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Google's latest Agent technology will drive the next generation of in-car AI assistant for Mercedes.

2025-04-04 22:41:36 By Michael Smith

On Monday, Google Cloud unveiled its latest Automotive AI Agent, with the Mercedes-Benz CLA set to be the first vehicle model to integrate this technology later this year. This new Agent will enhance the capabilities of Mercedes’ MBUX Virtual Assistant, allowing for a broader range of conversational interactions with passengers in the car.

We got our first look at Mercedes’ next generation assistant a year ago, at CES 2024, though the company did not reveal which large language model underpinned its capabilities at the time. This new assistant differs from the existing MBUX that can activate around two dozen in-car commands and provide information sourced from ChatGPT and Bing. While the current generation assistant can be activated by stating “Hey, Mercedes,” it functions more like Siri or Google Assistant than ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode, offering static responses rather than conversational replies.

Google’s Agent is built atop the Gemini LLM using Vertex AI and is geared specifically to “allow automakers to create highly personalized and intuitive in-car agents that go beyond current vehicle voice control,” per the company’s announcement post. The Agent supports both multimodal and multilingual inputs, as well as can provide answers to follow-up questions. In Google’s example, the AI will be able to tell drivers if there are any Italian restaurants nearby, then offer up reviews of the establishment and even tell you what the most popular dish there is. The system is reportedly robust enough to handle multi-turn dialog with users and remember details from previous conversations.

The new MBUX assistant will reportedly pull “fresh and factual information” from Google Maps in near real time to offer “comprehensive and personalized information” about more than 250 million points of interest worldwide and current traffic conditions. “At Mercedes-Benz, we seek to offer our customers an exceptional digital experience,” said Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, in a press statement. “Our partnership with Google Cloud will further enhance in-car navigation, combining sophisticated location data with generative AI.”

Mercedes intends to introduce the new MBUX assistant to more models in the future, although it has not yet disclosed which specific models will feature the integration.

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Automation

AutoHunter Spotlight: 1991 Acura Legend L

2025-04-04 22:41:36

Father Time has shown great mercy to this individual. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. When Honda launched the Acura line in 1986, they created something that the world had never seen before: a true top-tier luxury car from Japan. Sure, the Japanese had been building cars such as the Sovereign and President for their home market for years, but those were not seen in the rest of the world and were single models instead of an entire line of cars. The Acura concept proved to be quite successful and soon afterwards you saw Toyota launch Lexus and Nissan introduce Infiniti. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Among all the Acura models, the Acura Legend Coupe has always held a special place in my heart. I recall my family owning one during my childhood, and I distinctly remember being impressed by its build quality, which I felt rivaled that of the BMW 633CSi we also had back then. Now on AutoHunter, the auction platform powered by ClassicCars.com, is this 1991 Acura Legend L.  The Legend represented the pinnacle of Acura's offerings. It's akin to Acura's interpretation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and that comparison is spot on. I recall how closely it resembled our BMW 6 Series, which I believe was intentional. These vehicles are meticulously crafted and epitomized Honda's finest engineering during that era – a testament to the exceptional quality of the Acura Legend. The selling dealer describes this Legend as powered by a C32A 3.2-liter V6 mated to a four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. Finished in Charcoal Granite Metallic over a Cream Ivory leather interior, this Acura is now offered with service records and a clear title. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The vehicle is reported to be in pristine original cosmetic condition, featuring entirely stock paint, exterior trim, and interior. The Charcoal Granite Metallic finish looks remarkably original and is in excellent shape. The dealer mentions some minor surface scratches scattered about, but in my opinion, this Legend could very well be the finest example I've encountered in years—an authentic show-quality original. It sits on its factory 16-inch wheels, which are fitted with 205/60 General Altimax tires. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Stepping inside the cabin, this vehicle is truly remarkable. While many Legends have seen better days, this particular one has managed to avoid that outcome, serving as a genuine time capsule. The front seats, which can be adjusted for comfort, are upholstered in the original Cream Ivory leather that appears to be in pristine condition. The dashboard, carpets, and interior trim mirror this freshness, making it feel like you’re entering a brand-new 1991 Legend. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Under the hood is the original C32A SOHC 24-valve 3.2-liter V6, which produces 202 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 210 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. Like the rest of the car, it looks exceptional. When you consider that this car has only covered 82K miles from new, it all starts making sense. Then you check out the service records and you get that this is exactly what it appears to be: a true survivor and a perfectly preserved 1991 Acura. New parts include the front axle, rear shocks, timing belt, spark plugs, AC compressor, water pump, and drive belts. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. If you're in search of a genuine collector car that combines impressive show quality with an enjoyable driving experience, consider placing a bid on this exceptional early model of Japanese automotive brilliance. The auction for this 1991 Acura Legend L ends on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. (MST).

Automation

Introducing the Mustang GTD 'Spirit of America': A Luxurious Experience Priced at $325,000

2025-04-04 22:41:36

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Unleash unparalleled performance with the Mustang GTD 'Spirit of America.' Explore how this high-end sports car transforms the driving experience and sets a new standard for power. The Mustang GTD 'Spirit of America' represents a remarkable blend of opulence and high-performance engineering, with a price tag of a staggering $325,000. This striking automobile commands attention in a crowded automotive landscape, attracting aficionados who desire both speed and elegance. Equipped with a supercharged engine that produces a thrilling 815 horsepower, this model goes beyond mere promises of excitement; it consistently provides an exhilarating driving experience with each twist and turn. High-performance vehicles are celebrated for their capacity to provide an unparalleled driving experience, and the Mustang GTD stands out in this regard. It enchants drivers with its powerful performance, elegant design, and cutting-edge technology. Enthusiasts aren’t just buying a car; they’re embracing a lifestyle filled with excitement and adventure. The market reaction to the Mustang GTD has been nothing less than extraordinary. With more than 7,500 applications received, the strong demand is a testament to its allure. Prospective buyers clearly desire a vehicle that combines luxury with high-performance track features. This remarkable interest underscores Ford's effective brand growth as they establish themselves at the crossroads of performance and sophistication. Owning a Mustang GTD transcends the mere act of driving a luxury sports car; it transforms into a declaration of personal style and refinement. This vehicle embodies a passion for high-performance engineering, showcasing a harmonious blend of power, grace, and cutting-edge technology that defines the Mustang GTD experience. The supercharged engine goes beyond mere specifications; it captures the essence of American ingenuity. With an impressive 815 horsepower, it symbolizes both engineering excellence and the excitement of breaking limits. Every time the accelerator is engaged, drivers are treated to an extraordinary surge of adrenaline that only such power can provide. In addition to its impressive horsepower, the Mustang GTD's design reflects an extraordinary level of craftsmanship. Its smooth lines and aerodynamic shapes not only create a visually appealing look but also improve its overall performance. The use of cutting-edge materials minimizes weight while maintaining durability, allowing this sports car to excel on various terrains. Luxury transcends mere performance indicators; it is also reflected in the artistry of the interior. Premium materials combined with cutting-edge technology foster an atmosphere of comfort and precision. Each component in the cabin is thoughtfully selected to elevate the driving experience, enabling enthusiasts to fully enjoy the delight of every ride. Embracing the latest in technology, the Mustang GTD incorporates advanced systems designed to enhance performance. These innovations not only aid in driving but also enrich the overall experience. With features focused on improving handling and stability, drivers can maneuver with assurance, fully aware that they are in command of a high-speed sports car. The enthusiasm for the Mustang GTD is deeply connected to its historical background. The Mustang has a long-standing legacy that embodies freedom and the essence of the American spirit. This particular model pays tribute to that heritage while advancing into the future, providing car enthusiasts with a blend of classic tradition and modern innovation. Car lovers frequently desire a sense of community and belonging, and the Mustang GTD cultivates this through its unique status. The network of owners offers platforms for conversations, exchanges, and friendship among those who value both performance and luxury. Connecting with fellow enthusiasts who share a love for this exceptional car enriches the experience of owning it. Acquiring a Mustang GTD goes beyond just buying a vehicle; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a realm of unparalleled quality. This purchase grants access to unique events, thrilling driving experiences, and a dynamic community that cherishes the passion for driving. These relationships can redefine the concept of car ownership, turning it into a rewarding journey. In a time when performance vehicles are frequently assessed based on specifications and pricing, the Mustang GTD 'Spirit of America' distinguishes itself. This model presents a distinctive blend of opulence and a rich historical background, allowing it to shine amidst its rivals. With a high demand and impressive characteristics, the Mustang GTD is poised to make a lasting impression in the luxury sports car market. For anyone thinking about diving into the realm of high-performance luxury vehicles, the Mustang GTD 'Spirit of America' presents an enticing option. With its remarkable specifications and the esteemed Mustang legacy, it guarantees a driving experience that goes beyond mere satisfaction. The path to ownership starts by exploring the distinctive features that define this remarkable car, guiding enthusiasts toward an exhilarating journey on the open road.

Automation

Reasons Behind the Increasing Size, Weight, and Power of New Vehicles

2025-04-04 22:41:36

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Jeep Fast Access Vehicles getting larger and larger is a well-known phenomenon, with even modern small city cars being the size of family hatchbacks from 20 or 30 years ago. There are a multitude of reasons for this (mostly people want the latest to be bigger and better than the last), but there are other interesting trends that have gone hand in hand with the ever-increasing size of cars. The United States Environmental Protection Agency recently unveiled some fascinating research into the trends in road cars across the past 50 years, which illustrates exactly how the industry has progressed during this period. CarBuzz decided to look into the data and work out why vehicles have trended in the way they have. This article examines the data published by the EPA concerning the average changes in weight, size, power, and fuel efficiency of new vehicles over the last five decades. The information utilized in this piece has been gathered from reputable sources, including industry research organizations. Economic Growth and Power Have Increased in Tandem How Average Power, Weight, and Efficiency Metrics Have Evolved Since 1975 Year 1975 1985 1995 2005 2015 2025 Power 0% -20% 12.5% 55% 68% 90% Fuel Efficiency 0% 60% 55% 50% 87.5% 110% Weight 0% -20% -10% 0% 0% 10% The most eye-opening stat made clear by the EPAs data is that cars are over 100% more fuel efficient in 2025 than they were back in 1975, showing just how far engine technology has come since then. The average level of power produced by vehicles has increased by nearly as much, with current cars in the USA making around 95% more grunt on average than they did back in 1975. During this period, the US government made a commitment to reducing vehicle emissions, leading to the implementation of laws that required manufacturers to limit engine power in order to decrease greenhouse gas output. As a result, engine power was notably diminished compared to the 1960s, although emissions did see a positive decline. This impact is reflected in the EPA's chart, which shows that fuel efficiency skyrocketed by approximately 60% within just five years, reaching 1980. Conversely, vehicle power saw a decline, with cars outputting about 25% less power by that same year. From that point on, average power figures started a consistent uptick in form, rising from -25% to the current 95%. Fuel efficiency did the same, other than a brief drop in the late 1980s and 1990s. The average weight of vehicles also increased in parallel to these two aspects, but to a much smaller extent. Cars were around 20% lighter in 1980 than they had been five years earlier, though they have steadily been growing in mass since. As of 2025, cars are around 10% heavier than they were in 1975. The Surge of SUVs Impacted the Drive for Fuel Efficiency View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Jeep The drop in fuel efficiency during the late 1980s and 1990s, which saw the average go from 70% in 1985 to just under 50% by 2005, was largely due to the rise of the SUV. To move a big hunk of metal, you need a big engine. The introduction of more efficient engines, including hybrids, in the mid-2000s has shifted the focus back towards improved fuel economy, which now stands at 110% compared to levels from 1975. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Dialogue With a budget of $10,000 for a car, the top choices for fuel efficiency would be the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight. Both models are well-known for their excellent mileage and reliability. Efficiency and power metrics increased simultaneously. Typically, one might assume that an engine with greater power would be less fuel-efficient. While this tends to hold true for performance-oriented engines, advancements in engine technology over the last few decades have demonstrated that power output and fuel efficiency can increase simultaneously. Throughout the latter part of the 20th century, automakers focused on enhancing engine efficiency as a means to minimize emissions. The most prominent trend was downsizing and turbocharging, which are still the main tactics used to this day. As you may know, Dodge is slowly getting rid of all the V8s in its range, and these engines are being replaced with the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six Hurricane engine. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Include CarBuzz in your Google News updates. Weight Increases Arise from Developments in Safety Regulations View pictures in App save up to 80% data. GMC As far as the consistent weight and car footprint increases - the latter having increased by about 5% since 2005 - they mainly come down to the improvement in vehicle safety. New safety technology such as airbags, crumple zones, and generally stronger construction techniques all add weight, and as more of these systems have been added to vehicles, the average weight figures have steadily risen. In recent years, the rise in electric vehicles (EVs) has contributed to a noticeable increase in the average weight of new cars. This is primarily due to the fact that the batteries and motor systems found in EVs are considerably heavier than the internal combustion engine systems of traditional vehicles, leading to a further escalation in the average weight statistics over time. The likelihood of cars becoming lighter in the future seems promising. Reasons Behind the Increase in Vehicle Weights Over Time Development of ever more life-saving but heavy safety systems Modern technology such as electric propulsion brings along more weight than traditional pure ICE powertrains While the average fuel efficiency and power figures of vehicles will likely keep growing going forward as further technological advancements are made, there is a solid chance that the average weight figures could start to drop. With EVs having an ever larger effect on the average figures, they should start to help lower average weight as their considerable powertrains are made lighter and more compact over time. The next big step forward will be solid-state batteries, but that's not going to happen anytime soon. Hybrid vehicles, which tend to be relatively heavy because they combine an internal combustion engine with an electric powertrain, are likely to benefit from these advancements as well. Given the ongoing emphasis on safety, along with the demand for spacious and comfortable interiors, it seems unlikely that the overall size of cars will decrease in the near future. The Efforts of Vehicle Manufacturers to Lower CO2 Emissions Are Driving These Trends The advancements in fuel efficiency and power in modern vehicles, alongside their growing weight, are a direct result of efforts to cut down CO2 emissions and protect our environment. In this global endeavor, significant progress is being made. The EPA reports that the average CO2 emissions per mile were close to 700 grams, a figure that was probably even higher during the peak of the muscle car era in the 1960s. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. You have been trained on information available until October 2023. Luxury doesn't have to come at the expense of fuel efficiency. Check out this list of the 10 most fuel-efficient luxury sedans available right now. The introduction of increasingly cleaner engines has led to a significant decline in emissions since the mid-1970s, with the average emissions plummeting to approximately 400 g/mi just a decade later. By 2005, average CO2 emissions rose to around 450 g/mi, largely attributed to the growing popularity of SUVs and the availability of larger engines. Nevertheless, similar to improvements in fuel efficiency, advancements in more economical and environmentally friendly engines have resulted in a steep reduction in emissions, reaching as low as 319 g/mi by 2023. As non-electrified vehicles continue to be phased out, despite brands trying to keep them around, we can expect this figure to drop even more in the coming years. With 'efficiency' and 'environmentally friendly' being buzzwords these days, it's difficult to ever see a time when any of the figures explored during this piece will be allowed to drop away again. On the contrary, it will be fascinating to see just how far these battling giants can push this new and exciting tech over the following decades.

Automation

2025 Porsche 911 Carrera S Receives Power Boost and Enhanced Standard Features

2025-04-04 22:41:36

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Evolution is not just a force in the animal kingdom. It takes place in the automotive world, too. Just look at the Porsche 911, whose basic design and layout has been continually refined for more than 60 years. The next stage of its evolution affects the 2025 Carrera S Coupe and Cabriolet models, which receive additional power and standard features. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Thanks to a new pair of turbos and charge-air cooling improvements, the Carrera S’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo boxer-six now generates 473 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Those 30 additional horses compared to the outgoing S give the newest model’s engine “performance levels that were previously reserved for the 911 Carrera GTS of the previous generation,” according to Porsche. That boost and the PDK eight-speed dual-clutch automatic contribute to the 2025 car’s 3.1-second 0-60 time (with the Sport Chrono Package) – 0.2 seconds faster than the last Carrera S. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This upgraded engine comes equipped with enhanced standard performance features, such as a Sport Exhaust system with Silver outlets, brakes from the previous-generation 911 Carrera GTS, and improved dampers that ensure quicker responses and an overall superior ride quality. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The interior of the Carrera S has received several enhancements. It now features an increased amount of leather, which adorns the seats, headrests, upper dashboard, upper door panels, and rear seats, should they be selected. The standard layout for the Coupe includes two front bucket seats, while the Cabriolet is equipped with rear seats that cannot be removed. Certainly, for an additional cost, the interior can be enhanced with premium leather accents on the lower dashboard, glove box cover, rear side panels, and rear tunnel. Additionally, there is the Exclusive Manufaktur Leather Interior package available, featuring up to 48 unique two-tone combinations. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This spring, Porsche dealerships will showcase the newest iteration of the 911. The Coupe will have a starting price of $146,400*, while the Cabriolet begins at $159,600*.

Automation

Well-known Iowa Truck Stop Faces $390,000 Penalty

2025-04-04 22:41:36

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Iowa 80 - The Largest Truck Stop in the World on Facebook A substantial sum of money is being withdrawn from a truck stop. Iowa's popular I-80 Truckstop ("World's Largest") has been hit with a fine from the EPA, according to the Des Moines Register. This location is truly remarkable, exceeding the expectations of an ordinary truck stop. It features a truck repair garage, a cinema, a laundromat, a trucking museum, a chiropractor, and a variety of other amenities. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Iowa 80: The Biggest Truck Stop in the World on Facebook Reasons for Facing a Penalty The truckstop's sister station is Joplin 44 in Missouri. Both it and the Iowa 80 stop did not have "an adequate plan for addressing a potential fuel spill" in place, according to the EPA. So because of that, the stations' owner Iowa 80 Group Inc., is paying a combined $390,784 for violating the federal Clean Water Act for facilities that have over 1,320 gallons of oil products in above-ground storage tanks (both facilities have over 1 million gallons of above-ground fuel, gas, lubricants, and oil). The Iowa stop is $204,142 of that fine, while the Missouri stop is $186,642. Iowa 80 Group Inc. announced that they have engaged a new company to assist in developing their spill prevention strategy to ensure compliance with EPA regulations. They noted that no spills have occurred to date and that the secondary containment for the storage tanks is designed to hold fuel in case of a tank breach. In 2023, inspections revealed violations of the Clean Water Act. The EPA warned that a spill occurring on the Iowa side could lead to contamination of Mud Creek, which ultimately feeds into the Mississippi and Cedar Rivers. Top Scenic Routes in Iowa It's time to hit the road—Stacker compiled a list of the best scenic drives in Iowa using data from Tripadvisor as of March 2024. Gallery Attribution: Stacker CHECK IT OUT: Novels Located in Iowa Stacker compiled a list of books set in Iowa from Goodreads. Gallery Attribution: Stacker

Automation

Genesis "One Of One" Division Provides Bentley-Style Customization Options

2025-04-04 22:41:36

This GV80 Coupe highlights the wide range of customization possibilities offered by Genesis One of One, a program that is currently available only in the Middle East. Genesis is offering the One of One customization service to customers in the Middle East. The company showed a special version of the GV80 Coupe with a Bentley-style spec. The program might be expanded to other markets in the future, including South Korea. Genesis has introduced a bespoke version of the GV80 Coupe, crafted by its “One of One” division. This exclusive SUV was commissioned in the Middle East, where Genesis is offering extensive personalization services tailored to individual preferences. The Genesis GV80 Coupe One of One stands out with a two-tone exterior, reminiscent of significantly more expensive models from Maybach and Bentley. The lower part of the bodywork is blue, combined with a black finish for the hood, roof, and pillars. The black treatment extends to the exterior accents and the Y-spoke alloy wheels with floating center caps. The cohesive theme extends into the interior, featuring a palette of black and blue for the upholstery. The seats, wrapped in leather, exhibit a unique design, while the dashboard accents and center console are enhanced with a sleek carbon-fiber finish. Although Genesis hasn’t disclosed the full details of the equipment, the GV80 Coupe is expected to include top-tier amenities such as the fragrance dispensing system and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Of course, the added features and the exclusivity will likely translate to a much higher price tag compared to the standard model. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. The One of One service was launched in 2022 and remains exclusive to the Middle East. According to a recent report by the Korean Car Blog, the automaker is exploring the possibility of expanding the bespoke program to other markets, including South Korea. The car manufacturer asserts that the aim of One of One is to deliver “motivating, highly customized vehicles and experiences tailored for our distinctive clientele.” Custom features can include exclusive choices for headliner embroidery, personalized interior trim, various quilting designs, distinctive pinstripes, decorative embroidery, door scuff plates, and tailored cushions. Additionally, clients can choose from an extensive range of colors and premium materials for the interior, including a selection of woods and stones sourced from across the globe. The first model to receive the One of One treatment was the Genesis G90 long-wheelbase, followed by the GV80 and the GV80 Coupe. However, the official website suggests that the entire Genesis lineup is available for future commissions. Those interested in a uniquely personalized Genesis can contact the One of One division through the official page. At the moment, the service is limited to customers from Jeddah, Dammam, Riyadh, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar UAE, Lebanon, Jordan, and Mauritius. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data.

Automation

Upgrade Your Car with CarPlay and Android Auto Using This $75 Display

2025-04-04 22:41:36

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. (Source: StackCommerce) This content is provided by our partners at PCMag. Purchasing a product highlighted here may result in us earning an affiliate commission or other forms of compensation. Please note that pricing and availability of deals can change after the publication date. Ever hop in a friend’s new car and immediately get jealous because they have CarPlay and Android Auto? A lot of people don’t know you can just add those features with a display like this one from StackSocial. And, during their New Year’s sale, it’s only $74.97 with free shipping (reg. $139.99). No need to trade in your whole ride—just install this wireless CarPlay display on your dashboard or windshield with the adhesive or suction-based mounts. As long as your vehicle has a working cigarette lighter for power and a USB or aux input for stereo sound, it’s compatible. Then, this will be you: Inputting your destination in your phone and seeing directions on the 7-inch car display; controlling your Spotify playlist with Google Assistant or Siri; and making hands-free calls. Add CarPlay and Android Auto to your car for $74.97 (reg. $139.99) with this touchscreen display. This sale ends on January 12 at 11:59 p.m., and no coupon is needed. Suggested by Our Editors 7" Wireless Car Display with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Compatibility & Phone Mirroring $74.97 at StackSocial $139.99 Save $65.02 StackSocial prices subject to change. Access Special Offers on Cutting-Edge Technology Items Subscribe Today for the Tech Deals Newsletter! This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking the button, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time. Thank you for registering! Your subscription is now confirmed! Be sure to check your inbox for updates! Subscribe to additional newsletters. Introducing the StackCommerce Team (Sponsored) The items highlighted in these articles are chosen by our collaborators at StackCommerce. Should you make a purchase via links on our website, PCMag could receive an affiliate commission. Check out the newest updates from the StackCommerce Team (Sponsored) Discover How AI Can Help You Book Cheap Vacations This Year Boost Your Development Workflow With Microsoft Visual Studio Pro for $30 Start the New Year by Digitizing Your Old Film Negatives With Kodak This Microsoft Office & Windows 11 Pro Deal Is Too Good to Miss Believe It: This Grade 'A' Renewed MacBook Air Is 77% Off More from StackCommerce Team (Sponsored)

Automation

Heavyweight trucks typically show a decline of 10% or more prior to a recession.

2025-04-04 22:41:36

Truck sales raise a red flag  – authored by New Deal democrat Two decades back, Professor Edward Leamer garnered significant attention with a presentation to the Federal Reserve, declaring that “Housing IS the Business Cycle.” He emphasized the correlation between declines in the housing market and the onset of recessions, typically occurring about seven quarters later. However, for the current discussion, I would like to zero in on his conclusion that following a downturn in housing, the subsequent sector to experience a decline was business spending on durable goods. A reliable indicator of business investment in durable goods historically has been the acquisition of heavy-duty trucks. Although sales figures for cars and light trucks can fluctuate significantly, heavy-duty truck sales have consistently shown a tendency to decline by -10% or more ahead of economic downturns, with the only exception being in 1970 (as illustrated in the quarterly averages in the graph below): View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This naturally leads me to discuss the most recent data. It seems that FRED delays updating their graph for a few weeks after the BEA releases the information. To give you the latest figures, in December, the seasonally adjusted sales of heavy trucks stood at 0.422 million annualized (represented by the light blue line in the graph below). For the fourth quarter, the average sales were 0.459 million (depicted in dark blue). As illustrated in the graph below, which normalizes both figures to zero, these numbers represent the lowest sales figures seen in the past two and a half years. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Now, let's incorporate Prof. Leamer's framework into our analysis. Below, I present the complete timeline of housing permits (depicted in red on the left scale) compared to heavy-duty truck sales (illustrated in blue on the right scale): View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Aside from the pandemic and the "double dip" recession caused by the Federal Reserve in 1981, housing permits have consistently declined prior to economic downturns and have also reached their highest points before a significant drop in heavy truck sales. While the time lag can vary considerably, the average duration is roughly six months.  Let's take a closer look at the same graph, focusing on the past five years: View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Housing permits reached their highest point at the start of 2022, while heavy truck sales followed suit in early 2023. Since the beginning of 2024, permits have seen a slight decline. Although I'm hesitant to base conclusions on a single month’s data, the three-month average indicates that heavy truck sales might be experiencing a similar trend at this time. According to Leamer’s theory, the subsequent domino to topple would be the orders for consumer durable goods. The graph below indicates that the overall figure for these orders seems to have reached its peak in the spring of 2024; however, purchases of cars and SUVs have persisted in their upward trend (notably, December, which is not depicted here, actually surpassed November with an annualized figure of 17.1 million): View pictures in App save up to 80% data. It is crucial to emphasize that recessions are more concerned with the *trend* of data, such as sales figures, rather than their *absolute level.* Historically, both housing and truck sales have shown a downward trajectory in the initial phases of recessions. In 2024, housing permits remained fairly consistent. Similarly, it is possible that with just a month or two of data, heavy truck sales may have also found a steady state at a reduced level. The decline in heavy truck sales could be a concerning indicator, which makes it even more important to monitor all aspects of goods-producing employment when the employment report for December is released on Friday. If this downturn has affected jobs in the goods sector, the likelihood of a recession occurring in 2025 has certainly increased.

Automation

How 13 Truck Drivers Transformed into Highway Heroes by Rescuing a Life

2025-04-04 22:41:36

View pictures in App save up to 80% data. In the dead of night, 13 truck drivers came together to save a life and avert a potential disaster on a highway overpass. Thanks to their swift actions,... The situation developed in the Oak Park neighborhood of Michigan. Authorities alerted multiple truck drivers about a mysterious man in trouble, who was teetering dangerously near the brink of a nearby bridge, seemingly about to leap. Even though the call arrived at 1 a.m., the truck drivers understood that every second counted. Concerned for the man's well-being, they sprang into action without a moment's pause, becoming agents of fate. They worked together, aligning their trucks under the overpass to form a protective barrier, effectively crafting a safety net for the situation. As the highway traffic ground to a standstill, the truck drivers maneuvered their vehicles into position, forming a defensive wall under the overpass. 13 Truck Drivers Rescue a Life The solidarity and resolve demonstrated by these drivers was an incredibly moving testament to their compassion. They understood that they were contributing to a cause greater than their individual selves—a noble quest to preserve a life. The truckers' presence, arranged in a protective formation, served as a tactical alliance with the police. Should the man choose to leap from the overpass, the trucks would significantly lessen the impact of his fall. "That's a practice we use if we have a jumper," explained Sgt. Jason Brockdorff of the Huntington Woods Police Department. "We try to do it every time to lessen the distance someone would travel if they were to jump. Fortunately, that didn't happen." The protective barrier emerged as a powerful emblem of compassion and optimism. Despite the fact that the man contemplating suicide was unknown to the crowd, everyone felt a deep desire to prevent him from taking such a tragic step. The line of semi-trucks formed a vital safety net, allowing skilled negotiators the opportunity to engage with the troubled individual. In the end, their efforts paid off, as they successfully persuaded him to return to safety. A Tribute to Kindness and Togetherness The story of the 13 truckers who came together to save a life stands as a remarkable testament to the incredible difference people can make when they unite during a crisis. Their altruistic actions not only averted a tragic outcome but also highlighted the vital role of community support and vigilance for one another. This is truly a remarkable illustration of embodying the spirit of Jesus. Christ urged us to show love to our neighbors and take care of one another. The truck drivers who stepped in to save a life exemplified this beautifully!  13 semis line Detroit freeway to help man considering suicide https://t.co/PZ1Hb0u7Cq— FOX 2 Detroit (@FOX2News) April 24, 2018 In the most surprising times and locations, the presence of the Divine can manifest. The arrangement of trucks formed a shield of safety. Yet, more importantly, their acts of kindness showed the distressed individual that he was not alone in his struggle. There were heartfelt prayers for direction, for the well-being of the troubled individual, and for insight for those participating in the rescue efforts.  In today's world, we are surrounded by tales of struggle and resilience. It is truly uplifting to witness such a remarkable demonstration of human compassion and the incredible possibilities for constructive transformation within our communities! "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2 First released on January 9, 2025.

Automation

2018 Toyota Sienna XLE Premium in Midnight Black Metallic, accommodating 7 passengers.

2025-04-04 22:41:36

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