In the United States, the legality of keeping a firearm in your vehicle varies significantly by state. As a fundamental right, Americans are entitled to bear arms; however, the specifics of transporting and storing firearms in vehicles require a clear understanding of both state and federal regulations. Misunderstanding these laws can lead to severe legal consequences, including problematic encounters with law enforcement.
State-Specific Regulations on Firearms in Vehicles
Different states have different requirements and restrictions regarding firearm transportation in vehicles. For example, California permits the transportation of firearms in a vehicle provided they are unloaded and securely locked away, such as in the trunk or a locked container. Conversely, Texas allows individuals to carry loaded firearms in their vehicles without the need for them to be concealed. This variability underscores the importance of familiarizing oneself with the laws specific to one’s state of residence.
Risks and Recommendations for Keeping Guns in Vehicles
Owning a firearm designated as a “car gun” or “truck gun” for ease of access while traveling can increase the risk of theft, turning a personal protection tool into a potential criminal asset. Many thefts are opportunistic, spurred by visible gun brand stickers on vehicles, which suggest the presence of a firearm inside. To mitigate risks, it is advisable to avoid leaving firearms in vehicles for prolonged periods and to refrain from using decals that could advertise the presence of guns to potential thieves. This approach not only enhances security but also promotes responsible gun ownership and storage.
Revisiting Warren Buffett’s Stance on Transportation Investments
Warren Buffett, the renowned investor and leader of Berkshire Hathaway, has long been skeptical about the profitability of the airline and automotive sectors. Despite the transformative impact of these industries on modern society, Buffett’s analysis, dating back to 1999, remains remarkably relevant today. Even as Berkshire once invested in BYD, a leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, they have been gradually reducing their stake, indicating a cautious approach to what many see as a revolutionary market.
Buffett’s Historical Perspective on Automotive and Airline Investments
In a 1999 interview highlighted in a 2014 investment blog, Buffett expressed his reservations about the long-term investment appeal of the automotive and airline industries. He observed that despite the vast number of car manufacturers that existed at the turn of the 20th century, only a few remain today, none of which have been particularly lucrative investments. Similarly, he noted that the airline industry had, up to that point, cumulatively earned zero profit since its inception—a startling statistic that underscores the high-risk nature of these businesses.
The Ongoing Relevance of Buffett’s Insights Amidst Modern Challenges
The enduring wisdom of Buffett’s views is underscored by recent troubles in the transportation sector, such as Tesla’s financial struggles, Boeing’s reputational damage, and significant losses reported by major airlines like Southwest. These issues reflect the inherent volatility and challenges within these industries, reinforcing Buffett’s skepticism about their suitability as long-term investments. As we continue to witness shifts towards electrification and sustainable transport solutions, Buffett’s cautious stance provides a critical lens through which to assess potential opportunities and pitfalls in these historically tumultuous markets.
Hot hatches are the epitome of fun and practicality in one package. These cars not only put a smile on your face but also handle everyday tasks with ease, from school runs to track days. Despite the SUV craze, a few stellar options remain in the hot hatch segment, offering something for every enthusiast.
Choosing Your Ideal Hot Hatch: A Comprehensive Ranking
With numerous options still available, we have curated a list of the top hot hatches for 2024. These vehicles range from entry-level fun to high-powered luxury models. Here’s our ranking of the best hot hatches you can consider this year.
7. VW Golf GTI Clubsport
The eighth-generation VW Golf GTI Clubsport is a powerhouse with 296bhp and 295lb-ft of torque. It features an electronically-controlled locking differential, ensuring a thrilling drive. However, it’s only available with a seven-speed twin-clutch transmission.
6. Cupra Leon 300
The Cupra Leon 300, a sibling to the VW Golf GTI Clubsport, offers slightly superior handling. Its steering is more responsive, and it comes in various versions, including a hybrid and an all-wheel-drive estate. The 300 model is the most balanced option, blending power and agility.
5. VW Golf R
The latest VW Golf R boasts an improved driving experience with its R-Performance Torque Vectoring system, allowing precise torque distribution. This feature, along with a drift mode, enhances its dynamic capabilities. However, the user experience suffers due to touch-sensitive controls.
4. Audi RS3
The Audi RS3 stands out with its Torque Splitter, which shifts power to the rear wheels for better handling. Its 395bhp engine propels it to 62mph in just 3.8 seconds. The latest model’s balanced and adjustable driving modes make it a formidable hot hatch.
3. Mercedes A45 S
The Mercedes-AMG A45 S delivers supercar-like performance with 416bhp and a 0-62mph time of 3.9 seconds. Its advanced AWD system enhances cornering abilities, making it more engaging to drive. Despite its impressive performance, its high price tag is a significant drawback.
2. Toyota GR Yaris
Although no longer the top spot holder, the Toyota GR Yaris remains a remarkable hot hatch. Its unique development process and rally-inspired design make it a standout. The upcoming second generation promises even greater performance, despite its hefty price.
1. Honda Civic Type R
The new Honda Civic Type R FL5 takes the top position with its superior driving dynamics and customization options. Its short-shifting six-speed manual gearbox and adjustable settings make it the most engaging hot hatch. This model excels in both performance and everyday usability.
Beyond the Top 7: Other Notable Mentions
While the top seven hot hatches stand out, there are a few other noteworthy models. The Skoda Octavia vRS and Audi S3 offer practical alternatives, though they lack the excitement of the top-ranked cars. Meanwhile, the Suzuki Swift Sport, VW Polo GTI, and Abarth 595/695 provide unique, if less thrilling, options for enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the hot hatch market, though shrinking, still offers a variety of exciting and practical options. Whether you’re looking for entry-level fun or luxury performance, there’s a hot hatch for you in 2024.
Chinese car brands are missing from the US market, but Chinese-made cars are still sold in the US.
Americans bought more than 104,000 Chinese-made cars in 2023 and nearly 28,000 in Q1 2024.
Buick, Lincoln, Polestar, and Volvo all sell cars in the US that are made in China.
Of the more than 15 million cars sold in the US last year, none wore the badge of a Chinese car brand.
Chinese EV heavy hitters like BYD and SAIC are conspicuously missing from US showrooms. With the government’s existing 27.5% tariffs on Chinese-made cars and Tuesday’s new 100% tariffs on Chinese-made EVs imported to the US, the situation isn’t likely to change anytime soon.
What some people might not realize, however, is that tens of thousands of cars manufactured in China are sold in the US every year.
Volvo’s S60L sedan was one of the first Chinese-made cars to be sold in the US starting in 2016, followed by Buick’s Envision SUV and Cadillac’s CT6 Hybrid.
According to Automotive News data, US consumers purchased more than 104,000 Chinese-made vehicles in 2023, up 45% from 2022.
Americans bought another 28,000 Chinese-made cars during the first quarter of 2024.
Currently, Buick, Lincoln, Polestar, and Volvo sell Chinese-made vehicles in the US. Of those, the only Chinese-made EVs come from Polestar, a brand co-owned by Volvo and its parent company, Geely Automotive. The EV brand imported just 2,217 cars in the first three months of 2024.
It is unclear how the new tariffs will affect Polestar’s future production plans. The company eventually plans to move some of its car production to South Carolina in 2024.
In a statement to Business Insider, a Polestar spokesperson said the company is evaluating the Biden Administration’s announcement.
Here’s a closer look at the Chinese-made cars on sale in the US.
Buick Envision
A 2024 Buick Envision Avenir. GM
When it launched in 2016, the Buick Envision compact SUV was one of the first Chinese-made vehicles sold in the US. The second generation Envision, which arrived in 2021, continues to be made in China at one of the plants GM operates in a joint venture with SAIC. The Envision was Buick’s second-best-selling model in 2023, with more than 44,000 vehicles sold.
Last year, Buick sold 167,000 vehicles across its entire lineup in the US, an impressive 61% increase over the previous year. However, this number pales in comparison to Buick’s sales in China, which totaled 517,000 units last year.
Lincoln Nautilus
A 2024 Lincoln Nautilus SUV. Lincoln
The Lincoln Nautilus midsize luxury SUV was originally launched in 2019 as a mid-cycle refresh of the existing MKX model. This year, Lincoln launched the all-new second-generation 2024 Nautilus made at Ford’s Hangzhou factory operated in a joint venture with China’s Changan Automobile.
In past years, the Hangzhou plant produced the Nautilus for the Chinese market, with Ford’s Oakville, Ontario, Canada facility handling US versions. However, Hangzhou took on US market production when Ford decided to repurpose the Oakville facility to focus on EVs, CNN reported.
Polestar 2
The 2024 Polestar 2. Polestar
The Polestar 2 debuted in the US back in 2019. It was the first EV offering from Polestar, previously Volvo’s performance division that was spun off by Chinese parent company Geely Automotive and turned into a stand-alone company.
While designed in Sweden, The Polestar 2 is produced at its factory in Chengdu, China.
Polestar 3
The Polestar 3. Polestar
The Polestar 3 EV is all-new for 2024 and the brand’s first SUV. The new Polestar 3 began production in late 2023 at the company’s factory in Chengdu, China, alongside the Polestar 2.
Initial US market vehicles will be Chinese-made. However, production for US and European market Polestar 3s will switch over to Volvo’s Ridgeway, South Carolina factory this summer.
There’s also a Polestar 4 coming to the US, but Renault Korea will make US-market versions of that vehicle at its factory in Busan, South Korea.
Volvo S90
A Volvo S90 Recharge T8 AWD in Platinum Grey. Volvo
The S90, Volvo’s flagship luxury sedan, is produced at its Daqing Factory in Northern China. Volvo decided, shortly after its launch in 2016, to move S90 production from its factory in Torslanda, Sweden, to China. The wagon variant of the S90, the V90, is still made in Sweden.
Exploring the Fascination with High-Speed Vehicles
The allure of speed is deeply ingrained in American culture, as evidenced by the world’s fastest production cars. This guide ventures into the astounding velocities achieved by these vehicles, highlighting speed as a thrilling and captivating element for all automotive aficionados.
The Charm of Velocity
The Emotional and Technical Impact of High-Speed Vehicles
Contrary to the belief that specifications like top speeds may be less important, the exhilaration of driving at speeds exceeding 300 mph profoundly affects enthusiasts. These velocities not only accelerate the heartbeat but also showcase the apex of automotive design and technological prowess.
Evolution of Supercars
Tracing Decades of Speed and Innovation
This selection of supercars displays diverse methods for reaching exceptional speeds, including state-of-the-art EV powertrains and substantial W16 engines. The range of these cars, from early ’90s icons to today’s wonders, underscores an era rich with innovation and speed.
Exemplary Achievements: Distinguished Supercars
Spotlight on the Superstars of Speed
Some expected models like the Tesla Roadster, known for its proposed top speed, are omitted due to lack of empirical evidence. Instead, this summary celebrates cars that have consistently demonstrated their prowess, such as the nimble McLaren F1 and the formidable Bugatti Chiron.
Insightful Additions and Enhancements
The ongoing discussion about the premier production car encompasses not just velocity but also the creative methodologies manufacturers employ to achieve such feats. For instance, the Bugatti Chiron uses a sophisticated quad-turbocharged W16 engine to achieve speeds up to 261 mph, exemplifying a fusion of opulence and extreme performance capabilities. Conversely, the Hennessy Venom stretches the limits with its robust twin-turbocharged V8, embodying the concept of colossal power housed within a minimalistic frame.
In reviewing these illustrious supercars, it’s essential to acknowledge their historical significance and groundbreaking innovations. The McLaren F1 continues to be celebrated for its unique naturally aspirated engine and the visionary engineering of Gordon Murray. Meanwhile, electric marvels like the Nevera are pioneering new horizons with their impressive horsepower statistics, pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable in automotive technology.
This overview not only delves into the impressive power and thrilling speeds of these vehicles but also underscores the dynamic evolution of car manufacturing. Looking ahead, the realms of speed and innovation are poised to grow, propelled by established manufacturers and emerging contenders alike in the supercar landscape.
The financial advice firm Independent Advisor Car Insurance has ranked the best used cars for new drivers, focusing on models that are cheap to buy and to cover.
Whilst the rising cost of car insurance continues to affect all motorists, those who have recently passed their driving test are lumbered with the highest costs.
Connor Campbell, expert at Independent Advisor Car Insurance, suggested that young drivers should always consider the running costs of the model they are interested in buying.
He explained: “Every car belongs to an insurance group, numbered one to 50, that’ll make it more or less expensive to insure, with cars that fall into the lower groups being less expensive to insure than those in the higher groups.
“So, when shopping around for a second hand car, try and find one in a lower insurance group in order to keep the cost of your cover down.”
According to Independent Advisor Car Insurance’s study, the best car for new drivers is the fourth-generation Nissan Micra, built from 2010 to 2020.
Nissan’s smallest model, the Micra may not be the most beautiful car in the world, but offers good build quality and most used examples sell for under £2,000.
Moreover, whilst there are similar cars that are cheaper to insure, the company noted that the average new driver without a no-claims bonus would be charged £2,758 per year for cover on a Micra.
Another good choice for new drivers is the Vauxhall Corsa, another mainstay in the world of superminis that is often cheap to buy on the used car market.
Independent Advisor Car Insurance noted that a budget of about £2,000 can buy a fourth generation model, which was offered between 2006 and 2014.
Compared to some models of the same age, the Corsa’s styling has remained attractive whilst offering plenty of space and similar insurance prices to the Micra.
Sorry fans, Cailtin Clark isn’t driving the Indianapolis 500 pace car. Another celebrity will have to sit behind the wheel.
Caitlin Clark and race cars go together, right? Well, it’s more like Caitlin Clark and basketball, even if she never got a national championship ring. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway has to go without this rising WNBA star. See why Caitlin isn’t driving the Indianapolis 500 pace car.
Why isn’t Caitlin Clark driving the Indianapolis 500 pace car?
Unfortunately, fans have to miss out on Caitlin Clark during the Indy 500 because she’s too busy to drive the Indianapolis 500 pace car.
She was recently drafted to the Indiana Fever after completing her college basketball career, and has a game against the Los Vegas Aces the night before the race. Therefore, getting back to Indiana would be an issue.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles shared that she can’t make it because she’s playing ball and that’s where she should be. But eventually, when their schedules match up she will drive a pace car.
Former IndyCar Series driver Sarah Fisher will drive the pace car during the race instead. Officials are still trying to pick a celebrity to drive the 33-car field to the green.
Indy 500 pace car | Getty Images)
A few contenders include food influencer Keith Lee, Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, and former Indianapolis Fever WNBA star, Tamika Catchings.
But if you won’t see Caitlin Clark in the Indianapolis 500 pace car, what does she actually drive? It’s safe to assume that she spends time behind the wheel of a Buick.
She has a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Buick. Buick added her to its “See Her Greatness campaign to raise awareness to inequity coverage of women’s sports.
The campaign was created to increase the visibility of women’s sports, drive equity and inclusion, and create platforms to have women create meaningful conversations.
As a University of South Carolina alum, I need to be Cocky about the Lady Gamecocks. Caitlin Clark isn’t done bringing great things to women’s basketball, but I need to give a shout-out to Dawn Stanley, A’ja Wilson, Kamilla Cardoso, Te-hina PaoPao, and other excellent players.
With a revolutionary design, the rotary engine became an iconic engineering masterpiece, promising a lighter, smoother, and more powerful driving experience. It featured a triangular rotor that smoothly spun within an oval chamber. Invented in the mid-1950s, it captured the imagination of car manufacturers worldwide. Discover the captivating story of classic cars powered by the rotary engine, a tale of innovation, triumph, and a touch of the unconventional.
Mazda Luce R130 coupe – 1969
Charles01/Wikimedia
Produced from 1969 to 1972, the Mazda Luce R130 coupe marked a significant milestone. It was Mazda’s first mass-produced car to be equipped with a Wankel engine, paving the way for future rotary successes like the RX-7. While not a powerhouse, it provided a glimpse into the potential of the rotary engine for everyday driving.
NSU Wankel Spider – 1964
Alexander Migl/Wikimedia
The NSU Wankel Spider wasn’t just the first car commercially available with a rotary engine – it was a revolution. It gained acclaim for its sporty handling and innovative engine. It also won numerous awards, solidifying the Wankel engine’s benefits and paving the way for the NSU Ro80, the first mass-produced rotary car.
Mercedes-Benz C111 – 1969
Wladyslaw/Wikimedia
Debuting in 1969, this futuristic concept used the rotary engine as a testbed for future technologies. The initial C111 featured a fiberglass body and a mid-mounted three-rotor Wankel engine, pushing boundaries with its 280 horsepower and stunning gullwing doors. Later iterations explored even more powerful four-rotor versions, achieving top speeds exceeding 180 mph.
Citroën GS Birotor – 1973
Joost J. Bakker/Wikimedia
French automaker Citroën took a bold step in 1973 with the GS Birotor, pairing a two-rotor Wankel with a traditional piston engine for a balance of power and fuel efficiency. However, its complexity and high production costs proved to be its downfall, especially after the fuel crisis began.
Mazda RX-7 – 1978
Taisyo/Wikimedia
While the Mercedes and Citroën dabbled in rotaries, Mazda truly embraced the technology. The Mazda RX-7, developed across three generations from 1978 to 2002, became the iconic rotary sports car. The first generation offered a lightweight chassis with a free-revving 1.1-liter twin-rotor engine. Later generations saw the introduction of turbochargers, boasting a nearly 300 horsepower twin-turbocharged engine.
Toyota 2000GT MF12 – 1967
Gnsin/Wikimedia
Developed in 1967, the MF12 was a prototype built to explore the power of the rotary engine. Toyota equipped the 2000GT MF12 with a Yamaha-developed two-rotor Wankel engine, a unique collaboration between two Japanese giants. However, the rotary’s fuel consumption and emissions concerns led Toyota to abandon the project.
Chevrolet Corvette Aerovane – 1973
Hans-Jürgen Neubert/Wikimedia
In 1973, General Motors developed the Chevrolet Corvette Aerovane, a concept car equipped with a two-rotor Wankel engine made by General Motors’ research division. While testing results were promising, the 1973 oil crisis and stricter emissions regulations forced GM to prioritize existing piston engine technology.
NSU Ro80 – 1967
Lothar Spurzem/Wikimedia
The NSU Ro80, made from 1967 to 1977, holds a special place in rotary engine history. It was the first mass-produced car equipped with a Wankel engine, a significant achievement for German automaker NSU. The Ro80 offered a smooth, quiet ride and impressive performance for its time.
AutoVAZ 2108 Lada Samara – 1985
Riley/Wikimedia
Developed as an alternative to traditional piston engines, the Wankel-powered AutoVAZ 2108 Lada Samara, available from 1985 onwards, might not be the first car that comes to mind when considering rotary engines. It remained a niche offering, with production ending in the early 1990s.
Eunos Cosmo – 1990
NAParish/Wikimedia
This luxurious coupe was the first and only Mazda with a powerful twin-turbocharged three-rotor engine capable of generating over 280 horsepower. The Eunos Cosmo offered a sublime driving experience, showcasing the refinement and potential of the rotary engine. Yet, its limited production run kept it from achieving widespread success.
Chevrolet Corvair Testudo – 1963
Andrew Bone/Wikimedia
The Chevrolet Corvair Testudo, a 1963 concept car, offers a glimpse into an alternate reality for General Motors. This futuristic mid-engined sports car was built on the Corvair platform but featured a rotary engine instead of the standard flat-six. Nevertheless, GM’s concerns over the ongoing safety issues surrounding the Corvair platform ultimately led to the project’s cancellation.
Citroën M35 – 1970
Alf van Beem/Wikimedia
As a futuristic concept car introduced in 1970, the M35 showcased Citroën’s bold experimentation with the rotary engine. This wedge-shaped vehicle featured a mid-mounted, air-cooled two-rotor Wankel engine and innovative features like variable-height suspension and unique gullwing doors.
AMC Pacer – 1971
Triskel99/Wikimedia
AMC opted for the rotary engine due to its potential for compact size and smooth performance, producing the Pacer, which became the only American car available with a Wankel engine by American Motors Corporation. However, the chosen design proved troublesome. The rotary engine suffered from poor fuel economy and steering issues, and the car was dropped after two years.
Mazda 767B – 1991
名古屋太郎/Wikimedia
Le Mans racing is known for brutal competition and technological innovation, and the 1991 Mazda 767B stands out as a revolutionary champion. This prototype race car defied expectations by becoming the first and only car powered by a rotary engine to win the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans with its four-rotor engine.
Mazda Furai – 2008
Tronno/Wikimedia
Unveiled in 2008 to showcase Mazda’s continued fascination with the rotary engine, the Furai featured a sleek, aerodynamic design inspired by nature, with a lightweight construction and a mid-mounted rotary engine. The engine wasn’t a gasoline burner. Instead, it utilized a cutting-edge hydrogen rotary engine, hinting at a potential future for the technology beyond traditional fuels.
This cute clip of a dog getting a “spot-spree” scratch has over 17 million views on X.
This week, a heartwarming video of a smart Fido is circulating. In it, the kindly pup patiently awaits a large car wash brush to swirl down low enough to reach. The video is embedded below. In less than 48 hours, the X post has been viewed more than 17 million times.
As the car wash brush works around the back of a white vehicle in the bay, the pup takes full advantage of the soft spinning bristles. The dog spends nearly 60 seconds hitting every itchy zone.
What’s hilarious is how comfortable the dog is in fully immersing itself in the bristles. It also seems to understand that the machine stops and then starts back up again. Clearly, the pup has done this before! It almost makes you want to try it…
PLG via iStock
I never figured that automatic car wash brushes could ever be safe enough for close contact like this, but I suppose it makes sense in some iterations. One local car wash near me uses flat, foam-paneled “brushes,” if you could even call them that. They certainly wouldn’t do much more than slap you silly. Of course, for years now, touchless or brushless washes have become more common in the U.S.
The smiling, good-humored hound looks to be a collarless shepherd. The video doesn’t appear to be taken in the U.S., as shown by the license plates of the cars inside the wash bays.
While heartwarming, the dog seems to be battling a skin issue that could use some care. It might be a stray, but regardless, let’s hope someone’s taken responsibility for this goodest pupper and is getting its needs addressed.
Have you ever noticed your turn signal blinking more rapidly than usual? This increased speed often indicates that maintenance is required, typically pointing to an issue with the turn signal bulb. Let’s explore why your turn signal might be blinking faster and what you can do about it.
Causes of a Fast-Blinking Turn Signal
One common reason for a faster blinking turn signal is a faulty bulb. When you activate your turn signal, electricity flows through the fuse box to the turn signal circuit and then to the bulb. If the bulb is damaged or malfunctioning, the signal may blink faster or inconsistently, indicating that it needs replacement.
Diagnosing the Issue
To diagnose the issue, inspect each turn signal to see if one is blinking or illuminating differently. A bulb that appears dark, cloudy, or has a broken filament likely needs replacing. Additionally, poor or damaged electrical connections can cause the turn signal to blink faster, as insufficient power reaches the bulb, leading to inconsistent blinking.
Fixing the Problem
Start by checking all wiring and connections around the turn signal area and cleaning the components. Ensure the fuses are functioning correctly. If the bulb is faulty, replacing it usually involves opening the hood, removing the headlight housing, and disconnecting the electrical connector.
Carefully install the new bulb, avoiding direct contact with the glass to prevent premature failure. Reconnect the electrical connector and place the housing back in position. Finally, test the new bulb to ensure it works correctly.
Turn signal bulb | iStock
Additional Causes and Solutions
A faulty electrical switch can also result in inconsistent blinking rates. These issues are often caused by corrosion, burns, or worn insulation in the switch or relays. Checking and cleaning these components and replacing worn-out parts can resolve the problem.
Conclusion: Ensuring Proper Turn Signal Function
Understanding why your turn signal blinks faster can help you maintain your vehicle’s safety and functionality. Regular checks and prompt replacements of faulty bulbs and connections ensure your turn signals work correctly, keeping you safe on the road. If you encounter persistent issues, consider consulting a professional mechanic for further assistance.
