Tag Archives: light

Motorsport

Watch This 12-Year-Old Forklift Driver Lead Police On A Chaotic Hour-Long Chase

Residents in Ann Arbor, Michigan received an unexpected light show Saturday night courtesy of a 12-year-old boy. The juvenile reportedly stole a forklift from a construction site and led police on a meandering, slow-speed chase through city streets before exiting town. Fortunately, there were no injuries resulting from this melee, but numerous cars were damaged, including a minivan that was shoved into someone’s front yard.

According to the Ann Arbor Police Department, the incident began at approximately 6:45 pm local time. Apparently, the boy found the forklift unlocked at a construction site near a middle school. Mind you, this isn’t the kind of forklift you see lifting pallets of soda at a grocery store. It’s identified by police as a Construction Genie GTH-636 Telehandler – a four-wheel-drive construction vehicle with a turbocharged diesel engine for power. It’s configurable with multiple add-ons for heavy-duty work, and this particular version has a humungous hydraulic fork on the front.

Forklift Police Pursuit

Fortunately for police, it’s slow. Speeds only reached around 20 mph during the pursuit. However, the weight and stance of the forklift made PIT maneuvers impossible. And at risk of sounding like a meme, one doesn’t simply drive in front of a turbocharged forklift driven by a juvenile delinquent. At one point during the video, an officer is heard saying “we can’t stop this thing.” Shortly thereafter, the decision is made to turn off lights and sirens and give the boy some extra space. In response, he drives on the sidewalk instead of the road.

The video ends before the chase comes to an end. Police from Washtenaw County take over as the boy leaves town, and the pursuit ends when the 12-year-old finally stops. He was promptly taken into custody, but being a minor, his identity won’t be released. However, police told ClickOnDetroit that the youngster “is known to officials.”

Here’s hoping the boy learns a lesson from this mess. As for the owner of the forklift, hopefully there won’t be any more keys left in beefy, unattended construction equipment.

Car review

McLaren 750S

McLaren’s latest model, the 750S, is essentially an updated version of the 720S. It has been unveiled at Estoril with a powerful engine capable of 533bhp per tonne.

Compared to the 720S, the 750S features closed-up ‘eye socket’ orifices for the headlights, a larger body-colored bumper, and slightly broader intakes at the base of the door apertures along the flanks.

At the rear, the 750S has a larger air brake borrowed from the McLaren 765LT, along with a restyled grille and a raised central exhaust outlet similar to that of the McLaren P1. While the 750S looks impressively exotic up close, its design is reminiscent of the familiar 720S.

Inside, the 750S retains the superb cockpit of the 720S, with an unchanged ultra-light carbonfibre monocoque. The engineering hardpoints are carried over, ensuring a captivating sense of light and space while firmly connecting the driver with the machine.

McLaren has made several optimizations, including stiffened engine mounts to improve the driver’s connection with the engine and an increased electrohydraulic steering rack ratio for more precise direction changes.

Additionally, the 10-spoke forged aluminum wheels, the lightest ever fitted to a production McLaren, and new spring and damper units contribute to weight savings. The suspension modes have also been fine-tuned to offer greater disparity between Comfort, Sport, and Track, with the Track mode being essentially unusable on the road.

Furthermore, a new brake booster has been added to maintain pedal consistency, and the option to add the six-piston monoblock front calipers from the McLaren Senna is available.

News

Stellantis upgrades electric van line-up

Stellantis is making significant updates to its van line-up in an effort to surpass Ford and become the world leader in the light commercial vehicle market by 2027. The key improvements include enhancing the capabilities of its electric vans and achieving best-in-class range figures in the compact and large van segments.

The small electric van, sold under different brands such as Citroën ë-Berlingo, Fiat E-Doblò, Opel/Vauxhall Combo Electric, and Peugeot e-Partner, now offers a range of 205 miles between charges, which is an increase of 30 miles compared to the previous version. Additionally, each van is equipped with a larger 10-inch infotainment display, level-two autonomous driving capabilities, a 360-degree camera view, and wireless connectivity to fleet management systems.

Stellantis’s medium electric van, available as the Citroën ë-Dispatch, Fiat E-Scudo, Opel/Vauxhall Vivaro Electric, and Peugeot e-Expert, has also seen an improvement in its range. Vans fitted with the 75kWh battery now provide a range of 224 miles, an increase of 28 miles. Similar interior upgrades have been made in the medium-sized vans as well.

The large electric van, sold as the Citroën ë-Relay, Fiat E-Ducato, Opel/Vauxhall Movano Electric, and Peugeot e-Boxer, now features a larger 110kWh battery, delivering an extended range of 261 miles. Notably, the charging speed has also been significantly enhanced, allowing for recharge rates of up to 150kW, compared to the previous limit of 50kW. These vans share the same interior improvements found in the smaller and medium-sized models.

Despite the upgrades, Stellantis claims that the vans’ capabilities, such as carrying capacities, remain uncompromised. The company aims to provide fleet operators with cost-effective charging and maintenance solutions, as well as on-board coaching for economical driving.

Electric Vehicles

Kia’s Longest Electric Range EV6 Is Becoming More Affordable: Features and Trade-offs

The 2024 Kia EV6 lineup offers various pricing options, with the Light RWD trim starting at $42,600. This particular model comes with a smaller 58 kWh battery, a 167 hp motor, and an estimated EPA range of 232 miles. The EV6 Light Long Range RWD trim is positioned above, sporting a 77.4 kWh battery, a 225 hp motor, and an EPA range of 310 miles. The price for this trim is set at $45,950.

The other trims in the EV6 lineup closely resemble the 2023 models, albeit with some minor updates. The EV6 Wind RWD trim, priced at $48,700, offers features similar to the Light Long Range RWD trim but with some advancements. Following this is the EV6 Wind e-AWD trim, which shares similarities with the Wind RWD trim but includes an all-wheel-drive system. This additional feature raises the price to $52,600, but the overall range decreases to 282 miles, although the motor power increases to 320 hp.

Continuing further, the higher-end GT Lime models provide three different variants. The EV6 GT-Line RWD trim is priced at $52,900 and offers 225 hp with a range of 310 miles. For $57,600, the EV6 GT-Line e-AW trim provides the same 320 hp motor, albeit with a slightly lower range of 252 miles. Lastly, the top-of-the-line EV6 GT trim aims at enthusiasts, with a powerful 576-horsepower all-wheel-drive system and a range of 218 miles. The price for this trim begins at $61,600.

News

Stellantis Aims to Surpass Ford as the Leader in Vans and Pick-ups by 2027

Stellantis has announced its ambition to become the global leader in light commercial vehicles (LCVs) by 2027, surpassing its rival Ford.

The multinational company plans to increase its sales of vans and pick-up trucks from 1.6 million globally in the previous year to around two million in 2027, which is expected to be enough to surpass Ford.

During an event outlining the company’s future strategy in the market segment, Stellantis LCV boss Jean-Philippe Imparato stated, “If you want to be number one, you have to beat Ford.”

As part of its focus on vans, Stellantis has rebranded its commercial business unit as Pro One.

Cars

Understanding the Messages in the Color of Your Engine Oil

When you check the color of your engine oil and notice that it has turned milky white, foamy, sludgy, or light brown, it is an indication that something might be seriously wrong. A visual inspection of the underside of your oil cap may reveal milky oil, which is usually thicker than regular engine oil. This milky appearance suggests that there is moisture or some undesirable liquid present in your oil system.

In the worst-case scenario, this could be a sign of a blown head gasket. The head gasket prevents coolant from entering the engine’s cylinders. When it fails, coolant leaks into the oil and mixes with it, resulting in the milky appearance. Other causes of milky oil include the formation of sludge in the crankcase when an engine remains idle for an extended period and the mixture of oil with humidity in a humid climate. Additionally, driving through deep water can also contribute to this issue. If you suspect water has entered your engine, it is recommended to avoid driving your vehicle.

Milky oil cannot perform its intended function effectively. If left untreated, it can negatively impact engine performance, cause corrosion, and damage various components. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a mechanic as soon as possible to determine the underlying cause and proceed with the necessary repairs. Once the cause is identified, the engine will need to be drained and flushed to remove the contaminated oil before fresh oil can be added.

Featured

Tata Harrier Facelift Detailed In 7 Pics


The Tata Harrier facelift now features connected light setups on front and rear, a bigger touchscreen, and enhanced safety features

The Tata Harrier facelift has received a comprehensive refresh, a new cabin with an updated center console, and more tech in terms of features and safety. The carmaker is already accepting orders for the updated SUV for a token amount of Rs 25,000. If you are planning to book one, explore the updated SUV in our image gallery to discover what’s new.

Up front, the Tata Harrier facelift gets a revised grille design with chrome inserts, along with a bigger air dam and a black skid plate. The facelifted SUV now features connected LED DRLs with dynamic turn indicators and welcome and goodbye animation.

The headlight housing has been redesigned to a vertical orientation. It now includes LED projector headlights and LED fog lamps. This housing is connected by a black strip that runs between the grille and the air dam.

Also Check Out: 2023 Tata Harrier Variant-wise Features Detailed

The top-spec Fearless variant of the Tata Harrier facelift now features new aerodynamically designed 18-inch alloy wheels. On the other hand, the Dark editions of the facelifted SUV come equipped with larger 19-inch blacked-out alloy wheels.

Coming to the profile of the SUV, it gets body-colored door handles, blacked-out ORVMs, and side body cladding. The most noticeable addition to the side of the facelifted SUV is the ‘Harrier’ badging on its front doors.

At the rear, the Tata Harrier facelift features connected LED taillamps with welcome and goodbye animations, as well as dynamic turn indicators. The reflectors and rear fog lamps are housed on either side in a vertical arrangement. Additionally, it boasts a revised bumper with a more prominent blacked-out skid plate. The new Harrier now also gets a gesture-controlled powered tailgate.

Also Check Out: Tata Harrier And Safari Facelifts Fuel Efficiency Figures Out

Inside, the 2023 Tata Harrier features an updated cabin with all-black seat upholstery and variant-specific color inserts, such as the sunlit yellow accents in this case. It has an updated layered dashboard layout with redesigned central AC vents. The updated SUV now gets a 4-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo.

Tata has also provided the Harrier facelift with a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, along with a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display. The infotainment system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, including the Alexa voice assistant feature. Its top-spec variant features a 10-speaker JBL sound system.

The center console inside the updated Harrier has been completely redesigned and features a new touch-based panel for the climate control. The updated Harrier now also gets dual-zone climate control and multicolor ambient lighting. The new Harrier also boasts a voice-enabled panoramic sunroof which also features mood lighting.

The facelifted SUV not only gets a 6-way powered driver’s seat with memory and welcome feature but also gets a 4-way powered co-driver’s seat. Both front seats come with ventilation too.

In terms of safety, the Tata Harrier facelift now gets seven airbags (including one knee airbag for the driver), a 360-degree camera, electronic stability control (ESC), and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) which now also include adaptive cruise control.

Tata has equipped the facelifted Harrier with the same 2-liter diesel engine (170PS/350Nm) mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission variants of the SUV also come with paddle shifters.

Also See: 2023 Tata Harrier Base-spec Smart Variant Detailed In Images

Expected Price & Rivals

Tata could price the Harrier facelift from around Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. It will continue its rivalry with the MG Hector, 5-seater versions of the Mahindra XUV700, and more equipped variants of the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.

Read More on : Tata Harrier diesel

Motorsport

McLaren Boss Foresees Electric SuperCars by 2030

According to McLaren’s CEO, Michael Leiters, the arrival of full-electric supercars is still a few years away. He explained that the main challenge lies in developing lighter batteries with sufficient range. Leiters recently discussed the automaker’s electrification strategy and reiterated the importance of weight in McLaren’s design principles. Heavy cars compromise nimbleness and create a disconnect for drivers, which goes against the essence of the McLaren brand. Leiters doesn’t anticipate this technology being ready for real supercars until the end of the decade.


Motorsport

Porsche Macan EV Spotted with Light Camouflage: New Photos

New spy shots of the Porsche Macan EV reveal the vehicle with light camouflage. Although the covering is still present, these photos provide a clearer look at the final design compared to previous images. The car is scheduled to officially debut in 2024, so it is reasonable to assume that the brand is in the final stages of vehicle development.

Upon closer examination of the front, there is a tape seam located below the headlights, indicating some level of concealment. The front end also features split lamps, with some positioned on the top and additional illumination placed at the bottom. The slats in the lower fascia appear to be active components that can open to allow for increased cooling when required.


Motorsport

2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse Criticized By Pro Detailer For Paint Issues

A detail shop in Chicago has brought attention to some noticeable paint defects on a 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse with only 144 miles. The inspection by Chicago Auto Pros was shared in a YouTube video, revealing that while most of the exterior of the Mustang looked good, there were some concerning issues with the wheel wells.

What exactly is wrong with this Ford? In the video, Jason Otterness from Chicago Auto Pros first points out a paint chip on the front fascia where it meets the passenger side fender at the wheel well. It’s unclear if this chip occurred at the factory. Moving to the rear, Otterness discovers “boogers” on the lip of the wheel well. These are small pieces of paint that could lead to chips if removed. On the driver-side rear, there is a paint chip on the wheel well lip where it meets the rear fascia. The interesting part is that there is still a flap of paint visibly peeling up from the surface.

The most significant flaw is found in the front wheel well on the driver’s side of the Mustang. Otterness discovers a large air bubble in the paint. While chips can occur after the assembly process, bubbles typically indicate improper surface preparation before painting. Because of the paint issues around the wheel wells, the detailer states that they couldn’t apply paint protection to the car.

Is this an isolated case? It is possible. Motor1 has reached out to both Ford and Chicago Auto Pros for further investigation. A spokesperson from Ford provided the following statement: “With the launch of the all-new Mustang, we made numerous manufacturing improvements to further raise the quality of Mustang and provide owners the best customer experience with their new car. If customers should have a vehicle concern, they should visit their local dealer to have their car inspected.”

Motor1 also contacted Chicago Auto Pros to inquire about any other 2024 Mustang inspections they have conducted, but no response was received at the time of publication. Any new information will be shared as an update.