Automotive

Letter From The UK: More Fun Than It Should Be

Letter From The UK: More Fun Than It Should Be The Suzuki Jimny is one of those vehicles: it’s not glamorous but it sure is gorgeous.
Geoff Maxted of DriveWrite Automotive Magazine goes in for some hard-hat motoring.
Unfortunately, the Suzuki Jimny is not available in the United States which makes us sad.
A few weeks ago I made mention of the Ford Focus Active, a very good car that as of right now, America will not get. In the meantime I have been driving the Suzuki Jimny, a small G-Wagen style off-road hero that is taking much of the rest of the world by storm; except the USA.
In 2012 Suzuki announced that it would no longer be selling cars in the U.S. because, frankly, you didn’t want them, and anyway they were not terribly good. Times change and if any brand can be considered to have gotten its act together it is this Japanese company. Masters of producing relatively inexpensive small cars and SUV’s, their current catalogue has a whole range of great vehicles. Taking pride of place among them is the Jimny, described below.
About The Suzuki Jimny
The unashamedly retro-styled Suzuki Jimny has been around in one form or another since 1970, originating as the diminutive LJ10, a car especially noted for its ability to roll over like a fat dog if the steering was used with any enthusiasm at all. The more recent incarnation, the Jimny, is stable, beloved of off-road enthusiasts the world over, and largely ignored by the general public. If, in this modern era, we are still allowed to have fun with cars then the general public don’t know what they are missing.
The Suzuki Jimny is not big and it is not clever. It has the basic technology we have come to expect but no more than that. It is not by any means a highway cruiser. And it would impossible to make love on the back seat unless the participants were double-jointed. What it does have in spades is the DNA of a mountain goat and the crusty performance reliability of Sam Elliott. It offers unrivalled off-road performance for a car in this sector. It will go anywhere and is the equal of the big boys in the muddy playground of the wild blue yonder.
You can’t not love it.
The Suzuki Jimny will go anywhere and is the equal of the big boys in the muddy playground of the wild blue yonder.
Off The Road
Built around a robust ladder frame with a wheel at each corner allowing for three ample body angles (Approach, Ramp and Departure), the Jimny comes with an ‘AllGrip Pro’ switchable two/four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer gear. Power comes from a 1.5L petrol engine (replacing the laboured old 1.3L) that will take the occupants wherever they want to go. Off-road the car is supremely agile and will deliver the goods when you need it most. Shift to low-range when the going gets really tough for maximum torque and better traction on steep slopes and rough terrain.
This writer has driven the Jimny in these conditions and can vouch for this claim: It’s brilliant.
It is so brilliant that the brand cannot build them fast enough to meet demand. In the UK some enterprising entrepreneurs have bought early examples and are selling them on at a premium. Right now, there is no point in asking the hard-bitten sales staff in the Suzuki showrooms for a discount for cash because they will just laugh in your face.

On The Open Road
On the road things change a bit, it has to be said. You simply cannot engineer that level of gnarly, mud-plugging, Goliath-slaying ability without compromise. Emissions of 154g/km or fuel economy averaging around 37 miles per gallon for the manual gearbox (there’s an auto too) cannot match the family crossover or SUV crowd, and the ride can best be charitably described as rugged.
That said, the Jimny could make for a mighty fine, quirky, left-field urban car choice. The small size, high driving position, and chunky proportions all make navigating an urban environment a piece of cake as the Jimny shrugs off speed bumps, potholes, and awkward kerbs (that’s how we spell curbs in the UK) as we would brush away a fly. It is easy to park and, unlike the popular soft-roaders, will not be brought to a halt by a bit of gravel, snow or ice.
Demand is high in the United Kingdom for the beloved Suzuki Jimny because of its off-road ability.
On The Inside
Although having a slightly shorter wheelbase than the previous model, the space inside has been well utilised – in the front. There’s as much room as any small city car and the hard-wearing interior and simple controls can take a beating. Where things fall down is in the back. The rear seats are fine for children and for adults over shortish distances but the trunk space with the rear seats up is laughable. A decent-sized French baguette and that’s your lot.
With the seats down, there’s much more space for luggage for two. Of course, a roof rack could be used, which would make the car more versatile. There are two levels of trim in the UK: SZ4 and SZ5; the latter having a few more conveniences and connectivity plus alloy wheels instead of the ‘steelies’ on the base model. Prices start at UK £15499 ($20,000).

The #Suzuki Jimny is easy to park and, unlike the popular soft-roaders, will not be brought to a halt by a bit of gravel, snow or ice. Click To TweetWhy Tell You About It?
Well, The LJ in LJ10, the 1970 original, stands for light jeep. Nothing to do with your legendary spine-breaker of old but the connection is implied as the Japanese sought to get some of that proper Jeep sales action. Then, it was no contest; today it might well be a different story and this brings me to the point.
Times change and our automotive tastes and preferences will vary over that time. I can see a day when, if Suzuki were to return to the States (allowing for import duties, taxes, idiot politicians and the like making it worth their while), F-150 owners would be left wondering why they need that flatbed after all. Owners of the soft, modern Jeeps would crave some of this small, bullish action. This is hard-hat motoring for the millennial generation; this is the car that would take rural-dwelling children to school and then tow a Jeep out of the mud.
The American buying public should clamour for this car because, above all else, it is mechanical auto fun as we all once knew it. Take the rough with the smooth. It’s more fun than it should be. I’ll bet Sam Elliott would approve.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/letter-from-the-uk-more-fun-than-it-should-be/

Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Group: Small Cars & Big Dreams

Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Group: Small Cars & Big Dreams The Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Group is a growing organization in both Michigan and Canada.
Those who enjoy science and engineering will feel right at home, but the group is open to everyone.
Founder Alex Polonsky says the group’s mission is to use new technology to make our world better.
It’s Saturday in Ferndale, Michigan, a quiet community just north of the mighty Motor City. It’s here where a group of self-described “techies” are meeting to share their love for science and innovation. Head over to Ann Arbor, and the same thing is happening at Washtenaw Community College. Travel across the border to Ottawa, Canada and another gathering of the same techies is taking place. Each are chapters of the flourishing Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Group (DAVG for short), a grassroots organization where members are “democratizing technology by doing.”
“We want to provide the community with a free and open place to explore new technologies, and fulfill their curiosity on the latest advancements, such as Artificial Intelligence and automated robots,” explained Alex Polonsky, DAVG Founder. “This brings us together and gives us a common goal, all while learning, meeting people, and having fun.”
Realizing A Dream
Polonsky is a bilingual engineer with a passion for mobility and technological innovation. Born in Russia and raised in San Francisco, California, he worked at NASA’s Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley designing the next-generation waste recycling systems for the space program. Despite a rewarding and promising career, Polonsky packed his bags for the Motor City in 2011. Today he is an electronics engineer with the Brose Group in nearby Auburn Hills.
“I decided to pursue a dream of making a difference through transportation and moved to Detroit,” Polonsky recalled. “Since moving I have been able to combine my passion for automobiles and technology through autonomous vehicles.”
DAVG Founder Alex Polonsky with an autonomous RC car during AutoSens 2018 at the Michigan Science Center. “We’ve really tried to build a fun environment to work on some of the most complex topics of robotics and automation,” he said. During meetups, members build self-driving RC cars.
Filling A Void
In February of 2017, while taking Udacity’s Self Driving Car Nanodegree course, Polonsky began thinking about starting his own group; one focused on self-driving cars but one in which members could apply their skills to real world applications. At the time, nothing like DAVG existed in the Detroit area. There wasn’t a place where automotive enthusiasts and professionals could work together on automation systems in a type of learning environment. The more Polonsky thought about it, the more it made sense to start something.
“Detroit didn’t have anything like our group and I thought it really should have something like this,” he said. “We have a place where people can have fun while learning about the latest complex technologies with others.”
DAVG now meets most Saturdays, during which members work on their self-driving RC cars. They hold monthly competitions where they race their creations and learn from each other’s experiences. As DAVG continues to grow, the group wants to add more layers to their Saturday meetings.
“We want to hold more monthly or bi-monthly races with more complex challenges, such as navigating a self-driving RC car through a scaled city,” Polonsky said. “We also want to work on new communication protocols, such as vehicle-to-vehicle communication and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication. From there, we would like to invent new applications for the existing technologies and apply them in new ways.”
Members collaborate with each other during meetups. The Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Group has over 1,000 members between three different chapters.
Bringing New Ideas To Life
At the first meeting, only two members showed but the message spread rather quickly. The organization today includes over 1,000 members between the Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Ottawa, Canada chapters. DAVG is now the official Detroit chapter of the DIYRobocars community, which includes over 15,000 people in more than 15 countries. Through these associations, some DAVG members have achieved remarkable success.
“The group at DAVG helped me get my startup, Passenger AI, off the ground,” explained CEO Martin Shen. “It was a great sounding board, and I even had one of the group members build the first prototype.”
Said prototype would help Shen secure funding for the company’s operations in Toronto, Canada. Passenger AI creates robotaxi interior monitoring systems, which use machine vision and machine learning. The technology detects human movement and other impending dangers, thereby making robotaxis safer.
“Martin joined DAVG in the beginning of 2018, before founding Passenger AI, and was immediately a great fit because of his entrepreneurial mindset,” Polonsky said. “He collaborated with a couple of the group members to help him build his idea. Two months later the first prototype was born.”
The Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Group ran their self-driving RC cars during AutoSens 2018 at the Michigan Science Center.
Everyone Is Welcome
Audi Senior R&D Engineer Zikang Ma says the days he spent with DAVG are among the greatest times of his life. Ma is now with Audi China’s Highly Automated Driving division, a dream job he says blossomed out of the confidence he gained through DAVG.
“It’s a great place to start if you want to switch to the future of automobiles,” Ma explained. “Don’t be afraid if you have no experience now; this is the right place to build a great career if you are eager learn and make progress for the future.”
“We are open to people from all walks of life to join us in learning, having fun, and growing the community,” Polonsky added. “We are not limited to only those who know about the technology. Instead, we want to share with anyone who is interested to learn and find out more.”
Some members come from completely different fields, and that’s okay.
“One of our group members, whose background is in political science, got hooked on the community,” Polonsky continued. “His favorite part is participating in brainstorming sessions and helping choose what technologies we work on next which might change the world.”

Inspiring Younger Generations
Starting on May 11th, DAVG is hosting the Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Adventure weekend. The two-day hackathon is meant to inspire the imaginations of kids, ages 12 to 17. On Saturday the 11th, kids will learn programming basics then transition to a hands-on session with autonomous RC cars. On Sunday, the kids will race their autonomous RC cars, receiving feedback on different categories like creativity, teamwork, and speed.
“The goal is to provide a full experience, from theory, to hands-on, to real world,” Polonsky said.
After Sunday’s race, kids can enjoy an F1 simulator provided by OmniSci. Industry professionals will be in attendance for kids to talk with over the weekend too. A number of influential entities in the field are supporting the upcoming hackathon. Companies like Dataspeed and Intrepid Control Systems; educational institutions like Lawrence Tech University, and the global AutoSens conference: all are supporting the event.
“Our mission is to provide an unforgettable experience where kids want to come back for more, and hopefully build something awesome later in their lives,” Polonsky added.
One of the missions of DAVG is to inspire today’s youth with the promises of science, technology, and innovation.
Making The World Better
The Detroit Autonomous Vehicle Group is growing and their community is becoming more dynamic and diverse. Those with a passion for science, innovation, and technology are encouraged to contact DAVG through their official website. A list of upcoming events can be found here. If you consider yourself a techie and you want to meet like-minded people, DAVG is the place for you.
“We are a group of techies who share a common vision for using technology to better the world,” Polonsky said. “Hopefully we can leave this place a little better than we found it by using technology.”
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 going back to school, he simultaneously held product development and experiential marketing roles in the automotive industry.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/detroit-autonomous-vehicle-group-small-cars-big-dreams/

2011 Aston Martin Vantage Coupe 2011 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Coupe 41,350 Miles Gray 4.7L V8 DOHC 32V...

$39,500.00 (0 Bids)
End Date: Wednesday May-1-2019 15:31:22 PDT
Bid now | Add to watch list

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2011-aston-martin-vantage-coupe-2011-aston-martin-v8-vantage-coupe-41350-miles-gray-4-7l-v8-dohc-32v-automatic/

Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes When Shipping Your Car

Avoid These 5 Common Mistakes When Shipping Your Car When it comes to shipping your car, there are some common mistakes and pitfalls to avoid.
From pick up to delivery, it’s important to know the facts and what to expect ahead of time.
The experts at RoadRunner Auto Transport explain what to look for when shipping your car.
Many people who ship a car are doing so for the first time. Most people go into the process completely unprepared. Taking the right steps to research the auto transport companies you are considering can help you save money and frustration. Then, taking the correct steps to prepare for your shipment can help you save time and energy.
One of the easiest ways to avoid making mistakes is to start planning your shipment well in advance. If you know you need to ship your car, you should start thinking about it at least two months in advance. Then, you should book your shipment at least a month in advanced.
In addition to that, here are the most common mistakes to avoid when shipping your car.
Mistake #1: Not Being Ready
When the driver comes to pick up your car, you need to be ready for the process. Your car needs to be clean so they can inspect it and take note of any existing damage on the bill of lading. You also need to have the proper documentation ready for them to check. This includes photo identification (valid license or passport), your e-mail confirmation of your booking printed out, your insurance certificate, proof of vehicle ownership as well as the vehicle’s registration.
Mistake #2: Not Doing Enough Research
A lot of people will just Google “auto transport” or a similar search term, and immediately book with the first company they find. However, there are, unfortunately, a lot of unsavory companies out there. Some companies will offer bait and switch pricing; then after they have possession of your vehicle, will inform you there has “been an issue” and that you need to pay an additional amount. This can total several hundred dollars in order for your shipment to continue. If you do not pay, they will hold your car, possibly until you take them to court.
Either way, you will be without your car for a while because of this.
Some companies will damage your car and refuse to pay for it. Others might have poor customer service. However, there are good and trustworthy companies out there when you need to ship a car. You just need to do the research to verify they are trusted before you book your car shipment. Use sites like Consumer Reports along with Google reviews to see what past customers have to say about any vehicle transport company. The more research you do ahead of time, the better.

Mistake #3: Trusting “Too Good To Be True” Promises
Auto transport is a process where unpredictable things can happen during the course of a shipment. This includes traffic delays and inclement weather delays. It is realistically not possible for an auto transport company to guarantee a single day as a delivery date. Any reputable or semi-reputable car shipping company will give you a three to five-day window, depending on the overall length of the shipment, and when they will drop off your car at its destination.
Mistake #4: Leaving Personal Items In Your Vehicle
If you leave personal items in your car during shipment, they will not be covered by the shipping insurance if they are lost or damaged. So, if you leave any valuables in the car and they go missing or get damaged, you will need to cover the entire cost of replacing them. Do yourself a favor and remove any valuable items from your vehicle before it gets picked up for shipping.

Mistake #5: Not Recording Damage
Always write down any damage incurred during the shipment on the bill of lading. Once your car is delivered, you will need to conduct your own visual inspection. This way you will ensure that no damage occurred during the transport of your vehicle. Unfortunately but rarely, damage does occur. However, if it does, mark it down on the bill of lading during your inspection at delivery. This way you can file a damage claim with that particular car shipping company. If you don’t do this when your car is delivered and the driver is still there, you won’t be able to file a damage claim.
And you will end up paying to repair the damage yourself.
Conclusion
The auto shipping process can be simple and easy or complicated and frustrating. It all depends on how prepared you are for your vehicle to be picked up and delivered, as well as how few of the previously mentioned mistakes you make. Use this guide from the very start of the car shipping process when you are gathering quotes and researching companies, all the way until your car has been delivered safely.
Avoiding these missteps could save you thousands of dollars and a ton of time too.
This advice provided by RoadRunner Auto Transport, a leader in nationwide door-to-door auto shipping services. Their dedicated team of shipping professionals will arrange and transport your vehicle with care from start to finish. RoadRunner Auto Transport provides reliable car shipping for both individuals and companies, moving thousands of vehicles on a monthly basis.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/avoid-these-5-common-mistakes-when-shipping-your-car/

2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature Review: A Sports Car In Disguise

2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature Review: A Sports Car In Disguise 95SOLID Overall Impression Upscale interior.Plenty of standard features.Ride is a little firm for the class. ProsEngine Power Interior Trim & Accents Sporty Handling & SteeringConsFuel Economy Rear Cargo/LegroomThe Mazda CX-5 was high on the fun-to-drive meter before the new turbocharged engine arrived, but now it has power to spare, even at altitude. The new 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder, sourced from the three-row CX-9, adds even more fun for driving enthusiasts. We recently jumped behind the wheel of the 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature with all-wheel drive, the top-trim in the model line. The new Signature trim gets a broader list of premium features and conveniences to match the enjoyable driving dynamics.
What’s New For 2019
For 2019, the Mazda CX-5 gets a more powerful engine for Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now available, as are ventilated front seats and a surround-view parking camera. G-Vectoring Control Plus, a series of motion control technologies to increase steering response, is standard on all CX-5 models.
Features & Options: Just The Right Amount
The 2019 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD ($36,890) comes standard with 19-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, LED fog lights, heated side mirrors, premium Nappa leather upholstery, a power-adjustable passenger seat, and driver-seat memory functions. The upgraded driver information display pairs with a navigation system and satellite radio. The top Signature trim also adds ambient lighting, wood trim, chrome accents, front and rear parking sensors, and the aforementioned surround-view camera.
Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE safety systems, like Smart City Brake Support and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, are standard on all CX-5 models.
Total MSRP including destination: $39,030. By comparison, the 2019 Mazda CX-5 starts at $24,350 in the Sport configuration.

Interior Highlights: The Little Things Add Up
This CX-5 Signature interior takes a step forward over the standard trim with the Nappa leather seats and stitching on the dash, console, and door panels. The quality of materials is excellent, but it should be for this price. The cabin is driver-focused with a leather-wrapped steering wheel that offers a nice range of tilt-and-telescoping positions. The seats are comfortable and offer plenty of adjustments and support for long-distance driving. However, with the interior, the little niceties really add up. For example, the shift-lever location fits the driver’s hand perfectly.
The seven-inch touchscreen’s resolution is sharp and it sits high atop the stylish dash, but it’s a bit too far away for our liking; and that’s really our only complaint about the interior. The infotainment controller in the center console includes a radio volume control knob that’s easy to find without taking your eyes off the road. This Signature tester came with heated (and cooled) front seats and a heated steering wheel for extra comfort on the recent cold spring mornings here in Colorado.
If you need to carry cargo, the 40/20/40 split-folding backseat reclines. Behind the rear seat, there’s 31 cubic feet of cargo storage, and 60 cubes with the rear folded flat. It’s a bit less than competitors, including the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The big news for 2019 is the CX-5’s new SKYACTIV-G engine, paired with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder produces 250 horsepower (on 93 octane) and a healthy 310 lb-ft. of torque. The extra power comes at a price, however. The spicier engine returns an EPA estimated 22/27 city/highway and 24 combined mpg. That’s if you keep your foot out of the turbo!
The new engine uses cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) to increase efficiency, but when it comes to fuel economy, the 2019 CX-5 lags behind when compared to other similar vehicles.
Those looking for a more fuel-efficient CX-5 should consider the available 2.2-liter diesel. With all-wheel drive, it delivers an EPA-estimated 27/30 city/highway and 28 combined mpg. The engine creates 168 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 290 lb-ft. of torque at 2,000 rpm. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder is still available in a front-wheel drive configuration.
Mazda’s new SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine for the 2019 CX-5.
Driving Dynamics: Energetic & Fun
The CX-5 with the new turbo plant is higher on the fun-to-drive meter than any other compact crossover out there, despite the fuel economy. Last year, we complained about the naturally-aspirated engine needing more power for those traveling up into the high country or hauling extra cargo over a high mountain pass. Now with the turbo, the CX-5 has power to spare. And it still responds like a sports sedan around the tight curves.
Driving Dynamics: Sporty & Smooth
The steering is precise and the suspension is tuned for sporty driving over comfort. We instantly noticed Mazda’s new G-Vectoring Control Plus feature while in the mountains. The system makes steering response more consistent by using small changes in engine output to shift weight to the front tires whenever the driver turns the wheel. In this updated Plus version, as the driver straightens the wheel, braking is applied to the outside front wheel. The system helps prevent someone from “over-driving” the vehicle, especially at higher speeds or during evasive maneuvers.
The cabin was quiet, and the turbo doesn’t make much noise even at highway speeds. With the heated seats, steering wheel, and heads-up display, this small SUV feels like a more expensive vehicle. Overall, it’s the most fun we’ve ever had in a compact crossover, having tested the competition. If you live where there’s lots of twisty roads or bad weather, this is the vehicle for you.
Conclusion: Nicely Balanced
The 2019 Mazda CX-5 is a standout in the compact SUV segment. It provides an excellent balance of sportiness, comfort and practicality, and its upscale interior conveys a sense of richness you don’t find in rivals. It’s a good choice for driving enthusiasts who want to have a little more fun when getting around town.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. All of his firsthand reviews are archived on our test drives page. Follow Denis on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2019 Mazda CX-5 Gallery

Photos: Mazda North American Operations.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-mazda-cx-5-signature-review-a-sports-car-in-disguise/

Ford 2018 Trends Report: Uncertain Times, Activist Minds & The Age of Reason

Ford 2018 Trends Report: Uncertain Times, Activist Minds & The Age of Reason In 1978, Molly Hatchet’s self-titled debut album contained a fascinating rendition of Dreams, a tune done by The Allman Brothers Band nine years earlier. Sandwiching the incredible guitar riffs is singer Danny Joe Brown’s observation that the world has gone mad. Brown recalls waking one morning with the blues. Perhaps thinking it would provide some reprieve, he seeks a nearby hilltop for a peaceful, inspiring view. Instead, Brown notices everyone else is in the same boat.
“The whole world was fallin’ down, baby – right down in front of me,” he sings.
Brown ultimately concludes he must pull himself together, put on a new face, and get back in the race.
The More Things Change
The Ford 2018 Trends Report examines how recent shifts toward activism, compassion, and self-expression will shape life in the coming year. The sixth annual report also notes the increase in anxiety and depression, brought on by the constant barrage of news and social media. One of the critical findings is how people feel locked in a stalemate. On one hand, more than 60 percent of adults globally say they feel overwhelmed by the major events surrounding them. On the other, three-quarters believe they can influence positive change by getting involved.
“Worldwide, people are polarized,” writes Sheryl Connelly, Ford Global Consumer Trends and Futuring Manager, in the report. “At one end of the spectrum, people are leaning into these changes, championing them as a long overdue step in the right direction. At the other end, people feel displaced, disillusioned and discontent, ushering in restlessness and uncertainty.”
Nearly half of all respondents say they expect brands to take a stand on social issues. With regard to automakers, it means the new generation of buyers will be looking for more than just horsepower and heated seats. Companies investing in smart, sustainable manufacturing and ethical, inclusive business practices will lead the way. The automaker’s moral values will factor as much into the buying decision as the car’s features.
“This ethos is reflected in more and more brands and institutions around the world, including Ford,” Connelly continues.
The Ford 2018 Trends Report is broken down into 10 key areas as follows:
The Edge of Reason
Feelings of uneasiness and disbelief characterize this section of Ford’s report, especially in politics. In Brazil, 78 percent feel the country is having an identity crisis; an even larger number (94 percent) say the nation is having a leadership crisis. In India and the Middle East, over 70 percent of respondents say they feel overwhelmed by the changes taking place in the world. That margin is slightly ahead of the 66 percent of adults who agree globally. In the United States, 72 percent of respondents said they feel the country is having an identity crisis with 76 percent citing a leadership crisis.
TED Fellow Esra’a Al Shafei says people cope today by throwing themselves into their work, but that has its own stress points. Of the 18- to 29-year-olds Ford surveyed globally, 51 percent said they fear their job will eventually be irrelevant. One worry is the rate at which technology progresses. Some sense a computer-driven world will leave them without means to provide for their family.
“As economies become increasingly digitized and automated, we need to be sure we aren’t leaving people behind,” Al Shafei said. “We work to expand access to remote employment to those affected by conflict or climate disasters, believing that increased internet access will translate to increased opportunities.”

The Activist Awakening
Players from the National Football League took a stand by going to a knee while the #MeToo movement gave women a voice who otherwise had little to no recourse against those who sexually harassed and assaulted them. These larger happenings have inspired people to actively use their talents and skills to make a difference. The Ford 2018 Trends Report cites the 76 percent of adults who agree globally that their actions can inspire positive change. Further, 45 percent of adults agree globally that companies should take a stand on political and social issues. Over 50 percent of those between 18 and 29 believe this, the highest percentage of any age bracket.
Minding The Gap
According to Oxfam, the world’s richest 1 percent have more wealth than the rest of the world combined. In Brazil, 87 percent said they were concerned about the increasing gap between rich and poor, with 85 percent in Germany, and 84 percent in Canada expressing the same concern. By contrast, 73 percent of Americans said they were concerned about the widening gap.
“Many of our children are born into ZIP codes that put them at a significant disadvantage to achieving success, making them more likely to experience negative life outcomes,” explained TED Fellow Karim Abouelnaga. “In my personal journey to overcome poverty, I was told I was an outlier – but time and time again I meet kids who remind me that is not true. Talent is universal, even though opportunity is not.”
A home situated on the Inle Lake in Myanmar, where the income gap is among the largest in the world.
The Compassionate Conscience
The rise of social media has made news and information all the more accessible. We can access literally anything at any moment in our increasingly connected society. As a result, we may feel somehow close to those who have lost everything in a fire or to a flood, or to victims of violence. Overall, 74 percent of adults globally say they wish they did more to help their fellow man.
Greg Fischer, Mayor of Louisville, Kentucky, is working to bolster the Compassionate Schools Project with the University of Virginia. The curriculum, offered in 25 of Virginia’s elementary schools, centers on health and mindfulness. The city also holds the “Give a Day” service week, were residents are encouraged to embrace one another and participate in acts of kindness.
According to Charles Schwab, charitable giving rose in 2017 in the United States.
Mending The Mind
Anxiety and depression have risen to the point where the World Health Organization is calling it an epidemic. While there is always a push to maintain physical health, people are beginning to see and understand the importance of mental and emotional health. 73 percent of adults globally say they need to take better care of their emotional well-being. Respondents in China and India were the highest at 90 and 86 percent respectively.
The increased consumption of social media plays a role. 57 percent of adults globally say they don’t get enough sleep; nearly half between 18 and 29 admit to playing on a digital device when they should be sleeping. Further, young adults also say social media makes them feel worse about themselves.

Retail Therapy
With constant life demands, busy schedules, and the pressures from social media, some reach into their wallets hoping to find relief and happiness. In China, 84 percent say they wish they could be more disciplined when it comes to shopping. 74 percent of respondents in the Middle East agreed as did 72 percent in India. These nations contrasted sharply with the United States, where only 36 percent said they wished they were more conscious.
Helplessly Exposed
Big Data is causing big trust issues for consumers who are raising concerns about the responsible use of their information. 68 percent of adults globally say they think it’s “creepy” when companies seem to know a little too much about them. 76 percent of Americans agreed with this, making the United States the highest of all nations surveyed.
The report details how American consumers have become much more adamant about minimizing access to their personal data. For example, TunnelBear, a company that installs virtual private networks, says sales jumped 200 percent after the government eased rules preventing internet service providers from tracking an individual’s online activity. With our romantic lives spreading into the online realm, there is further concern. In France, a journalist investigated a popular dating app and found the company had amassed 800 pages worth of data related to her.

Technology’s Tipping Point
Virtual reality, artificial intelligence, automated driving? It’s not science fiction any longer but how will such technology change our lives? Take autonomous cars for example. Proponents point to increased safety, reduced emissions, and a more streamlined infrastructure, but not everyone is convinced. In the United States, the Ford 2018 Trends Report reveals only 50 percent feel driverless cars are promising, much lower than China and India, where over 80 percent are optimistic. A study we examined earlier this year on automated driving found safety is still the top concern.
Singled Out
When we swipe right or left to determine a potential partner’s worth, it is not surprising the public’s perception of marriage is changing. According to the Pew Research Center, 72 percent of Americans were married in 1960, whereas only about half were married in 2014. Experts believe the decrease in marriage is due to more young people focusing on their career versus starting a family. Globally, 63 percent of adults say the expectation is that one should marry and have kids.
Perhaps even more interesting (or disheartening) is how millennials view marriage, with 43 percent saying they would favor a “trial” marriage. In other words, after two or three years, the marriage could be formalized with a ceremony, or dissolved easily without lawyers and paperwork. The shifting trend indicates marriage may be viewed in the coming years as more of a business partnership versus an intimate relationship.

Big Plans For Big Cities
A majority of the world’s population lives in an urban setting (54 percent) and that number is expected to increase. The focus is on how to make cities healthy, safe, and sustainable. How do governments work with private sectors to ensure efficient infrastructure, gainful employment, and ample housing? The latter is a major concern for much of the world’s population; 88 percent of adults globally say they hope cities do more to create affordable housing. Transportation is also paramount, with 87 percent of adults globally believing cities need better options.
Nutshell Perspective
Ford’s 2018 Trends Report provides a lot of insight and perspective. Some of the findings are not surprising, others are interesting; some are mind-boggling and others eye-opening. Yet, whether we acknowledge it or not, we are all headed into a new era.
Will it be better, this new era? In some ways probably so. In other ways probably not – but remember, there is always a saving grace in how things are often relative. Remember our grandparents and their stories about the “good old days.” Millennials will be that age in time – as will us Generation Xers. And we too will remiss about the days when (and I quote Baz Luhrmann’s lyrics) “prices were reasonable, politicians were noble, and children respected their elders.”
In the end, nothing is really predictable, no matter how accurate Ford’s 2018 Trends Report (or others like it) may seem. The only guarantee we have was perhaps best said by Garfield. In a February 1991 sketch by Jim Davis, the lovable orange cat walks past an overly confident pup with a sign reading “beware of the dog’s lawyer.” Garfield strolls on but casually remarks, albeit cynically, “the times, they are a-changing.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
The complete Ford 2018 Trends Report can be found here.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/ford-2018-trends-report-uncertain-times-activist-minds-the-age-of-reason/

This Is Probably The World’s Smallest Car Wash

This Is Probably The World’s Smallest Car Wash The car wash on site at the Nissan Technical Center North America is about the size of a popcorn machine. If you ever played with Hot Wheels or Matchbox cars as a kid, you may remember the car wash pay set. This is like that, only much more specialized. The tiny wash utilizes a unique brush that allows engineers to evaluate how paint samples hold up when subjected to automatic washes.
The Nissan Technical Center North America is located in Farmington Hills, Michigan near Detroit. We’re not sure if it’s actually the smallest car wash in the world, but it is definitely the smallest we have ever seen.
Nissan’s engineers want the paint to hold up throughout the vehicle’s life, especially if the owner is meticulous and washes it frequently. And frankly, if we had one of the new Midnight Edition packages, we would be visiting the car wash a lot too. The pint-sized brush spins a good clip (180 rpm), causing the bristles to make steady contact with the paint as the water jets activate. Arizona dirt is placed on the model car to mimic a dirty vehicle in the real world. After each wash cycle, engineers try and determine how the paint held up.
The short clip below outlines the process. During actual testing, Nissan paint is applied to rectangular plates (such as the yellow sample seen in the video), which are then placed into the miniature car wash and tested multiple times to ensure a top-quality finish. The vehicle in the video is a 1:16 scale model of a Nissan 370Z.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

Photo, Video & Source: Nissan North America.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/this-is-probably-the-worlds-smallest-car-wash/

Letter From The UK: Make Mine A Mazda

Letter From The UK: Make Mine A Mazda
Well, here in good old Britain, we have had a bit of a Brexit breakthrough. Our Prime Minister has shaken hands with one of the unelected European Union autocrats, which has signalled that they have agreed to start talking about having talks about trade.
There remains still a huge gulf between the parties and by the time you read this, they will have no doubt reached another impasse and industry will have to wait until next year to see any concrete results.
Christmas Doldrums
The trouble is, in the overriding interests of having a ball at Christmas, this particular holiday seems to begin around the end of November here. For some reason that escapes me, the Workers of Britain begin to slow everything right down; nothing much gets done. Business tends to stagnate, which is not what you need when the country is facing a potential economic nightmare. I think it is called sloth and, as a freelancer, it drives me around the bend.
Trading With Other Countries
The new talks about trade talks will probably end up with Britain being either on World Trade Organisation tariffs with Europe or, more favourably, we get a special deal. The snag here is that other non-European countries of the world don’t care for us to get a better deal with the EU than they do.
Ultimately then, the auto industry, which is global now, still doesn’t know where it stands. Industry pundits are glad the first stage of mutual loathing has passed but where does it leave international companies like Mazda, the Japanese auto brand? Their cars are justifiably popular here in UK and esteemed colleagues at this publication have been waxing lyrical about the new Mazda 6 in the USA.
I thought then that you might like a peek at just three Mazda cars we get here. I was fortunate enough to drive them a few weeks ago.
Jinba Ittai
So Grasshopper, with Jinba Ittai, the car responds almost as though it were an extension of the driver’s body, enhancing safety and peace of mind. Now I could demonstrate my in-depth knowledge of the subject but instead I’ll direct you to this informative article instead.

Mazda CX-5
This good-sized, five-seat SUV as tested was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder TOC Skyactiv-G petrol engine with 163 horsepower. Although the 2.5-liter Mazda 6 you will see has a turbo, most of the Euro-specified Mazda cars eschew the blower in favour of a high compression engine that significantly improves fuel efficiency and torque. That design also improves everyday driving thanks to the increased torque at low to mid-engine speeds. This technology extends across the other two cars mentioned here, plus the company’s smaller 2 and 3 models.
The CX-5 is the SUV of choice for keen family motorists. Arguably it handles better than any other of its type in the mainstream sector. Comfort and refinement in the latest model have helped to really up the game too. With the combination of a very punchy engine, an upmarket interior, and plenty of technology, it delivered a delightful drive around rural England.
The 0 to 62 mph time of just over ten seconds seems a bit pedestrian but it belies the fact that this car, once rolling, can really crack on. The handling is key; no rocking and rolling here, the CX-5 drives like a quick hatchback but it is still not as much fun as . . .
The Mazda MX-5
Do you remember your first time? That’s right, the first time you stepped into a car with a fully loaded driving permit and experienced the joys of the open road? Well, no matter how sated with driving you may now be, it is still possible to rediscover those fun-filled, halcyon days by simply treating yourself to the Mazda MX-5.
How do I love this car? Let me count the ways: As a rag-top it was brilliant. A sports car as it should be. Front engine, rear-wheel drive, and a quick, punchy engine coupled with a good old stick-shift six. Now it is even better because the MX-5 comes for the first time as a tin-top. It has a retractable hardtop which is simple to use, and thus offers the best of both worlds. I loved it as a coupe immediately. It is quieter and my hair gets to stay in one place.

Two four-cylinder engines are on offer: a 1.5 (featured here) and a 2.0-liter. Surprisingly, it is the smaller motor that delivers the most pleasure or so it seems to me. It isn’t fast, with the benchmark 62 mph arriving in a modest 8.3 seconds, but it feels fast and that’s the important thing. The driving position is laid back and relaxed and the sensation of speed is as a result of the driver sitting low to the ground. Around the B-roads of Wiltshire and Gloucestershire the ride was exhilarating. This is one B-Road bandit.
With a modest output of 129 horsepower, you can’t expect scorching performance but, by keeping the revs high, you can still experience the sensations. But a lively engine is not much use without the handling to go with it. This is where the Mazda really scores. You feel connected with the road; there’s grip that will keep going long after your nerves have failed, which means cornering ability is outstanding. It is possible to introduce a little oversteer, especially when the roads are damp as I found when I went into a moist tree-shaded corner a tad too hot, but there’s sufficient advance warning to ease off and correct. Oh joy unbounded!
But now we must go back to the realms of normality and family values with . . .

The Mazda 6
The featured car ran with a punchy, torquey 2.2-liter 172 horsepower diesel engine, which sped to 62 mph in just eight seconds, yet returned over 60 mpg when driven appropriately. I like a station wagon generally as a daily driver and this one really does the job. It is supremely comfortable, gutsy, and features a high-tech interior lined with lovely leather. The trunk yawns before you like a canyon. It’s vast.
The trouble is, that’s about it. It is not a car that you would look longingly back at as you walked away. It is a car for people who need an excellent car but who are not especially interested in cars.
I have driven the 2.5 turbo as described by Tony Borroz. No doubt that would be more fun.
Bright Future
Mazda plows their own furrow and have a good rep in the UK. They have proven to be reliable, long-lasting, and a good value for the money. The Skyactiv technology is great and we learn that it is going to get even better. At the Tokyo Motor Show recently, they announced their Skyactiv-X technology with spark-controlled compression ignition. They say this will combine the economy and torque of a diesel engine with the performance and lower emissions of a petrol unit.
There’s clearly still life in fossil fuels yet; let’s hope there is some semblance of life left in the negotiators of Europe that will get us out of the hole with our economy intact.
Geoff Maxted is a motoring writer, photographer, and author of our Letter From The UK series. Follow his work on Twitter: @DriveWrite
Cover Photo: Mazda North American Operations.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/letter-from-the-uk-make-mine-a-mazda/

McLaren 720S GT3 Hits The Track

McLaren 720S GT3 Hits The Track This is unsurprising, yet cool nonetheless. McLaren is taking its 720S sports car and turning it into a full-blown, factory-supported racer. McLaren, like all serious sports car builders, has more than a little history in turning the factory cars into racers. This is not a new thing. Indeed that’s what the “sports” in sports car means: You can, are encouraged, and are supposed to race the thing.
Specific Intent
Back in the 1950s (to just pick an era at random) if you drove something like a Jaguar XK120 and didn’t race it on the weekends, you were somewhat suspect. You raced your Jaguar, because Jaguar raced theirs. It was what one did, old sport. Of course, back in the 1950s, a McLaren road car wasn’t even a gleam in young Bruce McLaren’s eye. At that time, he was messing about with modified Austins and such in his rural New Zealand. And winning with the darn things. Fast forward more than half a century, and the company that bears his name is still in the thick of things.
The thumbnail sketch here is how the new 720S GT3 will be a follow on effort to McLaren’s successful 570S GT4 and 650S GT3 racing program. The 650S stacked up the trophies like nobody’s business, winning 19 races, landing on 19 podiums, and grabbing the pole position for the Spa 24 hour race. The 720S GT3 will begin testing next year and launch with customer teams in 2019.
Technical Specs
The specs for the upcoming 720S GT3 are very impressive indeed. Power is supplied by a race-prepped 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, M840T engine. No power output is specified (of course), but since the street version puts out in excess of 700 ponies, you can expect the race car to either put out more than that, or safely match that number and not blow up over the course of a race (not blowing up is a very important thing in racing). Ratios are selected from a six-speed sequential motorsports transmission. This is all a nice way of saying the internals are all-new, the ratios available comprise a much broader spectrum; and out are such niceties as syncros and in are things like dog rings, straight cut gears, and change over times literally faster than you can blink your eye. Naturally the drivetrain is situated longitudinally (mainly for packaging reasons) and sits in the middle of the chassis, powering the rear wheels.
McLaren 720S GT3. Photo: McLaren Automotive.
Chassis & Suspension
The chassis is all cloth and glue. The McLaren carbon fiber MonoCage II setup is an ongoing refinement of what the Woking-based outfit has been doing for quite a while now. It’s very light, very rigid, and could probably take a broadside impact without deforming much, if at all. Carbon fiber is also used in the body panels, front splitter, floor assembly, dive planes, and GT3-specification rear wing. All of these: the chassis, bodywork, and aero bits are specific to the 720S GT3 racer, or bespoke, as the Brits love to say. The 720S GT3 will be shod with Pirelli racing tires that will be controlled at all four corners via adjustable dampers (i.e. shocks) with coil-over springs.
Interior Treatments
On the inside, the pilot will be cosseted in an FIA approved seat with winged head-rests. Trust me, you don’t want to look too hard into stuff like side impact Gs, basal skull fractures, routine concussions that would get you permanently benched in the NFL, or the thousands of other reasons modern racing seats have headrests that hold your head firmly in place. Naturally, the driver in question is held in place via a six-point race harness, surrounded by an FIA approved roll cage tougher than jail bars with a fire extinguisher system just in case things get too hot.
Fierce Competition
The only real problem that McLaren has with their 720S GT3 is who they are facing off against. They’re going to have to run against Porsche 911 variants. And those things are nasty! They’re going to have to race against Ferrari 488s. And those things are nasty! They are going to run with Aston Martin GTs. And those things are nasty looking! The upside of this equation is that if you can win against competition like that, you will have every right to be proud of your achievement.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias towards lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photos & Source: McLaren Automotive.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/mclaren-720s-gt3-hits-the-track/