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🏎️ How to maximise car lifetime
Turbo Times
March 25, 2024
Good morning. Welcome back to Turbo Times!
This week, we’re back with a bang.
Let’s dig in, shall we?
News from The Paddock
Nebraska woman arrested for stealing over 7,000 gallons of gas (link)
United Air Boeing 777 loses a wheel at takeoff and smashes a car (link)
Tesla launches Cybertruck-inspired “Cyberhammer” (link)
Unveilings
Porsche Electrifies Performance: Taycan Turbo GT Breaks New Ground in Electric Supercar Domination
Porsche has unveiled its latest marvel in electric performance, the Taycan Turbo GT, raising the bar with up to 1092bhp, making it the brand's most potent Taycan yet. Starting at just over $200,00, this electric powerhouse can sprint from 0-62 mph in just 2.3 seconds, thanks to its standard 778bhp, which soars to 1019bhp with launch control, and an overboost up to 1092bhp. The Turbo GT isn't just about straight-line speed; it's a lap record holder at Laguna Seca, demonstrating its prowess on the track. It features an adaptive spoiler with a Gurney flap, Porsche’s Active Ride technology, and an 'Attack mode' for a 10-second power boost inspired by Formula E racing. The interior boasts standard bucket seats and the option for electric 18-way seats at no extra cost for those prioritizing comfort without compromising weight. The Weissach pack option emphasizes weight reduction, shedding 70kg for track-focused performance, increasing top speed to 190mph, and enhancing downforce by up to 220kg with aerodynamic enhancements, including a fixed carbon fiber wing.
Mercedes-AMG GT Broadens Its Horizon with New GT 43 4-Cylinder Option
Mercedes-AMG introduces the GT 43, adding a four-cylinder option to the GT lineup. Priced from approximately $200,762 USD for the V8 GT 63 4Matic+ Coupe, the new GT 43 aims to offer a more accessible entry point. It's powered by a 416bhp 2.0-litre engine, enabling a 0-62mph time of 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 174mph. The range-topping GT 63 boasts 577bhp, a 3.2-second 0-62mph sprint, and a 195mph top speed, with advanced features like AMG Ride Control and optional carbon ceramic brakes. The GT series, now including 2+2 seating for added practicality, blends performance with everyday usability. Wow! 👇️
Industry Insights
Shell Shifts Gears Towards EV Charging Amidst Renewable Energy Push 🌱
As the debate over gas cars intensifies, Shell is setting its sights on the future of mobility by focusing on renewable energy and expanding its EV charging network. Planning to divest 1,000 of its gas stations between 2024 and 2025, Shell aims to reallocate resources towards developing more EV charging points, responding to the growing demand for electric vehicles. With over 54,000 public charge points globally by the end of 2023, Shell's ambitious plan includes increasing this number to 70,000 by 2025 and 200,000 by 2030. This move underscores Shell's commitment to decarbonization and supports the transition to electric vehicles as part of a broader strategy to combat climate change.
VW Workers in Tennessee Push for UAW Unionization 🗳️
Employees at Volkswagen's Chattanooga, Tennessee, assembly plant have initiated a move to join the United Auto Workers (UAW), filing a petition with the National Labor Relations Board. This effort, highlighted by a supermajority of workers signing union cards within just 100 days, marks a significant push towards union representation in a traditionally non-unionized sector of U.S. auto manufacturing. Despite a previous rejection of UAW representation in 2019, the plant's more than 4,000 workers are gearing up for another vote. Volkswagen has expressed support for the democratic process, emphasizing the importance of each employee's vote. VW's production workers currently earn between $23.40 and $32.40 per hour, in contrast to the higher wages negotiated by the UAW with Detroit automakers, which can reach up to $42 per hour for production workers by the end of their contracts.
Tesla Faces Toughest Year Yet as Stock Slumps to S&P 500's Bottom 📉
2024 is proving challenging for Tesla Inc., as it overtakes Boeing as the worst performer in the S&P 500. Amidst slowing electric vehicle sales globally and competitive pressures, especially from China, Tesla has dropped its annual growth target of 50%. Once a part of the so-called Magnificent Seven, Tesla now stands as the outlier, with its earnings forecast to shrink over the next 12 months. Despite its valuation, analysts predict a significant slowdown in vehicle deliveries, with an expected growth of just 14%. The spotlight is on Tesla's next moves, including the launch of a sub-$30,000 car, amid increasing competition and a market shift towards more affordable EVs.
Sale of the Week
On March 17, 2024, an iconic 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster was sold for an impressive $1,250,000. This vehicle is one of only 1,858 roadsters produced, making it a highly sought-after collector's item. Having undergone a meticulous two-year refurbishment, this Roadster stands out with its stunning silver-gray paint and luxurious red leather upholstery, complemented by a black convertible top.
Under the hood, the car features a 3.0-liter SOHC inline-six engine, known for its Bosch mechanical direct fuel injection and dry-sump lubrication, connected to a four-speed manual transmission. This engineering marvel is not just about looks; it's built for performance, with servo-assisted hydraulic drum brakes and a low-pivot rear swing axle for superior handling.
Sold by PalmBeachClassics in West Palm Beach, Florida, this sale highlights the enduring legacy and desirability of the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster. With only 750 miles shown on the odometer, this pristine example of automotive history continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike, promising to be a highlight of any collection.
Buying?
Proper maintenance is key to minimizing the long-term costs of owning a vehicle, regardless of its type. Here’s a detailed guide to help you keep those costs in check:
Hybrid Vehicles
Servicing Needs: Combines electric and combustion engine maintenance.
Cost Insights: Typically higher due to dual systems, but offset by fuel savings.
Pro Tip: Check the hybrid battery state of charge every 6 months and replace air filters annually to ensure optimal performance.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Servicing Needs: Less frequent due to fewer moving parts; main concern is battery health.
Cost Insights: Lower overall, but battery replacement is costly if out of warranty.
Pro Tip: Inspect brake pads and tires every 10,000 miles, as regenerative braking can cause uneven wear.
Petrol Vehicles
Servicing Needs: Oil changes, spark plugs, and air filters are common maintenance tasks.
Cost Insights: Moderate; consistent over the vehicle's lifespan.
Pro Tip: Change oil and oil filter every 5,000 miles, and check spark plugs and air filter every 10,000 miles for optimal efficiency.
Diesel Vehicles
Servicing Needs: Focuses on engine and fuel system maintenance, including particulate filters.
Cost Insights: Higher due to specialized servicing and parts.
Pro Tip: Replace fuel filters every 15,000 miles and check the particulate filter every 20,000 miles to prevent clogging and ensure smooth engine operation.
General Maintenance Tips for All Vehicles
Fluid Checks: Monitor oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels monthly to prevent engine damage.
Tire Pressure: Check monthly and before long trips to improve fuel efficiency and reduce tire wear.
Brake Inspection: Have brakes inspected every 10,000 miles or sooner if you notice any performance issues.
Preventive Care: Small, regular investments in maintenance can prevent costly repairs down the road.
Upcoming Automotive Events
New York International Auto Show (NIYAS): New York, USA, Friday, 29th March - Sunday, 7th April (learn more here)
Denver Auto Show: Denver, USA, Thursday 4th April - Sunday, 7th April (learn more here)
This Week In Automotive History
Cheetah
On March 17, 1977, Lamborghini embarked on an ambitious journey into the world of off-road vehicles with the debut of the Lamborghini Cheetah. This marked the Italian automaker's first venture into creating a vehicle designed to conquer uncharted terrains under a contract from Mobility Technology International (MTI) for the US military.
The Birth of an Off-Roader
The Cheetah was conceptualized in collaboration with MTI, drawing from the design principles of the FMC’s XR311 prototype. Despite its innovative approach, the unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show sparked a legal controversy with FMC, setting the stage for a series of challenges for the Cheetah. Yet, it laid the foundational blueprint for the future Humvee.
Constructed in San Jose, California, and finalized in Lamborghini’s Sant’Agata facility, the Cheetah boasted a 5.9-liter Chrysler V8 engine at its rear and a fiberglass body designed to accommodate five occupants. Its specifications promised robust performance and versatility.
Facing the Challenges
However, the rear-engine layout affected the vehicle’s handling and performance, falling short of expectations on both road and rough terrains. The sole prototype, showcased to the US military by designer Rodney Pharis, did not secure the desired contract, which was instead awarded to AM General's Humvee.
Humvee
The Legacy Lives On
Despite the setbacks and financial strains, which also impacted other projects like the BMW M1 sports car, Lamborghini's spirit of innovation was far from defeated. The learnings from the Cheetah project inspired the creation of the Lamborghini LM002, incorporating a front-mounted V12 engine from the Countach, embodying the resilience and forward-thinking vision of Lamborghini.
Lamborghini LM002
Thanks for tuning into this week’s TurboTimes. See you at the same time in 2 weeks!
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