Drew Dowdell

I saw a news item that Fisker is opening some “EV Lounges” in premium markets. I’m not sure what that’s going to entail. I’m following Fisker a lot closer recently because I think the Ocean might be our replacement for the 300C in a few years 

My Toronado hasn't been road worthy in a while due to some sketchy brakes.  Today I started the rear drums and found that the shoes had been completely glazed over.  I'm assuming something got stuck at some point and overheated the brakes.  Drum brakes are such a mess to work on, I still do not understand why they are less costly to make than disks.

I got the left side back together, but I didn't even start on the right.  When I pulled them apart I found that the retainer springs and pins were being held there with not much more than caked on rust and a prayer.  So over to rock auto where the complete hardware kit is less expensive than the price to ship it.  Oh well, it will be here Wednesday.  I also ordered some caliper pins for the front because I can feel those sticking. I could probably just grease them, but new ones are $6 a pair and the ones on there are probably 42 years old.

We opened Clubs back in 2018, but there was little interest in them, so in late 2019 we shut them down.  The Clubs software has evolved substantially since then, so we are now reopening them.  You can view all available clubs, or create a new one of your own, at this link. https://www.cheersandgears.com/clubs/  They are also visible under the Community Menu.

We opened Clubs back in 2018, but there was little interest in them.  The Clubs software has evolved substantially since then, so we are now reopening them.  You can view all available clubs, or create a new one of your own, at this link. https://www.cheersandgears.com/clubs/

We opened Clubs back in 2018, but there was little interest in them.  The Clubs software has evolved substantially since then, so we are now reopening them.  You can view all available clubs, or create a new one of your own, at this link. https://www.cheersandgears.com/clubs/

On 8/13/2023 at 8:56 AM, Robert Hall said:

Quite the beast.  The contours make it look it smaller than it is..looks smaller in the side profile pics..would like to see a photo parked next to the regular slab-sided upright Escalade.     'Escaladiq' would have a better name? 

It's kinda hard to directly compare EVs to ICEs. They are just so much roomier inside than you'd expect from the external dimensions (except for the Benzes for some reason).  The Bolt feels roomier than the Encore GX. The Ioniq 6 is about the same size externally as the Sonata, but it feels as roomy as my 300.

Fisker Inc. announced today that, starting in the first quarter of 2025, Fisker drivers will be able to charge at Tesla's 12,000 Supercharger Stations in the U.S. and Canada. All current and future Fiskers will be eligible.

Current model drivers will use an NACS adapter, but a future refresh is planned to change the charge port on the vehicles to the NACS model.  Those future vehicles will be supplied with a CCS to NACS adapter, ensuring broad compatibility.

This move by Fisker will more than double the number of public chargers available to Fisker drivers when it comes into effect.

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On 8/8/2023 at 5:28 PM, trinacriabob said:

Given how long I keep cars, y'all know I tend to be cheap.  However, I saw this brochure on eBay by chance while looking at cars and such, came back around, and bought it - under $10, with taxes and shipping.

We build excitement!  What an improvement from the 1978 to 1980 rendition ... from every vantage point.

I loved this dashboard.  It's on the LJ.  A leather wrapped wheel would have been nicer than urethane, but they weren't as common.  Is it any wonder my interest in cars seems to have linearly waned over time?

All the (post) malaise era accoutrements to pimp out your GP are here to choose from.  J/K.

I was really happy when I opened up the shipping carton and pulled out this brochure in near perfect condition.

 

If you're looking for other specific makes/models from GM, Ford, or Chrysler. I was gifted an extensive collection a while back that spans decades.  I'm planning on selling off most of it.

3 hours ago, trinacriabob said:

Join me today in wishing @NINETY EIGHT REGENCY a happy birthday.  All year long, he provides the forum with informative, entertaining, and even quirky videos and links.

It's very easy to remember his birthday because it's that of Napoleon Bonaparte and, more importantly, that of my late father.

I also looked up who else might be a famous person having a birthday today. I found quite a few, with the more known ones being Jennifer Lawrence, Ben Affleck, and chef Julia Child.  All the other ones were younger "too cool for school" types that don't register with me.

Happy birthday, Landis!  And many more.

Happy Birthday @NINETY EIGHT REGENCY

I also made a clarification.  SuperCruise is standard on all Escalade IQs.

1 hour ago, ccap41 said:

I think this thing looks pretty great on the outside. Of course they botched ANOTHER C-pillar but it isn't the end of the world here. the interior looks great BUT, and there's always a 'but', the all-screen setup is atrocious. 

I don't mind the C-Pillar as much as I mind the tail lights, but I think the rest of it looks fantastic.

I'll reserve judgement on the screen until I can try one. The Benz EQS AMG screen was incredibly distracting, especially when the Navi map was loaded. It was the center screen in the MB that really bugged me. The Mach-E and Lightning were less distracting in spite of having similar sized screens in a similar location, but damn if I didn't need night-mode in the daytime with that bright white background.

I'm interested in the light up trim graphics.

21 hours ago, David said:

Got my first Amazon delivery from the Rivian van. Love how quiet they are. But wow, very big.

They rove around the Municipality I work for, but I haven't seen them in my own neighborhood.  Amazon built a massive charging station and distribution center on the site of one of the first enclosed malls in the U.S. which is about 5 miles up the Lincoln Highway from me.

On 8/3/2023 at 3:38 PM, trinacriabob said:

Spotted August 3

With my tires rotated and my ride moved to Costco's regular parking area, I had lunch at "Cafe' 1.50," did NOT do the samples tour, and saw this upon leaving.

The good:  a tasteful looking up-line VW sedan in a nice color (to me) and with a DSG transmission (engine and transmission are sourced in Germany and Hungary)

The bad:  the price  *thinking about Passat prices and their being gone ... sigh*

Now that all Arteons are R-Lines, the price went up.  That's the bad.  The good is that all R-Lines come with the significantly more powerful 300 hp 2.0T that makes the Arteon really move nicely.   But at $52,849, that Arteon is $951 less expensive than the TwinTurbo-V6-powered Audi S4.

Today, Cadillac unveiled the newest member of their electrified lineup, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ. With The Escalade IQ, Cadillac introduces the first full-size electric SUV to the market. Like the Silverado EV that rides on the same Ultium platform, the Escalade IQ will offer up to 450 miles of range.

The Escalade IQ is powered by a dual-motor system capable of producing up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque, delivering a 0-60 time of less than 5 seconds when in the driver-selectable Velocity Max setting. The preliminary towing capability estimate is targeted at 8,000 lbs. Electricity is provided by a 24-module Ultium battery with 200 kWh of available energy. The system architecture is compatible with 800-volt charging, the fastest currently available, and can take on 100 miles of range in as little as 10 minutes. Vehicle-to-Home charging will be available via a software update in the future when combined with Ultium Home products, while Vehicle-to-Load enables the E-IQ to power larger external devices.

One-Pedal Driving, Variable Regen on Demand, and an innovative heat pump thermal system help extend range and increase passenger comfort.

Four-wheel steer reduces the turning radius to 39.4 ft, a 6.5 ft reduction versus not using four-wheel steer. Cadillac arrival mode is a four-wheel steer feature that allows the Escalade IQ to move diagonally, making it easier to pull in and out of tight spaces while making a statement. Adaptive Air Ride plus Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 promises a comfortable and composed driving experience without sacrificing handling. The Adaptive Air Ride is capable of raising the E-IQ by one inch and lowering it by two. Low Ride mode allows the Escalade to be driven with the vehicle fully lowered at low speeds.

Inside, passengers are treated to a premium cabin featuring a nearly full-width, 55-inch display across the dash, with some space at each end reserved for two of the forty speakers of the available AKG Studio Reference sound system on the available Executive Second Row package.  Luxury 2 and Sport 2 systems feature a thirty-six speaker AKG system, while Luxury 1 and Sport 1 trims have nineteen.

Cadillac is offering four interior themes with 126 ambient lighting options. Interior trims feature delicate detailing with laser-etched woodwork, and with the available illuminated trim package, the patterns light up at night, offering a unique look and glow.

The Executive Second Row package includes stowable tray tables, dual wireless phone charging pads, 12.6-inch personal display screens, USB-C and HDMI ports, massaging seats, and headrest speakers.

An available package adds power open-and-close doors to all four doors, and if enabled, the driver's door will automatically open as the driver approaches with the keyfob. In addition to the standard rear cargo area, a 12 cubic ft. eTrunk is located at the front of the vehicle.

As Cadillac introduced SuperCruise to the market several years ago as an option in high end trims, but in the E-IQ, it now comes standard.  Additional active safety features include blind zone steering assist, intersection automatic emergency braking, which enables detection of cross traffic, HD Surround Vision, Enhanced automatic parking assist, and front pedestrian and bicyclist braking that works at speeds from 5 mph - 50 mph.

Pricing is expected to start around $130,000 when it goes on sale in the Fall of 2024.

2025 CADILLAC ESCALADE IQ PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

EFFICIENCY

¹On a full charge based on development testing and/or analytical projection consistent with SAE J1634 revision 2017 – MCT. Range subject to change prior to production. Actual range may vary based on several factors, including ambient temperature, terrain, battery age and condition, loading, and how you use and maintain your vehicle.

BATTERY SYSTEM:

ELECTRIC DRIVE:

¹Based on GM testing

CHARGING TIMES¹

¹Actual charge times will vary based on battery condition, output of charger, vehicle settings and outside temperature. See the vehicle's Owner’s Manual for additional limitations.
²Home charging requires professionally installed 100A dedicated charge station, sold separately.

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION

¹Lower-profile tires wear faster. Tire and wheel damage may occur on rough or damaged roads or from surfaces, curbs, debris or obstacles. This damage is not covered by the GM New Vehicle Limited Warranty. For more details, go to my.cadillac.com/learnabout/tires or see your dealer.

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS

CAPACITIES   

¹Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution
²Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo, and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.

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27 minutes ago, smk4565 said:

This is good news and I hope they can build this out in the next few years and not take 10 years to do it.  By the time they have 30,000 chargers, Tesla will probably have 30,000, then you have 60,000 chargers available for those brands that can use both.  And I imagine any brands that can't use both will have a hard time selling cars.

I dunno. Most charging still happens at home. 30,000 chargers for this new network is still more than what Tesla has today and the Tesla folks do okay most of the time. Plus EA and ChargePoint are still out there too along with every GM dealership. 
 

I’m not saying 60k isn’t a selling point just that Tesla sells cars fine with 21,000.

6 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

Isn't it's peak charge rate only like 55kw?

Yeah, limited rate because of the battery issues they had made them nervous.  It's still faster than L2 charging.

But that's probably part of the upgrade. If an EValanche can charge at 10 miles a minute in that giant battery, a more efficient Bolt with a smaller battery should be even faster.

1 hour ago, David said:

This should be interesting, current style is anything but stylish imho.

There is no current style. It went out of production in the US market in 2021 after being in production since 2007, a full year and a half before Obama took office.

BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis announced a new venture today to build out an EV charging network to rival Tesla's.  The aim is to install at least 30,000 high-speed charging points in urban and highway locations across then country.  The first chargers will go online in the U.S. in the summer of 2024, with chargers in Canada following shortly after.

Of the manufacturers in this venture, General Motors and Mercedes-Benz recently announced agreements with Tesla for access to their SuperCharger network. While Ford, General Motors, Rivian, Mercedes-Benz, have all committed to Tesla's NACS charging connector.

The network will use the 350-kw / 800-volt and offer both Tesla's NACS and CCS connectors. What wasn't announced was support for the V4 version of the NACS standard, which supports 800-Volt peak charging, but 800-Volt charging is a key feature of GM's Ultium technology, so we expect it will be offered.

The as yet unnamed network will be powered by renewable energy and will be open to all makes and models that use either the NACS or CCS connectors.  Sorry, Nissan Leaf and Kia Soul EV owners, you're out of luck.

This move reflects a frustration by manufacturers regarding the reliability and build-out speed when relying on third-party charging networks. Electrify America, one of the largest non-Tesla fast-charging networks, has a reputation for broken and error-prone charging stations.  With EV adoption being a Chicken and Egg problem, this move by the manufacturers is an attempt to squeeze the egg out of the chicken.

To put a project of this size into perspective, the Tesla SuperCharger network offers 20,400 fast-charging ports at 1,900 locations while Electrify America offers 3,600 fast-charging ports at 800 locations, but EA's network is mostly at the slower charge rate of 150kw rather than 350kw.

General Motors and Mercedes-Benz, which are both building out their own charging networks, will continue to do so separately from this plan.

Related Articles:
Mercedes-Benz Announces Their New EV Charging Network
Tesla Supercharger Network of North America Now a Benz Charging Option
Rivian Latest to Join the NACS Camp
NACS the North American New Charging Standard?
Ford EVs Gain Access to Tesla SuperChargers, Ford to Adopt Tesla NACS Charge Port

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24 minutes ago, David said:

Also makes one wonder if AWD might get added as it has the room in the back for a second motor. You could remove the drop down storage space and add a motor here.

The Bolt is intended to be in the lower end of the market. Adding extra motors drives up cost, weight, and decreases range. It doesn't fit the target market.

Today, Toyota released a more detailed teaser image of the nearly reborn Land Cruiser.  Featuring a boxy, egg crate grille, and a profile similar to the new Lexus GX, we have a pretty good idea what the Land Cruiser will look like. Since the two will share most of the body, only the front fenders, grille, and rear tailgate will offer much in terms of styling differentiation.

Old and New Land Cruiser Silhouettes - Via Toyota

We expect the Land Cruiser to be powered by the same 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 349-hp  and 479 lb-ft of torque in the GX. Lexus will later be adding a hybrid to the line-up based on the Toyota Tundra i-Force Max that can produce up to 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.  Like the Lexus, which now offers the GX in an off-road trim called Overtrail, there will almost certainly be a TRD Pro version of the Land Cruiser with increased ride height, locking rear differential, and oversized off-road tires.

2024 Lexus GX550 - Via Lexus

The previous Land Cruiser shared its platform with the larger Lexus LX, but the new GX has grown in size, just a few inches smaller in overall length and sharing the same wheelbase as the LX. This gives Toyota room with the Land Cruiser to keep it above the Sequoia in the lineup.

The Land Cruiser will be officially unveiled at 9:20 p.m. on August 1st.  Keep it here for details!

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3 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

Yeah, I don't even have the ole Twitter. I've resisted getting anymore social media than just boomer Facebook. I don't need more BS to mindlessly scroll through. 

I do need to get the app though. I keep forgetting when I'm at home to download it. 

Years ago, "Log In with <Social Media Account" was sold as a way to get people to sign up without having them fill out a long sign up form. And that was fine until the social media networks got unstable with that function.

The first to go was Google+ which then went to just Google.  It was transparent to the end users, but for me, I had to rip it out and install new.  Then Facebook got really strict with verification.  I'm still in limbo-land with them and have to deal with that by the end of August. They need to "verify" the website, but they won't tell me what country they are verifying from and I block most non-english speaking countries in Asia and Russia because we've had hacking attempts, and that's where 99% of the spam posts come from.

Elon has made Twitter... I mean.... 𝕏.... so unstable that we're one of the few sites that use this software that the Twitter ... 𝕏....login actually functions properly for. But I am reading about other site owners in the support forums for this software who are having user issues and the Twitter login doesn't work for them anymore.  So since I'm the only one who set it up, I removed it so no one can get caught in the future without being able to log in. I have all of them set up just for testing purposes.

I'll set up Log In with Apple in the future, but that's $100 a year to implement, so not a huge priority.   I'm in beta testing with the software company for something that will potentially bring a nice influx of new users to the site. I've been trying it for a few days and I'm really excited for it, and it will be interesting for you guys too.

7 minutes ago, ccap41 said:

Does that mean it'll get the fast charging that comes with Ultium? That's the only real knock on the vehicles and I don't even think that's a big deal as it's much more of a commuter car to be charged at home anyway.

Bolt already DC Fast Charge. Will it get the higher speed charge that Ultium gets? Probably. 

The biggest thing GM has to do is redesign the battery pack to be smaller (narrower).  Most of the Ultium vehicles so far are very wide, too wide to fit under the Bolt.  But the selling point of Ultium is that the packs are flexible.

I would expect a slight, but not mind-blowing, range bump as well.  Maybe 259 -> 289 at best.

What car or brand has the best Animal in its logo?

My first vote is Jaguar.

Twitter as a login method is being removed from this site. I can tell from the admin panel that I'm the only one that ever set it up.

Unfortunately, Elon has made the Twitter API too unstable to be able to rely on it as a logon method. I don't want someone setting it up and then Elon changes things, and then that user can't log in anymore.

You can still set up your account to log in with Google, Microsoft, Facebook, and Linked-In by going to your Account Settings.

The more I understand about it, it will be a refresh of the current car with Ultium tech instead of the previous generation tech. That means it won't be off the market for long.

On Monday, Stellantis and Samsung announced they had signed a memorandum of understanding to build a second battery manufacturing plant in the US via their joint partnership firm, StarPlus Energy.

Their first facility is under construction in Kokomo, Indiana. Targeted for production start in the first quarter of 2025, the plant was initially planned to have a production capacity of 23 gigawatt-hours, later to increase to 33 gigawatt-hours as demand rises. However, the partners are bypassing the initial 23 GWh phase and are building out to the full 33 GWh capacity now. The plant is expected to be further expanded in the future to meet demand. The Kokomo plant is expected to create 1,400 new jobs.

The latest plant is slated to initially add an additional 34 GWh of capacity, with further future expansion possible. StarPlus Energy is aiming to have battery production started at the new plant in 2027. The location of the newest plant has not yet been announced.

Stellantis is aiming to offer at least 25 new battery electric vehicles in North America by 2030 with a roughly 50% BEV sales mix.  For Europe, Stellantis plans to be 100% BEV by 2030.  To meet those targets, Stellantis is working on global partnerships to secure at least 400 GWh of battery production capacity.

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