German gearbox specialist ZF unveiled an 8-speed automatic gearbox at the Vienna Motor Symposium back in 2007 but this was just the first of a raft of advanced technologies the company is planning for the coming years. The addition of these new features are claimed to be able to improve fuel-economy by 18% on gasoline-powered vehicles and 30% on hybrids, and we should be seeing the first of these technologies as early as the 2010 model year.
The information comes from ZF vice president of corporate research Harald Naunheimer, who spoke recently with Automotive News. He said pushing the improvements are lighter materials, more efficient electrical systems that replace heavier mechanical ones and transmissions with more gears.
Andy Lally will race at Watkins Glen this weekend in his usual ride in the Grand-Am Rolex Series but he also will take up a new challenge. The American has demonstrated in his career already that he can step from one type of cockpit into another quite easily. This coming weekend, he will make his debut in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
“This is without a doubt, hands-down the biggest motor sport day I’ve ever looked forward to in my life,” said Lally in his teleconference on August 4th. “I’ve got to thank Kevin Buckler and all the guys from TRG Motorsports that put their faith in me. And all the partners that got behind me and wanted to give me a shot to come here. And Adobe Road Winery for sponsoring the car this weekend.”  … Details
The San Francisco Bay is one of the most consistent wind playgrounds in the world. Even underneath a heavy blanket of fog, the wind will crank every day from March until October. After 6 weeks of socked in, grey skies, the sun is finally setup bringing bright blue skies and the best Kiteboarding Course racers from around the world to Crissy Field.
More than 80 of the world’s top professional kiteboarders ranging in age from 16 to 60 and hailing from all corners of the globe… Details
Zero Motorcycles of Santa Cruz, California announced its third model, the Zero DS, rounding out its model line with the addition of a dual-sport. The new bike, with longer-travel suspension and knobby tires, is similar to the Zero S supermoto we had a chance to ride in April, but gives Zero customers the ability to blitz fire roads, trails and other rugged terrain, as long as it’s not more than 50 miles from a 110-volt outlet.
Judging from the specs, the Zero uses the same basic frame, suspension, bodywork and other components as the S. Important differences include…Â Details
Zero Motorcycles of Santa Cruz, California announced its third model, the Zero DS, rounding out its model line with the addition of a dual-sport. The new bike, with longer-travel suspension and knobby tires, is similar to the Zero S supermoto we had a chance to ride in April, but gives Zero customers the ability to blitz fire roads, trails and other rugged terrain, as long as it’s not more than 50 miles from a 110-volt outlet.