Automotive

This New Quantum Computer Science From Volkswagen Will Blow Your Mind

This New Quantum Computer Science From Volkswagen Will Blow Your Mind Volkswagen is making incredible scientific breakthroughs when it comes to the development of electric vehicle batteries. It seems like something out of a science fiction movie. The automaker has, for the first time, succeeded in simulating “industrially relevant molecules” using a quantum computer. VW has successfully simulated molecules like lithium-hydrogen and carbon chains, and are already working on more complex chemical compounds.
What does that mean exactly?
Tailor-Made Designs
VW wants to eventually simulate the chemical structure of a complete electric vehicle battery on a quantum computer. It seems mind-blowing but all this super science has a distinct purpose: the development of high-performance electric vehicle batteries. VW is creating what they call a “tailor-made battery,” or a configurable, production-ready “chemical blueprint.”
VW’s press materials on this topic are focused on the hard science, but reading between the lines one can see the intent. VW will leverage cutting edge science to create a better automobile – in this case, electric ones. And the timing seems right, given how a recent survey from AAA found car buyers are warming up to electric vehicles.
“We are focusing on the modernization of IT systems throughout the Group,” explained Martin Hofmann, Chief Information Officer, Volkswagen Group. “The objective is to intensify the digitalization of work processes – to make them simpler, more secure and more efficient and to support new business models.”
“We intend to acquire the specialist knowledge we need for this purpose now,” added Florian Neukart, Principle Scientist at Volkswagen’s CODE Lab in San Francisco, California. “We are convinced that commercially available quantum computers will open up previously unimaginable opportunities.”
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Essential Foundations
With newly developed algorithms, VW has already “laid the foundation” for simulating and optimizing the aforementioned chemical structures of electric vehicle batteries on a quantum computer. In time, the quantum algorithm could simulate the chemical composition of a battery on the basis of different criteria: weight reduction, maximum power density, or cell assembly, for example, and even provide a design that could be more easily produced.
VW believes this will help advance the battery development process, a time-consuming and resource-intensive endeavor for any automaker.
“This is why we are combining our core task with the introduction of specific key technologies for Volkswagen,” Hofmann said. “These include the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence, as well as quantum computing.”
Photo: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
Collaboration & Applications
Data scientists, computer linguists, software engineers, and other IT experts from VW are working together in San Francisco and Munich to better understand the potential of quantum computing. Various applications in which quantum computing could be beneficial for the automaker are being closely examined.
“We are working hard to develop the potential of quantum computers for Volkswagen. The simulation of electro-chemical materials is an important project in this context,” Neukart said. “In this field, we are performing genuine pioneering work.”
VW is collaborating with Google and D-Wave who provide the VW teams with access to their systems. In late 2017, VW and Google began a partnership with regard to quantum computing.
“Quantum computing technology opens up new dimensions and represents the fast-track for future-oriented topics. We at Volkswagen want to be among the first to use quantum computing for corporate processes as soon as this technology is commercially available,” Hofmann said at the time. “Thanks to our cooperation with Google, we have taken a major step towards this goal.”
VW will present their research at the CEBIT technology show in Hanover, Germany starting on June 12th.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. He 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.
Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

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2019 BMW X5: Whatever You Do, Don’t Call It An SUV

2019 BMW X5: Whatever You Do, Don’t Call It An SUV Don’t call it an SUV people, it’s a Sports Activity Vehicle, at least if you believe BMW. The new for 2019 BMW X5 is here, and it is, in addition to being an SUV (sorry) also a BMW, so that means it’s also much quicker than you’d expect.
Tipping the scales at over 5,000 lbs. the 2019 BMW X5 will never be presented as a featherweight canyon carver. It is, however, a very competent way to get you, some of your friends, and a bunch of gear down the road (or even a little off-road) pretty quickly.
Depending on which engine you choose, the new X5 can get from full stop to 60 mph in either 5.3 or 5.6 seconds, which is great, given the weight and shape of this beast.
Engine Selections
That performance is all thanks to the engines the X5 can be equipped with: A twin-turbo straight six in the X5 xDrive40i or a blown V8 in the X5 xDrive50i. The 3-liter straight six (not a four-liter, despite the 40i badging) is said to rev like the blazes by BMW. I’ll wait and see on that, but, thanks to the twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection tech, the six-banger has a maximum output of 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft. of torque.
Like I said, zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds.
The big 8 features turbochargers positioned in the “V” between the cylinder banks. Again, the naming is strange because the V8 displaces 4.4-liters, even if it’s mounted in the xDrive50i. BMW says that newly designed heat plates are there to ensure effective thermal shielding for the crankcase and cylinder head, but I’ll believe that when I see one of these things with a quarter-million miles on it.
Mounting turbos and such within the V always makes me nervous, thermally speaking.
Anyway, the V8 mill puts out 456 horsepower with peak torque at 479 lb-ft. All of which is impressive and all of which adds up to a zero to 60 mph time of 4.6 seconds.
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Transmission & Driveline Tech
Each engine is mated to a new version of the Bavarian’s eight-speed Steptronic transmission, with a wider ratio spread and new control electronics for overall efficiency. Downstream is BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system with a locking rear differential.
The latest generation of the BMW xDrive system is able to split drive torque between the front and rear wheels with even greater precision and speed, and, for added efficiency, full power can be directed to the rear wheels only.
Right. It’s for “efficiency.”
The standard wheel and tire set up is 19-inch light-alloy wheels, while the M Sport brings 20-inch, twin-spoke wheels to the party. 21 and 22-inch wheels are available.
Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Laser Focused
All of this new stuff rides in an X5 that is 1.6 inches longer than its predecessor, 2.6 inches wider, and one inch taller. Despite styling issues (the ghost of Chris Bangle still haunts these design corridors), the 2019 BMW X5 has more space for passengers and their stuff. The new X5 comes standard with Adaptive LED headlights and now adds something called, I’m not kidding here, “BMW Laserlights.”
BMW Laserlights feature blue x-shaped elements that split up the hexagonal light sources inside the regular twin headlights.
Interior Treatments
The instrument panel is wide with sweeping horizontal lines and electroplated trim emphasizing the width of the interior. The same finish can be found on the large trim finisher and surrounds and the center console. The fully-digital instrument cluster and the center display are new; the center console hosts the iDrive Controller, the newly designed transmission selector, and all other driving-related controls.
There’s new Vernasca leather upholstery available in five colors and the heated sport seats come with standard electrical adjustments. Optional multi-function seats with massage and ventilation are also available.
The stereo is a fat Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with 20 speakers and a 1,500-watt output. Rear-seat entertainment comprises a pair of 10.2-inch full-HD touchscreen displays, a Blu-ray- compatible DVD player, two USB ports, an HDMI socket, and two headphone jacks.
So shut up back there!

Trim Levels
xLine and M Sport variants are also part of the mix for 2019. The standard xLine model uses lots of matte aluminum, in the underbody, roof rails, and side window surrounds. The pearl-effect chrome “accentuates the off-road character of the all-new 2019 BMW X5.” Sure, whatever.
The M Sport spec gets you wheel arch trim, bumper trim, rear underbody protection, and side skirts painted in body color, complimented by matte aluminum kidney grille bars. Oh and roof rails and side window surrounds in high-gloss black.
Yeah, that’s the M Sport. Not exactly the fire-breathing M you and I were hopping for.
Pricing & Availability
The new BMW X5 will arrive in November with pricing expected closer to that time. To date, more than 2.2 million X5 vehicles have been sold globally, with one third of those being in the United States.
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. His forthcoming new book The Future In Front of Me, The Past Behind Me will be available soon. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
2019 BMW X5 Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.

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Mercedes-Benz Launches New Subscription Based Vehicle Service

Mercedes-Benz Launches New Subscription Based Vehicle Service The “Mercedes-Benz Collection” has officially launched, a program that allows subscribers to switch between different types of vehicles depending on their needs or lifestyle. The service, a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz USA, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA, and Mercedes-Benz dealers, is available now in two cities: Nashville and Philadelphia.
Emerging Trends
Mercedes-Benz says they are “testing the waters” with the program for now. In time, it’s possible it will expand to more cities, as the current pilot program is meant to embrace a growing trend among consumers.
“We’re always looking to stay ahead of our customers’ needs and wants, as well as to bring new people to the brand,” explained Dietmar Exler, President and CEO, MBUSA. “We know there is a market opportunity for people who would like the ability to move in and out of vehicles, depending on what they need or want at a particular point in time, or who don’t want to own a vehicle right now.”
“Customer appetites are changing when it comes to how they access products and services, and our financial and mobility services are evolving to fit those demands,” added Geoff Robinson, Vice President, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA LLC.
Benefits & Perks
The program consists of three tiers – Signature, Reserve, and Premier – with prices ranging from $1,095 to $2,995 per month after a one-time activation fee of $495. Subscribers can then choose from all the available vehicles in that tier, sedans, coupes, cabriolets, roadsters, and wagons among them.
The monthly fee includes insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and maintenance. A concierge staff will deliver the desired vehicle, washed, with a full tank of gas, and even take away the prior vehicle. Mercedes-AMG models are also available in each tier and there are no mileage restrictions.
Photo: MBUSA.
How It Works
The Mercedes-Benz Collection app can be found in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. After it’s downloaded, subscribers go through a brief application process which consists of a driving and credit history check. In most cases, the application is processed and the subscriber is contacted within one business day.
Vehicle requests received by noon can typically be fulfilled the next day.
“We are working to provide one of the most diverse offerings in the market today and expect to learn a lot from this pilot,” Robinson said. “Adding Mercedes-Benz Collection’s subscription services to our product portfolio is a natural fit.”
The Automoblog Staff contributed to this report and can be reached anytime.
Source: MBUSA.

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2021 Buick Envision Debuts: What We Know So Far About The New Crossover

2021 Buick Envision Debuts: What We Know So Far About The New Crossover On May 29th, 2020, Buick revealed their Envision crossover would receive a facelift of sorts for the 2021 model year. The 2021 Buick Envision will feature a restyled interior and exterior, and a host of upgraded amenities for a more upscale feel.

“The all-new 2021 Envision is part of Buick’s strategy to grow its family of premium SUVs,” said Duncan Aldred, Vice President, Global Buick and GMC. “It joins the new 2020 Encore GX, which offers safety, functionality, and styling tailored around the size and space preferences of today’s small and compact SUV buyers.”

Although the Envision, in its new form, is heralded as an enticing option, what exactly can consumers expect? And what should one be aware of when considering a 2021 Buick Envision? Not all of the details are out yet, but here is what we know so far.

The Nuts & Bolts

The 2021 Buick Envision is the recipient of several different modifications to both its stance and powertrain. The redesigned Envision will take on a lower, wider stance than that of prior models to help complement its exterior design. According to Helen Emsley, Executive Director of Global Buick and GMC Design, these subsequent styling and proportional revisions are intended to, “combine the expressiveness of a car with the practicality of an SUV.”

We also know the 2021 Buick Envision comes with a 2.0-liter turbo engine. This four-cylinder engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Additional information regarding this pairing’s performance and specs are yet to be shared. Buick says they will be revealed in the coming months.

Buick’s premium Avenir trim will be available on the 2021 Envision for the first time. Details on everything included in the upper Avenir trim will be revealed later this year.

2021 Buick Envision. Photo: Buick.2021 Buick Envision: Tech & Connectivity

Perhaps the most significant change to the Envision is the SUV’s tech upgrades and revised driver amenities. The 2021 Envision will feature Buick’s first available 10-inch diagonal touchscreen infotainment system.

This system will support a range of in-vehicle apps, including Amazon Alexa, Pandora, Spotify, and Fox Sports. Additional connectivity apps, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, will also be available for the Envision, which should be a hit with those that prefer to liven up the morning commute with their favorite music.

Related: Did Buick successfully reinvent themselves for a new generation of buyers? 2021 Buick Envision: Safety Features

The 2021 Envision will also feature a wealth of safety and driver assistance features. Standard active safety features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, a Safety Alert Seat, and an HD Rear Vision Camera.

Additional standard driver assistance features include Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist, HD Surround Vision, Front Park Assist, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, a rear camera mirror, and a heads-up display.

Photo: Buick.More To Come . . .

Only time will tell what the market thinks of the 2021 Buick Envision. Buick holds fast to the notion that their combination of fresh styling, new technology, and updated amenities will find favor. Although the verdict is still out, and we don’t have all of the info on the new Envision yet, we think this level of ingenuity will be noticed by consumers, especially longtime Buick buyers.

Expect the 2021 Buick Envision early next year.

Josh Boyd is an ASE Certified technician with over a decade of experience in automotive repair. When not under the hood, he can be found in the woods or on the water, pursuing his other passions of hunting and fishing.

Photos & Source: Buick.
Original article: 2021 Buick Envision Debuts: What We Know So Far About The New Crossover

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Inside The 2017 Ford GT’s Brembo Braking System

Inside The 2017 Ford GT’s Brembo Braking System

The 2017 Ford GT is the fastest production vehicle the blue oval has ever produced. With a precise power-to-weight ratio, five different drive modes, and advanced aerodynamics, the car is worth more than a passing glance. The GT’s engine, a 647 horsepower high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost, is simply the cherry on top.
Or maybe that’s the GT’s top speed of 216 mph?
Either way, getting up to speed isn’t a problem, but what about getting stopped?
Ideal Proving Grounds
Brembo is, for all intents and purposes, accustomed to stopping rocket ships. The company’s high-performance braking systems are found on some of the world’s most powerful racing machines, like Formula One and Indy cars. With more than 300 championships in racing already, Brembo’s technology is unique in that it’s first proven on the track, then brought to the street. The proving and validation environment a track provides, and what can be learned in such situations, will inevitably transition to everyday roads.
For example, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles utilizes Brembo’s expertise on two of their most powerful vehicles, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and Dodge Challenger SRT Demon. General Motors recently worked with Brembo on a new braking kit for select models, including Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 series trucks. The kit upgrade better handles the thermomechanical changes consistent with pulling a trailer or moving a large payload.
Now Ford is in the mix, outfitting their GT supercar with Brembo brakes.
“Our group has been working with the Ford engineering team simultaneously on the Ford GT race cars that are competing and winning now, and have carried those lessons learned over to the Ford GT street model,” explained Dan Sandberg, President and Chief Executive Officer, Brembo North America.
Photo: Ford Motor Company.

Tech & Personality
The production GT will have carbon ceramic (CCM) rotors with dedicated high performance brake pads on the front and the rear. The CCM discs are exceptionally light and function better at high temperatures.
“Lightweight technology wins on the track and the street,” Sandberg said. “The two-piece CCM brakes on the Ford GT deliver a 50 percent weight savings over typical cast iron braking systems.”
In the rear, the unique-to-Brembo, electro-mechanical parking brake (EPB) is worth noting. The EPB function is delivered by a stand-alone black anodized aluminum caliper, governed by Brembo software. The Brembo EPB operates both automatically and via a button, eliminating the cables associated with traditional parking brake systems. Ford GT customers can select from an array of caliper colors too. Each one displays the Brembo lowercase “b” logo in black.
“The consumer choice of five caliper colors makes every Ford GT a personal design statement,” Sandberg added.

Brembo Ford GT Front CCM Brakes
Brembo six-piston, monobloc, fixed bridge, radial mounted aluminum calipers.
394 mm x 36 mm rotors.
Low fluid displacement design improves pedal feel and stiffness.
Exposed fluid lines on calipers allow for increased cooling.
Optimized cooling system designed by Ford and Brembo maximizes CCM performance.
Brake ducts fixed to calipers articulate with the steering for maximum cooling.
Brembo Ford GT Rear CCM Brakes
Four-piston monobloc aluminum calipers with 360 mm x 32 mm CCM rotors.
Rear calipers radially mounted and optimized for stiffness.
Rear brakes also have the specialized cooling ducts for the CCM rotors and pads.
Brembo Electro-Mechanical Parking Brake (EPB):
The EPB caliper is managed by Brembo software, embedded in the ESC unit.
Eliminates additional and unnecessary parts and cables.
Brembo Ford GT Racing Brakes
Lightweight aluminum six-piston Brembo calipers with 380 mm x 34 mm cast iron rotors on the front.
Four-piston calipers with 355 mm x 32 mm rotors on the rear.
Much of the brake cooling geometry hidden in the Ford GT race car carries over to the street version.
The Chip Ganassi No. 68 Ford GT driven by Joey Hand, Sébastien Bourdais, and Dirk Müller won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2016 on Brembo brakes.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
Photos & Source: Brembo North America, Ford Motor Company.

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2018 Buick LaCrosse Receives Light Electrification Update

2018 Buick LaCrosse Receives Light Electrification Update

“The Buick LaCrosse expands its technological credentials by adding eAssist light electrification for the 2018 model,” says Buick in the most vague way possible, meaning that one of their more popular cars now comes in a hybrid.
The term “light electrification” is a pretty good way to go, because although this is a hybrid, it’s not a full blown one like a Prius.
Electric Approach
What Buick, a brand both beloved in America’s heartland and China, is doing with their electrified LaCrosse here is combining an electric motor with the crossover’s 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine to deliver “quiet, refined, and spirited efficient performance backed by the value and customer experience expected of Buick.” Okay, all good so far. Nothing wrong with adding some batteries and an electric motor or two (look at what happened when Ferrari did it), but how does this all play out in the LaCrosse?
Buick’s new eAssist system (yes, that’s how they spell it) pairs the four-cylinder engine with a compact lithium-ion battery pack to offer benefits usually found on fully electric vehicles. So the LaCrosse dials in such goodies as torque-assisted launch, energy-saving regenerative braking (which can also enhance braking performance), and an exceptionally smooth stop/start system. Buick loves this new eAssist system so much it will be the standard powertrain for the 2018 LaCrosse when it goes on sale this fall.
Efficient Packaging
When installed in the LaCrosse, the eAssist differs from previous Buick eAssist implementations by being more sophisticated, powerful, and compact. It gives a 9 percent increase in overall torque, allowing drivers to get the responsiveness expected from a full-size sedan. Also, the newest eAssist system is noticeably smaller and unobtrusively packaged, so you still get to use the LaCrosse’s fold-down rear seat and abundant trunk space. Option-wise, the new standard 2.5 liter four-cylinder/eAssist drivetrain complements the popular V6 plant that remains untouched, and will still be available on select trims.
Other updates on the 2018 Buick LaCrosse include more packages with available all-wheel drive and an all-new nine-speed automatic transmission for the V6 models. By mid-2018, Buick will have five models available with the new advanced transmission. Customer demand is very high for Buick’s intelligent all-wheel drive and active twin clutch gearbox, so that will now be available on the Essence trim.
Buick’s signature QuietTuning is achieved in a number of ways. This chart shows some of the specific areas engineers focus on. Photo: Buick.

Inner Workings
Now, the nitty-gritty, techno-details on this whole eAssist deal. The short version is that eAssist combines a compact electric motor powered by a 24-cell, air-cooled 0.45kWh lithium-ion battery pack with the 2.5-liter four-banger gas engine. This combo is designed to enhance efficiency and maintain refined performance.
All of this gets to the tarmac with five major components.
First, there’s the Motor Generator Unit or MGU. The MGU replaces the conventional alternator and acts as an electric motor to provide more power when needed. The MGU is also an electric generator that provides the energy stored in the lithium-ion battery pack. Next there is the entire Electric Assist scheme, the software controlling what switches on or off, and when. The MGU’s electric motor provides extra power for smooth launches while in the Auto-Stop mode. It also funnels additional torque to the engine when the Electric Assist wizards think it’s needed to optimize overall performance and efficiency.
With hybrid systems, there’s also some cool tricks you can do with the braking. In the case of the 2018 Buick LaCrosse, regenerative braking is part of the act. When you hit the brakes or start coasting, some of the energy you normally give away as heat is, in the case of the Buick, converted to electricity through the graces of the MGU and stored in the lithium-ion battery pack.
Speaking of that lithium-ion battery pack, in our case here, it’s an 86V unit, which has been revamped and repackaged to be more compact. It takes up less space, meaning more room for people and stuff. The energy kept waiting in the lithium-ion battery pack powers the electrical system when the entire vehicle it is in Auto-Stop mode. The lithium-ion battery pack also gets power to the MGU to help with the aforementioned smooth launch while in Auto-Stop mode, or additional torque to the engine as the ones and zeros see fit.
The stop/start technology contributes to added fuel savings by turning off the engine when you are in Auto-Stop mode. So, when you are at a stoplight or in heavy traffic, for example, the LaCrosse will shut off the four-banger, and run things on batteries alone. It will then restart the engine when your foot lifts off the brake pedal.
Aerodynamics & Availability
The 2018 Buick LaCrosse also gets a host of aero improvements to help with efficiency. There are upper and lower active aero shutters in the front fascia. These close under certain driving conditions to help maximize aerodynamics and contribute to improved fuel economy; e.g. when you’re going fast enough, they close, since enough air is getting forced over the radiator anyway. Buick makes no mention of cost, but that will most likely be revealed as we get closer to the fall release date of the 2018 LaCrosse.
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: Buick.

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2018 GMC Yukon Denali: The Ultimate Expression of Professional Grade

2018 GMC Yukon Denali: The Ultimate Expression of Professional Grade

In the ongoing, half-century long slugfest between Chevy and Ford over who has the better truck, the fortunes of the fight swing from one pugilist to the next. One company tries something new, and their opponent hits them for its deficiencies; one company doesn’t change, and the other hits them for being too traditional.
For 2018, GMC (the trucks only end of General Motors) is really hitting on their whole notion of “Professional Grade.”
Recognizable & Functional
The 2018 GMC Yukon Denali showcases three main areas they’re pushing: the new, GM-centric, Multi-Dimensional Grille, a Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission, and a long list of work-oriented standard features. The new grille, in addition to a more chic look, also hides a number of practical features such as greater airflow to the radiator. There are active aero shutters located behind the grille that close in certain conditions on the highway, reducing aerodynamic drag and enhancing efficiency.
The new look of the grille comes from how GMC designers evolved the current Denali grille through a multi-dimensional sculpted lattice in a layered manner. This same theme is seen in other current and newer GMC models like the Acadia and Terrain. The new grille is bracketed by HID headlamps and LED Signature Lighting.
“It’s a more exciting and sophisticated design, while remaining instantly recognizable as part of the GMC Denali family,” said Matt Noone, Director, Global GMC Exterior Design.
Photo: GMC.
Aggressive Yet Smooth
Now, about that 10-speed transmission. This is a growing trend, not just in the truck market (although there’s plenty of representation in that arena as well) but across a broad range of vehicles. Until engineers can figure out a way to make Continuously Variable Transmissions handle high torque and power loads, get used to seeing auto-boxes with many, many ratios contained within.
In the case of GMC’s 2018 Yukon Denali, the new 10-speed slush box pulls the engineering knowledge of GM’s previous transmissions into a new level of performance. There’s a wider, 7.39 overall gear ratio spread, and in comparison to the previous Yukon Denali’s eight-speed box, the new 10-speed allows for a lower numerical top gear ratio that nets you greater efficiency. This new transmission has optimized gearing along with proprietary controls to allow the 6.2L V8 engine to deliver both smooth operation and aggressive response.
Power & Performance
And speaking of that 6.2L engine, it tops the extensive list of standard features for GMC’s 2018 Yukon Denali. Said plant cranks out 420 horsepower with direct injection and GM’s Active Fuel Management, or cylinder deactivation in lighter driving conditions. In other words, a good solid mill for any truck or SUV to have under its hood.
The new Yukon Denali also has Magnetic Ride Control, standard 20-inch wheels, and available 22-inch wheels (if you want to be the flashy guy on the job site), an automatic locking rear differential, and four-wheel-disc brakes with Duralife rotors (does anyone make drums any longer?). Other standard and available features include StabiliTrak electronic stability control, tow/haul mode, trailer sway control, auto grade braking, and hill start assist.
“The foundational elements of exclusive design, premium touches, and uncompromising capability have made Yukon Denali an icon for nearly 20 years,” said Duncan Aldred, Vice President of Global GMC. The first Yukon Denali appeared in 1999. Photo: GMC.

Interior Treatments
Speaking of the interior, the 2018 Yukon Denali is becoming more and more like a mobile office. There’s an infotainment system with navigation that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The standard 8-inch diagonal screen features a customizable display that works with the standard heads-up display. Active Noise Cancellation makes the interior quieter too.
There are multiple USB ports and accessory power outlets, including a 110-volt, three-prong outlet so you can plug in, charge, and run everything from your smartphone to a tablet to a coffeemaker (for all I know). There’s also wireless phone charging, heated and ventilated driver and passenger seats, heated second-row seats, and a hands-free programmable power liftgate. OnStar? Oh, you bet this pick-em-up-truck’s got OnStar.
Packaging & Availability
So, get used to seeing that new front end design on lots of GMC vehicles. The Denali trim package being offered on the Yukon and Yukon XL accounts for way more than half of all Yukon sales. The XL features a longer wheelbase (14 inches) for greater third-row legroom and more than double the cargo area behind the third-row seat. The XL is in case you want to go large, but either way, the 2018 GMC Yukon Denali goes on sale this fall.
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: GMC.

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Airbag Recalls: Quick Facts & How To Check Your Car

Airbag Recalls: Quick Facts & How To Check Your Car With the summer travel season in full swing, have your car checked for safety recalls.
The Takata airbag recall continues to affect vehicle owners across the United States.
Free resources are available for you to view any and all safety recalls on your car.
When was the last time you checked your vehicle for safety recalls? If you can’t remember, now is a good time, especially with the summer travel season in full swing. A recent AAA Travel survey finds nearly 100 million Americans – four in 10 U.S. adults – are planning a family vacation this year. With regard to summer road trips specifically, 68 percent of all travelers say they will embark on a summer getaway. If you are planning a trip, we want to help keep you safe. Taking care of any outstanding recalls – especially airbag recalls – before you embark is always a good idea.
Even if you are not hitting the road this summer, it’s still a good idea to check. Here is what you need to know.
What Are “Open” Safety Recalls?
A recall originates when a manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) determines that a certain vehicular component poses a safety risk or fails to meet minimum standards. “Open” is in reference to an incomplete or outstanding recall. By law, automakers must address these recalls by replacing the part for free. The United States Code for Motor Vehicle Safety (Title 49, Chapter 301) defines motor vehicle safety as something that should protect the public against the unreasonable risk of accidents (i.e. death or injury) due to the design, construction, or performance of a motor vehicle.
More than 53 million vehicles – approximately one in five – have open safety recalls.
Automakers send letters to original vehicle owners within 60 days notifying them of the defect and how to get it fixed. However, the National Safety Council says the recall repair rate is just 44 percent for vehicles five to 10 years old. Within that time frame, an owner may have moved, or sold or traded the vehicle in question. As a result, current owners may not be aware of such recalls; still others know but perceive it as unimportant.
For these reasons, NHTSA recommends updating your vehicle registration and mailing address, and taking the necessary actions regarding safety recalls.
According to the National Safety Council, 42 million vehicles have unaddressed airbag recalls.
Airbags Among The Highest Number of Recalls
Of the 53 million vehicles with open recalls, a staggering 42 million have unaddressed issues pertaining to Takata airbags. If these airbags deploy, occupants are at risk of injury or death from metal fragments acting as projectiles. According to NHTSA and as detailed by Consumer Reports, the Takata airbags in question use an ammonium nitrate-based propellant absent a drying agent. Heat and humidity over time can cause these airbags to improperly inflate and explode upon deployment; thus spaying metal fragments into the cabin.
Based on NHTSA’s findings, there have been at least 24 deaths and 300 injuries globally.
Vehicles manufactured by BMW, Ford, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota are among those affected. Last year, Consumer Reports noted that U.S. lawmakers were frustrated by the lack of progress with regard to the issue. Officials expect another round of Takata airbag recalls, which may span the next couple years. NHTSA describes the Takata airbag recall as the largest and most complex in U.S. history.
Some Affected More Than Others
Airbag Recall, an organization that champions awareness about airbag safety recalls, says vehicle owners in North Carolina and Hawaii are at risk. Their first report finds more than 600,000 North Carolina residents are driving a vehicle with defective airbags. In Hawaii, more than 70,000 residents own a vehicle with open airbag recalls. According to the law offices of Newsome Melton in Orlando, Florida, the Sunshine State is the most impacted by the recall, affecting 1.3 million vehicles statewide.
Nationally, the recall campaign encompasses tens of millions of vehicles from 19 manufacturers, and over 200 models and model years; although some vehicles are more susceptible than others.

What You Can Do To Stay Safe
Have your mechanic or service advisor check when you take your car in for routine service. They can look for open recalls while you are there and possibly even fix them the same day. Get in a habit of checking for safety recalls each time you get your oil changed.
NHTSA’s Safercar.gov website and corresponding mobile apps allow you to look up recalls by VIN number. The mobile apps will send recall alerts as they happen; or you can sign up to receive e-mail updates regarding recall notices. The National Safety Council’s Check To Protect program is another valuable resource for vehicle owners. Supported by automakers, safety advocates, and industry leaders, CheckToProtect.org is free and instantly checks for open safety and airbag recalls.
Sources: Airbag Recall, Consumer Reports, National Safety Council, NHTSA.

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This Free E-Book Will Help You Prepare For Your Summer Road Trip

This Free E-Book Will Help You Prepare For Your Summer Road Trip Spend more time enjoying your vacation and less time worrying about it.
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The summer road trip is a quintessential part of American culture. Be it a family vacation or romantic getaway, we have been seeking the other side of the horizon since the time of the Model T. With longer days and warmer temps, there are plenty of places to go and things to see across this great country.
A recent AAA Travel survey finds nearly 100 million Americans – four in 10 U.S. adults – are planning a family vacation this year. With regard to summer road trips specifically, two-thirds of all travelers (68 percent) say they will embark on a summer getaway.
If only it wasn’t so stressful to plan and pack everything.
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Preparing For Your Summer Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide consists of three essential parts: getting your vehicle ready, what to pack, and how to stay safe while driving. You and your family will have a comprehensive checklist to take your mechanic before you leave; know what to put in your emergency kit, including something we too often overlook; and the best times of the week to drive. Anthony also provides safe driving tips and advice on how to prevent your car from being stolen on your trip. Each section is summarized at the end with easy-to-remember bullet points.
Valuable Insights & Data
Featured experts include representatives from the California Highway Patrol, National Safety Council, REAL Volkswagen Parts, The Law Offices of Siegfried & Jensen, and YourMechanic. Supplemental data is either provided by or sourced from AAA, Avvo, Esurance, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, National Insurance Crime Bureau, and the National Sleep Foundation.
Availability
Preparing For Your Summer Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide is available in Kindle format for only $0.99 on Amazon. However, for a limited time, the guide is available for a free download! Just fill out the form below and we’ll send you the eBook for free!

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