Jul 20

The 4 best car parks to use in and around Birmingham city centre

Trying to find a good car park on a busy day can be a bit of a nightmare.

Birmingham gets especially busy at the weekends, and it’s never easy to find a car park with spaces and at a reasonable price. That’s why we’ve decided to take a look at the public’s favourite car parks in the city.

Looking at Google reviews, drivers have been rating the different car parks around Birmingham city centre. Here are the top 10.

1. B4 Car Park, Weaman Street

The car park has a 4.4 rating from 696 Google reviews. One customer said: “Very clean, well lit and 24 hour staff.”

2. Birmingham New Street Station Car Park, New Street

The car park has a 4.3 rating from 128 reviews. One review read: “Good, safe location with easy access to New Street railway station.”

3. Moor Street and Selfridges, Bullring & Grand Central

The car park has a 4.2 rating from 603 Google reviews. One customer said: “A well marked, well sized, clean and secure car park. Was pleasantly surprised to find quite an abundance of parking spaces on a busy Friday.”

4. Paradise Birmingham, Centenary Way

The car park has a 4.2 rating from 23 Google reviews. One customer said: “Very clean, safe, modern, well lit and reasonably priced for location.”

Jul 20

Elon Musk Criticizes Ford F-150 Lightning Price Despite Tesla’s Delays

Elon Musk’s Take on the Ford F-150 Lightning

Elon Musk, known for his outspoken views, recently voiced his opinion on Twitter about the Ford F-150 Lightning’s pricing. He acknowledged that the Lightning is a good vehicle but expressed concern over its cost, particularly in light of current high-interest rates. Despite his critique, it seems peculiar since Tesla’s own Cybertruck has yet to make its debut on the market.

Pricing Details of the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning

The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning Pro now starts at $49,995 before additional fees, reflecting a significant reduction from its previous price near $60,000. Ford’s recent price cuts aim to make its trucks more accessible, though the Platinum trim still commands a hefty $92,000. While this price reduction is a step in the right direction, it has not entirely swayed Musk’s opinion.

Anticipated Cost of the Tesla Cybertruck

Given Musk’s remarks about the Lightning, one might expect the Cybertruck to be priced below $49,995. However, with limited information on the Cybertruck’s specs, trims, and pricing, such assumptions remain speculative. Musk’s social media comments often mix speculation with facts, so it’s wise to approach these statements with caution.

The Future of Electric Trucks: Production and Competition

For electric trucks to become more affordable, increased production is key. Ford aims to reach an annual production rate of 150,000 units, a substantial increase from its early 2023 sales figures. Tesla, with its significant number of Cybertruck reservations, is likely working towards similar production goals, though it faces its own challenges, including past issues with production quality.

Will the Cybertruck Outshine the Ford F-150 Lightning?

Predicting the success of the Cybertruck versus the Ford F-150 Lightning is challenging. Tesla has a history of delays and unmet promises, yet its early successes in the EV market suggest it shouldn’t be discounted. Conversely, Ford’s longstanding reputation and robust manufacturing capabilities make the F-150 Lightning a strong contender in the electric truck arena.

Jul 20

The 2023 Chevy Colorado Rocks the Toyota Tacoma in 1 Critical Area

The Chevrolet Colorado has been trying to catch the Toyota Tacoma for years, but it has one undeniable advantage. The revamped 2023 Chevy Colorado has the muscle to finally dethrone the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, and it still beats the remodeled 2024 Tacoma too.

Can the 2023 Chevy Colorado tow more than the Toyota Tacoma?

Yes, the 2023 Chevy Colorado can tow more than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. When properly equipped, the 2023 Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,684 lbs. It matches what the Jeep Gladiator can tow.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs and can carry a payload of up to 1,685 lbs. So, the Colorado can tow up to 900 lbs more, which isn’t that big of a difference. But hey, size matters.

Plus, the 2024 Tacoma can tow up to 6,500 lbs. It actually lost 300 lbs of towing power. So, the Colorado can tow 1,200 lbs more than the new Tacoma. That’s a much better-looking figure. Also, the redesigned Tacoma can carry a payload of up to 1,709 lbs.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more power?

The standard Colorado has more power than the entry-level 2023 Tacoma. The Colorado kicks things off with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

With the standard 2023 Toyota Tacoma, you get a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. But you can upgrade to the 3.5–liter V6 engine for 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.

The Turbo Plus variant of the Colorado provides 310 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The High Output variant boosts the torque to 430 lb.

With the 2024 Tacoma, the standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine provides 228 and 243 lb-ft of torque. It’s tuned to provide 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque on higher trim levels.

The Tacoma Hybrid benefits from the new i-FORCE Max powertrain, which pairs the 2.7-liter engine with a battery pack and an electric motor to generate 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

So, the Colorado has more power than the 2023 Tacoma and the gas-powered 2024 Tacoma models. However, the Tacoma Hybrid squeezes in a win with 16 more hp and 35 more torque.

The 2023 Colorado can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.0 seconds, and the 2023 Tacoma gets there in roughly 7.7 seconds, but it has been clocked as low as 6.6 seconds.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more space?

The 2023 Chevy Colorado provides more interior space than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. You’ll find that taller adults fit more comfortably in the front and rear of the Colorado. However, the rear seat is still pretty tight.

If you want more passenger space, then consider going for the Jeep Gladiator or Honda Ridgeline. They have the largest backseats in the segment. Also, the Colorado has more storage capacity.

It has a larger center console and glove box. The rear seats are easier to fold up in the Colorado as well. However, the 2024 Tacoma boasts increased space and storage capacity. It could have more passenger room too.

For now, we can determine that the Chevy Colorado has more muscle than the Tacoma. It can tow more than the 2023 and 2024 models. Stay tuned for updates as we get behind the wheel of the 2024 Tacoma to compare its new features.

Jul 20

Tragic Incident in Joliet: Young Driver Fatally Shot

Fatal Shooting Shakes Joliet Community

A devastating incident unfolded in Joliet as a 23-year-old driver was fatally shot before dinner time on Wednesday. The homicide occurred around 4:30 p.m. on the east side of the city, shaking the local community. Joliet Police responded to calls of shots fired at the intersection of Second Avenue and Baker Avenue, where they discovered a grim scene.

Upon arrival, officers found an SUV that had collided with a parked vehicle on the 100 block of Baker Avenue. Inside the vehicle, a young man was found slumped over the steering wheel, unresponsive, with gunshot wounds to his chest and arm. Tragically, despite prompt medical attention, he was declared dead at Ascension St Joseph Medical Center.

Investigation Underway as Community Seeks Answers

The investigation into this tragic event revealed another potential victim, a 16-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to the leg, who was taken to Silver Cross Hospital by a private vehicle shortly after the incident. Police are exploring the possibility that this shooting is connected to the murder of the young driver. An extensive search of the area was conducted, and detectives are actively seeking information to bring clarity and justice to this unsettling violence.

Community members with any information about this tragic incident are urged to come forward and contact the Joliet Police Department Investigation Unit or the Will County Crime Stoppers. This collaborative effort between the community and law enforcement is crucial to solving this case and preventing further violence in the area. The loss of a young life in such violent circumstances is a profound tragedy, resonating deeply within the community and prompting an urgent call for answers and action.

Jul 20

1 Lexus NX Trim Is Attracting More Consumers’ Attention Than the Rest

When it comes to luxury vehicles, most consumers turn to brands like Lexus. If they want the SUV experience, one of the best models to choose from the brand is the NX with its performance and standard all-wheel drivetrain. What can you expect from the different 2023 Lexus NX trims, and which one is the most popular?

The Lexus NX trims and what they offer

The 2023 Lexus NX comes in a handful of trims, including the Base, Premium, Luxury, and F Sport Handling models. Each one has a unique set of features that makes it stand out from the rest. Each trim has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Paired with it is an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drivetrain. Here’s what you can also expect from each one:

Base

The entry-level trim starts at $43,965 and gets you a pretty decent amount of standard features. Those include 18-inch wheels, synthetic leather seating, a WiFi hotspot, a 10-speaker audio system, and a 9.8-inch infotainment screen. As for driver’s assistance aids, you get Forward Collision Warning, Lane-departure Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Luxury

One of the higher trims in the lineup is the Luxury model, which offers 20-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, a head-up display, ambient lighting for the cabin, and a 14-inch infotainment display. You’ll also get open-pore wood interior accents, cloud-based navigation, an adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, and a voice assistant. This trim level begins at $51,415.

F Sport Handling

With the NX F Sport Handling trim, you can expect 20-inch black wheels, rain-sensing wipers, a sport-tuned adaptive suspension system, a 10-inch display, and sport-designed front seats. With only the standard features, this version starts at $49,065.

You can upgrade this model with a Luxury package, which will add items such as driver’s seat memory settings, an upgraded voice control system, and a power liftgate with a kick sensor system.

While each trim offers some pretty awesome features, none of these are the most popular trim offered, according to Edmunds.

The most popular trim many NX vehicle owners gravitate toward appears to be the Premium model, which is a step up from the base and begins at $47,015. You’d think one of the higher trims would be more appealing with top-notch luxury features like a larger infotainment screen or larger wheels, but this version seems to outshine the rest. Why is that?

One possibility is the list of extras that it offers for a more affordable price than the higher trims bring. For example, you get the same features as the base but it adds low-speed automatic braking, a sunroof, power-adjustable steering, parking sensors, and ventilated front seats.

With this model, you can opt for a 14-inch touchscreen and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system for a little more money. This way you don’t have to pay more for items you may not need in your daily driving experience.

What will the 2024 Lexus NX offer?

The 2024 Lexus NX is currently set at $44,065 to start with many of the same features as the 2023 model, including the engine specs. This version offers 21 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined.

As for changes from the previous version, don’t expect a whole lot. The few items that are new this year won’t have any effect on its performance, they are mostly aesthetic-based.

According to Car and Driver, you can expect some new interior colors for the cabin and the brand decided to make some of the color-keyed elements to the interior as well. Lexus also added a remote parking feature to the 350h and the 450h+, while the 450h+ F Sport will now come with your choice of a regular sunroof or a panoramic one.

Cargo space on this model is pretty average with 23 cu-ft of storage behind the rear seats. The total cargo capacity is only 46.9 cu-ft of space, which should be enough to haul around groceries or a small family’s bags for trips.

The Lexus NX has a handful of trims to choose from for the 2023 version, but the Premium level is the one that stands out. While it’s not easy to say why, its list of extras and affordable pricing clue us into why it could possibly be the most popular.

Jul 20

Tragic Ahmedabad Collision: Nine Dead and Thirteen Injured in Double Accident

Fatal Accidents Unfold on SG Highway

In a heart-wrenching incident early Thursday morning, nine lives were tragically lost and thirteen others were injured in a series of accidents on Ahmedabad’s bustling Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) highway. The first accident occurred around 1:15 a.m. when an SUV collided with a stationary dumper truck at the ISKCON flyover, a notorious accident hotspot. The collision caused a chaotic scene as bystanders rushed to assist the injured, unintentionally creating a hazardous situation on the road.

Additional Tragedy Strikes as Luxury Car Crashes into Crowd

As emergency services attended to the victims, a speeding luxury car barreled into the crowd of onlookers and first responders, exacerbating the tragedy. Witnesses reported that the force of the impact propelled some individuals up to 25 feet from the accident site. This devastating sequence of events highlights the dangers of high-speed driving in accident-prone areas and underscores the need for improved road safety measures and awareness.

Jul 20

What Is the Range of the Cheapest EV?

The most affordable electric vehicle has a surprisingly impressive driving range. Is it worth getting?

The cheapest electric vehicle on the market is going to be discontinued. Chevrolet’s Bolt EV is easily one of the most controversial vehicles in recent memory. The electric hatchback was a hit with consumers until its reputation went up in flames. Still, some consumers want the EV to stick around. How far is the Chevy Bolt EV’s driving range?

Chevy Bolt EV: Range

Chevy’s 2023 Bolt EV small electric hatchback has an estimated 259 miles of range. That’s incredible for any electric vehicle. The issue with the Bolt EV is its reliability. Chevrolet’s electric vehicle is the subject of one of the largest mass recalls in recent history.

General Motors recalled Bolt EV and Bolt EUV models due to battery fires. Electric vehicle battery fires are becoming a common issue across a wide variety of brands. Battery electric vehicles can overheat and become engulfed in flames because of their unique powertrain systems.

Chevrolet gave the Bolt EV a major update and a price cut but ultimately decided to kill the nameplate at the end of the year, with its reputation severely damaged. Despite its more affordable price and new design, some consumers can’t shake the feeling that it’s unreliable. It’s become associated with too much controversy to succeed. That being said, the Bolt EV’s specs aren’t indicative of a vehicle destined for the great junkyard in the sky.

Chevy Bolt EV: Price and Specs

Chevrolet’s Bolt EV starts at $26,500. It makes 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Chevy’s electric vehicle offers an excellent driving range for its price. It’s the most affordable electric vehicle on the market, and it has more range than most drivers with access to charging stations need.

Bolt EV models qualify for the federal electric vehicle tax credit, making the EV even more affordable. After the $7,500 incentive, the Bolt EV starts at around $19,000. It comes with heated power outside mirrors and a tire pressure monitoring system. As a result, the Bolt EV provides incredible value for the money. It also has a surprisingly roomy cabin and great visibility.

Should you get the cheapest EV?

Chevy’s Bolt EV is a great electric vehicle on paper. The big issue with the Bolt EV is that the affordable electric vehicle has a history of unreliability. Range anxiety is one thing. Expecting your vehicle to spontaneously combust is another thing entirely.

If the Bolt EV were more reliable, it’d easily be one of the best entry-level electric vehicles on the market. Chevy had a hit on its hands. Unfortunately, the nameplate’s reputation was too damaged to recover from the battery fire debacle.

The range and price of the cheapest EV on the market make it a good deal. That being said, its recalls will cause some consumers to steer clear of the electric hatchback before its discontinuation. Does Chevy have a new electric vehicle in the works that could take the place of the Bolt EV?

Jul 12

Community Rallies for St. Paul Man After Theft of Vehicle and Wheelchair

Stolen Vehicle and Wheelchair Spark Community Action

In a distressing incident, 26-year-old Kyle Schultz, who lives with ALS, had his 2012 Chevy Tahoe and wheelchair stolen from his St. Paul driveway earlier this week. The SUV was later discovered abandoned and stripped of parts, but the wheelchair, essential for Kyle’s mobility, remains missing. The theft has left Kyle feeling as though a crucial part of his life has been taken, amplifying the challenge of living with his condition.

Local Foundation Steps Up to Support

Responding to Kyle’s plight, Ryan O’Neill from the O’Neill Foundation of Hope has stepped in to offer assistance. Motivated by Kyle’s personal tattoo symbolizing hope, O’Neill quickly reached out to Kyle’s family through social media to arrange for a replacement wheelchair. The community’s support has also extended to a GoFundMe campaign aimed at helping Kyle secure a new vehicle and manage ongoing needs. As investigations continue, the local outpouring of support highlights the profound impact of community solidarity in times of crisis.

Jul 12

Act Fast: Should You Order a Chevy Bolt Before It Disappears?

GM Announces End of Chevy Bolt Production

General Motors has revealed that it will cease production of the Chevy Bolt by the end of 2023, marking the end of an era for this popular electric vehicle. Launched in 2016, the Bolt has gained recognition for its reliability and affordability, making it a top choice for many EV enthusiasts. Although production will soon end, there’s still a window to place an order, but is it worth it?

Why Is Chevy Ending the Bolt?

Despite its success, including impressive sales figures and significant contributions to GM’s position in the EV market, CEO Mary Barra has announced the discontinuation of the Bolt. GM plans to shift focus towards new electric models and increase production capacity at their Orion assembly plant. With plans to boost production of electric trucks, the decision reflects a strategic move to cater to emerging market demands.

Is Ordering a Bolt Still a Good Idea?

For those set on owning a Chevy Bolt, now is the time to act. GM intends to produce 70,000 units this year, with the final order cycle beginning August 17. However, potential buyers should be prepared for potential delays, as some customers are still waiting for their orders to be fulfilled.

Alternative Options for Prospective Buyers

If immediate availability is a priority, it may be wise to consider other EVs with higher supply levels. While the Bolt offers great value, buyers who need a vehicle right away might benefit from exploring alternative options. As the electric vehicle market evolves, numerous other choices are available to meet diverse needs and timelines.

Jul 12

Police: West Milford Driver Was DWI When She Slammed Into SUV Driven By Sparta Man, 71

Jessica Lima, 38, of West Milford was airlifted to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson following the late Saturday afternoon crash on Lakeside Road on June 10, township police Lt. Anthony Parrello said.

The other driver, 71-year-old David Thierman of Sparta, was taken to St. Joe’s by ambulance, the lieutenant disclosed on July 12.

Lima’s 2006 Toyota 2 had rammed Theirman’s 2015 BMW X5, Parrello said.

A 58-year-old passenger from Sparta sustained minor injuries and refused treatment at the scene, he said.

Officer Nicholas Lisa and members of the West Milford Crash Investigation Unit determined that Lima was intoxicated at the time of the collision, Parrello said.

They charged her with two counts of assault by auto – for each occupant – as well as DWI, speeding, reckless driving, failing to maintain a lane, failure to keep right and not wearing a seatbelt, he said.

Lima received summonses and was released under New Jersey’s bail reform law pending a first appearance in Passaic County Superior Court in Paterson, Parrello said.