Month: April 2024

Apr 22

Fort Walton Beach Motorcyclist Dies in Collision with SUV: Investigation Underway

Tragic Collision Claims Motorcyclist’s Life

On April 20, 2024, a tragic accident claimed the life of a motorcyclist in Fort Walton Beach. Justin Harcum, a Niceville resident, was riding his grey Honda motorcycle north on Beal Parkway when he was struck by an orange Hyundai SUV at the intersection with Hollywood Boulevard. Despite prompt efforts by bystanders and emergency responders, Harcum was pronounced dead at HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital.

SUV Driver Injured and Investigation Ongoing

The SUV, driven by Brandon Wigfall of Fort Walton Beach, was turning onto Hollywood Boulevard when the collision occurred around 4:53 p.m. Wigfall was taken to the hospital for treatment of his injuries and was later discharged. The Fort Walton Beach Police Department’s Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating the incident and seeks any witnesses to come forward by contacting MPO M. Montgomery at 850-833-9546.

Apr 22

Top Hybrid and Electric Vehicles of 2024: US News & World Report’s Premier Picks

Top Electric and Hybrid Vehicles for 2024 Revealed

According to US News & World Report, several outstanding electric and hybrid vehicles have earned top spots in their 2024 rankings. Surprisingly, Tesla did not make the top 10, while Hyundai and Volvo secured multiple leading positions, showcasing their strong presence in the market. The rankings are based on various factors including affordability, driving range, performance, safety, reliability, and design.

2024’s Best Electric Cars: Highlights

The Lucid Air stands out as the best luxury electric car of the year, starting at $69,076, and offering a remarkable 500-mile range on a single charge. Meanwhile, the Volvo XC40 Recharge has been named the top luxury electric SUV, priced at $52,450 and providing 293 miles per charge with advanced features like lane-departure warning. Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 also shine, with the Ioniq 5 praised for its safety features and design, and the Ioniq 6 noted for its affordability starting at $37,500.

Apr 22

U.S. EV Registrations Experience First Decline Since 2020: Tesla’s Impact Highlighted

Tesla’s Influence on February’s EV Market Dip

In February 2024, the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) market saw its first drop in new registrations since 2020, largely driven by a significant decrease in Tesla’s figures. Tesla, the leading force in the EV industry, reported a notable 25% decline in new registrations compared to the same month last year. This downturn led to an overall 2.8% reduction in total EV registrations for the U.S., showcasing Tesla’s crucial role in influencing market trends. The last comparable dip occurred in August 2020, when a decline in Tesla’s registrations also affected the overall segment.

Surge in EV Registrations Without Tesla’s Influence

When excluding Tesla’s data, new EV registrations showed a remarkable 32% increase in February compared to the previous year, signaling strong growth in the industry from other manufacturers. Companies such as Ford, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, and Rivian reported impressive gains, with Ford experiencing an 84% rise and BMW seeing a staggering 166% increase in new registrations. This growth highlights a vibrant and expanding EV market driven by innovation from various manufacturers, even amidst Tesla’s temporary setback.

Performance of Major EV Players

Ford’s impressive performance in February included 7,656 new registrations, a significant leap from the previous year. Hyundai and Kia also showed strong growth, with registrations rising by 54% and 58%, respectively. BMW’s registrations more than doubled, reaching 3,559 units, while Rivian saw a 56% increase with 3,251 new registrations. Together, these companies accounted for 22,010 new EV registrations, while Tesla alone reported 36,697. Despite Tesla’s decline, these figures demonstrate the continued expansion and competitive nature of the EV market.

Tesla EVs at V4 Supercharging station. From left: Model 3, Model S, Cybertruck, Model X and Model YTesla EVs at V4 Supercharging station. From left: Model 3, Model S, Cybertruck, Model X and Model Y

Impact of Tesla Models on Market Trends

The February decline was partly attributed to the underperformance of Tesla’s Model 3, which saw a dramatic 73% drop in registrations. This decline was influenced by the loss of eligibility for the $7,500 tax credit and a temporary production halt at Tesla’s Fremont Gigafactory. In contrast, the Model Y, Tesla’s most popular EV, experienced a 6.7% decrease in registrations, while the Model X saw a notable 47% increase. These trends reflect shifting consumer preferences and the impact of regulatory changes on EV sales.

Additional Insights

The fluctuation in EV registrations underscores the dynamic nature of the market, influenced by both consumer preferences and manufacturer performance. As the EV landscape continues to evolve, it remains essential for industry stakeholders to monitor these trends closely and adapt strategies to maintain growth and competitiveness. For those interested in the latest developments in the EV sector, keeping track of registration data and market shifts provides valuable insights into future industry directions.

Apr 22

Tesla Cuts Prices Globally to Address Sales Slump and Intensify Market Competition

Tesla’s Global Price Reductions Amid Sales Decline

Tesla is responding to a recent sales downturn by significantly reducing the prices of its most popular models worldwide. Starting in the US, the company cut the prices of the Model Y, Model X, and the older Model S, with reductions also reaching markets in China and Germany. For example, the Model Y’s starting price in the US dropped to $42,990, while the Model S and Model X saw their prices reduced to $72,990 and $77,990, respectively, marking a savings of around $2,000 per vehicle.

Impact of Price Cuts on Global Markets

In addition to the US, Tesla’s price reductions extended to other key markets. In China, the refreshed Model 3 saw a decrease of 14,000 yuan, bringing its price to approximately $32,000. Germany also experienced a price drop, with the Model 3’s price reduced to €40,990, reflecting Tesla’s strategic move to counter the rising competition from affordable electric vehicles emerging from China.

Strategic Moves Amidst Market Pressures

The price cuts come as Tesla faces increasing competition from Chinese EV manufacturers and seeks to address recent operational challenges. The company is also reducing the cost of its Supercharger membership scheme in the UK, aiming to attract more non-Tesla EV owners by lowering the monthly subscription fee. This move is part of Tesla’s broader strategy to enhance market presence and revenue streams, especially after announcing a 10% reduction in its global workforce to cut costs and streamline operations.

Tesla Grille
(Image credit: Tesla)

Response to Industry Dynamics

Elon Musk’s decision to lower prices globally follows a pattern of aggressive pricing strategies, as seen with previous significant price cuts in China. This approach not only intensifies competition but also responds to Tesla’s recent inventory and delivery challenges. The company’s actions, including reducing the cost of its Full Self-Driving subscription, highlight its efforts to maintain market leadership and address shareholder concerns amid ongoing scrutiny.

Apr 22

Citi Resumes Coverage on Lucid Shares, Praises Upcoming Gravity SUV

Citi resumed coverage of Lucid Motors‘ shares on Monday with a neutral rating and $2.90 price target. The firm emphasises Lucid’s “strong” electric vehicle (EV) technology although it raises concern on the execution risk for the upcoming model planned for late 2024 Gravity.

In a recent research note, the firm assesses the risk-reward balance regarding Lucid’s “strong” EV technology stance and “adequate” near-term liquidity.

This evaluation takes into account previous demand and branding obstacles, as well as the company’s dependency on the successful rollout of its inaugural SUV model, the Lucid Gravity, later this year.

Citi added that feels away encouraged by upcoming model and sees good prospects for success. Still, a fair amount of execution risk exists to launch Gravity on time, it adds.

Last week, Lucid Motors signed a partnership with the electric vehicle (EV) charging company Wallbox to provide chargers to its European customers.

The company reported recently the delivery of 1,967 vehicles in the first quarter of the year while producing 1,728 units. In late February, Lucid provided a production guidance of “approximately 9,000” vehicles, up from the 8,428 units in 2023.

Lucid will host its conference call to discuss the first quarter financial results on May 6 at 5:30 pm Eastern time immediately after releasing its financial results.

Apr 22

New Porsche Cayenne GTS revealed: posh SUV gets more hardcore

This is the new Porsche Cayenne GTS, and it’s a family SUV for those who want to swing by the racetrack on the way home from the school run.

  • New Porsche Cayenne GTS revealed
  • The most powerful non-hybrid Cayenne you can buy
  • 5.0-litre V8 engine with 500hp
  • 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds
  • Suspension upgrades from the Turbo GT
  • Prices start from £106,100

Following the launch of the new Porsche Cayenne last year, you can now order the more harcore GTS model. This alternative to the BMW X5 M60i gets a 5.0-litre V8 engine, as well as a handful of chassis upgrades.

New Porsche Cayenne GTS engine and performance

At the heart of this new Porsche Cayenne GTS is a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 500hp and 660Nm of torque, an increase of 40hp and 40Nm over the previous GTS.

That makes it the most powerful non-hybrid version of the Cayenne you can buy, however the BMW X5 M60i has an extra 30hp. This doesn’t make too much difference in terms of performance though.

The new Cayenne GTS will do 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds, which is just one tenth of a second behind the BMW. It’s also almost half a second quicker than the 2.0-litre Mercedes-AMG GLC 43.

New Porsche Cayenne GTS chassis and suspension

The new Cayenne GTS isn’t about outright pace, you’ll have to go for the 739hp Turbo E-Hybrid if that’s what you’re after, it’s focussed more on handling. You get a handful of suspension upgrades which are lifted straight from the Cayenne Turbo GT, a model which we don’t get in the UK anymore thanks to ever-tightening emissions regulations.

It’s 10mm lower than the standard Cayenne, and it uses Porsche’s clever adaptive air suspension to ensure a wide spread between comfort and tight handling on a twisty road. You also get more negative camber on the front wheels which adds to the agile feeling.

New Porsche Cayenne GTS price and specs

The new Porsche Cayenne GTS starts from £106,100 in SUV form, or £107,700 if you want the more swoopy coupe model. That makes it almost £11,000 more expensive than a BMW X5 M60i.

Thankfully, you do get a healthy amount of additional equipment for your money. The GTS has a more aggressive-looking bodykit than the standard Cayenne, as well as sporty quad tailpipes. Unique 21-inch alloy wheels complete the look.

The interior is trimmed in a suede-like material, and you get electric heated sports seats as standard. The coupe version gets a panoramic sunroof as well.

Apr 22

Top Car Floor Mats for 2024: Ultimate Vehicle Protection

For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s no surprise that your vehicle often collects dirt, mud, and moisture from your adventures. While factory-installed mats provide basic protection, upgrading to high-quality aftermarket floor mats can significantly enhance your vehicle’s interior defense.

Designed to withstand even the harshest conditions—whether you’re navigating snowy trails, camping in rainy weather, or biking through muddy paths—aftermarket mats are crucial for preserving your car’s interior. Available in both universal and custom-fit varieties, these mats offer various levels of protection. Universal mats are adaptable but might not cover every nook and cranny, while custom-fit mats are tailored to specific vehicle models for superior coverage.

Our rigorous testing included evaluating these mats under extreme conditions, such as spring snowmelt in the Rocky Mountains. We assessed them based on durability, fit, ease of maintenance, and overall performance. For an in-depth look, including a detailed comparison and comprehensive buyer’s guide, see our full review below.

Best Overall Car Floor Mats

Specs:

    • Fitment: Vehicle-specific
    • Rigidity: Hard plastic
    • Door Jam / Side Protection: Yes
    • Warranty: Lifetime
    • Color Options: Black, tan, or grey

The Best Car Floor Mats of 2024

Pros:

  • Precisely laser-measured for a perfect fit
  • Durable and constructed from high-quality materials
  • Made from 100% recyclable, non-toxic substances

Cons:

  • Higher cost
  • Limited availability for vehicles manufactured before 2005

Best Budget Car Floor Mats

Specs:

    • Fitment: Universal, trim-to-fit
    • Rigidity: Flexible plastic
    • Door Jam / Side Protection: No
    • Warranty: None
    • Color Options: Various, including black, beige, and grey

The Best Car Floor Mats of 2024

Pros:

  • Cost-effective
  • Multiple color options
  • Fits most vehicles with trim-to-fit design

Cons:

  • May not cover all areas completely
  • Durability may decrease over time

Most Rigid Fitting Car Floor Mats

Specs:

  • Fitment: Custom fit
  • Rigidity: Rigid plastic
  • Door Jam / Side Protection: Yes
  • Warranty: Lifetime
  • Color Options: Black

The Best Car Floor Mats of 2024

Pros:

  • Custom laser-measured fit
  • Secure with strong cleats
  • Includes door jam protection

Cons:

  • Limited color selection
  • Logo may detach with prolonged use

Best Universal Fit Floor Mats

Specs:

    • Fitment: Universal fit
    • Rigidity: Flexible plastic
    • Door Jam / Side Protection: No
    • Warranty: None
    • Color Options: Black

The Best Car Floor Mats of 2024

Pros:

  • Adaptable to most vehicles with a 3-piece trim-to-fit design
  • Grip claws keep mats in place
  • Versatile fit for different vehicle sizes

Cons:

  • Less coverage compared to custom-fit options
  • Smaller foot pans might lead to spills

Best Floor Mats for Trucks

Specs:

    • Fitment: Custom fit
    • Rigidity: Rigid plastic
    • Door Jam / Side Protection: Yes
    • Warranty: Lifetime
    • Color Options: Black

The Best Car Floor Mats of 2024

Pros:

  • Tailored fit with spill protection
  • Eco-friendly materials
  • Cost-effective for the level of protection

Cons:

    • Instructions may lack details for specific configurations
    • Fitting second-row mats can be challenging

How to Choose the Right Car Floor Mats

When choosing car floor mats, decide between universal and custom-fit options. Universal mats offer flexibility and affordability but might not provide full coverage or a perfect fit. Custom-fit mats deliver superior protection with precise tailoring but at a higher price point.

Material quality is crucial for both durability and ease of cleaning. Premium mats, like those made from Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE), offer excellent durability and environmental benefits. Regular upkeep, including washing and air drying, will keep your mats in optimal condition.


Eric Phillips

Apr 22

Eco-Friendly Cars to Consider for Earth Day 2024: Go Green with Your Ride

Earth Day invites us to think about our environmental impact, particularly how our vehicle choices affect the planet. Since driving plays a significant role in our carbon footprint, selecting an eco-conscious car is key. So, which models—Toyota, Tesla, or Ford—offer the best eco-friendly options?

Top Eco-Friendly Vehicle Selections

GreenerCars identifies hybrids, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and electric vehicles (EVs) as the top choices for reducing environmental impact. Hybrids use a combination of gasoline and electricity, providing limited electric-only travel without the need for frequent recharges. PHEVs allow for an all-electric drive when plugged in but also use gasoline for extended range. In contrast, EVs rely solely on electricity, necessitating regular charging.

2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE

Leading the pack is the 2024 Toyota Prius Prime SE, a prominent PHEV. It features a 2.0-liter engine paired with dual electric motors, delivering a combined output of 220 horsepower. With an estimated electric range of 44 miles per charge, the Prius Prime achieves 53 mpg city and 51 mpg highway when the battery is depleted. It boasts a green score of 71 and has an estimated annual fuel expense of $529, starting at $32,975.

2024 Lexus RZ 330e

The 2024 Lexus RZ 330e stands out as a luxury electric SUV option. It is equipped with a 72.8-kWh battery and a single motor, producing 308 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. This vehicle offers a substantial electric range of up to 266 miles per charge and achieves approximately 137 MPGe city and 112 MPGe highway. With a green score of 67 and an estimated yearly fuel cost of $651, it carries a higher price tag of $55,150.

2024 Mini Cooper SE

Completing our list is the 2024 Mini Cooper SE, a compact and efficient EV. It features a 54.2-kWh battery and a single motor generating 181 horsepower. The Cooper SE provides an estimated range of 114 miles per charge and achieves 119 MPGe city and 100 MPGe highway. With a green score of 67 and a starting MSRP of $30,900, it has an estimated annual fuel cost of $747.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right green vehicle involves considering both your driving habits and budget. While hybrids and PHEVs offer flexibility with a combination of gasoline and electric power, EVs provide a fully electric experience with zero emissions. Assess factors like electric range, fuel efficiency, and overall cost to find the best fit for your needs and environmental aspirations. For further details and comparisons, consult our detailed review and buying guide.

Apr 22

Top Bluetooth Car Adapters for Seamless Audio and Connectivity

If your car’s infotainment system is outdated or lacking Bluetooth capabilities, a Bluetooth car adapter can be a game-changer. These affordable devices, typically priced under $30, let you stream music, podcasts, and make hands-free calls by simply plugging them into your car’s audio port. With a Bluetooth adapter, you can effortlessly enjoy modern features without breaking the bank.

We’ve tested various Bluetooth car adapters to determine the best options available. Our evaluations focused on design, audio quality, and user-friendliness, with additional points for standout features. Here’s a rundown of our top picks to enhance your in-car audio experience.

Amazon Echo Auto (2nd Gen)

The Echo Auto stands out as more than just a Bluetooth adapter; it integrates Alexa into your vehicle, offering voice control for music, calls, and even smart home devices. Its compact design allows it to mount directly on your dashboard, blending seamlessly with your car’s interior while providing hands-free convenience.

MPOW BH044E Bluetooth Receiver

The MPOW BH044E impresses with its long-lasting battery and easy connectivity. It features a user-friendly interface with a longer cord for flexible placement and intuitive controls for seamless audio streaming. Its simplicity and functionality make it a practical choice for everyday use.

MPOW bluetooth adapter on a white background

Kinivo BTC450

Kinivo’s BTC450 is ideal for those seeking improved call quality. Its design includes a car lighter adapter with a USB port for phone charging, though the button placement may be inconvenient for some users. Despite this, the device delivers solid audio performance and versatility.

Kinivo bluetooth adapter on white background

MPOW BH129 Bluetooth Receiver

The MPOW BH129 offers reliable Bluetooth connectivity with easy-to-use controls. It features a large button for quick audio management and boasts a good battery life. However, occasional signal interference may occur, which could be due to device or phone compatibility.

Mpow bluetooth adapter on a white background

 

Tunai FireFly

The Tunai FireFly is sleek and versatile, allowing connections via both audio and USB ports. It supports pairing multiple devices simultaneously, but lacks a built-in microphone for calls. Its high-quality connection makes it a solid choice for those who don’t need hands-free calling.

Tunai firefly bluetooth adapter on white background

Apr 22

Hongqi EHS7 electric SUV to unveil at Beijing Auto Show

Last year’s Shanghai Auto Show saw the Hongqi E202 concept unveiled; this year’s Beijing Auto Show will see the production version now called EHS7 unveiled. Ahead of more information later this week we bring you pictures and details.

The EHS7 is the second car in the Hongqi New Energy series following on from the EH7 sedan and in many ways can be seen as an SUV version of this car. Both single and dual-motor versions will be available and we know that the motor setup is exactly the same as in the sedan. This means the rear wheel drive version gets a motor with maximum power of 253 kW while the all-wheel drive adds an additional 202 kW motor to the front. The battery packs are also from CATL and although we don’t know the sizes yet a good guess is that they will be exactly the same meaning that the EHS7 will offer 75, 85 and 111 kWh packs. Maximum speed is 200 km/h.

What’s not apparent from the pictures is just how large an SUV the Hongqi EHS7 is; length is 4925 mm with width and height of 1950 and 1680 mm respectively. At 3000 mm the wheelbase is exactly the same as on the EH7.

Hongqi EHS7 interior spy shots plus MIIT listing pictures

The Hongqi EHS7 will come with features including an advanced safety chassis system and 800V architecture giving fast charging. MIIT listing pictures show that some versions will gain Lidar and it is expected that the EHS7 should have a capable intelligent driving system.

Design wise the car is remarkably close to the concept seen last year with largely only changes to the front and back making the EHS7 look more production like. Black side pillars are optional on the production version.

Hongqi E202 electric SUV concept on display at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show.
Hongqi E202 electric SUV concept on display at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show.
Hongqi E202 electric SUV concept on display at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show.
Hongqi E202 electric SUV concept on display at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show.

Spy shots of the interior show that it also quite closely resembles that of the concept although in not quite so gawdy colors. The butterfly screen setup seems the same as in the EH7 and so the EHS7 will likely have a 6-inch LCD instrument panel and a 15.5-inch central control screen along with a augmented reality HUD. Presumably powering the car’s system is a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip.–

Already spotted at the Beijing Auto Show venue is a poster for the launch of the Hongqi EHS7.

Source: Autohome