With a multitude of functions mentioned on the official website, it’s no wonder that it’s been much anticipated.

Technology

With the possibility of an optional 12.3” Interactive Driver Display, controlling your media options has been made easier. In addition, you can easily make and receive calls with three view options of Single Dial, Dual Dial, and Extended. The steering wheel has hidden-until-lit switches, which reduces the number of visible controls for a smooth look. These controls work in combination with the Interactive Driver Display to aid in reducing driver distraction.

With rear seat entertainment, the backseat passengers are sure to be entertained on long journeys. The seats have two 8” screens that play TV channels including digital, movies, and can be connected to tablets, smartphones, or other devices through their HDMI, Mobile High-Definition Link, and two USB 3.0 ports.

Controlling the entertainment system is the InControl feature, which provides the additional navigation pro and Pro Services with 4G Wi-Fi Hotspot for extra convenience. Furthermore, you can have a remote multi-function app to locate, lock, and unlock your Range Rover Velar.

Design

The Range Rover Velar has a lightweight aluminium architecture that has been specifically designed and manufactured for strength, safety, and efficiency in mind. With a high-density dampening panels and high-strength alloy sides incorporated, weight is reduced with the rear dynamic stiffening brace without conceding on safety.

Range Rover has also integrated an Ingenium engine into their design, which is a state-of-the-art technological marvel with more power and fuel efficiency. This engine makes use of the Continuous Inlet Variable Valve Lift system, allowing for less CO2 emissions.

Performance

With Roll Stability Control and Dynamic Stability Control, the Range Rover Velar has a decreased rollover probability. The vehicle adds the capability of steering around obstacles or other drivers easily, while monitoring the motion and the cornering forces. The system then applies braking on the outside of the front wheel, reducing the forces that decrease vehicle stability.

Reacting to your driving and to the road, the adaptive dynamics in this vehicle allow for the best possible control and smooth ride by monitoring movements approximately 500 times per second. Working with the Intelligent Driveline Dynamics, the Torque Vectoring helps to balance the engine torque on all four wheels.

Providing extra comfort and convenience, the Range Rover Velar can have from 632 litres (five seats) and up to 1,690 litres (two seats) of space depending on the seat configuration. With options including four or three seats, you are sure to find a vehicle that fits you and your family’s needs exactly. The Range Rover Velar also has an Activity Key – a bracelet which allows you to have an active life without carrying a key fob around, with waterproof and a resistant material.

Are you excited about this new Range Rover Velar model?

The Beginning of the Bollinger B1  

As an introduction to the Bollinger B1, the company describes it as a clean sheet design which uses an aluminium architecture to keep the weight low (this is one of the main worries of electric vehicles). They are also claiming that the trucks weight is distributed 50/50 which could play as an advantage for off-roaders and 4 x 4 drivers.

It does remind us quite a lot of the Electric Land Rover Defender prototype, which was unveiled in 2013, however, unlike the British Built Land Rover, the Bollinger has been fully designed and engineered in America.

Talk that Torque

Although the vehicle will be powered through electrics, a motor will be on each axle, which combined gives an output of 326bhp and 640Nm of torque. As with its dual motor set up, it may come out on top as a popular model, such as other electronic models of long-range previously have done: much like the Tesla Model S and X, which also have two motors.

Power on Power

This variant of the Bollinger B1 will offer two battery options: a 60kWh model (estimated 120 miles) while there is a larger 100kWh model which will go for around 200 miles. Who said electric means restricted mileage? Although battery quality and power does lag over time, hopefully in a few years, the technology used will be improved.

The vehicle will have a charging port on its left front fender, and a quick charging port on the right fender, and the battery (100kWh) could be fully charged in 75 minutes.

Speed for Electrics

The trucks 0-60mph is around 4.5 seconds with a whopping top speed of 127mph. Although the recommended payload is 6,100 pounds, the curb weight is 3,900 pounds while the gross vehicle weight rating is 10,000 pounds. The weight ratings put the vehicle in as a class 3 commercial truck, which also reduces regulatory requirements.

What’s Next?

Bollinger say it’s much too early in the process to announce any pricing, however they did tell us that they will be beginning to take deposits for the vehicle by early 2018. Once they have a site for production in mind and subsequently secured, they said that deliveries could start as early as 19 months after. Any sales and services will be handled by Bollinger directly but they do hope to get some retail locations in major cities as soon as they can.

An electric car not only offers minimal maintenance and cheap running, it is also much better for the environment, and your health. Combining these factors with other innovative features is what makes the Bollinger B1 so exceptional.

Here at CWS we are always keeping up to date with the vehicles on the 4 x 4 scene, and like to keep our customers in the know. If you would like to know more information regarding our parts or our vehicles for sale, you can get in touch with us through our simple to complete contact form. We look forward to talking to a fellow 4 x 4 driver or hobbyist.

But, what is locking differential and how does it affect your 4×4 experience?

What is Locking Differential?

In certain situation, a differential can actually make a great difference to a four-wheel driving experience. It is a modification to the typical automotive differential, which restricts two wheels on an axle at the same rotational speed regardless of the traction they are experiencing independently. On road, this offers fantastic benefits, as the action is automatic and negates the need for driver intervention or stopping. Meaning that continuous driving is possible at all times.

It works by targeting engine power at the rear wheels, whilst acting as a gear reduction and doing so whilst allowing them to rotate at different times.

So, what is so monumental about this 48-years of achievement and innovation in the auto industry?

History

Beginning life as the Rover Company, the original company experimented for many years before hitting the golden formula with the original Land Rover Series. During the early production of the Range Rover, the details of the model were veiled in utmost secrecy. So much so that twenty-six models were produced under the name Velar to test the capabilities of the car without competitors realising quite what Range Rover was trying to achieve. It even went so far as Velar being registered as its own company in London by 1969.

The launch of the Range Rover officially was met with great enthusiasm. However, America would not officially get these vehicles until 1987 and often Range Rovers were obtained through the grey market there.

However, the subsequent worldwide success of the vehicles meant that Land Rover has skyrocketed to one of the best luxury car brands in the world.

Anniversary

Pioneering design and engineering for nearly five decades deserves a considerable amount of celebration. In this case, a showcase demonstrating the evolution of the vehicle series as a whole. Key dates in the Land Rover story have been picked out to showcase the best of past 48 years.

Key dates include the prototypes series Velar’s development in 1969, to the development of the Range Rover Classic in 1981 and to the modern development of the SVAutobiography in 2015 and 2016. With nearly 2 million sales across these 48 years, the 4×4 as a vehicle class has been shaped and evolved by Land Rovers innovative thinking that they have showcased in this video.

At CWS 4×4, we specialise in providing 4×4 parts for your Land Rover, Range Rover, and Discovery. If you want to know more about the products we can provide, then please don’t hesitate to contact us today on 01458 834930 and we will be more than happy to help.

When either off-roading or simply taking your 4 x 4 for a spin, fuel can be easily used up, but by considering these few handy tips, you can save yourself some pennies and reduce your risk on the roads.

You can reduce your engines thirst by aiming to get in a higher gear when possible. Sometimes it may not be possible when climbing an incline or even when stuck in rush hour traffic. Try avoiding these situations if you’re trying to save fuel. Dependant on your model you could get away with a higher gear in certain circumstances. The perfect way to travel is to maintain a specific speed. Ideally around 50mph and in the highest gear possible. According to the AA, even dropping from 80 mph to 70-mph can save up to 25% fuel and dropping from 70mph to 60pmh can save a further 10%.

Tyres

Your tyres can have a significant impact on the amount of fuel you use. Make sure you keep your tyres properly inflated and carry out regular checks on them. Even a small amount of reduction in pressure can cause an increase in resistance when driving, which means you could end up spending more money on fuel, and subsequently your tyres. Consider purchasing eco tyres when you are in need of new ones, and ask the mechanic to check your wheel alignment while you’re there.

Directions and Knowledge

Considering statistics, a third of all city driving involves looking for somewhere to park as well as many of us getting lost when driving to a new destination…sat nav or not. Organise your journey by planning, ahead and using a sat nav or even a print out of directions. Use motorways and any free-flowing roads whenever possible. The motorway is usually the easiest and most sign posted route, plus your car will be at its most fuel efficient this way.

Braking

Braking too much can turn fuel into waste heat, therefore should be used as little as possible. This is generally why using motorways and less congested areas are better. It is better to reduce your speed gradually rather than suddenly braking at traffic lights. Aim to roll to a stop instead of quickly stopping.

The heavier your car is, technically the more energy your vehicle will need to move. Every object you add to your car will alter the fuel you use- even if it’s ever so slightly. Even petrol weighs, so the fuel tank is just as much of a burden as anything else. Every ounce you lose from the car will certainly save you at the pumps.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning uses your fuel quicker, although it is less costly than opening windows, as this reduces how aerodynamic you are. Your heating and air con can increase the fuel thirst even of a small engine up to 10%. Imagine what it would be in a heftier vehicle… even a 4 x 4?

The technology found in today’s cars is already laying the groundwork for future cars, or robocars, giving a glimpse into a more technologically advanced vehicle industry. With companies developing technology such as self-driving cars, the future of the industry looks very promising and exciting.

Rise of the Robocars

Using ultrasonic sensors on the car’s flanks, blind-spot monitoring systems are able to detect when other vehicles or objects are in the ‘blind-spot’. Modern vehicles can have as much as 150 programmable computing elements, with approximately 100 million lines of software in addition to the ‘normal’ wiring needed for vehicles to operate successfully.

In addition, the cars of the future will allow for automatic checking of factors such as custom emergency breaking, pre-collision warning, and low-speed safety. New technology will turn vehicles and roads safer, providing thorough reporting on a wide variety of data from the environment surrounding the vehicle.

A Digital Future for Vehicles

Both exciting and revolutionary, the development of the cars of the future need to focus on factors such as electric vehicles, new forms of transportation as services, and autonomous driving. Issues that could arise from this increase in digital software would be reliability, speed, and connectivity options. These aspects will need to be considered and accounted for when designing vehicles, as the devices become interconnected through the internet.

Increased safety is always a concern when innovating and developing new technology, factors which will play a big part on tomorrow’s autonomous cars. The growing complexity in vehicles is addressing drivers’ needs and functioning as a disruption in the industry, which will direct vehicles into a software and services approach. The digital car is an advanced piece of technology that needs to be able to withstand challenges such as hacking to ensure the utmost safety of drivers and passengers.

At CWS 4×4 we provide a wide variety of spare parts for 4x4s, ensuring that you find exactly what you’re looking for. If you want to know more about what we offer, feel free to get in touch with us to speak to our friendly team. We’re always happy to answer any query you might have!

After all, your 4×4 can break down or get damaged if exposed to heat for long periods of time! So, what can you do to prevent this and ensure that your vehicle is ready for summer?

Coolant

A basic, but crucial, element of any car! You need to check and refill the coolant fluid on a regular basis, as this component is extremely important to keep your vehicle running smoothly; especially in high temperatures.

Wipers

The sunlight can impact the rubber in your windshield wipers. The material can become degraded over time when exposed to extreme temperatures or to the direct rays of sun. also, because the wiper blades tend to accumulate debris and dust from everyday use, it is essential that you clean them, as they can drag that debris across your windshield and maybe even damage it. even if they won’t, they still won’t be as efficient as you’d want them to be if they’re not clean!

Tyre Pressure

A fundamental law of science is that heat makes air expand. This means that you need to be mindful of the pressure in your tyres, as it should remain at optimal levels. Each vehicle is different, so your 4×4 will have different specifications. In addition to this, keeping your tyre pressure at recommended levels can help you to avoid burst tyres!

Cooling Fan

This is another vital element of your vehicle. Sometimes, but most especially in summer, your car can easily overheat, which means its components will have to work overtime and under stress. This can lead to them becoming damaged.

The cooling fan activates automatically when there is overheating, and draws in air through the radiator to cool the engine. Without this fan, the coolant might boil and cause damage to the engine. If your fan is not functioning as it should, then you should have it looked at, fixed or replaced.

Your vehicle, whether a 4×4 or not, needs to be properly taken care of, especially during summer and winter when both weather and temperatures are extreme. If you need to replace vehicle parts due to overheating or other types of damage, we have what you need here at CWS 4×4 – so, just talk to a friendly member of our team and get your car in order as soon as possible!

So, what are some of the best world records that the lauded Land Rover has set in recent years?

Tower Lego Bridge

For anyone who lives or has ever been to London, Tower Bridge will not be an unfamiliar sight. Built between 1886 and 1894, it is as ingrained in the history of London as any of the castles and an important landmark. It was this iconic landmark that Land Rover chose to use in order to set a new – interesting – world record. Though not in the way that you may think…

Land Rover chose to recreate Tower Bridge in, wait for it, LEGO™. That’s right, the children’s toy that is as likely to destroy your foot as it is to create an architectural delight. The thirteen-metre structure is the Largest Lego Structure ever made (using the most bricks) and it involved 5,805,846 individual brick pieces. The previous record was under 500,000 bricks and so this record only beat it massively.

To add a little flare to the record, Land Rover had Bear Grylls – famed urine drinker – abseiled down from the top of the Lego™ and through the drawbridge. He landed next to the new Land Rover Discovery, the reason behind the construction of the replica; two of which were situated on top of the plastic structure itself. With a little bit of inspiration, a lot of determination and a Land Rover for the scale you can truly achieve anything!

Procession of Rovers 

516. That is the number of Land Rovers that took part in the largest parade of cars in 2014. A feat achieved in Portugal, it was a result of the Iberian Land Rover Gathering which takes place bi-annually, taking the parade through the city of Gouveia.

Land Rovers that are large, small, black, red, green and many more variations all took part in this event. It was a sight to warm the cockles of any Land Rover lover!

10,000 Miles in 10 Days

London to Cape Town sounds like a long journey, and it is. 10,000 miles of road and sea, it’s not a trip for the faint-hearted as two Land Rover enthusiasts discovered in late 2013. Driving the British Land Rover Discovery, they left on the 4^th October and arrived at their destination 14^th October. They managed this even in spite of the heavy rain and storms that they encountered along the way.

This is a far-removed achievement compared to the original winners of the world record as far back as 1933, who traversed London to Cape Town in 158 days. Of course, they were only driving a Morris Eight convertible at the time. No doubt they would have done it much faster in a Land Rover!

Ready to set your own record in a stunning Land Rover? Then feel free to check out our sales page, here at CWS we’re happy to set you on the path to record-setting glory! Simply call 01458 834930 for more information!

True Grip – Kent

Based in the South East, True Grip Off-Road gives drivers the ultimate 4×4 experience. Not only can you belt up and get on the wild roads, you can also hop on a quad bike saddle or behind the wheel of an ATV. If you want a challenging drive and a pure thrill, then this is the course for you. Including muddy climbs and cross river obstacles; the 3000 acres of land combines the countryside scenery with the off-road diversity, perfect for seeing the capabilities of your vehicle.

Forres to Alford

Whether you are new to the world of 4×4’s or consider yourself an expert, sometimes it’s nice to simply drive. With bends stretching for miles and the views which stretch on forever, this route can be made much more fun in a beast of a vehicle. The route takes you through the Cairngorms National Park and Strathdon, making driving for pleasure extremely beautiful. Who said getting from A to B had to be boring?

Silverstone

Despite being well-known for its fast-paced F1 circuit, the track also has a fantastic 4×4 track. This course is purpose built and has a lot of diversity for drivers. Even though the route is man-made, this track is extremely tough and isn’t for the faint-hearted. With steep gradients, larger than life drops and puddles that need more than wellies; there are sections of this course which are sure to put your vehicle to the test. If you are ready to push the limits of your 4×4, the Silverstone off-road track is perfect for you.

Wild Tracks Suffolk

This off-roading track is one of the most popular in the UK. The course consists of a loop, but also includes an array of battles for you and your 4×4 to take on. From waterholes to the highest inclines and the steepest declines, the various trials this course offers ensures its popularity among thrill enthusiasts. With a daily cost of £30, including a free tow, this is a must-drive.

Scotland’s North Coast 500

If you and your 4×4 prefer a smoother ride, there is plenty that the UK has to offer. The United Kingdom spoils 4×4 enthusiasts as it offers spectacular views, and even more remarkable roads. The circular route is iconic and is stretched over 805km of lonely single lane track. Sliding along the Inverness Coast, past Caithness, Sutherland and Wester Ross, the rugged fairways, sandy beaches and vintage whiskey distilleries can be seen on the horizon. This route boasts sheer beauty, and is should be a number one place to visit on any 4×4 drivers list.

For more information on any of our products, feel free to contact us today on +44(0) 1458 834930. We have a variety of spare parts, breakers, engines, gear boxes and a range of vehicles for sale.

2017 won’t be that different; with alternative fuels and vehicles becoming more and more popular in conjunction with the increasing digital connectivity, the next decades look very exciting for the automotive industry.

Electric vehicles and alternative fuels have increased in popularity in thew past few years. Batteries and other components have become cheaper, enabling the widespread use of electric vehicles on modern roads. With the continuous decline of oil reserves, these alternative energy vehicles have positively impacted the market, raising its expected value to $614 billion by 2022.

Charging stations in China have risen to 49,000 between 2010 and 2015, with the country planning to expand the numbers to 12,000 more in centralised regions and 4.8 million in provincial areas by 2020. This is likely to ensure the increase in manufacturing and expand the market exponentially.

IoT and Vehicles

With the Internet of Things (IoT) increasingly connecting all devices together, vehicles are no different. These will have more and more apps and functions that allow for ease of navigation and access to the internet. Certain digital functions are already becoming standard in modern vehicles, with the latest models providing customers with top of the line vehicles that are interconnected with their mobile phone.

In addition, services such as Uber have increased this necessity for digital functions and apps, as customers prefer differential services that highlight Wi-Fi and other useful apps.

Efficient Materials and Automation

The increase in environmental protection concerns and recycling are part of the rise in more efficient materials for manufacturing. With electric and hybrid vehicles’ increasing popularity, the necessity for new materials is also increasing. Throughout the supply chain, all processes will be streamlined due to automation; automation is a big step in the Industry 4.0 and it will bring big changes in how vehicles are manufactured.

The increase in connectivity between smart devices will only enhance the way vehicles are utilised. From companies to vehicle lovers, everyone will be able to enjoy their favourite content in vehicles, be it films or music, as phones, tablets, and other devices are easily connected to vehicles. In addition, vehicles will increasingly become more efficient, with materials that help to protect the environment and transform the way we see cars.

At CWS 4×4 we have a wide variety of spare parts for 4x4s, sure to fit your requirements.