News Archives - 2014

Your smartphone, the car mechanic

When a car mechanic gazes at a car, scratches his chin and says it’s going to be expensive, most drivers have to take them at their word and reach for their wallet, but a new app called mechanic advisor promises to put them at less of a disadvantage. A Bluetooth-enabled key takes data from your car and transmits it to…

Google driverless car gets ‘koala’ facelift

Google has unveiled the latest prototype of its fully autonomous car with a makeover giving the front section the look of a koala bear. The friendly-looking styling is apt as driverless technology promises ‘crash-proof’ motoring. The cars have already racked up thousands of miles on California’s roads. Early versions use the Toyota Prius as a mule, but the latest model…

The bicycle caravan built for two

Given the British love/hate relationship with both bicycles and caravans, it may be that our roads are not ready for the Wide Path Camper, but for adventurous spirits looking for a novel alternative to sleeping under canvas next summer, the 40 kg mobile home could be just the ticket. The fibreglass-bodied camper can sleep two adults in comfort, boasts 300…

Wisecracker: Bicycle & beer must-have accessory

The WiseCracker is the ultimate stocking filler for cyclists everywhere; a bottle opener that takes the place of a headset spacer – a devilishly simple design aimed to make its user ‘smile, laugh and enjoy the simple things in life’. The WiseCracker is made from aluminium, weighs 16 grams and costs around £10. http://wisecrackerltd.com/ Drinking and riding In law, a bicycle…

Johanson3 electric cargo trike: A modern day rickshaw

If you think congestion is bad today, consider that population growth and increasing urbanisation is expected to see an additional 2.5 billion people living in cities by 2050, according to a United Nations report published earlier this year. For those unable or unwilling to cycle, the future may hold travel by networked electric vehicles; autonomous pods that can be hailed…