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    This Carbon-Fiber Ferrari 250 GT Replica Could Soon Be Yours

    A U.K. company called GTO Engineering is planning to build a modernized version of a Ferrari 250 GT.
    The car will be built around a carbon-fiber body shell and use a V-12 engine.
    Expect a price well north of $1 million.
    Back in September we were lucky enough to drive a near-exact replica of the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Competizione built by GTO Engineering in the U.K. The car was entirely special, but we were surprised to learn that many of the buyers for GTO’s high-end faux-raris chose to specify them with period-inappropriate “restomod” changes including air conditioning and even in-car entertainment beyond that provided by a free-breathing V-12 engine.

    A Legend Revived: GTO Engineering Ferrari 250

    Glamorous ’62 Ferrari 250GTE Police Car for Sale

    Now the company is launching a new model that will take historic inexactitude to a spectacular new level, a 250 GT–inspired retromod that will be built around a carbon-fiber structure. It has a targeted weight of under 2200 pounds but is still powered by a quad-cam V-12 engine.
    Called the Moderna, the new car’s traditional looks will be wrapped around a much more up-to-date mechanical package. GTO Engineering boss Mark Lyon says it will use aluminum subframes and a fully independent control-arm suspension front and rear. Bigger wheels will also allow it to accommodate more powerful brakes than the skinny discs of the original car.

    GTO Engineering

    While clearly inspired by the original Ferrari, the carbon-fiber body shell will also have a Zagato-like “double bubble” roof and, as these early sketches make clear, will incorporate modern projector and LED lights front and rear. Aluminum will still be used for the doors and hood to give an appropriate weight and feel to their action.
    The Moderna will use a version of the quad-cam V-12 it builds for its existing replicas. The final specs haven’t been confirmed, but GTO Engineering says it is possible the engine will be given both out-of-period upgrades. We anticipate a sizeable hike in power over the estimated 315 horsepower of the new-old car we drove.
    It won’t be cheap, of course. The replica 250 GT SWB starts at around $1 million and the Moderna will doubtless be more expensive. But for those with every automotive itch already scratched, the idea of what is effectively a carbon-bodied 1960s Ferrari could be a compelling one.
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    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R, ZX10RR Spied Undisguised Ahead Of Global Debut

    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R
    The motorcycles appear to be equipped with a new TFT color instrument panel

    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX10R and ZX10RR liter-class supersbikes have been leaked through vehicle certification data that was submitted by the manufacturer to the Australian government’s department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development. A set of low-resolution images give us an idea about the updates for the new model year.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R and ZX-10RR
    Kawasaki reportedly filed the vehicle certification data with the Australian government in August 2020 with a request to keep the information under embargo till November 1. It appears that the Japanese sportsbike brand planned to unveil the facelifted twins before this date but the COVID related issues pushed the world premiere to November 23. The images which are now available in the public domain highlights the visual changes clearly.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10RR
    The new ZX-10R and its sibling adopt a comprehensively redesigned fairing with H2-style front fascia. The sleeker two-part headlamp unit (likely to be LEDs) is set deep into an edgy front fascia. The side panels of the fairing have also been revised for a more streamlined look. The fuel tank and tailpiece have been carried forward without any noticeable changes but the liter-class twins appear to be adopting a new color TFT instrument console.
    The front turn indicators continue to be integrated into the rear view mirror housings. For the new model year, both ZX-10R (black) and ZX-10RR (green) sport matte finish.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R
    Specifications
    The duo continue to be powered by the familiar 998 cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. The power outputs are identical to the outgoing models but they are generated at different engine speeds, suggesting that Kawasaki has introduced some tweaks. The changes are likely aimed at meeting the Euro 5 emission standards.
    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R produces 200 hp at 13,300 rpm (300 rpm earlier than before) while the 2021 ZX-10RR produces 201 hp at 14,000 rpm (500 rpm later than before). The US-spec models will be available in a lower-spec 186 hp version.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10RR
    As far as other hardware elements are concerned, the updated motorcycles seem to have soldiered on without any significant changes but we will have to wait for the world premiere to be sure. The Showa Balance Free Front forks and Brembo twin-disc brake system are visible on the images are are retained unchanged.
    Launch
    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R and ZX-10RR are expected to reach international markets in early next year with a marginal hike in price. We expect the superbike to make its Indian debut a few months later. It will continue to rival the likes of Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and so on. More

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    Ola Likely To Start Electric Scooter Production In India – In Search Of Suitable Land

    Etergo electric scooter image for reference
    The recent development is in line with the acquisition of Netherlands-based Etergo by Ola earlier this year

    One industry that was badly hit during the Covid-19 pandemic was the shared mobility sector. Since the outbreak of the virus was followed by a long stretch of lockdown in which public transportation was disallowed for better parts. This led to fleet owners and cab and rickshaw operators incur heavy losses.
    Even though the lockdown period is over and restrictions have been eased, people are still very apprehensive about opting for public transportation. This may continue for a long time since it is still sometime away before we attain pre-Covid normalcy. Hence, shared mobility firms have to think about alternate methods to expand their avenues of income.
    India’s largest shared mobility company Ola has decided to foray into electric scooter manufacturing in order to expand its business prospects in future. Switching gears from being a taxi aggregator to a vehicle manufacturer, the company is currently in talks with different state governments in order to procure land for its proposed manufacturing facility.
    As per reports, the Bengaluru-based mobility giant is looking for 100 acres of unencumbered land to build the world’s largest e-scooter facility. Currently, the largest two-wheeler manufacturing facility in the country belongs to Honda 2Wheelers India.
    Etergo electric scooter image for reference
    Its Gujarat based facility rolls out 1.2 million petrol-driven two-wheelers every year. This will also pit it against segment leaders such as Bajaj Auto, Hero MotoCorp and TVS Motor. The homegrown public mobility service has been backed Korean auto giant Hyundai.
    Ola’s acquisition of Etergo BV
    This development comes on the backdrop of Ola’s recent acquisition of Netherlands-based Etergo BV for an undisclosed amount earlier in May this year. Developed as an all-electric state-of-the-art App scooter, Etergo BV uses swappable high energy density batteries to deliver a range of up to 240 Km. This acquisition has helped Ola Electric develop strong engineering and design capabilities as the company has had development experience with leading automotive brands like General Motors, Tesla, Ferrari, BMW and Jaguar.
    As of now, Ola’s senior management is in talks with government officials of four states- three in the South and one in the West. Currently, Karnataka and Maharashtra seem to be ahead in this race. Maharashtra has even started scouting for suitable land for the upcoming e-scooter manufacturing facility including prime locations in Pune, Nashik and Nagpur.
    Ola’s future in electric mobility
    According to sources, Ola is looking to set up a 2-million electric scooter capacity plant. While Maharashtra holds a geographical advantage due to its strategic location which eases exports, Karnataka on the other hand has been lauded for its forward-looking EV policies and incentives. Both Central and State governments have been offering incentives to companies venturing onto the electric vehicle business.
    With the future looking bright for EVs in India, Ola might want to utilize this opportunity to expand its avenues. Ola is still very tight-lipped about this development, however, the Bengaluru-based mobility firm intends to zero in on a manufacturing site soon as it aims to commence production in 18 months. The manufacturing site is expected to adopt Industry 4.0 philosophy and will use solar power and will have test tracks.
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    Jaguar Electric SUV Bookings Open – Ties Up With Tata Power For EV Charging Network

    Jaguar I-Pace
    Jaguar I-Pace will be powered by a 90kWh battery that generates 394.5 bhp and offers a driving range of 470 km/charge

    Jaguar Land Rover, the British luxury carmaker owned by India’s Tata Motors plans to launch the new i-Pace electric SUV in India. With launch date scheduled for sometime early next year and deliveries to commence from March 2021, the company has opened bookings of its first all electric SUV from today.
    Jaguar i-Pace will be presented in three variants of S, SE and HSE in India. It will come in powered by a 90 kWh lithium ion battery that offers 400 hp power via its twin electric motors. The setup allows the I-Pace to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 200 kmph.
    These batteries can be charged via a 7.4 kW AC wall charger and the company is offering a 5 year service package along with 5 year road side assistance along with the standard 8 years or 1,60,000 km battery warranty.
    For charging facilities, Jaguar has entered into a partnership with Tata Power to offer home/office charging facilities to its I-Pace customers. Customers will also be able to charge the I-Pace via the Tata Power network comprising 200+ charging points across 23 cities in India.
    Tata Power Fast Charging Network is located in 23+ cities of India
    Jaguar I-Pace Accolades and Awards
    The Jaguar I-Pace sets off the company’s electric journey in India but has received much attention in global markets. It has been the winner of over 80 global awards among which were the 2019 World Car of the Year, World Car Design of the Year and World Green Car. The Jaguar I-Pace was also the first recipient of all three World Car titles simultaneously.
    The Jaguar I-Pace is already listed on the company’s India website. Onboard features include LED headlamps and tail lamps, In-Control connected car technology and 19 inch diamond cut alloy wheels. Jaguar I-Pace S will see a Pivi Pro infotainment system with 12 speakers, 380 W Meridian sound system and dual touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Its interiors will sport semi powered front seats, screen based dials and dual zone climate controls along with connected car features, standard driver assistance with 3D surround camera and cruise control.
    Jaguar I-Pace SE variant will receive advanced projector LED headlamps, DRLs and interiors with 12 way power adjustable, heated sports seats with memory function and done up in leather upholstery. This variant also receives power folding mirrors with memory.
    The top of the line Jaguar I-Pace HSE will receive Matrix LED headlamps, 16 way power adjustable sports seats done up in Windsor leather, hands free boot release and head up display system. In terms of infotainment, it will get a 16 speaker 825W Meridian sound system while safety features will include adaptive cruise control.
    Once launched in India, the Jaguar I-Pace will compete against the Mercedes-Benz EQC and Audi e-tron and is likely to carry a price tag of over Rs.1 crore, ex-sh. More

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    2020 TVS Apache 200 Launched – Gets Ride Modes, Adjustable Suspension

    2020 TVS Apache 200 New Colour
    The Apache range of bikes from TVS has had a successful run at the Indian market for almost fifteen years now

    A few days ago TVS Motor Company sent out a launch invite on the occasion of the brand commemorating 4 million global sales of its sporty range of motorcycles- Apache. Yesterday, the Hosur-based bike maker teased a new launch under the Apache moniker and left netizens frenzied.
    Fans of the Apache series of motorcycles have been wondering what this potential launch could actually be. Now, TVS has revealed the bike in its entire form and turns out it updated 2020 model of Apache RTR 200 4V. This new 2020 TVS Apache comes with subtle cosmetic updates in form of new colour and new features. Price is Rs 1.31 lakhs (ex-sh), which is Rs 1k more than existing Dual ABS Apache 200.
    New Updates
    The new Apache RTR 200 4V comes in a new shade of blue seen for the first time in this range. TVS says that this colour is inspired from racing. The overall Apache styling DNA remains intact, however, the addition of a new paint scheme and decals are tasteful and up the styling quotient by a notch. It still gets its signature sharp face for which the naked streetfighter is known for.
    Speaking about the new features, 2020 TVS Apache 200 now comes with first in segment ride modes – Sport, Urban and Rain. There is a dedicated ride mode switch, which helps rider to change ride modes on the fly.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 New Features
    It also gets adjustable front suspension. This will help the owner / rider to change the suspension setting as per their preference / road conditions. Levers are also adjustable – first in segment. ABS has been tuned as per ride mode selected.
    There have been no other changes in hardware either with the RTR 200 4V based on a double-cradle chassis with telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock from KYB at rear. Anchoring duties are carried out by petal disc brakes at both ends assisted by dual-channel ABS. Recently, TVS also launched an affordable variant of Apache RTR 200 4V which gets single-channel ABS.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 Ride Modes Explained
    Engine and Features
    Coming to its powertrain, it draws its power from a 197.7cc single-cylinder air-cooled, fuel-injected motor that churns out 20.5 PS of power and 16.8 Nm of torque. It is paired to a six-speed transmission with slipper clutch and assist. Comparing these figures to its BS4 predecessor, the BS6 iteration makes the same power but 1.3 Nm less torque. TVS has also equipped it with a first-in-segment Glide Through Traffic or GTT which helps the engine rev up and glide even at idling conditions.
    Even the equipment on the remains identical to the regular model. It comes with a SmartXonnect Bluetooth console which allows the rider to attend calls as well as text alerts and also make use of turn-by-turn navigation features. Apart from usual trip and bike related data, the console also reads out additional information such as lap times, top speed, and even lean angles.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 Adjustable Brake Levers
    TVS has priced this special edition Apache RTR 200 4V at Rs 1.31 lakhs (ex-showroom) which makes it a premium of Rs 1k over the standard dual ABS model. Apache RTR 200 4V locks horn with the likes of Bajaj Pulsar NS200, KTM 200 Duke and Honda Hornet 2.0.
    2020 TVS Apache 200 Adjustable Front Suspension More

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    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound At Idle, Full Revs – Thump No More?

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound
    In a yet another leak of Royal Enfield Meteor 350, exhaust sound has been fully revealed

    Just when you thought that there could be no more leaks about the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, there comes yet another leak. This has been the story of Meteor 350 till now, a leaky affair – pun not intended. Except the price, everything else about this motorcycle has been already leaked.
    This at a time when a rival brand managed to launch a product in such a manner that almost no one had an idea what they were launching till the last minute.
    Yes, we are talking about the Honda CB350; whose launch to delivery start process was so sudden; that this was probably the reason behind Meteor 350 launch getting delayed to 5th November, instead of earlier planned launch in Sep 2020.
    Meteor 350 Exhaust Sound
    Anyways, coming back to Meteor 350 and its leaks. The latest leaked video gives a walkaround of the motorcycle. In addition, it also reveals the exhaust sound of the motorcycle – at idle as well as while revving to higher engine rpms. Take a look at the video by GreenFish TV.
    [embedded content]
    The Meteor 350 Supernova variant in the video is seen in dual tone finish of Brown and Black. The exhaust sound at idle has the iconic thump, for which the Royal Enfield motorcycles are known. But when the throttle is turned and revs are increased; it seems that the thump disappears and what you get is a motorcycle sound like most single cylinder motorcycles – and without the thump.
    Thump Missing At Higher Revs
    Royal Enfield motorcycle exhaust sound had the thump because of the push-rod engine setup along with longer stroke. Now with the new gen engines on board the Meteor 350; it is reported that the push-rod setup is no more. Instead, what is employed is most likely an SOHC setup and shorter strokes.

    What this does is reduces the vibrations and delivers a much smoother ride experience. It also delivers better performance and throttle response. But at the same time, has probably caused reduce in the thump effect at higher revs. Will this disappoint RE fans and buyers, only time will tell.
    New Gen Engine and Chassis
    The upcoming Meteor 350 and Classic 350 is based on the Chennai-based motorcycle brand’s new ‘J’ architecture. This means the overall mechanical packaging would be slightly different from the current model.
    From the spy images, it is evident that the 2020 Royal Enfield Meteor BS6 gets a redesigned headlamp unit, an updated semi-digital instrument cluster and a reworked handlebar design. Towards the rear, the fender and tail lamp have undergone changes as well. The split-seat configuration has been tweaked a bit to provide better ergonomics and pillion comfort.
    Owing to the mechanical changes required to cut down emissions, the engine casing is noticeably different from the current UCE unit. To improve efficiency, new FI system is employed. The engine misses the kicker as well. Overall, the changes are subtle to the eye, but well-rounded to provide a better riding experience. Price of Meteor 350 will be revealed at launch on 6th Nov. Exp price range is Rs 1.6-1.8 lakh, ex-sh. More

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    2022 VW Golf R Has 315 HP, AWD with a Drift Mode, and a Manual

    This is the new Golf R, the most powerful version of Volkswagen’s latest Mk 8 Golf.
    It has a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
    The new Golf R will arrive in the U.S. near the end of 2021.
    The VW Golf R returns for the newest Mk 8 generation, and this hot hatch is looking hotter than ever. It also promises a bump in performance thanks to a more powerful engine, an upgraded all-wheel drive system, and a standard six-speed manual transmission.
    Like before, a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four is the sole engine choice, but this engine now produces 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque—notable increases of 27 hp and 30 lb-ft compared with the Mk 7 car. The U.S. version will now make the same power as the Europe-market car, so you won’t have to look across the pond with envy anymore.

    View Photos

    Volkswagen

    A six-speed manual transmission is standard—#SavetheManuals—but the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic will likely be quicker. VW claims a top speed of 155 mph and a zero-to-60-mph time of 4.7 seconds for the DSG car.

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    The new Golf R’s all-wheel drive system is more sophisticated than before thanks to a new torque-vectoring rear differential. This enables a Drift mode function that changes the system’s torque distribution and also partially deactivates the stability control for some tail-sliding action. The Golf R is lowered 0.8 inch compared with the standard Golf hatchback and comes standard with adaptive dampers. The front brakes are larger than before, with two-piston calipers.
    Looks-wise, the Golf R uses a familiar theme for the exterior and interior, with blue accents for the brake calipers, interior stitching, and other trim pieces. It’ll be offered in only three colors: the eye-catching Lapiz Blue Metallic you see here, plus black and white. It also has 19-inch wheels wrapped in 235-series summer tires, a rear spoiler, a rear diffuser, larger air intakes, and a body kit that make it look somewhat more aggressive than the GTI.

    View Photos

    Volkswagen

    All U.S.-bound Golf Rs will be offered in a single fully loaded trim level, with a sunroof, leather seats, and lots of other standard features. When it arrives near the end of 2021, buyers will only choose exterior color and transmission.
    We expect the new Golf R to rise somewhat in price to account for its increased performance and feature content, which should mean a starting price somewhere in the mid-$40,000 range.
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    Audi Working on Tech to Detect School Buses

    Audi and its technology partners are working on a system that shares data from school-zone signs and school buses.
    The system would use cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) technology to transmit and receive data over a 5.9-GHz-band cellular network.
    Specially outfitted Audi e-trons will know when a school bus is nearby and when there are children at an upcoming school zone.
    We’ve likely all been in this situation: You’re driving along when a stopped school bus appears around a bend. You quickly slow down because the children are our future and try to lower your pulse rate. Well, Audi and two partners, Applied Information and Temple, Inc., are working with the state of Georgia to bring cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) to school zones and buses using the 5.9-GHz cellular network.

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    The system is in the early phases of testing and will be conducted in two phases in Alpharetta, Georgia, home of the Infrastructure Automotive Technology Laboratory. The first will alert drivers when they are approaching a school zone and can be modified to share that information based on when the school is open and children are present. The second phase will include specially outfitted school buses that will broadcast messages to approaching drivers of its location and that passing the bus is not allowed. Both tests will use specially outfitted Audi e-tron test vehicles. The project is expected to be completed in the first half of 2021.
    C-V2X uses cellular networks to create connections between vehicles and infrastructure. The school signs would be a roadside unit (RSU) that transmits data while the buses would have on-board units (OBU) inside the vehicles that share data. The specially equipped e-trons would connect to the local network and would display information transmitted by the signs and buses.
    Audi already uses a V2X system for traffic-light countdown in cities including Las Vegas. After the test has been completed and if enough school districts implement this system, don’t be surprised if future vehicles become a bit more aware of school zones.
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