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It’s been called the Year of the EV but is 2022 really the best time to buy an electric vehicle? Let’s take a look at the facts. With so many new luxury EVs and hybrids coming on the market, from sedans to SUVs this is a big year for plug-in fully electric vehicles. So why buy an electric vehicle? more For starters, they’re good for the environment. You want to help the planet. The good news is that if you drive an EV, unlike gas-powered cars, you are putting out zero emissions into the atmosphere. Those emissions are part of what contributes to climate change. So, it's a fact that EVs are responsible for less pollution overall than conventional gas-powered vehicles despite the fact that cumulative environmental impact will vary depending on the source of electricity, of course. Electric vehicles of today are super fast. That's because that electric motor puts out all of its available torque instantly - and continuously. Especially when it comes to luxury or sports EVs. Many luxury electric vehicles can now get you to 60 mph in as little as 3.0 seconds! (Or less if you are talking something like the Porsche Taycan). Additionally, performance can be better. The W battery pack is normally mounted beneath the passenger compartment so your EV has a lower center of gravity that contributes to quick cornering abilities you would only see in a sports car under most circumstances. Yes, upfront costs can be high compared to a car with a conventional gasoline-powered engine. But over time high-end EVs are easier on your wallet. Taken together, that means that a growing number of potential car buyers are weighing whether it's time to buy their first electric vehicle. Lower fuel costs are a big benefit. Charging an EV at home can work out to be much cheaper than paying for gas every week – especially as gas prices are going up over time in recent months. And, as an added benefit, EVs don’t need all the maintenance of gas-powered vehicles. In fact, they only require an estimated one-third of the maintenance. That means one-third of the cost! No fluid and filter changes or tune-ups. Nor do they need new spark plugs, hoses or belts, etc. You're only required to do things like rotate the tires and replace windshield wipers while checking brake pads - plus a few more routine service items. Additionally, there's still that one-time $7,500 federal tax credit for people buying electric vehicles. The Biden administration has proposed extending the credits for all automakers and even increasing them depending on where a vehicle is built and whether union labor is involved. Several states, including California, offer incentives for EV buyers and those who lease an EV. The California Clear Fuel Reward Gives you Yet Another Incentive to Buy Electric in 2022 Did you know you can save big on your EV purchase when you buy an eligible EV? And you may be able to combine that with existing incentives announced in the past several years. The California Clean Fuel Reward (CCFR) is now available to anyone who buys or leases a new electric vehicle with a battery capacity greater than 5 kWh. While there are no income or location restrictions within California, you have to register your electric car in California and you must live there. The goal of the California Clean Fuel Reward is to put more electric vehicles on the streets for a carbon-neutral future. Carbon neutrality means having a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. It is essential to reduce carbon emissions in order to reach a state of climate neutrality. It’s easy to obtain the reward. When you buy or lease an EV at an enrolled retailer in California, the retailer will simply include the reward in the transaction at the point of sale. The customer does not need to provide any paperwork or fill out any forms. Additionally, Pacific Gas and Electric Company and other electric utilities have teamed up with the California Air Resources Board to offer the reward, which is even offered on a sliding scale depending on your car battery size. Discounts of up to $1,500 are offered on cars with larger batteries that carry a bigger charging capacity. And, the incentive is also available on leased electric vehicles. Only vehicles purchased or leased from approved participating retailers are eligible. If you purchased your vehicle before your retailer was approved in the program or if you did not purchase at a participating retailer, you can visit your electric utility’s website or search Additional Incentives because you may still be eligible for rewards. You can view additional CCFR program rules here. “The goal of the program is to accelerate the number of electric vehicles on California’s roads and highways,” said CARB Vice-Chair Sandy Berg. “The instant point-of-sale price reduction of up to $1,500 will help make these ultra-clean cars more affordable, especially for low-income families or those living in disadvantaged communities.” So far, more than 20 cars from 15 manufacturers are eligible for the reward including 2021 models eligible to receive the full $1,500. Moreover, the CCFR can be combined with existing post-sale federal, state and local incentives. These include the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project, Clean Cars 4 All, and the Clean Vehicle Assistance Program. Together that can potentially save you $10,000 on your EV purchase. It’s a good time to buy electric! PG&E’s EV Savings Calculator helps customers who are considering purchasing or leasing an EV to compare cars and evaluate total cost of ownership of an EV compared to gas-powered cars. The tool provides customers with a personalized recommendation that includes estimated costs, savings, and rebates or incentives of up to approximately $10,000. Additionally, the EV Savings Calculator allows customers to explore EV rate options available to them for residential charging and find public charging stations in their area. Since launching two years ago, the tool has helped more than 350,000 users calculate their savings. Make sure you check out our luxury EV car inventory.

Massage Seats, Champagne Coolers, and Personal Climate Control? When it Comes to the Most Luxurious Back Seat Experience in a Car the Answer is "Of Course!" Did you know that there is a whole class of cars where everything that matters is happening in the back seat? In these rarified rolling worlds of luxury - usually a chauffeur-driven experience - the champagne is flowing and perfectly cooled, automatically adjustable seats are standard and everyone can kick back and relax with plenty of legroom. You'll also find mini-fridges, massage seats, personalized climate control, heated seats, and exquisite finishes on every surface. more Most of us just drive our cars to get from one place to another. For others, their car is an opulent haven where they are hidden from the fast-paced world outside and treated to every comfort and convenience. The latter wouldn’t dream of owning a car that lacked a refrigerator just for champagne or seats with a deep-tissue massage feature. With that said, let’s take a look at some of the most luxurious back seats, from often chauffeur-driven cars. The cars where the back-seat is the place to be. Rolls-Royce Ghost The Ghost is considered one of the most luxurious vehicles in the world. And the perfectly appointed interior, including out-of-this-world massage seats, is just one of the many reasons. The Ghost’s massage seats will help to relax all four passengers if that’s what they want. According to Motor Biscuit: “The executive seat is the best-equipped massage, however, as the up/down waves that go from the top to the bottom of the occupant’s back are complemented by a shoulder-to-lumbar massage given by a separate set of air cushions.” Other features you'll love inside the Ghost: -A customizable Rolls-Royce Starlight Headliner that gives you a beautiful sky of stars as you’re driving along, creating a majestic environment. -A beautiful analog clock inside the open-pore wood. -A champagne cooler that comes with the finest crystal glasses. -The classic Rolls-Royce umbrella that fits into the rear seats. You can even get an umbrella specially designed for the 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost interior! Rolls-Royce Phantom This one is considered by many to be the most luxurious car on the market today. Everything is trimmed to perfection and the layout will provide you with non-stop comfort and amenities. Even among luxury automobiles, the Rolls-Royce Phantom is considered the top of the heap. The cabin is exceptionally roomy, luxurious, and comfortable, filled with the finest leathers, woods, metals, and fabrics – all carefully chosen to deliver an aura of opulence and beauty. The interior is a sonic haven perfectly tuned for quiet conversation, listening to music, and simply enjoying the sound of silence. Even those pesky potholes can’t detract from this silky-smooth ride thanks to a custom pothole-spotting camera that helps the suspension adapt to road imperfections in real-time. Inside the Phantom, you are bathed in your own luxurious cocoon – giving you quiet space for a chat with a friend as you float softly through time and space. Other things we love about the Phantom experience: -The interior can be tailored to your tastes and adorned with a myriad of luxuries and a custom artwork dashboard. -The rear-hinged coach doors open to allow graceful and dramatic arrivals and departures. -Rear seat passengers are treated to an array of possible luxuries including deep-pile carpeted floor mats, power-adjustable seats with massage, and a refrigerated console. -The highest quality tanned and stretched leather is a sumptuous backdrop for your personal imprint – with the help of some master craftspeople. -You enjoy a celestial canopy with Phantom’s iconic Starlight Headliner made up of 1,344 individually placed fiber-optic stars that shine through tiny perforations in Phantom’s leather roof lining. Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase This version of the Phantom ups the ante in terms of spaciousness and comfort. The Phantom Extended Wheelbase model adds 8.6 extra inches to this already spacious automobile. That means even more legroom for you and your passengers. And you won't lack luxury because you are surrounded by gold accents and the finest leathers and woods. In fact, this interior is more like a moving palace or palatial yacht on wheels. Other features we love about the Phantom Extended Wheelbase: -The extended limousine-like rear-seat legroom of the Phantom Extended provides a welcome relief to you and your guests after a night out. -Meticulous attention to detail along with stunning design creates Phantom Extended's sumptuous interior. -The suite of Phantom Extended is a rarified sanctuary, crafted to the exacting vision of its owner - completed by the celestial canopy of iconic Rolls-Royce Starlight Headliner. -With one touch, the electrochromic glass morphs from transparent to fully opaque and creates total privacy from the front cabin while frequency-specific insulation gives you state-of-the-art levels of acoustic separation. -Rear-hinged coach doors open to allow graceful and dramatic arrivals and departures. -Cutting-edge technology is discreetly placed throughout the cabin to ensure nothing detracts from the sheer pleasure of driving or riding in this automobile. -The Privacy Suite transforms the rear cabin into a haven of solitude where the conversation does not reach the front part of the cabin. Honorable mentions: BMW 7 Series This vehicle may be known for looking gorgeous and turning heads - but the interior is where it's all happening for you and your passengers. It's covered in high-end finishes, leather, and other materials that will make you feel like you've fallen into the lap of luxury. And everyone in the car enjoys instant access to high-tech infotainment consoles and a touch-screen panel for interior lighting as well as personalized seat customization. The automatic and adjustable mood lights help you set the tone for the evening. Moreover, the passenger seat can fold all the way up so you can stretch your legs straight out and snooze. Audi A8 L The footrests are simply to die for and you also get reading lights that each come with their own dimmer. The Audi A8 L's 35-degree reclining seats are so much like a bed that you might be tempted to get some shut-eye on longer drives. (As long as someone else is doing the driving). Each passenger gets a TV and access to a comfy middle armrest with storage and controls for the interior climate. And what would Audi's largest sedan be without a massage feature in its seats? Massage, heating, and ventilation are, of course, available for all four seats. Porsche Panamera Choose the Executive Package for the Porsche Panamera and you might think you've landed in heaven (or an opulent spa). Not only are the built-in headrests perfect for easing neck tension but the massage option is one of the best on the market. The two rear seats are available with adjustable power and an electric backrest adjustment, cushion length adjustment, and lumbar support. You can also choose a Sport Seat design with raised side bolsters, ensuring the most comfort. If your passengers are feeling cold they can also turn on the heated seat feature and relax with the comfort headrests. Oh, and there's plenty of legroom. Bentley Flying Spur The Bentley Flying Spur is built on luxury giving you the best possible high-end experience on the road. For starters the rear seat headrest pillows are uber soft and supple, not to mention supportive to the neck. If that's not enough there's available massage seats for every seat. You and your passengers enjoy reclining rear seats, massagers (of course!), and access to a touchscreen with climate controls and any media, games, internet access you might desire. Rolls-Royce Cullinan This Rolls-Royce ultra-luxury SUV shares many of the features of the Phantom. It also includes a Viewing Suite that is automatically deployed at the touch of a button. That means that two rear-facing, tastefully contemporary leather chairs, and a cocktail table emerge as if from a cloud to help you take in the views as you enjoy some champagne and caviar.

Are you planning to buy a car in 2022? Waiting for that perfect model to arrive in showrooms? Either way, 2022 is shaping up to be an exciting year for automobiles. And did you know we carry many of the cars that are consistently ranked among the best of the best? One major media outlet, US News and World Report, just included several of our models on a list of the best cars that are on the way in 2022 and beyond. Of course, it’s not all good news. Due to the very real supply chain disruptions, a microchip shortage, and the lingering after-effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, some models may not arrive in dealer showrooms right on time. But in order for you to stay on top of what’s happening we’ve compiled a list based on media buzz of models that are expected to cause a stir this year and beyond. more 2022 Audi e-tron GT The all-new 2022 Audi e-tron GT employs electric motors in both the front and rear to create 469 horsepower for normal driving and up to 522 horsepower for 2.5 seconds when launch control activated. That's enough power to propel this great looking four-door from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. It’s estimated to have a 238-mile range on a single charge. And that’s not the only environmentally friendly aspect of this GT. The interior is leather free and uses recycled materials such as Dinamica and Alcantara, both of which are standard. All starting at $99,900. 2022 BMW i4 BMW is getting very serious about its EVs. The all-new 2022 BMW i4 brings electric to a core segment of the brand. (Think: Electric equivalent of the gasoline-powered BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe). In fact, the first electric BMW Gran Coupe will come in two versions: The BMW i4 eDrive40, a low-to-the-ground 335-horsepower rear-wheel-drive sedan as well as the base model i4 eDrive40.The i4eDrive40 starts at $55,400 and has a range of up to 300 miles on a single charge. Have a need for even more from your EV? You can upgrade to the BMW i4 M50 which comes with an all-wheel-drive dual-motor setup that produces 536 horsepower and a 245-mile range. Starting price is $65,900. BMW says you can expect to get from zero-to-60-mph in a mere 3.7 seconds in the i4M50. 2022 Audi A6 e-tron Another Audi that made the list of top cars: the Audi A6 etron. It’s based on the Audi A6 e-tron concept car and is a fastback sedan that rides on BMW’s new Premium Platform Electric platform - co-developed by Audi and Porsche. The concept car featured several exciting technologies that are likely to be included in the production model, including a two-motor design that provides an electrified version of the company's vaunted Quattro all-wheel drive, according to US News and World Report.While nothing official has been released, the concept car boasts a zero-to-60-mph time of less than four seconds and a single-charge range of 435 miles, according to Audi. 2022 Volkswagen GTI It’s a historic hatch for a reason. The Volkswagen GTI blends the enjoyment of driving a sports car with the practicality of a hatchback. And 2022’s model is no exception. The Volkswagen GTI is completely redesigned and includes an updated overall look, plenty of new tech as well as a powerful engine. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine churns out 241 horsepower, a 13-horsepower increase over the outgoing model. Inside, Volkswagen updated the familiar Clark Plaid upholstery to a modernized “Scalepaper” plaid design. All models feature a 10.25-inch customizable digital instrument panel and your choice of 8.25- or 10-inch infotainment display. All starting at $29,545 for the manual transmission-equipped base GTI S, and $38,795 for a GTI Autobahn with an automatic transmission. 2022 Volkswagen Golf R It’s certainly an exciting year for VW. And nothing captures that excitement like the 2022 Volkswagen Golf R. This hatch is smokin’ hot thanks to its four-cylinder turbo that offers 315 horsepower and up to 295 pound-feet of torque. That's a 27 horsepower increase over the current model. You can expect the 4Motion all-wheel drive to come standard. The Golf R comes with a digital instrument panel and a 10-inch infotainment touch-screen infotainment system. The 19-inch alloy wheels and summer high-performance tires are stunning as are the Lapiz Blue, black, and white exterior paint options. Volkswagen I.D. Buzz This is the bus many have been waiting for: The electric Volkswagen Microbus. And wait we will. The Volkswagen I.D. Buzz has reportedly been delayed from a 2022 arrival to 2023. But it’s looking really great! Based on the concept, the I.D. Buzz will use a pair of electric motors to produce 369 horsepower and provide all-wheel drive – all with an expected range of about 300 miles. Expect an electric van and delivery van. Check out our new cars for sale!

The Bentley Bentayga Hybrid SUV is part of a Lineup that Will be Fully-Hybridized by 2025 and Fully-Electric The Bentley Bentayga Hybrid is more than a luxury hybrid SUV. It’s the luxury hybrid SUV that foreshadows a Bentley lineup that will be entirely hybridized by 2025. As part of its Beyond100 strategy, Bentley has made a series of bold commitments, including that by 2023, all three Bentley models will be available as luxury hybrid cars. Two of them – the Flying Spur and Bentayga – already are here. In 2025, Bentley will launch its first fully electric Bentley. It will also be the first luxury car in the world to be carbon neutral over its entire lifetime. By 2026, the entire Bentley range will be made up of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. And by 2020, Bentley vows, the entire lineup will be fully electric. As such, the company will evolve from the world’s largest producer of 12-cylinder internal combustion engines, into a purely electric vehicle manufacturer – and all in just ten years. "This is a journey on which there can be no turning back," the company said in a statement. As part of this revolution, the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid features a 335-hp, 332-lb-ft single-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 engine joined by a 126-hp, 258-lb-ft permanent-magnet synchronous motor - churning out 443 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The Hybrid's 17.3-kWh battery, which weighs 463 pounds, is located beneath the rear load-space floor, behind the rear axle. The luxury hybrid SUV will be back in 2023 but you can still get the 2021 version. Behind its rear seat is a cargo hold with enough square footage for a high-speed shopping spree. The posh cabin is lined with fine leather, gorgeous wood and metal accents, and every modern infotainment feature buyers expect of a cutting-edge motorcar. It currently comes in a new S model that incorporates the top-end “ Speed” model's design cues but is powered by the 542-hp V-8. It comes with a sport-tuned suspension, 22-inch wheels, and a sport exhaust system. A set of carbon fiber rims is also newly optional for 2022, thanks to Bentley's Mulliner personalization program. Inside the cabin of the Bentayga Hybrid, there are sumptuous leathers, real wood trim, and beautiful metal accents. You can also opt for front and rear bucket seats or a three-across second-row bench with an optional pop-up two-seat third row to seat a total of seven. The Bentayga's cargo area is spacious and can fit nine carry-on suitcases in the two-row versions. This is a luxury SUV that will get you from zero to 60 in a mere 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph. And it can be all yours starting at $160,000. A closer look at the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid: -The Bentayga Hybrid's powertrain consists of a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 paired to a single electric motor which is situated between the V-6 and the Bentayga's 8-speed automatic transmission. -Peak system output is 443 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. -The Bentayga Hybrid’s electric motor is powerful enough to move the SUV through town on its own, all the way up to speeds of 84 mph before the gas-powered engine kicks in. -The Bentayga Hybrid relies on a 17.3-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery that is good for around 30 miles of pure electric driving. -Handsome styling, including new front and rear-end sections that have a more rounded and muscular look, jewel-like headlights, and square taillights, make the 2021 Bentayga Hybrid something to behold. See our Bentley inventory for sale

The VW Microbus is the vehicle that is synonymous with the 1960s/1970s hippie era, and it's about to make a big comeback as an electric vehicle. We've been eagerly waiting for the Volkswagen ID.Buzz - a modern electric take on the original and iconic VW microbus - and now it looks like we'll have to wait a little longer. Although it just appeared as a full production model after a widely publicized concept version was released a few years ago, it likely now won't hit showrooms for at least another year. Word on the street is that the Volkswagen ID Buzz will go on sale in the U.S. in 2023 as a 2024 model. The production model ID.Buzz electric VW van looks similar to the concept, but with some key differences. Among them, according to Motor Trend magazine: real headlights, door handles, and side mirrors. For its part, VW says that more information about the ID Buzz will be revealed at the beginning of 2022. (We'll be sure to update you!) What we know so far is that the 2024 ID.Buzz will be offered as a long-wheelbase passenger van. Europe will get other versions of the same bus, including a cargo van without windows for commercial use. The U.S. model is expected to come in a base rear-wheel-drive single-motor powertrain that offers about 200 horsepower and an upgrade all-wheel-drive dual-motor version that churns out around 300 hp. (The original model made just 25 horsepower!) It's expected to offer an even bigger battery pack than the Volkswagen ID.4 SUV, which provides up to 260 miles of range. The ID.Buzz is one of a slew of electric vehicles based on the MEB chassis, which is being shared by Volkswagen's ID series cars/SUVs along with EVs from other brands such as Audi. The Volkswagen ID.Buzz is a modular, fully electric platform that has two different versions: one for passenger cars and another for utility vehicles. It is inspired by the German automaker’s iconic Type 2 Microbus – aka the "VW Bus" – but in a very high-tech, electric-vehicle kind of way. ID Buzz.jpeg Starting at an estimated $40,000, the 2024 VW ID. Buzz will be an all-new van for the electric era. Along with that all-electric powertrain and expected 300 miles of driving range, it has flexible and super cool seating configurations. Just like the original generations, the ID. Buzz will offer you plenty of space for passengers or cargo, with an abundance of windows and resulting natural light. There’s even a “front trunk” that was also featured in the original VW Beetle van. This electric van has plenty of room for friends, pets, and luggage – and a variety of ways to use the interior. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo’s battery capacity starts at 48 kWh and can be increased to 110 kWh, according to Car and Driver. The innovative van features a highly adaptable three rows of seats that can be spun around laid down or removed completely if you’re hosting your own be-in. This means you can sleep in it, eat in it, chill in it. The movable center console slides forward and back on a track and contains a table. And somehow designers even saved room for a trunk. The VW ID. Buzz was designed to recall the original Type 2 Microbus without copying it. The front V in the body harkens back to the two-tone early version. But the ID. Buzz features design elements such as a light strip that surrounds the vehicle and gives it a futuristic visual appeal. The LED headlights have hexagonal segments that act as “eyes” to communicate the vehicle’s status. We think it will be worth the wait!

The Jetta is a classic: Sleek, sophisticated, and comfortable to drive. And if Justin Timberlake has any influence, it’s slated to become the celebrity car du jour. (At least we like to think so!) That’s right, the 40-year-old pop star icon’s daily drive of choice is a Volkswagen Jetta. And what brings the multi-Grammy winner/multi-platinum recording artist pure driving satisfaction is his beloved Jetta. “I’m Lovin’ It”, he said recently when asked about his car’s ’ll signature blue and red instrument lighting and retractable cup holders. There’s good reason to love the Jetta. Not only is it always fun to drive but the interior is all about customization. There’s Interior ambient lighting and available panoramic sunroof that make for an open and bright cabin. You can choose ventilated and heated front seats to make your next road trip that much more comfortable. And though he’s sold 88 million records worldwide, won 10 Grammy awards and amassed a $250 million fortune, Timberlake clearly loves his agile 2002 Jetta. In fact, he refuses to part with the $16,000 vehicle and drives it in order to stay incognito while out running errands in Los Angeles. The VW Jetta is a small sedan that packs a serious punch with a standard 158-hp turbocharged engine, fun handling, and a variety of driver selection modes. The ride is quiet and smooth. Timberlake’s personal Jetta features a turbocharged 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine and boasts a lot of interior space as well as around 34 cubic feet of cargo space, according to GQ magazine.For 2022 the Jetta boasts some updated exterior styling and a more powerful engine - up from 147-hp to that aforementioned 159-hp 1.5-liter turbo four cylinder. You can also choose a new Sport model. The base S model now comes with more standard features. The 8.0-inch fully digital gauge cluster and driver assists features – including automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring – are sure to make you feel like you’ve moved into the future of VW. Starting at $18,995 it may be the car you can’t live without in 2022! What other features does the 2022 Jetta have? Let’s take a look: - A premium, refined look with sleek lines and a modern interior -Lots of technology features that help enhance the driving experience. -A new available display that allows information to be displayed digitally in high resolution with plenty of customization for what is displayed. -Available wireless charging for compatible devices. -Premium content, including the available SiriusXM with 360L. -Car-Net⁠9: which comes with a mobile app that can give you command of your car from your device. -R-line badging and black grille accents to the leather -wrapped, multi-function steering wheel.-It's clearly bringing sexy back! Check out our latest VW inventory for sale.

Sliding down an icy mountain is nobody’s idea of fun. Even in regions not known for black ice, winter can create hazards in the form of freezing rain, snow, and sleet. And chains can be a good solution for helping you to get from point A to point B safely. Different state laws regulate the use of chains. But before you buy a new pair for your luxury car or SUV, make sure you know whether chains are legal, permitted, or even required in some areas under certain conditions. For instance, in the mountains of the west, it’s not unusual to see “Chains Required” signs as you cruise up to your favorite ski resort. That chain requirement means you must put them on your tires if you want to get past a certain checkpoint. In areas where chains are permitted there’s usually a disclaimer that restricts their usage when not needed (to save the roads) - so make sure you understand the law. Otherwise, it can cost you in terms of being ticketed. One more issue to consider: Is your car even suitable for chains? You can, of course, find chains for most tire sizes. But at the same time, there must be enough clearance for them to fit on your tires without causing damage to the body of your vehicle. That damage can include damage to your car’s undercarriage or its brakes. Be sure to look at your car’s owner’s manual for details. Here are some other issues you will want to consider when thinking about whether you want to buy chains for your car. Preparation Chains are something you will likely need to take on and off at least once during your road trip. So it’s best to practice installing them once before you are suddenly hit with air, sleet, snow, or ice. While parked in a nice warm garage, put them in your car and take them off a few times so you have the hang of it before you leave on your trip. Otherwise, you might be stuck struggling while at the same time dealing with cold hands. There could also be snow and poor visibility – making this a dangerous task. Understand when to use them Tire chains for cars should only be used if there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on bare pavement can cause substantial damage to both your tires and the road itself. If you turn onto a road that’s clearly been plowed and salted, pull over and remove the chains. 3 . Understand how to use them When on, the car should not be driven above 30 miles per hour and you have to be mindful of curbs when parking. On two-wheel-drive vehicles, chains must be attached to wheels on the drive axle, but ideally, you get them on all four. If installed only in the front there will be a tendency to oversteer and a tendency to understeer if they’re only in the back. Four-wheel drive vehicles should have chains installed on all tires. Though they can be cumbersome, snow chains make a huge difference when it comes to driving safely in bad weather. They are an ideal thing to keep in your car in case driving conditions take a turn for the worse. Don’t be caught in ice or deep snow without them! Some are better at tackling certain terrains than others so always consult with your dealership and consider OEM chains made specifically for your vehicle. An example: Diagonal chains are best for cars and trucks – those with traction control - while chains in a diamond pattern give more consistent traction for a smoother ride in other vehicles.Also, square chains are more durable and provide even better traction than diamond chains for many vehicles. Then there are the simpler cable chains, which are easy to install and ideal for vehicles with limited tire clearance. However, they are not as durable or effective as the other types. Please note: chains are sold by tire size. Always check the size of your tire before purchasing to make sure they are the right size.

We’ve been stuck at home for nearly two years. It’s time to let go and enjoy the holidays with family and friends. Right? Right! But everyone’s exuberance for holiday cheer means more people on the road and more risk for accidents. With so many people out and about – and our collective lack of driving for almost two years – it’s important to focus on the fact that roads can be slippery and other drivers might not be as cautious. So here are five ways you can stay safe while getting to your favorite holiday event: Check your forecasts First and foremost know what kind of weather you’ll be driving into. Check your favorite weather site or local news to know if it’s going to be icy, snowy, rainy, or just plain cold. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a lot of information on its website. They also have great snow removal systems in place to help keep roads clear and safe for driving. But DO watch your live weather forecasts on your local news stations and check your favorite weather website or app for updates on the latest driving conditions. Pay close attention to other drivers Being distracted is one of the top reasons for car accidents. An average of eight people die every day in road accidents in the US, according to the CDC. Keep in mind that weather conditions play a crucial role in these numbers and winter creates even worse conditions – including poor visibility due to weather and shorter daylight hours. Pay attention while driving in winter conditions and don’t get distracted by devices or conversation inside the car even if you have to say, “don’t talk to me right now, I’m trying to stay focused on the road." Reduce your speed Pay attention to your speedometer and remember that you can’t drive as fast as you normally might when you are dealing with poor visibility, snow, rain or sleet, not to mention other drivers. Brakes may not respond as quickly or as well in freezing conditions so try to avoid situations (like tailgating) where you might need to slam your foot down. If you need extra time to get somewhere due to the need for reduced speed simply leave several minutes earlier than you normally wood. Get your car checked That pesky winter weather can cause an assortment of issues with your cars. Make sure you’ve changed your oil, replaced fluids – especially windshield wiper fluid – and have your car serviced so that critical parts aren’t wearing out at this troublesome time of year. You can also follow this basic car maintenance checklist yourself. Do Not drink and drive Inclement weather along with the bustling holiday season may be a major temptation for enjoying food and drink. But if you are going to imbibe, hire or designate a driver to transport you from one place to the next. It's not only your safety you should be concerned about but that of your passengers. Driving under the influence is also illegal and a punishable offense that is a major cause of fatal road accidents. So get a designated (sober) driver so you don’t have to worry that your Christmas cheer is a threat to your well-being and your family’s safety! Bonus tip What do you do if you hit black ice? God forbid it happens but these are the steps you should take, according to the USDA Forest Service website. If you do hit black ice - a kind of particularly dangerous dark glossy ice - you must remain calm. First, do as little as possible and allow your car to pass over the ice. Do not hit the brakes, and try to keep the steering wheel straight. If you feel the back end of your car sliding left or right, make a very gentle turn of the steering wheel in the same direction. If you try to struggle against it by steering in the opposite direction, you risk skidding or spinning out so keep any turns gentle. Lift your feet off the accelerator completely and keep your steering wheel fixed in the position it's in. Slowing down will give you more control. Do not touch the brakes. Doing so will likely cause you to skid. The idea is to slide over the ice in the direction the steering wheel is facing; usually, black ice patches aren't longer than 20 feet.

So-called "smash and grab" car thefts have spiked in cities - particularly affluent areas - across the United States. But did you know there are steps you can take to protect your luxury car from such crimes? From Los Angeles to San Francisco and from Denver to Washington, D.C. police have been responding to a growing number of thefts involving parked cars. It boils down to car windows being broken and valuables being taken from the vehicle. And it happens quickly. Thieves can quickly spot and snatch purses, other bags, electronics, and any number of other valuables from vehicles parked on the street or in parking lots and garages. These thieves use a blunt tool such as a baseball bat to break windshields and windows, then reach in and snatch items. A Chicago family was targeted recently while visiting San Francisco. Several relatives, including two toddlers, were in the car when the break-in happened near Lombard Street - a popular tourist destination. It was particularly shocking in that it happened while adults and children were in the car. A bag was stolen, along with a computer, headphones, a passport, and the kids’ birth certificates, among other things. ‘Smash and grab’ incidents happen in just a couple of seconds and are usually reported to police in sprees, often within the same area and the same time frame. They mostly involve the criminal smashing the window and stealing all valuable possessions left out in the open. Tinted windows and locked doors do nothing to deter such criminals. Here are some ideas on how you can protect your luxury car amidst this trend. 1.- Don't leave anything valuable in your car. It should go without saying but you'd be surprised how often people leave valuables out in their car. This includes: Purses Backpacks Laptops and tablets GPS navigation device Briefcases Cell phones 2.- Park in well-lit areas close to the nearest buildings. 3. Install anti-theft alarm systems. (Call us today if we can help!)Please note: Not all systems can prevent this type of car break-in but they can at least put up a bump in the road. Car owners have a wide range of OEM alarm and security options that can help prevent them from becoming a victim of a smash and grab. Alarm systems have a computer-controlled unit that triggers the siren as needed. Systems can include different types of sensors that detect when there's a break-in. Those include: Glass Break Sensors These detect certain acoustic frequencies such as the noise of shattering glass. Pressure Sensors These detect changes in the air pressure inside your vehicle. So, if a window is broken - or your doors are forced open - the sensor will trigger some sort of alarm. Motion Sensors Some cars have systems that detect motion using ultrasonic waves. This is the perfect type of system to effectively alert car owners to break-ins and ‘smash and grab’ theft. Just remember that not all the things that happen during the holiday season are cheery and bright. The name "Smash-Grab" came from the exact actions thieves do to vehicles: They break a window (Smash) and take all the valuables they can as quickly as they can (Grab). Some of these perpetrators are experts and some are just minor-league vandals. Most are casual opportunists. So before you leave your car always make sure valuables are out of sight. That means: Phone Purse or wallet Laptop A briefcase Backpack Shopping bags filled with merchandise Small electronics Cash and credit cards Additionally: Always lock your doors and roll up your windows Activate your security alarm system Consider window tinting Don’t use the console or glove box as mobile lockboxes. They don't work

It’s the worst of the worst: you feel that familiar jolt and cringe as you realize you've hit a big fat pothole. If you drive a Ford F150 it might just be a tiny annoyance. If you drive a Lamborghini it could mean a trip to your trusted mechanic. That’s because your average car or truck can run over a pothole with little care for a costly repair. But these same potholes can also do some serious damage to a sedan or sportscar, which is of particular concern if you drive a luxury car such as the aforementioned Lambo or a Porsche 911 or an Aston Martin. That’s right: potholes can be harmful and even dangerous. If you hit a pothole hard and you or a passenger bounce up and hit the top of the car or a roll bar, you can be seriously injured. And the most dangerous part is that from a distance you might not even see a pothole! To add insult to injury if you hit a pothole at a good clip it can damage your tires and cause negative issues with your shocks and suspension. If your ride or handling changes for the worse, there could be a critical issue that has resulted. So it’s important to get to your mechanic or dealership quickly. Here are some ways you can prevent pothole damage: -Keep an eye out for potholes. If it’s not a perfectly paved road you can usually spot them up ahead. At that point, be sure to slow down as you pass over or beside it. If you hit a pothole at a reduced speed you can also reduce any potential damage or avoid it altogether. -Always try to avoid potholes altogether if you can. You can do this by straddling the hole or driving around it (not always possible if there is oncoming traffic so at the very least try to slow down). Other problems that can be caused by potholes include: Punctured Tire and Wear Tread If you hit a pothole you can experience excessive wear to your tire or you might get a puncture or leak. Take immediate action and get your car seen that same day if possible. Wheel Damage If you hit a pothole the rims of your tires can become bent or dented. This can cause a real issue between the tire and the edge of the wheel that can further exacerbate air leaks and flat tires. Suspension That force can shift to the suspension system and damage springs and shock absorbers. Alignment You might experience steering problems after hitting a pothole directly. That can be from misalignment. This impacts safety and requires swift attention from a mechanic. Chassis You might notice leakage beneath your car after hitting a pothole. That means your car’s chassis or undercarriage may have been damaged. Get it in for repairs immediately. And, finally, the best thing you can do to avoid all of this pothole mess is to drive attentively, especially at night. Try to steer clear of potholes and watch for water and ice on the road as well. Potholes can be filled with these things making them extra hazardous. Another threat caused by potholes: Accidents. You might panic when you see a big pothole and swerve to avoid it, putting you in the path of oncoming cars. Hitting one can actually send your car in a direction you don’t mean to drive, risking you losing control and hitting something else, including a car or a tree. Potholes are a major road hazard. So, again, always reduce your speed when you see one. And, as much as it is possible, try to avoid a direct strike to one so you don’t damage your car or get stuck in one.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom V was launched in 1959 to replace the venerable Silver Wraith. It was a much larger car, meant to be driven by a chauffeur. In fact, it was the ultimate limousine of its time. Most of the original Phantoms were black. They were either used for formal occasions or privately by members of wealthy families. The Rolls-Royce Phantom first made worldwide headlines in January of 1965. On that date, the Duke and Duchess of York were traveling home from Sir Winston Churchill’s funeral when their Phantom veered off the road and down a shallow embankment, turning over three times and landing on its roof. Due to the Phantom’s great design and sturdy construction, none of the occupants was seriously injured. The incident showcased the strength and resilience of the James Young coachwork. That same 5AT30 model was rebuilt and continued to serve the family for years. But let’s get to the good stuff, shall we? It was 1964. The Beatles took over the world with the release of their film A Hard Day’s Night. In December of that year, John Lennon special ordered a Rolls-Royce Phantom V from R. S. Mead of Maidenhead. He wanted his car to be black inside and out. In fact, even all of the brightwork (normally finished in chromium plate or stainless steel) was black. Built by Mulliner Park Ward, the car was covered in an all-black gloss paint, including the wheel discs and bumpers. Only the iconic Pantheon grille and Spirit of Ecstasy mascot retained their conventional chrome finish, at the marque's insistence. Lennon’s car was one of the first cars in Britain to have blacked-out windows, made from darkened, reflective Triplex Deeplight glass. It also was 3/16” thick in the rear doors and 3/4” in the rear quarter lights and had backlight and division glass. “People think they’ve got black windows to hide. It’s partly that, but it’s also for when you’re coming home late,” Lennon told a Rolling Stone interviewer in 1965. “If it’s daylight when you’re coming home, it’s still dark inside the car – you just shut all the windows and you’re still in the club.” The interior featured black Bedford cord cloth and black nylon rugs in the rear compartment, and black leather in the front. Later, the car was repainted in a psychedelic electric yellow, embellished with flowers, Romany scrolls, and signs of the zodiac. According to The Atlantic, John Lennon reportedly loved to tell the story of a London woman who was so upset by what the musician had done to his Roll-Royce Phantom that she went after it with her umbrella. Besides the huge V8 engine Lennon's Phantom included a cocktail cabinet, portable TV, a refrigerator, and some of the first tinted windows ever fitted to a British car. After months of use, with his driver - Les Anthony - getting him to meetings and recording sessions in style, Lennon returned the car to Rolls in December of 1965 for service. He spent about $49,615 in today’s dollar, on a number of upgrades, some of them very custom. Among other things, Lennon had the Rolls team replace the more conventional back seat with a seat that could be converted into a double bed, install a radiotelephone that occupied most of the trunk; and build a record and tape player as well as hidden loudspeakers that could scare anything or anyone outside the vehicle. And later, the most rebellious move of all – a psychedelic paint job. Lennon called on the services of coachbuilder, JP Fallon. In 1967,with the dawning of the Age of Aquarius in full swing, the car went back again and the Rolls team pained a base coat of bright yellow and then artist Steve Weaver hand-finished the Phantom with swirls, flowers, and a zodiac sign. Blue, green, and red hues replaced the all-black exterior paint on the original. A day before the release of Sgt. Pepper’s the paint job was completed and unleashed on the world, grabbing a ton of media coverage. People were upset. Lennon was thrilled. It was everything Lennon hoped it would be “extravagant, unique and disruptive,” according to The Atlantic. Sound familiar? It’s the very essence of Rolls-Royce, after all. After the shock wore off, we think the founding founders of Rolls-Royce might have dug it.

The 2022 Rolls-Royce Black Badge Ghost will Ignite Your Sense of Mystery and Drama with its Almost Supernatural Levels of Luxury and Performance. Rolls-Royce calls the 2022 Black Badge Ghost a darker and more menacing version of the original Ghost. In other words, it’s one of the most luxurious cars in the world made even more extra by some considerable upgrades layered into its design. And it's a Rolls-Royce that conveys an almost supernatural attitude of nocturnal mystery and drama. The British automaker recently unveiled the second generation Black Badge Ghost in Miami, where the nightlife is a universe unto itself. The new edition Black Badge Ghost is rife with carefully selected design elements and some enviable engineering upgrades. Rolls-Royce first introduced the Black Badge treatment to its already uber-luxurious fleet in 2016. The idea was to attract a younger customer base – and it worked, according to Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. He told the Robb Report that the average age of the brand’s customer base has gone from 57 to 43. He also notes that Black Badge models account for nearly a third of Rolls’ overall sales. Now Black Badge has been applied to the Ghost, which was the Robb Report’s Luxury Car of the Year for 2021. And the 2022 model is offering an even more spirited ride, according to the media outlet. It’s built upon the Ghost’s same aluminum spaceframe platform. Starting $395,000, the 2022 Black Badge Ghost also shares the original Ghost’s 6.75-liter twin-turbo V-12. But it delivers a more amazing 591 horsepower and 664 ft lbs of torque and will get you from zero-to-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. (More on performance later). So what, exactly, make the Black Badge Ghost different than a mere Ghost? Let’s take a look! Aspecial Coating The Spirit of Ecstasy and grille are coated with a special chrome electrolyte and then hand polished to create an exquisite black chrome finish. They even match the Black Badge-only 21-inch wheels made with up to 44 layers of carbon fiber for maximum strength. The wheels have a 3D-forged aluminum hub as well as aerospace-grade titanium fasteners. To top it off, the wheel finish is a lightly tinted lacquer meant to protect the the carbon fiber. Finishes Galore Bolivar wood comprises the interior trim. Special air vent surrounds are darkened through something called physical vapor deposition. Among the new instruments, the timepiece on the dashboard is minimalist and sleek and has been modified to have a “post opulent” (aka streamlined) look thanks, in part, to a tidy chrome finish. Elsewhere in the cabin there’s carbon fiber-like pattern called “technical fiber.”  The Black Badge infinity logo is beautifully displayed via 152 individual LED lights. The Exterior Paint Color The 2022 Black Badge Ghost exterior paint color is what Rolls calls the darkest black now available on any car in the world. An impressive 100 pounds of paint were used to cover each and every Black Badge Ghost before two layers of clear coat were applied to each car. Finally, the exterior is hand polished by a team of four experts to create an incredibly gloss finish. Don’t like super-dark black? This is a Rolls, after all, and you can choose from some 44,000 paint colors. It’s More Powerful The car’s power output jumps from 563 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque in the regular Ghost to 591 hp and 664 lb-ft in the Black Badge Ghost. Performance is further boosted by the Black Badge’s exclusive "Low" mode, a setting that produces full torque at only 1,700 rpm and cuts shift time by half when the pedal is at least 90 percent deployed. Additionally, this Ghost’s eight-speed automatic transmission is supported by satellite to allow for better shifting based on the road conditions. It’s Post Opulent The Black Badge Ghost sports a posh yet uncluttered aesthetic—a fairly new look dubbed “post opulent” by the automaker. The streamlined look is defined inside by obsidian-like Bolivar wood paired with composite veneers and shaded brightwork. Outside, the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament and striking Pantheon Grille, both blackened with a chrome electrolyte, are complemented by formidable 21-inch wheels, each comprised of 22 layers of carbon fiber. “Black Badge Ghost lives after dark, igniting the rebel within. Powerful, agile, and fearless, it is the most potent manifestation of Rolls-Royce yet — a drive defined by unrelenting force and finesse,” according to Rolls-Royce. It also has a more engaging gear ratios, all-wheel drive, and all-wheel steer offer the most responsive and dynamic drive the marque has ever achieved — with the smoothest Magic Carpet Ride sensation imaginable, according to Rolls. If you’ve been meaning to enhance your already rebellious aura and add in a bit of mystery – without sacrificing performance and style, the Black Badge Ghost may be just what you need in 2022.