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Human beats robot car in race

In a race between human and machine, humans prevailed as a human driver defeated a robot driver to complete a lap around the circuit at the Thunderhill Raceway in California.

The Human V Machine race took place between an Audi TTS that can drive itself and its human counterpart who was familiar with the circuit. The race was part of a research to develop control systems to create more autonomous domestic cars.

The robot car called Shelley was developed by the research team at the Centre for Automotive Research at Stanford University (Cars), and is fitted with sensors that control it allowing for a driverless ride. The sensors can work out the car’s position on the road, transfer information about the grip of its tyres and calculate the best routes around the circuit.

Cars Lab chief Prof Chris Gerdes said they chose Thunderhill to carry out the race because the circuit boasted 15 turns that would create many challenges for the robot car’s control systems. Shelly was challenged by a Thunderhill Raceway staff who is familiar with the circuit and beat the robot car narrowly by being three seconds faster.

Prof Gerdes said: “What human drivers do consistently well is feel out the limits of the car and push it just a little bit further and that is where they have an advantage.”

The results of the race have been computed and calculated to see how to improve the robot car’s performance. Prof Gerdes said: “”We’re learning what they are doing and it’s those counter-intuitive behaviours that we are planning to put in the algorithm.

“Our ultimate objective is not really to robotify [car racing] but to take these sorts of technologies, learning from the very best human drivers and turn those into safety systems that can work on cars.”

by shayNovember 1, 2012no comment

Sir Chris Hoy to compete in Radical 2013

Race rookies are in for an experience of a lifetime as they gear up to challenge an Olympic champion in the upcoming Radical SR1 Cup. Winner of six gold medals and 11-time world champion in cycling, Sir Chris Hoy, is the UK’s most successful Olympian. And next year, race novices will have the opportunity to drive alongside him as he competes in the novice race season with 23 other rookies.

The acclaimed track cyclist is already an experienced trackday participant but will race a Radical sports car in the entry-level SR1. He will begin training for the challenge in February followed by eight races at some of the UK’s most iconic circuits like Brands Hatch, Oulton Park, Cadwell Park and Snetterton.

The entry-level race is quite a challenge for first-timers with a difficult power-to-weight ratio.

Talking about the upcoming event, Sir Chris Hoy said: “I’ve just been out in the SR1 for the first time on a slightly greasy Beford Autodrome and it’s fantastic, I absolutely love it. It’s challenging but exciting, and fun to drive. I think it’s the right amount of power for a driver of my ability but it’s fast – it certainly feels fast – but it’s not too intimidating.

“I think it’s going to take me a little time to get used to the aerodynamics, because there’s a bit of a leap of faith throwing yourself into the corner and braking later than the point you would normally brake in a car that doesn’t have the same downforce, so it’s a whole new experience. I’m starting to experience just how much grip you have with these cars.”

This promises to be an exciting watch for all sports car and race fans! There are still places available for those who want to compete alongside Sir Chris Hoy. Visit the Radical Sportscars website for further details.

by shayOctober 29, 2012no comment

Nissan to introduce steer-by-wire cars in 2013

A future with driverless cars may not be as far-fetched as you think! Japan automobile giant Nissan have revealed their plans to integrate steer-by-wire technology to cars rolled out to showrooms in 2013 – a significant development that could be the precursor to such fantasies as driverless cars.

Steer-by-wire technology involves electronic signals being sent from the steering wheel of the car to a computerised unit in control of the movement of the tyres. This technology is unlike mechanical links and are commonly used in aeroplanes. This is the first time that the steer-by-wire technology has been extended to mass-produced cars, and by doing so Nissan will set a new benchmark in the automobile industry.

This week, Nissan Motor Co announced its intention to incorporate the steer-by-wire technology to its brand of luxury cars, Infiniti, within a year. This technology would not only allow for a future with cars controlled by joysticks but also pave the way for an environment where car crashes can be avoided automatically.

Nissan engineer, Masaharu Satou, said: “In the future, if we are freed from that, we would be able to place the steering wheel wherever we like, such as in the back seat, or it would be possible to steer the car with a joystick.”

Other carmakers, like Audi’s A2, have already introduced the steer-by-wire technology to their concept cars. However, Nissan is the first to apply the technology to mass-produced cars.

Tetsuya Iijima, a Nissan engineer, said: “We are thinking about the essentials — what kind of a tool should cars be for humans? By controlling its hands and feet, as well as the eyes and the brain, cars are on its way to becoming an extension of robots.”

by shayOctober 18, 2012no comment

McLaren to unveil “ultimate supercar”, the McLaren P1

British sports car maker McLaren is geared towards its next big launch in a week’s time when it unveils its first supercar, the McLaren P1. The McLaren P1, touted to reach speeds of over 200mph, is set to be the “ultimate supercar” and probably one of the most expensive ones with a price tag of £800,000.

The automobile beauty will be revealed at next week’s Paris Motor Show 2012 and although the exhibit P1 is a design study, McLaren is confident of a production version that will be available next year with the supercars rolling out to the market in 2014.

The P1 boasts an acceleration of 0-62mph in three seconds and aims to become the world’s best “driver’s car” in regular production whether on road or on a track.

Automobile supremacy is not unfamiliar to the team at McLaren who built the world’s fastest car two decades ago, the McLaren F1, and have since reigned supreme with Grand Prix championships over the years. The McLaren F1 held the title of ‘fastest production car’ with top speeds of 240mph for 13 years until it was overtaken by the 254mph Bugatti 16.4 Veyron.

The McLaren P1 is following in its predecessor’s footsteps with reports suggesting that it has already smashed the best lap time for road-legal cars at the Silverstone circuit ahead of its Paris debut.

McLaren Automotive Executive Chairman Ron Dennis said: “The McLaren P1 will be the result of 50 years of racing and road car heritage. Twenty years ago we raised the supercar performance bar with the McLaren F1 and our goal with the McLaren P1 is to redefine it once again.”

Managing Director Antony Sheriff said: “Our aim is not necessarily to be the fastest in absolute top speed but to be the quickest and most rewarding series production road car on a circuit.”

The McLaren P1 will be unveiled to an international audience in Paris later this month.

by shaySeptember 21, 2012no comment

Cars for Stars introduces black Rolls Royce Phantom car hire

In the world of luxury car hire, one of the leading brands is the Rolls Royce. Inspiring confidence, opulence and lavish indulgence, the Rolls Royce has created a global niche for itself as one of the foremost luxury automobile products. One of its most popular models, the Rolls Royce Phantom, leads the pack when it comes to weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, hen and stag parties, airport transfers, corporate events, sporting events, special days like at the Royal Ascot, day trips, city tours, and red carpet events amongst others. Cars for Stars, the UK’s leading chauffeur-driven luxury car hire and limo hire service, have introduced a new addition to their enviable fleet – the rare black Rolls Royce Phantom!

The black Rolls Royce Phantom, rare to find with only 25 models made, promises to add splendour and magnificence to any event. Like all Rolls Royce Phantoms, the black Rolls Royce Phantom is fitted with the very best in luxury such as air conditioning, fine leather interiors, state of the art entertainment systems, plasma screens, and champagne bars so you can indulge and pamper yourself en route to your event.

Cars for Stars have established themselves as the premier luxury car hire company in the UK with their chauffeur-driven luxury car hires a popular choice for both private hire and corporate hire events.

To access any of its high-end vehicle hires, including the chauffeur-driven black Rolls Royce Phantom car hire, contact a friendly customer advisor from the Cars for Stars team.

Cars for Stars is a nationwide service with its chauffeur-driven luxury car hires available across all UK locations including London, Bristol, Brighton, Bath, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool,. Newcastle, Cambridge, Oxford, Swindon, Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

by shaySeptember 17, 2012no comment

Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers: New band brings sensual European vibes to British music scene

If you’re looking for the right mix of latin, jazz, soul, reggae and pop, new British band Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers are the talk of the town. Introducing a sophisticated and fresh sound to the market, Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers are already creating a niche for themselves with their unique and distinctive style of music.

The group, which was recently formed in 2010, has already established a strong fan base not least for the sultry vocal appeal of lead singer Alexandra Legoiux. Fatea Magazine comments: “Alexandra possesses a voice that oozes sex appeal, the sort of voice that’ll bed you and then take your wallet as it walks out of your flat in the morning (and nick your neighbour’s milk on the way past).”

Music reviewer Heath Andrews rates the band a spectacular 4.5 out of 5: “There’s a thin line that separates the seductively sexy from the overtly trashy. Alexandra Legouix knows where that line is and with the backing of her band, The Sunflowers, she explores the limits of the seductive side without pushing it too far. Her lovely, slightly husky, intensely sultry voice would stand well on its own, but is instead paired up with some marvelously exotic Latin arrangements. These sounds match the sensual lyrics to form an EP that oozes musical talent as much as it oozes sex appeal. The extended title states that Legouix won’t bite unless you want her to, but after a couple seconds into “Lola” her teeth are already there, and you won’t object to it either.”

Speaking about her band, Alexandra remarks: “I spent years trying to find my niche. I tried fronting function bands, rock bands, blues bands and eventually I just thought right, that is it, I HAVE to create something that is truly me and I will find musicians who believe in the music and the style. Then I met Martyn (Nero) by chance at a gig and we clicked musically and personally and that was it. He understood my passion for this new style and he brought more ideas to the pot than I could have dreamt of. Since then, as a team, we have worked hard developing this style and the music and we are now lucky enough to have three other amazingly talented ‘Sunflowers’ who are as passionate about the music and the future of the band as we are. I have gone from feeling very ‘solo’ to very much part of a creative unit and I literally love it!”

The band has already garnered substantial media attention over the launch of their upcoming debut album. September will see the release of Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers album ‘This One’s for You’ with a total of 15 songs.

The music created by Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers is one that appeals to everyone. It’s sultry, flirtatious and tempting vocals can instantly draw you out and transport you to an ethereal world. It’s this magic that captivates the audience and propels the band towards newer heights.

“We go down very well with the European audience,” explains Alexandra. “I think the sun helps with our music! Although I was recently told by a fan that he was listening to our songs in the car when it was raining and it really lifted his mood and he could pretend he was in a beach bar somewhere exotic and that was great. That’s exactly what I want our music to do to people!”

Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers will be performing at the following events over the next few months:

Big Day Out (South Hill Park, Berkshire) – 15 September
Earl’s Court – 22 September
Stratford Food Festival (Stratford upon Avon) – 23 September
Wokingham Jazz Club – 5 October
Oxjam Chiswick Takeover Festival – 20 October
Jagz (Ascot, Berkshire) – 16 November
The band have a monthly residency at Bart’s, Chelsea

To support Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers to raise money, create videos for their upcoming album and help build press materials, please view this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlQoIrC1Syc

To read more about Alexandra Legouix and the Sunflowers, please click here. To listen to their music, click here.

To know more about Alexandra, please click here.

by shaySeptember 10, 2012no comment

Luxury self drive car hire gets a new name – Regency!

When it comes to luxury, nothing spells it quite as much as a sleek and swanky sports car. From the Audi to the Lamborghini, sports cars are luxury redefined and the perfect crown to all your special events. Why not indulge yourself with a luxury sports car hire from Regency? Regency, the UK’s number one service for self-drive sports car hire and prestige car hire, boast one of the country’s largest fleets of opulent cars for hire. With an extensive range of high-end luxury car hire models there’s something for everyone at Regency – whether you’re looking for a BMW car hire, Mercedes car hire, Bentley car hire, Aston Martin car hire, Ferrari car hire or a Maserati car hire.

Regency is part of Transport Broker Group, one of the leading companies in the UK transport hire industry. As a prestigious luxury self drive car hire service, Regency pride themselves on delivering exceptional service. Once you step onboard one of their self drive car hires, you will immediately be transported to a world of opulence and extravagance. A self drive sports car hire from Regency feature luxuries such as air conditioning, reclining seats, state of the art entertainment, plasma screens, champagne bars, sunroofs and more.

Regency self drive car hire is not just about driving a luxury car, it’s about experiencing the lavish and plush journey en route to your destination. If you’re looking to splurge on yourself or someone special, nothing says it better than a Regency self drive car hire.

Regency is a nationwide service with self drive car hires available across all UK locations including London, Bristol, Brighton, Bath, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Cambridge, Oxford, Cardiff, Swansea, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Dudley limo company fined; caught without private hire licence

Splash Limousines, a Dudley-based limo hire company catering to school proms, have been fined £1000 for not possessing a private hire licence or a valid insurance. The limo hire company were caught during a council sting operation that revealed their lack of a private licence invalidated their insurance policy.

Lee Jeavons and Rachel Marson, owners of the company, have denied any wrongdoing stating that they were under the impression that the council authorities did not require a private hire licence. They have also told Dudley Magistrates Court that their company may face closure due to the court proceedings.

Splash Limousines defence Mr Shabir Qureshi said: “Five years ago there was a lot of talk among other limo companies that a private hire licence may be required, but Miss Marson was given the clear impression that there was no need for this in Dudley.”

However, enforcement officer Trevor Parkes told the court that Dudley council had started licensing limousines three years ago after a change in law. He also said that Splash Limousines should have been aware of this development and made changes to their licence as required.

Prosecuting, Tim Holder said that the company insurance policy only covered private hire cars. The lack of a private hire licence nullified the policy, leaving Splash Limousines without a valid insurance.

The entire matter came to light when the parent of a student, looking to book a limo hire for his daughter’s school prom, enquired whether Splash Limousines hold a licence. Mr Jeavons and Ms Marson, who also drove the limousines, told the court that they believed that they were covered by their insurance policy. The couple also claimed that they had only been sent licensing information relating to taxis and Hackney carriages by the council.

by shayAugust 17, 2012no comment

Digitaler Innenspiegel im Audi R8 e-tron

New Audi supercar to host digital rear-view mirror

Supercars are always on the verge of innovation – creating vehicles that are more exclusive, with better features and increased efficiency. Leading groundbreaking research, automobile powerhouse Audi are quickly adapting their racing technology to production cars, creating the first of a new generation of supercars that benefit from professional competitive driving techniques.

Audi have a string of technology under their belt that have created some of the fastest racing cars in the world. These include quattro, Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) and ultra lightweight technology. And now, Audi are bringing their latest innovation to their production line promising customers the next step up in luxury supercars.

Audi’s brand new R18 Le Mans prototype that won the prestigious 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race will now feature in the upcoming 2013 Audi R8 e-tron. The R18 Le Mans prototype is unique in that it has no rear window. However, piloting this advanced technology is easier than it sounds – Audi engineers have installed a digital rear-view mirror that transfers videos picked up by a small camera attached to the rear of the vehicle onto a 7.7-inch screen.

The small camera that is barely a few millimetres in diameter picks up a greater range than a traditional rear-view mirror. Along with the increased scope of vision, the tiny camera also has mechanism in place that keeps it warm during cold winter months.

The digital screen relaying images to the driver is created from AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode) elements, developed by Samsung and self-illuminating at a low voltage. What this means is that the screen doesn’t need backlighting, and boasts the option for dimming or deactivating the display at any time.

The Audi R8 e-tron will be released later this year.

by shayAugust 14, 2012no comment

Polish supercar to be named ‘Hussarya’

Polish supercar firm, Arrinera, have revealed computer renderings of their upcoming project named the Hussarya. Touted as Poland’s first supercar, the Hussarya has been named after the famous 16^th century Polish Hussar cavalry.

While some critics have commented that the name is resoundingly similar to the new Pagani Huayra, Arrinera insists the supercar has been named after the country’s cavalry that were famed for their beauty, strength and manoeuvrability.

The new images display spanking new exteriors that are similar to traditional mid-engine supercar proportions much like the Lamborghini. However, new tail and headlights render the Hussarya an edgier more glamorous look.

Reports suggest that the Hussarya will be powered by a Corvette ZR1-dervied 485kW 6.2 litre supercharged LS9 V8 that can accelerate the Polish supercar to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and reach top speed of 340km/h.

Arrinera have revealed the involvement of British engineer Lee Noble for the design and optimisation of its high tensile-strength tubular steel chassis and all-independent multilink suspension. Mr Noble is recognised as the creator of the Ultima GTR and Noble supercars.

The Polish firm has also disclosed how the shape of the Hussarya has been the subject of 14 months of research at the Warsaw University of Technology.

Arrinera plans to build an initial fleet of 33 examples available for delivery by late 2013, before starting mass production. The cars will be priced at $160,000 each.

Get ready to hit the roads in style in Poland’s first supercar – sleeker, more glamorous and road-ready for some serious luxury!

by shayAugust 6, 2012no comment

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