The Regnant's New Ride: A Custom Ordered Concord Series 65
When it comes to the vehicles used by heads of state, being both aesthetically pleasing and functional are the key goals of designing such a vehicle to transport world leaders around. When it comes to the aging Presidential Executive that was used since the early 70's (with continuous updates), it may be wise to part with a vehicle that has served the presidents and prime ministers of Belantica for the last 40 years. However, with the appointment of the Queen-Regnant, Ms. Karen Pearson, many felt it was time to hand over the torch to something new that would create a lasting impression. That's when the best of the best of the Concord division of Marin Motors decided to take on the contract, to design the new state car that is meant to serve Pearson in her regal duties wherever she may go, and for the most part, it keeps the same look as the standard Series 65 limousine they offer.
Although the outside may be the same as it's ritzy civilian counterpart, the Regal 65 is an entirely different vehicle. Under the hood is a special purpose V12 diesel engine that is designed to propel the 5 ton beast from 0 to 60 in about 8 seconds and hit an impressive 126 MPH. Now, the extra weight it's carrying isn't easily seen (unless you notice the slightly wider stance of the Regal 65 compared to the Series 65), since the armor plating and think glass has been concealed nicely to keep the car's graceful look. From what information MaMoCo was allowed to release, the vehicle is more or less "a very luxurious and fast APC", with defenses for not only small arms fire, but explosions alongside the road and biological/chemical attacks in order to protect the Regnant in case of such a situation. Other features include steel-belted wheels in order to continue moving when the tires are deflated or missing, air suspension that is self adjusting, storage for firearms, and other necessities including a compartment storing Pearson's blood type and plasma. Despite the weight and size, the vehicle is designed to be quite nimble in order to navigate tight spots, or to evade pursuants. The interior, according to MaMoCo, is dressed in a fine combination of dark brown and black leather, with the trim being carefully selected redwood that was obtained in a sustainable matter. In the back is all kinds of gadgets that a head of state would need, right down to a mini-fridge big enough for a couple bottle of fine champagne, and large seats that are like something out of a parlor. The front seat is just as comfortable, according to company representatives, since it is known that most of the time, it would be driven by the Regnant herself (which isn't normal for any leader, but word has it that she is a car-person).
As of now, only two have been built on a contract from the Belantic government, and the company is only allowed to build such vehicles for heads of state. It is expected that each vehicle carries a large pricetag, but many say it is worth it for what it has to do.
Nora-Fulser Unveils The "Phaeton" Concept Car
In the automotive world, Nora-Fulser has mostly been the sleepy underdog among all the manufacturers, barely making anything exciting or noteworthy. They usually make what most would not even take a second look at, a car that is just another turnpike gladiator in whatever part of the world it's in. But every now and then, they get up and they show us something that is quite remarkable in it's own ways and gets people's attention, through concepts that their dream teams been working on behind closed doors. That is what they did just now, showed us something that is amazing and different, but unknown if it will actually be hitting the streets anytime soon. Their latest brainchild is a modern take on an older style a vehicle, a phaeton, and coincidentally, the vehicle is called the "Phaeton".
First, what is a phaeton? It is a fairly larger luxury car with four doors, either a convertible roof or none at all, and a partition between the front and rear. These vehicle were popular among the wealthy, political elites, and military leader during the first half of the 20th century, commonly being used as either touring cars or as a parade vehicle to stand in and wave to crowds. The popularity of these died during the second half on the 20 century, and mostly have been replaced by limousines. But at Nora-Fulser, they want to revive this golden age, as they explained. Team leader Maria Santos said that, "What this concept is trying to do is to recapture the imagination and the glory of the 1930s through the 1950s, as evidenced through how we designed the inside and outside of the Phaeton." The large grille, swooping fenders, pinched rear end, and long hood have drawn inspiration from the great touring cars of that era, and given a modern touch to a classic design.
Currently, it is still a concept, but the company says that they have planned for it to be containing a massive 16 cylinder engine as the power plant, and a racing inspired chassis to give it a sporty ride. The main challenge with the design was to make sure that the vehicle itself was strong enough without a roof, since in the past, convertibles did not hold up well in crashes or when traveling at high speeds, where the frame would twist. However, N-F engineers said that the partition in the middle between the front and rear will act is a giant brace, which would make the vehicle more stable and safer in the event of an accident. Numbers haven't been released yet, however it is within reasonable belief that N-F is beginning to test these in to to see if such a vehicle could go to market without much trouble. They also said that if it gets off the ground, a regular hardtop sedan would be offered was well.
Either way, if it becomes a reality or not, the Phaeton is sure an interesting gem for a normally unnoticeable firm.
Other News About Other Things
Tensions rise between Cill Airne and Westeaxnaland
The Seven United having terror woes
Cult of Chin Chin establishes the Chin Chin State (CCSEO)
Internet fan sites apparently shipping Queen-Regnant Karen and Empress Ymira of Rezua for unknown reasons, despite both having other love interests
How to execute the perfect drift on any road
Why your cat is making too much noise