Serving as a diverse company, Bugatti Rimac (active from November 21) falls within the clientele of the Rimac Technology business. The Rimac Group is a shareholder in Bugatti Rimac with 55% stake and Porsche with the following 45%. Rimac Group now owns the individual company of Rimac Technology. The fresh company has goals to develop its areas of expertise in the engineering, development, production and supply of differing systems that Rimac is renowned for – such as battery systems, electric drive units, electronic systems and user interface components.
A company with superior electronic expertise, Rimac Technology works closely with automotive manufacturers across Europe. These two realms collaborate in projects like the expansion of the Nevera, taking customers step by step through the process of product creation. Rimac Technology is especially known for their work with international OEMs such as Porsche, Hyundai, Kia, Automobili Pininfarina, Koenigsegg and Aston Martin, with other projects yet to be announced. With the development of Rimac Technology’s manufacturing capacities, the brand has goals to create tens of thousands of advanced systems per year by 2024.
The solely independent company works as an individual manufacturer, including sponsors into the Rimac Group business. Rimac Technology prioritizes clientele confidentiality with all projects, and that each endeavor will be completed to request of necessary cost, performance and within sufficient time.
Mate Rimac, CEO of Rimac Group, now heads both Bugatti Rimac and Rimac Technology. Although both the brands operate separately, they both work under Bugatti Rimac with shared R&B along with other roles. The potential of both Bugatti and Rimac automobiles will be corresponded to Bugatti Rimac, merging ideas and innovation in research and development, production and other areas.
Mate Rimac states, “If we go back to the very beginning of the Rimac Automobili business in 2009, the dream for me was to build my own electric hypercar. With Nevera we believe we’ve achieved that dream, creating a car that is not only the fastest accelerating in the world, but also comfortable, usable and brimming with our advanced technology. But Nevera isn’t just a standalone project, it’s a showcase of what Rimac Technology can do free from the costs or volume restraints of a large-scale manufacturer. We believe once you’ve pushed the technology as far as it can go, it makes it a lot easier to scale up to higher volume and lower cost. The e-Axles, Torque Vectoring, battery systems, connectivity, AI, and countless other electrical systems on Nevera are all our own creations, and each of them can be scaled to suit applications you might find on a range of higher volume performance vehicles.
Separating the technology business into its own entity is a natural step as the focus of the two markets, hypercars and components, are completely different. For example, the products of Rimac Technology, while being on the cutting edge of performance, also need to be extremely cost competitive and producible at huge scales, while those issues are secondary for the hypercar business. This new structure will enable each company of the Rimac Group to flourish to their full potential, while still sharing the synergies between them – for example using our own hypercars as testbeds for new technology before we offer it to other OEMs.”
Rimac Automobili officially joins forces with Bugatti Automobiles under the recently announced, Bugatti Rimac d.o.o. The new company sees two motor vehicle powerhouses generate an exciting movement in the automotive and technology industries, originally initiated and strongly supported by the sports car manufacturer Porsche AG.
Rimac’s short but rich 10-year history from garage start-up by one man, Mate Rimac, took a big leap forward to begin official operating under Bugatti Rimac as of November 1st.
The Rimac Group is the major shareholder in Bugatti Rimac with a 55% stake. Mate Rimac will retain his shareholding in Rimac Group at 35%, with Porsche at 22%, Hyundai Motor Group doing the same at 11%, and other investors making up 32%. The development, production, and supply of battery systems, drivetrains, and other EV components that Rimac is known for and trusted by, will be separated into a new entity, Rimac Technology, that is 100% owned by the Rimac Group.
Bugatti Rimac has the unique combination of two automotive and technological trailblazers. Rimac’s distinctive agility, technical expertise, and relentless innovation in the EV sphere, along with Bugatti’s 110-year heritage of design and engineering of some of the world’s most iconic hypercars, are now combined in the leading hypercar company. Porsche plays a strong role in the joint company as a strategic partner. Along with two managers, the Stuttgart based sports car manufacturer appointed two Supervisory Board members, Oliver Blume and Lutz Meschke.
Mate Rimac’s leadership and strategic direction that has allowed Rimac to become an industry frontrunner means he is exceptionally skilled to lead the company as Chief Executive Officer. As CEO of Rimac Group, he runs both Bugatti Rimac and the new division, Rimac Technology.
Bugatti Rimac’s global headquarters is situated at Rimac’s current base on the outskirts of Zagreb, Croatia, but in time will transition to the recently announced €200M and 200.000m2 Rimac Campus, also serving as the home of Rimac Technology. With construction having now begun, joint research and development of future Rimac Automobili and Bugatti hypercars will ultimately take place there, with projected opening in 2023.
High-tech innovation forms the basis of the state-of-the-art facility, with the capacity to host 2,500 curiosity-driven people and a hive of groundbreaking developments. Bugatti Rimac operates with 435 employees as part of the new company, 300 of headquartered in Zagreb and 135 in Molsheim, France. In addition,180 people at Bugatti Engineering’s location in Wolfsburg, Germany, are supporting the new company. Rimac Technology consists of over 900 employees whilst the Rimac Group tackles over 1,300 employees across its various locations.
Bugatti Rimac’s new Board of Management has determined Christophe Piochon as Chief Operating Officer. He formerly held the position of Director General at Bugatti Automobiles and guarantees the continuation of the manufactory with its worldwide outstanding quality. Larissa Fleischer became Chief Financial Officer, previously being the head of controlling at Porsche in the areas of digitalization and the development of new business models. Lastly, Emilio Scervo is named Chief Technology Officer, having held the same title before at Rimac Automobili.
Rimac Automobili and Bugatti Automobiles will each continue to operate as separate brands and manufacturers, retaining their individual production facilities respectively, as well as the distribution channels. Rimac Technology will continue to innovate, developing vehicle systems and technologies for many global OEMs.
Commenting on the first day of Bugatti Rimac operations, CEO Mate Rimac says, “I am honored to be leading this new fusion of automotive minds and begin what will no doubt be a successful, revolutionary and exciting new chapter for everyone involved. I am also extremely curious to oversee the profound impact Bugatti Rimac will have on the industry, and I look forward to developing innovative new hypercars and technologies.”
He also claims that “[it’s] difficult to find a better match than Rimac and Bugatti. What each party brings to the table in terms of technical expertise, know-how and automotive history makes for an electrifying recipe. Rimac’s fast-paced operations and electrification skills are the perfect complement to Bugatti’s exceptional heritage and craftsmanship. Stay tuned for some truly extraordinary projects in the future.”
“I am convinced that we have found the right mix of experience and know-how, innovative strength and team spirit for the management,” says Lutz Meschke, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board and member of the board for Finance and IT at Porsche AG. “That’s why I’m very optimistic and because the project is very close to my heart, I will continue to accompany it closely and passionately in the future.”
Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Board of Management at Porsche, named this merger as “the perfect solution” for everyone involved, “Together, we are creating a high-performance automotive company. We have succeeded in positioning the traditional Bugatti brand with its charisma for the future in a way that creates value. Bugatti embodies fascination and passion, and Rimac has great innovative strength and tech expertise.”
Chris Wink, co-founder of Blue Man Group, announces the opening of “Wink World: Portals Into The Infinite” at AREA15. The attraction opens to the public today, Jan. 7, 2021.
This horizon-expanding, first-of-its-kind immersive art experience represents Wink’s most ambitious art and entertainment project since departing Blue Man Group in 2017. Drawing upon his well-honed skills as an experience designer, a music composer and overall purveyor of high-impact visual entertainment, the 1,500-square-foot experience takes the entertaining fusion of whimsy, color, art, technology and music he pioneered with Blue Man Group to the next level.
Wink World comprises a series of six infinity-mirror rooms, each one showcasing a stunning production number drawing upon Wink’s love of black light and other dazzling stage effects designed to evoke “life force” and inspire wonder. Wink’s penchant for transforming everyday objects into art or entertainment provides his delightful brand of dynamism to the experience, as ceiling fans transform into kinetic art and children’s toys like Slinkies and Hoberman Spheres become elevated into a chorus line of dancers and entertainers.
“Wink World will be a manifestation of my lifelong fascination with the transcendent power of the playful interaction of light, color and music,” said Wink. “I’m delighted to introduce everyone to this brand-new, multisensory art and entertainment concept.”
Tickets to enter “Wink World: Portals Into The Infinite” are $18 for adults, $13.50 for children. Locals with Nevada ID pay $14.50 for adults and $11 for children. Discounts are also available for seniors and members of the military. All prices include ChromaDepth 3-D glasses.
For more information about Wink World, click here or follow on Facebook and Instagram @WinkWorldOfficial.
ABOUT CHRIS WINK
Chris Wink is famously known for being the co-founding performer, writer, director and composer of Blue Man Group, the ground-breaking show combining theatrics, art, music and technology to create a wildly interactive, percussion-driven multi-media experience. He is an award-winning writer and performer, Grammy-nominated composer and a frequent public speaker on the subject of creativity. Wink is currently the director of content and cool s**t for AREA15 and brings a unique brand of creativity and decades of industry experience to numerous experiential activations. In his position, he serves as a global ambassador for the brand.
ABOUT AREA15
AREA15, located minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, is the world’s first purpose-built experiential entertainment complex offering live events, immersive activations, monumental art installations, extraordinary design elements, unique retail, ground-breaking technology, bars and eateries and much more. With a growing collection of dynamic destinations including Dueling Axes, Emporium, Lost Spirits Distillery, Oddwood Bar, Wink World, Museum Fiasco, Rocket Fizz, Five Iron Golf, The Beast, a culinary experience by Todd English, and anchor experience, Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, AREA15 is an ever-changing art, retail and entertainment destination attracting locals and tourists of all ages.
AREA15 represents a collaborative venture between real estate development firm Fisher Brothers and creative agency Beneville Studios, both of New York.
PUBLIC HEALTH NOTICE
AREA15 will follow the latest recommendations of leading health experts and government authorities, including the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And true to the insatiable hunger for all things inventive and groundbreaking, AREA15 will be using cutting-edge, state-of-the-art technology to help implement these recommendations, including an AI-driven thermal scanning platform that screens temperature accurately and non-invasively, detects the absence of a mask, and alerts staff when social distancing thresholds are not being met.
By 2035, 83 million 5G connected cars will be on the road, making them safer and greener
While the commercial rollout of 5G for consumers is in full swing, the new generation of cellular connectivity will also have a transformative effect on roadways worldwide. Soon, in 2023, cars will start to communicate with each other to increase overall road safety and traffic. According to recent figures published by global tech advisory firm ABI Research, a total of 41 million 5G connected cars will already be on roads by 2030. That number will rise to 83 million 5G connected cars by 2035. By then, 5G connected cars will make up more than 75% of the total C-V2X equipped cars.
“These numbers underline the huge momentum for cellular connectivity, and particularly 5G, in the automotive sector,” says Leo Gergs, Research Analyst for 5G Markets at ABI Research. “As a consequence, we will see a rising number of automotive OEMs start developing C-V2X modules for their cars during 2020. We can then expect the first 5G connected cars on the roads in 2022.”
While leading car manufacturer Ford already announced new car models equipped with C-V2X for 2021, other automotive heavyweights like Audi, BMW, and Volkswagen have all partnered up with the likes of Ericsson, Huawei, and Nokia to commence large-scale trial projects to test the capabilities of cellular technology for connected car use cases. The results of these proof-of-concept projects are auspicious and show that, through enhancing traffic efficiency, 5G can reduce fuel consumption by up to one third. “More importantly, however, the sharing of sensor data will make overtaking much safer and will be critical to protecting vulnerable road users (such as pedestrians or cyclists). Therefore, bringing 5G-based cellular connectivity into cars will be critical in making the vision of zero road traffic deaths a reality,” Gergs emphasizes.
In total, ABI Research has quantified the contribution of 5G to global GDP to reach US$17 trillion by 2035. A large part of that global GDP will be through increasing the safety of road traffic, which will reduce health care expenditure drastically and take pressure off doctors and hospitals.
“To unlock all these benefits, public authorities and transportation infrastructure owners need to realize their responsibility to fund the installation of cellular networks and enable the widespread deployment of C-V2X to make road traffic safer and greener,” Gergs concludes. “Recent developments around the FCC’s decision to open up the 5.9 GHz frequency for C-V2X technology is a first step in the right direction. Now, other regulators need to follow. Furthermore, both infrastructure vendors and network operators need to wake up and work closely with automotive manufacturers to make 5G a success for connected cars.”
These findings are from ABI Research’s 5G in Automotive and Smart Transportation application analysis report. This report is part of the company’s 5G Markets research service, which includes research, data, and analyst insights. Based on extensive primary interviews, Application Analysis reports present in-depth analysis on key market trends and factors for a specific technology.
About ABI Research
ABI Research provides strategic guidance to visionaries, delivering actionable intelligence on the transformative technologies that are dramatically reshaping industries, economies, and workforces across the world. ABI Research’s global team of analysts publish groundbreaking studies often years ahead of other technology advisory firms, empowering our clients to stay ahead of their markets and their competitors.
For more information about ABI Research’s services, contact us at +1.516.624.2500 in the Americas, +44.203.326.0140 in Europe, +65.6592.0290 in Asia-Pacific or visit www.abiresearch.com
Daring and duality are an integral part of everything Roger Dubuis does. Tradition with a contemporary twist is embedded in its DNA, along with excess to the point of extravagance. In parallel, Roger Dubuis timepieces are the ultimate embodiment of exclusive production expressing a seldom seen level of quality. The brand epitomizes technicity, serving aestheticism to reveal unleashed creativity. This is made possible by an integrated approach fueled by creative engineers with a unique talent for drawing raw inspiration from other avant-garde industries. Nonconformist and indomitably free-spirited, Roger Dubuis displays unparalleled mastery of complications and shatters every known watchmaking cliché.
Experience: a priceless collector’s item
Guests at any Roger Dubuis event have learned to expect the unexpected from a brand that never misses an opportunity to spring exclusive experiences. Early 2020 was no exception to this rule as Aspen geared up to stage the latest in the Roger Dubuis range of far-out adventures.
On this occasion, surrounded by snowy peaks and legendary ski runs, a lucky few had the privilege of experiencing Roger Dubuis’ particular gift as a provider of unparalleled thrills. The many perfectly choreographed sensations lined up by Roger Dubuis at Aspen included an invitation to drive a Lamborghini on ice.
A brutal truth
Rooted in this unadulterated adrenaline rush is the latest embodiment of Roger Dubuis’ unshakable determination to defy existing watchmaking codes at every level. With its sporty aesthetics and famous Poinçon de Genève-certified astral skeleton signature (820SQ calibre), the 28-piece Excalibur Pirelli Ice Zero 2 Spider America Edition took Aspen by storm. The Excalibur Pirelli Ice Zero 2 owes its name to the new studded tire of the Pirelli range: a tire developed for high performance on ice in the most extreme winter conditions, similar to the ones that the guests experienced in Aspen.
The new watch features a gleaming natural titanium case, all offset by icy blue accents. It comes complete with a state-of-the-art ICE ZERO™ 2 studded tire strap with Pirelli Cinturato™ intermediate pattern on the inside. Owners also received an additional bimaterial strap featuring a black rubber base and blue rubberTech inlay. Characterized by a shared penchant for pushing the limits and a common focus on aesthetics in R&D-driven approaches, this iconic partnership is equally rooted in a focus on superlative technical engineering and ultra high-tech materials, along with an unfettered determination to stay ahead of the pack. The latest addition to Roger Dubuis’ iconic Excalibur line is living proof of the brutal truth of boldness that characterizes Roger Dubuis – spectacular sensations, wild emotions and the most creative complications on the watchmaking world.
ROGER DUBUIS Roger Dubuis has been at the forefront of contemporary Haute Horlogerie since 1995. Driven by an avantgarde spirit, a firm commitment to being part of a tribe, and a penchant for strong mechanical content, the Maison’s rampant creativity is unleashed onto extravagant, disruptive design exemplified by serial innovations. Systematically pushing both technical and aesthetic boundaries, boldness and extravagance are the brand’s signatures expressed through the Maison’s favorite platform of expression: Excalibur. Whether it’s about code-breaking designs or thundering technology.
PIRELLI Pirelli was founded in 1872 and is now one of the world’s leading tire-makers, specializing exclusively in tires for cars, motorbikes and road bikes, as well as associated services. Pirelli enjoys a unique space in the High Value tire sector, thanks to products with advanced technological content, which have obtained more than 2700 homologations in partnership with the world’s most prestigious car manufacturers. Pirelli is constantly engaged in cutting-edge research and development, re-investing 6.1% of its High Value revenue, in order to maintain the highest levels of performance, safety, and environmental respect. Pirelli has been active in motorsport since 1907 and from 2011 has been exclusive supplier to the Formula 1 World Championship, recently renewing until 2023. Pirelli will also be exclusive supplier to the World Rally Championship from 2021 to 2024.
HONDA COMMITS TO ROLL OUT OF NEXT-GENERATION CONNECTIVITY ACROSS ITS EUROPEAN RANGE
Automaker also introduces ‘e:PROGRESS’ – a first commercial energy management service with flexible tariff for EV owners
Honda announced today that all forthcoming models will feature advanced connectivity technologies. The first example of this commitment is the availability of the My Honda+ application and Honda Personal Assistant on Honda e and all-new Jazz and Jazz Crosstar.
The My Honda+ smartphone app keeps owners connected to their car remotely. The smartphone-based service has been redesigned with a simple, intuitive user experience that provides secure access to a range of in-car functions, including comfort, convenience and security features.
The app offers control of vehicle security, including Remote Vehicle Lock and Unlock of the car. For Honda e owners, an additional Digital Key function allows vehicle access to be securely shared with up to five others. Digital Key works via Bluetooth and enables owners to remotely close windows and open the charge lid as well as locking and unlocking the vehicle.
In addition to this, infotainment and connectivity features in Honda e and Jazz can be activated using voice commands through Honda Personal Assistant. First seen in the Honda e and now available on the all-new Jazz, the intuitive Honda Personal Assistant is a smart artificial intelligence (AI) agent which harnesses natural, smart instruction-based conversations and contextual understanding to access a range of online services.
Tom Gardner, Senior Vice President, Honda Motor Europe, commented, “Today’s customer expects their vehicle to connect seamlessly with their wider life. Honda’s development of next-generation connectivity can clearly be seen with the launch of features such as Honda Personal Assistant and My Honda+. We are committed to widening the availability of these features to meet the expectation of our customer.”
Speaking at a Press Conference in Geneva, Honda also revealed further detail of its first commercial Energy Management service – under the new brand ‘e:PROGRESS’ – which will come to market during 2020.
e:PROGRESS will offer a smart charger, smart tariff, and a smart charge control system to deliver optimal charging for users. The smart tariff will be the first flexible energy contract specifically tailored to Electric Vehicle (EV) owners available in Europe, optimising the use of electricity from renewable sources including solar power, wind farms and hydropower. The service also allows charging at the most cost-effective time, relative to grid demand.
The new service will be offered in collaboration with smart charging and aggregation specialist Moixa, and leading European energy supplier, Vattenfall. Through Moixa’s GridShare ‘smart charge’ system, customers simply specify their preferred parameters for minimum state of charge through a smartphone app, leaving the system to manage charging. Electricity supply is provided by Vattenfall, with a flexible ‘time of use’ tariff offering lower cost energy at certain time of the day than a fixed tariff.
The launch of e:PROGRESS follows Honda’s first vehicle-to-grid project going live in January, with the installation of bi-directional chargers in Islington, London. This project is a first step in helping the local council electrify its entire fleet in line with its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030.
2022 Fisker Ocean All-Electric Luxury SUV: Exclusive Driving Footage and New Specifications Revealed·
The world’s most sustainable vehicle can be seen in action, reflecting the production-ready platform’s maturity, reliability and performance. The footage, by Fisker Inc., was directed by cinematographer Phil Arntz in association with SP Films. Ride and suspension features, aerodynamics, cooling and crash performance details revealed for the 2022 Fisker Ocean, starting at $37,499 (U.S.); flexible lease from $379/month (U.S.)
Thousands of reservations have been made worldwide via Fisker’s proprietary FLEXEE mobile app, downloadable from the App or Google Play stores, reflecting strong global momentum. The United States, Canada, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, United Kingdom, France and Austria lead reservation numbers to date (listed in order of magnitude)
Fisker Inc. – creator of the world’s most emotion-stirring, sustainable electric vehicles and advanced mobility solutions – is revealing never-before-seen, exciting driving footage of the Fisker Ocean all-electric luxury SUV, reflecting the reliability, durability, driving performance and maturity of the vehicle’s platform. Select design specifications are also being released.
“We are aiming to disrupt the automotive industry by challenging all conventions, development time, manufacturing scale-up, customer ownership experience, vehicle financing and service. This is no small feat, but we truly believe we are entering a new era where customers are driving the demand for radical change. People want mobility as a service, delivered through exciting, affordable vehicles with a hassle-free experience. We have delivered the Fisker Ocean in record time: not just another show vehicle, but a drivable production-intent prototype sitting on a fully engineered and durability tested platform, with a production-ready powertrain and battery pack. The future is about delivering product value, sustainability and a unique customer experience.”
The Fisker Ocean utilizes a multi-link rear axle to simultaneously optimize both ride and handling. Unlike more simple suspension systems that sacrifice ride quality to achieve sportscar-like steering performance, the Fisker Ocean strikes a supreme balance with innovative engineering touches. The multi-link system further delivers a new level of space efficiency and class-leading interior trunk volume. In addition, the entire rear suspension is mounted on an isolated subframe – removing cabin noise and vibration. The result: superb interior comfort and refinement.
Active Aerodynamics and Cooling:
Unlike many electric vehicles, the Fisker Ocean leverages an advanced system where the amount of air directed to the cooling radiator is computer-regulated – resulting in maximized aerodynamic efficiency at any given point in time. The vehicle’s battery also operates at the optimal temperature within the most aerodynamic body, producing the highest range possible from a single charge while ensuring that the battery life is maximized. Reflecting Fisker’s confidence in the effectiveness of the system, the company is ensuring that battery life is covered as part of the FLEXEE ownership experience. · The lower front of the Ocean is designed to showcase these strikingly efficient features with a large parametric pattern that opens up toward the lower front spoiler of the vehicle.
World-Class Crash Performance:
The Fisker Ocean features a unique, industry-leading structure that protects the battery pack in the event of a side impact. Extra reinforcements have also been added to the body structure to protect passengers and the overall vehicle in the event of an impact. Intelligent materials create an SUV with the lowest possible weight, while guaranteeing the highest levels of safety and the maximum possible range. The lower side section of the Fisker Ocean merges art and functionality – with the vehicle’s sculpture wrapping around the protective side crash beams, where the lower body catches light.
Big Space. Big Screens. Big Experiences In a Compact, Agile Shape.
The Fisker Ocean experience is characterized by a sense of freedom, fun and luxury – complemented by off-road capability and superior utility. The vehicle is nimble and easy to maneuver. Comfortable, yet sporty.
Dramatic Dimensions:
At 4,640 millimeters (182.7 inches) in length, 1,930 millimeters (76 inches) in width and 1,615 millimeters (63.6 inches) in height, the all-electric luxury SUV offers a spacious environment for both front and rear passengers. With thoughtful design touches, new spaces are created for five adults to sit comfortably – even during the longest of rides. The center console offers extra space for a purse or other items below the console. Two inductive chargers for smartphones are placed right under the touch screen, which features five haptic buttons for fast, safe and intuitive responses while driving.
Functional Utility:
With 566 liters (20 cubic feet) of trunk space, the vehicle presents practicality and utility. The space increases to 708 liters (25 cubic feet) with the parcel shelf removed. The rear glass can be lowered independently to allow long items to be placed without having to open the hatch, while a rubber scuff plate, made of recycled tires, protects the loading edge.
The Fisker Ocean will come with roof rails and towing hook options. Towing capacity will be released in 2021.
Stunning Wheels:
The base model will feature stylishly designed 20-inch wheels, with 22-inch wheel options for an even larger presence on and off the road. The 22-inch option is pictured.
All-Terrain Driving and Power:
The Fisker Ocean will be offered in a four-wheel drive configuration on all trims except for the base model – reflecting the vehicle’s off-road capabilities. The standard four-wheel drive configuration will deliver an output of more than 225 kilowatts (more than 300 horsepower), with an ultra-high-performance version targeting zero-to -60 mph in less than three seconds (total power output to be announced in 2021).
Foresight:
A state-of-the-art heads-up display integrated into the windshield will be complemented by a large 16-inch center touch screen and a 9.8-inch cluster screen. From augmented reality features to haptic touch buttons and immersive digital experiences, the vehiclemoffers impressive visuals all around. Fisker is working on integratingm Karaoke mode that will display lyrics from your favorite song in the windshield without having to take your eyes of the road.
The seats are designed for optimal comfort and space, the entire interior is vegan and all the carpets are made from recycled fishing nets and plastic bottles collected from the world’s oceans.
California Mode:
This patented feature, inspired by the Fisker brand’s roots and passion for the Southern California coastline, lowers/slides nine glass windows/panels to open the entire cabin with one touch – creating an open-air feeling, while still maintaining a full “roll cage” safety structure around the passengers. The feature allows the rear hatch glass to drop – enabling long items to be placed through the opening without having to drive with an open tailgate. Fisker will offer this feature as an option. Details of Fisker’s full option packages will be released later this year.
Charging and Range: The Fisker Ocean features a CCS Type 2 Combo plug with 150kW charging capability – enabling the vehicle to be charged through any stations that leverage technology in line with the latest in international standards.
In North America, Fisker Ocean vehicles will be automatically recognized by Electrify America‘s charging stations – allowing for simple charging, automatic release and automatic payments. Fisker will offer a free miles package with each vehicle, allowing for a certain amount of complimentary charging. Additional details on charging packages will be shared later in 2020. The vehicle is equipped with a fully sourced, validated and tested state-of-the-art battery – with >80 kWh capacity and a range of up to 300 miles (depending on driving conditions). The exact EPA and WLT range of the vehicle will be announced closer to launch in 2021. More than 200 miles of range can be delivered from 30 minutes of charging for the Fisker Ocean (15% capacity to 80% capacity). Electrify America’s 150 kW chargers can charge capable vehicles up to 20 miles per minute.
Liberating Flexibility.
Reservations are set at $250 (U.S.) for either the full purchase option or the flexible lease program. Full purchase option: Starting at $37,499 (U.S.) MSRP. After the U.S. federal tax credit is applied, the cost of the Fisker Ocean drops to a starting price of $29,999 (U.S.). European pricing will be adjusted according to each country’s respective import taxes, incentives and other factors. Exact pricing will be announced closer to launch. · Unprecedented flexible lease model. Reservations are now open through the Fisker mobile app on the App Store,Google Play Store, or on the Fisker Website– set at $250 (U.S.): Drivers can get behind the wheel of the Fisker Ocean starting at $379 (U.S.) per month (with $2,999 down before delivery in 2022, which includes both initiation and activation fees). Fisker will also offer a “$0 drive off” option through a fully financed $2,999 down payment for credit approved customers.
Production is projected to begin in Q4 2021, with high-volume deliveries of the Fisker Ocean targeted to ramp up in 2022. Global and localized supply chains secured across the U.S., Europe and China will result in more than 1 million vehicles – including three models – projected to be produced between 2022 and 2027.
Additional specifications will be released via Fisker’s proprietary FLEXEE app in the coming months.
For more information, or for interview inquiries, contact Fisker@GoDRIVEN360.com .
* All stated performance numbers and figures are subject to final validation by the appropriate entities. Fisker reserves the right to change any specifications.
About Fisker Inc. California-based Fisker Inc. is revolutionizing the automotive industry by developing the most emotionally desirable and eco-friendly electric vehicles on Earth. Passionately driven by a vision of a clean future for all, the company is on a mission to become the No. 1 e-mobility service provider with the world’s most sustainable vehicles. To learn more, visit www.fiskerinc.com – and enjoy exclusive content across Fisker’s social media channels:
“It is with pleasure that today we introduce to the world an Application named Whispers; an innovative, digital House of Rolls-Royce, conceived and deployed over two years ago. Whispers is completely unique. It is a digital gateway to a fascinating world beyond, where the exceptional and the extraordinary come together and are tailored to meet the demands and tastes of our eclectic and highly valued community of clients. Whispers offers transformative experiences, rare and desirable products, whimsical treasures and exclusive Rolls-Royce previews that are curated by Rolls-Royce and delivered directly to the fingertips of our global community.” Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
Rolls-Royce patrons are a unique subset of society – entrepreneurs, visionaries, heads of state, royalty, founders and the brightest stars of the entertainment industry. These clients are global denizens, connoisseurs, patrons of the arts, philanthropists, collectors of fine and exquisite items; individuals untethered by common constraints such as time and money.
These individuals have complete confidence in Rolls-Royce’s ability to delight and inspire them. However, due to their highly mobile international lifestyles, they have been seeking a means to have more regular personal involvement with the marque – more experiences, more access, and more immersion in the luxury world open to Rolls-Royce as the world’s leading luxury brand.
Of course, these individuals have existing access to concierge services, personal shoppers and consultants to support various aspects of their lives, but they wanted something different from Rolls-Royce – something above and beyond.
This rarefied group of individuals wanted Rolls-Royce to facilitate a coming together of the extraordinary people who make up the marque’s worldwide client fraternity. Like-minded individuals, they sought to unlock the inimitable treasures that abound within the global Rolls-Royce community and wanted to share their interests, their tastes, their products and collections and their thinking amongst each other.
This is Whispers. A digital House of Rolls-Royce, Whispers acts as an entrepôt to a world that Rolls-Royce intimately and uniquely understands – a digital gateway to a curated world of luxury.
Over two years ago, under a cloak of secrecy, Whispers was launched to a select group of globally distributed clients. A test-phase followed and after garnering a positive response, Rolls-Royce continued to evolve and adapt Whispers in close collaboration with its users. Today, Whispers is fully deployed in the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East and the United States, with large numbers of Rolls-Royce clients already enjoying the benefits of belonging to this exclusive group of exceptional achievers.
Membership is limited to owners of a new Rolls-Royce motor car. Whispers is indeed, the most exclusive members’ club in the world.
A Global Community of Like-minded Individuals
Through Whispers, Rolls-Royce offers, to the delight of its clients, access to an amazing and sometimes whimsical collection of luxury offerings, transformative experiences, exclusive Rolls-Royce previews, inspiring articles and thought pieces, undiscovered destinations and perhaps most importantly, the ability to securely contact and privately commune with some of the world’s greatest minds.
Whispers offers patrons the opportunity to liaise securely with fellow Rolls-Royce patrons, the Chief Executive and members of the Board of Rolls-Royce, to share ideas and networks, business opportunities and social contacts that fortify and inspire those who change the world.
An Inspiring and Sometimes Whimsical Collection of Luxury Offerings
An ever-changing collection of beguiling products has been curated to surprise, delight and intrigue. Members can create their very own bespoke experiences or products. They are invited to work with experts to design and build their own personal racetrack, or commission a personalised Monopoly set incorporating one’s own properties and assets. Need entertaining? – book a private performance by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. Commission a beautiful portrait of your favourite pet or design your very own minaudiere.
From truffles to caviar or crafting your own Cognac, patrons can peruse and purchase a diverse and eclectic selection of luxurious products and curiosities – all on the Whispers platform, in the comfort of their own home.
Transformative experiences
Whispers provides Rolls-Royce clients access to transformative, inspiring and entertaining experiences. From backstage-access at the Grammys, front-row seats at Fashion Week, walking the red carpet at the Academy Awards, VIP previews of Art Basel, to meeting artists at Coachella, players at Wimbledon or athletes at the Olympics, Whispers unlocks a world of exclusive access.
Worldwide luxury travel experiences are offered. An expedition to Antarctica or an African Safari can be facilitated at the touch of a button. And, of course, Whispers members are invited to join Rolls-Royce at exclusive, hosted experiences, for example, an Art Weekend visiting the private collection of one of the world’s most prestigious collectors, or a weekend at the sumptuous Villa D’Este Concours D’Elegance. Members may receive an invitation to an intimate dinner on the production line at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England, or even a private, curated tour of luxury goods manufacturers in the capitals of global luxury. Additionally, members of the Whispers community receive exclusive world-previews of new Rolls-Royce products and offerings before they become public knowledge.
Hidden Gems
As global denizens and owners of a Rolls-Royce, the marque’s patrons are accustomed to effortless luxury travel. Now, drawing on Rolls-Royce’s global presence and unique immersion in the world of luxury travel, clients receive recommendations, via Whispers, of new or little-known but highly recommended hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs around the world – many of which are endorsed by fellow-members who have come across them on their own world travels. Assistance is available to plan itineraries and ensure the very best seat or suite is secured.
Inspiring Greatness through Evocative Thought Pieces
Whispers collates inspirational ideas and creative thinking gleaned by Rolls-Royce’s own Luxury Intelligence Unit from around the globe. Inspiring thought pieces are tailored according to the patron’s personal choices and interests. Philanthropic endeavour, sporting achievements, artistic excellence and cultural idiosyncrasies feature in editorial content designed to enlighten and inspire the reader.
Whispers is an exclusive, digital home for Rolls-Royce clients around the world. Constantly adapting and refreshing to always ensure that its content remains current, relevant and in-line with the client’s interests, Whispers draws together many of the world’s most affluent and interesting people. Private, curated, inspiring and lovely, Whispers is truly the most exclusive Members Club in the world.
Electric vehicles are evolutionary, not revolutionary, says Baker Institute expert
Tesla will disrupt the automotive industry only if it is able to achieve scale, according to a new issue brief by an expert in the Center for Energy Studies at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy.
“Ford vs. Tesla: What Does a Transformational Automobile Scale-up Look Like?” is authored by Gabriel Collins, the Baker Botts Fellow in Energy and Environmental Regulatory Affairs at the Baker Institute.
Ford and Tesla both earned their reputations through what Collins describes as a “revolutionary vehicle type” — the Model T and Model S-X-3 suite, respectively — and as market makers. Comparing their sales growth trajectories, Collins hypothesizes, can offer insights on how electric vehicle (EV) sales are scaling up as well as how EVs can reshape automobile and oil markets.
The modern world, saturated with automobiles, provides a different battle for Tesla than Ford faced. For Tesla, scalability is essential and “holds the keys to lasting structural change in the energy and transportation spaces,” Collins wrote. Without scale, he says, Tesla cannot compete with the legacy brands that have built off of Ford’s vision for decades. Scale would allow EVs to create the operational infrastructure that can support pure-battery EVs and become more affordable, Collins says.
So can EVs reach market-transforming scale within the next decade?
“Possibly,” Collins wrote. “One overwhelming reality leaps forth from the past decade of data and anecdotal evidence alike: at the global level, EVs have thus far been evolutionary, not revolutionary, factors in the transportation sector.
“Tesla has been ‘evolutionary’ in that the changes they have introduced to the car market to date are thus far incremental …” Collins writes. “A ‘revolutionary’ change, such as the introduction of the Model T, would cause palpable shifts on even a short-term basis. … EVs are not yet impacting the market with sufficient mass to trigger that compounding, deep, high-velocity change necessary for a revolution.”
Collins conducts a range of globally focused commodity market, energy, water and environmental research. He focuses on legal, environmental and economic issues relating to water — including the food-water-energy nexus — as well as unconventional oil and gas development, and the intersection between global commodity markets and a range of environmental, legal and national security issues.
Follow the Baker Institute’s Center for Energy Studies via Twitter @CES_Baker_Inst
Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews
Founded in 1993, Rice University’s Baker Institute ranks as the No. 2 university-affiliated think tank in the world. As a premier nonpartisan think tank, the institute conducts research on domestic and foreign policy issues with the goal of bridging the gap between the theory and practice of public policy. The institute’s strong track record of achievement reflects the work of its endowed fellows, Rice University faculty scholars and staff, coupled with its outreach to the Rice student body through fellow-taught classes — including a public policy course — and student leadership and internship programs. Learn more about the institute at www.bakerinstitute.org or on the institute’s blog.
Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation’s top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,962 undergraduates and 3,027 graduate students, Rice’s undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 4 for quality of life by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance.
PIRELLI INTRODUCES THE CINTURATO P7 ALL SEASON PLUS II THE NEXT GENERATION OF TIRES SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE NORTH AMERICAN TOURING MARKET
NEW TREAD COMPOUND AND AN OPTIMIZED FOOTPRINT HELP TO IMPROVE OVERALL WET PERFORMANCE
Pirelli today announced an update to their range of All Season tires designed for the North American touring market with the introduction of its new Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II.
Part of Pirelli’s Plus line of products, which are specifically designed to better meet the needs of drivers in the North American market, the Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II presents a new tread compound and an optimized footprint for improved behavior on wet surfaces. In particular, the new Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II showed an improved wet stopping distance.
Another area on which Pirellli’s engineers have focused to develop this new tire has been the wet handling and wet traction, while maintaining the tread wear, winter traction, noise, comfort, dry handling and steering performance of the previous generation.
The Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II is covered by a 70,000-mile limited tread wear warranty. The new Pirelli tire is now available in 30 sizes. The full 50 size range will be available in over the next few months.
Technical highlights include:
New Compound: A new functionalized polymer and increased silica content forms the new tread compound, which can also be found on the recently released Scorpion Verde All Season Plus II. This new compound delivers improved stopping distance in the Cinturato P7 All Season Plu II as well as enhanced overall performance in wet traction, handling and braking while maintaining the previous generation’s tread wear, winter traction, noise, comfort, dry handling and steering performance.
Optimized Footprint: A five percent larger contact area and optimized shape improves overall wet performance, braking and handling over the previous generation.
All Season Performance: The Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II is an extremely well-balanced tire that delivers high performance, low noise, and excellent handling.
