Ever since the advent of DJ Equipment, Pioneer has been a Club/Industry standard in DJ technology. The new Pioneer DJM 250 mixer continues that legacy and adds the low price market in the mix, ensuring you get the same quality standards as you would in the High End Pioneer Mixers.
Priced at US$399 or about INR 17500 before import charges. This mixer will add a whole new dimension to the startup DJ equipment. The Mixer features Independent channel Filters and a crossfader from the DJM 900, which allows you to select the curve of the crossfader when you are shifting b/w club mixes and vinyl scratching. Trust me this is one feature you choose when you select your mixer.
Apart from that it has independent AUX inputs for DJs of today, for iPods and PC connections, and also features XLR Outputs.
Check out the video from Pioneer followed by a full featured PR.
[toggle title_open=”Press Release” title_closed=”Press Release” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]DJM-250 mixer with 2 sound filters: a professional experience, without the price tag
We are breaking the mould once again with the release of the DJM-250: the industry’s first sub-£500 mixer to boast two sound colour filters and a range of professional features.
21 September 2011
An absolute favourite among professional and hobby DJs alike, quality filters are usually confined to high-end mixers. But now with the Pioneer DJM-250 two-channel mixer, DJs can combine EQ effects with not one, but two filters to perform mixes that sound like they were meant to be.
The DJM-250
DJM-250: A high quality mixer with two filters and pro features – RRP £249 (shown: DJM-250-K)
The DJM-250 is loaded with 8 inputs to connect with an array of sources, including 1 MIC input for MCing at parties. The mixer mirrors the layout of its bigger brothers to deliver the professional experience. Plus the XLR balanced output guarantees the high quality sound expected from our club standard mixers, making it perfect for DJing at home, parties or in music bars.
This is the first time DJs can get their hands on a high quality mixer with two filters without having to break the bank. Add that to the DJM-250’s pro features and you’ve got a mixer like no other on the market.
Watch the demonstration
Available in sleek black/grey (DJM-250-K) or cool white/grey (DJM-250-W), this compact, attractive mixer looks good wherever you are performing. The suggested retail price is £249 inclusive of VAT.
Connection panel of the DJM-250 mixer
8 input paths and XLR balanced outputs Key features
* Two independent sound colour filters Borrowed straight from our high-end DJM-900 Nexus, the two sound colour filters can be added independently to each channel for seamless marrying of tracks. Combine that with the EQ effects to really carve out the mix. Lights on the filter knobs clearly show when each filter is engaged, to provide a unique visual aid to DJs for perfect performance every time.
* Eight input paths for maximum connectivity Proving that you can’t judge a mixer by its size, the compact DJM-250 is loaded with eight inputs (four DJ multi-player and analogue turntable paths, three AUX and 1 MIC input), giving DJs the option of connecting to multiple equipment such as portable music players and synthesizers. It can also be used as a pre-amp.
* XLR balanced outputs for high-quality sound Equipped with XLR balanced XLR outputs, the DJM-250 provides clear, accurate sound with no degradation of the source audio signal. And you can connect it to XLR compatible devices, such as powered speakers, without the need for an adapter.
* Other features: o 48 kHz/24-bit full digital processing for clear sound quality. o 3-band isolator type equalizer (+9dB to – ) for the HI/MID/LOW bands on each channel. o Fader Start Play function to control fader operation on Pioneer players linked by cable. o Peak level meter for audio inputs on each channel. o Cross Fader Curve Adjust function enables switching between three patterns of cross fader curves. o Built-in rack-mount brackets for installation in booths or home studio desk.[/toggle]
SteelSeries has started pre-order of the Sensei mouse. This gaming specific mouse tracks up to 150-inches per second with its 10.8 megapixel sensor, and uses a 32-bit ARM processor to calculate it all , so that your PC does not have to share its gaming juice with high end peripherals such as this.
Specs include:
– Programmable macro buttons – Ambidextrous shape – Driverless plug-and-play – User defined bitmaps for the onmouse LCD – SteelSeries ExactSens – SteelSeries FreeMove – Menu system on the mouse – SteelSeries ExactAim – 7programmable buttons – SteelSeries ExactLift – Gold-plated USB connector – 16 million colors of illumination – Three zone lighting – Scroll Wheel, CPI Indicator, and Logo
People in India can purchase the Special gaming mouse for a MSRP of $89.99 / €89.99, or like we did from http://steelseries.com for– €89.99 +€20.88 shipping. The devices go out 1st week of October.
So you can book yours now if you cant wait for the company to officially bring it India – Side, wont happen till Q2 2012 anyway.
[toggle title_open=”Press Release” title_closed=”Press Release” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]THE STEELSERIES SENSEI IS AVAILABLE ONLINE NOW
Consumers Can Order the New Mouse Directly on the SteelSeries Web Shop
CHICAGO – Sept. 20, 2011 – The most customizable mouse to ever hit the competitive gaming industry, the SteelSeries Sensei, is now available online for consumers directly from the SteelSeries’ Web Shop. With an MSRP of $89.99 / €89.99, and a list of original features that have been perfected alongside some of the world’s most recognized competitive gamers, the Sensei is setting a new standard in mouse customization and capabilities; some of these features include:
· A 32 bit ARM processor, that powers sophisticated calculations to be done directly on the mouse – without the need for software drivers and without having to rely on the user’s computer.
· Complete customization, from the buttons, macros and multiple profiles to the colors, and technology settings.
· Illumination with 16.8 million colors choices to be programmed in 3 different zones on the mouse.
· Sensitivity settings that can be changed in increments of one from 1 to 5,700 CPI, and an “overclocked” Double CPI feature that allows the user to go all the way up to 11,400 DCPI.
· A 10.8 megapixel image correlation laser sensor at up to 12,000 frames per second and the ability to handle tracking movements of up to 150 inches per second.
· An ambidextrous design with a metal, non-slip grip coating and is connected with a double braided nylon cord with a USB connector.
· Simple plug and play; for the PC Gamers* who want advanced customization options, the Sensei is supported by SteelSeries Engine technology – save multiple profiles, create long and advanced macros with layers, keystrokes and precise timing. The Sensei Mouse is compatible with both Mac and PC; *SteelSeries Engine for Mac will be coming in 2012; for PC it is available now.
The SteelSeries Sensei can be pre-ordered from the SteelSeries Web Shop directly at http://steelseries.com or by clicking the ‘Buy Now’ button, at http://steelseries.com/sensei.[/toggle]
You read it right, A Tata Nano slapped with 80 Kg of 22 karat Gold along with 15 KG of silver and loads of gemstones. The top speed of the car boils down to 110 KM/hr and the price goes up to 22 crore. Yup a price that is 2200 times the price of the original car.
The funny thing here remains however, in a country like ours, taking this ride out for a spin would result in the car dropping back to its original value in a couple of hours.
The new iTwin USB dongles allow users to share files via USB between Mac and PC, now with Apple’s blessings. iTwin is a double-sided splittable USB plug that allows you to remotely access files over the web under AES encryption with 256-bit secure coding. it will work between all combinations of 2 PC, 1 Mac 1 PC and 2 Macs.
lusModders are getting it on with inductive charging mods using hardware from old PALM PREs. First it is a Samsung Galaxy S Plus. German IT student Qian Qin ripped apart a palm pre back cover and installed it on his device. The result is a physically indifferent device which now charges wirelessly. check out the video below.
Next it is the new Samsung Galaxy S2 variant Epic 4G Touch . This modder hacked his 3 day old device to charge via the dock using bolder moves. cutting open the back cover and soldering the wires right onto the board. You can check out the full systems in a step by step carving of the new device at AndroidCentral Forums.
Want to add flavor to your jailbroken iPhone? The new theme called LION Ultimatum from a theme creator SirTimothy1 brings IOS like looks on Dreamboard. The them also requires you to have your device already jailbroken. This theme comes with a functional file manager and Finder menus, a scrollable dock and draggable windows, along with Stacks, Launchpad, Mission Control and Dashboard. There’s also a customizable lock screen that provides access to the dialer, email and messages. The keyboard can also be modified to resemble the design of MacBook Pro or the traditional Apple Keyboard, thanks to integration with ColorKeyboard.
Windows is using videos to get users accustomed to the new OS. With over 3 million Downloads. the new Windows 8 is gathering a lot of attention. Check out the full video of it in action below
The Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini Pro Sk17i is just a little marvel, with little being the key word. The device is a recent attempt by Sony to Prove in certain countries that they too can make great phones at decent prices.
We took in the Xperia Mini Pro with a lifted eyebrow, wondering why in the world would one carry a mini fat phone. But as days passed, the device suddenly changed our opinion and Ranked amongst the best devices in out list.
Build Quality
The Xperia Mini Pro is built in a wonderful shell with a great slider mechanism. The black back cover is soft rubber touch and feels great in the hand, the slider is smooth as butter yet snaps into place like the phones in the original Matrix movie. The front display has an anti scratch coating and the buttons are clickety and tactile offering great feedback and impressive control.
Talk Time: Up to 5 Hours 40 Min (2G) Up to 5 Hours 25 Min (3G)
Multimedia and Camera
The Camera on the Xperia Mini Pro Sk17i is good for a 5MP camera, it does not have a rear illuminated CMOS sensor, but it does feature a quick focus shutter and nice depth of color. Pictures can be composed with great detail. The camera also focuses pretty good on close objects in macro mode.
Sample Images
The video capture is what one can call “so-so” we were not to impressed with the video quality , the video was grainy in bright sunlight and not to mention the infamous red halo in the middle of the video capture. See our Sample Below.
The display is possibly the best display you can buy for the price. We are so impressed with the Mobile Bravia Engine Reality Display, that we feel the price of the device should be enough for the display by itself. Stunning image showcase and HD video playback on the screen, although the pixel density is fairly lower compared to other devices, you can hardly notice the lack of pixels. The gaming and video playback is smooth and vivid, not forgetting the 1GHZ Snapdragon procession that plays a major role.
Audio playback is satisfactory and up to the mark, we didn’t expect more than what SE delivered and got just that. Earphones however are excellent and deliver great sounding music.
Phone and Messaging
The device has had mixed reviews when it came to phone quality. Lets not get confused here, the device is an excellent phone, Network is strong, zero to none when it comes to dropped calls, and great connectivity throughout. The problem lies in the earpiece – Although the unit we received has no problems what so ever, A lot of users have emailed us telling us about the Xperia Mini Pro’s Static noise in the earpiece.
In a case like that Sony Ericsson is obligated to fix your problem and a service centre is obligated to provide you with the right resolution. Or even a Refund/ Replacement if the case arises. So ensure you fight your case and hang on to the warranty booklet and present it to your service provider stating the policy.
In either case, such problems are not easily resolved in out Brilliant democracy, so we tend to consider this ear piece problem ( which we haven’t faced incidentally) a downside.
Messaging on the other hand is awesome on the new butter slide QWERTY magic that pops out from the side of this mini genius. The keyboard is fast and fun to use, very very tactical and offers great feedback along with the clickety sound. Alternatively you have the new Gingerbread Keyboard with pull handles and the works. In both cases the keyboard is marvelous and does its job whether you are messaging or emailing, or simply browsing the Web.
Internet and Hotspots
The device has a silky smooth experience when it comes to surfing the inter-webs. The browser with its subtle yet responsive Kinetic scrolls, Accelerometer, and full flash capabilities rocks the cell phone stratosphere. Video streaming and flash games run well on this device and turns out to be an overall performer.
The device also features a portable WiFi Hotspot feature, which enables users to share the devices 3G connection with unto 5 connected devices.
Battery
Be prepared to charge your device several times if you are an Internet Hoe. The device sucks the juices from the power source when on 3G lasting only a couple of hours at the most. Talktime ranges from 3- 5.5 hours depending on how you use the device otherwise dusting that period , stand by time on the other hand runs into days. 3-4 days to be precise.
If you are using Wifi constantly the device lasts 8 hours, but on 3G the device can only do 3- 3.5 hours. Turn on the Portable hotspot and see your battery die out in a couple of hours tops.
TimeScape
The new Timescape UI gives this device a lot of flare and panache, adding interactivity and a clean interface to the otherwise splashy Android UI. With lots of customization features and layouts the Xperia Mini Pro SK17i can really become custom for each user. The addition of custom apps and features from Sony is welcome too.
Conclusion
The device is a great mix for a user, Great multimedia and hardware specs, excellent display and Mobile Bravia Engine, not to mention the slide out keyboard. The device features Android 2.3.4 with Timescape, a 1GHZ processor and 512 MB of Ram. There is really not much more one can ask for. Sure there are the few problems, the red tint in camera ( which we don’t mind) the earpiece problem ( which we don’t have, but know that a lot of these device have) and poor battery on 3g data use ( well, Android is known for that )
We really can’t think of any QWERTY Touch slider that does better, Oh and did i forget to mention the device also has the Nexus S TV animation, during display power off, as standard.
Got a fetish for sneakers, the new 2011 MAG shoe from Nike brings back memories form the original “back to the Future” movies. 150 sets of shoes will be auctioned on eBay’s Fashion Vault each day, and all the net proceeds will go to The Michael J. Fox Foundation to further Parkinson’s research. Not only that, all the money made will be doubled through matching contributions. These shoes are limited edition Magnetic base shoes , right off of Marty Mc-Fly’s feet. Got a big bank roll? start bidding!
Dana Innovations recently announced LaunchPort system which allows users to pop their iPads the way they were meant to – on walls. The cost however seems strange, US $200 for the charging bases and US $150 for the Sleeve. A total of INR 18000 ($350) to charge a $499 device. IF you fancy it you can pre-order it for $10 extra at the link below.
While we still un-package our touch pads, Team Touchdroid has managed to dual boot WebOS and Android 2.3 on he Touchpad. Since the Fire sale, touch pads are all over the place and everyones got in on the action. Especially folks trying to boot Cyanogen Mod 7 on the Touchpads. But looks like its going to be stock droid for now.
For the time being the touchscreen is not working, but expect a quick fix. If you managed to score a Touchpad this might interest you.
Remember the Samsung Device we spoke about here : Link, it actually turns out to be the Samsung Galaxy Note. The device is a 5.3 inch smartphone tablet from the company with pretty awesome specs.
Android 2.3 Gingerbread
HSPA+
1280 x 800 Super AMOLED display
dual 8MP and 2MP cameras
2,500mAh battery
Samsung-made dual-core 1.4GHz processor
9.65mm (0.38 inches) thick
178 grams (6.3 ounces)
The device runs Sammy’s popular touchwiz over the gingerbread and is expected to do immensely well in the asian markets as the company claims. The company has also launched a7.7 inch tablet more details on that later.
[toggle title_open=”PRESS RELEASE” title_closed=”PRESS RELEASE” hide=”no” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Samsung writes the next chapter of the mobile industry with the Samsung GALAXY Note
GALAXY Note combines the market’s largest HD Super AMOLED display, supreme portability and advanced S Pen interface, creating a new type of smartphone
BERLIN, Germany – September 1, 2011 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, announced today the launch of the GALAXY Note.
The GALAXY Note is a new category of product, developed through Samsung’s deep consumer understanding and insight. It combines core on-the-go benefits of various mobile devices while maintaining smartphone portability, to create a whole new user experience.
The GALAXY Note has a 5.3″ display which is the largest screen size with smartphone portability. It features the world’s first and the largest 5.3″ HD Super AMOLED display, an expansive high-resolution screen that provides an immersive viewing experience. Taking full advantage of the large display, users will be able to do more tasks to create and consume more, with minimum scrolling and screen transitions, while on the go. An advanced pen-input technology, called the S Pen, is combined with the GALAXY Note’s full touch screen to introduce a new type of user-experience. Through this, consumers are able to freely capture and create ideas while on the go.
“The GALAXY Note is a device borne of our insight and innovation. We examined the fundamental elements of mobile culture, entertainment and communication in order to bring together the best experiences in a single, elegant device,” said JK Shin, President and Head of Samsung’s Mobile Communications Business. “The huge, 5.3″ HD Super AMOLED screen is the largest, highest quality display available in any phone; the touch screen and S Pen combine to produce a uniquely accurate level of control and finesse, along with rich expressions across the GALAXY Note experience, enabling the introduction of new smartphone experiences.”
“The artistic freedom of a paper notebook is coupled with the benefits of Samsung’s smartphone technology and services, allowing users to create, edit and share with more style than ever before,” Shin added.
State-of-the-art Display
The GALAXY Note features Samsung’s own 5.3″ HD Super AMOLED display providing vivid clarity that is superior to conventional HD displays. This ensures the best viewing experience for video, photo, document and web on the go with deep blacks and bright colors. The superior screen also offers a 180 degree viewing angle, allowing contents to be shared comfortably.
At 5.3″ the best-in-class display is the largest ever included in a primary mobile device; measuring just 9.65mm thick, the GALAXY Note fits comfortably in a pocket to offer true portability.
Full Screen Utilization
The high resolution display ensures that PowerPoint presentations, web-pages, news apps and e-books can be viewed comfortably with minimal scrolling or zooming. Minimizing the need to switch between applications, the GALAXY Note’s HD super AMOLED screen is large enough to allow meaningful split-screen operation in the most frequently used native apps.
Samsung has also included S Planner, a smart professional planning tool that makes full use of the device’s large screen. The management planner integrates the phone’s To-Do list and schedule; control and navigation is intuitive, helping users to comprehensively organize their lives.
Free Capture & Creation
The GALAXY Note’s advanced pen input functionality is combined with the full touch screen to create a new input experience. The incorporated digital S Pen can be used for accurate sketching and artwork, and instantly capturing ideas freely before they float away. The GALAXY Note features S Memo, a multimedia application designed to record all forms of user-created content. Pictures, voice recordings, typed text, handwritten notes or drawings can all be captured via a single application and converted to a ‘memo’, to be edited, annotated and shared as desired.
A one-step screen-capture function also allows users to instantly capture any screen; captured images can also be freely and accurately annotated using the S Pen before being filed or shared.
The S Pen functionality has been deeply integrated into the GALAXY Note’s native applications to provide a richer interactive experience. Users will benefit from increased accuracy and control when editing or personalizing captured videos or photographs; and users will be able to draw and send handwritten images and notes via text message, email, and Samsung’s ChatON communication service.
Broadening the opportunity to create new user experiences, Samsung plans to release the S Pen SDK allowing app developers to create fundamentally new applications and services incorporating the pen functionality.
Superior Usability, Powerful Performance
The 1.4GHz dual-core processor ensures the device is incredibly fast and a smooth user interface ensures seamless usability. Lightning fast network speeds are enabled through the HSPA? and LTE-enabled device’s super-fast connection, ensuring a quick and seamless browsing experience. This means that users can stream videos in real-time or engage with their friends through online gaming platforms.
Samsung is enhancing enterprise capabilities of the GALAXY Note through its partnership with Juniper Networks. Juniper’s Junos Pulse SSL VPN provides secure remote access to corporate network resources. The SSL VPN enables large enterprise and service providers to meet high-volume secure access and authorization requirements, protecting corporate data with centralizes control and supporting employees’ personal device efficiently.[/toggle]
Razer has launched the new BlackWidow Stealth Keyboards, which are actually mechanical keyboards, but don’t have the click clack sound. Specs of these keyboards are same as the keyboards launched earlier but with quieter switches and a matte finish.
The standard model costs $80, (INR. 3500)
Ultimate model costs $140 (INR 5200)
Product Features:
· Full mechanical keys with 45g actuation force
· Extreme anti-ghosting
· Individually backlit keys with 5 levels of lighting
· 1000Hz Ultrapolling/1ms response time
· Programmable keys with on-the-fly macro recording
· Gaming mode option for deactivation of the Windows key
· 10 customizable software profiles with on-the-fly switching
GO NINJA WITH THE RAZER BLACKWIDOW STEALTH EDITION
Razer launches silent versions of their award-winning
Razer BlackWidow and Razer BlackWidow Ultimate mechanical keyboards
Carslbad, Calif. – 30th Aug, 2011 – Razer, the world’s leading high-end precision gaming brand, is emerging from the shadows to unleash a flurry of hurt with the Razer BlackWidow Stealth Edition mechanical gaming keyboards. Both the Ultimate and Standard versions of this hardcore mechanical keyboard have been refitted with a keyset that offers tactility but with a quieter feedback for the true silent assassins of gaming.
The Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth Edition also comes with extreme anti-ghosting. This is an improvement over the traditional anti-ghosting matrix when it allows up to 6 simultaneous key presses anywhere on the keyset so your orchestra of destruction is executed in its entirety.
“Where the first Razer BlackWidow can be likened to a barbarian ploughing through enemies with ease, the Stealth Edition of this mechanical keyboard is the ninja who sneaks up on opponents unexpectedly to take them down in a quick blur,” said Robert “RazerGuy” Krakoff, President, Razer USA. “Quieter feedback on the keys, lighter actuation force, extreme anti-ghosting on the Ultimate version, and a new matte black finish make the Stealth Edition of the Razer BlackWidow keyboards the best choice for the unassuming but extremely deadly gamer.”
Both Ultimate and Standard versions of the Razer BlackWidow Stealth Edition are now available exclusively on Razerzone.
About the Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth Edition
The Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth Edition mechanical keyboard delivers the same rapid-fire key press and tactile feedback as the award-winning original, only now much quieter than before. In addition, complete anti-ghosting on the entire keyset allows up to 6 simultaneous key presses so multiple commands or actions can be executed at the same time. Rounding that off with backlighting, additional macro keys, and on-the-fly macro recording, the Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth Edition is a weapon of ruthless power.
Price: USD $139.99 / EU€139.99
Availability:
Razerzone.com – Order Now
Product Features:
· Full mechanical keys with 45g actuation force
· Extreme anti-ghosting
· Individually backlit keys with 5 levels of lighting
· 1000Hz Ultrapolling/1ms response time
· Programmable keys with on-the-fly macro recording
· Gaming mode option for deactivation of the Windows key
· 10 customizable software profiles with on-the-fly switching
· 5 additional macro keys
· Multi-media control keys
· Braided cable
· Audio-Out/Mic-In jack
· USB-passthrough
· Approx size (mm): 475(l) x 171(w) x 30(h)
· Weight: 1.5kg
For more information about the Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth Edition, please visit www.razerzone.com/minisite/blackwidow
About the Razer BlackWidow Stealth Edition
The Razer BlackWidow Stealth Edition mechanical keyboard’s tactile keys offer superior gaming-grade response, unsurpassed actions per minute, and a quieter feedback at your fingertips. Its five additional macro keys with on-the-fly recording and an optimized key matrix allow you to stay in complete control of every frenzied battle and assault on your adversaries.
Price: $79.99 / EU€79.99
Availability:
Razerzone.com – Order Now
Product Features:
· Full mechanical keys with 45g actuation force
· 1000HZ/1ms Ultrapolling response time
· Programmable keys with on-the-fly macro recording
· Gaming mode option for deactivation of the Windows key
· 10 customizable software profiles with on-the-fly switching
· 5 additional macro keys
· Gaming optimized key matrix for minimized ghosting
· Multi-media controls
· Braided cable Approx size (mm): 475(l) x 171(w) x 30(h)
· Weight: 1.5kg
For more information about the Razer BlackWidow Stealth Edition, please visit www.razerzone.com/minisite/blackwidow
About the Razer Group:
Razer™ is the world leader in high performance gaming hardware. Founded in 1998, with its headquarters in Carlsbad, California, the company has offices in nine cities around the globe. Used by the most demanding professional gamers who compete in global tournaments, Razer provides gamers with the unfair advantage of cutting-edge technology and award-winning design. We live by our motto: For Gamers. By Gamers.
Ford Evos is a cloud powered Electric Vehicle from tomorrow. The car’s automated and integrated with everything to give you a complete modern experience. The clod powered vehicle is able to sync alarms, meetings , calendars, continue music playback from other devices where you’ve left off and even suggest alternative routes based on your schedule and past driving history.
Now is that wonderful or what? Check out the Video Below followed by the full PR.
[toggle title_open=”PRESS RELEASE” title_closed=”PRESS RELEASE” hide=”yes” border=”yes” style=”default” excerpt_length=”0″ read_more_text=”Read More” read_less_text=”Read Less” include_excerpt_html=”no”]Ford Evos Concept – The Ultimate Expression of Ford’s New Global Design and Technology Vision
– Ford Evos Concept showcases Ford’s first truly global design language and a new vision for customer-focused and intuitive technologies
– Dramatic four-door, four-seat fastback concept with state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid powertrain previews Ford’s new global design language with distinctive exterior and interior design cues
– Driver engagement technologies explore seamless enhancement of the driving experience, driver well-being and smart, electrified powertrain.
Ford Evos Concept makes global debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show
BERLIN, Germany, August 31, 2011 – Making its global debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the Ford Evos Concept represents the ultimate expression of Ford’s new global design language, and explores key future powertrain and vehicle technologies.
Created as a bespoke concept vehicle, the fastback introduces Ford’s first truly global design language as the momentum of the company’s One Ford product plan continues to build.
“The Ford Evos Concept unites three key elements which are at the core of our One Ford global product strategy: outstanding design, smart technologies and fuel economy leadership,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development.
“With its compelling design and innovative technology experience, this is a clear demonstration of the exciting vision we have for the Ford brand. While you will never see this car on the road, the next generation of Ford products around the world will display many of the distinctive design ideas and advanced technologies it showcases.”
Technology vision for enriched customer experience Ford Evos Concept is not just a design-led exercise. It also embodies the global Ford product development team’s move to design and develop vehicles as more than just an interior and exterior, or a collection of attributes.
“Our goal is to focus on enriching a customer’s every experience with their vehicle – by personalizing it, adapting it, and creating unique, unexpected features that surprise and delight them,” said Kuzak. “In the Ford Evos Concept, this objective is explored and extended to the area of connectivity, where the intent is not to convert the vehicle into a smartphone, but rather ?????to provide personalised and safe connection to the outside world in an enriching manner designed totally for the vehicle context.”
Ford’s global Research and Innovation team, led by Paul Mascarenas, was tasked with building Evos Concept around a technology experience as visionary as the design. The result signals how Ford intends to build on the momentum of innovations like the SYNC in-car connectivity system.
“At Ford, the future of technology in the car will be defined by the experience that it delivers to the driver and passengers,” said Paul Mascarenas, chief technical officer and vice president of Ford Research and Innovation. “We see technology as more than just an impressive list of microprocessors, sensors and software; it’s about the application of that technology to create an experience that enhances the driver’s time behind the wheel.”
The concept’s technology experience embraces a new generation of driver interaction and awareness currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation laboratories. Seamless connectivity between the vehicle and the driver’s „personal cloud? of information is at the heart of the vision for its capabilities.
“The possibilities are fascinating when we explore how to enable a seamless lifestyle between home, office and car linked by access to the driver’s personal information,” Mascarenas said.
With information from the cloud, the vehicle can provide the same connected lifestyle the driver experiences at home or office. The car knows the driver, and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver an exceptionally dynamic driving experience.
Ford researchers are focusing their efforts in this area to deliver on four key customer benefits: personalisation, seamless enhancement of the driving experience, looking after the driver’s well- being and delivering smart electrified powertrain optimisation.
The personalised, cloud-connected lifestyle While today’s Ford products provide drivers with many personalisation options, cloud connectivity will enable future Ford vehicles to take the experience to the next level.
Drawing from a detailed understanding of the driver’s preferences and driving habits, the Ford Evos Concept combines this personal information with additional data from the cloud, such as the drivers work schedule and local traffic or weather conditions. This information provides a personalised and seamless experience as the driver transitions in and out of the car.
“We’re researching how we can use patterns or preferences set by the driver to make life simpler,” said Mascarenas. “The car gets to know you and can act as a personal assistant to handle some of the usual routines of a daily commute.”
It could automatically play the same music or news program that was just streaming at home, or heat or cool the interior to an ideal temperature before the driver gets in without having to be requested by predicting departure time based on his calendar. Wirelessly communicating with devices in the home, it could close the garage door and switch off the lights automatically as it pulls away. ???? “This cloud-connected vision shows the enormous potential of tailoring the driving experience to suit the exact personal tastes and moods of the driver,” said Mascarenas. “From recommending a great driving road from friends on your social networks or resetting your alarm clock to let you sleep in when a morning meeting gets cancelled!”
Enhanced driving experience Ford Evos Concept explores adaptive vehicle technologies to redefine the driving experience.
Current technology requires vehicle chassis settings to be defined based upon the abilities and tastes of a cross-section of drivers and the topography of typical roads. The concept foresees tuning handling and performance to the road ahead and the specific individual behind the wheel.
Learning driver habits and capabilities, the technology can overlay map and weather data sourced from the cloud to adjust powertrain, steering, suspension and braking systems for optimum enjoyment, comfort and safety. Because the vehicle is adaptive and honed to maximum performance based on the situation, it takes driving engagement to a new level.
Driver wellness Ford researchers have already developed technologies focused on driver wellness, such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors. With a seamless connection to the cloud, the Ford Evos Concept monitors the physical state and workload of the driver and adjusts the driving experience accordingly.
“Our wellness research and technologies are focused on relieving driver stress and enhancing their situational awareness,” said Mascarenas. “Drivers around the world are spending more time behind the wheel, and the car should not be another stress point in their lives.”
The Ford Evos Concept is also equipped with advanced air quality sensors and filtration systems to help allergy sufferers. Location aware, it can access air quality data from the cloud and proactively suggest a healthier route to the destination.
In dynamic driving situations, the vehicle may simplify the appearance of the instrument panel to display only necessary gauge information and switch the driver’s connected smartphone to “Do Not Disturb” mode to help keep the focus of attention on the road.
Cloud-optimised hybrid powertrain Completing the vision for the Ford Evos Concept is a state-of-the-art lithium-ion plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain providing the same next-generation performance and fuel economy as the Ford C-MAX Energi scheduled for introduction in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013. Ford „powersplit? hybrid architecture allows the electric motor and petrol engine to work together or separately to maximise efficiency. The advanced powertrain typically runs in all-electric mode before switching to charge-sustaining hybrid mode for continued optimal fuel efficiency. Cloud connectivity would provide further opportunities to enhance performance and efficiency by selecting the optimum combination of powertrain modes for any given journey. ???? “Access to historical driver behaviour and travel patterns allows us to calculate the optimal fuel and energy efficiency by predicting the destination,” said Mascarenas. “Our researchers are working to increase understanding of driver behaviour, develop accurate protocols to predict it and enhance the trip by providing the smartest use of fuel or battery for the situation.”
The cloud-optimised powertrain would automatically „know? when to save energy and switch modes, using information about the vehicle’s predicted travel route, any emission zone restrictions during the journey and current weather conditions.
In the future, communities may place firm restrictions on the types of vehicles allowed to use certain roads or highway lanes, and some city centres may choose to be open only to full electric vehicles. Helping drivers comply with such regulations could therefore be among the benefits of this technology. For example, the French government is considering creating zones mandating lower emissions, while cities such as London, Berlin, and Stockholm already have them in place.
This capability would further enhance the performance of Ford?s advanced PHEV technology, which offers an overall driving range of more than 500 miles (800 kilometres) using the battery and engine – more than any other plug-in or extended-range electric vehicle.
“With its leading-edge „cloud-optimised? PHEV powertrain offering outstanding efficiency and range with supreme driving enjoyment, the Ford Evos Concept highlights our vision for greener, smarter vehicles with outstanding customer appeal,” said Kuzak.
Ford’s new design direction The Ford Evos Concept was specifically developed to introduce the new Ford design direction. Key design elements will be applied to forthcoming Ford vehicles.
The new global design DNA provides the company?s worldwide design teams with a common framework to guide the creation of new products, enabling them to shape a coherent family of distinctive vehicles sharing the same fundamental design character.
“We wanted the Ford Evos Concept to give a clear message about where Ford design is heading – shaping vehicles that are fun to drive, have a strong premium visual appeal, and above all, are stunningly beautiful,” said J Mays, group vice president, Design and chief creative officer.
“Our exciting new design DNA has been developed and refined by an intensive effort by all of our talented global design team,” said Mays. “As a team, we wanted to create a more technical design vocabulary to help communicate the smart technology that is now core to the Ford brand. In addition, we worked particularly hard on meeting the high-expectations of a new generation of buyers – a group of consumers who have grown up surrounded by beautiful, premium design work on even the most affordable products.”
Dramatic fastback design with unique proportions To provide a fitting vehicle to introduce the new design language, the Ford Evos Concept was conceived as a dramatic fastback concept, combining a striking new profile with innovative ?proportions. Attention-grabbing lines conceal a unique new format, with a four-door, four-seat layout which combines dynamic appearance with surprising practicality.
“This is an exciting new interpretation of the fastback bodystyle, with a really innovative silhouette as well as dramatic and very modern proportions,” Mays said.
With the length of a typical C-car, but with width of a CD-car, the Ford Evos Concept has a powerful, sporting stance. The forward position of the cowl, the strongly rounded front screen and the A-pillars set further to the rear enabled the designers to create the impression of a classic GT car, but with a very contemporary feel.
The concept?s spectacular hinged gullwing-style doors, both front and rear, provide outstanding access to the spacious four-seat cabin.
The concept car measures 4.50m (177in) long, 1.97m (77in) wide and 1.36m (53in) high, with a wheelbase of 2.74m (108in).
Distinctive evolution Shaped as the ultimate expression of the new design DNA, the Ford Evos Concept highlights key elements of Ford?s distinctive new global design language.
“The new design DNA marks a bold evolution of the kinetic design language featured on existing global Ford products and is characterised by a number of important elements that will contribute to an unmistakable future Ford look,” said Mays.
From the front, the Ford Evos Concept immediately signals the arrival of something new – a new face for Ford featuring the signature trapezoidal grille mounted higher on the car and creating a confident, more premium look.
Bold, technical shapes, such as the extremely slim „laser cut? front lamps or the dramatic graphic created by the front and rear screens connected by the thin glazed section of the roof, add a distinctive character to the design. Sculptured flanks highlight attention to detail on the surfacing, which lends a refined quality and a tauter, more muscular character.
“The Ford Evos Concept embodies the core elements of the new global design language, while capturing the dynamic, fun-to-drive spirit which is central to the Ford DNA,” said executive design director Martin Smith. “Most notable is the brand new „face of Ford?, with its higher mounted trapezoidal grille, and the design is characterised by the use of very bold, technical graphics. We have also created much more refined and precise surfacing, and these elements together give a strong visual sense of premium quality.
The vehicle was sculpted with the same purity of surface sculpture and attention to detail which characterise premium vehicles. Around the world, a new generation of buyers have come to expect premium design in all products, regardless of the purchase price.
Built around the driver Reflecting the fun-to-drive spirit of its exterior design, the interior of the Ford Evos Concept is built around the driver. A stylish and innovative cockpit promises new levels of driving pleasure and driver interaction. ???? The interior architecture features clean and simple surfaces, with a muscular, athletic character to the slim upper instrument panel, enhanced by bold trapezoidal cut-outs. Contrasting these muscular forms, curvaceous cockpit display surfaces sweep down either side of the driver, providing secondary information about vehicle and infotainment systems.
The concept features a bold red driver?s seat and the vision of unprecedented driver interaction via an advanced driver interface. The two rear seat passengers get an equally special experience, with dedicated touch-screen displays to interact with the vehicle and individually adjustable sports seats.
“Both the exterior and interior of the Ford Evos Concept clearly communicate that this is a driver?s car, so that as soon as people see the vehicle, they will immediately want to get in and drive,” said executive design director Moray Callum.
### About Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordmotorcompany.com.[/toggle]
