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Welcome Back, Car Enthusiasts to Turbo Times - your gateway to the world of cars!
Starting off again with the idiot of the week. Here is a guide on how NOT to use a roundabout…
How not to use a roundabout #idiotsincars
— Drive Through (@EatHealthyFree)
9:06 PM • Nov 25, 2023
News from The Paddock
Unveilings
Porsche Unleashes Third-Generation Panamera with Revolutionary Active Suspension
Porsche's third-generation Panamera has arrived, boasting an innovative 'Active Ride' suspension. This new Panamera, while retaining its familiar design, features significant under-the-hood advancements. It's powered by a 348bhp 2.9-litre V6 in the base models, while the Turbo E-Hybrid variant combines a 4.0-litre V8 with an electric motor, offering a total of 671bhp. The interior sees subtle upgrades with a new control layout and increased customization options, including leather-free Race-Tex upholstery. Performance-wise, the Turbo E-Hybrid impresses with a 3.2-second sprint to 62mph. The 'Active Ride' suspension, a highlight of this generation, enhances comfort and handling by adapting to driving conditions. Starting at £79,500, the range includes Panamera, Panamera 4, and Turbo E-Hybrid, with first deliveries expected in March 2024.
Callum Design’s Skye Project
Callum Design, headed by renowned designer Ian Callum, has introduced the Skye, an electric off-roader aiming to be the "world's most beautiful multi-terrain vehicle." This lightweight, high-performance 2+2 vehicle features a carbon fiber space frame and a 42kWh battery pack, promising a 0-60mph acceleration in four seconds and a 170-mile range. Designed for both on and off-road prowess, the Skye includes all-wheel drive and specialized suspension, with production-spec versions expected in early 2024. This project marks Callum Design's bold foray into combining exceptional aesthetics with rugged functionality. Click the link below and check it out 👇
Sale of the Week
In an exciting turn of events, a 2017 Ford GT with just 4,300 miles on the odometer has been sold for a staggering $804,400. This American powerhouse, finished in Frozen White with striking Lightning Blue stripes, represents the pinnacle of Ford’s engineering prowess. Underneath its sleek exterior lies a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transaxle, delivering a formidable 647 horsepower.
The GT's allure is enhanced by its 20" gloss carbon-fiber wheels, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, and iconic butterfly doors. Not to mention, it features a retractable active rear wing, a rear diffuser, and six-point harness anchors for a true race car feel. The interior boasts Dark Energy Alcantara upholstery, adding to the car's luxurious yet sporty vibe.
This particular model, previously residing in Poway, California, comes with an array of extras, including a spare set of wheels, a Ford GT Order Kit, and a clean Carfax report, ensuring its pristine condition. Initially unveiled at the 2015 North American International Auto Show, this second-generation GT is a collector's dream, seamlessly blending top-notch performance with exquisite design.
Congratulations to the new owner of this remarkable piece of automotive history, a true testament to Ford’s legacy of high-performance vehicles.
Buying?
Choosing the Right Auto Insurance for Your New Car
🚗 Selecting the right insurance for your new car is crucial for both financial protection and peace of mind. Consider these key tips:
Assess Your Needs: Consider factors like driving habits, car value, budget, and local coverage requirements. This helps determine the right coverage types and levels for you.
Understand Coverage Types: Learn about various coverages, including liability, collision, comprehensive, personal injury protection (PIP), and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Also, consider additional coverages like roadside assistance, rental car coverage, and gap insurance.
Compare Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from different providers and compare coverage options, premiums, deductibles, and benefits. Use online comparison tools and consult insurance agents for accurate comparisons.
Research Insurance Providers: Look into the reputation and financial stability of insurers. Check customer reviews, ratings, and complaints.
Review Policy Terms and Conditions: Pay attention to coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, and any additional fees. Ensure you understand the policy's terms.
Customer Service and Support: Assess the quality of customer service and support, including the claims process and responsiveness.
Seek Recommendations and Expert Advice: Get insights from friends, family, or professionals with experience in insurance. Consulting with insurance brokers or agents can provide personalized advice.
Review and Update Regularly: Your insurance needs may change over time due to factors like a new vehicle, relocation, or changes in driving habits. Regularly review and update your policy.
If your car insurance is coming up soon, click here to get even more information on finding the best deals.
Remember, the cheapest policy isn’t always the best. Balance cost with coverage quality to ensure you’re well-protected on the road. Good luck!
Upcoming Automotive Events
Advanced Automotive Battery Conference: San Diego, USA, Monday, December 11th - Thursday, 14th December
F1 Roundup
Max Verstappen
Charles Leclerc
George Russell
Is anyone else getting bored of this…😅
Max Verstappen triumphed at the 2023 F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking his 19th win of the season. Overcoming challenges from Charles Leclerc and George Russell, Verstappen showcased his dominance. Sergio Perez, initially second, dropped to fourth after a penalty for colliding with Lando Norris. The race saw intense on-track duels, particularly between Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.
Verstappen's victory solidified his standout season, with over 1000 laps led. In the constructors' standings, Mercedes narrowly outpaced Ferrari by three points, despite a strategic move by Leclerc to aid Ferrari's ranking.
We could have just used the same summary for the past few months.
This Week In Automotive History
The Ford Edsel's Infamous Debut
This week in automotive history marks a significant event from November 29, 1957, when the Ford Motor Company introduced the Ford Edsel. Designed to be Ford’s triumphant entry into the mid-priced market, the Edsel instead became an iconic example of commercial failure in the automotive industry.
Original Ford Edsel
Ford Edsel
Named after Henry Ford’s son, Edsel Ford, the car was hyped with an extravagant marketing campaign. Ford expected the Edsel to make a significant impact in the market, but it faced numerous challenges. The Edsel's styling, which included a distinct "horse-collar" grille, was controversial and polarizing. Consumer response to its design was mixed, with some appreciating its uniqueness while others found it unattractive.
Horse Collar grill
The launch timing also played a role in its downfall. The Edsel was released during an economic recession when buyers were looking for smaller, more economical cars. Additionally, Edsel had several technical issues and quality control problems, which further hindered its success.
Despite Ford’s considerable investment in the development and marketing of the Edsel, sales were disappointing. The Edsel became a lesson in the importance of understanding market needs and consumer preferences. It remains a topic of study for marketing and business professionals as a cautionary tale of product launch failure.
Today, the Ford Edsel holds a unique place in automotive history. It’s a reminder of how even the most well-funded and thoroughly planned product launches can falter, but also a testament to the ever-evolving nature of consumer tastes and market dynamics.
AI-generated image of the Ford Edsel
Industry Insights
Republican contenders for the 2024 presidential nomination, including former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have criticized electric vehicles (EVs) as a "hoax" that strengthens China's economy. However, swing states like Georgia, Arizona, Nevada, and Michigan have seen significant investments in domestic EV and battery manufacturing thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. These states are crucial in the 2024 election, making EVs a potential opportunity for President Joe Biden and Democratic candidates to win support. The challenge for Democrats is to emphasize job creation resulting from their legislation, not just EVs themselves. Trump leads the race for the 2024 Republican nomination, while Biden promotes the IRA's benefits in his campaign. In other words… EV investments could have a significant impact on the upcoming election.
According to brand chief Thomas Schaefer, Volkswagen (VW) is set to reduce its workforce as part of a €10 billion savings program. High costs and low productivity have rendered VW's cars uncompetitive, leading the company to undertake cost-cutting measures for its VW brand. These reductions are part of a broader effort to enhance efficiency in the transition to electric cars. While VW had initially pledged no dismissals until 2029, human resources board member Gunnar Kilian stated that the staff reduction would be achieved through partial or early retirement agreements. The majority of the savings goal will come from measures beyond personnel reductions, with details to be finalized by year-end.
Thanks for tuning into this week’s TurboTimes. We’ll be back again next week to bring you all the updates on the world of cars.
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