Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE) will showcase its industry-leading high performance battery technology at The Battery Show Europe from 28-30 June, in Stuttgart.
Visitors to the WAE stand in Hall 8, stand F50, will have the opportunity to examine an example of the company’s innovative Adaptive Multi-Chem advanced battery pack, together with the Triumph Motorcycles TE-1 prototype demonstrator.
Combining power and energy in one advanced battery system, Adaptive Multi-Chem sets new standards for performance and efficiency, with the advantage of being totally customisable for individual customer requirements.
Triumph’s first zero emission prototype demonstrator motorcycle – the battery pack for which delivers a peak power of 130kW and continuous power of 90kW, with a capacity of 15kWh – will also be on display. With the optimum balance of power and energy, TE-1’s battery gives the rider access to greater electric power for longer, regardless of battery charge, and matches exhilarating acceleration with exceptional range. The 360-volt system also enables a fast-charging time of under 20mins (0-80%).
WAE developed the technology to support the TE-1 prototype demonstrator, a unique collaboration between Triumph Motorcycles, Integral Powertrain Ltd, and WMG at the University of Warwick funded by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles through Innovate UK.
In addition, the stunning 2200 horsepower Deus Vayanne electric hypercar, brought to life by WAE’s collaboration with Deus Automobiles and Italdesign, is on display on the Deus Automobiles stand Hall 8, Stand D-30.
This customer project demonstrates WAE’s sector-leading partnership with ItalDesign, which sees WAE provide a highly sophisticated composite EV platform and powertrain, with ItalDesign contributing the body design, safety systems and electric architecture.
The partnership provides a unique offering for established car companies and start-ups who want a luxury, high-performance EV, without having to spend many years – and billions of dollars – developing a proprietary EV skateboard and associated technology.
Taking place from 28 – 30 June 2022 in Stuttgart, Germany, The Battery Show Europe is Europe’s largest battery technology showcase and conference. With more than 480 suppliers in attendance, The Battery Show Europe provides an ideal opportunity for WAE to showcase its motorsport-derived, zero-emission mobility solutions.
On day one of the conference, Tim Engstrom, WAE Manager – Advanced Battery Technologies, will also deliver the keynote presentation, ‘Examining the Role of Motorsport as a Platform to Accelerate Battery Technology, And Why It Matters’.
Dyrr Ardash, Head of Strategic Partnerships, WAE said: “The Battery Show Europe is an ideal event for WAE to showcase its high-performance battery and EV platform technology. As the world electrifies, motorsport developments act as a springboard to bring world-class technical innovation for a decarbonised and sustainable future. WAE’s role in electric motorsport has significantly accelerated the development of the lightweight battery and e-powertrain technology we can offer our customers today. We continue to learn valuable lessons from our motorsport involvement that will deliver further transformative benefits to the users of EVs in terms of power, performance, efficiency, and sustainability.”
Following the acquisition by Fortescue Metals Group, which completed in March 2022, WAE will continue to service its existing customers and commercialise new technology opportunities, in addition to playing a key role in supporting Fortescue’s decarbonisation strategy.
Vice President – Head of Marketing at Lexus, Toyota Motor North America
*Listen to Vinay Shahani’s full conversation with Vaughn Lowery on the 360 MAG Podcast HERE.
As a crowded child growing up in and around Detroit, Vinay Shahani was exposed to the motor industry at a very young age. He started working at the Ford Motor Company when his father (of Sindhi descent) emigrated from India to the United States in the 1960s. Vinay became a car lover under the influence of his father: “He was in the car business, and I was also in the car business because I was his son, and I loved that.” Once he moved to Michigan, Vinay earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Manufacturing Systems Engineering from Stanford University. Currently, Vinay lives in the Dallas area.
Vinay is Vice President of Marketing for Lexus, a Japanese high-end car brand created by Toyota Inc., a position he has held since January 2021. He is responsible for Lexus’ marketing activities, including advertising campaigns, media and digital, product marketing and lifecycle management, auto shows, incentive and experiential marketing, and motorsports. He creates a “speak up” environment to make the opinions of all members of his team visible (agency partners and internal staff). Identifying social and commercial values helps expand the brand to various groups of consumers who may not align with the preferences of the Asian population, such as Walton Isaacson (black, Hispanic, and LGBTIQ community) and the IW group.
In addition, he oversees motorsports, engagement marketing, car shows, and other consumer events throughout the United States. Vasser Sullivan is a race team, with worldwide competitors such as Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi, that Lexus empowers with some of the best drivers – “We definitely want to win, and we have a winning team.” Meanwhile, Lexus also helps improve consumers’ skills in car track by providing the opportunity to study professionally at Performance Driving School.
Since the brand is determined to treat consumers as valued guests, one of Vinay’s top initiatives iis Lexus Hospitality, as it is inspired by the Japanese spirit of hospitality and is committed to providing excellence in customer service.
Another dimension within the marketing field is monitoring and analyzing the results after experimenting with the Lexus IS 500 model and the Lexus RC F Track Edition.
Under the massive influence of the metaverse today, Vinay mentions that Lexus is creating its own Mark Netscape plus Upstream to figure out what the role of Lexus is as a brand in the metaverse. In addition, they are in talks with global partners like Lexus International to find out what is being sought out in Japan while identifying markets in the US, Canada, and Great Britain. Based on the diverse target audience of Lexus in the United States, Vinay seeks to use digital media and the National Brand Day to show brand culture and emotion, even
creating a TikTok account to get closer to younger audiences.
As a high environment-friendly brand, by 2035, Vinay plans for Lexus to be a ‘global 100% battery electric’ vehicle brand to reduce fossil fuel consumption and emissions. With these measures, it’s great to see the carbon footprint will be reduced thanks to the company’s shift.
Finally, Vinay adds that “it is important that we know who we are as a brand from a strategic perspective.” With this, they are trying to add attractive and technological accessories to their vehicles that give the driver great confidence in the handling and control of their car. “Maintaining a love for performance cars gets your heart rate up, it excites you, and that’s something we definitely want to associate with different brands.”
100% Solar Powered Exclusive-Use Villas and Land Cruiser Electric Vehicles
Cheetah Plains is home to the exclusive-use luxury villa and sustainable safari experience nestled in South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife area, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. A sophisticated, innovative eco-luxe safari run entirely on solar power, Cheetah Plains provides guests with a personalized, and flexible experience giving you the option to plan your safari on your terms.
Perfect for an exclusive family vacation or a luxurious safari sojourn with friends, Cheetah Plains’ three private villas each accommodate a maximum of eight guests and boast award-winning architectural design and interiors that redefine convention by sensitively translating urban sophistication in the bush. The villas, Mapogo, Karula, and Mvula are named after famous wild cats that have been a significant part of the history of the area, and blend respectfully into the surrounding environment through their modern design and use of natural materials. The location and unique appointment of each is a respectful homage to their secluded, tranquil environment and each safari hideaway provides groups with a unique bushveld retreat unlike any other. Each villa boasts four stand-alone private guest suites and a shared living space that houses an entertaining lounge, living and dining room areas, expansive swimming pool with deck, outdoor boma for fireside dining, fine wine gallery, and fully equipped chef’s kitchen.
“Cheetah Plains indulges guests in a truly unique and personalized sustainable safari experience. The level of flexibility and privacy affords the opportunity for a truly memorable adventure for families and friends. From prime wildlife sightings from (almost) silent Land Cruiser electric game viewing vehicles
(that are Tesla battery-powered) to the incredible natural surroundings from the comfort of your designer villa to immersive gastronomical dining under the African skies. It’s simply unbeatable,” shares Peter Dros, Head of Sales and Marketing for Cheetah Plains.
Eco-Luxe Safari Experience: During a stay at Cheetah Plains each villa is provided with a dedicated hospitality team including an accomplished host, culinary team, lodge sommelier, spa therapist, and even childcare for the duration of their stay. Together, this talented group of professionals and your own dedicated guide and tracker, with a private safari, vehicle deliver a luxury experience of the highest standard and can create a tailored stay to accommodate individual preferences.
Activities during a visit also include guided bush walks, wellness offerings, a fitness gym, and ‘Cubs Club‘ for kids. Each villa provides a platform to showcase Africa’s artistic talent, not unlike a contemporary gallery space, and has been personally and passionately curated by Cheetah Plains owner, Japie van Niekerk. Pieces by acclaimed masters are thoughtfully placed alongside current and emerging talent. Brunch in the bush after a morning game drive includes fresh locally sourced produce. Wine tastings from the 300 bottle wine cellar in each villa and meals are carefully prepared and offered fireside and under the stars, as well as, in the comfort of each villa.
A Commitment to Sustainability: Cheetah Plains sets the standard in South Africa for a zero-emission, sustainable 4×4 luxury safari experience traversing over 20,200+ acres, led by a highly skilled guiding team. Taking a singular approach to sustainability, within their footprint on the Sabi Sand, Cheetah Plains delivers a next-level eco-safari. They have partnered with some of the world’s pre-eminent minds in the renewable energy field to provide clean energy solutions that drive both their hospitality and safari experiences.
The Cheetah Plains experience is ‘off the grid’, harnessing the power of solar to provide a reliable, renewable energy source. Meanwhile, their twice-daily game drives are taken in innovative Toyota Land Cruiser Electric Safari Vehicles powered by Tesla batteries. This bold advance toward zero-emission game viewing is what drives the sustainable safari experience at Cheetah Plains. The quiet, smooth gait of the Land Cruiser Electric Vehicles deliver the highest quality wildlife sightings and include eight comfortable bucket seats, individually set at the optimal recline of 11 degrees, USB ports, and heated seats. Their unobtrusive nature facilitates the most silent approach by vehicle, resulting in an unparalleled safari experience. Onboard, bird books, binoculars, and a professional level camera fitted with a telephoto lens are provided for guests’ enjoyment while out on a game drive.
Bush Walks: For the most captivating safari experience, guests are invited to embark on guided, interpretive bush walks. Accompanied by certified and experienced walking-trail field guides, the opportunity to explore parts of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve on foot is one not to be missed. There is no more tangible way than this to surround yourself with nature where visitors will surely find that a profound appreciation of one’s place within the ecosystem is deeply felt. The duration of walks are easily customized to guest requirements, taking the number of guests, fitness levels, ages, weather conditions, and the preferred game drive schedules into account.
Kids on Safari: Cheetah Plains welcomes families and children of all ages. Highly qualified, relatable field guides and trackers are eager to share their bush lore with young, inquisitive minds. Bush bumbles (game drives of age-appropriate duration) and interpretive walks in their indigenous gardens facilitate a child’s connection with Africa’s wilderness and love of nature. Other kid-friendly activities include baking, arts and crafts, tracking and shooting targets with pellet guns. The villas have child-friendly features such as interconnecting suites and entertainment lounges with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, a selection of games, and Netflix. The lodge also provides reliable childcare onsite for when parents are away on safari.
Wellness: The restorative quality of your safari is luxuriously enhanced by personal pampering. Guests are invited to enjoy a selection of massage therapies and beauty treatments in the privacy and comfort of your private guest suite. With Africology as the wellness amenity brand partner, a spa therapist expertly imparts the healing, restorative properties of select African botanicals, offering guests a remedying, calming wellness experience.
Sporting beautiful views out over our rolling lawns and the Tamboti grove beyond, the climate-controlled gym is outfitted with a variety of high-quality, professional fitness equipment in partnership with Technogym. A short stroll from your villa and private suite, the communal-use gym facility at Cheetah Plains is a tranquil environment for weight training sessions, cardio work-outs or yoga, stretching, and core training.
Cheetah Plains is conveniently accessible by a 1.5-hour flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport on a commercial or private charter with a 20-minute private vehicle transfer from the Arathusa airstrip to your villa. A safari at Cheetah Plains is best paired with Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, Kruger National Park, and Victoria Falls. Daily scheduled flights are available on Federal Air from Johannesburg to Arathusa and on Airlink from Johannesburg and Cape Town to KMIA and Skukuza. Charter jets can be arranged by Cheetah Plains to Arathusa, or helicopter transfers directly to its private helipad. Rates begin at $2,000 per person per day, all-inclusive, based on four adults with a 2-night minimum and $1,550 per additional guest, or $770 per child 3-12 years of age, or $150 under three years of age. Reservations can be made online HERE.
About Cheetah Plains:
Opened in 2018, Cheetah Plains is home to the exclusive-use luxury villa and sustainable safari experience nestled in South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife area, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The eco-luxe experience includes three private villas with four guest bush suites that accommodate up to eight guests each with its own formal lounge, living and dining areas, expansive swimming pool, and outdoor deck that operates off-grid. Each villa comes with a complete hospitality team consisting of an accomplished host, culinary team, and spa therapist, as well as an expert field guide and tracker dedicated to you for the duration of your stay. Families and children of all ages are welcome to experience their own personalized safari, guided bush walks, wellness offerings, fitness gym, and ‘Cubs Club‘ for kids. Cheetah Plains sets the standard in South Africa for zero-emission game-viewing utilizing its own fleet of solar-charged Land Cruiser Electric Safari vehicles. A luxury sustainable safari that is beyond expectations.
NEW! EXPLORE THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS AND MOUNTAINS ON AN ELECTRIC SUPERCAR ROAD TRIP
Weeklong program is an eco-sensitive, road-tripping adventure in a Porsche
If you’re a fan of adventure and luxury cars, this new supercar driving program is for you. Adding the glide of a luxury electric car, you’ll travel through Norwegian fjords and the Sunnmore Alps on a supercar road trip, enjoying empty open roads and breathtaking scenery behind the wheel of an electric Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo. The route is pre-programmed; you do the driving.
Driving the roads along mountain passes, bridges and labyrinthine tunnels will amp up the adrenaline for any driving enthusiast. And this time, it’s done in the most sustainable, exhilarating fashion: in an electric supercar of the highest renown.
Delivering a racetrack experience along the edge of the fjords, the emission-free electric supercar Porsche comes equipped with pre-programmed routes that journey through Norway’s stunning fjords and mountains.
The Porsche has room to hold everything needed for the six-day trip and smoothly handles the winding mountain and forest routes that have inspired Norwegian folklore. Set the car on cruise control, feel the power, and take in the ever-changing scenery outside.
You’ll enjoy a night in the art nouveau town of Alesund, where a boat ride among the fjords provides an extra sense of adventure. A night in a traditional Sami tent deep in the pine forests plus all hotel accommodations along the route support the program’s sustainability emphasis. All provide eco-toiletries in the rooms, locally sourced produce in the restaurants, and use only electric or hybrid vehicles. Onsite chargers are provided for your vehicle.
“We created this program for guests to travel through the stunning Norwegian fjords in a stylish and comfortable manner without impacting the environment,” commented Jonny Cooper, founder of Off the Map Travel.
Inclusions
The adventure aspect of the trip is paramount. Travelers will journey along the spectacular Atlantic Road known as “the road across the sea” with its imposing seven bridges and network of tunnels, travel deep into the magnificent mountains to the Troll Wall, the largest rock wall in Europe; take a ferry into the gaping Geiranger fjord; journey up a gondola for the views of the North Atlantic; and experience the fjords from the sky in a private helicopter.
The cutting-edge electric supercar achieves 283 miles on a charge and has a built-in “charging planner” that calculates the optimum route based on your charge status.
The menu each day features the region’s best local cuisine including seafood from hyper-local purveyors.
The seven-day, six-night drive the fjords itinerary is priced from £7899 per person ($9747 USD at the time of this writing) including all meals and accomodations, based on double occupancy; with accommodations in Brosundet, Storfjord and Union Oye; transfers; all activities; and use of the electric Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo. Flights are additional.
Day 1: Arrive in Alesund. From the window of your aircraft, you’ll see the crystal clear fjords and jagged peaks of the Sunnmore Alps. Transfer from the airport to the art nouveau town of Alesund to check into Hotel Brosundet. Once settled, you will board a boat and head out into the fjords to Flatsea lighthouse. Enjoy a delicious lunch in the lighthouse and make use of the jacuzzi and sauna before heading back to your hotel for dinner in Apotekergata No. 5.
Day 2: In the morning, check out and meet your driver who will take you to Hotel Storfjord in the town of Storfjord. Enjoy a welcome cocktail at the Lavvu, a traditional Sami tent set deep in the pine forests surrounding the hotel. Take in your surroundings and learn about some of the highlights of the trip ahead. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing and maybe head to the spa.
Day 3: After breakfast begin your personal driving adventure along the North Atlantic Overpass. Drive north toward the Atlantic Ocean Road. Your car will be packed with a delicious Storfjord picnic basket complete with local cheese, meats, berries and sparkling wine. Arrive at a dramatic overpass that is a marvel of engineering: your car will appear to fly over the Atlantic as you wind from island to island. The scenery is breath-taking and you can find a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy your picnic. On the return journey, take in the Sunmore peaks dotting the horizon. This will be your playground for the next few days as you adventure deeper into the fjords.
Day 4: Head to the mountains of Romsdal. The first stop will be at the Troll wall, the highest rock wall in Europe. Enjoy pastries packed by the kitchen and continue deeper into the mountains where the Trollstigen will appear with a winding road up to the summit. This is one of the most magnificent vantage points in Norway. Descend the Valdel Valley which will lead you back to the fjords. A ferry to Stranda offers a glimpse of things to come as the fjords get narrower and deeper. Pause at the view point between the tunnels and stare directly into the gaping chasm of the Geiranger fjord. The final destination is Union Oye – an historic royal oasis at the end of the valley. Check in and enjoy a delicious dinner before relaxing in the evening.
Day 5: After a night’s rest and breakfast of local produce, take the quiet roads winding towards the west and leave the fjords behind you. Before long you will trace the coastline towards Stryn, the perfect spot for lunch and a journey on a gondola to take in the views over the North Atlantic. As you head further inland, the fjord hamlet of Geiranger will come into view. Board the ferry, sit back and enjoy a cruise through the grandest fjord of them all with waterfalls cascading off the mountains. Disembark at Hellesylt and drive to Union Oye.
Day 6: A visit to the Sunmore region celebrates the seafood heritage of the region. You’ll visit an island off the west coast for a five-course seafood menu. On the return journey, skirt Storfjord as you arrive back for your final meal.
Day 7: For the final morning you’ll say farewell to you luxe Porsche supercar and take to the skies for an aerial tour of the roads you have been driving on. This trip provides an immersive experience as the helicopter weaves in and out of the fjords high over the mountain peaks. At the end, a private driver will transport you to Alesund Vigra airport for your departure.
OFF THE MAP TRAVEL
The team at Off the Map Travel works with experiences and destinations that allow people to explore hidden wonders of our planet. Specializing in Soft Adventure OTMT creates tailor-made holiday itineraries offering authentic experiences not offered by many larger travel companies. For more information on Off the Map Travel itineraries vist HERE.
Today, Polestar Manhattan invited us to preview their Precept, exhibiting design, technology and sustainability.
“America’s newest MVP of the EV game, breaking records and necks!” – 360
Polestar revealed the Precept in February 2020 as a declaration of intent. Showcasing the future direction of Polestar’s design, sustainability and technology, the concept makes a strong statement about the brand’s intent. In October 2020, Polestar confirmed that the Precept will be put into production in the future. Polestar is documenting this journey in a YouTube series, “Precept: from concept to car.” In November 2021, Polestar confirmed that the production version of Precept will be known as Polestar 5.
Polestar continues to believe in collaborating with experts to accelerate development and provide customers with the best available technologies. Precept’s interior is defined by sustainability and offered an opportunity to work with new materials and processes. Similarly, the evolution of the HMI builds on current partnerships which maximise the integration of expertise.
Sustainable new interior materials balance modern high-tech luxury with reduced environmental impact. These sustainable materials include recycled PET bottles, reclaimed fishing nets and recycled cork vinyl. A flax-based composite developed by external partner Bcomp Ltd is featured in many interior and some exterior parts. Polestar’s ambition is to bring much of this sustainability into production.
The next generation HMI, powered by Android, builds on Polestar’s close collaboration with Google. An enlarged, portrait-oriented 15-inch centre touch screen complements a 12.5-inch driver display, and the two are linked by an illuminated blade that encompasses the entire interior. In this execution, the unique Polestar emblem floats holographically inside a solid piece of Swedish crystal between the rear seat headrests.
Supporting the advancement of a personalised and dynamic digital interface, the instrument panel also hosts an array of smart sensors. Eye tracking will allow the car to monitor the driver’s gaze and adjust the content of the various screens accordingly. Proximity sensors also enhance the usability of the centre display when driving.
The sculpted form of the Polestar Precept sets the tone for future Polestar vehicles. The vehicle’s proportions define its presence with restrained surfacing and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency.
The front grille is replaced by the Polestar SmartZone, representing a shift from breathing to seeing. An area which once channelled air to radiators and the internal combustion engine now houses technology for safety sensors and driver assistance functions. Purposefully gathered behind a transparent panel dedicated to intelligent hardware are two radar sensors and a high definition camera. The LiDAR pod, mounted atop the glass roof, is given optimal visibility as a next step towards increased driving assistance. The Thor’s Hammer LED headlight signature evolves with separated elements, taking on a dynamic, more robotic and brand-defining interpretation.
Precept features an integrated front wing above the SmartZone which accelerates air flow over the long bonnet. This allows air to attach itself to the surface earlier, which improves aerodynamic efficiency and thus improves the vehicle’s range. At the rear, the wide light-blade spans the entire width of the car, extending into vertical aero-wings – another aerodynamic feature and a nod to light-weight design.
With product development now underway, Polestar has confirmed it will produce Precept in China, where a new production facility will be established. The aim is to ensure the facility will be climate neutral and one of the most intelligent and connected automotive production facilities in the world.
Now officially open to the public, it represents one of 20 Polestar Spaces in a rapidly growing nationwide network. Polestar Manhattan is located in vibrant Lincoln Square and offers customers a captivating retail experience where they can learn about the brand and vehicle lineup.
“New York City is an iconic city with deep roots in design, sustainability and engineering, and opening a Polestar Space in this location will allow us to showcase the superior driving experience and high-tech minimalism that defines and differentiates Polestar,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Chief Executive Officer of Polestar. “As we continue to redefine luxury for the sustainable age, Polestar Manhattan will serve as the brand’s retail home in New York City. Polestar plans to launch and showcase three new models by 2024, and I cannot wait to see them in this location.”
Gregor Hembrough, Head of Polestar in North America, adds: “It was critical that we establish a foothold in one of the most significant and important markets in the U.S., New York. In partnership with Manhattan Motor Cars, this new showroom will allow us to reach customers throughout the New York metro area.”
The Polestar Space is staffed by Polestar Specialists who are well trained to answer questions, assist with the digital ordering process, and coordinate test drives of the brand’s all-electric Polestar 2 model range, which includes two different configurations.
World’s First Electric Hyper-SUV Launched By Luxury Automaker
The Lotus Eletre is the first of three new Lotus lifestyle EVs in next four years
Lotus Cars has today unveiled the world’s first electric Hyper-SUV, the Lotus Eletre, during a livestreamed event in London – reaching its most significant milestone yet in its ongoing transformation to a truly global performance car brand.
The all-new and all-electric Lotus Eletre is a striking and progressive Hyper-SUV – the first of a new breed of pure electric SUVs. It takes the core principles and Lotus DNA from more than 70 years of sports car design and engineering, evolving them into a desirable all-new lifestyle car for the next generation of Lotus customers.
The company’s famed expertise in the fields of ride and handling, steering and optimised aerodynamics have been carefully and respectfully evolved. The Eletre takes the heart and soul of the latest Lotus sports car – the Emira – and the revolutionary aero performance of the all-electric Evija hypercar, and reinterprets them as a Hyper-SUV. A bold new dimension to the Lotus performance car portfolio, the Eletre delivers a significant number of firsts for Lotus – the first five-door production car, the first model outside sports car segments, the first lifestyle EV, the most ‘connected’ Lotus ever. And yet it remains a true Lotus, a beautiful car ‘carved by air’, packed with pioneering technology, genuine sporting performance and simplicity of purpose, designed and developed by a passionate and global team. The Lotus Eletre is alive with character and personality.
The Eletre is 4WD, has a battery capacity that’s over 100kWh and with power from 600hp. A 350kW charger will deliver a 400km (248 miles) range in just 20 minutes. The car’s target maximum WLTP driving range is c.600km (c.373 miles). It also comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging which, where available, reduces the time plugged in.
Technology includes the most advanced active aerodynamics package on any production SUV, and intelligent driving technologies such as the world’s first deployable Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) system.
The Eletre is the first in a new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles to be built at an all-new state-of-the-art production facility in Wuhan, China. The car has been ‘Born British, Raised Globally’, with key attributes defined by the development team at Hethel, Norfolk – the home of Lotus since 1966 – and supported by collaborative work with teams in China, Sweden and Germany. The overall exterior and interior design has been led by an international team based at the Lotus Tech Creative Centre (LTCC) in Warwickshire, UK.
The Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new and highly versatile Electric Premium Architecture (EPA). The low-to-the-ground ‘skateboard’ design means outstanding handling, and can easily adapt to accommodate different battery sizes, motors, component layouts and intelligent driving technologies. For the Eletre these include end-to-end autonomous driving technology, future-proofed so updates can be added as required.
The platform will be the basis for an all-new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles from Lotus. Led by the Eletre, these cars will catapult Lotus into a new era of higher retail volumes and significant revenues.
The Lotus Eletre is on sale now across global markets, with first customer deliveries in 2023 starting in the UK, Europe and China. For more information and to reserve your Lotus Eletre please visit www.lotuscars.com.
Breaking down is many people’s worst nightmare and it can completely ruin your day. Having to pull your car over to the side of the road and wait in the rain for help is not what you expect to be doing when you set off on your journey.
Aside from being an unenjoyable and embarrassing experience, a breakdown can be costly, whether you have a fuel-based or electric vehicle. If it has been caused by an underlying issue in your car, you could end up spending hundreds getting it fixed.
If your vehicle has never broken down before, you might have no idea how to deal with it. But knowing what to do when your car breaks down can save you a lot of time if and when it happens.
Here are some top tips on what you should do in the event of a breakdown.
Move Your Car to the Side of the Road
Whether you’re driving on a main road, side road, or motorway, your priority must be to get your car out of the road. Put your hazard lights on and move your vehicle to the side of the road or the hard shoulder.
Once your car is safely out of the way of other vehicles, everybody should vacate the car. If you’re traveling with animals, keep them safe in the car.
It’s not always possible to push your vehicle onto the hard shoulder if you’re driving on the motorway. If this is the case, stay in the car with your seatbelt fastened, put your hazard lights on, and call the emergency services.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
Many people try and wave down a passing car in the hopes that the driver will be able to help. Many people carry a pair of vehicle boosting cables in their cars that can be used to jump-start other vehicles.
However, it isn’t always possible to flag somebody down. Even if you do, there’s no guaranteeing that they will have the right equipment to get your car started again.
If you have a breakdown provider, now is the time to call them. You will need the details of your vehicle and your location. If you aren’t sure where you are, try to find significant landmarks that you can point out to the person on the phone.
Once you have called your breakdown provider, sit and wait. Don’t try to repair anything or move your car elsewhere. You have to be patient and stay put!
If you don’t have a mobile phone with you, try and walk to the nearest emergency phone. These will be clearly defined and they should be placed at regular intervals along the highway.
Your breakdown provider may take 30 minutes or they may take several hours to reach you. When they arrive, they will l fix your car by the side of the road and help you to get going.
When the 2023 Toyota bZ4X battery-electric SUV arrives at dealers later this year, it will come with more than just stylish looks and emissions-free utility. The all-new EV will also mark the start of a collaboration between Toyota Motor North America (Toyota) and EVgo to provide new bZ4X customers with on-the-go access to DC fast-charging stations. EVgo’s high-powered chargers provide EV drivers both flexibility and convenience to quickly charge at prime locations, such as frequently visited grocery stores, shopping centers, and central downtown areas, allowing drivers to travel and charge with minimal downtime and aligning with their break, shopping, eating or errand time.
Customers who purchase or lease a new 2023 Toyota bZ4X will get one year of unlimited complimentary charging at all EVgo-owned and operated public charging stations nationwide. Customers will be able to use the Toyota App on their mobile device to sign up for this offer, locate EVgo stations and initiate complimentary charging for their new bZ4X.
“The arrival of our all-electric bZ4X marks an important step in our commitment towards electrifying 70% of our fleet by 2030. We want our bZ4X customers to enjoy a high-quality ownership experience that is as seamless and worry-free as possible,” said Christopher Yang, Vice President, EV Charging Solutions, Toyota Motor North America. “Collaborating with EVgo, the nation’s largest public fast-charging network, will help provide bZ4X owners with access to a fast, reliable charge where and when they need it.”
With more than 800 DC fast charging locations and thousands of Level 2 charging stations, EVgo’s charging network serves over 68 metropolitan areas across 35 states. The EVgo network is powered by 100% renewable energy.
“EVgo is thrilled to collaborate with Toyota on bringing accessible and convenient fast-charging to new EV drivers with the bZ4X,” said Jonathan Levy, EVgo Chief Commercial Officer. “Toyota’s scale and EVgo’s track record of leadership in clean transportation will help make it easier for even more drivers to go electric.”
When it goes on sale in the spring of 2022, the 2023 Toyota bZ4X will offer consumers a battery-electric option that combines Toyota’s legendary reputation for quality and reliability with the performance and practicality they expect in a modern SUV.
“This is just the beginning of Toyota’s next-generation battery electric vehicle products that will join our existing portfolio of electrified vehicle options and will drive our progress toward carbon neutrality,” said Yang.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 60 years and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands plus our 1,800 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 in North America and has contributed world-class design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 43 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, the company’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. Toyota has more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, with electrified vehicles comprising more than a quarter of our 2021 North American sales.Through its Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic, and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, click HERE.
While consumers become increasingly knowledgeable of the functionality and basics of Hybrid vehicles, their desires and curiosity will follow. As of late, Toyota assembled the opportunity to experience this new generation of automotive at their media conference E-volution 2.0 – increasing awareness and designed to dispel myths and the benefits, in efforts to declare the battery initiative as the rule and not the exception. In tail, igniting the shared responsibility to a carbon neutral future of driving.
Many of us are cognizant of global warming and the dangers that it precedes, such as severe weather and acidic oceans. This has resulted in rainforests burning and quickened extinctions of wildlife. While people might not be able to completely give up cars for travel, the Toyota team has provided greener options as electric cars already have a smaller carbon footprint than gasoline vehicles. Read about how electric vehicles help tackle climate change.
Last week, Toyota invited 360 MAGAZINE to the unveiling of the all-electric bZ4X at the ALil A Marea Beach Resort in San Diego, California. As a leader in electrification, the introduction of bZ4X represents the first of a global series of battery-electric vehicles to be introduced under the global “Toyota bZ” DNA. bZ4X will have a manufacturer-estimated range of up to 250 miles for XLE front-wheel drive models, which is almost enough to transport you from LA to Vegas. Moreover, FWD offers ample traction on the road while decreasing production costs. What’s exciting is there is also the choice for a dual electric motor for AWD.
“With zero emissions and an exhilarating drive, the bZ4X is hitting the market at just the right time as we expand our already comprehensive electrified product lineup,” said Veep of Toyota Marketing, Mike Tripp. He continues, “As a human-centered company, Toyota remains committed to offering customers a diverse portfolio of products to meet their individual needs and move us toward a carbon neutral future.”
Design
The SUV was developed in partnership with Subaru. Thus, it’s a doppelganger of the Solterra crossover – sleek, modern and bold. The 20-inch wheels include a familiar clean design. The aerodynamically designed front exudes sex appeal featuring a hammer head shark boxed style that meshes well with Toyota’s RAV4. Don’t forget full LED lighting that add a nice futuristic touch to the outside. A panoramic sunroof is included on the limited trim. On the inside, expect soft-tex seating materials laid throughout along with a roomy cabin.
Hybrids
75% of buyers believe a Hybrid electric vehicle must be plugged in to charge. Hybrid electric vehicles are powered by two systems; an internal combustion engine and an electric motor that is charged through regenerative braking from energy stored in the battery. Whereas fuel burning vehicles build performance as the engine speeds. Since 1996, Toyota has paved the way in customer acceptance with the release of the Prius. With 20 miles to the gallon becoming synonymous with core technology and environmentally friendly fuel-efficient means of transportation. Now at 50 MPG, it dominates the automotive industry with a portfolio approach that there is no one size fits all solution. This vigorous tribe of Electrified vehicles encompasses the following: Sienna; Vensa; Rav4 Prime and the bZ4x.
Technology
A few major highlights surrounding the up-to-date technology include a digital key feature and wireless charging. The digital key gives owners the ability to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle with a tap of a smartphone. Convenience is key! It’s more easy than ever to swap cars with friends and family without the hassle of misplacing a physical key. Charging is also compatible with 150 kW direct current quick charging; capable of 80% charge in 30 minutes. Take climate control to a new level with seat and steering wheel heaters, plus a front-seat radiant foot-heater (a first for Toyota).
Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Kenworth Truck Company and Toyota Motor North America are collaborating to develop zero-emission T680s powered by Toyota hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains. This collaboration is part of the Zero and Near-Zero Emissions Freight Facilities grant dedicated to the state of California to develop a viable hydrogen network. With 48 stations open today, 360 MAGAZINE had the opportunity to visit a Shell facility during the trip for a tutorial to a foreign concept by Norm of the ride & drive team. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, which use electric motors, are much more energy efficient. For instance, Mirai is innovative and defies the linear school of thought with regards to a Hybrid. It encourages more reasons to go Hydrogen. When you start the engine, hydrogen travels to the Fuel Cell Stack, where it combines with oxygen from the outside air to create electricity. At the core, it’s an extraordinary zero emission ride while the Hydrogen from the fuel tank and air entering from the intake meet in the Fuel Cell Stack. There, a chemical reaction involving the oxygen in the air and hydrogen creates electricity powering the vehicle. In the end, the only by-product is water, defining the future of fueling.
The newly launched costal community
ALiLA Marea Beach Resort, is nestled alongside a magnificent stretch of the Pacific Ocean. Its robust design effortlessly blends into its natural habitat – like water and rock, making it an ideal locale for this activation. Similar in type to the lodging grounds, bZ4X is posed to marvel with its unwavering curb appeal and performance. Finally, Toyota has struck a cord with both environmentalists and car enthusiasts alike. The bZ4X is set to hit dealerships in late Spring of 2023.
Premier Boutique Heli-Skiing Operator Takes Action on Climate Change by Taking a Hard Look at its Operations and Offsetting its Carbon Footprint
Northern Escape Heli-Skiing (NEH) has recently become one of the first carbon-neutral heli-skiing operators in the world. The operator partnered with Synergy Enterprises and Offsetters, Canada’s leading carbon management agency, to take action on climate change and offset its current carbon footprint. NEH purchased offsets that benefit The Great Bear Forest and the First Nations living in the region, as well as the Lara Ceramic plant-based in Brazil by helping to decrease deforestation in the area.
In addition, the operator has a three-year plan to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and adopt renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and electric vehicles to support its operations. The passion to create a more sustainable approach to heli-skiing comes from NEH leadership. “Over the 35 years of my career as an ACMG Guide, I have witnessed incremental changes in our climate, our snowpack, and our glaciers. The first of many steps to achieve this for us is to become carbon neutral. We need to do the best we can to mitigate climate change and become a part of the solution rather than a part of the problem. Every single department of our company is drilling down to the basics of how we can shift our operations to mitigate our environmental impact.” explains NEH Co-founder & General Manager, John Forrest.
NEH is located in Skeena Mountains near Terrace, BC, and is only a short 90-minute flight from Vancouver. It connects a worldwide community of skiers and boarders to more than 5,500 sq km of pristine wilderness. To be able to do this responsibly, the management of the company, with the help of Synergy and Offsetters, analyzed every single aspect of the company’s operations from mountain commute to the guest experience. “We work with the various recycling companies in Terrace to decrease our use of single-use plastics as much as possible. Once our machines cycle through their lifespan we’ll be replacing them with electric ones, and we’ll be encouraging guests to purchase carbon offsets for their flights,” says Forrest.
NEH is a boutique heli-skiing operator offering a variety of custom packages for small groups of skiers and boarders from all over the world. Guests have an option to stay at two different lodges and enjoy dining by Red Seal chefs, hot tubs, massages, and more. To learn more about NEH’s environmentally responsible journey, or to book your carbon-neutral stay, please visit: Here
