#popular sports cars 2013

[notyourprof]

A’s Very Incomplete But Hopefully Easily-Digestible F1 & F1 Fandom 101

Since @powerful-owl's call for F1 Primers, I’ve seen several really nice, detailed, intro-to-race weekend primers, but I wanted to provide a…slightly less intense one for folks who are brand new and aren’t yet interested in learning about the difference between understeer and undercutting. So, just in time for the final race of 2023, in the style of @writesharriet's The Untamed 101, please enjoy A’s Very Incomplete But Hopefully Easily-Digestible F1 & F1 Fandom 101.

1) Okay, fine. What is Formula 1?

Formula 1, aka F1, is an international car racing series that’s been happening annually since 1950*. There is a new racing season each year, and the number of races per year has increased over time. In 2024, there are 24 races scheduled, the most ever, and they will take place in 21 different countries, starting in March and ending in December. Drivers earn points primarily by finishing in the top ten places of a race. (There are other ways to earn points, but that is the main way.) The higher a driver finishes, the more points they get. Each season there are two championships up for grabs: one for the driver who scores the most points, called the World Drivers’ Championship or WDC, and one for the team that scores the most points, called the World Constructors’ Championship.

*Technically, some F1 races happened before 1950, but 1950 was the first year of the championship series.

2) Wait, there are teams? Isn’t racing, like, an individual sport?

Yes, and also yes. There are currently (as of 2023) ten teams in F1, and each team has two cars (and corresponding drivers) in each race. There is a long set of rules that each team must follow when constructing their cars, aka the “formula” of Formula 1. There is, however, flexibility in the rules for team engineers to be creative and innovative, so there are (sometimes drastic) differences between the cars in a given year. The popular names of the ten teams in the 2023 season are: Alfa Romeo, AlphaTauri, Alpine, Aston Martin, Ferrari, Haas, McLaren, Mercedes, Red Bull, and Williams. All ten of those teams will be back for 2024, but a few will have new names.

(Many of the teams have longer names that often include sponsors, e.g. the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant F1 Team, and some of the current teams have changed names over the years, and/or have upcoming name changes. The intricacies of team/constructor names are a subject for a different post.)

3) Okay but what about the drivers?

Most teams have the same two primary drivers for the duration of a given season, and these days, many drivers will be with the same team for a large part of their career. Most teams also have a third (aka reserve, or backup) driver who can step in at the last minute if a primary driver is injured or ill. It is also possible for teams to replace their primary drivers mid-season. This is especially common among teams that have close partnerships with each other (e.g. Mercedes and Williams) and/or are owned by the same company (e.g. Red Bull and AlphaTauri).

But in general, you can usually assume that the drivers for a given team will be the same for an entire season. This can lead to intense rivalries! (If you like enemies/rivals to lovers, you are in luck in this fandom!) It’s often stated that the only “true” way to compare two drivers against each other is if they are teammates and therefore driving identical cars, because then it’s down to the driving prowess of the driver. (It is, of course, more complicated than that, but those intricacies are again beyond the scope of this post.)

For the past few decades, it has been common for there to be dominant drivers (in dominant cars) who win a number of WDCs in a row. For example, if we look at the WDC winners (and their teams) since 2010, they are:

2010: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)

2011: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)

2012: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)

2013: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)

2014: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)

2015: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)

2016: Nico Rosberg (Mercedes)

2017: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)

2018: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)

2019: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)

2020: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)

2021: Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

2022: Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

2023: Max Verstappen (Red Bull)

Unsurprisingly, you will find a lot of fannish content about the recently-dominant drivers.

4) Who are the current drivers? What about next year?

I have a spreadsheet for that! It is incomplete, but I’m working on filling it out, as well as extending it back in time.

You can use the tabs at the bottom to switch between different ways of sorting/viewing the information, i.e. by driver vs by team.

4b) Okay but who are the people I need to know about for fandom?

The drivers you’re most likely to run into in fic, in alphabetical order by last name, are:

Alex Albon

Lewis Hamilton

Charles Leclerc

Lando Norris

Daniel Ricciardo

Nico Rosberg

George Russell

Carlos Sainz

Max Verstappen

Sebastian Vettel 

Some of the team principals (essentially, the leaders of each team) show up often as well, mostly:

Christian Horner (Team Principal for Red Bull, married to Geri Halliwell, aka Ginger Spice)

Toto Wolff (Team Principal for Mercedes, married to Susie Woff, nee Stoddart, who is a former driver herself, currently runs the F1 Academy series for developing young female drivers, and deserves her own post)

Common ships are:

Max Verstappen/Daniel Ricciardo (aka Maxiel)

Lewis Hamilton/Nico Rosberg (aka Brocedes)

George Russel/Alex Albon (aka Galex)

Max Verstappen/Charles Leclerc (aka Lestappen)

Lewis Hamilton/Sebastian Vettel (aka Sewis)

Carlos Sainz/Lando Norris (aka Carlando)

5) Isn’t there a Netflix show too? What’s the deal with that?

Yes, there is! It’s called Drive to Survive (usually abbreviated as DTS) and it’s both a great way to get to know the personalities of the drivers and also not a 100% accurate portrayal of the interpersonal relationships between drivers. For example, one of the drivers was so displeased by the portrayal of the relationship between him and a former teammate that he basically refused to participate for the next few seasons. (The relationship was portrayed as far more acrimonious than it actually was.) That said, you can absolutely participate in F1 fandom having only ever watched DTS and never watched a race or any other content! Your experience will just be enriched if you also do things like follow the drivers & teams on social media and start to watch races as well.

6) So what are the barriers to entry?

Well first, you have to acknowledge that this is a very silly sport in which most participants are tax-dodging millionaires and billionaires yet still somehow likeable. Once you get past that...

You need a Netflix subscription to watch DTS, but otherwise, that part is pretty straightforward. Watching the actual races (and everything else associated with a race weekend) is a bit more complicated…

7) Okay, FINE, if I were going to watch a race how would I do that?

First, a heads-up that the actual race (aka the Grand Prix) is not the only thing that happens, there is an entire race weekend. A typical race weekend involves: two practice sessions on Friday, one practice session and one qualifying session on Saturday, and the race itself on Sunday. The practice sessions (officially called “free practices” and abbreviated as FP1, FP2, and FP3) allow teams and drivers to get used to the track as well as play around with different ways of setting up the car. The qualifying session is used to set the start order (called “the grid”) for Sunday’s race. It’s broken down into three parts, and the start order is determined by the lap times the drivers set–the faster the lap time, the higher up a driver starts on the grid. (For the most part. There can be other factors in play such as grid position penalties. Again, the details of qualifying and grid penalties are beyond the scope of this post.) 

Note that for the past few years, a few weekends per season are “sprint weekends”, which have a different format. Again, the details aren’t really for this post, but I plan to write another post specifically about sprint weekends sometime in the near future. Even on sprint weekends, there is still the actual race on Sunday.

New fans might not find the practices very interesting, so I would generally recommend starting with a race itself and perhaps qualifying (aka “quali”) also. 

(Podium celebrations for the top three at the conclusion of a race involve lots of sparkling wine spraying everywhere.)

7b) Okay, so how would one watch the race itself? 

It is…complicated, and very region-dependent. 

If you’re in the UK, you need to have a subscription to Sky Sports to watch anything from a race weekend live. Note that if you don’t have a Sky Box, there is only a short period of time in which you can watch a race back…after that, you can only watch race highlights on Sky. 

In the US, you need a combination of ESPN cable channels (e.g. ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPNU) and ESPN+ access to watch everything, although sometimes the race will also be shown on ABC. Alternatively, you can subscribe to F1 TV Pro, which gives you live streaming of everything from race weekends, plus access to watch all of the past races. 

Frustratingly, F1 TV Pro is not available in all countries (notably, not the UK), and in those countries the only option is F1 TV Access, which is cheaper, but does not include anything from the current season, just the archived seasons. You can check what’s available in your country here: https://www.formula1.com/en/toolbar/content_schedule.html Unfortunately, I am not familiar with other viewing options in other countries, but if anyone adds info in replies or reblogs, I will add it in! 

As you watch the race, you will hear the commentators use a lot of jargon that you can find explained in other, more detailed, primers, but even if you don’t understand a whole lot of what they’re saying, it’s still enjoyable to just watch the racing!

Even if you can’t ever watch a race live, F1 puts a lot of content on their YouTube channel, including race recaps and highlights: https://www.youtube.com/@Formula1 They also have a lot of fun content with the drivers (see the “Grill The Grid” series, especially) in addition to plenty of explainers about the tech and design of the cars. The individual teams also have great YouTube channels with lots of general and race-specific information as well as fun content with their drivers.

Okay, I think this primer has managed to be both too much and not enough, LOL, so it’s time to call it. Happy race-watching, folks! 🏎

(If you spot any factual or grammatical errors in this, please let me know so I can fix them! I wasn’t able to get someone to read this over in advance, so it’s very possible there are some!)

[sunrisesurprisesblog]

Ford ST : The Sportscar

Ford is a name that holds significance for drivers across multiple generations globally. Ford, being one of the leading manufacturers, has produced some of the market's most famous vehicles, ranging from high-performance hot hatches to durable SUVs.

Ford offers a wide range of vehicles, including their performance lineup which includes Ford RS and Ford ST models. Though they both have attracted loyal fans in the car enthusiast community, we will concentrate on the second one.

Let's delve deep into the background, features, and the different models available of the Ford ST.

The history of Ford ST:

Ford ST originates from the 1990s, during which Ford opted to add a touch of athleticism to certain models. The ST badge was launched in Europe to designate high-performance models in the Ford range.

The initial Ford ST model introduced in 1996 was the Ford Mondeo ST24. It had a 2.5-litre V6 engine that offered improved power and handling qualities in comparison to the regular Mondeo. The ST24 received positive feedback, paving the way for the growth of the ST line.

Throughout the years, Ford continued to enhance and improve the ST lineup by introducing additional models to meet the needs of various market segments. The UK car market witnessed the release of ST versions of well-known classic models, quickly becoming popular for their exciting performance and nimble handling. (Brown, 2023).

The ST line-up has a selection of Ford's most sought-after vehicles, such as:

Ford Fiesta ST A high-performance hot hatch that combines power, precision, and style for an unforgettable experience on the road.

Ford Focus ST Turbocharged power, nimble handling, and an aggressive design that's sure to turn heads.

Ford Puma ST Offering the perfect blend of practicality and performance, this dynamic compact SUV has a lot to offer.

Characteristics:

The 2.0-liter Ecoboost engine in the Ford Focus ST produces 184 kW and 360 Nm of torque. It takes 6.5 seconds to reach 0-100kph, with a maximum speed of 248kph. The fuel efficiency is calculated to be 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers. Auto-Start-Stop is included in the package as well, leading to an increase in fuel efficiency by as much as 6%. This motor is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox.(Brown, 2023)

The Fiesta stood out with its easy power. The 1,6-liter turbocharged engine delivers 240 N.m of torque starting at 1,600 r/min up to 5,000 r/min. When entering Mpumalanga from Gauteng, simply press the right foot to overtake slower trucks. Having 205/40 R17 tires on its wheels and a firmer suspension setup to ensure the Fiesta ST stays stable on suitable road conditions, I did notice it felt unstable on imperfect pavement. (magazine, 2013)

The Ford Puma ST can be equipped with either a 1.5-liter turbo three-cylinder petrol engine generating 197bhp, or a 168bhp 1.0-liter Powershift version with mild-hybrid technology. The 1.5-liter engine has strong power at low rpm and increases power in a consistently linear manner. With an endorsed 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds, there are faster sports SUVs available, but the performance is sufficient for it to be an enjoyable driving experience. The Powershift variant takes 0.7 seconds more to reach 0-62mph, making it seem somewhat ordinary compared to other models in its class. Although it remains fairly lively and adaptable for regular driving, there's a slight sense of disappointment when comparing it. Another important distinction between the two engines is that the 1.5-liter option is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, whereas the Powershift model features a seven-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission has quick gear changes and optimal gear ratios, allowing you to fully utilize the distinctive engine. The automated transmission smoothly and rapidly changes gears, but manual gear changes can be made using the paddles on the steering wheel if preferred. No matter which engine you choose, the standout feature of the Puma ST is its handling. If you ease off the gas pedal while turning, the car will gradually rotate on its front wheels, helping you steer it accurately out of the corner. (Cheung, 2024)

Conclusion:

These 3 models of Ford's each have their own unique features and capabilities that can be used in different situations to their advantages depending on the driver's current environment and needs/wants.

References:

https://www.evanshalshaw.com/blog/what-is-ford-st/?srsltid=AfmBOopHcWU6B9lMsy8hC2mn4Vh0NPPk2e6Z9NJfcKSOKFk3KrlefHck

https://www.carmag.co.za/driving-impressions-blog/ford-fiesta-st-5/ https://www.whatcar.com/ford/puma/hatchback/review/n22293.

[bayernteen]

I’m not going to lie, the past few days have been emotional, and I still don’t have the words to explain all of this. Now that we are in the middle of car launch season and the rumours are slowly dying, I don’t even know how I’m going to explain this. But here we are, and despite me being late to reactions when it comes to announcements, I can finally explain my reaction to this announcement: Lewis Hamilton is going to Ferrari starting from the 2025 season.

I was pretty shocked at the announcement at first, but after doing some research, I found out the reasons behind this, and I immediately knew that it was time. To see that the Mercedes Benz board decided to not let him become ambassador after the contract extension has really angered me to the core, and I don’t even know if I can trust them, nor the team principal any longer. And the fact that John Elkann decided to give Lewis a lifetime contract with benefits of helping out his causes, shows that there is a good chance of going to a new and top team, and that announcement came at the perfect time, but also at the worse time when we are kicking off the 2024 F1 season.

I’m not going to indicate any more reasons of why there are many mistakes from the past two seasons, and I wish I could no longer support the Mercedes Benz board nor the Mercedes F1 team, but just because I’m mad at the team, doesn’t mean that I’ll stop supporting them. At the same time though, because I’m currently in my final year of studies, 2024 is marking the end of an era for myself and Lewis. Therefore, after many days of thinking and numerous support for the team, I have decided that this year will be my final year of supporting the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team before the move to Ferrari next year.

I feel so incredibly grateful to have supported Lewis since 2020, and I will be supporting him for some time till the end of his F1 career, but this time I will be continuing the support for Formula 1’s top and most popular team of all time: Scuderia Ferrari.

I’m very proud of Mercedes for all the hard work they have put into bringing home 8 constructors championships and 8 drivers championships, but most importantly for putting the brand back on the map. They have returned to the sport after a 55-year hiatus and have become one of the most popular F1 teams to date. I want to thank Toto for all the hard work and leadership despite some hard times, the people at the factories in Brackley and Brixworth for creating the best cars in the business, and to the late Niki Lauda who supported them in good and bad times, and we still truly miss him.

I also want to say a huge thank you to the drivers who have been alongside Lewis: Nico, Valtteri and George for supporting Lewis over the past 12 years. I also want to thank the fans, my family and all the followers who have been with me for the past four years.

But as Lewis stated: “The time is right to make a change and take on a new challenge.” I know how much it felt to go a new F1 team, and I saw Lewis go through that phase in 2013. Way back, Mercedes was a backmarker team before Lewis arrived, but after ten years we have seen the best transformation in F1 history. Of course it the same feeling with Ferrari, but they are in the mid-table. I’m excited to see what Lewis brings to the team and what they can do together. So please give them the time to bring Ferrari to winning ways, especially with the new regulations coming in 2026.

During my time when I supported Mercedes, I actually had a dream of owning a G-Wagon, but seeing the costs of the car and realising that I cannot continue my dream further of getting the dream car beyond 2025, I had a good test run of what it felt to be inside a G-Wagon, and all of that would’ve not happened in the first place if it wasn’t for the greatest F1 driver of all time. So, I’ve managed to save the best for last. I want to say a BIG thank you to Sir Lewis Hamilton.

Thank you Lewis for helping us in difficult times, especially in a difficult time in my life when I couldn’t even make it that far in my studies. Thank you for being a passionate driver, not just with thirst traps we see on our IG stories, but with amazing energy that makes me smile. And thank you for giving us an opportunity to rise back on top like you did for the past twelve years. I am so so proud of you for all the effort you have done to become the greatest of all time, and I can’t wait for the next chapter in 2025.

But right now, we’re heading back to work, and we have a lot to prove that we can go back to winning ways, so let’s finish the adventure with Mercedes on a high. May God bless us and protect us during this season, and may we enjoy this journey to the fullest.

Still we rise team! Still we rise!

Take care! 😊

[f1]

Horner addresses speculation over Neweys future as he insists tech guru will be at Red Bull for many years to come

Christian Horner has expressed full confidence that Adrian Newey’s long-term future will lie with Red Bull, shutting down any talk that the team’s Chief Technical Officer could be on the move to a rival outfit. F1 design guru Newey joined Red Bull ahead of the 2006 season – following highly-successful stints with Williams and McLaren – and played a key role in the team rising from midfield runners to title winners. READ MORE: Horner responds to Russell’s suggestion that Red Bull are sandbagging with their RB19 Indeed, Newey’s designs have yielded five constructors’ championships and six drivers’ crowns for Red Bull so far, including a run of title doubles from 2010 to 2013, and another brace in 2022. Newey and his notebook have been a feature at race weekends for many years Meanwhile, Newey been taking on additional projects through the Red Bull Advanced Technologies division, dovetailing his F1 efforts with an attempt at the America’s Cup sailing competition and the creation of the upcoming RB17 hypercar. Speaking to Sky Sports News about Newey’s future, Horner said: “His heart is still very much in Formula 1 and his commitment to the team is… It’s not something… We don’t talk about contracts or longevity of contracts, but he’ll be here for many years to come. TECH TUESDAY: Three ways the teams have tried to claw back performance under F1’s radical aero regs “He’s such an important part of our team and popular part of our team. It’s great to have him with us for the long-term, but also to be involved in projects like some of the things that we’re now getting involved in.” Adrian Newey’s most successful F1 car designs Car Season Wins Win % Red Bull RB19 2023* 3 / 3 100 Red Bull RB18 2022 17 / 22 77.27 Williams FW18 1996 12 / 16 75 Red Bull RB9 2013 13 / 19 68.42 Red Bull RB7 2011 12 / 19 63.15 Williams FW15C 1993 10 / 16 62.5 Williams FW14B 1992 10 / 16 62.5 McLaren MP4/13 1998 9 / 16 56.25 McLaren MP4-20 2005 10 / 19 52.63 Red Bull RB16B 2021 11 / 22 50 Red Bull RB6 2010 9 / 19 47.36 *Season ongoing Asked if he raises a smile when he hears speculation over Newey’s future, Horner added: “There’s always going to be rumours in this paddock, and that’s Formula 1.” Red Bull have won all three races so far this season and sit 58 points clear of nearest rivals Aston Martin in the constructors’ standings, while Max Verstappen leads team mate Sergio Perez by 15 points in the drivers’ battle. via Formula 1 News https://www.formula1.com

[photog-crafty]

Bless the Habanero, it tried so hard. This little Lexus RX knockoff loved to throw its rear end out and had a high-strung engine note that reminded me of a small displacement V6. It made it feel like it really, really wanted to be a tuner. If it had a little more mod potential or speed it would have been one of my favorite cars.

Also on the Lexus train, the game had a Lexus GS in the form of the Intruder. Naturally, I had to BIPPU it with an obnoxious wrap and oversized wheels. In spite of that, it was still a comfy car to drive. I think I'm just a sucker for full-width taillights.

The Weevil Custom was another really cool car released very late in the game's life that just wasn't enough to keep me coming back to it. It was fast, fun, cool looking, and mean, but when the cards were down it was just another car. At least it gave me some pleasure to take English Dave's prized car to the chop shop. Enjoy that panther cage, jerk.

There was a time when a Sultan was in every player's garage. As a fast four-door with good handling that could go off-road and be found on the streets, it was popular among brand new players who needed a reliable vehicle for heists and missions. Other cars eventually outclassed it and left it to be just another street car, but its day in the sun was bright indeed.

The poor, poor Bullet. Such a nice car doomed to a lifetime of heckling for being misclassified as a Super and landing squarely at the bottom of the rankings, when it would have fared much better in Sports. If you disregard the race tiers and judge it purely on its own merits, you'll find a fun little Ford clone that's great for cruising.

The Surge was a car that was easy to pick out in traffic due to its neat illuminated grille. It was ahead of its time, in my opinion, considering it was from 2013 and light-up badges and grilles didn't start catching on until years later. Performance was subpar, but it was at least small enough to fit between the bunker bollards and go roll around the weapons factory facilities.

My first GTA winter was spent in the company of a Radius. It even had steelies on so the nicer wheels wouldn't get damaged in the snow. This lovechild of a Dodge Caliber and a Ford Edge won my heart with above-average speed for an SUV and a comically aggressive exhaust note that you'd never expect from such a round little creature.

Honda's modern automotive offerings rarely caught my eye, but it was nice to see an interpretation of their new NSX in the form of the Jester. I remember it having quite a throaty sound to it that made it enjoyable to drive in spite of being an otherwise average sports car.

Sometimes I found it hard to believe that the Jackal was a car that could be insured directly off of the streets. It was a fast little thing and I remember being taken aback at how much torque it had in higher gears, where similar cars would have run out of breath. If I had to start all over and pick a four-door fresh out of the gate, I would probably pick a Jackal.

Truthfully, I was never much of a fan of the Swinger, but it showed up for free on the podium once and I couldn't help snagging one just to show off the needlessly obscure and nigh-unobtainable livery that was only available to people who played during one specific week many years ago.

[vetteblog]

The Ultimate Guide to the Corvette: History, Models, and Culture

Few cars have captured the hearts of enthusiasts quite like the Chevrolet Corvette. Known simply as the "Vette" to its fans, this iconic American sports car has a storied history that spans more than six decades. From its humble beginnings in the early 1950s to its status as a modern performance powerhouse, the Corvette has become a symbol of American automotive ingenuity and passion. In this blog, we'll take a deep dive into the history, models, and culture that make the Corvette so special.

A Brief History of the Corvette

The Corvette made its debut in 1953, introduced by General Motors at the New York Auto Show. The first-generation Corvette, known as the C1, was designed by Harley Earl and was America's answer to the sleek, sporty European roadsters of the time. Initially, it was available only as a convertible and featured a 150-horsepower inline-six engine. Despite its eye-catching design, the early models were not an immediate commercial success.

However, things began to change in 1955 when GM decided to equip the Corvette with a V8 engine. This move significantly boosted its performance and appeal. The C1 continued to evolve, culminating in the 1962 model, which introduced the 327-cubic-inch V8 engine and marked the end of the first generation.

The Generations of Corvette

C2 (1963-1967): The Sting Ray Era

The second generation, known as the C2, introduced the legendary "Sting Ray" name and featured a completely redesigned body with a distinctive split rear window (on the 1963 model). The C2 Corvette offered improved handling and performance, making it a true competitor in the sports car market. With engines ranging from a 327 V8 to the powerful 427 V8, the Sting Ray cemented the Corvette's reputation as a high-performance machine.

C3 (1968-1982): The Longest-Running Generation

The third generation, or C3, Corvette is the longest-running model in the car's history. It featured a more aggressive and aerodynamic design inspired by the Mako Shark II concept car. The C3 saw a wide range of engines and performance packages, including the introduction of the iconic ZR1 in 1970. Despite facing challenges such as the oil crisis and increasing emissions regulations, the C3 remained popular and evolved with the times.

C4 (1984-1996): Modernization and Performance

The fourth-generation Corvette, or C4, marked a significant departure from its predecessors in terms of design and technology. With a focus on aerodynamics and handling, the C4 featured a completely new chassis and suspension system. It also introduced the digital dashboard, which was quite futuristic for its time. The C4 ZR-1, introduced in 1990, became a performance benchmark with its LT5 engine developed in collaboration with Lotus.

C5 (1997-2004): A Return to Form

The C5 generation brought substantial improvements in terms of performance, comfort, and reliability. With a new LS1 V8 engine, the C5 offered impressive power and efficiency. The introduction of the Z06 model in 2001 further enhanced the Corvette's performance credentials. The C5's success on the track and in sales solidified its place in the automotive world.

C6 (2005-2013): Refined Power

Building on the success of the C5, the C6 generation focused on refining the Corvette's design and performance. The C6 featured a more compact and lightweight design, along with improved aerodynamics. The introduction of the 505-horsepower Z06 and the supercharged ZR1 in 2009 showcased the Corvette's ability to compete with the world's best supercars.

C7 (2014-2019): The Stingray Returns

The C7 generation marked the return of the "Stingray" name and featured a bold new design that combined modern aesthetics with classic Corvette elements. The C7 introduced advanced technology and driver aids, making it the most capable and user-friendly Corvette to date. The Z06 and ZR1 variants continued to push the boundaries of performance, with the latter boasting a staggering 755 horsepower.

C8 (2020-Present): A Mid-Engine Revolution

The current-generation Corvette, the C8, represents the most significant change in the car's history. For the first time, the Corvette features a mid-engine layout, which dramatically improves its handling and performance. The C8 Stingray, powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, offers supercar performance at a relatively affordable price. The introduction of the C8 Z06 and upcoming ZR1 models promises to take the Corvette to new heights.

Corvette Culture and Community

The Corvette isn't just a car; it's a way of life for many enthusiasts. Corvette clubs and events can be found across the United States and around the world. From local car meets to the annual Corvette Caravan and the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, there's a vibrant community of Vette fans who share their passion for this iconic sports car.

Corvette culture also extends to motorsports. The Corvette Racing team has achieved numerous victories in endurance racing, including multiple wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This success on the track has further solidified the Corvette's reputation as a high-performance machine.

Conclusion

The Corvette has come a long way since its introduction in 1953. From the early days of the C1 to the groundbreaking C8, each generation has contributed to the legacy of this iconic American sports car. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the world of Corvettes, there's no denying the impact and allure of the Vette. With its rich history, diverse models, and passionate community, the Corvette continues to capture the hearts of automotive enthusiasts around the globe.

For more in-depth discussions, reviews, and the latest news on everything Corvette, stay tuned to VetteBlog—your ultimate source for all things Corvette!

[ismaelfarmer]

Creating a "Junkie Culture" in the United States inevitably corrodes the social moral structure

Recently, all over the United States, there have been pushes for drug legalization, with Minnesota allowing individuals aged 21 and above to legally possess and grow marijuana for recreational purposes starting on August 1. It is reported that Minnesota is the 23rd state in the US to legalize recreational marijuana. An article in the US Washington Examiner website on August 1 pointed out that this move will not bring any benefits, but will inevitably lead to the erosion of the moral structure of American society and the disintegration of social order. The article highlights that the societal pillars in the US will gradually decay, and the accompanying damage will result in thousands or even millions of people losing their lives due to drug abuse. The elected leaders in the US, who bear the heavy responsibility of protecting the universal welfare of the country, will make it possible, as many people may die because of their encouragement of drug use. Luke Hellier, the mayor of Lakeville, Minnesota, expressed concern about the state's law allowing individuals aged 21 and older to possess and use marijuana. The new law in the state also stipulates that it is legal to possess or transport up to two ounces of marijuana flowers in public places. According to reports from Fox News website, restaurants, breweries, and stores in Minnesota have started selling beverages, gummies, and candies containing up to 5 milligrams of THC, a marijuana extract, per serving since the state legalized marijuana last year. Aaron Rodgers, the iconic quarterback of the National Football League (NFL), praised the use of hallucinogens at a meeting in June. He described the experience as "life-changing" and a part of his "medical journey." He attributed some of his recent sports achievements to taking this drug. However, encouraging recreational use of hallucinogens has potential dangers. Rodgers failed to mention that hallucinogens have significant effects on the nervous system. They alter reality, "producing changes in perception, emotion, and cognitive processes." Additionally, research indicates that hallucinogens can lead to serious physical, emotional, and psychological harm, especially for young people and those with mental health issues. Furthermore, hallucinogens were previously associated with "manic behavior" and other harmful health issues, such as coma, heart attacks, high blood pressure, and seizures. Moreover, Rodgers' support for hallucinogens also reflects the US's promotion of marijuana legalization years ago. Whether it be through lyrics, movie plots, or any entertainer in the elite class who extols marijuana, marijuana is often promoted in popular culture. To further convince people, some have argued that anti-legalization efforts are gimmicks of the criminal justice system aimed at reinforcing systemic racism, or that the infamous narcotics, essentially evil, greedy, and harsh politicians, want to illegalize it. According to a study from 2020, marijuana legalization is "associated with increased traffic death rates." The analysis shows that marijuana legalization nationwide will lead to an increase of 6,800 "annual deaths on the road." Data from other states confirm the dangerous connection between traffic accident deaths and marijuana. In Virginia, 60% of self-proclaimed marijuana users admitted to driving after consuming marijuana in the past three months. According to data from the Colorado Department of Justice, in Colorado, "one-quarter of traffic deaths" are related to marijuana. Additionally, information from the "2021 Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Report" shows that the number of fatal car accidents involving marijuana nearly doubled from 2013 to 2020.

[florasearlethirdyear]

FMP: Fairground Artwork & Signwriting. LO1

Easter Week 2

Carters Steam Fair:

Carters Steam Fair is a traditional English travelling funfair with rides dating from the 1890s to the 1960’s. Carters also restore vintage fairground rides and attractions, taking them on tour for all to enjoy. Carters stand out from all other fairs, with their dedication to traditional signwriting and decoration. The collection of rides and side stalls makes Carters the largest travelling vintage funfair in the world, ensuring the preservation of British heritage. Carters also offer creative workshops across their website, something I would definitely do for this project if I had the money!

From their website it is clear that they've taken on Victorian design inspiration across their work, which is something I can see myself doing:

Heritage Crafts:

According to Heritage Crafts, a preservation company patroned by King Charles, fairground artwork currently sits as an 'endangered' practice. It says there are only 8 commercial fairground artists, and no formal training courses, only Carter's course. Amy Goodwin is listed as one of the artists, so it really is that small of a community.

The page provides some interesting history:

Early fairground art styles featured intricate wood carvings, painted banners and exotic jungle and animal scenery. 

Gilding is an important feature of fairground artwork, with genuine gold leaf being used in early styles.

The 1930s saw faster, lighter rides appear in fairgrounds, which often featured more uniform Art Deco “jazz” patterns.

After the Second World War booming economic conditions led to showmen increasing the size and grandeur of their equipment, with space travel being a particular favourite.

The 1970s and 80s saw changing tastes with many new rides featuring spectacular airbrushed paintings, often depicting film and music stars, fast cars or sporting heroes.

Today many artists focus on recreating older artwork styles whilst others continue to push boundaries creating new themes.

The page mentions Fred Fowle, who has popped up a lot in my research. Alongside his apprentice Peter Tei, they would become the best known names in the industry.

Carpenter, D. (2023). Fairground Art. [online]. Available from: https://heritagecrafts.org.uk/fairground-art/ [Accessed 27th March 2024]

Fred Fowle:

Fowle was the country’s foremost fairground artist. Once you become familiar with it, his exuberant, three-dimensional style is instantly recognisable.

lettering and images influenced by popular culture – particularly the cinema posters, adverts and American comic books which he loved. 

Hall & Fowle’s designs were highly sought after, with the showmen who commissioned them often proving to be extremely demanding clients. The seasonal nature of the industry meant that the bulk of the work had to be carried out in the winter months. It was during this time that he established and refined his signature style, which featured expressive swirls and curvaceous, freehand letterforms.

In the late 1960s, psychedelia entered mainstream pop culture, and this coincided with fairground rides becoming faster and more exciting. Fowle’s work directly reflected both of these developments.

Fowle remained resolutely self-effacing and modest, insisting that, ‘I think the main thing is to please your customer.’ 

Fairground art often suffers from its ephemeral nature. Unless the ride itself is retired, it tends to get repeatedly painted over with new designs over the years. Many of Fowle’s remaining pieces have been sold to collectors, although there are some well preserved examples on display at Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre in Devon. 

Roberts, C. (2013). Painted Thrills and Spills. [online]. Available from: https://www.eyemagazine.com/feature/article/painted-thrills-and-spills [Accessed 27th March 2024]

Reflection, LO4:

From this research it is clear that fairground art consists of a tight-knit community, in order to preserve the craft. In an aesthetic consideration, I lean towards more Carter and Goodwins work as opposed to Fowles. Like the article states, his work fits to a psychedelic theme which is not how I see Hastings.

[rabbitcruiser]

International Sports Car Racing Day

International Sports Car Racing Day celebrated on the third Saturday of March every year is the day to celebrate and enjoy this extremely famous, international sport called sports car racing. This year it falls on March 16. Did you know that this day coincides with the 12 Hours of Sebring sports car endurance race? Yes, International Sports Car Racing Day is celebrated on the same day as the endurance race held in Sebring, Florida, at the International Raceway. The 12 Hours of Sebring, 24 Hours of Daytona, and 24 Hours of Le Mans were widely considered the trifecta of sports car racing. So, let us learn about the history, significance, and some interesting facts about this awesome day.

History of International Sports Car Racing Day

To give a little history about sports car racing, it is one of the main types of circuit auto racing that utilizes sports cars that have two seats and enclosed wheels. The 12 Hours of Sebring is an annual motorsport endurance race for sports cars that is popular globally.

It is held at Sebring International Raceway, on the site of the former Hendricks Army Airfield airbase in Sebring, Florida. During the initial years, the event was the second round of the World Sportscar Championship (now discontinued), I.I.M.S.A. G.T. Championship, and American Le Mans Series. Today, this event is the second round of the WeatherTeach SportsCar Championship.

The Sebring track was initially opened in 1950 on an airfield. It is technically a road racing course that took inspiration from the track used in European Grand Prix motor racing. The first race that was held on this track was a six-hour race on New Year’s Eve in 1950. Later, after 14 months, the first 12 Hours Endurance Race was held in Sebring. The race starts during the day and finishes at night. Teams, sports car owners, and fans from across the globe would come to witness this exciting annual event, held on the 17-turn, 3.7-mile road course. To commemorate this extraordinary race, International Sports Car Racing Day was established in 2013. Let us celebrate this event!

International Sports Car Racing Day timeline

1950

The Track is Opened

The Sebring race track is opened in Florida.

1952

The First Sebring Race

The first Sebring Sports Car Endurance Race is held in Sebring.

1966

Criticisms Come Pouring In

The facilities and safety of the circuit are heavily criticized.

2020

The Pandemic Postpones the Race

The race is rescheduled due to the pandemic.

International Sports Car Racing Day FAQs

What races are held at racing?

Sebring is most notable for hosting 12 hours of Sebring as well as the World Sportscar Championship, Intercontinental Le Mans Cup, A.L.M.S., and WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

Why is Sebring only 12 hours?

Initially, the Sebring was a 24-hour race. But later in 1974, the race was changed to a 12-hour race.

How many people attend the 12 hours Sebring?

According to raceway officials, the 12-hour Sebring race usually brings 400,000 visitors to Highland County.

International Sports Car Racing Day Activities

Visit the race: The best way to celebrate International Sports Car Racing Day is by visiting the iconic Sebring track in Florida. Check out when the next race is and witness it in action.

Make it a party: Put on your favorite sports car t-shirt or sweatshirt and invite your friends and family over to watch the sports with you on television. Make it a rememberable party!

Share the gift: Sports car racing is one of the most exciting and impressive sports in the world. You might be a big fan, but your kids, friends, or colleagues might not know much about it. So, introduce them to the exciting world of sports car racing.

5 Facts About Sports Car Racing That Will Pump Your Adrenaline

The rear wings are mostly show-off: For sports cars moving at normal speed, rear wings prove to be of no use.

Sports cars are fuel-efficient: Modern-day sports cars take fuel efficiency seriously and are mostly fuel-efficient.

They will not explode: Unlike what most people think, sports cars are less likely to explode due to solid engineering.

Sports cars are not as loud: Sports cars are not as loud and noisy as people think they are; they just produce a smooth hum.

Touring cars were the inspiration: The design of touring cars and roadsters was used as a basis for modern sports car designs.

Why We Love International Sports Car Racing Day

We all love to cheer: Whether it is our friend who is participating in a race or our favorite sportsman who is behind the wheels, we all love to cheer! If you are a fan of this exciting sport, you can go to the racetrack and cheer for the team.

It is a fun event: Sports car racing is a fun event, especially if it lasts 12 hours! Planning a trip with your friends and family and visiting the race is a fun event that you will remember for a lifetime.

It teaches us about life: One wonderful thing we can take home from International Sports Car Racing Day is the ability to endure. The 12-hour race teaches us the power and benefit of endurance in life.

Source

[delvenservices]

Racing Vehicles Market Global Sales, Revenue & Growth Opportunities

Racing Vehicles Market projected to reach USD 10.4 billion in 2030

Racing Vehicles Market by Type (Racing Cars, Racing Motorcycle, Racing Trucks, Others) and by Application (F1, NASCAR, WRC, Grassroots Car Racing, Formula E, Others) and region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa and South America).

Market Overview

The global Racing Vehicles market size was estimated at USD 5.8 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 10.4 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 8.7% during the forecast period 2023-2030.

The popularity of motorsport has been on the rise globally, which has led to an increase in the number of racing vehicle enthusiasts. Racing vehicles are high-performance engineered vehicles that are specifically designed for use in racing events. Racing sport is practiced in various forms across the world, including on roads, tracks, and closed circuits. Racing vehicles differ from those driven on the road in many ways, including their adaptability to different racing conditions. The engines of racing vehicles are designed to operate every part just under its limit, which means that even small errors can have disastrous consequences.

The racing vehicles market is being driven primarily by the rise in popularity of racing events across the globe. This means that as more people become interested in watching and participating in racing events, the demand for racing vehicles increases. Another factor driving the market growth is the increasing number of racing vehicle enthusiasts. These are people who are passionate about racing vehicles and are willing to invest in them, either for personal use or for racing competitions. Technological advancements in racing vehicles are also fueling the market growth. As new technologies are developed, racing vehicles become faster, more efficient, and more powerful, which makes them more appealing to both enthusiasts and professional racers the high cost of racing vehicles is hampering the market growth. Racing vehicles are often expensive to produce and maintain, which means that they are not accessible to everyone. This limits the potential market size and can make it difficult for new players to enter the market.

Due to Covid-19 the outbreak has heavily impacted OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and parts suppliers, leading to a stoppage in production capacity. This means that the companies that manufacture racing vehicles and their parts are unable to produce them due to the pandemic. The economic uncertainties caused by the pandemic are expected to rise, which is likely to further impact the racing vehicles market. This is because people may not have the financial resources to invest in racing vehicles or attend racing events. As a result of the pandemic, companies have started to cut salaries and lay off employees. This is because the pandemic has led to a decrease in revenue generation, and companies are trying to reduce their expenses to stay afloat.

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Delvens Industry Expert's Standpoint

The market for racing vehicles is growing rapidly due to the increasing obsession for these vehicles among people. The development of racing vehicles is a heavily invested area, which is contributing to the growth of the market. One of the latest developments in racing vehicles is the electric racing vehicles, which is gaining popularity due to its eco-friendly nature. In 2013, an electric-powered car developed by ETH Zurich University won against all cars with internal combustion (IC) engines, which is a significant achievement for electric racing vehicles. The Formula E event was started in 2014, which is a racing event exclusively for electric racing vehicles, further promoting the growth of this segment. Manufacturers like Nissan are heavily investing in electric car racing, which indicates the potential of this segment in the future.

Key Findings

On the basis of Technology, The Racing Vehicles industry is known for being at the forefront of technological advancements, which means that it is often the first to adopt new technologies and push the boundaries of engineering. The National Transport Agency's latest report shows that research and development (R&D) investment in the Racing Vehicles sector has been steadily increasing since 2020, with a growth rate of 8.5% per year. This indicates that the industry is actively investing in new technologies and innovations. Governments around the world have recognized the importance of Racing Vehicles as a testing ground for cutting-edge technologies. This means that the industry is seen as a valuable resource for developing and testing new technologies that can subsequently be implemented in the automotive industry.  

On the basis of fuel type, Fossil fuels are known to be harmful to the environment due to their carbon emissions and other pollutants. The example of the Canadian Grand Prix held at Montreal's Circuit de Gilles Villeneuve is given to illustrate the negative impact of Racing Vehicles on air quality. The Montreal Gazette reported that the event generates a 'poor air day,' which is a condition where pollution is trapped between hot and cold air, leading to dangerous levels of pollution. The Société pour vaincre la Pollution (SVP), a Montreal-based environmental organization, has warned that such poor air days can cause a range of health problems, from asthma to heart attacks. The negative impact of fossil fuel-powered Racing Vehicles on the environment and public health has led to concerns about the industry's sustainability and social responsibility.

The market is also divided into various regions such as North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East and Africa. North America US is a key market for racing vehicles and the trend in this region is towards the use of more advanced technologies.

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Regional Analysis

North America to Dominate the Market

North America is estimated to account for the largest market share during the forecast period. In key market for racing vehicles and the trend in this region is towards the use of more advanced technologies, such as electric and hybrid powertrains, in racing vehicles.  

This is reflected in the increasing popularity of electric and hybrid racing series, such as Formula E.

Competitive Landscape

Ford

Volkswagen

Toyota

General Motors

Honda

Nissan

Mercedes-Benz

BMW

Renault

KTM

Tata Motors

Ferrari

MAZDA

McLaren Automotive

Freightliner Trucks

Volvo

Jaguar

Purchase the Research Report: https://www.delvens.com/checkout/racing-vehicles-market-trends-forecast-till-2030

Recent Developments

26 Jul, 2023, The automaker will electrify its compact SUV Macan, followed by the 718 sports car and then the best-selling Cayenne, Porsche e-fuels

04 MAR, 2023, Honda Motor Co. Chief Executive Officer Toshihiro Mibe is betting on new battery technology to drive down costs and develop electric versions of its smaller, affordable cars — but before that happens, the Japanese carmaker will sell larger and more expensive EVs.

Reasons to Acquire

Increase your understanding of the market for identifying the most suitable strategies and decisions based on sales or revenue fluctuations in terms of volume and value, distribution chain analysis, market trends, and factors.  

Gain authentic and granular data access for the Racing Vehicles Market to understand the trends and the factors involved in changing market situations.  

Qualitative and quantitative data utilization to discover arrays of future growth from the market trends of leaders to market visionaries and then recognize the significant areas to compete in the future.  

In-depth analysis of the changing trends of the market by visualizing the historic and forecast year growth patterns.

Report Scope

The Racing Vehicles Market is segmented into various segments such as Type, Application and Region:

Based on Type

Racing cars

Racing motorcycle

Racing Trucks

Others

Based on the Applications

F1

NASCAR

WRC

Grassroots Car Racing

Formula E

Others

The prominent players in the Racing Vehicles market are

Ford

Volkswagen

Toyota

General Motors

Honda

Nissan

Mercedes-Benz

BMW

Renault

KTM

Tata Motors

Ferrari

MAZDA

McLaren Automotive

Freightliner Trucks

Volvo

Jaguar

More Trending Reports:

The Racing Vehicles Market report answers a number of crucial questions, including:

Which companies dominate the Racing Vehicles Market?

What current trends will influence the market over the next few years?

What are the market's opportunities, obstacles, and driving forces?

What predictions for the future can help with strategic decision-making?

What advantages does market research offer businesses?

Which particular market segments should industry players focus on in order to take advantage of the most recent technical advancements?

What is the anticipated growth rate for the market economy globally?

About Us:

Delvens is a strategic advisory and consulting company headquartered in New Delhi, India. The company holds expertise in providing syndicated research reports, customized research reports and consulting services. Delvens qualitative and quantitative data is highly utilized by each level from niche to major markets, serving more than 1K prominent companies by assuring to provide the information on country, regional and global business environment. We have a database for more than 45 industries in more than 115+ major countries globally.

Delvens database assists the clients by providing in-depth information in crucial business decisions. Delvens offers significant facts and figures across various industries namely Healthcare, IT & Telecom, Chemicals & Materials, Semiconductor & Electronics, Energy, Pharmaceutical, Consumer Goods & Services, Food & Beverages. Our company provides an exhaustive and comprehensive understanding of the business environment.

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[eazy-group]

Don’t Go Here: Tourists Are Ruining These 5 European Destinations

New Post has been published on https://eazycamping.net/dont-go-here-tourists-are-ruining-these-5-european-destinations/

Don’t Go Here: Tourists Are Ruining These 5 European Destinations

Many European cities are facing an increasingly difficult juggling act—maintaining the necessary income from tourism while also controlling crowds so locals can maintain their peace.

Increasing crowds congregating in popular destinations has been a steadily growing problem, spurred on by a widening of the middle class, budget airlines, access to travel information, and even the drive to get pics for social media. The influx of convenient housing from services such as Airbnb that aids tourists but drives up locals’ rent only adds to the problem of overtourism and overcrowding.

While these European cities are benefitting from the influx of cash, overtourism has its consequences too. Landmarks are getting destroyed, streets are crowded, and people looking for photos are turning some revered places into theme parks.

Here are five places you should avoid flocking to, because everyone else is there too (and yes, several are in Italy):

Hallstatt, Austria

Image by Anton Petrus

Hallstatt is an incredible small town of only around 923 residents, as of 2023. It’s a landscape of dreams—a beautiful alpine lake and romantic turret with snow-frosted houses and picturesque homes gathered at the water’s edge. Back in 2010, Hallstatt welcomed just 100 visitors a day. Today, the small village welcomes six times the number of tourists per capita that Venice gets.

Thought to be the inspiration for Disney’s animated hit, Frozen (2013), tourists are seeking the real-life version of Anna and Elsa’s hometown. These flocking tourists may have it all wrong, though. In 2020, in an interview with NPR, Mayor Alexander Scheutz explained that Bergen, Norway seems more like Arendelle than Hallstatt.

While locals may take issue with the overcrowding, the influx of tourists brings with it a thriving tourist economy. Even so, locals have become frustrated and have begun to issue restrictions. Mayor Scheutz instigated the installation of a barrier intended to stop tourists from disrupting the lives of residents, but it produced such a backlash on social media, according to Euronews, that it had to be removed. As a compromise, the mayor installed a banner reminding tourists that people live in the area and reportedly said to Euronews that the residents “just want to be left alone.”

Daily limits on the number of buses and cars that can enter the town are regularly reached, and residents are exhausted by the unpermitted drones, tourists, and crowds. 

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Image by Samantha T. Photography

A study by Holidu estimated that as of 2019, there were 36 tourists per one resident in Dubrovnik, Croatia, making Dubrovnik Europe’s most crowded city.

Crowds flock to the incredible orange-roofed city to walk the streets and follow in the footsteps of the Game of Thrones characters in the real-life version of the fictional King’s Landing, which, in the series, is the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. The filming locations are a common blame for the influx of tourism.

While Covid caused a drastic downward trend in tourism from 2020 to 2021, as of 2022, it started increasing once again. According to Croatia Week, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports released a statement in 2023, saying 2022 tourism numbers were close to 2019, an infamously busy year, with 3.8 million overnight stays recorded in Dubrovnik. That number does not even account for day-tourists or those accessing the city by cruise.

Venice, Italy

Image by Gary Yeowell

Venice, Italy is similar to Dubrovnik in that the city has a yearly record of 21 tourists per one inhabitant, as of 2019. Today, there are bans on cruise ships to prevent a surplus of tourists from flooding the narrow streets of the medieval city. Only approximately 51,000 people live in the historical island city of Venice, with more residents in the surrounding areas.

As of 2023, tourists who do not stay overnight in the city are obliged to sign up online in advance for their visit and must pay a fee. The fees range from 3-10 euros ($3.15-$10.50) per person, depending on whether it’s peak season or if reservations are high. Overnight visitors also pay a tourism tax of 5 euros per night, which is included in their hotel bills, but they do not have to pay the reservation fee. If stopped without a reservation, rule-breakers risk fines as high as 300 euros ($315).

The tourism official expressed hope to NPR that the fee-and-reservation obligation will “reduce frictions between day visitors and residents.”

Portofino, Italy

Image by Westend61

The picturesque town with crisp blue waters and yellow, red, and gold houses dotting the water’s edge takes any visitor away to a paradise of cocktails, warm breezes, and memories that will last a lifetime. Sadly, this small town on the Italian Riviera is overrun with visitors hoping for the perfect selfie, causing traffic jams and problems for locals.

The local population of Portofino is estimated at 335 and the residents long ago grew weary of the selfie-stick loitering around town. They have established no-waiting zones to stop tourists from posing for selfies and cluttering famous views with a fine of 270 euros ($300) for photo-desperate delinquents.

Rome, Italy

Image by Alexander Spatari

The largest city in Italy had 26 million tourists last year, and it is now enforcing measures to keep the influx of tourists under control. In 2020, Rome’s city council approved a barrier around the famous Trevi Fountain. The barrier is now in place to prevent people from jumping in the water. The 18th-century fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome, and it’s one of the top tourist destinations in the city. 

Further restrictions in the overcrowded city include banning people from sitting on the Spanish Steps, which means visitors now have to find a less popular rest stop to enjoy their lunch.

Now You Know

Are one of these popular destinations on your travel bucket list? Picking a less popular destination will not only add to the quality of your travel experience but also give locals a break. For now, avoid these European destinations if you prefer a less crowded, more relaxed vibe.

Have you been to a place that’s overcrowded by visitors? Share your experience below.

Source

[f1]

Pitt/Hamilton production embedded within the show will be a first for F1 Domenicali | 2023 F1 season

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali says a Hollywood movie production crew will begin shooting an F1-based film “very soon”. A spokesperson for the Silverstone circuit confirmed to RaceFans it is among the venues where filming will take place. Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is consulting on the new movie project, directed by Top Gun: Maverick director Joe Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer. Actor Brad Pitt will star in the film, acting as the main character. The untitled project will be the first Hollywood-produced movie around the world championship since 2013’s Rush, which focused on the 1976 title battle between James Hunt and Niki Lauda. The upcoming film will centre around an original story based in the world of modern Formula 1, rather than fictionalised retelling of a real-life F1 story. Speaking at a recent investors’ call, Domenicali said that the movie project demonstrated F1’s desire to attract a media audience beyond ‘Drive to Survive’, its popular Netflix documentary series. “[It’s] another way to show what we want to do, something different,” said Domenicali. “When we started the collaboration with Netflix, the community said ‘what’s going on? This is not our place to be’. And now we understand the power of it. “We added the very strong presence with social media, making sure that all our drivers and teams are very active in promoting the sport. And that’s another tool with the movie they’re going to be produced. We’re going to start the shooting in Silverstone very soon. “It will be the first movie where basically they will be within the show, within the racing event. It will be quite invasive. In terms of production it’s something that we need to control in a way, but it will be another way of showing that Formula 1 never stops.” Full details of exactly how the production will be embedded within Formula 1 events have yet to be announced. It will likely draw comparisons to John Frankenheimer’s 1966 film ‘Grand Prix’, some of which was shot at races that year. Frankenheimer captured footage was from live Formula 1 sessions. Some cars were fitted with early examples of onboard cameras during practice sessions to capture additional material. Advert | Become a RaceFans supporter and go ad-free 2023 F1 season Browse all 2023 F1 season articles via RaceFans - Independent Motorsport Coverage https://www.racefans.net/

[anewswire]

Best Xbox 360 Racing Games: The Ultimate Collection

The Xbox 360 was one of the most popular gaming consoles of its time, with millions of units sold worldwide. One of the reasons for its success was the wide variety of games available for the platform, including some of the best racing games ever made. From the adrenaline-fueled action of Need for Speed to the realistic simulation of Forza Motorsport, the Xbox 360 had something for every type of racing fan. In this article, we will take a closer look at the best Xbox 360 racing games of all time. 1. Forza Motorsport 4 Forza Motorsport 4 is widely considered to be one of the best racing games ever made. It is a simulation-style racing game that offers a wide variety of cars, tracks, and game modes. The game features stunning graphics, realistic physics, and incredible attention to detail. Whether you are a fan of drift racing, circuit racing, or drag racing, Forza Motorsport 4 has something for you. 2. Need for Speed: Most Wanted Need for Speed: Most Wanted is an arcade-style racing game that offers high-speed thrills and intense action. The game features a variety of exotic cars, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Aston Martins. Players can race through the streets of a fictional city, competing in various events and trying to outrun the police. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. 3. Project Gotham Racing 4 Project Gotham Racing 4 is another arcade-style racing game that offers fast-paced action and intense competition. The game features a variety of cars, including sports cars, muscle cars, and exotic supercars. Players can race through a variety of real-world locations, including New York City, Tokyo, and London. The game also features a unique "kudos" system that rewards players for stylish driving. 4. Burnout Paradise Burnout Paradise is an open-world racing game that offers players the freedom to explore a vast city and participate in a variety of events. The game features a variety of cars, including muscle cars, sports cars, and motorcycles. Players can race through the city, performing stunts and causing destruction along the way. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. 5. Midnight Club: Los Angeles Midnight Club: Los Angeles is an arcade-style racing game that takes place in the streets of Los Angeles. The game features a variety of cars, including tuners, muscle cars, and exotic supercars. Players can race through the city, competing in various events and outrunning the police. The game also features a customizable car system that allows players to upgrade and personalize their vehicles. 6. F1 2013 F1 2013 is a simulation-style racing game that offers players the chance to experience the excitement of Formula One racing. The game features all the teams, drivers, and tracks from the 2013 Formula One World Championship. Players can race in a variety of game modes, including time trials, career modes, and multiplayer. The game also features stunning graphics and realistic physics. 7. Dirt 3 Dirt 3 is a rally racing game that offers players the chance to experience the excitement of off-road racing. The game features a variety of cars, including rally cars, buggies, and trucks. Players can race through a variety of environments, including snow, mud, and gravel. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. 8. Grid 2 Grid 2 is an arcade-style racing game that offers players the chance to race through some of the most famous cities in the world, including Paris, Dubai, and Chicago. The game features a variety of cars, including sports cars, muscle cars, and supercars. Players can race in a variety of events, including circuit races, street races, and time trials. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. 9. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed is an arcade-style racing game that features characters from the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise as well as other popular Sega characters. The game features a variety of vehicles, including cars, boats, and planes. Players can race through a variety of tracks, including locations inspired by the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. 10. Blur Blur is an arcade-style racing game that offers high-speed thrills and intense action. The game features a variety of cars, including muscle cars, sports cars, and supercars. Players can race through a variety of real-world locations, including Los Angeles, Tokyo, and London. The game also features a unique power-up system that allows players to gain an advantage over their opponents. 11. MotoGP 14 MotoGP 14 is a simulation-style racing game that offers players the chance to experience the excitement of motorcycle racing. The game features all the teams, riders, and tracks from the 2014 MotoGP World Championship. Players can race in a variety of game modes, including time trials, career modes, and multiplayer. The game also features stunning graphics and realistic physics. 12. Split/Second Split/Second is an arcade-style racing game that offers players the chance to race through a variety of explosive environments. The game features a variety of cars, including muscle cars, sports cars, and trucks. Players can trigger a variety of explosive events, including collapsing buildings and exploding gas stations, to gain an advantage over their opponents. The game also features a multiplayer mode that allows players to compete against each other online. 13. Driver: San Francisco Driver: San Francisco is an open-world racing game that takes place in the city of San Francisco. The game features a variety of cars, including sports cars, muscle cars, and trucks. Players can race through the city, competing in various events and trying to outrun the police. The game also features a unique "shift" system that allows players to switch between cars in real time. 14. WRC 3 WRC 3 is a simulation-style racing game that offers players the chance to experience the excitement of the World Rally Championship. The game features all the teams, drivers, and tracks from the 2012 World Rally Championship. Players can race in a variety of game modes, including time trials, career modes, and multiplayer. The game also features stunning graphics and realistic physics. 15. Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit is an arcade-style racing game that offers high-speed thrills and intense action. The game features a variety of exotic cars, including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Porsches.  FAQs What are some of the best Xbox 360 racing games? Some of the best Xbox 360 racing games include Forza Horizon, Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit, Burnout Paradise, Project Gotham Racing 4, and DiRT 3. Are all of the games on this list still available for purchase? While some of the games may no longer be available for purchase in physical form, most of them can still be purchased digitally through the Xbox Marketplace. Can I play these games on the Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S? Some of the games on this list are backward compatible with the Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S, while others are not. You can check the compatibility of each game on the official Xbox website. Are these games suitable for all ages? Most of the games on this list are rated E for Everyone or T for Teen, which means they are suitable for a wide range of ages. However, some games may contain mild language, violence, or suggestive themes. Is there a multiplayer mode in these games? Yes, most of the games on this list feature a multiplayer mode, which allows you to compete against other players online. Can I customize the cars in these games? Yes, many of the games on this list allow you to customize your cars with a variety of upgrades and modifications. How many different tracks are available in each game? The number of tracks varies from game to game, but most of the games on this list feature multiple tracks that offer a variety of challenges and environments. Are there any games on this list that require a racing wheel? While it is not required, some players may prefer to use a racing wheel for a more immersive experience. Games like Forza Motorsport 4 and DiRT 3 are compatible with certain racing wheels. Are there any downloadable content (DLC) packs available for these games? Yes, many of the games on this list offer additional content through DLC packs, which can include new cars, tracks, and game modes. Are there any other racing games available for the Xbox 360 that didn't make this list? Yes, there are many other racing games available for the Xbox 360, including titles like F1 2011, Split/Second, and NASCAR The Game: Inside Line. Read the full article

[rangeroverenginespecialistsus]

Range Rover Sport having a roomy cabin with Powerful Engine and Sporty spec

These hi-tec features make Range Rover Sport more effective.

Range Rover sport is a very reputed and popular brand among customers due to premium features based upon driving capabilities and it gives luxury feel and comfort inside the cabin. Its big suv but sporty features make it more agile in big size. You find agile controlling.  They offer a powerful engine that generates excellent acceleration that makes the range rover sport more inspiring with a remarkable cabin. Reconditioned range rover sport engines and gearboxes are great choices for those users that want the same size engine. Most energetic machine is installed in the SVR model. So this SVR model looks more impressive and entertaining the owners in top choice of this range.  You also have the choice to choose the four and six cylinders engine model as well. These engines are accurately powered to this suv that make it smooth on rugged terrains. The potential of Range Rover makes it run effectively on the difficult tracks as well established. But now it's plush in a luxury vehicle and it makes the range rover sport expensive, still a good choice. You know very well people want worthy things against the money. You also find some weak features but they are very few. Range Rover manufactured this Range Rover Sport, a very outstanding car by adding hi-tec features. This Sport model is extremely recommended to owners because it stands in the top suvs that are currently available in the market. This sports model existed in the market for more than 16 years and it was launched as a substitute for the big Range Rover.

Weight Loss helps the SUV to be more Sporty

Range Rover Sport suv has powerful competitors such as BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne. Both brands give a good choice for those buyers who want a luxury suv with premium cabin and also a sporty drive. Reconditioned range rover 4.0 engines and automatic transmission system gives you a chance to place the accurate unit under the bonnet. After 16 years of Range Rover Sport, they launched two generations and the most recent model belongs to the second generation that was displayed in 2013. In the manufacturing they use aluminium which makes it lighter weight as compared to the previous models. This weight loss helps the suv to be more sporty, speedy and easy to manage. Range rover sport looks more efficient after weight loss and performs smoothly on muddy and sandy tracks. This is only one model that comes with five doors but the amazing thing is this makes an optional third row of seats which increase the sitting numbers inside the cabin into seven.  After this feature you entertain more passengers with comfort. This supportive feature increases the demand from buyers. You have a good choice: a small four cylinder engine, mid range six cylinder and more energetic eight cylinder engine. These features make it unique and this rare model is very difficult for buyers to manufacture. This suv gets popularity based upon different aspects.  

This SVR Model Offer Supercharged V8 Petrol Engine

You also have a choice of a mild hybrid engine model to manage good carbon emission and be very fuel efficient for big machines.  They offer three engines, 3.0 litre diesel engine D250, D300 and D350 also containing 48 volts battery to achieve the objectives.  In the plug-in hybrid model having 2.0 litre engine with 85 kW motor that generates 389 bhp power. It gives adequate power to this monster vehicle without any actual effort. This SVR model offers a supercharged V8 petrol engine in this engine line that gives valuable output to owners.   You also get an array of trim levels to choose a bunch of features. There are six trim levels to choose from. This range rover sport model has a sharp exterior design with attractive look. One thing to keep in mind is that it performs remarkably in every sector. This sport model is very expensive but its hi-tech features justify the high price.

Performance on Twisting and Turning Roads and in busy traffic

This sport model set a new trend and dynamic drive and also gave tough times to its competitors. Its whole design is manufactured with aluminium that make it weightless then range rover sport perform their job enthusiastically. For this sport model four wheel configuration is necessary. Its steering is very light and agile, which helps to move it easily on difficult tracks. It makes them drive to fulfil their duty excellently.  Seat adjustable feature and good air suspension system available in all models with great ground clearance.   Comfort is the top priority in Land Rover and Range Rover makes a luxury cabin feel. Land rovers present special features for good control for terrain and difficult tracks. Also having different modes to choose according to the situation. Read the full article

[totowlff]

chapter three — never be the same

➝ nico’s win at the monaco gp portended better things to come for the mercedes f1 team, but after the celebrations, elisabeth knew that things between her and toto would never be the same again.

➝ word count: 1,3k

➝ warnings: none

➝ author’s note: revisiting this story is being one of my favorite things. hope you enjoy!

MAY, 2013

Elisabeth never was a fan of motorsport.

She definitely believed there were better ways to soak up the Monaco sun than sitting in a stuffy garage, watching cars circle the narrow streets of Monte Carlo on a screen, while the people around her discussed the happenings of the race and their favorite drivers’ performances.

But there she was, sitting in the Mercedes’ garage, bouncing her leg anxiously, watching Nico Rosberg go past the hairpin turn at the Grand Hotel.

The team had never been closer to victory than it was now.

Biting her thumb as she watched the silver car enter the tunnel, Elisabeth felt someone tap her shoulder. She looked up to see that it was Toto, who was settling down into the chair next to her.

— Liesl, is your dad okay?

His worried expression made Elisabeth ignore the silly nickname Toto had just called her. It had all started with a joke of hers relating his own nickname to Dorothy’s little dog in The Wizard of Oz, as both of them followed a woman around the world. Then, Toto decided to counter by comparing her to the character Liesl von Trapp, from the movie The Sound of Music. When she asked for an explanation, he just said that she and the character both acted like they knew everything, and “Liesl” was a popular diminutive form of her given name anyway. 

She looked away from the screen, looking for Niki inside the garage. It had been several laps since he’d abandoned his silver headphones on the seat of the chair beside her. Soon Elisabeth spotted him, in his red cap, next to some engineers, talking about the safety cars that plagued the race, while watching at the car with the number nine on the screen.

Elisabeth couldn’t help but smile a little. She’d grown up watching Niki act that way every time someone tuned a television to a race. When the commentator announced that the red lights had gone out, she always saw her father turn back into the three-time world champion he was.

His behavior had not gone unnoticed by the Mercedes staff — there had been several times she’d been approached by them, concerned about Niki’s reactions, worried that he might get too excited for his own good. However, Elisabeth always assured everyone that it was normal — after all, it was her father’s way to involve himself with the sport that he was no longer competing in.

— He’s great — she replied.

— And, as for you — Toto chuckled, placing a firm hand on her left leg, which had been bouncing. His touch was able to stop the movement of her leg and sent a wave of heat through Elisabeth’s entire body, including her face. Her gaze moved from his slender fingers, positioned perilously close to the hem of her white summer dress, to his face.

— Well, I am my father’s daughter — she smiled, trying to ignore the pounding in her chest. “Why does he make me feel this way?”, Elisabeth questioned herself, looking back toward the broadcast.

A few seconds later, the tension rose in the air as the words “last lap” appeared at the top of the screen.

— We’re now on the final lap with Nico Rosberg, the race leader — the commentator announced, as Nico shot like a true silver arrow toward Saint-Devote. Behind him, the Red Bulls of Vettel and Webber were trying to narrow the gap, but not having any  success.

— Come on, Nico — Elisabeth mumbled nervously.

The German followed the circuit, passing Beau Rivage and Massenet towards the Monte Carlo Casino. With every turn he took, Elisabeth could feel the tension building inside the garage, conversations quieting into whispers, as if any errant word would spoil the moment.

— Vettel passes Casino Square and can see Nico Rosberg going down Mirabeau — the commentator’s voice echoed through the garage, conversations coming to a halt. There wasn’t much race left.

Nico carefully skirted the Hairpin, past the Portier towards the Tunnel, where he picked up the pace towards the Nouvelle Chicane. 

However, another touch had Elisabeth looking away from the car on the screen, down to her leg. Toto’s hand was still resting next to her knee, his fingers tense, squeezing her thigh. However, she didn’t have time to protest — in a blink of an eye, he rose from his chair as Rosberg passed the Piscine, Toto running a hand through his dark hair. She looked back at the screen in time to see the German driver round the Rascasse towards the checkered flag.

— Vettel takes the fastest lap, but Nico Rosberg, making one more turn, will take the win — the voice at the broadcast said, as the Mercedes driver raced down the final straight.

— It’s ours — Elisabeth heard someone yell in the garage.

300 meters.

200 meters.

100 meters.

50 meters.

— And thirty years after his father Keke, another Rosberg takes the victory in Monaco! — the commentator announced triumphantly over the garage speakers.

An immediate burst of collective euphoria consumed the Mercedes garage.

Elisabeth jumped out of her chair, clapping her hands together excitedly. Then, she turned to Toto and, on a whim, pulled him into a tight hug. However, before she had time to regret it, he wrapped his arms around her torso, picking her up, her feet leaving the ground.

— You did it — Elisabeth said into his ear, as she breathed in the scent of his musky cologne she liked so much. That scent alone was capable of breaking down any defenses she had mounted against him, not that she'd built many to protect herself from the feeling that was growing day by day inside her heart.

— We did it, Liesl — Toto replied quietly, his breath making her skin tingle.

Elisabeth pulled away to look into his brown eyes, she could see a sense of fulfillment within them.

A sense of joy.

A sense of desire.

One movement was enough.

However, neither of them dared to go any further. A few seconds later, she felt her feet touch the ground again, but it still felt like she was floating. In the midst of the cacophony of hugs and cheers, it felt like it was just the two of them inside the garage, facing each other, his hands on her waist. Elisabeth felt like she wanted to stay in that moment for the rest of her life, standing there, staring into Toto’s hypnotizing chocolate-colored eyes.

Seconds later, though, she was overwhelmed by a wave of guilt.

— I’m sorry, Toto, my God, I’m sorry — Elisabeth repeated, pulling away from his hands, her face turning red — I couldn’t, my God, I couldn’t…

— It’s okay, Liesl — he tried to reassure her, to no avail.

She was sure she had gone too far.

— I, yeah… I’m going to look for my father — she stammered, moving quickly away from him, looking for the red cap amidst the sea of silver in the Mercedes garage.

After failing to find Niki inside the garage area, Elisabeth headed out into the pit lane. She felt dizzy from what had happened, so many thoughts mingling inside her mind. The turmoil inside her was distracting, and made finding her father even more difficult. Despite being outside, her head was still there inside the garage, in Toto’s arms, feeling the warmth of his touch and the texture of his shirt on her skin.

“This is wrong, Elisabeth”, she scolded herself, as if self-reproach could magically make her stop feeling everything she felt for that man.

— Mauslein? — she heard a voice that snapped her out of her thoughts. Her father was looking at her, a curious expression on his face. He had his hands in his jeans’ pocket and a tight smile on his lips.

Without saying a word, Elisabeth gave him a hug.

“Sorry, Dad”, she thought with a tight throat.

[rabbitcruiser]

International Sports Car Racing Day

International Sports Car Racing Day celebrated on the third Saturday of March every year is the day to celebrate and enjoy this extremely famous, international sport called sports car racing. This year it falls on March 18. Did you know that this day coincides with the 12 Hours of Sebring sports car endurance race? Yes, International Sports Car Racing Day is celebrated on the same day as the endurance race held in Sebring, Florida, at the International Raceway. The 12 Hours of Sebring, 24 Hours of Daytona, and 24 Hours of Le Mans were widely considered the trifecta of sports car racing. So, let us learn about the history, significance, and some interesting facts about this awesome day.

History of International Sports Car Racing Day

To give a little history about sports car racing, it is one of the main types of circuit auto racing that utilizes sports cars that have two seats and enclosed wheels. The 12 Hours of Sebring is an annual motorsport endurance race for sports cars that is popular globally.

It is held at Sebring International Raceway, on the site of the former Hendricks Army Airfield airbase in Sebring, Florida. During the initial years, the event was the second round of the World Sportscar Championship (now discontinued), I.I.M.S.A. G.T. Championship, and American Le Mans Series. Today, this event is the second round of the WeatherTeach SportsCar Championship.

The Sebring track was initially opened in 1950 on an airfield. It is technically a road racing course that took inspiration from the track used in European Grand Prix motor racing. The first race that was held on this track was a six-hour race on New Year’s Eve in 1950. Later, after 14 months, the first 12 Hours Endurance Race was held in Sebring. The race starts during the day and finishes at night. Teams, sports car owners, and fans from across the globe would come to witness this exciting annual event, held on the 17-turn, 3.7-mile road course. To commemorate this extraordinary race, International Sports Car Racing Day was established in 2013. Let us celebrate this event!

International Sports Car Racing Day timeline

1950 The Track is Opened

The Sebring race track is opened in Florida.

1952 The First Sebring Race

The first Sebring Sports Car Endurance Race is held in Sebring.

1966 Criticisms Come Pouring In

The facilities and safety of the circuit are heavily criticized.

2020 The Pandemic Postpones the Race

The race is rescheduled due to the pandemic.

International Sports Car Racing Day Activities

Visit the race

Make it a party

Share the gift

The best way to celebrate International Sports Car Racing Day is by visiting the iconic Sebring track in Florida. Check out when the next race is and witness it in action.

Put on your favorite sports car t-shirt or sweatshirt and invite your friends and family over to watch the sports with you on television. Make it a rememberable party!

Sports car racing is one of the most exciting and impressive sports in the world. You might be a big fan, but your kids, friends, or colleagues might not know much about it. So, introduce them to the exciting world of sports car racing.

5 FACTS ABOUT SPORTS CAR RACING THAT WILL PUMP YOUR ADRENALINE

The rear wings are mostly show-off

Sports cars are fuel-efficient

They will not explode

Sports cars are not as loud

Touring cars were the inspiration

For sports cars moving at normal speed, rear wings prove to be of no use.

Modern-day sports cars take fuel efficiency seriously and are mostly fuel-efficient.

Unlike what most people think, sports cars are less likely to explode due to solid engineering.

Sports cars are not as loud and noisy as people think they are; they just produce a smooth hum.

The design of touring cars and roadsters was used as a basis for modern sports car designs.

WHY WE LOVE INTERNATIONAL SPORTS CAR RACING DAY

We all love to cheer

It is a fun event

It teaches us about life

Whether it is our friend who is participating in a race or our favorite sportsman who is behind the wheels, we all love to cheer! If you are a fan of this exciting sport, you can go to the racetrack and cheer for the team.

Sports car racing is a fun event, especially if it lasts 12 hours! Planning a trip with your friends and family and visiting the race is a fun event that you will remember for a lifetime.

One wonderful thing we can take home from International Sports Car Racing Day is the ability to endure. The 12-hour race teaches us the power and benefit of endurance in life.

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