Author: Donald B. Smith

FYI: Tani-san’s ultra-wide 1996 FD3S Mazda RX-7 Type RB is turning heads in the streets of Japan with its striking GT300-inspired design and immense customization work. Tani-san’s Ultra-Wide RX-7: A GT Race Car for the Streets As we strolled past the gates of an ancient temple, a local resident warned us to be cautious of the next incoming bus. He wasn’t exaggerating. The 1996 FD3S Mazda RX-7 Type RB belonging to Tani-san was parked so wide that it protruded well onto the road. After exchanging pleasantries and snapping a quick photo, we maneuvered back onto the main road. Despite its…

Ford Innovates Night-Time Driving Mode to Enhance Safety for Emergency Responders Ford has introduced an innovative "nighttime driving mode" designed to enhance the safety of emergency responders operating vehicles after dark. This advanced system, which Ford recently patented, utilizes light sensors to automatically limit the vehicle’s speed during nighttime or poor visibility conditions. Details of the Nighttime Speed Limiter In August 2019, Ford submitted a patent application for this nighttime speed limiter to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The USPTO published the application on June 4, 2023, sparking interest in the automotive industry. The system is engineered…

FYI: Europe’s unrivaled BMW gathering, BimmerFest Europe 2024, recently showcased at Raceway Venrij in the Netherlands, mesmerized auto enthusiasts with an impressive display of BMW legends. Last week, we delivered an extensive review of BimmerFest Europe 2024, the preeminent BMW event in Europe, hosted at Raceway Venrij in the Netherlands. In this edition, I present my top three standout vehicles from the event. Selecting just three out of the plethora of extraordinary BMWs wasn’t easy, but I decided on a diverse trio spanning three eras—a classic from the ‘80s, a gem from the ‘90s, and a contemporary model with a…

Humanoid Robots Revolutionize Car Manufacturing Floors The integration of advanced robotics into car manufacturing is no longer a futuristic dream but a present reality. Leading car manufacturers, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, have moved into the arena of humanoid robots, showcasing the potential of using AI-enabled machines to enhance efficiency on factory floors. Tesla, likewise, is not far behind in developing its own robotic workforce. Humanoid Robot Breakthroughs in BMW Factories Last week, robotics startup Figure released an impressive video demonstration of its Model 01 humanoid robot, illustrating its capability to perform essential tasks at BMW’s car manufacturing plant. The video displayed…

For some people, a four-cylinder engine just can’t cut it, and that’s where the allure of V6 SUVs and crossovers truly shines. Some of the best-selling crossovers in the USA, slated for 2024, are driven by powerful V6 engines. These vehicles offer superior performance but come with a higher price tag compared to their smaller-engine counterparts. The added cost is not just limited to the initial purchase but extends to higher fuel usage as well. Although opting for a hybrid version can improve fuel efficiency, many still prefer the raw power that V6 SUVs offer. Despite the growing popularity of…

Ariel Nomad 2: A More Robust Off-Road Beast Ariel has completely overhauled their famed off-road sports car, the Nomad. Although it retains its iconic look, the new Nomad comes with a freshly designed chassis and powertrain. Ariel is yet to confirm the U.S. release date for this revamped version. A Complete Overhaul Ariel’s original Nomad, launched in 2015 and arriving stateside a year later, was a rugged variant of the Ariel Atom. The second-generation model, known as the Nomad 2, maintains its predecessor’s skeletal aesthetic. However, almost every component has been upgraded—chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, electronics, bodywork, and interior, all…

Unlocking the Future: How Tesla Revolutionizes Door Locks Power door locks might not seem like groundbreaking technology today—they first appeared in a Scripps Booth luxury car back in 1914. However, despite their early introduction, it wasn’t until the 1950s that power door locks became a standard feature in luxury automobiles. Fast forward to today, Tesla has taken this technology to the next level, blending convenience and security with cutting-edge features. But what makes Tesla’s door locks so unique? Let’s dive into the different ways you can lock and unlock your Tesla, and how they’ve streamlined security with advanced technology. Different…

The Manual Lexus IS300 SportCross: A Perfect Enthusiast Wagon Photo: Facebook Marketplace If you had the chance to build your dream car using the best parts, what choices would you make? Imagine a robust inline 6-cylinder engine paired with a manual transmission, all fitted into a cargo transport vehicle body. Sounds exciting, right? Well, if this ticks all your enthusiast boxes, then the manual Lexus IS300 SportCross might be the perfect car for you. A Glimpse at the Perfect Wagon Lexus never officially offered a manual IS300 in the U.S. Instead, enthusiasts have taken matters into their own hands, creating…

**Senator John Fetterman Involved in High-Speed Collision: Details Emerge** Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman, known for his towering height of 6 ft 8 inches and his love for Parker, has found himself in the spotlight for another reason. Driving prowess certainly isn’t one of them. Recently released body camera footage from Maryland State Police sheds light on an incident from June 9, where Fetterman was involved in a high-speed collision. **The Incident: What Happened** According to police reports and witness accounts, Fetterman was “flying” in his Chevrolet Traverse on Interstate 70 near Hagerstown, Maryland, when he crashed into the back…

2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition: A Fresh Spin on an Iconic Classic The world of automotive excellence is once again being treated to a marvel of engineering and design. In the midst of an era dominated by neutral tones, Toyota’s courageous decision to reintroduce the dynamic GR86 Hakone Edition for 2025 is nothing short of audacious. Let’s delve into the specific details that make this model stand out. A Tribute to the Legendary Hakone Turnpike The GR86 Hakone Edition is named after the iconic Hakone Turnpike, a road that holds a special place in the hearts of drift enthusiasts and…