All posts in “Rides”

BRX is revamping its lineup for the 2022 Dakar Rally with the Prodrive Hunter T1+

The 2022 Dakar Rally is shaping up to be an exciting one with the world’s leading carmakers teasing exciting new machines. Just last week, we learned of Audi’s plan to compete with the hybrid RS Q E-Tron rally car. Now, we have Bahrain Raid Xtreme (BRX) and its Prodrive Hunter T1+ to watch out for come race day.

Instead of just mulling about their 2021 outing, the BRX team are busy learning from their mistakes and adjusting. The tweaks they are making are not only for boosting performance. These are, in fact, to abide by the latest regulations set by the FIA.

“We are very pleased the organisers have addressed the disparity in regulations between the buggies and the four wheel drive T1 cars, where larger tyres had an advantage over rough terrain,” said BRX team principal, Gus Beteli.

With the new rules in place, both 4WD and 2WD configurations will be more balanced. To be specific, the bodywork, suspension, and drivetrain are receiving some upgrades. BRX notes that the suspension now boasts longer dampers and wishbones. Travel is now set at 350 mm from 280 mm.  

Now that the Prodrive Hunter T1+ rides on bigger 17-inch wheels with 37-inch all-terrain tires and larger brake systems. What follows is a wider stance at 2.3 meters from 2 meters. As for the bodywork, BRX is keeping the familiar aerodynamic silhouette of its predecessor.

BRX is already using the T1 version, while Prodrive Hunter T1+ is under construction. The team estimates that it should be ready for testing in September. This should give their drivers enough time to adjust to the new driving dynamics and handling before the 2022 Dakar Rally.

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Images courtesy of BRX

5 Things To Buy For Active Men

Finding the perfect present for the man in your life is not as easy as you might think. With so many products designed for men readily available on the market, a lot of people feel the whole process can be slightly overwhelming. 

With the internet at your fingertips, you can access a wide range of marketplaces and online stores in a matter of seconds. However, this might make things even harder for you if you have no idea where to start. If he likes to keep himself active, you should have no issues finding a practical gift. Because so many people like to stay active, there are plenty of fantastic products out there. In this article, we will look at some unique gift ideas that are available this year.

1.   Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP)

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Paddle boarding grew in popularity about 15 years ago, but very few people owned their own board. Most of these boards were over 10 feet long and were made with fiberglass. They were so heavy and big, bringing them from point A to point B proved extremely challenging. Plus, they often cost a small fortune.

But when the inflatable stand up paddle board came along, the industry exploded. Instead of hauling around a large heavy board, you could buy an inflatable that you could easily store in a bag, which made them a lot more convenient in comparison to boards made of fiberglass. Most of these boards come with the following:

       A pump: A small pump that connects to the board which allows you to manually push air into the board. It normally takes about 5 to 10 minutes to fill it with air.

      A paddle: Paddles that come with most inflatable paddle boards allow you to adjust the size so you should have no problem storing it.

      A bag: Once the board is deflated, you can store it in this large bag.

You can pick up a top of the range inflatable SUP for around $600. Most traditional surf stores and online marketplaces stock a wide variety of inflatable boards. Unlike a traditional surfboard, you don’t have to rely on strong waves to enjoy it. He can use it in almost all weather conditions, any time of the year. It is a great product that will allow him to enjoy the great outdoors and it is fantastic for building muscle.

 2.   E-Scooter

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Electric scooters were invented in 1985, but over the past few years, they have become very popular. For those living in a city, this is an ideal energy-efficient gift that allows them to get to their destination quickly. With growing concern about global warming, a lot of guys are looking for a mode of transport that doesn’t harm the environment. Because these devices run off rechargeable batteries and not fuel, they are environmentally friendly.

There are lots of stores online that sell these quick and agile scooters, like E-Ride Hero. Not only are these devices energy efficient and practical, but they are really good fun to drive too. They allow you to weave in and out of traffic, and you don’t need a lot of space to park them. For those who work in the city, getting stuck in traffic jams can consume a lot of their time, but an e-scooter makes getting stuck in traffic a thing of the past.

Unlike cars or other motorized vehicles, e-scooters require very little maintenance. Most people who own them manage to fix and maintain the device themselves, so they don’t have to spend a lot of cash on mechanics and spare parts

3.   Protein Gift Box

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If the man you are buying a gift for goes to the gym regularly, he probably spends a lot of his savings on protein products to gain muscle. For those who work out a lot, protein supplements can prove to be a very costly expenditure. Once you run out of protein products, you have no other choice but to buy more. Otherwise, you will eventually end up losing all your gains after some time.

Protein boxes are packed with lots of different protein products including:

      Bars

      Snacks

      Cookies

      Drinks

      Powders

If he is a vegan, you can easily find a protein box that just includes plant-based sources of protein. Protein boxes are selling really well these days, so you will have plenty of options. If you are working off a tight budget, you should be able to find a box for less than $50.

4.   Gym Membership

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If he likes to go to the gym, or if he wants to go but hasn’t yet joined the gym, purchasing him a gym membership is a great idea. Most guys will appreciate it because it is something they really need.

If you want to go the extra mile, you can include a massage, a trainer, or even some exercise clothes. Not all gyms are the same, so it might be worth your while checking out some gyms in your area first. Some gyms offer more than others, and some even include a swimming pool and sauna. If you don’t go to a gym yourself, it might be a good idea to do some research about the different gyms in the area first. Ask around, or check out reviews posted online. A lot of gym enthusiasts post reviews on the web about the different gyms they go to. This will give you a good insight into what you are paying for. A lot of employees working there will be more than happy to give you a small tour of the gym, so don’t hesitate to ask.

5.   Green Fees for a Nice Golf Course

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Joining the best golf courses can cost a lot of cash, so a lot of guys can’t afford it. But you can pay to use most courses for a day, so if the man you want to buy the gift for enjoys playing golf, then getting him green fees for the best golf course in the area is a great idea.

If he is new to the game, or if he has never played in his life but you think he might enjoy it, consider getting him lessons from a PGA professional golfer. In many towns and cities, there are lots of professionals that teach others how to play. If he is new to playing golf, he will love getting lessons from seasoned professionals. Even if he has been playing golf for several years, golf lessons can help him boost his skills to the next level.

Conclusion

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If you only know the guy for a short period, consider asking his close friends or family members for advice, or scroll through his social networking account for ideas. Before you start spending your cash, know your budget so you don’t find yourself going overboard. Just in case he owns the same thing already, make sure you keep the receipt just in case he wants to change it for something else. When you’re about to pay for the item, explain to the employees that it is a gift, and ask if he can exchange it for something else if he doesn’t want it. Before shopping, make a list of all his interests and hobbies and find out what products are available in those areas.

SCG to compete in the 2022 Baja 1000 with the Zero Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Boot Pickup

Aside from battery-electric systems, another promising technology that is yet to see mainstream use are hydrogen fuel cells. Unfortunately, there are issues that stand in the way of its mass adoption. Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus (SCG), on the other hand, envisions a different future. One wherein vehicles like its Zero Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Boot Pickup compete with other sustainable rides.

However, electric powertrains continue to dominate. Given the scarcity of hydrogen refueling stations, it is difficult to market vehicles that run off them. SCG’s Zero Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Boot Pickup could be facing an uphill battle down the line.

Nonetheless, the boutique carmaker based in Sleepy Hollow, New York says a prototype will be available soon. As suggested by its lengthy name, the SCG Zero Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Boot Pickup is based on the group’s Boot Buggy model.

From a design perspective, it looks like a beefy crew cab truck that would be at home on or off the road — camping anyone? Looking at the renders, it seems there are no rear seats liquid hydrogen storage tank occupies the space as well as a section of the bed.

Enhancing its off-roader stance is a roof-mounted LED light bar. Additional reinforcement bars on the front and rear bumpers give it a menacing profile. SCG is also giving the Zero Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Boot Pickup huge wheel wells for the chunky all-terrain rubber it’s shipping with.

According to the manufacturer, it can be used as a generator for multiple applications. To showcase what the Zero Emission Hydrogen Fuel Cell Boot Pickup can do, SCG plans to compete in the 2022 Baja 1000. Finally, mileage should be anywhere between 600 to 1,200 depending on the trim and configuration.

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Images courtesy of SCG 

Steve McQueen’s 1968 Husqvarna Viking 360 is up for auction courtesy of RM Sotheby’s

Collectors of automobiles and motorcycles make it a point to pay close attention to announcements from RM Sotheby’s. The prestigious auction house normally gets first dibs on many of the world’s exclusive items. Meanwhile, for its upcoming event in Monterey, California on August 13, 2021, the prize here is a 1968 Husqvarna Viking 360 which was a property of Steve McQueen.

Fans of the King of Cool are aware of his love for fast cars and motorcycles. In fact, the badass actor’s tendency to favor certain brands and models have done nothing but turn these into legendary machines of their time.

RM Sotheby’s is offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own what was once the property of the man himself. According to the auctioneers, McQueen’s love for the Swedish-made motorcycles all started in 1968. This was after seeing motocross rider Bengt Aberg aboard a 1968 Husqvarna Viking 360.

From this point onward, there was no turning back. McQueen’s company – Solar Productions – is listed in a California ownership interest form dated February 18, 1969. Moreover, RM Sotheby’s says all the documentation will accompany the sale of this Husqvarna two-wheeler.

This 1968 Husqvarna Viking 360 touts a single-cylinder 360-cc two-stroke engine with a 37-horsepower output. Likewise, the original engine, four-speed gearbox, and 32-mm Bing carburetor are all intact. A 14-month restoration process ensures everything is in working order.

With Steve McQueen and Bengt Aberg racing it at one point, RM Sotheby’s is expecting a favorable turnout. Images of the 1968 Husqvarna Viking 360 suggest it is in remarkable condition. Finally, it will quickly become a prized acquisition for whoever outbids everyone else.

Bid for it now

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Images courtesy of RM Sotheby’s

Bentley says the Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition is both luxe and sustainble

In addition to blackout themes for, gear, accessories, gadgets, and automobiles, we also love to see certain shades of metallic brown. To illustrate what have in mind, take a look at the Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition from Bentley. This high-class sedan embodies the carmaker’s vision for future luxury automobiles under its banner.

This limited-edition offering supposedly showcases the marque’s plans for its cutting-edge platforms. The company is ready to fully phase out combustion engines in the coming years. Therefore, a hybrid powertrain is an acceptable solution for the time being.

Bentley points out that clients can choose the base color of the Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition. However, each unit retains the Pale Brodgar accents. These are applied to the lower bodywork, brightware, and all four of its 21-inch wheels with ten twin-spokes each.

Odyssean Edition badges are visible on the “D” pillar to remind everyone of its exclusive distinction. Drawing inspiration from the EXP 100 GT concept car, the profile is sleek and sexy. What follows is the lavish interior of the Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition that uses only the finest yet sustainable materials.

You’ll find British wool tweed on the seats instead of leather. These feature diamond textures and the Bentley emblem just below the headrests. Meanwhile, the Koa wood elements of the cabin boast an open-pore finish. The designers are only applying a thin coat of lacquer to retain the texture and reduce pollution.

The Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition is endowed with a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6. Accompanying the power plant is a 100kW electric motor. These two combine for a total output of 536 horsepower with 553 lb-ft of torque.

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Images courtesy of Bentley

SUPER73 adds the ZX e-bike as a range-topping model under its Z-Series catalog

SUPER73 is here to share a new addition to its Z-Series lineup of electrified bicycles. Although there’s nothing wrong with conventional pedal power, motorized assistance is a handy feature to have as a backup anyway. The ZX brings a slew of upgrades to the table to make your commute smoother and fun.

For the frame, it uses aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum for extreme durability minus the weight. Moreover, even under extreme weather conditions, the metal should stay corrosion-free for a long time. SUPER73 also equips it with what it calls a multi-class ride mode feature.

Upon activation, it allows you to engage the throttle and pedal but limits the top speed to 20 mph. This makes it possible to take the ZX on public roads and bike paths sans a license, insurance, or registration. In short, you can have fun right away upon its delivery.

Powering the electric drive system is a 615-Whr user-replaceable battery unit. Its brand-new motor boasts up to 1,350 watts of peak power depending on the ride mode. Throttle-only operation claims to have a range of up to 30 miles, while ECO pedal-assist mode bumps that up to 50 miles.

Long rides won’t be an issue thanks to the ergonomic placement of its seat and handlebars. The ZX comes with a transflective monochromatic LCD display. Pair the electric bike with your smartphone to activate turn-by-turn navigation.

Make adjustments on your smartphone and get over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates. SUPER73 offers the ZX in two colorways: Storm Gray and Moon Rock. There’s also an option to get with LZRD or Trooper tires. Likely due to popular demand, each buyer is limited to only 2 units.

Buy – $1,995

Images courtesy of SUPER73

Alpha Motor Coproration introduces the modular SUPERWOLF electric pickup truck

A while back, we chanced upon a cool-looking retrofuturistic vehicle from Alpha Motor Corporation – the ACE. It has been some time, but we’re hyped to hear about its new project. The SUPERWOLF is the electric pickup truck to watch out for.

Similar to the ACE, the California-based EV company backs off from an overly futuristic design. Unlike the Tesla Cybertruck, which goes all-out with sharp angles on almost every surface, the SUPERWOLF is more refined.

Moreover, it appears to be on the modular side as well which is a big plus in our opinion. It arrives in a crew cab configuration courtesy of its long wheelbase. No 2+2 seating arrangements here as Alpha Motor Corporation optimizes everything for comfort and utility.

Specification available on the website list the sustainable truck at 214 x 79 x 69 inches (length x width x height). As for the bed, owners have 65 x 59 x 18 inches (length x width x height) to work with for hauling cargo. Additional spaces are available under the hood and on the roof rack for your luggage.

The truck uses two electric motors for its all-wheel-drive system. Alpha Motor Corporation says the SUPERWOLF can go from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Meanwhile, towing capacity maxes out at 6,724 lbs. Next, depending on your driving, a full charge of its batteries should get you anywhere between 275 to 300 miles.

So far, the renders show the many ways clients swap or add different parts to customize their rides. Moreover, the minimalist theme of the interior is a great match to its classic vibe. The SUPERWOLF is a zero-emission workhorse to watch out for.

Discover more: here

Images courtesy of Alpha Motor Corporation

Porsche offers a glimpse of it futuristic Renndienst electric van concept

Just like Ford with its Mustang Mach-E, the automotive industry likewise recognizes the Taycan from Porsche as a success. So far, the favorable outcome of the German marque’s electrification is leading to even more exciting projects. An EV version of the Macan is already in development, which is why the company is exploring new platforms like the Renndienst.

The company is not exactly the first one out of the gates with an electric van concept. We can recall Volkswagen with its ID. BUZZ and the Canoo MPDV to name a few. Porsche seems to want in on the fun as well. There’s no word if this ride will eventually see a commercial release, but what it teases appears to be exciting, nonetheless.

Instead of focusing on the technical specifications, they seem to be highlighting the cabin. In fact, the press release calls in the “interior of the future.” It’s clear that they intend to give occupants as much legroom as possible.

Judging by the images of the Renndienst, there’s ample seating for up to six people including the driver. The steering column is mounted at the center along with the analog instrument panels. On each side, there are large display panels – presumably the infotainment units of the electric van.

Porsche engineers are also considering haptic buttons instead of mechanical ones. Meanwhile, the driver’s seat can swivel 180 degrees. This allows the Renndienst driver to interact with the passengers while autonomous driving technology takes over during travel.

According to the chief designer of the Renndienst, they will be drawing inspiration from the Taycan. Another notable element is the asymmetrical windows. One side is covered to give occupants some privacy, while the other side provides a wide view of what’s outside.

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Images courtesy of Porsche

Tom Cruise’s ‘Risky Business’ 1979 Porsche 928

The Porsche 928 was intended to replace the iconic 911. Well, that never happened, but that doesn’t mean the bug-eyed 928 isn’t worthy. This one, in particular, was used in the filming of the 1979…

The post Tom Cruise’s ‘Risky Business’ 1979 Porsche 928 first appeared on Cool Material.

KTM is building only 100 units of its track-only 2022 RC 8C superbike

It seems unfair that track-only variants from the world’s leading supercar manufacturers have been getting all the attention. Despite the equal popularity of motorcycles, a majority of publications prefer to focus on automobiles instead. We hope that changes so rides like the 2022 RC 8C from KTM can blow us away. Since its debut in the 2017 season of the MotoGP.

While even many enthusiasts will shy away due to its usage limitations, those who crave pure power and performance will find it here. Since KTM is only producing 100 examples of the 2022 RC 8C, collectors are probably already lining up for one. In fact, it won’t be long before every unit is already spoken for.

Anyway, the Austrian sub-brand of Pierer Mobility AG is eager to promote its latest superbike as a race-ready beast. In fact, they say that the 2022 KTM RC 8C “is ultra-lightweight, bespoke track weapon designed with one simple purpose – to decimate lap times and stamp orange authority on the starting grid.”

Starting with the trellis frame, KTM is building it out of chromium-molybdenum steel. Krämer Motorcycles is likewise on board to craft this platform for those willing to harness its capabilities. The 2022 RC 8C weighs approximately 309 lbs thanks to GRP with carbon Kevlar bodywork.

Its 889-cc LC8c engine produces 128 horsepower with 74.5 lb-ft of torque and is paired to a 6-speed transmission. For superior cooling, the carbon fiber front fender features an air scoop that channels air to the radiator. In short, KTM equips the 2022 RC 8C with everything it needs to tackle the tracks.

Check it out: here

Images courtesy of KTM

Omega Motors EV200: Turning a 1975 Honda CB200 into a one-off Electric Motorcycle

While the adoption of all-electric powertrains continues to grow, many leading brands have already met success with their respective models. When it comes to motorcycles, however, several renowned marques are yet to make any announcements. As such, Omega Motors and its roster of enthusiasts are taking matters into their own hands. The EV200 is their first offering and it’s an exciting one.

What we like about this electric motorcycle, is the effort to retain the silhouette of the donor bike. For their first project, the group based in San Francisco went with a popular platform from Honda – a 1975 CB200. Normally, when shops convert conventional bikes into green machines, the profile changes.

Omega Motors appears to have painstakingly kept the distinct outline intact. Although tweaks were made allowing the frame to accommodate the new components, the EV200 still oozes a stylish retro vibe. The space where the engine once was now houses its 48V 1.6-kWh battery unit.

To charge, just lift the fuel cap and plug it in. Below that, we can see the 5-kW nominal to 10-kW peak Golden Motor electric motor. A full charge is enough to take the EV200 up to 30 miles. Meanwhile, the EV200 peaks at 60 mph, which should be good enough for a drive around the city minus any emissions.

Some of the original parts such as the front forks, brakes, and wheels have been reconditioned as well. Even the original switches and analog speedometer of the CB200 are still in use. To stay on top of your batteries, Omega Motors cleverly hides a status display under the leather flap on the tank. Sadly, the EV200 is a one-off creation only.

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Images courtesy of Omega Motors

Hennessy Performance revisits a Ford SUV in 2021 with the VelociRaptor 400 Bronco

We knew that after the launch of Ford’s highly anticipated SUV, it was only a matter of time before aftermarket tuners would unleash something badass. Sealy, Texas-based outfit Hennessey Performance got their hands on one and worked their magic. What came in as a stock model now rolls out of their doors as the Velociraptor 400 Bronco.

Ever since the Blue Oval gave in to the demand of its consumers, the hype surrounding the new Bronco has been over the through the roof. After confirming its release date, preorders were reportedly overwhelming.

After showing us just how far they could push it in 2020 with the 750-horsepower VelociRaptor V8, Hennessey Performance is ready for another run. This time, work begins with a 2021 Bronco Badlands. The range-topping trim then receives a new intake and exhaust system on top of expert tuning.

This adds 75-horsepower and 88 lb-ft of torque to its 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 power plant. What follows is an extensive calibration to squeeze every bit of performance out of everything. With these upgrades, the VelociRaptor 400 Bronco now boasts 405 horsepower at 5,700 rpm with 503 lb-ft of torque.

This 4×4 SUV also comes with an in-house Off-Road Package that includes 18-inch Hennessey wheels. These are then shod in thick 35-inch off-road rubber. Other rugged add-ons include retractable side steps, VelociRapter bumpers on both ends, and special badging.

Hennessey Performance keeps all of the SUV’s original off-road systems intact. You can order the VelociRaptor 400 Bronco in two or four-door configurations. If you want to own one, better hurry now because only 200 units are up for production.

Buy – $80,000

Images courtesy of Hennessey Performance

Dodge announces plans to launch the world’s first electric muscle car in 2024

After being adamant about the shift to all-electric configurations, more carmakers have gradually announced their plans for electrification. Given that emission-free rides are accounting for a considerable number of sales over the years, refusing to adapt would be foolish. Dodge becomes the latest American marque to confirm its electric initiative.

For now, there is no information about which machine under its stable would be the first to debut with an electric powertrain. However, Dodge says it will be the first of its kind – a zero-emission muscle car. We’re not exactly sure about this claim though.

One of its rivals – Ford – already unveiled an all-electric Mustang with a six-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, this was followed by more battery-powered pony cars under the Blue Oval’s badge. Nevertheless, we have to point out that those were not commercially available.

Dodge’s plans, on the other hand, is to ship its “American eMuscle” to showrooms and to eager buyers by 2024. “Our engineers are reaching a practical limit of what we can squeeze from internal combustion innovation,” said Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis.

He then added: “They know, we know, that electric motors can give us more. And if we know of a technology that can give our customers an advantage, we have an obligation to embrace it.” The upcoming Dodge electric muscle car will use the STLA Large platform.

According to its parent company Stellantis, the capabilities of Dodge’s future are nothing short of remarkable. How about a whopping 886 horsepower with a battery that promises a range of about 500 miles when fully charged? A zero to 60 mph run will on take around two seconds.

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Images courtesy of Dodge

Lamborghini bids farewell to the Aventador with the LP780-4 Ultimae trim

Early in 2011, Lamborghini debuted a new model to replace the outgoing Murciélago as its flagship supercar. The Aventador took center stage and has been the brand’s ambassador since then. After a decade of awesomeness, another machine is ready to replace it. Before that happens, the manufacturer prepares to give it a proper send-off with the LP780-4 Ultimae.

Collectors should keep an eye out for this exclusive release which will be available in convertible or coupe configurations. Lamborghini will build only 250 and 350 examples of each respectively. Translated form Latin, the name means the last, which is exactly what it will be for the Aventador line.

As such, it’s only fitting that the prestigious marque goes all-out with the spec sheet. As others put it, interested buyers can look forward to SVJ-tier performance in a more modest silhouette. Meanwhile, there are also talk about the Aventador the LP780-4 Ultimae being the final Lamborghini supercar to pack a traditional combustion engine.

Just like many of its fellow high-performance luxury automakers, electrification is inevitable. With all-electric platforms eventually taking over, the company will be making the emission-free shift soon. For now, owners can expect remarkable upgrades that would put it above the entire Aventador fleet.

Its 6.5-liter V12 engine courses 769 horsepower with 531 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. Lamborghini says the Aventador LP780-4 Ultimae can zip from a standstill to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds. Unique to its trim are the updated front and rear elements. Meanwhile, its active rear wing should keep it firmly planted as it tackles the tracks.

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Images courtesy of Lamborghini

MINI Vision Urbanaut: From Concept to Reality

Whoever said minivans were lame? Well, count on MINI to make its own version with the Vision Urabanaut. Last year, BMW-owned MINI unveiled the Vision Urbanaut as a purely computer-generated concept. But now, they’ve produced…

The post MINI Vision Urbanaut: From Concept to Reality first appeared on Cool Material.

ELegend EL1

If you’ve ever wondered what a modern interpretation of the classic Audi Quattro S1 World Rally car would look like, wonder no more. A German firm named ELegend plans to build the EL1, an electric…

The post ELegend EL1 first appeared on Cool Material.

TEDS says its TEDPoP expandable rooftop tent can comfortably fit a family of five

Most pickup trucks or SUVs are enjoying the benefits of their horsepower and torque for overlanding. Additionally, the higher towing capacity allows owners to enjoy the creature comforts of more rugged camper trailers. As for the rest of us, TEDS is cooking up something cool for outdoor enthusiasts. This here is the TEDPoP – a rooftop tent that can accommodate a family of five.

Although there is nothing wrong with traditional portable shelters or sleeping bags, sometimes we just want a hassle-free alternative. This is where pop-up tents shine, but the TEDPoP is perfect for spots you can just drive and park. In other words, locations that are ideal for weekend getaways form the urban jungle.

According to TEDS, their product is supposedly the “world’s first pop-up dual expandable rooftop tent.” It seems all 691 backers of their Kickstarter project believe so and funded them way beyond their $20,000 goal. So far, it’s cool that you can pack it all in a sleek hardshell top.

This means you can just install the TEDPoP and leave it there safe from the elements and more. The manufacturer wants to make setup virtually effortless as much as possible. Thus, the folding support frames easily lift up with the help of condensed gas strut bars.

This mechanism also deploys the extension panels. You can access the tent via two telescopic ladders on each side. Inside, there is a 2.5-inch-thick mattress so you can relax in any position. Moreover, windows on each side provide a 360-view of your surroundings.

The entire thing measures 90 x 50 x 14 when closed and 125 x 50 x 120 when opened. Its ABS hardshell comes in white or black. Also, the polycotton canvas of the TEDPoP is available in three colors: Green, Gray, and Dark Wine Red.

Buy – $4,190

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Images courtesy of TEDS

Hennessey Performance gives the Ford Mustang GT the Legend Edition treatment

According to automotive industry reports, Ford’s best-selling vehicle right now is not what you think. It appears that with all the hype surrounding eco-friendly alternatives, consumers are going gaga over the Mach-E SUV. Although it is marketed under the iconic pony emblem, it just doesn’t have the same impact. Thankfully, we have the Hennessey Performance Ford Mustang GT Legend Edition to drool over for now.

Any machine that undergoes world-class tuning from Hennessey Performance turns out to be jaw-dropping. Even at first glance, everything about this Mustang GT just oozes with unbridled power. Sporting a menacing glossy black coat with decals and racing stripes in white, it looks ready to rip the asphalt off the tracks or roads.

Hennessey Performance is tweaking the Ford Mustang GT’s engine with a 3.0-liter supercharger system. Some notable upgrades include an air to water intercooler system, new fuel injectors/pump, and a high-flow air induction system, among others.

This drastically bumps the Legend Edition’s output to 808 horsepower along with 677 lb-ft of torque. We also have a new splitter, side sills, rear spoiler with gurney lip all in carbon fiber courtesy of CarbonAero. The shop is also giving the muscle car a lowered suspension system to improve its driving dynamics.

The Ford Mustang GT Legend Edition sits on four 20-inch alloy wheels with Brembo six-piston brake calipers. Each one is wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 rubber. Hennessey Performance then subjects all of the 50 units to a comprehensive calibration. Once everything meets their strict standards, it receives a dash and engine plaque that lists the serialization.

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Images courtesy of Hennessey Performance

Kuckoo introduces its compact square-drop camper trailer called the Bruno

If you don’t want to install a camper on your pickup truck or SUV, there are other alternatives. Since your ride likely has a good towing capacity, why not go for a trailer type instead? We have a couple of suggestions in mind depending on your needs. For a more compact yet feature-packed platform, Kuckoo presents its Bruno.

The Lochgau, Germany-based outfit notes that it’s time for outdoor leisure-seekers to consider non-tear-drop profiles. Thus, the Bruno features what the brand calls a square-drop silhouette. Now, this is a camper that packs a lot of features into something with a smaller footprint.

It measures approximately 15 x 6.1 x 6.4 feet (L x H x W) and tips the scales at 1,168.45 lbs. Keep in mind the weight is based on the standard setup and will change with add-ons. No parking on the driveway as the camper trailer can fit inside your average garage.

By default, Kuckoo builds it on a braked chassis. The camper trailer mostly uses wood for its construction. To keep the exterior safe from the elements, epoxy resin, fiberglass, and a 2K PU coating available in RAL colors. Meanwhile, the interior looks elegant with oiled wooden surfaces.

For privacy, all windows come with roller shutters and mesh screens to keep annoying insects out. Cook inside or outside as the Bruno lets you slide out the cooking area along with the shelves. A 12V battery system powers the interior and exterior lights, but you can also add optional solar panels.

Organize your stuff with ease as the Bruno boasts multiple storage areas. Get in touch with Kuckoo to personalize the camper trailer according to your specifications.

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Images courtesy of Kuckoo Camper

LEGO welcomes the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor to its Technic catalog as a 1,389-piece kit

With a generous amount of imagination and a boatload of LEGO bricks, you can practically design anything under the sun. Just look at those huge display models in toy stores or those uploaded by content creators online. Meanwhile, it’s also fun to follow a detailed instruction manual to build something like this sweet. For example, this 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor set.

This new kit is marketed under the Danish toymaker’s Technic banner, which means it will be one massive undertaking. Even veteran brick builders will love the challenge it brings to the table. Out of the box, there are 1,379 pieces to work with.

Also, a preview of the finished product on the box suggest it will comprehensive replica of the pickup truck. LEGO did not only focus on the exterior aspect of the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor. Instead, the level of intricacy the Technic lineup touts extends to the interior and more.

You can build a scale model of the actual vehicle’s V6 engine complete with moving pistons. Next. All four of its wheels feature a working suspension system just like the real thing. Now you can simulate how the pickup track can effortlessly tackle even the most difficult terrain.

Other articulating parts include the hood, the four doors, and the tailgate at the rear. The LEGO Technic 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor comes in an orange paint job with black accents. Even the Raptor badging is visible as a decal just above the rear fenders. Finally, once fully assembled, it stands over 6 inches high and is about 16.5 inches long. This is a great alternative when board games just don’t cut it.

Buy – $99.99

Images courtesy of LEGO