Month: February 2024

Feb 18

Active Search for Hit-and-Run SUV Driver Following San Antonio Motorcycle Accident

Early Morning Hit-and-Run on I-37

In the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, the San Antonio Police were called to action after a motorcyclist was struck by an SUV. This incident unfolded just before 2 a.m. in the southbound direction of Interstate 37, near the 20700 block, slightly south of the I-37 and Loop 1604 intersection.

Collision Details

Authorities report that a 61-year-old SUV driver, while changing lanes, crashed into the motorcyclist. The collision caused the motorcyclist to veer off the road, and the SUV driver subsequently fled the scene without offering aid to the injured party.

Consequences and Enforcement Efforts

Following the crash, emergency services rushed the severely injured motorcyclist to a nearby hospital in San Antonio. The current medical state of the motorcyclist is yet to be confirmed. The police are diligently searching for the SUV driver, who will face serious charges for failing to provide necessary aid after the accident.

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Consequences of Fleeing an Accident Scene

Escaping the scene of an accident, particularly when it involves injury, can severely disrupt legal and insurance proceedings. It delays critical medical aid and exacerbates the victim’s psychological distress. Perpetrators can face significant penalties including fines, driving bans, and possible imprisonment, reflecting the gravity of the act.

Promoting Road Safety and Vigilance

This unfortunate event underscores the imperative for constant vigilance and responsible driving. Drivers are urged to maintain acute awareness of their environment and the presence of smaller vehicles like motorcycles, which can easily escape notice. Practicing defensive driving can substantially lower accident rates and minimize the traumatic and legal repercussions that follow.

These measures are essential to fostering a safer driving atmosphere, reducing accidents, and ensuring that all community members recognize and adhere to their duties on the road.

Feb 18

Dramatic Entry: Vehicle Crashes Into Phoenix Family’s Backyard

Rude Awakening in North Phoenix

A serene Sunday morning abruptly turned chaotic for a Phoenix family when a vehicle smashed into their backyard wall. This startling event happened around 4:15 a.m., near 7th and Grovers Avenues, slightly north of Bell Road. Amidst the debris lay a black Acura SUV, having shattered the tranquility of the neighborhood.

At the Scene

Responding promptly, police arrived to find the damaged SUV and evaluate the aftermath. The driver, who did not flee, was found with only minor injuries. The impact left the family’s backyard in disarray, and concerns about the home’s stability arose.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are meticulously investigating the crash, considering factors such as potential driver impairment or overwhelming fatigue. Depending on the conclusions drawn, the driver might face various legal consequences.

Enhanced Factual and Beneficial Information:

Enhancing Residential Safety

This incident underscores the need for effective safety measures around residential areas. It’s advisable for homeowners to consider stronger perimeter defenses, such as high-durability fences and other barriers, to protect against such unforeseeable threats. Additionally, equipping homes with security cameras can provide vital records for subsequent insurance claims and legal documentation.

Focus on Driver Vigilance

Reflecting on the early hour of the crash, it’s crucial to stress the importance of vigilance while driving. Public awareness initiatives and educational outreach about the risks of driving while tired or impaired can help mitigate these types of incidents. Encouraging attentive driving behaviors can significantly decrease the occurrence of such hazardous events.

Together, through enhanced educational efforts and strengthened safety measures at home, communities can better safeguard against and respond to unexpected dangers, fostering a secure environment for everyone involved.

Feb 18

5 of the best cheap cars in GTA Online that look expensive

GTA Online features a vast collection of vehicles with a variety of uses. While some are made to tackle uneven terrain, others are track beasts. However, players don’t often consider the performance when purchasing a car in the game, since looks and design are both impactful and fulfilling when riding across Los Santos. However, similar to performance, good looks also come with bigger price tags.

Fortunately, Rockstar Games has added some excellent-looking cars in the game that are surprisingly cheap. This makes them a great pick for players who want a car that feels cool and has an amazing design even if it isn’t extremely fast or durable against explosives.

So, if you are looking for similar suggestions, then this article will offer you a list of five cars that look expensive but won’t rip a hole in your pocket.

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Note: The article is subjective and solely reflects the writer’s opinion.

5 cheap cars in GTA Online that have great looks

1) Vapid Dominator

Muscle Car is one of the best categories in GTA Online for players looking for design as well as performance. The Vapid Dominator is one of the cheapest cars in the category that one can purchase. However, it does not lose its amazing looks despite its mere $35,000 price.

This is mostly thanks to Rockstar Games using the real-life Ford Mustang for its design, giving it a muscular yet sleek look. It also delivers a top speed of 120.25 mph (193.52 km/h) which further shocks new players when they take the vehicle’s price into account.

2) Pfister Comet

Although Rockstar Games has removed the Pfister Comet from the in-game store, it can still be obtained through the GTA Online weekly update rotation. The compact, sleek, and sporty look of the car oozes an expensive aura but is one of the most affordable Sports Car that also delivers decent performance.

Few people could guess that it only costs $100,000 to own this beauty in the game. The Comet’s amazing design is based on the real-life Porsche 911, which gives it that luxurious and superior look. Moreover, one can reach a top speed of 119.50 mph (192.32 km/h) with this vehicle in the online multiplayer with ease.

3) Dewbauchee Rapid GT

The Dewbauchee Rapid GT is yet another Sports Car in GTA Online that looks expensive but is relatively cheap. While it is no longer a part of the in-game store, Rockstar Games keeps rotating it with the weekly updates. Even with its sleek design which is mostly based on the real-life Aston Martin Vantage, the car costs only $132,000.

When it comes to performance, the Dewbauchee Rapid GT offers a top speed of 119.50 mph (192.32 km/h) along with decent acceleration and handling. This is much more than what most players first expect of the car after hearing the price. However, others are mostly in awe of its amazing design and looks.

4) Invetero Coquette

The Invetero Coquette is another Sports Car on the list that looks quite expensive but will only cost you $138,000 to own. Since it is no longer available at the in-game stores, Rockstar Games usually brings it during events or with frequent rotations alongside the GTA Online weekly discounts.

The developers used the real-life Corvette C7 and 2014 Corvette Stingray as inspiration for this vehicle, giving the Invetero Coquette its iconic look. Along with its flashy design, the car also offers a top speed of 119.25 mph (191.91 km/h) which is quite good for the price range.

5) Coil Voltic

Rockstar Games always goes with inflated prices when it comes to Super Cars in GTA Online. However, if you are looking for something that looks great but won’t rip a hole in your pocket, then the Coil Voltic is the perfect option for you.

While this car won’t win you races with its average performance and 106.00 mph (170.59 km/h), Voltic is a fun ride that only costs $150,000. The Coil Volitc is based on the real-life Tesla Roadster and Lotus Elise. Unfortunately, it has been removed from the stores, so you will need to wait for the developers to bring back the vehicle during one of the weekly update events.

Feb 18

Thinking of Investing in a Plug-In Hybrid? Here’s How to Do It Right

Navigating Green Vehicle Options

As you explore more sustainable vehicle options, you’ll encounter various types including hybrids, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and fully electric vehicles. Hybrids combine electric and gasoline power, allowing for reduced carbon emissions during short trips and gasoline use for longer journeys without the need for frequent recharging. This dual-system garners attention for its balance of extended range and smaller ecological footprint compared to solely electric vehicles.

Hybrid Vehicles: A Smart Transition to Greener Roads

Amid rising global temperatures and environmental changes affecting health and economies worldwide, reducing carbon emissions has become imperative. The transportation sector, largely dependent on petroleum, is a major contributor to global carbon emissions. Electrifying transportation, starting with hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), provides a feasible solution for advancing towards carbon neutrality and curtailing greenhouse gas emissions.

Balancing Energy in Hybrid Systems

The challenge in HEV design lies in effectively managing power distribution between the electric and gasoline systems to meet driving demands. Kate Harrison of MoveEV highlights the cautious acceptance of rapid electric vehicle adoption, positioning hybrids as a viable intermediary. Her work at MoveEV involves aiding companies in transitioning their fleets to electric, leveraging government incentives, and addressing logistical hurdles through advanced software.

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Understanding the Hybrid Vehicle Market

Hybrid vehicles, especially PHEVs, offer a bridge between conventional gas vehicles and full electrification. While standard hybrids recharge their batteries through driving processes like regenerative braking, PHEVs can also be plugged in, offering around 10 to 50 miles of pure electric driving before switching to gas. This capability significantly enhances fuel efficiency and, with increasing hybrid sales, signals a shift in consumer preference towards versatile, eco-friendly travel options.

The Importance of Proper Usage

Despite their benefits, the effectiveness of PHEVs hinges on proper usage—particularly regular charging. If drivers overlook this, relying too heavily on gasoline, the environmental and economic benefits diminish sharply. It’s vital for fleet managers and individual owners alike to prioritize electric usage to fully leverage PHEVs’ potential in reducing emissions and operational costs.

By promoting responsible use and supporting infrastructure for easy charging, both companies and policymakers can maximize the environmental advantages of PHEVs. This approach ensures that these vehicles not only serve as transitional solutions but also pave the way for a more sustainable future in personal and corporate transportation.

Feb 18

Mazda’s New Inline 6 Engine: Paving the Way for Enhanced Performance

Revving Up with Mazda’s Latest Engine Innovation

Is Mazda’s latest development in engine technology just the tip of the iceberg for its performance capabilities? The introduction of the new inline 6-cylinder engine is sparking conversations about potential enhancements in power and efficiency. The recent unveiling of the Mazda CX-90 and CX-70, both equipped with this robust engine, marks a significant addition to the 2025 lineup, promising greater performance.

Dynamic Powertrains in Focus

At the heart of Mazda’s latest SUV offerings is the 3.3-liter turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine, boasting 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque in its standard configuration. The enhanced S trims push this further to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Despite the current transmission showing a slight hesitancy to shift sportily with paddle shifters, there’s potential for future refinements.

Anticipating the CX-70’s Evolution

Sharing a platform, the CX-70 and CX-90 differ mainly in size and seating capacity, with the CX-70 offering a sleeker, more compact option ideally positioned for sportier enhancements. Speculation about a more dynamic, coupe-like version of the CX-70 suggests Mazda may be aiming to diversify its SUV range further, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and performance metrics.

2024 Mazda CX-90 midsize SUV posed. This SUV can be powered with the new inline 6-cylinder Mazda engine.
2024 Mazda CX-90 | Mazda

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Future Performance Prospects

In a revealing interview with Jon Leverett from Mazda USA, hints at the ambitious plans for the inline 6 engine surfaced, suggesting that this initial release is just the beginning. Leverett’s comments about expanding performance thresholds indicate that Mazda is not only competing with major players like BMW and Mercedes-Benz but is also setting the stage for potentially surpassing them, with speculation about reaching up to 400 horsepower.

Beyond SUVs: A New Era for Mazda Sedans?

As the automotive industry leans towards electric and hybrid technologies, Mazda’s commitment to enhancing its gas-powered engines presents an interesting counter-narrative. The turbocharged 3.3-liter engine might not only redefine future SUVs but could also breathe new life into Mazda’s sedan lineup, possibly introducing sportier models that could rival the iconic Miata in performance.

Sustainability Meets Performance

While excitement builds around the capabilities of Mazda’s new engine, it also brings into focus the need for a balanced approach that includes environmental considerations. Mazda could leverage this technology not just to enhance vehicle performance but also to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals while meeting consumer demand for powerful, efficient vehicles.

Feb 18

Jerry Seinfeld’s Elite Sports Car Collection: A Peek Into Automotive Excellence

Jerry Seinfeld: Comedian with a Passion for Cars

Jerry Seinfeld, renowned for his groundbreaking 90s sitcom, is not just a comedy legend but also a serious car enthusiast. Beyond his television success, Seinfeld has amassed an awe-inspiring collection of sports cars, recognized as one of the most prestigious among celebrities. His collection features rare and classic models, including the celebrated 1964 Porsche 911, highlighting his refined taste in automotive treasures.

Exploring Seinfeld’s Automotive Treasures

Valued at approximately $100 million according to Yahoo Finance, Seinfeld’s collection boasts over 150 cars, including experimental and ultra-rare models. Among these, the 1964 Porsche 911 stands out, not only for its design but also its historical significance as the first production model made specifically for Ferry Porsche, the son of the Porsche founder. This particular vehicle alone, purchased and restored at significant expense, exemplifies the high-caliber and value of his collection.

Iconic Models and Future Prospects

The 1964 Porsche 911, a cornerstone of Seinfeld’s collection, features a flat-six engine and a five-speed manual transmission, reaching speeds up to 130 miles per hour. Alongside this, his collection includes other Porsche marvels like the 1955 Porsche 550 Spyder and the 2011 Porsche 997 Roadster. Additionally, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing is noted as the crown jewel, valued at an estimated $6.82 million, showcasing his diverse and high-value collection.

A 1964 Porsche 911
Porsche 911 | Porsche

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Significance of Car Restoration and Collecting

Seinfeld’s dedication to restoring classic cars like his 1964 Porsche 911 underlines the importance of preservation in the car collecting world. Restoration not only enhances a car’s aesthetic and mechanical performance but also significantly boosts its historical and monetary value, making it a worthwhile investment for serious collectors.

Impact of Celebrity Collections on Car Culture

Celebrity car collections like Jerry Seinfeld’s play a crucial role in shaping car culture and influencing public perceptions about car collecting. They highlight the artistic and engineering significance of automobiles, turning car collection into a form of artistic expression and a testament to technological evolution.

Looking Forward: The Future of Collecting

As Seinfeld continues to expand his illustrious car collection, he contributes to the preservation and celebration of automotive history. His public showcase of these vehicles in series like Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee not only shares his passion but also educates and inspires fellow car enthusiasts and the general public, fostering a deeper appreciation for automotive artistry and heritage.

Feb 18

The Kia Tasman Wants to Tackle the Ford Ranger

The Kia Tasman is going after the Ford Ranger Raptor. The new Kia truck may have been caught with a Ford Ranger in the wild.

Truck battles are happening even though some options aren’t even out yet. The highly anticipated Kia Tasman pickup truck was spotted being tested alongside a Ford Ranger Raptor. Will the Kia Tasman be able to compete?

What to expect with the Kia Tasman

According to the Korean Car Blog, the boxy Kia Tasman truck could be based on the Kia Telluride or its cousin in other countries, the Kia Mohave. Both are midsize boxy SUVs with rugged features.

However, the new Tasman truck is still being spotted while wearing heavy amounts of camouflage, so we have to wait a little longer to see how its boxy style turns out.

Also, the Tasman has a massive target in its sites. It was spotted going head-to-head against the Ford Ranger Raptor, which is well-equipped for harsh off-roading conditions and desert racing.

In other countries, the Ranger Raptor has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine with 288 hp. The American Ranger Raptor provides 405 hp.

The Ford Ranger and Kia Tasman in the snow
Kia Tasman spy shot | Korean Car Blog

The Tasman is rumored to feature a 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine with roughly 260 hp. It might need extra justice to catch the Ranger Raptor in Australia.

Also, we know that Kia has two trucks waiting in the wings. One will be a body-on-frame rugged off-roader, which is probably the Tasman. The other is expected to be a smaller, unibody electric truck.

Only one of these options will come to America. The chicken tax could prevent the Tasman from being affordable in the United States, but we aren’t giving up hope.

If the Tasman is available in the United States, it will have a gas-powered engine that meets our higher emission standards.

It’s not the best time to catch the new Kia truck being tested in Europe instead of America. But we should get more clues by the summer. If it’s already being tested, it could be production-ready.

Features like the built-in bumper step, convenient bed size, utilitarian cabin with upscale materials, and heated/ventilated seats have our motors running. Stay tuned for updates.

Feb 18

Was KITT From Knight Rider Just Sassy Siri?

KITT represented an AI-equipped, crime-fighting car of the 1980s. However, while KITT was science fiction, AI assistance in your car is a reality today.

You can probably hear the synthy theme music at the mere mention of Knight Rider. But just as memorable as the Knight Rider theme song is the black 1982 Pontiac Trans Am and its on-board artificial intelligence (AI), KITT. However, times have changed. Siri can handle several of the tasks that KITT performed to aid David Hasselhoff in his crusade for justice.

Years later, KITT from Knight Rider might just be David Hasselhoff’s first glimpse of Siri

The “Knight 2000 Microprocessor,” or the AI brain behind the 1982 Pontiac Trans Am in Knight Rider could do all sorts of crazy things for its driver, or “Knight.” Upon David Hasselhoff’s demand, KITT could use electronic jamming architecture to disable hostile vehicles. Beyond countermeasures, the intelligent muscle car had a turbo boost facility which would allow the car to vault through the air, per Volo Cars.

However, artificial intelligence isn’t science fiction like it was in the 1980s. Today, car drivers can use Amazon Alexa or Siri in hundreds of different models, from the now-discontinued Chrysler 300 to a 2023 Indian Chieftain touring motorcycle. Better yet, the AI-equipped digital assistants will do everything from finding you the next available gas station to prioritizing your favorite playlist.

A replica KITT from Knight Rider resembling the one David Hasselhoff drove in the show shows off its interior.
A KITT replica’s interior | Herencias via iStock

OK, there are a few things KITT could do that you won’t accomplish with Siri or Amazon Alexa. You’re not going to get anywhere asking Siri to use on-board flamethrowers or flares. That, and Amazon Alexa probably isn’t going to allow you to use a grappling hook in your 2023 Chevrolet Corvette. However, you could tell Siri to call you Michael Knight. I’m just saying.

“I can’t believe this. A car that talks back to me.” Thus began the relationship between David Hasselhoff and his sentient 80s muscle car. Check out the clip below to get a glimpse at the first time Hasselhoff hit the streets with KITT in Knight Rider.

Feb 18

Solving a Tesla Model Y Owner’s Home Charging Dilemma: A Comprehensive Fix

A Call for Help Turns into an Educational Journey

When Dylan, a Tesla Model Y owner, reached out for assistance in a Facebook group I manage, it sparked a crucial conversation about the safety of home charging setups. Eager to provide hands-on help and share valuable insights, I offered to document and repair his charging issues at no cost. Dylan accepted, setting the stage for a detailed exploration and repair mission aimed at restoring his vehicle’s charging capabilities efficiently.

Initial Discoveries and Swift Actions

The investigation began when Dylan’s Tesla Wall Connector ceased functioning due to melted wires in the power supply unit. My partnership with Qmerit, a sponsor of my YouTube channel ‘State Of Charge,’ enabled us to quickly arrange for a local electrical contractor to address and rectify the malfunction. Qmerit graciously covered all repair costs, demonstrating their commitment to promoting safe and reliable EV charging solutions.

Uncovering and Resolving Deep-Rooted Electrical Issues

Upon arriving in San Antonio, my team and I, alongside Qmerit’s technician, discovered multiple electrical faults at Dylan’s residence, which is surprisingly only two years old. We found that previous repair attempts had overlooked underlying issues, leading to repeated failures. The comprehensive assessment led to a decision to replace an inefficient 140-foot wiring route with a more direct and robust connection, significantly enhancing the overall setup.

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The Importance of Expertise in EV Home Charging Installations

This case underscores the necessity of specialized knowledge and experience in installing and maintaining home EV charging systems. Electrical systems in homes may not initially be equipped to handle the high demands of EV charging, which can lead to significant safety hazards if not properly managed. It’s crucial for homeowners to engage electricians who specialize in EV charging to ensure installations are up to the required standards and can handle prolonged high-power demands.

Learning from Troubleshooting Real-World Problems

Dylan’s situation highlights the potential complexities involved in home EV charging setups and the importance of thorough diagnostics and repairs. This experience not only resolved Dylan’s immediate problems but also provided a learning platform for EV owners on the potential pitfalls of home charging systems. Sharing these real-world solutions through social media and video content helps educate a broader audience, promoting safer and more efficient practices.

Future Directions for Home Charging Safety

The ongoing evolution of EV technology calls for continuous education and adaptation of home charging infrastructures. By documenting and sharing detailed repair processes, such as the one Dylan experienced, we can raise awareness about common issues and best practices, potentially preventing similar problems for other EV owners. This proactive approach to troubleshooting and education can greatly enhance the reliability and safety of home charging systems across the board.

Feb 18

Exploring the Misconceptions: The True Scope of the Interstate System

Understanding the Interstate Designation

The term ‘interstate’ might suggest that these highways must cross state lines due to the prefix “inter-,” but this isn’t always the case. Despite the implication, the definition of an interstate is more about standards and connectivity within the National Highway System rather than geographical span. This explains why regions like Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico house interstates despite their physical separation from the contiguous U.S.

Criteria for Interstate Classification

What qualifies a road as an interstate is rooted deeply in regulatory standards set by federal guidelines. To be part of the interstate system, a highway must adhere to specific construction and design standards, maintain logical connections to existing interstates, or be recognized as part of a future expansion plan that will eventually integrate with the network. This flexibility in definition allows certain roads that don’t cross state borders to qualify as interstates, including those designated in Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico under special congressional legislation.

Design Standards and Regulatory Flexibility

Interstates are designed to accommodate high-speed travel and significant traffic volumes, with general requirements including multiple lanes in each direction and substantial shoulder widths to ensure safety. However, adaptations have been made for specific locations like Alaska and Puerto Rico, where the full interstate standards do not apply but the roads still meet local traffic needs and are integrated into the national system. This tailored approach helps maintain the integrity and functionality of the interstate system across diverse geographic and demographic settings.

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The Impact of Interstate Standards on Local Development

The stringent standards required for interstates, including minimum lane widths and speed capacities, play a crucial role in shaping regional infrastructure and development. These highways facilitate efficient transportation and commerce, which are vital for economic growth and connectivity within and across regions. Adhering to these standards ensures that even the most isolated parts of the U.S., like certain areas in Alaska, can enjoy the benefits of a well-connected transportation network.

Misconceptions and Legislative Adaptations

The presence of interstates in non-contiguous states and territories highlights the adaptability of U.S. infrastructure policies to accommodate unique geographical challenges. Legislation allowing for variations in design standards based on local needs illustrates the government’s commitment to providing equitable infrastructure solutions that address both current and future traffic demands. This adaptive policy framework ensures that all areas, regardless of their location or economic status, are integrated into the broader national framework.

Future Directions for the Interstate System

As the U.S. continues to evolve, so too will the standards and definitions governing its interstate system. Future legislative and infrastructural developments may further expand the scope and functionality of interstates, potentially including more advanced traffic management technologies and greener construction practices. These innovations will likely enhance the system’s efficiency and sustainability, ensuring it remains a backbone of American mobility in the changing landscape of transportation.