Shift into Gear (our chat for today)

Hello car enthusiast, Ayrton here!

Buckle up as we're about to dive into some of the most interesting stories that have the auto world buzzing:

• Auto Buzz: Nissan's cash incentives, Hertz's EV strategy pivot, Audi's last gas vehicle and the real cost behind EV production.

• On the Road Ahead: Is your car watching you?

• In the Driver's Seat: Premium gas - is it pumping your wallet dry for no reason?

• Fuel for Thought: Feel like traffic's stealing your time

• Pit Stop: 3D Metal Engine Puzzle and catch a glimpse into the legend of Lamborghini

Before you jump in, this week I am going to ask you a favor, if you have enjoyed theGearShift, reply to this email with a “Hi” so you keep receiving the newsletter.

Now, let's start and accelerate into the world of cars, where innovation meets the road.

Auto Buzz (news news)

🚗 Bold Move: Nissan Cash Incentives for Dealerships is shaking up the dealership scene, offering $500 to $2,000 per car to dealers who expand their inventory however, dealerships are already with immense supply.

🔋 GM's Electrification Hurdle: General Motors is racing to fix problems in its electric vehicle business production line to make good on promises CEO Mary Barra

🚘 Hertz's Shift: following a turbulent phase with its electric vehicle strategy, Hertz's CEO exits after the company decides to sell 20,000 EVs, a third of its electric fleet.

⚙️ Final Countdown: Audi is planning to launch its last gas-engine model in 2026, setting the stage to phase out ICE vehicles by 2033.

⚡ EV's True Cost: Lithium Americas' journey showing the complex challenges of mining for battery materials, highlighting the social and environmental costs behind EV production.

Gear Talk (questions answered)

Can a car battery die while driving?

Yes, a car battery can die while driving, typically due to alternator failure, not the battery itself. But, if this happens, pull over safely and try restarting your car. If it doesn't start, you may need a jump start or roadside assistance. To determine if your battery is completely dead or just needs recharging, look for signs like dimming headlights or a slow engine start before the failure. These indicate the battery might only need recharging. Regular maintenance and attention to your dashboard's warning lights can help prevent such issues

On the Road Ahead (what is coming)

Is Your Car Watching You?

Imagine every time you buckle up and hit the road, your car is taking notes - how fast you drive, how sharp you turn, even how hard you brake. Sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, doesn't it? But in reality, it is not! Car makers could be sharing your data. The thing is, could this data be used against you, nudging your insurance rates up, or perhaps making certain products more expensive? It's a digital dilemma worth pondering.

In a patent application Ford mentioned that car companies are collecting information directly from internet-connected vehicles for use by the insurance industry. Sometimes it's all above board, with us willingly opting in for usage-based insurance perks. Yet, there's a sneakier side to this. Companies through features in their connected-car apps could be gathering your driving habits and might just share them with data brokers, often without making it crystal clear to you, the driver. Surprised? You're not alone.

As we steer into the future, the road ahead on data privacy looks bumpy. How will this ton of driving data be used tomorrow? Will it evolve to shape not just how we're insured, but maybe even how we're allowed to drive? Before you agree to share your data or download that flashy new car app, take a moment. Dive into those terms and conditions, no matter how tedious. Ask yourself, Do I really know what I'm signing up for? It's not just about being informed; it's about being in control.

In the Driver's Seat (steering your way to a smarter car ownership)

Premium Gas: Is It Worth the Extra Cost?

Have you ever paused at the gas station, wondering if opting for premium over regular gasoline would make a difference for your car? I've found myself in this situation more often than I'd like to admit. The appeal of premium gasoline, with its higher octane rating, suggests it could protect your engine from knocking, particularly in those designed for such luxury. But when your car is made for regular use, does the extra cost of premium justify itself?

After some number crunching, reality hit me. Spending an additional 20 to 40 cents for each gallon of premium means an extra $3 to $6 for every fill-up. Annually, this could mean parting with an extra $144 from your budget, without any noticeable benefit for cars not requiring premium.

Here's my perspective: if your vehicle's manual doesn’t specifically ask for premium, your money is probably better spent on regular gas. Keeping up with routine maintenance has a more tangible impact on your car's performance and longevity.

I’m intrigued, though. Have any of you noticed a significant difference when using premium gas in a car that doesn’t require it? I’d love to hear about your experiences. Sharing insights could help us all make more informed choices, balancing our budgets with the best care for our vehicles.

Fuel for Thought (curiosities to share)

🔢 BIG number

155 hours

The number of hours Chicagoans wasted in traffic last year

Pit Stop (recommendation for a fun time)

🛠️Gearheads, Assemble! Dive into the mechanics of automobiles with the 3D Metal Engine Puzzle. It's an engaging way to understand an engine's inner workings, appealing to experts and novices alike. Whether you fancy a classic V8 or a turbocharged beast, this puzzle fuels curiosity and showcases mechanical beauty. Be aware of schemes - a good set is rarely less than $100

🎬 Dive into Lamborghini: The Man Behind the Legend. A film that zooms into the life of Ferruccio Lamborghini. From his humble beginnings in manufacturing tractors to revolutionizing the luxury car world with his supercars. Filled with drama, challenges, and triumphs, it's a detailed portrayal not just of the cars but of the visionary behind them. If you liked "Ford vs Ferrari," you’re likely to enjoy this ride as well. This film promises a similar blend of heart-pounding racing action and a deep dive into automotive history.

The end for today

Thank you again for the support and for enjoying this week’s theGearShift. As said in the beginning, this week I have an ask:

Please Share with Friends that Love Cars!

Ayrton