Do You Have a Classic Car or Supercar Named After You?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Have you come across a classic car or supercar that shares a name with you? Perhaps someone you know or even a famous person? Supercars tend to have that kind of name, but what are these names? The GMC Jimmy might not be your first pick, but the Ferrari Enzo probably comes to mind.

A classic car name, the GMC Jimmy

The 1995 GMC Jimmy SUV is a classic car that shares a name with people named Jimmy | Bob Carey/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

The Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, also known as the GMC S-15 Jimmy, was produced from 1983 through 2005, according to Wikipedia. This mid-size SUV was made in both a two-door variant and a four-door variant. In the U.S., production for the Blazer stopped around 2001, but it continued elsewhere. For the Canadian market, production lasted through the 2005 model year. The Jimmy was in production from 1997 through 2021 in Brazil. It was in production from 2000 to 2004 in China. Indonesia produced the Jimmy from 1996 through 2005.

The original supercar, the Ferrari Enzo

Enzo Anselmo Giuseppe Maria Ferrari was an Italian racing driver, entrepreneur, and founder of the Scuderia Ferrari Grand Prix motor racing team. In case you didn’t know, he also started Ferrari. Ferrari named the 12-cylinder mid-engine Ferrari after Enzo himself. Ferrari created 400 vehicles between 2002 and 2004. Back in 2003, the Ferrari Enzo cost about $650,000. However, today these Ferrari’s are going for between $2.5 to $3 million.

An off-roading classic car legend, the Jeep Wrangler Willys

You can actually purchase the Jeep Wrangler Willys edition new right now directly from Jeep itself. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Willys Sport and Willys edition has a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $36,135. The Jeep Willys-Overland CJ-3A started a revolution back in 1949 that lives on to this day. The 2021 version has 32-inch mud-terrain tires on top of 17-inch gloss black wheels. It also comes with performance shock absorbers and rock rails to protect the body.

A tiny but mighty supercar example, the Lotus Elise

Elise, are you out there? The Lotus Elise was a tiny, two-seat, mid-ending, rear-wheel-drive roadster that ran from 1996 and is still produced in 2021. According to the Wikipedia page, the Elise was named after Elisa Artioli, the granddaughter of Romano Artioli. Artioli was the chairman of the Lotus and Bugatti brands. This is the last year for the Elisa, Lotus Exige, and Evora cars, which will all be replaced by new vehicles.

For a Formula 1 legend, the McLaren Senna

The McLaren Senna is named after famed Brazilian Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna. Ayrton Senna was a part of the McLaren Formula 1 team from 1988 through 1993 and won an incredible amount of Grand Prix races in his time. He scored 610 career points in his time, had 80 podiums, and won three world championships, Wikipedia says. Senna eventually moved to the Williams F1 team but died during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix.

After his death, Formula 1 implemented major safety upgrades on this track and in the sport in general. McLaren still owns the rights to the Senna family name along with Instituto Ayrton Senna. The team and family created this organization to help young Brazilians achieve success in business, government, school, and university.

RELATED: What Are the Most Overrated Supercars?

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Recall Alert: These Child Booster Seats Could Crack in a Crash

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Children’s car seats are a crucial component of car safety and a product that most expecting parents research as they await their new baby. Crucial to the safe transport of precious cargo, car seats undergo thorough testing before they’re allowed on the U.S. market. Unfortunately, some flaws still slip through the cracks, and like vehicles, car seats can face recalls. 

Recently, three popular booster seat models have come under scrutiny for their ability to protect small passengers in crashes. 

Infant, convertible, and booster seats: What’s the difference?

A quick Google search for “car seats” quickly makes clear the many options for modern-day parents. Although it’s encouraging that more companies than ever are trying to keep children safe, the plethora of options can make finding the perfect match difficult. 

One of the first choices parents must make is whether they’d prefer an infant car seat or a convertible model. Infant car seats are rear-facing installations for newborns. Though most infant car seats are removable, compatible with strollers, and fit babies best, many parents lament that their children quickly outgrow these relatively pricey products.

Enter the convertible car seat. According to Very Well Family, many parents favor this option for its flexibility. Although these seats are bulkier and more expensive than infant seats, children can use convertible models longer. For example, parents can install these seats as rear- or forward-facing and change the configuration as their child grows. 

In fact, some convertible car seats can transform into booster seats for bigger kids. Booster seats position school-aged children so that they can safely use a car’s seat belts. Some booster seats are highback models, while others are backless. Diono is a well-known brand that makes booster seats. However, it recently had to recall three popular models.

Diono Cambria 2 booster seats could crack in accidents

Unfortunately, three of Diono’s Cambria 2 models could crack during accidents, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports. That defect put the seats in violation of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 213.

Nearly 7,000 booster seats with model numbers 31200-US-01, 31201-US-01, and 31202-US-01 are included in the recall. According to the NHTSA, these models could crack between the headrest and backrest in a crash. If that were to happen, the headrest could separate, increasing a child’s risk of injury. 

As a result, Diono will notify owners and offer a free replacement backrest with headrest assembly. In the meantime, the company suggests “converting the seat into a backless booster seat until the replacement backrest is installed,” the NHTSA reports. Owners can contact Diono customer service at 855-463-4666.

Still, some worried parents may be interested in finding a new booster seat brand. Fortunately, as mentioned before, there’s no shortage of options. 

Many factors should inform your purchase

In January, Babylist released a comprehensive guide to some of 2021’s best car seats, including models that can convert to booster seats. It’s a great resource for parents and a good way to find the perfect model for every taste and preference.

Babylist recommends the Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 convertible car seat as a “one-and-done.” This model is easy to install despite its larger size and has 10 adjustable harness positions to grow with the child.

If parents don’t mind sticking with the Diono brand and need to fit three car seats in one row, the Radian 3RXT All-in-One has a slim profile and converts to a booster. Babylist likes its “steel alloy frame, aluminum reinforced sidewalls, energy-absorbing EPS foam, and reinforced adjustable head support that has 12 positions.”

No matter which model you choose, carefully follow installation instructions and check for recalls. 

RELATED: Car Seat Upgrades: How to Know It’s Time to Buy a New Car Seat 

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2022 Chevy Bolt EUV EPA Range Estimates Show It Comes Just Shorter Than Advertised

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’re looking for a new electric utility vehicle (EUV), you might be considering a 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV. Given that charging infrastructure remains sporadic, it’s always important to understand the range of any potential EV upfront. The Chevy Bolt EUV advertises a range of 250 miles — impressive for its class. However, according to one publication, it falls just a bit short of that claim.

Overview of the 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV

On its own merits, the Chevy Bolt EUV is impressive. Starting at an affordable $32,000, the 2022 model looks different from prior model years. The exterior wears cutting-edge-looking sheet metal that’s attractive and exciting.

Together, the 65-kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motor provide 200 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, allowing the front-wheel-drive Bolt to hit 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. It also comes with a one-pedal option that brakes when the driver lifts their foot off the accelerator.

Chevrolet has also enhanced the cabin’s styling, with dark trim, redesigned seats, and cross-stitched upholstery. Occupants can enjoy a 10.2-inch touchscreen and an 8.0-inch digital display cluster. And drivers can take advantage of advanced safety features such as lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. For additional safety features, buyers can purchase upgraded trims and packages with items like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. 

The 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV also stands apart from its hatchback sibling, the Bolt, thanks to roof rails, a panoramic sunroof, and semiautonomous driving technology. The EUV also boasts extra rear legroom to complement its generous cabin space. Plus, it comes standard with a dual-level charge cord (optional on the Bolt EV), eliminating the need to purchase a home charger. The plug connects to a standard 120-volt outlet.

Furthermore, Chevrolet will cover installation costs for Level 2 charging for 2022 Bolt EUV buyers or lessees.

Where the Chevy Bolt EUV falls short

When Chevrolet launched the 2022 Bolt EUV, it said it believed the vehicle could travel 250 miles on a single charge, MotorTrend reported. Because the 2021 and 2022 Bolt EV’s range is 259 miles, the 2022 EUV estimate seemed reasonable.

However, the EPA rated the Bolt EUV for 247 miles per charge — three miles short of Chevy’s launch estimate. So not only does the Bolt EUV miss its internal estimate, but it also trails rivals like the 2021 Hyundai Kona EV, which offers similar features and 259 miles per charge.

Still, the EUV’s range surpasses competitors like the 2021 Kia Niro, which needs a recharge after 239 miles. Further, the Bolt EUV costs $5,500 less than the 2021 model, making it an affordable and attractive pick.

Buying this exciting new EV

The 2022 Chevy Bolt EUV is expected to come in two trims: 1LT and 2LT. As of this writing, Chevrolet has not yet released the exact differences between the trim levels. However, if each trim’s distinguishing features are like those of the 2021 model, the 2LT might come with automatic climate control, remote start, push-button start, and wireless charging options for a starting price of $35,195.

It’s also notable to consider that Bolt warranty coverage is fairly middle-of-the-road and not nearly as generous as warranty packages from manufacturers such as Hyundai. The Bolt’s standard warranty covers 36,000 miles or three years. Also, expect a 100,000 mile/eight-year powertrain warranty and one scheduled complimentary maintenance visit. Prospective buyers of any EV should look carefully at the powertrain warranty coverage given the specialized nature of these vehicles.

But with a starting price of around $32,000, the 2022 Bolt EUV is shaping up to be an attractive option for prospective buyers, even if its driving range falls a little short of expectations.

RELATED: A Used Chevy Bolt for Under $20,000 Will Help You Avoid Chip Shortage Stress, Consumer Reports Suggests

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How Much Does It Cost to Charge a Porsche Taycan?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Taycan is Porsche’s debut EV, and it’s already setting impressive standards for the segment. Its handling is reportedly among the most engaging a driver can experience, all inside an opulent cabin. In addition, the Porsche Taycan has two battery pack options, each providing ample range for most drivers.

But one of the biggest perks of EV ownership is not having to pay high gas prices. EV charging isn’t free, though, so is it really less expensive than fueling up at the pump? Here’s what you need to know about charging a Porsche Taycan.

How to charge a Porsche Taycan

All Porsche Taycan models have a charging capacity of 270 kW, and you can charge them from the comfort of your home. With Level 1 charging through a 120-volt outlet, it takes 24 hours to charge the biggest battery, ChargePoint reports. Using a 240-volt outlet, you can recharge the battery in as little as 12 hours — or 11 hours for the smaller 79-kWh battery.

You can also charge the Taycan’s battery at a Level 3 public charger or DC supercharging station. Porsche partners with Electrify America, so Taycan drivers can use any of these stations.

At a fast-charging station, the longest you’ll wait to charge the larger battery is 93 minutes. That’s a rate of about 60 miles every four minutes, assuming it’s a 350-kW charger. You can restore 80 percent of the battery in only 15 minutes.

Fast charging is not always an option, especially if you don’t live in a big city. Still, the Porsche Taycan’s navigation system will show you the available charging stations in your area. So, for example, if you commute to the city for work, you might find fast-charging stations onsite.

Drivers can also opt for the 400V DC onboard charger, which costs around $460. Unfortunately, it’s not much faster than a public charging station because it provides the same voltage. Still, it’s a good investment for Taycan drivers without daily commutes.

Charging costs for each Porsche Taycan model

Electrify America charges 15 to 25 cents per minute — a maximum of 30 cents per kWh, GreenCarJournal reports. Using a DC fast-charging station can cost up to 99 cents per minute, so it’s definitely a lesser value. However, many drivers might prefer this method for its speed and convenience. 

ChargePoint estimates it will cost drivers around $5.40 to drive 100 miles in a Porsche Taycan. That’s more expensive to drive than a Tesla due to the Porsche’s lower range. The Taycan and Taycan 4S with the standard 79-kWh battery get 199 miles on a single charge. 

The EPA shows the 2021 4S is the most efficient Taycan model, getting 79 MPGe city/highway combined. It can also get the upgraded 93-kWh battery, extending its range to 221 miles. Power output also increases from 522 hp to 562 hp.

Taycan Turbo models come with the 93-kWh battery, which gets up to 212 miles of range. And though the fuel economy is slightly decreased, the Turbo S can produce up to 616 hp and 774 lb-ft of torque.

Is charging cheaper than buying gas?

Gas prices fluctuate with supply and demand, but the national average is just over $3 as of this writing, AAA reports. So say you have a Porsche Taycan Turbo S with a range of 201 miles. It would take only a little over $10.80 to charge it at a Level 3 station.

Also, ChargePoint points out that several public charging stations offer discounts, lowering the price further. In addition, the 2020 Porsche Taycan 4S gets even more miles in Range driving mode, making it a better value.

RELATED: The 2020 Porsche Taycan 4S Just Outperformed Its Range Estimates

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