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ALL-NEW FORD MUSTANG REDEFINES DRIVING FREEDOM WITH IMMERSIVE DIGITAL COCKPIT, ADVANCED ENGINES AND BOLD STYLE

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Ford once again sounds a wake-up call for sports car lovers around the world with the introduction of the all-new Ford Mustang. The seventh generation is the most exhilarating and visceral yet, from its fighter jet-inspired digital cockpit to new advanced turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines to its edgier yet timeless exterior design.

“Investing in another generation of Mustang is a big statement at a time when many of our competitors are exiting the business of internal combustion vehicles,” said Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company. “Ford, however, is turbocharging its ICE growth plan, adding connected technology, opinionated derivatives, and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars – all in the Ford Blue family – on top of investing $50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026.”

The new Mustang adds another chapter to an icon, delivering the looks, sound and appeal of the world’s best-selling sports coupe for seven years running*. Whether convertible or coupe, V8 or turbocharged 4-cylinder, manual or automatic, Mustang has options at multiple price points and performance levels.

A completely rethought interior

Behind the chiseled exterior silhouette of the seventh-generation Mustang lies the most technologically advanced, driver-centric cockpit of any Mustang to date. The fighter jet-inspired cockpit offers the driver two flowing and curved displays that can be quickly customized to show information the driver wants or needs to see.

The car’s 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster can be customized to display different animated designs and new drive-mode dependent visuals. Based on the same Unreal Engine 3D creation tool used in modern video games, when choosing personalized drive mode settings, the car’s current setup is displayed on the center stack as real-time graphical renderings. Settings can be adjusted by simply swiping the graphic to rotate the car virtually in a true gamified style

“We’re taking advantage of every pixel,” said Craig Sandvig, Ford Mustang interaction design manager. “We can be creative in showing necessary driving information and give the driver control of selecting colors, classic Mustang gauges or even a ‘calm’ screen where only minimal details are displayed.”

Mustang’s default instrument gauge setting has shifted from traditional, cool blue and light grey tones to an ultra-modern, copper appearance theme also shared with Mustang Mach-E. From there, almost everything in the displays – and the ambient interior lighting – can be configured to selected tones, while instrument clusters adapt to drive mode selection.

When choosing personalized drive mode settings, the car’s current setup is displayed on the center stack as real-time graphical renderings. Settings can be adjusted by simply swiping the graphic to rotate the car virtually in true gamified style. 

This digital instrument cluster can be optionally configured to flow seamlessly into a 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 center stack behind a single piece of integrated glass that’s angled toward the driver.  

“We knew what customers wanted and designed the most digital Mustang ever while retaining the all-important driver-focused cockpit,” said Ricardo Garcia, Ford interior design manager. “Removing some of these physical buttons, such as radio and climate control, and integrating them into a digital display was popular in research with Millennials, Gen-Z and traditional Mustang drivers alike.”

Beyond the screen, an all-new race-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel provides more space when getting seated.

Outside the vehicle, animated welcome lighting greets drivers as they approach and, upon entry, Mustang splash screens come to life. And for those who enjoy the sound of a revving engine, Mustang introduces Remote Rev, providing the ability to rev the car’s engine remotely using the key fob. 

Mustang has a standard cloth interior featuring all-cloth seats with optional Micro Suede vinyl inserts and black seat belts, while Premium models benefit from upgraded wrapped and accent stitched across the instrument panel and door trim. EcoBoost models feature Ford’s ‘ActiveX’ synthetic leather upholstery with multiple color options, while GT models gain leather seat inserts.

Higher series models offer an upgraded, full-leather steering wheel, as well as a choice of color accent stitching and a unique upholstery perforation across the seat inserts, complemented by color-coordinated, asymmetric accent striping on the seat belts.

The center console can also incorporate an available wireless mobile phone charging pad while new overhead USB ports are installed above the cockpit, conveniently placed for track cameras and other devices, helping prevent wires from draping across the cabin.

The available B&O Sound System is optimized for the car’s interior, contributing to the visceral experience of Mustang ownership. Customers can share the ultimate driving playlist through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both of which are fully compatible with SYNC 4.

Amazon Alexa Built-In with Ford Streaming allows music and podcasts to be played with simple voice commands. Like the all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV, the all-new Mustang features Ford Power-Up software update capability.

Edgier design with timeless Mustang cues, plus more customization

The seventh generation adds modern chiseled looks to its heritage-inspired design, which sets out to appeal to the broadest Mustang customer mindset yet.  

Its low, horizontal brow across the front emphasizes overall frontal width, while the upper grille design shape is influenced by the original 1960s design. The Tri-Bar LED headlamps continue the Mustang’s classic lighting signature. Its sleek roofline, broad sprinting stance and shortened rear overhang are also true to the authentic proportions of the first generation, while the widened rear haunches point to the power over the wheels in true Mustang style. 

The roofline is optimized for driver entry and exit without removing their helmet on the track, and an extended rear deck houses a new crisp signature tri-bar lighting and redesigned diffuser for improved aerodynamic balance in the rear.

Each model in the Mustang lineup carries its own unique front end. GT is differentiated from EcoBoost models by larger, more aggressive grille openings, engineered to allow increased airflow, reflecting the increase in power and performance. The car’s aerodynamics are optimized further with the addition of new hood vents and redesigned front splitter.

“Both the EcoBoost and Mustang GT have unique styling cues that deliver on their promise of Mustang Performance,” said Christopher Walter, Ford Mustang design manager. “The new Mustang is more chiseled and edgier, leaning into Mustang’s classic brawniness and timelessness.”

Mustang convertible continues its drop-top legacy offering maximum open-air freedom. A simple, one-touch activation with a single-handle center latch opens and closes the fully lined and insulated fabric roof. The compact roof design and independent rear suspension also contribute toward segment-leading trunk space that can accommodate up to two golf bags.  

The all-new Mustang launches with 11 exterior color options including two new shades, Vapor Blue and Yellow Splash, complemented by new stripe colors and designs. Customers also can choose from three Brembo brake caliper color options: Black, Red and Grabber Blue, plus an all-new lineup of alloy wheels, ranging from 17-inch standard size on base models to 19-inch for GT with optional 20-inch alloy wheels.

New for the 2024 model year is the Mustang Design Series, providing further customization options straight from the factory. The Bronze Design Series Appearance Package adds Sinister Bronze alloy wheels with bronze badges, and is available on both EcoBoost and GT models, with or without the optional Performance Pack. 

Most Advanced and Athletic Engines Ever

The way Mustang looks, drives and sounds is key to the experience that makes customers want to get in the driver’s seat and hit the road. The all-new Mustang delivers an even more exciting drive experience with new and advanced engine technologies.

It starts with Mustang GT, now powered by an advanced, 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine. The fourth-generation 5.0-liter is set to deliver the most naturally aspirated horsepower of any Mustang GT thanks to an innovative dual air intake box and dual-throttle body design, that helps minimize induction loss by enabling higher air flow rates.

“This is the most athletic and confidence-inspiring Mustang EcoBoost and GT to drive yet,” said Ed Krenz, Ford Mustang chief nameplate engineer. “Whether driving an automatic or manual transmission, thanks to drive modes combined with fine-tuned digital engine, suspension and steering controls, we’re now able to give drivers peak performance everywhere, from their favorite roads to their local track.”

Ford has saved the manual transmission for a new generation and the 5.0-liter V8 continues to offer a standard six-speed manual transmission for customers who want an uncompromised connection to eight-cylinder power. Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission is available, and it almost instantaneously reconfigures its shift patterns to match the selected drive mode.

Customers who desire Mustang’s fun-to-drive feeling with fuel efficiency benefits can opt for the EcoBoost model, powered by an all-new, four-cylinder turbocharged 2.3-liter powertrain.

The feeling of freedom and confidence Mustang instills in its drivers is amplified when they take control of how the car behaves.

On a twisty back road or a weekend track day, the driver can quickly adjust steering effort, engine response, and transmission and electronic stability control settings through six available Drive Modes to create the perfect Mustang at any time. These are Normal, Sport, Slippery, Drag, Track plus a customizable setting with up to six individual profiles, tailored to the driver’s view ahead of them. As each mode is selected, high-fidelity graphics in the digital instrument panel bring the mode to life.

Mustang GT and EcoBoost models are both available with an optional Performance Pack, which adds a host of track-focused features, including a front Tower Brace, Torsen® Limited Slip differential and optional MagneRide active suspension, wider rear wheels and tires, and larger, 390-millimeter front and 355-millimeter rear Brembo brakes. The GT Performance Pack adds brake ducts for even more enhanced cooling and a standard auxiliary engine oil cooler. Performance Pack also offers optional Recaro® seats and active exhaust.

Mustang GT with manual transmission includes standard rev-matching that helps hold engine RPM when the clutch is engaged. This retains peak torque between manual gear changes, delivering even more precision, thrill and better refinement.  

Quicker steering ratios and minimal compliance from steering wheel to tire significantly enhances the car’s cornering dynamics, with increased straight-line power.

A segment-first electronic drift brake takes new technology to the racetrack, unlocking the rear-wheel-drive drifting capability of Mustang with the visual appeal and functionality of a traditional, mechanical hand brake. The Performance Electronic Parking Brake comes standard with the Performance Pack on all Mustang models, engineered for novice drivers to learn and improve their drift skills while also providing expert drivers with a competition-ready system.

More Available Advanced Driver Assistance Technologies

The new Mustang comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™ features, including Speed Sign Recognition, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering Assist, Evasive Steer Assist and Reverse Brake Assist. Another key feature is Active Pothole Mitigation, included with the Performance Package, which continually monitors suspension, body, steering and braking input and adjusts suspension response accordingly.

Owners can stay connected with their car via the FordPass™ app in other ways, utilizing free remote features such as remote vehicle start and stop, door locking and unlocking, scheduling a start time, locating the vehicle, and vehicle health and status checks. The FordPass app provides important vehicle information available to users, including fuel and oil levels, service history and warranty information. 

The all-new Mustang goes on sale in the U.S. starting in the summer of 2023 and is assembled at Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.

Source: Ford

Automotive

Introducing the All-New 2025 Nissan Kicks: Redefining Compact Crossovers

Introducing the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks: a compact crossover with innovative technology, sleek design, and unmatched versatility.

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"2025 Nissan Kicks: Redefining Compact Crossovers"

Are you ready to up your crossover game? The all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks is here to raise the bar in the compact crossover segment. With its unexpected levels of available technology, sleek design inspired by high-end sneakers, exceptional versatility, and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the new Kicks is set to make a lasting impression. Let’s dive into the exciting features of this stunning vehicle.

Confidence on Any Terrain

The 2025 Nissan Kicks is the first-ever Kicks model to offer Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD), providing you with additional confidence and control in various weather conditions and road surfaces. Whether it’s rain, snow, or rough roads, the AWD system ensures that you can navigate through them with ease. Plus, the “Snow” driving mode specifically tunes the all-wheel-drive and vehicle dynamic control systems to optimize performance on slippery surfaces, keeping you safe and secure.

Bold and Expressive Design

When it comes to design, the 2025 Nissan Kicks stands out from the crowd. With its bold and expressive exterior, this compact crossover makes a big impact. The wide stance, fenders, and rounded, protected cabin create an eye-catching silhouette. The lower half of the vehicle features strong fenders and a distinctive boxiness, while the upper body maintains a clean and sleek look.

But the design details don’t stop there. Inspired by athletic sneaker soles, the rocker panels of the Kicks feature an intricate, three-dimensional shape that adds texture and visual interest. Even the rear of the vehicle catches your attention, with a subtle roof spoiler and full-width LED taillights that wrap around into combination lights on the flared rear fenders. The 2025 Nissan Kicks was designed to turn heads on the road.

Modern and Airy Interior

Step inside the 2025 Nissan Kicks, and you’ll be greeted by a modern and airy interior. The dual-screen setup on the dashboard, one for the instrument meter and one for the infotainment system, provides a sleek and futuristic look. The standard 7-inch meter can be upgraded to a striking 12.3-inch unit on the SR grade, offering two display modes for a more traditional or enhanced view.

In terms of comfort and convenience, the Kicks has you covered. The seats feature Nissan’s Zero Gravity™ seating design, providing a more comfortable seating position and reducing fatigue during long journeys. The center console offers plenty of storage space, including two cupholders designed to fit a 30-ounce coffee tumbler and an enclosed storage compartment. The doors also have bottle holders large enough for a 32-ounce tumbler.

Adventure-Ready Spaciousness

The 2025 Nissan Kicks was designed to optimize interior room for both passengers and cargo. Compared to its predecessor, the front and rear of the Kicks offer increased shoulder room and knee room, making road trips more comfortable for everyone. But it’s the cargo space that truly impresses. With up to 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats raised (and up to 60 cubic feet with the seats lowered), the Kicks leads the class in cargo capacity. It’s perfect for those who need extra room for luggage, sports equipment, or any other adventures you have planned.

Driver Assistance for Maximum Confidence

Safety is a top priority in the 2025 Nissan Kicks. Every model comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield® 360, which includes features like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist. Additionally, the Kicks SR grade offers the class-exclusive Intelligent Around View Monitor, providing a virtual 360-degree, bird’s-eye camera view to simplify parking and low-speed maneuvers.

Effortless Infotainment

Staying connected on the go is essential, and the 2025 Nissan Kicks makes it effortless. With intuitive infotainment features and available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, you can seamlessly connect your devices without the need for cables. Plus, the Kicks offers up to four USB Type-C ports and a wireless charging pad, ensuring that your devices stay powered up on any journey.

Power and Efficiency

Under the hood, the 2025 Nissan Kicks boasts a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that delivers 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Paired with Nissan’s latest generation Xtronic transmission, this powertrain ensures confident acceleration and efficient performance.

Choose Your Adventure

The 2025 Nissan Kicks is available in three compelling grade levels: S, SV, and SR. With two available Premium packages, you can customize your Kicks to fit your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you want a stylish commuter vehicle or a versatile crossover for your next adventure, there’s a Kicks model for you.

Get ready to elevate your driving experience with the all-new 2025 Nissan Kicks. With its innovative features, sleek design, and reliable performance, this compact crossover has everything you need for an unforgettable journey. Keep an eye out for the Kicks when it arrives at Nissan dealerships later this summer. Pricing details will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

For more information and updates, visit the Nissan USA website or follow Nissan on social media. Buckle up and get ready for the future of compact crossovers with the 2025 Nissan Kicks!

https://www.nissanusa.com/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/automotive/

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bp unveils first US bp pulse EV charging Gigahub™ at Houston headquarters

A ribbon cutting for the Gigahub™ located at the bp Westlake campus with bp executives and local elected officials will be held on March 20, 2024

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HOUSTON, March 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — bp (NYSE: BP) will celebrate the opening of its new electric-vehicle charging site at its bp America headquarters in Houston, Texas, expanding its network of EV chargers in the US. The new bp pulse station is the first bp pulse branded Gigahub™ in the US and will be open to the public on April 2.

bp unveils first US bp pulse EV charging Gigahub™ at Houston headquarters

bp pulse Gigahub™ (EV charging station) is open to the general public
bp pulse Gigahub™ Westlake campus

Emma Delaney, bp Executive Vice President for Customers & Products, said: “As we expand our global footprint, I am thrilled to unveil our first EV charging Gigahub in the US. With leading fast charging positions already in key markets in the UK, China, and Germany, we’re learning about customer charging preferences on the go.”

The Gigahub™, expected to open on March 20, 2024, will offer 24 high-speed EV charge points with Tritium 150kW DC fast chargers. The chargers will be integrated with the bp pulse app, allowing users to locate the site, access real-time charging availability, and connect to WiFi.

“We’re excited to bring bp pulse to America’s energy corridor and expand our presence in the US public EV-charging market,” said Sujay Sharma, CEO of bp pulse Americas. “This project will bring fast, reliable charging to EV drivers when and where they need it, helping support faster electric-vehicle adoption in the US. We look forward to welcoming new and existing EV drivers to our growing network.”

bp pulse aims to continue deploying additional charging points at high-demand locations, such as airports, major metropolitan areas, and bp-owned properties across the US. bp has also been awarded grant funds through programs, including National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) and California Energy Commission (CEC) to provide charging infrastructure at sites in California, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky.

In February 2023, bp announced plans to invest $1 billion in America’s EV charging infrastructure by 2030, with $500 million invested in by the end of 2025. bp pulse also shared commitments to deliver 3,000 charge points by 2025. EV charging is one of bp’s five strategic transition growth engines in which the company expects to significantly grow investment through this decade. The other transition growth engines include bioenergy, hydrogen, convenience and renewables & power.

Today bp has 29,000 EV charge points worldwide and aims for more than 100,000 globally by 2030 – around 90% rapid or ultra-fast.

About bp

bp’s ambition is to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner, and to help the world get to net zero. We’re transforming bp from an international oil and gas company to an integrated energy company – and America is core to the strategy. bp has a larger economic footprint in the United States than anywhere else in the world, investing more than $145 billion since 2005 and supporting more than 275,000 jobs. For more information on bp in the US, visit www.bpamerica.com.

About bp pulse

bp pulse is bp’s electric vehicle (EV) charging business. Focused on fast and reliable charging, bp pulse deploys charging points for EV drivers and commercial fleets on the go; at destination hubs, at the depot and bp retail sites. Around the world bp pulse is partnering with some of the world’s biggest businesses, while developing the Gigahub™ network, a series of large EV high-speed charging hubs in high-demand locations. For more information, visit bppulsefleet.com

Further information: bp US press office, USPRESS@bp.com

Cautionary statement: In order to utilize the ‘safe harbor’ provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the ‘PSLRA’), bp is providing the following cautionary statement. This press release contains certain forward-looking statements – that is, statements related to future, not past events and circumstances – which may relate to one or more of the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of bp and certain of the plans and objectives of bp with respect to these items. These statements are generally, but not always, identified by the use of words such as ‘will’, ‘expects’, ‘is expected to’, ‘aims’, ‘should’, ‘may’, ‘objective’, ‘is likely to’, ‘intends’, ‘believes’, ‘anticipates’, ‘plans’, ‘we see’ or similar expressions. Actual results may differ from those expressed in such statements, depending on a variety of factors including the risk factors set forth in our most recent Annual Report and Form 20-F under “Risk factors” and in any of our more recent public reports. Our most recent Annual Report and Form 20-F and other period filings are available on our website at www.bp.com,or can be obtained from the SEC by calling 1-800-SEC-0330 or on its website at www.sec.gov.

SOURCE bp America

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Automotive

Take On Spring Road Trips

Get your vehicle ready for smooth spring drives with these top tips. From cleaning to tire checks, don’t miss out on essential maintenance.

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Image: A well-maintained car being cleaned and polished by a person, symbolizing the importance of vehicle maintenance for smooth driving experiences.

5 tips to keep vehicles running smoothly

(Family Features) With the windows down and nothing but open road visible through the windshield, spring days often bring out the best driving conditions. When it’s time to hit the pavement, make sure your ride is in tip-top shape following a winter of snow, salt and sand.

Give a Thorough Clean
All that winter buildup can lead to grime both inside and outside your vehicle. A deep clean including the undercarriage, engine bay and obvious areas like doors and windows can help eliminate salt buildup. Give the interior a scrub as well to get rid of trash, dirt, debris and unnecessary items that may be weighing down your car and hurting its fuel efficiency. Plus, that clean look and smell can make road trips that much more enjoyable.

Check (or Change) the Tires
Changing air temperatures can lead to fluctuations in tire pressure. As the weather warms, be sure to check tire pressure frequently to avoid overinflation that leads to wear. It’s also an opportunity to check tread depth as it may be time for new tires altogether.

Change the Oil
While most experts recommend oil changes every 5,000 miles or so, depending on the age of your vehicle, a spring auto checklist isn’t complete without checking (and possibly changing) the oil. Fresh oil keeps engines running as intended, and by changing oil in the spring, you can help ensure you’re ready to hit the road for most – or all – of spring and summer.

Test the Wiper Blades
In many parts of the country, spring means rain. Ensuring wiper blades are ready to take on weather ranging from sprinkles to downpours is practical for maximizing safety on the road. Cold weather and ice can cause cracking on worn out wipers, which makes spring a perfect time to assess winter’s damage.

Consider a Professional Inspection
If it’s been a while since your vehicle was properly inspected, now may be a good time to have a professional take a look under the hood. Wiper blades and tire pressure are easy for many car owners to handle, but alignment, suspension, brakes and other key elements of vehicle safety and efficiency are often best left to those with trained eyes. Letting a certified mechanic assess your ride is a perfect way to ensure you’re ready for the open road.

Find more auto maintenance tips at eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash


SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com

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