Automotive

Ford Introduces New Tremor Off-Road Package For The 2021 Ranger

Ford Introduces New Tremor Off-Road Package For The 2021 Ranger The Ford Ranger has sure grown up from its humble beginnings as a compact pickup in 1983. Ford has just unveiled the 2021 Ranger Tremor, and the truck has some pretty impressive off-road and utility capabilities. Claimed to be the most “off-road-ready factory-built Ranger ever offered in the U.S.,” the 2021 Tremor gives drivers even more off-road capability than the current FX4 package.

“Tremor gives Ranger customers a new level of off-road confidence and fun,” said Chad Callander, Ford Ranger Marketing Manager. “With increased ground clearance, off-road tuned suspension and aggressive Continental General Grabber tires, Tremor elevates Ranger’s off-roading capability even further while keeping the unique advantages that come with a cargo box for hauling gear anywhere.”

What Is Ranger Tremor’s Ground Clearance?

The 2021 Ranger Tremor offers an additional 0.8 inches of ground clearance over the base Ranger SuperCrew 4X4 for a total of 9.7 inches. The extra ground clearance is a tad less than the 10 inches provided by the base model Jeep Gladiator, but impressive none the less.

2021 Ford Ranger Tremor Suspension

Adding to the increased ground clearance is the Tremor’s set of Fox 2.0 monotube shocks that include external reservoirs for improved cooling and a specially tuned set of front coil springs and leaf springs in the rear. Also included are 17-inch magnetic-painted wheels and 32-inch Continental General Grabber A/TX all-terrain tires.

The 2021 Ranger Tremor increases the front suspension travel to 6.5 inches compared to the base model Ranger. Rear suspension travel increased to 8.1 inches. The off-road approach angle is increased up to 2.2 degrees over the base SuperCrew 4×4 to 30.9 degrees. The 25.5 degree departure angle is up 0.1 degrees, and the breakover angle is up 2.7 degrees to 24.2 degrees.

2021 Ford Ranger Tremor XLT (left) and Lariat. Photo: Ford Motor Company. Additional Off-Road Essentials

The 2021 Ranger Tremor also includes a front frame-mounted steel bash plate and underbody skid plates to protect the truck from rough terrain. Included in the Tremor package is an electronically-locking rear differential and Ford’s Terrain Management system with four drive modes. A six-switch auxiliary power bank on the dash can be used to control things like air compressors and winches.

Due to the General Grabber tires, 17-inch wheels, and the wider wheel lip moldings, the 2021 Ranger Tremor will sport a wider stance. Also included are two new recovery hooks in the rear as well as the two upfront.

Realted Car NewsFord Performance Introduces 3 New Ranger Off-Road Packages & Here’s What’s Included

2021 Ford Ranger Tremor: Engine & Powertrain

The Ranger Tremor will include the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that puts out 270 ponies and 310 lb-ft. torque along with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford claims the Tremor package will also maintain the Ranger’s standard 1,430 lbs. payload capacity and its max towing capabilities of 7,500 lbs.

Photo: Ford Motor Company. Styling Tweaks

Tremor specific styling will include a blacked-out version of the Ranger Lariat’s grille and added red accents. Tremor badging will be featured on both sides of the cargo box along with optional hood and body graphics so drivers can personalize the truck’s look. The Tremor’s seats will feature Miko suede inserts and be adorned with the Tremor nameplate stitched into the seatbacks.

Pricing & Availability

The Tremor package is available on the 2021 Ranger XLT and Lariat trims for $4,290.

Born and raised in the Motor City by an autoworker’s family, Michael Turashoff has a love of cars woven into his DNA. Michael is a professional content creator, marketing expert, and successful entrepreneur with over a decade of experience.

2021 Ford Ranger Tremor Gallery

Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.
Original article: Ford Introduces New Tremor Off-Road Package For The 2021 Ranger

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/ford-introduces-new-tremor-off-road-package-for-the-2021-ranger/

Free Performance Car Pumpkin Carving Patterns

Free Performance Car Pumpkin Carving Patterns

As the seasons change, fall colors blossom, tailgating excursions ensue, and trick-or-treaters set out for candy hauls of legendary proportions. Marking the fall decidedly is Halloween, a time of sweet treats, costume parties, and the mystery of why radio stations spin Jim Stafford’s Spiders and Snakes in the proceeding days.
It’s a 70s country hit detailing an idiosyncratic boy who, upon realizing the fairest girl in school has a crush on him, is unable to reciprocate the feelings. Granted, unrequited love is probably terrifying but that doesn’t make it a Halloween song.
Moving on . . .
Modern-Day Dragula
If you’re tired of carving the typical spooky kitty into your pumpkins, you might consider these free patterns of a 2018 Camaro ZL1 1LE and Subaru WRX STI. The patterns, which only require a printer, steady hands, and a big orange pumpkin, were provided by GMPartsCenter.net, SubaruPartsPlus.com, and StoneyKins. These performance car patterns will look cool on the front porch with candles inside – at least that’s how Matt Mylan, Director at GMPartsCenter.net, puts it.
“A real life Camaro is technically much faster than a pumpkin, and a pumpkin can’t corner as well as a real ZL1 1LE, but, other than all that, a pumpkin with a Camaro carved into it is awesome,” he said.
The Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE is the is the fastest Camaro in history, as verified by its recent Nürburgring time. Under the hood is a supercharged, 650 horsepower LT4 engine, complimented by a literal treasure chest of aerodynamic and suspension technology. The MSRP for a Camaro ZL1 1LE is around $70,000. The MSRP for the average pumpkin is significantly less.
“For the price of a pumpkin spice coffee drink and an hour of spare time, you can have a brand new pumpkin with a Camaro carved into it that’s almost as good as the real thing,” Mylan said. “Almost.”

Spiders, Snakes & Subarus
Subaru fans will delight knowing their porch walkway is now a mini race track. One might not initially describe the WRX STI as “scary” but that probably depends on who you ask, given the car’s specs. The 2018 WRX STI is unlike any other in Subaru’s lineup with its turbocharged, 305 horsepower 4-cylinder engine. The Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system with Active Torque Vectoring provides exceptional handling and performance.
“I guarantee you’ll scare the heck out of any adult that owns a Mustang, Camaro, or Challenger if you carve an STI into your pumpkin,” says Steve Ferreira, Director at SubaruPartsPlus.com. “When one passes you, you start to freeze, paralyzed by the fact that no one is going to save you from getting lapped.”
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.

2018 Chevy Camaro ZL1 1LE pattern.
2018 Subaru WRX STI pattern.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/free-performance-car-pumpkin-carving-patterns/

Range Rover Sport Goes Plug-In Hybrid In 2019

Range Rover Sport Goes Plug-In Hybrid In 2019

Even though the new Range Rover Sport will be in dealerships by the start of the new year, Range Rover is already thinking ahead to 2019. That’s when the Range Rover Sport Plug-In Hybrid will arrive on these streets. For a certain segment of humanity (and it’s easy to picture Range Rover buyers being in that segment), living green is very important.
Now, probably, someone who buys a Range Rover will not be one of those “off-the-grid” types, living on garbanzo beans and recycling household waste for fertilizer, but that doesn’t mean the average Range Rover buyer doesn’t care.
Power & Performance
The 2019 Range Rover Sport will be the first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle produced by Jaguar Land Rover. Officially called the 2019 Range Rover Sport P400e, the new model offers ecologically conscious performance thanks to a 296 horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder Ingenium gasoline engine. It’s combined with a 114 horsepower (that’s 85 kW) electric motor. With a total of 398 horsepower and 472 lb-ft. of torque available for the permanent four-wheel drive system, 60 mph comes up in 6.3 seconds; the entire rig tops out at 137 mph. That maximum speed is both impressive, given this thing is as aerodynamic as the crate it’s shipped in, and also unimpressive, since ’round 140 ain’t all that fast.
But you know they probably have to limit that top speed or risk damaging something like the regen system or burning out an electric motor or something like that.
Electrified Capability
The electric motor is juiced by a 13.1 kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery that Land Rover engineers setup to maximize interior space and weight distribution. The longitudinally-mounted 2.0-liter Ingenium gasoline engine is paired with the 85kW electric motor, housed in the ZF automatic eight-speed transmission at the center of the vehicle, and alongside the 7kW on-board charger.
The Range Rover Sport P400e can run on just the batteries and not the dinosaur juice in the gas tank, with the all-electric range coming in at 31 miles. The company says “Land Rover customers can experience zero-emission off-road luxury with uncompromised all-terrain capability.” And that is probably true. It will be interesting to see if someone actually tries to get up 25 miles of bad logging road using just the EV drivetrain in this thing though.
The Range Rover Sport is comprised of an all-aluminum body, 39 percent lighter than the steel equivalent. The structure was subjected to extensive testing in something referred to as “optimization processes” by Jaguar Land Rover. This process included computer simulation and a 1,000 years of processor time. Photo: Jaguar Land Rover.

Drive Modes
The Range Rover Sport P400e has two driving modes to best suit your luxury transportation needs. The default mode is called Parallel Hybrid, which combines the gasoline and electric drive. You can further optimize the battery charge or fuel economy by utilizing one of two charge management functions while in Parallel Hybrid mode. One is the SAVE function which prevents the battery charge from dropping below a pre-selected level.
The other mode is called Predictive Energy Optimization. Predictive Energy Optimization, or PEO is used by entering a destination into the navigation system. The navigation system will then use built-in GPS altitude data for the selected route, and combine the electric motor and gasoline engine to maximize fuel economy. Pretty slick. The Electric Vehicle or EV mode enables you to run solely on the electric motor using energy stored in the battery.
Exclusive Features
Other niceties found on the Range Rover Sport P400e include Land Rover’s Terrain Response 2 technology. Terrain Response 2 has a unique calibration to logically and accurately distribute torque from the electric motor to all four wheels. Terrain Response 2 gives greater control during low-speed, off-road maneuvers and provides maximum torque from zero rpm.
A new cabin air ionization system, called Nanoe, is a nice feature for passengers. The suite of driver assistance features on the new Range Rover Sport has been “restructured to be even more intuitive for customers.”
Cost? Who knows at this point, but with the upcoming Range Rover Sport topping out at around $140,000 and the plug-in EV coming in on top of that model, don’t expect the 2019 Range Rover Sport P400e to be inexpensive.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He means well, even if he has a bias toward lighter, agile cars rather than big engine muscle cars or family sedans.
Photos & Source: Jaguar Land Rover.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/range-rover-sport-goes-plug-in-hybrid-in-2019/

2018 Nissan Maxima Arrives With More Tech, New Colors

2018 Nissan Maxima Arrives With More Tech, New Colors

The Maxima is Nissan’s flagship sedan and for 2018, the vehicle adds a handful of new options. The 2018 Nissan Maxima comes in five grades: S, SV, SL, SR, and Platinum. Standard equipment includes Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, and Automatic Emergency Braking.
Nissan’s patented V-Motion grille is also present on the 2018 Maxima.
Power & Performance
The heart of the Maxima is a 3.5-liter VQ-series V6 with 300 horsepower. It’s attached to an Xtronic transmission with D-Step shifting logic. Nissan says this provides “rapid shifts at high throttle openings” for a more “performance-oriented” feel. Ride and handling is refined through the 4-wheel independent suspension and monotube rear shock absorbers.
Look & Feel
The 2018 Nissan Maxima is characterized by its wider front end and muscular stance, much of which centers around the aforementioned V-Motion grille. The LED daytime running lights further compliment the body lines. The color selections were tweaked a bit with a new Carnelian Red paint added to the mix.
The more sporty Maxima SR features 19-inch wheels and tires.
The available Ascot leather seating surfaces with diamond-quilted inserts add luxury points. Additional convenience points come by way of two available rear USB charge ports.
Photo: Nissan North America.
Technology & Connectivity
The 2018 Maxima benefits from a host of available tech magic, including NissanConnect. The system features navigation on an 8-inch display with SiriusXM radio and SiriusXM Travel Link. Through NissanConnect, owners can start their Maxima remotely via their smartphone or locate it should it be stolen.
Available safety features include Intelligent Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Warning, and Intelligent Driver Alertness.
Pricing & Availability
The 2018 Maxima is now at Nissan dealerships nationwide; we have included a pricing chart below. The 2018 Nissan Maxima is assembled in Smyrna, Tennessee, while the engines are produced in nearby Decherd.
Carl Anthony in Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan.
2018 Nissan Maxima Starting MSRPs
Maxima S
$33,020
Maxima SV
$35,020
Maxima SL
$37,440
Maxima SR
$38,280
Maxima Platinum
$40,690
Photos & Source: Nissan North America.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2018-nissan-maxima-arrives-with-more-tech-new-colors/

2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited Review: Not Too Shabby

2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited Review: Not Too Shabby It may not be as capable as the Tacoma TRD Off-Road we recently drove, but the Limited is still a good choice. This trim is a bit more luxurious while still sharing its sibling’s lifted stance. So it’s at least a little adventure-ready. And the Double Cab means you can take your friends with room for extra gear on the excursion.
This week we did just that. We drove the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited 4×4 Double Cab.
What’s New For 2018
All Tacomas gain Toyota Safety Sense P, a suite of safety features that includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. The rest of the Tacoma is unchanged.
Features & Options: Heated Seats & Sound Systems
The 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited 4×4 Double Cab ($40,215) is the most civilized version of the Tacoma. It lacks the TRD Off-Road’s specialized performance upgrades, and instead comes with nearly all of the Off-Road and Sport’s optional features as standard equipment.
Feature highlights include a power moonroof, parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, leather upholstery, and JBL speakers with a subwoofer. Our automatic V6 tester came with smart entry and push-button start. Everything rides on the truck’s 18-inch wheels with lower-profile tires.
MSRP, including destination, for our 2018 model: $41,473. By comparison, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma Limited starts at $37,490.
Not as large as the Tundra, the 2018 Toyota Tacoma is easier to maneuver in the city.
Interior Highlights: Nice But Cramped
The cabin is fine enough for longer trips, which we took over Vail Pass this week. With the heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and premium JBL audio, the Tacoma Limited is an a enjoyable place to spend time. The high floor and low roof still left us feeling a bit cramped on the long drive, however.
Our tester came with an attractive black and brown interior and lots of soft-touch materials. Plenty of storage, plus the cell phone charging pad in front of the gear shifter is quite convenient. The backup camera made things simple, especially with the longer cab as we backed up in small parking spaces.
The front seats could use more adjustment capabilities as they offered minimal support, but the tilt/telescoping steering wheel makes it easier to find the right driving position. Our two adult passengers had adequate room in the back, but we needed to move the seats forward.
Overall, the cabin is tight and the seats are not the most forgiving on longer commutes.
The interior of the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited is nice but the seats could be more comfortable.
Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs
The Tacoma Limited is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with direct injection, making 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft. of torque. Our tester came mated to a six-speed automatic with 4WDemand: A part-time 4×4 system with an electronically-controlled, two-speed transfer case.
Towing capacity for the Tacoma Limited with the V6 is 6,400 lbs.
EPA-estimated fuel economy is 18/22 city/highway and 20 combined mpg. Fuel tank size is 21 gallons. When compared to the rest of the segment, the V6 Tacoma fares reasonably well.
Related: Bigger than the Tacoma, the Tundra’s V8 packs a serious punch.
Driving Dynamics: Smooth & Good In The Snow
The 278 horsepower V6 is a happy and high-revving engine. With both direct and port injection, and two variable valve systems (one with a wider intake), the Atkinson Cycle engine was satisfying to drive. Its 265 lb-ft. of torque work well with the six-speed automatic; the shifts are smooth and the gear spacing is excellent.
Limited gets the standard suspension, making its ride better than the TRD Off-Road. The front suspension uses double wishbones with coil springs. Rates were softened, both front and rear, to improve ride. Furthermore, that shock tuning included tweaks to the rebound damping to improve control.
We took the Tacoma Limited over Vail Pass after it had just snowed, and the roads were still slick and icy. This tester had regular all-season tires and not all-terrain meats. So we dialed up the 4WDemand system to 4High, and plowed over the pass without issue. The Limited will go anywhere as long as you have the clearance.
Related: An in-depth look at the 2019 Toyota TRD Pro lineup.
The 2018 Toyota Tacoma with the V6 comes with a Class IV receiver hitch, trailer sway control, and a transmission, engine oil, and power steering cooler.
Conclusion: Solid Marks Overall
The 2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited will still take you off the beaten path, despite its nicer features. Toyota’s reputation for durability and strong resale value put it at the top of the list in the mid-size truck segment. If you are transporting dirt bikes, four-wheelers, snow machines; heading up the mountain to go skiing, or pulling a small camping trailer, this truck will meet your needs.
Denis Flierl has invested over 25 years in the automotive industry in a variety of roles. Follow his work on Twitter: @CarReviewGuy
2018 Toyota Tacoma Limited Gallery

Toyota Tacoma Official Site.
Photos: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Check out these Automotive tips

https://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2018-toyota-tacoma-limited-review-not-too-shabby/

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Release date, Engine, Hybrid

With the latest generation of Subaru will soon prepare to issue their flagship SUV that will be ready for sale later in the year 2020. Rumors are circulating about the information this car is still very little. But we managed to get some information that would be helpful to know how this car will be issued. Subaru has been known to many as the best car produced.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Release date

This SUV is equipped with several features that will really help you. The release date for 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is still a rumor, we will deal with him later. The engine performance will be back on the increase, what is the hybrid variant will be available we have yet to know us. The competitors of this car like the Mazda CX-3 and no more Jeep Renegade will be ready to compete.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Interior and exterior

Over the initial glance, there might not a lot of variations from this car to other automobiles produced by various companies. After further observation, it turns out the car or truck truly has a distinctive exterior design that can’t be identified in other SUV. As an example, the radiator grill of this Subaru Crosstrek is somewhat hidden beneath the firm brand situated on the horizontal accent. The headlight that is definitely situated on the curvy edge has separated design from its radiator grill. Design and style incorporated on the hood are featuring smooth curvature. The roof of 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is curved down gradually in classy form. Each front and rear bumpers make the most of stylish arch style and design.

New interior from the Subaru Crosstrek is no much less sophisticated than what it may possibly be observed within the exterior. It dominates with black shade theme and silver accents at some spot. Along with the stylish impression with the interior, it also makes use of the best materials for passengers’ comfort. Leather upholstering employed on all seats of this SUV is made from high-class materials.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek

The functions on Subaru Crosstrek is packed with a common feature this kind of as audio method and air conditioning. Manufacturer of this motor vehicle recognizes that such an attribute is not really adequate to gain customers’ trust. For that reason, airbag along with other safety capabilities can also be outfitted as well. Those functions will assure the security of one’s family trip.

Engine Performance

The 2.0 liter V4 can create 150 horsepower and 140 lb-ft torque. The manual shifts, as well as the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), is going to be made use of. The initiative has an extensively clean door and it is beneficial using the engine, nonetheless, it is the CVT that should be quite possibly the most well-known option. The moment the manual mode of the CVT is determined, 7 preset proportions are accessible through color scheme palettes.

2020 Subaru Crosstrek Release date and Price

What’s new and change what is available on this car we already discussed. Now for the release date information, to current Subaru has not issued a valid information about the release date for 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. But our speculations say that this car will be in ready by Subaru early in the year 2020 and will probably be on sale by the middle of the year.

For the price is also the same. Subaru to date has not issued a valid information about the price for this car. We hope you are better off waiting for the official confirms the information about the price of Subaru. Our predictions about price information may be available by early next year.

style="display:block"
data-ad-client="ca-pub-8265530360574651"
data-ad-slot="3671259705"
data-ad-format="link">

Check out these Automotive tips

https://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2020-subaru-crosstrek-release-date-engine-hybrid/

Letter From The UK: The Rejection of Autonomous Cars

Letter From The UK: The Rejection of Autonomous Cars “If you build it they will come” may apply to baseball fields but autonomous cars are a different story.
The timeline for autonomous vehicles is right around the corner, but are we moving too fast?
Perhaps autonomy is not the answer we seek? Maybe we are doing more harm than good?
Rejecting Autonomous Cars
Some car makers are claiming they will have autonomous cars on the road by 2020. Perhaps for controlled testing, but otherwise no they won’t, for various reasons. For example, if you were in a position to get all drivers in the UK into a room – admittedly a very big room – and ask them for a round of applause for the coming of the autonomous car you would be met, Dear Reader, with the sound of resounding silence.
Sure, you might hear a ‘Whoop!’ from the cheap seats but that will just be the inevitable techno-nerd in the room.
With all the other things we have to worry about: Brexit, inept and cowardly politicians, plastic pollution, and gender issues to name but four, most Brits could not give a hoot nor a holler neither for the autonomous car.
Hybrids To The Rescue?
Over the last few years our government has been offering a special grant to car buyers, often of several thousand of our British Pounds, to encourage drivers to buy into PHEV hybrid technology, seen as the forerunner to full autonomy.
Well, we took full advantage of that, especially business users, who saved a lot of money. But a recent survey finds most of the charging cables are still wrapped up in the trunk and have never been used. Many of these cars are not being charged at all; thus vehicles that could achieve well over 100 miles per gallon if correctly deployed are in fact only averaging 39.27 mpg, according to the The Miles Consultancy.
The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), which represents many fleets, explains, “higher taxes on diesel cars incentivized companies to buy plug-ins, even if they had no intention of using their electric capability.” This is how consciously we think about the environment and how, as a consequence, autonomous cars will likely be perceived. Too expensive to be viable for the average wage earner as anyone who has flicked through a Tesla catalogue will tell you.
Related: Everything you need to know before purchasing an electric vehicle.

Infrastructure Woes
Ours is an old country. Many of its roads and byways were first established during the Roman occupation of Britain. Narrow country lanes mix with ‘B’ roads, ‘A’ Roads, and motorways to criss-cross the land. It is a very convoluted, very broken, and pothole strewn system, currently well beyond the ability of the National purse to fund repairs. Never mind the cost of deploying all the roadside technology that will ultimately be needed.
It simply cannot be done.
Certainly we do currently enjoy partial autonomy in existing cars, particularly in their ability to react to certain dangers, but there is some considerable variance between different manufacturer’s driver assistance technology. There is no conformity to a set of standards. Very many cars today enjoy adaptive cruise control, for example, where you can set how close you get to the car in front but some systems are more conservative than others. Drivers still have to remain fully alert.
Unleashing these self-driving vehicles onto our roads too soon is a recipe for disaster.Click To TweetToo Much Too Soon?
The fact is that even the latest autopilots and AI are nowhere near ready for 2020 and mixing it with regular traffic?
It’s all talk.
I have been reading a lot on this subject written by freelance, non-aligned colleagues far more qualified than me to speak intelligently on matters of critical safety software. Always allowing for my ability to stay awake when people discuss autonomous cars, of course. The consensus is, they can’t do it except in controlled tests. Unleashing these self-driving vehicles onto our roads too soon is a recipe for disaster. In MY opinion.
Related: A recent AAA study finds most consumers are afraid of autonomous cars.

The Court of Public Opinion
Ultimately the public will decide. Within their limitations, electric cars are starting to gain popularity. This writer likes them for their instant responsiveness and finds them enjoyable to drive and that’s the point: I am still the driver at the wheel.
With all our many and various failings as drivers we still want to be in control of our own destinies. This is what car manufacturers can’t quite grasp. Clearly, their first objective is to make money and that requires some considerable long-term financial investments, but it is my belief they are throwing money away by trying to promote an autonomous future for the simple reason that most of us don’t want it.
When The Machine Stops
It goes without saying though that at some point in the distant future, in an increasingly authoritarian world, our descendants, like it or not, will be riding around in autonomous shuttles at a fixed speed because the state says so. For now though, I commend to you a short story, written presciently in 1909 by E.M. Forster called The Machine Stops, then wonder how far down this road we really want to go.
My question to manufacturers: You might be able to make it, but first you should ask if people want it.
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

https://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/letter-from-the-uk-the-rejection-of-autonomous-cars/

New Study Examines Top States For EV Owners (It’s Not California)

New Study Examines Top States For EV Owners (It’s Not California) A recent study by YourMechanic examines the top states for EV owners.
The study measures how convenient ownership is for residents in each state.
Would you consider driving an EV in your home state? Let us know on Twitter.
It seems like a rather easy question to answer: which states love electric vehicles the most? You’d think it would be Cali – shoot, I’d think it would be Cali – but we’d all be wrong. At least that’s what a new study from YourMechanic points out. Their study analyzes the electric car’s integration into each U.S. state, and the state that digs EVs the most is . . .
Oklahoma. No, seriously, Oklahoma is one of the top states for EV owners.
Okay.
By The Numbers
YourMechanic gathered charging costs, number of charging stations, sales figures, EV market share, and other various statistics for the study. They then folded it all together to rank each state by their acceptance levels of the electric car, and how convenient it is for owners there. Like me, they thought it was going to be California, but it actually turns out to be Oklahoma!
EV sales in Oklahoma have ballooned more than 167 percent, one of the factors landing them at the top spot. My state, Washington, sits at 23 (!) on the list. Surprising given the number of Teslas and Leafs I see around here (and I live out in the sticks). Bottom of the list: Wisconsin. No, I have no idea either. California, in case you’re wondering, doesn’t even make the top 25. They live at 27.
YourMechanic tags the lowly placement of Cali down to saturation of the market. Which I can’t really disagree with. Last time I drove through there, about two weeks ago, there were a lot of EVs on the road. So if nearly everybody’s got one, who are you going to sell to?

Considering an EV? Read this simple but comprehensive guide first.
Top Models
YourMechanic also broke down brand popularity by state, and that was interesting too. No, it wasn’t Tesla across the board. Tesla is the king in only 12 states, leading the way in California naturally. Interestingly, in Oregon and Washington, the Kia Soul EV is number one. What’s interesting are the outlier states. The only place that likes the Ford Fusion Energi? Kansas. The only place that likes the Mitsubishi i-MiEV? Illinois. Strange.
Almost as strange as the Mitsubishi i-MiEV itself; they still make those?
Gas Versus Electric
The study also looks at the cost of juicing up your EV versus filling your tank. Louisiana is one of the top states for EV owners on this metric. There you save $1.70 per gallon over dino-juice. Washington comes in second (saving you a total of $2.40), but that has more to do with Washington’s amazingly cheap electricity (all that rain runs into a whole bunch of rivers that have a huge number of hydroelectric dams).
The bottom of the list – that is Hawaii – is there for the exact inverse of Washington: electricity is expensive in that tropical paradise. Of course, given the amount of sunlight that falls on Hawaii, you’d think a smart EV owner could get some solar panels on the roof of their hale and charge their Tesla for free.
California was also near the bottom, relative to other states, with regard to fuel costs. Average EV fueling cost per e-gallon is $1.72, which lands The Golden State at 44.
Despite range anxiety, Americans are warming up to EVs a recent study finds.

Infrastructure & Accessibility
The state with the best number of public charging stations per person? Vermont with 165. That works out to one station per 3,780 Vermonters (is that what you call them?). The worst is Alaska with nine. I mean nine charging stations total in the state. I’d bet you a loaf of sourdough all nine are in Anchorage.
Alaska has to be the worst case scenario for EVs too. The extreme cold draining batteries, the sparseness of the population, lack of infrastructure over the vast majority of the land; everything about it would make it the proving ground for EVs. If I were an EV builder, I’d be thinking, “Make it work in Alaska, and everything else will be a snap.”

I'd bet you a loaf of sourdough all nine of those chargers are in Anchorage.Click To TweetMarket Share
Looking at EV market share per state is where things make more sense. Cali is number one with over five percent of the vehicles on the road being EVs. Washington, number two, with 2.51%, Oregon at third with 2.36% The lowest? Mississippi with only 0.10% of the cars on the road being electric. Shoot, in ol’ Miss, they probably think EVs are some sort of Commie plot funded by George Soros. Woe unto the poor EV drivers in Mississippi.
Bottom line, somehow, is if you live in Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweeping down the plains, look into an EV. It’s definitely one of the top states for EV owners.
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
Cover Photo: Honda North America.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/new-study-examines-top-states-for-ev-owners-its-not-california/

2019 Hyundai Veloster N: Does It Bite Or Just Bark?

2019 Hyundai Veloster N: Does It Bite Or Just Bark? The 2019 Hyundai Veloster N has a number of suspension enhancements for the track.
A “standard” engine is available, although the larger 2.0-liter turbo will warrant better performance.
Looks like Hyundai is serious about this whole N business. All the cool kids got their in-house performance shops: Audi has the S and RS models, Merc has AMG, Cadillac has the V Series, and so on. Now Hyundai (of all people) wants a piece of that pie. Ergo, we are now faced with the 2019 Hyundai Veloster N.
The overriding question: does this mean it goes faster, or is it just a bunch of trim?
On The Clock
The Korean car manufacturing giant went so far as to roll out the Veloster N at Thunderhill Raceway. Not a bad little track, to be sure, and it’s also a good way for Hyundai to say,“We’re serious about this performance stuff.” The other side of that coin is how this is a race track buddy. You better be serious, because the stopwatch don’t lie.
Engine & Transmission
Starting with the lump, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster N comes with a larger 2.0-liter turbo with direct-injection versus the “normal” Veloster Turbo. The N branded mill is good enough for 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. o’torque. The inter-cooler is separated from the condenser and radiator for better charge cooling. The induction system has a “two-stage” setup for maximum output at all rpm ranges. Hyundai doesn’t go into detail, but I surmise it some sort of V-Tec/VVTi sort of deal, or perhaps they monkeying with the intake runner length somehow?
There’s also a “standard” Veloster N powertrain putting out 250 ponies and the same torque, but why would you want that? Shoot, why would Hyundai even offer it?
That high-output plant is hooked to a close-ratio, short-throw six-speed manual with downshift rev-matching. The synchro rings are carbon-coated and the gears are reinforced for smoother operation and lower shift force. The N’s clutch has a double-layer facing disc design for increased strength and torque handling.
A special “load-transfer suspension” reduces unnecessary dive during braking, while also enhancing control through corners. The load-transfer design also reduces compression in the rear suspension under acceleration. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Now Hyundai (of all people) wants a piece of that pie. Ergo, we are now faced with the 2019 Hyundai Veloster N.Click To TweetExhaust System
When it comes to getting the bad air out, there’s a multi-mode, high-flow active sport exhaust system with a variable exhaust actuator. If you flip the exhaust into “N mode” you get a nice engine over-run exhaust crackle during up-shifts and rev-matched downshifts. Hyundai does this with an Electronic Sound Generator that “enhances the natural powertrain sound for an even sportier driving resonance between the engine and the driver.”
You know what would have worked even better Hyundai? A good, straight exhaust system without all the monkey business. Would’a saved weight too. In case you’re interested, the Veloster N gets 22 city, 28 highway, and 25 combined mpg.
Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Steering & Suspension
The 2019 Hyundai Veloster N is more than just an engine, thankfully. The Veloster N’s Power Sense Axle geometry has a zero-scrub radius for more precise steering, quicker response, and a direct on-center feel. The power steering system is rack-mounted and secured in three spots for “reduced flex,” especially during high-performance driving.
An available, electronically-controlled torque-vectoring system is there via the N Corner-Carving Limited-Slip Differential (ha!). This enhances launch performance and maximizes cornering speed. However, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster N also serves up a wide range of driver tuning via the “N Grin Control System.” No, seriously: N Grin Control System? Just stop.
Anyhoo, modes include Normal, Sport, N, Eco, and N Custom. Each of these change the throttle response, rev-matching, exhaust note, active differential tuning, suspension damping rates, steering feel, and yaw-control. The N Custom mode lets you tweak stuff to your individual desires.
Braking comes via 13.6-inch rotors in front and 12.4-inchers at the rear.
2019 Hyundai Veloster N. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
Styling & Design
In the looks department – because you want everyone to know you’re driving a special Hyundai, don’t you – the Veloster N has a unique fascia and grille with brake cooling air ducts. LED headlamps and 19-inch star-design wheels, of course. The 235/35R19 Pirelli P-Zero summer tires are an exclusive compound, says Hyundai.
Of course there’s a rear spoiler, integrated diffuser, and LED tail lamps.
Color Palette
The 2019 Hyundai Veloster N comes in four colors: Ultra Black, Chalk White, Racing Red, and Performance Blue. The interior is basically black with unique molding accents to match the exterior color. Special N-treatments include the cloth sport seats (with hefty bolstering), steering wheel, shift knob, door sill plates, and instrument cluster.
2019 Hyundai Veloster N interior layout. Photo: Hyundai Motor America.
You want everyone to know you're driving a special Hyundai, don't you?Click To TweetAll Said & Done . . .
So? Does all this add up to less time per lap? Dunno. Hyundai needs to get us a couple of these so we can run it back-to-back with other factory hotrods of the import-tuner variety. Until then, we will just have to guess at how good or bad the 2019 Hyundai Veloster N will be.
If nothing else, the 2019 Hyundai Veloster N is now part of Forza Motorsports.
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz
2019 Hyundai Veloster N Gallery

Photos & Source: Hyundai Motor America.

Check out these Automotive tips

http://carsecret.atspace.eu/blog/2019-hyundai-veloster-n-does-it-bite-or-just-bark/