Tag Archives: Automotive

This WILD all-terrain motorbike has tread-wheels for adventures in the most inhospitable environments

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The moment I laid eyes on this unique motorbike (or should I say snowmobile) it was evident the vehicle is made for the most inhospitable conditions and terrain. Perhaps, the ideal ride for post-apocalyptic times where survival of the fittest is the new order.

This is the Unitrack electric all-terrain vehicle designed and developed by Oruga SIA, a Mobility Tech startup in Latvia. The three-wheeled motorbike with three ballooned wheels employs the company’s proprietary patent-pending monotrack tech, specifically developed to take on the “diverse challenging terrains, from hot sand and muddy forests to rocky climbs and snowy landscapes.” Will it be able to disrupt the Rokon dominance, who is known for designing the most resourceful pack mules and mototractors, is something we’ll know only when the Unitrack is set to the test in real-world conditions.

Designer: Oruga SIA

If you’re thinking the vehicle is just a pipedream with just a prototype and concept designs to back its claim, well, they are prepping for a mid-2025 manufacturing deadline with sales beginning shortly after that. Oruga is accepting pre-orders for the rig that promises its ease of use for varying sectors including first responders and outdoor adventurers. Turing this thing on tight corners is a breeze as the contact point of the wheel in between bends on the sections when steering input is received. Although the vehicle has a turning radius of around 6 meters, it should be easy to maneuver in most circumstances.

It can even drive in reverse which is an added perk when you’re stuck in a tight spot. However, I’m not that convinced about the idea of a steering system turning the wheel that’s off the ground. That said, it does have some advantages compared to the existing 200cc four-stroke Rokon. There are eco-conscious selection of tools for paramedics, military and first responders. Coming onto the power delivery of the EV, it has a 90kW motor with the option to choose from two versions – Nude 150 kg and Heavyweight 300kg. The machine achieves a range of 62 miles on a single charge, and that number can be extended to 124 miles in the hybrid mode.

Oruga claims a top speed of 60mph be it driving on sand, snow, gravel or rocky climbs. Unlike the noisy gasoline-powered snowmobiles this will not disturb the peace of the wilderness since it is an electric vehicle. Surprisingly, there’s no working model right now to assess the Unitrack’s claim, but we’re expecting a version to soon be available. Most prospective buyers will only put in their hard-earned savings on this if they see a real-life demo of the thing.

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James Bruton’s Screw Bike moves smoothly in any direction, even rotates on its axis

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James Bruton and his out-of-the-world creations never cease to amaze us. His Star Wars Speeder Bike is a good example of his inventive thinking. The DIYer knows his craft and his latest creation has got us mystified, yet again!

This omnidirectional bike gives the rider great freedom to move in multiple directions, allowing them to move sideways, diagonally, or even rotate on the spot. Now, who would say no to such a cool way to commute in the city?

Designer: James Bruton

Dubbed the Screw Bike, this two-wheeled commuter justifies the namesake. I can’t resist but see the reminisces of the retro Motocompo here, but that could be a pure coincidence. James has a thing for omnidirectional wheels and this could be his best one so far. Each of those peculiar wheels on the bike is 360 mm in diameter and comes with a packing of smaller wheels positioned with engineering craft for multidirectional movement. Originally called Mecanum Wheels, these unique tireless wheels are used widely in the scope of robotics and often in competitive robotics due to their ability to introduce fully omnidirectional movement onto a drivetrain. These rollers typically each have an axis of rotation at 45° to the wheel plane and at 45° to the axle line.

While your high-end bicycle will beat this thing in a straight spring, on the tracks of Monaco this thing will have the moves. For this bike’s custom design, the inventor employs 3D printing technology and uses materials like plywood. Implementing such a complex wheel design could only have been possible with 3D printing. There are 48 small wheels and 96 wedges that make possible this complex iteration. The movement of this bike is so smooth, that it calls for due credit to James.

The steering input from the handlebar is perfectly synched with the direction in which the inventor wants to move. He demonstrates the movement of Screw Bike inside a room and out in the open too. This very well justifies that the smooth moves are no fluke.

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This Pininfarina Racing Rig Concept might be the most Gorgeous Simulator Setup ever made

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The problem with racing simulator rigs are that they aren’t designed by automotive designers, they’re designed by gamers. Most sim-racers are fairly utilitarian looking, with an almost bare-basics cockpit-inspired design focusing on real-world feel. The most aesthetic part is almost always the driver’s seat, and everything else looks like a naked chassis. Not the Pininfarina Formula though… designed by Fabio Bilotta, this concept piece brings the world of automotive art and gaming together to create a rig so unique it’ll garner stares the same way a hypercar does.

Designer: Fabio Bilotta

The Pininfarina Formula combines sleek aesthetics with user-centered functionality. Paying homage to the iconic shape of the Istanbul Air Traffic Control Tower, it embodies a blend of sophistication and dynamism. The secret to the Pininfarina Formula’s sculptural beauty lies in its meticulous material selection. Carbon fiber offers a perfect balance of strength and lightness, while reinforced plywood ensures long-lasting durability. Stainless steel adds a touch of class, and genuine leather elevates the experience with a luxurious feel.

The Pininfarina Formula models itself ergonomically on Formula 1 cars, positioning the user’s feet at shoulder height for optimal control and mimicking the posture of professional racers. But it doesn’t stop there. The setup is designed to adapt to individual needs. The pedal sledge and steering wheel housing are both fully adjustable, allowing users of all heights and preferences to find their perfect racing position.

Whether you prefer the immersive world of virtual reality or the classic experience of a traditional screen, the Pininfarina Formula caters to your taste. Its adaptable design seamlessly integrates with different gaming setups, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite racing titles in the way that suits you best. The setup comes without a wheel or pedals, giving you the ability to attach your own, based on your preferences as well as your budget… although if you’re splurging on a Pininfarina-inspired rig, is money really an object for you?!

Images via Automotive Design Planet

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Maserati Tridente electric superboat redefines luxurious water adventures

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At the Folgore Day event in Miami, Maserati revealed the world’s first convertible all-electric car, and we were impressed by another one of their unveils. This is the Tridente all-electric luxury motorboat that dots the Italian automaker’s presence on the waters as well.

Just picture a scenario wherein you arrive on a coast in your GranCabrio Folgore, and the Tridente powerboat has you covered for a day at sea. Completely electric, the powerboat is developed in collaboration with VitaPower, a seasoned EV marine company. The EV boat has traces of the Vita Lion powerboat in its DNA, but the Maserati influence is seen in the modern design and upgrades.

Designer: Maserati

The carbon fiber-hulled speedboat measures 34 feet long and allows fat-pocketed millionaires to explore the waters in luxury and comfort. The vessel draped in a beautiful rose gold finish has seating for eight, a swimming platform, and a sundeck bed. The interiors are done in cream to contrast the luxe exteriors and Maserati’s craft can be seen in the streamlined design. The hull is made out of carbon fiber to keep the weight down to a minimum and that helps the dual electric motors powered by the four batteries churn out a maximum of 600 horsepower.

According to Maserati, the powerboat will reach a top speed of 40 knots with a cruising speed of 25 knots for a range of 43 miles on a single charge. The batteries can be topped up in an hour with a DC fast charge connection which is great if you don’t like long delays before another escapade to the waters.

With a price tag of $2,660,000, the Tridente is the perfect companion for your supercar. That said, if you can own this baby, you’ll have to wait for 10 months before laying hands on it.

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Maserati Unveils GranCabrio Folgore all-electric four-door convertible touting 270 miles range

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Virtually every carmaker on the planet is making the sensible transition to clean energy and Maserati is no different. Now the luxury vehicle manufacturer has revealed its drop-top electric vehicle which now becomes the third all-electric car in the line-up. The GranCabrio Folgore convertible is one of the world’s first electric four-seater of its kind based on the gas-powered GranTurismo Folgore.

The gorgeous beast comes with a tri-motor (300kW magnet motors) electric powertrain that churns out 818 horsepower and approximately 1,000 lb-ft of torque. It’s worth mentioning, that the EV is based on the 800V technology adapted from Formula E. That makes it capable of reaching a top speed of 180 mph and 0-62 mph in just 2.8 seconds.

Designer: Maserati

The drop-top performance EV has a WLTP-rated range of 260-277 miles on a single full charge. The Italian marque is also promising a maximum charge speed of 270 kW. That means a charge of just 10 minutes will get you 120 miles of range. The convertible top mode operates at up to a speed of 31 mph and retracts in mere 14 seconds. Noticeably, the contraption takes very little space to preserve boot space for hauling luggage.

If you are wondering how the GranCabrio manages those classic proportions despite being and EV, well, that is attributed to the T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack positioned between and behind the passengers. This eliminates the traditional seating position of EVs that’s more of a tall-in-the-saddle category. On the inside, the EV’s cabin is laden in premium inserts, a luxe ambiance, tech inclusions and the use of eco-friendly materials make it a sweet deal. Maserati has paid much attention to detail for the Econyl seats that come with laser-etched perforations for visual attractiveness.

The front seats come with 18-way adjustable freedom and neck warmers for chilly weather conditions. That steering wheel is wrapped in leather and complements the brushed aluminum paddle shifters. The 12.2-inch digital gauge cluster is paired with the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, heads-up display, and a 16-speaker Sonus Faber sound system. Maserati is offering the EV in a staggered wheel-and-tire package that has 20-inch fronts and 21-inch rears. These can be chosen in six different wheel designs and four different finishes.

Someone looking for a performance electric convertible has got their wish granted as the Maserati GranCabrio is slated to hit the showrooms in early 2025. Of course, it’ll come at a steep price tag of approximately $200,000!

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This hybrid adventure motorbike with balloon tires can take on any tough terrain with ease

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There’s something about motorbikes with fat tires that makes them exceptionally interesting. Either it’s a perceived notion that they are more suited for all-terrain adventures or their beefy tire set makes them seemingly more durable than the rest. Either way, it’s a fact that fat-tire bikes are more suited for slippery, sandy or snowy terrain. The Arsenale have reincarnated their 2×2 Ultrabike in a new avatar because the two-wheeler somehow failed to capture attention at its maiden attempt. The improved and rebranded Plan B (the name says it all) is a second strive to pique interest in the cross-country off-road adventure bike genre.

What’s not going to go down well with prospective buyers is that the 2×2 bike costs $2,000 while the Plan B motorbike is priced at $15,000. That’s an exorbitant inflated value even though this newer version comes with added upgrades and tech improvements. Tough, we’re hoping for a lauded set of improvements, and a more affordable price tag in consequent versions.

Designer: The Arsenale

The balloon-tired motorbike retains its electric powertrain DNA in a low-power hybrid gas/electric format, powering the 2WD system. The bike touts an ultra-long range of more than 200 miles (depending on driving style and terrain) as it is more lightweight now. Even though it doesn’t look production-ready compared to the likes of Rokon, if everything goes well, it could lure buyers who are seeking a reliable adventure bike that’s easy to maneuver and promises a long range. But that price tag when compared against the $10,250 MotoTracktor by Rokon still is a deal breaker.

The form, as seen in the pictures looks impressive and we’re eager, as to how the thing will look in real life. That ride height is quite assuring of its capability to take on any rough surface, and the chunky tires look good to take on any abrasive surface without suffering multiple punctures. The on-board batteries sit right beneath the rider’s sitting position and the electric motor. For the hybrid function when the batteries are short on charge and there’s no charging station in sight, the hybrid drivetrain kicks into action.

In its current state, the e-bike is still raw compared to other offerings that have proven their mettle for some years now. The reliability for first mover advantage is also going to factor in as the Plan B is factually still a “Plan B” by the brand with little proven testing.

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10 Best Sleek Kick Scooters To Commute Through Your City In Style & Speed

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Kick Scooters are all the trend these days! They are easy to ride, compact, and also pretty approachable! Weaving through traffic is super easy with them, letting you finally bid adieu to traffic jams. And since they’re usually electric, then you’re also automatically cutting down on fossil-fuel consumption, and being a major support to planet Earth, if you choose to ride them. In an ode to scooters and their immense functionality, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and nifty scooter designs that seem to be slowly taking over the automotive industry.

1. Electric Stand Bike

Named the Electric Stand Bike, this unique design is a personal commuter that is an excellent fit for the city skirts, as well as the outskirts. You can ride about in complete style, without adversely impacting the environment. It is an electric-powered machine with big front wheels and a single rear one to offer maximum control. The front wheels are much larger than the rear wheel – almost triple the size. The rear wheel has its independent dual suspension system which handles bumps with ease.

2. Electric Mobility Bicycle

Designed by YU ID, this electric bicycle has Cake bike-inspired aesthetics, and it takes personal commuting to a whole new level. Since it is a modular ride, it becomes an excellent fit for different kinds of users. You can use the bicycle as a scooter, a Cake bike, or an electric ride. It is inspired by everyday gadgets, and it has a unique sleek form that does not compromise on its robust aesthetics in the least.

3. City Wander’s Foldable Kick Scooter

City Wander designed an old-fashioned scooter with four wheels, instead of the typical two. It is quite easy to drive and doesn’t require much training to operate it. It is designed to be portable, and space-efficient, and you can easily fold it down, and pull it along like a flattened scooter. It also features a nifty storage compartment to hold your stuff in the front. But you need to keep in mind that it holds something before you fold the handle down.

4. Popup Scooter

Meet the Popup Scooter – a two-wheeled electric bicycle that can be transformed into a kick scooter, or the other way round! The transformative design allows the rider to pick a configuration that suits his or her riding needs. The cycle is equipped with a hydraulic cylinder that allows it to move smoothly and swiftly. The mechanism can lift an adult person, so lifting and lowering the rider’s body shouldn’t be an issue at all.

5. Avci’s Scooter Concept

Designed by Fatih Avic, this e-scooter concept is intended for city residents and features a swivel front wheel, smartphone holder, and a handy space to store your belongings. It has a lightweight design and slim nature which makes it a fast and convenient choice. The swivel front wheel and hook for storing items like groceries make it an innovative and refreshing automotive design. It also has an area to hold your smartphone, letting you easily follow GPS.

6. Zipper Electric Scooter

Say hello to the Zipper electric scooter – which is easy, efficient, and convenient to ride. When not in use, you can fold the scooter down, and store it away. It has a 500W motor which can take it up to a top speed of 20 mph, and can even push it up inclined roads with a 25-degree slope. The scooter can support riders weighing up to 125 kg, so it can hold most people. It has a maximum range of 16 miles on a single charge, which powers up the 10Ah battery for four hours.

7. Supersonic Kick Scooter

Dubbed the Supersonic Kick-Scooter, this unique-looking kickscooter features an organic plant-inspired structure. It can haul an adult weight of 110kg with ease and without any fuss. Aluminum was used in the openwork construction of the scooter, keeping the weight down. It is a three-wheeled contraption that can be folded down when not in use, or when you need to put it away. You just need to push the lever by the side of the front wheels.

8. e-Tron Scooter

Inspired by Audi, Daekwang Kim designed the e-Tron scooter. The e-scooter features the cool metallic finish we typically see in Audi models, partnered up with a smooth glacier-gray coating for the scooter’s exterior deck and bar. The deck has a black, non-slip, rubber-treaded grip which ensures that your feet are firmly planted at all times. The accelerating buttons are located on the handlebar, with a smooth silicone grip to provide steady balance.

9. Mjotim

Designed by Yifeeling Design Lab, the Mjotim is a unique scooter to meet the technological standards of today, while drawing inspiration from the charm and beauty of the earlier forms of motorized scooters. Mjotim has the typical form and structure of a scooter, and it is meant to be ridden while standing up. The motor is encased inside, and the gear information is outside the steering column. It is equipped with two handlebars for steering.

10. Smacircle

The Smacircle scooter is designed to address the “last kilometer” problem of crowded cities. The scooter is designed to cover the distance between the subway stop, and your destination. Usually, there is a one or two-kilometer distance between your destination and each subway stop, and Smacircle helps you commute through that distance. You can fold down the scooter when you’re in the subway, and then unfold it and zoom out once you’ve reached your subway stop.

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2024 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato Debuts Exclusive Livery – All-Terrain Luxury Meets Design at Milan Design Week

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At Milan Design Week 2024, Lamborghini unveiled the ‘All Terrain’ Ad Personam series for the Huracán Sterrato in a dazzling display that redefined what a super sports car can be. This limited edition series, featuring 12 uniquely designed vehicles, brilliantly reflects the earth’s varied landscapes through sophisticated design and technological advancements.

Designer: Lamborghini’s Ad Personam studio + Centro Stile

Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Lamborghini, highlighted the Sterrato’s dual nature at the event. He emphasized its capacity as both a performance vehicle and an adventurous explorer, capable of forging new paths with the same ease as it races down a track. The design of the Sterrato, a product of the collaborative genius of Lamborghini’s Ad Personam studio and Centro Stile, embodies this ethos. Each version of the car is painted in a matte camouflage scheme that corresponds to different environments: NEVE (snow), SABBIA (sand), BOSCO (green track), and TERRA (gravel), further accentuated by a matte black finish on the roof, bonnet, and lower body, accented with unique colors, 19” matte black forged rims, and custom caliper colors.

Inside, the Sterrato continues its thematic journey with dark chrome, carbon twill, and Alcantara finishes, enhanced with custom graphics and an Ad Personam plate that reflects the external livery. Mitja Borkert, Head of Design, shared, “The All-Terrain Sterrato is a true Lamborghini in its dynamic abilities and surprises by delivering the unexpected. It’s a joy to drive and ready for any adventure.”

The Milan presentation featured a dramatic stage display with a giant Trompe L’Oeil, created by an Italian artist, setting a perfect backdrop that echoed the power of nature and the promise of adventure.

I must admit, I’m quite envious that Tim Stevens had the opportunity to experience the Sterrato firsthand. In his review, Tim applauded the vehicle for its exceptional all-weather performance, dramatic styling, and the immersive sound of its 5.2-liter V10 engine. Though he pointed out some visibility issues and the absence of ‘Corsa mode,’ the Sterrato was praised for its robust performance across diverse conditions and its distinctive styling that builds on the legacy of the LM002.

He described the interior as maintaining Lamborghini’s luxurious standards with bespoke elements that cater to both comfort and style. The car’s raised suspension and specialized Bridgestone Dueler AT002 tires exemplify its readiness for rugged terrain, while the powerful V10 engine assures a thrilling drive wherever you may roam.

Milan Design Week certainly wouldn’t have felt complete without these gorgeous, beastly performance cars making their mark. And for those now compelled to own one, a quick note: the 12 cars in this special Ad Personam series are already sold out, highlighting the allure and exclusive appeal of the Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato.

The event concluded with the unveiling of the Huracán Sterrato, demonstrating Lamborghini’s commitment to innovating car design and performance and marking an exciting new chapter in its legacy, which continues to challenge automotive conventions by merging aesthetic elegance with superior engineering.

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Polestar just beat Tesla by launching their very own Smartphone

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Unless China celebrates April Fool’s Day 18 days after the rest of the world, these images circulating on Polestar’s Weibo account hint that the company may be getting into the smartphone game.

Of all the EV companies to tease a smartphone, we probably expected Tesla to be the first. The internet was constantly filled with rumors teasing a Teslaphone (we even covered one of them), but turns out Polestar may have beaten them to the punch. The phone was spotted on the Google Play Console in February and was actually certified for sale in China last year, so this might not be a prank. The Polestar Phone is real, and this is what it looks like.

Designer: Polestar

The Polestar Phone sports an all-white and silver colorway, with clean lines, tight curves, and immaculate surfaces, just like its cars. Coincidentally enough, the clean design can’t entirely be attributed to Polestar – the phone is, in fact, a rebranded version of the Meizu 21 Pro, running a different OS and with Polestar’s branding on the back as well as the sides.

If we need to go off of the Meizu 21 Pro specs, the phone will run on a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, and sport a 50 MP main camera, along with a 13 MP ultra-wide-angle shooter, and a telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and periscope lens. The front will sport an edge-to-edge 2k+ screen with a 21:9 ratio and super-thin 2.2mm bezels.

The phone will apparently run a version of Android called the PoleStarOS – this is where the automotive company expects its expertise to shine through. While nobody will specifically buy a Polestar phone, the OS will offer a compelling reason for Polestar EV owners to make the switch. The phone’s OS will boast tight integration with the Polestar EV ecosystem, demonstrating how the two tech devices can integrate into each other to create a well-rounded user experience for car owners.

Barring a few images and a teaser video, not much is known about the Polestar Phone. However, the device is being primed for an April 24th launch. Who knows, if this works out we might get a Tesla X Smartphone sometime soon?!

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Lamp posts become EV charging stations in innovative startup concept

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Having an electronic vehicle is becoming a bit more common, although still not as prevalent as we would like it to be. There are a lot of reasons why some are still hesitant about adapting to this more eco-friendly kind of cars. Aside from the price tag, charging your vehicle overnight is still not as easy especially if you don’t have a garage or driveway. You have to look for charging stations near your place but you probably won’t be able to do your charging overnight. A startup aims to solve that problem by utilizing trusty old lamposts.

Designer: Voltpost

Since street lamposts are pretty common, this New York City startup is proposing to retrofit these existing lamposts and use them to charge electric vehicles. They designed a shroud that will cover the lower part of the lamposts and inside you have various cables and electronic devices to juice up the cars that need them. You have retractable cables that can anchor up to eight feet off the ground and a hand level charger dock. It is also modular and can be installed in an hour and can be repaired easily.

For newbies to the EV game, charging your car here is as easy as plug and play. There’s an app where you can oversee the charging of your vehicle and it is also where you will pay for the service. You can also use it to reserve your spot in case you know the schedule when you need to recharge your vehicle and you don’t want to compete with other EV owners. Even the installation of these chargers on the lamposts is pretty easy and takes just an hour based on their initial tests.

Voltpost has finished a test with the New York City Department of Transportation and they are currently in different stages of development with other cities specifically Chicago, Detroit, and New York. This is something that will be pretty useful to encourage more people to switch to EVs, especially if they don’t have space in their houses to do their own charging. We look forward to the day when EVs are as common as hybrid or regular cars and having a more convenient way to power up is a step towards that.

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