RAM 1500 Matching Wins With Triple Crown Winner Justify

RAM 1500 With Triple Crown Winner Justify
Image Credit: James Groth  - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

RAM 1500 Matching Wins With Triple Crown Winner Justify
Words & Images By James Groth  - Miles Ahead Communications

Since the media introduction of the 2019 RAM 1500 in August, RAM 1500 is matching wins with its stablemate Justify, the 2018 Triple Crown Winner. With annual sales of 2.8 million, light duty trucks are the best selling segment of vehicles in the US and toughest category to win awards Announced at this years San Antonio Auto & Truck Show was the coveted Green Car Journal's 'Truck of the Year’ was awarded to RAM 1500. Equally significant at the LA Automobilty Show was Ram1500 being presented the award for Motor Trend Truck of the Year.

Perennial sponsor of the Kentucky Derby Ram Trucks are also the tow vehicle for Triple Crown winner Justify, both are stabemates at the Win Star Farm outside of Versailles, Kentucky.

RAM 1500 Winner of Motor 'Trend Truck of the Year' and Green Car Journal 'Truck of the Year'

Image Credit: James Groth  - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

My original driving impression, comprehensive list of standard equipment and options of the new line of RAM 1500 trucks follows.

2019 RAM With e-Torque Seeks Benchmark Status 

Standalone truck brand RAM seeks to be the new standard by which all 2019 trucks will be measured. The categories singled out by RAM are Efficiency, Technology, Strength and Safety. Both the presentation and test drives demonstrated that RAM has made the financial commitment to build an extensive product line not just to contend but  win these categories outright.

Splayed Frame Rail Chassis Featrues Safety And Durabililty While Sheeding 120 Pounds
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The extent of development and unique features presented is what I would have expected to learn about a high-end luxury SUV or sedan, not a truck line. If you only looked at the specifications and performance figures of the top of the line RAM models they would match up or better many luxury vehicles. As we saw on display this all starts with a new frame thats 98% high-strength steel and more durable. The chassis is 120 lbs lighter and overall weight is reduced 225 lbs.over the previous 1500. There is a patent pending on the splayed frame rail technology energy absorbing structure for all models that focuses on safety and durability. Cab length increased four inches with most going towards its spacious rear compartment.

       

Laramie Longhorn Interior The Flavor Is 'Southwestern Hot'
Image Credit: RAM Media (2018)

I started out the drive as a passenger in the RAM 1500 5.7-Liter V-8 Laramie Longhorn Edition. Laramie gives you that luxury feeling as you enter. Greeting you are full leather seating, with an embossed alligator skin pattern on the center console, dash, seats and door panels along with a real barn wood accents, all done with traditional American craftsmanship. The flavor is 'Southwestern Hot’ and I liked it. Unique to our Laramie Edition were its RV Match Walnut Brown paint, premium LED headlamps and tail lamps, front grill and 20” or 22” distinctive wheels. RAM Laramie couples timeless craftsmanship with advanced technology and it hauls.

Bluegrass Fields And Twisty Roads Provided An Ideal Setting For On Road Testing
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Rick Deneau, who heads the N. A. RAM Brand nnd Product Communications along with his team, staged the introduction in Lexington, KY. Lexington was an ideal location with it's bluegrass fields and narrow twisty backroads, the intermittent showers only added to the setting. We had our driver switch at the WinStar Farm where the RAM Team made this a special occasion, an opportunity to meet up close the greatest living champion horse. Justify is an incredible Chestnut colored Thoroughbred, the 2018 Triple Crown Winner and the only American horse to do this with an undefeated record. Standing tall on the optional 22 inch tires Laramie too has the presence of a thoroughbred and showed it on these horse country roads. RAM a sponsor of the Kentucky Derby also has a run of Kentucky Derby Editions limited to 2000 trucks.

Optional Four Corner Auto-Leveling Air Suspension Provides Sedan Like Smoothness
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Cmmunications (2018)

Behind the wheel I immediately notice that this Laramie does not ride like a truck or my P38 Range Rover. It has a sedan like smooth ride due to Laramie’s optional four corner auto-leveling air suspension with link coil rear. This suspension lowers the 1500 0.6 inches for improved mileage and handling. Standard Frequency Response Damping front coil-over shocks play a large role too. I was deeply impressed with this suspension that has a sharper turn in through the corners keeping it stable and poised at all times. If your truck is used for family outings this option will be appreciated by all passengers.

Air Dam Grill Shutters And Air Suspenson Work In Concert To Achieve A .357 Coefficient Of Drag
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Cmmunicatoins (2018)

The second impressive thing I noticed with the Laramie is how exceptionally quite it is. This is due to the active noise cancellation on the V-8 models and acoustic glass reducing ambient sounds. The interior noise is rated at a remarkable 66.6 db. a low level even for luxury vehicles. Some to the quietness stems from the V-8 cylinder cutoff allowing it to run on four cylinders. Since coefficient of drag contributes to fuel mileage and highway handling the .357 cd posted by the 1500 is remarkable. The low figure is due to1500’s exclusive aerodynamics: air dam, grill shutters and air suspension working in concert. A lockable tri-fold tonneau cover improves fuel economy by 0,8%. EPA estimates for the 2WD hybrid are 17 city, 19 combined and 23 highway. The diving range is 437 to 494 miles.

eTorque A Mild Hybrid System Adds 130 lb.-ft. of Launch Torque
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Cmmunications (2018)

Two lane passing was effortless with the 5.7 liter HEMI V-8 eTorque given the 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft torque. I found Laramie to be as silent as a submarine, effortless and comfortable to drive quickly. If your require more torque the Ram 3500 Cummins Turbo Diesel delivers 950 lb.-ft. Lo oking for economy chose the EcoDiesel for 27 mpg on the Ram 1500. The optional 5.7 liter HEMI  V-8 with eTorque a mild hybrid system in the 1500 adds 130 lb.-ft. of launch torque. This RAM has th e stopping power to match its horsepower with class leading front rotors of 14.9” and rears of 14.8” a long with an increase pad area of 18% from previous.

Penstar V-6 With e Torque Adds 90 lb.-ft Of Launch Torque
Image Credit: James Groth -Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The Pentastar V-6 with eTorque adds 90 lb.-ft of launch torque. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 produces 305 horsepower and 289 lb.ft.. I drove a base model after lunch and felt it had the power for  all occasions except heavy towing. Compared to the air suspension model ride and handling was noticeability different. It's still very competent and quiet but more truck like, not as quick or as effortless through the twisty roads. This was to be expected since it was running on the standard 18- inch wheels and narrower tires. This is not a fault, merely a different execution for all around on/off road use, at a very fair price point.

Base Model V-6 e Torque Mild Hybird Starts At $31,695
Image Credit: James Groth -Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The base models Tradesmen, Big Horn and Rebel with 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 eTorque mild hybrid starts at $31,695. You can opt for the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 8-speed auto for $1,195. Technology-leading Ltd. Crew Cab 4x4 V8 with 12-inch connect touchscreen starts at $57,390. The eTorque      HEMI option will add $1,995 to sticker price. Fuel figures for the V-6 have not yet been released. Both power plants add an Interactive Deceleration Fuel Shut Off that pauses the fuel flow when     decelerating and is active in third and higher gears. Our presenter held up a vial of fuel to show how much fuel this saves at a three minute stoplight and it was significant. Briefly, the eTorque mild    hybrid does away with an alternator and has a belt-driven motor generator. The generator works with a 48-volt battery pack that enables quick starts and seamless start/stop and brake energy regeneration.   

 PSU Motor Generator Unit Maintains Battery And  Coverts 48 volts to 12 volts
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Technically per RAM “…engine running eTorque’s motor generator unit feeds 48-volt current to a      300 watt-hour lithium-ion Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC)-Graphite battery. The small-suitcase sized, air cooled battery pack mounts to a rear wall inside the cabin. The eTorque unit recaptures energy during deceleration and braking to feed charge to the battery pack. Additionally, the battery pack includes a 3-kilowatt DC-to-DC converter to maintain the battery’s state of charge and convert 48 volts to 12 volts to power assessors and charge the 12 volt battery.” Bottom line - eTorque improves efficiency and produces a more responsive drivetrain.

TorqueFlight 8HP75 Has 40 Shift Maps for Efficiency And Performance
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018) 

The upgraded TorqueFlite 8HP75 trans has 40 individual shift maps for added economy and performance. Towing capacity increased to12,750 pounds and is designed to pull a horse trailer i n comfort and safety. Need more towing, then choose the 2500 with best in class towing of 16,320 pounds. Max payload on1500 increases to 2300 pounds.

Uconnect System Features Class Leading 12-inch Touchscreen Wiht Split-Screen Capability
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

RAM in rightfully proud of its award winning fourth generation Uconnect System with class exclusive 12-inch fully configurable touchscreen display, featuring split-screen capability. Uconnect allows hands on the wheel convenience to keep you safely engaged and connected, while being faster, sharper and more supportive. This is also the debut of the all new SiriusXM with 360L, considered to be the finest audio system available in a pickup. It features a Harman Kardon 900 watt surround sound amp with 19 speakers, personal device integration and in-vehicle connectivity.

Wheel Packages Of  20"And 22"  Give RAM 1500 Its Dominant Stance
Imge Credit. : James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Another first is the 360-degree Surround View Camera that provides you a birds-eye view via four cameras for a fully stitched image of your surroundings. This is a welcome safety feature for pedestrians and animals. If your 'old school' there are redundant controls allowing you to bypass the touchscreen.

Heated Full Leather Rear Seat With Ventilation Is A Class Exclusive
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Any accouterment or cutting edge safety feature offered on advanced SUV’s or sedans seems to be available along with some industry exclusives,  One class exclusive would be heated full leather rear seat ventilation. Second row seats recline to 8 degrees or provide a flat load floor. The aluminum tailgate can electronically be dropped by an interior switch or remotely with the key fob, very cool.

EPA Estimated Fuel Milage Figures

The Aluminum Tailgate Can Be Lowered With An Interior Switch Or Keyfob
Image Credit: James Groth - Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

In total there are over 100 safety and security features. RAM comes with a 3-year/36K Basic Ltd. Warranty and is backed with a 5-year/60K Powertrain Ltd Warranty.  Space will not allow coverage of the six distinct classes of RAM trucks, so let this be the catalyst for you to spec your version according to the 200 plus options offered.



TAGS: RAM, Justify, TorqueFlite, eTorque, Interactive Deceleration Fuel Shut Off, Uconnect System, Harman Kardon, Kentucky Derby, Laramie, Tradesmen, Big Horn, Rebel, Pentastar, Cummins, Miles Ahead

FORCE STILL A FACTOR AS COUNTDOWN MOVES TO LVMS.

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 24, 2018) — In a career spanning 42 seasons, John Force routinely has defied the odds while paying little attention to conventional wisdom. It’s a strategy that has worked out okay for the former big rig truck driver if you call 16 championships and 149 tour victories okay. The upshot is that even though he is only seventh in Mello Yello driver points entering this week’s 18th annual NHRA Toyota Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, the sport’s most successful pro driver still believes he can win another title at the wheel of a much-improved PEAK Coolant and Motor Oil Chevrolet Camaro. “This PEAK Camaro has gotten better every week,” said the former Driver of the Year for all American motorsports (1996). “It has consistency now. (At the last race at Charlotte) it went down the racetrack every run in qualifying and every run (on race day). Overall, as a team, we’re doing good. “It’s a long way to that championship and we are running out of races,” he grudgingly admitted, “but I never give up as long as there’s a chance. Things happen. It’s drag racing. I know we’ve got our work cut out for us but if we go out and win Vegas, we’ll see where it goes?” Winning Vegas” is something Force knows how to do. After a horrid first 10 years at The Strip during which he won just one time in 17 attempts, the Hall of Famer has turned things around, winning five of his last 16 Vegas starts including Toyota Nationals’ titles in 2010, 2013 and 2016, the first two paving the way to championships. After a start to the 2018 season where Force made multiple trips to the hospital after on track incidents, the racing icon turned around and won the Mile-High Nationals at Denver and extended to 31 the number of different seasons in which he has won at least one tour event, a feat unparalleled in professional sport. “I want to win and I know I still can,” Force said. “This isn’t NASCAR. I don’t have to drive around for three or four hours. I’ve been doing this a long time. I know the drill. When it’s over, I’ll know it’s over – but it ain’t over yet!” Although he is on the verge of win 150, Force will be focused on something much grander. “It’s all about the championship,” Force said. “If I can’t get it and Courtney (youngest daughter Courtney Force, driver of the Advance Auto Parts Camaro) can’t get it, then I’m going to try to take out the guys who are chasing Robert (Hight, the current points leader and president of John Force Racing) so he has the best chance of winning.” Nitro qualifying at the Toyota Nationals is scheduled at 12:30 and 3 p.m. on Friday, 12:30 and 2:45 p.m. Saturday. The single elimination tournament will begin at 11 a.m. Sunday.

Photo Credit: Gary Nastase, Auto Imagery

Luber-finer Joins Love’s on No. 34 for 2 Races

STATESVILLE, N.C. (October 23, 2018) – Love’s Travel Stops (Love’s) will introduce another new partner to its race program with Front Row Motorsports. Luber-finer® will be the co-primary sponsor of Michael McDowell’s No. 34 Love’s Travel Stops Ford for two November races in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. The heavy-duty filter company will co-sponsor the Front Row Motorsports entry for events at Texas Motor Speedway on Nov. 4 and ISM Raceway (Phoenix, Ariz.) on Nov. 11. The two-race program is the company’s first motorsports marketing partnership. For more than 80 years, Luber-finer has manufactured heavy-duty and light-duty filters to provide protection for on-highway vehicles as well as for many off-road applications. The company has been a partner of Love’s Travel Stops since 2011. “Luber-finer has worked closely with Love’s for several years now,” said Layne Gobrogge, director of heavy duty marketing for Champion Laboratories. “During that time, we have been proactive in increasing our support to coincide with the company’s rapid expansion, especially during the past year with their acquisition of Speedco. This sponsorship represents our increased level of business with Love’s and the strength of our partnership. We’re proud to have our logo on the No. 34 car for these upcoming races.” Love’s Travel Stops is a long-time partner of Front Row Motorsports and has successfully used its NASCAR program to enhance business relationships with partners such as Luber-finer. “Love’s does an amazing job introducing new partners to the world of NASCAR and the business opportunities that come with it,” McDowell said. “We’re looking forward to having Luber-finer with us at Texas and Phoenix, and we hope it opens some doors to even more involvement in the future.” The AAA Texas 500 at Texas Motor Speedway is scheduled to air Sunday, Nov. 4, on the NBC Sports Network. The Can-Am 500 at ISM Raceway is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 11, on NBC. For more information on Luber-finer heavy duty filtration products, visit www.luberfiner.com or call (800) 851-3641. You can also follow Luber-finer on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. About Love’s Travel Stops: Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores (Love’s) is the nation’s industry-leading travel stop network with more than 470 locations in 41 states. Founded in 1964 and headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the company remains family-owned and operated and employs more than 22,000 people. Love’s provides professional truck drivers and motorists with 24-hour access to clean and safe places to purchase gasoline, diesel fuel, fresh coffee, restaurant offerings, and more. Love’s has more than 250 on-site Truck Tire Care centers and 53 Speedco locations, which is the largest oil change and preventative maintenance nationwide network on the road today. Love’s is committed to providing customers with “Clean Places, Friendly Faces” at every stop. To learn more, visit loves.com. About Luber-finer: For more than 80 years, Luber-finer has been providing filtration excellence for heavy duty on-highway vehicles, vocational and off-road equipment. Recognized as a global brand leader of dependable heavy duty filter product lines, Luber-finer combines product value with a commitment to reliable customer service. For more information, visit www.luberfiner.com. About Front Row Motorsports: Front Row Motorsports is a winning organization in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, the premier division of NASCAR competition. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by Tennessean Bob Jenkins. FRM fields two full-time entries, the No. 34 of Michael McDowell and the No. 38 of David Ragan, from its Statesville, N.C., headquarters just outside of Charlotte. The team's partnership base includes organizations such as Ford Motor Company, Love's Travel Stops, K-LOVE Radio, 1000Bulbs.com and Shriners Hospitals for Children. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on Twitter at @Team_FRM and on Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

Ron Capps Races to 60th Funny Car Win!!!

Ron Capps Advances to Third in NHRA Countdown Standings NAPA NIGHTVISION Lamps Light the Way to Capps 60th Funny Car Victory CONCORD, North Carolina (October 15, 2018) – Ron Capps piloted the NAPA NIGHTVISION Lamps Dodge Charger R/T to his 60th Funny Car victory with his win Sunday at the NHRA Carolina Nationals. By claiming 121 points over the course of the weekend, Capps moved up three spots to third in the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoff standings, injecting new life into his bid for a second career Funny Car world championship. Along his way to the zMAX Dragway winner’s circle, Capps defeated Dale Creasy Jr. and three of the top-ranked 2018 Funny Car championship contenders – Robert Hight, Tim Wilkerson and J.R. Todd – in crucial matchups with major Countdown implications. The milestone victory and 61st overall triumph which includes one Top Fuel win, came after two disappointing consecutive first-round losses, but Capps and his Rahn Tobler-led team were determined to not let their early Countdown stumbles deter their hopes for the 2018 title. “In St. Louis we lost on a holeshot first round and I’m sick to my stomach when that happens,” said Capps. “I go home, I don’t sleep, I’m up in the middle of the night, watching frame-by-frame of when my blades open compared to the person I lost to on a holeshot and it’s not fun. I live it, I breathe it. I just could not wait to get to the next race after St. Louis. We really had a great car there and we really had the opportunity to make a lot of points up and we didn’t, and I wore that. I probably aged a year in that week. Then we got to Dallas, had a great car, and just got outran by John Force first round. “Tobler and I left Dallas, shook hands, gave each other a little hug like we always do when we leave the track and he said ‘let’s just go win the last three. If we win, they can’t,’ and I’m just so glad we came here and did what we talked about doing.” With 321 points up for grabs in the final two events, Capps enters the next stop on the NHRA tour sitting 109 points out of first. The remaining events on the NHRA schedule are contested in Las Vegas and Pomona, California, two historically cooler-weather events, and Capps has more confidence than ever in Tobler’s cool weather tuning capabilities. “To make over 330-mph runs two times in the middle of the day today is big for Rahn Tobler. We always talk about race day and hot, adverse conditions, and that’s where he shines, but to throw down those speeds and E.T.s in the cooler weather today when we needed it was huge.” Capps’ Carolina Nationals victory, his third of the season, was won in a one-off NAPA NIGHTVISION Lamps livery, and his previous event win in Seattle was also won in a special look – the Pennzoil Synthetics/NAPA AUTO PARTS paint scheme. At the upcoming Las Vegas event, Capps will be back behind the wheel of the Pennzoil/NAPA Dodge, and he feels the special livery will provide his team with a little extra luck going into the race weekend. “We always do well when we bring these special paint schemes out. In Seattle we had the Pennzoil car and we won it, and we’ll have that again at the next race in Vegas. “We have a lot of business left to do. It’s not over. Points-and-a-half in Pomona. Anything can happen and we’re going to go down fighting. I can’t wait to celebrate with my race team, get to the next race and finish the year strong.” Qualified: No. 2 (3.875 E.T. at 329.42 MPH) The Results: E1: 3.926 E.T. at 328.86 MPH defeated Dale Creasy Jr. 4.041 E.T. at 316.67 MPH E2: 3.889 E.T. at 332.43 MPH defeated Robert Hight 3.953 E.T. at 285.23 MPH E3: 3.903 E.T. at 320.97 MPH defeated Tim Wilkerson 3.978 E.T. at 323.97 MPH E4: 3.890 E.T. at 331.20 MPH defeated J.R. Todd 4.311 E.T. at 214.96 MPH Story Courtesy DSR Media.

Lexus ES 300h, What The Socially Responsible Moderately Rich Will Be Driving Next

ES 300h In Sunlit Green
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Lexus ES 300h, What The Socially Responsible Moderately Rich Will Be Driving Next
by: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications

Winding and scenic roads just outside of Nashville, TN provided an ideal setting for the media introduction of the seventh-generation Lexus ES. For 2019 the lineup features the V6 ES 350, ES 300h hybrid and for the first time the ES F-SPORT. At time of writing there is an embargo on the driving impressions of the three models tested. This is a preview of the features of the ES line-up with a close up focus on the ES 300h. A shorter version first appeared in print at Ron Cogan’s Green Car Journal. 

ES 300h "Provocative Elegance”
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Project Chief Designer, Yasuo Kajino sums up the newly designed ES in two distinct and fitting words as “provocative elegance”. ES has the all new Global Architecture-K platform resulting in 2.6 in increase in length, 1.8 in width and a wider front and rear tracks. Perhaps for customers the most useful increase is the two-inch longer wheelbase to 113 inches. The ES  most striking angle is its profile that shows low hood and roof lines, made possible by the new GA-K chassis slated A and C pillars.

ES 300h In Profile
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Lexus with its Hybrid Drive is the luxury hybrid leader.  The ES 300h has earned a new title for the mid-level executive sedan segment, as the newly crowned “Class Leader in Fuel Economy with 44 mpg” this is Lexus ES 300h”. The manufactures estimated figure is 44 mpg combined.estimate to a range of nearly 600 miles.

The ES 300h is what Prius and Prius Prime owners will be naturally be moving up to as move up in life while staying socially responsible.

ES 300h Ample Rear Compartment
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The rear compartment of the ES has increased size and headroom usually only found optional in long-wheelbase high end cars. This means its easier for anything from adding a baby seat, to easy entry and exit for elders to being more suitable for a double date on the town.

The ES 300h ’Spindle' Grill and L-Shaped Projectors
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

From the front it’s the 'Spindle' grill dominates and is enhanced by the slim L-shaped  LED projector headlights.

ES 300h View Form the Drivers Seat
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Tranquil, free of exterior noise is how I found the interior to be, 93% of the floor has sound deadening insulation. There are three color schemes, four trims, and three material options for the seats.  The trim can had in three kinds of wood plus Striated Black and metallic. The trim can had in three kinds of wood plus Striated Black and metallic. To please audiophiles there’s the optional Mark Levinson audio with 1,800 watts through 17 speakers. The standard audio has ten speakers and will satisfy most needs. The new suction-type ventilated cooling seats had me as comfortable and entertained as any at the new movie theaters.

ES 300h Hybrid Powerplant
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The 2019 ES 300h layout is front engine with front wheel drive. Power is derived from a 2.5 liter in-line 4-cylinder running on the Atkinson cycle with an aluminum block and heads producing 176 hp @5700 rpm. The compression ratio is high at 14.0:1yet only 87 octane unleaded is required.  Fuel is delivered by direct and port injection. Torque is (SAE) rated at 163 lb.-ft.@3,600 rpm. The emission certificate is SULEV 30.

ES Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The nickel-metal Hydride battery has 204 cells and produces 29.1kW/39hp. The electric motor is smaller and more dense and is mated to an all new hybrid transaxle. Combined total horsepower is 215. Important for the improved handling was the moving of the battery from the trunk to under the rear seat. This improves front to rear weight distribution while adding trunk space equal to the gas ES at 16.7 cu ft.  Auto Glide Control (AGC) has been added for drivers who misjudge drag imposed by regenerative braking by moving back and forth between pedals approaching a stop sign. The AGC slows the ES 300h at a more predicative rate by entering a “coast “ mode adding to overall energy efficiencies.  Sport mode enhances acceleration by boosting torque at low speeds.

ES 350 F-Sport
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The 0-60 mph is 8.1 sec for the ES 300h, as compared to 6.6 sec for the 302 hp ES 350.  Top speed is electronically limited to 112 mph with the ES 300h and 131 mph with the ES 350. The coefficient of drag of these sleek ES sedans is a highly efficient 0.29 and drops down to an exceptional 0.26 for the F SPORT.  The low CD contributes to the outstanding fuel economy of the entire ES line-up.

ES 350 In Moonbeam Beige Metallic
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The six-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters is electronically controlled and continuously variable. Final drive is 3.389 compared to the 2.561 of the 8-speed V6  ES 350. The steering is electric rack and pinion with 2.7 turns lock to lock and positions the assist directly on the rack for more precise feedback. . The curb to curb turning radius is outstanding at under twenty feet. Weight distribution and curb weight were not available for the 300h. However, the ES 350 weight is a  light 3,649 lbs, distribution front to rear is 61/39.  Expect the ES 300h to be approximately a few hundred pounds heavier.

A 12.3 Inch Wide Multimedia Screen is Optional
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The Multimedia System is positioned high enough not to distract. Standard is a 8 inch wide and 12.3 inches with the optional Navigation package. The ES is the first Lexus offering Apple Car Play allowing for controlling a iPhone via the dash display or Siri Eyes Free voice control.  ES is also Amazon Alexa enabled for Android phones and iPhones in October.

ES 300h Standard Spoke Wheel Pattern
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

The standard wheel is 17 x 7.5 J split 10-spoke aluminum w/machine finish. There two types of optional 18 x 8J aluminum wheels offered one with a machined finish and the one with Hyper Chrome coating. The standard all-season tire is 215/55R17 with a 235/45R18 all-season as an option.  Trie suppliers will be Michelin and Bridgestone.

The Sleek Lines of the ES 300h
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

One of the ways Lexus demonstrates it strong commitment to safety is with its standard braking and control systems, ones that are usually only found on considerable more expensive vehicles. Along with the expected four wheel disc brakes all around with ABS are Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Front discs are 12 in ventilated discs. and the rears are 11.1 in solid discs. One-third of the sales are projected to be conquests from other manufactures with the ES 300h representing 15% of US ES sales.

ES 300h Looks At Home in This Prestigious Driveway
Image Credit: James Groth / Miles Ahead Communications (2018)

Outstanding fuel consumption, a striking design, first class amenities with rear compartment space found in limos.  Starting at $42,000 the ES 300h will have buyers considering switching brands.




TAGS: Lexus, ES 300h, ES F-SPORT, Hybrid Powerplant, Green Car Journal, Michelin, Bridgestone, James Groth, Miles Ahead Communications, @TheEDJE

#TeamIndyCar Secures Historic Place In The INDY500 11th Row Society Side-By-Side

Opening title shot of the helicopter that was ferrying Amazing Race host Phil Keoghan to the introduction and starting point of the 30th season of The Amazing Race. One might say that the Month of May and the INDY500 in itself after 101 editions looking to add one more Sunday, May 27th 12:00 PM ET, is The Amazing Race. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

#TeamIndyCar Secures Historic Place In The INDY500 11th Row Society Side-By-Side

CAN'T ... make this stuff up - #TeamIndyCar - Alexander Rossi | Conor Daly - of the 30th season of The Amazing Race are side-by-side again this year at the INDY500 after starting the 2018 season side-by-side at viewing parties in several locations throughout the nation earlier in the year.

So how did Alex and Conor end up on the 30th season of The Amazing Race? Host Phil Keoghan put it this way:

"The idea was: what would happen if you brought together the most competitive teams in Amazing Race history? Where you had an eclectic mix of hyper-competitive people who are used to winning in their chosen field. What would happen if you brought them all together in a race? So you’ve got such a mix of bonified champions, like Indy 500 winners. Then you’ve got world champion eaters. You’ve got the best of the best, the hot dogs and the hot shots. Team Big Brother [consisting of season 19 contestants Cody Nickson and Jessica Graf] was kind of the paprika thrown in for good measure. They’re a bit of a polarizing choice; they’re a couple whose fans absolutely adore them and some are absolutely not warmed to them. We’ve put together a really interesting mix. I say it at the starting line, it’s the most competitive group of teams we’ve had at the start of an Amazing Race."
[ht: AMG/Parade]

Alexander Rossi & Conor Daly appear as #TeamIndyCar during the opening scenes of Season 30 Episode 1 on a monitor during a viewing party on the Sunset Strip. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

This last weekend saw a most unusual occurrence happen during qualifications for the 102nd running of the Indianapolis 500.

Alexander Rossi has had a very strong season so far, in that he has placed P3, P3, P1, P11, and a P5 in five races and sits just 2 points away from leading in the season championship points at P2 going into the INDY500. During qualifications on Day 1 (and all through practice leading up to Day 1) Alex had great pace and just missed out at re-qualifying for the pole on Day 2, where only the top nine positions are eligible to compete, by 4/10th's of one-second after 10 miles at P10.

RaceControl graphic from IndyCar.com - Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

Conor Daly, on the other hand, was not able to secure a full season ride but was able to put together a sponsorship deal with United States Air Force for a Dale Coyne Racing and Thom Burns Racing No. 17 Honda Dallara for the biggest race of almost any season. This late deal, without having the kind of testing and experience with the new Universal Aero Kit Dallara that was introduced this year, had Conor clinging on to make the show at the end of Day 1 of qualifications at P33 of the limit of thirty-three positions allowed to race in the INDY500 no matter how many cars show up.

The unusual occurrence was that on Day 2 final qualifications, Conor Daly was unable to improve upon his starting position of P33 with another four-lap run, but Alex, who was expected to repeat his strong run at the top of the P10-P33 grouping in the Field of 33, was sent out with a right front tire set at an under-inflated level causing his NAPA Auto Parts No. 27 Andretti Autosport Honda Dallara to decrease in speed in each lap of his four-lap run placing his car at the back of the field at ... P32.

RaceControl graphic from IndyCar.com - Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

Joined at the hip yet again, race car drivers and friends Alex and Conor of #TeamIndyCar share the final row at P31 with British auto racing driver, and a former member of McLaren's Young Driver Programme Jack Harvey piloting the Meyer Shank Racing With Schmidt Peterson Motorsports No. 60 Honda Dallara as members of the "11th Row Society" which is an integral part of the culture surrounding this amazing 102 year (being run Sunday, May 27th 12:00 PM ET) race.

To honor this society and its new members, the 46th Annual charity event known as the "Last Row Party" will be held on Thursday, May 24.

EVENTBRITE DETAILS
Race car fans can meet Indy 500 drivers at the Last Row Party on Thursday, May 24 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. This annual event — in its 46th year — honors and roasts the three drivers who make up the last or 11th row of the Indianapolis 500 race.

This year's honorees are Jack Harvey, Alexander Rossi and Conor Daly.

In partnership with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Last Row Party is in the 160-foot-high Pagoda, which sits at the start and finish line of the Indianapolis 500.

One of the 500’s best events, fans can eat, drink and laugh as drivers are roasted at the Pagoda. (4790 West 16th Street -- enter through Gate 2 off 16th street). Last Row Party T-shirts will be sold for $20 each.

Past years' last row drivers have included Ryan Briscoe, Tony Kanaan, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Ana Beatriz, Sebastian Saavedra and Takuma Sato. All were Last Row Party honorees and instant crowd favorites.

Tickets are $60 per person. Attire is casual.

Tickets include entertainment and food. There will be two cash bars. Tickets can be ordered through this website at Eventbrite.com. Questions: Call 317-701-1130 (ask for Jenny) or 317-439-2252 (ask for Linda).  A portion of each ticket is tax-deductible since the event benefits the Indianapolis Press Club Foundation, which provides journalism scholarships, awards and fellowships for Indiana college and university students.

For more information, please visit our website at: www.indypressfoundation.org/last-row-party

Facebook: Last Row Party

Twitter: @LastRowParty

$45 of each ticket is tax-deductible since the event benefits the Indianapolis Press Club Foundation.

... notes from The EDJE



TAGS: #TeamIndyCar, Historic, INDY500, 11th Row Society, @The_EDJE, @TheEDJE, @LastRowParty, Last Row Party

ArtCenter Meet-Up With Recognized Automotive Designer Frank Stephenson

Frank Stephenson enjoys sharing the passions of the folks he designs solutions for. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

ArtCenter Meet-Up With Recognized Automotive Designer Frank Stephenson

An absolutely enthralling late morning and afternoon was spent with friends, scholars, fans and colleagues of "Rock Star" &  ArtCenter College of Design​ educated designer of the BMW MINI, rebirth of the Fiat 500, BMW X5 SUV, certain models of Ferrari​ - Maserati - Alfa Romero, and for the last 7+ years Design Director at McLaren Automotive - Frank Stephenson.

Listing of the documentary that Salon Pictures, with a distribution partnership through Lionsgate, found as an active project on the Salon Pictures website. Image Credit: Salon Pictures (2018)

A meet-up was arranged at ArtCenter for a few lucky folks to help give some background to a documentary being produced (Salon Pictures/Lions Gate) about Frank with a working title of ... My Design Life.

Simeon Panda and Frank Stephenson share some treasured stories, on camera, about body-building, challenges, perseverance, and cruising on Frank's wood hulled electric water craft in and around London. Good times. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

During this time that was shared, a production crew interviewed many of those who showed up at the gathering that was announced, almost in passing, through a Facebook posting on Frank's FB timeline.

Frank Stephenson signed several passenger side dash board panels of iconic designs he placed back into our motor culture consciousness. Here, Frank has signed the dash of a silver BMW MINI and is about to sign the corresponding accessories card the owner plans on mounting on the wall of his home. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

Beyond the engaging nature of Frank and the interesting design critiques of his own collaborative result of his produced road-worthy works, the breadth and nature of the people gathered stood as a testament in a most interesting wake trailing behind a designer's life lived.

Top of the line Fiat 500 Abarth brought to the meet-up by Grant Delgatty co-founder of the personal transportation device known as URB-E. Another winning design, another signed dash, and another story of the joy Frank's Design Life brings to all it touches. We all know - this is the easy part. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

On the critique side, Frank took on a recently purchased McLaren 720S, owned by @garagegoals.official, that graced our meet-up. The critique was entertaining, informative and insightful given the nature of our gathering.

With motion back and forth across the horizontal design element, Frank Stephenson illustrates his point that visually, and functionally, this area could have been handled differently. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

First, was the trailing "bubble" or accent-line indent just behind the front wheel and under the rear-view mirror. Frank's attitude from further reflection is that "less is more" and that the horizontal element that began at the wheel well accent curve should not be there - it was unnecessary and too busy. The finished look should be a continuation and fade out blending of the wheel well accent curve and that would be that.

Triangle in satin finish. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

Second, the triangle support guide at the leading, or front of the door, where the cabin side window is mounted should have been covered in a gloss black, as opposed to a satin finish or murdered out black, in order to repeat the reflective nature of the glass. After-all, the pillar that forms the roof structure is gloss black - notice how it fades into the background. McLaren offered as the reason for not changing the finish of this triangle element ... cost.

Two-piece vent finish solution. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

Lastly, along the McLaren's "signature" side body channel airflow vent access, this should have been a single defining piece, or cover. The two-piece cover that was the final solution leaves an eyebrow style edge or line that left the designer in Frank less than comfortable.

Ahhh, the ever-pursuing mind of a design perfectionist.

Frank Stephenson looks skyward as he waits for the production crew of My Design Life to finish another interview of some of the folks who had gathered at this impromptu meet-up at ArtCenter. Image Credit: Edmund Jenks (2018)

A grounded career takes flight.

Frank Stephenson's next designing chapter will begin May 7th, 2018 for a Munich, Germany company who brought him on to shape a five seat version of their two seat prototype of a vertical takeoff and vertical landing 150+ mph autonomous air transport taxi.

As Frank was overheard saying when asked, Why? "Look up, there's a lot of room up there!" ... as he smiled and looked skywards.

... notes from The EDJE




TAGS: Frank Stephenson, @artcenteredu, Stewart Reed, @_Garagegoals, @simeonpanda, @urberides, Grant Delgatty, #FSACCD, #ACCD, #salonpictures #lionsgate #film #mydesignlife #la #california #design, @The_EDJE

COURTNEY FORCE RACED TO THE FINAL ROUND SUNDAY AT THE STRIP AT LVMS.

LAS VEGAS (April 9, 2018) — Courtney Force steered her Advance Auto Parts Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car to the final quad of the DENSO Spark Plugs NHRA Four-Wide Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. John Force raced to the second quad and defending world champions Brittany Force and Robert Hight had first round finishes. Courtney Force, starting the day from the No. 1 qualifying position, had the best time of her first-round quad with a 3.967-second pass at 317.87 mph and was second quickest in the second round with her 4.126 pass at 298.67. In the final quad, Force and her Advance Auto Parts Camaro had a 4.007-second pass at 300.53 that was third to race winner J.R. Todd and runner-up Jack Beckman. “It was a great day for our Advance Auto Parts team with CarQuest onboard we got this Chevrolet Camaro all the way to the last quad of the day,” Force said. “We picked up a lot of points and made it all the way to the semifinals. This was a great outing for the first Four-Wide in Las Vegas. We had a good race car that qualified No. 1. We dropped a hole in the second round today and that slowed us down which we gave up lane choice in the final quad. We dropped a hole in the final and I think we will get that corrected before we get to Houston. This is a great team and I think overall we had a great weekend.” Force is second in the Funny Car points standings after the semifinal finish. The weekend came to a close during the second round of eliminations for 16-time world champion John Force. He powered his BOSS Shops branded PEAK Coolant and Motor Oil Chevy Camaro SS to a 4.050 pass at 315.34, only missing out on a trip to the finals by 0.015 seconds of reaction time. “Bottom line we are finding our problems. We didn’t get the wins in Top Fuel or Funny Car but Courtney was close. I feel confident with this team,” said Force, who moves up to 11th in the points standings, just 18 points out of the top 10. “It was great to have Boss Shop on this PEAK Camaro this weekend. Bruton Smith had a great crowd our here all weekend and we put on a good show for the fans. I am going to get with my team and we will do some testing tomorrow. For all my sponsors from Auto Club to Chevrolet to Monster to PEAK and Advance Auto Parts we are going to keep fighting.” Brittany Force, the No. 3 qualifier of the event, had a first round exit after her Monster Energy dragster smoked the tires and she pedaled to a 4.690 pass at 175.52. Force was bettered by Doug Kalitta’s 3.819 and Richie Crampton’s 3.832. “It’s tough. Our team is looking for its first win of the season and it would have been great to accomplish that here at the inaugural Las Vegas Four-Wide Nationals,” Force said. “It would have been cool to be the first Top Fuel team to do that. We had some good qualifying passes and we ended up No. 3. We went up there in lane 2 and it blew the tires off the Monster Energy Top Fuel dragster and I tried to pedal it. There were too many cars out in front of me so we had to let it go. We will regroup and head to Houston in another week.” After her crash in Pomona that landed her an overnight hospital stay, Force has all but put the nightmare of pedaling the race car behind her and turned the incident into a learning experience that she was able to practice during her efforts on Sunday. “That pedal definitely took me back to Pomona. It is race day. It is game on and we are looking for a win. What happened in Pomona is behind us and we are ready to fight it out for that first win of the season. When it wasn’t running smooth down there and it smoked the tires you have to pull your foot out of it and make sure you let it settle. That is the one thing I learned coming out of Pomona. You have to make sure the car is completely settled. I got back on it and it started to go. I think it was a good pedal job on my end but it wasn’t enough to turn on a win light,” added Force who remains ninth in points. Robert Hight ended his weekend when his Auto Club of Southern California Chevrolet Camaro SS Funny Car crossed the finish line with a 6.165 pass at 109.93 after it got into to trouble at half-track. “That wasn’t the way we wanted to start our race day. We had some troubles throughout qualifying. We started strong with a great first run and then couldn’t find consistency," Hight said. "This Auto Club team will get it figured out. We tested before this race and we’ll test tomorrow. I feel good about our chances to get some momentum for Houston and the next four-wide in Charlotte. The crowd the last two days here in Las Vegas was amazing. I have a lot of confidence in this Auto Club team.”