Only 2 Ford F-150 Lightning Trims Come Standard with This Key Feature

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Ford F-150 Lightning is Ford’s very first fully electric pickup truck. The electric truck has yet to release but has already received over 100,000 pre-orders. Ford plans to ramp up production to at least 80,000 units annually in 2024. Despite semiconductor chip shortages, the truck is experiencing overwhelming demand. But does every F-150 Lightning trim provide the true Lightning experience? These two trims are the only trims that come standard with this key feature.

These Ford F-150 Lightning trims are the only ones to include a key feature

The Ford F-150 Lightning | Ford

The Ford F-150 Lightning has several fun features that are exclusive to the electric truck and novel to the automotive industry. These features are a key selling point to the F-150 Lightning, but every Lightning isn’t created equally. Only two of the four Lightning trims come standard with the 9.6-kilowatt Pro Power OnBoard system.

All of the electric truck’s trim levels come with a Pro Power OnBoard system. Pro Power OnBoard can power devices and electronics via electrical outlets found in the frunk, truck bed, and cab. This feature is amazing and can be applied in many fun and interesting ways. All trim levels come with the system, but the wattage is the key difference between trim levels.

The Ford F-150 Lightning Pro base model starts at $39,974. This trim level comes with a 2.4-kilowatt Pro Power OnBoard system. The 9.6-kilowatt Pro Power OnBoard system is optional for the XLT trim, which starts at $52,974. The Lariat trim, starting at $67,474 is the first trim to offer standard 9.6-kilowatt Pro Power OnBoard. The $89,874 platinum trim offers this wattage as a standard feature for the system as well.

Who cares about Pro Power OnBoard wattage?

The more wattage a Pro Power OnBoard system comes with, the more available outlets a Ford F-150 Lightning trim comes with. This may seem like a tiny detail, but a few outlets can make a huge difference if you are purchasing the vehicle for practicality and utility.

More outlets equal more utility, especially if you plan to use the Ford F-150 Lightning as a work truck. A single outlet can mean not being able to use a tool. The Lariat and Platinum trims come standard with a total of 11 different power outlets. According to InsideEVs, the Lariat and Platinum trims will have four 120-volt outlets in the frunk, two 120-volt outlets in the cab, four 120-volt outlets in the truck bed as well as an additional 240-volt outlet in the truck bed.

The Ford F-150 Lightning's truck bed.
The Ford F-150 Lightning’s truck bed | Ford

The 9.6-kilowatt Pro Power OnBoard system isn’t necessary, but it has been marketed as one of the electric truck’s key features. The more powerful OnBoard system is optional for the XLT, but only the Lariat and Platinum trim come standard with capabilities almost too cool to pass up. Whether you’re powering tools at the worksite, doing some home renovations, or leading the tailgate party, the 9.6-kilowatt Pro Power OnBoard system and its 11 outlets are worth looking into.

Is the Ford F-150 Lightning worth the money?

Ford F-150 Lightning.
The Ford F-150 Lightning | Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images

Aside from the Tesla Cybertruck, the Ford F-150 Lightning is the most innovative truck that money can buy today. Ford took one of its most popular nameplates and electrified it, ensuring that it had a place in the future. The F-150 Lightning boasts great power and a decent standard driving range. If you really want to get the most value out of the Lightning, the XLT with 9.6-kilowatt Pro Power OnBoard or the Lariat trim are the best options.

RELATED: Ford F-150 Lightning vs. Tesla Cybertruck: The Faster, Stronger, Longer-Range Choice Is Also Cheaper

The post Only 2 Ford F-150 Lightning Trims Come Standard with This Key Feature appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

Rotary Engine Reliability Issues and How to Resolve Almost All of Them

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Rotary engines are the underdog of the car world. They aren’t as exciting as big blocks and LS engines, but they have a unique driving experience and sound that makes some car enthusiasts swoon. The rotary engine became popular with Mazda, particularly the Mazda RX-7 and RX-8 — both features in the Fast and Furious franchise. But, Mazda has long since let go of manufacturing the rotary engine, and there aren’t many mechanics today that have the knowledge and know-how on repairing the common issues these engines often face. Rotary engines are known for being typically unreliable, but the issues are somewhat easy to resolve.

Carbon deposits are one of the biggest problems rotary engines face

Mazda RX-8 rotary coupe engine bay | TOSHIFUMI KITAMURA, AFP, Getty Images

All internal combustion engines are faced with the issue of carbon deposits, which occur in the process of the combustion of gas. It’s a natural byproduct of the chemical reaction that really can’t be avoided, but it is a much more severe problem in rotary engines than it is in your standard combustion engine. Carbon build-up on the piston surface can cause pre-ignition, which damages your engine over time — and not a long period of time, either. Pre-ignition is also a major reason why you can’t use a lower octane rating of gas than your vehicle requires. The best solution is to tune and run your vehicle with E85 fuel inside of standard gasoline.

Pitting is another issue that can damage rotary engines

Rotary engines feature a ‘piston’ which is forged from cast iron and shaped like a rounded triangle — which is where the Dorito jokes of the rotary engine come from. This piston, rather than moving up and down within a cylindrical housing, spins around a chamber, creating separate compartments in which the standard internal combustion process happens: intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust. Pitting on the rotary surface can be caused by damaged apex seals and pre-ignition. The best way to protect the engine’s internal components is to pre-mix fuel, as explained by Rob Dahm in the video down below.

Among the throwback vehicles made popular by the Fast and Furious franchise, we have heard some rumors of a potential RX comeback with a new rotary engine, but these claims have yet to be substantiated by Mazda.

Blown apex seals are a rotary-exclusive problem

If you’ve ever met someone who owns a rotary vehicle, chances are they will tell you about their apex seals. Really, the problem with blown apex seals seems to be unavoidable, and it’s an issue almost every RX-7 and RX-8 engine has or will face. This is the most common failure owners experience, and it can oftentimes be frustrating as it is prone to happen many times. The only way to resolve this issue is to invest in some hardier, more durable apex seals, which may or may not resolve the problem entirely, but can give you more time in between changes.

RELATED: What Caused the Death of the Rotary Engine?

The post Rotary Engine Reliability Issues and How to Resolve Almost All of Them appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

You Know of Hydrogen Cars, How About Hydrogen Trains?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

While electric cars are the popular option for a sustainable future, hydrogen cars are an alternate solution to the problem. Toyota has already bet big on hydrogen, pushing back on battery electric vehicles. But cars aren’t the only modes of transport in need of a rethink. Let’s take a look at Alstom, the company responsible for the first hydrogen powered train.

Coradia iLint Hydrogen Powered Train | Alstom

Alstom SA has been harking hydrogen trains since 2016

Alston’s hydrogen train prototype, the Coradia iLint, premiered at the 2016 International Trade Fair for Transport Technology. Think of it as an auto show, but for more than just cars. Fashioned out of a dirty diesel train, the Coradia iLint is a zero-emissions train, powered solely by hydrogen and creating electricity through fuel cells.

Just like a hydrogen car, the Coradia produces very little noise. And the only thing that comes out the exhaust pipe is water. But what makes the Coradia different from other electric trains is that they can run on regular rails. See, lots of electric trains run on an electrified wire, kind of like bumper cars. But the Coradia can run independent of wires, chugging along so long as it has hydrogen in the tank.

Now, let’s talk about hydrogen costs. According to Car and Driver, in California, it’ll run you $16.51 for a kilogram of hydrogen. And while that metric is primarily for hydrogen cars, it makes it easier to understand that hydrogen trains will be pricey to fuel. In fact, electric trains will be about 35% cheaper to run than hydrogen trains, according to a study by the Association for Electrical, Electronic & Information Technologies.

But hydrogen trains have one key advantage over electric trains: range. The Coradia is able to travel 1,000 km, or 621 miles, at a speed of 140 km/h, or 86 mph. And already, the technology is being implemented across Europe.

The Coradia iLint Hydrogen trains are already scattered around Europe

Coradia iLint Hydrogen Powered Train
Coradia iLint Hydrogen Powered Train | Alstom

Just yesterday, August 25th, the first Coradia iLint ran in Sweeden. And the 100% hydrogen-powered train has already been riding around Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, and Italy. And the demand for hydrogen trains across the EU grows stronger by the day.

According to Fortune, next March, the Coradia iLint will begin journeys in Germany on a commercial route spanning from Buxtehude, outside Hamburg, to the beach town of Cuxhaven. You see, most of the Coradia iLints on the rails today have been test models, but Europe is seeing to it that the trains are heavily implemented in the years to come. After all, eliminating one diesel train is the equivalent of eliminating 400 gas-powered cars.

The first Coradia iLint Hydrogen trains build have already seen over 100,000 km of track. But their rapid implementation in Europe makes sense, since trains are a way of life over there. That begs the question: will this technology ever make it overseas?

Will hydrogen trains ever come to the states?

Coradia iLint Hydrogen Powered Train
Coradia iLint Hydrogen Powered Train Outside Volkswagen Factory | Alstom

Eventually, yes, but chances are it’ll be in the hydrogen capital of America: California. Hydrogen cars already have a strong foothold over there, thanks to a vast hydrogen network. According to RailTech, there are already talks of hydrogen trains, with will hopefully be implemented in San Bernardino County by 2024.

Though the nine-mile route is far less ambitious than the 100 km (62-mile) route the Coradia iLint will start taking this coming March. And it’ll be years before our cross country railways like Amtrack even consider a zero-emissions future. But for now, we’ll learn from Europe, and from Alstrom, on the best methods for reaching that clean future.

RELATED: Japan’s New Levitating Train Can Travel a Record Breaking 375 MPH

The post You Know of Hydrogen Cars, How About Hydrogen Trains? appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by

5 Best Used Toyota Trucks You Can Buy Right Now According to Consumer Report’s Ratings

by Gabrielle DeSantis

There’s no denying that Toyota is one of the most well-known truck brands. Between the Toyota Tacoma and the Toyota Tundra, the automaker manufactures some of the best trucks in the industry. For used truck shoppers, that’s undoubtedly good news. In fact, from the 2020 Toyota Tundra to the 2015 Toyota Tacoma, the best used Toyota trucks include plenty of options worth your consideration.  

The best used Toyota trucks are worth checking out

2020 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

Consumer Reports is no stranger to ranking trucks. In fact, the organization takes several factors into account when ranking trucks: road test, reliability, predicted owner satisfaction, and even safety. While its road test evaluates acceleration, braking, emergency handling, fuel economy, and more, its reliability and owner satisfaction ratings come from detailed information gathered during various consumer surveys. And when it comes to safety? The organization looks to the NHTSA and the IIHS.

The best used Toyota trucks you can buy right now:

1. 2020 Toyota Tundra
2. 2020 Toyota Tacoma
3. 2016 Toyota Tundra
4. 2015 Toyota Tacoma
5. 2003 Toyota Tundra

The 2020 Toyota Tundra is hard to beat

Average used 2020 Toyota Tundra price: $38,275 – $57,000

There’s a lot to like about the 2020 Toyota Tundra. Consumer Reports recommends it. The organization also gave it a five out of five reliability and owner satisfaction rating. Consumer Reports added that the used Toyota Tundra’s best attribute is its brawny 5.7-liter V8 engine that boasts a 0-60 mph time of 6.7 seconds, ranking with the best in its class.

The 2020 Toyota Tundra performs well when towing too. In fact, its maximum towing capacity weighs in at 10,000 pounds. With such a competitive max tow rating, it’s no surprise that the used Toyota truck was also able to tow the organization’s 7,400-pound test trailer to 60 mph in a short 16.1 seconds. 

Perhaps the only downside to the 2020 Toyota Tundra is that it received mixed safety ratings. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating. Meanwhile, the IIHS gave the crew cab model a Good rating in three out of six of its crash tests. It also got a Marginal rating in the driver-side small overlap front test and a Poor rating on the passenger-side small overlap front crash test.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma is a reliable used Toyota truck

Average used 2020 Toyota Tacoma price: $29,950 – $49,550

Perhaps the Toyota Tacoma is more your style. Fortunately, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma is also recommended by Consumer Reports. The organization gave it a five out of five reliability rating and a four out of five owner satisfaction rating too. According to Consumer Reports, used truck shoppers will be most pleased with the Tacoma’s styling and overall comfort.

And when it comes to driving this used Toyota Tacoma? Unfortunately, handling isn’t the best. In fact, the organization called it ponderous. But don’t let that stop you from checking it out. While the used truck doesn’t offer the best handling, Consumer Reports calls it a “champ” for off-roading. 

Unlike the 2020 Toyota Tundra, the Tacoma did earn good safety ratings. In fact, the NHTSA gave it a four-star overall safety rating. Meanwhile, the IIHS gave the Tacoma crew cab a Good rating in five out of the six of its crash-test results. It also gave it an Acceptable rating in the passenger-side small overlap front test and a Superior rating in front crash prevention.

Consumer Reports recommends the 2016 Toyota Tundra

Average used 2016 Toyota Tundra price: $22,300 – $38,825

While the 2016 Toyota Tundra is a few years old, it’s still one of the best used Toyota trucks you can buy right now. Consumer Reports not only recommends it, but the organization also gave it a five out of five reliability rating and a four out of five owner satisfaction rating. The organization predicts that buyers of this used truck will be most pleased with its styling and driving experience.

Although the 2016 model offers various engines to choose from, its 5.7-liter V8 engine continues to be the best option. It delivers “strong performance” and comes teamed with a smooth-shifting six-speed transmission. It will also have you towing a max of 10,000 pounds when the truck is properly equipped.

As for safety? The NHTSA gave the 2016 Toyota Tundra a four-star overall safety rating, which aligns with previous model years. The IIHS, on the other hand, gave extended cab models Good ratings in four out of five of its crashworthiness tests. The truck did, however, earn an Average rating in the driver-side small overlap front test.

The 2015 Toyota Tacoma is “practically bullet-proof”

Average used 2015 Toyota Tacoma price: $18,175 – $28,375

Now, let’s talk about the 2015 Toyota Tacoma. This used truck is among the best used Toyota trucks you can buy right now. Consumer Reports recommends it. The organization also gave it a five out of five reliability rating, adding that this used pickup is “practically bullet-proof.” 

According to Consumer Reports, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma excels in hauling, towing, and off-road use. Opt for a used Toyota Tacoma with the available tow package, which also includes stability-control enabled trailer sway control, and this used Toyota truck will have you towing up to 6,400 pounds.

Like other Toyota Tacoma models, the NHTSA gave the 2015 Toyota Tacoma a four-star overall safety rating. As for the IIHS? The organization gave the used Tacoma a Good rating in three out of four of its crash safety tests. Unfortunately, the organization did give it a Moderate rating for roof strength.

The 2003 Toyota Tundra is one of the best used Toyota Trucks

A grey 2003 Toyota Tundra parked outdoors, the 2003 Toyota Tundra is a used Toyota truck
2003 Toyota Tundra | Toyota

Average used 2003 Toyota Tundra price: $4,250 – $7,300

Last but certainly not least is the 2003 Toyota Tundra. This is the oldest used truck on the list, but don’t let that stop you from taking a look at it. After all, the 2003 Toyota Tundra is recommended by Consumer Reports and earned both a five out of five reliability and owner satisfaction rating. Even better, the 2003 Toyota Tundra is the cheapest used truck on the list.

Despite being older and significantly lower in price, this used Toyota truck is an excellent choice if you’re in the market for a used pickup. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, the used Toyota Tundra is “comfortable, quiet, handles relatively well and has a super smooth powertrain.” It excels when it comes to towing too.

Perhaps the only downside to the 2003 Toyota Tundra is that it doesn’t come well-equipped with safety features. Though, that is because the truck is significantly older than other used Toyota trucks on the list. That being said, the IIHS did give it a Good rating in moderate overlap front crash tests.

The best used Toyota trucks offer up plenty of options

From the 2020 Toyota Tacoma to the 2003 Toyota Tundra, the best used Toyota trucks offer up plenty of reliable options. To determine which used truck is the best choice for your daily driving needs, we recommend hitting the road for a few test drives. 

RELATED: How Many Miles Will a Toyota Tundra Last?

The post 5 Best Used Toyota Trucks You Can Buy Right Now According to Consumer Report’s Ratings appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

/by