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Showing posts from September, 2026

New and Luxurious Upgrades for '4x4 of the Sea' Boat Tour, the Botnia Targa 37

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The Botnia Targa 37 is a well-known motor yacht that is rugged and reliable, often called the ‘4×4 of the sea.’ A new model of this iconic boat has been released, offering a blend of toughness and luxury. The new Targa 37 features a wider beam for stability and increased interior space. The exterior design includes practical features such as a large bathing platform, fender storage, and side-boarding gates. Inside, the main saloon has a full-sized galley and comfortable seating areas. The helm is equipped with high-quality electronics and comfortable seating for the captain. Prices for the Targa 37 range from £576,000 to £890,000, depending on the specifications. If you are interested in motor yachts and boating, Motor Boat & Yachting is a great magazine to check out. They offer articles on inspirational adventures, practical features, tests, and news about the latest motorboats. Consider subscribing to the magazine to stay up to date with the world of Motoryacht enthusiasts. A ...

Why diesel costs are going up and what it means for Europe

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Global diesel prices are on the rise due to a variety of factors, with the US blaming Ukraine for recent shortages. Diesel is a crucial fuel for many industries, including freight transport and farming, so any disruptions in the supply chain can have a significant impact on the economy. President Donald Trump has even called on Ukraine to stop targeting oil refineries in Russia, as this is contributing to the shortage of diesel fuel. In Europe, the reliance on diesel-powered vehicles is particularly high, with over 38% of passenger cars running on diesel. This makes the region vulnerable to price shocks and fluctuations in the diesel market. The EU is structurally short on diesel and must import it from other countries, further exacerbating the situation. Refinery disruptions play a key role in the current surge in diesel prices, with conflicts in Ukraine and Hormuz leading to a reduction in refining capacity. This has caused diesel prices to soar, even as oil prices remain relative...

6 SUVs That Can Only Fit 4 People

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In the world of SUVs, most models are designed to seat at least five people, with many offering seating for seven or eight occupants. However, some automakers have made purposeful decisions to create SUVs with seating for just four individuals. These unique designs serve various purposes, from offering ultimate luxury to focusing on off-road capabilities or performance. Let’s take a closer look at six examples of SUVs that seat only four people. Lexus LX 700h Ultra Luxury: Priced at $143,050, the Lexus LX 700h’s Ultra Luxury trim is a four-seater version of this full-size SUV. The front seats are heated, ventilated, and feature various power adjustments, while the rear occupants enjoy plush captain’s chairs with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. This model also includes entertainment screens, wireless charging, and window sunshades in the second row. BMW X6 (2008-2011): The first-generation BMW X6, from 2008 to 2011, was sold as a pure four-seater to distinguish it ...

Top 6 Electric Motorcycles with the Most Miles in 2026 for Teens

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Electric motorcycles have come a long way since their inception in 2009. While early electric motorcycles had limited range and were mainly for hobbyists, today’s electric motorcycles boast impressive range and performance. Let’s take a look at some of the longest-range electric motorcycles of 2026. Can-Am Pulse — With an estimated city range of 100 miles, the Can-Am Pulse offers a zippy riding experience with 47 horsepower and instant torque. It may not be the best choice for long-distance rides, but it excels in city commuting with a top speed of 80 mph. LAND District — Offering up to 110 miles of range, the LAND District comes with four ride modes and swappable battery packs, making it versatile and suitable for different riding styles. It may not have a definitive max range, but its battery setup allows for easy charging with a standard household outlet. LiveWire S2 Mulholland — Previously under Harley-Davidson, the LiveWire S2 Mulholland now claims 120 miles of city range and ...

How Hollywood Modified the Most Expensive 1960s American Car for Films, Owned by Kennedys and Rockefellers

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In the world of automotive rarities, the 1960 Crown Imperial limousine stands tall as a true unicorn. With only 16 of these massive land yachts ever produced, the Crown Imperial was a symbol of opulence and luxury designed for the elite. Originally targeted towards Middle Eastern royalty, these cars quickly became sought after by powerful figures such as First Lady Jackie Kennedy and New York Governor Nelson Rockefeller. One of these rare Crown Imperial limousines found its way into Hollywood, becoming a star in the 2004 movie, Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events. Count Olaf, portrayed by Jim Carrey, drove this immense luxury vehicle, undergoing a significant transformation for its on-screen appearance. The once elegant Imperial was covered in body filler, hammered, and coated to create a weathered and dilapidated look for the character. For the movie, the original Chrysler Wedge V8 engine was replaced with a Chevy 454 big-block V8, and significant structural modificatio...

Couple Took a Special Trip in a Vintage Car, Celebrated 62 Years of Marriage in the Same Car

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In 1964, Philip and Stevi Casdorph said “I do” and drove off in a 1962 Chevy Impala convertible for their honeymoon. Fast forward six decades, Philip is on a quest to find a ’62 Impala convertible for their 60th wedding anniversary gift. Through the magic of Facebook Marketplace, he stumbled upon a beautiful survivor Impala that perfectly matched their original ride. The story of the Casdorphs and their beloved Impala is a true testament to lasting love and the timeless appeal of classic cars. Philip’s dedication to finding the perfect anniversary gift led him to a pristine vintage Impala with a rich history that includes a previous owner who cherished the car for nearly 30 years. The delivery of the Impala was a surprise for Stevi, complete with balloons and a celebration with neighbors and a local lowrider club. The couple was showered with custom shirts and a billboard in honor of their enduring love and their stunning classic car. The nostalgic details of the Impala, from the sp...

5 Crazy Cars with No Windshields to Try in the Fall

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The world of cars and motorcycles has always had a bit of a rivalry going on, with each side claiming to offer a more unique and thrilling experience. However, some cars blur the line between car and motorcycle, offering a similar feeling of openness and freedom that riders enjoy. These cars, called “barchettas,” are two-seater sports cars without a traditional roof and windshield, giving drivers a motorcycle-like experience while still having the safety features of a car. Let’s take a look at some of the coolest production cars that have dared to ditch the windshield and embrace the wind in your face. De Tomaso Guara Barchetta: This unique car started as a failed Maserati project in the early 1990s. The Guara Barchetta model lacked a roof and windshield, giving it a racing car feel. It was based on a mid-engine racing car prototype from Maserati, and only 17 units were built before the project was dropped. The Guara Barchetta was a street-legal model that featured a 4.0-liter natura...

Real California Readers Talk About their Electric Car Experiences

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In the state of California, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular. With zero-emission vehicles now accounting for approximately 1 in 12 cars and pickups on California roads, and nearly 1 in 6 new cars sold in the state being fully electric, it’s clear that EV adoption is on the rise. This trend is supported by new incentives, such as $3,500 off new EVs and $1,750 off used ones, which are motivating Californians to make the switch to electric vehicles. Despite the benefits of EV adoption, there are still some challenges that Californians face when considering making the change from gas vehicles to EVs. One major issue is the lack of access to EV charging stations, especially in lower-income communities. A 2025 UCLA study found that EV chargers are not only missing in disadvantaged communities but are also more likely to be broken, creating a barrier for those who cannot charge their EV at home. Another challenge is the availability of mechanics who are equipped to...

New Big Battery for Trucks Revealed by CATL as Swaptopus Technology Gets Closer to Reality

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A NEW EV PARTNERSHIP FOR EUROPEAN TRUCKS CATL and Octopus Energy have joined forces to launch a new venture called Swaptopus, which aims to create a battery swap network for commercial trucks in Europe. This new partnership was announced at Octopus Energy’s Energy Tech Summit and received a boost at the recent IAA Transportation event with the unveiling of TECTRANS II, a next-generation commercial vehicle battery solution designed to serve as a modular electric truck platform. The battery system promises higher energy density, longer range, faster charging, and higher energy efficiency, addressing key barriers to commercial fleet electrification. THE BENEFITS OF TECTRANS II BATTERY SYSTEM The TECTRANS II battery system offers several advantages for commercial fleets, including a gravimetric energy density of 170 Wh/kg, enabling vehicles to carry more payload without increasing battery capacity. The battery system can provide up to 1,000 km of range and 80% charging in just 25 minut...

Brainerd Authorities Want Records of Crashes at Oak Street Traffic Circles

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Officials in Brainerd are considering making two temporary mini roundabouts on Oak Street permanent, but they want to see crash data before making any decisions. Last month, the City Council discussed the idea of keeping the roundabouts and directed staff to figure out the cost of an engineering and traffic study to determine if they should become permanent fixtures. The estimated cost for this study is between $25,000 to $30,000. During the last council meeting on Sept. 8, council members had mixed opinions about the roundabouts. Council member Tad Erickson expressed concerns that making the roundabouts permanent could confuse residents since they were initially presented as temporary solutions. However, council member Kevin Yeager supported the idea of permanent roundabouts. Council member Gabe Johnson, who had previously praised the roundabouts as a daily driver, expressed uncertainty about them now, citing limited space and concerns about right-of-way acquisition if they were to ...

Arizona's new traffic laws mean harsher penalties for driving while distracted.

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Arizona drivers now face new rules of the road, including tougher penalties for repeat distracted driving, consequences for illegal motorcycle lane splitting, and statewide restrictions on vehicle booting. The changes went into effect in September, and it’s essential for all drivers to understand these new rules. Repeat Distracted Driving Penalties Increased: Arizona’s hands-free law prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a cellphone while driving. Under HB 2109, the penalty for a second or subsequent violation of this law is now $400, up from $150 to $250. First-time offenders will still face a penalty between $75 and $149. The law also expands the prohibition on using electronic devices behind the wheel to include watching, recording, or streaming video-based content. New Penalty for Distracted Driving Motorcycle Crashes: Motorcyclists receive additional protection under the distracted driving law. If a driver’s violation of the law leads to a crash involving a motorcycle,...

Gas prices in Los Angeles and Orange County are over $6 per gallon and diesel prices are at their highest ever

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Gas prices in California have soared to an average of $6 a gallon, the highest in years due to global conflicts and supply chain disruptions. As a result, drivers are feeling the pinch at the pump, with some paying as much as $200 to fill their vehicles. The ongoing war with Iran and tensions between Russia and Ukraine are contributing to the spike in prices, leading to record highs for both gasoline and diesel. The increase in diesel prices, in particular, can impact various aspects of the economy, forcing consumers to pay more for goods and services that rely on transportation. Despite the rising costs, one new gas station chain in Southern California is offering prices below the state average, providing relief to some drivers. As the situation with gas prices continues to unfold, it is essential for drivers to find ways to manage their fuel costs and stay informed about any developments in the market. Stay tuned for more updates on this ongoing issue. Gas prices in California have...

Super Cool Family RV Is One of a Kind... Kind of

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When Hip Campers first introduced the concept of the Hip 4Family premium RV, it seemed like it would revolutionize the motorhome industry. Offering dual lounges, a spacious kitchen, and an XXL bathroom, it promised to be like no other. However, as the model moved from concept to prototype to demonstrator, some changes were made that have altered its original innovative design. The most significant change is the removal of the dual lounges in exchange for a fixed rear dinette and a front drop-down bed. While still functional, this modification eliminates the unique feature that set the Hip 4Family apart from other motorhomes. Furthermore, the kitchen has been redesigned to be longer with more prep space, but at the cost of a smaller fridge – not ideal for a family of four. Despite these alterations, the bathroom remains unchanged with a cassette toilet, flip-down sink, and shower wand. The demonstrator model of the Hip 4Family comes with a Sprinter base, 170 hp, and a 9-speed automat...

Freelander 8 Sets Record on High Mountain in Tibet: How They Did It

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Chery Jaguar Land Rover recently made headlines by setting a Guinness World Record for altitude in Tibet with its Freelander 8 SUV. The vehicle climbed to an impressive height of 6,002.33 meters, surpassing the previous record by over 20 meters. The challenging ascent showcased the SUV’s ability to handle thin air, steep terrain, and prolonged electric-drive operation. Handling Thin Air and Steep Terrain The Freelander 8’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder range extender proved its efficiency by retaining 80% of its generating capacity during the climb. The vehicle’s dual-motor AWD EREV system, rated at 610 kW, featured a two-speed rear drive with a torque multiplication step for slow, steep climbs. The unique engineering of the Freelander 8 allowed it to generate high wheel torque without relying solely on motor torque, critical in thin air conditions. Unibody SUV vs. Benchmark Vehicle The Freelander 8’s unibody construction differs from the body-on-frame design of the previou...

Pirelli Speedboat: The First Ducati for the Water Just Like the Superleggera V4 Centenario

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Italian bike maker Ducati is marking their 100th anniversary by collaborating with tire company Pirelli and boat maker SACS Marine on a special project known as the Pirelli 44 Ducati Edition. This project was presented during the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival and features a maxi rigid inflatable boat (RIB) that brings a touch of Ducati to the water. The design of the speedboat was inspired by Ducati’s Superleggera V4 Centenario, a high-performance motorcycle boasting advanced technologies and a powerful engine capable of producing 247 horsepower. While the boat does not incorporate the same cutting-edge technologies as the motorcycle, it does feature a unique powertrain setup with three Mercury Racing engines delivering a total of 500 hp each. The design of the speedboat pays homage to the Superleggera V4 Centenario, with elements such as the livery, aerodynamic appendages, and carbon-fiber hardtop. The Pirelli 44 Ducati Edition will be produced in limited quantities, with only 26 uni...

What Cars Would be Worth a Lot of Money if Everyone Liked the Same Cars as You?

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Classic car values are influenced by various factors, but the preferences of car enthusiasts play a significant role in determining the worth of certain vehicles. While some classic cars may sell for millions of dollars at auctions, many car lovers have different ideas about what makes a vehicle valuable and rare. For example, a 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda with a 426 Hemi engine recently sold for $3.5 million at an auction. Despite its rarity and unique features, such as being one of 11 convertibles that year equipped with a Hemi, some car enthusiasts may not see the value in spending millions on a vintage muscle car that may not deliver a modern driving experience. On the other hand, a 1982 Renault Fuego Turbo with a sliding electric roof sold for just $6,000. This quirky and unique car may not fetch the same high price as a classic muscle car, but its rarity and distinct design make it appealing to some car aficionados. Similarly, some car enthusiasts believe that certain underrated cars...

Do electric cars harm the environment?

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Germany’s Bild tabloid newspaper and the conservative state premier of Bavaria, Markus Söder, are criticizing the European Union’s stance that electric vehicles are carbon neutral. They argue that the EU’s plan to phase out internal combustion engines by 2035 is flawed because it doesn’t consider emissions generated by factors like manufacturing and electricity mix. A report by the Technical University of Munich supports this perspective, suggesting that battery-electric vehicles only reduce emissions by 41% on average compared to combustion engine vehicles. This has sparked a debate among experts about the true environmental impact of electric vehicles. Life-cycle assessments are highlighted as an essential factor in determining the environmental impact of vehicles. While the EU regulation focuses on CO2 emissions from exhaust gases, other emissions from the entire vehicle life cycle are not taken into account. Companies like BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen support this broader approach. ...

Amazing New Features on Showstopper Adventure Motorhome

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ATventure Unveils World’s Only Motorhome with Private Terrace Upgrade ATventure, a German-based custom motorhome specialist, has gained widespread attention at the 2026 Dusseldorf Caravan Salon with the showcase of their ATventure 1070 motorhome. The ATventure 1070 is the world’s only motorhome with a private terrace and a super-slide that expands the available living space at camp. Upgrades to the ATventure 1070 include a completely redesigned second level with glazed sidewalls for the terrace, providing protection from the elements while still enjoying high-up views. The ceiling now features backlit printed panels mimicking sunny skies, adding to the overall aesthetic of the motorhome. Another notable upgrade is the addition of a room towards the front of the terrace, styled as a guest bedroom, which folds down flat with the roof when it’s time to hit the road. The outdoor galley towards the rear of the terrace offers additional flexibility for outdoor dining and entertainment. ...

6 Pickup Trucks That Got a Major Makeover but Still Fell Short

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In the world of cars and trucks, updates and changes happen regularly to keep up with the latest trends and technologies. Sometimes, these changes can be a hit, while other times they can miss the mark. Let’s take a look at some recent examples of car and truck models that have received mixed reactions from consumers. ###2022 Toyota Tundra The Toyota Tundra has been a popular choice among truck owners, but the all-new third generation took a different approach. The trusted V8 engine was replaced with a twin-turbocharged V6, which offered more power and better fuel economy. However, engine issues led to multiple recalls and complaints, tarnishing Toyota’s reputation for reliability. ###2024 Toyota Tacoma The Toyota Tacoma has been known for its reliability, but the latest generation faced issues with the transmission. Customers reported slow shifts and vibrations, leading to a technical service bulletin for a fix that involved replacing the entire transmission and torque conver...

Orion Yachts Launches Their First Epic Superyacht

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Turkey’s yachting industry continues to thrive, with Orion Yachts making headlines by completing its first project, the Orion One, a stunning 43.8-meter yacht. This new build combines elegance, modern aesthetics, and functionality to provide a luxurious experience for modern seafarers. With a sleek exterior, spacious outdoor living areas, and a beautifully designed interior, the Orion One is set to impress at the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival. Powered by twin Caterpillar engines, this superyacht offers both comfort and performance, making it a must-see at the upcoming event. With a price tag of €22,000,000, the Orion One is a true gem in Turkey’s ever-growing yachting industry. As the yachting industry in Turkey continues to grow, Orion Yachts has made a significant impact with the completion of its first project, the Orion One. This 43.8-meter superyacht is a stunning example of craftsmanship and innovation, combining timeless elegance with modern design. With generous outdoor livin...

6 Really Roomy Sedans You Can Buy Today

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SUVs and pickup trucks are popular in the US because people want more space in their cars. But, there are some sedans that also have plenty of room inside. We’re going to talk about six sedans that have interior spaces similar to larger vehicles. These sedans are from both regular and luxury brands, so you can find space no matter your budget. The 2026 Hyundai Elantra is a compact car that still offers a lot of legroom for both front and rear seats. The Honda Accord, a mid-size sedan, also has plenty of room, especially in the back seat. The Kia K5 has impressive front-row legroom, even beating out some larger Honda vehicles. For those looking for luxury, the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class offer plenty of rear legroom, perfect for those who like to be chauffeured around. If rear legroom is your top priority and you’re willing to spend the money, the Audi A8 and S8 models have the most space on this list. If you’re in the Los Angeles area and have a junk car you want to sell...

Motorcycle lovers visit Moto Guzzi's renovated Lake Como headquarters

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MANDELLO DEL LARIO, Italy (AP) — After extensive renovation by the Italian motorcycle manufacturer Moto Guzzi, aficionados this year had fresh reasons for a pilgrimage to the lakeside spot where their beloved two-cylinder bikes are hand-built. Thousands of Moto Guzzi riders pulled up Saturday for an annual gathering and informal ride along the winding lakeside roads. They started arriving on Thursday for the unveiling of the headquarters, new museum and expanded factory on the shores of northern Italy’s Lake Como.The headquarters, nestled between a mountainside and the lakeshore, received an additional 5,500 square meters (nearly 60,000 square feet) for factory space and the museum that honors the iconic brand that has been owned by Vespa-maker Piaggio since 2004. Works took five years and cost more than 50 million euros ($58 million). Timothy Bennett, who lives in the U.S. state of Georgia, was making his second trip to the headquarters after attending a toned-down 100th anniversary...