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Where to Find the Best Wine and Spirit Shops in Sydney

Where to Find the Best Wine and Spirit Shops in Sydney

Most people enjoy a glass or two of delicious wine, fine cognac or quality whiskey. A carefully selected vintage elevates any meal, and there’s certainly no better way to unwind after an eventful day. However, lovers of fine drinks sometimes have trouble finding a premium quality product. Not every drink is made equal, and while there’s plenty of amazing producers, there’s also a lot of mediocre or poor wines and spirits on the market. The key to finding your ideal…

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Art & Culture Lifestyle

Stampede of Sound: To Support Space for Giants

Stampede of Sound: To Support Space for Giants

Stampede of Sound, set for November 2nd at the Brooklyn Bowl in NYC is an extravagant philanthropic party and concert, which will be supporting the incredible work of Space for Giants.  With proceeds going to fund the organization’s vital work in protecting African elephants and their natural landscapes. The event, which among its many highlights, features a performance by Nile Rodgers that was organized by Space for Giants’s Creative and Philanthropic Director, Lexi Bowes-Lyon along with Ashley Wyndham.  The exclusive…

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Tech Watches

MB&F’s nautically inspired Horological Innovation

Swiss watch brand Maximilian Büsser and Friends, also known as MB&F, teamed up with Swiss high-end clock manufacturer L’Epée 1839 to create yet another horological masterpiece.  The result of this collaboration, which marks their seventh partnership together, is the new Octopod desk clock (35,000CHF).  MB&F’s latest innovation was inspired by key aspects of an octopus such as its eight integrated legs as well as a spherical “head” that harbors its intricate clockwork complications and “face” displaying the time of day. This nautically inspired timepiece shelters a manual wound movement…

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Epicure

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

World-renowned, 3-star Michelin Chef Heinz Beck made his Dubai debut with Social, a contemporary restaurant featuring Italian cuisine, located inside the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. While Heinz Beck was born in Germany, Italy was where his unique culinary talent was nurtured and flourished. His tenure in Italy (Rome, specifically) was where Beck built his stellar reputation. Under his supervision, Beck guided La Pergola, the fine dining establishment, to it’s 3 Michelin stars as well as international fame, firmly establishing…

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Yachts

Benetti’s M/Y Seasense set to debut at the Monaco Yacht Show

Benetti’s M/Y Seasense set to debut at the Monaco Yacht Show

Set for debut at this year’s highly anticipated Monaco Yacht Show (September 27 to 30) is the awe inspiring Seasense.  Custom built by Benetti and launched earlier this year, Seasense features a wide array of unique features; which include an indoor/outdoor veranda located on the maindeck, as well as most notably the all new Benetti Beach Concept.  The interior decor of Seasense is characterized by a plush use of elegant colour seamlessly blended with over one hundred luxurious materials. The 67-meter vessel was…

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Auto

The New Lucid Air All-Electric Sedan

The luxury mobility company, Lucid Motors, is conceptualizing the car of the future to reawaken a new era of the automotive world.  Headquartered in Menlo Park, California, the team at Lucid integrates innovative engineering, cutting-edge design, and groundbreaking technology to actualize an entirely new class of luxury vehicle: the Lucid Air all-electric sedan.  The Lucid Air boasts autonomous-ready Air, which will be capable of reaching up to 400 miles of range and hitting 60 mph in just under 2.5 seconds. Lucid is currently…

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Auto

Mercedes-AMG Unveils The $2.5M Project ONE Hyper-car

Mercedes-AMG Unveils The $2.5M Project ONE Hyper-car

One of this years most highly anticipated hyper-cars has just been unveiled by Mercedes-AMG.  Dubbed the Project ONE, this new offering provides Formula one style driving and performance in a striking new design that is modern yet reminiscent of the acclaimed CLK GTR. Currently celebrating it’s world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, where the Project-One stands as a highlight and honest pinnacle of German engineering, with it’s fuel efficient V6 combined with cutting edge hybrid technology…

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Aviation

Airbus’s High-Speed Helicopter Project Racer

Airbus is reshaping the concept of the conventional helicopter to even greater heights.  The helicopter has long been full of advantages compared to the traditional airplane, such as having an easy take-off from the smallest of points.  The only disadvantage of the helicopter was that they lacked speed.  This flaw lead Airbus to go against conventional methods to design and develop the new high-speed helicopter project Racer, which was unveiled this summer at the Paris Air Show.  Airbus in collaboration with the…

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Auto

The All New Bentley Continental GT

British Motoring Marque, Bentley, has just announced a full range of details on one of the company’s most highly anticipated vehicles, the all new Continental GT.  The Quintessential Grand Tourer, is given a breath of fresh air in its third-generation platform.  Having been designed, engineered, and handcrafted in Britain, the Continental GT’s third generation is set to be the best yet, combining all the very best of heritage, performance, technology, and handcrafted bespoke luxury set to dominate it’s marketplace. “Bentley…

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Fashion Philanthropy Women's Style

Milan Fashion Week: Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace are Auctioning Tickets for Charity

With Milan Fashion Week Just Around The Corner; it appears to be a pleasant surprise that philanthropic causes are in the air.  Italian Design Houses such as Versace have followed with a charitable campaign, just after Christian Dior announced the #DiorLoveChain in support of the WE Charity. Up until September 18th & 19th some of Milan’s most well regarded designers including Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace have all collaborated to auction tickets to their upcoming shows during their Women’s S/S…

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Where to Find the Best Wine and Spirit Shops in Sydney

Most people enjoy a glass or two of delicious wine, fine cognac or quality whiskey. A carefully selected vintage elevates any meal, and there’s certainly no better way to unwind after an eventful day. However, lovers of fine drinks sometimes have trouble finding a premium quality product. Not every drink is made equal, and while there’s plenty of amazing producers, there’s also a lot of mediocre or poor wines and spirits on the market. The key to finding your ideal bottle is, of course, a matter of trial and error. That’s why it’s crucial to know where to look. Buying at an exclusive shop that only carries premium alcoholic beverages ups your chances of finding something you will like, especially if the employees are knowledgeable and helpful. Let’s take a look at some of the best places to go looking for wine and spirits in Sydney.

Where to Find the Best Wine and Spirit Shops in Sydney - Malte Wingen

Red Bottle

Red Bottle has several stores in different locations, among them one of the best-equipped bottle shops in Sydney CBD. They specialize in premium quality drinks, so there are no worries you’ll end up with anything less than an exceptional beverage after a visit to one of their stores. They also have a pretty impressive range of international wines and spirits; whatever your preferences are, the chances are Red Bottle have the drink you want. If you know what you like and don’t feel like going to the actual store, they also deliver.

World of Whisky

If you’re a whisky connoisseur (or would like to become one), World of Whisky is the place for you. Those who are only just starting to delve into the complex world of whisky, will have plenty of opportunities to learn and try out some new tastes, while experienced aficionados can find something to cater to their specific taste.  The store carries expensive, premium, and some hard-to-find bottles. If you’d like a taste, book yourself for a tasting and see what they’re all about.

Where to Find the Best Wine and Spirit Shops in Sydney - Tim Wright

The Drink Hive

The Drink Hive is quite an interesting place, especially if you would like to try something local. While they offer a pretty great selection of wines, spirits and beers, the best bottles on offer here are the crème de la crème the local producers have to offer. Not only are their wines delicious, they are also sustainable. Their service is out of this world, and all the employees are wells of information, without being pushy.

Amato’s Liquor Mart

Amato’s might seem like a tiny, not very impressive store from the outside, but the inside is just breathtaking for any true wine aficionado. If you’re interested in some truly rare and unusual finds, Amato’s is the place for you. Their international selection is out of this world: all of the major wine producing countries are represented, and most of them have an entire shelf to themselves. Their whisky selection is almost as impressive.

Where to Find the Best Wine and Spirit Shops in Sydney - Marco Mornati

Prince Wine Store

Prince Wine Store has stores in multiple locations, as well as a pretty good online shop. Their selection is exclusive and definitely on the pricier side, though, you will be paying for top notch quality. If you often feel peckish when you’re trying out wine, and would love to have a gourmet meal or at least some snacks with your bottle, you’ll be happy to hear that an attached bar is in plans for the Sydney shop. They even offer wine education courses, and if that’s not the coolest hobby on the planet, we don’t know what is.

A glass of a top-quality drink is one of the finest pleasures life has to offer, and one that definitely deserves some splurging. Next time you’re looking for an exquisite drink, visit one of our recommendations for a truly exquisite experience.

Stampede of Sound: To Support Space for Giants

Stampede of Sound, set for November 2nd at the Brooklyn Bowl in NYC is an extravagant philanthropic party and concert, which will be supporting the incredible work of Space for Giants.  With proceeds going to fund the organization’s vital work in protecting African elephants and their natural landscapes.

The event, which among its many highlights, features a performance by Nile Rodgers that was organized by Space for Giants’s Creative and Philanthropic Director, Lexi Bowes-Lyon along with Ashley Wyndham.  The exclusive eight hundred person event is set to be attended by over one hundred celebrities, including both influencers as well as philanthropists.  As we get closer to the event, there will also be announcements of additional high-profile artists that will be performing at Stampede of Sound.

Set to take place before the multiple music acts, is a dinner and VIP bowling competition for those who decide to sponsor a lane.  In addition, there will be both pre & post show auctions to benefit Space for Giants.  The main auction items are made up of miniature 3D printed elephants designed by several renowned NYC artists.  For the highly anticipated VIP auction, there will be a wide range of luxurious items and experiences consisting of a Helicopter charter from Blade, Porcelains donated from Lladro, ceramics from Italy’s Amalfi Coast, original images by David Yarrow & Hiroshi Sugimoto, as well as a photo from the personal collection of Patrick McMullan.

For those of you who would like to opt for a VIP table with nine of your closest friends, you will gain access to the pre-event cocktail party and dinner, which includes complimentary drinks throughout the night; in addition to a meet and greet with the musicians and the opportunity to partake in the bowling competition.

To purchase tickets to Stampede of Sound, please visit:  TicketFly.com

Image by:  Marc Millman

MB&F’s nautically inspired Horological Innovation

Swiss watch brand Maximilian Büsser and Friends, also known as MB&F, teamed up with Swiss high-end clock manufacturer L’Epée 1839 to create yet another horological masterpiece.  The result of this collaboration, which marks their seventh partnership together, is the new Octopod desk clock (35,000CHF).  MB&F’s latest innovation was inspired by key aspects of an octopus such as its eight integrated legs as well as a spherical “head” that harbors its intricate clockwork complications and “face” displaying the time of day.

This nautically inspired timepiece shelters a manual wound movement that extends an 8-day power reserve from only a single barrel running at 18,000 vibrations per hour.  Evocative of the Ulysse Nardin Freak, the escapement of the Octopod braces onto the minute hand; headlining an extremely unique feature to the piece.

The Octopod is actually not the first sea inspired innovation from Max Büsser’s firm that centralizes on oceanic life, but the second consecutive timepiece they have produced.  MB&F released the acclaimed HM7 Aquapod, a wrist watch sporting a jellyfish-inspired figuration and external diver’s-style bezel, as their first ever nautically influenced timepiece.

The unique nautical design of the Octopod does not merely conclude at its cephalopod contour.  The head of the desk clock relates to the device that holds the ship’s gyroscope in place.  This bears a similar resemblance to how the ship’s chronometers were originally like in the past, which acquiesces them to concatenate in benefit of the ship’s movement.

MB&F’s new aquatic desk clock received its transparent bubble evoking recollection of the bathysphere from James Cameron’s The Abyss; an 1989 American science fiction film.  Because the Swiss watch brand mainly aimed their attention on robots and outer space for inspiration on their timepieces, MB&F are changing their heading and focusing on adapting a far more expansive array of nautically inspired timepieces in the years to come.

The octopod desk clock will be in a limited production of only 150 examples, which include 50 with legs in palladium, 50 in blue, and 50 in black PVD.

MOVEMENT & SPECIFICATIONS

For more information about the Octopod:  MBandF.com

Photos provided by MB&F

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

World-renowned, 3-star Michelin Chef Heinz Beck made his Dubai debut with Social, a contemporary restaurant featuring Italian cuisine, located inside the prestigious Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah. While Heinz Beck was born in Germany, Italy was where his unique culinary talent was nurtured and flourished.

His tenure in Italy (Rome, specifically) was where Beck built his stellar reputation. Under his supervision, Beck guided La Pergola, the fine dining establishment, to it’s 3 Michelin stars as well as international fame, firmly establishing this German-born culinary master as an authority on Mediterranean cuisine.

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

Now widely regarded as one of the masters of gastronomy, having won numerous gastronomy awards throughout his enviable career, Beck continues his pursuit and taste for adventure. His sizeable portfolio of restaurants stretches his gastronomical footprints, encompassing restaurants in London, New York, and naturally, Dubai.

Heinz Beck’s 20 years of culinary experience is brought to bear at Social, a beautiful representation of artfully curated Italian dishes. A contemporary Italian restaurant unlike any other, Social by Heinz Beck features inviting design elements that offer a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. The magnificent views of both Dubai and the Arabian Gulf make Social the ideal setting for everyday dining and moments of celebratory occasion. Social is classic luxury; stylish and sophisticated with Beck’s modern twist, a mantra that extends from the decor right through to its menu.

Innovative and exciting, Social’s dishes maintain the utmost attention to detail and respect for ingredients. Abiding by the “Golden Rule” of cooking — do what you do with art and passion — Beck endeavors to use the finest ingredients to produce highly innovative flavors.

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

“Citrus marinated Amberjack on avocado cream”

Expect to find traditional Italian dishes such as tiramisu and tortellini on Social’s menu. But the menu is far from straightforward. Beck’s unique interpretation of the “Modern” kitchen is manifested on Social’s menu. His innovative pioneering techniques display the rich heritage of the Mediterranean region through appealing dishes.

His signature fagotelli is a clever play on the Italian staple carbonara. The rich mix of egg yolk, Parmesan, and pecorino cheese are enveloped in pillowy pockets of dough. Tossed into a pan and cooked with zucchini, pancetta, butter, and white wine, the fagotelli is an intriguing dish bursting with distinct aroma and flavor.

Starters like the grilled tuna with aubergine, pine nuts & mint, and the lobster medallion with avocado and tomatoes, set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Beef tenderloin with bell pepper and potato gratin, the black cod with borlotti beans and parsley snow, as well as other mains are all elegant dishes and a pleasure to eat.

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

“Fagottelli Carbonara”

Diners can also relish Social’s dessert menu, light yet particularly satisfying. The Raspberry 1.1 is perfection in quality, taste and presentation. Beck’s tiramisu is an outstanding interpretation of the classic Italian staple; uncomplicated, yet packed with inspired flavor.

Beck’s dishes are elaborate works of art. Every aspect of the plate is perfectly executed and considered. Plates are decorated with herbs, flowers, and delicacies, transforming simple ingredients into exceedingly evocative dishes.

Service is as impeccable as the menu. The staff are friendly and attentive. Their knowledge of the dishes on the menu can guide you through an unforgettable evening if you are unsure of where to start. They are present without being intrusive and communicate with care and consideration.

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

“Duck tortellini with pea cream, fava beans, artichokes and black truffle”

A maestro of the modern kitchen, anyone who ventures into Social will find something delightful in Beck’s expansive yet succinct menu.

Social by Heinz Beck also features a special culinary ladies’ night every Wednesday. Experience an innovative three-course set menu promising a vibrant evening. Each selected dish is specially curated to fully maximize on the Mediterranean region from which Beck has garnered his success. The evening includes two complimentary glasses of grape or sparkling.

Heinz Beck is truly a polyhedric genius of our time. As Beck says: “My aim for Social is to offer diners fresh, contemporary cuisine in an uncomplicated and welcoming setting.”

Social by Heinz Beck: A Modern Gastronomical Wonder

“Raspberry 1.1”

His cuisine is elaborate yet emotional. Social’s rather non avant-garde approach surprises and delights your palate with unique and luxurious flavors. A visit to Social will leave you with a desire to return.

As one of the best Italian restaurants in Dubai, one must book in advance in order to enjoy the experience that Beck brings to the dinner table. Visiting gourmands must make reservations as Social is only open for dinner, from 7 p.m. to 11:30 p.m, Monday to Saturday.

Benetti’s M/Y Seasense set to debut at the Monaco Yacht Show

Set for debut at this year’s highly anticipated Monaco Yacht Show (September 27 to 30) is the awe inspiring Seasense.  Custom built by Benetti and launched earlier this year, Seasense features a wide array of unique features; which include an indoor/outdoor veranda located on the maindeck, as well as most notably the all new Benetti Beach Concept.  The interior decor of Seasense is characterized by a plush use of elegant colour seamlessly blended with over one hundred luxurious materials.

The 67-meter vessel was just delivered to her owner in July.  Constructed at Benetti’s Livorno yard, Seasense is built from a traditional steel hull and aluminum superstructure.  Exterior design was completed by the famed Cor D. Rover; pioneering his definition of the “Benetti Beach Concept”.  Unique elements of design include high vertical windows and a 10 by 4 meter swimming pool located on the main-deck, that can be converted via a carbon fiber & teak plank cover into a basketball court.

A prominet design element aboard Seasense, is the following blend that makes up both interior and exterior living space.  As such, the main-deck provides guests with an indoor outdoor living space with a dinning area for a dozen, working as a bridge to connect the intimate TV Lounge to the opulent outdoor lounge through a pair of large sliding glass doors.  In addition, floor to ceiling windows provide a medium to captivating 360 degree views when at sea.

Moving forward from the TV Lounge is the reception lobby, which features a prominent grey Antartide Marble spiral staircase with unique lighting and blue wood accents.  On the right hand side is an oversized VIP stateroom; and further forward is the “owners’ apartment” offering expansive areas including a sitting area, two walk-in wardrobes, marble ensuite, and a custom 2.7 by 2.2 meter chandelier/sculpture specially commissioned by Seasense’s art collector owners.  An additionally, inherently unique feature of the yacht are three meter high ceilings throughout her interior.  Traveling down the grand stairwell from the lobby you will find four guest staterooms as well as a garage in the yacht’s centre, which houses a limo tender designed by Giorgio Cassetta.

Making our way to up the staircase of Seasense, we find a more formal salon along with the standard bridge and captain’s cabin located on the upper deck.  The formal salon is an area split into both a sitting area and small study.  Stepping out unto the aft outdoor area, we find a myriad array of sofas and sun loungers along with a dinning space for 12.  The sundeck is significant particularly into the relation of the yachts size.  Offering a fully equipped gym, casual living area, a fully equipped ‘American’ bar, and a wood burning pizza oven.

The plush interior of Seasense was designed and crafted by ‘Area’ in coordination with Benetti’s own in-house design team to create an interior that reflects the “sense of the sea.” Multiple blue design hues are abundant throughout the yacht’s interior spaces, which are capable of accommodating up to twelve guests in the utmost of style and luxury.  Four varieties of wood are noticeable throughout her staterooms in addition to unique blends of marble and carpet floors throughout.

Seasense has a maximum range of 5,000 nautical miles at a crushing speed of 12 knots powered by a pair of Caterpillar engines (1,380 kW each), which are capable of propelling the yacht to a top speed of 15.5 knots.

The New Lucid Air All-Electric Sedan

The luxury mobility company, Lucid Motors, is conceptualizing the car of the future to reawaken a new era of the automotive world.  Headquartered in Menlo Park, California, the team at Lucid integrates innovative engineering, cutting-edge design, and groundbreaking technology to actualize an entirely new class of luxury vehicle: the Lucid Air all-electric sedan.  The Lucid Air boasts autonomous-ready Air, which will be capable of reaching up to 400 miles of range and hitting 60 mph in just under 2.5 seconds.

Lucid is currently in the midst of developing products and services for the next level of experiential, on-demand, and sustainable luxury; this is demonstrated by the Lucid Air premium sedan, their first ever platform.  In pursuit of creating a revolutionary vehicle for the discerning customer, the Lucid team has provided extensive knowledge and ability from both the technology and automotive industries.  The Air is set to be manufactured in Casa Grande, Arizona, with deliveries beginning in 2019 and prices starting at $60,000 before federal and local tax credits.

Founded in 2007, Lucid, formerly known as Atieva, was originally a company that created EV battery systems for other manufacturers.  During that time, the company’s batteries logged over 20 million real-world miles to date.  In 2014, the company started to change things up and develop its own vehicle that is the epitome of elegance and the forefront of technological innovations.

The New Lucid Air All-Electric Sedan

The New Lucid Air All-Electric Sedan

The New Lucid Air All-Electric Sedan

The Base Lucid Air version’s specifications are as follows: LED multi-lens array headlights, over-the-air software updates, 10 advanced airbags, an aluminum roof, 19 inch wheels, 400 horse power (wheel-rear drive), a 240-mile range, essential autonomous driving hardware, four screens (three of which have interactive touch surfaces), a 10-speaker audio system, 12-way power front seats, and 5-seat configuration with a rear bench seat.

The first 255 customer cars will be Launch Edition cars, which will feature extensive autonomous driving hardware, an upgraded audio system, 21-inch Lucid-design wheels, Premium leather interior, 22-way adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, dynamic bolsters, and massage settings, foldable bench style rear seats with heating functionality, and unique colors and badging.  The launch edition also has a top speed of at least 155 mph, and utilizes a twin-motor configuration with all-wheel drive; going not-to-60 mph in under 2.5 seconds.  On August 16th, 2017, Lucid’s Launch Edition was also given a new exclusive colour when it participated in Monterey Car Week.  Pricing for the Lucid Air Launch Edition sedan can reach over $100,000.

Available options on the Lucid Air all-electric sedan include:

Lucid Motors is an independent company, having investments from around the world such as Venrock (USA), Mitsui (Japan), Tsing Capital (China) and many others.  The Lucid Air is currently focused on the US market, but is intended to be sold oversees in both Europe and China in the near future.  During the first twelve months of production, Lucid Motors expects to assemble 10,000 units.  And in 2022 they are anticipated to produce up to 60,000 units.

Reservations for the all-new Lucid Air all-electric sedan started at the Lucid Air launch event on December 15, 2016.  A base Lucid Air is reservable with a refundable deposit of $2,500.  While a Lucid Air Launch Edition can be reserved for a refundable deposit of $25,500, which it is limited to only the first 255 customer cars.  Lucid Motors does not disclose reservation numbers and reservations are available here.

Learn more at: lucidmotors.com

Mercedes-AMG Unveils The $2.5M Project ONE Hyper-car

One of this years most highly anticipated hyper-cars has just been unveiled by Mercedes-AMG.  Dubbed the Project ONE, this new offering provides Formula one style driving and performance in a striking new design that is modern yet reminiscent of the acclaimed CLK GTR.

Currently celebrating it’s world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, where the Project-One stands as a highlight and honest pinnacle of German engineering, with it’s fuel efficient V6 combined with cutting edge hybrid technology allowing for a 20-mile, all electric range.  Producing a zero to sixty time of just over 2.5 seconds, an engine producing 1,000 horsepower and a top speed of 217 miles per hour.  Mercedes aims to position their new offering to compete with the likes of the McLaren P1, Porsche 918, and Ferrari La Ferrari in entering the game of super sports hybrid hyper cars.

To see the Project-One in action, check out the below video, where you can glimpse into the intense performance of the vehicle as F1 champion Lewis Hamilton explores “The Future of Driving Performance” in this new short film from Mercedes-AMG.

Remarkable in regard to multiple facets of its engineering prowess, the Project ONE was developed in cooperation with the Mercedes AMG F1 team, who had also been involved in the development of the stunning 805hp four-door AMG GT Concept car that had been showcased during Monterey Car Week at the Quail.  With these new developments Mercedes if offering their audience a glimpse of what is to come in this new generation of futuristic vehicles.

Starting from the early days of automobiles, Mercedes Benz has continued to up-hold their reputation of blending the forefront of racing technology and cutting edge design.  This heritage is seen in the wide genre of the firm’s newest releases such as the Project ONE.

“Motorsport is not an end in itself for us. Faced with intense competition, we develop technologies from which our production vehicles also subsequently benefit. We are drawing on our experiences and successes from three constructors’ and drivers’ world championships to bring Formula 1 technology to the road for the first time: in Mercedes-AMG Project ONE,” said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Looking to the Project ONE’s exterior design we instantly notice the inspiration of past Daimler vehicles that have been incorporated in the cars inherently unique design.  Intricate lines and air intakes perfectly link the line between design and function increasing performance and a striking appearance.  Sculpted lines give way to the pushed forward cockpit in perfect vertical proportion to Project ONE’s intimidating rear end and oversized fender.

“The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is the hottest and coolest car we have ever designed. It combines our design philosophy of Sensual Purity with the performance of our Formula 1 racing cars and is the perfect embodiment of Performance Luxury,” said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG. “This hypercar’s extreme design marks a milestone in design – there are no lines, and the interior is stripped down to the essentials.”

Turning our attention to Project ONE’s interior layout we find a driver focused cockpit inspired by the idea that the vehicle will give the occupants supreme comfort, whether they are on a road along the Cote d’Azur or pacing the Nurburgring.  The Project ONE’s monocoque interior clearly reflects Mercedes’s “no nonsense ideology” with every interior component being beautifully minimalist yet completely essential and functional.  One supreme example of this ultimate driving machines functionality are the subtly divided two seats, which have been constructed as part of the car’s monocoque.  In turn this allows for only the back of the seat to be adjustable, to allow for this type of design Mercedes has made both the pedals and steering wheel versatile in length and positioning.

Unfortunately, if you are looking to purchase a Project ONE, you may very well be out of luck; as all 275 examples have been pre-sold out at a price rumored to be over 2.5M USD.

For more information on Mercedes-AMG, please visit:  www.mercedes-amg.com

Airbus’s High-Speed Helicopter Project Racer

Airbus is reshaping the concept of the conventional helicopter to even greater heights.  The helicopter has long been full of advantages compared to the traditional airplane, such as having an easy take-off from the smallest of points.  The only disadvantage of the helicopter was that they lacked speed.  This flaw lead Airbus to go against conventional methods to design and develop the new high-speed helicopter project Racer, which was unveiled this summer at the Paris Air Show.  Airbus in collaboration with the European-wide Clean Sky 2 program, have joined forces to build an extremely fast, high-speed helicopter that is scheduled to take flight by 2020.

Airbus's High-Speed Helicopter Project Racer

The Airbus helicopter was given the name RACER, an abbreviation to “Rapid And Cost-Effective Rotorcraft”.  Based off the concept of Airbus’s X3 prototype, which first took flight in 2013 and accomplished a helicopter speed record of 293 mph at level altitude, you can easily imagine the future achievements the aircraft has in store when it becomes airborne.

Bringing in a one of a kind approach to the concept of the helicopter, Airbus’s new Racer proves its high-speed flying-capabilities and all-around efficiency for any task or operation.  The Racer’s orthogonal wing design structure, which was tested on the prototype X3, distributes a thrust of power straight towards the main rotor’s lift when in cruise mode through mid-flight.  The wing can also help shield passengers from the “pusher” during ground operations.  During ground operations, the wing also helps to shield the passengers from the “pusher” rotors.  These rotors, which produce thrust in forward flight, are powered by two RTM322 engines that were built by Safran Helicopter Engines.  In addition, both the RTM322 engines generate power to the main rotor.

Airbus's High-Speed Helicopter Project Racer

The advanced technology on the new Racer employs a multitude of leading edge features, and will be able to achieve a top speed of 250 mph.  Utilizing a high-voltage direct-current electrical generator, the Racer gains a substantial reduction in pressure when compared to present technology advancements, as specified by Airbus.  “The technical solution we have put forward is very appealing,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, head of engineering at Airbus Helicopters, “because it is simple and inexpensive. It is an illustration of perfect innovation, which is innovation based on reality.”

The Racer will possess an extensive fuselage constructed from hybrid metallic-composite materials, which is expected to be lightweight and effortless to manage.  The future commercial helicopter based on the design of Racer and it’s cutting-edge technology could very well be put on the market by the year 2030.

For more information visit:  Airbus.com/helicopters

Images provided by Airbus Helicopters

The All New Bentley Continental GT

British Motoring Marque, Bentley, has just announced a full range of details on one of the company’s most highly anticipated vehicles, the all new Continental GT.  The Quintessential Grand Tourer, is given a breath of fresh air in its third-generation platform.  Having been designed, engineered, and handcrafted in Britain, the Continental GT’s third generation is set to be the best yet, combining all the very best of heritage, performance, technology, and handcrafted bespoke luxury set to dominate it’s marketplace.

“Bentley has been at the forefront of luxury Grand Touring for nearly one hundred years. The new, third-generation Continental GT is the pinnacle of our design and engineering achievements and marks the next step in Bentley’s journey.”

“We are the world leader in luxury mobility and our products and services define new luxury in the automotive world. The new Continental GT encapsulates our desire to innovate as well as celebrate our heritage and take the Bentley ownership experience to the next, unparalleled level.”  said Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors

Underneath the Bonnet of the all new Continental GT is a modified version of Bentley’s well regarded 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 making 635 PS (626 bhp) and 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) and a not to sixty time of just 3.6 seconds, with a mind-numbing top speed of 207 miles per hour.  Standout features of the car’s new design include a dual-clutch eight speed transmission, which allows for superior performance and considerably more efficient gear changes.  Bentley has also modified and advanced their adaptive chassis and intelligent 48-volt Dynamic Ride System to improve handling and ride quality, allowing for sublime cruising conditions.

The new Continental GT has received an elegant re-sculpted exterior allowing for an increase in aerodynamics as well as a more chiseled muscular motif.  In turn these changes have allowed for a more driver focused vehicle touting dynamic performance, lightweight-solid construction, and superior weight distribution through a slightly set-back placement of the GT’s engine.

Stepping inside, occupants will notice superior storage volume, increased space for the car’s 2+2 seating arrangement, and an all around more refined interior making for a truly grand experience.  Bentley has put in much effort in seamlessly blending 15 colour palettes across both hides and carpets, in addition a new ‘diamond in diamond’ leather design will be available.

The above demonstrates the British Marque’s devotion to the very finest in designing the all new Continental GT.  Bentley has introduced a new generation which marks continued quality British bespoke production seamlessly merged with cutting edge technology.  Highlights of the model’s technological innovations also include a fully digital instrument panel on the dashboard, as well as a rotating display for improved driver convenience. The all new touchscreen infotainment system/display is 12.3” and promises superior usability housed behind a discreet veneered cover with three dials.

The all new Continental GT is set to make its debut at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, which will take place from the 14th through the 24th of September, 2017.

Milan Fashion Week: Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace are Auctioning Tickets for Charity

With Milan Fashion Week Just Around The Corner; it appears to be a pleasant surprise that philanthropic causes are in the air.  Italian Design Houses such as Versace have followed with a charitable campaign, just after Christian Dior announced the #DiorLoveChain in support of the WE Charity.

Up until September 18th & 19th some of Milan’s most well regarded designers including Moschino, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Versace have all collaborated to auction tickets to their upcoming shows during their Women’s S/S 2018 Fashion Shows during Milan Fashion Week.  The auctions are being held by Charity Stars who will donate the funds to a range of foundations selected by the Fashion Houses.

Choices abound for the Fashion lover with Salvatore Ferragamo passes including an invite to their after-show party on Sptember 23rd; with a bid currently at 1,000 Euros.  And Versace offering two tickets to their September 22nd show plus a post show meet and greet with Gianni Versace’s brother & Co-CEO of Versace, Santo Versace.  The current bid is up-to 5,000 Euros for the Versace tickets, with proceeds for both Salvatore Ferragamo’s and Versace’s sales going to benefit Operation Smile.