Author: tux_user

The motoring industry has never been as exciting as it is right now. The introduction of electric cars has and will forever change the motoring industry. Tesla’s pioneering leaps in motoring design and manufacturing, have meant many other companies have followed. Companies such as Volkswagen are now seriously looking into the possibility of having their modern vehicles predominantly electric. In this article, we are going to look at how the tech in and around your vehicle is also going to progress, covering mainly early stage concepts of what we can expect to come.

Electric Wing Mirrors

It is one of the most iconic features of every car on the road. From your earliest days of driving, you are taught to use them religiously. However as the future grabs hold of the motoring industry, it is thought that we may see an end to this age-old feature. As they should now be called “E-Mirrors” use small cameras on the outside of the vehicle that produces a similar view to standard mirrors. Most recent concept cars suggest the use of multiple cameras all around the vehicle; creating a 360-degree view – therefore eliminating any of those pesky blind spots you had to deal with before.

Gesture Control

Making your dashboard ‘smarter’ is something that car manufacturers have attempted on several occasions over the past few years. However, none have come close to BMW’s AirTouch intelligent control, the main control button is located on the left side of the steering wheel. The ability to perform gestured movements that result in changes on the display mean that you can pay more attention to the road. The AirTouch system also aims at reducing the steps needed to make changes or navigate the dashboard.

Quick Charging

One of the main quarrels that people had with electric cars is the fact that they require a considerable amount of time between uses to charge. In fact, that is one of the deciding factors that has long put people off switching to electric. Therefore it only seems right that future car manufacturers would aim to reduce charge time and increase range significantly. One company that is currently pioneering advancement in that area is Volkswagen. Their new  BUDD-e minivan concept uses their new Modular Electric Drive Kit. Claims coming from Volkswagen points towards it having a 332-mile range and 80% charge in just 15 minutes which far surpasses anything our current tech can offer and it is safe to say would be an incredibly appealing factor for people thinking of switching.

It’s got you covered

As smart technology grows, it looks to be integrating with your car as well. Some amazing concepts have been drawn up, as you can imagine with the endless possibilities of smart technology, there are endless imaginative uses that you could relate to your vehicle. For example unlocking your car when you walk out of the house with your keys or integrating map technology with your calendar to ensure that you leave home at a time to avoid large amounts of traffic.

Automotive Driving

Obviously one of the biggest, most controversial and exciting areas of improvement is the automated driving technology. Tesla has pioneered and commercialised this with their Latest Model S, however, most will agree that there still needs to be more testing and confidence, with some recent incidents indicating that the automatic controls are not always on point.

Armytrix are the undisputed best producers of high-end performance exhaust systems in the automotive aftermarket industry. So, if you’re looking to invest in a valvetronic exhaust system for your car, these bad boys are the ones you need – compact, agile and deadly!

These aren’t like any other exhaust system, the fine craftsmanship with the ultra smooth flow and attention to detail, ensures new standards are set and the boundaries are continuously redefined. Armytrix exhausts aren’t just for show, they enhance your driving experience in a way that will radically change the way you drive for years to come.

The History

Armytrix was founded by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, combined with the knowledge of German and Japanese engineers, it has grown to become the beacon of revolutionary design and masterful manufacturing that continues to be unrivalled in every aspect.

The Quality

The valvetronic systems will push your high performance vehicle to boundaries it could never reach on it’s own, by exuding immense power and allowing the driver to dominate the roads.

Their signature acoustics can be attributed to the aerospace titanium and T304 stainless steel and the complex internal chamber designs. The passion, the expertise and the quality behind them is evident the moment you lay your eyes on one. And once you have one, you’ll never want to go back!

The Experience

To complete your driving experience, Armytrix have developed a smartphone app to close the gap between you and your vehicle. With a comprehensive index, you are able to personalise your driving experience and keep real time track of categories which matter the most to you.

The mission is simple; to create higher standards and continue to push the limits of weaponised systems, so strap yourself in and put your foot to the floor!

Japan has just introduced a game changing law, that allows cameras to replaces the conventional external rear view mirror.

Since most of us can all probably remember, cars have always had external rear view mirrors. They in fact date all the way back to 1909, when a woman Dorothy Levitt, the first British woman racing driver, made it become a staple safety feature when she suggested it in her book The Woman and the Car. Only in 1978 did it become mandatory by law to have at least one external mirror.

Many concept cars such as BMW i8 Spyder (on the right) or the Open Vision GT (left) have ditched the external mirrors for a more sleek and streamlined appearance, but now Japan has changed the game and approved a law allowing rear view mirrors to be replaced by rear-facing cameras.

But are they better than mirrors?

In essence, cameras are a great idea. They don’t require much space, they don’t need to hang off the side of the car – thereby reducing drag, wind noise and potentially saving you money.

Rear view mirrors are susceptible to damage, so, with all the technology that goes into them nowadays, replacing one could cost you up to £500. But also depending on where the monitor is fitted, it could also reduce the amount of time a driver’s eyes are off the road.

Here are some more advantages of rear view cameras;

• Wider field vision – eliminating blind spots
• Potential 360 degree visibility
• Cameras can focus where you please
• Can aid in parking and maneuvering into tight spaces.

However, there are disadvantages that come with having rear view cameras. For one, how clear will the camera be when it’s raining? And other downsides such as;

• The lense need to stay clean and dirt free so you can see
• Electrical problems during a journey can leave you with no rearward visibility
• Going digital will mean some seriously pricey repairs

At the moment Japan is the currently the only country to have introduced this new law, so it may take a long time until we begin to see this new system on the road. If the technology improves and can be proven to be reliable and safe then we could see this change in the UK at some point in the future. But unfortunately not any time soon. Nevertheless, the idea is pretty awesome.

Here at TUX Auto staying up to date with the latest technology is something that is truly important to us. With that principle in mind, we strive to improve our operations wherever we see fit, to both benefit our trusted and loyal dealers and then on to the eventual buyers and users of the wheels themselves. One of those areas is product availability and fitment –  undoubtedly an important area.

Infinite Bolt Patterns Solved

The volume of car manufacturers and car models are ever increasing, the size of wheels can change on each and every model as well as the bolt patterns meaning that every time a unique car model is released, we have to custom make a set of wheels to ensure compatibility with the car’s new mechanics. Providing diverse compatibility for so many variations in such a developing market is beneficial for retailers and consumers.

Now armed with our with brand new cutting edge drilling machine (no pun intended), we are able to provide our dealers with a supply of blank wheels suitable for 99% of vehicles. We are able to take, for example, a standard setup of our Riviera wheels which has by standard a 5 bolt central layout and modify the bolt patterns to match newer models or more importantly a more comprehensive range of car models.

Uniqueness Makes For Possibilities

This is a benefit that is fairly unique to us, as only a select number of suppliers can provide the same service to their dealers. Therefore, as well as ourselves, we are also benefiting our dealers with bigger opportunities. You can be safely assured that the new wheels being fitted your vehicle are in safe hands and will come delivered with the supreme quality that we at TUX Auto demand.

We, as manufacturers, have paid close attention to the developing market. Furthermore, the fact is that the vast majority of people want custom modifications to their cars, (in this case rims). However, they often meet an old age problem of having what many would class as a “standard” car. This problem you could say originated from custom car manufacturers designing for the top 10% of cars, for example, Audi’s, Mercedes and BMW, at least premium car mod manufacturers.

However, this technology has allowed our premium designed wheels to fit on your “standard” car and for us, that is the pinnacle of our development going forward, although providing custom wheels for a premium vehicle is something we are proud of and is the pinnacle of our company, we now believe that making our range of excellent wheels compatible with a vaster range of vehicles is paramount for future progression and improvement of our operations.

Custom exhaust systems can really take your automotive experience to the next level! A bold claim, but one we’re sure will change what you thought was possible in terms of your car’s performance. We ain’t kidding either. Turn your standard factory release into a pulse-quickening, adrenaline fuelled head turner!
Whether you chose your exhausts for the improved acoustics, or even if you choose a new exhaust system to improve performance and efficiency or just fancy a style change, Armytrix have got you covered.

Purpose Built and Full of Tech

Armytrix is a purpose built and expertly developed exhaust system, designed to add a variety of custom options to both the exhaust system aesthetics and the performance of your car.

Supporting all range of vehicle makes and manufacturers and support the latest Valvetronic technology used in some of the latest BMW cars. Armytrix features some of the latest technological advancements too – one of the most enterprising features that piques most people’s interests is the compatibility with smartphones to control and monitor the exhaust performance and settings.

Available on iOS and Android the app covers a score of features including data logs and real-time performance analysis, allowing the user a fully immersive control experience, and has the added benefit of quickly identifying any problems or irregularities within the system.

Drive Your Way

Furthermore, the app also boasts a variety of settings that mean you change and tinker with sound levels and vital mode settings. Essentially the App allows you to drive in your own unique style and way.

If you are out in the open road you can change settings to increase noise! And even the very tone of the thrum of the exhaust!

And for the more conscientious driver who might be driving in a residential area or after nightfall, you can dampen down the noise levels.

It’s this ‘next gen’ driving that really boosts Armytrix’s appeal and places them well ahead of their competition.
If you’re looking for a modern, well-built exhaust system from a trusted name, Armytrix fits the bill and then some.
The App capability alone puts them amongst the very top end of the commercially available exhaust systems on the market.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed – The largest motoring garden party in the world…

It brings together an impossibly heady mix of cars and once again, despite the weather, the Goodwood Festival of Speed proved to be another huge success.

Thousands of car enthusiasts poured into the annual event to see the spectacular round-up of rally cars, hot hatches, 4x4s, supercars, F1 cars and numerous motorsport heroes from all over the world.

The festival, which is held at the Goodwood Estate near Chichester, was nothing but full on, non-stop motoring action from start to finish. It showcased some incredible brand new cars as well as seeing old cars making some noise and coming alive.

Cars raced on the famous Goodwood FoS hill climb and the spectators wandered around the numerous exhibits.

Nobody could’ve predicted that a Subaru Hatchback could ever be faster than a McLaren P1 LM but that’s exactly what happened at the Goodwood Festival.

The theme this year was ‘Full Throttle – the Endless Pursuit of Power’, with BMW’s headlining the event to celebrate their hundredth anniversary as a manufacturer.

Highlights From The Festival…

Whether you missed the event this year, or want to relive it… Here is a time lapse of the event.

What about the 2016 Goodwood Revival?

This historic on-track motorsport event, is a step back into the post-war era when the circuit was an active race venue. The Goodwood Revival will take place from 9-11th of September 2016 at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex.

It is the ideal setting to celebrate special occasions with family and friends, whilst providing an epic backdrop. If you’re into cars, old, bold and new. The Goodwood Revival weekend is a fantastic festival.

Remember to book your tickets in advance, you will not be disappointed!

According to Apple, CarPlay is the ultimate co-pilot. A smarter and a safer way to use your iPhone in the car. It takes everything want to do with your iPhone and puts them into your car’s built-in display. Sounds pretty amazing, right?

Functionality with CarPlay is a breeze and, alongside the soon-to-be-released new operating system iOS 10, it should, in theory, bring greater functionality. Making your ability to get directions, make calls, listen to music, send and receive messages easier whilst you, keep most of your focus where it should be… on the road.

Though by now you’re probably curious about what it actually does or what’s so special about it? Well, let us tell you…

Firstly, what is CarPlay?

The first thing you need to know about CarPlay is that it’s not an in-car system running on iOS. It’s a connectivity solution that uses the familiar iOS interface in the car’s infotainment system display, allowing you to select apps on screen or with your voice.

Once you plug your iPhone in a compatible car using a lightning cable it instantly brings up the user interface on the in-car screen.

Introducing The New Features…

CarPlay has been around for a while now, but here are a few the newest features expected to be released alongside iOS 10.

Apple Maps

With the new update, Apple Maps will now feature turn-by-turn navigation instructions, also anticipating traffic conditions and providing an ETA – like many navigation systems already available.

Siri

The well-known voice controlled assistant, Siri, will also be a new feature on CarPlay. It will allow you to find contact numbers, listen to voicemails and will even read your messages then  allow you to dictate responses, all hands-free or with less hassle.

With Siri, you’ll also be able to be access to iTunes or even third party apps like Spotify etc.

Aftermarket Solutions

If you’re not in a rush to replace your car anytime soon, you can still get your hands on CarPlay from companies such as Alpine, JBL, JVC, Kenwood and Pioneer which offer affordable ways to add CarPlay to your Car. Prices for these systems can range from £170 – £1,000.

Is My iPhone Compatible?

Only iPhone 5 and newer can run CarPlay. This includes the latest iPhone SE, 6S and 6S Plus. Unfortunately, iPads are not compatible with CarPlay functions.

Which Cars Support CarPlay?

The system is now available in over 100 different – 2016 onwards – vehicles. Including, Audi Q2, Ford Fiesta (2017), VW Golf (2016) and much more. For the full list of available models that support CarPlay click here.

Image Source: Apple.com

From supercars to saloons here are some of the highly anticipated cars we should expect to see in 2016.

Bentley Bentayga

After multiple attempts at creating an SUV, it’s good to see that the production for the fourth model in the Bentley SUV range, design wise, looks considerably better.

Using 600bhp twin-turbocharged W12 which propels all two and a half tonnes of Crewe’s finest to a top speed of 187mph. The car is expected to be available with Diesel and Hybrid power plants at some point in the future. Like most things wearing a Bentley badge, they don’t come cheap, at £160,000 it’s one of the most expensive SUVs ever.

Range Rover Evoque Convertible

We’ve had coupe-SUVs and performance SUV’s, so surely a convertible SUV was bound to be the next natural step?

The Range Rover Evoque Convertible is the world’s first luxurious convertible SUV, something that could prove to be the next big thing in the car industry. This brand new style required some major manufacturing changes. From a simple fabric canopy to a full-length metal folding top. This four wheel drive naturally is 277 kg heavier and slower than the standard model.

Despite its target market, it still possesses it’s off-road abilities. For this advanced model, you can expect to pay a whopping £47,500.

Alfa Romeo Giulia

The name will roll off your tongue like a good bottle of wine, it’s a stylish, rear-wheel drive saloon with a choice of four engines available from launch. In a market that demands prestige and performance in equal measure, this Giulia is well equipped, beautifully designed and, of course,  attractively priced.

Built to rival their German competitors and forming part of an ambitious growth strategy that will also see an SUV in the coming years. You should expect prices to start between £27,000 and £29,000.

Audi Q2

The newest and smallest member of the Q family is an aim at a younger target market. They’ve ditched the old styling and made it chunkier, funkier and more customisable than any other Audi out there, including a bright choice of colour palette.

As usual, the cabin is upmarket, however, you can expect the running costs on this model to be relatively low, powered by the usual 2.0 TDI diesel 1.4 TFSI petrol units. Set to be on sale in August at around £22,000.

As for the tech, on this 5 seater, the kit list will be a full digital Virtual Cockpit instrument display, LED and ambient lighting, plus adaptive damping and automatic city braking.

Aston Martin DB11

Aston’s new DB sports car features a brand new bold design, nothing compared to the previous cars in the range as well as a brand new engine. The front end, you’ll find, is significantly more sculpted and muscular compared with its 13-year-old precedent.

A two-turbocharged 5.2 litre V12 lies under the bonnet with an impressive 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 200mph. To add to this brand new redesigned version, you’ll find a new wheel design which complements this refreshed look perfectly.

Prices for this beauty start from £154,900.

BMW M2 Coupe

The newest addition to the BMW M range not only is the smallest in the M family but also one of the most engaging rear-wheel-drive models in the world. A combination of sporting prowess and a classic rear wheel drive.

This beast has some clever engineering – including an active rear differential, M-specific stability control and adaptable sports suspension. Not to mention the dual-clutch auto which will allow you to switch gears like never before. With a top speed of 155 mph, this machine will get you from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds.

Priced at £44,070.

Get Ready to Make Some Noise!

Here at TUX Auto we’re rev’d to bring you the latest and greatest addition to the UK automotive scene! Get your petrol heads together and make some real noise with Armytrix exhaust, distributed solely in the United Kingdom by us, TUX Auto!

In the world of automotive customisation, where every gear head is looking to elevate their performance from mediocre to exceptional. Armytrix, the creators of the superior, high-end, Valvetronic exhaust systems, who are second to none, will challenge everything you thought you knew about performance driving.

Their sophisticated systems are truly powerful, with supreme sound and versatility. Fostered by a culture of perseverance and innovation which makes them, undisputedly, the best producers in the aftermarket industry.

What makes Armytrix the best?

Hear it roar for yourself…

If those few seconds of pure, unadulterated growling wasn’t enough to make you fall in love with Armytrix, then check this out! They are designed, developed, and manufactured using aerospace titanium and T304 stainless steel systems, which are tested repeatedly to eliminate all faults to ensure you get the best performing exhaust possible!

On top of that, they combine the expertise of both German and Japanese engineers utilising the very latest technology, giving you non-stop, showstopping roaring when and wherever you want, guaranteed to turn heads your way.

Armytrix don’t just create exhausts, they create breathtaking experiences – which is why TUX Auto are proud to be the sole UK distributors of this sophisticated machine, built to test the boundaries.

Which cars will it fit?

Armytrix exhausts are entirely custom built to fit your specifications. We use the very latest technology to 3D scan your vehicle to create systems with maximum compatibility.

It’s available in Stainless Steel or Super Lightweight Titanium and with Titanium, Matt Black or Chrome tips.

The Armytrix App & Remote

The Armytrix muffler system has valves which can be controlled to be loud or quiet using the wireless remote or by downloading the app (available on both Android and iOS operating systems). With your designated device you’ll be able to precisely gauge the performance of your vehicle instantly, at any given time.

The remote and app come with three main functions:

• ON a raw and unfiltered soundtrack
• OFF will quieten things down on late nights or early mornings.
• AUTO is the best of both worlds, increases in decibels at a higher rpm or tones it down at civilised speeds.

Welcome to TUX. With us you can tailor your complete styling package. Whether it be a VW T5 or a Range Rover Vogue, it doesn’t matter. We take the same care and consideration with any vehicle to ensure the customer gets the highest quality outcome possible.

We are developing this new web-space to showcase exactly how good our products are. The quality and finish of our creations speaks for itself, this is why we are comfortable giving guarantees and warranties with our entire range. The new site couldn’t be simpler to use, we have designed the site to be compatible with a range of platforms including: desktops, laptops and mobile devices.

For the last 3 years we have been scouring the globe for the best manufacturing plants that are able to make components for the creations our talented designers come up with.

As well as custom builds we also have 4 extensive ranges of Alloy Wheels:

Riviera – The range of Riviera wheels has been created to enhance the existing elegance and style of luxury automobiles while adding a sense of individuality and the owner’s desire for something unique. They create a feeling without making a statement.

Stuttgart – Stuttgart wheels are aimed at the prolific car modifiers; at trend-setters and innovators, those who stand apart from the crowd and are proud of it. Stuttgart wheels are for those who have something different to say.

Klutch – Klutch wheels make a bold statement; only for the hardcore. These Euro-tuning inspired wheels are intended for the lowest, the loudest, the quickest and the most dedicated modifier. A range of styles and finishes set Klutch aside from the mainstream.

Concept One – The Concept One range of wheels has been designed and developed with a nod toward the styling cues of OEM wheels but with a harder edge, taking automotive manufacturer’s ideas and blending them with a little aftermarket attitude.

Next year is going to be very big for us, in early 2016 we will be launching the exclusive TUX Range of alloy wheels, each wheel in the Tux range has been designed for a specific make or model of car, giving it the OEM style with a custom flare.

If you’re in the area, why not visit our showroom in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire for friendly advice and great customer service.

Keep your eyes peeled for regular automotive and lifestyle updates.