Joe Tilleli, Author at Acceleramota

Mazda CX-30, Porsche Macan, and Chevy Camaro driving through a canyon

The 13 best Cyber Monday car specials you don’t want to miss

Joe TilleliNovember 27, 2023

Throughout the week, Acceleramota tracks down the most exciting deals on the best car stuff – everything from USB chargers to the vehicles themselves. Make sure your car is decked out with everything you need for your long weekend road trips. Save some money this Cyber Monday with some good car lease deals and put those savings toward gas and oversized Slim Jims from the rest stops.

Honda deals and finance offers

2024 Honda Civic | $259 per month for 36 months ($3,399 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

This everyday driving vehicle is a popular compact car for a good reason. Responsive steering, braking, and a comfortable ride is why you’ll find this model at the top of many lists. With this trim, you’ll also be getting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an assortment of advanced driver-assistant features.

Jeep deals and finance offers

2023 Jeep Cherokee | $539 per month for 36 months ($3,799 due at signing)

Expires 11/30/2023

A practical, family-friendly compact crossover powered by a V6 engine. The Trailhawk 4×4 can also take on off-road routes and unplowed snowy streets with ease.

Kia deals and finance offers

2024 Kia K5 | $289 per month for 24 months ($3,199 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

This midsize sedan comes with a host of modern safety and reliability features and seats five comfortably. The major change over the 2023 model remains its standard heated front seats in the GT-Line trim.

2023 Kia EV6 | $379 per month for 36 months ($4,999 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

In need of an all-wheel-drive electric SUV, the Kia EV6 has style and solid performance. A great midsize option with decent cargo along with sharp steering and handling. We’re looking Kia’s most powerful production model at 576 horsepower. Get from 0-60 in only 3.4 seconds.

Mazda deals and finance offers

2023 Mazda CX-30 | $279 per month for 36 months ( $2,999 due at signing)

Expires 12/01/2023

The CX-30 comes equipped with some excellent driver-assistant safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a lane-departure warning for when someone’s in your blind spot. It even has automated emergency braking. A fine choice for a parent shopping for their kid’s first car.

Chevy deals and finance offers

2023 Chevy Bolt EV | $299 per month for 36 months ($5,869 due at signing)

2023 Chevy Bolt parked in front of attached garage — Image credit: Chevrolet

While we do have our issues with other electric rides from GM (looking at you, Cadillac Lyriq), the Chevy Bolt hatchback was, for the longest time, the EV defender’s greatest weapon against their adversaries. Not only is it affordable, but it squeezes a lot of power into a compact package. Making considerably more horsepower and torque than the Chevy Sonic it replaced, it can zip from 0-60 in just 6.5 seconds while carrying five passengers up to 259 miles at a time.

2023 Chevy Camaro LT1 | $279 per month for 24 months ($5,189 due at signing)

2023 Camaro (silver) and 2023 Camaro (red) facing opposite directions — Image credit: Chevrolet

Few things scream American than a V8 engine, but alas, 2023 marked the beginning of the end for high-displacement, eight-cylinder combustion motors. Soon after Dodge announced it was axing its Charger and Challenger twins, Chevy revealed it’s sunsetting the Camaro with the 2024 model year. So, why not make the most of it by leasing one of the last great muscle cars before the move to electric? The LT1 trim, as the name suggests, shares its 6.2-liter LT1 V8 small block engine with the Corvette C7, making 455 horses and 455 lb-ft of torque. Ain’t nothing wrong with that!

Volkswagen lease deals and finance offers

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan | $429 per month for 36 months ($0 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

This spacious cabin SUV can comfortably sit up to seven people. It has a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine, optional AWD, and right now you can lease the S model with zero down.

Audi lease deals and finance offers

2024 Audi Q3 | $465 per month for 36 months ($3,859 due at signing)

2.99% for 48 months on 2023 models

Expires 11/30/2023

This luxury subcompact SUV comes standard with AWD. Even with its host of tech features including digital gauge display, touchscreen dashboard panel, and driver assist, it’s the least expensive in the full lineup Audi has to offer.

Ford lease deals and finance offers

2023 Ford Escape | $377 per month for 48 months ($3,461 due at signing)

Expires 1/02/2024

Image credit: Ford

While the Ford Escape might not be the most exciting car on the road, sometimes you just need an affordable, reliable daily to get you from point A to point B without spending half your salary on fuel. And that’s exactly what the Escape is: a practical, front-wheel drive family hauler with the option of all-wheel drive across trim levels. But even without any upgrades, the 2023 Escape includes all the bells and whistles we’ve come to expect from modern vehicles, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system.

Porsche lease deals and finance offers

2023 Porsche Macan | $799 per month for 36 months ($7,889 due at signing)

Unlike VW, its more affordable sibling, it’s not cheap to own a Porsche. But certain models aren’t as pricey as you’d think to lease. Like most luxury crossover SUVs from performance car brands, the Macan has gotten a bad rap for adapting Porsche’s sporty styling to a vehicle more suited to a Trader Joe’s parking lot than at the track. But the Macan is the best-selling Porsche for a reason. Complete with standard all-wheel drive, adaptive strut suspension, and a high-tech interior, the Macan brings Porsche handling to a car you can drop your kids off at school with. And if you’re a colorhead like me, that green paint job will turn heads as much as our Alfa Romeo Tonale, maybe even more so.

Mitsubishi lease deals and finance offers

Mitsubishi Outlander | $429 per month for 36 months ($3,428 due at signing)

Mitsubishi Outlander (red) driving across a bridge — Image credit: Mitsubishi

Speaking of bad raps, here’s Mitsubishi! Sure, it’s not an Evo, but maybe you have a family now and you need something more practical than a ’90s JDM rally car to meet your needs. Well, we drove an Outlander recently at Electrify Expo, and it’s a lot more luxurious for the price than you might expect, and you can get it fully loaded for under $60K. Higher trim levels even have massaging seats! The plug-in hybrid model has some of the best electric range on the market, clocking in at 38 miles on battery alone before the gas engine kicks in. Plus, it comes in red, which we all know is the fastest color.

Best car subscription deals

Finn | $200 off first month

Promo code: FINN11XACCELERAMOTA200

Finn is completely changing the process of what its like to shop for cars. In fact, we called it the best car subscription you’ll find in 2023. Browse its selection online of an ever-growing catalog of different makes and models, select your subscription term length, and then confirm your order. Your car will be delivered right to you if you live in the northeast. And right now, we have an exclusive discount to save $200 on the first month of your subscription. Just use the code FINN11XACCELERAMOTA200.

Car accessories, merch, and collectibles

RevMatch | 15% off ANY coffee bag

Promo Code REDLINE15

Don’t go falling asleep at the wheel. RevMatch has a wide selection of small-batch, craft-roasted coffee to help you start your engines (wake up in the morning). Right now, you can use the promo code REDLINE15 to receive 15% off everything on the site.

Acceleramota Merch | 20% off

Promo code: INSTANTTORQUE20

We’ve finally launched our merch store! And, starting off, we have a selection of T-shirts, crewneck sweatshirts, and hats to choose from. Be sure to use our promo code INSTANTTORQUE20 for 20% off your order for a limited time.

Deals

Cyber Monday 2023: the best automotive deals this weekend

Joe TilleliNovember 24, 2023

Black Friday weekend 2023 is here, which is always a fun excuse to stuff the trunk of your car, truck, or SUV with all the Amazon automotive essentials you’ve put off buying long enough.

When do the Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals start?

Shoppers can find opportunities to save across TVs, smartphones, home goods, and yes, even automotive products. This season, Black Friday falls on November 24 with Cyber Monday coming up on November 27. And guess what? That’s right now, folks. Stay tuned on this page as we update this page with all of the best Amazon automotive accessory deals. We’ve gather up some current deals worth your while as well as just all-around great accessories any driver would be happy to have in their car.

Be sure to check out the other Black Friday and Cyber Monday roundups we’ve prepared to help your save money kitting out your vehicle.

In the days leading up to the event, watch this space for ongoing sales where you can still save a ton, and be sure to bookmark Deals on Wheels for the best daily car deals online, all year round.

Car care & tools

Kensun AC/DC power supply portable air compressor | 50% off

If you have a vehicle with 4WD, you might be looking forward to spending some time driving on the beach once it warms up again – maybe get a little fishing in. Of course, you’ll need to let some air out of your tires if you don’t want to get yourself stuck. When driving on sand, it’s best to lower the air pressure to between 20 to 25 PSI and then brought back up to between 32 to 35 PSI once headed back onto the road. Just keep this portable air compressor in the back of your car so you’re always ready to hit the beach.

Bilitools vacuum brake bleeder kit | 23% off

Flushing out old brake fluid or engine oil, this is the kit you need. Easy to operate as just one person, you simply attach a pump to the open bleeder screw and pull old fluid and air out of the braking system. It’ll flow into a container that’s included with the vacuum bleeder kit. And its all on sale for Black Friday.

Chemical Guys 14-piece car wash kit | 30% off

For the car enthusiast in your life that likes to keep their vehicle in tip-top shape. This bundle includes an assortment of car wash supplies including wet wax, wheel cleaner, attachments for a garden hose, and more — all from the best of the best to do it, Chemical Guys.

Chemical Guys is also running its own Black Friday promotion on its website. No code needed and you’ll get 25% off any order.

Bilitools thread repair kit | 5% off

This pack is designed for repairing damaged or stripped internal threads and creating a stronger internal thread for a wide range of automotive and plumbing applications.

Vondior tire pressure gauge | 37% off

It’s always handy to have a tire gauge in your car — especially during the colder months. Tire pressure can decrease about 1 PSI for every 10 degrees the temperature drops as the air condenses. Keep an eye on your tires through the winter with this.

Low-profile wireless tire pressure monitoring system | 31% off

This tire pressure gauge is a bit more fancy. It plugs into your cigarette lighter and pairs wirelessly with four external cap sensors that go on each of your tires. The display will then give you live feedback for both the pressure and the temperature for all of your tires.

Upholstery brush set carpet brush car | 10% off

This two-pack comes with a nylon brush and a soft horse hair brush for detailing your car. Keep your upholstery, mats, and wheels in tip-top shape.

Auto upholstery trim and molding removal tool kit | 16% off

This pack comes with 39 different pieces — each flexible and durable — to help keep your dashboard and more look brand, spankin’ new.

VanTrue N2 dash cam | $30 off

Returning to your car with a dent in your bumper because some moron tried to fit their Suburban-sized SUV in a Miata-sized parking spot is downright infuriating. But without knowing who did it, there’s not much you can do about it besides suck it up and file an insurance claim or ignore it and move on.

With a dash cam, however, you could review the footage and report the license plate so they’re held liable for the damage. There you go, a dash cam pays for itself after one incident, and the VanTrue N2 is one of the best-reviewed models you’ll find. Just make sure you account for cable management. I use these clips to keep wires out of my way when I’m cruising around in the Alfa Romeo.

Noco Genius Plus car battery jump starter | 20% off

With this, you’ll never again feel helpless on the side of the road with a dead car battery. Instead, you can give yourself a jump, thanks to the multi-voltage charger under the hood of this must-have for all drivers. We can’t count how many times we’ve had to use ours at NYCars & Coffee to help out random drivers.

Gooloo jump starters | 33-57% off

A whole slew of options for jump starters from Gooloo are part of the Black Friday sales event. You can snag one for as low as $30.

1600A battery jump starter | 30% off

Jump start your car when your in trouble or even use the battery bank to charge your smartphone, tablet, or other mobile devices.

Meguiar’s hybrid ceramic liquid wax | 49% off

No streaking or smearing—just an all-in-on ceramic coating spray to keep your car clean and polished for long-lasting protection.

ThisWorx car vacuum cleaner | 54% off

Amazon has an extensive assortment of car care products, be them this odd cleaning gel that, while it looks weird, actually does work like a charm. As does this best-selling portable vacuum. It comes with a variety of detailing attachments to keep the inside of your vehicle as pristine as the day you drove it off the lot.

Milwaukee LED work light | 15% off

Allow yourself to have ample light when working under the hood. This Milwaukee cordless flood light is compatible with all Milwaukee 18V M18 Li-ion batteries and can even has built-in USB-A and USB-C ports to charge your devices.

Vickjes windshield repair kit | $5 off

Seriously. It’s cheap and easy to do yourself. What are you waiting for? Fix your windshield.

VacLife AC/DC 2-in-1 tire inflator | 27% off

The first rule of driving on the beach is to deflate your tires. The second rule is don’t forget to fill them back up when you’re done wrestling those sandy dunes.

Roadside assistance emergency car kit | 9% off

Make sure you have everything you need when you hit the road. This pack has a first aid kit, jumper cables, tow strap, LED flashlight, rain coat, safety vest, and more. You know, A bunch of things you hope you’ll never need, but you’ll be glad to have it when you do.

Interior accessories

Phone mount | 45% off

Not every driver is lucky enough to have a large display screen in the center of their dashboard for GPS and music. That doesn’t matter though because you can just use your phone for all of that. Just be safe and use a car phone mount. I don’t want to see any more drivers looking down at their laps while going 80.

Anker USB-C car charger | 20% off

A lot of cars have built-in USB ports, but a lot of the time they’ll struggle to keep your phone even at the percentage its already at. This charger has two USB-C ports and uses Power Delivery to achieve super fast charging with almost any mobile device.

Super Liner floor mats for Tesla Model 3 | 43% off

Keep the floors of your vehicle clean with the help of these all-weather cargo liners — designed for use with the Tesla Model 3.

Lusso Gear car seat protector (2-pack) | 20% off

Congrats on the new baby! I just hope you’re keeping care of your backseats in the car. These seat protectors lay on top of the seat underneath your child’s car seat to keep them shielded from damage and stains. And it comes with two!

Lusso Gear dog car seat cover | 5% off

Us dog owners love to take our dog on the road, but let’s be mindful whenever we’re picking up our human friends. This seat protector will shield your back seat from scratches, scuff, mud, and, most importantly, shedding. No more hair everywhere.

Digital GPS speedometer & car compass | 25% off

When Aiden Pearce hacks your infotainment system, rendering it useless, a car compass comes in clutch. At least you’ll know you’re not driving in the wrong direction.

Tevlaphee steering wheel lock | 15% off

Give yourself that extra bit of assurance by locking your steering wheel in place when you park.

Lusso Gear car trash can with hooks | 5% off

Cars get messy. It’s only natural. Sometimes, that Starbuck cup ends up on the passenger side floor. Maybe you tossed that used napkin over your shoulder to the backseat. Stay on top of your mess with this handy hanging garbage bag. It’s waterproof and has a removable liner. You passengers will appreciate it.

Exterior accessories

Truck bed tent | 23% off

No need to set up your tent in the dumb dirt. Camp like a champ with a 6′ truck tent that builds around the bed of your pickup. It sleeps two people comfortably , has two mesh windows, and is super easy to set up. It’s also both waterproof and windproof.

Universal car rooftop cargo bag | $35 off

There’s no such thing as too much storage. This roof carrier cargo bag is a must-have for any camp outing or road trip for families. The material is both waterproof and tearproof and it’s easy to strap in. You’ll be able to hold between four and six suitcases inside.

Autel electric vehicle chargers | 34% off

If you’ve just switched to an EV to take advantage of the major tax credit, be sure to checkout our write-up on different EV chargers to find which one is right for your vehicle and home.

2 trailer wheel chocks with rope and wheel dock for boat trailer | 10% off

It’s getting to that time to take the boat out of the water for the season. Keep your trailer in place with these chock blocks this Black Friday.

News

Lucid EVs to adopt Tesla’s charging standard

Joe TilleliNovember 7, 2023

Owners of Lucid EVs will soon be able to plug into Tesla charging stations to charge their vehicles. Lucid announced Tuesday its pledge to support the North American Charging Standard (NACS) which is used in over 15,000 Tesla Superchargers.

Current Lucid vehicles utilize the Combined Charging System (CCS) as opposed to NACS. Starting in 2025, the EV automaker will be providing its drivers with an adapter which adds compatibility to the NACS Tesla Superchargers. New Lucid EVs will incorporate NACS charging ports with no need for an adapter.

Adopting NACS is an important next step to providing our customers with expanded access to reliable and convenient charging solutions for their Lucid vehicles. We believe that a unified charging standard, backed by the nationwide rollout of future-ready higher-voltage charging stations, will be a critical step in empowering American consumers to adopt electric vehicles.
Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO at Lucid

Lucid is far from the first EV automaker to reach this agreement. Ford first announced in May 2023 intent to grant its customers access to the Tesla Superchargers. Quickly, other major automakers followed suit including Mercedes, Volvo, Toyota, Hyundai, Honda, and Subaru. Lucid is one of the last EV manufacturers to announce its intent to adopt NACS.

This is all following the Biden administration’s $5 billion plan to expand EV charging infrastructure within the US. The Department of Transportation will help build half a million EV charging stations by 2030. Tesla has agreed to open a portion of its existing Supercharger network to operate with non-Tesla EVs.

EVs explained Features

How does the EV federal tax credit work and which cars qualify now and in 2024?

Joe TilleliOctober 26, 2023

Hello, and welcome back to your regular dose of EVs Explained! Many altruistic reasons exist to switch over from a gas guzzler to an electric vehicle, like keeping hush for the neighbors or allegedly doing your part to help God’s green earth and all. But today’s topic is a little more self-interested, and that’s okay. Here. Have some EV tax credits. On Uncle Sam. But what are they?

Well, hey. You know how Tesla has been raving on about how their Model 3s are now sub-30-grand cars? Well, technically, they are and they aren’t. They’re forty-grand cars that Tesla is advertising as less by factoring in potential gas savings plus a handy little pick-me-up from the feds just for opting for an electric vehicle over a baby seal-clubbing Sonata (to Tesla-stans and Hyundai fans, that’s a joke). That’s the oh-so-desirable tax credits, my friends.

That’s correct. Right now, you can get a cool chunk of cash when purchasing an EV. And in this explainer, we’ll be going over what an EV tax credit is, what you need to qualify, and how it will change looking forward. No tech lessons today. Right now, it’s all about the moolah!

Tesla Model 3 Highland Pair — Image: Tesla

Tax liability and the EV tax credit

Last summer, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was passed into law by Congress. The bill includes revisions to the credit for qualified plug-in EVs and fuel cell electric vehicles purchased from 2023 to 2032. Purchasers of this type of vehicle may now be eligible for a tax credit of up to $7,500 for new EVs and up to $4,000 for used EVs (limited to 30% of the sale price). This would lower your tax liability for whatever you qualify for up to that amount.

It is important to note this is a nonrefundable tax credit. You need to have enough tax liability if you want to capture the full amount that the vehicle you’re purchasing is qualifying for. In layman’s terms, what that means is that you have already exceeded your allowable. You will not see any overage as a refund during the approaching tax season and you cannot apply excess credit to the following tax year.

“Wait, stop. What exactly is tax liability?”

Simply put, it’s just the total amount of money owed at the end of the tax year. If you are a general W-2 employee, every paycheck you receive from your company already has taxes taken out automatically. That goes to your tax liability throughout the year. At the end of the year, when filing your tax return, this is the time when you add in any credits and deductions that you qualify for. Once applied, that number you’ve arrived at is now your adjusted tax liability. If you paid more if you’re W-2, you get a refund. If you didn’t pay enough to cover, well, you owe the IRS money. Tax liability is the total, not the difference between what was owed and what was paid.

Phew.

“But Mister, can you use ‘tax credits’ in a sentence?”

So a qualifying vehicle such as a Chevy Bolt purchased today (assuming you qualify for the full amount) will let you realize $7,500 toward your tax liability come April of 2024 when you file your taxes. You will use Form 8936 when filing your federal income taxes. Conversely, if you started with a daily low tax liability and have already lowered it through other credits, such as claiming dependents, it’s possible that there isn’t enough liability left to receive the full $7,500. You only realize what you have remaining in your tax liability.

The bill allows for one credit per vehicle. You can claim a tax credit for every qualified vehicle you purchase. However, there are still income limits to be mindful of, and since your tax liability can only be so much, the tax credits you’d be eligible for will also only be so much.

Sorry. No infinite money glitch for flipping a bunch of EVs. You can’t Forza Auction House hack your way out of this one.

Chevrolet Bolt on the beach — Image: Chevrolet

What vehicles qualify?

Many new EVs are eligible for the full amount of $7,500 though there are exceptions. It’s best to think of the tax credit in two different components — the battery requirement and the critical minerals requirement. Each is responsible for a partial credit of $3,750, each adding up to half of the new tax credit.

For the battery requirement, a certain percentage of the vehicle’s battery must be assembled or manufactured in North America. Over the next ten years when the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 is in effect, the required percentage is going up for manufacturers. Those percentages are as follows:

2023: 50%
2024: 60%
2025: 60%
2026: 70%
2027: 80%
2028: 90%
2029-2032: 100%

Lanzador at Pebble Beach — Image: Lamborghini

For the critical minerals requirement, we’re dealing with a similar story. A certain percentage (that will increase over the decade) of the minerals in the car’s battery must be extracted or processed within the United States or within a country that has a free-trade agreement with the U.S. Percentages are as follows:

2023: 40%
2024: 50%
2025: 60%
2026: 70%
2027-2032: 80%

So while a vehicle like the Tesla Model 3 meets both the battery and critical minerals requirement (granting it eligibility for the full $7,500) a vehicle like the Nissan Leaf only meets the battery requirement. Thus, it is only eligible for $3,750.

A couple more stipulations exist as well such as restricting the sourcing of battery components or critical minerals from foreign countries of concern such as China. Those go into effect in 2024 and 2025, respectively. However, if you seek the tax credit amount for a specific EV vehicle, the most up-to-date information exists at fueleconomy.gov where you can look up eligible models and filter based on purchase scenario, model year, and vehicle type, among other stats like MPGe and total range.

How do you qualify?

Beyond the vehicle qualifications, you must also consider the personal qualifications. In order to qualify for the credit, the vehicle you are purchasing must be for your own use (not resale) and primarily driven in the United States.

Your tax filing status and modified adjusted gross income are also part of the picture. The following are the upper-income limits for each status:

$300,000 for married couples filing jointly
$225,000 for heads of households
$150,000 for all other filers

2024 and onward

As stated in the earlier explanation, the tax credit is currently set up in which you claim the tax credit when filing your taxes. However, in 2024, a new option will allow a purchaser of a clean vehicle to transfer that credit to an eligible entity. What is an eligible entity? Well, the dealer that sold it to you.

Psst. It’s the car.

2024 Ford Lightning Platinum Black from rear angle view — Image source: Gabe Carey (Acceleramota)

This means you can fully realize the tax credit at the time of sale, turning it into an upfront discount applied toward your purchase. So if you were to purchase that Chevy Bolt in 2024, instead of paying the list price of $26,500, you could transfer that credit, getting the EV for $19,500 – provided you qualify. The option to transfer credit would be effective as of January 10, 2024.

The new system was announced Friday, October 6 , in a press release from the U.S. Department of Treasury. Within, the IRS expands on stipulations the dealer must follow (being registered with the IRS at time of sale, disclose to the taxpayer any other incentive available for the purchase of such vehicle, et cetera. et cetera.). You can find all the legal mumbo jumbo on the IRS website.

Last thoughts

With this tax credit in place, we expect to see a lot more EVs coming onto the road over the next decade. Sometimes, a little bonus is needed to push folks into going green. The tax credit is an excellent incentive for drivers to make the switch, but bear in mind that the process of qualifying and claiming said credit can be a bit overwhelming. Note that everything discussed above is meant to help demystify the EV tax credit and should not be interpreted as financial advice.

If you still have questions pertaining to your own situation, consider consulting a qualified tax professional. I’m just Joe.

This story was originally published by Joe Tilleli on 9/26/2022 and updated with new information on 10/26/2023.

Tesla Model 3 review testing at Tesla Mt. Kisco showroom in Westchester County, NY

News

Green NCAP honors four vehicles with new Life Cycle Assessment award

Joe TilleliOctober 24, 2023

Green NCAP has announced the first vehicles to be awarded its new Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) award. So who is Green NCAP, what even is that, and which other vehicles were recognized besides the Tesla Model 3? Let’s get right to it.

The independent UK organization Green NCAP’s mission is to promote the clean, energy-efficient development of cars while minimizing environmental impact. A noble cause. It achieves this through its star rating and index system which can summarize a vehicle’s performance in clean air, energy efficiency, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Since 2019, Green NCAP’s star ratings have provided consumers with an easy way to compare the on-road environmental performance of new cars under identical driving conditions. LCA information complements the rating as it assesses the vehicle’s complete environmental impact, taking into account factors like production, energy supply, and end-of-life. We believe that this award helps consumers to make an informed and greener choice about the true sustainability of their cars – it will be a true differentiator for the wide choice of electric cars currently on offer on the forecourt. Moreover, it is hoped that the award will act as a catalyst for the industry to innovate and accelerate its development of more sustainable cars.
Dr. Aleksandar Damyanov, Green NCAP Technical Manager

The LCA award is given to the best performers, tested since 2022 — receiving five stars in their assessments. Four cars have been given the LCA Award: the Dacia Spring, the ORA Funky Cat, Renault’s electric Megane E-Tech, and the Tesla Model 3. These vehicles currently have total life cycle greenhouse gas emissions equal to or less than 120 g CO2‑eq./km.

Green NCAP hopes the LCA award helps encourage consumers to make a “greener choice” when shopping for a new vehicle. Time will tell which new vehicles will join LCA club going forward. Our money is on the 2025 Tesla Model 2.

Tesla Cybertruck fleet moving on outdoor articulation ramps

News

‘We dug our own grave with the Cybertruck’, says Elon Musk, in rare moment of self-reflection

Joe TilleliOctober 19, 2023

Tesla concluded its Q3 earnings earlier today, in which Elon Musk commented that the company has “dug its own grave” with the questionable rollout of its controversial Cybertruck. Musk said he has driven the Cybertruck – calling it “an amazing product,” according to comments recorded by Business Insider. He added, “There will be enormous challenges in reaching volume production with the Cybertruck and in making the Cybertruck cash-flow positive.”

It’s been about 4 years since the polygonal design of the Cybertruck made its public debut. The first batch of the stainless-steel sensation – or, depending on who you ask, misshapen-metal monstrosity – is slated for delivery on November 30, allegedly. However, the Tesla CEO made sure to emphasize we “temper expectations.” Musk admitted, “We dug our own grave with the Cybertruck.”

As it stands, Giga Texas (the Tesla manufacturing plant in said state) has the capacity to make 125,000 trucks a year. By 2025, Musk claimed its annual Cybertruck production will reach 250,000 trucks. The main bottleneck is Tesla’s choice to build the Cybertruck out of stainless steel, coupled with unforgiving flat expanses of bodywork. Or, if you ask Musk, it’s taking so long to arrive because of how “radical” and “special” the Cybertruck is compared to something like the Ford F-150 Lightning and perhaps the upcoming Fisker Alaska.

In addition to the Cybertruck update, we’ve gotten a look into Tesla’s latest figures – and they aren’t looking so hot. Year-on-year gross profits have fallen by 22% — the weakest performance since the pandemic hit in 2020 Q2. Reported sales for this quarter are at $23.4 billion which did not hit the forecasted $24.3 billion. Around midday Thursday, Tesla shares fell to $220 – a 9% drop.

people say elon isn’t funny but most of us will never even come close to doing anything as hilarious as tanking stock prices because you made a car too pointy pic.twitter.com/B6G5hdz646
— soul nate (@MNateShyamalan) October 19, 2023

For more Tesla news, read up on what’s to be expected with the 2025 Tesla Model 2 and a look into the new push being made for Tesla Semi production. Then maybe, I don’t know, subscribe to our newsletter?

Deals

Prime Day 2023 floormats, wiper blades, and more: kit your car out for the winter

Joe TilleliOctober 11, 2023

Prime Day is a go! Among the many automotive deals, you can save quite a bit on some winterization accessories. This comes just in time as the temperature is beginning to drop. Don’t destroy your floors this winter, tracking in all sorts of sleet and mud from the snow covered roads. And replace those old wipers that are barely doing anything for you at this point.

Now while popular brands like WeatherTech aren’t seeing any discounts this Prime Day, there are some great alternatives you can get for a fraction of the cost thanks to the sales happening this week. We’ve hand-selected some of our favorites.

Best floormat deal

Motor Trend FlexTough Trim-to-Fit floor mats | 27% off

While WeatherTech isn’t part of the Prime Big Deals Day sale, these Motor Trend floor mats are an Amazon Choice selection and have a hefty 27% discount. The three-piece set is designed to be cut to size so they can fit almost any vehicle.

Best windshield wiper deal

Bosch beam wiper blades | 29% off

You should be looking to replace your wipers about once every 12 months. In colder climates, you’ll want to replace even more frequently. Start the winter with a fresh pair to battle the sleet and salt that’ll be kicked up to your windshield during a snowstorm.

Best jump starter & car battery deal

Noco Boost Plus Jump Starter | 36% off

This compact jump starter weighs under 8 ounces. It can get you up to 20 jump starts on a single charge. Additionally, it can be used as a portable charger with its USB-A and Micro-USB ports. If you ever find yourself unable to start your car, you’ll be happy you have this waiting for your in your trunk.

Best lighting accessory deal

Nilight 20″ 126W spot flood light combo | 19% off

These off road light bars project a high-intensity bright beam thanks to their 3W LED chips. Stay safe by illuminating the road in front of you to the fullest. They come with adjustable mounting brackets made from a strong military aluminum so you can achieve the optimal angle.

Best snow removal deal

AstroAI 27″ snow brush | 37% off

Every driver living in an area prone to snow should have a snow brush in their car. This 2-in-1 design has a snow brush up to to clear off fresh powder from your vehicle with an ice scraper at the bottom to ensure you have visibility before getting behind the wheel.

Deals

The best Prime Day car battery jump starter deals to give you peace of mind on the road

Joe TilleliOctober 11, 2023

With Amazon Prime Day kicking off, there are a ton of automotive deals to choose from. Of which, you can save a ton right now on car battery jump starters. This little miracle box is something you’ll be tankful to have waiting for you in your trunk when your road trip goes sour.

My worst nightmare is going to start my car only to realize the battery is dead. No, not because of the potential of being stuck wherever I am. It’s the thought of asking someone for help. Oh, I’m supposed to just ask this nice person in the parking lot if they can help me jump my car? Make them take time out of there day to help out a stranger in need even though it’s really no trouble at all for them?

Hell no. Instead of unpacking that anxiety in therapy, I can instead just keep jump starter box in the back of my car in case I’m ever in need. No additional car needed, just plug it in and start it yourself.

We’ve hand-selected the best deals on car battery packs you can find this Prime Day 2023.

Noco Boost Plus Jump Starter | 36% off

As far as portable jump starters go, the Noco Boost Plus is one of the best deals on the market. It’s compact in size, weighing under 8 ounces. It can get you up to 20 jump starts on a single charge. Additionally, it can be used as a portable charger with its USB-A and Micro-USB ports. There are actually a whole bunch of Noco chargers apart of the sale today. Browse the full selection to find the one that’s right for you.

Povasee Jump Starter with Air Compressor | 50% off

This 3500A battery pack can help you start your car or charger your phone on the go. But it’s also got a built-in air compressor. Great for drivers who frequently take to the beach and need to refill you tires back up when heading back home.

Type S Car Battery Jump Starter | 25% off

When this battery pack say portable, it really means it. The thing can practically fit in your pocket. It’s got a LED flashlight built-in and works as a power bank — supporting USB-A and USB-C.

YaberAuto Car Battery Jump Starter | 66% off

This 6000A jump box does much of what all the others are doing too. With this, you also have a large smart display which can show operational status, battery level, and a possible error in real time. Plus, there is a coupon for $30 off on top of the Prime Day deal.

Deals

Build the ultimate sim racing rig using nothing but Prime Day sales

Joe TilleliOctober 10, 2023

Amazon Prime day is upon us, coinciding with the release of Forza Motorsport. Take advantage of this crossover episode of deals and wheels by building the best PC or console sim racing rig you can while saving some extra cash. We’ve picked out some great racing wheels, cockpits, and more on sale so you can go off to the races with a premiere gaming setup.

Best sim racing rig wheel deals

Logitech G920 driving force racing wheel and floor pedals | 33% off

When it comes to the best of any video game peripheral, the name Logitech is always in the mix. Racing sims are no different. This Amazon #1 bestseller racing wheel has real force feedback to feel the weight of the car as your steer and comes with stainless steel paddle shifters. Seriously, this looks cooler and better to drive than my actual car.

NBCP gaming racing wheel | 20% off

Maybe you’re new to racing games and don’t exactly want to shell out a ton of money on all the various accessories. This simple racing wheel will give you a leg up on just a standard controller. It mounts easily to a table or desk and comes in a few different colors. Compatible with Nintendo Switch (for all that sweet Mario Kart action) as well as PC, Android, and PlayStation consoles.

Best sim racing rig cockpit deals

Racgting racing simulator cockpit | 17% off

Want the ultimate racing cockpit but don’t have the space to have it always front and center in your living room? No sweat. This racing frame is foldable, so you can easily store out of the way when not in use. Think of your closet and your sim’s garage.

Dardoo G29 racing simulator cockpit | 20% off

If you’re on the hunt for a seat that’s a bit more traditional to racing, this cockpit’s seat is designed with an artificial leather. It’s also compatible with our racing wheel pick from Logitech.

Supllueer racing wheel stand | 44% off

Perhaps you already like the chair you’re sitting in. This steering wheel stand is great for PC racers who just want to get started with your current desk chair. Gaming chairs are all modeled to look like racing chairs anyway so let’s put it to good use.

Additional sim racing rig deals

Dexepe PC USB Simulator Shifter | 15% off

If you’re looking to go the extra mile with your sim racing rig, you can install a simulator shifter and handbrake. The gear shifter is especially immersive for anyone looking to elevate their Truck Simulator experience.

Logitech G X56 flight simulator game controller | 16%

After some time on the virtual road, you may start to feel it’s time to take to the skies. Logitech’s throttle and joystick flight controller is part of the Prime Big Deals Day event as well so go spend some of your time with Microsoft Flight Simulator the way it was meant to be played.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (3 month membership) | 10% off

This isn’t part of the Prime Big Deals Day event specifically, but it is still discounted. Game Pass is one of if not the best deal in gaming right now. With it, you’ll gain access to hundreds of games including the newly released Forza Motorsport and still-stellar Forza Horizon. These are the types of games that inspire building a sim racing rig in the first place.

News

Tesla to push Tesla Semi production, hiring ten new roles

Joe TilleliOctober 6, 2023

Earlier this year, Tesla announced an expansion to the Gigafactory in Nevada in order to bring production of the Tesla Semi electric truck to a higher volume. It appears those efforts are reaching further with the addition of ten new job postings to the Tesla career page — each relevant to the Tesla Semi.

Back in August, a new manufacturing leader had been hired to spearhead the Gigafactory Nevada expansion. As it stands, reportedly only about 70 Tesla Semis have been built since the beginning of the year. The new jobs related to building and designing the production line could get the wheels turning on this gargantuan project.

Tesla's Gigafactory Nevada — Image credit: Tesla

The new Tesla job postings are as follows:

We are still likely months or even longer away from seeing work begin on the Gigafactory expansion. Our best estimates would suggest not to expect new Tesla Semi production until the back half of 2024.