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Toyota Dominates WEC Fuji Race, Ferrari Struggles to Keep Pace

Aditya Saikrishna
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Toyota Dominates WEC Fuji Race, Ferrari Struggles to Keep Pace

JAPAN: Toyota clinched the 2023 manufacturers’ title with a triumphant 1-2 finish on their home track at Fuji Speedway. The team’s technical director, Pascal Vasselon, commended their achievement, especially in the face of fierce competition from Porsche.

However, the Prancing Horse of Ferrari faced a challenging day, with their two 499Ps finishing a lap behind in fourth and fifth place, respectively. This marked Ferrari’s least competitive performance since joining the top class of the WEC this year.

Vasselon attributed part of Ferrari’s struggle to the impressive performance of Antonio Fuoco in the #50 Ferrari LMH during the final leg of the race. Fuoco displayed exceptional skill, overtaking Alessandro Pier Guidi in the sister #51 car and securing a 21-second lead to secure fourth place.

The result puts Ferrari’s hopes of clinching the drivers’ title in jeopardy, with the #51 crew now trailing the leading #8 Toyota trio by 31 points and only 39 points up for grabs in the Bahrain season finale.

Toyota’s driver and team principal, Kamui Kobayashi, echoed Vasselon’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing track conditions at Fuji. Kobayashi emphasized the key to their victory was the drivers’ ability to quickly adjust their driving styles to suit the challenging conditions.

While Vasselon highlighted the consistent performance of Toyota’s drivers throughout the season, he acknowledged that Kobayashi and Ryo Hirakawa had an edge at Fuji due to their extensive familiarity with the track.

In a spectacular display of skill, Kobayashi secured pole position by six-tenths and propelled the #7 Toyota to victory with a 39-second lead. Hirakawa’s strategic moves also proved pivotal, allowing Toyota to overtake Porsche and secure an impressive finish.

Vasselon concluded, “It’s the special ‘Kamui effect’… The guys who are used to racing here have something on top of the others.” Toyota’s dominance on home turf sends a powerful message as the WEC season approaches its climax in Bahrain.

Also Read: Toyota GR010 HYBRIDs Dominate First Practice Session at Le Mans 24 Hours

ASUS Launches New Desktop Computer Line in India, Prices Start at Rs 37,990

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
ASUS Launches New Desktop Computer Line in India, Prices Start at Rs 37,990

INDIA: Taiwanese giant ASUS unveiled its latest range of desktop computers in India on Tuesday, catering to a diverse array of users. The lineup includes the ASUS S500SE, ASUS S501ME, the gaming-centric ROG DT G22, and the AIO M3402, each designed to meet specific computing needs.

The much-anticipated ROG DT G22, a gaming and content creation powerhouse, boasts an Intel Core i7-13700F processor with a 30M Cache. Compact yet powerful, it accommodates 16GB of RAM (expandable up to 32GB) and features a GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card. Priced at Rs 1,99,990, it promises an immersive gaming and content creation experience.

For consumers seeking reliable desktops for day-to-day tasks, the S500SE and S501ME shine with their 13th-gen CPUs, capable of handling demanding workloads. These models are equipped with up to 64GB of RAM, ensuring seamless multitasking. Prices for these start at Rs 41,990 and Rs 37,990, respectively.

The AIO M3402, with its minimalist design and 23.8-inch NanoEdge Full HD IPS wide-view panel, offers a sleek computing experience. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 7520U processor, it strikes a balance between efficiency and speed. Integrated AMD Radeon graphics make it suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming. 

The 8GB RAM and 512GB storage cater to various computing needs. The AIO M3402 starts at Rs. 49,990. Arnold Su, Vice President of the PC and Gaming Business at ASUS India, expressed the company’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries. 

The entire range is now available for purchase on ASUS’s official website as well as through various online and offline retail channels. This launch marks a significant step in ASUS’s efforts to provide Indian consumers with top-notch computing solutions tailored to their diverse needs and preferences.

Also Read: ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED: A Budget-Friendly Laptop with Stunning Display

Tesla Semi Real-World Testing Results: NACFE’s Run on Less Program Reveals Impressive Performance

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
Tesla Semi Real-World Testing Results: NACFE’s Run on Less Program Reveals Impressive Performance

UNITED STATES: After nearly ten months since its delivery to PepsiCo in December 2022, the Tesla Semi has finally undergone its first independent real-world test, producing promising results. 

This milestone comes as part of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency’s (NACFE) Run On Less program, aimed at evaluating the practical performance of electric commercial vehicles.

PepsiCo, a key participant in the program, deployed 21 Tesla Semis, alongside other electric commercial vehicles, from its Sacramento, California depot. These vehicles were assigned both short-haul and long-haul delivery tasks. 

While the majority of the fleet covers distances of under 100 miles, three Semis undertook journeys of up to 450 miles, in line with Tesla’s claimed range of 500 miles on a single charge.

According to NACFE, the Tesla Semis were assigned to “heavy-load long-haul transport operations,” traversing two specific routes around Sacramento for 18 days. The first route spanned 250-450 miles with a payload of up to 82,000 pounds, while the second covered less than 75 miles per day with a varying payload.

On an inaugural day, one Semi impressively covered 335 miles with approximately 17 percent state of charge remaining, maintaining a consistent speed of 62 mph on the highway. 

The second Semi achieved 295 miles before recharging at around 21 percent charge. A third Semi managed a remarkable 377-mile range, depleting its battery to under two percent.

While the temperature on day one was 94 degrees Fahrenheit, the influence of factors such as elevation changes, driving patterns, and a precise payload remained undisclosed.

The Tesla Semi, equipped with three independent electric motors on the rear axle, boasts an energy consumption of less than 2 kilowatt hours per mile. 

Although the official battery capacity is yet to be disclosed by Tesla, estimates suggest the 500-mile version is equipped with approximately 850-900 kWh of battery capacity. Notably, the Semi outperforms diesel trucks in incline performance.

Other participants in the Run On Less program are Schneider National with the Freightliner Cascadia and Performance Team with the Volvo VNR, each contributing to the crucial endeavor of advancing electric commercial vehicle technology.

Also Read: Tesla Explores Investment in India, Plans to Set Up Electric Vehicle Factory and Export Hub

Meta Takes Aim at OpenAI with Advanced AI Model to Rival GPT-4

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
Meta Takes Aim at OpenAI with Advanced AI Model to Rival GPT-4

UNITED STATES: Meta is reportedly developing an advanced AI system, according to some unnamed sources. The tech giant’s ambitious endeavour seeks to bridge the gap in AI capabilities, particularly in the realm of natural language processing.

This new AI model is anticipated to surpass Meta’s recently unveiled open-source AI, Llama 2, in terms of sheer power and versatility. While specifics about the model remain undisclosed, sources suggest it will be tailored for businesses, serving as a potent tool for generating text and conducting in-depth analysis.

In a notable departure from its counterparts at other tech companies, Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, is advocating for the upcoming AI to be open source. 

This approach, while offering unparalleled flexibility, raises concerns about potential misuse, including the spread of misinformation or copyright infringement. The company’s legal team is reportedly scrutinizing these potential pitfalls to ensure responsible usage.

The shift towards AI development has been a strategic focus as articulated by Zuckerberg in a recent earnings call. However, the company acknowledges a significant lag in AI research and investment compared to industry leaders like OpenAI and Microsoft. 

To close this gap the company has aggressively procured H100 chips, critical for training large language models, and is projected to secure the second position globally in H100 chip ownership by next year.

In a strategic move to level the playing field, Meta is also committed to open-sourcing its AI models. The release of Llama 2 earlier this year, with unrestricted access for research and commercial use, is a testament to this approach.

Meta has yet to provide an official statement, signalling the intense secrecy surrounding this project. As the race for AI supremacy intensifies, the tech industry watches eagerly for Meta’s next move, which could potentially reshape the landscape of natural language processing technologies.

Also Read: Meta’s Threads Introduces “Keyword Search” in India and More Countries

Mercedes Gears Up for Podium Push in Singapore after a Challenging Monza Weekend

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
Mercedes Gears Up for Podium Push in Singapore after a Challenging Monza Weekend

SINGAPORE: Mercedes’ trackside engineering director, Andrew Shovlin, expressed confidence in the team’s prospects for the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, following a tough outing at Monza. The W14 faced difficulties at the Temple of Speed, prompting Lewis Hamilton to label it the “worst race” for Mercedes this season.

The team is now setting their sights on a podium finish at Marina Bay, where the high-downforce layout is expected to play to the strengths of their car. Mercedes has been without a podium for four races, marking their longest trophy drought this year since Hamilton’s third-place finish at the British Grand Prix.

During the Monza race, both Hamilton and George Russell grappled with a lack of grip on the track, highlighting the challenges faced. However, the shift from the ultra-low downforce settings of Monza to the maximum downforce environment of Singapore is anticipated to favour Mercedes. The W14 has demonstrated better performance on similar circuits this season.

Shovlin emphasized the team’s optimism, stating, “We’re hoping to be able to be a bit quicker there and get back to a position where we can challenge for podiums.” He noted the unique challenges posed by the Singapore track, including recent layout changes and a longer straight, which affect tire behavior.

The Singapore Grand Prix, set against the backdrop of a night race, presents a demanding combination of abrasive tarmac and a bumpy street circuit. Despite these challenges, Mercedes remains upbeat about their prospects, drawing confidence from their strong showings at high-downforce tracks earlier in the season.

As the team fine-tunes their strategy for the upcoming race, all eyes will be on Mercedes to see if they can make a triumphant return to the podium in Singapore.

Also Read: Mick Schumacher’s F1 Dreams Dwindling: Options Narrowed Down for the 2024 Grid

WhatsApp Explores Cross-Platform Messaging, Breaking Barriers for Users

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
WhatsApp Explores Cross-Platform Messaging, Breaking Barriers for Users

INDIA: WhatsApp, the popular messaging app, is in the process of developing a groundbreaking feature that will revolutionize how users connect across platforms. This new development will enable WhatsApp users to reach out and chat with individuals on different messaging applications without requiring them to download WhatsApp.

Currently undergoing testing with beta users, the feature is introduced in the form of a screen named “Third-party chats”. Although it is not yet functional, industry experts speculate that this marks the initial stride towards Meta’s encrypted messaging app achieving seamless integration across diverse platforms. This initiative stems from the European Commission’s recent classification of Meta as a “gatekeeper” under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). 

The DMA mandates that communication software, including WhatsApp, establish interoperability with third-party messaging applications by March 2024. WhatsApp enthusiasts eagerly await this development, as it promises to enhance the user experience and convenience significantly. 

This move towards cross-platform messaging aligns with the DMA’s goal of regulating major tech companies, referred to as “gatekeepers”, to ensure fair competition and accessibility in the digital landscape.

One of the DMA’s pivotal provisions is the requirement for communication software to be interoperable with third-party messaging applications. 

This implies that users will be able to send and receive messages seamlessly across various messaging platforms, irrespective of their chosen platform.

In response to these directives, both Meta and Microsoft are gearing up to establish their mobile application marketplaces. Additionally, the European Commission is scrutinizing Apple’s iMessage and Microsoft’s Bing search engine, Edge browser, and advertising platform to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

With WhatsApp’s impending foray into cross-platform messaging, users can anticipate a new era of connectivity, transcending boundaries set by different messaging applications. This innovation promises to redefine how we communicate in the digital age, making conversations smoother and more inclusive for everyone.

Also Read: WhatsApp Introduces Feature Allowing Users to Edit Media Captions After Sending

NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio Sets New Record for Longest U.S. Space Mission

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
NASA Astronaut Frank Rubio Sets New Record for Longest U.S. Space Mission

UNITED STATES: NASA astronaut Frank Rubio has etched his name into the annals of space exploration history by surpassing the previous record for the longest American space mission. 

Frank Rubio, a member of the International Space Station’s 69th expedition crew, is set to spend a staggering 371 days in Earth orbit, breaking the record set by NASA astronaut Mark T. Vande Hei in 2022.

Frank Rubio’s monumental achievement, while not initially planned, underscores the resilience of the human body to the rigors of prolonged space travel. “It’s an honour to be able to be considered one of the people that’s going to have spent a year in space,” Rubio remarked in a recent interview with an American media channel. 

He emphasized the importance of understanding how the human body adapts to extended spaceflight, particularly as we prepare for future missions to the moon, Mars, and beyond.

Originally scheduled for a six-month mission, Frank Rubio’s tenure was extended due to a spacecraft malfunction, presenting both challenges and opportunities for scientific inquiry. 

NASA astronaut Warren “Woody” Hoburg commended Rubio’s unwavering leadership during this unexpected extension, recognizing the tremendous sacrifice of being away from family for such an extended period.

Frank Rubio now joins an elite group of spacefarers who have spent a year or more in space, a feat achieved by only seven individuals in history. The return to Earth, expected on September 27, will mark a new chapter in Rubio’s journey as he faces the anticipated challenges of reacclimatizing to life on our home planet.

As we celebrate Rubio’s groundbreaking achievement, it’s worth noting that Vande Hei’s extended stay and Rubio’s record exemplify the adaptability and dedication of astronauts in the face of unforeseen circumstances. 

The knowledge gained from Rubio’s mission will undoubtedly contribute to our understanding of long-duration space travel, propelling humanity further into the cosmos.

Also Read: Spain: Catalonia Day Celebrations amidst Growing Political Influence of Regional Parties

Legal Battle Threatens McLaren’s Alex Palou’s Presence at Singapore Grand Prix

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
Legal Battle Threatens McLaren’s Alex Palou’s Presence at Singapore Grand Prix

SINGAPORE: The McLaren Formula 1 team is bracing for the absence of their reserve driver, Alex Palou, at the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix as the legal dispute between the driver and the team escalates.

This unexpected turn of events comes despite Alex Palou’s contractual obligation to be present at every Grand Prix following the conclusion of the IndyCar season, as confirmed by McLaren Chief Executive Zak Brown.

The legal conflict erupted after Alex Palou rejected a move to McLaren’s IndyCar operation for the 2024 season. Brown insists that Palou holds a valid contract with McLaren and has already received an advance on his salary for the upcoming year.

Alex Palou, who recently clinched his second IndyCar championship, is currently competing in the final round of the American-based single-seater series at Laguna Seca. He had been expected to join McLaren in Singapore, where he serves as the reserve driver.

Alex Palou’s association with McLaren took shape this season after an impressive FP1 appearance at the 2022 United States Grand Prix in Austin. He also participated in a three-day test with the team at the Hungaroring in June, alongside Oscar Piastri and long-serving test and development driver Oliver Turvey. 

Another FP1 outing was on the horizon for Palou, but with the relationship between the driver and the team deteriorating, Brown expressed doubt about Palou’s presence in Singapore.

The breakdown in relations between McLaren and Palou is expected to open the door for IndyCar star and former Red Bull junior Pato O’Ward, to secure an FP1 opportunity before the end of 2023. 

O’Ward, who has a history with McLaren dating back to 2021, previously participated in the first practice at the 2022 season finale in Abu Dhabi. In the immediate future, McLaren can call upon Mercedes reserve driver Mick Schumacher if either Piastri or teammate Lando Norris are unable to race in Singapore. 

The young German, son of seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher, conducted a private test with the team at Portimao in July, making him a viable replacement option for McLaren.

Also Read: Mick Schumacher’s F1 Dreams Dwindling: Options Narrowed Down for the 2024 Grid

Silent Barker Mission Launches, Granting Unprecedented View for U.S. Space Force

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
Silent Barker Mission Launches, Granting Unprecedented View for U.S. Space Force

UNITED STATES: The United States Space Force, in collaboration with the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), is set to obtain unparalleled access to the farthest reaches of Earth’s orbit. 

On Sunday morning, the United Launch Alliance (ULA) successfully propelled the multi-payload Silent Barker mission, also known as NROL-107, into space atop an Atlas V rocket.

The launch, initially scheduled for August 29, faced delays due to weather conditions caused by Tropical Storm Idalia. On September 9, a technical issue further postponed the mission. Nevertheless, the ULA’s Atlas V rocket, soaring into the sky at 8:47 a.m. EDT, marked a significant milestone for national security.

Silent Barker, the 18th Atlas V mission for the NRO, is on track to be replaced by the cutting-edge Vulcan Centaur rocket. This mission will deploy classified payloads into geosynchronous orbit, an area 22,236 miles above Earth, enabling spacecraft to hover over fixed positions.

Lieutenant General Michael Guetlein, commander of Space Systems Command, emphasized that the mission’s purpose is to “deter aggression” by signalling to potential adversaries that the Space Force maintains a vigilant watch over geosynchronous orbit.

NRO Director Chris Scolese described Silent Barker as a “watchdog” in this orbit, responsible for monitoring satellites that reposition or exhibit unusual behaviour. 

This includes satellites potentially posing a threat to high-value assets. While exact details about Silent Barker’s capabilities remain classified, it is confirmed to consist of multiple payloads. 

Air Force Space and Missile Systems awarded a contract modification to L3 Harris in 2021, with the program’s estimated total cost standing at nearly $994 million. Full operational capability is slated for 2026. Data from Silent Barker will be processed at the National Space Defense Center in Colorado Springs, with operational oversight by the NRO. 

This launch follows the establishment of specialized units within the U.S. Space Force dedicated to monitoring orbital threats and, if necessary, targeting enemy satellites. The Silent Barker mission represents a significant stride forward in safeguarding national interests beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

Also Read: NASA Confirms Six New Worlds, Surpassing 5,500 Exoplanets

Ather Starts Production of Affordable 450S Electric Scooter, Priced at Rs 1.30 Lakh

Aditya Saikrishna
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0
Ather Starts Production of Affordable 450S Electric Scooter, Priced at Rs 1.30 Lakh

INDIA: Bangalore-based electric scooter manufacturer Ather has ignited excitement in the Indian electric vehicle market as it announces the commencement of production for its highly anticipated Ather 450S.

This new addition to the Ather lineup promises affordability without compromising on performance or features, making it a strong contender in the growing e-scooter segment.

Priced at just Rs 1.30 lakh (ex-showroom), the 450S is positioned as the brand’s most budget-friendly electric scooter. Launched last month in India, it sits below the 450X, which starts at Rs 1.38 lakh. 

The 450S boasts an impressive combination of a 2.9kWh battery and a 5.4kW motor, providing a top speed of 90 km/h and a generous 115 km of range.

While the claimed charging time stands at eight hours and 36 minutes, the scooter features a host of modern conveniences, including the new DeepView display, smartphone connectivity, and LED illumination. Ather hasn’t cut corners on the hardware either. 

The 450S is equipped with telescopic front forks and a mono-shock suspension system for a smooth and comfortable ride. Braking hardware includes a single disc at both the front and rear, featuring combined and regenerative braking as standard.

The scooter rolls on 12-inch alloy wheels fitted with 90/90 front and 100/80 rear tubeless tires, ensuring stability and grip on various road surfaces. In the fiercely competitive e-scooter market, the Ather 450S will be taking on rivals like the Ola S1, Bajaj Chetak, and TVS iQube. 

With its blend of affordability, performance, and advanced features, the Ather 450S is poised to be a game-changer, appealing to eco-conscious commuters and tech-savvy riders alike.

Ather’s commitment to innovation and sustainability continues to drive the electric vehicle revolution in India, offering consumers an enticing alternative to traditional gasoline-powered scooters. The 450S is a significant step forward in the company’s mission to electrify urban mobility while ensuring an enjoyable and eco-friendly riding experience for all.

Also Read: Adverse Weather Conditions Delay UAE Astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi’s Earth Return

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