Month: April 2024

Apr 21

Motorcyclist killed, SUV driver hurt in crash near Gatorland, troopers say

A 39-year-old Kissimmee man riding a motorcycle along South Orange Blossom Trail (SOBT) in Orange County was killed in a crash with an SUV that turned into his path early Sunday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The crash occurred around 3 a.m. in Hunter’s Creek, south of Cypress Crossing Drive, troopers said.

As the motorcyclist traveled south on SOBT in the inside lane, a 2014 Kia Soul being driven by a 38-year-old Orlando woman was traveling east, exiting a private driveway, an FHP crash report states.

According to the report, the Kia driver made a right turn into the inside southbound lane of SOBT, entering the direct path of the motorcycle.

The front of the motorcycle struck the rear left of the Kia as a result, according to FHP. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene, troopers said, adding he was wearing a helmet in the crash.

The Kia driver was hospitalized for treatment of minor injuries, the report states.

FHP is still investigating.

Note: This map depicts the general area of the crash and not necessarily its exact location.

Apr 21

Hyundai Kona: The Hybrid vs. Gasoline Debate in 2024

Hyundai’s latest Kona model has stirred interest in the automotive market, offering both hybrid and gasoline options. The new model boasts enhanced dimensions with a length of 4.35 meters and an improved design for a striking appearance. The hybrid variant stands out with better fuel efficiency and advanced tech, while the gasoline version remains a cost-effective alternative, priced at NIS 155,000 compared to the hybrid’s NIS 173,000.

(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)

In the face of rising fuel prices and the challenge of range anxiety, the Kona’s hybrid model is becoming a popular choice for those seeking economical driving. The base gasoline version offers commendable performance with a 1,000 cc turbo engine, while the hybrid version promises up to 20 km per liter, providing significant savings for frequent drivers. Despite minor differences in comfort and features, the gasoline variant delivers strong value, especially for those who drive less than 15,000 kilometers annually.

(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)

Specifications Overview:

  • Engine: 1,000 cc turbo gasoline, 120 hp, dual-clutch automatic
  • Performance: 0-100 km/h in 11.7 seconds, top speed 180 km/h
  • Fuel Consumption: Manufacturer’s claim 16.9 km/l, tested urban 13.5 km/l
  • Dimensions: Length 4.35m, Width 1.82m, Height 1.57m, Wheelbase 2.66m
  • Safety Features: Autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning
  • Warranty: 3 years or 100,000 km
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)
(credit: Walla System / Udi Etzion)

For those debating between the hybrid and gasoline models, the Kona provides a range of options tailored to various needs, balancing performance, economy, and advanced features.

Apr 21

Some Drivers Wrapping Their Key Fobs in Aluminum Foil for Safety

This bizarre practice might actually protect your car.

Here’s an intriguing puzzle: Some drivers are keeping a few pieces of aluminum foil by the front door. When they pull their car key fob out of their pocket, they wrap the foil around it and stow the entire thing on a shelf or counter for the night. No, the reflective layer isn’t to help them find their keys in the morning. This is a protective measure to keep their car from getting stolen.

Car thieves have developed a clever way to steal the most advanced cars. I’m talking about luxury models that have both keyless entry and keyless start, cars that only need you to have your key in your pocket to drive them away. Once thief waits by the car with a signal receiver/emitter. The other deploys an antenna by your door and captures the key fobs signal. By relaying the signals from both the key and the car, these two devices can make the vehicle think the key is nearby.

This car theft strategy is called a “relay attack.” While it’s been technically possible for years, the cost of the necessary equipment is going down while the range they can work at is going up. Worst of all, when thieves find a vulnerability in a certain make or model of car, they have been sharing it on social media. This results in certain “trending” vehicles being stolen.

Car thief looking through a window with a flashlight to prepare for a relay attack
Car thief | welcomia via iStockPhoto

So can wrapping your key fob in aluminum wrap…foil the thieves?

Puns aside, it could potentially work. Some experts I’ve read say you’ll really need multiple sheets of aluminum foil. And even then, all you’re doing is weakening the signal. But there are alternative methods that are a better bet.

Shutting down your car’s keyless entry feature–either for the night or indefinitely–is a sure way to thwart a relay attack. Note that if you have a key fob that requires you click a button to unlock your car, the relay attack won’t work.

If your automaker won’t let you disable this feature, the simplest solution is to move your key fob away from the door. But remember to move your spares as well. And finally, you can keep your key fob in a specially-build “”RFID blocker” pouch or box.

Next, read about the ‘Kia Boys’ who are showing TikTok users how to steal cars, or see a relay theft for yourself learn some ways to protect your keyless entry car in the video embedded below:

Apr 21

Advancing Frontiers: The Lotus Eletre—Redefining Electric Luxury

Innovation Meets Sustainability in Lotus’ Trailblazing SUV

Embarking on its electric venture, Lotus unveils the Eletre, its first foray into electric SUVs, set to debut in late 2024. With a starting price of $107,000, the Eletre blends peerless performance with sustainable technology, illustrating Lotus’ commitment to innovation. This SUV not only elevates the standard for luxury vehicles but also pioneers advancements in the sector.

Elevated Performance with Enhanced Charging Solutions

The Eletre features a dynamic 603 horsepower engine and 710 lb-ft of torque, enabling a rapid ascent from 0-62 mph in just 4.5 seconds, and reaching speeds up to 160 mph. It incorporates a comprehensive 111.9 kWh battery that exemplifies optimal power management. The Eletre R escalates these capabilities with 905 horsepower, dashing to 62 mph in nearly 2.95 seconds, and achieving a top speed of 165 mph. Both models offer expedited charging, filling up to 80% capacity in approximately 20 minutes through DC fast charging.

Luxurious Design with a Focus on Eco-Innovation

The Eletre reshapes the landscape of luxury electric SUVs by integrating advanced technologies with superior driving dynamics. Designed for individuals who value both formidable automotive performance and environmental integrity, this model is currently available for pre-order, marking Lotus’ stride towards a sustainable future in the luxury automotive realm.

Strategic Evolution and Environmental Impact

With the introduction of the Eletre, Lotus signals a significant shift towards more sustainable automotive solutions, balancing robust performance with environmental considerations. The growing demand for vehicles that deliver both eco-friendliness and high performance is steering industry standards. The development of the Eletre is closely monitored by enthusiasts and industry experts, anticipating its influence on future trends in electric vehicle technology and design.

Apr 21

Weather Alert: Tesla Cybertruck Navigates New Orleans Flood—A Closer Look

Navigating Stormy Waters: The Dilemma of Driving Through Floods

On April 10th, a severe thunderstorm struck New Orleans, unleashing winds of up to 70 miles per hour and deluging the city with over 8 inches of rain. This extreme weather overwhelmed the city’s drainage capabilities, rendering many roads impassable, particularly for smaller vehicles. In these treacherous conditions, the Tesla Cybertruck was notably seen navigating the flooded streets, spotlighted by AccuWeather’s social media amidst other robust trucks and SUVs braving the storm.

Tesla Cybertruck’s “Wade Mode” Under the Microscope

Amidst the chaos of the storm, the resilience of Tesla’s Cybertruck caught the public’s eye, thanks to its innovative ‘Wade Mode’. This feature, which Tesla claims can transform the truck into a makeshift boat, allows the vehicle to traverse through water bodies—potentially a lifeline during sudden floods. However, Elon Musk’s bold assertions that the Cybertruck could cross lakes and calm seas have been met with skepticism, as no current model supports this capability fully. Tesla advises caution, stressing the driver’s responsibility to judge water depths before venturing forth, as any damage from such endeavors falls outside the warranty coverage.

Safety First: The Risks of Floodwater Driving

Driving through floodwaters poses significant risks, regardless of the vehicle. The Cybertruck, while equipped to handle high waters for limited periods, still requires careful handling to avoid costly damage or personal harm. Tesla’s specifications list a maximum wade depth of 32 inches, with stringent guidelines for use. Recently, instances of the ‘Wade Mode’ leading to vehicle damage have surfaced, underscoring the perils of underestimating flood conditions. AccuWeather’s focus on the Cybertruck serves as a reminder of the hazards of driving in such extreme scenarios—better to seek shelter than to test the limits of technology in potentially life-threatening situations.

Apr 21

Elderly Woman “Accidentally” Crashes SUV Into Michigan Dog Grooming Shop, Employee Suffers Minor Injuries

An elderly driver turned a sleepy Michigan street into a scene of disarray last Thursday when her SUV careened into a local dog groomer’s shop. The 78-year-old Saline woman is said to have “accidentally” plowed her vehicle into the Dog House Grooming Spa on Howell Street, according to WHMI. The collision, occurring around 1 p.m. near Michigan 36, sent building materials and business signs flying in a cloud of dust and debris.

Amidst the chaos, one employee found himself in harm’s way. The 56-year-old man, who was standing “just inside the front door,” was struck by the invading SUV, as reported by WWJ Newsradio. While the building’s entrance was left with “extensive damage,” the employee escaped with only minor injuries. The vehicle itself was described as “undriveable,” a testament to the force with which the shop was hit.

Authorities, including police, fire, and EMS crews, swarmed the scene quickly. The man injured in the incident declined further medical treatment after being assessed by Livingston County EMS. The event prompted an investigation into how and why the crash occurred, as stated by Pinckney Police. While the cause of the crash remains undetermined, thankfully, there were no major injuries, a fact emphasized by the response team on site.

As the dust settled, the dog grooming business faced an unexpected closure due to the “substantial damage” inflicted, as noted by ClickOnDetroit. With a crater where its entrance once welcomed both dogs and their owners, the Dog House Grooming Spa now faces repairs while the community grapples with the stunning spectacle of a regular day upended by the most unexpected of visitors.

Apr 21

The 2024 Cadillac CT4: Revolutionizing Cost-Effective Luxury in Sedans

Elevated Luxury: The Enhanced Appeal of the Cadillac CT4

The 2024 Cadillac CT4 surpasses conventional luxury sedan standards by merging cost-effectiveness with unparalleled elegance. As a standout in the luxury car arena, the CT4 impresses with its generous interior space and vigorous performance, particularly evident in the CT4-V Blackwing version. Its consistent high ratings for quality and value make it a preferred choice for sophisticated car buyers.

The 2024 CT4-V Blackwing offers more power
2024 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing | Cadillac

Dynamic Performance Across Diverse Preferences

The CT4’s charm extends through its adaptable performance features, tailored to suit varied driving tastes. This model includes three engine options, beginning with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that delivers 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The apex model, the CT4-V Blackwing, amplifies excitement with a turbocharged 3.6-liter V6 engine, which boasts 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in merely 3.9 seconds.

Proven Reliability and Compelling Design Features

The 2024 Cadillac CT4 is highly regarded for its reliability, scoring an impressive 86 out of 100 from J.D. Power for its dependability and lasting appeal. The sedan is equipped with an advanced eight-inch infotainment system, complete with onboard Wi-Fi and audio options ranging from a standard eight-speaker setup to a premium 14-speaker Bose system. With a starting price of $34,595 and seating for five, the CT4 positions itself as one of the most financially accessible models in Cadillac’s luxury lineup, further supported by extensive warranty coverage that highlights its long-term value.

Apr 21

2024’s Premier Manual Transmission Vehicles: A Fusion of Performance and Tradition

Shifting Gears: The Changing Role of Manual Transmissions

Manual transmissions have evolved from being standard to becoming a specialized choice in the contemporary auto market. These gearboxes are cherished for their engaging, hands-on driving experience, embodying a sporty feel. Yet, the rise of advanced automatic transmissions, known for superior acceleration and efficiency, has swayed the majority of drivers away from manuals.

Discovering Manual Options in Today’s Auto World

While fewer buyers opt for manual transmissions, several models still cater to enthusiasts. Basic trims of economy cars such as the Mazda 3, Mini Cooper, Nissan Versa, and Volkswagen Jetta retain the manual setup. Performance hatchbacks like the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf GTI, and sports sedans like the Subaru WRX and BMW M2, continue to champion the manual tradition, providing an immersive driving pleasure.

Manual Transmissions: Rare in SUVs and Performance Cars

The intersection of manual driving and SUV utility remains limited, with the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler standing as the few equipped choices. In the realm of high-performance cars, manual options are diminishing but persist in select models like Porsche’s 911 and Cayman. This scarcity underscores a unique appeal for aficionados, merging the excitement of manual control with a touch of automotive nostalgia.

Analytical Insights by iSeeCars

iSeeCars conducts an extensive analysis of these manual vehicles, ranking them by reliability, resale potential, and safety features. The analysis provides details such as transmission types—from five to seven-speed manuals—and essential metrics like fuel economy and price points. Such thorough evaluations equip buyers with crucial insights, enhancing the car-buying journey from a mere transaction to a memorable acquisition.

Apr 21

Cyberattack Spurns Another Stellantis Lawsuit Against Suppliers; This Is Getting Old

The most recent legal battle for Stellantis started with a cyberattack on the supplier.

Cyberattacks cause serious problems for many companies. Last year, one such attack caused a Stellantis supplier to halt operations and deliveries of some parts to auto plants in Detroit and Mexico. Stellantis claims this cost the automaker $26 million, which they promptly charged the supplier. This created the most recent legal battle for the automaker.

Yanfeng fights back in the courtroom

Yanfeng, the subject of Stellantis’ most recent legal ire, makes instrument panels, door panels, and center consoles for Ram and Jeep vehicles. On three different dates in January, Yanfeng halted the delivery of components to Stellantis. This spurned the automaker’s filing for an injunction against the supplier.

“Immediate injunction relief is necessary not just to prevent irreparable harm to [Stellantis] but also to avoid widespread disruption and catastrophic harm across the automotive industry if Yanfeng abandons its obligations under the parties’ contracts.”

– Stellantis Lawyers

In addition to the $26 million in claimed losses due to the cyberattack, Stellantis claims to have lost more than $300 million in revenue because of the halted deliveries and the inability to complete 6,000 Jeep and Ram vehicles.

The courtroom battles continue with a judge granting the injunction, but Yanfeng countersuing to have the suit dismissed. This countersuit is for damages incurred because Stellantis’:

“practice of systematically ordering components and effectively canceling its orders last minute including labor, storage, scrap, and raw material costs unnecessarily incurred by Yanfeng.”

2024 Ram 1500 TRX tackles an off-road trail.
2024 Ram 1500 TRX | Ram

Is a hard line the right line?

Since the creation of Stellantis, formerly FCA, the automaker has held a hard line with suppliers. This has led to court battles between the two sides. The cyberattack on Yanfeng is only the most recent issue to reach courts. The automaker is also in legal battles with Kamax and MacLean-Fogg. Kamax makes fasteners and MacLean-Fogg makes pinions and gears for transmissions. These two companies seem pretty important to Stellantis’ success.

Suppliers are becoming frustrated with the automaker no longer accepting claims for cost increases. The hard lines this automaker chooses to take with its suppliers cause tensions to boil over and could lead to canceled contracts, which isn’t the relationship any automaker desires with suppliers.

Apr 21

Annual Extravaganza: “Mugs & Motors” at Coffee for Good

Celebration on Wheels: Coffee for Good’s Vibrant Car Showcase

Mark your calendars for the “Mugs & Motors” extravaganza, proudly presented by the Coffee for Good Teen Board. Set for Saturday, May 18, from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, this vibrant showcase will feature a diverse array of over 30 vehicles, from modern marvels to revered classics, each telling its own story of design and innovation.

Community Support at Coffee for Good’s Scenic Venue

The event will unfold in the expansive lower parking lot behind the Mead House, located at 48 Maple Avenue, Greenwich, CT. “Mugs & Motors” isn’t just a car show; it’s a community-centric initiative aimed at bolstering Coffee for Good’s vision. Everyone is invited, from auto aficionados to families, with no entry fee for spectators and exhibitors alike.

Empowering Neurodiversity with Every Cup Served

At its core, Coffee for Good operates as an impactful non-profit, utilizing its coffee shop as an employment training ground for neurodiverse adults. This initiative not only helps participants secure meaningful employment but also enhances community engagement. Open throughout the week, the shop delights visitors with its award-winning coffee, wholesome breakfasts, and lunches, reinforcing its reputation as Fairfield County’s top coffee destination.

Enhanced Factual and Beneficial Information:

Fostering Skills and Independence

Coffee for Good is dedicated to empowering neurodiverse adults, providing them with essential job skills within a supportive environment. Each purchase at the coffee shop contributes directly to this mission, aiding in the financial independence and professional growth of individuals often overlooked in the workforce.

Celebrating Community and Sustainable Impact

Recognized for its outstanding service and quality, Coffee for Good sets a standard for how enterprises can succeed commercially while making a significant social impact. The “Mugs & Motors” event showcases this commitment, offering a day of enjoyment and community connection, supporting a meaningful cause while savoring the best local cuisine and drinks in an inviting atmosphere.