Month: April 2024

Apr 26

‘Pray hard!’: Family updates condition of Tifton boy hit by SUV

A Tifton 5-year-old who was hospitalized after being hit by an SUV in a school zone on Tuesday is still healing.

According to a family member’s post on Friday, Isaiah Silva is expected to stay in a medically induced coma at a Jacksonville hospital for at least a few days. X-rays, brain monitors and cooling blankets are also being used to aid his recovery.

In a post, a family member said, “Pray hard! The doctors took him down to CT due to his left pupil not reacting earlier yesterday they said it was sluggish and now it’s not reacting please lord we need a miracle!”

Apr 26

Kia EV9 GT performance three-row SUV to be revealed next year

A high-performance version of the Kia EV9 electric three-row SUV, to be badged the GT, has been confirmed for a January debut, and it will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds. This is according to Kia’s Investor Day presentation.

Kia said the new version of the SUV will have “enormous power output”—as yet unspecified—generated by a dual electric motor setup. It’s expected that the SUV will inherit a powertrain similar to that found in the smaller EV6 GT. As such, output would likely be around 576 horsepower at least, if not a little more to account for the EV9’s additional weight.

The upcoming EV9 GT will be 1.3 seconds faster to 60 mph than the EV9 GT-Line, and only 0.5 second slower compared to the EV6 GT, although it will likely be heavier than that model.

As a performance flagship, the EV9 GT will be fitted with all-wheel drive, and a “reinforced suspension and electronic braking system” set to provide “stable driving performance at high speeds.” Going by the EV6 GT, that suspension will probably have electronically adjustable damping. We also wouldn’t be surprised to see other upgrades such as a limited-slip differential, either electronic or mechanical, included, too.

At its meeting in South Korea, Kia, which is planning to introduce other GT versions of its EV line, confirmed that an updated version of the EV6 GT will debut later this year. The company has also confirmed Kia will launch six new mass market EV models in major locations by the end of the decade: the EV2, EV3, EV4, and EV5.

The EV3 subcompact SUV is expected by the end of this year, to start at about $30,000. By 2030, said Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song, Kia aims to sell 1.6 million EVs, helped in that quest by concentrating on smaller, more affordable models and discontinuing some larger, less affordable models. The EV9 GT on the other hand, will surely be the most expensive version of the SUV, just as the EV6 GT is the most expensive version of that model.

Apr 26

Only One Small SUV Earns Top Rating in New Crash Prevention Test

Evaluating Small SUVs for Crash Prevention

AEB Systems Face New Challenges

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems aim to prevent accidents by applying brakes automatically. Yet, a recent comprehensive test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found many small SUVs struggling with specific road obstacles. Out of ten small SUVs tested, only the Subaru Forester earned a “good” rating.

Test Findings and Insights

David Aylor, IIHS Vice President of Active Safety, emphasized the need for these systems to give timely warnings to prevent crashes. The new test included more complex scenarios such as avoiding collisions with another vehicle, a motorcycle, and a large truck at higher speeds, ranging from 31 to 43 mph, compared to previous tests at 12 and 25 mph.

The Subaru Forester excelled by avoiding almost all collisions with passenger cars and motorcycles, with only minor impacts at higher speeds. In contrast, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 were rated acceptable, while the Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, and Jeep Compass received marginal ratings. The Chevrolet Equinox, Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Volkswagen Taos were rated poorly.

Subaru Forester

A worker polishes a 2019 Subaru Forester at the New York International Auto Show, on March 28, 2018, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Industry Reactions and Future Improvements

Aylor expects manufacturers to enhance their systems quickly. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing many brands with lower ratings, highlighted the importance of AEB technology in minimizing crashes and injuries. Despite the test results, Aylor noted that AEB systems remain effective in real-world scenarios, reducing front-to-rear crashes by 50%.

The IIHS plans to extend its testing to include AEB performance with other obstacles such as cyclists and pedestrians, particularly under nighttime conditions. Automakers with lower ratings, including Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors North America, General Motors, and Volkswagen of America, have committed to improving their AEB systems based on the new IIHS standards.

A 2023 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite.

A 2023 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite. (Ford Motor Co. / Fox News)

Commitment to Safety and Continuous Improvement

This test underscores the need for ongoing advancements in AEB systems to improve vehicle safety. Although some SUVs faced challenges, the ongoing development and refinement of these technologies are essential for better protecting drivers and pedestrians. The IIHS’s dedication to stringent testing protocols and the manufacturers’ commitment to safety improvements are vital steps toward achieving safer roads for all.

Apr 26

Discover the Pinnacle of Automotive Excellence: The World’s Finest Cars

Exploring the Best Cars Worldwide

Introduction

Navigating the vast selection of car models can be daunting, whether you’re an avid car enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of automobiles. Each vehicle’s performance, design, and features play a crucial role in defining its status among the elite. This guide delves into the top cars globally, highlighting their standout attributes and why they are highly regarded.

Quick Overview: World’s Best Cars

Rank Car Model Price (Approx.) Unique Features
1 Rolls-Royce Boat Tail $28 million Limited production, bespoke design
2 Bugatti La Voiture Noire $18.68 million Handcrafted carbon fiber body, iconic design
3 Rolls-Royce Sweptail Custom Exclusive, bespoke design, luxurious interior
4 Bugatti Centodieci $9 million Limited production, homage to EB110
5 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ $3.9 million World’s fastest production car, exceptional design
6 Mercedes-Maybach Exelero Custom One-off creation, luxurious features
7 Lamborghini Veneno $4.5 million Limited production, striking design
8 Lamborghini Sian FKP 37 $3.6 million Hybrid technology, limited production

Rolls-Royce Boat Tail: The Pinnacle of Luxury

Crafting Excellence

  • Exclusive Production: With only three units ever created, the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail represents the height of exclusivity.
  • Tailored Design: Each car is custom-made to match the unique tastes of its owner, ensuring a distinct driving experience.

Bugatti La Voiture Noire: Engineering Mastery

Bugatti La Voiture Noire

Unparalleled Elegance

  • Carbon Fiber Construction: The handcrafted carbon fiber body showcases Bugatti’s dedication to innovation and craftsmanship.
  • Timeless Appeal: Inspired by the legendary Type 57 SC Atlantic, the La Voiture Noire blends classic design with modern sophistication.

Rolls-Royce Sweptail: Symbol of Opulence

Rolls-Royce Sweptail

Tailored Luxury

  • Custom Build: The Rolls-Royce Sweptail, commissioned by a single client, stands as a unique masterpiece.
  • Luxurious Details: From the handcrafted interior to the sleek exterior, every element of the Sweptail exudes luxury.

Bugatti Centodieci: Celebrating Legacy

Bugatti Centodieci

Tribute to Excellence

  • Limited Edition: With only ten units produced, the Bugatti Centodieci honors the iconic EB110.
  • High Performance: Powered by a quad-turbocharged W16 engine, the Centodieci offers exhilarating speed and agility.

Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+: Speed Redefined

Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+

Record-Breaking Performance

  • Unmatched Speed: The Chiron Super Sport 300+ holds the title of the fastest production car, reaching up to 300 mph.
  • Exceptional Craftsmanship: Its aerodynamic design and luxurious features set new standards in automotive excellence.

Mercedes-Maybach Exelero: Ultimate Luxury

Mercedes-Maybach Exelero

Singular Splendor

  • One-of-a-Kind Creation: Built for a specific client, the Mercedes-Maybach Exelero is a unique luxury vehicle.
  • Powerful Performance: Featuring a twin-turbocharged V12 engine and a lavish interior, the Exelero embodies automotive prestige.

Lamborghini Veneno: Future Vision

Lamborghini Veneno

Unbridled Power

  • Anniversary Edition: Launched to celebrate Lamborghini’s 50th anniversary, the Veneno combines futuristic design and performance.
  • Rare and Extraordinary: With only a few units produced, the Veneno is both rare and extraordinary.

Lamborghini Sian FKP 37: Leading Innovatio

Lamborghini Sian FKP 37

Hybrid Innovation

  • Electrifying Performance: The Sian FKP 37 combines Lamborghini’s V12 engine with advanced hybrid technology for unparalleled power.
  • Exclusive Production: Limited to 63 units, the Sian FKP 37 is highly sought after by collectors.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. What makes the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail so expensive?

A1. The Rolls-Royce Boat Tail’s exclusivity and customization drive its price to over $28 million. With only three units produced, each car is tailored to the owner’s specific tastes.

Q2. How many Bugatti La Voiture Noire cars exist?

A2. There is only one Bugatti La Voiture Noire, making it one of the rarest and most expensive cars. Its unique design and craftsmanship contribute to its exclusivity.

Q3. What sets the Pagani Huayra Roadster BC apart from other supercars?

A3. The Pagani Huayra Roadster BC features a removable top and uses exotic materials like titanium and carbon fiber, combining high performance with exquisite craftsmanship.

Q4. How fast can the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ go?

A4. The Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ is the world’s fastest production car, capable of reaching 300 mph due to its exceptional aerodynamics and powerful engine.

Q5. Why is the W Motors Lykan Hypersport so famous?

A5. The W Motors Lykan Hypersport is renowned for its extraordinary design, diamond-encrusted headlights, and holographic displays. It gained additional fame from its appearance in the Fast and Furious franchise.

Conclusion

In the world of automotive excellence, these cars stand out as benchmarks of innovation, craftsmanship, and performance. From the opulent Rolls-Royce Boat Tail to the incredibly fast Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+, each vehicle offers a unique blend of style and substance. Whether you prefer classic elegance or cutting-edge technology, these top cars will captivate your imagination and elevate your driving experience.

Apr 26

2024 Tesla Cybertruck: InsideEVs 70 MPH Highway Range Test Results

Introduction to the Tesla Cybertruck

After several years of anticipation, the Tesla Cybertruck has finally been released. As an enthusiast, the first test I conduct on any new EV is the InsideEVs 70 MPH Highway Range Test. This week, I had the opportunity to perform this test on an all-wheel-drive Foundation Series Cybertruck rented from Turo.

Conducting the Range Test

The Cybertruck I tested had just over 2,000 miles on the odometer and was completely stock. InsideEVs conducts all range tests consistently to ensure accurate vehicle-to-vehicle comparisons. Although the Cybertruck has not yet received its official EPA range certification, Tesla estimates that the all-wheel-drive model with 35″ all-terrain tires will have a combined EPA rating of 318 miles. A future model with less aggressive all-season tires is expected to achieve a range of 340 miles.

Our highway range tests differ from EPA tests, aiming to provide consumers with realistic expectations based on actual driving conditions. The Cybertruck’s estimated EPA ratings serve as a reference point, but our focus is on real-world performance.

Test Results and Analysis

Test Segment Miles Driven Total Miles Wh/Mi Mi/kWh kWh Used
100% to 75% 77 77 399 2.51 31
75% to 50% 74 151 403 2.48 30
50% to 25% 72 223 406 2.46 29
25% to 0% 69 302 398 2.51 30

Historically, Tesla vehicles tend to underperform their combined EPA range ratings by 10% to 12%, while other brands often exceed their published range figures. During this test, favorable weather conditions—starting at 60°F and rising to 68°F with minimal wind—contributed to the Cybertruck’s impressive performance.

The test concluded with the Cybertruck covering 302 miles and a consumption rate of 2.51 miles per kilowatt-hour. The vehicle displayed zero miles remaining at 299 miles, and the final three miles utilized the lower-end battery buffer. The battery, with a total capacity of 123 kWh, indicated 120 kWh used during the test, suggesting a bit more reserve.

Based on this data, it’s reasonable to assume the Cybertruck could potentially reach 310 miles before completely depleting its battery. My friend, Kyle Conner, from the Out Of Spec YouTube channel, managed to drive his tri-motor Cyberbeast for 304 miles, using the full 123 kWh.

Future Comparisons and Considerations

Keep an eye out for our upcoming Tesla Cybertruck vs. Ford F-150 Lightning comparison. Our 70-mph highway range tests, while not perfect, provide valuable insights. We account for variables like wind, traffic, topography, and weather, ensuring consistent testing standards for all vehicles.

These tests offer potential customers another data point to consider when evaluating the driving range of a specific EV. Understanding the real-world performance of EVs like the Tesla Cybertruck helps consumers make informed decisions about their next vehicle purchase.

Apr 26

You Can Get a Wittle Wecovery Board to Match Your TRD Pro’s Wittle Wadder

This twaction board fits in nicely with the running joke, no?

This week, an Instagram reel featuring a new addition to the “Wittle Wadder” joke has surfaced: a “Wittle Wecovery” board you can post up on your Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro.

The reel shows a silver 4Runner with a roof rack. On the left rear side of the roof rack sits a teensy orange rescue board, complete with mini handles. It seems to be zip-tied to the roof rack.

A white 2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro shown in right profile view desert landscape showing half the SUV
2021 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro | Toyota

The board is really made for RC car builds and doesn’t come magnetized. Amazon reviews show images of the board adorably positioned on finished RC kits. Looks like you can get a set for less than 10 bucks.

The whole joke began a few years ago with a clip of a guy mocking a small but functional (?) ladder bolted to the back of a 4Runner TRD Pro. The joke is to turn all your “Rs” into “Ws” while going on and on about what the driver might be able to do with the ladder and their SUV, ending each statement as a question.

The clip ends with the creator quickly reverting back to his normal voice and saying, “Nah, just kidding. Cool car, bro.” Since then, tiny toy-sized magnetized ladders have popped up on 4Runner owners in on the joke.

Toyota sells quite a few accessories for real 4Runners, but drivers have to go to an aftermarket supplier for a ladder.

When I searched for the wittle wecovery board, I was delighted to find all sorts of RC accessories that could keep this joke going strong. Glorious options include tow chains, “towable” trailers, brush lights, sports travel bags, and a mini roof light bar.

Apr 26

Toyota Bets Big on American-Built, Three-Row Electric SUVs

Toyota made a big announcement this week, letting the world know that it was committing over a billion dollars to build an electric, three-row SUV in Indiana. If that news gives you a sense of deja vu, it’s not just you — this shouldn’t be confused with Toyota’s February announcement about a different three-row electric SUV slated to be built in Kentucky.

All told, the two steps mean that Toyota is committing $2.7 billion to the two American-made electric SUVs. The automaker’s announcement of its new $1.4 billion investment in the Princeton, Indiana facility confirms that the two models are distinct from one another — but it sure seems like Toyota has a particular segment of the market in mind.

Toyota also clarified that the Indiana investment would encompass both the electric SUV assembly and an assembly line for battery packs.

Despite plenty of evidence that there’s room to grow on the sedan side of the EV market, it isn’t hard to see why Toyota would be looking into spacious SUVs for its big EV push. Odds are good that drivers seeking a three-row SUV also live somewhere that could accommodate a charger, which is ideal, seeing as how charging infrastructure has frustrated some EV owners.

This investment in electric SUVs isn’t Toyota’s only big April announcement about upcoming models. Earlier this month, the automaker said that the 2025 Camry would be a hybrid, full stop. It seems telling that Toyota’s ubiquitous sedan is taking a very different path towards electrification — but it also feels like an acknowledgement of where the market and charging infrastructure are right now.

Apr 26

SUV Crashes into Laurel Convenience Store, Seriously Injures Teen

Police are investigating a crash into a Laurel convenience store Thursday night that left one 17-year-old seriously injured.

The Laurel Police Department says they were dispatched to the First Stop Gas Station on West Street on reports of a vehicle colliding with a building. There, police say they found an SUV had driven over the concrete parking barricades in the parking lot and into the convenience store. A 17-year-old pedestrian who had been leaning against the wall at the time was also struck.

An investigation reportedly revealed the 78-year-old driver of the SUV pulled into a parking spot outside the convenience store then exited the vehicle without placing it in park, according to police. As the SUV began rolling forward, the driver attempted to jump back into the vehicle and press the brake. Instead of the brake, however, police say the driver pressed down on the accelerator, driving the SUV onto the sidewalk.

The 17-year-old pedestrian, from Laurel, was taken to a local hospital for serious injuries.

The driver of the SUV was given two citations for Inattentive Driving and Failure to Have Insurance Identification in Possession.

Apr 26

Tesla Autopilot Under Scrutiny: 13 Fatalities and Hundreds of Crashes Investigated

Overview of Tesla Autopilot Investigation

Ongoing Safety Concerns

U.S. federal regulators are examining whether a recent recall by Tesla effectively addressed the safety concerns surrounding its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) systems. Despite Tesla’s detailed description of what its Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) can and cannot do, it still requires vigilant human oversight to ensure driver safety. This conclusion from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights significant challenges for Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has placed considerable emphasis on the company’s autonomous driving technology.

Findings from NHTSA Investigation

The NHTSA’s comprehensive investigation, which spanned nearly five years and analyzed around 1,000 crashes, found that many incidents were due to driver misuse and the system’s insufficient monitoring of driver attention. Of the 956 crashes studied, the NHTSA identified that 13 resulted in fatalities and numerous others caused serious injuries. The Office of Defective Investigations (ODI) stated that “Tesla’s weak driver engagement system was not appropriate for Autopilot’s permissive operating capabilities,” indicating a critical safety gap.

Tesla Autopilot

The agency discovered that drivers could easily bypass the safety mechanisms designed to ensure they remained attentive while using Autopilot. For example, early Tesla models allowed drivers to use objects like an orange or a ball to apply pressure on the steering wheel, tricking the system into thinking the driver’s hands were still on the wheel. Although this issue was addressed in later models, it remains a significant point of concern.

Detailed Examination of Crashes

Among the 956 crashes reviewed, the NHTSA focused on trends in approximately half of these incidents. Specifically, they found:

  • 211 cases where the front of a Tesla collided with another vehicle or obstacle, situations where an attentive driver could have avoided or mitigated the crash.
  • 111 cases where the vehicle departed from the roadway due to the driver’s inputs inadvertently disengaging Autosteer.
  • 145 cases where the vehicle left the roadway under low traction conditions, such as on wet surfaces.

These patterns were observed across all Tesla models and hardware versions, underscoring systemic issues with Autopilot’s functionality.

Continued Regulatory Oversight

While the NHTSA closed its initial investigation following Tesla’s recall in December, which included modifications to Autopilot’s functions, the scrutiny is far from over. The agency has launched another probe into the effectiveness of these over-the-air updates, affecting over 2 million Tesla vehicles across all five models. This new investigation aims to confirm whether the fixes implemented have adequately resolved the safety concerns.

Broader Implications and Recent Incidents

The debate over Autopilot’s safety continues to be a hot topic. Recently, a Tesla driver was charged with vehicular homicide after their 2022 Model S, reportedly using Autopilot, collided with and killed a motorcyclist near Seattle. Although the police have not confirmed if Autopilot was engaged at the time, the driver admitted to using the system and being distracted by their phone.

This ongoing investigation highlights the critical need for drivers to remain attentive, regardless of the advancements in autonomous driving technology. Even with sophisticated ADAS systems, the responsibility of safe driving ultimately falls on the human behind the wheel.

Apr 26

Tesla Model Y vs. Tesla Model 3: A Comprehensive Comparison of Range, Price, Efficiency, and More

Comparing Tesla Model Y and Model 3

Introduction

The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 are among the best-selling electric vehicles on the market. With the recent buzz surrounding the Tesla Cybertruck, it’s easy to overlook the impressive technology, range, and performance that the Model 3 and Model Y offer. Both vehicles have their unique strengths, making it essential to compare them to determine which one best suits your needs.

Pricing and Value

Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model Y: Cost Analysis

2024 Tesla Model 3 (Highland)

Recently, the Tesla Model 3 received an update for the 2024 model year, while the Model Y saw a significant price reduction. The Model 3 starts at $38,990, with the Performance model priced at $52,990. On the other hand, the Model Y begins at just $29,420, making it more affordable, especially with eligibility for federal tax credits that further lower its cost.

Tesla Model Y

In comparison, the Model 3 All-Wheel Drive is priced at $47,740. The Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive is slightly cheaper at $34,490, with the top-tier Performance model costing $37,990 before additional options. Both models offer various upgrades, including color, wheels, and Full Self-Driving Capability, which costs $8,000 as of April 2024.

Range and Efficiency

Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model Y: Range Capabilities

2024 Tesla Model 3 (Highland) interior

The Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive variant boasts an impressive range of 341 miles, while the Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive offers up to 310 miles. Although these numbers are high, actual range can vary based on factors such as driving conditions, speed, and temperature. The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive provides 272 miles, whereas the Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive has a range of 260 miles.

Both models also feature Performance versions with slightly lower ranges due to their high-speed capabilities. The Model 3 Performance AWD has a range of 296 miles, while the Model Y Performance AWD offers 279 miles. These range estimates make both models suitable for long commutes and areas with limited charging infrastructure.

Charging and Performance

Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model Y: Charging Speed and Acceleration

Tesla’s Supercharger network can add 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes, making it convenient for long trips. Both the Model 3 and Model Y benefit from this fast-charging capability, with Superchargers now accessible to non-Tesla EVs as well. In terms of acceleration, the Model 3 Performance AWD is the quickest, achieving 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds, while the Model Y Performance AWD completes the sprint in 3.5 seconds.

Tesla Model Y Home

The base Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive reaches 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and the Long Range AWD variant takes 4.2 seconds. The Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive takes 6.6 seconds, and the Long Range AWD variant accelerates in 4.8 seconds. These impressive performance figures highlight Tesla’s commitment to delivering high-speed, efficient electric vehicles.

Interior and Build Quality

Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model Y: Interior Features and Build Quality

Tesla interiors are known for their minimalist design, featuring a central touchscreen for all controls and displays. The Model 3 includes heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic glass roof. The Model Y offers similar features but lacks ventilated seats.

Tesla Model 3 Performance 2024

Build quality has been a mixed bag for both models, with issues like panel alignment and noise insulation being common complaints. However, the updated Model 3 has shown improvements in these areas, offering better quality control and fewer build issues.

Driving Experience and Comfort

Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model Y: Ride and Handling

Tesla Model Y LHD

The new Model 3 provides a sharp driving experience with a well-tuned suspension that balances comfort and agility. Its low center of gravity, thanks to the floor-mounted batteries, ensures stable handling. Enhanced noise insulation in the 2024 model makes it quieter and more relaxing on highways.

Tesla FSD V12

The Model Y, with its higher seating position and spacious interior, offers a comfortable ride but can feel firm at times. Despite this, it remains a practical choice for families needing extra space. The Model Y’s handling is competent, with responsive steering and braking, though it lacks some of the Model 3’s noise insulation improvements.

2024 Tesla Model 3 (Highland) interior
Tesla Giga Texas
Tesla Model 3 Performance 2024
Tesla Model Y

Conclusion

The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y cater to different needs but share many strengths. The Model 3, with its recent updates and improved quality, is a more refined choice. However, the Model Y’s spacious interior and lower price make it an attractive option for families. Ultimately, both models provide excellent range, performance, and value, solidifying their positions as top choices in the electric vehicle market.