The Electric Titans Clash: Rivian R1T vs. Tesla Cybertruck

It seems that Tesla has finally managed to get it ducks in a row and can start delivering its electric pickup truck by 2023. You remember that, right? The one that Elon Musk said was indestructible, and it took a single softball throw to prove otherwise. Now that their production is back at appreciable levels, we might see some of these pave the roads soon. However, the delays in production have allowed several competitors to catch up, offering their own alternatives that might prove better than Tesla's alien ship-like ground vehicle. One notable contender is the Rivian R1T.

A Brief Background

While Tesla has been struggling with keeping their employees from unionizing and silently paying off witnesses of sexual abuse, Rivian has emerged as a reliable startup from Silicon Valley. It's led by people who actually know what they're doing, instead of spoiled brats who spend their time with wasteful stunts to maintain a stock bubble.

The CEO of Rivian, RJ Scaringe, started out by restoring classic vehicles in his neighbor's garage. Pretty soon, he took it upon himself to develop a company solely dedicated for eco-friendly electric vehicles. The first glimpse of the Rivian R1T, their electric pickup, came about in 2019. It made quite a buzz with its prototype, and those who booked it received the first pieces in 2022. Rivian has received the feedback and announced for further improvements in 2024. In stark contrast, even those who ordered their cybertrucks in 2020 won't get deliveries by at least 2024.

Why EV Pickups?

There are still several misguided preconceptions when it comes to electric vehicles, particularly with their performance. You see, unlike internal combustion engines, there are only two moving parts within an EV: The motor and transmission drive. That might look good on paper for smaller vehicles like sedans and hatchbacks, but create a lot of issues for larger trucks. Engineers have to account for the precise output of torque at each rpm, as you can't just deliver maximum power at zero rpm. Ever wondered why 18-wheelers have so many gear shifts?

Therefore, if you want to expand the green energy revolution to heavier vehicles, you need innovative solutions to power heavy vehicles that constitute a critical part of any supply change. According to the American Trucking Association, roughly 72% of tonnage by weight is handled by trucks. So, you can damage the economy to quite an extent if you get it wrong the first time.

In addition to commercial activity, pickups are also regarded as the perfect American recreational vehicles. If you plan an excursion into the wilds of Yellowstone or a cross-country trip to reach a major convention, a pickup truck can suit most of your cargo and passenger needs. Thus, having one that can charge within a reasonable time can be game-changer.

Tesla Cybertruck Overview

Much like the Model Y, Tesla uses a frame-over-body structure for the Cybertruck. That means that the more rigid part of the structure goes over the frame. That keeps most of the impact to the outside of the body without affecting the comfort or handling. The structure is further reinforced with polymer-layered explosion-proof glass to increase the structural integrity even further.

The power source is a lithium-ion battery that Tesla claims can provide the range of about 500 miles. The Cybertruck shall be available in a single-motor, dual-motor, and tri-motor variants, starting for as low as $39,900. Tesla claims that it will have precision car-like steering, although that could only be realized after the first one ships off to an independent reviewer. The same goes with the on-board computer managing the truck's systems according to the terrain, and the advanced infotainment.

Rivian R1T Overview

The Rivian has a bit more going for it, mostly because there have been trims in the real world, with both the reviewers and customers having received their respective vehicles. And they have been vocal with their feedback. The R1T gains points for its performance, cost-effectiveness, and high degree of customization. So much so that many customers have moved to it after permanently retiring their Ford F-150 or the Ram 1500.

While it doesn't capture the cyberpunk look, it more than makes up for it in utility. You can tow up to 11,000 pounds from it, and it won't run out of juice until after at least 300 miles. You can charge it from any electric car charger (unlike Tesla that only works with its Supercharger network) and be on your way within a short while. Moreover, the interior favors function over form, as you'll find out later in this article.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Now, it's time to take both these trucks toe-to-toe, finding out which one has the edge in different criteria.

Performance

The R1T actually surprised everyone with its blistering acceleration. Car and Driver marks it as the quickest pickup they have tested to date. It goes from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds, bringing supercar-level numbers to segment most associated with towing tent houses. And it doesn't disappoint with the handling, either. Even with a ladder-frame chassis, it can keep a tight turning diameter, thanks to an electrically-assisted power steering and a balanced frame.

Moreover, there are options for off-road tires and a carbon underframe to improve its performance in the absence of a tarmac. Rivian claims that the R1T can tow up to 11,000 pounds, with a payload capacity of 1760 pounds. That's quite close to the test results obtained by reviewers, many of whom praise the R1T for its substantial capacity to drag a full-sized caravan for more than 100 miles.

As for the Cybertruck, there are only a few people who have even tested it up close. Therefore, there aren't a diverse data pool to draw from. The most promising numbers state that a Cybertruck loaded with a tri-motor configuration can go from 0-60 mph in less than 3 seconds. That drags out to 6 seconds with a single-motor trim. Tesla claims that the top tri-motor trim can tow up to 14,000 pounds, with a cargo capacity of 3500 pounds. If so, then it pretty much leaves the Ram 1500 struggling in the rearview mirror. Yet, it's best to wait for a few more third-party reviews before believing those numbers at face value. 

Battery Charge and Mileage

For any electric vehicle, the residual charge and range left is a source of anxiety for most owners. Not so much with the Rivian R1T. You can drive for about 312 miles in 'Conserve' mode before needing a recharge. If you have access to a fast DC charger, you can get the battery back up to 80% within 20 minutes. Rivian also gives you the option to recharge the R1T from any regular wall socket, although it might take up to 9 hours for a complete recharge, depending upon the output voltage.

On the other hand, you can only use authorized Tesla Superchargers for the Cybertruck. While you might not encounter much trouble finding one, it's still quite a limitation as other DC chargers offer far more flexibility with their payment plans and are compatible with various other manufacturers. Still, you can charge the Cybertruck for 10 minutes to gain 100 miles of range, achieving a full charge in less than 40 minutes. Depending on the variant, the battery pack delivers a range of anywhere from 250 to 500 miles.

Exterior

Sure, the style of any vehicle is subjective, and there is not much innovation you can perform with a body designed as a pickup. However, both the Rivian R1T and Tesla Cybertruck prove that notion dead wrong. But their approach to design couldn't be more different. While the Cybertrucks tries to instill the Blade Runner physique, the Rivian strives for a simple, minimalist visual. The sleek headlights and curvy hood are instanly recognizable from a mile away. It's more practical and allows for more maneuverability around tight corners.

On the flip side, the Cybertruck is all about style and no function. The jagged edges can come in contact with other vehicles and confined streets if you're not careful. Unlike other pickups that have rearview cameras as backups, the Cybertruck needs them to adequately reverse around corners. There are also concerns with the door-sealing mechanism, which makes it impossible to open with any obstruction from the exterior or attach any aftermarket accessories. And the shots you browse of the drones, tents, and bikes cost as much as a new house in Illinois if you want to buy those accessories from Tesla.

None of that is an issue with the R1T. The frame is instantly familiar to anyone working on the F-150, and you'll have no trouble finding compatible aftermarket parts either. You can check out this discussion on the official Rivian forum to understand where you can source aftermarket parts for your electric pickup. In addition, Rivian has various upgrade packages so that customers can obtain any accessories they need.

Interior

On the inside, the Rivian R1T is the perfect combination of form and function. Not only do you get leather seats and multiple interface touchcreens, but also various amenities to make your long drives stress-free. You can avail of a big storage compartment under the dash and a massive trunk within the front hood. The bed has 12 cubic feet of lockable storage to secure stuff, and multiple 110-Volt outlets for convenient power supply.

The infotainment system doesn't disappoint either. A 16-inch central touchscreen lets you work the climate control, media, navigation, and other functions without stuttters. Even the digital display in front of the driver is highly customizable. The only letdown is incompatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

At the other end of the spectrum, we have the cabin of the Tesla Cybertruck. While it may look like it's from the future, there are very few practical applications with the touchscreens. Sure, you can play The Witcher 3 on it, but it's quite out of view for the back passengers. Furthermore, the build quality is not at par with other pickups within the similar price range. You can easily observe gaps in the panels that may leak water and dust over time.

Despite its massive size, the cybertruck is quite tight for cargo space. Tesla claims that the bed offers more than 100 cubic feet of storage space, yet there are no figures for the hood trunk or the dashboard. The 17-inch touchscreen is the largest you're gonna get in the segment, but the digital display in front of the driver is not customizable. Still, you can get a HUD version to make it more visible when looking out the windshield.

Ownership and Maintenance Experience

It's an essential part for any pickup truck, since you don't want your multi-ton vehicle to break down halfway in the middle of nowhere. Additionally, the truck's upkeep shouldn't cost you the equivalent of a new sedan. The Rivian R1T performs well on both those fronts. The company offers a generous bumper-to-bumper warranty of five years or 60,000 miles, which can be transferred among users. You also get a battery and drivetrain warranty of 8 years or 175,000 miles, which pretty much ensures that the truck shall remain in optimal condition for about a decade.

There are benefits with maintenance as well. Although electric vehicles don't require oil and filter changes, you can still contact the company for any replacement parts and they'll schedule a quick service right at your doorstep. The NHTSA has also given the R1T excellent scores, and you get lane-keep assist, automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control on all trims.

You can't feel as safe within the Tesla Cybertruck, particularly if you've signed on for the Autopilot that costs an extra 15 grand. Given that it's not even able to detect children, we'll advise you to stay far away from it. Although, other features such as lane-departure warning and emergency braking assist.

In terms of maintenance, Tesla wins over Rivian by offering unlimited miles and eight years on the battery and drivetrain. Nevertheless, people have reported troubles with the batteries that they ended up paying for. So, you should expect a lot of asterisks with any warranty you receive. There have also been no record of any crash tests with the IIHS or the NHTSA.

Final Verdict

Overall, the Rivian R1T is a much better deal. You get more for your money along with reliable figures verified by owners and reviewers alike. The best part is that it has already been around for a few years, and the company is optimizing the design with each iteration. For the cybertruck, you'll be added to a waiting list that keeps prolonging with each failure Elon Musk encounters as he tries to maintain his stock bubble. God help those who won't receive their pre-booked Cybertruck when it finally bursts.

Is it a good idea to electrify old cars?

Now, it is a well-known fact that fossil fuels can't sustain the automotive industry. They'll either run out or become so expensive that only a small percentage of population will have access to them. Just ask the Indian government why they are taxing 64% of the total gas cost in the country. However, all is not lost. Cars with alternative power sources are becoming more popular by the day. Not just Tesla, but a lot of mainstream manufacturers like Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Toyota are offering hybrid trims of their best-selling specimens. Honda, on the edge of the spectrum, is developing hydrogen-run fuel cell technology for more than 10 years now. So, yes, you can still drive around in cars way after the gas stations shut down.

Fossil Fuels can only stave off an energy crisis for so long

 

Electric cars are seen as a great alternative. No matter what energy source is used, it can be converted to electricity anyway. Therefore, electric cars provide a long and sustained lifespan for any user without massive changes to a nation's infrastructure. Recharging stations across major roadways in US, Canada, UK, and Norway are a common sight. More countries should soon follow the trend. But, the two main difficulties with manufacturing electric cars are range and cost of manufacture. More charging stations would certainly help with the former, but what about the latter? Here is where an ingenious solution comes to light.

As fossil fuel reserves decline, cars that drink gas like a weightlifter gobbling up protein shake are becoming less useful. I certainly wouldn't drive an '85 Cadillac Eldorado when a 2012 Cadillac CTS-V would get me better technology, driving experience, and, most important of all, fuel economy. So what happens if someone has a sentimental value to that '85 Eldorado. Simple: Convert it to electric.

I think it is a common opinion that older cars looked more beautiful. Back then, designers weren't worried about stuff like aerodynamics and functional shapes. They were more obsessed with keeping the car as beautiful to the human eye as possible. That is why we don't see cars like the Lamborghini Countach and Bugatti Royale anymore. And when the gas runs out, these cars are pretty much useless. Yet, one of these could easily be converted to electric and live on. Yes, there would be a few differences when driving them. But hey, it's like giving your Grandpa an exoskeleton. Yes, he will be excited to go to the grocery store any chance he gets and people would turn heads, but at least it'll be happy to see him up and about.

Old MGBs can easily be equipped with an electric powertrain

 

It is not such an unheard of idea, anyway. A company called Eagle in the UK has been offering restored classic Jaguar E-Types as electric for years. It would be a good initiative if it was a more mainstream practice. Think about driving a restored Ford Mustang running fully electric(None of that Mach E crap) or a Chevy Bell Air whistling through the wind, noiseless and patient. While some may argue that electrifying classic cars takes away from the driving experience, I would say that it would eliminate what few problems the driving experience presents.

What does it take to electrify a classic car?

Contrary to popular belief it is actually much simpler to electrify an old car. The battery and the electric motor take up most of the weight. Still, the entire system has one moving part, so components such as oil systems and exhaust manifold are redundant. Once the prelim fabrication is done, new suspension and chassis restoration also take away a lot more girth from the car. Then, when you yank the engine right out, you already have a lightweight chassis to work with.

 

Even a Shelby Cobra can be converted to an EV with a bit of work

The transmission needs to be removed as well. Most electric cars have only two gears - forward and reverse. The revs and torque are more adequately handled by a variable transformer as the car goes faster. Thus, you never need to change gears out on the road. Once the motor and transmission gets fixed under the car, the battery can be placed in the engine bay. Depending on your requirements, you can have better range or performance. Remember, even on the lower voltage band, all of the power is delivered to the wheels at 0 rpm. So, you don't lose a whole lot if you prioritize driving range.

Finally, the electrical system needs a good dashboard interface. Aside from the remaining charge and speed, the dash should also include battery health. It should remind you promptly when the cells are draining out and the battery needs to be replaced. This typically should happen every 4-5 years but keeps to be informed nonetheless.

How does the car feel?

If you've never driven an electric car before, it would take some getting used to. Once you start the car, the immediate notice is that of no engine roar. Those who have restored a Barracuda or a Charger will certainly complain a lot, initially. However, putting the pedal down will give you a much more suave relief. As you drive along a busy intersection, you would feel that the car has now become much more tame and responsive. Additionally, you might get irritated when a gas guzzler buzzes past you, thinking why others can't enjoy the quiet and peace. Or maybe that's just me.

 

The dashboard of a classic car restored as an EV would certainly look different

Out on the open road, the car really shines out. Only the sound of the wind and tires bless your ear. If you are an audiophile and love to listen to music while driving, you would realize how much louder you used to set the stereo to drown out the engine noise, especially for those pesky V8s. The pace at higher revs is also surprising. The car would really reach 60 mph in a flash. Still, getting past 130 would get sluggish, even with the enhanced performance package.

Range anxiety was a common problem up until recent years. What's the point of a 3-hour drive when the car takes 9 hours to fully charge? Slowly, but surely, that question is becoming rarer to pop up. Depending on your batteries, you can get a decent range from just an hour of charging. Batteries from Tesla or Nissan can get 80% of their range restored in 60 minutes. However, less known manufacturers like BYD and LG Chem also offer fast charging options. And now that the supercharger grid is present across most major roadways, you can easily locate one through your smartphone anywhere in the country.

How much does it cost?

Okay, this is what would turn a lot of people down. Restoring a classic car through a dedicated garage such as Eagle would cost you anywhere between $60,000 to $100,000. That is the price range of the new Shelby GT500. That is a major hurdle for any car trying to make it to a middle-class garage. You can give any number of advantages, but they are meaningless if people can't afford to buy the car. To counter this problem, you can always lease an electric car to get used to it first. Many states also offer subsidies and tax returns to electric vehicle owners, so that you may get some of that money back.

 

This graphs shows the battery life of a Tesla over miles driven

 

Although, you should know that there is a better alternative. You can get an old car, or even a chassis, for much cheaper from any dealer across the country. The parts necessary for the conversion, even when imported cost around $30,000. Once you take the entire package to a mechanic who has experience with electric cars, the entire conversion process can be done at a much lower cost. This is a more difficult and time-taking step but you save a lot of money with the advantage of being a proud owner of a restored classic electric car.

The New Z Proto: What to expect of Nissan's latest version of the Fairlady

With the current 370Z slowly aging towards a well-deserved retirement, many wonder what it means for the iconic car whose history dates back more than 50 years ago. It wasn't just another tuner that was only good for a lot of noise and smoke. This is the end of an era for the traditional sports car that was light on luxuries but still delivered a fun driving experience. Well, now that we have a peek into the next iteration in the series called the 400Z, it is important to take a look back what makes this car series so special.

 

The 400Z is the latest addition to Nissan's Fairlady Z series.

Back in the late 1960s, the Datsun 240Z made history as a halo 3-door sports coupe from Japan that could challenge the British MG GT and the American Ford Mustang Fastback on the track any day of the week. In addition to its robust performance, the Fairlady Z was surprisingly economical and didn't suffer from the occasional breakdown when used as a daily driver. This was a cultural icon that Nissan didn't let go even after its merger with Datsun.

 

The Datsun 240Z was the dawn of Japanese sport cars.

As the dawn of the new century came close, the Nissan 350Z set the groundwork for what the series' future would be. This new Z33 coupe was sleeker, meaner, and much more customizable. With a new 3.5L V6 engine, it was more powerful as well. For the next two decades, the 350Z was a benchmark for Japanese tuner cars. Even the new generation of teens who knew nothing about automobiles had at least played a racing video game with the Nissan 350Z in it. However, the name of the game was modification. There are Z33 builds out there that have more than 700 hp on the factory engine. Especially with the Toyota Supra and Honda S2000 out of stock in the United States, the 350Z was the canvas where the best of tuners painted their magnum opus.

 

The 350Z set the benchmark for all future tuners.

While the next in line, the 370Z, didn't have a lot of upgrades over its predecessor, it was still a fun-to-drive car with the bare basic in terms of comfort. And Nissan was adamant about tradition. So much so that this was the only sports car in 2020 that still had a CD player as standard. Now, I am going to be frank here, there is "traditional" and then there is the "How do you do, fellow kids?" meme. Thankfully, it seems Nissan is pulling away from this trend for the 400Z.

For 2021, there are a fair few upgrades(pun intended) to make the Fairlady Z truly deserve the title of a sports car of the 21st Century. This time, you don't need to buy an extra turbocharging kit right after driving it out of the showroom. Nissan is generous enough to grant two of them right off the assembly line. The powertrain is clearly inspired from the similarly aged GT-R. Although some might see this as an attempt to extend the lifespan for an old powertrain, to me it seems like they are taking the best out of the previous generation Godzilla of a track car and making it tamer for a more street-friendly use. And yes, a manual 6-speed transmission comes as standard.

The insides of the Nissan 400Z are more modern than ever in the series.

On the inside, the difference between the 400Z and the 370Z is night and day. Gone are the cramped cabin seats and dull dashboard. Instead, you get a full digital display and a console touchscreen that has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity(Finally!). You get a drive mode selector switch by default and an option for premium leather upholstery means the new Fairlady Z can have a gentleman's ambience on the inside.

On the outside, you can clearly spot the beautiful lines and front grille that pay homage to the classic Fairlady Z. As you move backwards, the sleek slopes remind you of the Z33 and the 370Z, finishing with the multi-section tail lights that Datsun first introduced in 1966. If that wasn't enough, a lot of Z badges and the redesigned headlights clearly lets anyone know exactly what they're looking at. Nissan will allow the classic bright yellow color schemes for all trims but it should be noted that more skins and a better performance NISMO version shall also be available down the line. So, fingers crossed.

 

Sticking to tradition, even the tail lights remind of the classic Fairlady Z.

It is clear that this new Fairlady Z is a direct rival to the new Toyota Supra, moving away from its more traditional competition such as the Subaru BRZ and the GT 86. The Supra is quicker to hit the road with the first pre-orders fulfilled as early as February 2020. Yet, it is clear that the 400Z is more about the traditional sports car fun, rather than the Supra which has gone full BMW with no manual transmission even as an option. It is still unclear when we'll get to drive one but one thing is certain: this would be a showdown to watch out for.

Top 5 Best SUVs of 2020

2020 is a year most of us will associate with not being too good or particularly generous. It seemed that it took more away from us than giving back. The automotive industry was one of the hardest hit sectors. Very few meaningful strides can be accomplished that most manufacturers could muster without going bankrupt in the process. It seems that it is hard to develop cars when most people aren't moving about in them at all.

SUVs and Crossovers saw a constant rise in recent years, right up until the beginning of the first quarter of 2020. According to a New York Times article, SUVs and crossovers outsold sedans two-to-one in 2019. Even after the lockdown took effect, the majority of the sales were still dominated by this segment.

Part of the reason for this sudden upsurge seems to be a change in lifestyle. If you want more practicality and technology in a family vehicle, and don't bother taking it a bit slower on the road, there is only so much a regular-sized sedan can deliver. Alongside all those advantages, SUVs have had several improvements in mitigating their drawbacks. A typical SUV of the 1990s had a large, thirsty engine that would drain the tank before you reach the next filling station, in addition to terrible handling and visibility of a Fallout bunker. Thankfully, you might not get such an idea from most modern variants.

 

While there were a lot of bold innovations this year, there were a few that stood out in their respective fields. As such, here are a few of the best SUVs and Crossovers, in no particular order, to come out in 2020.

1. Kia Telluride

The new Kia Telluride has a meaner look than its predecessor.

 

Now this one is a good example of the phrase "the customer is always right". The Telly gets what the average crossover customer wants - a lot of girth with enough comfort and convenience where it most matters. It has been a darling for review outlets around the world, and while I am quite skeptical of their professional opinion, in this case, I can't disagree. The Telluride is the largest SUV that Kia has manufactured till date, even stretching longer than the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. Once you get a peek inside the cabin, you realize it makes good use of that size. With 3-row seating, the 2020 Kia Telluride can seat a family of 8 with benching and 7 with captain's chairs. Even then, it boasts a trunk large enough to take all the passengers camping for a few days. While the base trim does just enough to get by, the top-level SX trim has Nappa leather, a Harman-Kardon audio system, and a HUD that is unbelievable for a mid-size SUV that costs just over $46,000. These are the kind of luxuries that belong more in a Merc or an Beemer.

 

On the inside, the Telluride is as spacious as it is high-tech.

That being said, there are some corners that are cut to make the Telly so cost effective. All trims come with the same naturally-aspirated V6 connected to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. While the handling is decent, it could use a bit more torque to get off the line quicker. With only 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, it feels a bit drained for a V6 in 2020. Not only that, the best that it can manage out on open tarmac is 26 mpg, which is way lower than other V6-powered SUVs in its class. Even then, considering what kind of package the Telluride delivers, a bit of stretch on your gas bill is acceptable. Not to mention the looks. All you need is some hidden gun cases in the back, and the Kia Telluride is able to give a proper Bond villain vibe. I wonder if that can be an option in the future.....

2. Mercedes-Benz AMG G 63

The new G-Wagon has a lot of performance improvements despite no cosmetic upgrades.

 

No best SUV list would be complete without the G-Wagon. Those Germans really pushed the limits to get the best performance for their latest version of the AMG G-Class, while still maintaining the car's off-road capabilities. On the outside, you will struggle to tell the difference between this and the one from 4 years ago. It is the insides, both the cabin and the hood, where the real distinction show up. Not only is the new AMG G 63 more powerful than ever, it also takes the same approach for comfort.

 

The AMG-tuned 4.0L twin-turbo V8 is the most powerful G-class engine ever.

Let's begin with the powertrain first. Pop the hood and you'll find yourself face-to-face with a pinnacle of automobile engineering. The 2020 Mercedes G-Wagon is powered by an AMG-tuned 4.0L twin-turbo V8, the same one used in the AMG GT R. It puts out 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque which is enough to make this beast rocket from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. Not bad for a car that can also wade through 700 mm of water and climb an incline of 35 degrees. All the while, the people inside can enjoy luxuries like Nappa leather upholstery and massaging seats. For more info on specific interior features, check out the official Mercedes-Benz website.

3. Land Rover Defender

The new Land Rover Defender strikes the perfect balance between retro and modern design.

This bad boy has a long legacy from the previous Land Rover Defender that stopped selling the US in the 1990s. This name was bestowed upon vehicles that could cross the toughest of terrain, from the Amazon rainforest to the Australian Outback. So, when it came to light that a new version of the Defender was in the works, people were quite skeptical to say the least. However, this 2020 version not only retained its forefather's ruggedness, but also improved upon areas that were mostly ignored.

The new Defender uses brains instead of brawn to conquer any terrain.

 

The Defender keeps the spirit of its predecessor alive in the fact that it was built to conquer almost any terrain. Unlike the old Defender, this one uses advanced technology and gizmos to an extent that you would no longer question why was there a special edition trim for the latest Bond movie. From terrain-sensing LIDAR to detachable driveshafts, the 2020 Land Rover Defender proves that it doesn't matter how much power you have as long as it is smartly utilized. For a more comprehensive list of features, you can check them out at Motortrend here. That's not all, as the insides of the Defender can be decked out with tech like a digital gauge cluster, wireless charging, and premium leather upholstery.

4. Ford Expedition 

The new Ford Expedition is a more traditional full-sized SUV.

For those more familiar with Ford's muscle car projects, it was not a shock that taking the Mustang, a classic big-block all-American monster, in a direction that smelled of fresh crossover-induced lilac was a big mistake. I thinks Matt calls it out best. Still, that can't be said for the new Expedition. This full-size SUV is just what you would expect from a full-size SUV, and then some. With independent suspension and adjustable traction control, the 2020 Ford Expedition handles much better, both on-road and off, than its most obvious competitor the Chevrolet Tahoe.

The Ford Expedition can suit anyone thanks to its variety of trims and options.

The new Expedition is powered by an Ecoboost twin-turbo V6 engine paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. It doesn't add much to the demeanor when pressing down on the pedal but it is enough to make this car tow 9300 lbs, which is more than some pickups. Speaking of pickups, just like the F-150, the Ford Expedition offers a lot of trims to choose from. The 2020 version now comes with the King Ranch trim that has creature comforts like Del Rio leather upholstery and 22-inch wheels. Safe to say, you can build your Expedition that perfectly suits your needs. What's standard across the board is the Co-Pilot 360 safety system that has features like lane-keep assist and surround-view cameras to make sure you don't accidentally bump into a Civic ricer out of your line-of-sight.

5. Acura MDX

 

The Acura MDX possesses better handling than most other SUVs.

 

It is a few years until all-electric cars are a common sight and gas pumps are replaced with recharge stations, even in the desolates of Nevada. In spite of that, Acura is not giving up on developing its electric drivetrains. We've already seen that persistence with the new NSX and RLX. It was rational that their crossover section had a similar member. While the lower trims have a gas-only option, it is the Sport Hybrid that is sure to catch your eye. Powered by a 3.0L V6 in conjunction with a set of Li-ion batteries, the Acura MDX puts out a total of 321 hp and still delivers 27 combined mpg, which are good numbers for any crossover.

 

There is ample space up front but captain's seats instead of a third row is a better option.

 

Thanks to its drivetrain, the MDX has more manners on the road than most other SUVs. It is quite responsive on the throttle and gives you the confidence to tackle tight turns at speed. While the space in the back, both for the trunk and third row passengers, may be less than ideal, there is no shortage of comfort for the rest. A bit of money can easily get you an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an ELS 12-speaker surround sound audio system. For a more comprehensive list of features, you can check out the official site here.

5 Classic Muscle Cars still carrying on strong today

There are various genres of automobiles present in the world today. Each one is a different soothing taste of both site and feel. But no matter which one you most adore, the category of Muscle cars is something that is the most bi-polar. You either completely love them or completely hate them, there is no in-between. And while many may argue that muscle cars are way too tame as compared to the beasts of the 60’s, they are still burning rubber in today’s world.

There are hundreds of muscle car manufacturers today that provide a wide range of choices to any potential buyer in the market, but only a few of these actually trace back their roots to the golden era. They may be a lot different, but carry on the legacy of their forefathers with steely determination. Here are five of those most beloved muscle car icons that are still tearing up the streets today.

1.  Chevrolet Camaro

There was a time when the American dream consisted of nothing more than being on the road with your Chevy and a pretty girl around your arms. The Camaro was not as superior in the performance department when other muscle cars of its era were talked about, but it delivered the complete package of both the beauty of the looks and the beauty of its drive that made it hold its place. Under the hood sat a 6.5L 396 cubic-inch V8, which the most you could get even at the top model. It produced a shy 375 hp and 563 Nm of torque. It wasn’t until the COPO and the Z/28 that the power crossed the 400 hp mark and it was leaving the Chargers and Mustangs in its tail lights. The handling was pretty good thanks to its stiff and robust chassis. Overall, around 240,000 Camaros left the assembly line till the production halted in 1969.

Today, the Camaro is one of the most sought-after collector’s addition to any classic muscle car enthusiast. Skip three generations, that really didn’t do much except carry on with the flow, and in 2010 the Camaro surprised everyone when it won the World Car Design Award of the Year. The new Camaro SS was a perfect balance between the classic fun and modern comfort. It hosted a 3.6L LS3 V8 that gave out the power of 426 horses. It had the same wide chassis as its great-granddad, but hosted a more stylish look and a better chassis design that made it look and feel good. The yellow version with black racing stripes eventually went down to become an icon in the Transformer movies as Bumblebee. And the Camaro didn’t slow down on the track either, with the 2017 ZL1 version doing a Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time of 7:16.4. Even today, the 2019 Z/28 Camaro is one of the fastest modern muscle cars at 231 mph, making a bold statement that it is one of those muscle cars charging forth with all the girth, and still as much fun as they were in 1964.

2. Ford Mustang

The most iconic of them all, the image of the Mustang comes to mind whenever you ever hear the words ‘muscle car’. A brainchild of the ingenious Lee Iacocca, the Mustang revolutionized the automobile industry, as it brought the power and performance of any high en sports car to the reliability and affordability of any family sedan. Although the powertrain was mostly similar from the 6.0 L V8, you never found any two cars that were the same. The Mustang was built to be built by you, offering a wide variety of customizations in almost every aspect of the car. Some were even modified to the point of not even being street legal.

The Mustang’s affordability was its main edge of success, as any family saloon buyer could easily adjust a bit more in the budget and go buy it. Even if that was too much, there was the GT350H that was available to rent at $2 a week. The silver Mustang was taken from the Lone Ranger’s Silver Pony, one of Lee’s favourite characters. Any Mustang owner could drop off his wife to work in the weekdays and spend the weekends with his mistress at the drag strip.

Even today, the new generation Mustang carries on the badge of the silver horse proudly. Though it doesn’t need much modification as Ford is generous enough to do their best, it carries a 5.0L V8 churning out 460 bhp. It allows the Mustang a good package of acceleration and top speed, but the wide body and soft suspension hurt its handling. And while it may not be as fast as its competitors, it still holds a place in the poster of every young boy’s room because of how good it feels to drive. The echoes of V8 roaring down a street causing your neck hair to stand, with all the bells and whistles modern technology has to offer is something few other muscle cars can offer.

3. Chevrolet Corvette

Yeah, two Chevys on the list, guilty as charged. But as they say, everything is fair in love and war, and you can easily fall in love with the ‘Vette. Known for its aerodynamic tear drop design that is the main feature of its beauty, the Corvette Stingray first rolled off the assembly line in 1964, and it has been rolling eyeballs ever since. The design was heavily inspired with a tiger shark, the tear drop reflecting the upper part of its tail. A 1968 version was even named the ‘Mako’. During its largely successful period spanning almost 20 years, it established itself as one of the most revered muscle cars of its era. The tear drop was not only a beauty addition, it made the car more aerodynamic, giving it sufficient downforce to effectively cut corners. The engine was also available in a wide range, from a 305 cubic inch all the way up to 454 cubic inch. One reviewer in 1968 said,”The small engine versions were marginally fast and very civilised, while the big engine versions were very fast and marginally civilised.” So you were completely informed as to what you wanted, the the Corvette surely delivered.

Unlike its competitors, the Corvette never really left the muscle car market for a long time or discharged entire assembly lines overnight. It got better and better as each new model rolled out, even after the oil crisis of the 70’s. The 2019 ZR1 version certainly sits at the top, breaking ground into the supercar territory. It has a top speed of 212 mph and reaches 60 mph from a standstill in 2.7 seconds. All that thanks to its carbon-fibre chassis and a 6.2L supercharged DFI(Digital Fuel Injection) V8. It gives the likes of Ferrari and Aston Martin a run for their money, producing 755 hp and 713 Nm of torque. And now it has been awarded the Road and Track Performance Car of the Year 2019, its forefathers surely feel proud of the state of their machine today.

4. Dodge Charger/Challenger

Oh, OK. Now, we are really climbing to the top of the food chain. This car, which has appeared as the muscle car icon in many movies, was made famous as Vin Diesel's personal favorite from the Fast and Furious series. It has stood the test of time just like its little brother, the Challenger. And while the Challenger is more tame, there is no manners with this piece of work. It is pure, unbridled and raw power. The 1969 Charger R/T was probably the baddest of the bad. It hosted a 7.0L 440 cubic inch V8. This car was purely built for speed and acceleration. The suspension and chassis were not much help in handling. All of the people who have driven the '69 R/T won't deny that it handled like a school bus. The most surprising thing is that the R/T stands for "Road/Track", I wonder why. Its sole purpose was to win drag races after even more bump in the power, and to provide a safe love place when you took away the drag queen.

After the oil crisis of 1970's, the charger lost a lot of cool. Further models were only serving the purpose of keeping the model's legacy afloat. Eventually, a tsunami happened in 2010, as the seventh generation SRT8 model rolled off the production line. This carried the pedigree of the Charger to a whole new level. New side scoops across the sides, 15% more visibility, aggressive new grille styling and a more aerodynamic body overall gave the Charger a big footprint in the 21st century. While the Pentastar 3.6L V6 lacked the hunk of the V8 of its granddad, it certainly doesn't lack the oomph. Producing 345 bhp thanks to its supercharger, it gives the Charger a fair balance between acceleration and handling. Today, the Charger carries on the mantle of being the king of the drag strip as the SRT Demon. Packing a whopping 717 hp from a 6.2L V8, it has a 0-60 mph time of 2.2 seconds. The body, which looks bloody gorgeous, is designed to give this beast a downforce of 1.8 G's. So,  this car is so wild that it needs to be nailed down by atmospheric pressure. Great. That is why it is the hardest launching production car ever, giving you how it feels to take off in an F-22 Raptor fighter jet. Certainly making its granddad proud by winning drag races from the likes of Lamborghini Aventador and the Bugatti Veyron, all the while costing mere USD 100,000.

5. Shelby Cobra GT500

The absolute masterpiece in performance and beauty, the GT500 was way ahead of its time. It was basically a Mustang GT350 made even better by the legendary Carol Shelby. Equipped with a 427 cubic-inch V8 modified to produce 380 bhp, this was the best of the best. And the best part was you could modify it to your heart's content. it gave you the best driving experience catering to your preference. no wonder it was dubbed the Eleanor, after a unicorn that simply could not be tamed. You may recognize one from the movie Gone in Sixty Seconds, the one with black racing stripes and the NOS system with the 'Go Baby, Go' button on the steering wheel. This car is one of the few classics still having the same value as it did 50 years ago. The most adorned version was the KR, which true to its nature stands for "King of the Road".

Marking the 50-year anniversary of its inception, the Super Snake was launched in 2017 as part of the latest addition to the ever growing Shelby collection. While still under the wing of Ford, the Shelby Mustangs are in the league of their own to this day. We already talked about the Ford Mustang earlier, which the Super Snake leaves in the dust. It has the Ford's 5.0 L V8 which now produces 800-bhp thanks to a massive Shelby supercharger. This allows it to easily reach 220 mph on any drag strip of your choice. While it upgrades on almost all aspects of its 1967 predecessor, it is surprisingly able to still deliver the great driving experience when driving along Route 66, albeit with all the digital conveniences. There is no doubt, therefore, that it will still be as reputable and valuable for decades to come.

5 Electric hypercars that are pushing the envelope for the future

Believe it or not, electric cars were one of the first automobiles to become street worthy. During the dawn of the 20th century, as more cities possessed electricity, there was a deficit in the number of available petrol stations. People, especially doctors, took to electric vehicles since they could travel as well as power up their portable devices with their cars. Remember, this was a time when very few urban establishments had proper electricity.

Now, more than a hundred years later, electric cars are making a comeback in almost all manners of automobiles. Partly because of the rising crude oil prices, which is sure to run out in the near future. The most impressive of all is how a few of them are beating the gas-guzzling hypercars at their own game. 

Here are five of such icons that are sure to impress any petrolhead:

1. Tesla Roadster
Perhaps the most well-known in the genre, Tesla Roadster set the benchmark for the electric supercar as far back as 2005. With revolutionary Li-ion batteries providing 200 Kwh, the car can go from a standstill to 60 mph in a staggering 1.9 seconds(which is even faster than the Bugatti Veyron).

It has a range of 620 miles on a full charge, which if needed can be covered with a top speed of 250 mph. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has announced the next generation model in 2020 will be even better, so we just have to wait and see if the company lives up to its promise. It certainly has big plans, especially with its self-driving vehicles.

2. Ariel P40
After the success of the Atom and the Nomad, Ariel has given some thought to the hypercar market and announced that it would begin production of the P40 in 2020. Sticking to its tradition of a lightweight chassis, the car weighs around 1600 Kg with its aluminium monocoque suit. It sounds rather super when you take into consideration the 1180 bhp electric motor, which can propel the car from 0-100 mph in 3.8 seconds.

Another four seconds and the car is traveling at 150 mph.

Thankfully, the top speed is restricted to 160 mph. Otherwise, your girlfriend might lose all her makeup in the rear windshield. The car has a four-wheel drive from a 295 bhp motor on each wheel, all powered by a 56 KWh liquid-cooled battery pack. Ariel claims it can do laps of 15 minutes by charging it for 50 minutes. The car will cost around 200,000 GBP or 256,000 USD.

3. Lamborghini Terzo Millenio
The Terzio Millenio (which means 'Third Millennium' in Spanish) is something of an off-beat from the traditions of Lamborghini. The fact that it is made with collaboration from MIT's Denca research lab makes it stands out even in the eco-car section. There is little information about its specifications. What is known is that it is made of special carbon fiber that "self-heals" in case of any external damage.

The electric charge is stored in the body itself, and it uses super-capacitors, instead of motors, to drive the wheels, since they are faster in charging and discharging energy. There is an onboard AI (I wonder if it's called JARVIS) which drives the car around by itself around a pre-scanned track, and then helps to improve the performance of the driver by "ghost riding" around the circuit through the HUD.

With such a pinnacle in technology for the automotive world, everyone shall be excited to see it unveil late in 2020.

4. Rimac Concept One
The lesser-known Croatian supercar manufacturer has finally made it to the news with the creation of its EV magnum opus, the Concept One. This beast packs 1072 all-electric horsepower. Weighing in at just 1800 Kg., it has the same power-to-weight ratio as the Enzo Ferrari. It also has four-wheel drive with four separate motors driving the wheels and a fully adjustable pushrod-operated double wishbone suspension. With such a punch packed beneath its surface, it can accelerate from zero to sixty in 2.6 seconds and has a top speed of 221 mph. It can certainly tear down most of the supercars if you show up with it on a track day, all day long since its 82 kWh batteries can take it well over 200 miles when fully charged.

5. Aspark Owl
With so many electric hypercars emerging from the Western Hemisphere, this almost unknown Japanese manufacturer seeks to change the status quo. The Aspark Owl is fully intended to give the Tesla Roadster a run for its money. It uses ultra-capacitors instead of batteries to save up on charging time and reduce power delivery time. Thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber chassis, it weighs just 850 Kg. All this, combined with the race-spec Hoosier tires, gives it a phenomenal zero-to-sixty time of 1.6 seconds. The top speed is a not-so-catchy 174 mph since it only has a total of 430 bhp. The range is also quite limited, about 93 miles, but it makes up for it with a quick 5-minute full charge. It is best to enjoy a couple of laps and have a short coffee break showing off the specs to burn the other drivers if this car is your choice for a day at the speedway.