How to Make Informed Decisions with Today’s Tools

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August 12, 2025

How to Make Informed Decisions with Today’s Tools

Relying only
on gut feelings or opinions when making decisions is no longer wise. With all
kinds of tools to mine the massive data available, anyone can make better
decisions. Informed decision-making has always been challenging but has become much more manageable today.

There are
five steps to data-driven decision-making: 1) gathering relevant data, 2) organizing,
cleaning, and formatting the collected data, 3) using statistical methods to
analyze the data, 4) presenting the analysis in a clear and understandable
format, and 5) using the insights gained to make informed decisions and take
appropriate action.

What Tools
I Use

Excel has been helping me make decisions, even at home. My children fondly call me
Ms. Matrix. Here is an example of how my family uses it to decide where to go
for a family reunion.

Each family
nominates a destination and presents a description. With a simple matrix, we
compare variables like sights to see, food options available, activities for
children, weather, and travel costs.

Each variable
is given an importance ranking (the rankings should total 100%), higher
for the more important ones and lower for others. Then, each family rates each destination’s variable on a scale of 0 to 100. The average of the families’ ratings is the final
rating.

	Importance	New York City	San Diego	Orlando
Sights for Adults	20	90	70	70
Food Options	30	95	85	80
Activities for Kids	30	70	90	95
Weather	10	70	90	65
Travel Costs	10	70	75	65
TOTAL	100

Each variable’s
score is computed by multiplying its importance by its final rating.
The variable scores for each destination are summed up. The highest total score
wins!

		New York City	San Diego	Orlando
Sights for Adults		90×0.2=18	70×0.2=14	70×0.2=14
Food Options		95×0.3=28.5	85×0.3=25.5	80×0.3=24
Activities for Kids		70×0.3=21	90×0.3=27	95×0.3=28.5
Weather		70×0.1=7	90×0,1=9	65×0.1=6.5
Flights		70×0.1=7	75×0.1=7.5	65×0.1=6.5
	TOTAL	81.5	83	79.5
	RANK	2	1	3

They used to
wait for me to lead the discussion. Today, any of my daughters can build matrices.
They caught the bug and retired me.

I use two other tools for discussion and visualization. Mind mapping is great for brainstorming and exploring different possibilities. I branch out as far
from the center as possible.

Decision
Trees are diagrams that display different consequences at each fork or decision
point. It helps present various scenarios for comparison and visualize all the possible outcomes.

More Tools
and AI

Aside from simple
spreadsheets, you can also use statistical software like SPSS for statistical analysis, platforms to help manage and analyze large datasets, and data mining tools to discover hidden patterns in the data.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming crucial since it can be used
for all these steps. It can:

1. Automatically
collect data from various sources and clean it to remove inconsistencies and
errors,

2. Use advanced statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms to identify patterns, trends, and correlations within large datasets that would be difficult or impossible for humans to spot.

3. Predict
future outcomes based on historical data, helping businesses make informed
decisions about marketing campaigns, product development, and more.

4. Analyze
text data, such as customer reviews or social media posts, to gain insights
into customer sentiment and preferences.

Using intelligent generative prompting, you can iterate until you are satisfied that all aspects have been covered. This allows you to invoke AI in the entire decision-making
process!

In the past month,
for example, it has helped me decide to shift my writing to another platform (more on this in a future post). I used 36 iterations,
driving down details of why, how, where, what, and when to do it.

However, human
judgment and expertise are still essential to use in conjunction with it. Review
what AI did and verify that the data is correct, there are no gaps, and decisions
are ethical. And, if you like, follow AI’s example and take a second opinion:
your own.

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2026 Mercedes GLA to rival Golf and ID 3 with petrol or EV power

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August 12, 2025

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2026 Mercedes GLA to rival Golf and ID 3 with petrol or EV power

Mercedes-Benz is taking direct aim at Volkswagen Golf and ID 3 with its new third-generation GLA crossover.

The smallest member of the brand’s MMA-based compact car family will be sold in both electric and hybrid forms, replacing the first-generation EQA EV in the second half of 2026 and the second-generation ICE GLA in early 2027.

Pictures of the new GLA testing reveal that it will have a sportier, more coupé-like silhouette than today’s model, with a distinctive front end featuring Mercedes’ new ‘Iconic Grille’.

Autocar understands the car is expected to grow in size to just over 4500mm in length, allowing for a more spacious interior. For comparison, the current GLA is 4410mm and EQA is 4463mm.

Although pictures have yet to be taken of the new GLA’s cabin, i’is expected to mirror the designs of the recently revealed CLA saloon and incoming GLB crossover.

They feature a free-standing full width display, AI-supported infotainment functions and more upmarket materials than today’s model – all of which aims to outclass rivals in the segment.

The electric version will also receive a frunk, something not present on today’s EQA.

Underneath, the electric GLA will use the same 800V electrical architecture as the new CLA.

That car is offered with either a 58.5kWh LFP or 85kWh NMC battery and a top-end range of 484 miles.

Drive comes from either a single-motor or dual-motor powertrain, which deliver 268bhp and 349bhp respectively.

As with its MMA siblings, the GLA is planned to receive at least two AMG performance models featuring axial flux motors from British firm Yasa in 2027.

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Explore 3 New BMW Models Perfect for Your Next Road Trip

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August 12, 2025

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Explore 3 New BMW Models Perfect for Your Next Road Trip

Your summer road trip deserves a new BMW model. We’ve got outstanding options that will make you look forward to the drive more than the destination. Explore these three marvelous models and pick out your luxury vehicle at Fields BMW Northfield.

2025 BMW X5

For a five-seat mid-size SUV, start with the 2025 BMW X5. It’s got plenty of cargo space (up to 22.9 cubic feet in the back and 66 cubic feet with the backseats folded), plus an impressive 7,200-lb towing capacity.

You and your lucky passengers will enjoy available interior amenities like a Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof, ventilated front seats, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

2025 BMW X7

Need more room? The 2025 BMW X7 is right up your alley. It’s the largest BMW model available, and you can configure the massive cabin with either six or seven seats. Just look at all this cargo space for your luggage and gear:

8 cubic feet behind the seats
6 cubic feet with the third row folded
4 cubic feet with the second and third-row seats folded

This model also includes standard features like a Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof and multi-contour heated front seats.

2025 BMW i4

If a Gran Coupe is more your style, opt for the all-electric 2025 BMW i4. It seats up to five and offers 16.6 cubic feet of cargo room in the trunk, or you can fold down the rear seats to get 45.6 cubic feet of space.

With over 130,000 charging stations across North America, you can relax in your perforated Sensatec or available Vernasca leather seats and cruise the country.

Discover Your New BMW Model Near Glenview, IL

We can’t wait to help you pick out the new BMW model that’ll drive your summer vacation. Visit our BMW dealership near Glenview, IL, today. Our friendly team will help you find your perfect match!

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Electric cars were once marketed as ‘women’s cars’. Did this hold back their development over the next century?

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August 12, 2025

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Electric cars were once marketed as ‘women’s cars’. Did this hold back their development over the next century?

It was not a given that petrol-powered cars would come to dominate the world. In fact, back in 1900, just 22% of cars produced in the US were powered by gasoline (also known as petrol, benzine or various other names). The rest split between electric and steam cars.

There is no consensus on what explains the success of the petrol car and the historical demise of the electric. Some zoom in on the technical inferiority of electric cars, even though they had an average range of about 90 miles (135 kilometres) in the 1910s and eventually became cheaper to drive.

Others, including my colleague Hana Nielsen and I, argue that technological limitations could have been counteracted if electricity grids and charging station infrastructure had been rolled out in the early years of the 20th century.

But this does not rule out explanations based on social or cultural factors. Specifically, do gender roles decide what technologies we end up with? In the 1990s, US historian Virginia Scharff broke new ground when she suggested that electric cars had been labelled “women’s cars”, and that this image “took hold early and tenaciously”. Similar claims have been made for the UK.

Stylish women climb out of car — A 1916 ad for Baker Electric.
GRANGER – Historical Picture Archive / Alamy

In a new study I used American electric car advertisements from motorist journals and comprehensive vehicle statistics between 1900 and 1919 to examine these claims. I found it is undeniable that electrics were, in fact, considered to be women’s cars.

They were not marketed that way at first, however. I found that only 22% of electrics between 1900 and 1904 were marketed towards women.

In these very earliest days, electric car ads were rather addressed to businessmen and family men, countering the “adventure machine” vision of cars that was popular at the time. Electric car manufacturers imagined electrics as clean and reliable cars for the business commute in the cities the grid kept them restricted to. This was a valid argument since gasoline cars were prone to break down and had to be manually restarted with a crank.

‘EVs for women’ was a response to petrol’s success

But petrol-powered cars were taking over, accelerated by the iconic, cheap and mass-produced Ford Model T. It was only then that electric vehicle makers began marketing them as “women’s cars” to keep market share.

This advert, published during the first world war, urged women to ‘be patriotic’ and buy an electric car as petrol was needed for the war effort.
Early Advertising of the West Collection / wiki

During the 1910s, 77% of electric vehicles directly appealed to female consumers. This reflected traditional gender roles and the Victorian idea of “separate spheres”, promoting the idea that women had limited mobility needs and needed safe, easily operated vehicles.

In the short term, this was a successful strategy: car manufacturers that advertised to female consumers survived much longer. One of the most well-known examples, the Detroit Electric, produced more than 13,000 cars during its lifetime and was the only major electric car producer to survive into the 1920s.

Electric car ad from 1910 — A 1910 Detroit Electric ad states the ‘well-bred woman’ could ‘preserve her toilet immaculate, her coiffure intact’ and ‘drive… with all desired privacy, yet safely’.
Country Life in America, 1910

A significant shift occurred when prolific inventor Charles Kettering introduced electric starting ignition in the 1912 (petrol-powered) Cadillac. These electric starters were initially conceived as “effeminate”. But practicality won and they were introduced as a standard in the immensely popular 1919 T-Ford.

When petrol cars emulated “feminine” qualities such as windscreens and electric starters and made them appeal to both men and women, the electric was in a tough spot. It had become heavily invested in traditional gender roles that were becoming increasingly obsolete.

So, did gendered marketing doom the electric car? Not at first. Arguably, the lack of infrastructure was the biggest problem, initially, and differences in range and speed became increasingly problematic with the rise of countryside touring. Gendering came as a response to these developments.

However, gender did matter once we ask why the electric car did not exist longer. In particular, the link of electric cars to a conservative gender order helps explain why they did not bounce back despite being cheaper to operate due to falling electricity prices. Reducing technology choice to a question of gender meant that the electric lost the battle in the public imagination of what cars and mobility could become.

The most useful ‘feminine’ features were adopted

As the historian Virginia Scharff pointed out, US petrol car makers simultaneously saw that windscreens, the starting ignition, and other “feminine” additions to the car were not just good for women, but universal.

'Power sweep' advert with woman sat behind windscreen — Windscreen wipers were invented by a woman in 1903 and eventually became standard, as shown in this 1955 General Motors ad.
adsR / Alamy

Things are now quite different: women buy half of all new cars in the US. Meanwhile, there is a widening gender gap in political attitudes towards sustainability and renewable technology, as evidenced in several studies, where sustainability is often viewed as feminine.

In this context, it is a curious irony of history that the CEO of one of the world’s leading electric car producers has been so vocal in favour of bringing back masculinity and traditional gender roles, amid a rise of what some have termed “technofascism”.

The history of electric vehicles rather illustrates that social constructions of feminine and masculine can be barriers to progress and innovation. It also poignantly shows that we do not always end up with socially optimal technology and that “tech leaders” are as unable to foresee the long-term consequences of technology choice as anyone else.

If history is any guide, innovation needs to be based on principles of universal access and inclusion. Democratic influence can help ensure that technological transitions benefit a large majority of people regardless of their gender, class or ethnicity.

Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 40,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

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5 Western Canada Ghost Towns to Visit in Your RV

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August 11, 2025

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5 Western Canada Ghost Towns to Visit in Your RV

Old wheels and buildings in Barkerville, BC, Canada. — ***Barkerville, British Columbia***.

These Fascinating Ghost Towns Offer A Glimpse Into Western Canada’s History

Whether you’re a history buff, or just up for a fun adventure, you’ll want to add a few of Western Canada’s ghost towns to your Canadian itinerary. These abandoned towns and cities offer a rare opportunity to examine the way people lived in Canada’s wild and wooly west, albeit through a present day lens. That said, there are more than 1,585 official ghost towns scattered through Alberta and British Columbia. Most of them are all that’s left of once thriving mining towns that were suddenly abandoned. Residents often moved on after events the gold rush were over, or else when mines were simply no longer viable. Many of the towns died during the widespread economic collapse of the 1930s.

Not all of these ghost towns are easy to access. That said, many of these places offer nothing more than the ruined foundations of buildings that once represented thriving communities and a lot of hopes and dreams. However, this is not always the case. In this article, I’ll share 5 ghost towns located in western Canada where the buildings remain largely intact, standing as a testament to the lives of western Canada’s earliest settlers.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada

With a high US-to-Canadian dollar exchange rate, there’s never been a more affordable time to road trip in Canada.
Know the rules for crossing the border into Canada. Click here to find out more.
Be sure to bring a passport for each traveler.
While Canada officially uses the metric system, don’t be surprised if you hear distances referred to in miles in Alberta if you stop to ask for directions.
Pets are welcome, but bring required documentation for them.
Camping: In addition to private campgrounds, Canada has Provincial Park Campgrounds, National Park Campgrounds, Forest recreation sites in BC, and crown land camping in Alberta. Some ghost towns have on site overnight camping too (If you dare!).
In BC, check the DriveBC website or app to get up to the minute reports on road conditions.
In Alberta, find out about road conditions at 511.ca.

Barkerville, British Columbia

Barkerville isn’t so much a ghost town as it is a well preserved testament to life during the legendary gold rush that put BC on the map in the 1860s. Still, this town’s 125 buildings and list of unique interactive activities make it a must-see for history buffs. It’s also a great place to spend a day or two with the kids too because there’s a lot to see and do here, from theatrical and dance performances to gold panning and stage coach rides. With townsfolk dressed in period costumes, It really feels as though you’ve traveled back in time.

Know Before You Go

Barkerville has a strict no-pets policy. However, if you happen to have your four legged friend with you, the town rents shaded kennels where your dog can relax in comfort.
The old townsite lies at a 4,000-foot elevation, nestled in the Caribou Mountains of the BC interior.
Barkerville is located about 1.5 hours west of Quesnel along Highway 26.
Admission Prices (GST = Goods and Services Tax):
- General (Age 17–64): $21 + GST
  Seniors (65+): $15.76 + GST
  Student (with student ID): $15.76 + GST
  Youth (Age 6–16): $13.76 + GST
The closest fuelling station is at Wells.

Where to Stay

There are numerous campgrounds in the Barkerville area. Here are the two local favorites:

Forest Rose Campground: Campers here loved the level 55-by-13-foot pull-through sites, trees, and close proximity (2 km) to Barkerville to partake in gold rush themed activities. Forest Rose Campground has 56 campsites, 26 of which can be booked in advance.
Lowhee Campground: Lowhee Campground is located within walking distance of Barkerville. Campers loved the treed, 50-by-14-foot campsites here. Lowhee Campground has 80 campsites, 47 of which can be booked in advance.

Sandon, British Columbia

Old wooden Fire Hall door in the ghost town of Sandon, BC.

In the 1890s Sandon, BC, was a thriving silver mining town that had all the modern conveniences for the day. Sandon even had its own electrical power station. It had a reputation for being a wild, wild place with regular brawls in its casino and saloon. However, after silver prices dropped the town would spend years in decline, until it was unincorporated in 1920. Sandon is the heart of B.C.’s famous Valley of the Ghosts in the West Kootenays.

Know Before You Go

Sandon is located just off Highway 31A, 15 minutes east of New Denver and 45 minutes west of Kaslo.
Today, Sandon has 20 residents who work with volunteers to help keep the remaining buildings and roads in shape.
There are numerous hiking/walking/biking and ATV trails where you can still find old remnants of the once booming town.
Sandon has a cafe and gift store for visitors.
The town offers workamping opportunities via its website.
Pets are welcome but must be kept leashed and picked up after.

Where to Stay

The town of Sandon offers on site camping for just $15 for an unserviced site and $20 for a 30Amp serviced site. Reservations are available by calling (250) 358-2141 or (250) 358-2247.

Cody, British Columbia

In the 1890’s Cody was a thriving town at the end of the Kaslo And Slocan Railway line. Just 2 kilometres east of Sandon, the little town had 150 residents, as well as hotels, and businesses. Today, the remains of a concentrator mill and the old K&S Railway stationhouse mark the site of the once-thriving community.

To get to Cody, continue along the main road past Sandon for about 2 km. The road does get very narrow but it’s perfect for biking or a walk. When you get there, you’ll be rewarded with lots of ruins to explore.

Rowley, Alberta

In the early 1900’s Rowley Alberta a bustling railway town that was home to more than 500 residents. Then came the Great Depression of the 1930’s, which led to a decline in rail transport and led to the town being largely abandoned. Nowadays, there are just 12 people living here. They’re the ones who lovingly care for the buildings and properties in this little ghost town. Key landmarks include a saloon, funeral home, bank, farmhouse, and several structures that were part of the town’s heyday and have been preserved to help tell the story of a typical Canadian prairie town.

Know Before You Go

Rowley, Alberta is located about 30 minutes north of the town of Drumheller, home of the world’s largest collection of Dinosaur fossils at the Royal Tyrell Museum.
The town of Rowley offers onsite camping by donation
Rowley holds a popular pizza night fundraiser every Saturday night through summer at Sam’s Saloon.
The town of Rowley offers scheduled guided tours of the town which may be booked through the Rowley, Alberta website.
Pets are welcome in Rowley but the town asks that you keep them leashed and picked up after.

Where to Stay

Rowley offers onsite camping by donation. The Rowley campground is located right in the heart of this ghost town.

Wayne, Alberta

In the early 1900s Wayne, Alberta, was a bustling coal mining town with a population of around 1,500 residents. Like many other ghost towns in western Canada, Wayne’s quick demise came after the coal industry collapsed during the Great Depression of the 1930s. By the 1950s, only a handful of residents and a bunch of empty buildings remained in this once thriving town. That said, there are still around 27 residents living here.

As a matter of fact, you can still get a cold beverage at the Last Chance Saloon. Although this place still bears bullet holes denoting a wild and wooly past,it’s mellowed a lot over the last 100 years. It’s not hard to envision this old west saloon when it was known as the “Bucket of Blood” by the thirsty miners that were known to brawl here in the 1920s. Nowadays, the saloon is family friendly, and boasts a wild west vibe, complete with bar stools topped with western saddles.

Know Before You Go

Wayne is located 6.2 miles southeast of Drumheller’s main townsite and 65 miles northeast of Calgary.
You’ll need to cross 11 bridges to get to Wayne from the Drumheller townsite.
Wayne’s wild west style buildings are well kept by the town’s remaining residents.
This ghost town is definitely worth a visit.

Where to Stay

Campground of Wayne, a ghost town located near Drumheller in Alberta, Canada.

Wayne’s Rosebud Hotel offers authentic, wild west themed rooms for about $75 CDN per night. However, the hotel also offers camping at its own treed campground. Click here to reserve or find out more information.

Discover the History of Canada’s Wild West

So, are you ready to chart your own course through Canada’s wild west? Pack up your RV and get set to explore these easy-to-access ghost towns. Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable journey through some of Canada’s most scenic regions. These long abandoned ghost towns are filled with fascinating history, and each is set in its own uniquely beautiful, diverse, and unique landscape. Often, there are friendly faces around who are more than happy to divulge the long-kept secrets of these often mysterious places.

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Designing bespoke car luggage

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August 11, 2025

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Designing Bespoke Car Luggage

Car brands know that luxury goes beyond the car itself, it is the complete experience, and luxury automakers are designing bespoke car luggage to compliment their vehicles. drive understand this aspect of vehicle ownership, and when designing such items, take in to account owner’s experiences, journeys and activities, making travel an even more luxurious affair.

Luxury Travel Experience

Whether it is a single item like a custom-designed hamper or a bespoke luggage collection it is clear that car companies understand the importance of these pieces. Helping to build their relationships with individuals. Elevating every moment of the owner’s travel, whether on a countryside picnic or a glamorous getaway.

Sport Luggage

Luggage designed for sportscars, can combine precision engineering with luxury materials like carbon fibre and leather or lightweight and efficient EVA mouldings. Every piece is designed to fit perfectly in the car and provides a sense of satisfaction with every use. From the moment the speedcase™ closes to the smooth glide putting it in position there is a focus on quality that compliments the dynamic performance of the car.

drive experience with bespoke car luggage

Bespoke car luggage to enhance your drive

These luggage collections are thoughtfully designed to meet the high expectations of discerning travellers. Incorporating functionality with elegance, whether for long weekends, business trips, or leisurely vacations. drive understands the attention to detail that is required when designing bespoke car luggage, to make sure the owner’s driving experiences are enhanced.

It is clear that high-end luggage is no longer an after thought — it is a vital part of the luxurious experience that exclusive brands offer.

#drivenbydesign®
#TheDriveway™
#carluggage
#driveluggage

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars – Goodwood Bespoke
drive luggage (@driveluggage) • Instagram

Car Designer | Drive Design Studio

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BMW’s Digital Key Revolution: Seamless Sharing Between iPhone and Android Users

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August 11, 2025

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BMW’s Digital Key Revolution: Seamless Sharing Between iPhone and Android Users

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, BMW continues to lead the way with its innovative features. Among them, the BMW Digital Key stands out as a prime example of seamless integration between smartphones and luxury vehicles. In an exciting development, BMW has expanded the capabilities of its Digital Key, allowing owners to share access between both iPhone and Android devices. This enhanced flexibility opens up new possibilities for BMW drivers, and in this blog, we will explore how this advancement further enhances the driving experience.

The BMW Digital Key is cutting-edge technology that turns your smartphone into a virtual car key. By utilizing Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, this feature enables contactless access and ignition for your BMW, eliminating the need for a physical key. BMW owners have widely acclaimed the convenience and security offered by the Digital Key.

Initially, the BMW Digital Key was limited to specific iPhone models running iOS 13.6 and above. This exclusivity sometimes posed challenges for BMW owners who preferred Android devices. However, BMW has been listening to its customers and has now introduced a groundbreaking update that allows sharing of the Digital Key between both iPhone and Android smartphones.

Whether you own an iPhone or an Android device, sharing the BMW Digital Key with family and friends is now a hassle-free process:

For iPhone Users:

Set Up Digital Key: Launch the BMW Connected App on your iPhone and add your BMW vehicle if you haven’t done so already. Follow the instructions to set up your Digital Key using your BMW ID or fingerprint for verification.
Invite a Guest: Within the “Digital Key” section of the app, select “Invite Guest.” Enter the recipient’s email address, customize access privileges, and set an expiration date, if desired.
Guest Accepts the Invitation: The recipient will receive an email invitation to accept the Digital Key. They need to download the BMW Connected App, sign in with their BMW ID, and accept the invitation.
Sharing Successful: Once the recipient accepts the invitation, the Digital Key will be accessible on their iPhone, granting them the specified access rights.

For Android Users:

Check NFC Compatibility: Ensure that your Android smartphone supports NFC technology and is running Android 10 or a later version.
Set Up Digital Key: Download and install the BMW Connected App from the Google Play Store. Add your BMW vehicle to the app and set up the Digital Key following the on-screen instructions.
Invite a Guest: Navigate to the “Digital Key” section in the BMW Connected App and tap on “Invite Guest.” Enter the recipient’s email address, customize access permissions, and duration.
Guest Accepts the Invitation: The guest will receive an email containing the Digital Key invitation link. They should open the link, download the BMW Connected App, sign in with their BMW ID, and accept the invitation.
Sharing Successful: After accepting the invitation, the Digital Key will be added to their BMW Connected App, providing seamless access to your BMW.

The expanded compatibility of the BMW Digital Key brings a host of benefits for BMW owners:

Wider Access: Owners can now share their BMW Digital Key with a broader circle of family, friends, or colleagues, regardless of their smartphone preferences.
Versatility: Cross-platform sharing accommodates mixed-device households, enabling effortless sharing between iPhone and Android users.
Enhanced Convenience: BMW owners can enjoy the convenience of Digital Key sharing without limitations, making it a more versatile and user-friendly feature.
Future-Proof: As smartphone technology evolves, BMW’s cross-platform approach ensures that the Digital Key remains relevant and accessible to a wide range of users.

With the latest advancement in BMW Digital Key technology, owners can revel in greater flexibility and convenience by sharing access to their luxury vehicles between both iPhone and Android devices. As an authorized BMW dealership, we at Passport BMW are delighted to witness BMW’s commitment to enhancing the driving experience of our customers through cutting-edge innovations. Embrace the new era of cross-platform sharing with BMW’s Digital Key, and take full control of your driving journey, regardless of your smartphone choice. Visit us today and discover the world of possibilities that BMW has to offer.

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SIS special number plate series released for Sultan Selangor’s silver jubilee – Aug 15-19 on JPJ eBid

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August 11, 2025

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SIS special number plate series released for Sultan Selangor’s silver jubilee – Aug 15-19 on JPJ eBid

There’s a new special plate series in town – SIS. The special plate series is being issued in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the reign of DYMM Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, the ninth Sultan of Selangor. It was not mentioned explicitly, but we’re guessing that SIS is the ruler’s initials.

This silver jubilee celebration series will be open for bidding on JPJ eBid from this Friday, August 15. The bidding period is five days, ending 10pm on August 19, which is next Tuesday. As usual, the results will be out the following day. The whole process is online now, as it has been for some time, and bidders will get the good (or bad) news via email.

No minimum bid details were released, but similar special offerings from before had minimum bids for the top Nombor Utama category at RM20,000, while it was RM5,000 for Nombor Premium, RM2,500 for Nombor Menarik and RM500 for Nombor Popular. Regular numbers started from RM300.

Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.

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Triple Supercar Driving Experience and High Speed Passenger Ride at Three Sisters Circuit – The Car Spotter Blog

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August 10, 2025

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Triple Supercar Driving Experience and High Speed Passenger Ride at Three Sisters Circuit – The Car Spotter Blog

I was gifted a Triple Supercar Driving Experience and High Speed Passenger Ride for my birthday and decided to cash it in at summer when the chances of the track being dry and nice weather in the U.K. are at their highest.

I chose the Three Sisters Circuit in Wigan and was presented with various choices of car to drive in advance, including the Aston Martin DB9, the Audi R8 V8, BMW i8, Lamborghini Gallardo, Ferrari F430, Porsche 911 Carrera and Nissan GTR.

I opted for the Lamborghini Gallardo, Porsche 911 Carrera and Nissan GTR and was informed the high speed passenger ride would be in a BMW M140i.

The weather was great and I had the pleasure of some of my family joining to watch and spectate on the embankment. They also very kindly captured the photos of me and racetrack view content below.

The supercars and pits

Lamborghini Gallardo

First drive was in the Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder. So low, wide and flat to the floor and really sticks to the track with the 4WD, so nice to drive.

In the last image is my first instructor. Whilst driving I said he had an interesting job and he responded saying he kept getting asked to do these and has been doing them for 44 years now! He said he had a career as a Motorsport test driver and joked he was lucky to still be here at his age. Funny guy.

Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

Second drive was in the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. Really smooth and nice to drive.

Semi-automatic gears are the little silver + and – buttons on the steering wheel rather than paddles, different, haven’t encountered that before in a car.

The second driving instructor who guided me in the Porsche was really nice too, said he was a McLaren GT3 driver, and got to drive a McLaren 720S full carbon with carbon spoiler when racing. Pretty cool.

Nissan GTR

Third drive was in the Nissan GTR, with over 600bhp and an absolute monster. Sounded so good on the downshifts and upshifts, so powerful. I asked the instructor if it was stock, he said it wasn’t, mentioning it had been de-catted and re-mapped. The Nissan GTR was my favourite car I drove on the day, though each car was unique, fun and incredible to drive on the track.

The alcantara steering wheel with centre marker was great for grip when reaching for the paddles behind the wheel and a really cool feature. Uniquely, the paddles didn’t move with the wheel and stayed on the steering column.

The video below is me in the blue Nissan GTR, overtaking the red Ferrari 458 and then accelerating into the straight. The GTR exhaust sounded so good, the brutal, rapid, instant power from the twin-turbocharged 3.8L V6. So much fun!

High Speed Passenger lap in the BMW 140i

The High Speed Passenger Ride was in the above BMW M140i. The driver was a really nice guy and didn’t hold back, going sideways into the lunar bend long curve. He said he’d won a go kart championship on this track and would do a couple of hundred laps today, having done thousands in his time.

Business Insider article that I wrote

Back in 2019, the New York freelance editor of Business Insider emailed me, asking to write a piece for them about vintage cars that are good investments. You can see the article I wrote, that was uploaded to many different Business Insider country websites and translated into different languages below. Click here to read the full article. Click anywhere on the page off the subscription paywall to read the full article for free.

Unexpected hypercar spot

If you’d like to read about one of my best and most unexpected hypercar spots whilst walking to the beach in New Zealand, click here.

Please follow my Facebook, Instagram and YouTube accounts and subscribe to emails to be notified of new website posts if you’re into cars, too.

Thanks for reading, viewing and watching.

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10 Iconic American Cars That Represent Freedom

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AutoBlog STAFF

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August 10, 2025

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10 Iconic American Cars That Represent Freedom

From the open highway to the big screen, some cars don’t just get us from place to place — they stand for something bigger. In America, few things say “freedom” like a powerful, homegrown car built to go the distance.

EpicVIN celebrates ten legendary American vehicles that capture the spirit of independence, adventure, and bold design. Each car on this list is backed by real-world insights from drivers and verified through the VIN Lookup tool, which taps into one of the most robust vehicle history databases available. Whether you’re researching a classic muscle car or verifying the origins of a vintage pickup, these icons represent more than horsepower — they stand for trust, heritage, and the American road trip dream.

Ford Mustang (1964 and onward)

1964 Mustang

Why it matters: The Mustang launched the “pony car” era — affordable, sporty, and built for fun.
Freedom factor: It gave young Americans a sense of power without breaking the bank.
EpicVIN insight: According to our records, the Mustang is one of the most frequently restored classics in the U.S., especially the 1965–1967 models.

“The Mustang wasn’t just a car. It was a key to the American road.” — Alex Black, CMO at EpicVIN

Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray (1963–1967)

1963-chevrolet-corvette stingray

Why it matters: This sleek fiberglass beauty defined American performance.
Freedom factor: Its split-window design and V8 growl made it a favorite for thrill-seekers.
EpicVIN insight: Many Sting Rays still on the road today have crossed over 100,000 miles with proper maintenance — a testament to solid engineering.

Jeep CJ-5 (1954–1983)

Jeep-CJ-5

Why it matters: Based on military vehicles, the CJ-5 brought rugged utility to civilians.
Freedom factor: With no roof and no doors, it was made for dirt roads, camping trips, and national parks.
EpicVIN insight: There are many 1970s CJ-5s at off-road auctions with more than 60% of them in their original frame.

Chevrolet Bel Air (1957)

1957 Bel Air

Why it matters: Iconic for chrome fins and conventional two-tone paint.
Freedom factor: The ‘57 Bel Air was a symbol of post-war prosperity and optimism.
EpicVIN insight: There’s a summer peak in Bel Air title searches that can be correlated with family heirloom restorations.

Pontiac GTO (1964–1974)

1974 Pontiac GTO

Why it matters: Widely considered the first true muscle car.
Freedom factor: The GTO turned grocery-getters into street beasts, offering raw American horsepower.
EpicVIN insight: Original GTOs with matching VIN and engine codes now see a 5x value increase compared to modified versions.

Dodge Charger (1969–1970)

1974 Dodge Charger

Why it matters: It blended power and size with sleek fastback lines.
Freedom factor: Thanks to “The Dukes of Hazzard,” the Charger became a TV legend and an outlaw symbol.
EpicVIN insight: Our data shows Chargers from this era are among the top 3 in theft-recovery VIN lookups — collectors want them badly.

Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (1976)

1976 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible

Why it matters: The last of the big American drop-tops.
Freedom factor: There is nothing that captures luxury road trip better than 224 inches of chrome and leather in sunlight.
EpicVIN insight: Average of an exquisitely cared for 1976 Eldorado Convertible has only 2 owners in 40+ years showing great long-term loyalty.

AMC Gremlin (1970–1978)

978-AMC-Gremlin

Why it matters: Among America’s strangest compacts of all time.
Freedom factor: Loved by first-time buyers, budget influencers, and nonconformists.
EpicVIN insight: Despite being an odd shape, over 15,000 Gremlins still possess legitimate registrations in our records in 2025.

Chevrolet Camaro Z28 (1970–1974)

1974_Chevrolet_Camaro_Z28

Why it matters: The Camaro held its own against the Mustang.
Freedom factor: The Z28 package brought race-capable horsepower to a daily street car.
EpicVIN insight: Original first-gen Camaros with factory Z28 badging have 3 times as many VIN checks as base models.

Tesla Model S (2012–present)

Tesla Model S

Why it matters: An innovative new take on American ingenuity and gas freedom.
Freedom factor: Quiet, fast, and built in California, it changed the EV game.
EpicVIN insight: As of June 2025, the Model S holds the highest resale value among U.S.-built EVs, especially Performance editions.

Why These Cars Still Matter

Each of these vehicles tells a different story about what freedom means in America. For some, it’s speed and sound. For others, it’s the ability to go off-grid, or the pride of owning something bold and built to last.

At EpicVIN, we believe the story of a car is more than a spec sheet — it’s how it made people feel. It’s for this reason that we facilitate the disclosure of complete history for each VIN. Whether it’s your first Mustang purchase or restoring your grandfather’s Bel Air, come to us for assistance so that you can drive with confidence.

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Ford Mustang (1964 and onward)

Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray (1963–1967)

Jeep CJ-5 (1954–1983)

Chevrolet Bel Air (1957)

Pontiac GTO (1964–1974)

Dodge Charger (1969–1970)

Cadillac Eldorado Convertible (1976)

AMC Gremlin (1970–1978)

Chevrolet Camaro Z28 (1970–1974)

Tesla Model S (2012–present)

Why These Cars Still Matter

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