A pair of stolen BMW SUVs led to a pair of crashes Monday evening, according to local police agencies.
According to the Orono Police Department, around 8:30 p.m. on Jan. 15, officers responded to a stolen vehicle report on Togo Road related to a BMW SUV. An officer on Shoreline Drive spotted a vehicle matching the description.
In a surprising turn within the pickup truck market, the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 has emerged as the leader in value per mile, overturning expectations that the Toyota Tundra or Ford F-150 might dominate this aspect. While the Tundra and F-150 are renowned for their reliability and popularity respectively, the Silverado 1500 has proven to offer superior value, especially for those skeptical of Chevrolet’s offerings.
A comprehensive study by iSeeCars, analyzing over 8.3 million vehicle sales and 181 million vehicle odometer readings, calculated the cost-effectiveness of vehicles based on their lifespan. The study revealed that the Chevy Silverado 1500 leads the full-size truck segment with an impressive average cost of $2,863 per 10,000 miles and an expected lifespan of nearly 200,000 miles. In comparison, the Toyota Tundra, while lasting longer with an average lifespan of over 226,000 miles, incurs slightly higher costs which diminish its overall value ranking.
The Ford F-150, often the top-selling truck, actually ranks fourth in terms of value, with a higher cost per mile and a shorter lifespan than its competitors. The study places the Nissan Titan at the bottom of the list, primarily due to its high cost per mile and shorter lifespan, though it’s noted that the Titan’s discontinuation will soon change the rankings. For those evaluating which 2023 truck to purchase, the Chevy Silverado 1500’s lead in value might tilt the scales in its favor, supported by its solid reliability score from J.D. Power.
As it would turn out, the practical applications of e-bikes go beyond just personal mobility and recreation. E-bikes and e-motorcycles are powerful, easy to ride, are quiet, and these days, boast impressive range. All these attributes are essential from a military standpoint, especially in tactical missions that require the rapid ingress and egress of troops in a stealthy manner.
Indeed, e-bikes and e-motos being used in military settings are gaining popularity. We’ve seen it in action, as electric bikes from the likes of Delfast and ELEEK have been set up for combat duty in Ukraine. This time around, e-bikes could soon play a role in the French military, as the Battle Lab Terre innovation group, part of the French Land Force’s technical section, recently held tests on high-speed e-bikes and electric motorcycles. More specifically, it tested the LMX range of two-wheelers, with the 56 electric bicycle and the 161 electric motorcycle.
Naturally, the goal of these tests was to assess whether or not these two-wheelers could serve any practical application in a military context. For reference, LMX Bikes is headquartered in France, and is known for its high-performance electric two-wheelers. While the results of the initial tests conducted on the two models seem promising, French e-mobility publication Clean Rider reports that the French Army’s Technical Section (STAT) will continue testing these light EVs in 2024. Other metrics such as speed, range, stealth, and other performance variables will be taken into account.
Diving into the specifics of the bikes, the LMX 56 isn’t your typical electric mountain bike. It’s an off-road only machine that packs more than four times the power of even the fanciest e-MTBs on the market. Equipped with a throttle, the LMX 56 delivers up to 2,500 watts of maximum power output and 175 Nm of torque to the rear wheel. It makes use of a conventional chain drivetrain on the right side in combination with a belt-drive on the left side that’s connected directly to the motor. Moreover, its large battery pack promises a single-charge range of up to 62 miles.
Meanwhile, the LMX 161 is marketed as a lightweight motocross bike with premium suspension components, off-road wheels and tires, and a powerful motor. With 9,000 watts of peak power, it pumps out the equivalent of 12 horsepower, or about as much as a 125cc gas-powered motorbike, but with instantaneous throttle response thanks to the electric motor. Furthermore, LMX claims that it weighs just half that of its gas-powered counterparts.
Following a turbulent period due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Honda’s North American operations have stabilized, with sales nearing pre-pandemic levels in 2023. American Honda, buoyed by strong demand, saw a significant rebound, with a year-over-year sales increase exceeding 30%. Looking ahead to 2024, the company is not only enhancing its internal combustion engine lineup but also launching high-volume battery electric vehicles (BEVs), showcasing a strategic pivot towards electrification.
In 2024, Acura is set to introduce the all-electric ZDX SUV, marking a significant step in its EV strategy. This new model, developed in collaboration with General Motors and sharing some base attributes with the Chevrolet Blazer, underscores Acura’s commitment to expanding its electric vehicle portfolio. The ZDX will debut with advanced features like hands-free driving technology, mirroring systems found in competitors like Ford and GM, and will be available for order directly through Acura’s online platform starting in February.
The upcoming year will also see updates across several Acura models, including the flagship MDX, which will receive a new Bang & Olufsen sound system and switch from a touchpad to a touchscreen infotainment system. The RDX is set to receive functional enhancements to boost its appeal. Additionally, Honda is preparing to launch the Prologue, an all-electric midsize SUV, initially in states with favorable zero-emission vehicle policies, with plans for a nationwide rollout. The Honda CR-V is also evolving, with a new fuel cell version set to debut, representing North America’s first production model to combine plug-in and fuel cell technologies.
This comprehensive overview highlights Honda and Acura’s robust plans for the upcoming year, focusing on advancing electric vehicle technology and refreshing popular models to enhance their market appeal and environmental sustainability.
The 2024 AutoTrader Awards have officially announced the winners, showcasing the best vehicles available to Canadian consumers. Organized by AutoTrader, Canada’s premier automotive marketplace, these awards draw on the expertise of some of the nation’s leading automotive journalists. Editor-in-Chief Jodi Lai emphasized the commitment of AutoTrader to empowering Canadian consumers with reliable car buying advice, positioning the awards as a pivotal resource for prospective buyers.
This year’s AutoTrader Awards highlighted a variety of categories tailored to the Canadian market, including new additions like Best Hybrid and Best Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV). These join established categories such as Best Mainstream EV and Best Full-Size Truck. The awards aim to simplify the decision-making process for consumers, providing expert recommendations that distinguish exceptional vehicles from the merely good.
An esteemed panel of over 20 automotive journalists participated in the selection process, each bringing a deep understanding of what makes a vehicle stand out in its segment. They assessed each contender against rigorous criteria including innovation, safety, and overall value. The judging culminated in the selection of winners in various segments—from family sedans like the Honda Accord Hybrid to luxury SUVs like the BMW X7—and set the stage for the Grand Prix winners to be announced in February 2024.
This detailed examination of the AutoTrader Awards offers a glimpse into the meticulous process behind these influential accolades and highlights the vehicles that excel in meeting the needs and expectations of Canadian drivers.
Honda is set to make a significant entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market in 2024, catching up to competitors like Ford and Toyota. The lineup includes the Honda Prologue SUV and the Acura ZDX SUV, both battery-powered, along with a groundbreaking fuel cell version of the popular CR-V. Additionally, Honda will introduce a hybrid version of the Civic, anticipating that it will constitute 40% of all Civic sales following its release this summer.
The Honda Prologue EV, boasting a 300-mile range with an Ultium battery developed by General Motors, will initially be available in states known for their EV-friendly policies, such as California, Texas, and Florida. This strategic launch approach aims to test the waters in warmer climates before a broader national rollout. Honda is also enhancing buyer incentives, offering significant charging credits and complimentary home charger installations to entice early adopters.
Simultaneously, Acura is preparing to market its first fully electric model, the ZDX SUV, with a starting price around $60,000 and a promising range of up to 325 miles. Unique to the industry, Acura will adopt a fully online sales model starting in February, mirroring the approach of EV pioneers like Tesla and Rivian. In a pioneering move, Honda is also launching the CR-V as a hybrid fuel cell vehicle, combining plug-in and hydrogen fuel cell technologies, a first in North America, offering versatility in fueling options for a wider adoption potential.
These initiatives underscore Honda’s commitment to electrification and innovation, setting a strong foundation for its future in the EV market. The introduction of diverse powertrain technologies in its lineup not only caters to current market trends but also positions Honda as a forward-thinking automaker ready to lead in the evolving automotive landscape.
In a tragic turn of events in northeast Portland, three individuals—a teenager and two adults—lost their lives due to electrocution after a power line, weighed down by ice, fell onto their SUV. This incident occurred amid an intense ice storm that wreaked havoc across the region, posing severe risks to public safety. The victims attempted to escape the vehicle after the live wire fell, unknowingly stepping into a lethal trap as they made contact with the electrified ground.
A three-hour radar loop showing where rain (green), snow (blue) and sleet/freezing rain (purple) are falling. (FOX Weather)
The Portland Fire & Rescue team responded promptly to emergency calls reporting the downed power line. Upon arrival, they discovered the victims already deceased outside the vehicle, highlighting the rapid and fatal nature of the electrocution. Rick Graves, a spokesperson for the fire department, stressed the importance of staying inside the vehicle if it comes into contact with a live wire. He explained that the car’s tires usually provide insulation from the ground, making it a safer option until professional help can safely remove the hazard.
Current Northwest winter weather alerts. (FOX Weather)
The same storm system caused extensive environmental damage, with numerous trees and additional power lines collapsing under the weight of the ice. This led to significant power outages and structural damage, complicating rescue and recovery efforts. The local authorities had to close schools and limit transportation services due to the perilous conditions, illustrating the storm’s extensive impact on daily life. As the community begins to recover, the repeated warnings about the dangers of severe winter weather remain more relevant than ever, urging residents to exercise caution and prioritize safety during such events.
A car’s paint color can significantly reflect both the vehicle’s character and the owner’s personality. Car manufacturers put considerable effort into selecting the perfect hue for each model. This creativity also extends to the names they choose for these colors, often resulting in some memorable and unique options.
Volkswagen UK recently engaged the public to name the bright yellow finish of its new T-Cross SUV, resulting in the charming moniker “Rubber Ducky.” This isn’t the only example of great car paint names through the years. For instance, Vauxhall’s Adam featured names like “James Blonde” and “Goldbusters,” showcasing a playful approach to car marketing.
James Blonde – Vauxhall Adam: When Vauxhall launched the Adam city car in 2013, it aimed to inject fun and appeal specifically for younger drivers, offering over a million personalization combinations. The creative team excelled in crafting unique color names, including “Saturday White Fever,” “White My Fire,” “Goldbusters,” and “Orange Alert.” However, the standout choice remains the clever and vibrant yellow “James Blonde.”
Green Hell Magno – Mercedes-AMG GT R: This vibrant matte green, named after the famous Nurburgring race circuit, complements the GT R’s powerful and aggressive stance.
Tangerine Scream – Ford Focus ST: Ford’s bright orange for the Focus ST is aptly named “Tangerine Scream,” reflecting its bold and energetic vibe.
Hella Yella – Jeep Wrangler: Known for its adventurous spirit, the Jeep Wrangler offers this striking yellow shade, among other bold colors like “Mojito” green.
Norfolk Mustard – Lotus Elise: Lotus, with its strong British roots, named its vivid yellow paint “Norfolk Mustard,” paying homage to its factory location in Hethel, Norfolk.
Green Tea Latte – Kia Soul: Aiming to inject fun into the brand, Kia offered the Soul in quirky colors like “Green Tea Latte” and “Vanilla Milkshake,” appealing to a younger audience.
Frozen Berry – Porsche Taycan: Porsche’s extensive color range includes the light pink “Frozen Berry,” a bold choice for its electric Taycan and other models.
These creative color names not only enhance the car’s appeal but also add a layer of personalization and fun for the owners. The effort and imagination that go into naming car paint colors demonstrate the manufacturers’ dedication to making each vehicle unique and memorable.
Following the success of the R1T pickup’s leasing program, Rivian has now announced that the all-electric R1S SUV can also be leased. This development allows customers to take advantage of the full $7,500 tax credit, which isn’t available for outright purchases (though some Rivian models do qualify for a $3,750 tax credit when bought).
Rivian’s leasing program, which started with the R1T at the end of last year, now includes the R1S SUV. Leasing starts at approximately $1,000 per month, with an upfront payment of around $9,000 and a $1,000 deposit upon ordering.
Customers can now lease the Rivian R1S, benefiting from the $7,500 tax credit. The best offer found in the New York area includes a ready-made R1S Quad-Motor with the large battery pack, Adventure Package, 21-inch road wheels, Glacier White exterior, and Black Mountain/Dark Ash Wood interior. This 835-horsepower vehicle accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3 seconds and offers an EPA-estimated range of 321 miles on a full charge.
After the initial $1,000 deposit and $8,951 due at signing, the monthly payment is $1,056 for a 36-month lease with an annual mileage limit of 10,000 miles. The vehicle’s total value is $93,750.
Rivian’s website also lists several inventory R1S models with the dual-motor powertrain available for leasing. Custom-built SUVs aren’t eligible for leasing but Rivian offers financing options with terms ranging from 48 to 84 months. The R1T pickup, Rivian’s first model to benefit from leasing, follows the same financing structure.
The R1S was Rivian’s top-selling model last year, and the introduction of leasing for inventory units is expected to boost sales further as the company aims to increase production and delivery. The leasing program is currently available in AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NV, PA, TX, and WA.
In 2023, Rivian sold 24,783 R1S vehicles in the U.S., making it the seventh-best-selling EV in the country. The R1T saw 17,727 sales last year, indicating a growing preference for the SUV among Rivian’s customers.
For more details on the leasing options and to see available inventory, visit Rivian’s website.
As the first-generation BMW X5 marks its 25th anniversary, there’s no better way to commemorate this milestone than by revisiting the most extraordinary version of the E53. While BMW’s V12 engines were usually reserved for the 7 Series and 8 Series, the X5 Le Mans broke the mold with its twelve-cylinder powerplant.
Unveiled in March 2000, the X5 Le Mans is the focus of an extensive walkaround video that showcases this unique concept. Beneath its vented carbon fiber hood lies the same 6.1-liter V12 engine used in the Le Mans-winning V12 LMR. Remarkably, this super SUV produced over 700 horsepower, compared to the endurance racer’s 580 hp, which was limited by air intake restrictors to comply with racing regulations.
The X5 Le Mans wasn’t just about raw power; it also featured impressive performance figures, including 720 Newton-meters (531 pound-feet) of torque, a 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) time of 4.7 seconds, and an official top speed of 173 mph (278 km/h). In June 2001, race driver Hans-Joachim Stuck pushed the SUV to 193 mph (311 km/h) in a lighter two-seat configuration. Inside, the V12 SUV retained its two-seat layout, with even the four-seat version offering bucket seats in the rear. Highlighting its racing pedigree, the vehicle was equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox and exclusive 20-inch BBS LM wheels, and it was lowered by 1.18 inches (30 millimeters) courtesy of the M division.
Even if you’re not an SUV enthusiast, it’s hard not to admire the engineering marvel that is the X5 Le Mans. Integrating a V12 engine from a Le Mans-winning race car into an SUV was a stroke of genius. Unfortunately, this incredible concept never made it to production.
To put things in perspective, the E53 generation’s most powerful model was the 4.8is, with a naturally aspirated 4.8-liter V8 producing 355 hp. It wasn’t until the second-generation E70 that BMW introduced the X5 M, boasting a twin-turbo V8 with 547 hp.
Source: CarRanger / YouTube