Weekly Motoring news Roundup July 30th

Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean edition: A glimpse into Bentley’s future

Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean edition: A glimpse into Bentley’s futureAs we come to the end of another week  we look at some of the motoring news which you may have missed starting with a glimpse into Bentley’s future.

 

Bentley is today announcing details of a new limited edition to celebrate the introduction of its latest model, the Flying Spur Hybrid. Taking inspiration from the EXP 100 GT concept car that defines Bentley’s view of luxury mobility in 2035, the Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition is the first step on a journey to introduce new sustainable materials as part of its Beyond100 strategy.

The Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition not only uses an advanced hybrid powertrain delivering a combined power of 536 bhp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb.ft) of torque, but also includes new, even more sustainable materials throughout the cabin, directly reflecting design details showcased in Bentley’s centenary concept car. The cabin features panels of beautifully crafted tweed made from 100% British wool, twisting a blend of tonal colours into a bespoke yarn to create a unique natural luxury textile especially for Bentley.

With a focus on sustainability, the open pore Koa veneer fascias and waistrails use 90% less lacquer than high-gloss veneers, and allow the natural surface texture and aesthetic of the wood to be enjoyed. Selected from only the very best, most figured stock available, open-pore veneer is painted with just three ultra-thin layers of lacquer, together totalling only 0.1 mm in thickness.

Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean edition: A glimpse into Bentley’s futureFlying Spur Hybrid Odyssean edition: A glimpse into Bentley’s futureFlying Spur Hybrid Odyssean edition: A glimpse into Bentley’s future

 

 

The centre console is finished in a sleek, minimalist Piano Linen veneer, while a dedicated three-colour leather scheme lends the whole interior new depth. Together with new materials, sustainable leather is used widely across the cabin, thanks to its long-term durability. Indeed, Bentley’s own 1955 S1 Flying Spur was referenced during the design process, as the car still retains its original, now-66-year-old leather interior which is still in immaculate condition.

Accents to the interior are in a soft, warm hide called Autumn, with customers able to choose from five specifications that utilise Beluga, Porpoise, Cricketball, Brunel or Burnt Oak leather in tandem with light, modern Linen hide. A unique Odyssean Edition treadplate becomes apparent when entering or exiting the car, and is matched with exterior D-pillar badging.

In common with the ombré finishes seen in the EXP 100 GT interior, an exclusive new embroidery style sees thread colours blend calmly into one another across the width of each seat, defining and accentuating the “lofted diamond” pattern unique to the Flying Spur – together creating a stunning effect employed here by Bentley for the first time.

Deep pile overmats feature contrast binding, and can be upgraded to lambswool rugs – increasing the wool content of the interior yet further.

To the exterior, painted Pale Brodgar accents on the 21” ten twin-spoke wheels and lower brightware (front and rear bumpers, headlight and tail light surrounds and lower body side chrome) result in a uniquely serene character. A curated exterior palette of six colours have been recommended to harmonise with the Pale Brodgar accents, but the full Bentley palette can be chosen from.

Research Proves Effectiveness of Bentley Hybrids
As part of Bentley’s journey towards electrification and the recently announced Beyond100 strategy (delivering a product range composed entirely of plug-in hybrids or battery electric vehicles by 2026), a research activity has been undertaken to understand customer usage of Bentley Hybrid owners in detail.

Over 90 per cent of customers use their first generation Bentayga Hybrid on a daily basis or several times a week and nearly 100 per cent of customers use EV mode, with half of them consistently undertaking journeys of less than 30 miles.

In real world terms, this means that the majority of the journeys, whether office commuting or school runs, can be achieved predominantly whilst producing zero emissions.

Efficent, Effortless Grand Touring
The Flying Spur Hybrid Odyssean Edition demonstrates that hybridisation does not compromise luxury or performance. With an unperceivable blend between the internal combustion engine and electric motor, refined serenity is on offer regardless of driving mode or style.

The new powertrain combines a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine with an advanced electric motor. With high power reserves, superior torque and quick throttle response the latest hybrid model gives little away to the Flying Spur V8 in acceleration, passing 60 mph from a standstill in 4.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.3 secs).

Delivering a total of 536 bhp (544 PS) and 750 Nm (553 lb.ft) of torque – an additional 95 bhp in comparison to the Bentayga Hybrid. The Flying Spur Odyssean has the capability to cover over 700 km when fully fuelled.

The new powertrain achieves a significant reduction in fuel consumption whilst still providing the authentic Bentley character of effortless, refined performance.

New VW Taigo makes its European debut

The stage is set for a new body shape from the Volkswagen brand: With the new compact crossover Taigo1, Volkswagen is launching an SUV coupé on the European market for the first time. The front-wheel drive Taigo is a real crowd-pleaser with its trendy crossover body style, raised seating positions, pioneering connectivity and unrestricted suitability for everyday use. The rear of the five-seater car slopes backwards in the style of a coupé, without restricting headroom in the back seat. This sees Volkswagen expand the portfolio of the compact Polo (hatchback) and T-Cross (SUV) models built on the MQB platform with a third chassis variant, which has previously been primarily re-served for high-end models. Numerous latest-generation assistance systems guarantee optimum comfort and a high level of safety for all passengers. The Taigo made its virtual European debut on Thursday 29 July at 08:00 a.m. CEST.

The Taigo R-LineThe Taigo R-LineThe Taigo R-Line

 

 

The new Taigo focusses on design, individuality and emotion. With full LED head-lights, an all-digital cockpit and the latest generation of infotainment systems (MIB3) as standard, the SUV coupé meas- uring in at just under 4.26 metres sets high technology standards in its class. The expressive body shape is the first of its kind in the Volkswagen brand’s model portfolio. With a crossover body style and a silhouette like that of a coupé, the new Taigo – just like its Brazilian counterpart the Nivus – is perfectly equipped for winning over new, predominantly young and young-at-heart groups of buyers for Volkswagen. The technical basis of the Taigo is Volkswagen’s MQB. Depending on the options selected, the Taigo also comes with the new IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights and an illuminated radiator grill crossbar.

The Taigo’s design is characterised by strong proportions, with the silhouette like that of a coupé being particularly striking with the C pillar slanting well forward. Inspired by SUV coupés in higher vehicle classes, this makes the Taigo unique in its sector.

On the inside, the Taigo scores with an elaborately designed multifunctional steering wheel and modern control elements as standard. The infotainment systems are based on the third generation of MIB3, including an online control unit (eSIM) and “App Connect Wireless” (depending on the configuration). Features such as access to streaming services, natural voice control and cloud-based personalisation using “Volkswagen ID” allow the use of the latest MIB3.1 services, depending on the configuration.

And when it comes to driver assistance for more comfort and safety, the new SUV coupé is very similar to Volkswagen models from higher sectors. Every Taigo comes with assistance systems such as the surroundings monitoring system “Front Assist”, including city emergency brake function, and the lane departure warning system “Lane Assist” as standard. “IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist” is available as an optional extra, enabling semi-automated driving up to a system-determined top speed of 210 km/h. 

Reservations open for new PEUGEOT 308 SW

PEUGEOT has opened reservations for the new 308 SW, an even more practical and versatile variant of the new 308. Featuring a bold new design and class-leading safety features, the new 308 SW is available for the first time with efficient plug-in hybrid technology alongside advanced petrol and diesel engines. With reservations now open, the new 308 SW will arrive in showrooms in early 2022.

PEUGEOT 308 SWThe new 308 SW adds a new dimension of practicality and style to the compact estate segment. For the first time ever, the new 308 SW is available with plug-in hybrid technology alongside efficient petrol and diesel engines, allowing buyers to choose the powertrain that best suits their needs.

From launch, customers have a choice between two plug-in hybrid powertrains – a HYBRID 180 e-EAT8 or the more powerful, HYBRID 225 e-EAT8, with both vehicles powered by a 12.4kWh electric battery and a 1.6-litre petrol engine. Both models are capable of up to 39 miles in electric mode under WLTP testing. With CO2 emissions from 25g/km, the 308 SW HYBRID models are also eligible for a Benefit-in-Kind rate of just 11%, making them ideal for fleet and business users.

Both plug-in hybrid variants come standard with a 3.7kW on-board charger, with buyers able to add a faster 7.4kW as an option. A full charge with the standard 3.7kW cable takes 3 hours and 55 minutes, decreasing to 1 hour and 55 minutes when using the faster 7.4kW charger.

From launch, the new 308 SW will also be available with PEUGEOT’s advanced petrol and diesel engines. Buyers have a choice between a 1.2-litre PureTech 130 petrol engine and a 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel engine. All models come standard with PEUGEOT’s smooth shifting eight-speed EAT8 automatic transmission with Stop & Start technology.

Priced from £25,200.000. 

Mercedes-Benz reveals UK pricing and specification for S 580 e L plug-in hybrid

The S 580 e L plug-in hybrid is now on sale with prices starting from £104,490 for the S 580 e L AMG Line Premium. The top-of-the-range S 580 e L AMG Line Premium Plus Executive costs £113,880.

Mercedes-Benz reveals UK pricing and specification for S 580 e L plug-in hybridThe newest S-Class features a 3.0-litre straight-six engine, capable of producing 367 hp, combined with a 28.6 kWh battery. The battery produces 150 hp and allows the S 580 e L to travel for up to 63 miles on electric alone. The S 580 e L can deliver up to 353.1 mpg and emits just 18 g/km of CO2.

The lithium-ion battery can be charged using a DC rapid charger in 20 minutes (10-80%) and under four hours using a 7.4 kW home wallbox.

A 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission is standard across the S-Class range.

The new S-Class features the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen central display, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, plus an MBUX tablet – which can be used as a fully-fledged tablet outside of the vehicle, including the ability to download Android apps (MBUX tablet is available as part of the Executive line). The driver display is also optionally available with 3D technology, including facial recognition which can monitor driver drowsiness and exterior mirror settings.

The ‘Hey Mercedes’ virtual assistant is also more intelligent than ever, now recognising instructions or requests from any seat in the car. 

Renault announces pricing and technical details for Megane Hatchback with E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid

Renault has confirmed full pricing and specification of the New Megane Hatch Plug-In Hybrid, the five-door model enhancing the brand’s electrified vehicle offering and sitting alongside the existing Sports Tourer version that is available with the advanced powertrain. The new Megane Hatch Plug-In Hybrid is available to order in August with the first UK customers set to take delivery in September.

Renault Megane Hatchback with E-Tech Plug-In HybridThe new arrival combines superior efficiency with responsive performance. It emits as little as 28g/km CO2 and can return over 235 mpg (WLTP) yet is also more powerful than the outgoing petrol and diesel versions. In pure electric mode it can cover up to 30 miles on a single charge, with its battery able to be charged from zero to 100 per cent in as little as three hours.

Business customers also benefit from the Megane Hatch Plug-In Hybrid qualifying for a Benefit-In-Kind rate of only 11 per cent and £0 VED costs for the first year.

Customers will be able to choose from two well-equipped trim levels – the Iconic E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid 160 Auto and the sporty R.S. Line E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid 160 Auto. The extensive standard specification includes the addition of the EASY LINK navigation and infotainment system, plus a host of advanced driver assistance systems and features that enhance convenience and safety.

When combined with the other hybrid and 100 per cent electric vehicles in the Renault passenger car range, the addition of the Megane Hatch Plug-In Hybrid means Renault now offers an electrified option to suit everyone.

The New Megane Hatch Plug-In Hybrid is priced from £29,495 on the road.

Stimulating ideas for urban mobility: BMW Group Research unveils innovative concepts for cargo bike and e-scooter 

The S 580 e L plug-in hybrid is now on sale with prices starting from £104,490 for the S 580 e L AMG Line Premium. The top-of-the-range S 580 e L AMG Line Premium Plus Executive costs £113,880.

scooterThe newest S-Class features a 3.0-litre straight-six engine, capable of producing 367 hp, combined with a 28.6 kWh battery. The battery produces 150 hp and allows the S 580 e L to travel for up to 63 miles on electric alone. The S 580 e L can deliver up to 353.1 mpg and emits just 18 g/km of CO2.

The lithium-ion battery can be charged using a DC rapid charger in 20 minutes (10-80%) and under four hours using a 7.4 kW home wallbox.

A 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission is standard across the S-Class range.

The new S-Class features the latest generation of Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) with a 12.8-inch OLED touchscreen central display, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, plus an MBUX tablet – which can be used as a fully-fledged tablet outside of the vehicle, including the ability to download Android apps (MBUX tablet is available as part of the Executive line). The driver display is also optionally available with 3D technology, including facial recognition which can monitor driver drowsiness and exterior mirror settings.

The ‘Hey Mercedes’ virtual assistant is also more intelligent than ever, now recognising instructions or requests from any seat in the car.

In recent years, there has been an increase in traffic in many city centres, and the mobility requirements of the people who live there remain high. In its role as a premium provider for individual mobility, the BMW Group is actively helping to create the liveable city of the future. Here, its approach to mobility also looks beyond the company’s core business. The BMW Group has already presented a number of innovative micromobility solutions to the public in the past, including the BMW Motorrad X2City, the Personal Mover Concept and the BMW Vision E³ Way elevated road concept. With the unveiling of the electrified bicycle Concept DYNAMIC CARGO and the e-scooter Concept CLEVER COMMUTE, the BMW Group engineers are once again demonstrating their unrivalled ability to transfer know-how from the automotive sector to concepts for micromobility vehicles.

Mulliner develops 22” carbon fibre wheel for Bentayga

After years of development with one of the world’s leading composite suppliers, Bentley is today announcing a new carbon fibre wheel developed specifically for the Bentayga. The 22” carbon wheel, engineered with renowned specialists Bucci Composites, is to be the largest carbon wheel in production in the world and offers a vast range of benefits beyond the initial 6 kg improvement in unsprung mass per wheel.

Bentayga Carbon WheelThe new carbon wheel has been subjected to the exceptionally rigorous TÜV (Technischer Überwachungsverei – Technical Inspection Association) standards, and is the first carbon wheel ever produced to pass all tests. The newly developed rim has undergone the most rigorous testing for non-metallic wheels according to the new TÜV standards including biaxial stress testing, radial and lateral impact testing for simulating potholes and cobblestones, tyre overpressure, and excessive torque tests exceeding the permitted limits.

One of the most severe tests of the TUV requirements – the impact test – has shown how the carbon rim is extremely safe in addition to the performance benefits. After a severe impact which would crack or shatter an aluminium wheel, causing the tyre to collapse explosively, the carbon fibre rim allows a slow tyre deflation thanks to the intelligent layering of fibre weaves, allowing the vehicle to come to a controlled, safe stop.

For the final sign off stage, the wheel was put through its paces on one of the most famous tracks in the world – the Nürburgring Nordschleife.

 EAV reveal electric mid-mile urban van

Electric Assisted Vehicles Limited (EAV), the Oxford-based sustainable zero-emissions transport manufacturers, have today revealed LINCS, a modular multipurpose lightweight vehicle designed to provide urban light commercial van capability linked to EAV’s e-Cargo 2Cubed and RoRo applications.

LINCS has been designed from the ground-up in association with Saietta Group, whose new in-hub electric motors will power a lightweight skateboard platform developed by EAV. The LINCS platform will contain enclosed Li-ion batteries and become the basis of the new modular vehicle.

EAV reveal electric mid-mile urban van“The operational requirements for LINCS are both complex but also required a simple solution.” said Adam Barmby, CEO and Founder of EAV. “We wanted to produce a multipurpose light commercial vehicle as a logistics platform to transform the way we move people and goods around our urban environment. LINCS, in its logistics role, acts as a fully dynamic ‘hub-and-spoke’ mobile depot vehicle, delivering EAVRoRo boxes to EAV eCargo fleets in various different dynamic optimised locations such as forecourts or car parks. This significantly reduces stem distances and increases operational efficiency within the last mile. LINCS will also be able to operate as a simple covered urban van or open pick-up or drop side. The uniqueness of the design and engineering is in its versatility, packaging, light weight, strength and in the understanding of current and future urban cargo operations which we’ve already been successfully developing with our current EAV models.”

LINCS is built on an aluminium skateboard chassis platform utilising two linked in-hub motors from Saietta Group. The chassis itself contains EAV’s standard removable interchangeable Li-ion battery pack providing a range of up to 100 miles within an urban or intra-urban environment. The driver’s cab is located either on the left or righthand side of the LINCS, depending on the market, and is equipped with ‘EAVAdvancedÔ’ driving controls and in-cab systems. LINCS has been designed and futureproofed for fully autonomous operations which will be developed in conjunction with EAV’s leading technology partners. Uniquely, LINCS also features a ‘Road train’ capability where, on inter-urban or urban deployments, multiple LINCS can be linked together into a single autonomous vehicle.

“EAV is much more than an eCargo bike company. We’re a transport technology solutions business.” commented Nigel Gordon-Stewart, Executive Chairman at EAV. “We developed and launched the EAV2Cubed and its predecessor the EAVan as the foundation of a complete urban Future Transport vision conceived from a blank sheet of paper. In a new, environment and resource conservation-focused world, legacy automotive design and engineering solutions simply don’t work. They’re too heavy, too big and, from a resource and environmental point of view, are just wasteful. LINCS is the next step in our programme which sees a complete replacement of legacy urban road transport with new, sustainable, zero-emissions, environmentally-friendly, safe – but extremely efficient – solutions for cargo and passengers.”

The LINCS platform has all recyclable composite bodywork matching the current materials used on the EAV2Cubed and forthcoming EAVRoRo and EAVGo! vehicles. EAV is currently looking at using this material for the chassis platform in conjunction with fully recyclable aluminium to ensure a complete vehicle life resource management programme.

“Towns and cities are vitally important to future living.” continued Adam Barmby. “We have a duty to urban communities, to the businesses that operate within them providing jobs, commerce and opportunities for the future. Our duty is to provide an efficient commercial and passenger transport system that enhances the quality of life for everyone and everything within that community. We’d identified that vehicle hardware design makes a huge impact to operator efficiencies and cost reductions, especially in a world where 90% of costs are Opex rather than Capex. LINCS, as well as the other EAV vehicles, provide a better, safer, more cost efficient and higher environmental standard. It’s a big culture-shift step to walk away from the current legacy vehicles on the roads. It’s what we’re all used to after all and people don’t like change. But that change must happen and LINCS is a key part of the movement towards an exciting urban Future Transport vision.”

The first of the electric AC Cobra fires up 

Heralding a new generation of iconic sports cars, the first AC Cobra Series 1 electric is undergoing final development work ahead of the delivery of the first customer cars.

A faithful recreation of the AC Cobra, but with a modern, emissions-free electric powertrain, the Series 1 electric is the start of the next chapter for the famous British marque.

AC CobraEncapsulating the looks and the speed of the original Cobra, unveiled nearly 60 years ago, the new car will combine the appeal of the brand’s heritage with a specifically designed fully electric powertrain and thoroughly modern ride and handling.

The inception point for a series of new cars, which includes the AC Cobra Series 4 electric announced in June, the launch of the Series 1 electric marks a milestone for a company whose heritage stretches back 120 years.

Working with Derby based technical partner Falcon Electric, the Norfolk based company is ensuring that the implementation of EV technology into the famous car is in keeping with the personality and performance that has made AC’s original design one of the most imitated manufacturers of all time.

Alan Lubinsky, Chief Executive of AC Cars for more than two decades, said: “I’m so proud of the team behind this project, and the hours that have been invested in making this car so special. This is British engineering and technology at its finest, upholding AC Car’s approach to producing only the finest hand-built sports cars .”

Although its production has been delayed by supply chain issues, the engineering team behind the car have been able to revisit some of the car’s core principles. As a result it’s selected enhanced and higher performing parts which mean the car will exceed original estimates. Weight, acceleration and handing have all been honed, to ensure the car is truly worthy of carrying the Cobra name.

With an unmistakable profile and a reputation for extreme performance, the AC Cobra’s story is the stuff of legend.

Working with the svelte AC Ace, the AC Cobra changed sports cars forever in 1962 by fitting Ford’s small block V8 into the two-seater and creating an automotive titan.

The shift from petrol engines to electric motors almost 60 years later will be just as significant as the original epiphany, allowing the famous British name to sell highly desirable high-performance cars that are fit for the future.

With a 0-62mph time of around 4secs, the Series 1 electric packs a punch akin to the early cars but with the near instant torque EVs are known for. However, the near 150 zero-emission mile range between charges will underline that this is undeniably an altogether different animal.

Just 58 examples of the AC Cobra Series 1 electric cars will be made, celebrating the anniversary of the production of the first AC Cobra. With a suggested retail of £138,000, plus on the road charges, it will be available in four unique AC Car colours: electric blue, electric black, electric white and electric green.

ENYAQ iV faces the future with striking new Crystal Face grille option

ŠKODA has added a striking new option for Enyaq iV customers – a Crystal Face grille. Now available to order as an option on Enyaq iV 80 models, the design takes its inspiration from the ŠKODA Vision iV concept car that made its public debut at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show.

Skoda ENYAQ iVThe new grille features more than 130 LEDs that form 18 vertical ribs and a horizontal strip that runs the width of the frame, which is finished in either chrome or black. The Crystal Face has an animated Coming/Leaving Home function and, together with the LED modules for the dipped and high beam in the full LED Matrix headlights and the daytime running lights, creates a unique welcoming light display. The Crystal Face turns on when the headlights are activated and illuminates the road ahead along with the dipped beam lights.

The Crystal Face is included in the Enyaq iV’s Light and View Plus package which can be specified on all Enyaq iV 80 models. The package is priced at £1,675 including VAT for the Enyaq iV 80 (£560 for the Enyaq iV 80 SportLine and 80x SportLine), and, in addition to the Crystal Face, adds full LED matrix beam headlights with variable light distribution, full LED rear lights with variable lighting functions, headlight washers and Dynamic headlight range control, with cornering light.

Ferrari SF90 Stradale sets production car lap record at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Ferrari SF90 Stradale Assetto Fiorano has sFerrari SF90 Stradaleet the fastest lap recorded by a production car at the 2.439-mile Indianapolis Motor Speedway road course, lapping the circuit at an impressive 1:29.625 seconds at a maximum speed of 174.6 mph to set this time.

“It was a great moment to witness, seeing how the impressive performance of the Ferrari SF90 Stradale put down this lap record on July 15,” says Mark Raffauf, Senior Director of Race Operations at International Motor Sports Association (IMSA), which oversaw the test.

“The Indianapolis Motor Speedway was built in 1909 to be a proving ground for automobiles of all makes, and we have remained true to that DNA since. Whether it is competing in purpose-built race cars or setting new standards in production cars, the historic 2.5-mile oval and the challenging road course at IMS continue to be automotive development and performance catalysts like none other. Across 112 years of history, we’ve always been excited to be part of these important milestones,” said IMS president J. Douglas Boles.

“The SF90 Stradale derives its name from 90 years of the Scuderia Ferrari, underscoring the vital importance of motor sports in the development of our road cars,” says Matteo Torre, President, Ferrari North America, “so running the SF90 Stradale here at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during Ferrari Racing Days, where we also had the Ferrari Challenge, XX and F1 Clienti programmes on-track this weekend, was fitting indeed.”

The new Ferrari SF90 Stradale is the most powerful Prancing Horse ever, and its first series-production PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). This new model is extreme on every level and represents a true paradigm shift because it delivers unprecedented performance for a production car. Figures such as 1,000 cv, and a weight-to-power ratio of 1.57 kg/cv, and 390 kg of downforce at 250 km/h not only put the SF90 Stradale at the top of its segment, but also mean that a V8 is the top-of-the-range model for the first time in the marque’s history.

On this model, clients can choose between the SF90 Stradale and a version with a more sports-oriented specification. The Assetto Fiorano specification includes significant upgrades, including special GT racing-derived Multimatic shock absorbers, extra lightweight features made from high-performance materials such as carbon-fibre (door panels, underbody) and titanium (springs, entire exhaust line), resulting in weight-saving of 30 kg. Another difference is the high downforce carbon-fibre rear spoiler which generates 390 kg of downforce at 250 km/h. The Assetto Fiorano can be ordered with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2R tyres designed specifically to improve performance on the track in the dry, as used to set the Indy lap record. 

Superpedestrian unlocks e-scooter safety breakthrough with acquisition of Navmatic

Superpedestrian, the MIT spin-off engineering firm behind LINK, “The Volvo of E-Scooters,” today unveiled a breakthrough active safety system dubbed “Pedestrian Defense.” The new system doesn’t just detect unsafe behaviors like riding on the sidewalk, but puts a stop to them in real time in order to prevent serious injuries. The safety breakthrough is made possible through the acquisition of Navmatic, and the application of their patented Super Fusion technology, which combines multiple sources of real-time vehicle dynamics data to yield the most accurate, practical and reliable fleet positioning and vehicle control available today. Superpedestrian finalized the acquisition of Navmatic, a startup focused on micromobility safety, in June.

scooterSuperpedestrian’s new Pedestrian Defense capabilities will resolve deeply ingrained challenges in micromobility that have led many cities to restrict, sanction and even ban shared e-scooters.

By integrating Navmatic’s Super Fusion technology into Superpedestrian’s existing Vehicle Intelligence (VI) platform, Pedestrian Defense was born to ensure that unsafe behaviors like sidewalk riding, wrong-way riding, aggressive swerving and repeated hard braking are detected, then immediately corrected by slowing or safely stopping the scooter. Pedestrian Defense is a unique system which makes Superpedestrian the only micromobility provider that can reliably detect and correct unsafe rider behavior in real time, and at scale across an entire fleet. The new technology integration also allows Superpedestrian to translate sensor data into other interventions, from direct notifications and incentives for riders, to comprehensive dashboards for policymakers that show safety trends and illustrate locations prone to unsafe behavior or increased chance of a crash.

Written by