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Welcome Back, Car Enthusiasts to Turbo Times - your gateway to the world of cars!
This was a close call… good thing the police arrived just before things got dangerous!
News from The Paddock
Unveilings
Tesla Cybertruck Hits the Market
Tesla's long-awaited Cybertruck has finally hit the U.S. market, boasting some impressive features and specifications. Priced from $60,990, it offers a range of powertrains, including an 845bhp tri-motor and a 600bhp twin-motor version, with a rear-wheel drive model expected in 2025. The Cybertruck's design, a striking blend of angular, stainless steel bodywork and bulletproof glass, was showcased at the recent Cybertruck Delivery Event. It's built at Tesla’s Texas Giga factory and is claimed to be tough enough to withstand small-arms fire and a 70mph baseball hit. Despite some downscaling from its original claims, the top-tier Cyberbeast model impresses with a 0-60mph time of just 2.6 seconds. The Cybertruck, which also boasts high towing and load capacities, marks an exciting new addition to Tesla's lineup, blending a truck's utility with a sports car's performance. UK availability is still unclear, but a strong demand in the U.S. represents a significant step in electric vehicle innovation. Click the video below to watch the bulletproof test of this sci-fi vehicle.
Genesis X Gran Berlinetta VGT Concept
Genesis has unveiled the X Gran Berlinetta VGT, an audacious concept car, at the 2023 Gran Turismo World finals in Barcelona. Crafted specifically for the Gran Turismo 7 game, this concept car is a testament to Genesis’ evolving design language, blending the brand's signature elements with a nod to classic Italian Grand Touring aesthetics. The car features the iconic Genesis two-line light signature and a bold crest-shaped grille, embodying the brand's philosophy of 'athletic elegance.' Under its sleek exterior, the X Gran Berlinetta VGT combines race car dynamics with luxury saloon comfort, sporting a luxurious interior with diamond-stitched padding and a PlayStation-inspired steering wheel. It's powered by a hybrid system, including a front mid-mounted V6 engine and a Yasa e-motor, delivering a total of 1071hp and 986lb ft of torque. While this Vision GT car may not reach production, Genesis assures that elements of its design will influence future models. The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta VGT is set to join the virtual world of Gran Turismo 7 in January 2024. 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. Click the video below to see what he’s got his hands on…
Buying?
Car Maintenance Tips and Tricks
Effective car maintenance is essential for longevity, safety, and performance. Not to mention helping to keep the value of your car. Here are key tips with added points to keep your vehicle in prime condition:
Routine Checks:
Oil and Fluids: Monthly check for engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid.
Tire Pressure: Bi-weekly check for correct pressure. Inspect tires for wear or damage.
Seasonal Care:
Winter Prep: Use antifreeze, check battery health, and ensure the heating system works properly.
Summer Care: Ensure air conditioning functionality, check coolant levels, and inspect for overheating issues.
Battery Maintenance:
Regularly test and keep terminals clean. Charge periodically if the car is idle.
Inspect the battery case for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Brake Health:
Annually inspect brake pads and change brake fluid every 2-3 years.
Listen for unusual noises when braking, indicating potential issues.
Tire Upkeep:
Rotate every 5,000-7,000 miles and check alignment annually.
Monitor tread depth to ensure safe driving conditions.
Wiper Blades and Lights:
Replace wipers every 6-12 months and check all lights monthly.
Clean headlights and taillights regularly for optimal visibility.
Professional Inspections:
Annual check-up for overall health and early issue detection.
Consider diagnostic tests for engine and transmission health.
Adhering to these maintenance tips can significantly enhance your car's reliability and performance, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. And they’ll mean you get more money for it when it’s time to sell.
Upcoming Automotive Events
Advanced Automotive Battery Conference: San Diego, USA, Monday, December 11th - Thursday, 14th December
This Week In Automotive History
Dodge Viper's End of Production
This week in automotive history, we commemorate a bittersweet milestone: on December 4, 2017, the final Dodge Viper rolled off the production line, marking the end of an era for one of the most iconic American sports cars.
Original Dodge Viper
Dodge Viper
Introduced in 1992, the Dodge Viper quickly became a symbol of raw, unbridled power and American muscle. Its aggressive styling, characterized by its long hood and V10 engine, made an indelible mark in the automotive world. The Viper was not just a car but a statement embodying a fearless approach to car design and engineering.
The End of an Era
The decision to cease production of the Viper was met with a mixture of nostalgia and respect. Over its 25-year run, the Viper had evolved from a pure, no-frills sports car to a sophisticated yet still visceral machine. It retained its unique position in the market, never compromising on its core ethos of a driver-focused, performance-first experience.
The final model, a 2018 Dodge Viper GTS, was a tribute to the first-generation Viper RT/10 with its red exterior and black leather interior. It symbolized the blend of tradition and modernity that the Viper had come to represent.
2018 Dodge Viper
Legacy and Influence
The Dodge Viper’s influence stretches far beyond its production numbers. It redefined what an American sports car could be, combining brute force with a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that was previously reserved for more exotic names.
As we reflect on the legacy of the Dodge Viper this week, it's clear that its impact will be felt for years to come. The Viper wasn’t just a car; it was a cultural icon, a testament to the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of automotive excellence. Its departure from the production line is not just the end of a model but the culmination of a storied chapter in automotive history.
Industry Insights
Revising its post-strike financial outlook, Ford Motor Company estimates a 2023 adjusted EBIT of $10.0 to $10.5 billion, including a $1.7 billion loss in strike-related profits, mainly from the fourth quarter. Adjusted free cash flow is expected between $5.0 and $5.5 billion, reflecting the strike's impact on manufacturing and lower vehicle wholesales. At the Barclays Conference, CFO John Lawler will highlight the strength of the underlying business and the Ford+ plan's role in driving growth and reducing cyclicality. The plan emphasizes a blend of hardware, software, and services in a dynamic industry. Despite the strike's impact and the anticipated additional costs of the new U.S. labor agreement with the UAW, Ford remains committed to its strategic approach, focusing on its diverse vehicle lineup and customer-centric business segments like Ford Blue, Ford Model e, and Ford Pro.
The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) predicts a 40% increase in market share for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in the EU by 2024, driven by new, affordable models like the Renault 5, Citroën, Twingo, and VW Polo. These smaller, cheaper BEVs are expected to boost EV demand. The ACEA, representing major Europe-based automakers, also advocates for faster charging station installations and streamlined regulations to support the transition. Luca de Meo, head of ACEA and CEO of Renault Group, reiterates the industry's commitment to decarbonization and the exploration of alternative powertrains.
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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