by admin | Mar 17, 2025 | autos, cars, electric cars, fuel consumption, suvs
Around the world, an increasing number of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are appearing both on and off the streets.
Despite forecasts from the United Nations suggesting an unavoidable shift toward compact and eco-friendly cars due to the pressing nature of the climate emergency and increasing living costs.
This shift did not occur: worldwide, 54% of the vehicles sold in 2024 were SUVs, encompassing gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and electric models. According to reports, this represents a rise of three percentage points compared to 2023 and five percentage points more than the previous year.
GlobalData
.
According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), out of all the SUVs currently on the roads—whether they be new or old—about 95% rely on fossil fuels for their operation.
However, manufacturers argue that their newest batches of these vehicles are progressively turning electric, and not every SUV currently for sale leads to higher emissions.
SUVs stand out easily. They are bulky and bigger vehicles featuring roomy cabins, increased ground clearance, and a lofty seating position offering an improved perspective of the roadway, even though compact variants do exist as well.
Environmental activists like Greenpeace view SUVs as major contributors to the climate crisis and contend that producing these vehicles requires substantial resources due to their large size.
Specialists likewise mention that bigger batteries are needed for the electric models, which subsequently boosts the requirement for essential minerals, adding extra strain on the Earth.
It was believed that momentum lay with compact, energy-efficient electric vehicles. However, the sales of regular-sized EVs have declined in key markets like Japan and Germany, and their growth rate has decelerated in India as well.
In Europe, sales of SUVs have surpassed those of electric vehicles even though trends from over five years ago suggested otherwise. According to data, in 2018, European sales reached 3.27 million units for compact hatchback models—whether fueled by conventional means or electricity—but dropped to 2.13 million units by 2024.
GlobalData
.
Sammy Chan, the sales forecast manager, stated: “Partly due to smaller-sized SUV options available, which saw their European sales increase to almost 2.5 million units in 2024 from around 1.5 million in 2018.”
In 2024, China led with approximately 11.6 million SUV sales, trailed by the United States, India, and Germany, as reported by GlobalData.
What factors are behind this surge in SUV sales?
Experts in the industry indicate that individuals’ buying capacity has been increasing in numerous rapidly developing countries, which makes SUVs more likely to be chosen as cars.
Mike Hawes, CEO of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), stated, “Car makers listen to what consumers want, and more drivers are being drawn to multi-functional vehicles due to their usefulness, comfort, and excellent visibility of the road.”
Auto industry experts likewise mention that producers are drawn to the substantial profit margins of SUVs; they can earn higher profits from these vehicles despite producing them in smaller numbers.
“Dudley Curtis, who works as the communication manager at the European Transport Safety Council, stated that ‘the industry has boosted demand significantly with extensive marketing and advertising efforts over the past few years,’ ” he noted.
He mentioned that SUVs provided the automotive sector with an easy method to increase the price of a vehicle that performs similar functions as others.
Are SUVs an issue?
Due to the strong surge in sport utility vehicle sales, the IEA reports that the oil usage for these vehicles rose by 600,000 barrels daily worldwide from 2022 to 2023, representing over one-fourth of the overall yearly increase in global oil demand.
“If SUVs were considered as part of country rankings, they would stand as the globe’s fifth biggest source of CO2 emissions, surpassing those from Japan along with several other significant economic powers,” stated Apostolos Petropoulos, who works as an energy modeler at the IEA.
The organization states that when compared to medium-sized vehicles powered by gasoline and diesel, SUVs consume approximately 20% more of these fuels because they typically weigh around 300 kilograms more on average.
Actually, road transportation accounts for over 12% of worldwide carbon emissions, making it a major contributor to global warming. Experts warn that every sector needs to quickly reduce their carbon output to prevent a severe climate crisis.
However, industry representatives counter that not every SUV currently for sale leads to higher emissions.
“Around two in five of these [new] vehicle models are zero emission as their body type lends itself well to electrification with longer battery range that can reassure consumers concerned about charging accessibility,” said Hawes, from the SMMT.
This has resulted in the average CO2 emissions from new multipurpose vehicles decreasing by over half since the year 2000, aiding this category in leading the reduction of carbon emissions in UK road transportation.
Even though most newly sold sport utility vehicles (SUVs) continue to use fossil fuels, officials from the International Energy Agency (IEA) have noted that more than 20% of SUVs purchased in 2023 were completely electric. This represents an increase from just 2% in 2018.
Regarding hybrid vehicles capable of operating using either electricity or fossil fuels, a 2022 European study conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation discovered that plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (covering all kinds such as SUVs) were predominantly running in their gasoline modes. On average, these vehicles utilized electric power for merely approximately 30% of the total kilometers driven.
Comparable outcomes were observed in other significant economic powers like the US and China.
In general, the shift toward SUVs, according to certain experts, has led to a considerable delay in the decarbonization of the transportation industry.
The shift towards larger and more inefficient vehicles like SUVs in certain regions has mostly offset the advancements in fuel efficiency and reduced emissions seen in passenger cars globally, according to the IEA.
The UK Parliament’s climate change committee reported a comparable conclusion in their 2024 study on reducing carbon emissions within the nation.
-
BMW postpones electric Mini due to ‘uncertainty’
-
What prevents Europeans from purchasing more vehicles made in America?
by admin | Mar 14, 2025 | auto enthusiasts, automotive industry, autos, cars, motor bikes
Removing the traditional kei car frame, and replacing it with the advanced components of a high-performance superbike.
It’s small, it’s yellow, and it has a clearly retro design as a hatchback. This isn’t a Mini; it’s a Honda N600 from the early ’70s. It was equipped originally with a petite 600cc-ish kei car engine that, when everything aligned perfectly, could crank out roughly 40 full horsepower on a good day.
Pleasing to the eye but not as enjoyable when driving; potentially frustrating, varying based on one’s mood and patience levels on a certain day.
However, that’s all set to change soon.
Cars and Cameras
Each year, they invite a group of friends to participate in what they refer to as Build Week. During this event, their aim is to finish an incredibly ambitious task within seven days by putting in continuous effort throughout the duration. Of course, there are moments set aside for rest; however, the idea is that bringing together skilled do-it-yourself enthusiasts will enable them to accomplish substantial amounts of work much more quickly compared to when working alone.
In 2025, they plan to transform this unassuming little Honda N600 by installing a distinct Honda engine within. Which engine? It’s a
CBR1000RR
Superbike million. This indicates, amongst other aspects, that it would not simply involve swapping out the small N600 motor. The plan includes changing it to rear-wheel-drive configuration, with components such as the fuel tank, radiator, and battery being relocated into what used to be the engine compartment at the front end to assist in balancing the overall weight distribution of the final build.
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More Powerrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
-
Motorbike Combined with Go-Kart Makes Small Electric Vehicle, It Seems
-
This Kei Truck Boasts a Turbocharged Supercycle Engine and Snowmobile Treads
Certainly, we must address the minor detail that the CBR1000RR engine produces approximately 170 horsepower. This figure is over four times what the N600 was originally designed for, plus the motor will now sit at the back rather than up front. As such, numerous additional modifications would have to be implemented to ensure this tiny kei vehicle does not contort itself like a delectable soft pretzel when in operation.
They’re assembling quite an eclectic mix of components here, featuring a rear axle sourced from a Mazda Miata, some suspension pieces taken from a Polaris RZR, and various other elements used to bring everything into alignment. Despite being imported from Texas, where cars can easily succumb to rust, this particular N600 remains impressively corrosion-free for its years; however, extensive modifications still have to be made—namely cutting apart the back end—to accommodate both the new engine placement and suspension setup.
How crazy does it sound once this build is finished? They intend to head over to the Virginia International Raceway go-kart track for an exhilarating ride after completion. Do you want to get behind the wheel of this, or are they completely nuts? Share your opinions in the comments section.
by admin | Mar 13, 2025 | automotive industry, autos, cars, hybrid cars, technology
-
According to a report, Toyota is working on a new hybrid power system for its range of GR performance vehicles.
Autocar
.
-
At the core of the powertrain will be a newly developed turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine capable of generating as much as 400 horsepower.
-
Toyota hinted at this powerplant with the GR Yaris M concept, which also suggests the possible comeback of the mid-engine MR2 sports car.
In recent years, Toyota has focused more on appealing to car lovers by offering a range of GR-branded sports vehicles, starting with the budget-friendly options.
GR86 coupe
to the
GR Corolla hot hatch
and the six-cylinder
GR Supra
Currently, Toyota is making sure that its GR series remains available in numerous countries, except for the United States, where stricter emission standards continue to be implemented.
Autocar
has mentioned that Toyota is developing a new hybrid system for upcoming high-performance vehicles.
The hybrid system will center on a newly developed turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is presently being created. Toyota hinted at this powertrain with the
The GR Yaris M concept was unveiled earlier this year at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
, replacing the small hatchback’s turbocharged three-cylinder engine with a centrally mounted 2.0-liter turbofour.
The engine can serve dual purposes for both conventional hybrid and plug-in-hybrid setups. Weighing in at 2.0 liters, this powerplant is more compact and lightweight compared to Toyota’s present offerings, largely due to a reduced piston stroke which aids in offsetting the additional mass from incorporating hybrid technology components.
Although Toyota has not revealed much information regarding the engine,
Autocar
proposes that the updated four-cylinder engine might generate approximately 400 horsepower for street use. Currently, the 2.4-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder in the GR86 delivers 228 hp, whereas the turbocharged 1.6-liter triple in the GR Corolla offers 300 horsepower. This hybrid system will similarly be employed in Toyota’s racing endeavors.
The mid-engine GR Yaris could potentially lead to a sports car with the engine positioned between the wheels.
Speculations regarding the comeback of the MR2 designation
have gained momentum over the last year. The
The FT-Se idea proposed in 2023 indicated that the next version of the MR2 could potentially be an electric vehicle.
, however, Toyota’s overall hesitation regarding electric vehicles and the GR Yaris M project suggest that a gasoline-driven sports car appears more probable.
Autocar
indicates that the mid-engine sports car received approval for production back in May, and
Toyota suggested potential developments for several new sports cars in a video posted last autumn.
, featuring a third-generation GR86, a new MR2, the reintroduction of the Celica, and a sixth-generation Supra. It also includes a flagship sports car—
apparently inspired by the 2022 GR GT3 concept
—was also listed and
has been spotted testing
, even though it might ultimately be branded as a Lexus.
Interested in buying a car? Discover your perfect fit on the MSN Autos Marketplace.
by admin | Mar 13, 2025 | automotive industry, autos, cars, driving, volkswagen
It’s impossible to overlook the Volkswagen ID.Buzz; particularly due to its distinctive two-tone body design that echoes its famous predecessor from the 1950s and ’60s. However, this modern version operates in the 21st century as an electric vehicle.
Before the introduction of the LWB version, the ID.Buzz was offered exclusively with five seats for family use (in Europe). That wasn’t sufficient. The launch of the ID.Buzz LWB addresses this issue. ‘LWB’ stands for ‘long wheelbase,’ which adds an extra 25 centimeters. Consequently, it now offers seven genuine seating positions along with additional luggage space and increased driving range. Therefore, the new model comes equipped with a battery capacity of 86 kWh usable energy (or 91 kWh as a total gross capacity)—this represents an increase of 7 kWh over the regular ID.Buzz featuring identical motors. While the enhancement might seem modest, every bit helps. Let’s delve deeper into these details later on. Now, let us get behind the steering wheel of this vehicle measuring 4.96 meters in length and embark on a highway journey towards the picturesque countryside around Kortrijk, Belgium.
Combi bus
Initiating the journey involves pressing down on the brake pedal and manually shifting the gear lever located behind the steering wheel. With this, we set off amid appreciative glances from those around us, impressed by the neo-retro aesthetic of our compact hauler. It’s tempting to respond with a surfer-style salute just to flaunt it further. Given that tonight marks an adventure, we’ll camp out using air-filled mattresses following a lively gathering where music plays a central role. Besides myself and my trio of companions who squeezed into the trunk area once I’d stowed away the back seat rows, everything else—bags, suitcases, inflatables, sleepwear, audio equipment including amplifiers, speakers, cable boxes, microphones, even a disco ball—all found their place neatly within the vehicle. This was achieved effortlessly under the tailgate (which has electric options available). Storage spaces beneath kept essential items such as first-aid kits and emergency triangles organized yet accessible. However, setting up microphone stands required positioning them at the rear seating section since they couldn’t fit elsewhere. Additionally, accessing the third-row seating via the optional power-sliding doors becomes straightforward thanks to folding mechanisms designed directly into these seats. Thus, loading up proves both simple and efficient.
Holiday Atmosphere
Sitting in the driver’s seat on the right side, you face an extensive dashboard that seems never-ending. This expanse offers little practical use. However, fortunately, there is a glove box located ahead of the front passenger above the actual glove compartment. Similar storage spaces can be found scattered around the interior of the vehicle. Additionally, close to the steering wheel, there is a slot designed specifically for smartphones, accompanied by two USB-C ports. Nonetheless, these elements become redundant if your smartphone supports wireless charging since the console includes an induction charger. Moreover, both the front-seat occupant and rear passengers have access to additional USB-C connections. Despite being predominantly made from plastic, connectivity within this welcoming space is comprehensive. To adjust lighting levels, the electrochromic panoramic sunroof allows you to change its transparency simply by swiping across a touch-sensitive zone on the ceiling—it adds a playful element! Furthermore, although it comes at extra cost, the acoustic insulation provided by the laminated windows effectively muffles external noise—imagine how quiet it feels inside! Interestingly enough, the car remains virtually silent under operation too.
Tchiki boum
Could you picture the stereotypical scene of individuals swaying to the rhythm of the music, strolling about in their emerald and ivory coach? This describes our experience during the trial (despite none of us being true aficionados). The ID.Buzz fosters an atmosphere conducive to relaxed discovery. On highways too, the road seems transformed. Dominating the flow of traffic and comfortably occupying the far-left lane becomes feasible thanks to the powerful 286 horsepower (210 kilowatts) engine mounted at the back of the van. With a remarkable torque outputting at 560 Nm, accelerating feels effortless; it achieves zero-to-100-kilometer-per-hour sprint within just 7.9 seconds when pushed properly. Top speed caps off at 160 kilometers per hour.
Nonetheless, maneuvering through curves and navigating roundabouts requires caution because of the substantial size of the vehicle. Despite having a lower center of gravity attributed partly to the hefty battery pack, it retains its bulky form factor akin to a carton of dairy products. Nevertheless, Volkswagen has optimized the airflow design enough to make extended drives viable, supported further by a fresh, fuel-efficient variant introduced into the VW ID lineup.
Traveller
In rural areas, one might achieve energy consumption under 19 kWh per 100 km. However, driving above 100 km/h typically increases this to about 23 kWh per 100 km or higher on average. Fortunately, we experienced mild springlike temperatures during our journey, allowing us to aim for approximately 300 km on highways and potentially over 400 km overall. Regardless of the season, planning rest stops every two hours along highway routes is feasible; longer breaks up to 2.5 hours may be needed depending on favorable conditions like good weather. When seeking out recharge stations, aligning the rear-right side of your vehicle close to the electrical outlet is essential. Although the peak charging rate can reach 200 kW, both the charger’s software and the automobile itself determine the effective output—often settling around 125 kW. Consequently, expect to take at least half an hour off from travel time to regain roughly 200 kilometers worth of battery charge unless faced with harsh winter climates. Notably, during colder months, options include heated rear seating and a windshield de-icing function.
Limited weight
Whether you’re setting up camp or visiting the recycling center, towing a trailer becomes feasible due to the electric tow hitch which supports up to 1000 kg. However, be cautious as adding passengers could push the overall weight beyond 3.5 tonnes, necessitating an appropriate driving license in such scenarios. There is also a minor detail worth noting: the vehicle has a maximum authorized gross weight of only 3340 kg. Consequently, fitting seven rugby players along with their equipment inside the limited space would exceed capacity limits. Even when converting the ID.Buzz into a makeshift cargo van by folding all seating options—offering a max volume of 2469 liters—it remains unsuitable for large-scale moves. Primarily designed as a family car rather than a moving truck, the interior emphasizes relaxation and daily convenience through features like comfortable seating and mood-enhancing ambient lighting. Additionally, the detachable display used for navigating and managing entertainment systems allows seamless connectivity. Lastly, although sizable, the compact steering radius combined with camera assistance significantly eases urban maneuvers; however, ensure there’s enough clearance—at minimum 5.5 meters—to maneuver effectively within tight spaces.
The Painful Price
The extended-wheelbase ID.Buzz is fantastic. Its sleek design makes it an enjoyable sight both inside and out when driving around town. With its sizable 86kWh battery, this vehicle promises exciting adventures without many sacrifices. However, during colder months, you might have to adjust your expectations somewhat. Priced starting at €62,000 inclusive of VAT—more than the shorter version which costs about €56,000—the longer variant packs a punch with 286 horsepower.
Our test unit from Belgium came fully loaded in Pro trim: extras included an entertainment package priced at €1,657, comfort features worth €3,091, add-ons like tow hooks and power-operated doors totaling another €3,130, plus additional styling upgrades amounting to €4,114 along with safety tech costing €2,585. All these pushed our total up to an impressive €85,722!
In comparison, French customers will find themselves paying roughly €58,400 for their seven-seat ID.Buzz Pro models. Meanwhile, buyers over in Switzerland would be looking at approximately 71,000 CHF as a base figure for the same configuration. Canadians should brace themselves for nearly $81,000 CAD before they get behind the wheel! Quite steep indeed…
(MH with Olivier Duquesne – Source: Volkswagen – Images: © Olivier Duquesne & Volkswagen)
by admin | Mar 11, 2025 | cars, motor bikes, motorcycle racing, motorcycle riding, recreational vehicles
It’s meant for me, but not for you.
A long time ago, I tried out Honda’s impressive engine.
CRF450RX
It’s quite a powerful machine, able to go anywhere you direct its rugged front tire. I tested it out on our young dirt track in the backyard, ventured up into the hills on somewhat maintained paths, and even tackled some challenging single tracks. The competition-ready dirt bike performed flawlessly throughout all these conditions.
The sole issue I had was the absence of a headlight. Although the CRF450RL exists, many find its headlight performance lacking when riding from dawn till dusk. Additionally, there were several smaller concerns as well.
However, Honda possesses the components needed to make the CRF450RX impeccable. The firm plans to start offering these parts for sale.
European Rally Raid
Teams beginning this year will have access to these components exclusively. This implies that, even though Honda possesses the parts needed to resolve all of my concerns, they refuse to sell them to either me or you.
This kind of seems like a personal issue, but seriously, Honda, deliver these parts to the market!
Photo by: Honda
Photo by: Honda
Photo by: Honda
Bleed Red
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Honda Is Stealthily the Top Choice for Affordable Luxury Motorcycles
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Based on a statement released by Honda’s HRC, the team plans to “start providing kit components for the CRF450RX, intended for use in Rally Raid competitions such as the Dakar Rally.” These components will be sent to RedMoto located in Italy, where they will assemble these parts into a full competition-specific CRF450RX Rally motorcycle before selling it.
Boo, Honda, boo.
What exactly are these components you’re curious about? The newly developed kit, tested prior to this release, encompasses several enhancements: an updated lightweight but robust aluminum frame tailored specifically for the demands of off-road competitions; larger fuel tanks; a refined engine calibration that reduces revolutions per minute during high-speed travel to boost fuel efficiency and longevity; a light carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic roll cage capable of supporting various lighting setups along with storage space for rally guides; specialized race-grade suspension systems at both the front and rear ends; a sturdier competition-specific chain; a protective front mudguard; and a windscreen designed explicitly for rallying conditions.
The overall cost remains uncertain, but the basic version of the Honda CRF450RX comes with a price tag of $10,000. Considering how impressive these new components are, one would imagine they significantly bump up the initial cost from the standard price point. The previous complete build had been quite pricey as well.
cost $27,000
. With that being said, I would really appreciate it if Honda and HRC made the CRF450RX accessible to everyone. Just think about all the exciting journeys you could embark upon with this bike equipped with some awesome LED lights illuminating your path.
Picturing the fear you would bring to the forest during the nighttime!
by admin | Mar 8, 2025 | cars, cost of living, economics, money, personal finance
The cost of purchasing a new vehicle is rising steadily.
Actually, an unprecedented number of new car purchasers—almost one out of every five—are making payments of $1,000 or higher.
according to Edmunds
For a family with an average U.S. income of $80,610, a monthly car payment of $1,000 would consume 15% of their pretax earnings, not including expenses like insurance, fuel, or upkeep.
It isn’t helpful that the typical cost of a new car is
nearly $50,000
And prices might soar even further. With the
impending threat of 25% duties
On vehicles and parts coming from Mexico and Canada, the price of a new car might go up by as high as 12%, which equates to approximately $5,790.
according to one estimate
.
As prices hover around record levels and possible tariffs loom, purchasing a brand-new vehicle has become costlier than ever before. However, elements within your sphere of influence such as your credit score, loan conditions, and down payment amount can significantly affect your monthly expenses too. Below is some guidance on making a new automobile align with your financial limits.
Begin by examining your credit score.
The amount you pay each month for your car usually depends primarily on one crucial element: your credit score.
Although you cannot change the price of cars, you have control over your credit score, which significantly impacts how much you will end up paying for a loan as lenders rely on this score to set your interest rates. A poor versus a strong credit history could cost you several thousand dollars more in financing fees.
Suppose you’re paying for a brand-new car through finance.
average price of $48,641
With a 15% initial payment and a standard 60-month financing period, your monthly installments might vary between $824 and $1,037, based on various factors.
FICO credit score
.
Below is an overview of how different credit scores impact monthly installments and interest rates, as per the aforementioned loan conditions, according to FICO:
-
720-850:
$824 (7.25% APR)
-
690-719:
$847 (8.45% APR)
-
660-689:
$883 (10.22% APR)
-
620-659:
$927 (12.33% APR)
-
590-619:
$1,019 (16.62% APR)
-
500-589:
$1,037 (17.43% APR)
Throughout the duration of the loan, an individual with excellent credit might end up paying $8,071 in interest, whereas someone with poor credit could be charged as much as $20,886—resulting in a staggering difference of almost $13,000.
You might frequently reduce your monthly installments by lengthening the repayment period; however, keep in mind this would result in higher total interest paid throughout the duration of the loan. Alternatively, if you possess sufficient savings, making a bigger initial payment could decrease your monthly obligations as well.
Methods to Reduce Lending Expenses
Boosting your credit score prior to taking out a loan can decrease your interest rate and help you save possibly thousands of dollars throughout the duration of the loan.
To achieve this, begin by ensuring that you consistently make your debt payments on schedule, as the payment history comprises
35% of your total credit score
.
Additional methods to enhance your credit score encompass:
-
Using only a minimal portion of your accessible credit — this is referred to as your
credit utilization ratio
-
Steer clear of fresh credit checks when you’re about to apply for a loan.
-
Reviewing your credit report for mistakes
disputing inaccuracies
Purchasing a pre-owned vehicle is
an additional method to lower expenses
Used cars often boast cheaper upfront prices along with generally having reduced insurance expenses and slower depreciation rates.
How to calculate your estimated monthly car loan expenses
Before finalizing a buy, it’s wise to get an estimate of your potential monthly installments considering the loan conditions and interest rates.
SANGGRALOKA Make It’s loan calculator can assist you in understanding how financing costs accumulate. Just remember that you will have to enter an approximate interest rate manually, which should be based on your credit score as mentioned earlier.
Looking to make some additional income on the side?
Enroll in SANGGRALOKA’s latest online course now
Ways to Begin a Secondary Business
To pick up valuable advice for beginning your journey and mastering techniques for achieving success from leading side hustle professionals, enroll now. Apply the promo code EARLYBIRD to receive a 30% discount off the $97 fee (+ taxes and fees) until April 1, 2025.
Plus,
Sign up for SANGGRALOKA’s newsletter.
To acquire tips and strategies for achieving success at your job, managing finances, and navigating everyday life.
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