In 2004, BMW introduced the first-ever four-door sedan powered by a gasoline V10 engine: the BMW M5. This impressive vehicle held the title of the fastest four-door sedan of its time, with a top speed of 190 miles per hour and a 0-60 mph time in the mid 4 seconds.
Aside from its performance, the BMW M5 also had an appealing feature: a captivating sound produced by its 5.0-liter V10 engine. However, owning an E60 M5, which is now nearly 20 years old, can become a costly headache due to common issues such as rod bearing failures, injector problems, and solenoid malfunctions in the Vanos system.
Given these considerations, when we stumbled upon a video of a tank crushing a BMW M5, we were torn.
A helicopter stays in the air by using its engine to power the top rotor blades, which generate lift. The blades pull air from above the helicopter and force it downward, creating upward momentum in the air. They can also produce forward motion.
To maintain stability and control in any direction, helicopters have a rear rotor blade that acts as a counterbalance. Without it, the helicopter would spin uncontrollably. Even if the main engine is turned off during flight, the rotor blades above the pilot’s head will still spin.
Instead of pulling air down, the rotor assembly would suck air up as the helicopter descends, causing the blades to spin. This is called “autorotation.” The rotors speed up enough to allow the helicopter to safely glide down to the ground, similar to a skydiver’s parachute.
Skilled pilots can maintain control of the helicopter, even if the engine fails. It’s important to note that while the engine produces torque, autorotation caused by air movement does not. This means pilots don’t have to worry about counteracting any spinning tendencies while landing safely.
Electric crossovers are powered by batteries that emit zero harmful emissions or pollutants. These battery packs are specifically designed to allow for a spacious and comfortable cabin and excellent cargo space for families, making these crossovers perfect for daily commutes, as well as long drives, and weekend adventures. In addition, they have numerous benefits for the environment like significantly reducing carbon emissions and other pollutants that can harm the environment due to their zero-emission capabilities, making them very eco-friendly.
The recent massive shift towards electric vehicles has made several automakers launch electric crossovers to combat the growing demand. These electric crossovers also contribute significantly towards reducing noise pollution in addition to reducing emissions. The electric motors that power them are virtually silent, thereby significantly reducing noise levels in the vicinity. When you factor in the cost of ownership, you realize that although the initial cost of purchasing an electric crossover may be higher than a conventional vehicle, the long-term cost savings make it a more affordable option. Electric crossovers eliminate drivers’ worries about fuel costs. They are more efficient because they consume less energy. The absence of regular mechanical rotating parts that need routine maintenance means they have lower maintenance costs than traditional cars.
Its overall construction also contributes to the environment through lightweight materials such as aluminum, which reduce the amount of energy required to power it. Its electric drivetrain eliminates the need for frequent oil changes and reduces greenhouse gas emissions thereby also requiring less maintenance. A HEPA filtration system eliminates pollutants like pollen and bacteria from the cabin’s air for healthier air quality to help mitigate allergies or respiratory problems, and also significantly improve the overall environmental health.
9Ford Mustang Mach-E – 103 MPGe
Ford
Front end shot of a blue 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E driving
The Ford Mustang Mach-E combines stylish and powerful with energy-efficient and eco-friendly in a sustainable option that has a range of over 300 miles on a full charge and can recharge up to 80 percent in just 45 minutes using its fast-charging capability. Its energy regenerative braking system converts the energy lost during braking into usable electricity, which is stored in the battery pack further emphasizing its 103 MPGe efficiency.
Ford Mustang Mach-E
Motor setup
Single-motor
Power output
266 hp
Total driving range
250 miles
Battery capacity
72 kWh
Combined EPA energy efficiency
103 MPGe
Charging speed
150 kW
Starting MSRP
$42,995
The Mach-E also maximizes energy efficiency through a mode that reduces power to non-essential systems, such as air conditioning and heating. It is also designed with sustainable materials which include the recycled materials the seats are made from while the vehicle itself is built using responsibly-sourced aluminum. Sustainable materials like recycled plastics and fabrics from recycled plastic bottles are incorporated into the entire production process.
Front three-quarters shot of a parked Nissan Ariya
The Nissan Ariya is an environmentally conscious vehicle, bringing together energy efficiency, and sustainability, with cutting-edge technology into the sleek and stylish design Nissan is known for. It’s one of the most energy-efficient vehicles in the world with a combined energy efficiency rating of 103 MPGe from the combination of its electric motors and sleek, aerodynamic design, into a clean and green machine that helps reduce air pollution and carbon emissions.
Nissan Ariya Specs
Motor setup
Single-motor
Power output
389 hp
Total driving range
304 miles
Battery capacity
87 kWh
Combined EPA energy efficiency
103 MPGe
Charging speed
130 kW
Starting MSRP
$43,190
This electric crossover has a range of over 300 miles on a full charge, making it ideal for long-distance commutes due to its long-range eliminating the need for frequent charging. It also enjoys its regenerative braking and eco-conscious driving modes, which further optimize energy efficiency. The interior of the vehicle is also formed from sustainable recycled plastic bottles and plant-based resins.
7Volkswagen ID.4 – 107 MPGe
Volkswagen
An action shot of a 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 driving
The Volkswagen ID.4 has an EPA-estimated range of up to 250 miles on a full charge and an energy efficiency rating of 107 MPGe. A fast charging station can charge the battery to 80 percent in 38 minutes. Manufactured using sustainable materials, including natural, renewable, and recycled materials, like recycled plastics and natural fibers, the ID.4 offers a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation option for drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Volkswagen ID.4 Specs
Motor setup
Single-motor
Power output
201 hp
Total driving range
250 miles
Battery capacity
77 kWh
Combined EPA energy efficiency
107 MPGe
Charging speed
125 kW
Starting MSRP
$38,995
Volkswagen minimizes waste and reduces the environmental impact of the vehicle during the entire production process. Its regenerative braking technology further reinforces its sustainability and energy efficiency, which converts the energy that should’ve been lost during braking into usable electricity and in turn, extends the vehicle’s range. With less energy wasted, there’s less need to recharge and in turn, less stress placed on the grid.
Side shot of a 2023 Kia Niro PHEV model in Cityscape Green
The Kia Niro EV has a range of up to 253 miles, courtesy of a 64-kWh battery capacity. According to the EPA, the Kia Niro Electric is rated to have a combined energy efficiency rating of 113 MPGe. It can be charged to 80 percent in about 30 minutes with a 100 kW fast charging station. The regenerative braking system of the Niro Electric makes it more energy-efficient.
Kia Niro Electric
Motor setup
Single-motor
Power output
201 hp
Total driving range
253 miles
Battery capacity
64 kWh
Combined EPA energy efficiency
113 MPGe
Charging speed
100 kW
Starting MSRP
$40,875
It has further advantages as its lightweight construction, aerodynamic design, and low rolling resistance tires also facilitate its impressive energy efficiency. Kia also ensures that Niro Electric is manufactured using eco-friendly materials like bio-based plastic, recycled plastics, and other sustainable materials. The end-of-life of the vehicle is also put into consideration with Kia making sure every aspect of it is easily recyclable, reducing the carbon footprint.
