logo
Lexus Creates New World Record In Tennis World- You Won't Believe What It Is

Lexus Creates New World Record In Tennis World- You Won't Believe What It Is

NDTV12-07-2025
Lexus has just created a new world record, and it's in the world of sports; Tennis specifically. Confused? Well, let us explain. The brand and its cars are involved in a stunt where two tennis stars are strapped atop their moving cars while playing the sport. After multiple attempts, the Japanese manufacturer ended up in the Guinness Book of World Records, getting titles for "longest tennis rally on two moving cars" as well as the "fastest speed achieved during a tennis rally on two moving cars." Here's how it was executed.
The stunt grabbing eyeballs has been executed with the combined efforts of the brand and Tennis stars Jamie Murray and Laura Robson. To begin with, the brand strapped the two players atop NX crossover SUVs. As part of the preparation and to keep them safe, they created two aluminium platforms and bolted them to the SUVs through roof rack mounting points. They were then secured using four safety straps, while professional stunt drivers were behind the steering wheel, taking the car down the runway of Duxford Airfield in England.
Also Read: Tesla Releases First Teaser Ahead Of India Debut On July 15
This is where the skills of the drivers and the players came into play to create the records. While the car travelled at a speed of 47 kmph, Jamie Murray and Laura Robson played with the tennis ball passing it back and forth 101 consecutive times. They took multiple attempts before reaching the record-breaking number. Specifically, it took them around two hours to set the record.
After setting the record, Laura Robson remarked, "Tennis is a sport that requires precision, skill and coordination, so playing a rally on top of moving cars travelling at speed is no mean feat!" She went on to describe it as a "surreal experience," while Jamie Murray said it was the "most exciting and unusual challenge I've ever taken on."
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Tesla Reshuffles Engineers After Abruptly Ending Dojo AI Project
Tesla Reshuffles Engineers After Abruptly Ending Dojo AI Project

Mint

time3 hours ago

  • Mint

Tesla Reshuffles Engineers After Abruptly Ending Dojo AI Project

(Bloomberg) -- Tesla Inc. reassigned engineering staff in moves impacting multiple teams after Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk disbanded the electric-vehicle maker's in-house chip and supercomputer project. The defunct operation, known as Dojo, has been split into parts, with personnel being distributed across several groups. At least some software-focused personnel now report to Ashok Elluswamy, who leads Tesla's AI efforts across robotaxis and humanoid robots, according to people familiar with the matter. Other engineers working on silicon or semiconductors report to Aaron Rodgers, who oversees hardware for Tesla's autonomous driving efforts and is responsible for its AI5 chip, said the people, asking not to be identified discussing internal changes. Firmware staff are now under Silvio Brugada, who's led security engineering and assumed more responsibility after David Lau departed from his role as head of software engineering. Representatives of Tesla and Musk didn't respond to requests for comment. The moves show how Tesla is regrouping after abruptly ending the Dojo project, which revolved around an in-house artificial-intelligence supercomputer for developing driverless-vehicle technology. After Bloomberg News first reported the decision last week, Musk confirmed it on social media, saying on Aug. 10, 'I had to shut down Dojo and make some tough personnel choices.' While he didn't name any individuals involved, Bloomberg reported that Dojo leader Peter Bannon has left the company. The reshuffling also underscores the growing stature of Elluswamy, who now jointly leads Tesla's programs in AI across autonomous driving and humanoid robotics. A former Autopilot engineer who was named vice president of AI software last year, Elluswamy assumed responsibility for the Optimus robot program following the departure of Milan Kovac in recent months. It wasn't immediately clear how many Dojo engineers have left Tesla in total. Startup DensityAI which has just come out of stealth, has hired around 20 senior and experienced Tesla engineers, Bloomberg has reported. The company was founded by Ganesh Venkataramanan — the former head of Tesla's Dojo team who left in late 2023 — and ex-Tesla employees Bill Chang and Ben Floering. More stories like this are available on

Bill Gates sceptical on electric trucks; Musk says Tesla Semi coming in 2026
Bill Gates sceptical on electric trucks; Musk says Tesla Semi coming in 2026

Time of India

time3 hours ago

  • Time of India

Bill Gates sceptical on electric trucks; Musk says Tesla Semi coming in 2026

Electric heavy-duty trucks have been a topic of debate among industry leaders for years. While Microsoft founder Bill Gates has expressed skepticism about the practicality of fully electric 18-wheelers, Elon Musk , CEO of Tesla Inc., remains confident in their future. 'Tesla Semi is not just feasible, it's the future of trucking,' Musk has said, affirming that his company's all-electric Semi truck will hit volume production next year. His bold claim comes amid growing global interest in electrifying freight transportation to cut emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. As Tesla gears up to ramp production in 2026, industry watchers are eager to see whether the Semi can deliver on its promises and truly compete with traditional diesel trucks. Bill Gates' skepticism on electric 18-wheelers Bill Gates has consistently argued that fully electric 18-wheelers face fundamental limitations, focusing on the technical challenge of batteries for heavy-duty long-haul trucks. He has stated that the high energy density required to move large payloads over long distances with batteries results in trucks carrying more battery weight, which in turn reduces their efficiency and practicality. Gates believes this makes electrification particularly tough for heavy freight, cargo ships, and passenger jets. Even with ongoing progress in battery technology, Gates maintains that batteries alone are unlikely to solve the unique needs of long-haul, heavy trucking, and has suggested that alternatives like hydrogen fuel cells or synthetic electrofuels may be more practical for these larger, energy-intensive applications. He's also noted that these synthetic fuels could be used in existing engines, minimizing the need for wholesale changes in infrastructure. Elon Musk's vision for Tesla Semi Elon Musk, meanwhile, has reaffirmed that Tesla's all-electric Semi truck will begin volume production in 2026. The company has constructed a dedicated production facility near Gigafactory Nevada with an expected annual output of 50,000 units when fully ramped. While actual output in the first year may be lower, Tesla's leadership, including Dan Priestley, head of the Semi program, has publicly shared that the company is preparing for full-scale manufacturing to start in 2026. Tesla's Semi, since its unveiling in 2017, has promised a range of 500 miles per charge, top-tier acceleration and torque, and a gross vehicle weight comparable to that of traditional diesel trucks. Tesla's strategy goes beyond the US: the company has signaled intentions to expand the Semi's market into Europe, where stricter emissions regulations and dense logistics routes present both challenges and opportunities. In addition, Tesla continues to invest in its Megacharger high-speed charging network designed to address heavy-duty fleets specifically. Tesla's expanding electric vehicle lineup Tesla is not only pushing into the heavy-duty sector. The Cybertruck, a full-size electric pickup, officially launched production at Gigafactory Texas in late 2023, with three drivetrain variants now on the US and Canadian markets. Reports also point to Tesla exploring a smaller electric pickup and an autonomous 'Cyber Cab,' specifically aimed at the ride-hailing segment, reinforcing its aim to diversify its electric portfolio further into transportation classes previously dominated by internal combustion. Challenges ahead for electric freight trucks The main challenges for electric heavy-duty trucks include the need for a robust high-capacity charging infrastructure and sufficient grid capacity, as current networks cannot always support the rapid, high-power charging required for long-haul fleets. Heavy batteries add significant weight, reducing payload capacity and fleet profitability, while also limiting range compared to diesel or hydrogen alternatives. High upfront costs, slower charging times, and limited range, often between 100 to 300 miles for most models, affect operational efficiency. Additionally, sourcing affordable, renewable electricity is still a hurdle, and while hydrogen fuel cell trucks offer lighter weight and faster refueling, they face infrastructure gaps and higher production costs. The road ahead for Tesla Semi Truck The positive momentum behind electric heavy-duty trucks is clear, with thousands of units already deployed in regional routes and last-mile logistics in 2024 and 2025, spurred by lower battery costs, new product launches, and increasingly favorable policy and regulatory landscapes. But for truly widespread, long-range electrification, especially in the heavy-duty, long-haul segment, substantial challenges remain. As both startups and legacy manufacturers invest in solutions, options like hydrogen and advanced synthetic fuels will likely complement batteries, especially for the most demanding trucking applications.

Tesla Model Y India First Drive Review: Ready for the ‘desi' hustle
Tesla Model Y India First Drive Review: Ready for the ‘desi' hustle

Hindustan Times

time4 hours ago

  • Hindustan Times

Tesla Model Y India First Drive Review: Ready for the ‘desi' hustle

After years of 'Will they, won't they, and would they?" Tesla is finally in India. It's not every day that we see new automakers making their way to the Indian market, but Tesla's foray has been a long-awaited one. Not just customers, but the government was keen for the American auto giant to set up shop in India. And while there are no plans to establish full-scale manufacturing yet, the brand has arrived with its first experience centres in Mumbai and Delhi, while bringing the Tesla Model Y as its maiden offering. We spent some time driving the Model Y in Mumbai to find out if it's ready for that 'desi' hustle. The Model Y looks unlike anything you've seen on the road. There are fewer badges that denote the Tesla name on the exterior Tesla Model Y Review: Design The Model Y fits the bill of our aspiration to own an SUV, while being quintessentially a Tesla EV. At over 4.7 metres in length, the Tesla Model Y is massive. The images may not give that away immediately, but this is a sizeable car. It has the right presence on our roads, and the right styling to differentiate it from everything else, even in a colour as mundane as white. India gets the 2025 Juniper version, which arrived globally earlier this year. The styling is sleek, simple, and sloping from all corners. Also check these Cars Find more Cars Tesla Model Y 75 kwh 75 kwh 622 km 622 km ₹ 59.89 Lakhs Compare View Offers MG M9 EV 90 kWh 90 kWh 548 km 548 km ₹ 69.90 Lakhs Compare View Offers Volvo C40 Recharge 78 kWh 78 kWh 530 km 530 km ₹ 62.95 Lakhs Compare View Offers UPCOMING VinFast VF7 75.3 kWh 75.3 kWh 450 km 450 km ₹ 60 - 65 Lakhs Alert Me When Launched Kia EV6 84 kWh 84 kWh 663 km 663 km ₹ 65.97 Lakhs Compare View Offers BMW iX1 66.4 kWh 66.4 kWh 417 km 417 km ₹ 66.90 Lakhs Compare View Offers Also Read : Tesla Model Y launched in India at ₹59.89 lakh The LED DRLs stretch across the front profile, while the headlamps are tucked quite discreetly into the bumpers. The lines are simple, maybe a bit too simple, all aimed to achieve higher aerodynamic efficiency. Speaking of which, the Model Y has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.22, helping the EV achieve increased range by lowering wind resistance. The profile also stands out with that coupe-roofline that recedes from the C-pillar onwards, and neatly tucks into the boot. The Tesla Model Y has a drag coefficient of just 0.22 cd, which helps amplify range by minimising wind resistance This makes for a raked windscreen on the Model Y, while the standout design feature is the rear light bar that's hidden behind the trim piece, and reflects on the tailgate's surface. It also illuminates the 'Tesla' wordmark, which is also the only badging you will find on the vehicle. The India-spec Model Y rides on 19-inch alloy wheels, compared to 20-inch units on the global model, complete with aero covers to optimise range efficiency. When it comes to colour options, only the Stealth Grey shade is standard on the Model Y. The Pearl White shade on our test car commands a ₹95,000 premium, while you need to pay ₹95,000 for Diamond Black, ₹1.25 lakh for Glacier Blue and ₹1.85 lakh for Ultra Red and Quicksilver shades. The minimalist cabin takes some time to get used to, especially the lack of buttons. The infotainment screen is the command centre on this e-SUV. Tesla Model Y Review: Interior Tesla has been the pioneer when it comes to minimising buttons on EVs. The minimalism concept came from its cars, and we see it first-hand with the Model Y. Step inside, and it will feel bare-bones at first. The cabin is draped in all-black (black and white finish commands ₹95,000 extra) with plastics and fabric surrounding most touch surfaces. The conventional instrument console has been skipped, and so has the head-up display unit. There is no conventional gear shifter, and the controls have been integrated into the infotainment screen. The only physical controls that you get are the hazard light switch, an indicator stalk, and a few buttons on the steering wheel. Even the pass function is activated via a button on the steering wheel rather than the conventional stalk. Tesla positions itself as a technology company instead of an automaker. The company says it designs nearly every system and component in-house, which is why it's easier for all the complex systems to talk to each other seamlessly. This is evident in how smoothly everything functions in the car. While you rely on the screen and joystick on the steering wheel to adjust the steering for tilt and rake, the response time is impressive. The same goes for other functions like adjusting the rearview mirrors, the air conditioning, and more. There are no air vents in the conventional sense, and you get a single concealed vent running across the width of the dashboard instead. The infotainment screen allows you to specifically direct air where you prefer. There are plenty of practical bits too, including dual wireless charging slots, cupholders in the centre, bottle holders in the doors, and more. The massive wheelbase makes for a lavish rear seat experience with plenty of legroom and headroom, along with a rear entertainment screen and individual controls Tesla Model Y Review: Seating Comfort In terms of comfort, the front seats are electrically adjustable and have a high seating position, allowing for a nice view of the road. The seats are well cushioned and offer a nice and comfy experience. The rear seats have an equally comfortable experience and come with a reclining function. The wide footprint and a flat surface mean three can sit without a fuss. Moreover, the wheelbase stretches to nearly three metres, which gives you ample room in the cabin. This makes for a very spacious second row. At 6'2", I found ample space for myself at the back, not just in terms of legroom but headroom as well. This is truly impressive considering the coupe roofline on the Model Y, which otherwise eats into the headroom on most cars. The EV also gets a triple-glazed panoramic glass roof, which is tinted to cut out heat and sunlight. There's no fabric cover over the glass roof either. We were testing the car on a day with grey skies, so we will have to see how it works out in peak Indian summer. The rear seat comfort also comprises an entertainment centre tucked between the front seats. This unit allows individual access to controls like the air vents, while the rear seat occupants can play music or play games in the system, independent of the front seats. The boot offers over 900 litres of space, while you get an frunk too with 117 litres of storage capacity Tesla Model Y Review: Boot Capacity You have 117 litres of storage in the frunk, while the boot has a 938 litre capacity, which can be further expanded to over 2,100 litres with the rear seats folded. The rear seats can be electronically folded for a massive cargo area, while the flat loading lip makes it easy to load up luggage in the SUV. Tesla Model Y Review: Tech The 15.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the highlight in the cabin, which runs an in-house developed UX. This is your command centre, and nearly every control can be accessed and adjusted using the big screen. The absence of conventional buttons takes some time to get used to. But the UI is fantastic, the graphics are clear and crisp, and everything feels fluid. You can save up to 10 driver profiles in the system, which include the seat, steering, and ORVM positions. This will save you a lot of time when sharing the car with other drivers. The menu function runs deep, and there's plenty to explore, which will take a review of its own. From Easter eggs, fireplace mode, to a sketchpad, and more, there are several little things for you to discover. What's different is the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This hinders functions like WhatsApp from being integrated into the car's infotainment system. Nevertheless, the navigation system uses Google Maps, but you don't have the option to log in to your Google account, as in the case of Volvo cars. Tesla Model Y Review: Full-Self Drive Possible? There are eight cameras on the Tesla Model Y, seven tucked away neatly across the exterior, and one inside the cabin. These are responsible for the 360-degree view and enabling features like the Sentry mode, which will record suspicious activity around your vehicle. The cameras also bring the Full Self-Drive (FSD) mode to life, albeit it will cost an additional ₹6 lakh over and above the sticker price. The FSD function is not available in India at the moment until government regulations allow the same. Tesla Model Y Review: Range The Model Y is available in two variants in India - Standard and Long Range. The Standard variant promises a range of 500 km with a 69 kWh battery, while the Long Range variant offers 622 km (WLTP) on a single charge from an 84 kWh battery pack. Those are strong numbers compared to rivals, and while we couldn't test those numbers out, they appear good for a charge once a week for intra-city commutes. Speaking of which, Tesla has also opened its first set of Supercharger stations exclusively to support its customers. The 250 kW Supercharger stations are owned and operated by Tesla and promise a 99.95 per cent uptime. While parking is free, the charging cost stands at ₹24 per kW for the Supercharger and ₹11 per kW for the Destination Charger. Tesla says the Supercharger is capable of providing a range of 267 km in 15 minutes of charge on the Model Y. The first Superchargers have been installed in Mumbai and Delhi, with more coming across the country. The EV is equipped with a CCS2 charging port, which means you can charge at any of the third-party fast chargers as well. Power delivery is quick, seamless, and strong on the Model Y. It's a fast mover yet predictable in the way it drives Tesla Model Y Review: Performance Tesla claims 0-100 kmph comes up in 5.9 seconds on the Standard, and 5.6 seconds on the Long Range variants. The company won't give out official specifications for the power output, but the Model Y for India gets a single motor with a rear wheel drive (RWD) setup, which makes just under 300 bhp on the Standard, and 335 bhp on the Long Range trim. We spoke about the complexity of systems earlier, and this is reflected in the way power is delivered. It's quick, seamless, and strong. There is a surge in power as soon as you put your foot on the accelerator, and it is properly quick. What's impressive is that this isn't an outlandish performance. It feels manageable throughout, and power delivery feels predictable. There are two driving modes - Standard and Chill - with the latter offering a more subdued response. There are two regen modes as well - Reduced and Standard - and the former offers one-pedal driving on the Model Y. The difference is enough in both modes for you to choose what you want to drive with. My preference would be Standard in both cases, which offers the best value in terms of acceleration. The steering weighs up nicely and feels predictable to use, while being light enough to navigate tight turns in dense traffic. The overall glass area also makes for a good view from the driver's seat. The ride quality is slightly firm but manageable. Straight-line stability is excellent on the Model Y Tesla Model Y Review: Handling & Ride Quality The ride feels planted on the Model Y, and there is a certain firmness in the suspension. There are no adaptive dampers, but Tesla says the suspension can adjust itself, depending on the load. At low speeds, the firmness is rather evident, and you feel tossed around. Tesla has increased the ground clearance for India to 167 mm (from 160 mm) to give the car a better chance to handle our pothole-infested roads. Straight-line stability is excellent, and there is little to complain about on that front. In our short drive, the Model Y felt eager on the flat tarmac, egging us to push further, which is only confidence-inspiring. We haven't had the chance to push the car around corners to truly gauge its handling capabilities. Much like other EVs, the Model Y also packs its battery under the floorboard, which should help contain bodyroll to a good extent. The Tesla Model Y brings exclusivity to a segment that its luxury rivals can't match, while being a capable electric all-rounder Tesla Model Y Review: Verdict The Model Y sits in an interesting space between compact luxury electric offerings from rivals like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW, Kia, Hyundai, and Volvo. As a full-import, it commands a significant premium priced between ₹59.89 lakh and ₹67.89 lakh (ex-showroom) before the optional extras. Some of its features may not seem innovative anymore, considering competition has caught up. While you do not get the same level of luxury for the price as some of its competitors offer. However, Tesla brings exclusivity to the table and a global hype, which fewer car companies have seen in recent years. As a product too, the Model Y is quite loaded and practical to keep you happy. It just might take the EV hustle to a new level. First Published Date:

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store