Daily Archives: April 1, 2017
Development of Apple Self-Driving Car Hinted
There have been tidbits of information pointing to the development of an Apple self-driving car. Details about the matter have always been closely guarded and the Cupertino-based tech giant firm has been mum about it. However, a new clue has been uncovered that suggests the autonomous vehicle program of the company is still alive.
In a document published by Apple enumerating its Supplier List for February 2017, it included Robert Bosch GmbH in it with office address at Tuebinger Strasse 123, Reutlingen, Germany. While the company is known for its production of sensors for electronic devices, power tools, security systems and home appliances, it should be noted that it is also responsible in supplying automotive parts.
According to a source, among the products produced by Bosch’s automotive division are vehicle sensors, electronic controls, power braking systems and steering. The collaboration of the two is in compliance to the guidelines of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in autonomous vehicles. A letter of Apple’s director of product integrity, Steve Kenner, to the NHTSA was uncovered too wherein he expressed the company’s interest in making automated systems in many areas, including the transport sector.
Other Clues to the Apple Self-Driving Car Project
Apple continues to play coy in the matter. But there have been many clues dropped by its company’s executives as well as their actions as of late pertaining to their involvement in an automotive program.
Apple CEO Tim Cook hinted before that they wanted to expand beyond the integration of their smartphones into vehicle infotainment systems. In addition, there have been a series of high-profile hirings that further fuel speculations about the subject.
In 2015, Apple hired former Mercedes-Benz Research & Development head Johann Jungwirth. Then last year, the firm took Sinisa Durekovic under its wing. He is known for his work in developing satellite navigation systems used by luxury car brands like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
Top 3 Things to Look Forward to in the New Porsche 911 GT3 RS
The prototype for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS was spotted cruising the roads of Germany in a series of spy shots.
After unveiling the new Porsche 911 GT3 at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, we are in for another treat again from the German automaker. Latest spy shots reveal that a Porsche 911 GT3 RS is in the works.
What have we learned so far and what can we expect from the upcoming sports car? Here are the top three things to look forward to when it comes out in the market:
1. Design Changes
From the looks of it, the next 911 GT3 RS is just a cosmetically enhanced version of the 911 GT3. The car has wider fenders with new air intakes at the rear part, revised front bumper, updated headlamps and added vents on the hood.
The interior of the 911 GT3 RS might see subtle upgrades compared to the standard 911 GT3. It’s hard to tell for now basing from the angle the spy pictures were taken. It should get new sporty leather trims as well as new pedals and steering wheel.
2. Engine Boost
The major change should come from the sports car’s power unit. Currently, the 911 GT3 is packing 500 hp. The 911 GT3 RS is expected to get an extra 20 hp to 40 hp in its flat-six engine compared to its standard version. The power of the car will probably be complemented with a manual transmission gearbox to attain optimum performance.
3. Arrival
Looking at the spy images, the prototype is almost in its final stage of development. Therefore, the possible debut of the vehicle is in September of this year. The likely venue for its world premiere is at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, since that is the major auto show coinciding with that period.
Photos
Check out the recent spy shots of the upcoming Porsche 911 GT3 RS while it was being tested in Germany in the gallery below:
