Tag: Apple

Ford gives relaunched Escape sleek look, refined cabin in bid for car drivers

Adam Jeffery | CNBC
2020 Ford Escape

The market for sport-utility vehicles has grown at an unprecedented rate, especially for car-based crossovers, and few industry analysts expect the surge to level off anytime soon, which is why this year's New York International Auto Show is awash in new “two-box” designs of various sizes and prices.

One of the most important of those debuts will be the next-generation Ford Escape. Ford was a pioneer in the SUV boom with its big Explorer. But in recent years the Escape has become its dominant offering — generating sales second only to the full-size Ford F-Series pickups. And with so many new competitors coming to market for 2020 and beyond, Ford is going to have to nail it with the new crossover utility vehicle, or CUV.

Adam Jeffery | CNBC
2020 Ford Escape

One way it hopes to increase Escape's appeal is by offering the compact crossover with a variety of powertrain options that, for the first time will include not only a gas-electric hybrid but a plug-in hybrid. It is also planning to add a more rugged version that will challenge the off-road credibility of Jeep's Cherokee.

“This all-new Escape brings a sleeker, sportier design with the capability to take you on just about any of your life's adventures,” Kumar Galhotra, Ford's North America president, said ahead of Escape's debut in New York. “With our class-leading hybrid powertrains, customers will spend less time at the gas station and more time on the road.”

Ford was actually a latecomer to the compact utility vehicle segment, following Japanese offerings like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. And, in its initial incarnation, it used a more traditional, truck-based body-on-frame design. That meant it was more rugged than the Asian models that were often derided as “soft-roaders,” but it also lacked their on-road manners and fuel economy.

Ford Motor US sales down 1.6% from a year ago
9:43 AM ET Thu, 4 April 2019 | 01:59

When a third-generation Escape was launched in 2013, Ford migrated to a crossover platform, boosting comfort and handling, as well as mileage, and gaining traction with U.S. buyers.

The fourth-generation Escape takes the same approach, but it adopts an even sleeker look, in part to put some distance between it and the reborn Bronco model that Ford will launch in 2020.

“We want to have really differentiated styling. “The new Escape's silhouette is very sleek, dynamic — more progressive. The off-road [Bronco] will be more upright, boxy,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford's executive vice president of product development.

The Escape's cabin will also take on a more refined, car-like look, reflecting the fact that Ford expects it to pick up many of the buyers it might otherwise lose as it abandons such familiar sedan nameplates as the Fiesta, Focus and Fusion over the next several years.

Escape will be loaded with the sort of high-tech features that younger buyers crave, including the latest take on Ford's Sync infotainment system, now able to handle both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also will offer an assortment of advanced driver assistance features, dubbed Co-Pilot 360, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot detection, as well as the ability to park itself in a tight spot.

Adam Jeffery | CNBC
2020 Ford Escape

As for powertrains, the 2020 Escape will start off with two gas engines, including the premium turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four making 250 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid will pair a 2.5-liter gas engine with an electric motor to boost mileage, though Ford has not yet released final EPA numbers.

The plug-in hybrid, the first in the segment, will add a larger battery pack capable of propelling the 2020 Escape for up to 30 miles in all-electric mode. Using a 240-volt Level 2 charger, the same type many homeowners are adding, charge times for a drained battery will run around 3.5 hours.

As for the more rugged version of the Escape, Ford is only dropping hints for the moment, Thai-Tang said an “off-road version” is in development and should make its debut late this year.

Pricing will be released over the coming weeks, but the base 2020 Ford Escape is expected to top the current entry model, which starts around $24,100.

Disclosure: Paul Eisenstein is a freelancer for CNBC. Ford paid for his transportation and lodging at the New York International Auto Show.

Apple reportedly talking to third-party suppliers for self-driving car sensors

Apple has never discussed its electric car project publically. Image via Pixabay Apple is currently in talks with at least four companies as possible suppliers of lidar sensors, intended to be used in self-driving cars, a report published in Reuters claimed. While it is not yet clear if Apple really wants to launch its own… Continue reading Apple reportedly talking to third-party suppliers for self-driving car sensors

Audi self-driving unit taps newcomer Aeva for its unique lidar

Audi’s self-driving unit has tapped a startup with a unique approach to lidar as it ramps up testing in Munich using a fleet of autonomous electric e-tron crossover vehicles. Audi subsidiary Autonomous Intelligent Driving, or AID, said Wednesday it’s using lidar sensors developed by Aeva, a startup founded just two years ago by veterans of… Continue reading Audi self-driving unit taps newcomer Aeva for its unique lidar

WORLD PREMIER OF ALL-NEW 2020 SUBARU OUTBACK

April 18, 2019

WORLD PREMIER OF ALL-NEW 2020 SUBARU OUTBACK

—Subaru’s flagship crossover SUV gets more rugged —

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The sixth-generation of the crossover SUV now in its25th year since 1995 debut

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Superior driving dynamics with Subaru Global Platform and an available 2.4-liter direct injection turbo boxer engine

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Refined and innovative interior featuring new tablet-style 11.6-inch screen

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Superior safety based on Subaru’s comprehensive safety philosophy

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Tough and rugged exterior design inspires driver and passengers’ active mind

Tokyo, April 18, 2019 – Subaru Corporation unveiled the all-new 2020 Outback (US Spec) at the 2019 New York International Auto Show on April 17 (local time in New York).

Outback Onyx Edition XT
Outback Touring

Since its debut in 1995, the Outback has built a history as a crossover SUV integrating the attributes of both passenger cars and SUVs, and now enters its sixth-generation. Throughout its history, the Outback has offered core values such as safety, comfort, versatility and quality, not only enriching its owners’ lifestyles but also establishing a unique character as Subaru’s flagship crossover SUV. Developed under the concept of “Crossover vehicle that stimulates intellectual curiosity and encourages new discoveries,” the new Outback has evolved once again by adding the latest technologies on top of the traditional Outback attributes.

The all-new Outback is powered by either a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine delivering strong torque output from low RPM or a 2.5-liter normally-aspirated BOXER engine with improved efficiency thanks to direct injection system. Combined with the new engine is Subaru Global Platform which optimizes the body rigidity, and Outback’s reputable dynamic performance has been further enhanced as a result. In addition, Subaru’s exclusive EyeSight driver assist system comes standard in all trims and is now equipped with the Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control including new Lane Centering function. In combination with available driver monitoring system*1, EyeSight equipped Outback brings driver additional peace of mind, as a partner that assists owners’ active lifestyles.

The exterior design incorporates the side silhouette expressing a sense of speed, larger profile panel surfaces with sense of thickness and more rugged body claddings. As a result, the Outback gives tough and active feel at a glance. For the interior, an updated infotainment system featuring 11.6-inch tablet style large screen has been applied and it adds advanced functions to the high-quality interior of the flagship model.

With the all-around enhancements, the all-new Outback will deliver safer and more enjoyable experience as a partner for an active lifestyle.

The 2020 Outback will go on sale at U.S. Subaru retailers this fall.

Main features of the new Outback (US Spec)
■ Driving enjoyment and peace of mind supported by superior dynamic quality feel

As Subaru’s flagship crossover, improved control, stability, ride comfort, and quietness of new Outback make a driving experience more comfortable and enjoyable in a variety of scenes, from cities to highways, in any weather conditions

Chassis and body supporting superior dynamic quality feel

・Application of Subaru Global Platform, which makes the vehicle body significantly rigid compared to previous model, ensures accurate steering response, greater ride comfort and quieter cabin space

・Significant enhancement in dynamic quality feel thanks to stiffer and lighter body structure with full inner frame construction in which the outer panels are welded to the structure after the entire body framework is assembled

・Newly designed dampers and reduced unsprung weight due to the application of lightweight parts, including aluminum lower L-arm, contribute to much improved handling and ride comfort while maintaining the 8.7-inch ground clearance

Subaru unique mechanisms and technologies for distinctive driving experience

・Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive offers stable drive in any road condition

・Available 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine generates strong torque from low rpm and delivers smooth acceleration

・Updated Lineartronic*2 with wider gear range and re-worked hydraulic system transfers engine power more efficiently and delivers better fuel economy and superior driving experience

・Up to 3,500-lb of towing capacity thanks to newly developed rear differential gear (2.4L Turbocharged Boxer engine equipped model)

・X-Mode enhances rough road driving capability by optimizing the operation of engine, transmission and brakes

■ High-quality and advanced interior space

Quality interior design, relaxing cabin space with improved packaging and advanced feature provide comfort and enjoyment for driver and all passengers

Advanced features for convenience and comfort

・Updated Starlink infotainment system with available 11.6-inch tablet-style touch screen features a newly designed Human Machine Interface and allows smartphone-like operation of various functions consolidated on one large screen

・In addition to Apple CarPlay*3, AndroidAutoTM*4, the SUBARU STARLINK now supports SmartDeviceLinkTM*5 which allows the use of various apps regardless of smartphone operating system

・Telematics system with additional functions including Wi-Fi hotspot and remote engine starter for more convenience

・Available Driver Monitoring System not only identifies signs of driver fatigue or distraction and provide warning to driver and passengers for additional safety, but also delivers convenience by identifying individual in the driver seat and automatically adjusts driver settings for seat position, door mirror angles and air-conditioning preferences

High quality, comfortable interior design

・Brown-colored Nappa leather seats for ‘Touring’ trim

・Enlarged windshield and long line motif extended from the center of the instrument panel to the door panels express a relaxed and open atmosphere of the cabin space

・A color of the seat material is also applied on a part of instrument panel consisted of 3 different surfaces to create a sense of openness

・Thick center console and arm rests surrounding driver and passenger provide a sense of protection

・Carefully selected materials for high-quality feel throughout the entire cabin

Well-considered packaging and convenient features for a comfortable feeling

・Windshield and front door windows have been moved outward for class-leading driver visibility

・Extended vehicle length was allocated for both rear passenger space and cargo space for further enhancement of passenger comfort and versatility

・New PTC heating system for quicker heating in winter (For 2.4L Turbocharged Boxer engine equipped model)

・Front seat ventilation standard on Touring trim

・Adjustable seat cushion length (driver only) for Limited and Touring trim levels

■Functionality that supports various lifestyles

With a variety of convenient features suited for outdoor use, new Outback invites you to active outdoor lifestyle

User friendly, versatile cargo space enhances the value as a SUV

・Subaru-first hands-free power rear gate and single-touch lifting cargo cover allows easy operation even on the rough ground surface in outdoor environment

・Wider cargo room opening and faster gate operation from new power rear gate system allow smoother cargo loading

・Roof rails with integrated and retractable cross bars now enhanced with tie-down holes for more security

・Added hooks in cargo room for more convenience

■ Overall safety top in its class

The new model offers safe and enjoyable driving for driver and all passengers at all times in all settings—not just in emergencies—based on Subaru’s philosophy of overall safety.

Outstanding visibility recognizable at a glance as soon as driver get into the car—Primary Safety

・The excellent high eye-level view and careful optimization of the shape of the pillars have reduced blind spots and provides outstanding visibility

・Well-considered interface layout to reduce unnecessary eye-movement while driving

・Optimization of the seat shape and cushion materials helps to reduce driver fatigue

Dynamic performance driver can depend on in the unlikely event of an Incident—Active Safety

・Active Torque Vectoring ensures that the driver is in control of the vehicle, exactly as the driver intended

Comprehensive advanced safety systems—Preventive Safety

・Subaru’s exclusive EyeSight driver assist system comes standard in all trims and now equipped with the new Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control including new Lane Centering function

・EyeSight assist monitor notifies the system activation status with LED lighting projected on the windshield

・Driver Monitoring System supports safe driving by warning a driver when it detects signs of distraction or drowsiness

・Standard LED headlights for better nighttime visibility

・Reverse Automatic Braking helps to avoid collisions when reversing and mitigates the damage in case of collision

・Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection system senses vehicles approaching from the rear and gives audio and visual alert

・Front view monitor captures images within the driver’s blind spots in front of the vehicle and displays a 180-degree view on the 11.6-inch display

・Rear view camera washer clears up the camera for better visibility

Class-leading crash protection—Collision Safety

・Optimized body structure with the adoption of Subaru Global Platform ensures class-leading crash protection

・An increase in the amount of high-tensile steel panel materials ensures improved protection in frontal, side and rear end collisions

■ Tough and rugged exterior design

Following Subaru’s common “Dynamic x Solid” design philosophy, the exterior design of Outback aimed to express a feel of active gear at a glance, based on the design concept “Active & Tough”

Front face emphasizes its toughness

・Wide grille decorated with chrome-plated sharp frame and thick bar inside emphasizes dignity o..

Apple in talks for sensors that could hint it’s building a self-driving car

David Paul Morris | Bloomberg | Getty Images
Tim Cook, chief executive officer of Apple Inc.

Apple has held talks with at least four companies as possible suppliers for next-generation lidar sensors in self-driving cars, evaluating the companies' technology while also still working on its own lidar unit, three people familiar with the discussions said.

The moves provide fresh evidence of Apple's renewed ambitions to enter the autonomous vehicle derby, an effort it calls Project Titan. The talks are focused on next-generation lidar, a sensor that provides a three-dimensional look at the road.

Apple is seeking lidar units that would be smaller, cheaper and more easily mass produced than current technology, the three people said. The iPhone maker is setting a high bar with demands for a “revolutionary design,” one of the people familiar with the talks said. The people declined to name the companies Apple has approached.

The sensor effort means Apple wants to develop the entire chain of hardware to guide autonomous vehicles and has joined automakers and investors in the race to find winning technologies.

Current lidar systems, including units from Velodyne mounted on Apple's fleet of self-driving test vehicles, use laser light pulses to render precise images of the environment around the car. But the systems can cost $100,000 and use mechanical parts to sweep the laser scanners across the road.

That makes them too bulky and prone to failure for use in mass-produced vehicles. The shortcomings have spurred $1 billion in investment at dozens of startups and mature companies alike to make lidar smaller, cheaper and more robust.

Apple's interest in next-generation lidar sensors comes as it has sharply increased its road testing while bringing on key hires from Tesla and Alphabet's Google.

It remains unclear whether the goal of Apple's Project Titan is to build its own vehicle or supply the hardware and software elements of self-driving car while pairing with a partner for the entire vehicle.

But what is clear from Apple's interest in cheaper lidar systems is that it wants to control the “perception stack” of sensors, computers and software to drive an autonomous vehicle, regardless of who makes the vehicle, another person familiar with the talks said. The three people familiar with the talks declined to be identified because the discussions are not public.

In addition to evaluating potential outside suppliers, Apple is believed to have its own internal lidar sensor under development, two of the people said.

Alphabet-owned Waymo has taken a similar path, assembling a sensor and computer system while inking deals to buy vehicles from Fiat Chrysler.

Apple gets “a lot of optionality by working on the perception stack,” said the second person familiar with the talks. “Bringing a passenger car to the market is really, really hard, and there's no reason right now they need to jump into it.”

Reducing costs

The designs Apple is seeking could potentially be made with conventional semiconductor manufacturing techniques, all four people familiar with the talks said.

That has the potential to lower prices from the many thousands to the hundreds of dollars as the sensors are produced in larger numbers, similar to chips in phones and other devices. Apple also wants sensors that can see several hundred yards down the road.

The long-distance requirement shows Apple is interested in fully self-driving vehicles, versus the more limited features such as adaptive cruise control used today, two people familiar with the matter said.

“They're not happy with most of what they see,” the first person familiar with the matter said. “They're looking for a revolutionary design.”

A third person familiar with the matter said Apple is seeking a “design-oriented” sensor that would be sleek and unobtrusive enough to fit into the overall lines of a vehicle.

Apple declined to comment.

Apple once investigated building its own vehicle. The company had a team of more than a dozen engineers dedicated to detailed work such as ensuring doors closed quietly instead of slamming shut, a fourth person briefed on the matter said.

Apple last year re-hired Doug Field, an Apple veteran who was serving as Tesla's engineering chief, to work on Project Titan. The project has about 1,200 people, according to a count in court documents.

Field has been putting his stamp on the effort, laying off about 190 workers but also bringing on key hires such as Michael Schwekutsch, who oversaw electric drive train technology at Telsa. Apple also ramped up its testing miles in California, driving nearly 80,000 last year compared to 800 the year before.

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Aeva signs sensor deal with Audi’s self-driving unit

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) – Aeva Inc, a startup company founded by former Apple Inc and Nikon Corp engineers, has signed a sensor-system deal with an Audi-owned unit that is working on self-driving technology for Volkswagen AG. FILE PHOTO: The logo of Audi carmaker is seen at the entrance of a showroom in Nice, France, April… Continue reading Aeva signs sensor deal with Audi’s self-driving unit

Fastned Opens Its First 350 kW Charging Station In The UK

Sunderland enriched by this new ultra-fast charging station Fastned just expanded to the United Kingdom, opening not only its first fast-charging station there, but also the first in the UK ready for 350 kW of charging power. It’s located on West Wear Street, which is one of Sunderland’s busiest central routes. Sunderland is also known for its… Continue reading Fastned Opens Its First 350 kW Charging Station In The UK

Aston Martin’s first electric car is finally here

The first all-electric Aston Martin has finally been revealed, nearly four years after it was originally announced. Based on the existing combustion-engine Aston Martin Rapide sedan, the “Rapide E” officially debuted at the Shanghai Auto Show on Tuesday. Only 155 will be made, and Aston Martin didn’t announce a price for the car. Powered by… Continue reading Aston Martin’s first electric car is finally here

Uber spent $457 million on self-driving and flying car R&D last year – TechCrunch

Uber spent $457 million last year on research and development of autonomous vehicles, flying cars (known as eVTOLs) and other “technology programs” and will continue to invest heavily in the futuristic tech even though it expects to rely on human drivers for years to come, according to the company’s IPO prospectus filed Thursday. R&D costs… Continue reading Uber spent $457 million on self-driving and flying car R&D last year – TechCrunch