Category: World

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Toyota launches new redesigned Sienta minivan

JAPAN: Toyota Motor Corporation on Tuesday announced the launch of the new redesigned Sienta minivan.

The Sienta was launched in September 2003 as a vehicle that combines the convenience of a minivan, with a spacious cabin and seating for seven passengers, into a compact body size.

Each generation of the Sienta has provided solid support for family life by remaining consistently close to Japanese families and carrying a deep understanding of changing customer values from the very first generation. This consideration in design has earned driver loyalty and passenger admiration.

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The press release issued by Toyota on August 23, 2022 stated that the development team once again considered customer feedback and tried to uncover their real hopes for the Sienta in developing this new model.

The conclusion they reached was preserving the vehicle’s easy-to-manage length, latest safety and security features, fuel economy, and affordable price while further refining the user-friendly cabin space preserved from the first generation.

The team has ensured a cabin space that seven adults can ride in without changing the length and width, making it a better companion that matches customer lifestyles.

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The second-row seats, where most passengers sit, have been re-designed to provide more spacious rear seat space for both legroom and head clearance. In addition, the new Sienta adopts a revamped powertrain that achieves both fuel economy and driving performance through TNGA, as well as the latest safety and security features in support of family drives.

The consideration that has been added to the new Sienta will bring smiles to the faces of the whole family.

Details of the new third-generation Sienta are as follows.

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Vehicle details

A practical design for easy use in a variety of situations

An exterior design that provides a spacious cabin space and good maneuverability

Large cabin with a horizontal beltline. Large windows offer good visibility and driving ease.

Simple “Shikakumaru” circle and square design. Rounded corners create a compact appearance, and the circle and square silhouette lead to good maneuverability.

Large side protection moldings honestly convey its functionality as a tool that can be used easily.

A total of seven body colors that blend into everyday life with the Sienta. Colors include Urban Khaki and a vivid Scarlet Metallic. In addition, Scarlet Metallic and Grayish Blue two-toned colors that match the dark gray roof color are also available.

Interior design that expands the fun of use and creates a comfortable cabin space

Simple “Shikakumaru” circle and square design. A design that evokes a sense of attachment has been pursued, with iconic, simple, and unified door pockets, cup holders, and registers.

Pictograms to suggest items that fit into the storage spaces in a fun way.

A thin, light, and horizontally arranged instrument panel made of fabric. Seamless connections from the front edge of the upper section to the left and right door belt lines support a sense of interior roominess and make it easy to judge the size

Three interior colors for a comfortable cabin. Color schemes include the bright Fromage and calm and relaxing Black. An easy-to-love Khaki is an available option as part of the Fan Tool Package.

User-friendly cabin space filled with innovations

Cabin height was increased by 20 mm from previous models while maintaining an easy-to-manage length and maneuverability. In addition, a low horizontal belt line and upright side glass design create a spacious and open interior

UV-block and IR-block functions are available as Comfort Package options for all windows around the cabin space, blocking IR and UV rays for a more comfortable space

A maximum of 1,000 mm, or +80 mm compared to previous models, of class-leading front/rear couple distance has been achieved to improve second-row comfort. Shopping baskets can be conveniently placed under seats for everyday shopping.

A ceiling air circulator has been installed for rear-seat comfort to efficiently circulate warm/cold air from the air conditioning unit to the rear seats, which eliminates the temperature difference between the front and rear seats

Sunshades for rear seats have been installed on sliding doors

While maintaining the popular low 330 mm floor height and stepless flat floor, the power sliding door opening height has been expanded to 1,200 mm, +60 mm compared to previous models, to make it easier to get in and out of rear seats. All family members, from children to the elderly, can easily get in and out of the vehicle.

Equipped with hands-free dual power sliding doors. This enables users carrying the key to automatically open and close the sliding doors simply by placing their feet under the sensors at the bottom of the front doors. This is a very convenient feature when both hands.

The rear hatch door opening height has been increased by 15 mm compared to previous models. Luggage space height has also been increased by 20 mm compared to previous models, allowing for smoother loading and unloading. A bicycle with 27-inch tires can be loaded without the handlebars getting stuck in the opening, so, for example, parents can pick up their children with bicycles after cram school in a sudden rain storm.

In addition to the floor luggage space, the two-row five-seater model has expanded luggage space height by 50 mm compared to previous models, which was achieved by changing the tilt-down structure of the second-row seats to lower the height of the back of the seats when folded. The flat, large-capacity luggage space is ideal for active situations such as outdoor activities where a large amount of cargo is loaded.

Other innovations

Sienta has fabric seat covers with deodorizing and water/oil-repellent treatment for more convenience and easier cleaning up after food or drink spills. Enhanced storage space full of ideas for ease of use.

Armrest hook on the driver’s seat for hanging shopping bags, etc.

Two driver’s seat-back smartphone pockets (with two USB-C ports for charging), etc.

Advanced features for a safe, secure, comfortable, and convenient drive

Toyota Safety Sense

Toyota Safety Sense, the latest active safety package with advanced and improved functionality, is equipped as standard on all models. The range of accidents that can be responded to has been expanded to support safe driving further.

Pre-collision Safety System
This system expands the detection range, adding motorcyclists (daytime), pedestrians, and cyclists to help avoid collisions or reduce damage. It provides additional support at intersections where accidents more frequently occur.

Proactive Driving Assist
This system subtly assists drivers when driving on ordinary roads and in other situations. It supports avoidance steering and deceleration to avoid getting too close to pedestrians, cyclists, and parked vehicles by anticipating risks according to the driving situation, such as pedestrians crossing the road or vehicles that may suddenly start moving.

The new Sienta comes equipped with Advanced Park, a driving support technology function within Toyota Teammate. Besides support of all operations―steering, acceleration, braking, and gear changes―the bird’s-eye view display also shows the ideal steering wheel positions for a safe and secure parking experience. This system expands support in parallel parking situations. In addition to backing in/forward exit from parking situations, it also supports forward entry/backing exit parking situations for improved ease of use when parking.

Software Update

Software updates enable the vehicle to always have the latest software version via wireless communication or a dealer’s wired connection. While also adding new functions that become available after vehicle purchase, the updates can enhance vehicle performance. Installation of the latest driver-assistance technologies can help the vehicle evolve in terms of greater safety and peace of mind.

Comprehensive T-Connect optional services

Equipped with Connected Navigation-compatible Display Audio system, enabling destination searches and route settings using new center-acquired data, including maps, facilities, and traffic congestion. A voice-recognition service (agent) can also set destinations in the system.

These new models also come with their own in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot, a first for Toyota. The DCM included as standard on all these models enables unlimited data transfer for smartphones, game devices, and other devices connected to the internet.

Other enhanced equipment for a safe, secure, comfortable, and convenient drive

Equipped with front and rear dash cams. Video captured by the Toyota Safety Sense’s monocular camera and the newly added rear-facing camera while driving is recorded to built-in memory. For portability, video data can be played back on the Display Audio system or transferred to a smartphone or USB memory device.

Equipped with an AC100 V/1,500 W accessory power outlet. This not only allows the use of electrical products using the same electrical outlets found in the home but also enables the vehicle to be used as a power generator during blackouts and other times of emergency.

Earth-friendly and exceptional basic functions

Body and suspension

The platform that forms the vehicle’s basic structure was newly designed based on the TNGA (GA-B) platform. The main structure is joined to form a ring-shaped frame, improving joint rigidity. The highly rigid body is light and well-balanced to deliver high-quality riding comfort and outstanding handling stability.

Handling stability, ride comfort, and quietness have been improved by using a high-damping type of structural adhesive for the vehicle’s main structure and a portion of the mastic sealer used for the roof panel.

Front and rear suspension geometry has been optimized to produce a rigid body. With MacPherson struts at the front and torsion beam at the rear, a suspension system that creates gentle movement and a smooth ride with excellent road holding has been achieved.

The minimum turning radius is just 5.0 m, facilitating smooth maneuvers on narrow roads and in car parks.

The 1.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine (M20A-FKS) for the hybrid system improves system efficiency and achieves outstanding fuel efficiency.Class-leading fuel efficiency of 28.8 km/liter under the WLTC test cycle

The E-Four system has been used, improving peace of mind for starting on hills in the snow or rain.

1.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine (M15A-FKS) + Direct Shift-CVT

The combination of a 1.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine (M15A-FKS) and Direct Shift-CVT achieves a powerful direct drive system with outstanding fuel efficiency.

As a gasoline-powered vehicle as well, class-leading fuel efficiency of 18.3 km/liter under the WLTC test cycle.

Direct Shift-CVT comes with 10-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic for fun shift changes with the feeling of a manual.

A wide variety of dealer-installed options that allow the vehicle to be customized to suit various customer lifestyles.

The vehicle can be customized to the customer’s specifications by combining a wide variety of dealer-installed options, supporting each customer’s vehicle needs as a companion that accompanies each new life stage.

August 23, 2022
Date to unveil Apple’s iPhone 14

Apple is likely to unveil its iPhone 14 in the first week of September 2022. Reports suggest that the company may launch the product on September 7, 2022.

According to Bloomberg.com, it would be the earliest iPhone launch since 2016 and be followed by the new device going on sale September 16—about a week ahead of last year’s schedule.

The event will be on the Wednesday after Labor Day, an atypical day for Apple product launches. It signals that the company wanted to leave that Tuesday free. Why? Perhaps because press and other guests will need a travel day after the Monday holiday.

On July 28, 2022, Apple announced financial results for its fiscal 2022 third quarter ended June 25, 2022. The company posted a June quarter revenue record of $83.0 billion, up 2 percent year over year, and quarterly earnings per diluted share of $1.20.

“This quarter’s record results speak to Apple’s constant efforts to innovate, to advance new possibilities, and to enrich the lives of our customers,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO.

“As always, we are leading with our values, and expressing them in everything we build, from new features that are designed to protect user privacy and security, to tools that will enhance accessibility, part of our longstanding commitment to create products for everyone.”

“Our June quarter results continued to demonstrate our ability to manage our business effectively despite the challenging operating environment. We set a June quarter revenue record and our installed base of active devices reached an all-time high in every geographic segment and product category,” said Luca Maestri, Apple’s CFO. “During the quarter, we generated nearly $23 billion in operating cash flow, returned over $28 billion to our shareholders, and continued to invest in our long-term growth plans.”

Apple’s board of directors has declared a cash dividend of $0.23 per share of the Company’s common stock.

August 23, 2022
Apple announces Self Service Repair for MacBooks

Apple announced Self Service Repair will be available from August 23, 2022 for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro notebooks with the M1 family of chips, providing repair manuals and genuine Apple parts and tools through the Apple Self Service Repair Store.

According to a statement Self Service Repair for iPhone launched earlier this year and the program will expand to additional countries — beginning in Europe — as well as additional Mac models later this year.

Self Service Repair for MacBook Air and MacBook Pro offers more than a dozen different repair types for each model, including the display, top case with battery, and trackpad, with more to come. Customers who are experienced with the complexities of repairing electronic devices will be able to complete repairs on these Mac notebooks, with access to many of the same parts and tools available to Apple Store locations and Apple Authorized Service Providers.

To start the Self Service Repair process, a customer will first review the repair manual for the product they want to repair by visiting support.apple.com/self-service-repair. Then, they can visit the Apple Self Service Repair Store and order the necessary parts and tools.

Every genuine Apple part is designed and engineered for each product, and goes through extensive testing to ensure the highest quality, safety, and reliability. Customers can send replaced parts back to Apple for refurbishment and recycling, and in many cases receive credit of their purchase by doing so.

The Apple tools are custom designed to help provide the best repairs for Apple products, and are engineered to withstand the rigors of high-volume, professional repair operations where safety and reliability are the utmost priority. Apple will offer rental kits for $49, so that customers who do not want to purchase tools for a single repair still have access to these professional repair tools. Customers will have access to the tool kit for one week and it will be shipped free of charge.

Self Service Repair is part of Apple’s efforts to further expand access to repairs. For the vast majority of customers who do not have experience repairing electronic devices, visiting a professional repair provider with certified technicians who use genuine Apple parts is the safest and most reliable way to get a repair.

Over the past three years, Apple has nearly doubled the number of service locations with access to genuine Apple parts, tools, and training, including more than 3,500 Independent Repair Providers.

A global network of more than 5,000 Apple Authorized Service Providers supports more than 100,000 active technicians. As a result, in the US, eight out of 10 Apple customers are located within 20 minutes of an authorized service provider.

August 23, 2022
Xiaomi declares increase in revenue to RMB 70.2 billion

Beijing, Hong Kong: Xiaomi Corporation on Friday announced financial results for the second quarter and half year ended June 30, 2022. It declared increase in revenue to RMB 70.2 billion.

Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an Internet of Things (IoT) platform at its core, announced its unaudited consolidated results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022.

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During the reporting period, Xiaomi registered revenue of RMB70.2 billion. Adjusted net profit reached RMB2.1 billion, which included RMB611 million of expenses related to smart EV and other new initiatives.

In the second quarter of 2022, global macroeconomic turbulence and the resurgence of COVID-19 continued to impact overall market demand for smartphones, and global smartphone industry shipments declined 8.9 percent year-over-year and 7.7 percent quarter-over-quarter, according to Canalys. Against the backdrop, the Group remained focused on its preordained strategies of seeking to strengthen the fundamentals of smartphone business, further pursue development of Xiaomi’s technology ecosystem and expand foothold in global markets demonstrating strong levels of operational resilience.

Global strategy bears fruits as smartphone shipments grow for two consecutive quarters

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In the first half of 2022, global smartphone shipments dropped 8.9 percent year-over-year and 7.7 percent quarter-over-quarter. Despite the challenge, Xiaomi remained committed to its core strategies in pursuit of long-term and sustainable development. As Xiaomi continues to advance its dual-brand strategy, fundamentals of its smartphone business have shown tremendous resilience.

In the second quarter of 2022, Xiaomi’s smartphone revenue reached RMB42.3 billion with global smartphone shipments reached 39.1 million units, an increase of 1.5 percent quarter-over-quarter. According to Canalys, Xiaomi’s global smartphone shipments ranked No. 3 in the second quarter with market share of 13.8 percent, and its market share has increased for two consecutive quarters.

READ MORE: Xiaomi launches ultra slim MIX Fold 2 smartphone

In the meantime, Xiaomi’s international brand strength continues to solidify as it progressively expands its foothold in global markets. In the second quarter of 2022, Xiaomi’s revenue from overseas markets reached RMB34 billion, accounting for 48.4 percent of total revenue.

Benefiting from Xiaomi’s mature business model and localization experience, the Group’s market share in Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Middle East and Africa all increased quarter-over-quarter. According to Canalys, in the second quarter of 2022, Xiaomi’s smartphone shipments ranked top 3 in 55 countries and regions and among the top five in 67 countries and regions. In the second quarter of 2022, Xiaomi’s smartphone shipments ranked No. 2 in Europe with 21.7 percent market share, ranked No. 3 within Western Europe with market share of 15.8 percent and ranked No.1 in Spain.

Meanwhile, Xiaomi continues to penetrate the overseas carrier channel. According to Canalys, the Group’s carrier channel market share in Europe increased from 17.0 percent in the first quarter to 18 percent in the second quarter of 2022. Xiaomi’s carrier channel market share in Latin America increased from 17.7 percent to 19.3 percent in the same period. According to Canalys, Xiaomi smartphone market share through carrier channels ranked top three in 40 overseas markets.

Xiaomi continues to earn global recognition. In August 2022, Xiaomi was named on the Fortune Global 500 list for the fourth consecutive year and ranked 266th, advancing 72 spots from 2021. By harnessing the potential of business expansion through market localization efforts, the development of a global market presence is expected to generate immense growth opportunities for Xiaomi.

Ramping up R&D investment to boost premiumization

Xiaomi has been pursuing technological innovation and quality upgrade, and is committed to strengthening its independent R&D capabilities and enhancing its core competitiveness. In the second quarter of 2022, its research and development expenses reached RMB3.8 billion, an increase of 22.8 percent year-over-year. At the latest Xiaomi product launch event, Lei Jun, founder, chairman and CEO of Xiaomi Group, revealed that Xiaomi’s R&D investment has grown at a CAGR of 39.7 percent since 2017 and is expected to reach RMB17 billion in 2022 and RMB100 billion in the next five years.

During the reporting period, Xiaomi not only launched its proprietary Surge G1 battery management chip to optimize the performance of smartphone products’ battery life but also continued to boost its premiumization strategy with significant breakthroughs in imaging technology and smartphone form factor.

In May 2022, Xiaomi announced its long-term strategic partnership in imaging technology with Leica, another milestone in Xiaomi’s premiumization development. In July 2022, Xiaomi announced its first model with Leica, Xiaomi 12S Ultra. It features a Leica Summicron lenses and Sony IMX989 one-inch image sensor, along with the Leica Authentic Look and the Leica Vibrant Look imaging profiles, delivering a highly texturized smartphone photography experience. With the release of Xiaomi 12S series, the third generation of Xiaomi high-end “performance-first, experience-first” has fully emerged. According to the JD platform, Xiaomi 12S series has been well received by the market with more than 98 percent of reviews positive thus far.

On August 11, Xiaomi’s second-generation foldable flagship smartphone, Xiaomi MIX Fold 2, was unveiled and it pushes the boundaries of the premium market once again. The product features the self-developed Micro Waterdrop Hinge and flexible ultra-thin glass to provide a revolutionary ultra-slim design and pleasant in-hand experience. Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is equipped with Eco2 OLED flexible display, which greatly increases light transmittance while reducing power consumption. It is also equipped with the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform processor, Leica Summicron lenses and MIUI Fold 13, which is designed specifically for foldable smartphones. Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 offers outstanding performance and exceptional user experience in terms of display, imaging and software, and has achieved strong sales since launch.

In the second quarter, according to third-party data, Xiaomi’s smartphone market share in the RMB3,000 to RMB4,000 price segment in mainland China increased 3.5 percentage points year-over-year to 18.2 percent, and in the RMB4,000 to RMB5,000 price segment, its market share rose 2.0 percentage points year-over-year to 15.5 percent. The development of Xiaomi’s premiumization strategy has become a driving force contributing to its solid development.

In addition, Xiaomi is relentlessly exploring the future and focusing on sharing the long-term value of technology. At present, Xiaomi adopts the technology deployment strategy of self-developed full stack approach to autonomous driving technology. The Group plans to invest RMB3.3 billion in autonomous driving research and development in the first phase during which it will create a fleet of 140 test vehicles to further drive technological breakthroughs. The robotics laboratory that established in 2021 has made groundbreaking achievements. On 11 August, Xiaomi launched its self-developed, full-size humanoid bionic robot CyberOne, which supports bipedal-motion posture balancing through mechanical joint motors and full-body control algorithms. Furthermore, it is capable of detecting human emotion and creating three-dimensional virtual reconstructions of the real world through self-developed audio and vision modules and algorithms. These series of self-developed high-tech products fully demonstrate Xiaomi’s technological leadership and promote the evolution and enhancement of Xiaomi’s premiumization capabilities.

Shaping new “Xiaomi Technological Ecosystem” to empower smart living era

Driven by innovation, Xiaomi has further advanced its “Smartphone x AIoT” strategy to empower a smart living era. The company is building an ever-expanding technology ecosphere spanning smartphones, wearable devices, smart home, smart manufacturing, smart EVs and bionic robots, to better connect people to the world around them and improve their lives. In tandem with the development, the Group launched a series of new products, including Mijia Dual-Drum Washer Dryer 15kg, Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro 12.4, Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro, Xiaomi Watch S1 Pro and Mijia Smart Smoke Purifier P1 elevating premium experiences and capabilities.

As of June 30, 2022, the number of connected IoT devices (excluding smartphones, tablets and laptops) on Xiaomi’s AIoT platform reached 526.9 million, up 40.7 percent year-over-year. The number of users with five or more devices connected to its AIoT platform (excluding smartphones, tablets and laptops) exceeded 10 million for the first time to reach 10.2 million, an increase of 37.0 percent year-over-year.

Xiaomi continues to enhance interconnectivity across all usage scenarios and expand a diverse smart living product portfolio. In the second quarter of 2022, Xiaomi’s revenue from IoT and lifestyle products amounted to RMB19.8 billion. Although demand for discretionary items in overseas markets was weak in the short term due to the macro-economic factors, many IoT product categories in the domestic market still achieved solid growth.

Global shipments of Xiaomi smart TV reached 2.6 million units, outperforming the overall decline in the global TV market, thanks to the cost advantages brought by the Group’s economies of scale and the lower prices of key components. The gross profit margin of smart TV business increased substantially year-over-year in the second quarter. According to All View Cloud (“AVC”), Xiaomi smart TV shipments ranked No. 1 in mainland China and maintained its top five global ranking in the second quarter of 2022.

Smart large home appliance category (including air conditioners, refrigerators and washing machines) continued to deliver strong growth with revenue increasing over 25 percent year-over-year to set a record high. Xiaomi’s air conditioner product shipments grew by over 35 percent. It is worth mentioning that as of July 2022, the company’s air conditioner shipments year-to-date has already exceeded the 2 million units in 2021, while the total tablet shipments exceeded 1.5 million units in the first half of 2022.

Monetization of overseas internet services revenue strengthens underpinned by record-high MIUI MAUs

Despite the challenges posed by macroeconomic headwinds, Xiaomi’s internet services business achieved rapid growth underpinned by sustained growth of user base and stronger content and service operations.

In the second quarter of 2022, Xiaomi’s internet services revenue reached RMB7.0 billion. Overseas internet services revenue achieved a quarterly high of RMB1.7 billion, an increase of 52.1 percent year-over-year, and accounted for 23.9 percent of total internet services revenue. Its overseas internet services business not only diversified its monetization capabilities but has also safeguarded its growth resilience amid macroeconomic uncertainties and is expected to further optimize the company’s profitability.

The continued growth of MIUI MAUs enhanced resilience of Xiaomi’s internet services business, laying a solid foundation for its long-term development. In June 2022, global MAU of MIUI reached 547.0 million while MAU of MIUI in mainland China reached 140.2 million, both hitting record highs. The Group added 17.8 million MAU of MIUI globally, including 4.6 million MAU in mainland China.

In this quarter, overseas advertising revenue increased over 50 percent year-over-year, mainly benefiting from the continued expansion of overseas user base, enhanced content and services, as well as deeper collaboration with the company’s global business partners.

Driven by smart TV shipments, Xiaomi’s TV internet user base continued its robust growth momentum in the second quarter. In June 2022, global MAU of Xiaomi’s smart TV (including Xiaomi Box and Xiaomi TV Stick) reached approximately 53 million. Revenue from mainland China TV value-added services increased nearly 25 percent year-over-year in this quarter due to optimized content operations.

In the second quarter of 2022, Xiaomi’s resilience backed by well-established capabilities has boosted market confidence amid temporary economic volatility and slowing demand. Meanwhile, Xiaomi’s continued strong organic growth momentum enabling the company to navigate short-term volatility and reshape its long-term development.

August 19, 2022
Hyundai IONIQ 5 wins Car and Driver’s year award

SEOUL: Hyundai IONIQ 5 is awarded Car and Driver’s EV (Electric Vehicle) of the Year Award on August 18, 2022.

Hyundai IONIQ 5 is listed on Number 1 out of 20 top rated electric vehicle after a three week period rigorous test.

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“The IONIQ 5 is an attractive proposition for buyers who desire the performance, range, and charging speeds of far more expensive EVs at an accessible price,” said Tony Quiroga, editor-in-chief, Car and Driver.

The EV award uses the same criteria as Car and Driver’s 10Best Awards. The winner must exceed the expectations of the Car and Driver editorial and testing teams in four key areas:

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· Value

· Mission Fulfillment

· Technology Advancement

· Fun to Drive

“IONIQ 5 successfully launched our new family of IONIQ electric vehicles and exclusive Electric-Global Modular Platform that allows for more interior space and greater performance,” said José Muñoz, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “IONIQ 5 continues to satisfy customers and we will build on this momentum with the launch of the IONIQ 6 and 7.

READ MORE: Porsche launches new Porsche 911 GT3 RS

“Accolades like the Car and Driver EV of the Year are particularly rewarding to the teams that designed and engineered IONIQ 5 to deliver standout charging speed, innovative features and driving dynamics.” he added.

Other contenders include Audi e-tron GT, BMW i4, BMW iX, Chevrolet Bolt EV, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Cadillac Lyriq, Ford Mustang Mach-e GT, Ford F150 Lightning, GMC Hummer EV Pickup, Lucid Air Grand Touring, Mercedes EQS, Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, Rivian R1T, Tesla Model S Plaid and Volvo C40 Recharge. Car and Driver employed instrumented testing, subjective evaluation and side-by-side comparison in both practicality and entertainment value.

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August 19, 2022
Porsche launches new Porsche 911 GT3 RS

GERMANY: Porsche on Thursday revealed its all new Porsche 911 GT3 RS which is designed for maximum performance.

The road-legal high-performance sports car takes full advantage of technology and concepts from motorsport (911 GT3 RS: Fuel consumption combined (WLTP) 13.4 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (WLTP) 305 g/km, Fuel consumption combined (NEDC) 12.7 l/100 km, CO₂ emissions combined (NEDC) 289 g/km). Even beyond the high-revving naturally aspirated engine with racing DNA and intelligent lightweight construction, it is, above all, the cooling and aerodynamic systems of the 911 GT3 RS that connect it most directly with its motorsport brother, the 911 GT3 R.

Central-radiator concept inspired by motorsport – the foundation for active aerodynamics

The basis for a significant performance boost is the concept of a central radiator – an idea that was first used in the Le Mans class-winning 911 RSR and subsequently in the 911 GT3 R. Instead of the three-radiator layout seen in previous cars, the new 911 GT3 RS relies on a large, angled centre radiator in the car’s nose, positioned where the luggage compartment is located on other 911 models. This has made it possible to use the space freed up on the sides to integrate active aerodynamic elements.

Continuously adjustable wing elements in the front and on the two-part rear wing, in combination with a number of other aerodynamic measures, provide 409 kg of total downforce at 200 km/h. This means that the new 911 GT3 RS generates twice as much downforce as its 991.2-generation predecessor and three times as much as a current 911 GT3. At 285 km/h, total downforce is 860 kg.

A drag reduction system (DRS) is fitted in a production Porsche for the first time. To achieve low drag and higher speeds on straight sections of the track, the DRS allows the wings to be flattened out at the push of a button, within a specific operating range. The airbrake function is activated during emergency braking at high speeds: the wing elements at the front and rear are set to maximum, creating an aerodynamic deceleration effect that significantly supports the wheel brakes.

The look of the new 911 GT3 RS is characterised by the large number of functional aerodynamic elements. The most prominent feature of the GT sports car is the swan-neck-supported rear wing, which is significantly larger in all dimensions. The rear wing consists of a fixed main wing and an upper, hydraulically adjustable wing element.

For the first time on a Porsche production vehicle, the upper edge of the rear wing is higher than the car’s roof. In addition, the front end of the 911 GT3 RS no longer has a front spoiler, but instead features a front splitter that divides the air flowing over and underneath. Sideblades accurately direct air outwards. Front wheel arch ventilation is provided via louvred openings in the front wings.

Inlets behind the front wheels, in the style of the iconic Le Mans-winning 911 GT1, reduce the dynamic pressure in the wheel arches. Sideblades behind the intake ensure that the air is directed to the side of the vehicle. Air from the centrally positioned radiator flows out via large nostrils on the front lid. Fins on the roof direct the air outwards, ensuring cooler intake temperatures in the rear.

In the new 911 GT3 RS, the openings in the rear side panel are used exclusively to improve aerodynamics and not to draw in process air. The rear wheel arch also features an intake and a sideblade for optimised airflow. The rear diffuser comes from the 911 GT3 and has been slightly adapted.

Track suspension that can be adjusted from the cockpit

Even the suspension comes in for aerodynamic attention. Because the wheel arches of the new 911 GT3 RS are subject to powerful airflows, the components of the double-wishbone front axle are designed with teardrop-shaped profiles. These aerodynamically efficient links increase downforce on the front axle by around 40 kg at top speed and are otherwise only used in high-end motorsport applications. Because of the wider track (29 millimetres wider than the 911 GT3), the double-wishbone front axle links are also correspondingly longer.

To ensure that the downforce balance between the front and rear axles is maintained even when braking from high speeds, the suspension engineers have significantly reduced pitching under braking. On the new 911 GT3 RS, the front ball joint of the lower trailing arm has been set lower on the front axle. The multi-link rear axle has also been adjusted, with modified spring rates. The driver assistance systems and rear-axle steering also have an even more dynamic set-up here.

The 911 GT3 RS offers three driving modes: Normal, Sport and Track. In Track mode, the basic settings can be individually adjusted. Among other settings, the rebound and compression damping of the front and rear axles can be adjusted separately and in several stages. The rear differential can also be adjusted via rotary controls on the steering wheel. This is done quickly and intuitively with an operating and display concept also borrowed from motorsport.

Four individual rotary controls and a button for the Drag Reduction System (DRS) are located on the steering wheel. These rotary controls are clearly displayed via graphics in the instrument cluster during the adjustment process. The 911 GT3 RS also features the track screen already familiar from the 911 GT3. At the touch of a button, the driver can reduce the digital displays on the two seven-inch side displays to essential information only. The gearshift indicators to the left and right of the analogue tachometer have also been taken from the GT3.

High-revving four liter six-cylinder boxer engine

The 4.0-litre high-revving naturally aspirated engine has been further optimised compared with the 911 GT3. The increase in power to 386 kW (525 PS) is achieved primarily via new camshafts with modified cam profiles. The single-throttle intake system and the rigid valve drive are derived from motorsport. The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) has a shorter overall gear ratio than the 911 GT3. Air intakes on the underbody ensure that the transmission can withstand even extreme loads during frequent use on track. The 911 GT3 RS accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 296 km/h in seventh gear.

Aluminium monobloc fixed-calliper brakes with six pistons each and brake discs with a diameter of 408 mm are used on the front axle. Compared with the 911 GT3, the piston diameters have been increased from 30 to 32 mm. In addition, the thickness of the discs has been increased from 34 to 36 mm. The rear axle continues to be fitted with 380-mm brake discs and four-piston fixed-calliper brakes.

The optionally available Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) has 410-mm discs on the front axle and 390-mm discs on the rear axle. The new 911 GT3 RS comes standard with forged light-alloy centre-lock wheels. Road-legal sports tyres measuring 275/35 R 20 at the front and 335/30 R21 at the rear ensure a high level of mechanical grip.

Lightweight construction all the way

Intelligent lightweight construction has been a basic principle of all RS models ever since the legendary 911 Carrera RS 2.7. Thanks to an array of lightweight construction measures such as the extensive use of CFRP, the 911 GT3 RS weighs in at only 1,450 kg (kerb weight according to DIN) despite many larger components. The doors, front wings, roof and front lid, for example, are made from CFRP. Lightweight CFRP is also used in the interior, for example in the standard full bucket seats.

Available with Clubsport and Weissach packages

When it comes to its interior, the new GT sports car is finished in typical RS style: black leather, Racetex and carbon-weave finish characterise the purist, sporting ambience. The 911 GT3 RS is available with the Clubsport package at no extra cost. This includes a steel rollover bar, a hand-held fire extinguisher and six-point seat belts for the driver.

The Weissach package, which is available at extra cost, involves considerably more. The front lid, roof, parts of the rear wing and the upper shell of the exterior mirrors feature a carbon-weave finish. The front and rear anti-roll bars, the rear coupling rods and the shear panel on the rear axle are made of CFRP and contribute to a further enhancement of the driving dynamics. The rollover bar, constructed for the first time from CFRP, saves around six kilograms compared with the steel version.

Another highlight of the Weissach package is the PDK shift paddles with motorsport-derived magnet technology. This makes gear changes even more dynamic thanks to a more precise pressure point and a clearly perceptible click. Optionally available with the Weissach package are magnesium forged wheels, which save another eight kilograms.

Exclusive Porsche Design Chronograph

Inspired by the motorsport mindset – where maximum precision is paramount – Porsche’s own watchmaking operation in Solothurn, Switzerland, has developed the 911 GT3 RS chronograph. This mechanical watch is reserved for owners of the car. It is based on a glass-bead blasted case, made from either natural or black titanium, and with a screw-down crown. Inside the watch is the mechanical Porsche Design chronograph calibre WERK 01.200, which has been COSC-certified for its high accuracy.

Its flyback function allows the wearer to start, stop and reset the second hand with a single action. The chronograph pushers, which feature ‘Start/Stop’ and ‘Next Lap’ laser engravings, reveal that this chronograph is not just about telling the time. In addition to innovations, such as the pulsometer scale on the bezel, many design features and materials from the GT3 RS are also found.

The new 911 GT3 RS is available for order now and starts at €229,517 in Germany^.

August 17, 2022
Hyundai Motor launches Dynamics Artificial Intelligence Institute

SEOUL/CAMBRIDGE: Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) on Friday August 12, 2022 announced the launch of Boston Dynamics AI Institute (the Institute), with the goal of making fundamental advances in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and intelligent machines.

The Group and Boston Dynamics will make an initial investment of more than $400 million in the new Institute, which will be led by Marc Raibert, founder of Boston Dynamics.

As a research-first organization, the Institute will work on solving the most important and difficult challenges facing the creation of advanced robots.

Elite talent across AI, robotics, computing, machine learning and engineering will develop technology for robots and use it to advance their capabilities and usefulness.

The Institute’s culture is designed to combine the best features of university research labs with those of corporate development labs while working in four core technical areas: cognitive AI, athletic AI, organic hardware design as well as ethics and policy.

“Our mission is to create future generations of advanced robots and intelligent machines that are smarter, more agile, perceptive and safer than anything that exists today,” said Marc Raibert executive director of Boston Dynamics AI Institute.

“The unique structure of the Institute — top talent focused on fundamental solutions with sustained funding and excellent technical support — will help us create robots that are easier to use, more productive, able to perform a wider variety of tasks, and that are safer working with people.”

To achieve such advances, the Institute will invest resources across the technical areas of cognitive AI, athletic AI and organic hardware design, with each discipline contributing to progress in advanced machine capabilities. In addition to developing technology with its own staff, the Institute plans to partner with universities and corporate research labs.

The Institute will be headquartered in the heart of the Kendall Square research community in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The Institute plans to hire AI and robotics researchers, software and hardware engineers, and technicians at all levels.

In addition to the Institute, Hyundai Motor Group separately announced plans to establish a Global Software Center to lead development of its software capabilities and technologies and to enhance its capabilities to advance development of Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs).

The Center will be established on the basis of 42dot, an autonomous driving software and mobility platform startup recently acquired by the Group.

August 12, 2022
Xiaomi launches ultra-high resolution Pad 5 Pro

BEIJING: Xiaomi Corporation launched its Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro which provides 12.4″ display for work and entertainment.

Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro features a large 12.4″ display, which users can fully utilize for a highly efficient and convenient experience in both work and entertainment scenarios.

READ MORE: Xiaomi unveils CyberOne – first ever humanoid robot

The 12.4″ high-quality display features an ultra-high resolution of 2560×1600, 120Hz high refresh rate, and hardware-level blue light reduction, providing a comfortable and smooth experience for video-watching and swift multitasking on split-screens.

Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro’s built-in conference mode can convert speech into text in real time, quickly distinguish between different speakers, and supports real-time translation between Chinese and English.

READ MORE: Xiaomi launches ultra slim MIX Fold 2 smartphone

August 12, 2022
Prices of Samsung Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro

South Korea: Samsung Electronics on August 10, 2022 launched the Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro, with advanced features and even more powerful capabilities.

Galaxy Watch5 with the 44mm display will start at $279 for the Bluetooth version and $329 for the LTE version. Galaxy Watch5 Pro with a 45mm display, will start at $449 for the Bluetooth version and $499 for the LTE version.

The watch provides in-depth monitoring and practical data offering users the information needed to help them with their health and wellness.

The press release issued by Samsung Electronics stated that Galaxy Watch5 is equipped with Samsung’s unique BioActive Sensor that drives the next era of digital health monitoring. First introduced on the Galaxy Watch4 series, the BioActive Sensor uses a single unique chip that combines three powerful health sensors — Optical Heart Rate, Electrical Heart Signal and Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis — to deliver extensive readings that include heart rate, blood oxygen level and even stress level. In addition, users can get a deeper understanding of their heart health by monitoring blood pressure and ECG — right from their wrist.

With an increased surface area and more direct contact with your wrist, Galaxy Watch5 tracks health metrics now with even greater accuracy than Galaxy Watch4. Plus, its powerful 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor works in combination with the other sensors of Galaxy Watch5 series, including the newly introduced temperature sensor, to provide users with an in-depth understanding of their wellness.

READ MORE: Samsung unveils toughest foldable Galaxy Z Fold4

The temperature sensor uses infrared technology for more accurate readings, even if the temperature of your surroundings changes. This opens new possibilities for developers to expand their health and wellness options and for users to take advantage of all-new experiences.

Designed for everyday wins, Galaxy Watch5 offers a comprehensive end-to-end experience that goes beyond fitness activities and into the post-workout, rest and recovery process. The Body Composition measurement tool provides a complete snapshot of the user’s overall health, providing them with a tailored approach to set goals, guide them through personalized workouts and track progress. And when it’s time to rest, the Galaxy Watch5 series empowers users with recovery data, including post-cardio heart rate after an intense workout, and customized recommendations on water consumption based on sweat loss.

A good night’s rest is important in wellness, and that’s why we’re helping users have a better night’s sleep. Understand sleep patterns through Sleep Scores that monitor stages of sleep, along with snore detectionand blood oxygen levels.

Through SmartThings integration, Galaxy Watch5 automatically sets connected lights, AC units and TVs to predetermined settings that make for an ideal sleep environment. Users can sleep safe and sound knowing that the enhanced fall detection ensures an emergency contact is notified if you or your loved one stumbles at home or falls out of bed.

READ MORE: Samsung launches all new Galaxy Z Flip4

Galaxy Watch5 comes with 13 per cent larger batteryand provides eight hours of sleep tracking with just eight minutes of charging, which is 30 per cent faster than Galaxy Watch4.

An extra layer of durability protects the Galaxy Watch5. This year, we’ve included our first smartwatch display featuring a Sapphire Crystal display, which offers a 60 per cent harder outer layer, so your watch remains reliable in day-to-day use. Cue up your favorite song on Spotify with just your voice using Google Assistant. And coming soon, find your way using Google Maps from your wrist without a smartphone connection.

Music and audio lovers will appreciate updates that include new apps like SoundCloud and Deezer. Additionally, One UI Watch4.5 offers a fuller typing experience, an easier way to make calls and a host of new accessibility features that make the Galaxy Watch more intuitive.

Created for those that love the great outdoors, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro is the newest addition to the Galaxy Watch portfolio. From hiking to cycling and beyond, Watch5 Pro is ready for the challenge thanks to its premium materials. It features enhanced Sapphire Crystal that better resists any wear and tear and a durable titanium casing that protects the display with a protruded bezel design. Galaxy Watch5 Pro also comes with an all-new D-Buckle Sport Band that offers rugged durability with a sleek and clean fit.

READ MORE: Samsung launches One UI 5 open beta program for Galaxy S22 series

Built strong and built to last, Galaxy Watch5 Pro has the largest battery in a Galaxy Watch. It’s 60 per cent larger than Galaxy Watch4, which is key to keeping up with you while you conquer a new route. Take advantage of GPX, that’s available for the first time on a Galaxy Watch.

Head out on a hike and record and share it with fellow trail-lovers on the Samsung Health app with Route Workout. You can also download hiking and cycling routes as you practice for your next race or look to mix up your routine. As you hike or cycle, keep your eyes on the path and away from the map with intuitive Turn-by-turn directions.

When you’re ready to head home, Galaxy Watch5 Pro will get you there easily with the Track back feature that takes you back the way you came.

The Galaxy Watch5 and Galaxy Watch5 Pro are available for pre-order in select markets starting on August 10, with retail availability starting August 26.

The Galaxy Watch5 offers a modern and minimalist design, and features that help you achieve more every day. It comes with all-new neutral color options that will turn heads, with the Large 44mm option available in Graphite, Sapphire and Silver and the Small 40mm option available in Graphite, Pink Gold and Silver which features a Bora Purple strap that pairs perfectly with the Galaxy Z Flip4.

For adventure seekers looking for durability, performance and style, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro is for you. It will be available in Black Titanium and Gray Titanium.

Galaxy Watch5 Golf Edition is the ultimate smart caddy that gives golfers direction and recommendations while they’re on the course. It comes with exclusive watch faces, a two-tone band and an unlimited membership on the Smart Caddie app. The Watch5 series Golf Edition comes in three sizes — Watch5 Large, Watch5 Small and Watch5 Pro, starting at $329 for the Bluetooth version.

Design your own watch by selecting the model, size, case color and strap for up to 1,032 unique combinations in the Galaxy Watch5 Bespoke Studio on Samsung.com. Now, users can build a watch that’s unique to them.

With a greater selection of straps and faces, they can mix and match to express their personal style with the new Sport Band or share their support of Sustainable Development Goals with the Global Goals Band.

August 12, 2022
Xiaomi unveils CyberOne – first ever humanoid robot

BEIJING: Xiaomi on Thursday August 11, 2022 launched CyberOne its first ever humanoid robot.

As the newest member of Xiaomi’s Cyber series, joining last year’s quadruped robot Cyberdog, CyberOne is fitted with advanced arms and legs, supports bipedal-motion posture balancing, and reaches a peak torque of up to 300Nm.

Also demonstrated was the ability to detect human emotion, advanced vision capabilities, and functionality allowing it to create three-dimensional virtual reconstructions of the real world, alongside a host of other advanced technologies.

READ MORE: Xiaomi launches ultra slim MIX Fold 2 smartphone

New self-developed breakthroughs in Xiaomi Technology Ecosphere

“CyberOne’s AI and mechanical capabilities are all self-developed by Xiaomi Robotics Lab. We have invested heavily in R&D spanning various areas, including software, hardware, and algorithms innovation,” says Lei Jun, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Xiaomi Group.

“With AI at its core and a full-size humanoid frame as its vessel, this is an exploration of possibilities of Xiaomi’s future technological ecosystem and a new breakthrough for the company.”

READ MORE: Samsung launches all new Galaxy Z Flip4

CyberOne is a humanoid robot measuring 177cm in height and 52kg by weight, with an arm span of 168cm. Compared to a quadruped robot, this humanoid robot is more mechanically complex, requiring more powerful motors, more degrees of freedom, and complex humanoid biped control algorithms. CyberOne supports up to 21 degrees of freedom in motion and achieves a real-time response speed of 0.5ms for each degree of freedom, which allows it to fully simulate human movements.

A robot’s motion performance is dependent on the performance of each joint motor. The technological requirement for building such motors is extremely high as it is necessary to generate more kinetic energy without increasing the size of components. In order to ensure the flexibility of CyberOne’s upper limbs, Xiaomi has developed a high-efficiency motor weighing only 500g with a rated output torque of up to 30Nm for the upper limb joint motor. The hip joint motor is similarly capable of an instantaneous peak torque of up to 300Nm. Thanks to the self-developed humanoid bipedal control algorithm, CyberOne’s walking posture has been programmed to be both natural and stable. On top of that, CyberOne is capable of holding up to 1.5kg in weight with a single hand and programming by demonstration. Altogether, CyberOne is a humanoid robot with well-developed coordination and exceptional motion capabilities.

READ MORE: Xiaomi further improves rank to 266 in Fortune Global 500 list

Humanoid robots rely on vision to process their surroundings. Equipped with a self-developed Mi-Sense depth vision module and combined with an AI interaction algorithm, CyberOne is capable of perceiving 3D space, as well as recognizing individuals, gestures, and expressions, allowing it to not only see but to process its environment. In order to communicate with the world, CyberOne is equipped with a self-developed MiAI environment semantics recognition engine and a MiAI vocal emotion identification engine, enabling it to recognize 85 types of environmental sounds and 45 classifications of human emotion. CyberOne is able to detect happiness, and even comfort the user in times of sadness. All of these features are integrated into CyberOne’s processing units, which are paired with a curved OLED module to display real-time interactive information.

READ MORE: Samsung unveils toughest foldable Galaxy Z Fold4

Keep exploring, and bring robots into people’s lives

Robotics is considered the “crown jewel of manufacturing” with humanoid robots being the ultimate goal for many across the industry. Compared with industrial robots that are valued for their specialized mechanical capabilities, the main challenge in building humanoid robots is to perfectly simulate human processes of perception, cognition, decision-making, and execution under various scenarios. Interestingly, a large number of new technologies that have emerged in the process of trying to solve this challenge have already been serving the general public in positive ways.

The development of CyberOne is a symbol of Xiaomi’s dedication to incubate a technological ecosystem centered in a single point, and connect it with the world in ways never seen before. Spanning from smartphones, wearable devices and smart homes, to smart manufacturing, smart electric vehicle and bionic robots, Xiaomi has been constantly exploring and extending its innovations in various scenarios so as to better connect people and the world, eventually building an ever-evolving Xiaomi Technology Ecosphere.

READ MORE: Samsung launches One UI 5 open beta program for Galaxy S22 series

Lei Jun notes that humanoid bionic robots require the highest degree of technical integration and present the largest challenge in the field of intelligent robotics. Xiaomi is making its first steps in the field, and CyberOne is constantly adding new capabilities. “We think that intelligent robots will definitely be a part of people’s lives in the future,” said Lei Jun.

CyberOne’s research and development process combined cutting-edge technologies from a variety of sectors, including bionic perception and cognition, biomechatronics, artificial intelligence, big data and cloud computing, and visual navigation. These technological breakthroughs are also expected to give birth to more application scenarios in other fields, such as industrial robots with improved mechanical performance, companion robots with emotion recognition, and public service robots powered by big data and cloud computing. CyberOne’s technology will also be applied to more and more Xiaomi products in the future.

August 11, 2022