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Subaru's BRZ Series.Purple is an Exciting Limited Edition

2024-10-28T16:36:42+00:00

Subaru's got another one of its Series.Special editions lined up, and this time, it’s the 2025 BRZ Series.Purple. Like the Series.White and Series.Gray before it, the latest addition to Subaru’s color-exclusive lineup trades horsepower upgrades for, well, aesthetics. No extra punch under the hood, but at least it looks sharp doing the same thing as last year, right? We're only kidding. We love the purple.

Making its debut at SubieFest Texas on October 19, the Series.Purple is all about that Galaxy Purple Pearl paint job. It’s unique, attention-grabbing, and probably hard to keep clean - but hey, that's the life of a special edition, and a small price to pay for this kind of aura. The exclusive satin silver wheels add a nice contrast, and a blacked-out badge on the decklid completes the look.

Inside, Subaru’s added some style with exclusive grey stitching on the steering wheel, door panels, and shifter boot. There’s an STI short-throw shifter for a bit more engagement and a flexible V-bar (strut brace) for added steering response. So while you’re not getting any extra horsepower, you do get a bit of a sharper feel behind the wheel.

Only 500 units of the BRZ Series.Purple are up for grabs, and with a starting price of $36,565, it’s set to be a collector's item - especially after the inevitable dealer markups for this limited run model. If you're holding out for a purple Subaru with four doors, we have more good news - the 2025 WRX tS is also set to wear Galaxy Purple Pearl, so you have options for rolling in style.

Cosworth Partners with SimRep Engineering for CCW Mk2 Pro Sim Wheel

2024-10-18T17:04:44+00:00

Cosworth and SimRep Engineering have unveiled the CCW Mk2 Pro Sim steering wheel, designed to offer an unparalleled sim racing experience for both professionals and enthusiasts. Modeled after Cosworth's FIA-certified CCW Mk2 used in LMP2 and IndyCar, the Pro Sim version mirrors the precision and build quality of the real-world wheel. The result? A sim racing setup that feels authentic and immersive, giving drivers a tangible edge in honing their craft.

With cutting-edge features like a 4.3-inch TFT LCD display, advanced rotary switches, and paddles, the CCW Mk2 Pro Sim is engineered for ultimate functionality. Seamless integration with SimHub’s software suite ensures this wheel connects effortlessly with any high-performance simulator setup. SimRep Engineering, known for their innovation in sim racing tech, collaborated closely with Cosworth, utilizing original CAD designs to create a product that bridges the gap between sim and real-world racing. The result is a state of the art sim racing wheel any driver would be envious of.

For more information, or to purchase one for yourself, visit Shop.SimRep-Engineering.com

Mobile Solutions to Host Hot Rod Interior Build School - November 21-24

2024-10-11T18:22:30+00:00

Attention all hot rod builders, automotive interior stylers, and DIYers! Get ready to elevate your building skills with Mobile Solutions' Hot Rod Interior Build School, a four-day intensive course designed to teach you the finer points of hot rod interior fabrication. This is where classic car craftsmanship meets modern design and technology, and where seasoned pros will show you how to take your builds and designs to the next level. Here are just some of the aspects of interior building you can expect to learn:

Design to Reality: Learn how to take a concept and turn it into a tangible, buildable project that seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with contemporary style.
Precision Router Techniques: Sharpen your skills with detailed router work to boost efficiency and precision.
Aluminum Inserts & Surface Finishes: Master quick, effective methods for creating polished aluminum accents, complete with surface finish treatments that add depth and style.
Material Fusion: Perfect the art of joining materials like vinyl, suede, and carpet for seamless, high-end results.
Vinyl Embossing & Custom Patterns: Explore new vinyl embossing techniques and dive into diamond and hex patterns that bring an upscale look to any interior.
Vinyl Wrapping Techniques: Get hands-on with time-saving vinyl wrapping methods that deliver professional-grade finishes.

You'll also witness a live trunk build from start to finish, giving you the full picture of how to execute a show-stopping interior upgrade. Each participant will walk away with a comprehensive take-home project, ready to apply these techniques in their own shop.

This isn’t just a class - it’s an opportunity to reshape the way you approach custom interior work. You’ll leave with the tools, techniques, and confidence to charge top-tier rates for the kind of high-quality craftsmanship that keeps clients coming back. And with insights from some of the most creative minds in the business, you’ll expand your network while gaining skills that set you apart in the competitive world of hot rod interiors.

If you're serious about stepping up your game in custom interior fabrication, this is where you need to be.

You can learn more and sign up for the school at MobileSolutions-USA.com

Volkswagen's Ketchup Brand "Gewürz" Hits America for Limited Time

2024-09-24T18:06:15+00:00

Volkswagen is no stranger to iconic creations, but this time, it’s not about cars - it’s about a specific brand of ketchup. VW's Gewürz Ketchup Brand, part number 00010 ZDK-259-101 - yes, it actually has a VW part number - has made a brief and wildly popular appearance in the U.S. Distributed through DriverGear, this limited-edition condiment was quickly claimed by fans eager to get a taste of an unexpected piece of Volkswagen’s history.

This isn't the brand's first foray into sauces, either. For years, Volkswagen’s currywurst has been more than just a lunch option for factory workers in Wolfsburg - it’s become a beloved staple that embodies the brand’s quirky side. First crafted in 1973 by Volkswagen-employed chefs, the currywurst sausage, known for its secret recipe, has even been sold under an official VW part number. The Gewürz Ketchup, with its unique blend of spices, was developed specifically to complement this sausage, drenched over bite-sized slices and creating a dish that has become as iconic as the cars themselves. You might also remember the Porsche Cayenne line of hot sauces from earlier this year.

“This year we’re celebrating more than a big anniversary of selling cars,” said Rachael Zaluzec, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience and Brand Marketing, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “We’re celebrating stories, memories, passion, and all the fun, and unexpected things that make Volkswagen the brand we are today - things like our Gewürz Ketchup Brand condiment.”

Volkswagen’s 75th anniversary celebration in America is all about the moments that make the brand special, and that includes the fans who have kept the love alive. One such enthusiast is Jamie Orr, who has been bringing the ketchup back from VW’s Wolfsburg headquarters as a personal souvenir. Over the years, he’s handed out bottles at car meets and enthusiast gatherings, spreading the gospel of Volkswagen’s culinary culture in the most delicious way. Orr’s passion was one of the sparks that led Volkswagen to finally bring the condiment stateside.

For those who missed out on grabbing a bottle, there’s still a chance to sample the ketchup at ChainFEST, the world’s premier gourmet chain food festival, taking place in Los Angeles on October 5, 2024. This special appearance gives fans an opportunity to experience a taste of Volkswagen’s unique history in a way that goes beyond the garage.

Stingray Brings Karaoke to Select Ford Vehicles

2024-09-17T14:30:01+00:00

Stingray has teamed up with Ford to bring its popular Stingray Karaoke experience directly to Ford vehicles, starting with the all-electric F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E, with more models to follow. This partnership is all about enhancing the in-car entertainment scene, letting drivers and passengers sing along to their favorite tracks whether they're parked or on the move.

When you're parked or waiting for a charge, Stingray Karaoke lets you display lyrics on the in-car screen, turning your Ford into a mobile karaoke stage. It's a simple setup, making it easy for everyone in the car to get in on the fun.

Developed by Stingray and Ford’s engineering teams, the system is designed to make karaoke seamless and intuitive. When driving, if the app detects a front passenger is buckled in, a QR code pops up. Your passenger can then scan it with their phone to control the karaoke session - no login needed. They can add songs, switch tracks, or follow along with the lyrics right from their smartphone, all synced up with the vehicle’s sound system.

"Expanding Stingray's entertainment services to Ford vehicles marks a significant step in our mission to enrich the in-car experience," said Jim Riley, President, US Division at Stingray. "The debut of Stingray Karaoke in Ford vehicles underscores Stingray's dedication to bringing innovative solutions to the automotive industry to engage customers at a time when consumers are expecting a richer entertainment experience in their vehicle."

The system makes it easy to find songs by searching for titles, artists, or even specific lyrics. It covers a wide range of genres - Rock, Country, Pop, R&B, Latin, K-pop, J-pop, and even family-friendly hits - so everyone in the car can find something they love. With a multilingual interface, it’s built for a global audience, offering local favorites for karaoke fans wherever they are.

"Our goal at Ford is to continue to improve the ownership experience for customers by delivering experiences like Stingray Karaoke that ultimately bring joy,” said Chet Dhruna, Connect and Engage General Manager, Ford Motor Company. “The Ford and Stingray teams worked closely to bring the app to Ford owners so they can make memories with their friends and family no matter where they are on their journey, and we can’t wait to hear about these stories.”

The rollout starts with F-150 Lightning owners getting the first update, followed by Mustang Mach-E drivers across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Later, models like the 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln’s Navigator, Aviator, and Nautilus will join the lineup, making Stingray Karaoke available through Ford and Lincoln’s Digital Experience. To access the service, owners need either an active Ford or Lincoln Premium Connectivity plan or a Wi-Fi connection.

This seamless integration of Stingray Karaoke into Ford's tech-forward lineup is set to amplify the driving experience, bringing a new level of fun and engagement to the road.

*The Stingray Karaoke QR code to access Stingray Karaoke on a smartphone is only available when the vehicle detects a passenger in the front seat and the passenger seat belt is buckled.

**F-150 Lightning owners with the SYNC 4A infotainment system are eligible to receive the update, including Lightning, Platinum and Flash models. Owners can confirm eligibility by visiting https://www.ford.com/support/sync-maps-updates/.

Structural Batteries: Are EVs About to Shed Major Weight?

2024-09-11T16:27:40+00:00

Imagine if your car’s frame wasn’t just a shell, but it was the power source, too. That’s exactly what a team of researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden is working on, and their latest advancements in structural batteries could flip the script on how we think about energy storage in electric vehicles (EVs). By creating a material that pulls double duty as both a power supply and a load-bearing structure, they’re making significant strides toward lighter, more efficient cars, planes, and even consumer electronics.

Structural batteries - think of them as "massless energy storage" - promise to cut the weight of EVs, increase their range, and push the boundaries of what’s possible for energy-efficient transportation. According to the research team, these batteries could extend the driving range of an EV by up to 70% on a single charge. That’s not just a little bump in efficiency - it’s a potential game-changer for the entire auto industry.

"We have succeeded in creating a battery made of carbon fibre composite that is as stiff as aluminium and energy-dense enough to be used commercially," says Richa Chaudhary, one of the lead researchers on the project. “Just like a human skeleton, the battery has several functions at the same time."

Since 2018, Chalmers University has been at the forefront of research into how carbon fibers can store electrical energy, turning heads when they showed how these fibers could act as both the structure and the battery in EVs. This isn’t just about cutting-edge tech, anymore - it’s about real-world applications that could reshape industries.

Shedding Weight, Adding Range

The team’s latest breakthrough brings the battery’s energy density to 30 watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg). While that might sound modest compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, it’s important to consider the bigger picture. This battery is part of the vehicle’s structure, meaning the overall weight drops significantly. With less weight to move, the vehicle needs less energy, making it far more efficient. The potential savings here aren’t just for your daily commute but for the long haul as well. Picture an EV that could travel 70% farther on the same amount of energy.

"Investing in light and energy-efficient vehicles is a matter of course if we are to economise on energy and think about future generations. We have made calculations on electric cars that show that they could drive for up to 70 percent longer than today if they had competitive structural batteries," says Professor Leif Asp, the project’s research lead.

Safety and Strength Still Come First

In addition to the energy storage perks, this new battery tech doesn't skimp on safety or strength. The battery’s stiffness has been dramatically improved, allowing it to meet the demanding structural requirements of vehicles while maintaining a lightweight profile. Essentially, it can hold up as well as aluminum in terms of load-bearing, but without all that extra mass.

"In terms of multifunctional properties, the new battery is twice as good as its predecessor – and actually the best ever made in the world," says Asp, who has been researching structural batteries since 2007.

Looking Ahead: From Laptops to EVs

While there’s still plenty of work to be done before we see this tech rolling off assembly lines, the potential is enormous. Whether it’s powering the next generation of razor-thin mobile phones or significantly extending the range of EVs, this technology is poised to make an impact across multiple industries. Startups like Sinonus AB, a spin-off from Chalmers, are already working on bringing these batteries to market.

It’s clear that structural batteries aren’t just some far-off concept - they’re knocking on the door of commercialization. With enough investment, the automotive and aerospace sectors could be the first to benefit from these lightweight, energy-efficient advancements. And with that kind of backing, the sky’s the limit.

The future of EVs might not be about building better batteries - it might be about building better cars with batteries inside them. Chalmers University’s structural battery could be the key to unlocking longer range, lighter vehicles, and a more sustainable future for transportation. Keep your eyes on this space because it’s just getting started.

Photography courtesy of Chalmers University of Technology | Henrik Sandsjö

Porsche Gets Spicy with Limited Cayenne Hot Sauces

2024-09-09T15:24:17+00:00

With a name like "Cayenne" it was bound to happen eventually. This fall, Porsche is turning up the heat for enthusiasts across Canada. Book a test drive of the iconic Cayenne at select Porsche Centres, and you’ll leave with more than just the thrill of the drive – you’ll score a limited-edition hot sauce, specially crafted to reflect the essence of Porsche’s dynamic SUV. But act fast, these sauces are available only while supplies last.

Since its debut in 2002, the Porsche Cayenne has continually pushed boundaries, redefining what an SUV can be. Blending utility with performance, this model has shaped the segment and consistently been one of the brand’s top sellers. With every new generation, the Cayenne has evolved - getting bolder, more capable, and yes, spicier.

Now, that Cayenne "spice" takes on a literal form, in the form of a lineup of exclusive hot sauces that mirror the personality of the Cayenne’s various trims. The “Original” sauce brings a sweet and garlicky heat, echoing the versatility and balance of the base model. The “Cayenne S” ups the ante with a punchy blend of cayenne peppers, mango, and pineapple, a nod to the model’s enhanced performance.

For those intrigued by Porsche’s electrified models, two E-Hybrid-inspired sauces introduce a refreshing blend of apples, green cayenne peppers, ginger, and jalapeño. Meanwhile, the high-performance “GTS” and “Turbo GT” sauces turn up the intensity. The “GTS” delivers bold black cherry notes with a three-pepper kick, while the “Turbo GT” takes it up another notch with smoky chipotle and fiery ghost peppers, evoking the power and precision of the top-tier Cayenne models.

These sauces were born from the Cayenne Taste Drive, an event Porsche held to celebrate the model’s blend of power and agility. Participants navigated a custom skills course featuring slaloms, hill descents, and other driving challenges, guided by Porsche-certified instructors. Their performance was translated into a personalized Scoville rating, resulting in bespoke hot sauces that matched their driving prowess.

The Cayenne Taste Drive and its custom sauces are part of Porsche’s commitment to delivering immersive experiences that go beyond the road. While this event was invite-only, Porsche fans can still dive into the brand’s world through various Porsche Experiences like Track Experience and Ice Experience. And soon, the new Porsche Experience Centre in Toronto will open its doors, offering even more ways to engage with the Porsche lifestyle in Canada.

Ready to feel the heat? Book your Cayenne test drive and snag a hot sauce that’s as bold as the ride.