Automotive

Pie In The Sky: Chevy & Domino’s Create In-Vehicle Pizza-Ordering Tech

Pie In The Sky: Chevy & Domino’s Create In-Vehicle Pizza-Ordering Tech Chevrolet and Domino’s are now offering in-vehicle ordering via GM’s Marketplace platform.
Drivers create their “Pizza Profile” and use that to place orders for either carry-out or delivery.
While useful, we’re not entirely sold on the idea when we have smartphones and mobile apps.
“Chevy is the first automotive brand to provide embedded in-vehicle pizza-ordering,” they cried. “Why?” I muttered in response. Basically, what we’re dealing with here (and “dealing with it” is about all I can handle at the moment) is Chevrolet partnering with Domino’s to provide people who own Chevys the ability to order pizza directly from their car’s touchscreen. It’s not all that dissimilar from what Domino’s and Ford did two years ago, partnering to examine how self-driving cars impact pizza delivery.
How Do I Order Pizza From My Car?
This in-car, pizza on-demand is part of the Chevrolet Marketplace, a commercial platform GM launched near the end of 2017. It allows Chevy owners to buy stuff, essentially. Marketplace can order coffee and food (pizza in this case), find gas stations, make dinner reservations and so on. Chevy says Marketplace is the industry’s first in-vehicle commerce platform. Marketing types – being who they are – tout this like it’s the best technological innovation since the space-saver spare.
“Millions of eligible Chevrolet drivers can now order their favorite Domino’s pizza from their in-vehicle touchscreen,” reads a recent press release. “So it’s ready for carry-out when they get to the store or will arrive at their home if they choose delivery.”
Which isn’t that impressive of an achievement. What Chevy and Domino’s are offering is a one-touch (really a few touches) ordering of America’s favorite Italian food. So sure, that does take out the arduous task of actually having to dial and speak to another human on the phone. But you could do that with an app, you know, like the one Dominos and other national pizza chains already have.
Chevy’s big mistake is the same one a number of automakers are committing today. They keep trying to make your car do something that other devices already do, and do much better. When I read that quote above, after tripping over the caveat of “eligible,” my immediate reaction was can’t we already do that on our phones? The answer is yes. Yes we can.
To place orders through Marketplace, users set up a free Pizza Profile with Domino’s, either online or through the Domino’s mobile app. Photo: Chevrolet.
Related: I tested GM’s controversial Marketplace app: Here’s what I found.
But No Phone Necessary
Chevy explains the machinations of the system: you can save your favorite orders and review past ones from the Domino’s Pizza Profile and, with a few screen taps, place those orders again. Easy-peasy. And here’s where Chevy unwittingly points out the system’s failing, saying how it works independently of any mobile device.
But Why? What on earth is the point of that? Anyone with basic capabilities and some causal reasoning is already thinking: “I can do this with my phone, what’s the big deal?” Let me answer that: It’s not. This is not a big deal. Chevy wants you to think it’s a big deal the same way Domino’s wants you to think it’s actually pizza.
This is, like most tech innovations these days, solving a problem that never really existed in the first place, and doing so in a cumbersome and intrusive way. And some of these tech “solutions” create more problems than they actually solve. Carlos A. Alvarenga, Senior Research Fellow and Adjunct Professor in the Logistics, Business, and Public Policy Department at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, dubs this as the Linn Effect.
Within Marketplace, customers place a saved order or a recent one from their Domino’s Pizza Profile. Photo: Chevrolet.
Pie In The Sky
To wit, and I quote from the press release: “To place pizza orders through Marketplace, users first need to set up a free Pizza Profile with Domino’s, either online or through their Domino’s mobile app. The profile will include their preferred delivery address, preferred stores and payment method information, as well the chance to create and save their favorite order as an Easy Order. Through Marketplace, users will link their Pizza Profile to their vehicle, allowing for simple ordering in the future.”
So, let me get this straight. I set up my Pizza Profile, handing over personal information to a large corporation, like where I eat, where I buy their food, how I pay for it etc. Then save a bunch of my preferences for what I like to eat (more big data to get crunched, sifted, and sold); and then all this information links with another corporation that chains it to a specific vehicle. And then, when I’m driving and I say to myself, “Boy a pizza sure sounds good,” I open the app, tap a few buttons, and all my pizza dreams will come true!
Or, I can go through the debilitating and draining task of picking up my phone and saying, “Yeah, this is Tony. I’d like a medium pizza with Italian sausage and onions to go. Okay, thanks.” I do declare, how did we ever survive such hardships?!
Only in America could a couple of companies come up with such a semi-laughable way to get more personal data; target and track you, yet spin it as a benefit and expect people to say, “Cool!” Of course, there is a percentage that will think it’s cool, but I honestly don’t know how to help you at this point if you do.
Photo: Chevrolet.
Cars Are Not (And Should Never Be) Phones
Manufacturers have to stop trying to make their cars act like smartphones. Know why? Because smartphones already act like smartphones. That ship has sailed. The fact Chevy did this raises the awful specter that one of two things happened in a planning meeting one day in Detroit. Either someone said “Gee, it sure would be cool if my car could order pizza for me.” Or the much more likely scenario: someone said, “How can we leverage our customer base to get more demographic and purchasing data out of them, then sell that off as another revenue stream?”
Like I said, most tech innovations today solve problems that never really existed in the first place. And don’t get me started on what counts as “pizza” in the boardrooms at Domino’s.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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Does Your Favorite Football Team Have A Matching Vehicle?

Does Your Favorite Football Team Have A Matching Vehicle? Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta will host Super Bowl LIII this weekend. An ambitious Los Angeles Rams team will face the mighty New England Patriots, a contest even super computers are analyzing. With football fever in the air, the staff at All-Fit Automotive sought to find vehicles for each NFL team. Some were rather easy, like the Denver Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars, but others required a little more digging.
“Some of the cars I’d never heard of before,” admits A.J. Dudon, CEO of All-Fit Automotive.
Here is a look at what All-Fit Automotive found.
AFC West
The Ford Bronco immediately springs to mind here. Although they took a pounding at the hands of Joe Montana and the 49ers in Super Bowl XXIV, John Elway and his troops would emerge for back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998. The Denver Broncos returned to the Super Bowl more recently with Peyton Manning.
Elsewhere in the AFC West, the Dodge Charger and the San Diego . . . er . . . Los Angeles Chargers share a common history. The Dodge Charger actually made its debut in Southern California, being introduced at the 1966 Rose Bowl.
1968 Dodge Charger 426 Hemi. Photo: From The Art of Mopar by Tom Glatch, published by Motorbooks.
AFC South
Remember the Titans! But never forget the Oilers! The Tennessee Titans, who share their name with Nissan’s flagship truck, battled the St. Louis Rams during Super Bowl XXXIV in January of 2000. It remains the Titans only Super Bowl appearance but marked the first championship for a Rams team lead by quarterback Kurt Warner. Despite the Rams having “The Greatest Show On Turf” with regard to their offense, Super Bowl XXXIV was largely a defensive affair.
The AFC South also houses the Jacksonville Jaguars, who appeared in 1995 as one of two expansion teams that year. The connection here is easy – Jaguars football, Jaguar automobiles – but it goes beyond the obvious. Jaguars owner Shahid Khan has long-standing roots in the automotive business. The now billionaire put himself through school at the University of Illinois while working at Flex-N-Gate.
Today, Khan owns the automotive manufacturing company he worked at in college.
Nissan Titan with a factory lift kit. Photo: Nissan North America.
AFC East
Holding down the AFC East is the Muntz Jet, a sleek and sporty offering for its day. Hagerty details the story of one Frank Kurtis, an IndyCar builder who later sold his auto company to Earl William “Madman” Muntz. The pitchman’s vision for the car differed greatly from that of Kurtis who wanted the vehicles to become the American equivalent of Jaguar. Under Muntz, the Jet came with a host of interior arrangements that included alligator, emu, leopard, or snake skin, and even a cocktail bar.
Although a money loser, Muntz claimed the company built nearly 400 Jets, although that number is disputed by historians. Regardless, there are even less Joe Namaths. That is to say there is only one. Imagine Broadway Joe rolling through New York City in one of these collectibles?
“Once we found a vehicle, we tried to place a star quarterback or popular coach behind the wheel,” Dudon said.
1953 Muntz Jet Convertible.
AFC North
Over in the AFC North, the Sunbeam Tiger is similar to the Cincinnati Bengals. As for the Cleveland Browns? For better or worse, not a single automaker (that we are aware of) ever debuted a concept car called “The Brown.”
NFC West
Ram Trucks and the Los Angeles Rams naturally, both of which have done their fair share of moving and shaking. The NFL team started as the Cleveland Rams in 1936, then moved to Los Angeles in 1946; St. Louis in 1995, then back to L.A. in 2016.
As for Ram Trucks, they were originally just Dodge trucks with a Ram hood ornament as far back as the 1930s. By the 1980s, they evolved into Dodge Ram trucks, finally becoming their own division in 2010.
2019 Ram 1500 North Edition. Photo: FCA US LLC.
NFC North
Minnesota Vikings fans have felt that “so close, yet so far” pain for seasons on end now. The franchise has been to four Super Bowls but has yet to secure a championship. To add insult to injury, Vikings fans have endured six NFC Championship Game losses since 1978. While there is still hope for the Minnesota Vikings, the General Motors Viking not so much.
The original Viking was actually an Oldsmobile built on the automaker’s GM B platform. The Viking car survived only a few years, being adopted by Chevrolet who slapped the namesake on the side of a medium duty truck in 1958. But the Viking truck soon faded into the annals of automotive history. Neither of these “Vikings” could match the longevity of Bud Grant, the iconic Minnesota Vikings head coach (1967-83 then ’85).
Given his reputation for frugality, if he owned either of these vehicles, he probably still has it.
Skol!
Oldsmobile Viking advertisement, May 1929, Saturday Evening Post.
NFC South & East
The Ford Falcon enjoyed a solid production run between 1960 and 1970, and configurations were endless. The Falcon was offered as a two-door or four-door sedan; two-door or four-door station wagon; and as a hardtop or convertible. Even a Ranchero pickup option existed. Whiz Kid Robert McNamara, later the U.S. Secretary of Defense, oversaw the Falcon’s development at a time when Ford was struggling. The “Whiz Kids” were ten USAAF World War II veterans who became Ford executives in 1946 at the behest of Henry Ford II.
The NFC South Atlanta Falcons have their own nicknames: “Grits Blitz” describing their late 70s defense and the more affectionate “Dirty Birds.”
Over in the NFC South the AMC Eagle pairs nicely with the Philadelphia Eagles. Surprisingly, there isn’t a rugged work truck named for America’s Team, the Dallas Cowboys.
The final AMC cars were the 1988 Eagles. Production was completed by the end of 1987. Photo: From American Motors Corporation: The Rise and Fall of America’s Last Independent Automaker by Patrick Foster, published by Motorbooks.
Putting It On The Gridiron
All-Fit Automotive complied everything into the graph below, with one you can share on social media here.
“There are a lot of vehicles in the world, so it’s possible we missed one,” Dudon said. “Maybe this chart will inspire car names for another generation of automobiles. Who knows?”
Carl Anthony studies mechanical engineering at Wayne State University, serves on the Board of Directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, and is a loyal Detroit Lions fan. Before returning to school, he simultaneously held product development and experiential marketing roles in the automotive industry.

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2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE & The Power of Ten

2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE & The Power of Ten Just when you thought the Detroit Auto Show was over, Chevy drops a rather nice surprise on us. Say hello to the 2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE, “the fastest, most track-capable Camaro ever.” You pretty much had me at “fastest,” but then you had to add “most track-capable Camaro ever.”
Track capable you say?
And wait, what’s this about a new transmission? Now you tell us!?
Money Pits & Stop Watches
Look, I’m not much of a track guy. I like going to tracks – love going to tracks, actually – but getting out there in my own car and running around is not my bag, man. There’s a bunch of reasons for this. It’s expensive, for one thing. You burn up tons of cash on stuff you wouldn’t normally think of as “consumables.” Stuff like tires and brake pads and discs. At some tracks, you can go through a full set of all three in a weekend!
I’m a writer man, I don’t make that much money. But really, it’s because I’m slow. Sure, it’s fun to think I’m the next best thing to Mario Andretti, but that stop watch don’t lie.
But lots of you do like to spend time at tracks. I get the appeal: Go fast, no tickets. Hard to argue with that. So say you’re a track geek with a bent for American iron. Corvette? Sure, plenty of those at a track. But want something different? Might I suggest a 2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE?
2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE. Photo: Chevrolet.
Black Magic Woman
The party piece of the 2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE is, of all things, its new automatic transmission. Specifically an available 10-speed automatic. Now, before you go all ape-like here, let me just say that I am (partially) with you. Automatic transmissions are frightening compromises that, near as I can tell, run on black magic and sorcery. Plus, they are not nearly as fun as a manual.
That said, however, there’s a whole new breed of auto-boxes out there that are surprisingly good, and seemingly able to split the difference between a manual and an old-style auto.
These new-gen automatics first started appearing in trucks. All your purist thoughts about “manual trannies until I die!” fly out the window when dealing with trucks. You ever try to up-shift a truck hauling tons up a grade? I have, and it is an embarrassing grinding of gears and near (if not outright) stalling. The tech that made trucks more usable made its way into more plebian transportation and, from there, into the hands of grease-stained gearheads in performance departments.
Which leads us to the 2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE and its 10-speed transmission.
Photo: Chevrolet.
There's a whole new breed of auto-boxes that are surprisingly good, and seemingly able to split the difference between a manual and an old-style auto.Click To TweetThe Power of Ten
Can you dig that? Ten speeds! Imagine what it must be like hauling down a long straight, then stomping on the brakes and whangin’ that downshift paddle five, six, seven times before hitting the apex. Oh, automatics are slower, you say? Ha! says Camaro Chief Engineer Mark Dickens.
“This transmission is optimized for speed. With unique Track Mode calibrations and 10 gears, you are always in the perfect gear when rolling on or off the throttle,” he explained. “You may not be a professional race car driver, but now you can shift like one.”
Remember what I said about stop watches not lying? The new Camaro ZL1 1LE, with the 10-speed auto, clocks in at more than half a second faster than the standard manual on the 2.9-mile Milford Road Course at GM’s proving grounds. Half a second. I know racers that would give up a finger to get that much. GM goes on, saying on longer tracks their new ten speed will get you even more. On tracks like the Nürburgring, you can expect to trim off several seconds versus the older six-speed manual ZL1 1LE.
That’s oddly specific, no? Why it’s almost like Chevy ran both versions back-to-back at The ‘Ring and are subtly letting us know or something.
Related: From CTS to ZL1: The story of GM’s fastest track car.
The Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE on the Nürburgring Nordschleife last year. Photo: Chevrolet.
Imagine what it must be like hauling down a long straight, then stomping on the brakes and whangin' that downshift paddle five, six, seven times before hitting the apex.Click To TweetPower & Performance Upgrades
To better suit the ZL1 1LE’s performance package upgrade, special calibrations were made to the transmission, electronic limited-slip differential, and traction system. The “Multimatic Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve” shocks have been tuned to better handle the weight transfers that result from the faster shifts.
Chevy even added a new transmission oil pan and an additional cooling duct for the steering gear.
The forged aluminum wheels are an inch wider but an inch smaller in diameter. The new summer-only Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3R tires deliver lateral grip of 1.10g. Overall, the whole car is lighter. The wheels and dampers, thinner rear glass, and a fixed-back rear seat all help drop more than 50 lbs. from the curb weight versus the standard ZL1 Coupe.
All of these performance goodies are motivated by a 650 horsepower, supercharged LT4 engine and controlled (thankfully) by big Brembo brakes.

The party piece of the 2019 Chevy #Camaro ZL1 1LE is, of all things, its new automatic transmission.Click To TweetNot Too Spartan After All
If you want just the 10-speed tranny, that’ll set you back $1,595 while the ZL1 1LE Track Performance Package will run you $7,500. Both of which seem completely reasonable to me. Overall, the 2019 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE starts at $70,495.
There are other modern niceties for your money, like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a Bose premium audio system. Just to let you know that this is not some track-only stripper.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
Photos & Source: Chevrolet.

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McLaren 600LT Spider: One Very Impressive Hair Dryer

McLaren 600LT Spider: One Very Impressive Hair Dryer In terms of performance, the McLaren 600LT Spider is on par with the 600LT Coupé.
Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires increase on-track dynamics and driver engagement.
The 600LT Spider is the fifth car to carry the Longtail (LT) namesake.
McLaren thought it was a good idea if they’d cut the top off their impressive Longtail and turn it into a Spider. Who am I to argue? I love convertibles. Besides, this is no boulevard showboat. With nearly 600 ponies on tap and a 200 plus mph top speed, think of the McLaren 600LT Spider as a very impressive hair dryer.
Even though it’s a drop-top, the 600LT Spider fully exemplifies the McLaren Longtail philosophy. More power, less weight, optimized aerodynamics, and track-oriented capabilities.
Fit & Trim
The McLaren 600LT Spider drops 220.5 lbs. over the 570S Spider it replaces. That’s a lot of weight savings, like losing a fat passenger. The 600LT Spider uses the same carbon fiber MonoCell II chassis as the Coupé. However, even though the top of the box is chopped off, it retains the structural rigidity of the Coupé with no additional strengthening bits, according to McLaren. So in all, Coupé to Spider, the convert only gains 110.2 lbs. Not bad!
All up, the dry weight is just 2,859.4 lbs. for the Spider, which is pretty good. You can even delete the audio and climate control systems if you really want to drop the weight.
McLaren 600LT Spider. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
With nearly 600 ponies and a 200 plus mph top speed, think of the #McLaren 600LT Spider as a very impressive hair dryer.Click To TweetPower & Performance
The McLaren 600LT Spider features the same twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 as the Coupé, kicking out 592 horsepower and 457 lb-ft. of torque. A dual-clutch, seven-speed gearbox with “Ignition Cut” facilitates faster changes in Sport mode. The McLaren 600LT Spider hits 60 mph in 2.8 seconds and 124 in just 8.4 seconds! It maxes out at 201 mph with the roof up; 196 mph with it down. Nice!
That zero to 124 mph figure is a mere 0.2 seconds slower than the 600LT Coupé. Not bad!
Open Air Enjoyment
The hardtop roof is more secure and wear-resistant than the traditional fabric version, and offers a Coupé-like cabin when it’s up. When stowed, the roof hides beneath a tonneau cover located just behind the seats. The top is raised or lowered at the push of a button up to 25 mph. And, I’ve got to say, being able to drop your top while on the move is so cool. I love when car companies let you do this.
An electrically-operated wind deflector can be raised independently of the hardtop to increase ventilation or to allow more of those sweet exhaust notes into the cabin. The 600LT Spider has unique top-exit exhausts that should sound fantastic and loud when your hair is blowing around.
Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Pricing & Availability
As with the Coupé, availability of the 600LT Spider will be limited although orders are being taken now. McLaren is not like others: they don’t churn out cars like so many appliances. Of course, with that limited availability comes a (fairly) high price: $256,500. Yes, that’s a lot, in overall terms, but in the high-end sports car realm, that’s about average. And this is a McLaren here. You won’t be disappointed.
Every 600LT car is hand-built at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
McLaren 600LT Spider Gallery

Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

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Automoblog In-Depth: Terrifying Realities of Halloween

Automoblog In-Depth: Terrifying Realities of Halloween

When I was a kid, my friends and I would canvas our neighborhood year after year on Halloween. We were the most determined bunch of trick-or-treaters our small Iowa community had ever seen. The goal was always more candy. How could we come home with the biggest score yet; like a Hollywood blockbuster about a bank heist, we were strategic as we traveled door-to-door. From our costumes to our walking routes, nothing was random about our moves on Halloween night.
Enjoyable Times
We knew which neighbors would give us an extra Snickers just because; we knew the well-to-do single lady (who we crushed on) would kindly repay us in Butterfingers for mowing her lawn while she was away on business. We knew the elderly couple around the corner – who were adept at keeping us boys fed all year long anyway – would treat us to a batch of scotcheroos neatly wrapped in plastic. Those were the days.
As I have aged, the allure of Halloween is lost on me. I am certain if I had children, that would change, but I’m talking more so about the adult versions of Halloween. Suffice it to say, I am not much of a party guy. I have nothing against Halloween parties per se but I am leery. Whenever so many are gathered and alcohol is involved, it can prove deadly when people go to leave.
“We don’t discourage having get-togethers during Halloween because it’s a fun time not only for children but also for adults,” explained Special First Lieutenant Jim Flegel, Traffic Safety Specialist, Michigan State Police. “What we encourage is designating a sober driver so you don’t get behind the wheel drunk and endanger your life or somebody else’s life.”
Hard Facts
According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving, 10,479 people are killed in alcohol related crashes every year, equaling 29 deaths daily and one death every 50 minutes. These incidents often spike on holidays; for example, a Geotab study we reported on over the summer found July 4th is the most dangerous day on U.S. roads. That same study also found holidays like Labor Day, New Year’s Eve, and Halloween carry with them an inherent risk when traveling. However, when compared to other holidays, Halloween is becoming more problematic.
“I have seen that change literally in front of my eyes over the past decade,” explained Doug Scoles, Great Lakes Regional Director, MADD. “We were always concerned about New Year’s Eve, July 4th, St. Patrick’s Day, and even the Super Bowl, but Halloween has become one of the most dangerous times of the year with impaired drivers on the road.”
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows fatal crashes involving drunk drivers occur three times more often on Halloween than New Year’s Eve. MADD refers to the aforementioned holidays, like Halloween, as “second-tier holidays” but advises citizens remain cautious anyway.
“They have been coming on strong for the last couple of decades because there is a lot of celebrating around these second-tier holidays now,” Scoles added. “Partying with alcohol on these days is the same core problem we have in virtually all impaired driving cases.”
According to NHTSA, about a quarter of teen car crashes involve underage drinking. 95 percent of the 14 million people who are alcohol dependent began drinking before 21.
Cold Realities
Data from the National Safety Council shows 107 fatalities occurred on October 31st 2016. Further analysis shows 66 were drivers, 17 were occupants, 23 were pedestrians, and one was a cyclist. Sadly, nine of the occupants were 20 or under, and two of the pedestrian fatalities were children between the ages of four and seven. When walking through our neighborhoods with little ones, it’s vital to consider the risk. This is not something we want to think about – the natural order of things is for children to lay their parents to rest, not the other way around. Yet, we are wise to consider the possibility, grim though it may be, and take action accordingly.
“Children are very excited and love going door-to-door getting candy, and they don’t always watch out for cars,” Flegel said. “Always make sure they are visible; have them carry some type of light, or wear some type of bright colored clothing.”
The Michigan State Police recommend parents talk to their children about watching for traffic. Flegel suggests going door-to-door with your children on Halloween to prevent them from inadvertently running into the street. MADD advises parents remain vigilant and understand the chances exist in every neighborhood for a motorist to be operating under the influence. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows adults drink and drive about 121 million times per year, creating more than 300,000 incidents of drinking and driving daily.
“I hate to sound overly cautious, but the last thing we want is a tragedy to happen when it should be a fun time for kids dressing up and getting candy,” Scoles said. “We recommend taking extra precautions to safeguard children and for parents to always be very aware of their surroundings.”
When trick-or-treating with your children, always keep a close eye on them and be aware of your surroundings.

Awareness & Prevention
The real tragedy in the aforementioned statistics is how they represent a person; a person who was loved and cherished by someone else. Each number could just as easily represent a person in our own lives who we care for and love. And it is likely someone reading knows this pain all too well. If you are that person, I cannot imagine the void you must feel. At some point, we are all likely to become a statistic of one kind or another, but each statistic involving an impaired driver was entirely preventable. This only magnifies the tragedy.
“It is not like some disease or act of terrorism where you are blindsided with it and have no choice,” Scoles said. “This is something that we can prevent because the decision to get behind the wheel while under the influence is made deliberately.”
In Michigan where I live, the story is somewhat of a double sided coin. On one hand, the Michigan State Police have actually seen a decrease in drunk driving incidents and the department is optimistic that will continue. On the other side, the news is not as good as drugged driving continues to increase.
“We have done a pretty good job of educating the public about not getting behind the wheel when you’re impaired on alcohol,” Flegel said. “Unfortunately, over this last year, drugged driving has seen a drastic increase, so we want to get the word out to not get behind the wheel when you are impaired on other drugs, which can include prescription medication.”
“Our messaging, public awareness, and programs supporting law enforcement play a big part in taking the impaired driver off the road,” Scoles added. “We are in the fight against drunk and drugged driving to save lives and prevent that tragedy from happening.”
According to the National Retail Federation, nearly 180 million Americans will celebrate Halloween this year, with seven out of ten planning to hand out candy.
Tips & Advice
NHTSA provides these tips for drivers and pedestrians to consider on Halloween night. The CDC has published a list of general safety practices for parents and guardians to follow while trick-or-treating. Below we have some bullet point tips from the Michigan State Police, National Safety Council, and MADD. The safety advice is relevant not only for Halloween night, but overall in our daily lives. We would add only one observation, based on our work in the automotive industry: Cars today have more horsepower and torque than ever before. Even the most mundane family sedans have plenty of zip from their small displacement engines. Under the influence, a car is essentially a 3,500 lbs. missile on wheels, and a quick one at that.
“Nobody wakes up in the morning and says they are going to crash their car today,” Flegel said. “But as a driver, you still have to maintain control of your vehicle at all times.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Safety Tips From The National Safety Council
Enter and exit driveways carefully.
Fasten reflective tape to costumes and candy bags.
Agree on a specific time children should return home.
Teach your children to never enter a stranger’s home or car.
Watch for children walking on roadways, medians, and curbs.
At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.
Instruct children to travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and stick with their friends.
Safety Tips From Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Designate a sober driver.
Use a taxi or ride share service.
Plan ahead if your night includes alcohol.
Buckle up: This is the best defense against an impaired driver.
MADD Victim Services Hotline: 1-877-MADD-HELP (24 hours / 7 days a week).
Safety Tips From The Michigan State Police
Abide by all traffic laws and posted signs.
Pay attention behind the wheel at all times.
Remove all distractions in the car, including cell phones.
Allow for plenty of time when crossing a street or intersection.
Use sidewalks whenever available and never cross the street mid-block.
Cross streets at a corner, using traffic signals and crosswalks whenever possible.
Always stop at the edge of a parked car, curb, or vehicle before walking out into traffic.
Wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking at night or during the early morning.

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2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD Review

2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD Review

The Toyota RAV4 is the top-selling compact SUV in a very competitive segment for a reason. It’s hard to beat when it offers plenty of room inside, has Toyota’s reputation for quality, and comes standard with a boat load of safety features. It also has an option for all-wheel drive, making it an ideal all-weather vehicle.
The Toyota RAV4 continues to beat its closest rivals, the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue, in sales. The RAV4, CR-V, and Rogue are among the top 12 best-selling vehicles in the United States. Other RAV4 rivals include the Ford Escape, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, and Hyundai Santa Fe Sport.
So how does it stack up? This week, we drove the new, top trim 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD.
What’s New For 2017
The Toyota RAV4 gains a host of driver assistance features as standard equipment, including collision mitigation, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The range-topping Platinum trim level we drove is also new this year.
Features & Options
The 2017 Toyota RAV4 Platinum AWD ($36,150) comes standard with SofTex seats, paddle shifters, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, 8-way power driver’s seat, pushbutton start, LED headlamps and tail lamps, a hands-free power-operated lift gate, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert.
The Platinum adds an 11-speaker, JBL premium audio system with navigation and an app suite, a 7-inch touchscreen, and driver’s seat memory. Safety features include Forward Collision Warning with automatic braking, Lane Departure Alert, adaptive cruise control, a pedestrian pre-collision system, and automatic high beams. A new, four-camera Bird’s Eye View Monitor gives a 360-degree view of the area surrounding the vehicle.
It came with a number of smaller options too, like Remote Start ($499), Roof Rack Cross Bars ($315), and special color and paint protection ($790). Total MSRP including destination: $39,666.

Interior Highlights
Stepping inside the RAV4 Platinum revealed that new car smell with lots of soft-touch surfaces, including the SofTex synthetic leather. The larger, 7-inch touchscreen was easier to read – something we noticed right away. The RAV4 cabin is well organized, there’s above average interior room for a compact SUV, and good build quality overall. We could tell Toyota used quality materials for this top-trim model. We felt the warmth from the heated seats and steering wheel during the cold Colorado mountain mornings this week.
We chose having a higher, SUV-like view over a car-like position after adjusting the 8-way power seats. The adjustments let us have a more commanding view of the road. The SofTex synthetic leather seats in the Platinum are comfortable and supportive for any longer trips you might take with the family. Our passengers this week complained about the rear seats being flat, a bit hard, and unsupportive for their liking. But these guys would complain no matter what! Thankfully, the seatbacks did recline for them and the rear doors were wide for their big frames as they slid in.
One of the RAV4’s strong points has always been its ability to carry cargo, and the low floor made loading it easy as we slid in some big boxes to transport. The rear seats fold flat for additional cargo space, which is already abundant with 38.4 cubic feet with the seats up, and 73.4 cubic feet with them down.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The RAV4 Platinum is powered by 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, making 176 horsepower and 172 lb-ft. of torque. The plant comes mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with a sport-shift mode that drives all four wheels. The RAV4 with all-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 22/28 city/highway and 24 combined mpg using regular unleaded fuel.
This is quite a bit less than a comparably equipped Subaru Forester (26/32 city/highway, 28 combined).
Driving Dynamics
At least in the mountains at altitude, the 2.5-liter engine is not all that quick, and it took longer than we thought to get up to 65 mph, but we are driving at 8,300 feet above sea level too. Those living on the flats likely won’t notice any power shortage. The four-cylinder motor is smooth and refined until we really pushed it hard, then we found ourselves wanting a turbo.
The advantage of the all-wheel drive was evident as we traveled a dirt road this week. The RAV4 splits power between the front and rear axles at the press of a button, at speeds below 25 mph. The wheels gripped the loose gravel and kept us from sliding into the ditch. It’s a must for those living in cold climates with ice and snow.
The ride is smooth for an all-wheel drive vehicle and the suspension is tuned more for comfort than sport. The larger 18-inch wheels look cool, but did make the ride a bit rougher, so 17-inch wheels on the lower trims will have a smoother ride quality. There’s good outward visibility from the driver’s seat even with the raked roof.
Conclusion
The RAV4 is still one of the best choices in the compact SUV segment, and the Platinum trim comes with a more luxurious feel. It’s roomy, comfortable, good-looking, and makes for a nice commuter vehicle. With a host of standard safety features, it’s a good choice for families too.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2017 Toyota RAV4 Gallery

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Toyota RAV4 Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
*Limited and SE models shown.

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Switching Lanes In 2018: Three Predictions Shaking Up The Auto Industry

Switching Lanes In 2018: Three Predictions Shaking Up The Auto Industry

2017 is getting ready to come to an end, which means it’s time to look ahead at what 2018 has in store. For auto manufacturers, sellers, and insurers, this past year has been marked by continuing innovation toward self-driving cars, the increasing presence of electric vehicles, and further digitization of the car buying and ownership experience. As technology continues to evolve at what feels like the speed of light, the auto industry is in store for some exciting changes in 2018.
Infotainment Systems For Everyone
If connecting your smartphone with your vehicle’s media system is exciting, get ready for even more thrill in 2018. Additional and further improved in-vehicle infotainment systems will be ushered onto the mainstream auto market. These systems will be capable of delivering more than just information and entertainment, but enhanced content for navigation, internet searches, and media control like never before. They will also improve on current in-vehicle mobile device connection capabilities, and include things like voice commands for window and air conditioning controls, to create a completely hands-free experience.
The forthcoming Volvo XC40 is one example of how infotainment is playing a larger role in car buying decisions. The compact SUV features 4 years of Volvo On Call and the ability to share the vehicle with trusted friends and family via a mobile app. Spotify, Pandora, and Yelp are available through the center screen, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Photo: Volvo Car Group.
More Freedoms For Aging Populations
For past generations, reaching an advanced age has typically been equated with handing over the keys to concerned family members. Starting in 2018, automated driving technology – a.k.a self-driving cars – will become more commonplace, giving older motorists the opportunity to continue enjoying their vehicles.
“Ultimately, the baby boomer car would drive itself,” Jessica Caldwell, Executive Director of industry analysis at Edmunds explained in a recent Chicago Tribune interview. “It’s about mobility and to give this generation increased freedom. It’s really fantastic, something generations before never thought possible. When we talk to boomers, they’re really excited to see what’s to come.”
Still, new tech means uncharted territory. So while the increased availability of autonomous cars and in-vehicle infotainment systems are certainly exciting, the potential for it to fail or cause mishaps also increases. Smart consumers will want to make sure they have the proper protection plans in place to cover all possible bases when it comes to these new options – and smart companies will want to make sure they can provide them. Fortunately, third-party protection plan providers make great partners in this endeavor, as they have a deep knowledge of what these new technologies mean for the changing risk landscape in the auto industry.
Ford has been testing autonomous vehicles for more than 10 years, and offers a broad portfolio of available semi-autonomous technologies on vehicles globally. Ford expanded testing of its Fusion Hybrid Autonomous Research Vehicle, with cameras, radar, LiDAR sensors, and real-time 3D mapping technology. Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Telematics Decreasing Breakdowns & Repairs
2018 will bring with it the continued trend of leveraging consumer driving data to improve the car buying and owning process. More and more, consumers are comfortable sharing personal driving data, which gives auto industry providers the ability to better serve their customers. One way driving data can benefit end consumers is by proactively predicting potential issues, allowing drivers to make repairs before a quick fix becomes a major catastrophe.
This could potentially shorten repair turnaround time, as catching issues early could mean the difference between a single-day job and a week-long fix.
As technology trends in the auto industry advance at an especially speedy pace, expect to see some impactful changes in 2018. Connectivity systems, autonomous cars, and proactive service analytics are only scratching the surface of future auto technology.
Scott McLaren is the Chief Marketing Officer of Fortegra Financial Corporation, a Tiptree Inc. company. He once flew the Saturn VUE Lightship and awarded a Saturn Sky to Travis Pastrana for the first double back flip in the history of the X Games.

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2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited Review: Ideal For Work or Pleasure

2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited Review: Ideal For Work or Pleasure 92SOLID2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid LimitedOverall ImpressionLuxurious interior.Good car for working professionals.However, it doesn't always like snowy weather.ProsFuel EconomyRide & HandlingQuiet & Comfortable ConsLacks AWD OptionNot Compatible With Android AutoThe 2019 Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan with lots of room inside, a large trunk for cargo, and standard features galore. The Avalon Hybrid bumps up the fuel efficiency to a level not seen in traditional large sedans. If it’s fuel economy you are looking for along with size, the Avalon Hybrid is a must-look and must-drive.
We did just that recently when we tested the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited.
What’s New For 2019
The Toyota Avalon Hybrid is fully redesigned for 2019.
Features & Options: Comfort & Technology
Standard features for the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited ($42,800) include 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, heated mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and power-adjustable front seats, premium leather upholstery, 60/40-split folding rear seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
On the technology front, the Limited comes with a Wi-Fi hotspot, nine-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, wireless charging pad, and Bluetooth capability. Toyota’s Entune infotainment system provides smartphone-based navigation, four USB ports, Apple CarPlay and iPod connectivity, and an eight-speaker audio system with satellite and HD radio.
Features & Options: Safety & Luxury
Toyota’s Safety Sense suite of advanced safety features is extensive. Drivers benefit from forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The package also includes a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. Further, Toyota’s Safety Connect program is available for additional peace of mind while traveling.
An Advanced Safety package ($1,150) with a surround-view parking camera and rear parking sensors with automatic braking came on our Limited tester.
Lastly, the Limited trim receives upgraded exterior lighting, a sunroof, heads-up display, ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory settings, and a heated steering wheel. On the inside, drivers will enjoy the wood trim, ambient lighting, and 14-speaker premium JBL audio system.
Total MSRP including destination: $44,870. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid starts at $36,500.
2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited.
Interior Highlights: Attractive & Warm
The Avalon cabin is modern, stylish, and thoughtfully planned out. Our tester came with an attractive all-black motif, contrast stitching, and plenty of soft-touch materials. The interior materials are of excellent quality, with matching wood grains, metallic trim, and attractive black surfaces. The heated and cooled front seats and supple leather are especially comfortable during the winter.
The controls are easy to find and use, unlike many luxury cars on the market. There’s a handy smartphone charger just ahead of the gear shifter, which opens underneath to a nice cubby space for valuables. The heated steering wheel now comes standard on the Limited, which we made liberal use of during a recent Denver snowstorm.
The back comes with its own climate controls and heated seats. There’s plenty of legroom and headroom in the back for taller adults. The Hybrid gets a bit smaller trunk (14 cubic feet) to house the battery underneath.
2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Limited interior layout.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Avalon Hybrid’s powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, mated with two motors tucked into the transaxle. Those motors are sustained by nickel-metal hydride batteries. Power is sent to the front wheels by way of a planetary, power-split continuously variable transmission. The system combines for 215 horsepower, up from 200 horsepower versus the previous model.
The outgoing Hybrid was an EPA-estimated 40/39 city/highway and 40 combined mpg. The 2019 models improve to 43/43 city/highway and 43 combined. We averaged 38.4 mpg during our week with the full-size sedan.
Driving Dynamics: Easy To Handle But Difficult In Snow
The Avalon drives like a much smaller car. We were able to navigate Denver without issue. We found the big sedan actually thrives in urban environments, especially in stop-and-go traffic. For example, the Hybrid system can sustain speeds of up to 25 mph on battery power alone. Considering it can go 680 miles on a singe tank of regular unleaded gas, the 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid would be great for a realtor who uses their car as an office. Passengers would be comfy riding around looking at houses.
The ride is smooth thanks to special shock absorbers and large anti-roll bars that offer up capable and controllable handling. The suspension has been retuned with the Limited for a comfort-oriented setup.
If you live in cold climates, the only downside is the Avalon does not offer all-wheel drive. We got stuck in a heavy, wet Denver snowstorm in the mountains west of the city. However, with all-wheel drive, it would take away from the Avalon’s impressive fuel economy.

Conclusion: Comfortable For Work or Pleasure
The 2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid is a full-size sedan that gets impressive fuel mileage. For those hauling clients around, it’s an excellent choice as an office on wheels. It’s quiet and comfortable and the cabin is stylish and modern.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Gallery

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

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2020 Acura RDX Release Date and Redesign

One of the best SUV ever made by Acura will be back again with some very impressive changes. 2020 Acura RDX will be one car that will gain a lot of competition from its competitors. Some changes and also the redesign will be available on this car and information regarding the release date of this car is still unclear.

Acura RDX will compete with some of his other well-known brands such as Audi Q5, BMW x 3, Envision the Buick, Cadillac, Infiniti, QX50 XT5 Jaguar F-Pace, Land Rover, Range Rover Sports Discovery Velar, Lincoln MKC GLC, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche Macan. Many great SUV car will be present later in the year 2020 and we hope you have a great choice with you.

2020 Acura RDX Redesign

The third-generation model 2020 Acura RDX will involve, like larger RLX and TLX sedans, cognizable diamond pentagon grill. Distinguishing C-shaped taillights and rear D-pillar will make the floating result for that roof. New angular physique panels give Acura RDX additional rough and daring stance, that is been lacking inside the preceding models. The dimensions of new RDX is going to be somewhat longer than his predecessor. With about 187 inches prolonged and 3850 pounds, 2020 Acura RDX is all about dependability and safe to the road.

While the checklist of additional tools is really spectacular, 2020 Acura RDX comes with the quite short and constrained color palette. You are able to pick out in Trimmed Interior (Beige), Parchment w/Leatherette, Trimmed Interior (Gray), Leatherette, Trimmed Interior (Black), Graystone, between Ebony w /Leatherette – Trimmed Interior (Black). 2020 Acura RDX appears futuristic together with the center console that utilizes flawlessly organized buttons and prominent dial to pick drive modes. There is also a 10.2 high-definition show that is managed through the new Accurate Touchpad interface. The interior cabin is quite commodious by using a good deal of room the two from the front and from the rear element.

Engine Performance

The 2019 model 12 months has just entered the market featuring the all-new engine and has dropped the earlier 3.5-liter V6 naturally aspirated unit. So, the new generation 2020 Acura RDX will maintain the same engine present in the latest model. It is a 2.2-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine. This unit is in a position to produce 270 hp and 285 pound-feet of torque. It will eventually do the job using the Acura RDX new 10-speed automatic transmission. And it will be obtainable with the two front-wheel and all-wheel-drive systems. Its towing capacity will likely be restricted to 1,500 lbs.

As far as the fuel economic climate is concerned, linked to a typical front-wheel-drive layout, this unit will probably be rated at 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg about the highway. With the same engine, however, the A-Spec model will get 22/27 mpg. The all-wheel drive variant is estimated for being 21 mpg while in the city and 27 mpg within the highway. The A-Spec model with AWD will get 21/26 mpg during the city/highway drive.

2020 Acura RDX Release Date and Price

We do not have definite information about the certainty of the release date of this car, the price for this car was also no clarity. Acura like his will soon be issuing the latest information regarding the release date and price for this car.

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