#CARmakers and space exploration

[loislane-ana]

NEWS! ~~~ ukraine, zelenskyy, NYC, CARmakers and space exploration, international award, oscars and the fires, lost kid,

[mariacallous]

The controversial expansion of Tesla’s only European Gigafactory was approved on Thursday, as the local council in the German municipality of Grünheide voted in favor of the carmaker’s plans to grow its facility near Berlin.

The majority of 19 council representatives supported Tesla’s plans to expand the factory. Eleven councilors voted in favor of the expansion, six voted against, while two abstained. The vote improves Tesla’s chances of being able to build more space for logistics, including a train station, although the company still has to secure the approval of local environment authorities. In July, Tesla announced plans to build 1 million electric cars per year at the site.

Around 50 protesters gathered outside the local government building as the result was announced, according to local reports. “It's pretty disappointing,” says Esther Kamm, spokesperson for the anti-Tesla protest group, Turn Off the Tap on Tesla (TDHA), who watched the vote take place. She said the group would still try to stop the expansion by continuing to hold protests while exploring their legal options.

“It was a bad decision today, and this makes things harder, but it's definitely not the end of the story.”

TDHA is just one of a wide alliance of environmental groups who oppose the expansion, claiming that the factory’s presence threatens to pollute local water supplies and describing the carmaker’s reputation as an environmentally friendly company as misleading.

"I'm pissed,” says Manu Hoyer, spokesperson for the Citizens Initiative Grünheide (Bürgerinitiative Grünheide), which represents local residents who oppose the factory, in a statement. “Today the local council ignored the vote of me and my fellow citizens.” In February, 65 percent of locals voted against the expansion plan in a nonbinding poll.

Last week, during a demonstration against the expansion, hundreds of protesters attempted to storm the factory, amid clashes with police. As part of a five-day protest, police said 23 demonstrators were detained and 27 officers injured.

Anti-Tesla protesters say they want to draw attention to the mineral mining necessary to build electric car batteries and the problems that can pose to local communities. Compared to conventional cars, electric car batteries require 170 kilograms more minerals such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt, according to 2021 figures published by the International Energy Agency.

Since February, a handful of protesters have been living in treehouses in the forest, just footsteps away from the Tesla factory, in another attempt to stop the site’s expansion. They currently have permission to stay until May 20. An attempt by police to force the camp to leave before that date was rejected today by a German court.

[awesome-casuallyfamouscollector]

BYD Dolphin Review: The new budget EV of choice?

BYD might not be a household name in the UK just yet, but cars such as the Dolphin and Atto 3 seem likely to change that. In the case of the Dolphin, the Chinese brand is offering a small car with easily enough interior space to transport four tall adults, a range of up to 265 miles in the bigger battery model, and a price starting from around £26,000. In this CarGurus UK review, Vicky Parrott explores the Dolphin's many plus points, as well as highlighting where it falls short compared with more established rivals. Would you consider a BYD Dolphin over an MG4?

P.S. It's a shame that VW and the rest of the European automakers can't produce something like this, but would I buy a BYD Dolphin in real life? After the Russian attack on Ukraine, most likely not! The question is, what will you do with your Chinese cars when Communist China will go to war against the West??? No, thanks, I won't buy a car from a Chinese carmaker because of the political and military security risks, even if I berate VW management for its ineptitude...

[luxurycarsales]

Experiences of the new Audi Q3: A Stylish Drive for Contemporary Explorers

The Audi Q3 has, therefore, successfully remained at the top in the market for being one of the most versatile and stylish compact SUVs. The car is an excellent amalgamation of premium design, advanced technology, and dynamic performance, which makes it ideal for modern-day adventurers who look for luxury and functionality in equal measure. Here's a comprehensive look at what makes the Audi Q3 stand out for urban explorers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Dynamic Design: A Statement on the Road

The exterior design of the Audi Q3 is well-expressed flowing lines and an athletic muscular outline. Single frame with striking lines and sharp, striking LED headlight, all those add to its commanding appearance, while bold character lines underline that. For individuality outside: bright and appealing colors from which to choose - and then shining through bright and attractive alloys under the wheels for every personality at the wheel.

Its sleek dimensions perfectly help navigate urban cities, yet with its ride height, provides maximum visibility for confidence. Whatever you drive - urban landscapes or an adventure during the weekend - style is what is guaranteed every time with Q3.

Comfort within: An Interior Sanctuary of Luxury

Inside the Audi Q3, lies an elegantly well-crafted interior that exudes elegance and class. From leather to aluminium accents, one can feel an elite class environment being built inside it. Ergonomic seats will help long rides feel easy, and the ample leg and headroom help to make the passengers come in any shape and size.

For the cabin of Q3, practicality and functionality have been taken into consideration. With the split-folding rear seats, it offers ample cargo space for grocery runs as well as camping gear and much more room for loading all the essentials with up to 1,525 liters in place of folded rear seats.

Cutting-edge technology. Stay connected on-the-go.

Audi is a brand that stands for technological innovation. The Q3 is no exception. Equipped with the latest iteration of MMI (Multi Media Interface), it comes with a high-resolution touchscreen display and intuitive controls. Smartphone integration is seamless, thanks to compatibility with Apple CarPlay and the Android Auto user experience, while the available Bang & Olufsen sound system gives concert-like listening fidelity.

This is a complete game-changer for the comfort and safety of drivers. The virtual cockpit of the Audi is fully customizable, with real-time navigation, performance metrics, and information on driver assistance right in the line of sight. Other amenities include wireless charging and multiple USB-C ports to keep your devices powered and connected.

Performance and Efficiency: Thrill Meets Practicality

Under the hood, the Audi Q3 is available with a number of powerful yet efficient engine options. There's a strong 2.0-liter TFSI® engine and, of course, Quattro® all-wheel drive as standard. The Q3 offers superior traction and stability on any kind of terrain whether it's on mountainous winding roads or cruising down the highway for a smooth and engaging ride.

The advanced suspension system of an SUV ensures not only precise handing but also comfort across any surface of the road, making it a proper choice for short and long commutes; hence, showing that adventure will not have to be at a cost of lack of sustainability. 

Advanced Safety Features: Confidence in Every Drive

Audi is a carmaker that always emphasizes safety, so it gives the Audi Q3 the very advanced driver assistance systems. Its examples include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and parking assist to make riding in crowded cities comfortable and secure.

It has Audi pre sense front, a technology that will notice the probability of collision and activate the emergency braking by itself if that happens. And you get to enjoy the drive with all those things working on your behalf behind the scenes.

Why the Audi Q3 Is the Perfect Fit for Modern Adventure Seekers

Audi Q3 is more than a car, it's more of a statement about lifestyle. Its compactness and agile performance in the city ensure its pure joy to drive there, but all-wheel-drive capability and spacious interior mean it can be ready to take on off-the-beaten-path adventures, whether it is new hiking trails, road trips, or simply getting through the daily routine.

Any of the modern explorers who believe in style, technology, and performance will truly love the car, the Audi Q3, an ideal companion.

The Audi Q3 is the ultimate balance between functionality and luxury because every journey must be as agreeable as arriving.

Audi Q3 has set a new benchmark for compact SUVs. Its dynamic design, a luxurious interior, advanced technology, and solid performance continue to top the list of drivers looking for discerning vehicles. So, if you are ready to take your drive to the next level and drive a car that shares your sense of adventure, then Audi Q3 is there to take you on the ride of a lifetime.

Visit the nearest Audi dealership today to experience the thrill of driving a Q3 yourself, which has proven to be a perfect fit for your next journey.

[renaultsindia]

Fixed Budget? Explore These Top 5 Cars Under 10 Lakhs!

A few decades ago, people considered buying a car in India an expensive affair. However, with time choices also evolved and so did car prices. Thanks to Indian carmakers, car lovers in India now have numerous competent options to choose from based on features, technology, comfort, performance, and budget. 

Often, budget is the most crucial parameter of choice. If you are one amongst those looking for cars in a specific price range, particularly under 10 lakhs, the slew of choices available may overwhelm you. So, here are five cars under 10 lakhs, which while being economical are also worthwhile choices.

Note: The features discussed below may differ with the variant chosen. We recommend visiting the respective vehicle’s website for the latest insights.

Renault Kiger

Renault Kiger is a stunning SUV that scores high on looks, performance and affordability. It has a premium SUV design featuring a chrome front grille, 40.64 cm diamond alloy wheels with sporty red callipers, rear spoiler, and a tailgate chrome insert. Each feature exudes the vehicle’s charm and echoes Renault’s design prowess.

Renault Kiger is as elegant in its interiors as well. The vehicle has a posh and spacious cabin designed for optimal comfort, ergonomic seats, steering wheel mounted controls, a 17.78 cm reconfigurable TFT cluster, a 20.32 cm display link floating touchscreen, wireless smartphone replication and charger and more. 

Additionally, it is a safe vehicle with a 4-star (adult) and 2-star (child) safety rating from Global NCAP. Features like tyre pressure monitoring system, traction control system, electronic stability program, etc., further contribute to its value as one of the best cars under 10 lakhs.

Renault Kiger price starts at ₹ 5.99 lakh* (ex-showroom Delhi).

Renault Triber

Another of Renault’s valuable contributions to the Indian automobile spectrum, Renault Triber has won hearts with impressive looks and spacious interiors. The vehicle is loaded with features, including a digital TFT cluster, ultra modular with 100+ seating combinations, up to 625-litres of boot space, removable 3rd row easyfix seats, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, 20.32 cm touchscreen mediaNAV with Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM, steering wheel mounted controls, LED cabin lamp and more. It also has many competent safety features with a global NCAP rating of 4-star rating for adult occupants and a 3-star rating for child occupants. Renault Triber price starts at ₹ 5.99 lakh* (ex-showroom Delhi). 

Tata Punch

Tata Punch is a 5-seater SUV car with looks that catch instant attention. The car is an excellent option for everyone looking for an automobile below 10 lakhs. Why? 

Apart from its outstanding looks, Tata Punch offers features. They include 90-degree opening doors, projector headlamps and LED DRLs, a premium-looking stylish dashboard, leather steering and gear knob, spacious interiors with front armrests, voice-assisted electric sunroof, automatic climate control, push start/stop button, spacious boot, 25+ utility spaces, high seating with height adjustable drive seat and a lot more. 

Tata Punch price starts at Rs. 6.12 lakhs* (ex-showroom Delhi).

Maruti Fronx

Fronx is a relatively new entrant in this space of cars under 10 lakhs. However, with every Fronx you see on the street, you can sense how quickly this car is picking up momentum on Indian roads.

Maruti Fronx is a feature-rich vehicle with an incredible aerodynamic design crafted to perfection by Maruti, one of the world’s most trusted automobile manufacturers. Some features of Maruti Fronx include a 9-inch smart infotainment system, head-up display, 360-degree view camera, built-in Suzuki Connect, ABS with EBD, adjustable cluster brightness, ISOFIX, overspeed warning, tyre pressure monitoring system and much more.

Maruti Fronx price starts from Rs. 8.44 lakhs* (ex-showroom Delhi). 

Hyundai Aura

Hyundai Aura is a compact sedan that exhibits grace with its elegant looks. It is a powerful vehicle equipped with a performant 1.2 L engine and offers features that make up for its value. A few striking features include a burglar alarm, multi-information display, ORVM blinker, driver rearview monitor, steering-mounted controls, roof-mounted controls and tilt power steering. Hyundai Aura price starts at Rs. 7.28 lakhs* (ex-showroom Delhi).

So, that was about five cars under 10 lakhs. We hope this helps you streamline your choice and choose the best-suited automobile for your needs.

Visit us https://www.renault.co.in/cars/renault-kiger.html 

[car-hamro]

EXPLORING THE KIA SORENTO PRICE IN NEPAL: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

INTRODUCTION:

The automotive market in Nepal is witnessing a surge in demand for SUVs, with consumers seeking vehicles that offer both style and functionality. Combining functionality, comfort, and adaptability, the Kia Sorento is a well-liked alternative among the many offered. In this article, we delve into the Kia Sorento’s pricing in Nepal, providing insights into its features, specifications, and value proposition for prospective buyers.

The mid-size crossover SUV Kia Sorento is produced by the South Korean carmaker Kia. The Sorento is well-known for its svelte styling, cutting-edge technology, and roomy cabin, making it suitable for families and thrill seekers. Its robust performance capabilities and safety features have carved a niche in the competitive SUV market.

Features and Specifications:

Capable of offering an array of cutting-edge functions, the Kia Sorento offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Its stylish exterior is complemented by a well-appointed interior featuring premium materials and ergonomic design elements. The vehicle boasts ample seating space, accommodating up to seven passengers comfortably.

Under the hood, the Sorento has various engine choices that accommodate various driving preferences, such as gasoline and diesel. Its powerful engines deliver impressive performance while maintaining fuel efficiency, making it suitable for city commutes and long-distance journeys. Additionally, advanced safety technologies such as autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control enhance driver confidence and ensure peace of mind on the road.

Pricing of the Kia Sorento in Nepal:

The Kia Sorento pricing in NepalvaNepal varies according to many elements, including trim level, engine configuration, and optional features. As of 2024, the starting price of the Kia Sorento in Nepal is Rs. 1.79 crores, making it an attractive option in its segment. However, it’s essential to note that additional taxes, import duties, and other charges may apply, impacting the final cost of the vehicle.

Trim Levels and Pricing Options:

The Kia Sorento is available in multiple trim levels, each offering distinct features and amenities to cater to diverse customer preferences. The entry-level trim provides essential features such as touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity, and keyless entry, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Higher trim levels of the Sorento offer premium amenities such as leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced driver assistance systems. While these variants command a higher price, they provide enhanced comfort, convenience, and safety features, appealing to discerning customers seeking luxury and performance.

Factors Influencing Pricing:

Several factors contribute to the pricing of the Kia Sorento in Nepal. Import tariffs, exchange rates, and market demand have a significant impact on how much the whole cost of the vehicle. Additionally, the availability of optional features and customization choices can influence pricing, allowing customers to tailor their Sorento according to their preferences and budget.

Competitive Landscape:

In the Nepalese automotive market, the Kia Sorento faces competition from other mid-size SUVs offered by various manufacturers. Rivals such as Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Fortuner, and Ford Everest vie for market share, each offering unique features and value propositions to attract customers.

Despite stiff competition, the Kia Sorento stands out for its style, performance, and affordability, making it a strong option for customers looking for a flexible and reliable SUV. Its competitive pricing and comprehensive warranty coverage present a compelling value proposition in its segment.

Similarly: EXPLORING THE CHEAPEST ELECTRIC CARS IN NEPAL: A SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION SOLUTION

Why to Buy Kia Sorento

The automotive industry is teeming with SUV options, but few can match the excellence of the Kia Sorento. With its style, performance, safety, and versatility, the Kia Sorento is a top choice for discerning buyers. Let’s explore compelling reasons to consider buying the Kia Sorento.

Stylish Design: The Kia Sorento boasts a stylish and elegant appearance that draws attention when driving. Considering that bold grille, sculpted lines, and contemporary aesthetics, it exudes confidence and refinement. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or tackling off-road adventures, the Kia Sorento makes a statement wherever it goes.

Spacious Interior: Step inside the Kia Sorento, and you’ll find a spacious and comfortable cabin that can accommodate up to seven passengers. With ample legroom, headroom, and cargo space, it’s ideal for lengthy journeys, get-togethers with family, or everyday commutes. Premium materials and thoughtful design elements enhance the overall ambiance, creating a luxurious driving experience for all occupants.

Advanced Technology: The Kia Sorento has various cutting-edge technological features to improve security, connectivity, and convenience. It also has a range of driver-assistance technologies, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and other automated emergency braking to keep you informed and safe while driving. Its infotainment system is easy to use and integrates with your smartphone.

For More Details, Click Here

[seggarckollekcio]

New Elon Musk biography offers fresh details about the billionaire's Ukraine dilemma | CNN Politics

CNN Exclusive: ‘How am I in this war?’: New Musk biography offers fresh details about the billionaire’s Ukraine dilemma

New book details Elon Musk's secret order near Crimea

Elon Musk secretly ordered his engineers to turn off his company’s Starlink satellite communications network near the Crimean coast last year to disrupt a Ukrainian sneak attack on the Russian naval fleet, according to an excerpt adapted from Walter Isaacson’s new biography of the eccentric billionaire titled “Elon Musk.”

As Ukrainian submarine drones strapped with explosives approached the Russian fleet, they “lost connectivity and washed ashore harmlessly,” Isaacson writes.

Musk’s decision, which left Ukrainian officials begging him to turn the satellites back on, was driven by an acute fear that Russia would respond to a Ukrainian attack on Crimea with nuclear weapons, a fear driven home by Musk’s conversations with senior Russian officials, according to Isaacson, whose new book is set to be released by Simon & Schuster on September 12.

Musk’s concerns over a “mini-Pearl Harbor” as he put it, did not come to pass in Crimea. But the episode reveals the unique position Musk found himself in as the war in Ukraine unfolded. Whether intended or not, he had become a power broker US officials couldn’t ignore.

The new book from Isaacson, the author of acclaimed biographies of Steve Jobs and Albert Einstein, provides fresh insights into Musk and how his existential dread of sparking a wider war drove him to spurn Ukrainian requests for Starlink systems they could use to attack the Russians.

After Russia disrupted Ukraine’s communications systems just before its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Musk agreed to provide Ukraine with millions of dollars of SpaceX-made Starlink satellite terminals, which became crucial to Ukraine’s military operations. Even as cellular phone and internet networks had been destroyed, the Starlink terminals allowed Ukraine to fight and stay connected.

But once Ukraine began to use Starlink terminals for offensive attacks against Russia, Musk started to second-guess that decision.

“How am I in this war?” Musk asks Isaacson. “Starlink was not meant to be involved in wars. It was so people can watch Netflix and chill and get online for school and do good peaceful things, not drone strikes.”

Musk was soon on the phone with President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, the chairman of the joint chiefs, Gen. Mark Milley, and the Russian ambassador to the US to address anxieties from Washington, DC, to Moscow, writes Isaacson.

Meanwhile, Mykhailo Fedorov, a deputy prime minister of Ukraine, was pleading with Musk to restore connectivity for the submarine drones by telling Musk about their capabilities in a text message, according to Isaacson. “I just want you—the person who is changing the world through technology—to know this,” Fedorov told Musk.

Musk and SpaceX did not reply to CNN’s requests for comment.

Musk, the CEO of electric carmaker Tesla and private space exploration firm SpaceX, replied that he was impressed with the design of the submarine drones but that he wouldn’t turn satellite coverage back on for Crimea because Ukraine “is now going too far and inviting strategic defeat,” according to Isaacson.

The unchartered territory that Ukrainian and US officials were in – relying on the charity of an unpredictable billionaire for battlefield communications – also led to a standoff over who would pay for the Starlink terminals last fall.

SpaceX had spent tens of millions of its own money sending the satellite equipment to Ukraine, according to Musk. And the company told the Pentagon that they wouldn’t continue to foot the bill for the satellite gear, as CNN first reported last October.

After CNN’s reporting, Musk reversed course, tweeting “the hell with it … we’ll just keep funding Ukraine govt for free.”

Gwynne Shotwell, Musk’s president at SpaceX, was livid at Musk’s reversal, according to Isaacson.

“The Pentagon had a $145 million check ready to hand to me, literally,” Isaacson quotes Shotwell as saying. “Then Elon succumbed to the bullshit on Twitter and to the haters at the Pentagon who leaked the story.”

But SpaceX was eventually able to work out a deal with the US and European governments to pay for another 100,000 new satellite dishes to Ukraine at the beginning of 2023, according to Isaacson.

Starlink’s importance in the war hasn’t waned.

Last week, the US and its “Five Eyes” allies accused Russian hackers of targeting Ukrainian commanders’ battlefield communications. The Russians’ malicious code was designed to intercept data sent to Starlink satellites, according to the Ukrainians.

[bosram]

Halogen vs LED light options

Halogen vs LED light options have been a hot topic for debate for years now. Even though LED lights are the default choice when it comes to car lighting solutions these days. Even though this isn't enforced by law in all countries. This change has gradually taken place over the last decade. As LED bulbs went from being a luxury option available in only top-end models. To the standard for most new models released these days.

There are obvious advantages to making this switch. Not only do car headlights look cooler with the intense beams of lights provided by LED's. They also perform better than the halogen bulbs that were generally used in cars before LED's.

On top of that, their compact design also allows for more variation in headlight design. As carmakers don't have to leave a lot of space to get the same amount of lighting. This means that not only can the bulb housing itself be smaller. But also, the reflectors don't need to be as big to light up the same amount of area.

This doesn't mean that halogen bulbs have gone out of favor though. Millions of cars running on the road today still use them as their only lighting solution. And car parts makers have tried over the years to improve this relatively old technology. To the point that even though halogens can't beat LED light performance. They are still at least twice as effective as previous-generation versions. Plus, there is also the fact that they are still cheaper than most LED upgrades. This is why a lot of people feel hesitant about making the switch. Today, we will explore a few products from both sides to see how they match up. And how much difference it is going to make if you do end up picking one over the other.

Stock Replacement Halogen Vs LED

This is the most common version of both lights that people generally pick. Stock replacement bulbs are easily available at most car part shops. They don't cost that much when compared to the higher-end lights. But are still strong enough to comply with the required 150m limit. Which is the minimum area that all headlight bulbs must light up to be street legal.

If you are looking for a completely stock experience, you can pick OSRAM's 'Original Line'. Which are OEM halogen bulbs that most car manufacturers already use or recommend. They offer standard lighting performance associated with stock halogen bulbs. As well as the expected average lifespan that goes along with this technology.

We mention lifespan because that is the next big argument against halogen bulbs. Once you get past the fact that they offer subpar lighting performance. If you prefer something more reliable and long-term. We would suggest switching to the Ultra Life line. Which offers the same level of performance, but increases the lifespan to up to 100,000kms.

These bulbs stack up against OSRAM's own LEDriving HL series. Which are stock replacement LED bulbs that offer up to 200% better performance. Without compromising on the lifespan either. As even with the Ultra Life line, the factory guarantee is only 3 years. But with the HL line, it goes up to 5 years.

They also do it with way less power input. Since the stock halogen bulbs require 50-75W of power to deliver their output. Depending on the ECE type bulb you are looking to replace. While LED bulbs can do the same in around 18W of power.

As you can see, the difference in performance and efficiency is quite significant. But the area where halogen bulbs still offer competition is pricing and even variety. Since there are only a handful of models of LED lights on the market today. But halogen bulbs come in all shapes, sizes, and even colors.

Take the Cool Blue series from OSRAM as an example. People who don't like the yellow light of halogens can go for these upgrades. They are still halogen but offer a different kind of light. The Cool Blue Intense Halogen bulbs for example deliver a light that has a temperature of 4200K. Which matches that of modern HID bulbs.

Just by making this change, this bulb delivers 20% more brightness than the Original Line. Even though both are halogen bulbs that work on the same technologies. Another option is the Next-Gen Cool Blue Intense halogen bulb. Which kicks the color temperature up to 5000K. To match the light of modern LED bulbs. In doing so, it also pushes the brightness up by around 100%.

As you can see, the light temperature has a significant impact on the brightness levels. Even though it can't cover the gap in general performance, or even lifespan. But, it's still good to have all these options. As you can experiment with different products to see exactly how much benefit you get.

Off-Road Halogen vs LED Bulbs

For off-road conditions, you need more intense light that can illuminate a larger area. Since you must not only be able to see the immediate front of the vehicle. But also, the surrounding terrain, which could hold all sorts of dangers.

Halogen bulbs deal with this responsibility by kicking up the wattage. To produce a more intense light that is more usable in an off-road nighttime setting. Of course, this also means that they generally lose their ECE certification. Making them a risk for your vehicle's warranty.

If you still want to stick to halogens, you can go for OSRAM's Super Bright range. It has two different bulbs, a regular and a Premium. That offer lighting solutions for off-road use. They are not just brighter than regular halogen bulbs, but also far sturdier. Thanks to special design changes that help them survive rougher environments. They also suck up a lot more energy as well. With different variations needing anything from 75-100W and more.

Once again, if you prefer the cooler light of LED's but still want to stick to halogens. You have the option to go for the Cool Blue Boost halogen bulb instead. That delivers a hyper-white 5500K light for off-road use. It makes a great mid-way point between halogens and LED's. Since it isn't as expensive as LED's. But the light temperature is the closest you can get to matching actual LED lights.

These halogen bulbs compete with OSRAM's own LEDriving XTR series. Which are off-road LED's that deliver an intense beam of 6000K temperature light. They feature a unique BeamGuide technology, which helps focus the light better. As well as a special fan to keep the light cool under constant use. This is part of the reason LED's last much longer even in off-road conditions.

Once again, the difference in performance is quite substantial. But is only dwarfed by the difference in power consumption. Where off-road LED's really shine. As the XTR delivers twice the usable light as the halogen bulbs. While only using 18W of power, compared to their 100W. When you multiply that by the longer lifespan, that is almost four times better. It becomes obvious why LED lights have replaced halogens in modern cars.

However, some people still trust halogens a lot more in adverse weather conditions. Due to the alleged benefits of yellow light over blue light in bad weather conditions. We even did a whole blog explaining the difference between the two. We recommend reading that before making the final decision between these options.

High-Performance Halogen vs LED Lights

Of course, for some people, nothing works but the best. These kinds of buyers look for the highest-performance option in everything. When it comes to high-performance car lights though. Nothing works better than OSRAM's Night Breaker series. This range contains both LED and halogen bulbs. That offers the best visibility in all types of weather conditions.

For people who need halogen bulbs, the baseline option is the Night Breaker Silver. It offers up to 100% more brightness than regular halogens. And can deliver a beam of up to 130m. This is the starting line of the range. With other versions going even higher.

Such as the Night Breaker Laser halogen bulb. Which uses a special filament to deliver 150% more brightness than stock halogens. The light is also 20% whiter than regular halogens. And can cover a distance of up to 150m meters ahead. This beats the performance of every other halogen bulb available. While still being the second-best in the lineup.

The title for the brightest halogen light from OSRAM goes to the Night Breaker 200 bulb. Which as the name suggests offers 200% more brightness than a stock halogen bulb. This is the closest any halogen bulb has ever come to matching the light output of LED's. It only works with H4 and H7 housings though and comes with a shiny mirror chrome cap.

Sadly, even this can't beat the Night Breaker H7 LED. Which is the first street-legal LED replacement lamp from the brand. This LED light offers 220% more brightness than a regular halogen bulb. With an intense cool 6000K temperature light beam that is 20% whiter. It also does all this while reducing the glare by 50%. And consuming far less power as well. Since the halogen bulbs still need at least 75W of power input. While the LED ones barely go past 18W.

As you can see, no matter which segment we focus on. The comparison between Halogen vs LED light options comes out the same. Now, if money is your only concern, then you have seen all the bulbs you can get in the halogen segment. Make sure you research them all before making the final decision. But, if you truly want the best lighting performance, we would still recommend switching to LED’s. The final decision is, of course, yours.

[cars-prices-usa]

Latest Car Releases and Technology

With new technologies and more choices, buying a new car has become more difficult than ever. Buying a new car is one of life's most stressful experiences, but thanks to technology, the process has become much easier. In this article, we'll explore some of the latest features and technology that's available on cars. A hybrid vehicle, for example, can run on electricity alone for 31 miles. A plug-in hybrid has up to a thirty-mile electric range, and a turbocharged engine can be found in some of the latest models.

The Latest Car Models in USA is the one that's releasing. A few notable debuts from 2019 included the Toyota GR Supra, the Mercedes-AMG A45, and the Vauxhall Corsa. Some big car releases for 2020 will be revealed soon, but the calendar below shows upcoming car releases. Here's a look at some of the biggest upcoming releases. Once you've figured out which cars are out there, you can start shopping for them!

The next big car is the 2020 Toyota 86, which is perfect for tech- and performance-loving tinkerers. The 86 is the Japanese equivalent of the Subaru BRZ. The BRZ was born with customization at its core, so it's low-tech and ideal for beginners. If you're looking for a sports car, you can't go wrong with the Scion. You can choose the engine cc, body type, and more.

If you want a car that will impress and make you feel like a techie, you might want to buy the latest 911. The Porsche 911 is an excellent example of an electrically powered vehicle. It sits on the same platform as the Vauxhall Corsa and has a range of 217 miles. Another great option is the redesigned Citroen C1. A hybrid version of the new generation is also expected to be available.

The new MDX has been one of the most popular luxury SUVs in India, with over one million units sold. With its superior safety and power, it is the market leader in seven-passenger luxury SUVs. While it may not be the most luxurious, it remains the most successful seven-passenger SUV in history, and it has won several awards and is the leading 7-passenger luxury SUV in the world. However, it can be difficult to decide which model to buy, so it's best to do some research before you make a decision.

With the new technology, new vehicles are becoming more stylish and more innovative than ever. Among the most impressive of these are the hybrids and electric vehicles. The electric cars are not only environmentally friendly, but are also a great option for people with limited space. The hybrid and electric models are more attractive than ever. This is one of the reasons why they are so popular among Indians. With so many options, it's impossible not to find the perfect car.

The automotive industry is recovering. Despite the economic downturn, new technologies are proving a hit in the market. In the last decade, carmakers have expanded at a rapid pace. The new era of autonomous cars and electric vehicles are gaining popularity around the world. While the economy is in rough shape now, carmakers are hoping to get their mojo back. Until then, the industry will be a strong place to buy in the future.

Tesla's Niro is a crossover car that offers the perfect blend of function and futurism. The newest Niro is an exciting addition to the Niro and other Tesla models. Unlike its predecessor, the electric model is more fuel-efficient, but is still not a hybrid. In addition to hybrid versions, the electric version has a range of up to 750 miles. The XJ will also have fully electric variants.

A new car's infotainment system is important for the buyer. It will allow them to control the vehicle's performance and speed. The interior is also important for the driver. The audio system is a powerful feature. The best cars will allow the driver to switch between manual and automatic modes. The new Niro can be bought for $155,000. When fully developed, it will have a battery pack that can store up to four hundred kWh of electricity.

[narayanhegde]

Upcoming CNG cars releasing in India - 2021

Upcoming CNG cars releasing in India – 2021

With high petrol and diesel prices, both automakers and customers have been keen to explore other fuel options. And while electric mobility is far from becoming mainstream in India any time soon, in such a scenario, CNG comes across as a very viable fuel option, particularly in urban areas. The CNG car space has so far largely been dominated by Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai, although more carmakers…

[orbemnews]

The Future of Car Navigation Has Arrived The next time your car’s navigation system takes you right to the front door of a perfect little back-road barbecue joint, thank the U.S. military. The Global Positioning System — a network of satellites that enables location pinpointing — exists courtesy of the Defense Department. The Space Force and Coast Guard are now responsible for its operation. But motorists didn’t have to wait for the military to develop GPS for help in getting to where they were going. As far back as the 1930s, the Iter Avto, an aftermarket device, offered navigation guidance. With scrolling paper maps and a speedometer cable connection, the dash-mounted device could track an approximate route, as long as the driver remained on the straight and narrow. Going off route even momentarily would throw a wrench in the works. Such mapping technology evolved over the years, sometimes fitfully. But GPS is now a crucial driving companion. Smartphones use its satellite signals for navigation and other purposes. There are drawbacks to using a phone for navigation, particularly if it doesn’t tap into a car’s infotainment system. Positioning a phone just so can be tricky, and because smartphones rely on a cellular signal for map data, coverage can be lost in areas like mountains where reception is poor. But smartphones are convenient, and nearly everyone has one. Apple and Google maps are both automatically updated as necessary. Most newer vehicles allow for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to pop up on a big in-dash monitor. New aftermarket navigation systems, mounted atop the dash or installed in the dash, are a step up from a smartphone — and that Iter Avto. For example, the Garmin DriveSmart 61 LMT-S navigation system can be ordered with a 6.95-inch screen for good visibility. The Garmin provides spoken turn-by-turn directions using street names and landmarks. Points of interest and hospitality facilities are called out, traffic jam warnings issued, speed limits displayed and driver alerts provided. Other top models, from the likes of TomTom and Magellan, also offer full feature sets. All aftermarket navigation systems come loaded with localized maps, and wireless updates are generally provided. Many “best of” lists are available on the web. But better than smartphones and on-dash devices are the navigation systems that automakers are plugging into their cars. These factory-installed systems offer better accuracy, more features and better integration. The screen is usually beefier, and a built-in system won’t attract thieves like a unit suction-cupped to the dash. The integrated systems usually have more powerful chips than aftermarket models, and their antennas can be larger and better placed. The navigation system in the 2021 Cadillac Escalade is a good example of how far the technology has come. If you select audio driving directions in the system menu, the voice underscores the required action. When approaching a right turn, the voice comes from the right side of the vehicle. As you approach the intersection, volume increases. If you’d rather listen to the vehicle’s 36-speaker surround-sound system, you can turn off the voice and depend instead on the large, high-resolution display on the vehicle’s 16.9-inch infotainment screen. A heads-up display of route directions supplements it in the windshield. You get a well-defined map, of course, but the system also provides pictures of road signs at key intersections, indicating, for example, which way you should go at a fork in the road. Switch on augmented reality and the vehicle’s cameras provide a picture of the road ahead with a map superimposed. When you’re choosing a destination, and upon arrival, the system provides pictures so you know what to look for. It can also show you the surrounding area. Those pictures are provided courtesy of Google Street View, which includes millions of panoramic images sourced through Google’s own work and the contributions of ordinary people with cameras. Most vehicle navigation systems take advantage of Google mapping and photography. Tesla’s navigation system can even provide aerial views from Google Earth on its 17-inch screen. Luxury brands like Tesla, Mercedes-Benz and Cadillac all offer feature-packed navigation systems, but you don’t have to spend six figures to get GPS guidance. Chrysler’s Uconnect navigation systems are looked on favorably by car owners, according to Consumer Reports, In a Jeep Cherokee, Uconnect can be easily set in motion by speaking an address. The system uses sensors to assist GPS in places like tunnels or parking garages where it might lose touch with the satellites. The 2021 Ford Bronco, a vehicle meant to explore beyond the end of the road, offers SYNC 4 navigation on a 12-inch screen in models priced at about $40,000 and up. This GPS-guided navigation system can help drivers find their way around the wilderness and provides camera views to assist those who might wish to scale a rock or two. While automaker-installed navigation systems have become complex in recent years, the first to appear in cars were more modest. In 1981, Honda, Stanley Electric and Alpine developed the Electro Gyro-Cator, which used a gyroscope to determine inertia and translucent maps on an illuminated screen to illustrate a route. Sold only in Japan, the system added the equivalent of $2,750 to the price of a car and worked marginally well. It demonstrated that given the starting point, speed and heading, a location could be calculated. It’s what engineers call a dead-reckoning system. Other dead-reckoning systems would follow, including some using digital maps stored on tapes or other media. But dead reckoning can never be absolutely precise, and the chances of going off course are considerable. Then came GPS, and navigation grew up. The first GPS navigation device offered by a carmaker arrived in the 1990 Mazda Eunos Cosmo, offered only in Japan. General Motors followed in 1992 with a system installed in rental cars. In 1995, it was offered as an option on the Oldsmobile 88. Using maps stored on cartridges, the system was first marketed with only California and Las Vegas mapping, but other cartridges followed. While automakers gradually added GPS navigation systems to luxury models, the aftermarket seized on the concept. Alpine offered a system that used compact disc maps in 1997, and Garmin followed suit in 1998. The roots of GPS technology go back to 1842 when the Austrian physicist Christian Andreas Doppler described how motion affects the frequency of sound waves. This Doppler effect is illustrated by the whistle of an approaching train. As it draws near, more sound waves reach your ear and the pitch increases. As the train moves away, the pitch decreases. In the late ’50s — those thrilling days of Sputnik — scientists demonstrated that an Earth-orbiting satellite could be tracked by bouncing a microwave signal off it and observing how its motion altered the frequency of the returning signal. In the mid-60s, the Navy needed to track submarines carrying nuclear weapons. Using six orbiting satellites, Navy scientists found they could observe changes in Doppler when radio waves from subs were bounced off the satellites, thus calculating the subs’ locations. The Defense Department expanded on the concept and in the early ’70s began development of a precise satellite navigation system. The first Navigation System With Timing and Ranging satellite was launched in 1978. A full complement of 24 Navstar satellites became operational in 1993. GPS technology once tracked submarines, and today a far more powerful system can help you hunt down a ham-and-swiss sub. Source link Orbem News #Arrived #car #Future #Navigation

[pxmediainc]

The Importance of Understanding Logo Design Styles

Logos are a classic and important piece of branding. Regardless of what type of company you have, your logo should be on-message and communicate well with your audience. Your logo also needs to be memorable and unique.

But there are a lot of elements that come into play — and one of the most basic revolves around the type of design style you choose.

Depending on how you define them, there can be anywhere from five to twenty different logo styles — or even more, if you incorporate more elements into the definitions!

But don’t stress out about the sheer number of options! Logo styles can be broken down into some basic categories, and understanding them will help you to choose the best logotype for your brand.

Let’s talk about why.

What Your Logo Design Says About Your Company

As mentioned, creating a logo that is on-message is important to make sure that your company’s values and personality can be understood from the visuals that represent it. In other words, if your brand personality is “edgy and unique,” then you want an edgy and unique logo to match. If your brand is all about promoting family values and creating a trustworthy atmosphere, then your logo should emphasize those.

Yes, your logo’s message is greatly defined by the individual elements you choose, like colors, font types, and graphics.

But the overall style of the logo can also either emphasize the message or clash with it.

You can think of logo design styles the way you think of music genres. An individual song can be unique, but how you react to it will probably depend greatly on the genre it belongs to and your personal music preferences. Country songs tend to have pretty calm lyrics and themes, and rap songs very rarely are about pickup trucks and tractors.

But logos aren’t quite as easy to define as music genres. So how do you know ahead of time what message is sent by any given logo style, and whether it melds with your brand?

Different Logo Styles And What They Mean

Here are seven different types of logos, including some examples of each kind.

As was said earlier, you may encounter fewer — or far more — design types. But these are some basic guidelines, and you can extrapolate information about other types of logos by analyzing these.

Icon or Symbol

A symbolic or iconic logo is a logo that uses a pictorial mark as its center focus. It’s primarily graphics-based, and the graphic is readily identifiable as a certain object.

The most famous examples of an iconic or symbolic logo truly do just use that graphic image as the logo, rather than accompanying the logo with typography. So it can be difficult to establish your company using just an iconic logo; often, companies start with a combination mark (more on that later) and after reaching a certain level of fame, they can drop the typographic part of the logo and just stick to the icon.

This type of logo is great for companies that are very well established in their branding, rather than companies that are still finding their way. It does require that you think carefully about what icon or symbol best represents the brand because if you do it right, this logo will become synonymous with your brand.

Famous examples include Target, with its “target” symbol, and Apple, with its very iconic “bitten apple” icon.

Black and White

A monochromatic logo can make a deep impression on the viewer. These logos tend to be starker, simply because they don’t use rich colors. Color can distract from the message of a logo, at times, so it’s always good to check and see what your logo looks like when rendered in black and white.

Black and white logos are classy, eye-catching designs. They’re also a great way to include negative space in logo design, making both the active and the inactive portions of the design work for you to create a dynamic logo design. Monochromatic logos tend to be simpler, which can also work well for the overall design, making it easier to print, more scalable, and even more memorable and striking.

Famous examples include the panda from the World Wildlife Fund and Gucci.

Emblematic

An emblem logo includes a shape such as a shield, crest, or banner. It often has text within that shape, and sometimes an additional icon.

Emblem logos give gravity and respectability to a brand, often imbuing it with a sense of trustworthiness and tradition. You’ll see these kinds of logos used frequently in higher-end brands, like certain automakers. But emblems are also popular for schools, and incredibly popular for unique on-trend items, like craft breweries.

Famous examples include Harvard and Lamborghini.

Abstract

Abstract logos, much like other types of logos on this list, are basically exactly what they sound like. Rather than using a readily-identifiable pictorial symbol or icon for the focus, they use an abstract shape.

These types of logos can be difficult to pull off if your design isn’t completely on-point. The design needs to be unique, and not generic; and it also needs to have the on-brand flair and flavor, which can be hard to quantify with abstract shape.

On the other hand, when done well, this is a great logo for a brand that emphasizes uniqueness and creativity.

Famous examples include Pepsi-Cola and the Nike swoosh.

Mascot

Everybody knows a mascot logo when they see one. Whether it’s an animal or a person created specifically for the brand, mascot logos are designed to give the audience something to identify with.

If you want to make your customers connect with your brand on a personal level, increasing investment and engagement, a mascot logo could be the perfect way to go. They’re seen for sports teams across the world, of course, but also pop up for things like restaurants on a regular basis.

Famous examples include Red Robin’s red robin and Wendy’s Wendy.

Wordmark, Lettermark, and Monogram

These three types really fall under the same basic category: logos that are focused on the typography element.

Wordmark logos use an entire word, usually the name of the company.

Lettermark logos use a single letter, usually the initial letter of the company name.

Monograms use the initial letters of each proper name in the company name, usually three or four.

Typographic logos can also be very impressive, though care should be taken when choosing your font. You don’t want a font that is overly eccentric or difficult to read; at the same time, you don’t want to choose something boring that will just blend in with everything around it, either.

Monograms and letter marks are great for companies with more words in their name, allowing you to shorten the branding to a manageable level; and wordmarks are perfect for companies with a single shorter word in their name.

Examples range from things like NASA to Disney.

Combination Mark

A combination mark logo combines two or more different logo styles. Usually, this includes a graphic element and a typographic element, but it can also include things like emblems, too.

If your company is just starting up, this is probably the recommendation for you. It gives you the chance to tie your graphic elements together with your company name and makes sure that your logo’s message stays on-point.

As your brand and your reputation grow, you may choose to update the logo and turn it into a single type, such as an iconic logo.

Great examples can be found among carmakers, such as BMW and Volkswagen.

How To Choose A Logo Style

When it comes down to actually choosing a logo style, it’s important to take all considerations into account.

What does this style inherently say about     my brand?

Will my other design choices work along     with this logo style, or will they clash?

Is my brand at the point where this logo     style will do it justice?

Will I be able to update my logo as my     brand continues to grow?

And if you are pressed for time and don’t know where to start, then you can always work with a professional graphic designer like PXMedia to get a bearing of your brand image.

The short run-downs included in this article should give you a good idea of what message is given by each logo design style.

So which style will work for your brand? The decision is up to you!

Author Biography

Betty Shane works as a professional blogger for multiple websites. Her work as a freelance content writer allows her to explore diverse topics including but not limited to digital marketing, business, and design.

Content is originally posted at https://www.pxmediainc.com/the-importance-of-understanding-logo-design-styles/

[bigyack-com]

Elon Musk Calls Coronavirus Lockdown Fascist Action, Urges Reopening

Elon Musk is also the founder of the private space exploration firm SpaceXSan Francisco: Tesla chief Elon Musk on Wednesday called the coronavirus confinement a "fascist" action and "an outrage" that infringes on personal freedom and will damage the economy.The billionaire entrepreneur, speaking on an earnings update for the electric carmaker, lashed out at the orders which forced the shutdown of production in California and said he remained "a bit worried" about when production would resume.He condemned shelter in place orders, "or as we call it forcibly imprisoning people in their homes, against all their constitutional rights ... and breaking people's freedoms in ways that are horrible and wrong, and not why people came to America or built this country."."It's (an) outrage," he continued, adding that the lockdowns would cause "great, great harm but not just to Tesla but any company. And while people will weather the storm there are many small companies that will not."The comments by Musk, who is also the founder of the private space exploration firm SpaceX, come amid caution by authorities in the US and other parts of the world about easing restrictions imposed to contain the deadly coronavirus outbreak."I think people are going to be very angry about this," he said."They should be allowed to stay in the house and they should not be compelled to leave. But to say that they cannot leave their house, and they will be arrested if they do, this is fascist. This is not democratic. This is not freedom. Give people back their goddamn freedom."(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.) Read the full article

[fastmusclecar123]

New Post has been published on http://fastmusclecar.com/best-muscle-cars/hollywoods-hot-rods-celebrities-who-love-muscle-cars/

Hollywood's Hot Rods: Celebrities Who Love Muscle Cars

Hollywood’s rich and famous has long been synonymous with a collection of muscle cars enough to make you jealous. Explore some celebrity favorites.

Carmakers had no idea the legacy they were starting when the first muscle car rolled off the production line in 1949.

Though the true muscle car race didn’t hit its full stride until the 60s and 70s. Today, these impressive machines are experiencing a whole new resurgence in popularity.  This can be seen from the number of celebrities that have chosen to drive their own American muscle car.

Keep reading to learn who the famous faces are that you can see behind the wheel of these impressive machines.

Celebrities and Muscles Cars 

Celebrities are just like us, and some have a passion for muscle cars. Ben Affleck has admitted to trolling eBay and drooling over the car listings.

What’s better is that these famous people with a passion for cars also love driving them. So before you sell your motorhome, why not take one more trip out west to the land of Hollywood and get a glimpse of one of these cars on the road.

Amber Heard: 1968 Ford Mustang 

You may know her from the blockbuster Aquaman or the 2009 zombie comedy Zombieland. But what you may not know is that she has a passion for muscle cars.

Back in 2015, she and Johnny Depp appeared on the Velocity show OverHaulin’ when he had her beloved 1968 Mustang redone. The classic muscle car went from old and tired to a complete stunner.

She bought the car when she was a teen and can be seen regularly driving it through the streets of Hollywood. The finished car is a stunner with a rich red flake paint and all new trim.

John Cena: Plymouth Superbird

When John Cena isn’t out on the road traveling for his wrestling career, he’s at home enjoying his collection of cars. Many in his collection are the classics that we all drool over.

He has so many cars that he’s outgrown the space in his garage. Here are some of the standouts in his collection.

1969 Red Pontiac GTO

1970 Cardinal Red Pontiac GTO Judge

1971 Black Pontiac GTO Judge

2006 Ford GT

2007 Dodge Super Bee

2007 Parnelli Jones Saleen Mustang

2009 Corvette ZR1

It’s safe to say that while Cena may be known for wrestling, he’s secretly a total gearhead.

Ben Affleck: 1966 Chevy Chevelle SS 

An admitted car enthusiast, Ben Affleck has a particular soft spot for 1970s muscle cars. But in his garage is a 1966 Chevelle SS. When he’s not starring in movies such as Gone Girl and Batman vs. Superman, he’s cruising the streets in his classic muscle car.

The 66 Chevelle marked a new era as Chevy began creating showroom to start line Super Sports. Under the hood was a beautiful and powerful 396 cubic inch engine. It pumped out an impressive 360+ horsepower.

Kellan Lutz: Ford Shelby GT 500

Known for his role in the Twilight saga and one of the younger celebrities on this list, Kellan Lutz drives a 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500.

This muscle car was a beast back in the day. It boasts a 428 cubic inch big block engine that pumps out an impressive 355 horsepower.

Lebron James: Chevy Camaro SS

Unlike many of the other cars on this list, Lebron James opted for a more modern muscle car, a 2010 Camaro SS. This isn’t just any off the showroom floor Camaro, though.

It’s entirely custom and all white, except for the gloss black emblems and super fine black pinstriping detail. The windows are tinted super dark, which not only gives privacy but also adds to the overall look of the car.

To replace the stock rims are a set of super-sized multi-spoke ones in white. The outset lip gives them a nice touch of detail.

Travis Barker: 1963 Chevy Impala 

If you aren’t a fan of rock, you may not be familiar with Barker. In the early 2000s, he made his name known as one of the best drummers of modern music with the band Blink 182.

These days he focuses on his solo music, family, and working on his cars. One of which is a 1963 Impala.

This classic car is in perfect condition as Barker stayed true to the original car’s beauty. He did drop it to give it a bit of modern attitude.

Rob Dyrdek: 1969 Chevy Camaro 

This famous skateboarder and entrepreneur has an impressive collection of big boy toys. It once included a 1969 Camaro that was completely custom. We have All Speed Customs of Michigan to thank for the work done to this impressive beauty.

What’s impressive is that Dyrdek kept his signature style out of this overhaul. There are no crazy patterns, or colors, and no insane graffiti art across the side. The car is decidedly serious with a high gloss black paint job, and powder coated red rims.

Under the hood is a fuel-injected LS and 4L60E automatic overdrive transmission. It’s claimed that the car can produce 400 horsepower.

Kenny Wayne: An Entire Collection 

While other celebrities on this list may have car collections, they aren’t a complete collection of muscle cars. Then we have Kenny Wayne Shepherd. This famous blues-infused rock and roll artist has a serious passion for muscle cars.

His daily driver is a 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT 8. He’s done several modifications to the car that include a Magnuson supercharger, Hotchkins TVS suspension, custom wheels, Magnaflow exhaust, and custom aluminum valve covers and shifter.

Other cars in his collection include:

1972 Dodge Charger

1970 Plymouth Duster

1969 Extreme Lee

1950 Ford Business Coupe Hot Rod

This list goes to prove that muscle cars have a universal appeal. Even celebrities skip over the standard car and opt for a heart-racing muscle car.

Some are true to their roots and stay classic, while others have given their ride a completely custom feel. Either way, these muscle cars continue the tradition of American made power and performance.

[thalaal]

Elon Musk unveils new Mars rocket prototype

Elon Musk unveils new Mars rocket prototype, expects missions in months

Joey Roulette

4 MIN READ

(Reuters) - Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has unveiled the latest iteration of his space company’s newly assembled Starship, outlining a speedy development timeline for the centerpiece vehicle of SpaceX’s quest to launch humans to the moon and Mars.

Musk showed a crowd of space enthusiasts and reporters at SpaceX’s rocket development site late on Saturday in the remote village of Boca Chica, Texas, animations of Starship landing on the moon and Mars and predicted that the rocket’s first orbital flight could come in the next six months, followed by missions to space with humans aboard the next year.

“This is basically the holy grail of space,” Musk said, standing between a towering, newly assembled Starship rocket and Falcon 1 — the company’s first vehicle whose debut orbital mission was celebrated by SpaceX 11 years ago.

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“The critical breakthrough that’s needed for us to become a space-faring civilization is to make space travel like air travel,” said Musk, who is also the chief executive of electric carmaker Tesla Inc (TSLA.O).

Starship, a shiny steel rocketship designed to ferry dozens of humans to the moon and Mars, is the top half of Musk’s colossal interplanetary rocket system that stands 387 feet tall (118 meters) as the latest addition to SpaceX’s lineup of reusable launch vehicles. Musk named Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa as Starship’s first private passenger in 2018.

The Boca Chica village, a few miles north of the Mexican border, is ground zero for SpaceX’s three-year experimental test program for Starship, whose rocket engine tests have rattled the nerves of residents living in a remote hamlet of roughly two dozen homes a mile away.

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“I think the actual danger to the Boca Chica village is low but it’s not tiny,” Musk said during a question and answer session. “So probably over time it’d be better to buy out the villages, and we’ve made an offer to that effect.”

Some residents have rejected SpaceX’s non-negotiable offer to buyout their homes for three times the market value.

A three-legged prototype of the rocket named Starhopper has test launched in the village twice since July, most recently flying as high as 500 feet (152 meters) and landing on an adjacent slab of concrete to trial Musk’s next generation rocket engine dubbed Raptor.

Musk’s mission to the moon aligns with NASA’s goal of sending humans there by 2024 under its Artemis program, an accelerated deep-space initiative spurred by the Trump administration in March that aims to work with a handful of U.S. space companies in building a long-term presence on the lunar surface before eventually colonizing Mars.

Slideshow (6 Images)

The space agency has tapped SpaceX to figure out how to land vehicles on the lunar surface and help develop a system for refueling rockets — like Starship — in space, an “important technology to aid sustained exploration efforts on the Moon and Mars,” NASA said in a release on Friday.

NASA has awarded SpaceX and Boeing Co (BA.N) a total of $6.8 billion to build competing rocket and capsule systems to launch astronauts into orbit from American soil for the first time since 2011. Development of both astronaut capsules have been beset by delays and testing mishaps.

“I am looking forward to the SpaceX announcement tomorrow. In the meantime, Commercial Crew is years behind schedule,” NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine said in a Friday night statement. “NASA expects to see the same level of enthusiasm focused on the investments of the American taxpayer. It’s time to deliver.”

Reporting by Joey Roulette in Washington; Editing by Lisa Shumaker

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