Feb 18

Rivian Teases Upcoming R2 Electric SUV Ahead Of March 7 Debut

Electric car manufacturer Rivian has teased its upcoming new electric SUV, the R2 ahead of its debut on March 7, 2024. Set to compete with the popular Tesla Model Y in global markets, the electric SUV will sit under the R1 series and, based on the teaser, will share some design elements with the R1S.

The teaser video only provides a brief glimpse of the SUV’s light cluster which retains the full-width light bar and distinct ‘pill’ lights seen on its larger siblings. The carmaker had previously showcased a covered clay model of the proposed R2 last year on Instagram which hinted at the smaller SUV retaining the upright looks from its siblings.

It however remains to be seen if the new R2 will be offered in a pick-up truck derivative similar to the R1T.

As per reports, the R2 is set to be based on a different platform as compared to the R1S and R1T and is also likely to feature new in-house-developed electric motors. The model will also reportedly roll out of a different factory from the larger R1s.

Set to be constructed in Georgia, USA, construction on the new plant is reported to commence this year with the new R2 only expected to enter production sometime in 2026.

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Feb 18

Gynaecologist wins Massy Christmas promotion SUV

Yara Martinez Diaz, a gynaecologist found herself enveloped in sheer joy as she was named the winner of the SUV in the Massy Christmas Jackpot promotion.

The elation was palpable as she stood at the prize handover event yesterday.

Accepting the keys to her red MG ZS SUV, Diaz’s eyes shimmered with appreciation, reflecting the disbelief she initially harboured when learning of her win.

Feb 18

Former Top Gear presenter warns ‘timing is everything’ as used car prices fall

The famous motoring personality Quentin Willson has warned used car buyers that now may not be the best time to buy a new vehicle, despite prices falling.

The former Top Gear presenter used to run a used car dealership and is well-known for offering expert advice that can help drivers get the best deal.

However, speaking exclusively to the Daily Express, Quentin noted that wider factors are making the used car market unstable.

He explained: “Used car buyers need to be careful. We know there’s a shortage of disposable income and private sales of all new cars are down 15 percent. While used car sales are reasonable, we don’t know what the next few months will hold.

“We could see spiking fuel costs because of instability in the Middle East, interest rates don’t look like they will be falling significantly soon, and consumer confidence is low with so much political uncertainty before an election. I don’t think this is a time to take any risks.”

Quentin noted that conflict in the Middle East could cause the price of petrol to increase in the coming months.

Whilst this will likely affect all owners of petrol, diesel, and hybrid cars, it could be bad news for those interested in buying a cheap luxury car, with many experts noting prices are particularly low at the moment.

The used car expert also stated that interest rates are still high due to inflation, meaning that drivers who finance their cars could end up paying more in the long run.

Nevertheless, Quentin suggested that drivers who need to buy a used car should be cautious, opting for a reliable and desirable model.

He advised: “If you do need to buy now then research prices, negotiate hard and only buy the best used car you can find. That means a desirable make and model, a good strong colour, petrol engine, low mileage and a continuous service history from new.

“High mileage, tired looking used cars always depreciate the most. Lots of asset classes (expect gold) have weakened over the last few months. I’d watch the market and world events carefully and wait to see if things start to recover. This is definitely a buyer’s market where timing is everything.”

According to the vehicle retail platform AutoTrader, the average price of a used car fell to £16,868 during January 2024, down 7.5 percent compared to 12 months earlier.

Nevertheless, whilst the prices decrease, demand for used cars is on the rise, with the company noting 85.5 million visits to the website by drivers looking to bag a bargain.

AutoTrader noted that many retailers are under-pricing models that are in high demand to reflect the current trends in wholesale values.

Feb 18

2024’s 10 Best Electric Sports Cars

As electric vehicles (EVs) become more and more commonplace, new models and vehicle types are constantly being introduced to the market.

A few years ago, the EV was a relatively new market — which meant that options were limited. Now, consumers may feel overwhelmed with choices.

There are a handful of factors that determine an EV’s purchasability. One of them is vehicle range — a growing concern due to the lack of EV charging stations throughout the nation. For EV sports cars, range and speed are important factors to consider. Take a look at how speed and range factor into 2024’s 10 best electric sports cars below:

1. 2024 Porsche Taycan

Price Point: $92,550

Range: ~246 miles

From reputable luxury sports brand Porsche, the Taycan is a four-door sports car perfect for any driver who favors speed and a sleek vehicle look. The Taycan also comes in the Turbo S form, going 0-60 in 2.3 seconds.

2. 2024 Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo

Price Point: $142,850

Range: 233 miles

The Taycan Sport Turismo is the wagon version of the Taycan, with a hatchback trunk. It has impressive speed, and can go from 0-60 miles per hour in around 3 seconds.

3. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

Price Point: $63,000

Range: ~210 miles

Though one of the cheaper vehicles on this list, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N does not sacrifice quality. This car comes with some software to make a drive feel more engaging, such as a paddle-shifted dual-clutch automatic transmission.

4. 2024 Rimac Nevera

Price Point: ~$2.2 million

Range: 205 miles

This 1914-hp vehicle is extremely fast and at a high-price point. It is the fastest electric vehicle on the market, going 60 mph in 1.74 seconds.

5. 2024 Pininfarina Battista

Price Point: ~$2.2 million

Range: ~230 miles

Similar to the Nevera, the Battista has the same advanced speed and horsepower capabilities. This vehicle’s top speed is over 220 mph.

6. 2024 Lotus Evija

Price Point: ~$2.3 million

Range: ~200 miles

In 9 seconds flat, the Evija can go from 0-186 miles per hour. Additionally, it is a 1972 horsepower vehicle.

7. 2023 Maserati GranTurismo Folgore

Price Point: ~$215,000

Range: ~240 miles

The GranTurismo Folgore is the EV version of Maserati’s legacy grand tourer coupe, going 60 mph in around 2.7 seconds.

8. 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT

Price Point: $148,595

Range: 232 miles

This sporty EV sedan can reach 60 mph in approximately 3 seconds, and has a similar vehicle foundation to the Porsche Taycan.

9. 2023 Tesla Model 3 Performance

Price Point: $54, 880

Range: 315 miles

The Tesla Model 3 Performance is the most inexpensive car on this list, and the Performance trim on this popular EV makes a great commuter car.

10. 2023 Tesla Model S Plaid

Price Point: $110,130

Range: 396 miles

The Model S Plaid has nearly 400 miles of use per full charge. The Model S Plaid can go up to 60 mph in under two seconds.

Feb 18

Classic car industry ‘in trouble’ in concern for owners, warns ex-Top Gear host

The UK’s classic car industry could be on the verge of being “in trouble”, according to former Top Gear host Quentin Wilson.

The ex TV star claimed financial concerns could be the “greatest threat” to historic vehicles over the next 10 years.

He predicts owners could decide against expensive restoration projects as they battle to stay afloat with day-to-day costs.

This in turn could have a major knock-on effect with experts and garages at risk of going out of business.

Speaking to Classic Car Weekly, he said: “I think that the greatest threat we’ll face over the next decade is financial.

“If the classic values continue to fall then the viability of costly repairs and restorations becomes questionable.

“If owners don’t see the point of having work done on classics – or can’t afford it – then the repair industry won’t be able to support itself.

“If our classics are no longer worth restoring then the industry is in trouble and the hobby loses those specialist skills.”

The classic car industry is estimated to be worth a staggering £5.5billion to the UK economy.

For now, owners seem to be happy to splash the cash but rising costs of living could prove to be a concern.

The group warned that there was a lack of skilled labour in the historic motoring sector with demand now outstripping supply.

They revealed some owners were even waiting around for almost three years for work to begin on their classic machines.

Mr Wilson added: “My advice would be for us all to help keep our fine specialist industry going and repair and restore for the joy of owners rather than just worrying about making money.”

Feb 18

Woman killed riding electric bike in Putnam County, hit by SUV

A woman is dead after the electric bike she was riding was hit by a vehicle Saturday in Putnam County. The wreck occurred at 4:18 p.m. on N County Road 315 about 1 mile south of SR 100, according to a Florida Highway Patrol news release.

The woman was traveling south on North CR 315 on a Schwinn electric bicycle, the news release states. An SUV traveling behind her struck the bicyclist from the rear. She was pronounced dead at the scene, the news release states.

The names of the driver and the bicyclist were not released. The news release did not state what caused the driver the strike the bicyclist.

Feb 18

Woman dead after being struck by SUV in Putnam County

A woman is dead after being hit by an SUV while riding a Schwinn electric bicycle on North County Road 315 in Putnam County on Saturday, according to a report by the Florida Highway Patrol.

An SUV was traveling south on North CR 315 behind the woman. The SUV hit the woman from the rear and she was pronounced dead at the scene, according to FHP.

No other injuries were reported.

Feb 18

SUV Sales Set to Break Records with 2.5 Million Units Forecasted for FY2024

Unprecedented Surge in SUV and UV Market

With FY2024 approaching its conclusion on March 31, the utility vehicle (UV) market, including SUVs and MPVs, is poised to establish unprecedented sales records. Already surpassing the total sales figures of the previous year, these segments illustrate a significant shift in consumer preferences toward more versatile automotive options.

Driving Forces Behind the Surge

This remarkable increase in UV sales is driven by a robust selection of SUVs and MPVs, which have become pivotal to the expansion of the overall passenger vehicle sector. This growth offsets declines seen in other areas like entry-level automobiles and sedans. In just the first ten months of FY2024, the UV market recorded an impressive average monthly sales figure exceeding 206,000 units, achieving a 25% increase compared to the previous year.

Added Insightful and Beneficial Information:

Technological Advancements and Market Response

The dramatic increase in SUV sales is fueled by the continuous introduction of innovative models and enhancements in vehicle production. These models have gained traction due to strategic marketing and an improving economic landscape, projecting continued sector growth of about 25% year-over-year, nearing 2.5 million units by the end of FY2024.

Overview of the Competitive Arena

The SUV sector showcases remarkable diversity with over 110 models and more than 800 variants, underscoring a highly competitive market. Maruti Suzuki, with a dominant 25% market share led by its comprehensive UV offerings, spearheads this dynamic environment. As industry leaders like Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra, and Hyundai persist in evolving and broadening their product lines, they are set to transform consumer expectations and the overall automotive market landscape significantly.

Jan 18

Tragic Collision on Highway 97 Claims Lives of Five from Bend, Including Two Children

Devastating Accident on Highway 97

A heartbreaking accident occurred on Highway 97 near Crescent, resulting in the death of five Bend residents, including an infant and a teenager. The incident took place around 9:45 a.m., just north of the Highway 58 interchange, involving a collision between a family SUV and a semi-truck.

Circumstances Leading to the Tragedy

Juan Ochoa Bravo, 39, was driving a Chrysler Pacifica northbound when he lost control, veering into the opposite lane. A northbound Peterbilt truck, attempting to evade the SUV, swerved but couldn’t avoid the collision, leading to significant damage to the passenger side of the Pacifica. The impact caused the SUV to spin out across the roadway.

Added Factual and Beneficial Information:

Community Impact and Response

The Bend-La Pine School District has identified victims of the crash as recent and current students from local high schools, deeply affecting the community. The district is providing counseling and support at several schools to help students and faculty cope with the loss. This tragedy has highlighted the importance of community support systems in times of crisis.

Safety Concerns and Further Incidents

Oregon State Police indicated that slippery road conditions and inadequate use of seat belts contributed significantly to the severity of the crash. On the same day, another fatal accident occurred nearby, claiming the life of a 78-year-old California man, underscoring ongoing safety challenges on this stretch of Highway 97.

This catastrophic event not only leaves a void in the Bend community but also serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for strict adherence to traffic safety regulations and the importance of vehicle safety features. As the community mourns, there is a renewed focus on enhancing road safety to prevent future tragedies.

Jan 18

Oklahoma Highway Incident: Trooper Injured by SUV During Stop

Highway Patrol Trooper Injured in SUV Collision

An Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper was injured after an SUV hit him during a traffic stop in Canadian County. This event took place around 2 p.m. on Thursday, demonstrating the hazards faced by law enforcement during routine stops.

Crash Details

The trooper was next to a stopped vehicle on the passenger side when an SUV unexpectedly struck it. Both the trooper and the drivers involved were promptly taken to the hospital with injuries described as serious but non-life-threatening for the trooper.

Enhanced Information:

Ongoing Investigation and Law Enforcement Risks

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is thoroughly investigating the crash to determine its cause. This incident has captured the attention of the local law enforcement community, shedding light on the perils officers routinely encounter along roadways.

Impact on Traffic Laws and Safety Regulations

This incident underscores the importance of Oklahoma’s “Move Over” law, designed to safeguard emergency workers and law enforcement on highways. Drivers who fail to comply with this law face severe penalties, highlighting the critical nature of these regulations in ensuring safety for all road users.

This incident is a potent reminder of the risks our emergency responders face daily and the critical importance of observing traffic safety laws to prevent such dangerous situations.