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Friday, November 17, 2023

Innovating Karma: The Allure of Kaveya and Gyesera EVs

New EV BEAUTY - When the word "Karma" comes up, your mind might immediately flash to the original Fisker Karma—a vehicle that, despite the visionary efforts of designer and multi-startup founder Henrik Fisker, ultimately faced failure. However, this setback didn't mark the end for Karma Automotive. Even after Henrik Fisker's departure and the acquisition of assets in 2016, the Karma continued to be produced under the new brand, with the original sedan rebranded as Revero, and GS-series.
Now, Karma is preparing to reinvigorate itself as a truly high-end, all-electric and all-American vehicle manufacturer with a new hyper GT coupe: The 2026 Karma Kaveya EV. (Picture from: BLackXperience)
Following that, Karma embarked on an innovative journey, revealing a range of captivating concept cars, including the Karma SC1 Vision Concept and the Karma SC2 EV in 2019. The brand's journey doesn't conclude there; it progresses with the introduction of the Karma Revero GT and the Karma GT in 2020, a collaboration result with Pininfarina, further enhancing the brand's allure.
The Karma Kaveya EV described as an 'EV super coupe GT,' boasts a sleek profile with butterfly doors, sporty bumpers, a gracefully curved greenhouse, slim headlights, taillights, and a retractable rear spoiler. (Picture from: BLackXperience)
Now, Karma is poised for a renaissance, positioning itself as a premium, all-electric, and all-American vehicle manufacturer. The latest unveiling includes not just one but two ultra-luxurious electric vehicles: the Karma Kaveya and Gyesera. These creations, crafted by Michelle Christensen—the designer behind the second generation of the famed Acura NSX—represent a bold leap into the future.
The Karma Kaveya EV has debuted at the Las Vegas Concours d'Elegance Wynn. (Picture from: InsideEVs)
The Karma Kaveya, described as an 'EV super coupe GT,' boasts a sleek profile with butterfly doors, sporty bumpers, a gracefully curved greenhouse, slim headlights, taillights, and a retractable rear spoiler. The name "Kaveya" derives from Sanskrit, specifically "Kavya," translating to "poetry in motion," the appended "E" signals its electric nature.
Another unique element to the Karma Kaveyas interior is the use of a butterfly (or yoke) steering wheel. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
The Kaveya will be offered in two versions, both exceeding 400 kilometers in range. The first, a 536-horsepower rear-wheel-drive variant, is set to debut in the fourth quarter of 2025. Following closely, the second variant, an all-wheel-drive powerhouse with 1,180 horsepower, is expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
The idea of the Karma Kaveya EV was to bring back the traditional design of an American GT coupe. (Picture from: BLackXperience)
With a combined torque of 1,270 pound-feet, the flagship Karma Kaveya targets an impressive 0-60 mph acceleration in under 3 seconds and a top speed surpassing 180 mph. Both versions will be equipped with a 120-kilowatt-hour battery, enabling a rapid 45-minute charge from 10 to 80 percent.
The Gyesera was Karma's initial foray into the realm of all-electric 'touring sedans,' the teaser images reveal a design akin to the Kaveya, featuring a coupe-like profile. (Picture from: InsideEVs)
Shifting attention to the Gyesera, Karma's initial foray into the realm of all-electric 'touring sedans,' the teaser images reveal a design akin to the Kaveya, featuring a coupe-like profile. The Gyesera will sport a rear-wheel-drive electric powertrain generating 590 horsepower and 693 pound-feet of torque, accomplishing 0-60 acceleration in under 4.2 seconds and reaching a top speed exceeding 135 mph. Like its sibling Kaveya, it will be equipped with a 120 kWh battery, ensuring a range of over 250 miles.
Emphasizing exclusivity, all Karma vehicles are set to be low-volume productions, promising a unique driving experience. The pivotal question remains: will consumers embrace Karma's rebranding positively, or will lingering memories from the Fisker Automotive era overshadow these promising strides? Only time will tell and validate the journey ahead. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KARMA AUTOMOTIVE | MOTORTREND | INSIDEEVS ]
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Thursday, November 16, 2023

The French-German Legacy: Journey Through Time with the 1968 SWM Gordini Coupe

Forgotten GEMS - Venturing into the vast expanse of the internet, one stumbles upon unique automotive gems that spark curiosity and fascination. Among these, the elusive 1968 SWM Gordini stands out, a creation of the German company SWM, founded by the visionary Mannl brothers, Stefan and Wenzel Mannl, during the dynamic 1960s.
1968 SWM Gordini stands out, a creation of the German company SWM, founded by the visionary Mannl brothers, Stefan and Wenzel Mannl, during the dynamic 1960s. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Distinguished for their prowess in designing, constructing, and racing cars, SWM's legacy is encapsulated in this rare 1968 SWM Coupe, reportedly the sole survivor of its kind among the seven units ever manufactured. A spectacle in itself, this automobile boasts a kammback body made of fiberglass, riding on a chassis furnished with suspension and running gear from a Renault 8.

The distinguishing feature of all SWMs lies in their custom fiberglass bodywork. The initial six units adopted the tubular and geared chassis of the BMW 700. A glance at the profile might evoke memories of the iconic Ferrari 250 GT SWB Breadvan or the renowned Lotus Europa. Yet, the true eccentricity unfolds beyond the B pillar with the unmistakable Kamm tail design. In the realm of automobiles, not all allure stems from conventional beauty; sometimes, it's the quirkiness and uniqueness that steal the spotlight.
1968 SWM Gordini Coupe boasts a kammback body made of fiberglass, riding on a chassis furnished with suspension and running gear from a Renault 8. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Upon opening its doors, reminiscent of the GT40 but configured as gullwing, the 1968 SWM reveals a roof that leaves us to imagine its complete form, particularly noteworthy is the sizable back clamshell. Although constrained by limited photographic evidence, the mystique of the opened car adds to its allure. Intriguingly, despite its roots in the Renault 8, this vehicle conspicuously features a four-lug hub, deviating from the standard three-lug design. Powering this automotive marvel was the original rear-mounted 1300 Gordini engine coupled with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Powering this rare 1968 SWM Gordini Coupe was the original rear-mounted 1300 Gordini engine coupled with a 5-speed manual gearbox. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
With aspirations for mass production, the Mannl brothers envisioned transitioning to a more economical unibody Renault 8. However, their plans faced complications when their successful carpentry business required a loan for expansion. The bank's condition for the loan was clear — the brothers had to abandon their penchant for sports cars. Consequently, the focus on racing cars, including the ongoing construction of the seventh SWM, came to an abrupt halt. The final SWM found itself consigned to storage.

In the late 1960s, an American soldier stationed in Germany acquired the 1968 SWM Gordini, shipping it across the Atlantic to the USA. For five decades, the car lay dormant, aging gracefully, though components like the engine and windshield vanished into history. Though lacking interior visuals, optimism surrounds its possible restoration.
Yet, the true eccentricity of the 1968 SWM Gordini Coupe unfolds beyond the B pillar with the unmistakable Kamm tail design. (Picture from: BringATrailer)
Fast forward to 2019, a dedicated restoration initiative commenced, meticulously replacing missing components to breathe new life into the 1968 SWM Gordini under the ownership of Luis Alarcos in Valladolid, Spain. Now, we eagerly await the transformation, hopeful that this unique car will reclaim its former glory (Its latest condition of 2021).

The saga of the 1968 SWM Gordini unfolds as a testament to automotive innovation and the untold stories that lie dormant, awaiting rediscovery. As we navigate the digital highways of the internet, these hidden treasures emerge, inviting us to marvel at the ingenuity of bygone eras and the resilience of these mechanical artifacts against the sands of time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRINGATRAILER | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSICS | CLASSICANDRECREATIONSPORTSCAR ]
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From DMC-12 to V8 Supercar: DeLorean's Next Chapter

New V8 BEAST - In the realm of automotive legacies, the DeLorean brand, famous for its iconic DMC-12 with gullwing doors, is making a resurgence. While the Alpha 5 electric supercar has been touted as the official successor, recent developments suggest an alternative DeLorean creation may be on the horizon.
Kathryn DeLorean, the daughter of the legendary John Z. DeLorean, is steering a project that involves crafting a V8-powered DeLorean. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
According to reports from Motor1, Kathryn DeLorean, the daughter of the legendary John Z. DeLorean, is steering a project that involves crafting a V8-powered DeLorean. Straying from a bespoke platform, the vehicle is rumored to leverage the foundation of the Chevrolet Corvette C8. DeLorean Next Generation Motors has been entrusted with the task of designing and constructing a distinctive car inspired by the revered DMC-12.
DeLorean Next Generation (DNG) Motors has been entrusted with the task of designing and constructing a distinctive car inspired by the revered DMC-12. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Positioning itself as a "non-profit automotive company building next-generation vehicles," DNG Motors aims to channel its proceeds into various disciplines such as science, technology, engineering, arts, automotive, mathematics, and manufacturing. The company's product lineup is said to include a high-end model and a Corvette-based variant serving as an entry-level option.
Kathryn DeLorean expressed her desire for the project to be anchored in an entry-level Corvette, possibly excluding the Z51 package. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
In an interview with Hagerty, Kathryn DeLorean expressed her desire for the project to be anchored in an entry-level Corvette, possibly excluding the Z51 package. The proposed vehicle houses a naturally aspirated V8 engine generating 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The choice of the Corvette C8 as the foundation for the rejuvenated DeLorean is strategic, given its adaptable targa roof that can be easily modified to incorporate the iconic gullwing doors.
The Corvette-based DeLorean supercar are designed by Ángel Guerra, an automotive designer associated with Croatian EV company Rimac, and shared by DeLorean Next Gen (DNG) Motors. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
This development resonates with the historical ties between DeLorean and General Motors, the parent company of Chevrolet. John Z. DeLorean's 17-year tenure at GM, particularly from 1969 to 1972 when he headed Chevy, underscores his involvement in advancing the mid-engine Corvette. According to his daughter, the Corvette-based DeLorean serves as a poignant means to fulfill her father's automotive dreams.

As a noteworthy aside, the images accompanying this article are credited to Ángel Guerra, an automotive designer associated with Croatian EV company Rimac. These visuals were shared by DeLorean Next Gen Motors.
The DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) Alpha 5 stands out as an electric marvel, boasting a range exceeding 300 miles courtesy of a 100-kilowatt-hour battery. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
In stark contrast to its potential V8-powered counterpart, the Alpha 5 stands out as an electric marvel, boasting a range exceeding 300 miles courtesy of a 100-kilowatt-hour battery. Crafted by ItalDesign, this vehicle accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under 3 seconds, achieving a top speed of 155 mph. Initially, Texas-based manufacturer DeLorean Motor Company intended to produce 9,531 Alpha 5 coupes—a nod to the original DMC-12 production plans. However, recent adjustments have scaled down production projections to 4,000 units over the same five-year span.
The juxtaposition of these two ventures signifies the divergence in DeLorean's trajectory, with one embracing electric innovation and the other paying homage to the brand's V8 roots. The automotive landscape awaits the unveiling of these distinctive successors, each carrying the weight of DeLorean's rich heritage into the future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DELOREANNEXTGEN | MOTORAUTHORITY | MOTOR1 ]
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Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Riding the Future: Bottpower's 21-Year Epic of Superbike Innovation

Unique ONES - In the world of motorcycle customization, creativity knows no bounds. Imagine taking the concept of Lego toys, where pieces can be disassembled and transformed into anything, and applying it to the modification of a sports motorbike. 
Imagine infusing the Lego toy concept into a unique custom masterpiece – a 21-year project transforming a Honda CBR954RR Fireblade by Bottpower. (Picture from: BikeExif)
That's exactly what the Valencia, Spain based custom workshop Bottpower did with a Honda CBR954RR Fireblade frame. Let's delve into the fascinating journey of this 21-year project, resulting in a one-of-a-kind superbike under the project called Morlaco Project.
The Morlaco project to create a unique custom superbike using the frame of a Honda CBR954RR Fireblade initiated in 2002, took an astonishing 21 years to reach completion. (Picture from: BikeExif)
Bottpower, a custom workshop located in Valencia, Spain, has taken motorcycle customization to a whole new level. The mind behind this innovative project is David Sánchez, a skilled artisan from the Bottpower team. The idea was simple yet bold: create a unique custom superbike using the frame of a Honda CBR954RR Fireblade.
David Sánchez of Bottpower in collaboration with designer Hugo van Waaije, reimagined every aspect of the motorbike, from the chassis frame to the front suspension, resulting in a masterpiece that defies convention. (Picture from: BikeExif)
The project, initiated in 2002, took an astonishing 21 years to reach completion. David, along with designer Hugo van Waaije, reimagined every aspect of the motorbike, from the chassis frame to the front suspension, resulting in a masterpiece that defies convention.
The Bottpower's Honda CBR954RR Fireblade custom featured with  a custom trellis frame was meticulously crafted to support the engine, providing a unique and visually striking appearance. (Picture from: BikeExif)
To achieve this, a custom trellis frame was meticulously crafted to support the engine, providing a unique and visually striking appearance. The front suspension, inspired by Hossack's design, was designed as a trellis suspension fork and finished in a bold orange color.
One distinctive feature of this Bottpower's Honda CBR954RR Fireblade custom superbike is the absence of a traditional sub-frame. (Picture from: BikeExif)
One distinctive feature of this custom superbike is the absence of a traditional sub-frame. Instead, a lightweight custom carbon fiber body weighing a mere 800 grams was installed, further enhancing the bike's agility and performance.
The attention to detail is evident in the small windshield, adorned with 3D printed titanium brackets. (Picture from: BikeExif)
The attention to detail is evident in the small windshield, adorned with 3D printed titanium brackets. These brackets, designed using topology optimization techniques and mathematical precision, not only contribute to the bike's aesthetics but also ensure structural accuracy.
The heart of this extraordinary custom motorcycle lies in its composite fuel tank crafted by Pyrotect in the USA. (Picture from: BikeExif)
The heart of this extraordinary machine lies in its composite fuel tank crafted by Pyrotect in the USA. The tank cover, airbox, intake, and fenders were all meticulously 3D printed by Optimus3D in Spain, providing the necessary strength through a carbon fiber coating.
The rear of the Bottpower's Honda CBR954RR Fireblade custom motorbike features a TFX Suspension shock absorber and an Akrapovic exhaust paired with the Fireblade's own titanium header.. (Picture from: BikeExif)
The cockpit of the superbike is a testament to simplicity and functionality. A single set of clip-on handlebars, brake and clutch levers, and an analog tachometer create a clean and organized look, emphasizing the bike's performance-oriented design.
The rear of the bike features a TFX Suspension shock absorber and an Akrapovic exhaust paired with the Fireblade's own titanium header, adding to the overall performance and aesthetics of this unique creation.
In conclusion, Bottpower's 21-year endeavor has resulted in a superbike that challenges conventional norms. From its custom trellis frame to the intricately designed front suspension and the innovative use of 3D printing, every element of this motorbike showcases the dedication and creativity of its builders. This Lego-inspired masterpiece stands as a testament to the endless possibilities in the world of motorcycle customization.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BOTTPOWER | BIKEEXIF | MOONBAY FILMS ]
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Unveiling the Legacy of Veritas: A Journey through German Precision

Hidden GEMS - In the quaint village of Hausen am Andelsbach, near Sigmaringen, Baden-Württemberg, emerged a post-World War II sports and race car marvel—Veritas. Founded by the trio of visionaries: Ernst Loof, Georg Meier, and Lorenz Dietrich, the company's inception marked a turning point in automotive history.
The 1964 Veritas RS II Coupé crafted as a one-off prototype, and based on 1953 Veritas RS Roadster. (Picture from: HistoricAutomotivePromotion)
Veritas
initially garnered attention by refurbishing and enhancing pre-war BMW 328 cars. Under the skilled hands of its founders, these transformed vehicles, known as BMW-Veritas cars, made their debut in 1947. Karl Kling, the proud owner of the first car, clinched victory at Hockenheim, securing the 1947 German 2-litre champion title.
The 1964 Veritas RS II Coupé  received a facelift with a new tubular frame and an exquisitely designed body. (Picture from: HistoricAutomotivePromotion)
As the momentum grew, the company faced a shift in nomenclature due to objections from BMW. The cars dropped the "BMW" tag, becoming simply known as Veritas. Among the notable creations was the 1950 BMW-Veritas SP90 Convertibles by Spohn, a unique masterpiece featuring dramatic tail fins and elongated hoods, setting it apart from its Veritas counterparts.
The 1964 Veritas RS II Coupé is a two-door, two-seat marvel boasts a rear-wheel-drive configuration, with the engine elegantly placed at the front. (Picture from: HistoricAutomotivePromotion)
Unfortunately, Veritas met its demise with the official bankruptcy filing of Ernst Loof in 1953. The still existing Veritas vehicles and chassis were bought by the washing machine producer and former financial sponsor H.Bonn and the racing car driver Willi Sturzebecher.
The 1964 Veritas RS II Coupé is a two-door, two-seat marvel boasts a rear-wheel-drive configuration, with the engine elegantly placed at the front. (Picture from: Team-BHP)
Sturzebecher was aware of Veritas' financial ruin, yet the racing cars themselves outperformed the competition. This was evidenced by their successful performances in races over several years, including Sturzebecher's tenure driving his Meteor, until he ultimately retired from racing.
The 1964 Veritas RS II Coupé is a two-door, two-seat marvel boasts a rear-wheel-drive configuration, with the engine elegantly placed at the front. (Picture from: Team-BHP)
One standout gem in the Veritas collection is the Veritas RS II Coupé, was built commissioned by a wealthy American customer at the Master school in Kaiserslautern back in 1964. This two-door, two-seat marvel boasts a rear-wheel-drive configuration, with the engine elegantly placed at the front. Its inline six-cylinder OHV engine, with a volume of 1,998 cm3, boasts a 66.4 mm bore and a stroke of 96 mm
The 1964 Veritas RS II Coupé powered by an inline six-cylinder OHV engine, fueled by three carburetors, and coupled with a four-speed transmission system. (Picture from: HistoricAutomotivePromotion)
Fueled by three carburetors and coupled with a four-speed transmission system, the RS II Coupé roars to life. The engine, capable of delivering 88 kW (120 hp) at 5,000 rpm, propels the car to a maximum speed of 175 kph.
The 1964 Veritas RS II Coupé features a wheelbase of 2,400 mm and a weight of 1,000 kg.. (Picture from: HistoricAutomotivePromotion)
A testament to Veritas's commitment to excellence, the RS II Coupé features a wheelbase of 2,400 mm and a weight of 1,000 kg. Originally crafted as a one-off prototype in 1964, whispers in automotive circles suggest that only three of these marvels were ever built. The chassis, a reincarnation of the Veritas RS Roadster of 1953, received a facelift with a new tubular frame and an exquisitely designed body. The engine, sourced from the pre-war BMW 328, underwent meticulous adjustments by the Heinkel.
Veritas, with its rich history and commitment to pushing automotive boundaries, stands as a testament to the spirit of innovation that defines German engineering. The Veritas RS II Coupé, a harmonious blend of power and elegance, encapsulates the essence of a bygone era, where each car was a masterpiece, a testament to the craftsmanship that continues to inspire generations of car enthusiasts worldwide. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HISTORIC AUTOMOTIVE PROMOTION | TEAM-BHP ]
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Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Green and Mean: SYM PE3 Concept Sets New Standards in Hybrid Scooters

New Electric Scooter - After delving into the exciting debut of the Lambretta Elettra at EICMA 2023, our journey through the dynamic world of scooters continues with the spotlight on the innovative SYM PE3 Concept from the Taiwanese brand SYM. This revolutionary product is turning heads with its fusion of cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly design.
The innovative SYM PE3 Concept is one of turning head revolutionary products with its fusion of cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly design revealed at the EICMA 2023. (Picture from: Otomotif.Sindonews)
In the ever-changing landscape of transportation, SYM is leading the way into the future with the PE3 Concept. In a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable vehicles, the brand ingeniously merges traditional petrol engines with electric propulsion, creating a unique hybrid solution.
At the heart of the SYM PE3 Concept is its 4KW electric motor ingeniously placed on the rear wheel hub. (Picture from: WarungAsep.net)
Unlike typical hybrid motorcycles, where petrol engines dominate and electric engines merely provide supplemental power, the SYM PE3 takes a distinctive approach. This scooter is solely powered by a battery-operated electric engine, and what sets it apart is the method used to recharge the battery.
The SYM PE3 Concept showcases its electric prowess by covering an impressive 35 kilometers solely on electric power. (Picture from: SoyMotero)
In contrast to its counterparts, the PE3 employs a petrol engine not for direct propulsion but to charge the electric battery. This innovative design not only improves fuel efficiency but also simplifies the recharging process, offering a more economical and user-friendly experience.
With a 3-liter internal fuel tank and a fully charged battery, the SYM PE3 Concept stands ready to deliver a conservative estimate of over 300 kilometers on a single charge. (Picture from: MotoJournal.be)
A standout feature is the incorporation of an aluminum-ion battery, known for its safety and reliability. This advanced battery technology ensures stability even in extreme temperatures, with usability ranging from minus 40 degrees Celsius to a scorching 80 degrees Celsius.

At the heart of the SYM PE3 is its 4KW electric motor ingeniously placed on the rear wheel hub. The battery charging mechanism operates seamlessly, automatically activating the petrol engine when the battery voltage drops from 75V to the critical minimum of 60V.
Astonishingly, just one liter of petrol extends the SYM PE3 Concept's travel range to an impressive 90 kilometers. (Picture from: MotorcyleSports)
In terms of performance, the PE3 showcases its electric prowess by covering an impressive 35 kilometers solely on electric power. Upon initiation of the petrol engine, a remarkable synergy is achieved as the battery charges while the scooter is in motion. Astonishingly, just one liter of petrol extends the PE3's travel range to an impressive 90 kilometers.
The battery charging mechanism operates seamlessly, automatically activating the petrol engine when the battery voltage drops from 75V to the critical minimum of 60V. (Picture from: SoyMotero)
With a 3-liter internal fuel tank and a fully charged battery, the SYM PE3 stands ready to deliver a conservative estimate of over 300 kilometers on a single charge. This remarkable range positions the scooter as a formidable contender in the evolving landscape of electric and hybrid vehicles.

In essence, SYM's innovative approach not only addresses the urgent need for sustainable transportation but also redefines conventional notions of hybrid scooters. The SYM PE3 Concept emerges as a beacon of efficiency, seamlessly blending electric and petrol technologies to create a versatile and environmentally conscious urban mobility solution.
As the automotive industry continues its transformative journey, the SYM PE3 stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and sustainability, setting new standards for the future of urban commuting.
 
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SYM | BIKEIT! | MOTO125.CC | MOTOJOURNAL.BE | MOTORCYCLESPORTS | SOYMOTERO ]
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