Month: April 2024

Apr 26

Price Wars: Ford Ranger Raptor vs. Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro – A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Cost Advantage: Ford Ranger Raptor

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor emerges as a more budget-friendly contender in the off-road truck segment, offering a significant price benefit over the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. With a starting price of $57,065, including destination fees, the Ranger Raptor is almost $10,000 cheaper than its counterpart, the Tacoma, which is tagged at $66,890 including fees. This price disparity makes the Ranger Raptor an attractive option for buyers looking for high performance without the hefty price.

Shifting Market Dynamics Favor the Ford Ranger Raptor

Traditionally dominated by the Toyota Tacoma, the mid-size truck sector is witnessing a shift with the entry of the competitively priced Ford Ranger Raptor. This shift not only challenges the Tacoma’s long-standing market leadership but also introduces a cost-effective alternative for truck enthusiasts. The Tacoma’s higher price point now positions the Ranger Raptor as a formidable competitor offering substantial value.

Comparative Performance and Off-Road Capabilities

Both the Ford Ranger Raptor and the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are designed to excel in off-road conditions, equipped with advanced technologies and powerful engines. The Ranger Raptor boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, which produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the Tacoma TRD Pro’s hybrid setup that delivers 325 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power and the immediate torque response from the Tacoma’s hybrid system highlight each vehicle’s unique approach to balancing performance and efficiency.

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor jumping in the desert
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor | Ford

Enhanced Insights and Benefits

Financial Implications of Lower Cost

Opting for the Ford Ranger Raptor could lead to considerable savings for consumers, which could alternatively be used for vehicle customization or saved for other expenses. This financial advantage underscores the Ranger Raptor’s appeal as an economically wise choice without compromising on the expected off-road functionality.

Off-Road Technology and Design

Each truck is outfitted with state-of-the-art off-road tech, including electronically locking differentials and specially tuned Fox shocks, poised to tackle tough terrain with ease. While both models feature 33-inch tires, the Ranger Raptor offers 10.7 inches of ground clearance compared to the Tacoma’s 11.0 inches, slightly edging out in terms of underbody protection.

Interior Comfort and Ergonomic Design

Inside, the Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro cater to off-road comfort with distinct seating solutions designed to support the driver and passengers in rugged conditions. The Ranger Raptor is equipped with supportive bucket seats, whereas the Tacoma opts for isodynamic seating to enhance stability and comfort, proving that both models prioritize ergonomics to enhance the overall driving experience.

In conclusion, the Ford Ranger Raptor’s significant price advantage coupled with its robust features and performance makes it a compelling choice for potential buyers, challenging the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro’s dominance in the market with a blend of affordability and capability.

Apr 26

Woman who crashed SUV into birthday party at boat club, killing kids, is released is $1.5 million bond

The woman who crashed her SUV into the Swan Boat Club in Monroe County last weekend, killing two children, is now free on bond.

Marshella Chidester’s attorney told the Detroit Free Press the 66-year-old was released Thursday after posting her $1.5 million bond, with help from a surety company.

Chidester is accused of driving drunk when she crashed into the boat club, where a child’s birthday party was being held. She is charged with two counts of second degree murder, two counts of operating while intoxicated causing death, and four counts of operating while intoxicated causing serious injuries

Footage from doorbell cameras show an SUV speeding before it crashes into the club. Two children, a brother and sister, ages 4 and 8, were killed. Their older brother and their mother were critically injured and remain hospitalized.

In total, officials said nine people were treated at hospitals, and others suffered minor injuries.

Family members of the children killed have already raised more than $225,000 through a GoFundMe page.

The family has also filed a lawsuit against Chidester and the bar where she was allegedly drinking prior to the crash, alleging gross negligence.

Chidester’s defense attorney contends she only had one glass of wine, wasn’t drunk, and crashed because she suffered a seizure behind the wheel.

Chidester faces up to life in prison if she is convicted on the murder charge.

Apr 26

The i-Force Max Powertrain Boosts the Toyota Tacoma Trail-Conquering Qualities

It might be a hybrid powertrain, but it’s not a boring fuel-sipper. The new 2024 Toyota Tacoma benefits from Toyota’s push toward hybridization for nearly every model. This popular midsize pickup truck receives the power and performance of an impressive i-Force Max hybrid powertrain on some trims. This new powertrain could maximize your fun in this midsize truck.

What are the power figures for the i-Force Max Tacoma?

Some might be able to recite the figures from memory, that’s how much this new Tacoma powertrain has been covered. Still, for those unfamiliar, the new i-Force Max powertrain uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylindeer engine and a 48-horsepower electric motor. This motor is integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission to boost the entire system’s power.

This setup gives the Toyota Tacoma 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. If that doesn’t impress you, this might. The torque figure is 75% greater than the torque produced by the previous Tacoma’s V6 engine. That’s an impressive increase.

Is this powertrain reserved for only one trim?

Thankfully, Toyota doesn’t reserve the i-Force Max powertrain for the top Tacoma trims. It’s standard on the Trailhunter and TRD Pro models, which are the top two trims, but that’s not the end. This incredible new powertrain is also available for the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited models. This gives you five trims to choose from for this incredible new hybrid powertrain.

An amazing trail-focused powertrain

Experienced off-roaders often search for as much torque as possible in their vehicles. This power item is ideal for slow-going mud crawling or hill climbing. The Toyota Tacoma was already an impressive off-road truck, especially at the TRD Pro trim, but the i-Force Max torque takes things to a new level.

In addition to the impressive, torque-rich powertrain, The Tacoma brings several features that make it more enjoyable on the trails. Some of these are:

  • Robust 4WD system – full-time on Limited models but part-time for TRD Pro and Trailhunter
  • Electronically controlled 2-speed transfer case
  • Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism
  • Specific trim suspension settings
  • IsoDynamic Performance Front Seats – TRD Pro

The right angles for your off-road adventures

The Toyota Tacoma brings impressive off-road angles to the TRD Pro trim. This is the most hardcore off-roader of the Tacoma lineup, and it gives you:

  • 35.7 degree approach angle
  • 24.6 degree breakover angle
  • 22.6 degree departure angle
  • 11.5 inches of ground clearance

Is the i-Force Max powertrain efficient?

Compared to ICE powertrains from other midsize pickups, this new i-Force Max powertrain is efficient. It gives the Toyota Tacoma up to 24 mpg combined. This new powertrain takes midsize truck driving to new levels and throws down the gauntlet, challenging other automakers.

Apr 26

Here’s How Much New EV You Can Get for $40k

If you have been considering an EV, you’ll want to see the cheapest new ones you can buy.

So you’ve been wondering if an EV would be a good choice for you. But all of the cool ones seem to cost $100k or more. Well luckily prices have been coming down and there are five EVs you can buy in the U.S. for $40k. They are:

Model Average Sale Price Average Listed Price
Nissan Leaf $27,956 $34,706
Nissan Ariaya $35,556 $51,438
Hyundai Ioniq 6 $36,506 $46,917
Tesla Model 3 $40,547 $43,649
Toyota bZ4X $40,646 $48,087

Why two columns? That “average listed price” is before any automaker discounts, federal tax credits, or local tax breaks. One big difference for the federal EV tax credit in 2024 is that it is applied at the point of sale, so you don’t need to wait until you file your taxes to see the cash.

Nissan is one of the oldest names in EVs. The Nissan Leaf, introduced in 2009, is the longest running model on this list. It looks like Nissan is cashing in on this reputation and some dealerships are marking up Leafs. The average Leaf is currently going for 6% above MSRP, so you’ll want to shop around.

The face of the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 | Allison Barfield | MotorBiscuit

Experts worry that these EV prices won’t stay so low. But Tesla’s recent stock woes have driven it to slash prices. And other automakers are doing the same to compete. The Model 3 is by far its cheapest model. While it is a little outdated by the quick charging speeds of competitors, the Model 3 still benefits from Tesla’s comprehensive “Supercharger” network.

While Toyota’s bZ4X (and its Subaru Solterra twin, MSRP $44,995) are getting mixed reviews, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 is getting rave reviews. With this first generation of EVs, everything is about the numbers and Hyundai is leading its segment with 800-volt charging speeds. Because you can charge the Ioniq 6 for 20-30 minutes, then drive for several hours, it is one of the only EVs you can roadtrip indefinitely.

Apr 26

Chery Jetour Shanhai T1 & T5 are new off-road SUVs for China

On April 25, at the Beijing Auto Show, Chery’s Jetour brand officially unveiled its Shanhai T1 and Shanhai T5 off-road SUVs. The T1 will launch in the fourth quarter of this year while the T5 will launch in 2025 or 2026.

According to Jetour’s product roadmap, the brand’s models fall into three major categories: urban SUV, light off-road vehicle, and hardcore off-road vehicle. Currently, among the urban SUV series models, the X70, X90, and Dasheng have been launched. Among the light off-road series models, the Traveller (T-1) ICE version and Shanhai T2 (Traveller plug-in hybrid version) have also been launched.

Shanhai T1

The Shanhai T1 is positioned as a compact SUV, adopting the classic square shape as an off-road vehicle, and has a body length of about 4.7 meters and a wheelbase of about 2.8 meters. The car also runs on 19-inch two-color five-spoke petal-shaped rims paired with all-terrain tires.

When lit up, the front face is highly recognizable with the four-point headlight group.

The powertrain may be based on Chery’s Kunpeng Super Performance Electric Hybrid C-DM system, equipped with Chery’s fifth-generation ACTECO 1.5TGDI hybrid engine. Official data shows that the car has a combined maximum power of 450 kW and comes with an XWD four-wheel drive system.

Shanhai T5

The Shanhai T5 belongs to the hardcore off-road series. Again, since it is a hard-core off-road model, it retains the iconic square box shape, thick bumpers, rugged roof racks, all-terrain tires, and a rear external spare tire.

The Shanhai T5 has a size of 5403/2050/1936 mm, and the wheelbase is 3100 mm, positioned as a medium-to-large SUV. The powertrain will be equipped with a 2.0T engine and dual electric motors. The total system power and torque will be 560 kW and 795 Nm, respectively; and the official comprehensive range is 1,400 km on a full tank and full battery.

Apr 26

Enhancing EV Accessibility: New Charging Stations Transform Apartment Living

Navigating EV Charging Challenges in Urban Living

The transition to owning an all-electric vehicle in an urban apartment setting poses significant challenges due to the scarcity of personal charging stations. Many residents, constrained by the availability of only public charging options, find this lack of accessibility a major hurdle. However, developments are underway as more residential complexes begin to equip themselves with dedicated EV charging stations, easing the reliance on external charging points.

Expansion of EV Charging Facilities in Residential Areas

It is estimated that 20% of American motorists reside in apartment complexes, where the adoption of electric vehicles has been notably slow due to inadequate charging infrastructure. Presently, only a small fraction of these living spaces, under 5%, are equipped with EV chargers, limiting the practicality of owning an electric vehicle. The growing demand for in-house charging solutions is prompting property managers to adopt these technologies to attract and retain environmentally conscious tenants.

Strategic Partnerships to Improve EV Infrastructure

Facing the complexities of installing and maintaining EV charging stations, several real estate companies are now partnering with firms like EnviroSpark, which specializes in the deployment of EV charging solutions across residential properties. These collaborations are proving instrumental in alleviating the cost and operational challenges associated with the adoption of such infrastructure, ensuring tenants have reliable access to charging facilities. This initiative is pivotal in smoothing the transition for residents towards sustainable transportation options, ultimately supporting broader environmental objectives and enhancing tenant convenience.

Enhanced Insights and Outlook on EV Adoption

Home Charging: Central to the EV Experience

Data from the Department of Energy reveals that the majority of electric vehicle owners, approximately 80%, prefer charging their cars at home due to the convenience it offers over public charging stations. The process of charging an electric vehicle at home, although time-consuming, provides a level of ease not attainable with traditional fueling methods. Expanding these home charging capabilities within apartment complexes is critical for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

Potential Impact on Electric Vehicle Adoption

The incorporation of comprehensive EV charging infrastructures in multi-unit dwellings marks a crucial advancement for the electric vehicle industry. This enhancement not only makes electric vehicles more appealing but also addresses significant barriers to adoption. As residential complexes continue to integrate these facilities, the landscape of urban electric vehicle ownership is expected to transform, fostering significant growth in the sector and supporting sustainable urban transportation.

Apr 26

Unveiling Washington State’s Affordable EV Leasing Incentives for Lower-Income Families

Launching the Washington EV Affordability Initiative

In an effort to make sustainable transportation options more accessible, Washington State has rolled out a significant incentive program specifically targeting middle- and lower-income families. This August, the Washington State Department of Commerce will initiate an offering of up to $9,000 in instant rebates for those leasing new electric vehicles. This initiative aims to reduce financial barriers, making it feasible for families to lease models like the Toyota bZ4X for as little as $56 a month.

Reducing EV Costs with State-Sponsored Rebates

The typically high costs associated with electric vehicles can deter many potential buyers. Addressing this issue head-on, Washington State’s new initiative will substantially decrease monthly lease payments. The program is comprehensive, extending $5,000 rebates for new EV purchases and $2,500 for used electric cars, broadening the affordability of clean transportation.

Leveraging Tax Incentives for Greater Savings

Tax incentives are vital in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles by significantly reducing ownership costs. Washington residents can augment state rebates with a $7,500 federal tax credit and a state sales tax exemption for zero-emissions vehicles, enhancing the affordability of these green cars. These financial incentives are designed not only to lower upfront and ongoing costs but also to support the state’s environmental objectives by boosting cleaner vehicle usage.

Detailed Insights and Strategic Outcomes

Illustrating Cost-Effective Leasing Opportunities

An example from the program shows profound potential savings: a typical three-year lease costing an initial $10,364 could be lowered to just $2,798 after applying the state’s rebate, translating to an effective monthly cost of about $78. This stark reduction demonstrates the impactful role that state and federal incentives can play in making EVs financially accessible to a wider audience.

Diverse Vehicle Choices Enhancing Consumer Reach

Washington’s incentives are not limited to a single vehicle type but cover a variety of models to suit different needs and preferences. With these rebates, monthly expenses for other models like the Hyundai Kona and Nissan Leaf are expected to drop to $78 and $87, respectively, while even premium models like the Tesla Model Y could become more accessible at around $207 per month. This flexibility ensures that a broader demographic can find an electric vehicle that aligns with their financial and lifestyle requirements.

Criteria for Rebate Eligibility and Future Goals

The rebate program is structured with specific eligibility criteria, aimed at supporting those who need it most—families earning below $93,600 annually, or single-person households earning less than $45,180, can qualify. Governor Jay Inslee has highlighted that these rebates are intended to democratize access to electric vehicles, thus fostering a sustainable transportation ecosystem. Funded through June 2025, the program anticipates distributing between 6,500 and 8,000 rebates, aiming to set a precedent for environmental leadership and community health enhancement through improved air quality.

Apr 26

Toyota Starlet Rebirth Is The Best News Since The GR Yaris

Toyota is on a roll reviving iconic names and it seems they are not limited to the brand’s SUV models. An iconic hot hatchback from Toyota is making a comeback. The Toyota Starlet was what we got before the Toyota Yaris, but the name was dropped after five generations spanning 26 years (1973-1999). The Toyota Starlet is not only making a comeback, but there will also be a GR variant.

The Toyota Starlet actually made a comeback in some markets, as a rebadged, more upscale variant of the current Suzuki Baleno. There was also a rally variant of that car powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-four and featuring all-wheel drive. This begs the question, what will be powering the next-generation Starlet?

Reports from Japan indicated that Toyota is teaming up with subsidiary Daihatsu and Suzuki to collaborate on what was believed to be the next-generation Toyota MR-2. While this may still be the case, it seems the next-generation Toyota Starlet is also a co-development between the three companies.

The styling of the Toyota hot hatch is not yet confirmed, but the Japanese publication has given us fairly accurate representations of what is to come. I reported on an upcoming Toyota Starlet back in 2021, but since, there have been more developments surrounding the future of the Starlet.

Japanese publication Best Car Web reported that in February 2024, Toyota President, Tsuneharu Sato, stated that in Japan, Daihatsu will define its business as a company centered around compact vehicles. The new Starlet will, reportedly, be based on the DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture) platform, which to no surprise, shares similarities with the TNGA platform.

A GR Starlet makes sense even more considering the Starlet of old had a high-performance, Toyota Starlet Glanza V model, powered by a 1.3-liter turbo-four engine.

The regular versions will, likely, utilize a Suzuki-sourced, 1.0-liter turbo-three mild-hybrid, while the GR Starlet will receive the GR Yaris’ 1.6-liter turbo-three. A 1.3-liter, 150-horsepower variant is also mentioned for the non-GR version of Toyota Starlet. This could, likely, be a GR Sport variant, positioned below the 1.6-liter GR Starlet.

The engine is already homologated for use in rallying by the Toyota GR Yaris, which is a limited-production homologation special. While the GR Yaris is already a force to be reckoned with in WRC’s Rally 1 category, the Starlet will go head-to-head with Rall 4 contenders like the Renault Clio and Ford Fiesta ST. This isn’t the first time manufacturers have homologated a powertrain in one model for motorsport application in a different model.

How much will the new Toyota Starlet cost?

In Japan, the regular Starlet is expected to have an estimated price of 2.5 to 2.8 million yen, which is $15,950-$17,860. Toyota Starlet doesn’t have a rich history as a US-offered model. The Starlet is more popular in Japan and Europe, but was also offered in the US between 1981 and 1984. Toyota Yaris was discontinued for the US market, which leaves space for a new model. Can this be the Starlet?

Apr 26

Toyota confirms plans for second US-built 3-row electric SUV

Toyota on Thursday announced plans to invest $1.4 billion in its plant in Princeton, Indiana, to support production of a three-row electric SUV.

The investment also covers production of battery packs at the site using lithium-ion batteries supplied by a Toyota battery plant under construction in Liberty, North Carolina, and slated to start production in 2025.

The latest investment announcement brings Toyota’s total investments for U.S. production to $18.6 billion since 2021.

Toyota didn’t provide any details on the SUV but a spokesman told Automotive News (subscription required) it will be a Toyota-branded model larger than the three-row electric SUV Toyota plans to build at a plant in Georgetown, Kentucky.

Toyota BZ Large SUV

The SUV planned for Georgetown, which was announced in February and has received its own $1.3 billion investment, will also be a Toyota-branded model. It will be a midsize offering to be called the bZ5X. It’s due to start production in 2026 and is thought to have been previewed by one of the dozen of EV concepts Toyota rolled out in late 2021 (shown above).

Production of the SUV in Princeton is also expected to start in 2026, with sales to start late that year, pointing to an arrival as a 2027 model in the U.S.

The Princeton plant currently builds three gas-powered three-row SUVs: the Highlander, Grand Highlander, and related Lexus TX. It also builds the Sienna minivan. The planned electric SUV is rumored to carry the Grand Highlander nameplate.

Lexus is also planning to launch a three-row electric SUV that may be built at the Georgetown or Princeton plants. The vehicle may be called a TZ, judging by recent trademark activity. Such a name would indicate the SUV is an electric alternative to the TX.