Posts tagged with "Car News"

Toyota Camry hybrid nightshade via 360 magazine

Toyota Camry Nightshade

One of the longest-running nameplates in the auto industry, and with 20 straight years as America’s #1 selling midsize sedan, the 2023 Camry keeps things rolling with a refreshed Nightshade Special Edition. The Camry was among the first Toyota models to offer the distinctive Nightshade edition, a factory designer package without the customizer’s price. And, for 2023, Toyota offers three moods of Nightshade with the choice of Midnight Black, White and the new Reservoir Blue exterior colors.

The Nightshade Special Edition gives the 2023 Camry the look and stance of a premium sport sedan. The 2023 Camry Nightshade is available in SE grade front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and hybrid models. The black front grille with Sport Mesh insert is borrowed from the Camry TRD model. The Nightshade also wears a black rear spoiler, mirror caps, exterior badges and, for 2023, adds black-trimmed headlights and taillights for a stronger dose of attitude.

The standout new design feature for the distinctive Nightshade is the 19-inch matte bronze aluminum alloy wheels. These rims give a look that really pops against any of the three body colors offered. The standard SE grade features carry over, including the sport-tuned suspension.

The Nightshade Edition is designed to appeal to drivers who enjoy a car that gets a little extra attention or for those who appreciate getting a designer look at a value price. That appeal is growing. The Nightshade package accounted for about 5% of Camry sales in 2021 and, for 2022, is on track to be about 7%.

A Camry for Everyone, and Up to 52 MPG

Currently in its eighth design generation, the Toyota Camry is also just one year shy of its 40th anniversary in America. A wide array of model choices, plus Camry’s alluring, coupe-inspired design and renowned Toyota quality and value, are a few reasons why Camry maintains leadership in the mid-size sedan category. All told, the 2023 Camry offers 18 different choices, offering a model for nearly every budget and taste. Notably, the Nightshade Edition is offered on all four-cylinder and hybrid models.

  • Five 4-cyl. FWD grades – LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE
  • Five 4-cyl. AWD grades – LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE
  • Five hybrid grades – LE, XLE, SE, SE Nightshade, XSE
  • Three V-6 grades – XLE, XSE and performance-tuned TRD

As fuel economy has recently zoomed to the top of many buyers’ priority lists, it is worth pointing out the outstanding fuel efficiency ratings across the Camry line. The LE Hybrid is the champ, with a manufacturer-estimated 51 MPG city/53 MPG highway/52 MPG combined rating. The LE FWD gas model is also a standout in its class, with manufacturer-estimated 28/39/32 MPG ratings.

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+

The Camry has been a repeat IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK recipient. This is the organization’s highest rating and one that acknowledges the standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ system that includes:

Foundation for Agility and Ride Comfort

Extensive use of high-tensile-strength steel in the TNGA-K platform along with innovative fastening methods, including laser screw welding and advanced adhesives, give Camry its rock-solid feeling on the road. Optimally tuned MacPherson-type strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension endow the Camry with a ride-handling balance befitting luxury vehicles (SE, XSE and TRD grades also have sport-tuned springs and shocks).

Camry engineers prioritize a quiet ride, and the current-generation model improved on that by incorporating noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) countermeasures previously found exclusively on luxury models. Extensive sound-absorbing insulation includes foam/vibration-dampening materials throughout the vehicle, along with a thicker dash silencer mat across the entire firewall section. A special vibration-damping coating is applied over a wider area of the underfloor, and noise-proofing material encompasses more surface area under the headliner.

High-Style, High-Function Cabin

The Camry’s interior melds functionality, elegant styling and impeccable fit and finish. The dash design gives the driver a sporty cockpit-type feel while treating both the driver and the front passenger to expansive outward visibility.

Surfaces throughout the cabin employ soft-touch premium materials. Interior trim in all grades gives a sophisticated, higher-tech look with linear dark, wood inlay or patterned metal, depending on the model grade. Interior color choices, depending on exterior color, include Ash, Macadamia or Black. The sport-oriented XSE grade also offers an exclusive Cockpit Red interior for a touch of exotic sports car flavor.

Exquisite stitching on the front- and rear-seat surfaces, one example of the high level of craftsmanship, is found throughout the vehicle. The XLE grade features a luxurious-looking textured herringbone seat pattern. Ventilated front seats are available on the XLE and XSE.

The Camry relays information to the driver via three available displays. A floating 7- or 9-inch central touch-screen display combines audio and navigation. Customizable features and smart phone-like touch screen icons help ensure familiar and convenient operation.

For even greater functionality, Camry also offers an available 7-inch multi-information display within the instrument cluster. Available on XLE and XSE, a 10-inch color Head-Up Display (HUD) projects vital information, including speed and turn-by-turn navigation directions, onto the lower portion of the windshield.

The Camry LE features standard air conditioning, while all other grades step up to automatic dual-zone climate control. The system specific to the hybrid versions uses an electric compressor and humidity sensor. Rear seat vents come standard on the XLE and XSE Hybrid grades and are available as a package upgrade on the LE and SE.

High Power, Efficiency and Value

The 2023 Camry offers a choice of three powertrains: 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder, 3.5-liter V-6 and next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II). The Dynamic Force 2.5-liter engine is a strong but smooth operator, yielding an impressive 203 hp at 6,600 rpm and 184 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,000 rpm (206 hp and 186 lb.-ft. for XSE grade, which uses a dual-outlet exhaust). Most AWD grades have 202 hp, while the Camry XSE AWD grade has 205 hp with dual-outlet exhaust.

The four-cylinder engine uses a very high compression ratio (13:1) and Toyota’s innovative D-4S fuel injection, which employs both direct injection and additional port injectors. The engine is chock-full of Toyota’s most advanced technologies, including Dual VVT-i with VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing intelligent system by Electric motor) and laser-clad valve seats. A variable cooling system, variable oil pump and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system all contribute to the engine’s high thermal efficiency and outstanding fuel economy ratings. Notably, regular-grade fuel is specified for all 2023 Camry models, helping to bolster value for the customer.

V-6 Performance at a High Level

The 2023 Toyota Camry is one of the few midsize sedans to still offer a V-6 engine and this one is a gem. It is standard for the TRD and is available for the XLE and XSE grades, as well.

The 24-valve, DOHC 3.5-liter engine is equipped with the D-4S direct injection system, along with a specially-developed VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide) variable valve timing system for the intake, with VVT-i on the exhaust. The VVT-iW system can switch the engine to the Atkinson cycle, which reduces pumping losses by delayed closing of the intake valves. Output is outstanding, with 301 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 267 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 rpm.

Direct Shift 8-speed Automatic

In all Camry gas grades, both the 2.5-liter engine and the 3.5-liter V-6 are teamed with the Direct Shift eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers satisfyingly crisp-yet-smooth quick-shifting to deliver an exemplary blend of performance and refinement. Close mid-range ratios improve passing performance, while the wide range of torque converter lock-up yields a more direct driving feel and contributes to fuel efficiency. Control logic optimizes precise matching of engine torque on downshifts for smoother transitions.

Toyota Camry via Paul Hogard for Toyora for use by 360 Magazine

Range Rover Sport

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The New Range Rover Sport has made its global premiere with a dramatic world-first climb up a flooded dam spillway in Iceland.

The epic ascent saw New Range Rover Sport resist the surging torrent of water flowing down the ramp of the Karahnjukar Dam—the biggest of its kind in the world—at a rate of 750 tonnes per minute. A loss of traction risked plunging down the perilous 90m drop at the base of the spillway to the valley floor below.

The successful spillway ascent was screened for the first time at an exclusive launch event at Jaguar Land Rover’s Advanced Product Creation Centre at Gaydon, UK.

Official James Bond stunt driver Jessica Hawkins was behind the wheel as the New Range Rover Sport demonstrated its grip, traction, performance and composure, completing the latest in a series of challenges for Land Rover’s luxury performance SUV. Previous feats include a record-setting hill-climb at Pikes Peak, a first recorded crossing of the ‘Empty Quarter’ desert in the Arabian Peninsula and a first ascent of the 999 steps to Heaven’s Gate in China, in 2018.

Nick Collins, Executive Director Vehicle of Programs, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Land Rover’s pioneering MLA-Flex architecture and the latest chassis systems come together to deliver the highest levels of dynamism we’ve ever seen on Range Rover Sport. Integrated Chassis Control governs the comprehensive suite of innovations, coordinating everything from the latest switchable-volume air suspension system to our Dynamic Response Pro electronic active roll control. The result is the most engaging and thrilling Range Rover Sport ever.”

The spillway climb was the final obstacle on a drive from the valley floor to the summit of the dam, taking in a flooded riverbed, long steep tunnels and the 40-degree rocky dam wall itself. The 294 m stretch of spillway had water furiously cascading down its 90-metre drop, to provide the ultimate test of traction and driver confidence.

New Range Rover Sport is based on Land Rover’s advanced, flexible Modular Longitudinal Architecture (MLA-Flex), which provides the perfect foundations for its superior dynamics and peerless refinement. Its line-up of powerful and efficient powertrains includes two six-cylinder extended range Electric Hybrid plug-ins, which provide a pure-electric driving range of up to 113km (70 miles) and CO2 emissions of as low as 18g/km1.

The new 530PS V8 Twin Turbo provides sports car performance, with 0-100km/h in as little as 4.5 seconds (0-60mph in 4.3 seconds) with Dynamic Launch engaged. Customers can also choose from powerful and efficient mild hybrid petrol and diesel Ingenium engines, while pure-electric propulsion will be available in 2024, as Land Rover continues its electrification journey.

New Range Rover Sport will be exclusively produced at the Solihull Manufacturing Facility in the UK, the historic home of Range Rover production, alongside New Range Rover.

MODULO via Peter Haynes for RM Sotheby's for use by 360 Magazine

Pininfarina NFT

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Pininfarina, the legendary design house, for the first time in its 92 years of unparalleled history, is unveiling a stunning NFT Collection focused on one of the most iconic and futuristic automotive designs of all time—the Pininfarina Modulo concept car.

The Modulo is regarded as one of the most iconic concept cars in automotive history with truly futuristic lines. Since it was first seen, the design has won 22 international design awards and has been described as a “search for pure form in its deliberate geometricity.” Modulo was launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 1970 as a special Berlinetta characterized by two overlapping body shells. Originally unveiled in a pearl light blue color, the prototype was selected to represent the best of Italian coachbuilding skill at the 1970 Osaka Expo and was displayed as an envoy of Italian design in Mexico City in 1971.

The Pininfarina Modulo NFTs, in collaboration with 1of1, the luxury NFT specialists—powered by ARTM Technologies—in the development of solutions for the Metaverse, and with the iconic musician Sasha Sirota, will be offered as a series of five pieces of art, which will be auctioned by RM Sotheby‘s within a dedicated online auction on May 24-26, 2022.

The NFT Collection is inspired by the original “one-off” sketches of the Modulo, preserved until now in Pininfarina’s private archive, and developed with the active collaboration of the Pininfarina design Team.

Each unique NFT comprises a package of artistic and experiential components that allow NFT owners to become part of Pininfarina’s iconic legacy by having access to a range of benefits and extraordinary contents.

Each NFT will be characterized by an artistic video-animation featuring original soundtracks and a unique period setting with each NFT presenting Modulo in a different context, respectively set within five distinct decades ranging from the 1970s to 2020.

Each NFT will furthermore showcase original content such as the sketches of the original and rare drawings and real-world exclusive experiences (including a reserved visit to the company museum accompanied by Pininfarina’s Chairman, Paolo Pininfarina) and private sessions with the design team. In addition, NFT owners will possess a unique digital replica of the Pininfarina Modulo—the very first Pininfarina car ready for life in the Metaverse. The owners will also be presented with framed, physical artworks of the Modulo relating to each of the NFT packages.

“We are proud that our first NFT Collection is dedicated to give a new life to the Modulo” affirmed Paolo Pininfarina, Chairman of the Group. “The concept car designed in 1970 is a manifesto of Pininfarina vision: beauty and innovation to design the future”.

“We enter the NFT world with the intention of exploring its boundaries and opportunities” says Silvio Angori, Pininfarina CEO. “The metaverse is an area we can make a significant contribution to by having been producers of cutting-edge creativity for 90 years. Our immense creative archive, the ability to imagine the future of design using the most advanced technologies open up new avenues for the further economic enhancement of our brand.”

Gord Duff, Global Head of Auctions at RM Sotheby’s, says: “We are delighted to partner with Pininfarina on this project. As one of the most important design houses to ever exist within the automotive industry, the vehicles they have created are amongst the most iconic in history. The Modulo remains one of the most influential concepts of its era, and it is fitting that it is the basis of Pininfarina’s first ever NFT project.”

For more information about the online auction by RM Sotheby’s, the world’s foremost collector car auction house, on May 24-26, please click HERE.

Music via 360 Magazine

FKA Twigs × DAB Motors × Burberry

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The English singer-songwriter FKA twigs releases her latest single “Papi Bones” as part of her album, Caprisongs. In the unveiled video clip, in collaboration with Shygirl, she features her DAB Motors Concept-E RS Burberry Edition in an all-Burberry dressed decor.

The video clip, taking place in the UK, showcases a Midnight Blue Concept-E RS made in DAB Motors‘ Factory.

The Burberry x DAB Motors Concept-E RS collaboration came from a shared desire to think motorcycle as a true fashion item. DAB Motors, the French motorcycle manufacturer who’s on a mission to challenge traditions through intelligent disruption, aims to thrive well beyond the motorcycle world. All motorcycles are handmaid in France.

The very limited edition of 20 electric motorcycles features:

  • Brushless DC – 10kW nominal
  • Saddle upholstered with Burberry leather
  • Bodywork: Metallic Grey or Midnight Blue
  • Öhlins Suspensions
  • Beringer Brakes

The creative process that blends in the fashion design, music and motorcycle worlds seems to be at the forefront of the current trends. A new way of bringing together these industries has never before been seen.

Hot Wheels via Extension PR for use by 360 Magazine

Hot Wheels Legends Tour

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Mattel debuted the official Hot Wheels® 1:64-scale die-cast of the 2021 Hot Wheels Legends™ Tour winning 1969 Volvo P1800 Gasser built by Lee Johnstone of the United Kingdom. The first international Tour winner, Johnstone and his daughter, Victoria Upham, attended the global unveiling ceremony in New York City, where their family’s passion project was officially inducted into the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends™, a collection of the brand’s most iconic and celebrated designs existing both in 1:64th and life-sized scale. 

A 71-year-old motor mechanic, Johnstone restored and modified his 1969 Volvo to become a real-life track star, which he races with his wife and three daughters. A winner on and off the track, the P1800 Gasser emerged victorious from a historic 25-stop international Tour spanning 5 continents, joining previous champions including the inaugural 2018-winning 2JetZ™, 2019-winning THE NASH, and 2020-winning 1970 Pontiac® Firebird™, as the next permanent fixture in Hot Wheels history.

The announcement was made by Ted Wu, Vice President and Global Head of Design for Vehicles at Mattel, at the legendary Classic Car Club Manhattan one week prior to the start of the historic fifth annual Hot Wheels Legends Tour presented by Mobil 1. The epic space was reimagined to showcase dozens of examples of how Hot Wheels has influenced culture, ranging from high fashion to NFTs. The 2022 Tour kicks off with virtual live streams in New Zealand and Australia on April 14 and April 21, respectively, followed by the first North American live event in Miami, Florida on April 30.

“The Legends Tour began in 2018 as a way to celebrate and engage the car builder community around the world,” said Wu. “Lee Johnstone’s 1969 Volvo P1800 proved to be a truly awe-inspiring Gasser interpretation that captivated the entire Hot Wheels team. As the first international Legends Tour winner, we can’t wait to share his dream with Hot Wheels fans in more than 150 countries around the world.”

Hot Wheels is an automotive legend, and for generations, every auto enthusiast’s love for cars has begun with Hot Wheels. Since the casting of the brand’s Original 16® vehicles in 1968, Hot Wheels has continued to define itself by creating some of the most iconic cars in the world, both influencing and being influenced by car culture. Beyond the automotive world, Hot Wheels has expanded into pop culture through segments such as gaming, fashion, luxury and film. But, it always remains true to its car culture heritage. Hot Wheels has established itself as an iconic automotive-lifestyle brand, and is now also a major player in the global custom car builder community.

More than 54 years after Hot Wheels launched its original vehicles, the process of transforming life-sized cars into 1:64-scale has changed dramatically while the focus on design continues to be at the forefront. Beginning with CAD (Computer Aided Design) scanning, the Hot Wheels team is able to digitalize every aspect of the 1969 Volvo P1800, before additional rounds of 3-D modeling and sample printing help designers determine the 1:64-scale vehicle’s final shape. Once approved, the final design must also undergo a rigorous series of Hot Wheels track tests to ensure it performs as good as it looks.

Anyone with garage spirit can compete in the Hot Wheels Legends Tour. To enter, please click HERE.

In collaboration with Mobil 1, Walmart and Dickies, the 2022 Legends Tour will culminate in November with a livestreamed Global Grand Finale event to crown a historic fifth champion. As in the past, all fan car submissions throughout the Tour will be judged on the basis of creativity, authenticity and garage spirit.

Lamborghini Ultimae NFT via Extension PR for use by 360 Magazine

Lamborghini Aventador NFT

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As Automobili Lamborghini moves to electrify its complete line-up in 2023 and 2024, the legendary super sports car Aventador is approaching its end of production. In an unprecedented project, the Italian marque is auctioning the last Lamborghini Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae Coupé ever produced as a one of one NFT, in collaboration with two of the most iconic creators of our time, contemporary artists Krista Kim, Steve Aoki and global brand storytelling agency [INVNT GROUP]™. The Lamborghini ‘Ultimate’ drop is the world’s first supercar 1:1 NFT, marking the end of a successful era for Lamborghini and moving the raging bull forward into the digital era.

For the first time, Lamborghini is auctioning a super sports car linked to an exclusive NFT, before the top model of the Italian luxury brand becomes a V12-powered plug-in hybrid. The lucky collector will be part of the brand’s iconic legacy and will have access to VIP utilities, which include exclusive virtual previews of future, limited edition Lamborghini models, a private tour of the Museo Lamborghini, and a virtual “Meet and Greet” with Steve Aoki and Krista Kim, plus other VIP benefits. There will only be one collector who will own the ultimate 1:1 NFT Lamborghini collectible that can be shared across generations to come.

The drop is the world’s first NFT ever to be auctioned with a physical super sports car. Lamborghini, Krista Kim, and Steve Aoki, all leaders in their own fields, will redefine the supercar and NFT space and bridge the gap between the physical and virtual world. The sale will be hosted in a dedicated online auction by RM Sotheby’s, the world’s foremost collector car auction house.  

“Lamborghini and the NFT community fit together very well, as we share many values. We are both young-spirited innovators, looking out for unexpected projects and technological solutions”, explains Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “This project is very special for us as it is a true first, a path nobody has ever taken; to collaborate with such outstanding creative minds makes it all the more special.”

Krista Kim is creating the visual artwork for the NFT. It will feature her infamous Mars House and her signature gradient work. Her gradients will also appear in the bespoke customization of the physical Lamborghini Aventador Coupé, made possible through Lamborghini’s Ad Personam program: “This Aventador is a legend; it is the first physical-digital supercar! When higher states of consciousness meet leading-edge technology and design, we see elevated beauty on another level. In my Lamborghini NFT dream, I envision meditating in front of a sublime Mars sunset with Steve, as he transforms the engine sound into a meditative vibe. I couldn’t be more excited to bring this vision to life in the physical car and NFT.”

Steve Aoki will provide the custom developed track for the NFT, an exclusive soundtrack for the physical car inspired by the last Aventador and will consult on the design of the NFT and physical car customization: “I’m honored to be partnering with Lamborghini and Krista Kim on this historic project! The drop signifies the ultimate intersection—where the physical world, digital art, and music come together as one. Every design element of this car is purposeful. It truly has its own story, and therefore I wanted my music track to reflect its soulful energy—the vibe, the spirit, and the power.”

These three iconic brands, in partnership with [INVNT GROUP] and its portfolio of disciplines, came together to creatively develop the NFT. “This event will likely be one of the most prolific NFT drops this year and will certainly be one of the most historic automobile auctions ever. Our collaboration with Lamborghini, Steve Aoki and Krista Kim is a representation of our boundless innovation to bring brands and artists together. I am beyond proud of our entire global group, notably, our innovation team out of Singapore, INVNT.ATOM; HEVĒ, our digital content studio; and our [INVNT GROUP] marcomms team.” said Scott Cullather, President and CEO [INVNT GROUP].

The NFT and exclusive Lamborghini Aventador LP 780-4 Ultimae Coupé will be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s on April 19th at 6:00 PM CET/12:00 PM EST.

Pirelli BMW iX via Pirelli Tires for use by 360 Magazine

Pirelli  × BMW iX

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Pirelli will supply P Zero Elect tires as original equipment to the new BMW iX—a 100% electric SUV from the renowned German car manufacturer—for the xDrive50 version and the sportier M60. P Zero Elect tires are available for the BMW iX xDrive50 version in 255/50R21 109Y XL and 275/40R22 107Y XL sizes, with the latter size also available for the sportier M60 version of the German SUV. All of these tires are marked with a star on the side to indicate that they have been specially developed for BMW as part of Pirelli’s ‘perfect fit’ philosophy, which also includes a 22-inch BMW iX tire with more grip than the other two: made for maximum performance. This tire has an “I” on the side, in addition to the star marking. Pirelli’s presence as original equipment for the latest generation of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles is growing thanks to these latest homologations, featuring tires equipped with the Italian firm’s Elect technology package. Elect tires, such as the P Zero developed for the German all-electric flagship, distinguish themselves thanks to their supreme driving comfort with contained road noise as well as immediate grip, a long-range and safety-focused design. The intense development dedicated by Pirelli to the BMW iX underlines the Italian firm’s commitment to design specific tires for electrified cars, BEVs or plug-in hybrids. These products are created from the beginning to enhance the individual characteristics of electric cars, as denoted by the ‘Elect’ marking on the sidewall of the tire itself. 

Tires for Superior Battery Range 

The Pirelli P Zero Elect tires developed for the BMW iX focus on low rolling resistance, to allow the car to travel for more miles after a charge. The specific profile of the tire also influences the mileage, thanks to its superior aerodynamics compared to the standard P Zero. The external profile has been modified to ensure that the tire protrudes less, reducing aerodynamic turbulence while improving overall efficiency, without sacrificing adequate rim protection. The embedded lettering on the side of the tire is just as distinctive, hollowed into the sidewall rather than standing out in relief. 

Silence and Comfort 

Particular attention is paid to comfort for BMW iX drivers, with the dedicated Pirelli P Zero Elect tires also equipped with PNCS (Pirelli Noise Cancelling System) technology, which reduces road noise. PNCS technology consists of a specific sound-absorbing material placed inside the tire, which dampens the acoustic vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted into the car, with a consequent reduction in road noise. The tire structure has also been optimized to cope with the considerable weight of this 100% electric zero-emission vehicle, designed to offering optimal levels of driving comfort in all road traffic conditions.

 

Tesla Illustration by Alex Bogdan for use by 360 Magazine

Tesla’s Record High R&D

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Tesla spends more on research and development (R&D) than any other automaker.  According to data presented by StockApps, the firm spends $2,984 on R&D per car produced. That’s thrice the industry average and higher than the collective R&D budgets of Ford, General Motors (GM), and Chrysler per car.

Commenting on the report, StockApp’s Edith Reads had this to say.” Tesla spends more than any other carmaker on R&D in order to maintain its lead in EV technology. And if you ask them about it, they’ll tell you this is the key to keeping their customers happy—which is what keeps them in business.”

Tesla’s investment in R&D is paying off

Its vehicles are not only making strides in environmentalism, they’re also safe, fast, and excellent at technology integration. Elon Musk‘s commitment to spending time developing new products and services is what makes Tesla successful.

Tesla is famous for its ambitious production goals. So if anyone is going to invest in making those dreams a reality, it’s them. And you can see why: while most carmakers focus on marketing themselves as a brand first and foremost, Tesla is focusing on making every car a piece of innovative engineering.

No Advertising Spending

Further, Tesla’s spending proves they are future-focused, unlike other manufacturers. While Tesla spends $0 on advertising per car, the industry average is $485. This further illustrates that consumers want to buy vehicles for their functionality and rely on testimonials for brand awareness rather than beautifully crafted commercials.

The company’s lack of an advertising budget is even more impressive than its R&D spending. Tesla’s unique business model becomes clear when we consider what its competition spends per vehicle on advertising. Ford and Toyota spend $468 and $454 per car respectively. 

Despite not spending anything on advertising, Tesla is technically a marketing magnet. That’s why it is one of the world’s fastest-growing brands. The firm dominates the press and social media engagements. Most of that comes from widely popular Elon Musk.

Tire via 360 Magazine for use by 360 Magazine

Pirelli Electric Vehicle Tire

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Pirelli announced the introduction in North America of its first replacement tire developed specifically for electric vehicles: the P Zero All Season Plus with Elect marking.

The Elect marking offers a number of advantages. First and foremost is low rolling resistance, designed to increase the driving range while reducing consumption. Compared to a non-elect P Zero All Season Plus product, the new Pirelli tire has shown a reduction of 15% of rolling resistance, which translates to a direct improvement in the battery life of the vehicle.

Another key advantage of the Elect marking is noise reduction, for ultimate comfort and to emphasize the quiet inside the cabin. In electric cars, the engine is no longer the primary source of noise, so reducing sound frequencies produced by the tires is key to increasing driving comfort.

Finally, there’s an immediate grip designed to bite into the asphalt instantly, putting the power down for a quick getaway. Another feature worth mentioning: a special structure designed to support the weight of a battery-powered vehicle.

The new P Zero All Season Plus also features the Pirelli Noise Cancelling System (PNCS): a technology designed to reduce interior vehicle noise thanks to a sound-absorbing material applied to the inside circumferential wall of the tire that offers significantly improved driving comfort, a feature much appreciated by those who own electric cars. Pirelli Noise Cancelling System (PNCS) equipped P Zero All Season Plus Elect has shown a 5% decrease in cabin noise versus the leading original equipment competitor.

With the introduction of this new product, Pirelli confirms once again to be at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution, after having been the first tire manufacturer to homologate a dedicated technology for electric vehicles and having the highest number of homologations of tires for EVs.

“Developing a tire specifically for electric vehicles requires a number of considerations you do not encounter when working with internal combustion engines,” said Ian Coke, Chief Technical Officer at Pirelli North America. “Electric vehicles are heavier, have more powerful and faster acceleration off the line and require lower rolling resistance.”

Tires play a crucial role in EV performance as they are a key safety, performance, and range optimizer. The new P Zero All Season Plus Elect offers a number of advantages for electric vehicles, thanks to the use of innovative compounds, profiles and structures.

Thanks to a new compound formulation that increases the abrasion resistance of the tire to compensate the high torque and the overall vehicle weight, the new P Zero All Season Plus Elect is built to offer long-lasting performance in every condition. The new Pirelli tire offers improved traction in line with the intense demands from the high torque produced by an EV. As electric motors deliver the maximum torque available immediately when accelerating, they need tires that can bite into the asphalt instantly. The adoption of functionalized polymers in the compound brought an improvement in wet grip and handling. 

The new P Zero All Season Plus Elect will fit some of the most popular EV high-performance models and will be available from 18 to 20 inches. In addition to the clear EV vehicle benefits, the new P Zero All Season Plus Elect comes with a 50,000-mile limited treadwear warranty.

EA RR Winterdrive via Rolls-Royce for use by 360 Magazine

Rolls-Royce Winter Highlights

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March 21st marked the first day of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere with day and night almost equally divided in half. Before the introduction of the ‘Architecture of Luxury’ with Cullinan, that was the day Rolls-Royce owners began to unfurl garage covers and prepare to ship their commissions back North. You can enjoy your Rolls-Royce motor car 365 days a year, 24/7!

But before we put the Winter of 2021-22 behind us, we wanted to share some highlights of Rolls-Royce in the snow

During the daytime, Rolls Royce Ghost is the most technologically advanced Rolls-Royce and reflects ‘Post Opulent’ design philosophy in rain, sunshine, or snow. At night, the alter ego Black Badge Ghost offers the same luxury with All-wheel drive and all-wheel steering for unprecedented poise and surefootedness.

The Ghost sports the world’s first Planar suspension system, significantly increasing agility and effortlessness. Equipped with hallmark 6.75-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, the car delivers 563hp and 627 lbf/ft. The Down-lit Pantheon grille discreetly illuminates Rolls-Royce iconography. 

The Illuminated Fascia debuted featuring Ghost nameplates surrounded by more than 850 stars. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan was the first to introduce an All-Wheel drive into the range, allowing effortless travel. With the touch of a button, the ‘off road’ Cullinan raises 40mm allowing better clearance and more prowess. With the extraordinarily capable all-wheel drive system, and all wheel steering, the Cullinan is nimble and luxurious. The Black Badge Cullinan brings the darker, edgier image for exploring the nighttime. The “Shooting Starlight” headliner carries the nighttime into the cabin regardless of the weather.