Tag:

Van

Here is the new Renault Trafic, which will no longer be diesel! — Totalcar

by Priya Shah – Business Editor November 19, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Renault trafic Ditches Diesel, Electrifies Future‍ Fleet

BUDAPEST, November 19, 2025 – Renault is phasing ⁣out diesel ⁢engines for its Trafic van model, transitioning to a fully electric powertrain with the ‌upcoming Trafic ‍E-Tech Electric. Production is ⁢slated to ‌begin at ‌the end of 2026, marking a significant step in Renault’s commitment to electric commercial vehicles.

The shift ‍responds to growing demand for zero-emission transport solutions and increasingly stringent ‍emissions regulations across⁤ Europe. The new Trafic⁣ E-Tech Electric will be available not only as a‍ standard ‌panel van but also in various specialized superstructure configurations, targeting a‍ broad range of commercial⁢ applications.Renault⁤ is bolstering buyer confidence with an 8-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty covering the battery and drivetrain, alongside over-the-air (OTA) software updates.

The⁣ manufacturer⁤ is emphasizing the long-term value⁢ proposition of the electric Trafic, ‌aiming to attract businesses seeking ‍reduced operating costs and a smaller environmental footprint. While pricing details remain undisclosed, the launch of the Trafic E-Tech Electric signals Renault’s dedication to⁣ providing lasting and technologically advanced‌ solutions for the light commercial‌ vehicle sector. Image⁣ sources include Fisheye/Wald.

November 19, 2025 0 comments

Business

Canton Pastor Charged After Teen’s Death on Church Van

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 22, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Canton,⁣ Ohio – Pamela Nichols is honoring the memory of her 14-year-old son, Malachi Nichols-Williams, who ‌died after being ejected from a church van on September 6, by donating his organs. The ‍teen suffered a skull fracture and severe brain injury and passed⁢ away a few days‌ after the⁣ incident.

The tragedy has led to ‍felony charges against 26-year-old⁢ Rushon Patterson II, pastor of ⁣Alive Now Kidz Church, including⁢ child endangerment and vehicular homicide. Despite the severity of the charges, Nichols expressed reservations about the⁢ homicide charge while⁢ together calling for Patterson to be held accountable for allowing her‌ son⁣ to ride on the outside of⁢ the van.

According to ‍police reports, Patterson was transporting children home from the church in a van when he permitted Nichols-Williams to ride on the vehicle’s exterior near his home on Alan Page ‌Drive. He was ejected from the van and sustained fatal injuries.

“That was just the wrong ‌choice to even allow him to do that,” Nichols said, questioning how the incident could have occurred.

Patterson ‌is currently out on bond,under house arrest,and wearing an ankle monitor as his case proceeds to a Stark County grand jury.

Despite her grief, Nichols described her son as a‌ caring individual who regularly shared Bibles with others.”I know he’s not gone,so if he can help somebody else to‍ live,I would love that,” ⁢she stated,explaining her decision ⁢to donate his organs ‍as a continuation of his generous⁤ spirit.

A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with funeral expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-a-caring-soul-funeral-support?attribution_id=sl:541d0eb1-434e-4c58-8ad0-5b34d8ae3035&lang=en_US&ts=1758215809&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp13_c-amp17_ta&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=email

Nichols‌ concluded with a plea‌ to other parents: “Don’t let your ‍kids jump on cars.It’s not safe. ‍It’s just not safe.”

September 22, 2025 0 comments

News

Post-Impressionist Painters: Provence Road Trip & Art Inspiration

by Emma Walker – News Editor September 5, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

Provence by palette: ⁤Five-Day Road ‌Trip Traces the Footsteps of Modern Masters

AIX-EN-PROVENCE, FRANCE -‍ september 5, 2025 ‍- A new five-day self-guided tour launches this autumn, inviting art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the landscapes that fueled the post-impressionist ‍revolution. The route, centered ⁤in FranceS Provence region, directly connects travelers to the locations ‌immortalized by Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne, offering a tangible link to the origins of modern painting.

The burgeoning interest in experiential travel,⁢ coupled with a renewed appreciation⁣ for art’s restorative power, makes this journey particularly resonant. For art historians ‍and casual observers‌ alike, the tour ‌provides a unique possibility to understand how ⁤habitat shaped artistic vision. The⁢ landscapes themselves become brushstrokes in a larger narrative, revealing the intellectual and emotional currents that propelled these artists beyond the constraints of ‌their predecessors. The tour aims to highlight⁢ the contrasting⁢ approaches of Van⁢ Gogh and Cézanne, both of ⁢whom found inspiration in Provence despite‍ fundamentally different artistic philosophies.

Though often described⁣ as rivals, Van Gogh and Cézanne’s paths converged in the south⁤ of ⁢France during the late 19th century. Van Gogh, who viewed art as ‌a conduit for emotional expression, arrived in Arles in February‍ 1888, seeking the intense ⁣light and vibrant colors of the region. Cézanne, conversely, ‌approached‌ painting as a ‌primarily intellectual pursuit, focused on dissecting form and structure.Despite their divergent methods, both artists rejected the prevailing artistic norms of their time.

The road trip begins in Aix-en-Provence, Cézanne’s birthplace and lifelong base. Visitors can explore‌ the⁤ Atelier Cézanne, the artist’s studio preserved as it was during his lifetime, and then venture ⁣to the Bibémus Quarries, a location Cézanne repeatedly depicted⁤ in his work, captivated by the geometric forms and ‍ochre hues.

From Aix, the route leads to ‍Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where ‍Van Gogh voluntarily admitted himself to ⁣the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole ⁤asylum in May 1889. The surrounding ⁤countryside, including the cypress trees and wheat ⁤fields that feature prominently in his paintings, are accessible to explore. The tour then continues⁢ to Arles, where van gogh produced ⁤some of his moast iconic works, such as The Starry Night⁢ Over the Rhône ⁢ and Van Gogh’s Bedroom. The⁢ final days ⁤are dedicated to retracing‌ Cézanne’s favored viewpoints ⁣around Mont Sainte-Victoire, a mountain that became a recurring⁣ motif in his oeuvre.

September 5, 2025 0 comments

Business

Ford Transit, a legend between vans turns 60

by Priya Shah – Business Editor August 4, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Ford Transit Marks 60 Years as a Global Workhorse

From Humble Beginnings to Electrified Future

In 2025, the iconic Ford Transit van celebrates six decades of dedicated service. Since its inception, the Transit has become synonymous with dependable transport, evolving from a single, unified European commercial vehicle into a diverse global fleet.

The Genesis of a Legend

The first Ford Transit rolled off the assembly line at Ford’s Langley plant in the United Kingdom on August 9, 1965. This marked a significant shift for Ford, which had previously offered separate van lines for the European market: the German FK 1000 (later Taunus Transit) and the British Thames 400E. The ambitious goal was a single, unified commercial vehicle that could be produced across Europe.

The inaugural Ford Transit model featured forward-thinking elements for its time.

The early Transit boasted innovative features for the mid-1960s, including printed circuits in the dashboard, seat belt anchor points, and an optional sliding side door. Initially offered with petrol engines producing 74 or 86 horsepower, alongside a 44 HP Perkins diesel, its load capacity reached up to 1,782 kilograms.

Evolving Through the Decades

Throughout the 1970s, the Transit underwent continuous technical improvements and expanded its variant offerings. A more contemporary front-end design arrived in 1971, followed by the introduction of Ford’s own “York” diesel engines in 1972. By 1975, the second generation, the MK2, featured a more user-friendly interior and, by 1976, power-assisted disc brakes became standard on longer wheelbase models. Interestingly, during this era, the Transit gained notoriety in England as a preferred getaway vehicle for bank robbers.

The 1980s saw significant advancements, including the introduction of a 2.5-liter direct injection diesel engine in 1984, which improved fuel efficiency by up to 24%. The milestone of the two-millionth Transit was celebrated in 1985. The Mk3 generation, launched in 1986, focused on aerodynamic optimization, enhanced safety, and increased load volume, further solidifying its market position.

Ford Transit, a legend between vans turns 60 — The Mk3 Transit, introduced in 1986, featured a new frame improving safety and cargo space.

The 1990s brought further refinements, including a redesigned Mk4 Transit in 1994 with a distinctive oval grille. Safety features like immobilizers, alarms, and three-point seatbelts across all seats were integrated. By 1998, electronic brakeforce distribution and traction assistance were added, alongside LPG versions, reflecting a growing demand for alternative fuels. Production also expanded to Vietnam and China.

Technological Leaps and Global Expansion

The turn of the millennium ushered in the fourth generation Transit in 2000, notably featuring both front and rear-wheel-drive options on a shared platform. It was crowned “Van of the Year 2001.” The following year saw the debut of the Transit Connect, which also earned the prestigious award in 2003. Production shifted to Kocaeli, Turkey, in 2004.

The fifth-generation Ford Transit, which introduced ESP. — The Mk5 Transit, launched in 2006, incorporated ESP and a wider engine range.

Ford continued to innovate, introducing Electronic Stability Program (ESP) in the Mk5 Transit in 2006, followed by all-wheel-drive options in 2007 and the fuel-efficient econetic models in 2009. In 2012, Ford revamped its commercial vehicle lineup with four distinct Transit lines: Courier, Connect, Custom, and the larger Transit. A significant moment arrived in 2014 when the Transit was officially offered for sale in the United States, expanding its global reach.

The introduction of the 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel engine in 2016 marked another step forward in efficiency. By 2017, Ford was testing plug-in hybrid technology with the Transit Custom PHEV. A testament to its enduring appeal, Ford regained market leadership in the European commercial vehicle segment in 2015.

The Electric Era and Future Prospects

The drive towards electrification intensified in 2020 with the debut of the all-electric E-Transit, featuring battery options up to 68 kWh. Practical trials commenced in 2021, and production of the E-Transit began in Kocaeli in 2022. Ford’s digital system, FordPass Pro, was also introduced to enhance fleet management.

Recent developments include the 2023 Ford Transit Custom, boasting 5G connectivity, a large touchscreen, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The Transit Connect received a plug-in hybrid option in 2024, and the E-Transit’s range was extended to 402 kilometers. All new Transit models now hold the Euro-NCAP Platinum safety rating, underscoring Ford’s commitment to safety and innovation.

Beyond Utility: The Transit Supervan Legacy

Beyond its practical applications, the Ford Transit has showcased its performance potential through a series of high-octane “Supervan” iterations. The first Transit Supervan, built in 1971, was based on the Ford GT40 chassis and equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine, achieving speeds of up to 240 km/h. In 1985, the Supervan II, utilizing a Ford C100 Le Mans car as its base and a Cosworth-DFY V8 engine, reached 280 km/h at Silverstone.

The powerful Supervan II, based on a Le Mans racing car. — Supervan II demonstrated the extreme performance capabilities a Transit body could house.

The third iteration, unveiled in 1995, featured a Ford Zetec-R engine producing 650 HP, similar to the engine Michael Schumacher used to win a Formula 1 World Championship. This vehicle is now a centerpiece of the Ford Heritage Collection. Most recently, the 2023 SuperVan 4.2, inspired by the Ford E-Transit Custom, competed in the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb, powered by three electric motors delivering a staggering 1,400 HP and generating significant aerodynamic downforce.

August 4, 2025 0 comments

Business

Tesla Founder Criticizes Cybertruck, Calls It a “Dumpster

by Priya Shah – Business Editor July 30, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Tesla’s co-founder, Martin Eberhard, has voiced concerns regarding the company’s shift away from its initial goal of producing a more affordable electric vehicle, a project initially slated for a $25,000 price point.

Eberhard’s remarks come as Tesla’s current vehicle lineup primarily targets the U.S. market with prices around $40,000.This contrasts with earlier announcements from both Elon musk and Tesla regarding the development of a substantially cheaper electric car, described as a “completely new model, designed and built from scratch on a new platform.” Musk had previously characterized this project as a crucial testing ground for “revolutionary innovations in production” aimed at reducing electric vehicle costs.

However, reports from Reuters last summer suggested that Musk had shelved the $25,000 electric car project. While Musk initially denied these claims, Reuters later reiterated its reporting, stating that Musk had indeed canceled the low-cost vehicle, frequently enough referred to by investors as “Model 2,” and redirected Tesla’s priorities toward autonomous robotaxis.

Tesla Founder Criticizes Cybertruck, Calls It a “Dumpster — *Several Cybertruck and other Tesla cars, photographed in May 2025 in the parking lot of a Detroit portrayal: Jim West / ImageBroker / Profimedia Images*

Despite his criticisms, Eberhard also acknowledged Musk’s significant impact on tesla’s trajectory, stating that the billionaire has “transformed tesla into one of the most valuable companies in the world.” He expressed satisfaction that his “baby survived,” referring to the company he co-founded.

Eberhard also commented on Musk’s other ventures, calling SpaceX “a remarkably good company.” However, he suggested that Musk does not adequately credit those who have been instrumental in SpaceX’s success, specifically mentioning Gwynne Shotwell, the company’s President, as the individual who “keeps the missiles in the air.”

July 30, 2025 0 comments

Business

Kentucky Weather Forecast: Heat, Storms, and Cooling Trend

by Priya Shah – Business Editor July 28, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Kentucky Weather: Heat and Humidity Persist Before Cool-Down

Table of Contents

Kentucky Weather: Heat and Humidity Persist Before Cool-Down
- Evergreen insights: Kentucky’s Summer Weather Patterns
- Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky’s Heat and Humidity

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Good Sunday afternoon, everyone! Heat and humidity will continue to be with us over the next few days before we experiance a nice cool-down.

Mostly cloudy skies will prevail this evening, with a chance of an isolated shower or storm. Any storm that forms could turn strong to severe, with damaging winds the main threat. Any storm will also be capable of dropping torrential rain, leading to flash flooding. The chance of seeing a strong to severe storm and/or heavy rain is focused more across northern Kentucky.

Monday starts with more clouds than sun and the chance of an isolated shower or storm. A few showers and storms will be with us for the afternoon as highs reach the upper 80s to low 90s. It will be so humid that it will feel like 100-105 degrees at the heat of the day.

Partly to mostly cloudy skies will be with us on Tuesday as we see the chance for an isolated shower or storm. The heat cranks up a little more as we see highs in the low to mid 90s with heat indices up to 105 degrees.

Wednesday will feature one last hot day with an isolated shower or storm. Highs will be into the low to mid 90s again, with it feeling like 100-105 degrees. Activity turns more scattered as we head into the evening and overnight as a cold front approaches the region.

Thursday will be a cooler day, but it will still be humid. Scattered showers and thunderstorms will be with us throughout the day as we see highs in the mid to upper 80s. Those scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue into the evening hours.

We turn less humid and even cooler for the end of the week and next weekend. Highs will run below average in the upper 70s to low 80s with slight chances of a shower or storm.

Evergreen insights: Kentucky’s Summer Weather Patterns

Kentucky experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and mild winters. The summer months, particularly July and August, frequently bring periods of high temperatures and humidity, often accompanied by pop-up thunderstorms. These storms can be intense, bringing heavy rainfall and the potential for flash flooding, especially in hilly or urban areas. The transition from summer to fall typically involves the arrival of cold fronts that bring relief from the heat and humidity, leading to cooler temperatures and drier conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky’s Heat and Humidity

What is the primary weather concern for Kentucky this week?: The primary weather concern for Kentucky this week is persistent heat and humidity, with the potential for strong to severe storms.
When will Kentucky experience a cool-down from the current heat?: Kentucky is expected to experience a cool-down towards the end of the week and into the next weekend.
What are the main threats associated with storms in northern Kentucky?: The main threats associated with storms in northern Kentucky include damaging winds and torrential rain leading to flash flooding.
What will the “feels like” temperature be during the hottest parts of the day?: The “feels like” temperature is expected to reach 100-105 degrees during the hottest parts of the day.
When is the best time to expect relief from the humid conditions?: Relief from humid conditions is anticipated towards the end of the week and into the next weekend.
What kind of temperatures can Kentucky expect at the end of the week?: At the end of the week, Kentucky can expect highs to run below average, in the upper 70s to low 80s.

What are your thoughts on this week’s forecast? Share your experiences and predictions in the comments below, and subscribe to World Today News for more timely updates!

July 28, 2025 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts