G. David Felt

@oldshurst442 I agree with the points you make on engine oil. The story is an interesting one as it also does hit on side notes of the shift to smaller engines. I would agree that the better the oil one uses, the longer the engine will last.

Both my past SS and current Escalade, from the first oil change I have always used Mobil 1 synthetic and never had a problem or the Tick Tick Tick noise that is very common in my generation of Escalades, but that Tick goes away and is never heard when you use Mobile 1, but comes back right away with regular oil.

I grew up in a household where maintenance was impressed on me from my dad and the importance of using quality parts even if they are not OEM. This has always allowed me to have auto's that easily outlast my time with them, 10 to 20 years for me.

R.I.P. I really liked this actor and especially in the Mortal Kombat series of Movies.

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, actor in ‘Mortal Kombat’ and ‘The Man in the High Castle,’ dies at 75

With all the chat here on this socalled good looking guy, I decided to look it up, I barely remember this as it was in and out of the news.

Luigi Mangione is the individual accused of shooting UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on December 4, 2024. Thompson was shot from behind as he was leaving an investor conference in Manhattan. Mangione faces multiple charges, including second-degree murder in state court and federal murder charges, which could potentially lead to the death penalty if convicted.

Live updates: Luigi Mangione faces court year after CEO killing – NBC New York

Seems the meeting was canceled about 45 minutes after the folks inside learned that the CEO was murdered.

FACT CHECK: Did UnitedHealthcare Continue It’s Meeting After Learning Their CEO Was Killed?

UnitedHealth Cancels Investor Day After CEO Is Fatally Shot | Kiplinger

While there are many stories about the CEO being a good guy like this:
UnitedHealthcare CEO killing: Investor day attendees shocked after Brian Thompson death | Fortune

While in the same neighborhood, the wife and son lived separate from the Husband and father and there does seem to be questionable things about the CEO life.

UnitedHealthcare CEO Was Separated from Wife at Time of Killing: Report

Interesting read on this murderer.

The Decline, Fall, and Unexpected Veneration of Luigi Mangione

Interesting observation is that this seems to be a partial matte paint job and I have plenty of coworkers who thought the matte paint jobs were cool and only after they bought the auto and read on it, discovered that you cannot run a matte paint job through a touch or touchless auto wash. They have to be hand washed. Paint jobs are terrible when you do not like to do things like hand wash your auto and cannot just run it through a auto wash. One coworker found a place that does hand wash detail jobs for matte paint and so he has resolved himself to pay $200 a month to have his matte painted auto washed and vacuumed. Crazy.

13 minutes ago, oldshurst442 said:

18 minutes to 80% is pretty good.  That would be what(?) 280 miles?  That would be sufficient to go back home wherever home would be anywhere in the continental united states OF America, ummm...almost.   obviously I'm being sarcastic about the going home anywhere in the us with a gasoline tank of 280 miles.  But I AM being serious in saying that 18 minutes for 280 miles is not detrimental for anybody wanting to buy an EV and using said EV for road trips.  Even if that means traveling from the mid-west to Death Valley...  I'm sure right now in trump's/maga's vision of utopia where charging stations for EVs are wanting to be limited and existing charging stations to be exterminated.  (dramatic statements all around for sure...but just doing it to prove a point that range anxiety was a hoax as far back as even 6 years ago...) 

Agree, as I posted in the Random about the new Rivian Fast Charging station, range concerns are overblown imho. Most times when my wife drives down south or up north to deal with Family, if she forgets to charge at home, she will just do 80% as it is more than enough to get back home. She did one time just a charge to 50%, 9 min and then came home.

The wife has gone from worrying about range anxiety to it is not an issue for her anymore.

She drove the Escalade for the first time in a little over a year and found it so noisy and weird that it just did not move like her EV. Clearly will be an EV driver only.

7 minutes ago, oldshurst442 said:

 10%-100% giving you almost 320 miles and out of curiosity, how long did it take to charge up? 

 

18 minutes to 80% and 35 total minutes to get the 100%, we were in a Walmart doing shopping, so the extra time did not bother us, that last 20% is the longest time to get charged.

Very cool, January 9th 2026 the reveal will take place in Europe for Kia EV2
|Kia EV2 Teased, to Debut at Brussels Motor Show 2026 - Korean Car Blog

Road trip over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, had to do a single charge up at a ChargePoint station, went from 10% to 100% battery charge for $29.02 giving me a range of almost 320 miles. Overall was pretty cheap I felt for fueling.

Self-driving continues to impress me, with the smart driving assist, it was pretty cool to just tap the turn signal, and the car does the rest for changing lanes. Continue to be impressed with Kia Software.

Currently at 28,081 miles for 5 months shy of 2 years ownership.

Tonight Lexus reveals their all-new sports lineup of autos at 9pm

Save the Date: Live Stream of All-New Sports Models World Premiere on December 5 - Lexus USA Newsroom

1 minute ago, Drew Dowdell said:

I have always liked these, but they are impossible for me to get in and out of. 

 

Yes, as much as I like sports cars like this, they do not fit this, German!  

Thanksgiving gifts can come in many formats, BMW announced over the U.S. Thanksgiving week Holiday the limited production edition of the Z4 M40i roadster. This rare auto will come with the following:

• Exclusive BMW Individual Frozen Black metallic paint.
• Vernasca/Alcantara interior with distinctive red contrast stitching.
• Available with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Steptronic transmission.
• MSRP of $77,500 plus $1,175 destination and handling.

The BMW Z4 roadster has been thrilling enthusiasts since 2002 that has delivered on a unique combination of purist driving, sporty dynamics, and classic proportions. BMW has decided to end production by building a limited run of the final year 2026 Z4 that will have an exclusive to the Z4 paint job, unique interior accents and commemorative badging.

The BMW Z4 Final Edition will be produced from February to April of 2026 in a single, well-equipped configuration. Customers will only have the one decision to make, 6-speed manual or 8-speed steptronic transmission and the MSRP is already set along with destination fee.

BMW Z4 Final Edition Specification:

BMW has chosen to give the final edition a unique yet unmistakable personality. This starts with the Frozen Black Metallic paint and a contrasting standard Shadowline package that adds high gloss black trim to the mirror caps, kidney grill, lower air intake, air breathers, and exhaust. This also includes a Moonlight Black Soft top and red calipers as a standard M Sport brake.

Every Z4 will be fitted with 19-inch M Dual-Spoke 800M wheels up front and 20-inch wheels in the rear.

Depending on the transmission, each auto will have enhanced suspension that includes electronic control and variable custom software.

The Z4 has gone through many interpretations since it first came to market in 2002 and in 2026 we have the final features of this limited production model.

Z4 Final Edition Features and Equipment

BMW Individual Frozen Black Metallic Paint
Vernasca/Alcantara Leather Interior with Red Contrast Stitching
Black High-Gloss Interior Trim
M Seat Belts
19/20” M Dual-Spoke Bicolor 800M Wheels with Staggered Performance Tires
M Sport Brakes with Red Calipers

Shadowline Package

• Mirror Caps in Black
• Adaptive Full LED Lights
• Extended Shadowline Trim

Driving Assistance Package

• Park Distance Control
• Active Blind Spot Detection
• Speed Limit Info
• Lane Keeping Assistant
• Forward Collision Mitigation

Premium Package

• Ambient Lighting
• Parking Assistant
• Head-Up Display
• Active Park Distance Control with Side Protection

Harman Kardon Surround Sound System
Moonlight Black Soft top

Dealerships are taking orders now.

View full article

3 hours ago, Drew Dowdell said:

Great range, hate the face though. Still too jellybean

Will give them props for moving forward with 800V system and faster charging compared to the old stuff on the lots right now.

My Bitch of the day, trucks like this need to be impounded for being illegal. The tires outside the wheel well, no mud flaps and way too high to be safe to other autos on the road. Sadly due to most states having this as such a low penalty, police ignore it when they should not as those tires especially during fall / winter throw so many rocks and other debris that it can crack and cause all kinds of problems for drivers. On top of this, I have seen these truck owners replace the fog lights with normal driving LED lights to light the road since the normal headlights are too high now and then they end up blinding people.

Totally agree with this article, I do not think the modern small turbo motors will last the way V8 and V6 engines have in the past. Yes, I know not all V6 and V8s have lasted, but I feel the points in this article are pretty spot on.

Downsized, Efficient, But Fragile — Why Today’s Engines May Not Last - Autoblog

Where a couple auto companies have delivered EVs that have surpassed the current industry leader, Mercedes has struggled from the beginning. Their 400V EV start to equal Tesla has not delivered what they thought would be a gold standard for the luxury maker. This has left Mercedes with ending the current EV product line and rebooting their EV dreams that is now a true 800V electrical system, all new EV Platform and a considerable lower starting point for price along with going back to their heritage of current ICE named autos taking a page from Genesis that started with keeping their EVs, ICE and Hybrids all under the same luxury name.

Welcome to the all new 2026 CLA EV.

• Up to 374 miles of range
• Starting price of $47,250
• 800-volt electrical architecture
• 320 kW fast charging
  • 100 miles in 5 minutes
  • 202 miles in 10 minutes

The 2026 CLA EV comes in two trim levels and starts with a bevy of standard features.

Standard Features:

• Next Generation MBUX Infotainment: Powered by MB.OS
• MBUX Profile Identification via Facial Recognition
• Heated Power Front Seats with Four-Way Power Lumbar Support and Memory
• Digital Extras3:
  • Distance Assist DISTRONIC
  • MBUX Navigation with Electric Intelligence (7 yrs)
  • Wireless Smartphone Integration
• Fixed Panoramic Glass Roof
• High Performance LED Headlights
• Blind Spot Assist Plus with Exit Warning
• Lane Keeping Function
• PRE-SAFE
• PRE-SAFE Sound

Exclusive Trim:

• All Standard Features
• Flush-Fitting Power Door Handles
• KEYLESS-GO
• Digital Extra: MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST3
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• 64-Color Ambient Lighting
• Wireless Smartphone Charging in Front Console
• Rear Seat Armrest w/ Cupholders

Pinnacle Trim:

• All Standard and Exclusive Trim Features
• MBUX Superscreen
• Digital Extras3:
• MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST 360
• Digital Vehicle Key
• MBUX Entertainment Package (1 yr)
• LED Intelligent Light System
• Head-Up Display
• HANDS-FREE ACCESS
• KEYLESS-GO Convenience Package
• Power Closing Trunk
• Illuminated Door Sills

Technical Specifications:

The CLA features what Mercedes calls a sporty fastback silhouette that can be enhanced with various options such as flush-mount power door handles or traditional ones. various LED lighting elements. The customer can personalize the exterior with eight exterior colors, optional night package and a variety of 17, 18 and 19 inch wheel designs. There is also the available AMG Line and AMG Line Plus with Night Package, more details to come as release date gets closer.

The CLA Interior also has the same personalization available, via MB-Tex/Microfiber to leather upholsteries, an extensive choice of available open-pore wood, aluminum and natural fiber trim finishes. MBUX Superscreen and an optional Burmester 3D surround sound system with 16 speakers and 850 watts with Dolby Atmos Technology that allows for personalization of sound per profile.

Does this reboot of the Mercedes EV product line deliver over their first attempt?

Further Details will become available at Mercedes December press release of the 2026 CLA that will update this early Mercedes Sneak Peek.

View full article

Scary read as the end of the Feds could happen based on what is going on.

'Big Short' investor breaks decade-long silence with bad news for Trump

Need to impeach now these idiots.

Prosecuting Congress for Stating the Law: An Impeachable Offense | Opinion

OUCH, feel for those looking for work.

Poor hiring data points to US economic weakness

15 hours ago, oldshurst442 said:

 

Canada's waterbomber fleet

These guys

Manitoba's fleet is 40 years old

While Quebec's youngest fleet is also at 40 years old while its oldest is 53 years old.  

 

Spain, Greece and France also have the same age range as Quebec's.  The older version which is the CL-215,  is 50 years plus in service for all that use it. They are still flying.  The next gen CL 415 is 30-40 years in service for all fleet users. 

Canadair/Bombardier has sold the license to Viking and they are currently working on updating the airplane. It is called the CL 515.   European users are desperately wanting to replace their fleets.  Deliveries of the new CL 515 is said to be in early 2026. 

With the water bombers, its not just cycles that put pressure on the sheet metal for metal fatigue. Its the weight of the water itself taking off from a lake. But mostly, when the water gets released.  HUGE amounts of pressure stresses  the structure when the water is released and all that weight that is released instantly and is no more.  

True, but in far more socialist countries, I suspect they have far better maintenance than in a capitalist society where profits are key over all else. Yes we have seen plenty of old planes all the way back to WWI that are still flying, but they have been taken care of far better than I think many for profit companies do on maintenance. Just like Ford with the Pinto, was cheaper to take the legal hit over that bomb mobile than to fix the problem from the start.

@A Horse With No Name @oldshurst442 You guys are correct, cycle of take off and landing more than age. I should have expanded myself as my brother inlaw is a manager at Boeing with many patents for his specialty which is the airplane engines on the 737, 757, 777, 787 and the king 747. He has stated that the force of the engines cause fatigue in ALL aircrafts that hit 10 years and depending on the flying they have done, passenger versus freight, while a plane can go 20 or 30 years, many should have a very close inspection at 10 years for corrosion, metal fatigue, etc. Could be one reason some airline companies retire their aircraft after 10 years rather than continue to fly them. 

Many things make up the age of an aircraft and years is only 1 little part of it, Force makes up a much bigger part. 

Thank you for pointing out what I failed to expand on in my original post.

5 hours ago, Drew Dowdell said:

I'm not sure why I want it deleted yet. 

As one who deals with AI daily, building training, coding for data lakes to help others understand their data and what it can do for them, I have come to one reason for turning off copilot, the attempt that it makes over and over in correcting my writing and word use when it does not understand technical terms, legal terms, medical terms and then changes the whole meaning of a sentence due to the changes if I do not catch it.

AI bots are great for helping find info on processes and configuration of a product such as our Dell PowerScale OneFS filer or our ObjectScale Object storage devices so that admins can quickly get the instructions on how to configure features. Otherwise, the rest of AI trying to tell me how I should do something makes it annoying and worse yet is the incredible amount of memory / CPU cycles it takes that I would rather use on other things that I do with my computer.

Personally, I wish AI bots would not use any resources until I click on it and want it to work, once I close it, it should totally turn off rather than idle in the background listening to you.

2 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

 

The stress planes take, nothing over 10yrs old should be flying.

Very cool to read and see.

Scout Finalizes SUV And Pickup Design With Only A Few Subtle Changes | Carscoops

3 hours ago, A Horse With No Name said:

I have also. 

 

Economy is slowing. 

Just not slowing, but those that have followed what companies do especially in support or lack of support to the current Lemming Administration dictates where people will spend their money.

Home Depot CEO / Chairman and the Founder of Home Depot are hard core Idiot47 supporters and has paid millions to the Dirty Dumb Donald. As such, I have stopped shopping there. There is a local chain and Lowes here so Home Depot is no longer a place I shop.

If you wonder who has changed DEI or support Idiot47 you can get the full details here: List of American Companies that Support President Donald Trump - Newsweek

Below are a list of companies that have either donated to Trump's presidential campaign or the Presidential Inaugural Committee.

Elon Musk: $290 million
Timothy Mellon: $150 million
Adelson Clinic for Drug Abuse Treatment & Research: $106 million
Linda McMahon of WWE: $16 million
Hendricks Holding Co: $15 million
Bigelow Aerospace: $14.1 million
Laura & Issac Perlmutter Foundation: 12.4 million
ABC Supply: $11 million
Cantor Fitzgerald: $11 million
Uline: $10 million
Pratt Industries: $10 million
British American Tobacco: $10 million
Southern Waste Systems: $9 million
Elliott Management: $7 million
Andreessen Horowitz: $7 million
Viotl Inc: $6 million
Timothy Dunn of CrownQuest: $5 million
Jeff Sprecher of Intercontinental Exchange and Kelly Loeffler: $4.9 million
Phil Ruffin, a business partner of Trump's: $3.3 million
Jimmy John Liautaud of Jimmy John's: $3.1 million
Geoffrey Palmer: $3 million
Bernard Marcus, former CEO of Home Depot: $2.7 million
Robert Johnson, owner of New York Jets: $2.7 million
Winklevoss twins: $2.6 million
Kenny Troutt of Excel Communications: $2.2 million
George Bishop of GeoSouthern Energy: $2 million
J. Joe Ricketts of TD Ameritrade: $2 million
Chevron: $2 million
Robinhood Markets: $2 million
Andrew Beal of Beal Bank: $1.8 million
Don Ahern of Xtreme Manufacturing: $1.1 million
Roger Penske of Penske Corporation: $1.1 million
Steve Wynn: $1.1 million
Richard Kurtz of The Kamson Corporation: $1.1 million
Antonio Gracias of Valor Equity Partners: $1 million
Douglas Leone of Sequoia Capital: $1 million
OpenAI: $1 million
ExxonMobil: $1 million
Amazon: $1 million
Meta: $1 million
Uber: $1 million
Boeing: $1 million
Qualcomm: $1 million
Coinbase: $1 million
Kraken: $1 million
Galaxy Digital Holdings: $1 million
Crypto.com: $1 million
Paradigm Operations: $1 million
Goldman Sachs: $1 million
Altria: $1 million
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America: $1 million
Bayer: $1 million
Johnson & Johnson: $1 million
National Association of Manufacturers: $1 million
AT&T: $1 million
Comcast: $1 million
Verizon: $1 million
Carrier: $1 million
Intuit: $1 million
Coupang: $1 million
GE Vernova: $500,000
QCells: $500,000
Ericsson: $500,000
CoreCivic: $500,000
GEO Group: $500,000
Abbott Laboratories: $500,000
PayPal: $250,000
HCA Healthcare: $250,000
Oklo Inc: $250,000
Coca-Cola: $250,000
American Beverage Association: $250,000
Syngenta: $250,000
International Flavors & Fragrances: $250,000
Elevance Health: $150,000
American Clean Power Association: $100,000
Instacart: $100,000
Airbnb: $100,000
Socure: $100,000
Barnes & Thornburg LLP: $100,000

Hyundai Motor America debut the CRATER Concept at the LA 2025 AutoMobility show in Los Angeles. This concept is a compact off-road SUV that exhibits capabilities and toughness as one explores extreme environments for those with a spirit of adventure. Crafted based on the XRT trim of Hyundai off-road package as found in the IONIQ 5 XRT, Santa Cruz XRT, and Palisade XRT Pro production models.

Hyundai asked a question of employees and customers: "What does freedom look like?" 

VP and head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design, SangYup Lee said this is their answer to that question. "It is a vision shaped by our unending drive to explore — to inspire our customers to explore deeper and embrace the impact of adventure.”

The design group came up with 21 distinct impact points on the CRATER Concept as follows:

Design Highlights | Art of Steel

• The Art of Steel exterior design language transforms the strength and flexibility of steel into a language of sculptural beauty. Inspired by Hyundai Motor’s advanced steel technologies, the material’s natural formability reveals flowing volumes and precise lines that evoke the distinctive aesthetic quality of steel — powerful, gentle and timeless.

Exterior Design Theme: The Impact of Adventure

• CRATER Concept’s exterior design was guided by a clear goal: to shape a rugged and capable form that reflects the landscapes that it's inspired by. This informed every detail — from the chiseled bodysides to the bold skid plates — resulting in a concept that visually communicates strength, resilience, and purpose.

Compact Concept’s Proportions

• CRATER Concept’s proportions reflect an adventurous spirit. Built on a compact monocoque architecture, CRATER Concept has been designed to go anywhere.

Adventurous Silhouette

• CRATER Concept is highlighted by its bold silhouette, complemented by its steep approach and departure angles which support serious off-road exploration.

Hexagonal Faceted Wheels

• CRATER Concept’s 18-inch wheels were inspired by envisioning a hexagonal asteroid impacting a sheer metal landscape, leaving a fractal crater in its aftermath. The design evokes an off-road spirit, blending ruggedness with precision. The wheels are clad in generous 33-inch off-road tires, enabling superior traction and ground clearance for performance in all environments.

Wide Skid Plate

• A wide, functional skid plate stretches across CRATER Concept’s underbody, not only for added protection, but to visually anchor the vehicle. Its sheer surface and robust form express protection and capability.

Roof Platform

• The roof platform is imagined as the ideal mounting point for auxiliary lighting, additional storage, and other off-road accessories.

Limb Risers

• A pair of cables stretching from the front hood to the roof promise added protection from low-hanging branches on narrow and overgrown trails.

Sheer Fender Design

• A sheer fender design emphasizes CRATER Concept’s robotic and sculptural character through wide and prominent shoulders with sheer surfaces. Pushed to the extreme, this design feature reinforces the vehicle’s confident, planted stance, showcasing Hyundai’s ‘Art of Steel’ exterior design language.

Protective-Utility-Case-inspired Rocker Panel

• The rocker panels’ construction both suggest protection and utility, reinforcing the vehicle’s readiness for any terrain.

Parametric Pixel and Indirect Lighting

• CRATER Concept’s unique lighting signature is three-dimensional in form, creating a layered effect that adds depth and precision. Indirect lighting softly illuminates surrounding surfaces.

Off-Road Lights

• Auxiliary lights mounted on the roof feature Hyundai’s gradient parametric pixel theme.

Hidden Exterior Gems

• One of CRATER Concept’s built-in recovery hooks performs double duty as bottle opener.
• The vehicle’s side-mirror cameras double as flashlights. They can be removed from the vehicle in emergency situations to capture breathtaking views or even record exciting adventures.

Interior Design Language: The Curve of Upholstery

• The interior of the CRATER Concept has been designed for tech-savvy adventure seekers who prize rugged, function-first design and flexibility. Inside the CRATER Concept, technical shapes are wrapped in soft-yet-durable materials, resulting in a stylish, natural integration that delivers comfort, support, and practicality in any environment. Simultaneously tough yet warm, the CRATER Concept’s singular interior design starts with its high-brow crash pad, which bridges the vehicle’s exterior with its interior.

Customizable Interface for Every Journey

• By leveraging a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) approach, Hyundai suggests a flexible and customizable digital experience that adapts to various situations and individual user preferences.

Dynamic Head-Up Display

• CRATER Concept’s full-width head-up display is a cutting-edge, multi-function display that includes a novel rearview camera mirror feed.

Crash Pad with Ambient Lighting

• The unconventional dashboard’s crash pad is shaped like a bent metal sheet, wrapping around the form. Subtle perforations allow soft light to glow through, creating a refined and distinctive aura unique to the concept.

Functional and Expressive Details

• Strap-inspired design elements are paired with ambient lights in an accent color. These details add energy and visual depth to CRATER Concept’s sturdy and practical character.

Structural Interior Expression

• A functional roll cage outlines the cabin, adding tension and strength, while integrated grab handles ease ingress and egress. This exposed structural element provides a reassuring feeling of safety, reinforcing that CRATER Concept is built for confident exploration and resilience.

Supportive Seating for Exploration

• CRATER Concept’s seats feature wraparound forms that are a departure from traditional bucket seats. These seats are combined with three-dimensional padding that provides stability and comfort during rugged journeys. Cylindrical cushions and a supportive headrest offer ergonomic comfort, while ample side bolsters stabilize the body during off-roading. A four-point seatbelt system hints at enhanced restraint and safety in off-road scenarios.

Steering Wheel

• A center-mounted pixel display reimages driver interaction on the squared-off steering wheel, while terrain mode buttons suggest quick switching to Snow, Sand, Mud, Auto, and XRT modes.

Interior Details

• First aid kit (passenger side)
• Fire extinguisher (driver side)
• Removable Bluetooth center console main speaker
• Hidden aperture light at the dashboard edge reveals a playful light signature
• Easy-to-reach cylinder-type center controls are mechanically linked to visual indicator lights
• CRATER MAN is a symbolic character integrated throughout the vehicle, offering playful storytelling through ‘hidden surprises’ and interactive design elements

Off-Road Design Cues

• The Hyundai CRATER Concept includes key functions for tackling rugged terrain and seeking new adventures. A tactile, gear-type multi-function Off-Road Controller has been designed for full and intuitive control, front and rear locking differentials, and traction and braking management — all part of the concept’s expressive off-road narrative. A terrain mode selector features SNOW, SAND, and MUD preset settings designed to suggest optimized performance across varied terrains.
  • Downhill brake control
  • Trailer brake control
  • Compass
  • Altimeter

CRATER Concept encompasses the following inspired colors, Dun Gold Matte exterior paint drawn from the California coastal terrain, Black Ember interior designed to handle the off-roading demands of lifestyle active people, Accents of Orange in the cabin connecting the inside to the outside world.

CRATER Concept Materials encompasses the following inspired tone, a black leather base sets a neutral tone for the cabin, allowing a deeper connection with nature. Black Alcantara adds a tactile, grounded feel that speaks to control and comfort in motion, subtly evoking California’s gritty sandstone. Brushed metal accents introduce a layer of industrial toughness, complementing the interior’s rugged yet refined aesthetic. Topographic patterns are etched into select surfaces, speaking to the very soul of off-road journeying, serving as a visual narrative of exploration and discovery.

The CRATER Concept is an exercise in what active lifestyle people would want in a possible XRT of the future. Did Hyundai Design group hit their mark or did they miss? Sounds off in the comment section.

View full article

Hyundai Motor Group and Michelin Partner to Accelerate Next-Generation Tire Technologies for Future Mobility

• Joint R&D to deliver extreme-low rolling resistance and high-performance tires using advanced solutions
• Collaboration to expand virtual development capabilities and Embedded Tire Digital Twin technologies 
• Builds on previous achievements to strengthen technological leadership 

Hyundai Motor Group and Michelin Partner to Accelerate Next-Generation Tire Technologies for Future Mobility - Hyundai Newsroom

Hyundai Motor Group Expands EV Energy Services with Vehicle to Grid and Vehicle to Home

• Hyundai Motor and Kia expand Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) services, enabling electric vehicles (EVs) to store, supply and share electricity with grids and homes
• Launch Korea’s first Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) pilot service for customers, supporting Jeju’s renewable-energy goals
• Expand Europe’s EV energy services by advancing from Smart Charging (V1G) service to bidirectional V2G capabilities, starting with the Netherlands
• Broaden Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) services in the U.S., turning EVs into emergency backup power and energy-storage solutions
• New initiatives reinforce Hyundai Motor Group’s commitment to sustainable mobility and global carbon neutrality

Hyundai Motor Group Expands EV Energy Services with Vehicle to Grid and Vehicle to Home - Hyundai Newsroom

IONNA Surges ahead in California with a planned investment of $250M, New Rechargery Stations, and Expanded Integration

• IONNA announces over $250 million planned investment in California EV infrastructure
• Over 1,100 bays live or under construction, nationwide
• IONNA Plug & Charge now available with seven manufacturers

IONNA Surges ahead in California with a planned investment of $250M, New Rechargery Stations, and Expanded Integration

Reimagined luxury for everyday life be it city living or rugged outdoor experiences, the all new 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid delivers in a bigger, bolder, and proudly boxy style that pairs Kia's "Opposites United" philosophy with living life to the fullest approach. The Telluride has evolved to provide strength with elegance, toughness with sophistication, and innovation with restraint. Clearly Kia is pushing to transcend their original with the 2027 Hybrid.

Kia has clearly taken the best of all worlds in this Hybrid Telluride by incorporating the technology and sophistication of the EV9 such as the futuristic dashboard with real physical buttons and the flush door handles keeping things clean, modern appearance inside and out. If one is wanting an even more butch style, then the Telluride X-Pro is where you can embrace your darker side as the X-series variants wear blacked-out wheel arches, side mirrors, beltline trim, and D-pillars. On top of this you move to all-terrain tires and a commanding 9.1 inches of ground clearance.

The 2027 Telluride offers an improved interior due to the add length and ride height. This enhances the easy access entry to both the front seats and the second and third row seats with a provided flat floor and increased head room, even more if you get a model equipped with the dual sunroofs. Kia has embraced variety with new interior materials and colorways that offer rich hues and tactile details. Just some of the colorways are as follows:

• Deep Navy with Tuscan Umber
• Blackberry (rich dark purple) with Sand Beige
• Traditional all black
• Deep Khaki
• Saddle brown

The 2027 Telluride has the following highlights:

• Power meets efficiency:
  • Standard 2.5L Turbo delivers 274 horespower and 311 lb-ft of torque
  • Available 2.5L Turbo-Hybrid delivers 329 horsepower, 339 lb-ft of torque and rated at up to a Kia-estimated 35 mpg combined and a total Kia-estimated driving range of 600 miles.
• Eight speed automatic transmission delivering power to FWD or AWD depending on model trim.
  • Torque vectoring comes with the Hybrid model
  • X-Pro has E-LSD or electronic slip differentials front and rear and a center lock differential allowing 50/50 front/rear torque split.
• 199.2-inch overall length with a 116.9-inch wheelbase, 2.3-inch increase over the 2026 Telluride total length and an increased wheelbase of 2.7-inches.
• Interior storage space:
  • 22.3 cubic feet with all seats up (21.3 cubic feet in Turbo Hybrid)
  • 46.3 cubic feet with 3rd row folded down
  • 86.9 cubic feet with 2nd and 3rd row folded down
• Comfortably rugged: Newly upgraded X-Pro adds wider all-terrain tires than before, with new advanced E-LSD system, new multi-terrain AWD mode, new off-road vehicle status screen and new Ground View Monitor all riding on an elevated 9.1-inches of ground clearance.
• Larger dimensions: Provides more second-row headroom, class-leading legroom, improved third-row seat access, plus more cargo space behind the 3rd-row.
• Stretch Out: New, available front relaxation seats with leg rests and a driver massage function, new power-operated and available climate-controlled second-row captain’s chairs, all enveloped in a quieter interior.
• Innovation Meets Function: New available power tilt/telescope steering wheel with memory, available heated seats for all 3-rows, new dual wireless phone chargers for front passengers, and new Ground Lighting (X-Pro exclusive).
• Next generation technology: Available compatible smartphone or smart watch vehicle access, available YouTube and Netflix streaming; available custom display themes for all 30 NBA teams and some of Disney’s© most iconic brands. 
• Enhanced Safety System: 10 airbags including a front-row center airbag, enhanced rigid body structure that targets IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
• Coming Soon: The 2027 Telluride is targeted to go on sale in the U.S. in first quarter of 2026, and will be assembled in West Point, Ga. Pricing to be released close to available delivery date.

The 2027 Kia Telluride will be offered in LX, S, EX, SX, SX Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro trims. All trims will have Apple Carplay and Android Auto wireless connectivity.

The Precision in Motion exterior design allows for a slippery 0.30 drag coefficient due to incorporations of design elements from the EV6 / EV9 SUVs.

The Dreamers Sanctuary interior design unites the expansive yet intimate interior into a harmonization with nature approach. This allows for a warm natural material with curves flowing to give the driver and passengers a wrap-around design to comfort them. Kia has incorporated their NVH or Noise Vibration and Harshness package to give the interior one of the quietest rides around. The standard NVH package includes enhanced triple door seals, sound absorbing materials throughout the auto, and increased glass thickness.

Available as options upgraded relation seats with leg rests, that include massage with adjustable cushioning in support of the body. Optional heated / ventilated seats available for the first and second row with optional heated seats for the 3rd row. There is also memory -enabled power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and various options for interior led lighting as just some of the many options once can add to their Telluride.

2027 Telluride brings modern connectivity to the occupants with multiple fast charging USB-C ports throughout all 3 rows. This is complimented by the standard dual 12.3-inch panoramic digital displays with OTA. Kia built in natural AI voice assistant, ultrawide band digital key 2.0 allowing for cell phone as your key fob. This allows both apple and android smartphone users to lock, unlock, remote start and so much more for their auto interaction. The digital keys can be shared with up to 3 other family members / friends and will work via Apple Watch. For those into music, there is the optional Meridian premium stereo system made up of 14 speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer.

Starting with the SX Prestige or SXP model, you get standard enhanced Full Display Digital Rear View Mirror, providing a wide, unobstructed field of view for the driver. The larger 12-inch head-up display (HUD) projects key vehicle information, including speed, turn-by-turn navigation, and safety alerts directly on to the windshield.

True connectivity in 2027 goes well beyond maps and texting. Getting home is more convenient thanks to Kia myQ Connected Garage. Using geo-fencing, the system can detect your vehicle’s proximity and automatically opens or closes the garage door as you approach or leave home. Experience all the new ways to stay connected and entertained with these upcoming features and more, all available in the Kia Connect Store.

The Hybrid Telluride has a 1.65 kW battery pack that allows one to use stay mode when the auto is turned off allowing up to 20 minutes of power to operate climate control, cabin lighting, stereo, as well as all other vehicle systems till the battery pack is drained down to 20% power remaining.

Kia has also pointed out all the updated and added Peace of Mind advanced driver assistance systems that are standard or available depending on trim.

• Highway Driving Assist
• Lane Following Assist
• Forward Collision Avoidance Assist
• Safe Exit Warning
• Safe Exit Assist
• Driver Attention Warning
• Rear Occupant Alert System
• Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
• Lane Following Assist
• Available Highway Driving Assist 2
• Blind-Spot Collision Warning
• Available Blind-Spot View Monitor

Among its 10 standard airbags, the redesigned Telluride now comes equipped with a front-row center airbag. Located between the driver and front passenger, this new additional airbag is intended to reduce front-passenger impacts in certain collisions.

More details can be viewed at Kia's website: 2027 Kia Telluride

View full article