that volume by offering comfortable seating in the front or the rear. Out back, there’s plenty of legroom and headroom, plus a pair of USB-C ports and dedicated controls for rear HVAC, plus heating the rear seats.

Front seats add ventilation, and while the cooling isn’t particularly effective, the heating is certainly the more important part of the equation, and there they do not disappoint. The heated steering wheel, however, could use a few more watts.

Front seats are power-adjustable, with two memory settings, and visibility from the driver’s seat is quite good. The shaping of the A-pillars keeps them from blocking too much of your perspective, while the panoramic sunroof above helps keep things looking lighter and brighter than the dark materials otherwise would.

In practical terms, 28.5 cubic feet of cargo space make for a very livable machine. Fold the split rear seats, which flop down at the pull of a lever at the back of the cargo compartment, and you’re greeted with an expansive 56.4 cubic feet of space. Plenty for the most indulgent of trips to the big-box shops.

The drive

The outgoing E-Tron was pleasant to drive, calm and relaxed, quite nicely composed on the sorts of roads that will try the best of suspension systems. The revised Q8 E-Tron, I’m pleased to say, has lost none of that valuable, though ultimately forgettable demeanor.

What’s added is a surprising amount of engagement. The Q8 E-Tron, when pushed hard and toggled over to Sport mode, is quite fun to drive. No, we’re not coming close to the levels offered even by any member of Audi’s RS family. Still, revised steering and some subtle suspension tweaks help make for a car that’s eager when the road turns away from you.

It’s also eager when that road is straight and narrow. The new Q8 E-Tron feels even quicker than its 402 hp. To get maximum power, you need to be in Sport mode, where the throttle is sharpest. The Q8 E-Tron is genuinely eager, so eager that you’ll only want to deploy that mode when you’re by yourself, lest you threaten the patience — or the stomachs — of anyone else in the car.

They won’t have to worry about getting car sick from excessive regenerative braking, though. Like the old E-Tron, the Q8 doesn’t have much to offer. Tap the left paddle a few times to enable maximum regen, but the maximum is barely any. Audi’s dogged dislike of one-pedal driving continues, which continues to be a shame for any buyer who prefers not to step on the brake pedal so often.

Regarding safety systems, the Q8 E-Tron has a comprehensive stack, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts, and a lane departure warning system. It was enough to earn it an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.

However, where more and more competitors offer hands-off highway driving, this SUV is still very much in the hands-on mode. Its lane-keep system also got a little confused when approaching exit ramps where the right painted lines split off to make room for the exit, resulting in an occasional, uncomfortable lurch. But the adaptive cruise worked well, always identifying and reacting to traffic early and smoothly.

Options and pricing

The 2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron you see here had a starting MSRP of $74,400, while the Prestige package added a further $10,400. Compared to the base Q8 E-Tron, Premium Plus adds on the better Bang & Olufsen sound system, ventilated front seats, and the 360 camera. Prestige steps that up further with a basic massaging system on those seats, which are now wrapped in higher-spec leather, with upgraded matrix lighting up front.

This car also blacked out much of the chrome with the $2,000 Black Optic Package, $400 for additional rear side airbags, and $595 for that Plasma Blue paint. Add on the $1,195 destination charge, and you have a final sticker price of $88,990.

That’s a comprehensively equipped and properly luxurious machine for that money. Really, it’s only the range that’s still a bit light compared to the competition, on par with something like the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV’s 279 miles, but short of BMW’s iX, which offers 311 miles for comparable money. But, most buyers will find the E-Tron’s 285 miles plenty enough, and they’ll also find the Q8 to be a comfortable, upscale, and now subtly engaging all-electric SUV.

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With single-piece fiberglass shell, Bean Stock 2.0 is most capable ultralightweight off-road teardrop trailer

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Teardrop trailers have their own drive and dwelling convenience on the road. This is distinguishable from other forms of camping solutions for their size, weight, and price. There are a number of lightweight teardrop trailers adventurers have been using to their advantage but not many have the grit to go off the paved roads with equal expediency. Presenting a light and robust solution for the needs is the new Bean Stock 2.0.

Designed by Bean Trailers, founded in 2016 by Mark and Brian, who have been designing trailers with durability and minimalism in mind, the Bean Stock 2.0 is another rugged and lightweight teardrop trailer that can take the habitants to pretty much anywhere they desire.

Designer: Ben Trailers

I said there are three primary advantages that teardrop trailers carry over the other camping rigs, and the Bean Stock 2.0 fits the bill with its fiberglass body that renders the tiny trailer lightweight at 1,175 lbs. The construction ensures the trailer is fundamentally affordable in its stock variant yet its ruggedness makes it a capable off-roader. How is that possible is discussed further in the article.

The teardrop has a one-piece fiberglass shell with composite honeycomb side walls, while the former is not customary, the latter is a prerequisite in Bean Trailers’ models. Bean Stock 2.0 given the solid, lightweight design is built for the toughest and roughest trails. To that accord, the structure is slimmer and capable of being towed behind any small SUVs like the Subaru Forester, Ford Escape and similar.

The stock model of Bean Stock 2.0 is off-road ready with 2,000-pound HD suspension and 15-inch wheels. But it is the customizable option that allows    3,500-pound suspension and bigger tires with more ground clearance that add to the off-track capability. All the features are nothing without the interiors you want to be in after a long day’s drive. The Stock 2.0 is equally fashioned inside also, which absolutely revolves around the 60-inch x 80-inch queen-sized mattress facing a wide window filling the living space with natural light during the day, the warm-tone recessed lighting keeps the ambiance lifted after the sun goes down.

For all its wonderful features and interesting design, the Bean Stock 2.0 is available in a choice of 18 different colors. The entry-level variant of the rugged teardrop trailer starts at $15,999 and the customizable option with all add-ons onboard spikes the price to over the $20,000 mark.

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10 Best E-Bikes For Automotive Lovers Who Want A Dash Of Speed + Eco-Friendly Design

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Electronic bikes have taken the automobile industry by storm! Living a more sustainable and conscious life has become imperative, with life on Earth getting more and more difficult. Curbing fuel consumption, and reducing automotive emissions has become critical, and e-bikes are an environment-friendly option, encouraging these practices. With the e-bike craze gaining momentum, designers have been coming up with innovative and super cool e-bike designs, and we’ve collected a few for you. Dive in!

1. Diode

Designed by Tien Hung, this e-bike concept is called the Diode, and it features a neo-minimalistic design that pays tribute to the future of the electric power train. The form of the bike is practically invisible, except for one singular horizontal pillar that smoothly runs from the dashboard to the taillight and a massive battery module that is nestled underneath it. It also features a powerful rear-wheel drivetrain and a comfy set.

2. MOQBA

Dubbed the MOQBA, this concept design is an e-scooter/bike that can climb stairs! It is designed to be a next-generation mobility ride for those who often face difficulty in mobility. It is not intended to be a two-wheel wonder, rather it rides on four independent legs with wheel extensions. It can be categorized as an innovative mini mecha for the future! Although at the moment, it does seem a bit far-fetched, it could have valuable utility in the future.

3. Mimic E-bike

The MIMIC e-bike is a powerful electric power that looks like a crouching jungle cat of a bike and was designed by Roman Dolzhenko. It is outfitted with a body that looks more like armor and comes with a rounded Tron Light Cycle-inspired form that is outfitted with rounded elements, and an overall absence of straight lines or sharp edges.

4. Pro.Zui

The Pro.Zui is something between a scooter, a moped, and an e-bike. Designed to be a daily commuter, it features a sleek design aesthetic amped up by cutting-edge technology, providing users with an incredible riding experience. It can cover a range of 120 kilometers on a single charge from an advanced electric battery. It utilizes state-of-the-art battery technology, supporting a reliable and long-lasting journey.

5. Porsche 619 Concept

Designed by Jackson Zhang, the Porsche 619 electric concept is an exciting response to Porsche’s plans to go electric by 2030. The 619 is the first proper electric motorcycle we’ve seen, and it features a unique design, putting Porsche’s automotive DNA in the backseat, while also creating something minimalist, geometry-driven, and iconic! It features a segmented LED matrix headlight like the one seen in the Taycan, while the seat features the word “Porsche” on the outer cover.

6. The Project M³ Concept Motorbike

Called the Project M³ concept motorbike, this automotive is designed by Richard Huang and features an ingrained biomimicry for motorheads. It has a head inspired by the dolphin, and the electric motor onboard is charged using a blowhole-like nose, imparting a lifelike presence to it. The dolphin is mirrored on the toothed wheel rims,  and the front headlights section too.

7. The Mantis

Named the Mantis, and called a MiniBike, this compact little two-wheeler is an urban commuting dream. It seats one person and lets the rider easily and swiftly cover distances. It features a unique, horizontal frame with a seat and handlebars at the same level, and it also features a detachable and replaceable battery that can be packed right underneath the seat.

8. BMW G7 Scrambler

Coined the BMW G7 Scrambler, this electric bike with a Z-shaped frame, a bottom-heavy design, a cantilever seat, and a stunning headlight, is truly the words “if looks could kill” come to life! It is a unique-looking concept that comes with a choice between a fuel-based and electric powertrain, although both variants look identical on the outside.

9. Colibri M22

Petre Georgescu designed an electric bike that can reach the farthest on a single charge! Called the Colibri M22, this foldable electric moped can get you as far as 200km without having to recharge. Once you’re done commuting, you can easily fold and store the e-bike somewhere, for example under stairways, or in a storage area as it features compact mechanisms that can be neatly folded away.

10. 2029 E-Bike

Inspired by the revolutionary design of the 1929 Majestic built by George Roy, this 2029 e-bike combines art-deco and automotive design to build an innovative design that features clean-cut geometric shapes that are created by sheet-metal fabrication, alongside bone-inspired generative-design details that have been 3D printed in metal.

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Olympian Motors’ electric SUV slated for Q2 2024 release, teases Cybertruck with AR windshield and a retro-futuristic design

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Fusing the past into the future sounds like the best prospect for an electric vehicle in a landscape filled with ultra-futuristic EVs is a refreshing change. Olympian Motors is set to achieve what most motorheads will appreciate down to the core. Their Model 84 electric vehicle is the first ever rear-wheel electric convertible in the United States with an augmented reality heads-up display.

While you won’t get that first impression of tech-infused features in this retro-futuristic vehicle, you’ll be proved wrong. The projector on the windshield gets rid of the contemporary 2D digital screen and replaces it with an advanced HUD interface. According to the New York-based company, they’ll start deliveries by Q2, 2024 and only 310 units of this four-seater roofless EV will be produced in the first phase.

Designer: Olympian Motors

The car targets a niche segment of users who want to go beyond the limits of owning a performance electric SUV. That I say because Cybertruck has been all over the internet these past few months (years I should say) revealing its unparalleled pros but also exposing what’s not that impressive. The Model 84 is boxy and a little less sharp in its aesthetics, evoking the inspirational design of the iconic Land Rover that has been the definition of safari vehicles for decades.

The body is made out of forged titanium and military-grade carbon fiber which both provide security assurance in case of an accident. The use of the former means the vehicle is lightweight enough to not stress the electric drivetrain which will need every possible battery-conserving feature it could benefit from. Another safety feature is the inclusion of nine airbags.

The SUV can go from 0-60 miles per hour in a mere 8.1 seconds courtesy of the 340 HP engine, meaning it has loads of torque for that initial kick. The top speed of the Model 84 can hit 160 miles per hour and a figure of 335 miles on a single charge is also achievable thanks to the 89 kWh motor.

While the convertible safari vehicle is best utilized for four travelers, the two back seats can be removed for carrying luggage. It also comes with a glass canopy and laminated windows keeping in mind the possibility of windows shattering in shards which could prove fatal. On the inside the boxy EV gets exotic woods, cashmere and silk materials instead of the usual cheap plastics and veneer made out of toxic chemicals.

Even though it uses luxurious materials and high-tech features, the Model 84 favors minimalism more than anything else. Remember that AR heads-up display, in a way gets rid of those chunky dashboard buttons and switches. The focus here is on hands-free operation via voice commands to control everything from HVAC, seats and doors to the lighting systems.

As per Olympian Motor, the EV will be initially only sold in the US without any confirmation of any plans to export or produce it elsewhere. An asking price tag of $70,000 is right there competing with the Cybertruck, so it’ll liven up the competition once we see it going toe-to-toe with the Tesla monster in real-world conditions. Will it be better at tackling the snowy roads, well only time will tell. Pardon me, for that pun, but I had to tease Tesla for all that’s worth it!

The post Olympian Motors’ electric SUV slated for Q2 2024 release, teases Cybertruck with AR windshield and a retro-futuristic design first appeared on Yanko Design.