Tag: cars

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Car Technology

Which Hybrid Car?

I get asked alot, Bal… which is the best Hybrid car out there? Well, first, this is what a hybrid car is…

As of early 2024, the Toyota Yaris Hybrid remains the best-selling hybrid car in Europe. This compact hatchback has consistently topped sales charts due to its combination of fuel efficiency, affordability, and reliability.

Key reasons for the Yaris Hybrid’s popularity include:

  • Excellent fuel economy: The Yaris Hybrid offers impressive fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice for European drivers.  
  • Compact size: Its small dimensions make it ideal for city driving and parking.  
  • Reliable performance: Toyota is known for producing reliable vehicles, and the Yaris Hybrid is no exception.  
  • Competitive pricing: The Yaris Hybrid is generally priced competitively compared to other hybrid models.

While the Toyota Yaris Hybrid remains a top seller, other popular hybrid models in Europe include:

  • Toyota Corolla Hybrid: A larger, more spacious option with similar fuel efficiency to the Yaris.
  • Peugeot 308 Hybrid: A French-made hybrid offering a stylish design and good performance.
  • Kia Niro Hybrid: A versatile crossover that combines the practicality of an SUV with the fuel efficiency of a hybrid.  

It’s important to note that the best-selling hybrid car can vary depending on specific regions and time periods. However, the Toyota Yaris Hybrid consistently maintains its position as a top choice in the European market.

And I’ll be honest – I do like the new Yaris. It’s sporty, it’s small, it’s compact and the styling is good!

But if you want to go premium..

  1. Lexus RX Hybrid: Known for its reliability and comfort, the Lexus RX Hybrid offers a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a smooth driving experience.
  2. Mercedes-Benz E-Class Hybrid: The E-Class Hybrid combines luxury, performance, and fuel efficiency. It features a spacious cabin, cutting-edge technology, and a comfortable ride.
  3. BMW 330e Hybrid: The 330e Hybrid offers a sporty driving experience with impressive fuel economy. It features a stylish interior, advanced safety features, and a powerful hybrid system.
  4. Audi A6 Hybrid: The A6 Hybrid combines luxury, technology, and efficiency. It offers a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a comfortable ride.
  5. Volvo XC90 Recharge: The XC90 Recharge is a luxurious plug-in hybrid SUV that offers a long electric range and a comfortable ride. It features a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a powerful hybrid system.

Key features to look for in premium hybrid cars:

  • Luxury interior: High-quality materials, comfortable seats, and ample legroom.
  • Advanced technology: Features like advanced driver-assistance systems, premium audio systems, and head-up displays.
  • Powerful hybrid system: A combination of a gasoline engine and electric motor that provides a smooth and efficient driving experience.
  • Long electric range: For plug-in hybrid models, a longer electric range allows for more frequent electric-only driving.

So there you go, you can go for a Yaris or a BMW 330em both excellent cars. Really depends on a number of factors you value.

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Car Technology

E-Fuel Cars

Synthetic Fuels: A Future Fuel for Cars?

Synthetic fuels, also known as e-fuels, are a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels for powering vehicles. These fuels are created synthetically from carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen, often using renewable energy sources.

How are Synthetic Fuels Made?
  1. Carbon Capture: Carbon dioxide is captured from industrial processes or directly from the atmosphere.
  2. Hydrogen Production: Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, or hydropower are used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis.
  3. Synthesis: The captured CO2 and hydrogen are combined in a chemical process to create synthetic hydrocarbons, which can be used as gasoline, diesel, or jet fuel.
Advantages of Synthetic Fuels
  • Carbon Neutrality: If the CO2 used in the production process is captured from the atmosphere and the energy used for electrolysis is renewable, synthetic fuels can be carbon-neutral.
  • Compatibility with Existing Engines: Synthetic fuels can be used in existing internal combustion engines without any modifications, making the transition to a low-carbon transportation sector more gradual.
  • Reduced Emissions: Burning synthetic fuels can result in lower emissions of harmful pollutants compared to traditional fossil fuels.
  • Energy Security: Synthetic fuels can reduce dependence on foreign oil supplies and enhance energy security.
Challenges and Considerations
  • High Production Costs: The current production of synthetic fuels is expensive, making them less competitive with traditional fossil fuels.
  • Energy Efficiency: The process of producing synthetic fuels can be energy-intensive, requiring significant amounts of renewable energy.
  • Infrastructure: The widespread adoption of synthetic fuels will require investments in new infrastructure, including production facilities and fueling stations (or, could we use existing fueling/petrol stations?)
The Future of Synthetic Fuels

As technology advances and renewable energy becomes more affordable, synthetic fuels could play a significant role in decarbonizing the transportation sector. While there are challenges to overcome, the potential benefits of synthetic fuels in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy security make them a promising area of research and development.

What do you think? Are synthetic fuels a viable solution to our transportation challenges, or do the costs and complexities outweigh the potential benefits?

Here’s a great video that discusses e-fuels in more depth..

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Car Technology

Hydrogen Cars

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCEVs): A Closer Look

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCEVs) have been gaining attention as a promising alternative to traditional petrol and electric vehicles.

Toyota and many others have released hydrogen fuel cell cars recently, and they’ve been quite popular. Even James May (ex-Top Gear presenter) bought one recently! But how do they work, and what are their advantages and disadvantages?

How do FCEVs work?

Unlike electric vehicles (EVs) that store electricity in batteries, FCEVs generate electricity on-board through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.

  1. Hydrogen Storage: Hydrogen is stored in high-pressure tanks within the vehicle.
  2. Fuel Cell: The hydrogen reacts with oxygen from the air in a fuel cell, producing electricity, water, and heat.
  3. Electric Motor: The electricity powers an electric motor, driving the wheels.
Advantages of FCEVs
  • Zero Tailpipe Emissions: FCEVs emit only water vapor, making them a cleaner option compared to gasoline or diesel vehicles.
  • Long Range: FCEVs can offer comparable or even longer driving ranges to gasoline vehicles, without the need for long charging times.
  • Quick Refueling: Refueling an FCEV is similar to refueling a gasoline vehicle, taking only a few minutes.
  • Quiet Operation: FCEVs are virtually silent, providing a more peaceful driving experience.
Disadvantages of FCEVs
  • Limited Infrastructure: The availability of hydrogen fueling stations is currently limited, which can restrict the usability of FCEVs for long-distance travel.
  • Higher Cost: The upfront cost of FCEVs is generally higher than that of gasoline or electric vehicles.
  • Hydrogen Production: The production of hydrogen can be energy-intensive, and the environmental impact depends on the source of energy used.
The Future of FCEVs

While FCEVs have several advantages, their widespread adoption is dependent on the development of a robust hydrogen infrastructure. As technology advances and costs decrease, FCEVs could become a more viable option for sustainable transportation.

And I’ll leave you with a clip of James May talking about his experience…

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Week in Review

Week 40… 2021!

What a week! Yes – you know, I’m referring to the Facebook Family outage this week… we had insta, whatsapp… all of them down. Good to see Twitter meme’s taking full advantage of the situation!

And then there’s new about Elon… moving Tesla, from California to Texas! This was going to be one of my Top Tech Stories this week, but I feel I talk a lot about Tesla on here, a lot about Elon and the reason is, they are always in the news!! But don’t you worry… I’ve found some really good news stories in addition to the two above for you this week.

  1. Sky to ditch the Satellite!

British broadcaster Sky is launching a TV that streams content via the internet, removing the need for a satellite dish.

The company describes Sky Glass as a “no-fuss” streaming TV.

One expert said it would put the broadcaster in direct competition with TV makers such as Samsung and Sony.

Another said while ditching the “outdated satellite dish” was long overdue, it was “an expensive way to watch TV”.

Sky Glass eliminates the need for an external box – and with built-in Dolby Atmos, there is no need for a sound bar either. 

Other specs include:

  • three versions – 43in, 55in and 65in
  • a single wire and just one plug
  • 4K ultra-high-definition quantum-dot screen
  • 10-bit high dynamic range to support Dolby Vision HDR
  • voice-activated interface
  • available in five colours

“Sky Glass is the streaming TV with Sky inside, providing the total integration of hardware, software and content,” group chief executive Dana Strong said.

“We believe this is the smartest TV available.” 

Although it will require a Sky subscription, content from BBC iPlayer, Amazon, Netflix, Disney+, ITV Hub and All4 will also be available.

Sky has not yet named the hardware partner who will make the device.

It has also not explained how exactly it plans to stream its content over the web, without delays or buffering.

If someone wishes to cancel their Sky subscription after purchasing the TV, they will still be able to use the TV but will lose some of the more advanced features, such as voice control and playlists.

Oh.. and it’ll be carbon neutral.

2. Airless Tires!

We have phones that can survive being immersed, watches you can drag over a cheese grater and screens you can fold without breaking, but a common nail can strand your car on the side of the road. Tires need to lose their air, but not that way.

Michelin is one of several tiremakers that have been developing airless tires but they seemed as improbable as GM’s early vision of self-driving cars. Now, however, the two companies are putting a pin in the calendar to have airless tires on the market by 2024.

That’s right – you may remember a previous blog of mine talking about these types – but they are finally going to be here!

The first thing you notice about the airless Michelin Uptis, or Unique Puncture-proof Tire System tires is that you can see through them. Glass fiber reinforced plastic vanes support the tread rather than air pressure. 

Uptis tires also have a green angle: The promise to scrap 200 million fewer tires worldwide each year by eliminating sidewall cuts and accelerated wear due to improper inflation. This environmental benefit will accrue regardless of which companies crack the code for airless tires.

Aspects I’ll watch on the road to the airless tire include:

  • What will these weigh? The increasingly electric car world is lardy enough already.
  • How do they drive? Driving purists will rend their vestments as they did over automatic transmissions and electric power steering, but the rest of us are open to better ride quality. 
  • Are they quiet? Tire contact is the main cause of noise that emanates from freeways and inspires all those ugly sound walls.
  • Will these be fully compatible with today’s wheels or best suited to new ones designed for Uptis ? 
  • Can existing auto safety systems like ABS and stability control work properly with Uptis tires? 
  • How well will they shed snow, especially if it packs into the vanes and becomes ice?
  • What will they cost?

Airless tires will be an overdue leap forward. Today’s pneumatic ones date back as far as combustion engine cars, and we know which way those are going.

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Week in Review

Week 2… 2021!

It’s all happening isn’t it! – But first things first, my apologies for not sharing my Friday Thought. I had a really busy week, and whilst I plan a lot of things, I just didn’t have enough time to get to releasing my Friday Thought.

But on a positive! – I’m on my second review of the week!!

  1. What’s WhatsApp? – That’s right!! This could be the norm in a few years. So…. WhatsApp released new ‘conditions’ if you want to keep using their platform. As you may know, they are part of the Facebook group – and whilst your messages are encrypted end to end, they want to gather some other data about you – and share it. Now for them, it’s all about the experience, but many have become scared, thought it’s violating their privacy and started to switch to Signal and Telegram. Whilst I’m not going to tell you what to do… there’s some great articles out there – and if you do want me to tell you what to do… WhatsApp me!
  2. China wants to build its own $306 billion use car market from scratch! Basically, they want to double the value of secondhand vehicle sales by 2025. Now China already has more then 270 million vehicles on it’s road… and estimated 15 million secondhand models were sold in 2019! Put some contrast on it… 173 people out of 1000 in China own a car… comparing that to the US, it’s 837. You can be sure to say, it’s all happening in China… wonder if the authors of AutoTrader are reading this?!

So here’s my top two stories of the week… I reckon it’s going to be a busy year, lots happening!! – and I’ll share my review of the week (or please get in touch with a better name!).

If you have any top stories to share – get in touch, or if there’s a particular topic you’d like me to share the latest on – happy to do so!

Till next week… stay safe, and take care!

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Uncategorized

Who needs air anyway?

Recently, I’ve noticed – there’s been a lot of innovation around vehicles.

There’s the self-driving cars which I’ve spoken about before, there’s also the flying cars which are coming soon… and yes, we have the fully electric cars which are getting better and better.

But there’s so much to a vehicle which can be improved – and why is it we think in traditional manners?

Take the tyre for example.

Take Michelin for example. Started in 1889. Has much changed with their tyres? – same old rubber and air. Yes, there’s been new and improved designs.. but anything radical?

Now – don’t get me wrong, Michelin are a great company with some great history and delivering some great products.

But you know… everything is being disrupted.

And why not better – for Michelin, to team up with a car manufacturer, to work on something that would be ‘ground-breaking’.

How brilliant is this?! – Safety first.

No air. Simply design. Less rubber. Potential reduction in CO2.

So… who needs air, anyway?

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Uncategorized

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Last week was crazy! Clocked up several miles… but more importantly, I’m now 20 points away from my British Airways Executive Club – Silver Status!! 

What does that mean Bal?

Not much to be fair! – basically… it means – I’ve spent an obscene amount of money on travelling…. flying… with BA!

Not just flying. I’ve spent a fair amount of time in my car. I don’t mind that…. I’m in my environment… I’m listening to my music… I’m singing along… loudly at times. 

Then there’s the train. Getting my paper orange ticket… 

Okay… when I’m on the London Underground… it’s all contactless…. thankfully to my Oyster card, it’s quick to get around.

Now… all of this got me thinking… which mode of transport is the most ‘digital’ or has ‘innovated’ the most. 

For me…. I think… the airline industry. 

Everything from the mobile tickets/passes…. to the security checks (those scanning machines where you just stand with your legs apart)….

I got off my flight from Sofia, Bulgaria last week. From the moment the plane doors opened – and to me being in my car (I had parked in Heathrow T5 Pod Parking) took me 20mins. That included, getting off the plane, from B terminal to A terminal in T5… then those passport scanning machines… onto the self driving Pod to take me to my car… and into my car!

Secondly… it’s got to be the car industry. We’re hearing a lot about self-driving cars… (which I believe will be soon on our roads). We have the Tesla auto-pilot function in Tesla’s…. now called the ‘Enhanced AutoPilot’.

Fully electric and capable of doing 300+ miles. Then there’s the BMW’s, Mercedes, Audi’s of this world… who have the hybrid models. The Japanese who were the first I believe with the hybrid cars – continue to innovate – remember Toyota investing a huge sum of money into Uber.

Finally… it’s the trains I feel.

Not much has gone into them. Unless I’ve missed it.

I keep hearing that Virgin Trains are doing a lot – with paperless tickets… and they have a Digital/Innovation team working on several items.

Yes – there’s HS2 – a high speed rail link between London and Birmingham. Which will extend to the north, through Nottingham and back to London. When will that be? – a few years for the whole thing yet.

Might have the first flying cars by then 🙂

 

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Uncategorized

Toyota & Uber… Could be quite Super!

Yesterday, it was announced that Toyota would invest $500m into Uber.

Was does this mean?

Well, firstly… It means, Uber is now estimated to be worth around $72bn. Quite a jump from the recent valuation of $62bn.

Secondly, It means… Toyota are certain this is the future because they also invested $1bn in Grab (Uber equivalent/competitor/rival in South Asia).

Thirdly, It means.. self-driving cars will be on your roads sooner than we think.

Yes there have been problems, especially when one of Uber’s self-driving SUV’s killed a pedestrian in Arizona, USA. You could call that a big problem.

Uber have been investing… but, being honest, it’s been a struggle for them. Expensive lawsuits… the fatal accident… etc… and sometimes, what you need is, someone to come along – to confirm what you’re doing is right… to ensure you keep going… keep experimenting.

Toyota is doing that. They know that car ownership will be a thing of the past. We can see trends of that in certain cities… where it’s easier, cheaper and quicker to use the train/underground/subway… or even a bike. Why own a car? – there’s so much expense that goes with it… the insurance, road tax, MOT, etc…

It’s very much similar to the ‘Estate Agent’ industry. They’re going through a massive shake-up. Country-wide, who own 50 Estate Agent brands and employ over 8,000 people, have about £200m debt and yesterday had to raise £140m ’emergency funds’ – which they did, with the help of their board.

Go back 3 years… and look how their share price has tumbled….

Why? well… On-line estate agencies have become more popular and more and more people are using them. They’re less and less going to the high street. Countrywide own all the high street estate agents.

Technology is enabling customers to do things quicker and easier.

Toyota know this. They know self-driving technology will, one day, be the norm. We’ll have self-driving cars. There’ll be phases of it… as the technology gets better and better. People won’t want to own cars. They’ll just summon a vehicle to them… use it to get from Point A to Point B.

We kind of do that with taxi’s, right? Summon them to pick us up from Point A and take us to Point B.

Uber made it easier via an App.

Toyota know a thing or two about cars.

Combine the two together…

It’s all about collaboration.