G. David Felt

The more I think on it, with Electric, I would hope that the station wagon could be revived with much room inside.

Sleepy

Weird, saw two of these CTS Stationwagons this month. First one was a black V edition, this is the awd version or CTS4 station wagon.

I really like the Mach-E, but lately all the recalls and quality issues of Ford Products have me pulling back from buying anything they make. Is the Ford Maverick Hybrid Engine Actually Dangerous? (msn.com) This has me excited for Rivian long term. A Rivian Small Electric SUV Could Dethrone the World’s Most Popular Electric Vehicle (msn.com) I just hope Amazon lets them also sell the vans to other companies. This was one mistake I know Rivian regrets letting Amazon control who can buy the Rivian delivery van.

NGL?????? It is a cool option from GM, glad they have it and I am sure some will really love it if they do not want a Ford. For me, the face is just too Ugly to Love. Capable Yes, Desirable Possibly, Love it, NOPE, not gonna happen. Too Ugly.

Welcome to the Super Cobra Jet 1800: The improved electric drag racer features a new transmission, redone battery system, revised rear end setup and fresh control and data gathering systems. MLe Racecar’s Pat McCue is planned to be in the driver’s seat for the record-setting attempts at an NHRA event later this season. Today, Ford Performance unveiled the continued evolution of its electric-powered motorsports efforts with the Mustang Super Cobra Jet 1800, an aggressive revision to the NHRA world record-holding Mustang Cobra Jet 1400. It is targeted to best the Cobra Jet 1400’s standing world record for full-bodied electric vehicles in the quarter-mile, 8.128 seconds at 171.97 miles per hour. In June of 2021, Bob Tasca III drove the Cobra Jet 1400 to its reigning time in Norwalk, Ohio. The vehicle, originally built as a collaborative effort between Ford Performance, MLe Racecars, AEM-EV, Cascadia Motion and Watson Engineering, was then ready for its next challenge. The Ford Performance led team went back to the drawing board and poured their effort into revisions and upgrades to the chassis, powertrain and control systems. To match this work, Ford Performance brought back the famed Super Cobra Jet name, first offered on 1969 model year Mustangs as an improvement to the standard Cobra Jet package. “We’re always looking to push ourselves in every corner of the motorsport world,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports. “Drag racing remains a key proving ground for our products and technology, and we’re excited to not only try to best our own record in the quarter-mile, but to further showcase ongoing development we continue to make across the entire electric vehicle landscape.” The Super Cobra Jet 1800 utilizes the same four PN-250-DZR inverters coupled to two double-stacked DS-250-115 motor pairings as before, but now attached to a new transmission from Liberty and powered by an entirely redone, lighter weight battery system designed by Ford Performance and MLe Racecars. The power is sent to an MLe Racecars-revised rear end featuring improved suspension geometry from PMR and larger Mickey Thompson drag radials to optimize launches. The entire dance is managed by Ford Performance proprietary control software running on AEM-EV hardware, with a new data acquisition system, dash and power distribution system all designed in-house. “Our changes have made significant improvements to the car, including removing hundreds of pounds in weight and increasing horsepower to 1800,” explained Rushbrook. On top of going for a new full-bodied electric vehicle record, the Super Cobra Jet 1800 will also attempt to claim records for fastest electric vehicle 0-60 mph and fastest two-wheel drive electric vehicle 0-60 during an NHRA event later this season. MLe Racecar’s cofounder and official program test driver Pat McCue is planned to be in the driver’s seat. View full article

Let's start off with the Key Points of what is brought to the HD truck line with the ZR2 option. Race-proven off-road technologies include DSSV dampers, a factory lift and more to create Chevy’s flagship heavy-duty off-road pickup HD ZR2 builds upon Silverado HD’s already impressive roster of HD truck features to accomplish the toughest work with smart trailering tech and formidable powertrains A ZR2 family complete: HD ZR2 creates trio of flagship, off-road performance pickups Silverado HD ZR2 Bison surprises with ultimate off-road capability, in collaboration with American Expedition Vehicles The off-road capability synonymous with Chevrolet’s ZR2 badge debuts for the Silverado HD with the introduction of the 2024 Silverado HD ZR2 – the brand’s flagship heavy-duty off-roader. Elevating the Silverado HD’s off-road credentials to even further heights, the 2024 Silverado HD ZR2 Bison debuts as part of the Chevy trucks family as well. Chevrolet will soon offer a trio of flagship, off-road performance pickup trucks for anyone ready to explore the trails in Colorado ZR2, Silverado 1500 ZR2 and the first-ever Silverado HD ZR2. Both the HD ZR2 and HD ZR2 Bison bring race-proven technologies and enhanced off-road capability to the refreshed 2024 Silverado HD lineup, with the specialized ZR2 Bison featuring unique equipment from premium off-road aftermarket manufacturer American Expedition Vehicles, for those seeking the ultimate capability in their adventures. “The all-new Silverado HD ZR2 and HD ZR2 Bison provide the off-road performance our customers have come to expect from a ZR2, with the towing and payload capabilities our HD customers demand,” said Michael MacPhee, director of Chevrolet Trucks Marketing. “They also expand the Silverado HD lineup, offering more choices for customers to find the perfect truck for work and off-road adventure.” Offered exclusively in the 2500 Crew Cab configuration — with the standard 6.6L gasoline engine or available 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel — the Silverado HD ZR2 and HD ZR2 Bison leverage Chevrolet’s off-road racing success with a defined set of upgrades built from proven off-road prowess. Whether that’s crawling trails, tackling tough terrain or towing adventure toys on the weekend, the Silverado HD ZR2 and HD ZR2 Bison can handle it all. The Silverado HD ZR2 does this without sacrificing on-road comfort or heavy-duty truck capability, embracing the same hallmarks that make the Silverado 1500 ZR2 a winning combination. As for capability, the max payload for the Silverado HD ZR2 is 3,397 pounds (gas engine), while the max trailering rating is an impressive 18,500 pounds3, when equipped with the available Duramax Turbo-Diesel to ensure owners don’t have to leave behind any part of their adventure – big or small – when hitting the trail. “The Silverado HD ZR2 is for those who want it all: For when you need to haul equipment to the jobsite during the week, then the camper and family off the beaten path on the weekend,” said Sahar Nasif, program engineering manager, Silverado HD ZR2. “It’s for those who want their tow rig to be just as cool as the toys it’s hauling.” The HD ZR2 is instantly recognizable with the ZR2 family’s front grille, which represents the expressive styling the ZR2 family of trucks values. Unique wheel opening moldings featuring integrated mud guards, ZR2 badging on the grille bar and a higher stance further strengthen HD ZR2’s image. Both trucks also wear the “flow-tie” emblem. The suspension is raised approximately 1.5 inches (38 mm), front and rear, compared to other Silverado HD 4WD models. Its off-road-capable features and content also include: Specific front upper and lower control arms and specific steering knuckles Multimatic DSSV Dampers Larger steel transfer case skid plate and front aluminum skid plate Rear e-locker 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires mounted on 18 x 9-inch aluminum wheels. HD ZR2 also includes a new Off-Road Mode, which incorporates learnings from the Colorado ZR2 and Silverado 1500 ZR2. When engaged, it adjusts various vehicle calibrations, such as the anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control, to optimize their performance for off-road driving. In addition, Off-Road Mode alters throttle progression and transmission shifts, and the locking rear axle does not have a speed limitation. HD ZR2 Bison: AEV collaboration raises the off-road bar The HD ZR2 Bison was developed in collaboration with AEV to provide a factory package for the most avid off-roaders. It builds on the HD ZR2’s standard features, adding: Exclusive gloss black, 18-inch AEV wheels Distinctive cut high-approach, stamped-steel front bumper with integrated recovery points and winch provisions Unique stamped-steel cut rear bumper with recovery points Tough, stamped steel underbody skid plates for the front of the vehicle, steering rack, exhaust and transfer case Bison models also receive unique exterior badging and other identifying cues, including the AEV logo on the front-seat head restraints. Additionally, both the HD ZR2 and HD ZR2 Bison benefit from the functional features shared across the Silverado HD range, including the DuraBed cargo box that optimizes every square inch for maximum cargo capability, the corner step rear bumper, BedSteps, power tailgate, a 120-volt power outlet, available six-position Multi-Flex tailgate and more. IN FOCUS: Race-Proven Multimatic DSSV dampers The Silverado HD ZR2’s racing-derived Multimatic spool-valve dampers are designed to blend maximum off-road capability with on-road comfort. Pioneered on the Colorado ZR2 racing program and torture-tested with the help of Chad Hall Racing in the Best in The Desert off-road racing series, their unique spool-valve design (with three separate spools), compared to conventional shim-type dampers, offers unlimited tuning variability to control damping. That translates into more precise damping performance, for a greater feeling of control on and off the road. Redesigned interior with ZR2 flair The HD ZR2 and ZR2 Bison also feature the 2024 Silverado HD lineup’s redesigned interior. Built for excellent work-ready functionality and next-level technology integration, the cabin boasts features HD truck buyers expect with a blend of premium materials and off-road prowess, as found in the Silverado 1500 ZR2. The interior’s dark trim accents complement the Jet Black and Graystone leather-appointed surfaces. Care also went into selecting materials that are simple to wipe clean after a day in the dirt. The instrument panel houses a best-in-class 13.4-inch-diagonal infotainment1 screen and expansive 12.3-inch-diagonal configurable driver information center that become the focal points of the driver’s command center. The infotainment screen and other controls are also canted toward the driver, strengthening the command center perspective. Smart, off-road technology includes an available 15-inch Head-Up Display with an off-road inclinometer and HD Surround Vision7 for the Silverado HD ZR2 and HD ZR2 Bison. A redesigned wireless phone charger4 area as well as a flow-under console, which offers the spaciousness of a bench seat while retaining the functionality of a center console, round out HD ZR2’s efficient use of interior space. Coming in Q3 2023 Production of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD ZR2 and ZR2 Bison begins later this summer, at General Motors’ Flint Assembly plant in Michigan10. Pricing will be announced closer to the start of production. View full article

Genesis has stated it will be an all electric vehicle company by 2030 with global EV sales and is currently available in 15 states expanding states as capacity for EV production ramps up in the U.S. Genesis Motor America, in collaboration with Electrify America, offers three years of 30-minute complimentary charging sessions from the date of vehicle purchase. Owners of the 2023 GV60, the 2023 Electrified GV70, and the 2023 Electrified G80 have access to hyper-fast charging on Electrify America’s coast-to-coast charging network and can seamlessly locate and access charging stations while on the road via the Genesis Connected Services and Electrify America mobile apps. This is growing as Genesis has also opened up their first standalone luxury store in Santa Monica California. Every Genesis comes with a complimentary three-year subscription to Service Valet. This means never dropping off, picking up or wasting time with vehicle maintenance. With Service Valet, you can schedule service online or via the mobile app and have your vehicle picked up wherever and whenever you choose. You’ll also receive a loaner vehicle and select when and where your Genesis will be returned, all at your convenience. Genesis today announced the launch of Genesis Home, a residential electrification ecosystem that provides customers with access to solar energy and electric vehicle (EV) charging from their home. Genesis Home enables customers to secure a top-rated residential AC EV charger, solar panels, and energy storage systems through a one-stop marketplace platform. With Genesis Home, Genesis is streamlining the home electrification process by pairing top products/technologies and pre-vetted installers with dedicated Energy Advisors. The Energy Advisors will guide guests through the entire home electrification journey to ensure that each Genesis Home client receives a home energy solution tailored to their individual energy needs. Energy Advisors will also work with customers after their system has been installed to not only address any customer service inquiries, but to also help clients configure their systems to perform according to each clients’ own preferences. Together with EVs like GV60, the Electrified G80, and Electrified GV70, Genesis Home’s residential charging solution compliments Genesis’ out-of-home charging collaboration with Electrify America to provide comprehensive charging solutions for its clients. Genesis Home includes rooftop solar, energy storage, charging systems, and additional componentry for an ecosystem that provides more sustainable and cost-effective energy for clients’ home and vehicles. The Genesis Home ecosystem is initially comprised of three components, including a ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 Charger, rooftop solar panels, and home energy storage systems. “Genesis Home is an end-to-end mobility solution that both lowers barriers to EV adoption, while simultaneously providing a seamless solution for our discerning clients to generate and store dependable, clean electric power and to harness their home energy to charge their electric vehicle,” said Claudia Marquez, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America. “Genesis Home provides clients with peace of mind from the knowledge that Genesis has developed a single destination for consumers’ home electrification needs.” Genesis Home offers customers reliable, more sustainable energy production and storage, protection from outages, and powerful home charging, all in one simple solution. The system will work with any current Genesis EV model. Customers can visit www.genesis.com for more information. Solar panels, energy storage systems and the home EV charger are manufactured and offered by third parties. Currently, the home EV charger, solar panels and energy storage systems are available in select markets by referral from select Genesis dealers. Genesis Home will be available from additional dealers throughout 2023. Installation services are provided by third-party electricians sourced through the Genesis Home Marketplace and contracted by customers for their projects. Genesis Home will compete with Tesla Solar products and Powerwall as well as GM Energy EcoSystem Genesis Home Powerwall | Tesla Solar Panels | Tesla Solar Roof | Tesla GM Energy: An Electric Ecosystem, Reimagined View full article

Awesome, so then once your done getting the new house ready, get that nice hot tub in, Party @ Robert's House! I will bring plenty of Wine my Friend!

I have been looking at Hot Tubs and found I really like the Natural Chlorination tubs where you put a 50lb bag of salt into a holder and it manages the PH level by using natural salt. You just test it and occasionally have to shock it if it gets too far out of balance, but a natural salt hot tub tends to give a very nice warm sea saltwater experience. They also have mineral hot tubs so you can get that Mineral Hot Spring feel of relaxation and comfort to the body. Natural Hot Tub Chemicals - As Chemical Free as your Spa Can Be (spamarvel.com) Saltwater Hot Tub in 2023: Worth the Deal? [Cost & Reviews] | ByRossi

This is part of the mystery as a few things have been found in the deep south of the Indian ocean moving towards Australia but otherwise the plane just disappeared and so the Conspiracy theorist have gone nuts on what really happened. It was a good watch, some very valid points made.

Welcome SDotJizzle, look forward to your posting.

Yes, a Whole House Generator would be worth it. My sister where she lives they have power outages during the fall and winter, was the best thing they could have done as this last November we had a really bad storm that took power out for 3 days. So I am thinking about it for my house when I remodel here in the near future.

I actually can see a very valid use case for you Robert to have an EV over ICE unless you go with a specific Hybrid truck I am thinking of, but since you like SUVs like me, I could easily see you in an SUV EV max battery pack so that you have an excellent back up battery if the power is lost due to a winter storm at your new house. If memory serves me correct, it looked like it had gas or Propane stove and furnace so you can cook and then an EV would be the backup for power use. I do realize that a Propane or Natural gas generator would also make sense and then stay with an ICE. Thoughts?

Very cool modern take on a Eldorado https://www.hotcars.com/2001-cadillac-eldorado-new-version-render/ Modern 21st Century EV Cadillac Eldorado Coupe?

GM Leads $50 Million Funding Round in EnergyX to Unlock U.S.-Based Lithium Supply for Rapidly Scaling EV Production https://pressroom.gm.com/gmbx/us/en/pressroom/home/news.detail.html/Pages/news/us/en/2023/apr/0411-energyx.html Very cool about GM investing in every step.of the supply chain to bring down prices of EVs.

Due to the price of raw materials for batteries, unless they can truly mass produce solid-state batteries on common materials, then Leasing will become the new norm as the need to recycle rare earth materials will have a big market. Interesting times we are entering for sure. On the flip side, I am seeing more and more stories about EV conversions of old autos. Electric car enthusiasts tantalized by new idea: converting old vehicles | Toyota | The Guardian Best EV Conversion Companies of 2023 (treehugger.com) Why EV conversions could become more mainstream for classic cars through to 4WD utes (msn.com) Home | Kindred Motorworks The Five Best Classic Cars to Convert to Electric Vehicles (motortrend.com) 12 Best Electric Car Conversions You Can Buy Right Now | HiConsumption

@oldshurst442 @Robert Hall I do like the LYRIQ physical buttons for the HVAC system. They are toggle up and down for heat or cool and then just press to make a change. Then you have the touch screen or rotary dial.

Totally get what you are saying and agree that it does need to be simple. One thing I have not had a chance to test myself now have I seen anybody actually talk about is the HeatPump replacing traditional heaters/A/C units. Tesla says they blow air constantly on the windows so you never have to deal with fogging windows and with heated seats that you are warm without needing the heat or cold blowing on you from dash vents. I would be very interested to know if that is true and yet then we have LYRIQ, GMs first implementation not only with the SnapDragon system but also with a Heatpump. Yet GM is still putting in Dash vents. This would imply to me that many folks still like cold or warm air blowing on them in addition to the windows. FYI, Just read that the Chevrolet Equinox while it does not have traditional dials or switches, the row of graphical images are haptic feedback buttons to inform you that you pressed that spot.

@Robert Hall @oldshurst442 The comparison of the Snapdragon modules for auto use tends to imply this is a terabyte system that is freaking fast. Product Listings: Chipsets and SoCs for Automotive Computing I Qualcomm I wish I could get a straight answer out of GM about this since they originally were moving to a massive Gigabyte backbone powering the current generation cars and trucks which has made a difference, but the SnapDragon that is in the LYRIQ is the first use of this Terabyte system. If they have not cut corners anywhere in implementation, then this would imply a very fast interface, thus reducing the finger smashing of the screen. I will say that all the reviews of the LYRIQ for 2024 are very positive with a quick snappy interface and as this review clearly states. Everything you want to do via the screen or the few physical buttons on the center stack can be done via the manual controls on the steering wheel or the rotary click wheel. 2024 Cadillac Lyriq Review, Pricing, and Specs (caranddriver.com) I think for many folks used to a more manual type auto, the future will give them some frustration. But for the younger generations, it will not be an issue.

Interesting is that the Hummer and the Black n Red Blazer SS EV have actual real switches / buttons along with a touch screen where the Chevrolet Grey and Black which is the launch interior for the Chevrolet Equinox EV is all touch screen only. Kia and Hyundai have a mix of real switches/buttons and touch screen where the Tesla, Ford Mach e and Leap Motors from China all have touchscreens only. All of these all run on Qualcomm Snapdragon Android auto system. I have to wonder how much will change since we saw the first Jeep EV Dash in the Avenger since they are now going to use the SnapDragon system too.

@oldshurst442 @trinacriabob @Robert Hall it is interesting to see the various dash interfaces and how more expensive have real buttons. with touch screen over all touch screens for lower priced models. GMC Hummer EV Leap Motors