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A Comparison between Premium and Regular Gas

Ever ponder what makes regular gas different from premium gas? We go over the main distinctions and which is ideal for your car.

 

While most automobiles use regular, others need premium. There is some confusion regarding the differences between these two kinds of gasoline, which has resulted in some unnecessary expenditure at the pump. Continue reading if you’re unsure about what to put in your car’s gas tank. Your pocketbook may appreciate it.

 

What distinguishes standard gas from premium gas, then?

 

In most areas, regular gas has an octane rating of 87, whereas premium gas frequently has a higher rating of 91 or 93. Higher octane fuels are able to withstand increased compression levels before exploding. In essence, the chance that a detonation may occur at the incorrect time decreases with increasing octane grade. Sometimes, this kind of thing won’t damage your car. On the other hand, if it occurs frequently, the performance of your engine may degrade more quickly.

 

For optimum performance and fuel economy, engines with high compression ratios or turbochargers frequently need high octane gasoline, which is available in premium gas. Still, the vast majority of modern cars are designed to run on ordinary gas.

 

If standard fuel will do for your car and premium is not needed, use it.

 

For something you don’t need, why spend a lot of money? Premium gasoline is roughly fifty cents more expensive per gallon than normal and has no effect on vehicles that aren’t able to use it. The Federal Trade Commission states in a consumer advisory that there is typically no benefit to using gasoline that is higher in octane than what the owner’s manual suggests. Your automobile won’t run cleaner, go quicker, get better mileage, or perform better thanks to it.

 

The detergent chemicals in your fuel, which help clean your engine and maximize performance, are significantly more significant than the octane rating. Every merchant uses a different combination of additives that are applied to all grades. For instance, Chevron offers Techron in both normal and premium gasoline.

 

Some have higher standards for themselves when it comes to additives. The Top Tier Gasoline standard was developed with assistance from BMW, General Motors, Honda, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Audi. It requires a higher percentage of detergent additive than the EPA minimum criteria. They assert that engine parts, such as fuel injectors and intake valves, may accumulate more deposits when detergent additive concentrations are lower. Emissions may rise and engine performance may be decreased as a result.j

 

Fill up with premium if your car needs it.

 

Higher octane fuel is usually needed in engines with a high compression ratio in order to attain the desired level of performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. Do not cut corners if your car needs premium gas. Although you may save money on gas, the power and fuel efficiency of your car may decrease. When it comes to cars with accessible turbocharged engines, this can really make a difference.

 

What happens if the premium gas that your car needs isn’t available? While low-octane fuel may cause engine knock in older vehicles, contemporary vehicles are fitted with sensors that are monitored by the engine computer to help prevent knock and consequent engine damage. We don’t advise testing your car frequently, but it should be OK to run on normal once in a while as the engine’s computer can adjust the ignition timing.

 

A modern vehicle’s ECU (Electronic Control Unit) can recognize and adapt for varying octane levels when you use fuel that isn’t as high or as necessary. It’s likely that when CO2 emissions rise, your horsepower and MPG will decrease. You get what you paid for in this case, even though you might save money on gas.

 

You can choose to stick with premium if your automobile only suggests that.

 

The Ford F-150 and Mazda MX-5 Miata are two examples of cars where automakers advise using premium gas but do not mandate it. According to AAA research, these cars’ performance and fuel efficiency somewhat increased when they were running premium petrol. Premium petrol can highlight the intended features of your vehicle, whether you drive a luxury or performance car.

 

But you can run on ordinary if your owner’s handbook states that “premium fuel recommended.” Commuters trying to go from point A to point B might not notice or care, depending on what and how they drive. It all boils down to personal preference in the end. Your vehicle, your guidelines.

 

Do you need suggestions for fuel-efficient cars?

 

It can be challenging to investigate every car that is available for sale, especially with gas prices rising. Check out these vehicle choices that use little to no petroleum to make things easier!

2023 Thanksgiving Football Game 4-Day Trips

There are lots of things to do outside the stadium, even though the game may be the main reason you are traveling.

 

Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate football, food, and family. This year, Detroit, Arlington, Seattle, and East Rutherford will all host NFL games on that Thursday and Friday. We can complete your schedule if you’re going to one of them, or at the very least, keep the family occupied while you’re tailgating.

 

Dalliance in Dallas

 

For fans traveling to AT&T Stadium to see the Dallas Cowboys play the Washington Commanders on Thanksgiving, Dallas is the logical place to stay. However, Waco can be reached in approximately an hour and a half by driving south on Interstate 35 if you have a day or two to explore. Visitors can enjoy many attractions in this hip town. The Silo District, which consists of two blocks of white-painted, black-lettered buildings, is the place to go shopping. The renowned Magnolia Market and other restaurants and stores were brought back to life by Chip and Joanna Gaines, the stars of HGTV’s “Fixer Upper.” You could even wish to enrol in the related tour if you’re a fan of the show.

 

There is also some geologic history in this part of Texas. Only a few locations in the United States have fossils of mammoths, who roamed the area 20,000 years ago, and the Waco Mammoth National Monument is one of them.

 

Are you in need of something a little more modern? There are many fascinating museums in Waco, such as:

 

The Martin Museum of Art is situated on the Baylor University campus.

 

Constructed in a 1906 bottling plant, the Dr Pepper Museum

 

The Texas Sports Hall of Fame, home to artifacts from more than 400 honorees

 

The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum offers information on how law enforcement was carried out in the Old West.

 

We recommend dining at Union Hall, which is located downtown and offers over a dozen dining options, so there’s sure to be something for every member of your party.

 

Wandering about Metro Detroit

 

If you want to fully appreciate the last few leaves of autumn leaf-peeping, drive to Ann Arbor’s Nichols Arboretum instead of sitting at Ford Field watching the Lions lose to the Green Bay Packers. If you’re in this college town (which is home to the University of Michigan), you can visit the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology or UMMA to satisfy your cultural cravings.

 

Take a lunch break at Jolly Pumpkin, a sour beer specialist with a large seasonal menu, in Downtown Ann Arbor, just a few miles away. We advise picking up a few bottles to go even if you’re not hungry. Gandy Dancer, located in a historic rail station from the 1880s, is a great option for steak and seafood for dinner. Alternatively, try Sava’s for a more contemporary food and excellent cocktails.

 

Require a place to remain? Leave your belongings at the boutique hotel Exhibit A2, which is located right in the center of the city. Get up early the following day to have a substantial breakfast at Zingerman’s Delicatessen, where the wait is always worthwhile.

 

Make a quick stop in nearby Dexter for some cider and doughnuts for the road before returning the way you came. Dating back to 1886, the Dexter Cider Mill is the oldest continuously operating facility in the state, demonstrating their expertise in the industry.

 

Ferry leaving Seattle

 

There’s nowhere better than charming Whidbey Island to get away from the bustle of the city after seeing the Seattle Seahawks play the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field. Seattle is only 40 miles away, but it feels like a world apart.

 

The easiest way to get there is by ferry, which departs from Mukilteo. It can get chilly crossing Possession Sound in November, so dress warmly. After being dropped off at Clinton by the ferry, go to Langley. Wine lovers should check out Comforts of Whidbey, a stylish farmhouse-style B&B and tasting room. Enjoy the delicious seafood in the region by having dinner at Saltwater Fish House and Oyster Bar. Spend the following morning at The Braeburn, which offers a substantial breakfast, if you want to remain the night.

 

While returning to the city, think about stopping at Boeing Future of Flight, where you can see, among other things, aircraft that are still under construction.

 

Living the Good Life in the Upstate

 

Head upstate to Hyde Park, long the playground of the elite, during this time of year if you’re in or near the Big Apple for the Thanksgiving Day parade or the Miami Dolphins-New York Jets game the next day. See the opulent home of Frederick Vanderbilt to truly get the meaning of “excess.” Consider touring the expansive residence and Presidential Library of Franklin D. Roosevelt. While it may not be as visually stunning as the Vanderbilt home, it is undoubtedly more significant historically. Since only guided tours are available to access these locations, we advise purchasing your tickets in advance.

 

In addition to the Roosevelt Inn, one of the few hotels in the neighborhood, there are a number of bed and breakfasts in the vicinity. The Culinary Institute America’s New York campus is located in Hyde Park and is open for visits multiple times a week.

Five Reasons to Consider Buying a Used Electric Car

See if buying a secondhand electric car makes sense for you, given its low initial cost and little ongoing maintenance requirements.

 

Because car costs have increased in recent years, affordability has become a major concern for many consumers. A used electric car can be worth a deeper look if you’re in the market for a car and want to reduce your overall transportation expenses.

 

Here are five reasons to think about purchasing a used electric vehicle:

 

1. Reduced Selling Price

 

A new car bought through SimpSocial typically costs about $48,000, while a used car costs about $30,000. However, less-mileage all-electric cars such as the Nissan Leaf, Kia Soul EV, Fiat 500e, and Volkswagen e-Golf from recent model years are frequently available for around $15,000.

 

2. Reduced Fuel Prices

 

Although the cost of gas and electricity varies, historically, electricity has been a less expensive energy source for cars than gasoline.

 

In general, driving an electric vehicle can be around half as expensive as driving a comparable gasoline vehicle, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Drivers of electric vehicles pay $1.22, based on national statistics, to go the same distance on one gallon of fuel as a conventional automobile.

 

The amount of money you can save by driving an electric vehicle increases as petrol prices rise. This is particularly true in places like Los Angeles and New York City where gas prices are higher than the national average.

 

3. Lower Upkeep Expenses

 

Compared to electric automobiles, conventional gas-powered vehicles frequently require more maintenance. An investigation by Consumer Reports indicates that owners of electric vehicles should anticipate lower repair and maintenance expenses than those of a typical all-gas vehicle.

 

Marse Kingsberry, a 2019 Nissan Leaf owner, claims that having to spend less time and money on maintenance has made it almost a given that he will buy an all-electric vehicle for himself and his family. Kingsberry said to SimpSocial, “I’m going to hit 50,000 miles, and the only work I’ve needed to do is replace my windshield wipers, cabin filter, and occasionally rotate my tires.”

 

Although Kingsberry occasionally misses the performance of the foreign luxury automobile he possessed before purchasing the Nissan Leaf, he observes that the overall cost savings make the trade-off worthwhile. Finding locations to charge requires planning. It’s noteworthy that a lot of the most recent EVs have outstanding performance ratings; you can read more about that here.

 

4. Tax Incentives

 

Customers who purchase specific used electric vehicles that are over two years old and cost $25,000 or less may be eligible for a tax credit of up to $4,000 starting on January 1st, 2023. This credit can save you money on tax filing fees, but it won’t result in a lower monthly payment or sales price.

 

Our most recent piece delves deeply into all the details you require to understand more about federal EV tax credits.

 

5. More Charging Stations

 

There exists range anxiety. But there are upcoming remedies that might allay that fear.

 

The White House unveiled a proposal in February 2023 to expand the country’s current supply of public charging stations, which total more than 130,000.

 

Additionally, Tesla is going to allow non-Tesla EVs to use a portion of its U.S. Supercharger Destination Charge network.

 

Other automakers are joining up with the White House and Tesla to increase the number of public charging stations available.

 

Businesses outside the auto industry, such as Starbucks, Subway, and 7-Eleven, have pledged to contribute to the expansion of the charger network, giving EV drivers additional options for charging their cars while they are in stores.

 

In summary, EV charging should becoming easier for cars traveling across town or the nation in the upcoming months and years.

 

Says SimpSocial:

 

Investing in a used all-electric car could be wise for those who can make it work. Together, low maintenance costs, lower fuel expenses, tax credit opportunities, and an alluring purchase price can help to lower the total cost of car ownership.

 

Are you considering an EV but still need additional details? SimpSocial is here to help. You may quickly and simply learn about tax benefits, the variations in EV range, and even the ins and outs of charging speeds by visiting our EV Hub.

Quick Facts About the Clean Vehicle Credit Plan

The selection of cars eligible for tax credits has drastically decreased.

 

The United States, Canada, or Mexico must be the assembly location of the qualified automobiles in order to comply with the new regulations. However, the rule was intended to make that provision effective on the date the President signed the law, or the “enactment” date, which was August 16, rather than on January 1st, when the remainder of the plan goes into effect.

 

So the majority of brand-new, clean automobiles and trucks will be more expensive to purchase?

 

On that one, the jury is still out. Under the new program, automakers whose vehicles are no longer eligible for tax credits may choose to decrease their prices or provide their own incentives in an effort to increase sales. But the majority assert that they currently lose money on practically every EV they sell.

 

How can I locate the manufacturing location of a car?

 

The day after the measure was signed, the IRS released a list of EVs and PHEVs that satisfy the North America assembly criteria. Up until January 1st, such models remain eligible under the current tax credit program rules.

 

There are only 16 models on the list out of 65 that met the requirements prior to August 16.

 

Customers must verify a vehicle’s vehicle identifying number, or VIN, to be certain it qualifies for the tax credit right away because some of those models are built in multiple locations, further complicating matters.

 

The number is affixed to the car permanently, usually on a plate that is visible through the windshield. It also needs to be on the window sticker.

 

Customers can utilize the Transportation Department’s VIN Decoder website to view the name and location of the facility where a car was produced; this information appears on the final line of the information that appears. As a result, you can use a smartphone to look for a certain VIN while you’re in the dealer’s showroom or parking lot.

 

What tax credit is available for a clean car that was built in North America?

 

The maximum is $7,500, and it now covers fuel-cell vehicles, or FCEVs, which were previously ineligible for the previous year, as well as plug-in hybrid electric cars, or PHEVs, which frequently had lesser incentive amounts under the current model.

 

The tax credit is divided into two $3,750 portions as of January 1.

 

How is that split operating?

 

An electrified vehicle must have some of its battery minerals mined or processed in the United States or one of the countries with which the United States has free trade agreements, after fulfilling the North American manufacturing requirement. Alternatively, minerals from discarded batteries in North America can be used. That amounts to half of the maximum $7,500.

 

The remaining half of the battery requires that all of its parts be produced or put together in North America. According to the regulation, automakers must demonstrate that at least 40% of a model’s battery-critical minerals come from recognized countries in order for the model to be eligible for half of the clean car tax credit from January 1. This increases annually by 10 percentage points to reach a maximum requirement of 80% by 2028 and beyond.

 

Receiving credit for fulfilling one set of requirements does not rely on fulfilling another because it is an either/or system.

 

Do you need to catch up with the Clean Vehicle Credit program? Check out this article series’ parts 1 and 2 as well.

California’s Upcoming Gasoline Vehicle Ban: Key Facts

Is the Golden State putting our competition to shame?

 

What comes next after California revealed its intention to outlaw the sale of brand-new gas-only vehicles and light trucks? You may have inquiries.

 

What other states will do the same? Even though I don’t need a new gas-powered car just yet, should I get one now? How much will automobiles cost?

 

We have solutions!

 

Not for everything; the Advanced Clean Cars II measure still needs some final wording to be worked out. However, here is what is known about how it will probably impact automobile buyers in the future, both inside and outside of California.

 

The prohibition begins when?

 

In calendar year 2035, the total ban—no new gas-only cars at dealerships—comes into force. But starting in 2026, it is implemented gradually over a ten-year period.

 

In California, EV sales currently make up roughly 16% of total sales of new cars. According to the new regulation, by 2026, at least 35% of new passenger cars and light trucks sold at state dealerships must be electric.

 

Every year after 2027, the proportion increases: 43% in 2027, 51% in 2028, 59% in 2029, 68% in 2030, 76% in 2031, 82% in 2032, 88% in 2033, 94% in 2034, and 100% in 2035.

 

Why is the qualification “gas-only”?

 

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) potentially make up as much as 20% of new light vehicle sales even during the period while the ban is in effect. These vehicles come equipped with both electric and gas engines. This implies that beyond 2035, one in five new cars manufactured in California and other places with gas bans might still be running on gasoline.

 

But PHEVs will need to be more efficient and cleaner than they are now. They will need to produce at least 50 miles of all-electric range, among other new requirements. Currently leading that class is the Toyota RAV4 Prime, which has an all-electric range of 42 miles.

 

Does the prohibition apply outside of California?

 

Not quite yet. However, 17 other states have incorporated all or a portion of California’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) laws and vehicle emissions requirements, and they are all free to include the gas ban in their own regulations. As stated by Washington, Oregon, New York, and Massachusetts, nearly all of the so-called ZEV states are expected to eventually follow suit, according to most analysts.

 

This is significant because the ZEV states collectively sell over 40% of all new passenger cars sold in the United States. When they work together, they can have a significant impact on automakers.

 

Another, more significant effect might be that automakers won’t want to produce different types of vehicles for the “gas-ban” states and the rest of the nation. Federal regulators have absorbed numerous California regulations into national policies ever since Congress granted California the authority to create its own, more stringent pollution requirements than those set by the federal government in the 1970 Clean Air Act.

 

Does this imply that drivers in California will have to give up their gas-powered cars?

 

One of the various all-electric car alternatives available today is the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

 

Not exactly. Only new gas-only model dealership sales are prohibited by California’s ban.

 

Used vehicles and trucks are freely sold, and new gas vehicles bought in other states may still be registered in California unless a specific regulation is in place. However, if they are not certified to meet whatever California emissions regulations are in effect at the time, they will need to have at least 7,500 miles on the odometer.

The Financial Benefits of Using Electric Cars

There’s plenty to get excited about.

 

The future appears increasingly electric as more automakers vary their portfolios with zero-emission vehicles. And now is a better time than ever to acquire an electric car because to the quick developments in battery technology. Here are several ways that cars with zero emissions can be more cost-effective than those that run on gasoline.

 

Never again fill up

 

While gas and energy costs will differ based on where you live, in general, charging an electric car will be far less expensive than filling up at the pump. When EV owners charge at home instead of using gas, they can save up to $1,000 annually, according to Consumer Reports.

 

If your commute is short and you don’t drive frequently, you might be able to charge your electric car using a regular 120-volt outlet. A Level 2 charger with a 240-volt rating, on the other hand, may deliver power considerably more quickly. This equipment can be purchased for as little as $300 to as much as $1,200, not including installation. In case you decide that you require a charging station at your residence, don’t neglect to consider this. It should be mentioned that installing a home charger frequently costs more than the device itself. The good news is that electricity companies might provide refunds to partially cover the additional costs.

 

Additionally, public charging stations allow you to plug in. Prices are often determined by how long it takes to charge your car, but this is not a set standard. California has made it mandatory for newly constructed charging stations to price in kilowatt-hours rather than minutes. Level 2 charging will start in 2021, and DC fast charging will follow in 2023. It’s a positive development, and we wouldn’t be shocked if additional states did the same.

 

Lower Maintenance Expenses

 

Since they are still seen as premium goods, electric cars are expensive. But because they don’t have internal combustion and have fewer moving components, they also require less long-term maintenance. According to a Consumer Reports research, EV owners save an average of $4,600 on maintenance over the course of the vehicle’s lifetime. This implies that EV owners pay half as much on maintenance as owners of gasoline-powered vehicles.

 

Similar to cell phones, lithium ion batteries power modern electric cars. This implies that with time, their charging capacity will deteriorate. Although an EV battery might cost up to $5,500 on average to replace, they can also survive for up to ten years before needing this maintenance. Therefore, you might be surprised to learn that keeping an electric car is more economical if you want to use it for a long time.

 

Additionally, manufacturers typically provide longer warranties for electric cars. Many electric cars come with six-year warranties; some even have unlimited mileage, such as the BMW i3 and Hyundai Kona Electric. Furthermore, batteries for electric vehicles must be covered by a warranty for eight years or 100,000 miles under federal law. It’s safe to assume that you can feel secure about buying an electric car with that level of coverage.

 

Rebates, Tax Credits, and Additional Incentives

 

If you purchase a new electric or plug-in hybrid car that satisfies rules regarding battery materials and other content and was produced in North America, you might be qualified for federal tax credits of up to $7,500. Only $3,750 is available to vehicles that can only meet one of the two battery criteria; vehicles that meet both requirements are eligible for the entire amount. The tax credit will be paid to the automaker if you lease your car, but your monthly payment will usually show some savings. Though it happens less frequently now, this does still happen. Inquire about the Federal Tax Credit if you lease an electric car, fuel-cell electric vehicle, or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.

 

Additionally, there may be state incentives available for your new electric vehicle, depending on where you live. These can include extra tax breaks, cash back offers, installation expenses for home chargers, and access to HOV lanes. Check your state’s rules and incentives in your area to discover what you might be eligible for.

 

Time Is Cash

 

You may be surprised to learn how much time an electric car can save you. You may recharge at home, just like you would with your phone, to save wasting time at the petrol station. Additionally, it’s getting simpler to plug in at work or when running errands thanks to the nation’s rapidly growing EV charging infrastructure.

 

You should also anticipate spending less time stuck in traffic if you reside in a state where electric vehicles are permitted to use the HOV lane. For instance, using the HOV lane can save a Houston commuter between 12 and 22 minutes each way, which can mount up over the course of a year. That means you’ll be moving more and wishing you were in the carpool lane less.

 

You also won’t have to spend as much time at the dealership service department or with the mechanic because there will be fewer parts to maintain. Bid farewell to oil changes. While regular maintenance is still necessary, such as tire rotations and wiper replacements, the amount of care needed for electric vehicles is significantly less than that of conventional cars.

 

What Concerns Used Electric Vehicles?

 

As electric vehicles gain popularity, it also becomes more straightforward to purchase a secondhand one. If you choose this path, you will not be eligible for federal and state subsidies, but purchasing a secondhand electric car has many other fantastic benefits. While some of them are evident, others aren’t.

 

Depreciation makes for fantastic bargains, and many of the most well-liked electric cars are now available at reduced prices. This includes the Tesla Model S, many of which still have warranties on their batteries. The Chevy Bolt is reasonably priced and offers a range of more than 200 miles for individuals with a limited budget. See our guide to the six well-known cars that are also offered as electric vehicles if you’re seeking for names that seem familiar.

 

Naturally, it’s not just about the money. Purchasing a secondhand electric vehicle reduces your carbon footprint even more than driving an electric car. Purchasing a used car helps a vehicle that has already been created live longer because producing a new one uses resources and produces pollution. Mark that as a twofold victory.

Top Pre-Owned Electric Cars Under $20,000

Considering switching to electricity? Purchasing a used electric vehicle (EV) can help you go green and save money.

 

Owning an electric vehicle is becoming more and more appealing as they gain popularity. However, the idea of purchasing a new EV could seem far off given the rising interest rates and supply disruptions around the world. Don’t worry, though; used EVs are a different story. Using our data, we have identified outstanding used electric cars under $20,000. Bid farewell to waiting and enter the world of reasonably priced electric vehicle ownership.

 

How We Choose the Automobiles

 

The sheer quantity of used electric vehicles on the market may surprise you. All seven of the cars on our list are hatchbacks, which we personally selected. Due to its extreme practicality, hatchbacks are really the most common type of electric vehicle (EV) on the market today. These vehicles combine lightweight construction, streamlined aerodynamics, and roomy cabins to maximize fuel efficiency and provide plenty of space for both people and freight.

 

Additionally, all of these models, in excellent condition and with low mileage, can be purchased for less than $20,000 in the majority of countries. These may not be covered by warranty, but their batteries are still powerful because they were made within the last ten years.

 

There are more possibilities than ever before for individuals looking to purchase an EV. However, purchasing new might be costly. Some of our favorite used models are these seven:

 

2014–2018 BMW i3

 

Performance is usually given less importance to efficiency in electric vehicles, but the BMW i3 defies this norm. It has firm brakes, superb handling, and rapid acceleration—all hallmarks of a classic BMW. BMW first offered an electric range of just 81 miles before introducing a novel solution in the form of a range extender. Built with a small 0.6-cylinder gas engine and a 1.9-gallon fuel tank, it made lengthy drives more comfortable, even if it changed the i3 from being a totally electric car to a plug-in hybrid. The BMW i3 revolutionized electric driving dynamics with its 170 horsepower and traditional German engineering.

 

2014–2016 Chevrolet Spark EV

 

Go no farther than the Chevrolet Spark EV if you define an electric vehicle as having quick acceleration and instantaneous torque off the line. Even if the Spark EV isn’t as quick as an actual car—say, a Corvette—it’s still a cute hatchback with a sophisticated party trick: 400 pound-feet of torque. The Spark EV can quickly get you around town thanks to its immense pulling power. Along with the 140 horsepower, keyless entry, heated front seats, and in-car Wi-Fi and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, there are many other features on board. Although its small size and mini-locomotive maneuvers make it enjoyable to commute in every day, the Spark EV is best suited for shorter trips due to its 82-mile range.

 

2016–2017 Fiat 500e

 

Among electric cars, the Fiat 500e is a distinctive Italian hatchback with style and agility. Its electric motor, with 111 horsepower, provides sufficient speed, and the attached battery pack allows for up to 84 miles of gas-free driving. Being among the smallest automobiles on the road, parking and navigating through traffic are a breeze. The curb weight of the 500e, which is around 600 pounds heavier than the gas 500 due to a plethora of EV technologies, takes away some of the enjoyment. But wherever it travels, the 500e makes a statement thanks to its playful design, distinctive color schemes, and small size. Trade-offs include a compact cabin, little room for cargo, and a restricted selection of driver-assistance systems. Nevertheless, the Fiat 500e is a great option thanks to its peculiarities and go-kart-like performance.

 

2017–2021 Hyundai Ioniq Electric

 

In the latter part of the 2010s, the Hyundai Ioniq became a competitive alternative to the Toyota Prius, which at the time was more popular. It is the people mover equivalent of a Swiss Army knife, with plug-in hybrid, all-electric, and hybrid options. Beyond its drivetrains, the Ioniq’s adaptability is evident in its boxy design, which offers more passenger room than a Prius and standard features like proximity keyless entry, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and automated climate control. The original Ioniq EV had a respectable 124-mile EV range and 118 horsepower, making it more technologically advanced than sporty. It now has 134 horsepower and an amazing 170 miles of range thanks to a 2020 update.

 

Hyundai Soul EV (2017–2019)

 

When the Kia Soul was first released in 2010, its unique form caught people’s attention. Despite having an SUV-like height and boxy shape, it handled and rode like a car. The Soul EV, an electric variant, was available from 2017 to 2019. Along with the many benefits of being emissions-free, it shared the sporty chassis, distinctive styling, and comfortable cabin of the gas-powered Soul. A GPS system, heated front seats, and a 109-horsepower electric drivetrain were among the standout features. Kia increased the ante in 2018 by adding a hands-free power liftgate and extending the range of the Soul EV from 93 to 111 miles. The Soul EV’s personality and high-end technology make it a great choice even though it isn’t the longest-range electric car available for used purchase.

 

Leaf Nissan – 2018–2021

 

Comparable to a dependable toaster oven among electric cars, the Nissan Leaf is well-built and practical but not the most innovative device on the road. When it made its debut in 2011, it immediately gained favor among EVs that were mass-produced, and this popularity has continued over time. Because of its soft seats and intuitive controls, the Leaf was a popular vehicle. This adorable EV underwent a revamp in 2018 that made it a strong competitor with sportier style that matched Nissan’s elegant Altima and Maxima sedans. The electric range was also increased by 40% as a result of that change. With 214 horsepower, an amazing 226-mile range, and a full complement of driver-assistance technologies, the 2019 Plus trims take things to the next level.

 

VW e-Golf: Models from 2015 to 2019

 

Famous for its ingenious design that optimizes interior space inside a compact hatchback structure, the Volkswagen Golf is an iconic vehicle. It’s an excellent city driver thanks to its straightforward design and nimble handling. This user-friendly base laid the groundwork for the 2015–2019 Volkswagen e-Golf, which is an electric vehicle. Choose the later models, especially the 2017–2019 ones, if at all possible. Volkswagen promised improved economy and enjoyment in 2017 when they expanded the electric range from 83 to 125 miles and raised the power from 115 to 134 horsepower. The e-Golf retains the traditional Volkswagen characteristics that we are familiar with, such as its precision handling and professional interior.

 

All Set to Electrify?

 

Electric cars are becoming more and more common. You should anticipate seeing more EVs parked on used car lots as more automakers have committed to producing more of them overall.

Potential Impacts of California’s Gasoline Vehicle Ban

The potential effects of California’s gas-powered vehicle prohibition on your next car purchase.

 

One of the biggest moves toward electrifying cars in the US is California’s 2035 ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered cars. We covered the ins and outs of the gas-powered vehicle ban in part 1, but in this piece, we’ll talk about how the ban might affect the cars you buy in the future.

 

Will the prohibition result in higher petrol car prices?

 

Price is affected by scarcity, and from around 2030, when nearly 70% of new light cars must be electrified, new gas-only models will become rare in the states where the prohibition is in place.

 

As early as 2026, prices for new and used gas automobiles and trucks may rise due to shortage fears.

 

Can I be forced to purchase an EV?

 

Nope. Car manufacturers are only required by the program to offer certain percentages of zero-emission cars (ZEV) for sale at their dealership in California. No one is needed to purchase them.

 

The plan assumes that as gas-only vehicles become less available, EVs continue to get longer in range, and EV manufacturing rises, EVs will become a more appealing option for consumers.

 

Recall that numerous automakers have already committed to switching to all-electric vehicles (including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) by 2035 or earlier, regardless of California’s actions.

 

Which automakers intend to switch to electric vehicles?

 

The majority of the world’s major manufacturers have stated intentions to make EVs and plug-in hybrids a large portion of their sales by or before 2035. General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Honda, Jaguar & Land Rover, and Bentley have all set targets to achieve 100% ZEV (zero-emission vehicles).

 

Stellantis aims to achieve 40% by 2026, Hyundai Motor Group to reach 25% by 2029, BMW to reach 50% by 2030, and Volkswagen to reach 50% by 2035. Ford is planning to transition to a hybrid and fully electric car mix by 2050, adopting a slightly longer outlook.

 

What happens if I decide not to purchase an electric car?

 

In the following three years, you may wish to purchase a new car if your state forbids cars that run solely on gasoline and you are adamant about sticking with gasoline.

 

However, old gas-powered vehicles ought to be widely available for a while. It takes roughly 14 years to “flip the fleet,” so the majority of gas-powered vehicles won’t be off the road until around 2039.

 

And it’s not always the case. Particularly in regions like California with more temperate, auto-friendly climates, certain cars have far longer lifespans than average.

 

Thus, there isn’t currently cause for concern.

 

And keep in mind that, even after 2035, dealers and private sellers will still be permitted to offer used gas-only automobiles and light trucks for sale.

F-150 Lightning vs. Silverado EV Comparison

Which Full-Size Electric Pickup Is the Best?

 

The Chevrolet Silverado EV and Ford F-150 Lightning square off in a vintage Detroit redux. Customers will be able to take delivery of the first model, the F-150 Lightning, in the spring of 2022. Full manufacture of the Silverado EV won’t begin until 2024.

 

Crew Cab, Only Short-Bed

 

The pickups are outfitted as crew cabs with four doors and five seats, and their cargo beds measure between five and eleven feet. They will have two electric drive motors, one for each drive axle, standard all-wheel drive, and four-wheel independent suspension.

 

Ford F-150 Lightning in 2022

 

The carmaker was able to cut costs and expedite the development process by sharing several important components, the interior, and aluminum sheet metal of the Lightning EV with the gas-powered Ford F-150. The big EV battery is positioned between the steel frame rails in a classic body-on-frame design. The cab and bed, like every other full-size F-150 pickup, are two distinct assemblies. At Dearborn, Michigan’s Rouge Electric Vehicle assembly line, production models are already leaving the building.

 

Silverado EV RST 2024

 

Very few elements of the gas-powered Chevrolet Silverado 1500 are shared with the all-new body of the Silverado EV. Interior space is increased by its cab-forward passenger compartment and shorter nose. The Ultium EV battery pack significantly increases rigidity and becomes a structural part of the chassis, joining the steel Silverado cab and bed as one unit.

 

Strength and Efficiency

 

It’s anticipated to be an exciting performance. The Lightning will have a staggering 775 pound-feet of torque and either 426 or 563 horsepower when it launches. It’s hardly hyperbole to say that the 426-hp version’s performance estimations for 0-60 mph acceleration are in the low to mid 4-second range, while the 563-hp version’s performance figures are similar to those of the Mustang Shelby GT500.

 

With 510 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque for fleet use and a top-of-the-line RST variant with up to 664 horsepower and 780 lb-ft of torque when operating in Wide Open Watts mode, Chevrolet has not yet revealed all of the specifications for the Silverado EV. There will be additional, more popular, cuts after this. For the higher output RST model, Chevy predicts that the EV truck will reach 60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds.

 

Range and Battery

 

Depending on the trim level of the truck, the F-150 Lightning can be equipped with one of two large lithium-ion propulsion batteries: a 132-kWh extended-range battery that can go up to 300 miles, or a standard-range 98-kWh battery with a 230-mile range.

 

Only the 200 kWh Ultium battery, an optional feature on the Silverado EV that Chevrolet claims can power the large pickup up to 400 miles on a charge, has been made public. Similar to the Cadillac Lyriq premium SUV, the basic battery for the most of trims will probably be a 100-kWh unit that should provide 250–275 miles of range in the larger Silverado EV.

 

Fast-Charge Stations vs. Home Charging

 

This kind of battery size necessitates having a 240-volt AC power source available for home charging. For the larger 132-kWh battery, Ford offers two mobile chargers: an 80-amp Charge Station Pro that takes eight hours to fully charge, and a 32-amp charger that can do so in 19 hours. The larger Lightning battery can be charged from 15% to 80% capacity in as little as 41 minutes at a 150 kW DC public fast-charge station.

 

With the bigger capacity Ultium battery in the Silverado EV, AC home charging with a high-amp 240-volt charger will be even more crucial. Although the Silverado EV’s home charging speeds for a full recharge have not yet been announced, according to Chevrolet, the vehicle can handle public DC fast chargers up to 350 kW. Additionally, by utilizing a technology that allows the battery pack to be switched from 400 to 800 volts for DC charging, the time it takes to reach 80% can be almost halved.

 

EV Vehicle as a Source of Power

 

In addition to powering these EV pickups, the large battery they run on can also be used to run construction equipment, supply light and entertainment at a campsite, or run a household in the event of a power outage. With one 240-volt outlet in the bed and 120-volt AC outlets in the cab and front trunk, Ford claims the Lightning’s 9.6-kW Pro Power Onboard system can cover most household electrical demands for three days or more. A comparable 10.2-kW EV Powerbase system with 10 off-board AC outlets will be available in the Silverado EV.

 

Cargo & Hauling

 

When fitted with the higher output electric motors, both EV pickups will be able to tow up to 10,000 pounds. But when it comes to payload, the Lightning has a clear advantage because it can carry up to 2,000 pounds, but the Silverado EV can only carry up to 1,300 pounds.

 

Large Cabins with Special Features

 

These electric truck pickups have a largely level floor for a spacious cabin and a sizable (14.1 cubic feet and 400-lb capacity in the Lightning) frunk for storing tools, minor building supplies, luggage, and much more. This is because there is no engine, transmission, driveshaft, fuel tanks, or exhaust system to take up space. Additionally, Super Cruise for the Silverado EV and Blue Cruise for the Lightning will provide semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control for hands-free driving across hundreds of thousands of kilometers on restricted-access highways in the United States and Canada.

 

The top-tier Silverado EV RST variant will come equipped with high-end technologies that were first seen in the GMC Hummer EV truck, like rear steering that can enhance both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability, and electronic air suspension with adjustable ride height for varied terrain. Additionally, General Motors’ five-way multi-configurable tailgate and a midgate panel that opens between the cab and bed to provide over 10 feet of cargo loading capacity will be included with the Silverado RST EV.

 

What Is The Price?

 

With a complete range of trims that includes the fleet-focused Pro ($41,669), moderate XLT ($54,669), well-equipped Lariat ($69,169), and top-of-the-line Platinum ($92,569), the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning is already leaving the factory. Chevrolet will launch the Silverado EV Work Truck in the spring of next year; it is expected to cost $41,595. Fall 2023 will bring the top of the line $106,695 RST, while early 2024 will bring the other trims, including the Trail Boss.

 

What to Purchase

 

As the Silverado EV is a 2024 model, the earliest you can take delivery of it will be in the spring of 2024, two years from now, with the exception of the base Work Truck variant and the six-figure RST, both of which Chevy claims are already sold out. The only options available to you if you’re looking for an electric full-size truck sooner are the F-150 Lightning and the R1T from EV startup Rivian.

First Look: 2023 Subaru Solterra

220 miles is the range of a new EV designed for rugged travelers.

 

In addition to forests, the 2023 Subaru Solterra electric crossover is suitable for rocky ridges, sandy deserts, potholed fire routes, and pretty much anyplace else where there isn’t pavement.

 

It is the Toyota bZ4X clone. Actually, the two businesses worked together to design the compact crossovers.

 

But Subaru is sticking to its usual consumer profile: young outdoor adventurers, while Toyota is targeting the urban commuter population with its mass-market electric vehicle.

 

The Toyota bZ4X and the Solterra have similar sheet metal, interior styling, electric drivetrain, and electric all-wheel-drive system, but the Solterra is a distinct car.

 

Subaru was the partner in charge of the design and engineering of the chassis, suspension, and AWD. They also tuned the suspension of the Solterra to be stiffer and more off-road capable.

 

Toyota vs. Subaru: Differences in Design

 

Nearly every exterior and interior detail of the two cars is the same, yet we believe the Solterra has a little nicer appearance. The color of the Solterra that we observed was less reflecting than the glossier Toyota hues. The character lines and wrinkles of the Solterra appeared softer, however this could just be an optical effect.

 

The two look nearly the same from the side and back. The Subaru has unique LED headlamp design up front. Rather than using the thin, linear lights found on the Toyota, it uses a narrow “C” form on each corner. There are also conventional fog lights on the Solterra.

 

The roofline extends backward with a moderate incline, and the long wheelbase forces the wheels out to the corners for a broad, dynamic stance. There are two short extensions that protrude from the upper edge of the rear liftgate in place of a full-width wind spoiler. It appears as though the middle 75% of a conventional liftgate spoiler has been removed.

 

The same thick black cladding that covers the Subaru Crosstrek is used to the wheel wells. However, the front cladding of the bZ4X and Solterra encircles the headlights. It forms pretty attractive faux air intakes as it descends the front fascia on either side.

 

Subaru also places its emblem in the middle of an area encircled by black trim on the nose of the Solterra to draw attention to it. In contrast, the Toyota’s snout is really simple.

 

Large infotainment touchscreen and a sizable driver information screen, located high in the dash in front of the steering wheel, are integrated within the long, fabric-covered dash. The central console is nearly level.

 

Blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control with full stop-and-go capability, rear cross-traffic alert, pre-collision warning, and crash mitigation with automated emergency braking and throttle control are all included in Subaru’s excellent standard EyeSight advanced safety and driver-assistance system. Subaru’s first model featuring a 360-degree surround-view camera system is the Solterra, which comes in quite handy for off-roading and parking.

 

Wireless charging and connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard features of the infotainment system.

 

Professional Off-Roader

 

All-wheel drive is standard on the Solterra, with one motor driving the front wheels and a separate rear motor spinning the back wheels. Electronic signals determine the optimal torque distribution for every motor.

 

The dual motor configuration, which produces 215 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, will be the same in all versions. The Solterra has enough power to push over mud holes, over logs, and up steep hills on slick gravel trails, but it won’t win any drag races.

 

There aren’t many EVs that can handle rough terrain well. The Toyota bZ4X, which shares the same engine as the Solterra, and the AWD Volkswagen ID.4 with 201 horsepower are potential rivals to the Solterra.

 

The StarDrive power control system and the X-Mode automated off-road traction controller from Subaru, which help maintain steady, smooth speeds when slogging through the backcountry, are standard equipment on all Solterras.

 

While Subaru offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance on the Crosstrek, Forester, and Outback, the Solterra only offers 8.3 inches, which is less. However, the cars in question are not towing a bulky battery pack between their axles and beneath their floorboards.

 

When parked on level, stable ground, Subaru claims that the Solterra’s roof rack can support up to 600 pounds. That will hold up a rooftop tent and two sleeping people.

 

Range of 220 Miles

 

Subaru claims that the 71.4 kilowatt-hour “long-range” lithium-ion battery pack used in the 2023 Solterra will allow for a maximum driving distance of 220 miles. Although it’s a large range for a route, it could be constrained if you also have to drive from your house to the trailhead.

 

The Solterra has the ability to fast-charge DC and can draw up to 130 kW of energy per hour from its two sizes of battery packs. It recharges quickly enough to replace roughly 80% of the energy in a 2023 Solterra battery pack in 45 minutes.

 

(DC fast-charging is normally limited to an 80% replenishment because it heats up batteries and, for safety concerns, slows down significantly after a certain point. The final 20% will cause the charging time to more than quadruple.)

 

Most DC fast chargers are situated close to shopping centers and rest areas. Thus, a Solterra should be able to cover about 350 miles in a day with its passengers taking a 60-minute bathroom and lunch break. If a dinner break is factored into the itinerary, the vehicle should go an additional 150 miles.

 

The trim-dependent range of the all-wheel-drive VW ID.4 is 240 to 249 miles, whereas the Solterra’s is somewhat less. It matches that of the Toyota bZ4X.

 

The majority of AWD Mach-Es with the 75.7-kWh standard range battery deliver just 210 miles (10 miles less than the Solterra) and have only 5.7 inches of ground clearance, which may turn off consumers who think the Ford Mustang Mach-E is a rival. Approximately 270 miles, or 23% longer range, may be obtained from a battery pack with 33% more capacity in an AWD Mach-E equipped with the 98.8-kWh long-range battery.

 

Subaru estimates that the two motors in the Solterra—one in the front and one at the back—combine to produce 215 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. That surpasses the 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of the single motor of the rear-wheel drive ID.4. However, it falls short of the base 317 lb-ft and 266 horsepower Mustang Mach-E engine.

Electric Car is Key for Your 4×4 Pickup’s Survival

The sales of EVs by automakers will need to counteract the mpg ratings of SUVs and trucks.

 

New greenhouse gas emission restrictions that assist in establishing fuel-economy standards for automobiles have been passed, ending over a year of uncertainty. By 2026, automakers must increase efficiency to an average of 40 mpg, according to these requirements. What does this entail for those looking to buy a new car?

 

Buyers of cars should have plenty of options when it comes to new electrified vehicles from automakers in order for them to reach these fuel economy standards. The majority of retail vehicles will still be internal combustion engines, and consumers can anticipate a rise in the price of new cars to go along with the improvement in fuel efficiency.

 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are working together to produce regulations that will govern the efficiency requirements for cars and light trucks in 2023–2026.

 

Most customers are better aware with the NHTSA’s fuel-efficiency regulations, known as the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. Shortly after the EPA establishes the goals in its greenhouse gas regulations, they are released.

 

As of right now, automakers are required to raise the average fuel efficiency of their vehicles by 5% to 10% annually through 2026.

 

To fulfill the EPA’s target, which is 40 mpg in real-world efficiency and has been set at 55 mpg for regulatory purposes, automakers will need to increase the number of EVs and plug-in hybrids in their fleet.

 

Why 40 MPG Is Actually Equal to a 55 MPG Target

 

The norms in regulatory documents are expressed in a “mpg-equivalent” that is far greater than the actual value, which causes some confusion.

 

The official fleet average target set by the EPA for 2026 is 55 mpg; however, in actuality, after deducting credits for the introduction of zero-emission vehicles and different fuel-efficient technologies, the real-world figure is 40 mpg. These technologies include things like exterior paint that reflects sunlight and lessens the need to cool a car’s cabin and active grille shutters that increase aerodynamics.

 

The Obama Administration’s criteria, which the Trump Administration had pushed back, are essentially reinstated under the new objective. By 2025, the Obama regulations would have demanded a 54.5 mpg CAFE average, or roughly 39 mpg in actual driving. The EPA’s 40 mpg real-world goal is 25% higher than the previous 32 mpg minimum, and the new 55 mpg target is a 28% increase from the 43 mpg set by the Trump Administration.

 

Needed Millions of New EVs To Balance Sales of Gas-Powered Vehicles

 

The EPA’s goal simply states that each automaker’s fleet average must reach the benchmark, not that every vehicle, including cars and trucks, must get 40 mpg. That’s the situation with electric cars.

 

Along with plug-in hybrids (PHEV), pure electric vehicles (EVs) have no exhaust emissions and already achieve higher efficiency than what the new regulations require. Today’s typical EV has a fuel efficiency rating of less than 100 mpg, which is comparable to an internal combustion car.

 

Automakers can continue to comply by averaging those electric vehicles and producing SUVs that get 25 mpg and pickups that get 17 mpg.

 

However, an EPA estimate indicates that in order to do this, they will need to increase their yearly sales of cars and trucks by about 2 million new EVs and PHEVs.

 

To achieve the new requirements, electric powertrains will need to represent roughly 17% of all light truck and passenger car sales each year. This is a rise from 2021, when just under 700,000 cars, or roughly 4% of sales, were sold.

 

Why Is the CAFE Standard in Place?

 

Following severe oil shortages in the United States in 1974 as a result of Arab countries refusing to supply petroleum to Western countries that had backed Israel in the 1973 Arab-Israeli War, the federal government decided to set standards for oil consumption.

 

The EPA, which oversees air quality, establishes guidelines for passenger cars’ greenhouse gas emissions. Since the quantity of fossil fuel burned per mile traveled directly correlates with greenhouse gas emissions, they are converted to fuel-economy averages. The NHTSA is tasked with increasing fuel efficiency and collaborates with the EPA to develop the CAFE standards, which are efficiency benchmarks.

 

The CAFE requirements are really a rolling target based on regulators’ estimates of how many and what kinds of automobiles and trucks will be sold each year, even though the final numbers are typically described in terms of a requirement. Once the mix of vehicles sold is established and the final annual sales figures are obtained, they can be modified.

 

Automakers can use EV credits, which they obtain by selling electric vehicles or by buying them from rivals with excess credits, to modify their strategies to meet each when the EPA targets and the CAFE goals differ (selling credits is one way Tesla has generated income for years). Some people have chosen to pay the fees associated with noncompliance.

 

If there are more EVs, who wins?

 

Overall, efficiency has increased over the past few years, but at a slower rate in certain years than in others.

 

Efficiency usually has a price for consumers. According to EPA projections, the average new automobile or light truck will cost approximately $1,000 more in 2026 as a result of the new goal.

 

When using internal combustion engines, the payoff is gradual. The average lifetime fuel savings estimated by the EPA is $1,080, meaning that a buyer of a new gas-burning car or truck in 2026 would need to wait over ten years to recoup their $1,000 premium.

 

That is, of course, presuming that gas prices remain relatively constant throughout. Price reductions could cause the payback time to slow down, while large increases could speed it up.

 

The benefits of purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) are greater for individuals who purchase one because these vehicles have lower fuel costs than internal combustion vehicles, don’t require regular oil changes, don’t require traditional engines or transmissions for maintenance, and require less brake repairs.

 

There are social benefits to the regulations as well. Cleaner air and less harmful tailpipe emissions result from increased fuel economy. This lowers the incidence of respiratory illnesses and some cancers, which in turn helps control the skyrocketing costs of medical treatment.

 

Regulations requiring ever-cleaner automobiles and trucks are already beginning to pay off. Results like the 2022 Ford Maverick Hybrid compact pickup, which gets 42 mpg in the city and 37 mpg combined in the city, are made possible by the growing use of electrified powertrains.

 

A Recap of the High Goal’s Reality

 

In a market where internal combustion truck and SUV sales are disproportionately high, a real-world average of 40 mpg seems quite high. Just 24.9 mpg was the fleet average for 2020 in the end.

 

The U.S. Department of Energy’s first projections show that although 2021 saw some improvement to about 25.7 mpg, 40 mpg is still a long way off.

 

SimpSocial’s Opinion

 

Whether you like electric cars or not, alternative energy sources like EVs are probably here to stay. Additionally, despite their apparent differences, gas-powered and electric cars are necessary for the operation of the other.

 

While stricter fuel economy rules encourage automakers to apply the latest advancements in engineering and technology to make gasoline engines more efficient, electric vehicles assist reduce pollutants and increase fleet MPG averages. Regarding gasoline engines, manufacturers have succeeded in producing turbocharged engines with reduced displacement that exhibit notable efficiency gains without compromising performance.

 

The key question still stands: Will gas-powered cars completely disappear? Not for the foreseeable future. Even in non-urban areas, there is still a long way to go in terms of charging infrastructure, and many consumers may find that buying a new EV is out of their price range (used EVs, however, are still very affordable).

 

We are living through an exciting new phase in the evolution of transportation. We can anticipate new alternatives during this transitional time to satisfy the constantly evolving needs of today’s new automobile consumers.

First Drive of the Hummer EV Edition

in the driver’s seat of GMC’s fully electric supertruck.

 

The GMC Hummer EV is an excellent vehicle. It is also the personification of showy consumption.

 

It is large, striking, well-built, loaded with features (more technology than the majority of its owners will ever need), and pricey—but not excessive given the power it offers.

 

Driving on the highway is an absolute delight. Off-road, it’s even more amazing, but hard-core aficionados who prefer constructing their own rigs might find it a little too gentrified. Not to mention that it weighs over 9,000 pounds and is 18 feet long by 7 feet 3 inches wide, it will be too enormous and cumbersome for some.

 

In addition, it consumes kilowatts at a rate that would make the original Hummer H1 with its 10-mpg proud. Although it is still more efficient than any internal combustion truck on the road, it is the least efficient EV overall.

 

With a range of 329 miles based on GMC estimates and 212 kWh of usable battery capacity, the Hummer EV consumes 64.5 kWh every 100 miles. That’s about 90% more than the average EV’s 34.6 kWh per 100 miles, and more than half times that of the previous inefficiency champion, the Audi e-tron GT performance sedan.

 

It might also be guilty of having too much information.

 

Numerous dials, widgets, and icons can be found on its 13.4-inch central touchscreen, which allows users to check or adjust multiple drive modes and ride heights, navigate maps, view 18 camera views—some of which are from underbody cameras with their own lens washers—wheel-lock engagement in both front and rear, pitch and roll angles, compass headings, suspension travel, tire pressures, torque allotment, energy consumption, and a plethora of other features.

 

Later this year, the five-seat, four-door Hummer EV will make its premiere in Edition 1 trim, costing $110,295 in total. Three (slightly) less costly versions will be released until 2024, when the $81,590 base trim will be available.

 

Hauling and Towing

 

GMC would have you believe that there is no true competition for the heavyweight Hummer EV. Even while some electric pickups are lighter and smaller than this one, some—like the Rivian R1T—can outhaul and outtow it, and they’re also fairly good off-roaders. On steep ascents, the Hummer can climb over boulders and other barriers that most competitors shouldn’t attempt, giving it mountain goat skills.

 

The upcoming Ford F-150 Lightning, which weighs just 6,171 pounds, can tow up to 7,700 pounds with its standard-range battery pack and 10,000 pounds with the extended-range pack. These examples demonstrate that size isn’t everything. The Hummer EV can only tow about 7,500 pounds. In contrast, the 7,148-pound Rivian R1T has an 11,000-pound tow rating.

 

In terms of payload capacity, the Hummer EV lags below the majority of other mentioned electric pickups. Its 1,487-pound rating is insignificant compared to the 2,079-pound capability of the Ford F-150 Lightning. However, payload isn’t an electric pickup’s strongest suit. They need to carry bulky, energy- and space-hungry battery packs in order to have any range at all. The 2,923-pound Hummer EV Edition 1 battery is heavy. It would be analogous to towing a Honda Civic.

 

Extended Range on Asphalt

 

However, such batteries have a respectable on-road range.

 

On asphalt, the Hummer EV Edition 1 can go up to 329 miles between charges. The maximum range of the F-150 Lightning is 320 miles, while the Rivian is 314 miles. According to Chevrolet, at least one Silverado EV model will have sufficient batteries for 400-mile drives.

 

However, those range estimates apply to empty trucks that are not being towed. According to a recent statement made by Rivian, the R1T pickup’s range would be halved when towing an 11,000-pound trailer. Although we were unable to tow the Hummer, we believe it will experience the same problem.

 

Off-Roading Battery Drains

 

Off-roading also doesn’t help.

 

During a recent 18.6-mile, 2-hour hike on rutted mud and gravel trails that included multiple challenging climbs and descents, the range of our Hummer EV Edition 1 drastically decreased from its stated 1.5 miles per kWh to a mere 0.5 miles per kWh. The truck was empty save for the two people inside, save for a set of spare tires that were put on eighteen-inch alloy wheels.

 

We did have the air conditioning on, which used some battery power. But on a sunny day in the Arizona desert, air conditioning is a must for an off-road run.

 

An Edition 1 would travel roughly 100 miles on the trail at the energy consumption rate we calculated; that distance would drop if it were towing the normal off-roader’s load of food, water, camping equipment, and spare components. And that’s presuming it had a fully charged battery when it got to the trailhead and had time to recharge again before returning home.

 

Time of Charging

 

Level 2 charging has been installed by a number of businesses close to well-known trailheads. We were shown a transportable hydrogen fuel-cell generator that could be modified for usage in remote locations and was utilized to charge the Hummers for our event. However, off-roading in a Hummer EV is probably best suited for quick day trips until trailhead charging is widely available.

 

The Hummer’s 800-volt system enables it to quickly add up to 100 miles of energy on road excursions with a 350-kW DC fast charger in only 10 minutes. It has a 7.4 kW portable Level 2 charging wire that may be used at home or at opportunities for charging. A more potent home station can increase the charging speed to 11.5 kW, which will add 16 miles of range per hour.

 

Along the Path

 

35-inch all-terrain tires are standard on the Hummer EV, however mud tires are an option. If the standard 10.1 inches (11.9 inches in terrain mode) of ground clearance is insufficient, tires can be upgraded to 37-inchers without requiring any modifications.

 

The majority of craters, humps, potholes, and washboard surfaces are smoothed out and a wonderfully smooth ride is produced by the combination of independent front and rear suspension and an air suspension system. The Hummer’s Extract mode may elevate the body even more in an emergency, providing 15.9 inches of ground clearance overall.

 

With three motors—two on the front and two on the rear axle—the Edition 1 trim produces 1,200 pound-feet of torque and 1,000 horsepower, which may be distributed in different ways to the wheels.

 

With 13 inches of suspension travel, most difficulties can be overcome, and the lack of a sway bar disconnect system by GM may be forgiven. The Hummer EV has five skid plates to completely protect the undercarriage and can ford a creek that is nearly three feet deep. It can climb and cross a wall that is eighteen inches high.

 

In addition, there is an off-road mode and an intricate, computer-supervised control scheme that combines differential locking, torque vectoring, mechanical braking, and regenerative braking.

 

With rear-wheel steering that can transition from a mild 0.3:1 ratio on the highway to a rather aggressive 0.6:1 ratio off-road, all trim levels save the base model give the 18-foot Hummer the agility of a Jeep. Compared to a four-door Wrangler, its turning radius is really four feet shorter.

 

Of course, there is also the renowned CrabWalk mode, which allows the Hummer to drive diagonally away from impediments by gently turning all four wheels in the same direction, provided that the track is broad enough to handle the vehicle’s 7-foot 3-inch width.

 

Pleasant Cabin

 

Not much of our scheduled time in the Hummer was spent on routine roadwork. We drove from our base to the trailhead and back in an hour on nice, level highways. No winding country roads, no curbside or mall parking, and no driving in the city.

 

We can say that it rides exceptionally nicely on the interstate. There is lots of leg, shoulder, hip, and head room in addition to its excellent sound system, silent operation, and really comfy seats. It also had an excellent climate control system, yet it used up to a third of the energy in our Hummer.

 

Several automobiles include a larger main infotainment panel than the 12.3-inch driver information screen, which may be set up with three different sections for information and graphic displays.

 

At freeway speeds, it handled like a well-balanced vehicle, and on the few turns and curves in our route, it rode smoothly with minimal body roll.

 

In its unrestrained Watts to Freedom mode, it will achieve the promised 0-to-60 mph sprint in a heart-stopping 3 seconds.

 

The 13.4-inch touchscreen that was centrally located had the drawback of not being oriented toward the driver and of being too near to the seats, which occasionally required looking away from the road. There isn’t a spare tire included, and the bed-mounted spare that is an option takes up a lot of cargo room.

 

Is the Hummer Going to Work?

 

Think again if you believe there isn’t much of a market for a vehicle this size with such poor carrying and hauling capacities and an insatiable thirst for gasoline.

 

Although the Hummer EV isn’t meant for everyone, GMC reports that the Edition 1 truck is sold out and that it has more than 66,000 refundable advance orders for different Hummer models (a Hummer SUV is scheduled to launch in 2024). Orders between the SUV and the truck are currently divided evenly, but as 2024 approaches, the manufacturer anticipates a shift in favor of the SUV, with a final 60/40 split.

 

Three states account for the majority of reservations (33%), which are California, Texas, and Florida. Requests for the truck are overwhelmingly leaning toward the Edition 1 and the Hummer EV 3X, which is expected to arrive late this year or early next year and is priced at $101,590.

 

The Hummer SUV is probably the main rival of the Hummer EV pickup for the time being.

2024 Chevrolet Trax Trim Levels Overview

The Trax, redesigned for 2024, is more feature-rich, more affordable, and has a nicer appearance than its predecessor.

The subcompact crossover Trax is the first model in Chevrolet’s SUV series. All five model levels have a front-wheel drive system and a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine with 137 horsepower, all for less than $25,000. All-wheel drive is not an option, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, along with a number of driver-assistance systems (such as automated high lights, lane keeping, and forward collision mitigation) regardless of the model you select. Models ending in L are slightly different from those ending in RS in terms of badge, mirror-cap, and interior trim coloration.

Here, we highlight the salient characteristics that set one trim apart from the others.

$21,495 for the 2024 Chevrolet Trax LS

For folks who might like certain facilities but just require a few.

Expect nothing ostentatious from the entry-level Trax. Steel 17-inch wheels, a four-speaker audio, manual liftgate adjustment, cloth-covered seats, and a single-zone temperature control are all features of this vehicle. The cabin feels modern, at least because to the integrated 8.0-inch center touchscreen and blue dash highlights. Additionally, many will value the couple of affordable packages Chevy offers on the LS. For example, buyers may get out the door for less than $23,000 if they choose to add blind-spot monitoring, which is an option on every model, aluminum wheels, heated front seats, and remote start.

$23,195 for the 2024 Chevrolet Trax 1RS

For those who prefer a sporty appearance without requiring a sporty vibe.

Where the Trax 1RS surpasses the LS is in:

* 18-inch aluminum wheels in black

* Interior accents in red

*Compact front seats with heating

*Traditional remote start

* A steering wheel with heat

*A power sunroof option

$203,395 for a 2024 Chevrolet Trax LT

for those who prefer some leeway when it comes to vehicle specifications.

Not the 1RS, but the LS is improved upon by the Trax LT with:

* Aluminum 17-inch wheels in gray

* Fence rails

* A selection of interior accents in yellow or blue

* Cloth seats trimmed in leatherette

* An 11.0-inch display

*An eight-inch driver screen

*A system of six speakers

*The central console has two USB ports.

  • Automatic climate control in a single zone

*Traditional remote start

*Press a start button

* An optional proximity key entry system that comes with a heated steering wheel and front seats

*Adaptive cruise control is optional.

* Wireless device charging is optional.

*A power sunroof option

$24,995 for the 2024 Chevrolet Trax 2RS

For those who truly think proximity key entry should always be combined with push-button start.

The Trax 2RS outperforms the 1RS (but not the LT) thanks to:

* 19-inch aluminum wheels in black

* Fence rails

* Completely leather seats

* An 11.0-inch display

*An eight-inch driver screen

*A system of six speakers

*The central console has two USB ports.

  • Automatic climate control in a single zone

*Press a start button

*Surface key entry

*Adaptive cruise control is optional.

* Wireless device charging is optional.

Chevy Trax Activ 2024: $24,995

for drivers in need of lumbar support that is customizable.

What sets the Trax Activ apart from the 2RS is:

* Black aluminum 18-inch wheels (if you think a little bit smaller wheels are better)

* A grille unique to a trim

*A selection between yellow highlights for the interior and Artemis, a beige family member

A driver’s seat with ten power settings

Exploring Greater Boston in Your EV on a Single Charge

Reaching the wilderness around the largest city in New England shouldn’t be hindered by range anxiety.

 

New England is an excellent destination to maximize an electric overnight trip because it has an abundance of charging stations and peaceful roads with EV-friendly speed limits. We’ve devised a route that circles the Greater Boston region and is ideal for hiking during the fall foliage viewing season. It also falls comfortably within the range limitations of the majority of new electric vehicles, with a total distance of 130 miles. Nevertheless, don’t worry if you don’t like to deplete your battery too much or if you want to travel beyond these checkpoints; there are plenty of charging stations throughout the route.

 

Savor the Colors of Newburyport

 

Take the Newburyport Turnpike, which has tolls but is far more picturesque than I-95, north of central Boston. Just outside of Danvers, this historic road—a segment of U.S. Route 1, which stretches from the top of Maine to Key West, Florida—becomes a peaceful two-lane highway. After a short distance, you will reach the top of Witch Hill, which got its name from Mary Easty, the most well-known “witch” in Salem, who stayed there right before her ultimate capture and execution. Though it’s currently an appointment-only event space, the home has undergone significant renovations since the 1690s and serves as a fascinating topic of discussion regarding New England history.

 

Grab some fudge at Winfrey’s Fudge and Chocolates to satisfy your sweet appetite, and then head to the woman-owned Mill River Winery to pick up a bottle of wine for later.

 

After arriving in charming Newburyport, it’s time to enjoy the surrounding landscape. With their abundance of orange, crimson, and brown leaves, the trees along the town’s peaceful streets provide a stunning setting for family portraits. With its extensive collection of model ships and Coast Guard relics, the Custom House is a great place for anyone searching for something informative to do.

 

In search of a charge? Several excellent restaurants are within a short stroll from the State & Harris garage, where there is a Level 2 station where you can plug in. Sea Level Oyster Bar is the place to go if oysters are your thing—they go on sale in October. As an alternative, Tuscan Sea Grill & Bar is a great choice because it serves Neapolitan-style pizza and homemade pasta outside by the water. After, stop by The Angry Donut for coffee and dessert.

 

Visit Stonehenge in America.

 

When you’re tired of Newburyport, take Route 113 west to Salem, New Hampshire, for a fantastic day trek. You may want to make a detour at Long Hill Orchard en route, where, from June to December, you may choose your own produce and enjoy fresh cider.

 

After arriving in Salem, take some time to stroll over the charming pathways of Mystery Hill, an old complex of cliff houses and rock heaps that is sometimes referred to as “America’s Stonehenge.” You should have plenty of time to cruise back to Newburyport for the night before the site closes at 5:00 p.m. With a vast tap list and live music, The Grog is a great option for a laid-back supper. Black Cow has something to offer everyone, including haddock tostadas, fried cauliflower with a Korean twist, and coastal favorites like clam chowder. Alternatively, try Loretta for a sleek, contemporary meal with an often changing menu.

 

Take a stroll by the beach.

 

Get a bagel from Abraham’s the following morning and head over to Plum Island, Massachusetts. Before returning home, consider taking a trek at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on the island, despite the temperature drop. Should you require one, parking lot 1 has a ChargePoint station. Additionally, Mad Martha’s Cafe on the beach should satisfy your caffeine craving before you head out the door.

 

Once you’ve stretched your legs, Ipswich will be your final destination. This charming little village, which dates to the 1630s, has a riverwalk surrounded by historic structures. Choate Bridge Pub, named for the nearby stone-arched bridge (the oldest of its kind in the nation), is a good place to get a bite. If you need to recharge your battery, stop at the ChargePoint location near the charming Ipswich Museum and take some time to look at a selection of American artist Arthur Wesley Dow’s creations.

 

It’s a quick drive from Ipswich to U.S. Route 1, which will return you to Boston.

Things To Know About Free Public EV Charging

You can plug in for free if you know where to look.

 

If you possess an electric vehicle (EV) or are thinking about getting one, you might be concerned about how to charge it. Most people (four out of five) recharge their batteries at home because it’s handy and probably the least expensive place to do so. If, however, that isn’t an option for you, you may be able to use your smartphone to charge for free on public equipment. This is how.

 

Finding Free Public Charging Stations

 

Indeed, there are other apps available for that purpose. The most well-known is probably PlugShare, which allows you to view any charging station in your area that is both free and requires payment. Moreover, the software uses crowdsourcing to deliver current information about every site, such as whether it’s operational, how much electricity it’s supplying, its exact location inside the lot, and the type of plug(s) it supplies.

 

Then there are applications for the main networks of charging stations, like EVgo, ChargePoint, and Electrify America. All should provide you with the cost of charging at a certain station.

 

Users of iPhones may locate nearby charging stations using the Maps app, then narrow down the results to just display those that are free. (Google Maps will offer a wealth of helpful information on charging stations; however, at this time, you are unable to search by price.)

 

Explained: Public Charging Options

Not every EV can use every station. For example, Tesla has not yet completely allowed non-Tesla drivers to use its extensive network of Superchargers; however, that will change in 2024. Here’s what you should be aware of, though:

 

There are three different kinds of public charging stations that are available right now: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.

 

The quantity of electricity provided by level 1 charging is about the same as that of a standard 120-volt household socket. Using this technology, modern EVs charge at an extremely slow pace. Actually, a lot of people refer to Level 1 as trickle charging. Actually, it’s only appropriate for topping off an EV over a few days.

 

The majority of public stations are classified as Level 2, which means that they operate at 240 volts and can charge faster than Level 1. When an EV’s battery life drops to 10%, it will probably take several hours to recharge it at a Level 2 station; nevertheless, just 60 minutes of plugging in can give it a respectable range boost.

 

Level 3 stations are the fastest way to charge an EV since they supply DC power straight to the battery instead of using the onboard charger, which changes AC electricity to DC. While many EVs (though not all) allow DC fast charging, their battery management systems cap the maximum rate of charge in order to preserve the battery. Under perfect conditions, models that can run at 800 volts, which is currently the maximum voltage for an EV battery, could add roughly 70 miles of range in five minutes on a Level 3 station. Though a normal fast charger seldom operates at its maximum stated charging speed, keep an eye on the time instead of paying too much attention to it.

 

Level 3 is the best option if you’re going on a road trip because it will get you back on the highway the quickest. However, you should continue using Level 2 for regular use because slower electron transmission is better for the battery. Free Level 3 stations are likewise hard to come by unless your electric vehicle (EV) comes with a manufacturer’s rebate for free charging.

 

Plug Types: An Explanation

 

You should also find out what kind of plug your electric vehicle will accept before looking for charging stations.

 

Most late-model non-Tesla EVs feature a socket that can accommodate both the seven-pin CCS connector, which expands on the J1172 and allows fast charging, and the five-pin J1772 plug, which is intended for Level 1 and 2 charging. In the United States, CHAdeMo plugs are mostly being phased out, while some EVs still have ports for them.

 

The North American Charging Standard (NACS), which is used by Tesla automobiles, is a different kind of connector that several automakers intend to implement soon so that their consumers may utilize Tesla’s nationwide Level 3 Supercharger network.

 

The Public Charging Future

 

As automakers commit to an electric vehicle future, new stations are opening up all the time. To compete with Tesla’s Supercharging network, for example, seven major automakers have declared that they will install some 30,000 Level 3 charging stations across North America. Beyond the restricted incentive schemes they’ll provide to new EV purchasers, we don’t expect those automakers to give away electrons for free. After all, Elon Musk has become a very wealthy guy thanks in part to his provision of electricity to automobile owners, and others want a piece of that action.

 

While many establishments and towns may still offer some free charging alternatives to entice customers to visit, this may become less common as more people switch from internal combustion to battery power.

 

Additionally, non-Tesla owners will have to pay more to use Tesla Superchargers than Tesla drivers do, even though Tesla plans to make them accessible to everyone in the near future.

The Ultimate Savings Guide for New Car Incentives

Discover how to get the best deals on your next car by reading our in-depth guide on new car incentives.

 

Terms like dealer cash, customer cash back, and factory rebates may come up when you’re looking to buy a new automobile. Despite their similarity in tone, there are different kinds of incentives, and each one functions uniquely. You should familiarize yourself with them in order to avoid missing out on any possible incentives that could result in thousands of dollars saved on your future car.

 

What Are Incentives for Buying a Car?

 

Programs like rebates and incentives are designed to promote the purchase of new cars. The OEMs may provide this to dealers or to customers. The dealer may also design incentives. All you have to know is that their goal is to make consumers’ new automobile purchases more affordable.

 

Automakers frequently set monthly, quarterly, and annual sales goals that they hope to achieve. This is only one of the many ways that excellent timing can result in excellent offers. Dealerships can employ incentives for new cars to move inventory and pass the savings along to prospective buyers. Use SimpSocial to build a vehicle and view the most recent offers—all in one location—to discover discounts on the car you’re looking for.

 

Kinds of Incentives for New Cars

 

Cash Incentive / Cash Rebate

 

A cash rebate is a benefit that is typically provided by the automaker in an effort to reduce the vehicle’s total sale price. The purpose of this reduced selling price is to entice a customer to negotiate a deal today.

 

A typical cash rebate operates as follows: The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of a well-liked SUV may be $38,000. A buyer could anticipate the selling price to be lowered by the same $3,000 if the vehicle had a $3,000 cash refund.

 

The most popular kind of new automobile incentive is cash back. It is important to remember that in certain areas, the vehicle’s entire cost will be taxed prior to the rebate being applied. To find out if you are covered by it, check your local legislation.

 

Cash Incentives for Dealers

 

The OEMs give these incentives to the dealers in order to boost sales, and the savings are frequently transferred to the customer. There are a few variations, such when a vehicle is sold and the OEM gives the dealer a cash credit, or when dealers meet sales targets and receive cash incentives. Receiving a rebate as a dealer after buying a particular model directly from the manufacturer is another typical incentive.

 

Unique Financing and Unique Leasing Offers

 

Throughout the year, there are a number of special financing incentives available, most often in the form of financing cash and promotional interest rates. Lease cash, promotional monthly payments, and even coverage to cover an early lease termination charge for your existing leased car are examples of popular lease offerings.

 

Since automakers heavily invest in advertising to promote special finance and lease incentives, it’s likely that you may notice these offers whether you watch TV or browse the internet. When you visit the dealership after seeing an advertisement for a sales event, incentives are usually in store.

 

It is nearly always necessary to have good credit in order to be eligible for special financing and lease incentives. Remember this the next time you come across a really alluring deal, like 0.9% APR with no money down. Only the most creditworthy clients will obtain the greatest offers, despite the fact that many shoppers will be authorized for financing.

 

Incentives for Specific Groups: Students, Military, and Others

 

Numerous automakers provide specific incentives, typically in the form of bonus cash offers, to specific groups, such as college students and those serving or having recently served in the military. These kinds of incentives may also be available to other groups, such as first responders, educators, victims of natural disasters, and members of particular associations, like the National Association of Realtors or Farm Bureau.

 

Customers that take advantage of these kinds of incentives could be forced to finance or lease through the captive lender, sometimes known as the manufacturer’s internal financing organization. You can even be eligible for special lease terms and interest rates to further sweeten the pot. Every automaker has a different program, so make careful to review the conditions of the deal.

 

The requirements for target group incentives differ. A diploma, transcript, or letter from the school registrar typically serves as verification of continuing enrollment or graduation for college students and recent graduates. Military individuals may be allowed to share their offer with family members, although they normally have to show documentation of their military status. It might be necessary for members of other categories to show proof of work.

 

Loyalty Bonuses

 

It turns out that loyalty has a lot of benefits as well. Several automakers offer bonus cash as part of their loyalty incentives to consumers who buy or lease another vehicle of the same make. Dealers want to make sure that lessees who return their cars to the dealership drive away with another one, so this is extremely crucial.

 

When a consumer purchases or leases a subsequent vehicle from a different manufacturer within the same group, several automakers provide loyalty bonuses. This may lead to some intriguing opportunities, particularly if you’re seeking a lifestyle adjustment. For instance, if you possess a Fiat, you are eligible for reward programs offered by FCA, which includes Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge.

 

Customers must show documentation that they own or are leasing a car from the same make and manufacturer group in order to be eligible for a loyalty benefit. You typically don’t need to trade in your existing car in order to be eligible for a loyalty bonus, unlike with conquesting. Remember that not all automakers offer loyalty programs, so make sure to first check with the dealership.

 

Trade-in Bonuses

 

Customers who trade in their vehicles can receive additional cash incentives on top of the vehicle’s valuation. Although this kind of incentive does not applicable to leasing, it may function similarly to conquesting. While some automakers will accept any vehicle, even ones of the same make, there may be more stringent restrictions for eligible automobiles.

 

Customers must show that they are the owners of an eligible car in order to be eligible for a trade-in bonus. Certain model years, makes, models, or even physical characteristics may limit eligibility. Additionally, as the name implies, you will have to trade in your car when you buy this one.

 

Conquesting Motivation

 

Consumers frequently stick with brands they have grown to trust, which presents a challenge for automakers looking to increase their market share. Manufacturers utilize conquesting incentives, which typically require owners to trade in their existing car for the competitor, to attract owners of specific automobiles with bonus cash.

 

Owners of segment-leading cars, such as the minivan Honda Odyssey or the Toyota Sienna, could be qualified for conquesting offers from other automakers. Since lease clients frequently stick with the same brand for years to come, this kind of incentive is also frequently used in the leasing industry.

 

Customers must show documentation that they own or are leasing a car from a rival manufacturer in order to be eligible for a conquesting bonus. The fine print of the deal should contain a list of qualified cars, though you might be able to qualify for any make in certain circumstances. As part of the offer, you might have to give up your eligible lease or trade in your eligible car.

 

Incentives for Electric Vehicles

 

Purchases of new electric, plug-in hybrid, or fuel-cell electric vehicles may qualify you for a number of state, municipal, and federal tax incentives. The automaker will get the tax credit even if you are leasing the electrified car, but it’s feasible that some of those savings will be passed down to you in the form of lower monthly payments.

 

The Inflation Reduction Act has modified the regulations governing the electric car tax credit, so be sure to review the updated qualifying standards. On SimpSocial’s EV Incentives website, you may also review particular EV incentives based on your location.

 

Period of the Year Rewards

 

People frequently inquire as to whether this is a good or poor time of year to purchase a car when they are car shopping. The season does affect the cost of new cars, albeit the explanation is nuanced. Incentives to purchase new cars are typically offered in relation to dealership sales targets, which are typically met at the end of each month, quarter, and year.

 

Furthermore, consider several well-known auto-buying events: ToyotaThon, Happy Honda Days, Ford Truck Month, Lexus’ December to Remember, and so forth. The goal of all these promotions is to entice customers with the promise of huge savings on a brand-new car.

 

Additional Special Deals

 

Since owning a car can get expensive over time, many automakers also provide free maintenance and warranties to help make ownership worry-free. This might range from a free oil change to a restricted powertrain warranty of ten years and one hundred thousand miles. Even Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, which frequently have their own sales events, occasionally provide these kinds of incentives.

 

Use New Car Incentives to Begin Your Shopping

 

When looking for a new automobile, SimpSocial’s Build and Price flow features a whole section devoted to displaying the incentives available for the particular model you’re considering. You’re not sure what kind of car you want yet. You’re okay! You may view our monthly list of the greatest discounts on our discounts page.

Tips for Getting the Best Price When Selling Your Car

Have you made the decision to sell your cherished—or not so cherished—used car?

 

Maybe you’re moving and you just can’t take it with you, or maybe you’re ready to move on to something better. For whatever reason, when you’re preparing to sell your car, there are a few things you should be aware of.

 

Private Sale vs. Trade-In

 

When determining whether to sell your automobile to a private party or trade it in to a dealer, there are several things to take into account:

 

1. Ownership: Do you fully own your vehicle? What do you owe if you don’t? Do you rent a place?

 

2. Taxes: If you sell to a dealership, the tax may be taken care of, but if you sell to a private customer, you may need to increase the price to include the tax (find out more about local sales taxes).

 

3. Time: It will always take longer to sell to a private party. You’ll need to clean up your vehicle, take some great photos, locate parking spots, and then meet customers and make them preoccupied with the car’s condition, among other things. Usually, trading in your car results in significantly less bother. However…

 

4. Cost: Private sales frequently provide the seller more leeway.

 

5. Paperwork: Whether you trade in your automobile or sell it privately, you can be almost certain that the right paperwork will be completed, executed, and filed. This could help you avoid future issues with registration and tickets.

 

Selling to a private party could be the best option if your automobile is well-maintained, in great demand, has little mileage, and you have the time and patience to negotiate with private purchasers. But trading in your car is the best and most straightforward solution if the price difference is close to what you value and you value convenience.

 

Speaking of convenience, SimpSocial can assist if you would want to begin the trade-in procedure from your house.

 

Now, with SimpSocial, you can use it to trade in or sell your car and receive a True Cash OfferTM in minutes, in addition to utilizing it to buy a new or used automobile. It happens so quickly since your car’s details appear as soon as you enter your license plate. All you need to do is respond to a few questions to receive an instant True Cash OfferTM. After that, you can cash out or trade in your True Cash OfferTM by taking it to a Certified Dealer.

 

How to Calculate Your Car’s Fair Market Value

 

If you have time, you can compare prices to find an average. Numerous websites provide unbiased, industry-standard prices for secondhand autos. Setting a realistic price for your car will assist you avoid overly haggling and guarantee that you receive fair value. Your vehicle’s condition and other details can help you determine its value, so you’ll need to gather some information before you get started.

 

Regarding the state of your vehicle, take into account the following:

 

*Is it dents, scrapes, or dings?

 

*Is the interior soiled?

 

*Are the brakes and tires in good working order?

 

*Is rust present?

 

By no means is this a comprehensive list, but it should give you a decent indication of the kinds of things you should check out.

 

Let’s now discuss some of the specifics of your vehicle. Knowing the make and model alone is insufficient.

 

* How big is the trim? (Limited, Limited, LE, SE, SX, etc.)

 

*Is there a touch screen infotainment system or a sunroof on it?

 

*Have you made any aftermarket adjustments? (For example, new tires, window tint, or improved audio)

 

Now that you have all the knowledge you require regarding your vehicle, go online and get unbiased information about its worth. Since several websites offer varying values, it is wise to use the median.

 

Checklist for Car Sale Preparation

 

Getting your car ready for public display is the first step in a successful car sale. These are our top suggestions:

 

1. If at all possible, clean your car yourself. Although you would think that getting your automobile professionally detailed is ideal, a recently detailed car could give the impression that you’re trying too hard to sell. Vacuum the carpets (and shampoo if needed), apply leather cleaner on any leather interiors, clean the interior thoroughly, and remove all debris from your car.

 

2. Really, don’t bother trying to remedy small errors. Buyers of used cars, particularly those from dealerships, don’t anticipate perfection. It might be helpful if you can perform small repairs without having to invest any money. If not, fixing your car could easily take a lot longer and cost a lot more money than having a dealer recondition it.

 

3. Nonetheless, keep up with car maintenance. Check your tires, top off your windshield wiper fluid and make sure your wipers are operating correctly, get your oil changed and fluids checked, and inspect your brake lights.

 

4. Compile the required documentation. Make sure you have the following paperwork ready before you sell:

 

Your vehicle’s title. You’ll need this regardless of the method you use to sell your automobile (if you’re still making payments on it, see below).

 

* The initial sales documentation. This will contain information about your car that you might not be aware of, like the trim level and all of its amenities. This can add to the worth of your car when you decide to sell it.

 

* Service logs. Ideally, you’ve maintained a record of all of your scheduled maintenance and oil changes. If not, consider if you can obtain a summary of visits by contacting your dealer or a frequent mechanic. A prospective buyer will see from this information that your car has been well-maintained.

 

*A history report about the car. Although it is not required, it is a good idea to have it ready, particularly if your vehicle has ever been involved in an accident.

 

* A liability release form. Check with the DMV in your area or, if you’re a member, get in touch with AAA to acquire one of them. By doing this, you won’t ever have to pay a parking penalty issued to someone else.

 

How to Proceed If You’re Still Making Auto Loan Payments

 

You should ensure that you have all the required documentation, regardless of whether you are selling to a dealership or a private owner. The title of the car—also known as the “pink slip”—is the most crucial document you’ll require. If you can’t find it, find out how to replace it by contacting the DMV in your state.

 

You won’t have the title to your car yet, though, if you’re still making payments on it. Fortunately, selling your car is still possible; it might just require a bit more time and work.

 

Four Pointers for a Private Car Sale

 

The simplest approach to guarantee that you sell your car swiftly, effectively, and safely is to use SimpSocial. And although though we advise against selling privately, if you are determined to do so, the following are our top suggestions:

 

1. Take crisp, detailed pictures of the car. Don’t forget to snap lots of pictures inside as well. For privacy, make the license plate photographs blurry.

 

2. Investigate the best places to post in order to gain the maximum awareness. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are free and user-friendly, but scammers can be found there as well.

 

3. The easiest way to avoid frauds is to meet someone in person, but make sure you do it with someone you can trust in a public setting.

 

4. Let the prospective buyer do a test drive, but make sure you accompany them.

What is Residual Value Compared to Selling Value?

We explain several key phrases related to leasing and purchasing cars.

You may be familiar with residual and resale value if you’re considering leasing or buying your next vehicle. Like most things affecting value, these figures should ideally be high. What do they mean, though? Get ready to add more terms to your car-buying experience.

Relative value: what is it?

The estimated value of your car at the conclusion of your lease is known as residual value. It assists in figuring out your monthly payment and the cost of buying the car when your lease expires. Leasing a car with a high residual value is generally recommended, as is the case with most things affecting value.

How is the residual value of a lease determined?

The residual value of a car is predicted by businesses like ALG, a SimpSocial subsidiary. It is frequently stated as a percentage of the MSRP, or Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price.

After three years, the value is $15,000 ($30,000 MSRP * 50% Residual Value).

For instance, a car with a $30,000 MSRP and a 50% residual value after three years would be worth $15,000 after the lease expires. Modifying the length or mileage of your lease might have a favorable or negative impact on your residual value. The value of an older car with higher miles will be zero, and vice versa. Really, it’s just easy math.

What impact does residual value have on my payment each month?

The amount that remains after all costs are paid off determines how much you will pay each month. Throughout the term of your lease, that sum is distributed.

$12,000 Down Payment / 36 Months = $333.33 Per Month

Assume for the moment that you lease the car from the prior example and get $3,000 off the MSRP. After deducting the $15,000 residual value, your monthly payments would amount to a total of $12,000 that you would owe. Your monthly payment would be lower and you would only owe $10,000 if your residual value was $2,000 greater.

What makes having a high residual value crucial?

A high residual value means that you will pay less overall for your lease because there will be less of a gap between the vehicle’s anticipated worth and the final sale price.

On the other hand, a low residual value raises your overall lease debt. This might be advantageous to you if you decide to buy your car when your lease expires or write it off for business purposes, but generally speaking, a large residual value is the best option.

What distinguishes residual value from resale value?

An analogous idea that pertains to a car you purchase rather than lease is resale value. It speaks to the value of the car after damage, mileage, and depreciation. Furthermore, although the residual value is fixed and derived from MSRP, resale value is subject to fluctuations in the market.

$12,000 in Resale Value / Five Years of Ownership Equals $2,400 Annual Cost

Assume you buy the car in the above scenario, and five years later its market worth is $12,000. Your annual ownership cost would be $2,400 if you sold it. Another option would be to keep driving the car, which would reduce your yearly expenses but would also make it less valuable to buy back. In a lease, the residual value is fixed, therefore your annual expenses are fixed.

Which vehicles are highly valuable residually?

Though every car retains its worth in a different way, some are more valuable than others. Annually, ALG awards recognition to automobiles in 26 categories that are anticipated to hold the largest percentage of their MSRP after three years. Most recently, Subaru and Land Rover shared the ALG Residual Value Award for best mainstream and premium brands, respectively. View the complete list of winners for each part.

What Is the Battery Life of an Electric Car?

What you need to know about the lifespan of an EV battery and how to prolong it is provided here.

 

A major issue for anyone considering purchasing an electric car is battery longevity. Even while it’s typical for owners of gas-only cars to change their batteries once or twice, those batteries are little, reasonably priced, and reasonably simple to replace. Rarely is the entire procedure more than a little annoyance. On the other hand, the battery in an electric vehicle (EV) is significantly more costly and larger. It takes a lot longer to replace one, and you cannot do it yourself.

 

What you need to know about the lifespan of an EV battery and how to prolong it is provided here.

 

Keys to EV Batteries

 

The lithium-ion battery pack found in the majority of electric cars is utilized to store the energy needed to run the motors. These are significantly larger lead-acid batteries, usually found beneath the floor in the center of the vehicle, as opposed to the little ones found under the hood of gas-powered cars. Although automakers are always looking for ways to enhance battery performance and are researching new, superior battery options, lithium-ion batteries are now the industry standard.

 

Lithium-ion batteries are used in EVs for a number of reasons. They balance enhanced driving range and battery size better thanks to their higher energy density. In addition, lithium-ion batteries have a slower rate of discharge, don’t need to be maintained frequently, and provide a more stable voltage as the charge drops.

 

Although they have certain drawbacks, lithium-ion batteries are perfect for use in electric cars for these reasons. Electric vehicles are more expensive than gas vehicles in part because they are more expensive to produce. Extremely high or low temperatures might have an impact on their performance and shorten their driving range. Another problem is battery life; fully charging and draining a lithium-ion battery shortens its life. How long can you expect these bulky, pricey batteries to endure before needing to be replaced is the key question.

 

The typical lifespan of batteries in electric cars

 

The lifespan of an electric vehicle’s battery is influenced by your unique driving habits, much like the fuel efficiency of a gas-powered car changes based on how and where you drive. Examining the manufacturer’s warranty is a useful method of estimating how long an EV battery should survive in a particular car. The federal government has established a minimum guarantee of eight years or up to 100,000 miles for all EV batteries currently on the market; however, several automakers provide longer warranties.

 

You can be quite sure that your EV battery will last at least that long because auto manufacturers don’t want to foot the bill for repairing EV batteries that die while still under warranty. According to estimations from the US Department of Energy, EV batteries can last between 12 and 15 years under typical driving circumstances. In fact, a battery-electric vehicle’s initial owner may never even need to replace the battery because that’s significantly longer than most car owners maintain their vehicles.

 

Increased Battery Life

 

Try the following tips to make your EV battery last longer.  First, if at all possible, steer clear of quick charging. In situations where you’re traveling or don’t have time to wait, public rapid chargers are a terrific alternative, although lithium-ion batteries deteriorate more quickly when charged this way. For longer battery life, use your slower home charger.

 

Secondly, refrain from fully charging or depleting your battery. Even while it’s quite tempting to use it all the way, it’s best to strive for 90%. Many cars may be programmed to cease charging after a specific percentage, which makes this task easier. Additionally, avoid letting the battery on your automobile get too low. If you keep it as close to its maximum capacity as you can, it will last longer.

 

Replacing a battery is inevitable.

 

An electric car’s battery will eventually need to be changed, much like the battery in a gas-powered car. The life of a battery can be prolonged, but not indefinitely. An electric vehicle battery should typically last for ten years before needing to be replaced. Therefore, you shouldn’t have to worry about changing the battery very soon if you purchase an EV now.

The Psychology of Post-Pandemic Automobile Purchasers

Check out the greatest cars for those shoppers as well as who is currently purchasing cars and why.

 

Purchasing an automobile is a significant decision. Choosing now to purchase a vehicle? That is a significant matter.

 

Car demand has remained high despite low availability since the epidemic upset the supply chain. As a result, in a highly competitive market, prices have increased. I know what you’re thinking: “Who the heck would be looking for a car right now?”

 

More people than you may imagine, and for unexpected reasons.

 

We polled over a thousand individuals who intend to buy a new car in the upcoming year*, and the two most common responses fell into the “need” category: The third reason fell into the “want” category. The first two reasons were (1) Current car is old/needs repairs (21%) and (2) Household/family needs changed (17%). (3) Desiring the newest gadgets (13%).

 

Based on these data, we created three personas that capture the characteristics of the existing in-market consumer and offer some recommendations for what each should purchase.

 

Who most resembles you?

 

1. Broken-Minded Bobby: “I’m done with my current car.”

 

Crashed-Down Bobby is a representative of the 21% of prospective automobile purchasers who actually need a new vehicle because their present vehicle is too old or expensive to fix.

 

Bobby is the kind of person who purchases a vehicle with long-term intentions. Like Bobby, the bulk of consumers (40%) shop using secondhand items. How come? Budgetary constraints are probably the main factor, although new cars, especially those that have just been produced or rebuilt, are more likely to have design defects than cars that have been on the market for a few years.

 

For consumers like Bobby, the typical budget is between $20,000 and $30,000. They might not want to spend additional money, or they might not be able to afford it. Bobby is therefore most likely looking for vehicles with a track record of dependability and established technologies.

 

This is also the reason that 84% of shoppers who resemble Bobby are more likely to look for an internal combustion engine (ICE) car than an electric one. Even though they are expanding and changing quickly, EVs are still relatively young when it comes to mass-market automobiles. Not to mention that ICE automobiles are just less expensive.

 

We would suggest any one of these three cars for Bobby:

 

* Toyota Camry, 2018–2020; * Subaru Outback, 2015–2019; * Honda Civic, 2016–2021.

 

2. Shift in Lifestyle “My current car no longer meets my needs,” said Lory.

 

Change in Lifestyle Lory is one of the 17% of car customers who also qualify as needing a new vehicle for a new pastime, pet, baby, or driver. Lory needs a new automobile to fit their new lifestyle.

 

Needing a larger car to fit their expanding family has changed the lives of many Lory-like shoppers, and what’s more vital than keeping your family safe on the road? This may be the reason that 50% of these consumers are thinking about purchasing new in order to take advantage of the newest driver assistance and safety features.

 

An additional factor contributing to these consumers’ preference for new over used cars is their greater interest in hybrids (39%) and battery-electric cars (30%). However, the majority (79%) is still in the market for an ICE car.

 

Larger cars typically have higher sticker prices, which is reflected in Lory’s spending plan. Although 34% of these buyers believe they will spend more than they anticipate, the median budget for these shoppers is between $30,000 and $40,000.

 

We would suggest any one of these three cars for Lory:

 

* 2015–2020 Chevrolet Suburban * 2023 Kia Telluride * 2023 Toyota Sienna Hybrid

 

3. Frankie, the Feature-Focused One: “My car feels old.”

 

Frankie, who is feature-focused, wants a new automobile even if they don’t need one because they’re losing out on some awesome new features like a panoramic sunroof and adaptive cruise control.

 

Most Frankies (76%) are purchasing new because they want the newest and finest, and their typical spending is the highest of the three groups, ranging from $40,000 to $50,000. Nearly a third anticipate having to take other brands into consideration while searching for their ideal qualities.

 

Given that improved features are always being developed and that he has a larger budget, Frankie probably has no intention of keeping this automobile for the foreseeable future. He can also consider other vehicle options, such as plug-in hybrids, full electric vehicles, and hybrids. Actually, 56% of Frankie-like shoppers are exploring hybrid vehicles, and nearly half (49%) are thinking about switching to all-electric vehicles.

 

In keeping with the “new” theme, Frankie is investigating the new avenue of online automobile shopping. Thirty-four percent of respondents anticipate doing a larger portion of their shopping online, whether it be contacting local dealerships or ordering the complete automobile online and having it delivered right to their door.

 

We would advise Frankie to drive any one of these three cars:

 

* Hyundai IONIQ 5 (2023) * Mazda CX-5 (2023) * BMW 5 Series (2020–2022).

 

Is 2023 Your Year to Invest in a Car?

 

It has been difficult, to put it mildly, to buy a car in the last two years, but 2023 appears to be a hopeful year for buyers, and things might return to “back to normal.” Just be aware that more people are anticipated to hit the market this year, so being well-versed in research and shopping techniques will be especially crucial.

 

SimpSocial can assist you with hundreds of thousands of new and used automobiles at thousands of Certified Dealers nationwide, as well as with professional research and reviews.

You Can’t Always Have Your Cake and Eat It, Too

Astute consumers take advantage of the fact that certain cars are more desirable than others. A lot of times, perfectly nice cars stay on the lot for a long time, waiting to be noticed by the proper customer. Finding the ideal car can be harder than ever in 2022 because there are still not enough cars on the road. However, you may still find a fantastic deal on a new or used automobile if you know what to search for.

 

Dark and WhiteYawn.

 

The majority of automobile buyers have monochromatic dreams. No, really, no. These are the two most in-demand hues, closely followed by silver and gray. The bulk of supply and demand is represented by neutral hues, although fewer common colors can result in a contract.

 

Because there may be less demand for a car in a less desired hue, like orange or tan, the dealership may be more inclined to offer a lower price. A dealership should try to clear out its inventory as soon as these less desirable automobiles arrive so that space may be taken up by vehicles that will be in higher demand and sell faster.

 

Unusual Choices

 

How about configurations of the vehicles? Find the rebels, the misfits, and the troublemakers. To put it another way, a unique set of features or tools might also result in a lot. It’s possible that an Audi with front-wheel drive is less appealing than one with quattro drive. The same holds true for a loaded 4×4 truck with a manual transmission and a standard cab. You might be able to win a lot of money if you don’t require the standard bells and whistles.

 

What should you avoid doing now that you know what to look out for? Automobiles featuring exclusive color and configuration options typically fetch a premium price on the market. Therefore, if you come across a car in a color that was created especially for the manufacturer’s 100th anniversary, temper your expectations.

 

Beauty Isn’t Everything

 

Manufacturers sometimes host sales events to get rid of their older models and make room for the newest ones when they release a new generation of their cars. Keep a close eye on the dates of vehicle launches because this only occurs once every few years. If you start looking for the previous generation model before its replacement is out, you might be lucky. Vehicles that are slated for discontinuation can employ a similar tactic.

 

Due to the divisive body shapes of some cars, many buyers look for alternatives. Whether it’s too aggressive or too square, astute consumers might profit from the conflicting opinions. Not sure how to get started? The Honda Clarity, Nissan Juke, and BMW 4 Series are a handful of the most notable automobiles. Even in a competitive market, you may be astonished by what you discover. And for the truly daring, used car buyers shouldn’t overlook the renowned Pontiac Aztek.

 

Unusual Returns

 

Dealers occasionally get trade-ins that they are unable to sell on their own lot. This might occur from the car being a different brand, being too old, or simply being in too bad of shape to be sold. The car usually ends up at auction when this occurs. You can take part in these auctions and possibly find the car you desire at the correct price if you have the patience and good fortune on your side.

 

Sometimes, if you’re really on your game, you can snag these trade-ins before the dealership reconditions them. Since the dealership won’t have to invest any money or time in getting the vehicle ready for sale, this is fantastic for buyers who don’t mind doing some work or taking care of maintenance and repairs themselves.

 

Under the Badge

 

One vehicle may have variations offered by multiple automakers; this approach, also known as “badge engineering,” may allow you to find an obscure vehicle with a more mainstream equivalent if branding is not a concern. Do you recall the VW Routan? Warning: beneath, it’s actually a Dodge Grand Caravan, and it was even made at the same facility.

 

You can take use of this information as a car buyer because lower brand loyalty may result in lower buying costs. People sometimes are unaware that automakers frequently swap platforms and parts with one another in order to save production costs. Many people know a Subaru WRX, but if they do some research, they’ll discover that the “Swedish” Saab 9-2x Aero is actually the same vehicle dressed differently.

 

What’s Within the Engine

 

An engine is referred to as a vehicle’s heart and soul. Additionally, purchasers can be very selective about the engines they choose when available. Due to the high demand for fuel-efficient options made feasible by hybrid and turbocharged models, the available inventory is significantly reduced. Finding a car with a less common engine, like a naturally aspirated engine or a gas-guzzling V8, may be easier if you’re not looking for a daily driver.

 

Electric vehicles can be justified using the same reasoning. While an extended-range vehicle is great, it might not be essential for people whose commutes are predictable and they have convenient access to charging stations. If you think about your lifestyle, you might find that an entry-level model works well for you. Additionally, if you broaden your search to include used electric cars, you’ll have a lot more possibilities if you can live with a range of less than 200 miles.

 

The End of the Row

 

A shrewd consumer may also be able to find a decent car at a fair price by taking a close look at models that are getting old or being discontinued. Dealerships and automakers may be more likely to move older models with better pricing and/or manufacturer incentives because many individuals are interested in owning the newest and greatest.

 

The Chevrolet Corvette is a superb illustration of this from more recently. There was a lot of demand for the recently released model because of the mid-engine configuration and launch of the 2020 C8 generation. As a result, purchasers frequently paid more for the new vehicle, and demand for the C7 Corvette, which had been in production since 2014, gradually decreased.

 

When it comes to defunct models, you should think about the manufacturer’s support in terms of parts availability in case you need future repairs for your car. Drivers of older vehicles probably won’t have to worry about a mainstream model like the Toyota Tundra. But if you’re the kind of person who keeps their car for a long time, this could become a problem later on for discontinued makes and models that don’t exchange parts with other cars. So, if you see a tempting price on a used Acura ZDX, you might want to give it some second thought.

 

Prior to purchasing

 

Even though a car that has been sitting on the dealership lot could be a hidden gem, it could also cause problems for the next owner. Prioritize your research at all times, keeping note of any known flaws and recalls. Additionally, you should check user reviews, especially for the model year and configuration that interests you. Ultimately, there can be an additional explanation for the profound discount or lack of interest.

 

Discovered the bargain of a lifetime? Avoid making hasty purchases, particularly when purchasing a new car. Remember that even if you might score a deal at the time, a compromise car could not be as valuable when it comes time to sell. However, you might not need to worry as much if you’re buying a secondhand automobile because it may have already undergone a large amount of depreciation.

 

Buying a car for the first time? You can increase your chances of winning big at the dealership by being well-prepared. First things first: create a budget. Remember that taxes, fees, and interest can mount up quickly. It will also be simpler to decide whether you’ve found a terrific deal in a competitive market if you do your homework and take test drives. Learn everything there is to know from our guide on purchasing a new car.

An Overview of Down Payments

The five most typical methods of payment.

At last, the car of your dreams has arrived, complete with the exact brand, model, color, and sound system you desire. All you need to do now is figure out how to afford it. Not to worry. There are numerous options available. Here is a brief summary of the most typical ones:

Money

Everybody accepts money. It is quick, simple, and portable. The only drawback is that you can be vulnerable to theft, loss, or tapping into the till. Although it feels fantastic to carry a packed envelope full of cash, you might want to think twice before doing so unless you’re heading straight from your bank to the dealer.

Receiver’s Check

A cashier’s check, often called a bank check, is a form of payment that is signed by a cashier or teller and insured by a bank. The bank guarantees that the money is covered, which is the primary distinction between it and a personal check. Dealerships prefer a cashier’s check over a personal check for obvious reasons. In the event that this is your desired course of action, you will have to pay a little charge and visit the bank in order to obtain it.

Cash Order

Similar to a cashier’s check, it is assured. It is typically for a significantly smaller amount and is solely dependent on the person issuing it, unlike a cashier’s check. Conversely, since cashier’s checks are linked to your bank account, they are far more flexible.

Please verify ahead as not all dealerships take money orders. A money order typically costs between 50 cents and $10.

Takeout Card

Consider carrying a debit card as a simpler alternative to cash. To take money straight out of your account, simply swipe your card. Positively, unless your bank has an overdraft policy, you won’t be able to spend more than you have. The drawback is that you cannot use it to raise your credit score. The majority of dealerships will take debit payments because the funds are taken directly from an existing account, but it’s always a good idea to double-check. Additionally, you might wish to notify your bank in advance that a sizable payment is about to be made. By doing this, you may be sure that an unusually high expenditure doesn’t cause the transaction to be denied and raise a fraud alert.

Bank Card

Many dealerships accept credit cards as a convenient and hassle-free substitute for cash when used as a down payment. Using one to make payments can also earn you cash back, points, or miles from the card issuer. APR, or annual percentage rate, should be handled with caution. If it’s quite high, you may wind up increasing the car’s total cost even further.

All of the preceding

You could not always keep all of your money in one account, or you might have some cash set aside for a rainy day. Ask the dealership if they are okay with a combination if any one of the aforementioned possibilities isn’t going to bring you the amount you require. Just keep in mind that whichever path you take, you must be certain of the precise amount you must bring in order to meet the minimum down payment requirement.

Automotive Dealer Guide: Techniques, Concepts and Methods

Nowadays, almost no consumer visits a dealership before doing their internet automobile shopping. Digital marketing techniques are employed by astute car dealers to turn those internet visitors into actual customers. I give the best and most effective tactics based on my twenty years of experience.

 

What Distinguishes Digital Marketing from Traditional Marketing for Auto Dealers?

 

Digital marketing is the term for advertising conducted online via social media, emails, and websites. Beyond only where it shows up, digital marketing is different from traditional marketing. The practice is more client-focused and engaging.

 

A television advertisement from an auto dealership cannot highlight a particular customer’s age or other attributes. The TV advertisement isn’t interactive for that potential client. Furthermore, the dealer frequently has no idea how successful the advertisement was in drawing in new clients to the store.

 

Demographics and various types of prospective customers can be targeted via digital marketing. Dealers have quick and simple access to data on the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns and the number of interested parties.

 

The Significance of Automotive Digital Marketing in the Present Era

 

Automotive internet marketing is essential since, compared to ten or fifteen years ago, people now browse for cars in radically different ways. Before they ever visit a showroom, the majority of buyers spend hours browsing the internet for their next vehicle.

 

The following information explains how much automobile shopping is now done online:

 

Research on the internet is done by 86% of prospective buyers of cars before they visit a nearby dealership, per a study conducted by digital marketing company Adtaxi.

 

According to a 2020 Cox Automotive study, consumers who purchased a car spent an average of 15 hours on the entire purchasing process, which included shopping, researching, visiting dealerships, and haggling. Nine and a half of those hours, or nearly two-thirds of the time, were spent online.

 

Seven out of ten automobile purchasers claim that their decision to visit a dealership is influenced by internet reviews, according to Digital Air Strike research.

 

Because of all of this, auto dealers need to be very visible online and interact with prospective clients. They must know how to target specific customer groups with their marketing and provide them with the information they require. All of that must take place before the buyer even contacts a dealership or makes a phone call.

 

(To find out more about how dealers interact with customers and sell cars, among other parts of the automotive business that are impacted by online shopping, see our guide on automotive digital retailing.)

 

How Much Does Advertising Cost at Car Dealerships?

 

For every new car sold, franchised auto dealerships lose almost $600. That equates to billions of dollars being spent on advertising annually. For car dealerships, internet advertising is becoming the most common medium for advertising.

 

The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) released its annual report for 2019 and states that new car dealerships spent $9.25 billion on advertising in 2019, or roughly $628 for each new car sold. That decreased in 2020’s first half, most likely as a result of the COVID pandemic. In the first half of 2020, new car dealerships spent over $3.73 billion on advertising, or almost $600 for each vehicle sold.

 

The largest advertising expenditure for new vehicle dealers in 2019 was 14.5 percent on television, with 56 percent of their advertising dollars going online.

 

Digital Marketing Channels for Automobiles

 

To reach potential consumers, auto dealers can and should make use of a variety of digital marketing platforms. We refer to this strategy as omnichannel marketing. A well-designed website, online videos, and pay-per-click advertising are examples of potential routes.

 

The following are the best internet marketing channels for cars:

 

Online Pay-Per-Click Advertising

 

PPC, or pay-per-click, advertising is a term that describes how important it may be to successful digital marketing. For specific keywords, a dealership will pay a search engine (usually Google) to display your link at the top of the result page. Each time a user clicks on the advertisement to get more information, they give Google a tiny payment.

 

PPC is still expanding in the car sector. PPC ad expenditure in the automotive industry rose by 22% in 2019 compared to 2018, according to data from eMarketer.

 

You can use graphics or videos, or just text with a link, in your advertisements. To draw in the right clients, you should investigate the most effective terms to use. To make sure you exclude irrelevant queries (such as those in which the user could be interested in learning more about “Mustang” horses rather than a Ford “Mustang”), pay attention to the negative terms you want to utilize.

 

“Programmatic display” is an additional element of paid internet advertising that enables you to show your advertisement to a highly targeted audience based on what they are reading on another website. For example, they might be reading an article about tiny SUVs or buying autos.

 

An attractive website with useful content for search engines

 

You should and can be found by potential clients even without paid search engine advertising. Let me introduce you to search engine optimization (SEO), which is the process of making material on your website more visible to search engines and users.

 

According to a Kenshoo study, 70% of buyers start their car research with a search engine. A prominent position on a search engine results page confers a benefit to your website: customers view it as more reliable than a pay-per-click advertisement. Thus, you should strive to rank highly in organic, or non-PPC, search results.

 

Additionally, you should have a well-designed website with content that appeals to car purchasers, who are searching for in-depth details about specific models without resorting to gaudy or unprofessional gimmicks. The modern online automobile buyer seeks out all the information required to complete an online auto transaction.  Find out more about giving car buyers a more engaging online experience.

 

Too many calls-to-action (CTAs), or interactive elements that ask for a viewer’s name and contact information, can be seen on the websites of many auto dealerships. Having said that, you should aim to balance the number of CTAs on your page so as not to overload visitors or drive them away. Learn more about boosting the conversion rate of your car website.

 

The use of voice search is growing. To find the top car dealerships, prospective clients can query Siri on their smartphone or Alexa on their smart speaker. Make sure your material is optimized to respond to straightforward inquiries.

 

Read Moz’s piece, which goes over all the SEO fundamentals for auto dealerships, to learn more about SEO.

 

Sites

 

You may also enhance your search engine results by adding a blog to your website that offers basic consumer information about vehicles and car buying.

 

Customers won’t limit their search to just one type of car when they start looking for one. Additionally, they should have a broad understanding of automobiles and car purchases. For example, a lot of customers will use search engines to find out the advantages and disadvantages of leasing versus buying a car. Your dealership is likely to rank highly for that query if you’ve written a blog post about it. To find out what queries customers have most frequently regarding autos and car purchases, you can conduct internet research. Answerthepublic.com is one free internet resource that gives you access to frequently asked questions.

 

Additionally, having a blog will make customers think of your dealership as a reliable resource for guidance and information.

 

Regional SEO

 

It is not enough to concentrate solely on SEO website optimization. In order to ensure that individuals searching for automobiles in your metropolitan region find you, you also need to optimize it for local SEO.

 

With more and more people accessing the internet via their phones, local SEO has become even more crucial. Currently, local results appear in about half of all smartphone searches. People are always on the go and need to know where to buy a Ford 150 or get a pizza. When customers search for a car, you want to appear in the results.

 

Create an account on Google My Business and include your address and other geographic details. Additionally, you should provide local information on your website.

 

Media Social

 

A digital marketing strategy must include social media. A study conducted by the Chief Marketing Officer Council found that 38% of automobile purchasers check social media before making a purchase.

 

Make an account on all of the social media platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and more. Assign employees the responsibility of maintaining such accounts active by posting frequently about your dealership, and buying cars, and automobiles.

 

Social networking networks also offer purchased advertisements. You may target particular potential clients, such as residents of your metro region who have been looking for SUVs, which is a clear advantage. You can also quickly see your return on investment for buying those advertisements with social media. You may find out exactly how many individuals clicked through from one of Facebook’s ads to your website by using their stats, for instance.

 

Web-based Videos

 

Online automotive video viewership is surging, and those films have a big impact on prospective automobile purchasers.

 

A Google survey found that 64% of users who viewed YouTube while making a car purchase were impacted by it. That’s a larger number of buyers than those impacted by car reviews, TV, newspapers, or magazines.

 

You may make quick films that demonstrate:

 

A vehicle being tested

 

Testimonials from pleased clients

 

brand-new cars and showcase special features

 

Advice about auto maintenance and repairs

 

The videos can drive more traffic to your website and increase the number of hits on your online and social media advertisements. They can also aid in increasing website traffic by optimizing your videos for search engines. When uploading a video to YouTube, it’s advisable to include a textual transcript of the video. Although viewers typically cannot see the transcript, it will improve the video’s ranking in Google search results.

 

Email Promotion

 

Advertising to your consumers on how simple it is to buy from you and save time, etc., will put them in the driver’s seat when the time comes for them to be in the market for another vehicle. They can also educate their customers since they last made a purchase or had maintenance at a particular dealership.

 

In the digital age, email is about as antiquated as it gets, but it still works well.

 

First, you should email both your previous and present clients. Forward to those who have purchased from your dealership or had auto repairs done by you. Remind them how simple and affordable it is to purchase from you when they finally find themselves in the market once more for an automobile.

 

Additionally, you can request email addresses from potential clients via your website and other marketing materials. Based on the feedback from your customers, send tailored messaging. Make sure you just send them the information they request and personalize the emails as much as you can. Always include links in your emails so that prospective clients can visit your website. Depending on the kind and quantity of responses you receive, modify the email’s length and tone.

 

Additionally, think about sending out email newsletters on a regular basis to those who subscribe. These newsletters may provide information about new automobile models, exclusive offers, or helpful tips related to purchasing a car.

 

SMS Messaging

 

Customers who have consented to receive messages from your business may also receive a text message from your dealership. Reaching customers using this approach is more effective and faster than using emails. More and more people are visiting business websites—including auto dealerships—on their mobile devices. Clients who get one of your texts can visit your website right away.

 

Internet Listings

 

Make your own entries in web directories for businesses. These comprise both more regionalized and nationwide directories such as Yelp. Ensure that your profile is full and includes connections to your social media pages and website.

 

Online Evaluations

 

The success of your dealership depends on its online reviews. As was already noted, 70% of automobile purchasers claim that dealer reviews found online influence where they chose to purchase a car.

 

Make it easy for customers to provide reviews for you on your website and other platforms, such as social media, Google, and Yelp. Make sure to keep an eye on those reviews and give thoughtful feedback on both favorable and negative ones. This strategy is just a portion of what you have to be doing to manage the web reputation of your business. Additionally, you should keep an eye on how your dealership shows up in general search engine results.

 

Remember to include a link to your website on outside review platforms.

 

Links to Other Websites

 

Dealers should include every item in their inventory, both new and old, along with every detail about each car on reputable third-party websites that buyers frequently start their search on. Autotrader.com, Cars.com, Edmunds.com, and CarGurus.com are among the websites.

 

It would be equivalent to placing your cars behind your dealership instead of in front if you didn’t post them on these sites.

 

OTT Marketing

 

The popularity of streaming video is skyrocketing. Nowadays, over 147 million adult Americans watch video material on Roku, Hulu, Amazon Fire TV, Sling, and other comparable services. In fact, streaming video is thought to account for 80% of all internet traffic.

 

Use these platforms to advertise. The term “over the top” advertising refers to this kind of advertising since it circumvents cable and regular TV networks. Compared to traditional broadcast advertising, it is more focused and less expensive, among other benefits.

 

Mobile Efficiency

 

In 2019, mobile devices accounted for 53.3% of all internet traffic, according to Broadband Search. In contrast, 16.2 percent did so in 2013. Mobile devices accounted for 58% of all organic search engine visits in the United States during the fourth quarter of 2019.

 

Individuals are using their phones to look for local auto dealers and then access their websites on the go. Make sure the content and appearance of your website are mobile-friendly. On a mobile device, your website should appear fluid and simple to navigate.

 

Straight Mail

 

Although direct mail isn’t digital, it can support and enhance your online marketing initiatives. A direct mail postcard with links to your website can be sent to a specific recipient. These links can provide additional details about special sales events, new cars at your dealership, and other information.

 

Digital Marketing Strategies for Automobiles

 

Selecting the right channels for your digital marketing requires careful consideration of your whole plan.

 

Top Internet marketing techniques for car dealerships:

 

Recognize Your Shoppers’ Locations and Make Sure You’re There: Consumers research automobile purchases using a variety of websites and resources. The four best:

 

Thirty-two percent go to independent aggregator websites such as autotrader.com.

 

Thirty percent do some research or use a search engine to find their desired car.

 

One-fourth go to websites for local dealers.

 

14% go to websites for brands and manufacturers.

 

As you market, give careful consideration to at least the top three areas. Dealers with the greatest possibility of impressing prospective clients are those who are well-represented and excel in those areas. (See “Marketing for Remote Sales” for more information on how to conduct successful digital marketing for today’s clients, especially those who are prepared to make purchases from a distance.)

 

Provide the Correct Content for the Correct Channel: Depending on the device a customer is using, different research objectives and responses apply. With a desktop computer, for instance, customers can more easily:

 

Utilize the software on your website to personalize a new car.

 

Compare information about rival cars.

 

Obtain details about warranties.

 

Using a mobile device makes it simpler for them to:

 

Speak with loved ones while they are buying cars.

 

Speak with a salesperson or the dealership.

 

Arrange a test drive.

 

Look up the locations of nearby dealers.

 

When developing different sections of its website, your dealership must take consumer behavior into account. Remember that when focusing your digital advertising on individuals and mobile devices,

 

Make Sure Your Digital Ads Aim at the Correct Audience: Consumers have certain requirements when it comes to automobiles and dealerships. When looking for a Mercedes S-Class Sedan, buyers pay attention to details and amenities that a buyer of a Toyota Corolla might not. They anticipate that the dealerships’ marketing materials will make that clear.

 

When advertising the wide range of vehicles your dealership offers, keep this in mind. When interacting with customers, keep these differentiators in mind—you might offer different brands at different price points. Send each customer the appropriate digital marketing message.

 

To discover more ways to engage customers, check out our innovative recommendations for remote selling strategies.

 

Conduct A/B Testing: Make sure to evaluate the efficacy of different digital marketing channels. Examine the effectiveness of every message in a marketing channel by testing it. Comparable customers are sent two versions of a message as part of A/B testing to discover which gets a better response.

 

For instance, two options for a message to similar groups could be included in an email campaign. It is advisable to monitor which supporting materials result in a greater percentage of emails being opened and links inside the email being clicked.

 

You could also experiment with A/B testing on social media networks. For instance, send the identical Facebook message to various Facebook audiences.

 

Recognize Good and Bad Conversion Rates: The average rate at which prospective customers click on a link in an email or on a digital advertisement, for example, is a conversion rate that applies to all forms of digital marketing. Only 1.5 to 2 percent of conversions occur on average across some channels. To find out what constitutes a “good” conversion rate and to make sure that your efforts are hitting that mark, find out what the average conversion rate is for each channel.

 

Keep an eye on and track every outcome. You can easily keep track of results using a lot of digital marketing tools. But occasionally, you’ll need tools to keep an eye on the performance of your digital marketing. Call tracking software, for example, keeps track of incoming calls that might be the consequence of particular digital marketing.

 

Think About Hiring a Full-Time Digital Marketing Specialist: A lot of dealerships use marketing and advertising organizations. Numerous organizations with experience in car marketing exist.

 

Dealerships should still weigh the benefits of employing a full-time specialist to focus solely on digital marketing. Given that 90% of prospective auto buyers begin their search online, a dealership’s success depends on its digital marketing strategy. Hiring a full-time digital marketer—a specialist whose sole concentration is on strategically marketing your dealership—can yield an astronomically high return on investment.

 

Creative Ideas for Auto Dealership Marketing in 2023 and Beyond

 

Technology will keep altering the way auto dealerships promote their brands and vehicles. In the future, digital marketing will be significantly impacted by artificial intelligence (AI).

 

Trends in auto dealership marketing to keep an eye on:

 

Virtual Reality on Websites: Customers will be able to see semi-virtual reality films of a showroom, a new automobile being sat in, or even a test drive from the driver’s perspective by visiting dealership websites.

 

Chatbots: These are becoming more and more common on websites with a sales emphasis, such as those owned by car dealers. They stand for AI’s initial infant steps. Chatbots can converse with website visitors fast and effortlessly. Chatbots can respond to user queries and offer information depending on their website activity (for instance, Facebook Messenger bots enable you to communicate with over 1 billion monthly users). These initiatives may persuade those users to visit the dealership or speak with a sales representative. The capacity of chatbots to interact with potential clients will only grow.

 

Additional Artificial Intelligence: By incorporating AI into websites and other applications, auto marketers will be able to target customers with customized marketing messages at the appropriate time. Dealerships may better target their marketing with AI by providing the appropriate content through the appropriate channels to the appropriate customers.

 

Digital Marketing Platforms for Automotive Industry Increase Online Marketing Effectiveness

 

Dealerships are provided with the necessary tools by digital marketing platforms for the automobile sector to promote their vehicles and services more efficiently and intelligently. Additionally, the system can assist dealerships with online consumer engagement, question-answering, and sales process navigation.

 

These platforms can assist your dealership in reaching out to potential clients when they are beginning their car search—online. They may give clients all the information they require at the appropriate time, resulting in a satisfying experience even before they enter the dealership.

 

Case Study on Digital Marketing for Automotive

 

Sam Pack’s Five Star Ford in the Dallas metro region now has the marketing and tooling it needs. The executives of the dealership are aware that the majority of consumers now shop for cars primarily online before going to the showroom. Sam Pack’s Five Star Ford customers can click a “shop online” button on the company website to access a wealth of information on individual cars and the car-buying process.

 

“I think the future of any Ford dealership when it comes to digital retailing, is that you’re either going to get on it or you’re going to be left behind,” says dealership general manager Brian Huth. In the end, buyers do want to handle and feel the vehicle. However, they don’t want to cope with the inconvenience of putting in endless hours attempting to close the deal. You’re essentially going backward if you’re not moving toward a digital realm, in my opinion. This represents the future’s trend.

24/7 Digital Showroom: Real Buyer, Real Deal

It’s becoming more and more obvious that a dealership’s website is an extension of its showroom rather than the other way around. Even in the middle of the night, the point of sale is shifting to where the customer is.

 

When assessing the consumer experience as a whole, it’s easy to draw conclusions, but the actual insights come from looking at individual customer journeys. This is an actual instance of a customer using the SimpSocial platform to shop on a dealership website.

 

Gregory, a prospective buyer of a used Ford Fusion, uses his smartphone to access the website of a Connecticut-based dealer after one in the morning. This is what transpired next:

 

And that’s it, my friend. Gregory drafted his own arrangement down to the last detail, sought and was approved for finance, completed the deal, and arranged for the car to be delivered in a mere eighteen minutes. Many hours after the actual showroom had closed for the evening, all via his phone.

 

Not every client will act in this way. The majority won’t even complete the purchase process online, therefore your dealership needs to provide the resources to enable clients to work as much from home or on the go as they choose.

 

Significant conclusions:

 

Real-time firm credit offers enable you to close a real deal while you’re asleep.

 

Once they begin, some shoppers will lose interest and become sidetracked. Quick Quote is a solution that allows your dealership to automatically send out remote deals to customers, allowing them to pick up where they left off and re-engage them 24/7.

 

Lender financing should be simple enough for customers to grasp, free from dealership interpretations, allowing them to choose the best credit offer.

 

Are you prepared to meet the customer where they are at your dealership? Contact us right now to arrange a demo if you’d like to find out more about how SimpSocial may assist you in providing genuine offers in real-time.

Fueling e-commerce for large dealer networks

Large dealer groups have similar difficulties as the automotive industry as a whole: insufficient inventory forces buyers to broaden their search for new cars. When dealership visits are significantly shortened, customers are far less reluctant to travel ninety minutes in search of the ideal vehicle at the best price.

 

Naturally, a dealer has limited control over a global chip scarcity primarily caused by a pandemic, but there are things dealers may do to improve the digital retail experiences of their clients. The correct digital commerce platform can increase the transactional nature of your website, regardless of whether you’re a local group trying to climb the WardsAuto Megadealer 100 or a group that’s just getting started. In this context, that means making the most of your local presence while allowing customers to complete every stage of the purchasing process in-store, at home, or while on the go.

 

Large dealer groupings must consequently interpret “digital retailing” as “retailing.” Otherwise, avoid treating DR as a specialized experience that belongs in the internet department. Rather, your dealer group ought to view it as a tactic that simplifies your whole sales procedure. According to a recent study, almost 40% of consumers believe that their pandemic purchasing experience will discourage them from making in-store purchases in the future, proving that digital retail procedures are here to stay.

 

For your group, what does this signify? It indicates that you probably already have a physical store, a well-known brand, skilled employees, and capital expenditures in inventory; the back-end solutions that greatly enhance the consumer experience when purchasing a car are what’s missing. Even though the forms on your website seem professional, if all they say is that “someone from the dealership will be in contact,” you are falling short of what buyers want from a transactional experience, and they will go elsewhere.

 

Even though your website may look and feel great, your clients will realize that you are wasting their time if they have to fill out forms that don’t directly relate to financing.

 

Needs vary throughout various groups. Some want a single marketplace with transactable products across their hundreds of rooftops because they run a sizable regional operation. Some people use Tier 3 websites that include distance-based at-home delivery costs and online deposits for each dealership in their portfolio.

 

We are aware of this since the SimpSocial platform, which enhances the shopping experience by fostering joy and trust, powers four out of the six biggest public dealer groups in the nation.

 

If you’re searching for a platform that facilitates an efficient online selling process, works at scale for big organizations, and has the adaptability to accommodate a customized online approach that includes deposits, applications, and distance-based delivery fees, then look no further. Shouldn’t SimpSocial power you as well?

Dedicated Winter Tires: What Are They?

Should you spend money on snow tires?

 

These seasonal tires are essential whether the weather is snowy or just chilly.

 

For most Americans, switching out the black rubber bands around your wheels on a seasonal basis makes a lot of sense, regardless of the name you give them: winter tires or snow tires.

 

Modern tires are made of special rubber that is intended to maintain a tight grip on the road below, whether or not it is covered in ice or snow when temperatures dip below roughly 45 degrees. Tire producers and dealers prefer to refer to these tires as winter tires. Let’s look at some basic advice regarding shopping for winter tires and how to decide if they are worth the investment.

 

Are Winter Tires Necessary?

You could, but there are a number of variables at work. As a basic guideline, figure out how frequently you might drive when the outdoor temperature drops below that crucial 45 degrees. For certain consumers, this will be apparent. Others should think about the time of day they commute because, in some areas, temperatures rise significantly after sunrise.

 

That being said, you’re safely in the snow-tire range if you live somewhere where a few inches of overnight snowfall doesn’t cause the school to be closed the following day.

 

Winter tires are not now needed anywhere in the United States, however they are in certain regions of Canada. There are traction rules on some high-elevation highways in Colorado and Utah that forbid summer-specific tires.

 

Dedicated Winter Tires: What Are They?

The design of the knobby tire tread and the rubber used in their construction are the two primary ways that winter tires differ from one another.

 

Typically, the tread features unique grooves called sipes. In addition to helping the tires dig into the snow to prevent the automobile from getting stuck, this unique tread pattern drastically reduces stopping distances when compared to tires that aren’t meant for winter use. Consider the winter tires as a pair of claws holding onto the slick road beneath them.

 

Rubber compounds for winter are made to stay flexible under freezing weather. This has a significant effect on handling and braking in addition to guaranteeing that the tire maintains a firm grip on the road underneath.

 

Studs are tiny metal spikes that are placed into the rubber of some tires. In deeper snow, these can offer an additional layer of traction. Though just seven states will allow studdable tires as of 2023 include Colorado, Kentucky, New Hampshire, North Carolina, South Carolina, Vermont, and Wyoming. Before installing studded tires, it is advisable to confirm with local authorities as legislation pertaining to vehicles are subject to change.

 

Winter Tires: A Financial Consideration

 

Although purchasing winter tires can be costly up front, keep in mind that you’ll only be using them for roughly half the year. This implies that you will likely have a long time to use them—as well as the tires you fit for warmer weather. Just keep in mind that tire manufacturers usually advise replacing tires when they reach the age of six to ten.

 

It can be more affordable to get a second set of wheels for your winter tires if you want to retain your automobile for a long time. While precise replacement wheels, similar to the ones you’ll use in the summer, may cost several hundred dollars apiece, inexpensive wheels can cost as little as $50 per corner. Nonetheless, it can cost more than $200 to have all four tires mounted and balanced by a tire shop twice a year. You’ll need to replace your wheels and tires twice a year, and shops usually charge at least $25 for the set. The cost of that extra set of wheels might be recouped quickly.

 

In addition, storage might be a challenge for anyone without a private garage. You can keep off-season tires for free in a corner of your garage or basement, or some dealerships and tire businesses in colder climates will store them for you.

 

All-weather tires: What Are They?

 

All-weather tires are a relatively new invention that combine a rubber compound that sticks well to cold tarmac with a tread pattern that is conducive to snow. Compared to winter tires, these tires have a less aggressive tread design. On the other hand, the rubber kind that is utilized is made to function equally effectively in 100°F and 0°F temperatures.

 

In addition to being somewhat noisier on dry roads than all-season tires, these tires lack the deep snow grip of a winter tire. Additionally, only a few number of brands and sizes are produced, which raises the price and means they could not fit in every car.

 

The Bridgestone Weatherpeak and the Michelin CrossClimate are two of the most well-liked all-weather tire alternatives.

 

All-weather tires may be something to think about if you’re not sure whether to get winter tires or not.

 

Do Snow-Related All-Season Tires Function?

 

All-season tires are standard on most new automobiles. This rather deceptive category serves as a catch-all for tires made to provide passable traction in dry or wet weather above approximately fifty degrees. All-season tires include a marking on the sidewall that reads “Mud + Snow” or “M+S,” which makes them even more perplexing. To find out what kind of tires are currently on your automobile, you might want to stop by a tire store.

 

The unique tread pattern and rubber compounds intended for deeper snow and colder climates are absent from these tires.

 

Regarding Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD): What Does It Mean?

 

Consider adding winter tires to your car if you purchased it with all-wheel or four-wheel drive to provide you additional control and protection from becoming stranded in the snow and ice. Although they are sometimes misinterpreted, 4WD and AWD are excellent qualities to have when driving in the winter.

 

Knowing how these two systems work makes it easier to understand how they differ from one another. There’s a lot of misunderstanding about what each system performs. The fact that the terms are frequently used interchangeably just makes it worse. This is how we distinguish them:

 

First, be aware that all-wheel drive systems come in two varieties:

 

Only the front or rear wheels are driven by part-time (on-demand) systems until additional traction is required. Because using just two wheels most of the time saves gasoline, these systems are widely used. To detect when to apply torque to the other two wheels, such as when tires begin to spin on ice, the majority of them rely on sensors. Certain trucks and other part-time systems allow the driver to operate the switch.

 

A full-time system is the alternative kind of all-wheel drive. These systems concurrently direct torque to the front and rear axles when there is equal grip at all four tires. In full-time systems, there can be significant variations in the front-to-rear torque distribution based on the differential type and available grip. However, there aren’t many situations where they don’t apply torque to all four wheels.

 

In order for both kinds of all-wheel drive to perform well on gripping pavement and snow and ice, they must be able to rotate all four wheels at various speeds while cornering. Their ability to adapt, together with the extra grip provided by running two tires, is what makes them suitable for winter driving.

 

The way four-wheel drive works is different. Traditionally, four-wheel-drive systems lock the front and rear axles together to ensure they rotate at the same speed when they are engaged (generally via a lever or button). In order to ensure that all wheels always rotate at the same speed, certain four-wheel-drive systems can additionally lock the left and right wheels together (using locking differentials). Because of this, these systems perform well when driving in sand, rock crawling, or even traveling straight on low-grip surfaces. On surfaced roads, however, where the tires must turn at different rates while cornering, it results in binding. When there is snow or ice present, the grip might be further decreased, and four-wheel drive can hinder a car’s turning ability.

 

What Do You Need, Then?

 

You might not require winter tires or all-wheel drive if you only drive in the cold a couple of times a year. However, you should be aware that your chances of losing control are significantly higher than they would be with winter tires, so be ready to drive extremely slowly on slick surfaces. Yes, you require winter tires if you drive frequently in winter conditions and have all-wheel or four-wheel drive. It’s that easy. Better stopping performance is the most significant benefit that winter tires offer, something that all-wheel and four-wheel drive cannot match. Additionally, improved turning performance occurs frequently.

Dealership vs. Mechanic: What’s Better for Your Car?

Which is better for servicing your car: a dealership or a neighborhood mechanic? We lay down the factors for each to help you decide which is ideal for your car’s requirements.

 

Whether your vehicle is new or old, repairs will eventually be necessary. Getting regular auto maintenance done by a reputable service provider can significantly reduce the cost of your automobile’s upkeep, even if it’s just an oil change, new tires, brake pads, or other basic repairs.

 

You have two options if you’re not handy with mechanics: you can take your car to a dealership or hire a private mechanic. But which one ought you to pick?

 

Why Choosing the Dealer Could Be a Safer Option

 

We’ll go over a few of the reasons you might choose the dealer’s service department. In summary, modern cars are incredibly sophisticated, with more parts, sensors, and electronics than ever before. Therefore, you want to be sure that the person repairing it is an absolute master at this modern technology in case something goes wrong.

 

Every day, factory-trained experts work on cars just like yours in dealership service departments. They are also trained in the particulars of your car. Additionally, you may be sure that you’ll receive original OEM components, which are frequently of greater quality than alternatives from the aftermarket.

 

Though we acknowledge that the dealer may charge more, here are some things to think about if you have the extra money.

 

Dealerships vs. Independent Mechanics: Pros and Cons

 

For the majority of brands, a factory-trained technician who is familiar with your vehicle’s make and model will provide servicing when you visit the dealership. Furthermore, as the name implies, factory-trained technicians are knowledgeable on how to keep your car operating as intended by the manufacturer. Depending on the service plan you’re offered, you may occasionally receive discounts for dealership services or even free oil changes if you take your car to the same dealership where you bought it.

 

On the other hand, independent mechanics usually have lower overhead and can provide more reasonable prices for both labor and parts. This may be particularly true as cars age and require expensive repairs. In fact, the technician and business owner can be the same person, giving you additional opportunities to engage with them face-to-face. Your auto technicians will get more acquainted with your particular vehicle each time they work on it, assuming you become a regular customer.

 

Which Services Are Provided by Dealerships?

 

Car dealerships are more than just locations for vehicle purchases. Their extensive variety of services makes them one of the best places to take your car for maintenance. The dealership service department may assist with basic oil changes, tire rotations, fluid top-offs, and engine and transmission disassembly.

 

Smaller, independent mechanics frequently have restrictions on what they can accomplish, whether it be because of resources, education, or other factors.

 

Another fantastic service provided by the service departments of dealerships? vehicles for rent and lending. When your automobile is being serviced, you should be able to get a free loan from luxury automakers like BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz. They’ll give you alternate transportation if it turns out that your car needs a few days, weeks, or months. Most prominent brands at least offer an in-house rental option to keep you on the road while your car is being repaired, even if it’s not free of charge.

 

Placement, Placement, Placement

 

If you live close to a service dealership, you will have easy access to high-quality auto repair. However, you can also take your car to another place that will respect the same warranty if your car or any of its specific parts are still covered by the manufacturer’s guarantee. If your original equipment manufacturer’s battery dies while you’re traveling to work or visiting relatives, this might be a really helpful benefit. You may have access to hundreds or even thousands of service providers across the nation.

 

That being said, you are not required to take your vehicle to the dealership where you originally purchased it. Hence, your warranty will still be valid even if you move across the city, state, or nation.

 

In most cities, you may find independent mechanics working in body shops, tire shops, and auto shops. If you live far away from a dealership, your only realistic alternative for car maintenance can be an independent mechanic. But don’t worry; all you have to do is locate someone who is worth their weight in sheet metal.

 

Why Hiring an Independent Mechanic Could Be a Good Idea

 

Independent technicians can be less expensive than a dealership service center for those trying to cut costs. Numerous independent stores focus on particular products and even automobiles. Pro tip: Some auto repair shops specialize in vehicles from particular global locations. This could serve as a hint to assist you in locating the ideal independent service provider.

 

What Qualities Make an Independent Mechanic Stand Out?

 

If you’re considering hiring a freelance mechanic, we advise finding a shop that specializes in the make and model of your car—ideally one with a stellar reputation and a steady clientele. When you bring your car in, you should also make sure they can locate OEM components and have them on hand.

 

Your experience will differ depending on where you visit, so it’s a good idea to speak with a few stores before choosing one. Get to know the folks you are entrusting with the maintenance of your vehicle before settling on a quote. A positive rapport with your car mechanic can go a long way, much like with a physician or dentist.

 

Warranty-Related Issues

 

To find out if you are protected if your automobile is still under warranty, start by contacting the dealership’s service department. The dealership could be able to pay for some or all of the servicing expenses, whether it’s only an oil change or a significant mechanical problem. The specific conditions of warranties for new and certified pre-owned vehicles may differ based on the automaker, but they often cover parts that are defective or parts that break down under regular use after a predetermined number of miles or time.

 

Your car can still be serviced at the dealer even if it is no longer covered by warranty. Generally speaking, labor and parts will be more expensive, but you often get what you pay for. This comprises a factory-trained technician, a dedicated service advisor for client service, and frequently a free multi-point check.

 

Why OEM Parts Are Important

 

One of the greatest methods to be sure your car gets genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts is to have it serviced at the dealership. The best parts are usually the ones your automobile came with right out of the production line, whether they be brake pads, oil filters, or spark plugs. Additionally, the factory-trained experts are skilled in doing repairs in accordance with manufacturer guidelines if your car is still covered by an active Technical Service Bulletin.

 

Aftermarket components are more likely to be available at auto shops, which can result in immediate cost savings. But generally speaking, they aren’t as high-quality as their OEM equivalents. The good news is that OEM components, which your mechanic might end up acquiring from a nearby dealership, are normally something you can work with. Therefore, even if the cost of OEM parts is comparable, labor costs could be far lower.

 

Make Safe Repairs for Your Car with SimpSocial ‘s Advice

 

Performing routine car maintenance can be intimidating, particularly for novice or brand-new drivers. Fortunately, SimpSocial offers a wealth of information on blog posts and social media posts that are designed to simplify the process of owning a car. For more useful information about automobile ownership, check out the automobile ownership section of our site now, and make sure to follow us on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.

Winter Driving Tips for Electric Vehicles

Use these easy strategies to get the most out of your electric car this winter.

 

Wintertime driving of an electric vehicle frequently calls for some planning because the low temperatures can significantly reduce the passage of lithium ions through the anode and electrolyte in the battery. Range is impacted since the pack is unable to store as much energy or generate as much power as it usually can. In fact, as the snow starts to fall, EV drivers could logically expect a 25% to 50% decrease in range. However, you can survive the winter in an electric car provided you are knowledgeable about battery best practices. Don’t stress out or give up on EVs. These hints ought to be useful.

 

1. When at all possible, park in a garage.

 

A garage offers some insulation from the cold, not to mention snow and ice, even if it isn’t insulated. That’s critical as winter battery efficiency benefits from warmth to every degree. Additionally, parking inside a building will save you energy by preventing the need to operate a defroster to remove ice buildup on your windshield. The next time you travel downtown and have the choice of parking in an enclosure or on the street, keep this in mind.

 

2. Plan your trip out.

 

The car will preheat the cabin and batteries while still plugged in if you just tell it when you want to depart, whether it be in 20 minutes or at a consistent time every weekday. This way, you won’t waste battery power on unnecessary tasks. You can accomplish this via the specialized app or infotainment system.

 

3. Before fast-charging, prepare the battery.

 

Usually, planning your departure will help the battery get ready for the drive. Giving the car advance notice is advised if you want to stop for a quick charge while driving; otherwise, you risk plugging into a fast-charging station and receiving a sluggish charge.

 

This is due to the fact that the battery management system will typically reduce the charge rate to avoid damage if the pack does not have enough time to warm up. Preconditioning, or preheating, the battery on the way to the plug will help you avoid this. Usually, all you need to do to prepare a Tesla is to select a Supercharger station as your destination, and the vehicle will take care of the rest. Other EVs include battery cooling, which takes energy and may reduce range if the driver doesn’t want it.

 

4. Bake for a little longer to recharge.

 

As previously indicated, the chemical process that revitalizes a dead or failing battery is slowed down by cold temperatures. A cold EV can need a few more hours on a Level 2 station to achieve its maximum range.

 

5. Check the pressure in your tires and, if possible, replace them with winter tires.

 

Many tires are underinflated because cold weather causes air to compress. That’s not ideal for winter driving because an underinflated tire can become more of a plow by sagging slightly and expanding the contact surface, which increases rolling resistance and hurting range. Thus, as the temperature drops, check their pressures and supply air as necessary.

 

Additionally, winter tires are well worth the expense if you can afford them. They probably won’t improve your range or cabin noise, but in icy circumstances, they’ll stay flexible and grippy, preventing your heavy EV from becoming a tractionless projectile.

 

6. Drive slowly and in the Eco or Chill mode.

 

As long as the weather permits, select your vehicle’s most economical and gentle drive mode if range is a concern. To add a few more miles to the range counter, it might lessen the acceleration response, lower horsepower, and/or switch from four to two drive wheels, but it’s still better than getting stuck on the side of the road.

 

Don’t waste this edge by driving quickly or hammering the pedals. Better still, stay off the highway if you can. If not, think about going 65 mph rather than 70, but be considerate and stay in the right lane when going slower than the posted speed limit.

 

7. Avoid turning up the heat.

 

Since warming a person’s body is far more effective than warming the air around them, heated seats are a common feature of electric vehicles. To beat the cold, use them (and a heated steering wheel, if applicable) rather than the air conditioning system.

 

8. Give up using only one pedal.

 

Given that the goal of one-pedal driving is to maximize range, this may seem paradoxical, but it does this by causing significant regenerative braking. Usually, this causes a sharp deceleration. You’re inviting catastrophe when you throw in an ice road.

 

9. Unless the roads are dry and clear, avoid using the cruise control.

 

The car won’t always do so softly if it has to brake or accelerate in order to keep a predetermined speed. When the tires are gripping well, this isn’t too much of a deal, but on an icy or wet road, a strong steering movement could cause your car to skid. And speaking of which, it may also be advantageous to pursue a longer distance throughout the winter.

 

10. Maintain a battery charge of more than 20%.

 

That’s a good general rule of thumb all year round, but it’s especially crucial in cold weather, when range decreases quickly and the battery needs to save some power to stay warm.

 

11. Take out anything weighty that is unnecessary from the car.

 

Sand bags, bowling balls, anvils, and such items. The EV can travel farther the less weight it must carry.

 

12. Store some winter gloves inside the glove box.

 

Just like Dorothy Levitt meant, to help you stay toasty without the cabin heater! It wouldn’t hurt to include a thermal blanket and some knit hats.

 

SimpSocial’s Driving and Ownership Advice

 

In search of further beneficial advice and pointers around being an automobile owner? You only need to look at our blog’s section on car ownership. For the newest advice on purchasing and owning, make sure you’re following us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

How to Transport a Real Yuletide Tree Inside Your House

Not a maintenance bill or a traffic penalty should bring you joy when you visit a tree farm.

 

There’s a right method to bring that once-live tree inside for the holidays, whether you prefer the smell of a newly cut fir in your living room or fake trees are just not your thing. That’s how:

 

Calculating & Stuffing

 

Prior to anything else, decide where you want your tree to go and make sure a path leads there. In order to have the tree ready to go as soon as you come home, you might also put up the mount.

 

Next, take a measurement of the area to determine the largest tree that will fit within without touching the ceiling. After that, you can plan how you’re going to transport it home, such as using your car’s interior or roof. Make your strategy after measuring the pickup bed, roof, and/or interior. You’ll need to gather a few items once that’s resolved before leaving for the tree farm.

 

The following items are essential to have with you:

 

* A tape measure

 

* Manual shears

 

* A moving blanket or tarp

 

* Scissors and twine

 

* Tightening the tie-down straps (if transporting the tree in a pickup bed or on a roof)

 

* A reflective flag, if the tree you purchase will reach past your bumper.

 

* A roof rack, if you intend to carry the tree on top of your car.

 

Pre-Haul and Post-Cut Prep

 

After choosing and cutting down your conifer, it’s time to prepare the tree for transportation.

 

* Shake the tree vigorously to remove any fallen leaves or loose needles. You can get this serviced by a vibrating stand found in many tree farms.

 

* Trim any unwieldy or extra branches to avoid a mess of gooey trimmings at home.

 

* Pay the small charge for netting if the tree farm offers it. It’s a simple and efficient approach to keep the branches from breaking during the journey home. Bring out the twine if net baling is not an option. Cinch the branches close to the trunk as you loop it around the tree from base to tip.

 

* Place the tree on the tarp and wrap it up, tying off the ends with twine as needed. This can cover your tree from the weather and, if you’re thinking of taking a rooftop ride, your car from sap drips and scratches that can be difficult to remove.

 

Safeguarding the Tree for Passage

 

Ask a friend or two to assist you in lifting the tree into the desired location, such as under the hatch, onto a pickup bed, or atop the car, to avoid having a backache later.

 

If putting the tree above your car is your only choice, we strongly advise utilizing a roof rack so you have appropriate mounting locations to fasten your tie-downs. You may still fasten the tree on top if you don’t have a roof rack by opening the doors (not the windows) and tying the straps through the cabin, but be aware that you could harm a seal or the paint of your car.

 

Regardless of the approach you take, ensure that the tree’s trunk is pointing forward. This will improve aerodynamics and shield the branches from wind damage. One strap should be placed around the lowest branches above the trunk at the lowest third of the tree. Add one more in the middle for safety, and another in the upper third. Fasten the straps firmly, especially if you plan to drive home.

 

The amount of space that an object can occupy behind a car’s bumper varies depending on the state, however, federal law forbids states from setting limits less than three feet in front and four feet in rear. If you keep those restrictions in mind, you’ll be fine. Having said that, if your tree does hang over your car, make sure it is visible to other cars by attaching a reflective flag to the end of it.

 

If you intend to use the tree as a backseat passenger, you should place a moving blanket in the cargo hold to prevent the tree from sliding around and to shield the carpet from loose needles and sap. (Twine can assist with that as well.)

 

Traveling back home and dumping

 

If at all possible, head straight home and take the scenic (i.e., slower) way back. It’s best to get the tree out of your automobile as quickly as possible.

 

It should take two or three people to dismount. As a group, lift the tree out of the car and carry it inside. Fasten it firmly in the prepared mount. Take off the tarp and place the clean side on the ground near the tree to collect any fallen needles and sap. After adding water to the mount, cut the net. Take out the tarp and give the branches a few hours to settle before you begin hanging lights.

Certified Pre-Owned: Benefits and Drawbacks

A used car that satisfies stringent standards—manufacturer-determined requirements—is certified pre-owned. See whether purchasing a certified pre-owned automobile is worth it for you by learning more about the benefits and drawbacks.

 

Before purchasing a used car, there are a number of things you should be aware of, but with any luck, you can choose one that offers exceptional value. A new category has emerged over time, one that gives car buyers excellent value and inspires trust. It is certified pre-owned (CPO), not new or used.

 

A higher threshold is applied to these CPO vehicles, and not all of them pass. The purchase of a certified pre-owned vehicle has benefits and drawbacks. What you should know about them is as follows.

 

A Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle: What Is It?

 

A used car that satisfies stringent standards—manufacturer-determined requirements—is certified pre-owned. Every program has its own rules, and most of them center around odometer miles, age, and condition. Off-lease vehicles from recent models are frequently seen, and they are probably kept in better condition at the dealership. All of this combines to provide a more assured ownership experience.

 

Most certified pre-owned programs call for a multipoint inspection, frequently carried out by technicians with factory training. They will inspect the entire car for wear and damage in addition to doing a road test. If a part fails inspection, it can be fixed or replaced. Furthermore, you are not required to accept the dealer’s word for it. You get access to both the vehicle history record and the multipoint inspection report for a CPO car.

 

Even when you drive a certified pre-owned car off the lot, there are still advantages to purchasing one. Limited CPO warranties typically offer powertrain coverage for seven years or 100,000 miles, which is the industry norm. It’s critical to understand that the vehicle’s age and mileage—rather than your date of purchase—determine this. It’s also possible to get non-powertrain coverage, usually for a period of 12 months or 12,000 miles for non-luxury vehicles.

 

What Benefits Come with Purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

 

The value of a used automobile with the added assurance of a manufacturer’s limited warranty can be found in certified pre-owned autos. Additionally, you’ll be able to assess the vehicle’s condition better thanks to the free inspection and history reports. This implies that you won’t need to bother having a pre-purchase inspection done on the car.

 

Should a mechanical issue arise with the car at the beginning of ownership, the CPO warranties can provide coverage for it. Major automakers’ CPO programs come with a limited powertrain warranty that covers crucial parts like the engine and transmission. This can assist you avoid paying as much for a repair that might otherwise be necessary. Furthermore, a powertrain warranty and a bumper-to-bumper guarantee are included with almost all CPO warranties. Certain purchases can be eligible for extended warranties.

 

In addition, a lot of certified pre-owned programs offer extra benefits like roadside assistance. There are even some that offer free maintenance. You might also take advantage of perks like trip protection and concierge services when looking for a premium car. So, having a certified pre-owned car might make you feel like a VIP, whether you’re driving or just at the showroom.

 

What Drawbacks Are There to Purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

 

Owning a certified pre-owned car has few disadvantages, so purchasing one can be a wise choice. It can be difficult to decide between certified, used, and new cars. Usually, the first thing to think about is cost. You must consider the program’s benefits against the greater cost of CPO vehicles compared to their used counterparts. You might not need to take your car in for repairs very often if you choose a car with a good reputation for dependability.

 

It could be more difficult to locate the precise CPO automobile you’re looking for if you’re hunting for a low-volume vehicle like a sports car or a certain trim and color. If you’re determined to become qualified, you might need to exercise patience in light of the current global microprocessor scarcity. In need of a car soon? Inform your dealer of your preferences so they can let you know when they locate a match.

 

For some car buyers, a certified pre-owned vehicle might not be the best option. If you’re purchasing on a tight budget, you could have fewer options because certification is only valid for recent model years. Additionally, you might be able to discover a dependable automobile without using a CPO program if you can find a technician who knows what to look for when purchasing a used car.

 

Do I Need to Buy a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

 

Consider looking for a certified pre-owned car if you want to get a great deal and have a secure ownership experience. You might be able to upgrade to a higher trim level or save money compared to buying a brand-new car. Leasing a CPO car could also be an option for you, which would provide you more flexibility.

 

Luxury automobiles might be a particularly alluring choice when looking for a certified pre-owned car. Many of them suffer considerable depreciation in comparison to their original MSRP after a few years. Additionally, even though luxury car repairs are more expensive, the manufacturer’s limited warranty helps keep expenses down while the vehicle is under warranty.

 

Are you looking to buy an electric or plug-in hybrid car? Although all automakers offer a battery guarantee of at least eight years or 100,000 miles, CPO cars can be a wonderful option (see more about EV battery longevity here). You might not have to worry about purchasing secondhand as opposed to certified because the warranty might be transferable. Check out our electric vehicle buyers guide for more advice on EVs.

 

Which Automakers Provide Pre-Owned Certification Programs?

 

Almost all of the big automakers have a scheme for certified pre-owned cars. Chevrolet, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep, Kia, Mazda, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Ram, Subaru, Toyota, and Volkswagen are examples of non-luxury brands.

 

Additionally, luxury carmakers have certified pre-owned programs, usually with additional incentives. Acura, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Buick, Chrysler, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Tesla, and Volvo are some of these brands.

 

Are you trying to find a Certified Pre-Owned car?

 

With SimpSocial, you can always locate the best offers on vehicles, whether you’re looking for a used or certified pre-owned car. When the time comes to make a purchase, you can utilize SimpSocial to shop, tailor your offer, and receive a direct, customized offer from a Certified Dealer.

Farewell to an Icon: The 2024 Jaguar F-Type R75 Convertible

The conclusion is that although if the 2024 Jaguar F-Type R75 convertible has an antiquated interior, its gorgeous outside and loud V-8 make it impossible not to fall in love with it when you drive one.

 

Comparing the 2024 F-Type R75 convertible to its competitors, it is still a relative performance bargain at $120,000 and has a soul that some rivals lack. However, due to technological shortcomings and the fact that this is the model year’s last, it will never catch up.

 

With new special edition trim levels inspired by its racing and sports car background, Jaguar is releasing the two-seat sports vehicle ahead of its planned 2024 model year production termination. I drove a convertible top R75 trim model for this test, which has a powerful 575-horsepower, supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 engine and all-wheel drive as standard.

 

Related: The 75 Special Edition 2024 Jaguar F-Type Marks the Start of Its Final Year of Production

 

The Jaguar F-Type was almost brand-new when I started working over ten years ago, and it was one of the first vehicles I fell in love with while working there. Even though Jaguar hasn’t made many changes to the F-Type in its long history, that affection has persisted because of it, or perhaps because of it. The 2024 model I recently rode felt very familiar, despite a few changes (Jaguar gave it a facelift for 2021, updating the R versions’ suspension and adding more contemporary electronics, while the available drivetrains have undergone changes throughout time).

 

I won’t lie: driving a tiny convertible with a roaring supercharged V-8 under the hood is a lot of fun. It made me smile almost as much as it did over ten years ago, but is the F-Type going out with a bang or a whisper? That required some deciphering.

 

Grins along the Mile

 

Most of the time, driving an F-Type R75 is a pleasant experience, with a variety of features to suit your preferred mood. The car is shockingly and pleasantly calm when driven in Normal mode. With almost 600 horsepower buried beneath the hood, the throttle isn’t jerky, the brakes aren’t overly grabby, and the ride is pleasant. You can commute and drive in the city without too much trouble.

 

However, when you go into the sporty R Mode, the F-Type feels like an eager partner for canyon carving since everything becomes much more precise and tight. The adaptive exhaust roars under strong acceleration with one of the greatest exhaust noises I’ve ever heard, and the steering is direct and communicative. Despite not having driven one, my prior exposure to F-Type coupes makes me think the 2024 model will have a little sharper feel than the convertible. I’m prepared to make the trade to hear the exhaust sing more clearly if that’s the only issue with the convertible. that’s impressive that the F-Type can still be driven somewhat comfortably in R Mode; that was my favorite setting. To achieve the best of all worlds, you can also alter the suspension, drivetrain, and steering settings.

 

Not to be overlooked is the eight-speed automatic transmission that comes standard on every F-Type model. It switches gears quickly, and even though the steering wheel has paddles that let you manually adjust ratios, the transmission performs so effectively that I found myself disregarding the paddles. However, if you do use the paddles, the reaction is great, so you can have fun using them.

 

But there are certain concessions to the driving experience, if not outright defects. Although not very hard, the ride can feel brittle over big bumps and even tiny ones that happen quickly after one another; hits resonate throughout the chassis. This is normal for a sports vehicle with a shorter wheelbase, but it was occasionally uncomfortable to drive the F-Type on Chicago’s patchy freeways, and it occasionally lost balance when turning over bumps. Additionally, the steering of the F-Type may be quite active and needs to be adjusted frequently to prevent excessive wandering. Drivers may wish to maintain the steering in a sportier setting as this is more common in the F-Type’s more relaxed steering settings, albeit doing so will require more work during lower-speed manoeuvres.

 

Another trade-off in a convertible is outward visibility, particularly for drivers who are taller. When I was first in line at a crossroads, I had trouble seeing traffic signals because of the car’s low seating position and sloped front glass. When the top is down, the convertible’s integrated windscreen effectively reduces wind intrusion; nevertheless, it obstructs the rearview mirror’s view. When the soft top is up, it provides some sound insulation, but the interior is still heavily exposed to wind and road noise.

 

Elegant Comfort for All (Max: 2)

 

Apart from the visibility and noise problems, the F-Type’s inside is beautiful, including soft seats and premium materials on almost every surface. Although the cabin is small, I never felt crowded in. A 10.2-inch touchscreen display and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel were installed when Jaguar last redesigned the F-Type’s cabin, and they are still there. The F-Type’s cabin has some technology advances, although they are limited to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Physical controls are located in the center console for lowering and raising the convertible top, changing the drive mode, and adjusting the adaptive exhaust. The remaining audio and climate controls are also easily operated. In contrast to some high-end vehicles with intricate control systems, the F-Type’s configuration is clear-cut, easy to understand, and much appreciated.

 

It would be easy to think that the F-Type has evolved into a grand tourer with its opulent cabin and composed driving style, but that is untrue given the interior’s small baggage capacity. Despite its cozy inside, the BMW 8 Series, Lexus LC, and Porsche 911 all have something that at least resembles a backseat, but I haven’t yet seen a person of any age who can fit in any of them. The F-Type’s trunk is quite small for a sports vehicle, and grand touring also necessitates at least some cargo room. A package of toilet paper the size of Costco was managed to fit in the trunk by one editor, but not much more; any luggage bigger than a carry-on suitcase will likely be a stretch. The Chevrolet Corvette has an advantage over the F-Type since even a single golf bag is a stretch. That being said, this is more of a fact than a weakness. The F-Type is primarily meant to be driven for pleasure. It’s okay.

 

The 10-inch touchscreen’s inability to be seen clearly with the top down, even in partial sunshine, is a drawback. Although it’s unlikely that someone would attempt to use the screen while driving, individuals would still attempt, making it an unintentional safety feature. On the other hand, the Mercedes-AMG SL boasts an integrated screen tilt function that may function autonomously when the top is lowered, guaranteeing optimal visibility of the screen. The F-Type’s screen is built into the dashboard rather than mounted atop it like the Mercedes, hence it is unable to accomplish that. The interface is slow and confusing, and the graphics look antiquated even when the screen is visible. Even while the inside appears opulent, the shift paddles have the feel of cheap plastic, and several editors have complained about the dashboard’s excessive creaking and squeaking.

 

Goodbye and farewell.

 

I relished every minute of my time behind the wheel of the F-Type despite those problems. In fact, I would contend that those problems lend the F-Type some individuality, something that is sadly absent in the majority of modern cars, when almost everything is, at most, passably good. The F-Type feels very on brand for Jaguar, and its outdated technology and cozy yet creaky cabin only served to increase my appreciation for it.

 

The F-Type R75 we tested was slightly under $120,000 as-tested, so it’s definitely not a cheap car, but when you take its performance into account, it’s still a good buy. The base price of the reasonably powerful Mercedes-AMG SL 63 is above $180,000, whereas the lowest priced AWD Porsche 911 convertible is $136,150 without any extras. While the Jaguar and BMW are nearly identical in price and power, the M8 Competition convertible, which has greater performance, is far more expensive than the F-Type I drove, costing tens of thousands of dollars more.

 

The F-Type is a stunning vehicle with a ton of personality and surprising performance; I’ll be sorry to see it depart. However, it’s also glaringly out of date for 2024; Jaguar has ignored it as the company switches to an all-electric portfolio, and ideally any future electric vehicle will at least partially retain the F-Type’s personality.

Nissan’s Next GT-R: Electric with Solid-State Batteries

According to the product chief, current technology cannot manage daily supercar performance.

 

With the Hyper Force, Nissan showcased their “vision for a next-generation all-electric high-performance supercar” at the Japan Mobility Show, which is akin to a futuristic GT-R concept. This was a carbon fiber-bodied, battery-electric coupe that used the automaker’s e-4orce all-wheel drive to generate over 1,300 horsepower. To us, it sounds exactly GT-R. Nissan stated that solid-state batteries provided the energy for the motors, but it did not say how many motors were used to produce that power. When speaking with Top Gear, Ivan Espinoza, the product manager for automaker Nissan, stated unequivocally that a production-ready GT-R will have to wait for solid-state batteries to become available on the market.

 

Nissan has made it known that by 2024, a factory will be creating solid-state battery prototypes, and by 2029, mass production for retail products will begin. That’s when an R36 GT-R could possibly be approved hot, assuming everything goes according to plan.

 

“We’re committed to having a sports car offering in the future, this is for sure,” Espinoza stated, suggesting that the GT-R’s existence isn’t in doubt, simply its timeframe. But before we can leave, the sports car must “wait until the ASSB [‘all solid state battery’] is out, it’s stable, and it’s ready.” We can provide significantly better packaging with the density enhancement, which keeps the 2+2 layout while enhancing the car’s aerodynamics and overall behavior.”

 

There seem to be two camps behind this recurrent refrain, which we have heard from other automakers with comparable goods. A select handful of dedicated sports car manufacturers, like Lotus, Pininfarina, Rimac, and GM with its upcoming all-electric Corvette, are releasing vehicles using modern battery technology. Another group, which includes Bugatti, Ferrari, Lamborghini, McLaren, and Porsche with its electric 911, is holding off on making a decision until after one or two technological advancements.

 

Nissan has bigger plans than just revitalizing a halo that will turn 20 in 2029. According to Top Gear, the future plan calls for building two GT-Rs: a track monster that is “entirely tuned in for the track” and a “friendly” daily car. The Z would follow, followed by “a new, more affordable entry-level sports car” with a Nismo variant below that. And all of these goods would be electrified by the time the next GT-R arrives.

 

What takes place in the interim? We’re clueless. Given how significant the vehicle is to the culture and enthusiasts, we assume Nissan executives want to continue producing it. Dealers have sold 312 units in the United States through the first three quarters of the year. Stupid, but that amount is only 19 units short of 2019’s total and already surpasses the three previous years’ full-year sales. Somewhere, the GT-R’s age has caused it to disappear from areas that were historically significant, including the UK and Australia, where adjusting to rules would cost more than is acceptable. Whatever transpires, we believe Nissan will offer us a lot to think about, as the carmaker is still only beginning its global comeback following more than ten years of dire circumstances. We could get by with a production version of the Safari Rally Z Tribute until the world gets its hands on a new monster.

Hyundai’s Supernal Plans U.S. Plant for Flying Electric Taxis

Supernal will construct a facility in the United States to manufacture flying electric taxis.

The CEO responds, “I have to have the confidence to get on it myself.”

The third-largest carmaker in the world based on sales, Hyundai Motor Group, intends to construct a plant in the United States where its air mobility company Supernal will produce electric taxis that can fly and are meant to be used by commuters.

Supernal Chief Executive Officer Shin Jaiwon announced that a prototype of the electric vertical takeoff and landing craft will be displayed at CES in Las Vegas in January.

The eVTOL taxi can carry four passengers and one pilot, and it can reach speeds of 120 mph (190 kph). A test flight is scheduled for December 2024, with plans to begin commercial service four years later, Shin stated in a Bloomberg News interview conducted this week in Singapore.

It will take some time, he said, given all the battery technology, infrastructure, and regulations that still need to be developed.

The largest technological obstacle to electric air mobility is batteries, which can make up as much as 40% of the weight of an eVTOL aircraft. Shin remarked, “That’s really the killer.”

He declared, “We don’t have air traffic management systems to govern these vehicles from the operation side.” “At this moment and for the foreseeable future, there are no artificial objects that are routinely flying below 500 meters.”

Next actions

Based in Washington, D.C. In order to have the eVTOL licensed, Supernal will apply to the Federal Aviation Administration in the upcoming months. Companies and authorities must work together to determine the best course of action because the business is still relatively new, according to Shin.

“No infrastructure, no policy, no regulation—there’s nothing out there,” he declared. “The FAA doesn’t have an established certification method because it’s so new.”

While affiliate Kia Corp. has a plant in Georgia, Hyundai already has a facility in Alabama where automobiles are produced. Shin withheld information on the size, possible location, and investment amounts for the proposed Supernal project.

Supernal is the latest company to enter the increasingly congested eVTOL vehicle certification market. A step closer to reality, EHang Holdings Ltd. has been granted permission to start experimental aerial operations in China. Meanwhile, Joby Aviation Inc., located in California and supported by Toyota Motor Corp. and Delta Air Lines Inc., has also received FAA license to test its flying taxis.

In an attempt to catch up, Supernal launched new R&D facilities in Fremont two months later and a new engineering headquarters in Irvine, California, in July. According to Shin, its employment has increased from the previous year to around 600, with many employees coming from Tesla Inc., Lockheed Martin Corp., and Boeing Co.

“We’re going to start the flight testing next year, so we’ll have to hire more people,” he stated.

According to documents, Hyundai, Kia, and Hyundai Mobis Co. have contributed over 1.2 trillion won ($920 million) to Supernal in the two years since the company’s founding. Supernal, which receives money from Hyundai, has no plans for an IPO, according to Shin.

Additionally, the business and Korean Air inked a collaboration agreement last month to collaborate on air mobility for the South Korean market. The airline’s CEO, Walter Cho, stated during a Tuesday speech at an aviation conference in Singapore that vertical mobility vehicles will probably be utilized for cargo transportation first, before evolving.

Cho remarked, “I have to have enough confidence to get on it myself.”

eVTOL’s evolution

Air mobility craft like eVTOL taxis for people transportation will be initially restricted to “very progressive cities,” but Shin noted that once the public gets used to them and feels more at ease with them, they could spread quickly, much like how people got used to cell phones and elevators.

He predicted that “the inflection point will come real fast.”

Shin noted that Supernal is well-positioned to benefit from the growing need for alternative public transportation as more people move into cities thanks to Hyundai’s mass-production expertise. “Suddenly, the global market will require hundreds of thousands of these cars, so you need to be able to make them.”

70% of people on Earth, according to the UN, will reside in cities by 2030.

Shin stated, “Urbanization is happening like crazy everywhere.”

Though there is still work to be done in the areas of regulation and battery technology, 2028 is the “right timing” to aim for a commercial launch.

Gas Powers the 2025 Mini Countryman John Cooper Works

Mini has previously stated that it will launch an electric Countryman SUV starting in 2025, and the company is still dedicated to offering an all-electric lineup by 2030. Customers may therefore be surprised to hit the start button on the new 2025 Countryman John Cooper Works performance special and hear the vintage sound of pistons whirling and valves pumping as gasoline burns under the hood when it arrives in the United States.

 

Engine Specifications

As 2024 draws nearer, a gas-burning version of a new car is unexpected, but not unprecedented. The parent business of Mini, BMW, has a practice of developing both electric and internal combustion engine versions of its cars on the same platform; the i4 and 4 Series, i5 and 5 Series, and i7 and 7 Series all follow this same route.

 

The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers the gas-powered 2025 Countryman John Cooper Works, just like it did with its predecessor. This one has 11 more horsepower but 36 less pounds-feet of torque, with 312 horsepower and 295 pounds-feet of torque. The business hasn’t disclosed the availability of a transmission (the present model has an eight-speed automatic), but all-wheel drive is standard on Minis. The Countryman John Cooper Works, according to Mini, can reach a top speed of 155 mph and accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds.

 

The John Cooper Works, the sportiest model in the Countryman lineup, stands out because to its distinctive front face, black grille, and special head and taillights. The iconic contrasting roof of Mini is offered in a red color to complement the brake calipers and the interior’s black and red accents.

 

According to Mini, a platoon of 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras, which support a number of active-safety features, guard the Countryman John Cooper Works. This features the Driving Assistant Professional, a partially automated Level 2 driving system that enables the driver to take their hands off the wheel when traveling at speeds under 37 mph. It combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering steering. Additionally, the technology recognizes pauses in traffic and modifies the SUV’s speed to facilitate lane changes.

 

Accessibility and Cost

 

In May 2024, the 2025 Mini John Cooper Works Countryman will go on sale at dealerships. The starting price of the SUV is $47,895 (destination fee included).

The 2023 BMW i7: Smooth, Tricky Technology

The verdict: The electrified 7 Series sedan from BMW is large, quiet, smooth, and fashionable. It combines conventional luxury with cutting-edge technology, with largely excellent results.

 

Comparing the competitors, the i7 is probably more accessible than the Lucid Air, significantly more comfortable in every seat than the Mercedes-EQ EQS, and more elegant and opulent than the Tesla Model S.

 

Regarding the design of electric vehicles, there are two schools of thinking, according to my theory, which has recently been frequently validated. The first is, “Let’s build a typical car and just swap out the gasoline engine for an electric one that runs on batteries.” Genesis, a premium South Korean automaker, has taken this route with its electrified G80 sedan and electrified GV70 SUV. One approach is to create a spacecraft, a concept Mercedes-Benz has implemented with its EQ range of automobiles. Both the EQS and EQE have outrageous designs, are packed with bizarre, mysterious technology, and practically require a week of astronaut training to operate. However, a few manufacturers have started to err on the side of both techniques. Two of them are BMW and Lucid, whose Air sedan functions like a typical luxury vehicle but looks like a spaceship.

 

I drove the battery-electric i7 version of the revamped BMW 7 Series full-size luxury car, although it is also available with conventional internal combustion engine power. The two vehicles are almost identical, but for their respective powertrains; this includes the appearance, interior furnishings, passenger space, and controls. This presents BMW customers with an intriguing option: Choose between the electrification of the i7 and its similarly wild new styling, or go with a traditional powertrain with the 7 Series’ wild new appearance.

 

Related: BMW Reveals 2024 i7 M70 xDrive, Its Most Potent EV To Date

 

I’m left wondering why anyone would bother with a gas version of the BMW i7 after a week of driving it with its electric drivetrain. Electrons are superior to hydrocarbons for the most opulent driving experience. I’ll explain why.

 

The i7 Is Silver, Silence Is Golden.

 

The engine is the only significant distinction between the electric i7 and the gas-powered 7 Series. Three electric powertrain options are available to BMW i7 purchasers in lieu of the German gasoline-to-noise converter. Arriving as a 2024 model, the i7 eDrive50 is a rear-wheel drive vehicle with a single electric motor producing 449 horsepower and 549 pounds-feet of torque, which is transferred to the road via a single-speed transmission. According to the manufacturer, it can reach 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. The next step up is the all-wheel-drive i7 xDrive60, which BMW claims can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds. It is equipped with two electric motors and a system output of 536 horsepower and 549 pounds-feet of torque. The 2024 i7 M70, which can reach 650 horsepower and 749 pounds-feet of torque in just 3.5 seconds, is the ultimate option if you want to go all out. I drove a silver AWD xDrive60 as my test car.

 

Based on EPA calculations, the i7 xDrive60’s 101.7 kilowatt-hour (usable) lithium-ion battery pack can propel the car up to 300 miles. It can receive up to 195 kilowatts of DC fast charging (therefore avoid using a 350 kW charger at an Electrify America station unless you want to attract unfavorable stares from fellow EV owners). It is quite good that it can be charged at home at up to 11 kW on a 240-volt Level 2 setup with the right circuit.

 

The i7’s battery pack is notable since it is just 4.3 inches thick, which means that placing it low in the chassis of the 7 Series doesn’t significantly affect interior space, unlike other cars like the Genesis G80, whose battery costs it some headroom. Due to its low center of gravity and proper weight distribution, the i7 feels incredibly heavy—which is understandable given its nearly three-ton weight—but it also handles very well and manoeuvres through turns with reasonable dexterity.

 

The i7 excels at acceleration, which is a key component of EVs. This is a huge car, so it’s amazing when it accelerates silently from 0 to 60 miles per hour (that’s the BMW time, but after driving it, I have no reason to question it). The more high-end electric vehicles I drive, the more I believe that this is the ideal powerplant for anything pricey and opulent: It makes no strange noises or vibrations, and it is smooth, silent, and able to supply electricity on demand. You can adjust the settings to have it generate noise, but I usually find artificial, piped-in sounds to be bothersome. I would much rather have a peaceful experience because it would add to the sense of pampered, secluded luxury that you are spending a lot of money on.

 

Even while the i7 has great body control, changing directions reveals just how heavy the car is—that battery pack is not little. The i7 wants to be a touring car, speeding between destinations on highways instead of being thrown around on a two-lane blacktop, as demonstrated by flogging this vehicle over winding roads. It understeers predictably, although you’ll definitely want to drive it more slowly than, example, a BMW M5, considering the car’s weight.

 

An Other Kind of Opulence

 

With no motor noise to cover up squeaks, rattles, road noise, wind roar, etc., the rest of the car needs to be even better than before to match the i7’s luxuriously quiet operation. The i7 has an outstanding build quality and is capable of handling the workload. Although I wasn’t expecting fabric upholstery in my test car instead of leather or vinyl, it’s excellent. The tight, luxurious-feeling weave is a pleasant diversion from the plush, leather-like seats seen in nearly every other car on the market that isn’t a basic subcompact. The inside of the i7 is most appreciated for its seating material; other than that, certain areas feel a little flimsy, such as the dash trim, which in my test car was finished in a dull gray color. Its inside is a bit of a mixed bag in terms of decor; the doors and dash have lighted panels that offer a splash of color, but they’re hidden behind some cheap-feeling translucent plastic.

 

Not that it really helps with the huge rectangular display on top of the dash. Yes, the left gauges can be reconfigured, and the right touchscreen is bright and vivid, but the practice of placing a large, square-off tablet above the dash lacks flair, especially when it’s being done by everyone. It also means that a lot of the i7’s controls, like the crazily intricate and challenging to understand climate control system, are now accessible through the touchscreen. Even when the device was stationary, I had a lot of trouble getting it to do what I wanted it to half the time. Trying to adjust the climate while driving is a major distracting exercise. It took a minute to even figure out how to operate each individual vent because they are touch-sensitive and not very intuitive. BMW is beginning to reach the stage where its goods become difficult to use despite their advanced technological features. As Lucid has amply shown, things don’t have to be this way, but BMW still conflates “luxurious” with “technology-packed.”

 

My main complaints about the i7’s interior are related to its controls and some materials. In contrast to its primary rival, the EQS, there is an abundance of space in both the front and rear seats. The i7 is an excellent executive vehicle because to its spacious rear, which offers ample head and legroom. The unique packaging of the EQS has neither in large quantities. Although the EQS is completely different from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, an attempt was made by Mercedes to keep the two cars distinct, the i7 is enough similar to the conventionally powered 7 Series sedan for the advantages of that traditional layout to transfer to the electric model. To be honest, the BMW approach appears to be more successful for customers; the i7 has a lot less of a spacecraft vibe, which lowers the entrance hurdle for buyers who don’t want to undergo astronaut training in order to drive an EV.

 

Technical Astronomy, Cost Astronomy

 

My test car started at an eye-watering $120,295 and included a $995 destination fee, which is surprisingly fair these days. If German luxury car manufacturers are known for anything, it’s making everything optional so they can charge you more for it. With $31,700 in options for a grand as-tested price of $151,995, this i7 xDrive60 was no exception. Among these choices was the Executive Package, which includes electronic technologies like Active Comfort Drive and Active Roll Stabilization as well as automatic-closing doors and “crystal” lighting. Rear Executive Lounge Seating, which includes a footrest and a reclining rear seat, was also provided. A huge 31-inch screen that folds down from the ceiling completely obscures the driver’s view out the back window. Even though this car is expensive, my test vehicle actually represents mid-range i7 pricing; if you don’t want to play around with the options, you can have a rear-wheel-drive i7 eDrive50 for $106,695, or you can max it up and get a fully loaded, two-tone-painted i7 M70 sedan for more than $207,000.

 

To be honest, these costs are comparable to those of other luxury EVs that are currently being offered by almost everyone. An Air or EQS will easily set you back six figures, and a Tesla Model S can also be optioned up to that level (although with considerably fewer luxury features). Wealthy consumers looking for a flagship full-size luxury sedan now have an easy option between BMW’s next-generation electric vehicle and conventional gas power.

2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Quick Spin

We’ve previously had the opportunity to drive the 500-horsepower 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, which replaces the turbocharged four-cylinder 2024 Mustang EcoBoost and the 480-horsepower V-8 2024 Mustang GT. It is the new Mustang’s highest performance trim level, providing a more aggressive, track-oriented version of the Mustang GT. Even though the Dark Horse has amazing capabilities, what surprised me more was how practical this sports car is for daily use—a few compromises notwithstanding.

 

Related: A Known Formula Drives the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

 

The Way It Moves

 

First of all, for a high-performance sports car, the Mustang Dark Horse rides incredibly well; in fact, it has superior ride quality than many popular cars. After viewing the suspension modifications made to the Dark Horse with the optional Dark Horse Handling Package—which we tested and which comes with larger sway bars, low-profile competition tires, and stiffer springs—you might not have expected this. However, when the car is in Normal driving mode, it does a decent job of absorbing road imperfections and keeping any harshness from getting to the passengers. Ford’s adjustable firmness MagneRide adaptive shocks are standard on the Dark Horse, and they perform admirably in this application.

 

Some less desired handling features are introduced in daily driving due to the extra-wide wheels and tires included with the Dark Horse Handling Package (19-inch wheels are 10.5 inches wide in front and 11 inches wide at the back). When driving over utility covers, the Mustang Dark Horse sways a little bit, and it also likes to follow highway grooves. The sound of pebbles and sand being scooped up by the sticky tires and thrown against the fender wells is also audible. Similar issues have been reported in the past with Mustangs that had extra-wide wheels and tires, so while not totally shocking, this is something that the 2024 Mustang GT won’t have.

 

I’ll take that, though, if that’s the price for the Dark Horse’s overall agility and fast steering. When accelerating into turns, the car’s grounded, hunched-over sensation and precise steering inspire a great deal of confidence.

 

The Dark Horse is one of those vehicles that you occasionally come across that always seems to be begging you to go faster, regardless of how quickly you are already traveling. It seems as though the devil’s horse is perched on your shoulder, gently encouraging you to depress the accelerator a little bit farther. Additionally, the Dark Horse has a lot to offer thanks to its 500-hp V-8 engine, which delivers powerful surges followed by a constant exhaust roar. It doesn’t feel like you’re moving that quickly, even when you’re speeding over 70 mph on the freeway. It’s evidence of the car’s general poise and calm.

 

The Dark Horse is available with a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission, just as the GT. However, the manual transmission is not from the same source and has a different gearing: The Dark Horse has a Tremec unit, whereas the GT has a Getrag manual. Both shifters have short throws, but the stick shifts more smoothly between gears on the Dark Horse’s Tremec manual transmission, which is a little more sophisticated.

 

Similar to the GT, the dynamic exhaust system of the Dark Horse produces a loud and noticeable exhaust note even when it is set to Normal. By selecting the Sport or Track modes, you can adjust it even further. Alternatively, you can choose the Quiet mode to significantly reduce noise. The Dark Horse’s booming exhaust noise is appropriate, but much like with the standard GT, I could see it getting old fast.

 

Interior Requires More Care

 

Although the motor and suspension modifications of the Dark Horse make it an amazing performer, Ford ought to have added something unique to the interior of this special trim level to make it feel even more special. The modest design cues that set the cabin apart from a standard GT include a titanium shift ball on manual-transmission cars, blue stitching on various trim pieces, and a thicker flat-bottom steering wheel with suede inserts. Furthermore, the Dark Horse’s carbon-fiber-inspired plastic trim on the doors and dashboard seems even more out of place than it does on other 2024 Mustangs.

 

I had another opportunity to try the 2024 Mustang’s available Recaro front bucket seats while driving the Dark Horse, and it confirmed my belief that they are not ideal for daily driving. The huge side bolsters in the seats are comfy, but they get in the way as you twist the steering wheel back and forth. My arms kept brushing against them.

 

Is It Time to Invest in a Dark Horse?

 

Any enthusiast who enjoys the sound and feel of a large V-8 engine and the agility of a classic sports car will grin when they drive the Dark Horse. But there’s a big price difference compared to a GT, which will probably make many purchasers hesitate.

 

The Dark Horse is more than $16,000 more expensive than a GT, with a starting price of almost $61,000 (including destination), but it comes with extra convenience options, such dual-zone automatic climate control and a B&O premium radio, in addition to performance features. However, it only takes a few expensive extras for the Dark Horse’s price to skyrocket from there; our Dark Horse Premium model’s as-tested pricing, for example, was almost $77,000. Undoubtedly breathtaking, but so is the Dark Horse’s performance.

Up Close: 2024 Honda Ridgeline Adds TrailSport Model

For the 2024 model year, Honda is giving its Ridgeline mid-size pickup truck a minor makeover along with the addition of an off-road-focused grade level. The Ridgeline will get an upgraded TrailSport trim level with unique trim elements and fortifications for managing tough terrain, just like its SUV siblings, the Pilot and Passport, already have. Ahead of the anticipated 2024 Ridgeline’s debut in Honda dealerships this winter, I had the opportunity to get a close-up look at a Ridgeline TrailSport.

 

Related: The Black and Outdoor Edition of the 2024 Honda Passport TrailSport

 

In the world of conventional pickup trucks, the Ridgeline has stood out ever since it was introduced for the 2006 model year. Instead of using a rear-wheel drive, body-on-frame truck architecture like the competing Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Nissan Frontier, and Toyota Tacoma, the Ridgeline is constructed on a front-wheel drive, unibody SUV chassis shared with the Passport and Pilot.

 

This layout has the advantage of giving the Ridgeline an on-road ride, handling quality, and overall refinement that no traditional truck can match; on the other hand, although it’s sturdy enough for most people’s needs, the Ridgeline isn’t as capable in extremely rough off-road terrain as its rivals. Honda has worked to give the current Ridgeline a more “trucky” appearance since it made its debut in 2017. Although most of the changes were cosmetic, they included a more robust front end, standard all-wheel drive, and a Honda Performance Development Package.

 

Sport Ridgeline Trail

 

With the introduction of the TrailSport variant for the Ridgeline in 2024, Honda is going beyond simple aesthetics. A unique suspension with off-road tuning includes spring rates, stabilizer bars, and damper valve tuning. According to Honda, these changes improve the off-road ride quality and articulation without noticeably altering the handling or on-road ride. The engine’s oil pan is shielded from jagged pebbles and other off-road hazards by a steel underbody skid plate. Although some off-road tires can be quite noisy when driving on the street, Honda claims that the General Grabber A/T Sport tires on the TrailSport offer significantly better traction in off-road conditions while still being quiet and pleasant for on-road travel. Another common feature is power-folding rearview mirrors, which come in handy when navigating tight off-road tracks.

 

Honda, of course, did not overlook the TrailSport’s aesthetics. There’s a distinctive grille up front with a blacked-out upper grille bar, a lower-bumper skid garnish painted Pewter Gray, and a beefier-looking mesh design with a TrailSport emblem. The new eighteen-inch, five-spoke wheels are finished in the same Pewter Gray as the front skid garnish; the tailgate is adorned with a TrailSport emblem; the rearview mirrors and door-pillar trim are likewise blacked out. Diffused Sky Blue is a unique blue-gray hue that is only available on the TrailSport and Ridgeline TrailSport. To all 2024 Ridgelines, one upgrade that is suitable for TrailSport is distributed: Blocky Ridgeline writing is now stamped into the steel of the tailgate, giving it a more vintage pickup appearance.

 

Additional TrailSport-specific features in the cabin include all-weather rubber floormats with TrailSport emblems, orange ambient lighting, orange contrast stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and door panels, and embroidered TrailSport badges on the front head restraints.

 

The TrailSport I checked out appeared appropriately adventure-ready, and its Diffused Sky Blue color definitely made a statement. However, the TrailSport won’t become a true rock crawler like a Colorado ZR2 or Tacoma TRD Pro thanks to this unique hardware. In comparison to other Ridgelines, there is no discernible lift ride height, therefore the approach, departure, and breakover angles aren’t any better.

 

Although it can send up to 70% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels and continually distribute up to 100% of that torque between the rear wheels depending on the driving circumstances at each wheel, Honda’s torque-vectoring AWD system is nevertheless competent in off-road driving. For instance, the system can direct power to the wheel in contact with the ground to keep the pickup moving even if one of the back wheels is off the ground.

 

All Interior Updates

 

New dashboard screens and some well-considered center-console adjustments are coming to all 2024 Ridgelines. The old gauge panel is replaced with a new 7-inch digital instrument display that features an analog speedometer on the right and a digital tachometer on the left. Using a thumbwheel on the steering wheel, the digital panel’s user-selectable displays may be used to view information about the car and adjust the Honda Sensing safety system. The infotainment touchscreen has been significantly recessed and enlarged from 8 to 9 inches, providing a ledge beneath the screen for the user to steady their hand while making decisions. This does, in fact, make it simpler for your finger to land on the target area on the screen. Honda claims that the integrated navigation system has been streamlined with new graphics and fewer menus, and that a faster processor offers faster, lag-free touchscreen operation. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay wireless connectivity is now commonplace.

 

Better than the strange rollback-cover bin and narrow seat-mounted armrests of earlier Ridgelines, the center console has been redesigned with a big integrated armrest and an extended storage bin beneath that can hold a full-size tablet. The storage tray ahead of the push-button shifter has been broadened to accommodate two large smartphones side by side, and it also contains a Qi wireless charger on the driver’s side. The dual cupholders have been enlarged to accommodate larger beverages.

 

Our top Ridgeline features remain, too: a large, lockable trunk integrated into the back of the bed floor; 60/40 split flip-up backseat cushions that allow you to carry tall cargo inside the cab; and a dual-hinged rear tailgate that opens from both the driver’s side and the bottom.

 

Cost and Date of Release

 

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline series, which includes the TrailSport model, is expected to debut on sale this winter. Check back for updates on price and other details as they become available.

Volkswagen Reveals More on 2025 ID.7 Electric Sedan

Volkswagen is revealing additional information about the future ID.7 mid-size electric sedan in advance of its launch, which is helping the vehicle come into focus. The ID.7 will give VW one of the most varied lineups of electric cars when it debuts for the 2025 model year; it will share dealerships with the ID.4 electric SUV and the ID. Buzz vintage minivan.

 

Specifics of Performance

The ID.7 will be rivaled by the 2023 Tesla Model 3 and the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6, with a rear-mounted electric engine producing 402 pounds of torque and 282 horsepower. According to Volkswagen, the ID.7 can reach a top speed of 112 mph and accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 6.5 seconds.

 

With its 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack, the vehicle is said to have a 386-mile WLTP range. (It’s crucial to remember that WLTP range estimations are typically marginally greater than EPA range predictions.) In contrast, the EPA rates the single-motor Model 3 at 272 miles, while the Ioniq 6 achieves an EPA-rated 361 miles in its rear-drive version.

 

The Tape Story

 

With a length of 195.3 inches, the ID.7 is 10.5 inches longer than the Model 3 and 4.2 inches longer than the Ioniq 6. With a width of 73.3 inches, it falls in between the two rivals, and at 60.5 inches tall, it is 3.7 inches higher than the Tesla and 1.6 inches higher than the Hyundai. VW seems to have set the standard for the interior room with the Model 3, since the Ioniq 6’s headroom measures 40.2 inches up front and 36.9 inches in back, respectively, beating the Tesla’s by 0.1 inch.

 

Together with VW’s Dynamic Chassis Control adaptive dampers, a 30-color ambient lighting system, a 700-watt Harmon Kardon audio system with 14 speakers, and an electrochromic sunroof that can change from opaque to transparent, the ID.7 will also come equipped with these features.

Ace Hardware Early Black Friday: Save Up to $50 on Yeti

The holidays are quickly approaching, and Ace Hardware is kicking things up this year with an incredible list of early Black Friday offers on 27 different Yeti goods. Whether you’re seeking to upgrade your own gear or are searching for the ideal gifts for outdoor lovers, here is the right place to shop. The best thing, though? Take advantage of a whopping 15% off your favorite Yeti goods, potentially saving you up to $50. Ace Hardware has everything you need, whether you’re looking for a durable tumbler to keep your drinks ice-cold or a new cooler for your camping excursions.

Products from the Yeti brand are well known for their unique blend of quality, ingenuity, resilience, durability, insulation, and warranty support. These elements, along with a dedication to client delight, make Yeti a well-liked option for people looking for dependable everyday drinkware and high-performance outdoor gear.

Get up to $50 off at Ace Hardware on Yeti.

More best choices

Your Black Friday Shopping Guide: See all of Yahoo’s Black Friday coverage, here. Follow Engadget for Black Friday tech deals. Learn about Black Friday trends on In The Know. Hear from the experts on the best Black Friday deals for your car, garage, and home, and find Black Friday sales to shop on AOL, handpicked just for you.

Hot Wheels Legends Tour Champion 2023: 1990 Mazda Mx-5 Miat

Hot Wheels has selected the next custom-built car it will add to its inventory of scale models, having spent months touring the globe. Built out of a shed in New Zealand, the 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata, known as Chimera, is the champion of the 2023 Hot Wheels Legends Tour.

 

Owner of the Miata Chris Watson took inspiration from a wide range of sources to create his ideal vehicle, including the science fiction Cyberpunk genre and Japan’s Kaido Racer automotive culture. Among other things, he added wide-body kit, fender-mounted mirrors, vents in the area intended for the front turn signals, and sleek LED headlamps. Additionally, a fin-equipped roof and a rear light bar are bespoke features.

 

Not only do the almost four-inch-wide flares add visual interest, but they also cover enormous wheels. A digital display placed in front of the factory instrument cluster, two aftermarket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a number of aftermarket gauges and switches are all located within.

 

We’re not sure if the engine bay has been altered. A 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 116 horsepower and 100 pound-feet of torque powers a 1990 Miata sold in the United States. The engine drives the back wheels using a manual five-speed transmission. It’s almost a given that the Yoshimura motorcycle-specific muffler on this Miata will make it noisier than the stock type.

 

Watson’s Chimera will soon be part of Hot Wheels’ die-cast automobile collection. The original Miata has previously been issued in a number of versions by the company, so its designers won’t be starting from zero. The model will eventually find its way into toy boxes, retail establishments, and scale-model collections worldwide. Meanwhile, the Miata has been accepted into the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends, where it will be among previous champions like an Autozam kei truck that has been transformed into a monster truck and a 1969 Volvo P1800 gasser that is powered by a V8 engine from Chevrolet.

 

It appears that Watson may not be done with the Legends Tour after all with the Chimera. See the R35-generation GT-R wagon in his shop—how cool is that?