All posts by Francis Mitterrand

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BMW built a test site worth 300 million euros

BMW is one of the companies that works extensively on the electrification of its cars but also on the development of autonomous driving, and their new investment worth 300 million euros is a new test site for the development of autonomous driving and parking technologies.

This is not the first test site for autonomous driving that BMW has built. The German car manufacturer owns four other test sites in Aschheim, Munich, Miramas (France) and Arjeplog (Sweden). The test site is 600 hectares in size and allows BMW to test all kinds of different driving conditions such as those in the city, the countryside and the highway.

So far, BMW’s self-driving prototypes have covered about 70,000 kilometers including high-speed maneuvers on highways, braking tests, stops at traffic lights, and other tests. All test vehicles have drive-by-wire technology, which allows for perfectly consistent pedal control. When brake tests are performed, the vehicles are moved slightly to ensure that the results are not affected by small pieces of tire that may be left on the road.

The training ground is equipped with an advanced water management system that collects rainwater and uses it for on-track needs. Also, care was taken of the animal world by installing a control system for the amphibians that live in this area, which allows them to cross safely.

Source: BMW

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BMW built a test site worth 300 million euros
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2024 Mitsubishi L200

The Japanese car manufacturer Mitsubishi presented the new generation of the L200 model. It is a mid-sized pickup, known in other markets as the Triton, whose first generation appeared on the market four and a half decades ago.

After a decade since the fifth generation appeared, the new L200 brings a complete redesign under the slogan “Power for Adventure”, and the Mitsubishi Ralliart department also participated in the development of this car. It received a new chassis adapted to the larger body with a 60% increase in torsional stiffness. The suspension is also unique, and the Super Select 4WD-II system comes with an upgraded seven driving modes for different surfaces (normal, eco, gravel, snow, mud, sand and rocks) for better performance on and especially off-road. There is also a new front fascia, but also significant improvements in safety and comfort.

The L200 is powered by a 2.4L turbo-diesel with 150 hp (110 kW) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm) of torque. There will be two more versions with 183 hp (135 kW) and 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) of torque and the most powerful version with 204 hp (150 kW) and 347 lb-ft (470 Nm) of torque. All versions will be equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission with sports mode or a manual transmission, also with six speeds, but with a shift-by-wire system that allows for easy shifting and reduced engine vibrations.

Inside, the cabin has been completely redesigned, but the analog gauges have been retained. In the central part of the dashboard, there is a touch screen under which there are buttons for AC. The car is equipped with USB A plus C ports, and a wireless phone charger.

Source: Mitsubishi

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2024 Mitsubishi L200
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Aston Martin Valour already sold out

Aston Martin Valour is a new car from the British manufacturer that arrived on the market two weeks ago with which the company celebrates its 110th birthday. It was produced in only 110 copies and all cars are already sold out.

Valour is powered by a 5.2L twin-turbo V12 engine with 705 hp (518 kW) and 555 lb-ft (753 Nm) of torque. It is the last Aston Martin model powered by a V12 engine. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission and a mechanical limited-slip differential. It is equipped with 410/360 mm (front/back) carbon-ceramic brakes, new suspension with adaptive shock absorbers and stabilizers.

Its carbon body is finished in green, and in Aston Martin’s Q department they have already prepared a palette of additional body colors and numerous optional elements for the body and in the cabin, and customers will have many options for personalization. It sits on unique 21-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport S5 tires.

Although the price is not known, it is believed to be between 1 and 1.5 million pounds. The price can be higher due to the wide range of accessories and personalization options. The first cars are expected to be delivered later this year, while the rest will be delivered during 2024.

Source: Aston Martin

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Aston Martin Valour already sold out
Aston Martin Valour