Although we certainly didn’t arrive early enough to be at the front of this joyous funeral procession, I made my way to the front to see the Fisker Karma in action. The fisheye lens of my GoPro does not do this car justice. But you’ve already seen better pictures. What was really interesting was the sound. It was very spacey-wacey. (credit Dr. Who with that one)

I chose to not add music to this video because The Silence is what’s really interesting. Granted, not much noise comes through the waterproof housing of the GoPro, but still, the silence was indeed deafening. I stopped to ride with my friends, but the parade continued on, there were at least 20 more cars behind us.

Read more about the event, and see video interviews with EV industry luminaries here.

Continue the celebration by heading to a theater near you to see Revenge of the Electric Car, opening this weekend.

Austria’s transportation association, the Austrian Transport Club (VCÖ), has been counting the cyclists on the road daily between April and August since 2003. This year, they’ve got good news for Austrians and the rest of the world – more cyclists are on the road than ever before.

Bicycle Traffic Up an Average of 25%

Martin Blum of the VCÖ reports that cycle traffic is up all over town – nearly 5,000 cyclists daily go through the Opernring section of Vienna’s Ringstrasse, and well over 2,000 pass Vienna West Station each day. The Vienna Row saw nearly double its previous numbers of cyclists – just shy of 1,200 per day!

In addition to putting out traffic counters and recording the number of cyclists each day, the VCÖ also polled the city – 44% of the respondents reported they were cycling more often because of high gasoline prices, not to mention health or environmental concerns. Regardless of the reason to cycle, Blum strongly supports his fellow citizens: “Anyone on a bicycle not only saves money, but reduces traffic congestion, improves air quality, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The cyclists deserve our heartfelt thanks,” he said.

Vienna Responds to the Cycling Crowd

Vienna is responding to the rapid increase of cyclists; the cycling infrastructure is expanding to accommodate the new cycle traffic, and existing bottlenecks are being removed. Blum also advocates abolishing mandatory use of the bicycle lane. “If experienced cyclists are allowed to slip into normal traffic lanes, then the newer riders have more space in the bike lane,” he explains. “That’s where they’ll feel the safest.”

The VCÖ is promoting further infrastructure improvements, including opening one-way streets to two-way bike traffic. Belgium and the Canton of Bern have already adopted this practice, allowing cyclists to ride either way on all but the narrowest of streets. Another example the VCÖ would like to see followed is the Cycle Superhighway seen in London.

Traffic Increase By Location

The VCÖ compiled a list of the most popular cycling locations in Vienna and tracked the increase in cyclists for each of them between 2010 and 2011, summarized in the list below.

• Vienna Row: up 76%
• Vienna West Station: up 25%
• Argentinierstrasse: up 24%
• Opernring: up 22%
• Lasallestrasse: up 16%
• Donaukanal: up 13%

We know a lot of our readers are cyclists themselves, or interact with them on the road – any stories? Impressions? Tell us what you think of cycling in major cities in the comments, below.

Source: Oekonews.at | Image: Eurobike.

The Zero Contact system is Nissan’s proprietary technology, and uses the electromagnetic induction method. Testing performed and reported by Nissan claim about 80-90% efficiency when compared to charging the EV with a standard cable.

When a vehicle with the appropriate integrated charging equipment parks on the Zero Contact Charging System mat, the above-ground supply unit’s coils transmit current using magnetic force. The current is then sent to the receiver’s coils on the EV. Parking doesn’t even need to be that precise – the EV can still charge even if the supply unit isn’t perfectly aligned with the receiver.

No word yet on pricing or availability.

Source | Picture: Response.jp.

Blue Peace motor yacht by Aras Kazar DesignsBlue Peace motor yacht by Aras Kazar Designs rear view.

Aras Kazar seems to be in the mode to capture the eco-luxury market by storm, almost literally. After presenting the Blue Dream II eco-luxury yacht, this time the designer presents us with the eco-friendly luxury speed boat, the Blue Peace yacht. With a top speed of up to 60 knots, the boat can travel faster than most in the competition. Its futuristic eco-friendly design allows it to meet 100 percent of its electricity requirements from solar energy alone. However, the boat is still at a conceptual stage.

A closer look at the yacht makes one believe that it will only be a matter of time before this vessel is seen as a part of some rich folks’ collection. With a total hull length of 42 meters, one can’t help but notice the aerodynamic shaping, especially of the blue glass guarding the front and sides of the yacht. The inspiration for this has been attributed to a rare breed of fish named ‘Piscis Volans’, which are known to travel at express speeds like this yacht.

The other specialty of this design is the blended use of aluminum, glass and wood, which adds to the styling quotient, as well as a perfect proportion of body weight of the vessel. There is also a retractable hood at the back of the yacht, which can be opened or closed as per preference and weather conditions outside.

Blue Peace motor yacht by Aras Kazar DesignsBlue Peace motor yacht by Aras Kazar Designs rear and side view.

On the insides, there is ample space and opportunity to enjoy one’s glide in the waters. With an owners stateroom fitted with a king size bed, there are opportunities for 6 other guests to rest in the queen-bedded rooms, apart from separate space for any accompanying crew members. There is also a dining table for the perfect meal together. The dominant colors inside are white and beige, which are perfectly suited for the comfortable settings inside.

Sources of power for the boat include the triple 6,300 HP engines which can race the boat up to 60 knots of top speed, with a range of 500 nautical miles. However, if the velocity is reduced to around 7 knots, the range possible is around 1500 nautical miles. As for the electricity, it’s totally eco-friendly in its production mechanism as the side retractable wings are solar panels, which help meet all of the yachts power needs.

This yacht is still at the planning and concept stage. Hence, those rich boating enthusiasts are suggested to pitch their order with the yacht designer to get one’s own version of the Blue Peace.

Picture Gallery

Motor Yacht Blue Peace

42m Motor Yacht Blue Peace by Aras Kazar Designs

Via: Charter World/ Aras Kazar

Lean mean greenLean mean green motorbike

If you are among those who can splurge out riding on your designer bikes and want to make your Christmas a unique one then we have news for you. The Lean Mean Green Machine by Hammacher Schlemmer is hitting the market this Christmas. The 9’ wheeled motorcycle is inspired by the 1970s toy. Powered by an air-cooled, 80″ cu. Harley-Davidson v-twin Evo engine, this motorbike cum toy can run at a speed of 50mph.

The remarkable front wheel of the motorbike is the world’s largest wheel with the diameter of 45″. The conventional steering wheel has been substituted by two handheld push/pull levers that organize the two rear wheels.

The foot lever manages the manual 6-speed transmission and the hand lever controls brakes. With 400 miles of performance, the giant motorbike has an 8 1/2-gallon fuel tank, which is built into the frame that cannot be seen. So, if you want to relive your childhood, order this giant bike before November 15. This cute machine will cost you $75,000.

Via: Gizmodo/Hammacher

Jaeger Le Coultre AMVOX 5 World Chronograph limited editionJaeger Le Coultre AMVOX 5 World Chronograph limited edition inspired by the LMP1 raccing car.

Jaeger LeCoultre had introduced the AMVOX 5 World Chronograph in 2007, from where it saw multiple versions of the timepiece along with signature customizations. Now to give it the elite touch, a limited edition series of 250 pieces, which will use some of the watch brand’s favorite precious fabrics in construction, has been launched. Though a mechanical one, this watch takes a rather modern turn as compared to the classical 80th anniversary Reverso one-off earlier this year.

Built of titanium and ceramics, the dial is 44 m thick. It features a rather detailed and elaborate dial. With 24 time zones on display on the white on blue outer circle, the hours and minutes are showed in a 24-hour format for various destinations around world. The single thin tangerine arm displays the seconds, and the broad rhodium plated superluminova carved arms display the hours and minutes, most probably of the world time.

The two black oxidized sub-dials on the 9 ‘o’clock and 3 ‘o’ clock positions, display the city hour and minutes of the wearer. The 65-hour power reserve is displayed at the 6 ‘o’clock position, indicating the remainder of the watch’s energy, derived from the mechanical movement. The casing is covered by the customary use of sapphire crystal glass which is anti-reflective, and known to be scratch resistant as well.

The mechanical movement of the watch, which we just told you about, is governed by the Caliber 752 mechanism which has a vibration rate of 28,800 vibrations to the hour. There are a total of 279 parts of various sizes, including 41 of them as precious jewels including the pink-gold oscillating weight. The strapping is black calf skin leather with blue stitching, which is close to 20 mm wide. Since the design and pattern scheme is inspired by the Aston Martin LMP 1 racing car, the logos have been engraved at the case back.

For horological enthusiast, we suggest reading our coverage of the limited edition Reverso series by Jaeger LeCoultre. It would give you a fair idea of the watch maker’s craftsmanship skills.

Via: Perpetuelle/ Hypebeast

Charlie Turner clocksCharlie Turner contemporary clocks

Festive season is just around the corner and people have already started revamping the décor of their houses. To add on to the classic touch, British film producer turned designer Charlie Turner has instigated his line of contemporary clocks. These clocks are perfect blend of classic and contemporary design. The designer has produced five different clocks and each one is made of hand in solid wood. These clocks depict a distinct art of work and are produced in Cornwall. Below are the details of these masterpieces, have a look:

1. Red Classic

Price: $ 7,310

For the people with dramatic taste and décor, this red classic clock is a perfect piece. This clock has a Mirrored dial with etched numerals and has a complete solid wood body. The mechanism of the clock is Weight driven eight day movement with triple chime and automatic night silent system.

2. Helix

Price: $7,188

This is an interesting design that has been derived from the cardboard tube. The spiral look of the clock gives a floating design that depicts the life in Cornwall. This sleek design clock has a light attached to it that provides an extra elegance to the design. The best part of the design is the waving pendulum that can be seen from any angle.

3. Rivoli

Price: $7,844

This intricate and sleek design is a perfect piece and is enough to fetch attraction of your guests. The finish has been done in light wood color and the wooden side panels are removable for access to movement.

4. Manhattan

Price: $7,227

This unique turret finish clock is made from special hand selected timbers that has a light base. The clock is black in color hence is suited for any kind of décor. The dial of the clock has a Nickel plated chapter ring with black Roman numerals.

5. Rocket

Price: $7,650

This clock with white round dial is named as rocket and is made without feet. The clock is equipped with removable rounded hood with glazed panel for dial.

Via: Charlie Turner

Dr. King’s research focuses on a metric called  Energy Return on Energy Invested (EROI). In his work, he strives to define what EROI includes and what it means – with the hope of allowing us to compare the efficiency of the different energy sources that we currently, or might soon, rely upon to power our lives. In Dr. King’s  publication in  Environmental Research Letters , he discusses EROI in terms of another interesting dimension, called the Energy Intensity Ratio (EIR), which brings economics into the mix.

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The Wendyplay houseThe Wendyplay house front view

Bringing in realism miniature models of houses seems to be the latest demand of the rich folks. We had seen the World’s most expensive dollhouse – the Moore dollhouse, which had ancient murals and artwork in every bit of the detail one could think of. Now, the Wendy Miniature House brings in a similar kind of detailing, which costs as much as the real thing in Liverpool, UK.

Getting a Wendy house for themselves seems to be the aspiration of many home buyers, but one begins to think if this is the one they are actually looking for. Measuring 12 feet (height) x 10 feet (width) in size, this miniature house has 2 floors, with under floor heating in the faux garden, house interiors, and even the car garage. With a reception, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, terrace, miniature barn with pigs, and running water, the little rich kids haven’t seen much better than this current model house. While they grow up, the demands of personal space is finally met perfectly, as these houses can be installed in the back garden, and modified as per needs, and the easy access is guaranteed too.

When the time comes to actually moving out, the space can be converted into a wine cellar or a storage house even, so the utility factor doesn’t really come in the way. It’s only the concept and the price tag; $86,982 (£55,000) when the real one costs as much, and sometimes cheaper even! Rainbow Play Systems, who makes these houses, is already getting multiple such orders from the crème de la crème clients.

The Wendyplay houseThe Wendyplay house interior views and detailing.

When you are done vowing this model, we suggest you take a look at our coverage of the $3.5 million Barbie doll dream-house. Goes to show how the folks with money and taste can spend their cash.

Via: Daily Mail/ The Sun

West Elm Parsons Audio End tableWest Elm Parsons Audio End table which is also an iPod and iPhone dock.

Apple seems to be controlling a lot more than just the tech world alone. Considering its devices and their respective features, even furniture designs seem to move in their direction. We earlier had inspirational furniture in the form of Horus pyramid table, iLounge coffee table. Something on the similar lines is the West Elm Parsons Audio end table, which is more than just a table. It’s a bedroom iPod and iPhone docking station with built-in speakers.

Carrying Apple’s signature style and finishing, the pearl white color of the table with its glossy exterior wooden lacquer stamps its authority of affinity with iPods and iPhones. With charging ports for both, there lies a built-in audio system which you can use to play audio content on your device, while you relax in your bedroom. Its wiring system can be easily connected to most common wall connectors, hence providing an easy device to put up. The 38-inch (width) x 27-inch (height) size shall give you ample space to keep your papers or other stuff on.

Except for a few additional care and assembly tips, there is nothing stopping it from being a part of your next shopping list, especially if you are an Apple freak. With a price tag of $400, a considerably large number of Apple fans can surely look to buy one of these.

Via: West ELM/Gearpatrol

Dr. Dre Beats Rose Crytal headsetDr. Dre Beats Rose Crytal headset which has 4300 crystals embedded on it.

With the tech world flying higher each day, it seems it’s catching up with luxury too. After the 24 Carat Gold headphones by Crystal rocked, Dr. Dre has now created the Light Rose Swarovski studded headphones, that will surely ‘bling’ up your sound listening experience more than anything else. With high quality sound output and external noise cancellation, these headphones are equally capable of catering to your professional audio needs.

Many a times, artists don’t get the actual sound output from their recordings with which they judge the quality. With these Dr. Dre Studio headphones, that issue is well taken care of, and the sound output is as close to reality as technology permits. This means, the studios are now completely at ease about what they need to have in their kitty in the future. Next in line is the ultra-portability and luxury factor. Despite the 4,300 individual rose Swarovski crystals over the headset, the weight is fairly light which means one wouldn’t feel a load while listening to long hours of audio. The 1.3 meter chord lets you connect to any device, including your iPod, iPhone, and also a whole of music gadgets, which lends variety to its integration capabilities.

Accompanying the headset will be a special fiber cleaning cloth, meant for precious surfaces such as these. With advanced Aegis Microbe Shield Technology, you can hope for a perfectly clean and hygienic set of headphones. These shall set you back by $891 a set.

Also please do check out another ‘blinged’ product from Crystal rocked, the black Dr. Dre headset which had the similar use of crystals on them.

Via: Crystal Rocked

OneDof TurntableOneDof Turntable which uses a unique liquid suspension technology to cut down on resonance.

Buying top end audio equipment is one thing, but that piece of equipment being as expensive as your house is a whole new dimension altogether. OneDof (One degree of Freedom) turntable, designed by NASA award winning engineer Aleks Bakman, apart from a numerous unique features, has generous use of gold in its components. This is perhaps the reason why this turntable comes with the price tag of $150,000, the equivalent of your home.

Apart from the apparent use of gold in this device, what is setting it apart is the non-resonant liquid suspension of the turntable. This mechanism uses a thick film of oil, which is paired along with the vertical motor adjustment. This results in external noise cancellation and from what we hear, this is one of the unique devices using this technology to such effect. Also the bearing of the device uses a vertical centered platter rotation format, which results in almost zero-vibration inside the device’s cylinder, which is actually the central reason why the clarity of the resultant sound output would be so high.

On proper investigation, we found that the turntables have even further complexities, which were much beyond our capacity to explain, but have been created specifically for supreme sound output. And wait; this isn’t all! You would also have to shell out an additional $ 9750 for each of the 2 tri-planar tone-arm, and also the Benz LP cartridge, apart from the 150K which we mentioned earlier. But when it comes to the crazy audiophiles, it wouldn’t matter if what they get is what they wanted.

Also, we suggest you go over our coverage of the Angelis Labor Gabriel turntable, and the unique vinyl Fabien Clerc with gold work version.

Via: Dvice/ OneDOF