Robert takes a 'very comfy' drive in the hybrid Lexus is300h, and some musings on the scale of electricity use by fossil fuel refining.
BMW i8 First Drive - CHRIS HARRIS [VIDEO]
Chris Harris takes a trip to Los Angeles to drive the new BMW i8.
Capable of 23 miles all electric before the 3-cylinder turbocharged motor kicks in to recharge the batteries. Harris things the i8 is one of the closest production cars ever seen that looks almost identical to the concept car it's based on.
Blog, Updated at: 5:01 PM
Not one, but two great Lancashire car shows
Yet – even if you’re someone with Castrol R coursing through your veins – these two events couldn’t have been more different. If you’re a car-loving Champion reader they were both within easy reach, but they’re emphatically the chalk and cheese of motoring. That’s why – even though I only had a day to do it – I had to go to both.
That’s why last Saturday morning you’d have found me wondering around the golf course up the road from Aintree Racecourse, with the grandstands where I’d lost a small fortune on some horses just a few weeks earlier still fresh in my memory. I was, however, totally in my element with the horsepower Aintree was offering up this time around – lots of it, under the bonnet of just about every racing car imaginable, at the same place where Stirling Moss won the British Grand Prix for the first time.
If you’ve never been to Liverpool Motor Club’s sprint events at Aintree Circuit then get the next one in your diary, because it’s seriously underrated full-throttle fun. For next to nothing, you can spend the day watching Lotus Elan 26Rs, track-prepared Caterhams (pictured) and single seater racing cars screaming and screeching their way through the corners in an effort to eake out the quickest lap time possible. It’s fast, frantic and always good for a few dramatic helpings of oversteer, and last Saturday’s event proved no exception.
I’d have loved to have hung around simply to see how quickly an Aston Martin DB6 could be hammered down Sefton Straight – which might sound like a bit like seeing how quickly you can throw a priceless painting down a flight of stairs – but I had a second car show to get to before the afternoon was out.
The Riverside Steam and Vintage Rally also had scores of beautiful classic cars to check out. It was just nice, after hours of wheelspin and full-throttle starts, to chill out and chat with their owners about why they loved their automotive antiques. If you’re sort of person who knows what an Austin A55 Cambridge is without having to punch it into Google – or why it’s nicknamed the Farina – then you’ll have loved the laid-back, nostalgic vibe of this two-day event, a stone’s throw from Tarleton.
Yes, I know the main attraction is all those steam-powered traction engines beloved of Fred Dibnah types but I was more than happy just to immerse myself in a world of Morris Bullnoses, Ford Populars and Triumph Spitfires for a couple of hours. I don’t know how – especially considering how long I’ve been doing these columns for – I’ve managed to miss the Riverside gig every year since its inception, but after being hugely impressed by the variety of cars on show it’s definitely one I’ve got into my diary for next year.
All this and it’s only the start of a great season of car shows. Roll on Lydiate, Hundred End, Bank Hall and Ormskirk! Keep an eye for my full reports on both shows in Classic Car Weekly
Blog, Updated at: 2:48 PM
Boardroom Basics: Design Tips for Office Meeting Areas
Designing any space can be a big challenge, but with the right tricks, you can decorate with the best of them. Boardrooms and meeting areas are all about impressing visitors. If you're considering a makeover for your office meeting space, here are some excellent design tips you should never be without!
Effective Space Planning Is Essential
Proper space planning is probably the most important part of any decorating project. Without knowing the exact dimensions of the space you're working with and the furniture you want, finding the right fit can turn into a disaster. Before you go purchasing furniture, get a few friends or co-workers to help you measure your space. Make a scale drawing with measurements on a piece of graph paper, and be sure to make note of entryways, windows, and power outlets too. Later, you can even use this paper to help determine a good furniture layout. Just remember to measure twice!
Assess your Needs Before Shopping
Once you've determined the dimensions of the boardroom, it's time to address specific needs. Ask yourself questions like how many guests you want to seat regularly. Allowing around three feet of table space for each guest, choose from quality conference tables with different sizes to find the right fit for your space. A six foot conference table will comfortably sit two people on each side, while an eight foot table can usually fit six people with two on the ends. Also try to consider whether the room will be used for other purposes, in which case modular or adjustable conference tables like the Bungee tables by Global would make an effective choice.
Choose A Style That Showcases Your Business Personality
Different businesses provide different products and services, so it's easy to imagine each one with a certain personality. A pediatrics office for children will look very different than a fancy perfume brand's office or an industrial technology manufacturer. When designing any office space, try to be sure that your boardroom reflects your company's goals and ideals. Popular styles in 2014 include mid century modern, modular, traditional, classy, contemporary, and industrial. Because boardrooms are all about impressing the bigwigs, industrial conference room furniture with dark wood, glass, and chrome accents to highlight the future is probably the most popular choice in recent years.
Paint Before Purchasing
Ever made the mistake of buying brand new furniture and then trying to paint the walls? If you didn't, good - don't! Painting around fancy new furniture is tough work, and it's also a potential mess in the making. It's fine to pick out new furniture so you can decide on a paint choice (RFM Preferred Seating furniture for sale has lots of color choices). Just make sure to save the purchasing until after your painting project is well underway. If you can, try to make sure you can set a delivery date, so you know exactly when your new boardroom furniture will arrive. That way, you'll have removed all the old stuff, painted the walls, and your new meeting space will be ready for the new arrivals!
Find a Good Deal
Finding a good deal on expensive high end furniture takes some extra attention, but if you know how to search, you'll be done in a flash. Try to seek out popular boardroom tables for less by shopping from brands with free shipping. Once you've found a dealer you like, don't ever be afraid to call them up. Many dealers know a great deal more about furniture, decorating, and the installation process than you could ever dream, and they're always open to sharing knowledge and tips. Asking for deals over the phone may get you free access to bulk discounts, coupons, special furniture sales, and other great perks. Some dealers may even be able to suggest tips you never thought of like setting delivery dates, popular furniture for boardrooms, layout options, and tricks to setting up new furniture!
Make Comfort A Priority
Trying to keep meeting area guests engaged is hard enough without the distraction of uncomfortable furniture, so it's imperative that every meeting place makes comfort a priority. You don't want the fancy business executives going back complaining about how inhospitable your office was. To avert this, choose cool leather chairs for conference and meeting applications that have cozy ergonomic features. Simple things like articulating backs, height adjustment, and waterfall seats can drastically improve the comfort of your boardroom, so keep your eyes peeled for those features when shopping.
Don't Forget the Details
Boardrooms aren't just about style and impression, they're also about utility. Having the right presentation accessories for office meeting applications can improve guest experience and always ensures your boardroom is prepared for all the ways people present ideas and learn. Lecterns, whiteboard cabinets, and computer gadgetry are all beneficial to meeting areas since they are some of the most common ways of sharing ideas in the workplace. Now that your boardroom is all but complete, add these accessories and enjoy your new space!
Effective Space Planning Is Essential
Proper space planning is probably the most important part of any decorating project. Without knowing the exact dimensions of the space you're working with and the furniture you want, finding the right fit can turn into a disaster. Before you go purchasing furniture, get a few friends or co-workers to help you measure your space. Make a scale drawing with measurements on a piece of graph paper, and be sure to make note of entryways, windows, and power outlets too. Later, you can even use this paper to help determine a good furniture layout. Just remember to measure twice!
Assess your Needs Before Shopping
Once you've determined the dimensions of the boardroom, it's time to address specific needs. Ask yourself questions like how many guests you want to seat regularly. Allowing around three feet of table space for each guest, choose from quality conference tables with different sizes to find the right fit for your space. A six foot conference table will comfortably sit two people on each side, while an eight foot table can usually fit six people with two on the ends. Also try to consider whether the room will be used for other purposes, in which case modular or adjustable conference tables like the Bungee tables by Global would make an effective choice.
Choose A Style That Showcases Your Business Personality
Different businesses provide different products and services, so it's easy to imagine each one with a certain personality. A pediatrics office for children will look very different than a fancy perfume brand's office or an industrial technology manufacturer. When designing any office space, try to be sure that your boardroom reflects your company's goals and ideals. Popular styles in 2014 include mid century modern, modular, traditional, classy, contemporary, and industrial. Because boardrooms are all about impressing the bigwigs, industrial conference room furniture with dark wood, glass, and chrome accents to highlight the future is probably the most popular choice in recent years.
Paint Before Purchasing
Ever made the mistake of buying brand new furniture and then trying to paint the walls? If you didn't, good - don't! Painting around fancy new furniture is tough work, and it's also a potential mess in the making. It's fine to pick out new furniture so you can decide on a paint choice (RFM Preferred Seating furniture for sale has lots of color choices). Just make sure to save the purchasing until after your painting project is well underway. If you can, try to make sure you can set a delivery date, so you know exactly when your new boardroom furniture will arrive. That way, you'll have removed all the old stuff, painted the walls, and your new meeting space will be ready for the new arrivals!
Find a Good Deal
Finding a good deal on expensive high end furniture takes some extra attention, but if you know how to search, you'll be done in a flash. Try to seek out popular boardroom tables for less by shopping from brands with free shipping. Once you've found a dealer you like, don't ever be afraid to call them up. Many dealers know a great deal more about furniture, decorating, and the installation process than you could ever dream, and they're always open to sharing knowledge and tips. Asking for deals over the phone may get you free access to bulk discounts, coupons, special furniture sales, and other great perks. Some dealers may even be able to suggest tips you never thought of like setting delivery dates, popular furniture for boardrooms, layout options, and tricks to setting up new furniture!
Make Comfort A Priority
Trying to keep meeting area guests engaged is hard enough without the distraction of uncomfortable furniture, so it's imperative that every meeting place makes comfort a priority. You don't want the fancy business executives going back complaining about how inhospitable your office was. To avert this, choose cool leather chairs for conference and meeting applications that have cozy ergonomic features. Simple things like articulating backs, height adjustment, and waterfall seats can drastically improve the comfort of your boardroom, so keep your eyes peeled for those features when shopping.
Don't Forget the Details
Boardrooms aren't just about style and impression, they're also about utility. Having the right presentation accessories for office meeting applications can improve guest experience and always ensures your boardroom is prepared for all the ways people present ideas and learn. Lecterns, whiteboard cabinets, and computer gadgetry are all beneficial to meeting areas since they are some of the most common ways of sharing ideas in the workplace. Now that your boardroom is all but complete, add these accessories and enjoy your new space!
Blog, Updated at: 12:02 PM
Ferrari LaFerrari 950 hp Hybrid Supercar Test Drive [VIDEO]
The LaFerrari is powered by a 950bhp petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain. It can accelerate from 0-62mph in less than 3sec, from 0-124mph in less than 7sec and from 0-186mph in less than 15sec. Top speed is 220 mph and production is limited to just 499 models.
The battery compartment is integrated into the chassis (the batteries and engine are mid-mounted) to improve stiffness, while the electric drive itself consists of two motors, one with 161bhp to power the rear wheels and another for the ancillaries. The batteries weigh 60kg and can be charged either under braking or via any excess torque produced by the engine, which is diverted from the rear wheels.
This is all attached to a 6,262cc V12 with a screaming 9,250rpm rev limit, driving through a seven-speed paddle-shift gearbox. On its own this engine produces 789bhp and 516lb ft of torque. Combined with the electric motor this swells to the 950bhp headline figure, as well as 664lb ft of torque.
First driving impressions suggest Ferrari have successfully combined the superior low rpm torque characteristics of an electric motor to give the LaFerrari the instant throttle response and acceleration of an EV, what McLaren call 'torque fill', with the enormous top end torque of a 6lt V12.
Blog, Updated at: 11:55 PM
Choosing The Perfect Conference Table for Your Business
1.) Size
The first step in choosing the perfect conference table for your business is to assess your needs. Start by measuring your space effectively to determine the size table that will work best. Most businesses use tables between 6' and 10' in length.
2.) Guests
On average you'll want to allow around 3 feet of table space per user. A 6' table will accommodate 4 users comfortably while a 10' table is made to host between 8 and 10 visitors if you choose to use the table ends. To avoid cramping, check out a few popular conference chairs or your current office chairs. Take the measurements of each being sure to take note of the seat and base widths. You can then use these figures to ensure a comfortable meeting experience for your business guests.
3.) Materials
To choose the best conference table for your business, you'll want to educate yourself on the most popular materials being used today. Top brands like Global Total Office offer a wide range of tables including wood veneer, metal, and laminate variations that vary widely in price. In most cases wood veneer tables will be the most expensive while laminate top tables are typically the most affordable. Additional brands like OFM, Inc. are now offering attractive glass top conference room tables that are a favorite amongst interior design teams and industry professionals alike. That being said, the hottest conference room design trends of 2014 include the use laminate top tables with industrial metal bases. Products like the GR6STM Alba Series Table will give you a great idea of what's hot this year.
4.) Price
In 2014, shopping for new conference room tables on a budget can actually be quite simple. Brands like Mayline, Cherryman Industries, and Global Total Office all provide affordable solutions that look fantastic. Products like the BTCT6 Brighton Series 6' Conference Table by Mayline can be purchased for as little as $218.99 with free shipping. Higher end tables can range into the thousands depending on the material and size table you choose.
5.) Shape
Popular conference table shapes include round, racetrack, boat shaped, rectangular, and elliptical. This area of the design process is purely based on your personal preference. However, rectangular and boat shaped tables will provide the most useable space on table ends to help you accommodate the maximum number of guests. New elliptical top conference table solutions are by far the most popular this year. For smaller areas, round top styles are best.
6.) Style
Various conference table styles including modern, traditional, contemporary, and industrial should all be taken into account when shopping for your new table. Doing a simple inquiry via your favorite search engine will provide you with helpful insight as to what each looks like. Once you've done the basis research, determine what look will best enhance your corporate decor.
7.) Value
Everyone loves a good deal! That being said, it's important to find value when selecting your new conference table. Manufacturers like those mentioned above offer great products highly suggested for professional office use. In addition, be sure to inquire with your dealer of choice about bulk discount pricing, free shipping, and current closeout specials that may be available. If you're looking to purchase an entirely new furniture configuration for your space, savings should definitely be made available.
8.) Lead Times
So you've found the perfect conference table, but will it be available when you need it? All too often business furniture shoppers are faced with tight project deadlines. When searing for your new table, be sure to inquire about how long tables will take to ship. While most tables from brands like Mayline and Cherryman Industries are typically in stock, more customizable solutions like the tables from Global Total Office are made to order and take approximately 3 to 5 weeks to manufacturer. Be sure to leave yourself with ample time to ensure you're able to purchase the table you love and don't end up settling due to a time crunch. Most industry professionals recommend shopping 5 weeks before you need your products and scheduling delivery around a time that works best for you.
Blog, Updated at: 7:28 AM
TDK Licenses WiTricity Patent Portfolio for Wireless Charging
The wireless charging space is on fire this week with first Hella and now TDK announcing that it has entered into a licensing agreement for wireless power transfer technology with U.S. based WiTricity Corporation (Watertown, MA). The aim of the alliance is to develop wireless power transfer systems for electric vehicles (EV) and other mobility applications, and to promote business.
Wireless power transfer technology can supply electricity without using cables. The technology TDK intends to implement is known as resonant magnetic coupling for wireless power transfer*. Because power can be transferred efficiently even though the power source device and power capture device are separated by many centimeters and through roadway materials such as concrete and asphalt, this technology is expected to find commercial application in EVs and other mobility areas requiring recharging.
TDK boasts ferrite and other proprietary magnetic materials. Leveraging its strengths in magnetic materials technologies and circuit technologies, in 2009 TDK developed wireless power transfer coil units for smartphones and other compact electronic equipment, which it is now manufacturing and selling.
Furthermore, since 2010, TDK has been developing wireless power transfer systems based on unique technologies that are envisaged mainly for EVs. In 2013, TDK created one of the world’s smallest and lightest prototype wireless power source and capture systems, and verified its ability to transfer the required power levels at high efficiency for charging electric vehicles.
Capitalizing on this licensing agreement with WiTricity, TDK plans to quickly commercialize wireless power transfer systems for charging EVs and other electric mobility applications.
Blog, Updated at: 1:42 AM
Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive Priced From $41,450
The all-new 2014 B-Class Electric Drive features dynamic design, a premium interior and a powerful electric motor for emission-free mobility. This allows for lively, effortless driving pleasure over a real-world range of 85 miles (EPA)*. In addition, the B-Class Electric Drive is digitally networked. Thanks to its connectivity, it can be conveniently checked and configured via the internet. As the Mercedes-Benz among electric vehicles, the B-Class Electric Drive sets clear standards in terms of comfort, quality and safety for up to five occupants. The B-Class Electric Drive, bearing the unmistakable three-pointed star trademark, will first be launched in the US market in the summer of 2014.
The new B-Class Electric Drive surprises with an especially dynamic driving experience. It provides noticeably powerful acceleration, while gliding along quietly. The new electric Mercedes offers the driver and up to four passengers the familiar high standards of ride comfort in a high-class, spacious and precision-designed interior. The B-Class Electric Drive combines dynamic and driving pleasure with zero local emissions – in short: it delivers electric driving at premium level.
Powerful drive with brisk acceleration
The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is based on the conventionally powered B-Class, for which the current generation has become a bestseller since being launched in many countries in 2011. Since the launch of the first B-Class version in 2005, Mercedes-Benz has seen customers taking delivery of over one million of these vehicles. As an especially versatile vehicle concept, the B-Class with its innovative electric drive now allows additional environmental friendly capabilities to Mercedes standards.
Mercedes-Benz has collaborated with TESLA Motors to develop the electric B-Class. The two companies share many years of cooperation in the field of electric mobility. The battery for the predecessor model of the smart fortwo electric drive, for instance, came from TESLA. For the B-Class Electric Drive, Mercedes-Benz is once again leveraging the extensive know-how available from the electric car pioneer and is using the TESLA drive system in its own vehicle.
Quiet and local emission-free driving is ensured by an electric motor generating 177 hp (132 kW). Typical for an electric drive system, the motor develops its maximum torque of 251 lb-ft (340 Newton meters) from the very first touch of the accelerator. This is approximately equivalent to the torque from a modern three-liter gasoline engine. The result is noticeably powerful acceleration from a standing start. The electrically driven B-Class drives from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. Effortless drivability and exhilarating driving pleasure with a high level of comfort are thus guaranteed in every situation.
The power supply to the electric drive is delivered via a highperformance lithium-ion battery, which is compactly and safely housed in the “Energy Space” in the underfloor of the vehicle. Such intelligent packaging allows the five-seater to retain the B-Class’s familiar spaciousness in both its interior and its luggage compartment of 17.69-51.42 ft3.
Zero emissions also on longer journeys
In the interests of optimizing range, the top speed is electronically limited to 100 mph. Depending on driving cycle; the vehicle has a range of 85 miles (EPA)*. This permits emission-free driving not just in city traffic and on short journeys, but also over longer distances – such as a daily commute. The B-Class Electric Drive can be charged from any standard domestic power socket. For a range of 60 miles, the charging time at 240V in the United States is less than 2 hours*. On the road, the electric drive itself makes its own contribution to a favorable energy balance by converting kinetic energy into electric current during coasting and braking, and feeds this energy into the battery.
Dynamic Mercedes-Benz design
Refined sportiness combined with aesthetic appeal – the B-Class Electric Drive features the self-assured and dynamic styling so typical of Mercedes with powerfully defined lines and finely crafted details. The front and rear sections express the width of the vehicle. This is ensured by the wide, prominent grille and the headlamps, which wrap round into the sides, as well as by the wide rear window, two-piece tail lights and large tailgate with deep sill. A dynamic look is created by door-sill panels and striking bumpers with bar-shaped LED daytime running lamps. The charge socket is inconspicuously installed behind the conventional fuel door.
Sporty interior with classy touches
The interior underscores the high standards of comfort typical of Mercedes-Benz. High-grade materials and finely textured surfaces, classy touches and precision workmanship make it clear that Mercedes-style electric drive is defined by high standards.
The three large round center air vents with their uniquely styled cruciform nozzles add a sporty flair that contributes to the overall emotive design idiom of the interior. Positioned above the air vents and seemingly free-floating is the screen for the telematics system – a state-of-the-art eye-catcher in the cockpit.
In terms of information and communication systems, the electric B-Class offers levels of comfort and functionality that is customary of any Mercedes-Benz. The standard equipment package includes a head unit with 5.8 in (14.7 cm) color display, twin tuner and MP3- Page 4 compatible CD player as well as USB port. The Becker® MAP PILOT is the standard navigation system while the COMAND multimedia system with internet access, navigation and LINGUATRONIC voice control is also optionally available.
The instrumentation of the B-Class Electric Drive is rounded off by functions that are specific to electric vehicles. One of the striking features is the power display in the right-hand circular instrument. The instrument pointer moves in a clockwise direction from the green zone towards the red zone, when full power is demanded by the driver. It drops back below the zero line when the vehicle is feeding energy into the battery through the recuperation feature.
Ideally networked: connected services
Thanks to its state-of-the-art technology, the B-Class Electric Drive is not just sustainable and agile, but also connected. For example, the Vehicle Homepage allows convenient remote interaction and remote configuration of the vehicle. The driver can use their PC or smartphone to conveniently access the vehicle via the internet. It is possible, for instance, to determine the current state of charge of the lithium-ion battery or show the vehicle’s current range on a map. In addition, the planned route can be displayed, showing at a glance where the vehicle can be recharged along the way, should this prove necessary. The range of connected services is rounded off by a feature that allows individually timed pre-heating or cooling of the vehicle. This pre-entry climate control system makes the B-Class Electric Drive unique in its segment.
Big on safety
Mercedes-Benz applies its familiar, high safety standards to the BClass Electric Drive. Thanks to the innovative “Energy Space”, the battery is safely accommodated in the underfloor of the vehicle, where it is ensured protection in the event of a crash. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has equipped this innovative electric car with the radar-based collision warning system COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist as standard. This assistance system gives the driver a visual and audible warning of detected obstacles, prepares them for braking action and assists them with the braking process as the situation requires. In this way, it significantly reduces the danger of a rear-end collision. Additional cutting-edge driver assistance systems are also available, including Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Active Parking Assist.
Electric drive made by Mercedes-Benz
Locally emission-free electric vehicles such as the new B-Class Electric Drive are a key part of Mercedes-Benz’s strategy for sustainable mobility. The Stuttgart-based premium manufacturer is asserting its claim to leadership in this sector with electric vehicles that are fully suitable for everyday use. Mercedes-Benz aims to strengthen its position in future, not least with the new BClass Electric Drive, which will be available initially in the USA as of mid of 2014, before subsequently being launched in European markets.
Technical data*
| Output | 177 hp (132 kW) |
| Torque | 251 lb-ft (340 Nm) |
| Range | 85 miles (EPA) |
| Charging time for a range of 60 miles [US City] | USA: under 2 h at 240V |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 7.9 seconds (estimated) |
| Top speed | 100 mph (160 km/h), electronically limited |
*provisional figures
Blog, Updated at: 12:39 AM
Office Showcase 2014: Modern Interiors That Rock
Thinking of pursuing an office makeover? Well, you're in luck! In today's post, we'll take a look at some amazing modern office interiors and describe what makes them so appealing. From colors, to materials, to textures, and more, learn what makes office interior design so spectacular in 2014. Here's an interior for every office situation to help inspire you. Enjoy!
Cool Conference Room
The Asian inspired look of this serene conference room instantly dissipates any tension that could possibly arise. This interior space makes use of all the checkpoints that mark smart industrial design. With dark wood furniture, a glass tabletop, chrome accents and comfortable conference chairs with modern style, this conference room has enough contemporary appeal to hold up with the most high tech of modern spaces. Yet it offers a wonderful natural touch in the plants and earth-themed wall installation that make this conference room a perfect blend of technology and nature!
Rockin' Reception Area
This rockin' reception area does everything a reception area should! Complete with complimentary colors, cool modern lighting, and plenty of textures to keep the eye interested, visitors will never be without something to look at. Contemporary curved desks for office reception welcome guests from all directions, making this curved welcome desk a smart choice. In addition, it also boasts space saving multi user benefits that allow more than one person to fit comfortably behind the workstation. The calm green coloring of this pretty reception area is accented by a bright burst of colorful flowers. Together, they take a bite out of the fear many experience when entering a dental office, reflecting the desires of the business, and leaving customers at ease.
Elegant Executive Office
This executive office is comfortable, stylish, utilitarian, and very modern. Like the conference room above, it meets all the style needs of any 2014 interior office space. Adding executive desks with dark wood exteriors brings offices like this one down to earth. The chrome and glass accents lift it back up just enough to brighten the space and give a nod toward the future. This elegant modern executive office boasts plenty of storage to save space and also provides contemporary seating for any guests. The cool wall art keeps the eye interested while the area rug prevents scuffs on the floor, providing a trendy useful space to get work done.
Groovy Lobby
Bursting with bright colors, this lobby has plenty to look at. It sets the impression for this office as one which is fun, modern, and creative, and no doubt the looks live up to the business's standards. The amazing lobby guest chairs feature trendy design to compliment the rest of the space. With the complimentary teal and orange create a zesty style that's sure to feel like a vacation all by itself for the vacationers at this stunning hotel!
Wacky Waiting Room
And last but not least, we give you this incredible contemporary waiting room! Featuring all sorts of strange shapes, bright colors, and exquisitely creative lighting, this waiting room will keep guests entertained until kingdom come just on looks alone. With cool modern reception seating and end tables with convenient placements, visitors will always have exactly what they need to stay comfortable and entertained. With a look this drastic, the waiting room definitely reflects the progressive modern look of the business. With crazy shapes and outstanding colors, guests will feel like they've left earth entirely to achieve a new plane of out-of-this-world style!
Cool Conference Room
The Asian inspired look of this serene conference room instantly dissipates any tension that could possibly arise. This interior space makes use of all the checkpoints that mark smart industrial design. With dark wood furniture, a glass tabletop, chrome accents and comfortable conference chairs with modern style, this conference room has enough contemporary appeal to hold up with the most high tech of modern spaces. Yet it offers a wonderful natural touch in the plants and earth-themed wall installation that make this conference room a perfect blend of technology and nature!
Rockin' Reception Area
This rockin' reception area does everything a reception area should! Complete with complimentary colors, cool modern lighting, and plenty of textures to keep the eye interested, visitors will never be without something to look at. Contemporary curved desks for office reception welcome guests from all directions, making this curved welcome desk a smart choice. In addition, it also boasts space saving multi user benefits that allow more than one person to fit comfortably behind the workstation. The calm green coloring of this pretty reception area is accented by a bright burst of colorful flowers. Together, they take a bite out of the fear many experience when entering a dental office, reflecting the desires of the business, and leaving customers at ease.
Elegant Executive Office
This executive office is comfortable, stylish, utilitarian, and very modern. Like the conference room above, it meets all the style needs of any 2014 interior office space. Adding executive desks with dark wood exteriors brings offices like this one down to earth. The chrome and glass accents lift it back up just enough to brighten the space and give a nod toward the future. This elegant modern executive office boasts plenty of storage to save space and also provides contemporary seating for any guests. The cool wall art keeps the eye interested while the area rug prevents scuffs on the floor, providing a trendy useful space to get work done.
Groovy Lobby
Bursting with bright colors, this lobby has plenty to look at. It sets the impression for this office as one which is fun, modern, and creative, and no doubt the looks live up to the business's standards. The amazing lobby guest chairs feature trendy design to compliment the rest of the space. With the complimentary teal and orange create a zesty style that's sure to feel like a vacation all by itself for the vacationers at this stunning hotel!
Wacky Waiting Room
And last but not least, we give you this incredible contemporary waiting room! Featuring all sorts of strange shapes, bright colors, and exquisitely creative lighting, this waiting room will keep guests entertained until kingdom come just on looks alone. With cool modern reception seating and end tables with convenient placements, visitors will always have exactly what they need to stay comfortable and entertained. With a look this drastic, the waiting room definitely reflects the progressive modern look of the business. With crazy shapes and outstanding colors, guests will feel like they've left earth entirely to achieve a new plane of out-of-this-world style!
Blog, Updated at: 11:55 AM
Ford adds even more luxury to its fastest Fiesta
FORD has fitted even more luxuries to its fastest Fiesta to create a new range-topping version of the hot hatch.
The new version of the Fiesta ST, called the ST-3, throws toys including cruise control, a keyless entry system and rain-sensitive windscreens to the car, and costs £19,250.
For more information on the ST and the rest of the Fiesta range head to www.ford.co.uk
Blog, Updated at: 10:07 AM
BMW i8 testing on the Nürburgring [VIDEO]
In more news on the soon to be launched BMW i8, we've found a short video of the car testing at the Nürburgring. Also, while in Munich recently on business, I personally spotted an i8 test mule in morning peak hour traffic with a young lady at the wheel (I didn't take the pictures as I was driving the rental)
BMW plans to sell the i8 in about 50 countries, with the U.S. expected to be the largest sales market. In Europe, Germany, France and the UK are expected to be the top markets. Deliveries to retail customers in Europe are scheduled to begin in June 2014, and about one month later in the U.S.
Pricing for the 2015 BMW i8 destined for the U.S. market starts at US$135,925. BMW are currently taking orders for the i8 in Japan. Pricing starts at ¥19,170,000 (US$191,500)
Blog, Updated at: 1:53 AM
HELLA Developing Wireless Charging Systems For Electric Vehicles
HELLA is working with Paul Vahle GmbH to develop wireless charging systems for electric and hybrid-electric vehicles.
Commonly used to recharge small consumer products such as smartphones and electric toothbrushes, inductive or wireless charging for cars will make it easier for drivers to charge car batteries and extend a vehicle's driving range.
Rather than using plug-in charging stations, car owners in the future will simply need to park over an inductive charging unit to trigger the process, according to Dr. Marc Rosenmayr, CEO for HELLA Electronics in North and South America.
He adds that if inductive charging coils were embedded in streets, electric vehicles also could be recharged when stopped at traffic lights or even while being driven.
For electric car buyers, a contact-free method of transferring energy to the vehicle certainly will be more convenient and less time consuming. Cables no longer will be necessary. Inclement weather and the risk of vandalism also can be avoided if outside charging stations are involved.
"Wireless, inductive charging is a far more convenient way to recharge a vehicle's battery system," Rosenmayr points out. "The driver only needs to stop or drive over a charging unit or network to activate the process. As wireless charging has become more available and easy to use, it also might allow automakers to reduce battery size and weight on electric and hybrid electric vehicles.
Rosenmayr notes that a number of technological and infrastructure challenges still must be overcome before wireless charging for cars and light trucks can be successfully introduced. Energy transfer over high-frequency fields that are at the heart of inductive systems, for example, cause heat to build up in metal objects which could lead to safety issues. The impact that wireless charging might have on other vehicle electronic systems such as navigation, infotainment, driver-assistance and keyless entry systems also will need to be studied.
The cooperation between Vahle and HELLA combines the expertise and experience of both companies in the field inductive charging. Based in Kamen, Germany, Vahle has 15 years of experience in contact-free energy transfer in industrial environments, while HELLA is a recognized leader in the development of electronics, software, processes and production in the auto industry.
Blog, Updated at: 6:14 PM
BMW i8 test drive in China [VIDEO]
According to Bloomberg's Stephen Engle, the ultra high-end electric and hybrid car space is suddenly getting a bit more crowded in China.
Tesla had the first deliveries of the Model S to Chinese customers this week, while BMW will roll out its hybrid i8 super sports car for the China market by the end of the year.
Engle got behind the wheel of BMW's new offering in Beijing.
Blog, Updated at: 2:44 AM
Airbus Developing Hybrid Electric Jet Aircraft
Airbus is learning from automakers as it works on developing a small aircraft powered by hybrid electric engines that could represent its first move into the market for regional jets.
The development of a regional plane, seating between 70 and 90 people, that can take off and land using electric power could take between 15 and 20 years, Airbus Group Chief Technology Officer Jean Botti told reporters in Munich.
Airbus, which with Boeing dominates the market for passenger jets, presently makes planes that seat more than 150 people.
Airbus is already working on an all-electric two-seater plane, powered by two electric motors with a combined output of 60 kilowatts, hoping this technology will serve as a step to bringing electric motors on to larger aircraft.
The two-seater, which Airbus says is suited for short missions such as pilot training and aerobatics, can run on its lithium-ion polymer batteries for half an hour, with the aim to get it up to an hour.
The batteries are tricky, Botti said. "They're causing us a lot of headaches."
Blog, Updated at: 9:30 PM
Life On Cars wins national award!
The organisers of the UK Blog Awards, held tonight at The Grange Hotel in St Pauls, Central London, confirmed that Life On Cars had beaten off stiff competition to win the Individual Automotive category, which celebrates motoring writing.
Originally launched by David Simister while working for The Champion newspaper in Southport, Life On Cars has featured hundreds of motoring articles, and has continued throughout his time at national title Classic Car Weekly.
The blog features comment pieces on hundreds of different motoring topics, road tests, show reports and news items, and is accompanied each week by a column in The Champion.
Sadly, David couldn't be in London to collect the prestigious award due to an assignment earlier today with Classic Car Weekly. Sadly, Life On Cars can't reveal too much, other than to say it involves some stunning roads, a pork pie shop and a broken Austin Montego.
All will be revealed soon!
Blog, Updated at: 2:28 PM
5 Key Ways to Show Your Office Design Ingenuity
Showing how modern your office is can be a challenge, especially if it looks a little dated. However, knowing the latest tips and tricks of office interior design can help show off your company's creative side, and help lure in customers. Today, we'll showcase some great tips to help you show off your office design ingenuity with ways to decorate included. Take a look!
Get Organized
Decorating without a plan is like trying to find El Dorado without a map. If you want to get things done, you have to make a game plan that takes all the essentials into account. Furniture can get expensive, and so can remodeling, so plan a budget that will help ensure you won't be drowning in debt by the time your project is over. When you're done, head on over to a presentation board for office use and make yourself a checklist of the changes you want to make. If you don't have one, it's not a bad idea to include one in your new look. Models like the Verte V120LE by Cherryman come complete with a dry-erase board to take notes and keep employees updated when the remodeling is over.
Effective Space Planning
Space planning is an essential part of decorating that requires a lot of attention. Ineffective measuring can ruin the whole project and discourage even the most experienced decorators. Before you go on a furniture shopping spree, get some co-workers to help carefully measure the area you want to decorate. Draw everything out to scale on a piece of graph paper, making note of any doors, power outlets, and windows that could potentially hamper your layout options. All this preliminary work can be a pain, but it's definitely worth the extra effort so you can get the best furniture at the right price and the right size to meet the needs of your space.
Know The Latest Trends
Part of showcasing the ingenuity of your office through design comes from staying up-to-date with modern style. Before shopping, it's never a bad idea to peruse office design magazines or look up trends and spaces online to see what's hot. One of the most recent contemporary furniture design trends that hasn't lost its touch for a while is the industrial look. This style works by enforcing a triple whammy of wood furniture, glass, and metal. Choosing sleek glass desks with modern features, tables with chrome accents, and contemporary white desk chairs for sale to decorate with all help ensure your office stays on the cutting edge.
Find Value
Most design projects can get a little pricey, so it's important to find great values when shopping new office furniture for sale. Being proactive on the front end by seeking out great deals, clearance specials, closeouts, and coupons can reduce the overall price of your remodeling significantly. Remember that dealers are there to help you in every way possible, so don't be afraid to call one up with any questions. Chances are, they may even offer you great bulk discount opportunities to maximize your budget and offer recommendations for delivery services. You may be able to get those fancy waiting room sofas with free shipping to boot!
Remember The Details
Now that your space is all but complete, it's time to finish it off with a bang! Remembering the little details that help to make interiors pop is a fantastic way to reel in the visitors. Adding beautiful wall art helps keeps guests occupied until you can get to them. Indoor plants improve air quality and increase cognitive functioning to help coworkers focus. Adding desk lamps and office lighting features helps to brighten up a workspace, shining on all your decorating efforts and leaving everyone in a brighter mood. Finally, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view!
Get Organized
Decorating without a plan is like trying to find El Dorado without a map. If you want to get things done, you have to make a game plan that takes all the essentials into account. Furniture can get expensive, and so can remodeling, so plan a budget that will help ensure you won't be drowning in debt by the time your project is over. When you're done, head on over to a presentation board for office use and make yourself a checklist of the changes you want to make. If you don't have one, it's not a bad idea to include one in your new look. Models like the Verte V120LE by Cherryman come complete with a dry-erase board to take notes and keep employees updated when the remodeling is over.
Effective Space Planning
Space planning is an essential part of decorating that requires a lot of attention. Ineffective measuring can ruin the whole project and discourage even the most experienced decorators. Before you go on a furniture shopping spree, get some co-workers to help carefully measure the area you want to decorate. Draw everything out to scale on a piece of graph paper, making note of any doors, power outlets, and windows that could potentially hamper your layout options. All this preliminary work can be a pain, but it's definitely worth the extra effort so you can get the best furniture at the right price and the right size to meet the needs of your space.
Know The Latest Trends
Part of showcasing the ingenuity of your office through design comes from staying up-to-date with modern style. Before shopping, it's never a bad idea to peruse office design magazines or look up trends and spaces online to see what's hot. One of the most recent contemporary furniture design trends that hasn't lost its touch for a while is the industrial look. This style works by enforcing a triple whammy of wood furniture, glass, and metal. Choosing sleek glass desks with modern features, tables with chrome accents, and contemporary white desk chairs for sale to decorate with all help ensure your office stays on the cutting edge.
Find Value
Most design projects can get a little pricey, so it's important to find great values when shopping new office furniture for sale. Being proactive on the front end by seeking out great deals, clearance specials, closeouts, and coupons can reduce the overall price of your remodeling significantly. Remember that dealers are there to help you in every way possible, so don't be afraid to call one up with any questions. Chances are, they may even offer you great bulk discount opportunities to maximize your budget and offer recommendations for delivery services. You may be able to get those fancy waiting room sofas with free shipping to boot!
Remember The Details
Now that your space is all but complete, it's time to finish it off with a bang! Remembering the little details that help to make interiors pop is a fantastic way to reel in the visitors. Adding beautiful wall art helps keeps guests occupied until you can get to them. Indoor plants improve air quality and increase cognitive functioning to help coworkers focus. Adding desk lamps and office lighting features helps to brighten up a workspace, shining on all your decorating efforts and leaving everyone in a brighter mood. Finally, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view!
Blog, Updated at: 11:20 AM
WEC 6 hours of Silverstone 2014 (full race) [VIDEO]
With the FIA having put all World Endurance Championship live TV coverage behind a pay-wall for 2014, we are indeed fortunate that enthusiastic Youtubers are willing to upload the entire 6 hours for those of us who prefer free TV.
Blog, Updated at: 12:14 AM
Drive It Day: A chance to get your classic car in print!
That's exactly the opportunity the motoring newspaper I work for, Classic Car Weekly, is offering petrolheads across the country this weekend. All you have to do is send us a picture of you and your classic car - and as long as it's suitable for use and arrives in time for Monday morning, we WILL print it.
The extraordinary iniative is part of the paper's efforts to promote Drive It Day, a nationwide event which promotes the joys of owning and running older cars. This year's event takes place this Sunday (27 April), and there's no shortage of shows, runs, and get-togethers to take your classic car to.
There's more details of how to get your pride and joy into the pages of Classic Car Weekly in the latest edition, but to give you an idea here's a picture of Yours Truly with the trusty MGB GT.
Even as someone who's enjoyed going to Drive It Day events for the past few years, I've genuinely got no idea how many classic car owners will send us a picture, but it's a great chance to get your car into print if you haven't done it before.
I'll be out on the roads in one of my classic cars - will you?
Blog, Updated at: 2:14 PM
Unique Upholstery Options by RFM Preferred Seating
In the world of office furniture, no one offers quite as many options as RFM Preferred Seating. Not only does this brand possess an astounding collection of top-of-the-line ergonomic chairs, but it also offers them in one of the most impressive arrays of colors and patterns. However, because RFM offers so many fabric options it may be hard to pick a favorite. In today's post we'll consider the looks of some RFM favorites, and offer fabric recommendations to help narrow down your search. Good luck!
Internet Office Chair
Don't let the simple curves of the 4895 Internet Office Chair by RFM fool you. This chair is a wonder of comfortable innovation. It is available in three sizes to fit multiple body types and comes with a non-cascading seat for superior comfort. In fact, the Internet chair is available with the owner's choice of seven seat options, including the 1500 deep tractor seat. The pillow comes standard for neck support so the occupant may remain cozily supported all day.
Because the Internet chair does not feature a lot of textured patterns built into it's frame, the chair can work a patterned fabric without looking too conspicuous. Here are the swatches we recommend:
Tuff Cloth Space Blue Axis Grove Mainframe Cordovan
RFM Verte
The RFM Verte has long been a favorite of back pain sufferers because of it's highly sophisticated design. The 11 torsion sprain-loaded joints allow the Verte to articulate ideally and take an exact impression of the user's spine. With the ability to lock the joints in place, users experience the only the best support for their backs, prompting many to herald the Verte as one of the best ergonomic chairs for back pain on the market. For many, it is the most comfortable chair they've ever sat in.
Unlike the Internet Chair, the 22111 Verte Ergonomic Chair by RFM boasts a very "textured" appearance with the 11 torsion spring-loaded joints visible from the back. Featured here in a smooth black leather, the Verte is also available in RFM's fabulous fabrics. However, because of the textured look, it's better to choose solid fabrics rather than patterned ones so it doesn't draw too much attention:
Element Feldspar Foundation10 Mercury Mosaic Cerulean
Echelon Mesh Chair
The Echelon Series by RFM is a furniture favorite! These chairs are compact, affordable, and comfortable, making them perfect for use at home, in cubicles, at desks, or even in meeting rooms. The comfort molded tractor seat is rated for up to 300 lbs. and it also features multi function control, a ratchet back, a seat slider, and well defined lumbar support. With a height adjustable, breathable mesh back, chairs like the RFM 1935Q Echelon Mesh Office Chair make an excellent discount chair for public work environments.
The Echelon features a mesh back, but it's the comfortable seat where users can choose their fabric. Because the solid mesh tones down any textures, choosing a patterned fabric is perfectly alright. It will not distract, but solid colors look just as well too. It's hard to go wrong with this one. We recommend:
Element Blaze Axis Paprika Mainframe Avocado
Internet Office Chair
Don't let the simple curves of the 4895 Internet Office Chair by RFM fool you. This chair is a wonder of comfortable innovation. It is available in three sizes to fit multiple body types and comes with a non-cascading seat for superior comfort. In fact, the Internet chair is available with the owner's choice of seven seat options, including the 1500 deep tractor seat. The pillow comes standard for neck support so the occupant may remain cozily supported all day.
Because the Internet chair does not feature a lot of textured patterns built into it's frame, the chair can work a patterned fabric without looking too conspicuous. Here are the swatches we recommend:
Tuff Cloth Space Blue Axis Grove Mainframe Cordovan
RFM Verte
The RFM Verte has long been a favorite of back pain sufferers because of it's highly sophisticated design. The 11 torsion sprain-loaded joints allow the Verte to articulate ideally and take an exact impression of the user's spine. With the ability to lock the joints in place, users experience the only the best support for their backs, prompting many to herald the Verte as one of the best ergonomic chairs for back pain on the market. For many, it is the most comfortable chair they've ever sat in.
Unlike the Internet Chair, the 22111 Verte Ergonomic Chair by RFM boasts a very "textured" appearance with the 11 torsion spring-loaded joints visible from the back. Featured here in a smooth black leather, the Verte is also available in RFM's fabulous fabrics. However, because of the textured look, it's better to choose solid fabrics rather than patterned ones so it doesn't draw too much attention:
Element Feldspar Foundation10 Mercury Mosaic Cerulean
Echelon Mesh Chair
The Echelon Series by RFM is a furniture favorite! These chairs are compact, affordable, and comfortable, making them perfect for use at home, in cubicles, at desks, or even in meeting rooms. The comfort molded tractor seat is rated for up to 300 lbs. and it also features multi function control, a ratchet back, a seat slider, and well defined lumbar support. With a height adjustable, breathable mesh back, chairs like the RFM 1935Q Echelon Mesh Office Chair make an excellent discount chair for public work environments.
The Echelon features a mesh back, but it's the comfortable seat where users can choose their fabric. Because the solid mesh tones down any textures, choosing a patterned fabric is perfectly alright. It will not distract, but solid colors look just as well too. It's hard to go wrong with this one. We recommend:
Element Blaze Axis Paprika Mainframe Avocado
Rainier Chair
It's hard to compete with the Rainier Chair Series by RFM. Not only are these chairs affordable, but they also boast the high tech ergonomic design that RFM is famous for. Featuring four-function control, a ratchet back, a seat slider, and extra lumbar support for back pain sufferers, the R4 Rainier High Back Chair by RFM is a steal at it's current affordable price. It goes great in both home and business environments alike.
Rainier Series chairs do not have an extremely textured appearance so they look good in both patterned and solid fabrics. Here's what we recommend:
Mosaic Laurel Tuff Cloth Brandy Wine Element Sapphire
Tuxedo Managers Chair
Designed by Hector Coronado, this chair expertly combines handsome style with exquisite ergonomic comfort. Just like a nice tuxedo, the Tuxedo Chair is tailored for a perfect fit, offering three optional seat sizes, arm styles, and controls for the ultimate personalized chair. The 4515 Tuxedo chair featured hear boasts a 300 lb. weight capacity with a ratchet back, dual density durability, and a look that can't be beat. It makes the perfect attire for any executive or managerial office.
Because the Tuxedo boasts a substantially dark, thick frame, bright solid colors and patterns can turn it into the liveliest part of a room. Thankfully, there are plenty of RFM Preffered Seating chairs for sale that can do the same thing. Some recommended swatches are:
Element Copper Foundation10 Flame Mosaic Taupe
Blog, Updated at: 12:00 PM
