Automotive

Automotive, Product Design

A TRANSPARENT E-BIKE INSPIRED BY RETRO GAMING CONSOLES LIKE THE NINTENDO 64

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In the ’90s, transparent tech became a cool trend, especially with gaming consoles like the Nintendo 64 controllers and the clear Game Boy Color and Advance. These designs revealed the gadgets’ inner workings, blending functionality with a futuristic look, inspiring products like Apple’s iMacs and MacBooks. Today, DAB Motors, a Peugeot sub-brand, revives this retro style with its DAB 1α Transparent Edition. While it’s a motorcycle, not a console, it captures that nostalgic vibe with modern elegance, resembling something straight out of a sleek arcade racing game. The DAB Motors 1α Transparent Edition is designed to turn heads with its translucent bodywork, offering a peek at its high-tech components, much like old gaming consoles with visible wires and circuits. This transparency gives the bike a sleek, futuristic feel, enhanced by carbon fiber parts made from repurposed Airbus materials. Balancing style with practicality, the 1α features an Alcantara saddle for comfort and a sharp, translucent monobloc LED tail light. The front-end includes a 2.8-inch LCD dashboard and a lenticular headlight, perfect for both city cruising and highway rides. Performance Specifications Charging Capabilities Ride Modes and Customization Four Ride Modes: Reverse Mode: A reverse mode is also included, ideal for parking in tight spaces, particularly in urban environments. The DAB 1α features a steel double cradle frame that keeps it sturdy yet lightweight, weighing just 125 kg. For suspension, it’s equipped with a 46mm adjustable USD fork from Paioli at the front and an adjustable rear spring preload, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride. Brembo radial brakes with dual ABS provide reliable stopping power in both wet and dry conditions. The custom-made DAB x FABA wheels, paired with Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tires, deliver excellent performance and grip. The 17-inch front and rear wheels ensure stability whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising highways. The DAB 1α Transparent Edition starts at €14,900 ($16,651 USD), with only 400 units available. If you’re dreaming of arriving at your local café on this retro-inspired bike, you’ll want to act quickly. Financing options are offered, but once these limited editions sell out, they’re gone for good. With worldwide delivery, you can enjoy this eye-catching ride no matter where you are, channeling your inner gamer as you cruise the streets.

Automotive, Product Design

YOUTUBER CREATES ASTONISHING UFO JET BOAT

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If you’ve ever wanted a jet ski, you probably didn’t picture it shaped like a UFO. But Vietnamese YouTuber Tran Long Ho, from the Mr. Ho Thanh Che channel, did just that. He spent considerable time designing and building a UFO-shaped jet boat and then took it for a thrilling ride on the water. The YouTube video shows the entire process, starting with tracing the flying saucer shape on the floor and using scrap materials to build a custom arm. This helped Tran and his team craft the basic structure from what looks like ordinary sand. The UFO jet boat, shaped like a mysterious flying object, was built using a sand sculpture later reinforced with cement. This structure was then used to mold a fiberglass shell for the saucer-shaped body. The body is painted purple and secured with steel frames. Hexagonal wooden cutouts are added to the cabin frame for insulation. Multiple windows, fitted with acrylic panes and solar panels, are cut into the structure. The motorized door provides a stylish entry into the cabin of this unique boat. Though small, the cabin is tidy, hiding all wires and materials. It features LED lighting, a control panel with buttons, and a fancy steering wheel with the word “YouTube” on it. Due to the low cabin, the rider must lean back to reach the speed paddle while steering on the water. The engine, similar to a jet ski’s, is located under the seat and powers the UFO jet boat for an impressive ride. While its top speed isn’t specified, it glides quickly (check out the video above to see for yourself).

Automotive

LOTUS THEORY 1 EV SPORTS CAR WITH DISAPPEARING HAPTIC BUTTONS

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Lotus is smoothly transitioning into the electric vehicle era with the Eletre Hyper SUV, and now introduces the Theory 1 EV concept. This concept highlights the brand’s future focus on three key principles: Digital, Natural, and Analogue. The “Theory” vision represents Lotus’ exciting future possibilities. Theory 1 is a compact EV sports car with a three-seater layout, inspired by the McLaren F1. It emphasizes lightweight design, innovative technology, and sustainability. The design team’s main challenge was the “Challenge of 10,” using just 10 A-frame elements compared to the hundreds used in typical car frames. Recycled aluminum helps reduce weight, crucial for maximizing battery efficiency on long drives. The result is an all-wheel-drive EV with a 987 hp electric drivetrain, capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds and reaching a top speed of 200 mph. Weighing under 1,600 kg, the car features a 70 kWh battery and an impressive range of 250 miles for a performance EV. The sports car’s performance is boosted by active aerodynamic features, like a rounded underfloor to cool the system, side-pods directing air to the rear diffuser, and a cone-shaped front nose reflecting Lotus’ racing heritage. The Theory 1 also features wraparound, reverse-opening doors, showcasing Lotus’ bold future design direction. The three-seater EV, with a central driving position, emphasizes minimalism in both materials and design. It features 3D-printed headrests with KEF binaural sound and active noise canceling for personalized audio. A standout tech feature in Theory 1 is LOTUSWEAR, developed with MotorSkins. This system uses inflatable controls on the yoke steering wheel that appear when needed, offering a tactile driving experience.

Automotive

THE MERCEDES-AMG ONE IS A CUTTING-EDGE HYPERCAR CONCEPT

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The Mercedes-AMG ONE hypercar is a remarkable blend of Formula 1 technology and road performance. Powered by a 1.6-liter V6 hybrid engine paired with four electric motors, it produces over 1,000 horsepower. Though equipped with an electric-only range, the car is designed for high-performance driving. A new concept envisions an all-electric AMG ONE, embracing the brand’s heritage while moving into the electrified future. This concept focuses on connecting the driver to the car, enhancing driving dynamics. It features a dual compressed battery setup for balanced weight and explores new EV platform designs. Each of the four electric motors is connected to a wheel, ensuring optimized power delivery. Inside, the cabin separates the driver and co-driver, allowing the co-driver to take over if the driver needs a break. Visually, the concept has a sleek, aerodynamic design that embodies the seamless connection between man and machine. The low-positioned headlights give the car a hunter-like appearance, with the bold center profile flowing smoothly to a futuristic rear. The curved taillights contrast with the lower skirting, which features an F1-inspired battery charging light. The low ground clearance of the Mercedes-AMG ONE shows it’s built for street circuits and racetracks. The front opens up like classic race cars, making it ideal for racing and adrenaline-filled drives. Like other top Mercedes models, it comes in the iconic silver arrow colors—glossy silver or pure black. The designer’s scaled-down version in bright silver with black accents is a personal favorite.

Automotive

LOOP-THE-LOOP CANAL BOAT

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British artist Alex Chinneck has designed a six-meter-high looped canal boat on the Sheffield & Tinsley Canal in England, as a “playful distortion of the familiar.” The 13-meter-long sculpture, which appears to float, celebrates the canal’s heritage and serves as a free-to-visit artwork. Chinneck’s aim was to highlight the canal’s history in a fun and modern way. Alex Chinneck created the looped canal boat as part of his series of surreal public artworks that explore fluidity in typically rigid forms. Speaking to Dezeen, he described the 200-year-old Sheffield & Tinsley Canal as an “under-celebrated gem” and aimed to encourage people to explore its charm. The canal boat, designed to fit its surroundings, offers a playful twist on something familiar while celebrating the canal’s industrial heritage with a modern, positive touch. The sculpture, placed near Sheffield Ikea between locks four and five of the Sheffield & Tinsley Canal, was designed to be surreal and playful. Visitors can view it from the towpath or boats. The boat’s main structure, made from eight tonnes of steel, honors Sheffield’s steelworking history, while the looped upper section is crafted from rolled aluminum. “The canal was once surrounded by brick factories and chimneys that were key to Sheffield’s steel industry,” Chinneck explained. “So, it made sense to create an artwork that pushed the boundaries of steel in an ambitious and extreme way.” The installation on the Sheffield & Tinsley Canal was built in prefabricated sections, transported along the canal, and assembled on-site on a frame anchored to the canal bed. It was painted to resemble local canal boats, featuring a Tudor Rose as a nod to Sheffield, and named The Industry, after the first boat to navigate the canal in 1819. The canal location added complexity to the project, with sections needing to pass through locks and under bridges, requiring the water level to be lowered. “Working in a canal system brought challenges we hadn’t faced before,” Chinneck said. “With no vehicle access, we transported the two sections by canal.” The pieces traveled two miles from Rotherham to Sheffield, passing through eight locks and under eight bridges, including the M1. Once at the site, the steel hull was floated into position and then flooded to set it in place. The aluminum loop was transported via a specialized hopper, and it’s thought to be the tallest structure to navigate the canal in the last 70 years. To fit the loop, over a mile of the canal was lowered by up to 70 centimeters, leaving just enough clearance between the loop and the lowest rail bridge. “Using the canal for transport and assembly was challenging and added cost, but it definitely added charm,” Chinneck noted. The loop-the-loop canal boat is Chinneck’s latest surreal installation in Tinsley. His previous works include zippers on buildings in Milan and London, an upside-down house in London, and a slumped facade in Margate. Photography by Marc Wilmot.

Automotive, Technology

A FLYING CAR WITH TWO SEPARATE PARTS

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In recent years, people have shifted focus from flying cars to VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) vehicles without wheels. However, Chinese automaker GAC has introduced the GOVE concept, which is somewhat of a flying car, though it looks rather awkward. The unusual design starts to make sense once explained. The idea is that you can drive down the road and then suddenly do this The idea is that after takeoff, the autonomous chassis drives itself to a charging station to recharge, then meets you later down the road. It’s an unusual concept with many practical challenges, but it’s refreshing to see GAC, one of China’s largest automakers, thinking creatively with this idea instead of just following trends. Their current ground-based models, by comparison, are fairly conventional.

Automotive

YOUTUBER TRANSFORMED A TESLA CYBERTRUCK INTO A SNOWMOBILE BY REPLACING ITS WHEELS WITH TRACKS

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We’ve seen the Cybertruck handle various off-road challenges effortlessly, from gravel to sand dunes and even shallow rivers. But what about snow? YouTuber Heavy D Sparks wanted to test its capabilities on snow-covered hills. Instead of just using the Cybertruck as it is, he decided to create something unique: the world’s first Cybertrack – a hybrid truck/snowmobile with treads instead of wheels. Using a Cybertruck borrowed from fellow YouTuber Supercar Ron, Heavy D Sparks, also known as Heavy Diesel, gave the truck its most significant upgrade yet. The goal was to equip the Cybertruck with “hell tracks,” a modification meant to enhance its off-road performance significantly. However, there were challenges along the way. Due to the Cybertruck’s considerable weight and power, many parts and brackets required reinforcement. Some parts would break or fold under the strain, leading to the truck losing control or ceasing to function altogether. Supercar Ron generously provided the Diesel Brothers team with an early Founder’s Edition of the Cybertruck for modification. The process involved careful planning and craftsmanship, including creating custom bumpers and adding extra batteries to support large lights from Baja Designs. The truck was then wrapped in a custom camouflage pattern, echoing the Cybertruck’s distinctive angular design. Testing the modified vehicle showed both success and challenges. The Cybertruck displayed improved stability and performance thanks to the modifications. However, there were notable mechanical issues, such as a broken spindle, highlighting the limitations of factory parts under rigorous testing. When the Cybertrack operated on snow, Heavy D, the driver, noted its smooth handling. He remarked, “It feels so stable. I’d feel totally comfortable loading this thing full of skiers and heading to the top of any ski resort, even the steepest runs.” The truck could cruise at 40 to 50 mph on snow, although there was a discrepancy between the speedometer reading and the actual ground speed due to how the treads rotated. Despite this, it managed steep inclines well, although there was a minor malfunction towards the end of the video. Unexpectedly, Tesla gave a positive nod to the project, which was a pleasant surprise. This support highlighted Tesla’s willingness to see its vehicles pushed to new limits, fostering a deeper admiration for the brand and its leadership. It marked a positive change in perception for the project team. Stay tuned for Part 2 of the video, which will likely feature more repairs and modifications to the Cybertrack. You can follow Heavy D Sparks on YouTube for updates.

Automotive, Technology

THIS ELECTRIC VEHICLE IS SMART AND GREAT FOR CITY TRAVEL, ON BOTH ROADS AND WATER

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Electric, hydrogen, and hybrid vehicles will help address environmental issues, but the sheer volume of vehicles on the roads will persist. Competition for road space will grow, despite efforts to promote compact concept vehicles. Flying cars seem appealing, but their practicality in crowded airspace is questionable. An alternative solution, especially for tropical regions, could be amphibious vehicles, offering a way to navigate around traffic jams for more efficient travel. The CROSSER V1 is made for commuting in coastal cities, aiming for flexible and fast transportation. Being electric, it’s quieter and cleaner. The CROSSER fleet provides personalized 24/7 service for urban residents. The future of transportation will cater to various user needs, depending on their travel purposes and lifestyle. This transition will involve interconnected mobility systems, integrating sustainable practices and technologies. Bernardo developed four versions of this concept, culminating in an amphibious transportation service. The vehicle features smart navigation, choosing the quickest path on land or water. The CROSSER is designed to be a versatile service, offering more than just passenger transportation. Its modular features allow for customized interiors based on user needs. By default, it seats four people and displays route information, weather, and warnings. With panoramic views, the seats have sensors and adjustable headrests. When transitioning to water travel, the CROSSER V1 uses its suspension system to elevate the maximum angle by 90 degrees. This happens automatically, thanks to LiDAR and Radar sensors, without requiring the vehicle to stop. Dual cameras with a wide viewing angle enhance the user’s display feed. This system not only facilitates water travel but also detects obstacles on land.

Automotive

THIS ULTRA-LUXURIOUS SUPERYACHT HAS A LOWER DECK WITH GLASS WALLS OFFERING PANORAMIC VIEWS

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Superyachts are all about extreme luxury, mainly owned by the super wealthy. They come with helipads, fancy amenities, and opulent accommodations for guests and crew. Enter The Arc, a concept yacht designed for the ultra-rich who demand top-notch comfort and style. The superyacht stands out with its sleek, organic shapes. It’s like the hypercar of yachts, offering luxury and comfort. With three levels, each has its own function. The lower deck features individual rooms and a dining area with glass walls for stunning views. The second level is an open deck for enjoying the sea and sun. A sail at the front ensures unobstructed views. The back has a covered lounging area for a quieter vibe. On the top level, there’s a pool and relaxation area. The main sail is cleverly placed in the middle, making it a great conversation piece. The superyacht’s design mixes black and titanium grey for a luxurious yet speedy look. I especially like the lower deck for its open views and protection from the elements, which is great since the weather isn’t always sunny!

Automotive

MAYLA YACHT’S SPEEDBOAT MERGES POWERBOAT PERFORMANCE WITH LUXURIOUS AUTOMOTIVE STYLE

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Mayla Yacht, known for their sports cars, now ventures into watercraft with a 44-foot GT superboat. It boasts superior aesthetics and options for gas, diesel, electric, or hybrid powertrains, totaling 3,000 HP for speeds up to 100 knots. Designed by a German company experienced in winning yachts, it’s crafted from high-end carbon fiber with a spacious cockpit and a garage doubling as a beach club. Look out for its debut at Boat Düsseldorf 2024. Carbon prepreg keeps the boat lightweight under 3.8 tons for better efficiency and range. Its deep-V monohull with twin transversal steps enables speeds from 50 to 100+ knots by reducing surface friction with air bubbles. Petestep deflectors direct water spray downward, enhancing power efficiency, stability, and reducing noise. The boat’s multipurpose cockpit area can host up to 8 guests for a lounge party at sea. It features a sundeck with sliding loungers, foldable dining tables, a wet bar, and BBQ. If you want to get closer to the water, head to the beach club platform. Below deck, there’s a double bed, sofa lounge, wardrobe with vanity, entertainment system, and separate shower areas. The vessel is equipped with 200 liters of fresh water and a 22-liter hot water system for a comfortable stay. According to Mayla, the entry-level GT superboat will make its first appearance at the Boat Düsseldorf with a price tag of approximately $1.8 million. If interested buyers have more cash to burn, they can opt for more options to spoil themselves in luxury. If you are someone who wants to try out the vessel but doesn’t have that amount of money to spare, the German company is also offering trials beginning in Spring 2024.

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