Cars – Geek Culture https://geekculture.co We are geeks, and proud of it. This is the place where we share all things geeky, and by visiting this page, you declare yourself one of us! Thu, 08 Aug 2024 13:41:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://geekculture.co/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/cropped-gc-512-32x32.png Cars – Geek Culture https://geekculture.co 32 32 Secretlab & Lamborghini Rev Up Latest Tie-Up With 2 Chair Designs https://geekculture.co/secretlab-lamborghini-latest-tie-up-2-chair-designs/ Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:00:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=299054

Buckle up for the ultimate setup.

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Secretlab is at it again, teaming up with the iconic Automobili Lamborghini to launch a dazzling new product line that promises to redefine luxury in gaming setups. Following their last successful collaboration, the two brands have unveiled the Secretlab for Automobili Lamborghini Deluxe Collection, featuring two new chair designs that blend high performance with high fashion.

The collaboration brings forth an extension to the well-loved Secretlab TITAN Evo chair series and introduces enhancements to the Secretlab MAGNUS Pro Sit-to-Stand Metal Desk. Each product in the Deluxe Collection embodies the spirit of Lamborghini’s supercars, merging sleek design with cutting-edge technology.

The new chairs, inspired by Lamborghini’s vibrant colours — Giano Auge and Verse Selvans —boast features designed to captivate any Lamborghini enthusiast. These include carbon fibre leatherette panels, luxurious microsuede finishes, and the signature Y-shaped motif that echoes the brand’s rich heritage. This design not only honours the bold aesthetic of Lamborghini but also captures the pure emotion that comes with every ride.

In addition to the chairs, the collaboration introduces the first-ever Secretlab for Automobili Lamborghini MAGPAD Desk Mat, designed to pair seamlessly with the enhanced desks and chairs.

Designed collaboratively by both Secretlab and Lamborghini, the Secretlab for Automobili Lamborghini Collection showcases both brands’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and style with meticulous attention to detail. This collection is tailored for those who demand uncompromising quality and seek to elevate their gaming setup to new heights of luxury and performance.

More information can be found on the Secretlab website.

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Brad Pitt Races To The Danger Zone In Apple’s ‘F1’ Teaser Trailer https://geekculture.co/brad-pitt-races-to-the-danger-zone-apple-f1-teaser-trailer/ Sun, 07 Jul 2024 17:20:18 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=296340

From the director of Top Gun: Maverick comes his next film – Days of Thunder: F1.

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Apple TV+ and Warner Bros. Pictures have released the first teaser trailer for the highly anticipated Brad Pitt-led racing film F1. Directed by Joseph Kosinski of Top Gun: Maverick fame, the film promises to deliver some of the most authentic racing scenes ever captured on film. The project, shot at various Formula One races worldwide, features Pitt behind the wheel of a modified F1 car.

In the adrenaline-pumping teaser, Pitt stars as Sonny Hayes, a retired driver who plunges back into the high-stakes world of Formula 1 to mentor a rookie on the fictional team Apex Grand Prix (APXGP). The film traces Hayes’ daring return from self-imposed exile and his attempt to climb back to the top of the racing world.

The cast includes Damson Idris as Pitt’s protégé and teammate, alongside notable actors Javier Bardem, Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, Sarah Niles, Kim Bodnia, and Samson Kayo. In a gripping moment from the trailer, Pitt’s character boldly declares, “We need to build our car for combat,” setting the tone for the thrilling narrative.

F1 is not just a showcase of star power but also a technical marvel, boasting actual footage from Grand Prix weekends. This approach not only enhances the film’s authenticity but also allowed the cast, including Pitt and Idris, to interact with real-life F1 drivers such as Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz during production.

f1

This ambitious project is a collaborative effort with the Formula 1 community and features a team of producers including Jerry Bruckheimer, Chad Oman, and F1 legend Lewis Hamilton (who just happened to win the British Grand Prix). Hamilton also serves as a consultant, bringing his extensive racing expertise to the film’s production. The screenplay, co-written by Kosinski and Ehren Kruger — who received an Oscar nomination for their work on Top Gun: Maverick — dives deep into the competitive racing world, promising a narrative filled with intensity and drama.

F1 is set to premiere in cinemas globally on 25 June 2025.

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Apple’s Brad Pitt-Led Formula 1 Movie Races To June 2025 Release https://geekculture.co/apple-brad-pitt-formula-1-movie-june-2025/ Tue, 18 Jun 2024 06:01:22 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=294824

Pitt stop for the win.

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Brad Pitt’s upcoming Formula 1 movie has secured a release date for the summer of 2025, thanks to a collaborative effort between Apple Original Films and Warner Bros. This high-octane film, set to premiere in North American theaters on 27 June 2025, marks the reuniting of Top Gun: Maverick director Joseph Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer.

The Hollywood Reporter notes that Apple’s involvement ensures the movie will enjoy a significant theatrical presence, following a strategy similar to its previous partnerships with major studios. Notably, Apple has previously joined forces with Paramount for the release of Killers of the Flower Moon and with Sony for Napoleon.

Formula 1 Movie

This Formula 1 narrative features Brad Pitt as a veteran driver who makes a comeback to the racing world, teaming up with a new racer played by Damson Idris (Snowfall). The script, penned by Top Gun: Maverick scribe Ehren Kruger, follows the duo as they navigate the competitive world of Formula 1 racing.

Their team, APXGP, is a fictional addition to the Formula 1 grid. The film boasts an impressive cast that includes British racing driver Lewis Hamilton, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem, Tobias Menzies, Sarah Niles, Kim Bodnia, and Samson Kayo.

In an exciting twist, the production was completed in collaboration with ten real Formula 1 teams. With the film’s production incorporating scenes shot during actual race weekends, it offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the sport’s intense dynamics. This blend of reality and fiction promises to deliver an immersive viewing experience, especially with scenes set to be showcased in IMAX theatres.

Formula 1 Movie
Brad Pitt’s Formula 1 Car

Warner Bros. will manage distribution both domestically and overseas, capitalising on the successful track record of Joseph Kosinski and Jerry Bruckheimer. The film is produced under Brad Pitt’s Plan B Entertainment and Lewis Hamilton’s Dawn Apollo Films banner.

Brad Pitt’s Formula 1 movie opens in cinemas on 27 June 2025.

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LEGO Supercar Series Adds LEGO 10337 Lamborghini Countach https://geekculture.co/lego-supercar-series-adds-lego-10337-lamborghini-countach/ Fri, 07 Jun 2024 04:22:14 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=294076

Another luxury car everyone can afford.

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The LEGO Icons garage adds another iconic supercar to its lineup, as the 10337 Lamborghini Countach is the latest collectable car releasing this July. With 1,506 pieces recreating the car in stunning detail, it’s definitely one for motor enthusiasts.

LEGO 10337 Lamborghini Countach

First showcased to the public in 1970, the Countach’s aesthetically daring design revolutionised future supercar models, and is considered one of the greatest cars to exist. With a hefty price tag, most dreamed of owning one, but fewer got the opportunity to drive it. And now, you can own a miniature LEGO version at just a fraction of its original cost.

Its unique doors are fully moveable and open outwards, boasting a detailed V12 engine if you pop open the hood, and a red-and-white design that goes nicely with the aesthetic of the car. Deep-dish rims, large taillights and a sleek rear spoiler give it an authentic feel, creating a captivating display piece for any home or workplace.

The LEGO 10337 Lamborghini Countach will release on 4 July 2024, and can be purchased online or in LEGO stores.

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Toyota Built A Miraidon Pokémon Motorcycle That The Public Can Ride On https://geekculture.co/toyota-built-a-miraidon-pokemon-motorcycle-that-the-public-can-ride-on/ Fri, 15 Mar 2024 03:52:47 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=287523

If only it was fueled by sandwiches.

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It was only a matter of time before Miraidon, the Legendary Pokémon that turns into a motorcycle and other modes of transportation in Pokémon Violet, became an actual bike in real life, and Toyota is ready to unveil its ambitious project to the public.

 Miraidon Pokémon motorcycle

Take Miraidon for a spin at the Tokyo Midtown Hibiya Atrium, where Toyota will exhibit the motorcycle from 15 March (Friday) to 17 March (Sunday) from 11am. Tickets to the event are free, and will be given out through a lottery system, so you’ll want to arrive early to be one of the first to ride it. The motorcycle has a weight limit of 65 kg, so take note of that before you show up.

The Toyota Miraidon Project was first conceived in 2023 based on a drawing by an elementary school student, and just a year later, Miraidon was brought to life through a feat of engineering. It can be switched between two modes, a driving mode, and its four-legged stance.

So, if you’re in the area and want to fulfil your lifelong dream of riding the Miraidon Pokémon Motorcycle, why not take the opportunity to go on test drive?

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Toyota Recreates Pokémon Scarlet And Violet’s Miraidon As Actual Working Motorcycle https://geekculture.co/toyota-pokemon-scarlet-and-violet-miraidon-motorcycle/ Fri, 08 Mar 2024 06:57:08 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=286966

Vroom vroom!

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It’s every fan’s dream to ride a Pokémon. After all, that certainly looks and sounds cooler than going everywhere on foot, car, train, and other forms of mundane transportation, and Toyota is one step closer to making it a reality.

As reported by Famitsu, the Toyota Engineering Society, an arm of the Japanese vehicle manufacturer dedicated to prototyping and testing its technology, has built a real-life motorcycle version of Pokémon Scarlet and Violet‘s Legendary critter Miraidon. Details are scarce, but it’s presumably only meant to be a display piece and won’t be available for purchase.

The project was announced on X/Twitter, alongside a simple piece of concept art showing the electric / dragon-type Pokémon. In the game, Miraidon serves as the player’s primary means of transportation, able to switch into different forms to climb, swim, fly, and roam around like a motorcycle. Koraidon is the mascot for its sister title Pokémon Scarlet, and comes equipped with the same maneuvering abilities.

Between the two, the company has made the right decision to turn Miraidon into an actual vehicle. The latter is arguably more adorable, but it doesn’t use the wheels on its chest and legs when moving about. It’s a pity that the prototype will likely remain a pipe dream, but at least it looks the part — and impressively so, might we add.

Toyota’s Miraidon project joins The Pokémon Company’s other collaborations with vehicle manufacturers, including official blind bag skateboards and Pikachu-themed commercial planes. Interestingly, the Toyota Engineering Society have also worked on several projects outside of the automobile sector, such as a soccer-playing robot.

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‘Fast & Furious’ Star Sung Kang Races To Direct New “Initial D” Live-Action Film https://geekculture.co/fast-furious-star-sung-kang-races-to-direct-new-initial-d-live-action-film/ Tue, 24 Oct 2023 11:12:46 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=276568

Time for a car enthusiast to take the wheel for an Initial D movie.

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Sung Kang, best known for his role as Han Lue in the Fast & Furious franchise, is now taking the director’s seat for the upcoming live-action film adaptation of Initial D.

Kang has recently made his directorial debut with his horror-comedy film Shaky Shivers. While promoting the film in an interview with South China Morning Post, he opened up about the challenges of discrimination in Hollywood and his decision to step behind the camera. He stated, “People think it’s all rosy on my side of the fence, but I’ve yet to play the role I feel I can. It’s like I’m at the starting line, but I never get to run the full race. Yes, I’ve been in big tent pole movies. But as an artist, I am not fulfilled.”

When the roles he wanted didn’t appear, he believed that “It was time to get behind the camera and start creating.” He added, “As a director, I can give opportunities to people who face the same struggles I face in Hollywood. It’s about paying it forward and passing on knowledge.”

With his future films, he hopes to be able to tell stories that he’s passionate about. His two upcoming projects include a film about his childhood in a biracial family in the US state of Georgia, and an adaptation of Shuichi Shigeno’s Initial D manga. Initial D previously had a live-action adaptation in 2005 starring Jay Chou.

“It’s about cars and drifting and cool things like that,” Kang says. “Almost a Rocky or Karate Kid. A fun, big-budget movie that expresses my love affair for cars.”

Takumi Fujiwara’s Toyota AE86 from the Initial D manga

Kang is a notable motorhead, with deep ties to the car community. His passion for cars was reignited during his involvement in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, leading to the restoration of a 1973 Datsun 240Z. The Drive also notes that in a recent episode of his Car Stories podcast, he mentioned that legendary Japanese Porsche tuner RWB is developing an AE86 for the Initial D movie.

Ultimately, Kang’s love for cars promises to inject a fresh perspective into Initial D.

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Geek Review: Gran Turismo https://geekculture.co/geek-review-gran-turismo/ Tue, 08 Aug 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=269691

You don’t have to love the sport or video games to appreciate Gran Turismo.

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As a species, we have an unhealthy obsession with cars, from the way they look, feel, drive, turn, and there are those willing to spend time, effort and money to upkeep a vehicle, while others obsess over cars they can never afford, or viewing global races. Some indulge by playing racing games, while there are those who put on a racing movie to focus their attention. And rarely has there been anything that ties the passion for cars all together quite like Gran Turismo.

And we’re talking about the movie here, the latest in a video game adaptation that is as unique as the racing game that it is based on, and the real life events surrounding Jann Mardenborough, a young Gran Turismo player who went on to become a professional race car driver. Director Neill Blomkamp (District 9, Elysium) takes the premise, and turns Gran Turismo into a love note to all things cars, from the young Mardenborough (Archie Madekwe, See) who has played the PlayStation game more times than he can count, and wants to take his time, effort and knowledge of the race simulator, and become an actual race car driver.

Of course, his father, former pro-footballer Steve (Djimon Hounsou, The King’s Man, Shazam!) would prefer his younger son to leave the confines of his room and find a proper job, instead of wistfully thinking that somewhere, somehow, it would be remotely possible that a master of a simulator could possibly translate that virtual knowledge into a real world skill.

What he doesn’t know is that Nissan executive Danny Moore (Orlando Bloom) has successfully convinced the Japanese car maker to fund an academy that takes competitive players from the Gran Turismo video game, and offer them an opportunity to become real race car drivers, in which only the champion of this GT Academy would have a shot at a professional career. All he needs is an engineer to lead the pit crew who will train, test and push the candidates from the couch into the driver’s seat, and lead them towards pole position.

If the premise sounds too fantastical, that’s because it probably is, and Blomkamp realises that this is not just an adaptation of yet another video game, but one that, while popular, isn’t as widely known as the Marios, Sonics or Halos out there. Instead, his tale is as much about the video game that inspired Mardenborough, as it is about the young player’s journey, and also about conveying the thrills, excitement and challenges of the race track, much like Ford v Ferrari (2019) did to become one of the most successful racing movies ever made.

In establishing Mardenborough’s skills, the movie goes deep into what the game actually is –  a faithful, digital recreation of life behind the racing wheel for those who love cars. For those who have not played the game, the Gran Turismo series emulates the look, performance and handling of a wide selection of real-world license vehicles, allowing players to tune their virtual vehicles based on actual physics and performance, and take them for a spin around faithful reproductions of famous race tracks around the world. Heck, even the sound of the engines in the game are based on recordings made with the actual vehicles, and having this knowledge of the game is what gives Mardenborough an edge over everyone else. 

The fact that he wins is not the surprise but after the first act, the film drives home the drama, that the skills, while important, are not the most important as determination and ability. And pushing that is pit chief Jack Salter (David Harbour, Stranger Things, Black Widow), who may be a supporting character in the story, but comes across as the most fleshed out one. Unlike Bloom’s Moore, who is based on the actual creator and director of the real GT Academy, Salter is a new character created to ground the drivers and the story, because in no way is the movie saying that virtual knowledge is the same as actual experience.

He might come across as somewhat of an ass trying to beat down on gamers believing they can be actual racers, but he represents us, the audience, and the journey he takes to train the lot of players also convinces viewers that there’s a possibility that this might work, and as we follow the camera behind the wheel and onto the race tracks, we get a sense of how the various cars perform in each race. Every time he’s on screen, he speaks to the audience and when he channels his no-nonsense approach to racing and safety, we feel the energy and passion he has, which the other characters in the film don’t exactly help to generate.

Blomkamp also takes the opportunity to inject some video game visuals into film, from giving audiences a sense of how gamers must feel when they get behind the wheel of the video game and in a car,and the race line that any player of a race simulator would be very familiar with. He knows when to speed up and slow down during precise moments in this 2 hour and 14 minute movie and while there is a slow start in establishing the premise, the rest of the movie is a controlled lap that drives the movie ahead into the finish line.

Is Mardenborough the best of the lot? He can, but he doesn’t have to be because that’s not the point of the movie. Having navigated into the driver’s seat, the movie succeeds in making us feel the thrill of the race, as we burn rubber and tear across the track trying to stay ahead of the other vehicles. This deft balance of actual racing, human drama and adapting a video game, and having it all come together in a consistent manner makes this not only one of the best video game adaptations out there, but also one of the best racing movies ever created.

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Secretlab Is Releasing A Few More US$1,699 Automobili Lamborghini Pinnacle Edition Chairs https://geekculture.co/secretlab-is-releasing-a-few-more-lamborghini-pinnacle-edition-chairs/ Tue, 01 Aug 2023 15:00:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=269174

The final wave will only be made available to US, EU and SG.

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With only 50 units of the ultra-limited Secretlab for Automobili Lamborghini Pinnacle Edition chairs crafted worldwide and each labeled with a unique “01 di 50” badge.

What sets this apart from the standard Secretlab for Automobili Lamborghini Edition wide release is the custom carbon fiber top plate created specially for the Pinnacle Edition chair, drawing inspiration from Automobili Lamborghini’s iconic angular form. The chair also sports exquisite Alcantara upholstery, plucked straight from Lamborghini cars.

The Secretlab for Automobili Lamborghini Pinnacle Edition chair will be priced at US$1,699 (S$2,099) and will only be made available to the US, Europe, and Singapore. The final wave of chairs will be released on Secretlab’s website on 3 August 2023 at 9am PDT (4 August at 12am SGT). The first wave was released in December 2022, and since the quantity was never disclosed, there is no telling how many will be made available for its final wave. So if you are hoping to secure one, this is the timing to camp for it.

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Geek Review: BMW X1 sDrive16i xLine https://geekculture.co/geek-review-bmw-x1-sdrive16i-xline/ Thu, 20 Apr 2023 03:00:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=261166

As a Category A car, will this BMW X1's size matter to its driving dynamics?

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Five years ago in 2018, BMW invited me to a whirlwind tour in South Africa. We drove various configurations of the X3 on that tour, covering plenty of distance in a short span of time. But beyond the jaw-dropping beauty of the country’s scenery, wildlife and driving roads, there’s one other thing I remember from that trip till this day: the event’s photographer, Rob Till, seemed to always be able to slingshot ahead of us in his base-model X1 to capture incredible images on our approach.

I never figured out how he managed to do that, since we were already driving for most of the journey like we’d stolen our X3s. The X1 has bulked up and matured since then. Its exterior has taken on a boxier appearance than its predecessor, the second-generation F48—the more angular aesthetic is apparent across the X1’s silhouette through to its wheel arches. The iconic kidney grilles, seemingly ever-growing in size like COE prices these days, stand more vertically now but thankfully retain their balanced proportions, unlike some other models in the current line-up. X-shaped linen extend outwards from the grilles to add visual presence, while the sloping roofline and sculpted door panels give the X1 an athletic image.

Climbing into the electrically-adjustable driver’s seat, the X1’s redesigned interior felt new but familiar at the same time. Now fitted with the BMW Curved Display running BMW Operating System 8 across a sleek 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and 10.7-inch control display (just like the 2 Series Active Tourer), as well as a vertical smartphone tray with wireless charging capability at the front of the centre console, it’s a car built for the smartphone native – and a magnet for fingerprints.

It’s not all touchscreens and high-resolution displays though, as there are still physical buttons on the control panel in the “floating” armrest between the front occupants, including ones to operate the engine’s Start/Stop feature, volume control, hazard light, parking brake, and drive modes. The compartment concealed by the leather armrest has just enough space to store keys, coins and receipts, while the exposed tray underneath had enough space for my wallet and a baseball cap (or a mirrorless camera with a kit lens attached).

As is the case with BMWs in Singapore, the X1 comes with a decent array of standard features. This includes the BMW Maps navigation system, Comfort Access, as well as four USB-C ports so nobody needs to worry about their gadgets running out of juice on long trips. There are also a bunch of driver assistance systems like lane departure warning, blind spot alert, and Park Assist – things you’d expect to find only in more expensive vehicle models.

The sports seats in front were comfortable, and there was ample legroom in the rear. With premium materials, modern electronics and thoughtful ergonomics, the X1’s cabin is a luxurious place to be in. Luggage capacity is a respectable 540 litres, rising to 1,600 litres when the rear seats are knocked forward. In desperate situations, the three full-sized seats in the back can be moved forward by an additional 130 mm to eke out every last cubic centimetre of storage space in the boot.

The creature comforts continue with the X1’s refined driving experience as the cabin is reasonably well insulated from road and wind noise. Visibility is good thanks to the large windows, and the light steering weight and reasonably small turning radius of the car make it easy to manoeuvre the X1 in tight spaces. The sporty characteristics of the X1’s setup achieves BMW’s confident handling with the minor concession of a busier ride quality over all but the smoothest of Singapore’s asphalt, however, and there’s still a slight harshness whenever the 1.5-litre engine restarts itself.

This front-drive sDrive16i X1 is powered by a TwinPower Turbo three-cylinder unit with a seven-speed Steptronic double-clutch transmission. Gear shifts under normal driving conditions were fairly audible but not disruptive as the car made use of its powertrain’s 122 hp and 230 Nm of torque. The X1 builds speed at a leisurely 10.5 seconds for its century sprint, but it’s plenty enough for Singapore’s roads and traffic, including an occasional jaunt down one of the country’s unofficial proving grounds for sportier cars. Although ‘basic’ in its performance, the BMW X1 sDrive16i xLine is competent, handsome (one person’s meat is another’s poison, I know) and acceptably well-rounded in its proposition as a compact SUV.

While Rob may have been able to squeeze every last drop of performance from his X1 during our event back then, I doubt any owner in Singapore will need to do from theirs.

Special thanks to Performance Motors and BMW Asia for this opportunity.


The original version of this article can be read at Eat.Fly.Drive.

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Ferrari Esports Series 2023 Returns, To Include Invitations For Southeast Asia Drivers https://geekculture.co/ferrari-esports-series-2023-returns-invites-sea-drivers/ Fri, 14 Apr 2023 04:13:14 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=260767

The competition is getting tougher!

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The Ferrari Esports Series is back and for the first time in the competition’s history, Southeast Asian drivers are invited to join!

Southeast Asian drivers will join the starting line in the Asia Pacific heats before facing off against winning racers from Europe and North America. The addition of drivers from Southeast Asia and the Asia Pacific region will undoubtedly rev up competition and make this year’s edition an exciting and high-octane Ferrari sim racing experience.

Ferrari Esports Series

“We are thrilled to welcome the Asia Pacific region to the 2023 Ferrari Esports Series,” said Annabel Rochfort, Director of Location Based Entertainment and Esports for Ferrari.

“With countries like Australia and Japan known for producing exceptional sim racing talent, we are excited to see the level of competition that this region will bring to the table. Our commitment to providing a competitive and entertaining platform for sim-racing remains unwavering as we grow our esports footprint.”

The Ferrari Esports Series is a six-month racing tournament that brings together sim racers from Europe, North America and the Asia Pacific region for the chance to race in the grand final on 12 October 2023. Drivers will be going head-to-head on Assetto Corsa and Assetto Corsa Competizione to compete for the crowning title of the 2023 Ferrari Esports Series Champion and the opportunity to secure their place on the Scuderia Ferrari Esports Team.

Ferrari Esports Series

Registration for the series is now open for the Hot Lap phase. The first track of the series will be the legendary SPA circuit. Registrations will close on 6 August and the racing starts on 1 May.

The racing schedule is as follows:

  • Qualifier 1 – 20 July (Thursday)
  • Qualifier 2 – 24 August (Thursday)
  • Qualifier 3 – 12 September (Tuesday)
  • APAC Regional – 23 September (Saturday)
  • NA Regional – 24 September (Sunday)
  • EU Regional – 30 September (Saturday)
  • Grand Final Pre-Show – 11 October (Wednesday)
  • Grand Final – 12 October (Thursday)

The full season of racing will be broadcast on Twitch, YouTube and Facebook.

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Volkswagen Unveils New Electric Vehicle Lineup At Singapore Motorshow 2023 https://geekculture.co/volkswagen-electric-vehicle-lineup-singapore-motorshow-2023/ Fri, 13 Jan 2023 11:12:23 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=253252

The Kombi and Golf are going electric!

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Electric cars are taking over 2023, and we’re here for it. Volkswagen just unveiled its new line-up of electric cars at the Singapore Motorshow 2023, and showcased its ID. 4, ID. Buzz, ID. Buzz Cargo and the Golf R.

Showcased in Singapore for the first time, the ID. 4 is Volkswagen’s first all-electric SUV. The ID. 4 is not only a beauty with its clear-cut, flowing design and LED matrix headlights, it is also a sporty and powerful electric vehicle promising top speed whilst generating zero local emissions. Winning the World Car of the Year 2021 award and the first-ever SEMA Electic Vehicle of the Year 2022, the ID. 4 is expected to go on sale in Singapore at the end of the year.

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The Volkswagen ID. 4

Making its Southeast Asian premiere at the Singapore Motorshow 2023, is the ID. Buzz, Volkswagen’s iconic Kombi bus, but 100% electric. The commercial version, the ID. Buzz Cargo, also made an appearance at the event after winning International Van of the Year 2023.

The all-new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo is Volkwagen’s first all-electric MPV and van range and provides a solution to sustainable and CO2-free mobility, especially for business owners who are looking to lower running costs and have a more refined drive. Just like the ID.4, the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo are also going on sale at the end of the year.

For more details and a personal look at Volkswagen’s lineup at the Singapore Motorshow 2022, check out our video above.

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Razer Nerfs Secretlab, Goes Orange With Enki Pro Automobili Lamborghini Edition Chair https://geekculture.co/razer-nerfs-secretlab-goes-orange-with-enki-pro-automobili-lamborghini-edition-chair/ Sat, 15 Oct 2022 18:06:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=246310 Razer Enki Pro Automobili Lamborghini

Razer brings the signature orange and black of Lamborghini super sports cars to its chair line.

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Razer Enki Pro Automobili Lamborghini

Just a day after Secretlab releases its very own Automobili Lamborghini Edition chair (which saw a year-long wait following its announcement), Razer has gone out and launched its own Enki Pro Automobili Lamborghini Edition chair during the RazerCon 2022 livestream. The chair features a design inspired by the seat upholstery, and hexagonal-stitching used in Lamborghini’s iconic super sports cars.

Razer Enki Pro Automobili Lamborghini

The Razer Enki Pro Automobili Lamborghini Edition also boasts premium Alcantara, a dual-density cushioned backrest, magnetic head cushion, and precision recline dial, all in the signature orange and black colours of Lamborghini, with the Automobili Lamborghini shield logo proudly featured on the back of the chair.

The Razer Enki Pro Automobili Lamborghini Edition will be available in December 2022, starting at US$1,299 / €1,499 at Razer.com and Razer Stores.

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Secretlab x Automobili Lamborghini Edition Finally In Stock One Year After Launch https://geekculture.co/secretlab-x-automobili-lamborghini-edition-in-stock/ Sat, 15 Oct 2022 02:30:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=246291 Secretlab x Automobili Lamborghini

One year in the making, and now live!

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Secretlab x Automobili Lamborghini

Secretlab first announced its tie-up with Automobili Lamborghini in November 2021, with no indication of an availability date except “sometime in 2022”. The Secretlab x Automobili Lamborghini Edition is now in stock and can be ordered from Secretlab’s website.

The chair is upholstered in ash suede and features eye-catching verde accents, paying homage to the bright colors of Lamborghini tradition. All the ergonomic upgrades available in the TITAN Evo 2022 series, including an overhauled lumbar support system, a redesigned pebble seat base, and a magnetic armrest replacement feature will be applied to the new collection.

Prices of the Secretlab x Automobili Lamborghini Edition collection are as follows:

Secretlab x Automobili Lamborghini

More information on the availability of the Secretlab for Automobili Lamborghini Pinnacle Edition (with carbon fiber top plate) will be shared at a later date.

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Geek Review: MINI John Cooper Works Clubman https://geekculture.co/geek-review-mini-john-cooper-works-clubman/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 03:00:00 +0000 https://geekculture.co/?p=244927 MINI John Cooper Works Clubman

The fastest-accelerating production MINI on our shores offers practicality and comfort in a nicely sorted package.

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MINI John Cooper Works Clubman

I really liked driving the MINI Cooper S Clubman back in 2020. Subsequently, when I returned another press car at the dealership’s basement where they would tuck the MINIs away for the night, I saw the flagship Clubman lurking in the corner, teasing me with its badges and go-faster red stripes.

MINI John Cooper Works Clubman

Although there were a few unforeseen delays, the day finally came for my turn in the facelifted MINI John Cooper Works Clubman last weekend. Knowing this is the fastest-accelerating MINI for sale in Singapore, capable of breaching the 100 km/h mark from a standstill in 4.9 seconds, I was unusually patient when turning out from the MINI Habitat at Leng Kee Road.

MINI John Cooper Works Clubman

As expected, I would arrive at my destination in good time thanks to the 302 hp and 450 Nm of torque from the highly potent four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbocharged unit. The standard eight-speed Steptronic sports transmission delivered seamless gear changes, although it had a tiny but noticeable delay in registering my heavy-footed moments on the throttle; the engine revs would then build in a hurried crescendo as the JCW Clubman dropped a few gears and pinned me into the body-hugging sports seats. The exhaust, particularly in Sport mode, rises in volume as if readying itself for a grand occasion, but in some ways felt more matter-of-fact than dramatic or playful. It would have been nice if there were pops and bangs on the overruns, although I’m sure a bit of tuning will sort that out.

But even before I had the chance to experience the JCW Clubman’s impressive acceleration, I’d already decided I had little use for the head-up display – since the information I needed was available in the five-inch multifunctional instrument display behind the steering wheel, it seemed a bit of a redundant addition for my needs. A few prods on the digital menu via the central 8.8-inch touch display quickly recessed the panel, providing an unobstructed view of the road ahead.

Despite the JCW Clubman’s aggressive power delivery, it always felt controlled and sure-footed. Its front-biased ALL4 all-wheel drive system ensures the car turns very similarly to how I remember a MINI would, even with the added mass at the rear thanks to the Clubman’s longer dimensions. More torque gets redirected to the rear axle if the Dynamic Stability Control’s system detects slippage on the front wheels. It was practically impossible to break traction for the front wheels on public roads though, particularly with the grippy 235/35R19 Bridgestone Potenza S005 tyres, unless I was fully committed to driving like an idiot. The low-profile rubber, together with the JCW Clubman’s sports suspension, did mean the car suffered from a relatively stiff ride even by MINI’s standards – comparable to my daily driver, the Hyundai i30 N, in all but its full-blooded N mode.

On the occasions I needed to drop anchor, the sports brake system would reliably—and very quickly—bring the car’s 1.6-tonne mass to a stop. For bragging rights and in case the badges around the car weren’t enough, the front brake calipers are painted in red and bear the John Cooper Works logo.

When not subjecting myself to unforgiving road surfaces or eyebrow-raising driving enthusiasm, I appreciated the JCW Clubman’s creature comforts and really enjoyed my time inside the cabin. Being able to easily pair my iPhone and use Apple CarPlay wirelessly may not be a standout feature anymore, but playing music from Spotify through the 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system offered an enjoyable listenable experience.

The JCW sports seats kept my frame snugly in place without threatening my blood circulation, although the back of my upper arms would find themselves bumping against the side bolsters when I made large turns of the steering wheel. One cabin feature that really pleased me, though, is the redesigned centre armrest between the front passenger seats – where my left arm would often knock into the armrest of other modern MINIs when turning the car left because the armrest was too high, that is no longer the case as it’s now lower and well clear of a swinging elbow.

In the back, all but the tallest of passengers will find themselves with very acceptable legroom. There are also two USB-C ports they can use to juice up their mobile devices. And if the rear seats are knocked down to make space for transporting bulky items (it’s a Clubman, after all), the boot capacity can be expanded from a modest 360 litres to a respectable 1,250 litres.

I’m usually not attracted to estates and wagons, but there’s something special about the Clubman’s form factor that is pleasing to my eye. With the unique, albeit sometimes impractical barn doors in the rear, the Clubman still oozes the charming quirkiness that is typical of MINIs. Yet, as the brand’s cars continue to be refined for the modern demands of comfort and regulations, models like the JCW Clubman that can still excite owners may soon by symbols of nostalgia instead. If this is among the last models with internal combustion engines before the brand transitions into a fully-electric lineup by 2030, this wouldn’t be a bad way to drive off into the sunset.

Special thanks to Eurokars Habitat for this opportunity.


The original version of this article can be read at Eat.Fly.Drive.

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