2024

12 December 2024: Bonhams Bond Street Auction [www].

8 December 2024 (#24/24): Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix.

1 December 2024 (#23/24): Qatar F1 Grand Prix.  

23-24 November 2024: Geelong Revival Motoring Festival [www].

23 November 2024 (#22/24): Las Vegas F1 Grand Prix.

22 November - 1 December 2024: LA Auto Show, Los Angeles [www].

17 November 2024: Bushfires at Kadnook, W. Vic., and Lavers Hill. See Vic. [www] fire.

17 November 2024: 32nd Rob Roy Historic & Classic Hillclimb, Vic. — AoMC [www].

16-17 November 2024: Bendigo Swap Meet [www].

15 November 2024, .au: "Catastrophic fire conditions forecast in SA ..." — [abc]. Check SA [www] fire.

13 November 2024: 'Biodiversity impacts of the 2019-2020 Australian megafires', Don A. Driscoll et al, Nature [www].

11-22 November 2024: COP29, "UN Climate Change Conference, Baku, Azerbaijan [www].

8-10 November 2024: Classic Motor Show, NEC, Birmingham, uk [www].

7 November 2024: Bentley will "[extend] the lifecycle of PHEV models beyond 2030, to 2035 ..." — Bentley [www], i.e., will delay going electric-only from 2030 to 2035.

6 November 2024: "Dirranbandi residents evacuate as bushfire burns near south-west Queensland town ..." — [abc]. Check Qld [www] fire.

5-8 November 2024: SEMA show, Las Vegas [www].

5 November 2024 (Tues.): USA Presidential Election, Kamala Harris & Tim Walz (Dem.) v. Donald Trump & James Donald (JD) Vance (Rep.). Provisionally[7/11], Harris 223, Trump 294 in the "electoral college" and hence a convicted felon and self-confessed groper is elected.  Also see archives.gov [www].  Putin and Netanyahu will be pleased, Xi may be ambivalent (trade) and Zelenski must be worried.  "Gaggle of Billionaires get Billionaire Elected in Selfless Push to Help Plight of Ordinary People ..." — Betoota Advocate [www].
And it's Guy Fawkes day, bonfire night – seems appropriate.

5 November 2024, .au: The Melbourne Cup; 1. Robbie Dolan on Knight's Choice (80:1).

3 November 2024 (#21/24): Brazilian F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Esteban Ocon [Alpine]; 3. Pierre Gasly (Alpine). It was a wet race and Red Bull and Alpine gambled on the race being red flagged during heavy rain so that they could change tyres 'for free'; that is what happened and it delivered them the podium places. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

3 November 2024 (Sun.): London to Brighton Veteran Car Run [www].

2 November 2024 (Sat.): St James's Motoring Spectacle, Pall Mall.

1 November 2024: Bonhams Golden Age of Motoring Sale (auction), London [www], including lot 212 a 1904 Darracq 12hp twin-cylinder four-seat side-entrance tonneau, chassis #5363, engine #6100 (sold £189,750).

31 October 2024: "... Australia's climate has warmed by an average of 1.51±0.23°C since national records began in 1910. Sea surface temperatures have increased by an average of 1.08°C since 1900 ..." — 'State of the Climate report', [bom] and CSIRO (a biennial report).
(Meanwhile, "... catastrophic floods" in Spain — [bbc]. "... The region of Chiva near Valencia saw as much rainfall in one eight-hour period on Tuesday as it would normally see in an entire year ..." — [3/11].

30 Octorber 2024: "2024 Used Car Safety Ratings released ... The 16 Safer Pick vehicles that received 5-stars in every category are (in alphabetical order): Audi A4/S4/RS4/All Road (MY 2008-2015); ...; Volkswagen Touareg (MY 2011-2019) ..." — MUARC [www].

27 October 2024 (#20/24): Mexican F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Carlos Sainz [Ferrari]; 2. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari). Max Verstappen (Red Bull) received two 10-second penalties for twice forcing Norris – his main championship rival – off the track. Verstappen finished sixth. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

25 October 2024, .vic: "Car theft reaches 10 year high ... more than 23,248 thefts or attempted thefts of motor vehicles recorded across Victoria in the 12 months to June ..." — RACV [www] #crime. Also see .gov.vic.au [www].

23 October 2024: "Gunlom Falls in Kakadu to reopen after historic fine handed to Parks Australia under NT sacred site laws ..." — [abc].

23 October 2024, recall #REC-006128: "Mercedes Benz S 580 2022-2023 ... Due to a software issue in the Engine Control Unit (ECU), the main wiring harness may become exposed to increased engine temperatures and become damaged. As a result, the vehicle may experience loss of propulsion whilst driving. In addition, electrical resistance in the wiring could lead to a vehicle fire." — .gov.au [www].

22 October 2024, recall #REC-006126: "Kia MV EV9 2023-2024 ... Due to a software issue, the Integrated Electronic Brake (IEB) system may not operate as intended. Therefore, a higher braking force may be required when using the Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) key function resulting in increased braking distance." — .gov.au [www].

20 October 2024, .au: Bay to Birdwood, SA [www].

20 October 2024 (#19/24): USA F1 Grand Prix, Austin Texas. 1. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]; 2. Carlos Sainz (Ferrari); 3. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]. Verstappen won Saturday's sprint race. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

19-20 October 2024, .au: Warbirds Downunder airshow, Tamora, NSW [www].

18 October 2024, .au: "Former pilot Greg Lynn jailed for 32 years over High Country murder of Victorian camper Carol Clay ..." — [abc].

17 October 2024, recall #REC-006127: "RAM Trucks 1500DT 2013-2024 ... Due to a software issue with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) may fail. This may result in a loss of vehicle control." — .gov.au [www].

17 October 2024: "The F80 is Ferrari's new supercar ... combined maximum power of 1200hp, the V6-hybrid powertrain of the F80 ... will be produced in a limited run of just 799 examples ... three-litre 120° V6 (900hp) electric front axle (e-4WD) and rear motor (MGU-K) of the hybrid system add another 300cv. ..." — Ferrari [www].

15 October 2024, .au: "The long-range forecast for November to January shows: Above average rainfall is likely across much of southern and eastern Australia. Warmer than average days and nights are likely to very likely across most of Australia ..." — [bom].

14-20 October 2024: Paris Motor Show, Mondial de l'auto [www]. "The new A390_β show car ... Alpine's upcoming and very first 100% electric sport fastback ..." — Renault [www]. "... Citroen, Peugeot and Alfa Romeo showcase new BEVs ... world premiere of the Peugeot E-408 ... Citroen C4 and C4 X vehicles – both available in all-electric ..." — Stellantis [www].

13 October 2024, .au: Bathurst 1000, NSW. 1. Brodie Kostecki & Todd Hazelwood (Chev. Camaro), 2. Broc Feeney & Jamie Whincup (Chev. Camaro), 3. Will Brown & Scott Pye (Chev. Camaro), [abc].

October 2024: "Recent hurricanes in Florida have revealed that seawater flooded EVs pose major safety concerns ... The 2022 Hurricane Ian impacted between 3000-5000 EVs to various degrees: 600 EVs were a total loss, ~36 EVs caught on fire ..." — 'A Teardown Study of Flood Damaged Electric Vehicles, EV Battery Safety, Part 2', Tanvir Tanim, nhtsa.gov, Jan. 2024, [www]. #BEV #E #battery #fire So about 1% of salt-water-flooded EVs burned. Also see 20 Sept., 25 Aug. and 8 May below.

10 October 2024: We robot ... [autonomous taxi] production to begin some time "before 2027 ... — Tesla, #robotaxi #Cybercab #Tesla #Musk.
11/12: Also see, "Tesla shares slide after Cybercab robotaxi revealed ..." — [bbc].

9 October 2024: "Drive one of these car brands? This is how much of your data they're tracking ..." — Choice [www]. #privacy #Tesla #Toyota #Kia #Hyundai #MG Also see "These car brands are collecting and sharing your data with third parties ..." — [abc].

7 October 2024: It is twelve months since Hamas fighters broke out of Gaza into Israel and killed 1,200 and kidnapped 250 people. Israel has reduced Gaza to rubble and recently began attacks against Hezbollah in Lebanon. E.g., see [abc], [bbc].

16 Oct.: [bbc]

6 October 2024: Bonhams Zoute Sale (auction) [www], including lot 37 a 1965 Austin Mini Moke, chassis #808943, engine #3183 (sold €47,150); lot 157P a 1956 Porsche 550 RS Spyder, chassis #550-0082 (sold €2,530,000).

6 October 2024, .au: Coolamon Fire Engine Muster, Coolamon, NSW [www].

6 October 2024 (Sun.), .au: Start of daylight saving (ACT, NSW, SA, Tas., Vic.).

4-5 October 2024 (Fri., Sat.): Deniliquin Ute Muster [www].

4 October 2024: "EU hits China with tariffs in electric car sales battle ..." — [bbc]. That is, up to 45%.

1 October 2024: "Learn to Win 2025: why you need to join [Formula Student] ..." — Inst. Mech. Eng. [www].

30 September 2024: "Calls for better truck driver training as WA's road toll continues to climb ..." — [abc].

27 September 2024: "In light of a challenging market environment and developments that have fallen short of original expectations, particularly at Brand Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and Tech. Components, Volkswagen AG is updating its forecast for the 2024 financial year ..." — VW [www]. I.e. times are tough.

26 September - 6 October 2024: The Royal Show, Melbourne [www].

25 September 2024: "RACV patrols call for Government action on 'Slow Down, Move Over' rule ... slow to 40km/h when passing police or emergency services ..." — RACV [www].

24 September 2024: "Rain records tumble in outback Australia as September soaking moves southeast ..." — [abc], #Uluru Also check NT [www], SA [www] roads.

24 September 2024, .au: "Lower recent petrol prices welcome after prices moved higher in the June quarter ... average retail petrol prices across the five largest cities were 193.6cpl in June 2024, and decreased by around 10cpl to 183.7cpl in August 2024 ..." — ACCC gov.au [www].

23 September 2024, recall #REC-006084: "Chevrolet MY23 SILVERADO LD 2023 ... Due to a software issue with the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM), the brake fluid warning light may not illuminate as intended and therefore fail to warn the driver when the brake fluid level is low. As a result, insufficient brake fluid could lead to a reduction in braking performance." — .gov.au [www].

22 September 2024 (#18/24): Singapore F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 2. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 3. Oscar Piastri (McLaren). Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

21 September 2024 (Sat.): Melbourne Society of Model and Experimental Engineers Open Day, South Oakleigh College, Vic. 3167 [www].

20 Sepember 2024: "Understanding electric vehicle fires: A comprehensive guide ..." — NRMA [www]. Also see 'Fire Incidents, Trends, and Risk Mitigation Framework of Electrical Vehicle Cars in Australia', [www].

17-22 September 2024: IAA Transportation show, Hanover [www].

16 September 2024, recall #REC-006074: "MINI Cooper SE 2020-2023 ... The high-voltage battery management software has insufficient protections for short circuit events. As a result, if a short circuit occurs it could lead to a vehicle fire whilst driving or parked. ..." — .gov.au [www].

15 September 2024 (#17/24): Azerbaijan F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Oscar Piastri [McLaren]; 2. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]; 3. George Russell [Mercedes]. McLaren took the lead in the F1 Constructors' World Champioship from Red Bull but Max Verstappen still holds the lead in the F1 Drivers' World Champioship (by 59 points). Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

15 September 2024, .au: "Latest modelling tips fourth La Nina for Australia in five years before the end of 2024 ..." — [abc]. If so, likely wetter spring and summer to come. See the [bom], "... Three of 7 climate models suggest the possibility of SSTs in the tropical Pacific exceeding the La Nina threshold (below -0.8°C) from October, while the remaining 4 models, including the Bureau's, suggest SSTs are likely to remain at ENSO-neutral values ... throughout the forecast period. This means it is possible a La Nina may develop in coming months. ..." [3/9/'24].

14 September 2024: "Antarctic air mass to deliver weekend snow, hail and thunder to Tasmania, Victoria and NSW ..." — [abc]. (Check the [bom.)
But, "Snow communities hopeful for bumper 2025 season after another warm winter ..." — [13/9].

9 September 2024, .au: "Outback coffee van near Cameron Corner (SA) mistaken for a mirage by tourists ..." — [abc].

6-8 September 2024: Goodwood Revival [www].

7 September 2024: Bonhams Goodwood Revival auction [www], including lot 140 a 1933 MG Magnette K3 Supercharged Sports-Racing two-seater, ex-works team car, chassis #K3003, engine #R772 AC (sold £525,000); lot 145 a 1967 Jensen FF Mk1 chassis #119/016, engine #678/19B (not sold).

6-7 September 2024, .au: Birdsville Races [www]. (Check SA [www] roads.)

2 September 2024, .au: "Tens of thousands of homes without power as wild weather eases across Victoria ..." — [abc]. Check the [bom].

1 September 2024 (#16/24): Italian F1 Grand Prix, Monza.

Results: 1. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]; 2. Oscar Piastri [McLaren]; 3. Lando Norris [McLaren]. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc]. Has Red Bull lost its mojo?

1 September 2024, .au: Spring.

30 August - 1 September 2024: Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace [www].

29 August 2024, .au: "... The Spring Long-Range Forecast shows an increased likelihood of warmer than average temperatures across all states and territories this spring. Rainfall forecasts are more mixed, with an increased likelihood of above average for large parts of eastern Australia, and more likely below average rainfall for large parts of Western Australia. ..." — [bom].

29 August 2024, recall #REC-006064: "Rolls Royce Spectre (RR25) 2023-2024 ... Due to a manufacturing defect, signal interference may occur within the electronics of the brake system. If this occurs, a higher pedal force may be required for braking. The anti-lock braking system and dynamic stability control will not be available. ..." — .gov.au [www]. (Also see BMW 22 Aug. below.)

28-31 August 2024, .uk: Salon Prive, [www].

25 August 2024 (#15/24): Dutch F1 Grand Prix, Zandvoort.

Results: 1. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 2. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 3. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

25 August 2024, .au: "Battery fires 'top issue' for Fire and Rescue NSW as state reports more than six fires per week ..." — [abc]. E-bikes and e-scooters are said to be the chief culprits.

24 August 2024: Two and a half years since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine (24 Feb. 2022).

23-25 August 2024: Silverstone Festival [www].

23-25 August 2024, .au: National 4x4 Show Melbourne Showgrounds [www].

23 August 2024, .uk: The F1 Exhibition, opens, EXCEL, London [www].

22 August 2024, recall #REC-006061: "BMW Model MINI and Alpina X models 2022-2024 ... Due to a manufacturing defect, signal interference may occur within the electronics of the brake system. If the fault occurs, a higher pedal force may be required for braking. The anti-lock braking system and dynamic stability control will also not be available. ..." — .gov.au [www].

21 UAgust 2024: "... Ford is retiming the launch of its groundbreaking electric truck code-named 'Project T3' to the second half of 2027. ..." — Ford [www]. I.e., demand for EVs is weaker than expected.

20 August 2024, .au: "ENSO and IOD likely to remain neutral in spring ..." — [bom].

19 August 2024: "Wild weather brings record-breaking rainfall, flooding across Western Australia's South West ..." — [abc]. Also see WA [www] roads.

18 August 2024, .au: Darwin Beer Can Regatta (Darwin Lions Club) [www].

18 August 2024: Pebble Beach, Concours d'Elegance [www] (Sunday).

16-17 August 2024: Gooding and co. Pebble Beach Auction [www] including lot 7 a 1972 Ferrari Dino 246 GT, chassis #04860, engine #135 CS 000 0010140 (sold us$533,000).

16-17 August 2024: RM Sotheby's Monterey Auction [www] including lot 308 a 1989 Lamborghini LM002 chassis #ZA9LU45A4KLA12141 (sold us$703,500).

16 August 2024: Bonhams Quail Auction [www], including lot 104 a 1982 DeLorean DMC12 vin #SCEDT26T6CD010895 (sold for us$78,400).

17 August 2024 (Sat.): Henley on Todd "Regatta", Alice Springs, NT, .au [www]. ?Cancelled [27/6]? Still on.

15-18 August 2024, .uk: British Motor Show, Farnborough [www].

14 August 2024: "Records tumble as heavy rain falls across south-east Queensland, northern NSW ..." — [abc]. Also see NSW [www] and Qld [www] roads, and the [bom].

8 August 2024 recall #REC-006052: "Isuzu D-Max and MU-X 2020-2024 ... Due to a software issue, the Engine Control Module (ECM) may incorrectly reduce the engine speed. If this occurs, the engine may stall, resulting in a loss of motive power." — .gov.au [www].

3 August 2024: "Australia shivers through June and July, so was the BOM's forecast of a warm winter wrong? ..." — [abc]. And, "The long-range forecast for August to November shows: ... Warmer than average days and nights are likely to very likely across most of Australia; however, periods of cold weather are still possible." — [bom].

2 August 2024, recall #R202405: "Mazda CX-60 (KH) CX-90 (KK) (diesel) 2023-2024 ... Due to a software issue in the transmission control module, if the brake pedal is firmly depressed to stop the vehicle the clutch for the engine and electric motor may remain disengaged during deceleration. If this occurs, power from the engine or electric motor may not be transmitted when the accelerator pedal is depressed." — .gov.au [www].

30 July 2024: "RACV road safety survey highlights danger on Victoria's regional roads ... The Melba Highway from Coldstream to Yea received the most responses regarding safety concerns ..." — RACV [www].

29 July 2024 recall #REC-006021: "Ford Ranger 2021-2022 ... Due to a software issue, the engine may generate more soot than intended which could cause the vehicle to trigger more frequent regenerations of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). This could result in the vehicle producing emissions outside the requirements of Emissions Standards Regulations. This may also lead to potential failure of the DPF." — .gov.au [www].

28 July 2024: "Huge California wildfire tears through 5,000 acres every hour ..." — [bbc].

28 July 2024 (#14/24): Belgian F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Lewis Hamilton [Mercedes]; 2. Oscar Piastri [McLaren]; 3. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]. George Russell (Mercedes) crossed the finishing line first after managing to make a one-stop strategy work but, in a rare error, was later disqualified for his car being underweight (1.5kg). Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

26 July - 11 August 2024: Olympic Games, Paris [www].

26 July 2024, .au: "Mobile phone detection cameras catch more than 30,000 Adelaide drivers breaking the law ..." — [abc].

25 July 2024: "First Half 2024 Results ... Net revenues of €85.0 billion, down 14% compared to H1 2023, primarily due to the decline in volume and mix. Net profit of €5.6 billion, down 48% compared to H1 2023 ..." — Stellantis [www].

25 July 2024: "Reported road casualties in Great Britain involving illegal alcohol levels: 2022 ... between 290 and 320 people were killed in collisions in [GB] where at least one driver was over the drink-drive limit, with a central estimate of 300 deaths. The central estimate of fatalities for 2022 is the highest level since 2009, and an increase compared to the previous year. ..." — .gov.uk [www].

22-26 July 2024: Farnborough International Air Show, uk [www].

21 July 2024 (#13/24): Hungarian F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Oscar Piastri [McLaren]; 2. Lando Norris (McLaren); 3. Lewis Hamilton [Mercedes]. Also see the FIA [www], the [bbc] and the [abc].

19 July 2024: "UN top court says Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal ..." — [bbc]. Also see icj-cij.org [www].

18 July 2024, .au: "Grays to redress consumers and pay $10 million in penalties for misleading descriptions of cars for sale by auction ..." — ACCC [www].

17 July 2024, recall #REC-006028: "RAM trucks 2021-2022 ... Due to a software issue with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) may fail. This may result in a loss of vehicle control." — .gov.au [www].

17 July 2024: "Snow falls at Guyra and Oberon in NSW as cold snap continues ..." — [abc].

15 July 2024: "Polar outbreak hitting eastern Australia to bring most snowfall in two years across NSW ..." — [15/7].

17 July 2024, some prices on the Suzuki Jimny 4WD: Jimny Lite from au$34,990, ..., Jimny XL Automatic from au$41,990 (drive away).

11-14 July 2024: Goodwood Festival of Speed [www].

12 July 2024: Bonhams Festival of Speed auction [www] including lot 227P the ex-Cecil Harcourt-Smith, John Fitzroy - 9th Duke of Grafton, Robert Arbuthnot, Edward Mayer, Peter Hampton 1928 Mercedes-Benz 36/220 S-type 4-seated sports tourer, chassis #35985, engine #72191 (sold £2,871,000); lot 254 a 1954 Bentley R-Type 4.9-Litre Continental Fastback, chassis #BC38D, engine #BCD37 (sold £354,200).

8 July 2024, .au: "Winter rainfall breaks decades-old July weather record in Birdsville, Bedourie ..." — [abc]. Also see NSW [www], Qld [www] and SA [www] roads.

8 July 2024: "Temperatures 1.5°C above pre-industrial era average for 12 months ..." — The G. [www] — July 2023 to June 2024. "Global temperatures reach Paris Agreement target of 1.5°C above average for 12 months in a row ..." — [abc].

8 July 2024: "French people reject the far right - again ..." — [bbc].

7 July 2024 (#12/24): British F1 Grand Prix, Silverstone.

Results: 1. Lewis Hamilton [Mercedes]; 2. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 3. Lando Norris [McLaren]. There's a turn up for the books. Two periods of rain added to an exciting race. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

5 July 2024: "All new cars sold in Europe required to be equipped with speed limiters from this week ..." — RAC [www]. "'Hard to argue against': mandatory speed limiters come to the EU and NI. All new cars must have the devices from 7 July ..." — The G. [www]. "Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) ..." — europa.eu [www].

5 July 2024: "Hybrid sales are outstripping EVs ..." — [abc].

4 July 2024 (Thurs), .uk: General election. (British PM Rishi Sunak announced the election on 22 May.) Labour won in a "landslide"; Keir Starmer became PM.  Lab. 412 (+211), Con. 121 (-251), LibD. 72 (+64), SNP 9 (-39), other 36 (+15) — [bbc].

3 July 2024, .au: "... demand for SUVs and Light Commercial Vehicles continues to drive the market, contributing 54.5% and 23.3% resp. to the monthly sales figures ... The Ford Ranger was Australia's top selling vehicle (6,289 in June), followed by the Toyota HiLux (5,630), Toyota RAV4 (3,907 ..." — FCAI [www].

3 July 2024: "Cold weather sends temperatures below zero, breaks records in parts of southern Australia ..." — [abc].

2-4 July 2024: Birdsville Big Red Bash Music Festival [www]. (There was rain in the days before, leading to mud. And more rain after – see 8 July above.)

1 July 2024, .fr: "Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally [33%] officially wins first round [of two] of French assembly elections ..." — [abc]. (See 8 July above.)

1 July 2024: "Australia in June 2024 ... Rainfall was above average for much of Western Australia, western and central Queensland and coastal and inland parts of New South Wales. Rainfall was below average for southern parts of Australia and south-eastern and northern areas of Queensland. Australia's national area-averaged mean temperature was 0.71°C above the 1961-1990 average. ..." — [bom].

30 June 2024: "How Australian ingenuity improved Land Rover four-wheel drives for weekend explorers ..." — [abc]. (Also see iView for 'Landline' ABC TV Sunday 30 June – about the 35 minute mark.)

30 June 2024 (#11/24): Austrian F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. George Russell [Mercedes]; 2. Oscar Piastri [McLaren]; 3. Carlos Sainz [Ferrari]. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) and Lando Norris (McLaren) were fighting for the lead on lap 64 when they touched and each had a puncture; Verstappen was later penalised 10 seconds for causing the collision. Norris had to retire but Verstappen managed to continue in 5th. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

28-30 June 2024: Tankfest 2024, Tank Museum, Bovington, uk [www].

26 June 2024: "VW to invest up to $5bn in Tesla rival Rivian ..." — [bbc].

25 June 2024: "Greg Lynn found guilty of murdering Victorian camper Carol Clay, but not guilty over Russell Hill death ..." — [abc]; more [27/6]. #Wonnangatta #murder 2022 (Also see 18 Oct. above.)

24 June 2024, recall #REC-006004: "Mercedes-Benz Certain EQE and EQS 2023 ... A software issue in the Battery Management System (BMS) may cause deactivation of the high voltage battery. As a result, the vehicle may experience a loss of propulsion whilst driving." — .gov.au [www].

24 June 2024, recall #REC-005984: "Peugeot 'Partner' Pro LWB, Pro SWB 2023 ... Due to a software issue within the Engine Management Control (EMC) unit, the Hydraulic Brake Compensation (HBC) system may not operate as intended. This could lead to reduced braking performance and a loss of braking assistance." — .gov.au [www].

23 June 2024 (#10/24): Spanish F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 3. Lewis Hamilton [Mercedes]. Norris started on pole, and the race was close. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

23 June 2024: Pikes Peak International Hill Climb [www].

22 June 2024, .au: "Polar outbreak and snow ahead this week with Sydney and Melbourne on track for coldest start to winter in decades ..." — [abc].

22 June 2024: "Inflation on services like insurance is sticky ..." — [abc]. Also see 21 Feb. below.

21 June 2024, recall #REC-005991: "Ford Escape PHEV 2022 ... Due to a software issue, the Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) may inadvertently shift to neutral while driving, come to a stop and automatically shifting to 'Park'. If this occurs and the driver shifts back into drive, the vehicle will enter a limp home mode which provides limited torque at low speeds." — .gov.au [www].

21 June 2024: Bugatti revealed the 'Tourbillon', a V16 hybrid — B. [www].

20 June 2024: "The exponential growth of solar power will change the world ... this year they will provide the world with about 6% of its electricity ..." — The Economist [www]. Also see "When it comes to power, solar could leave nuclear and everything else in the shade ..." — [abc][3/7].

18 June 2024: "... analysis suggests that accidents of vehicles equipped with Advanced Driving Systems generally have a lower chance of occurring than Human-Driven Vehicles in most of the similar accident scenarios. However, accidents involving Advanced Driving Systems occur more frequently than Human-Driven Vehicle accidents under dawn/dusk or turning conditions, which is 5.25 and 1.98 times higher ..." — 'A matched case-control analysis of autonomous vs human-driven vehicle accidents', Shengxuan Ding, Mohamed Abdel-Aty, Nature Commun., 15(4931) [www]. #autonomous #accident #crash

17 June 2024, .au: Taxation statistics 2021-22 — ato.gov.au [www]. Also see, "102 millionaires paid no tax [in 2021-2022] ..." — [abc].

15-16 June 2024: The 92nd 24 Hours of Le Mans [www].

Results: 1. Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina & Nicklas Nielsen, Ferrari 499P, 311 laps; 2. Jose Maria Lopez, Kamui Kobayashi & Nyck de Vries, Toyota GR010 Hybrid, +14.221 sec.; 3. Alessandro Pier Guidi, James Calado & Antonio Giovinazzi, Ferrari 499P, +36.730 sec.. "Ferrari has clinched its second consecutive 24 Hours of Le Mans victory ..." — FIA [www]. "Ferrari won an 11th success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the second in the 499Ps ..." — [www]. "Ferrari beat Toyota to defend Le Mans title ..." — [bbc]. There was a lot of rain and several hours were spent behind a safety car. Alpine, BMW, Cadillac, Ferrari, Isotta Fraschini, Lamborghini, Peugeot, Porsche and Toyota cars ran in the Hypercar class.

14-16 June 2024, .au: National 4x4 Show Sydney Showgrounds [www].

14 June 2024: "Prolonged cold snap across eastern Australia to last at least a week ... [Melbourne] only reached 10.1 degrees Celsius, the city's coldest day in five years ..." — [abc].

12 June 2024: "BAE Systems showcases the U.S. Army's new ... Beowulf vehicle ... based upon ... driveline technologies that underpin the BvS10 family of vehicles ..." — BAE [www]. #Hagglund.

12 June 2024, .au: "Average retail petrol prices were lower in the March quarter but reached a nominal high in April ..." — ACCC .gov.au (#67/24) [www].

10 June 2024 (Mon.): King's Birthday holiday (ACT, NSW, SA, Tas., Vic.).

10 June 2024: "Regional Queenslanders say electric vehicles worth it for fuel savings but challenges remain ..." — [abc].

9 June 2024 (#9/24): Canadian F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 3. George Russell [Mercedes]. There was rain. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

8 June 2024: "NSW residents urged to be vigilant for floods as rains across state recede ..." — [abc]. Also see the [bom].

8 June 2024: "Holden muscle cars sell for hundreds of thousands of dollars as national motor museum in Echuca closes ..." — [abc]. A Holden Monaro GTS sold for au$346,185. (Big Fords sell well too.)

7-10 June 2024, .au: Finke Desert Race [www].

6 June 2024: The FIA released the F1 regulations for 2026 onwards; see the FIA [www], "... 30kg lighter ... active aerodynamics[!] ... ICE [power] drops from 550-560kW to 400kW, the battery element increases massively, from 120kW to 350kW ... removal of the MGU-H ... wheelbase drops from a maximum of 3600mm to 3400mm, while the width has been reduced from 2000mm to 1900mm ... Downforce has been reduced by 30% and drag by 55% ... width of the front tyres has been reduced by 25mm and the rears by 30mm ... fully sustainable fuel ..."

6 June 2024: 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, Normandy (6/6/1944), e.g., [abc], [bbc], The G [www]. Also, "D-Day – The campaign that led to the liberation of Europe ..." [www] and "By air to battle on D-Day ..." — mod.uk [www].

5 June 2024: "Burnett Heads car enthusiast re-ignites General Electric's experimental 1898 Thomson Surrey ..." — [abc]. A steam car.

4 June 2024: "Japanese authorities inspect Toyota HQ over certification irregularities ..." — D. Leussink, Reuters [www]. Honda, Mazda, Suzuki and Yamaha are also caught up.

4 June 2024: "Rio Tinto to develop BioIron™ R&D facility in Western Australia to test low-carbon steelmaking ... BioIron uses raw biomass and microwave energy instead of coal to convert Pilbara iron ore to metallic iron in the steelmaking process. ... a semi-industrial scale, capable of producing one tonne of direct reduced iron per hour ..." — Rio Tinto [www]. Note 'research". Also see "... The [steel] sector contributes about 8% of the world's carbon dioxide emissions. ..." — [abc]. (The other hope for CO₂-neutral steel uses hydrogen.)

4 June 2024: recall #REC-005977: "Audi e-tron 2020-2024 ... Due to a manufacturing issue, the cell modules installed in the high voltage battery may be defective. A short circuit could cause a thermal overload and result in a vehicle fire over time. ..." — .gov.au [www].

1 June 2024, .au: The start of winter.

31 May - 1 June 2024: RM Sotheby's Dare to Dream Auction, Toronto [www], including lot 310 a 1960 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk 1, chassis #AN5L 43205, engine #BAE 47705 (sold us$44,800); lot 357 a 2003 Ferrari Enzo, chassis #ZFFCW56AX30130270, engine #70739 (sold us$4,295,000); lot 386 a 1965 Aston Martin DB5, chassis #DB5/2255/R, engine #400/2212 (sold us$720,000); lot 397 a 1962 Messerschmitt KR 200, chassis #78491 (sold us$67,200).

30 May 2024, .au: "The long-range forecast shows above average rainfall is likely for some southern central and western parts of Australia. Elsewhere, rainfall is likely to be more typical for the season. ... Australia is very likely to have temperatures that are higher than usual for this time year ..." — [bom]. Also see the [abc].

30 May 2024, recall #REC-005970: "Ford Transit Custom 2023-2024 ... Due to a software issue within the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) the Lane Change Warning Assist (LCWA) feature may not operate as intended. As a result, there is an increased chance of a collision with another vehicle. ..." — .gov.au [www].

29 May 2024, recall #REC-005975: "Porsche Taycan (Y1A/Y1B/Y1C) 2018-2024 ... Due to a manufacturing issue, the cell modules installed in the high voltage battery may be defective. A short circuit could cause a thermal overload and result in a vehicle fire over time ..." — .gov.au [www].

28 May 2024: "Subaru Corporation (Subaru), Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), and Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) have each committed to developing new [ICE] engines tailored to electrification and the pursuit of carbon neutrality. ... decarbonize ICEs by making them compatible with various carbon-neutral (CN) fuels^* ..." — Toyota [www], Mazda, Subaru.  ^*"include e-fuel, made from hydrogen and carbon dioxide, and biofuels derived from biomass (plants, etc.)"

27 May - 8 June 2024 (Mon.-Sat.), .uk: Isle of Man TT Races [www].

27 May 2024, .au: "Are electric cars better for the environment than fuel-powered cars? ... [yes]" — [abc]. And, "How moving freight by rail rather than road could help Australia reduce carbon emissions ..." — [27/5].

26 May 2024 (Sun.): 108th Indianapolis 500 [www]. 1. Josef Newgarden (Team Penske Chevrolet); 2. Palo O'Ward (Arrow McLaren Chevrolet); 3. Scott Dixon (Chip Ganassi Racing Honda).

26 May 2024 (#8/24): Monaco F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]; 2. Oscar Piastri [McLaren]; 3. Carlos Sainz (Ferrari). Leclerc was born on Monaco. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

25-26 May 2024: Historic Winton, Vic., .au [www].

May 2024, .uk: "Self-driving vehicles set to be on roads by 2026 as Automated Vehicles Act becomes law [20/5] ..." — .gov.au [www]. See the 'Automated Vehicles Act 2024' [www].

24-26 May 2024 (Fri.–Sun.): Concorso d'Elegance, Villa d'Este [www].

24 May 2024, recall #REC-005973: "Mazda CX-90 (KK) 2023 ... Due to a calibration issue within the Vehicle Control Module (VCM), when driving at low speeds the vehicle may falsely detect reflective objects such as metal walls, barriers or similar objects on the side of the road as an approaching object. This may trigger an unintended brake activation." — .gov.au [www].

24 May 2024: Two years and three months since Russia started its invasion of Ukraine (24 Feb. 2022).

23 May 2024: "Volvo Trucks is leading the charge to net zero emissions by 2050 ... battery and fuel-cell trucks will overtake sales of ICE units sometime between 2030 and 2040, with market share between the three propulsion systems stabilizing around 2040. ..." — SAE [www].

20 May 2024, recall #REC-005964: "BMW Mini Coooper S 2020-2022 ... Due to a manufacturing defect, the sealing of the high-voltage battery housing may be insufficient, allowing moisture to enter into the battery compartment. This may cause the vehicle's battery to turn off when driving resulting in a loss of motive power and/or vehicle fire ..." — .gov.au [www].

19 May 2024 (#7/24): Emilia Romagna F1 Grand Prix, Imola.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 3. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]. The other McLaren, driven by Oscar Piastri, was 4th. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

18 May 2024: A few cm of snow fell in the NSW and Victorian alps.

17 May 2024, .uk: "Is your vehicle too long for public car parks? ... five councils in England have banned vehicles over five metres long from using car parks. ... From the 1970s, the smallest spaces were measured at 2.5m wide and 4.8m long – however, vehicles have grown significantly over the last 50 years. ..." — RAC [www].

16 May 2024: "The Australian Government is establishing a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard ..." — .gov.au [www].

16 May 2024, recall #REC-005965: "Mazda BT-50 (TF) 2021-2023 ... Due to a software issue within the Body Control Module, the parking lamps and number plate lamp may not illuminate when the vehicle is travelling below the speed of 10 kilometre per hour. ..." — .gov.au [www].

16 May 2024: Honda believes that hybrid EVs will remain popular until at least 2030: "... Preparing for the start of the EV popularization period in 2030, Honda will strategically launch EV models globally, mainly with Honda 0 Series models. Moreover, as for hybrid-electric models, for which demand is strong in the current market, Honda will further advance performance and enhance the lineup globally. ..." — Honda [www].

16 May 2024, .au: "RACV finds tailgating as top road rage behaviour in Victoria ..." — RACV [www].

14 May 2024: "The Bureau moves to La Nina watch ... While conditions in the tropical Pacific Ocean are currently neutral, there are some signs that a La Nina may form in the Pacific Ocean later in 2024 ..." — [bom].

14 May 2024, .au: "Lawyers outline cases in trial of Greg Lynn, accused of murdering Victorian campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay ..." — [abc]. This re the murders in the Wonnangatta Valley. Also see 6 April 2020, and 18 Oct. above.

13 May 2024: Israel increased attacks on the city of Rafa in Gaza. "Biden's tough words forced Netenyahu to make a choice this week – and he chose two far-right kingmakes ..." — [abc], & [15/5].  20/5: "Full ICC statement on Netanyahu and Hamas arrest warrants..." — [bbc]. 24/5: "Australia backs landmark UN court ruling for Israel to halt Rafah offensive ..." — [abc].  5/6: "... Netanyahu could be prolonging Gaza war for political aims ..." — [abc].

11 May 2024: RM Sotheby's Monaco Auction [www] including lot 115 a 1985 Audi Sport quattro S1 E2, chassis #WAUZZZ85ZGA905018 (sold €635,000); lot 148 a 1981 Porsche 917 K-81, chassis #917-K81 (sold €2,648,750); lot 221 a 1954 Ferrari 625 F1 chassis #0540, engine #0540 (sold€2,705,0000; lot 223 a 1977 Tyrrell P34 six-wheel F1, chassis #8, engine #DFV 901 (sold €1,040,000); lot 226 a 1979 Ferrari 312 T4, F1, chassis #040, engine #43 (sold €7,655,000).

10-17 May 2024: The Gibb Challenge, WA, [www] – the Gibb River road by bicycle!

10 May 2024: Bonhams Les Grandes Marques a Monaco Auction [www] including lot 128 a 1956 Maserati A6G/2000 Coupe chassis #2147, engine #2180 (sold €931,500); lot 144 a 2002 F1 Toyota TF102, 3-litre V10, chassis #03, engine #DYX-C231003-02-B01/S1181 (sold €293,250).

9 May 2024, .uk: "The UK's used car market rose by 6.5% in the first quarter of 2024 with 1,967,923 units finding new owners ... Increasing numbers of Q1 sales up by more than two thirds (71.0%) to 41,505 [i.e., 2.1%] ..." — SMMT [www].

8 May 2024: "World's oceans suffer from record-breaking year of heat ..." — [bbc].

8 May 2024: 'EV FireSafe' reports in passenger EV Li Battery "incidents" worldwide, "... from 2010 to June 2023 ... 393 verified EV traction battery fires, 74 investigating, 21 unverified ... more than 10 million electric cars were sold worldwide in 2022 ..." — [www] at EVFS [www]. Also see the [bbc].

6 May 2024, recall #REC-005958: "Porsche Taycan (Y1A/Y1B/Y1C) 2019-2023 ... Due to a manufacturing issue, the cell modules installed in the high voltage battery may be defective. A short circuit could cause a thermal overload and result in a vehicle fire over time ..." — .gov.au [www].

5 May 2024 (#6/24): Miami F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 2. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 3. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc]. Verstappen won Saturday's sprint race followed by Leclerc and Sergio Perez (Red Bull).
1 May: It was widely reported that designer Adrian Newey would leave Red Bull in early 2025 and there was much speculation as to which team he might join, e.g., [abc].

2 May 2024: Sales of "Ford hybrid vehicles ... U.S. sales reaching 17,997 in April, a 60% improvement from the same month a year ago ..." — Ford [www].
1 May 2024: Q1 sales at Aston Martin were down 26% v. Q1 2023, "... Total wholesale volumes [2024]:945, [2023]:1,269 ..." — Aston Martin [www].
30 April 2024: Stellantis, "... net revenues of €l41.7 billion, down 12% compared to Q1 2023 ..." — Stellantis [www].

1 May 2024: "... There's no shortage of alternatives to lithium-ion EV batteries in development. From lithium-iron phosphate to sodium-ion to multiple solid-state chemistries [but] Lithium-ion batteries seem to have all the momentum ..." — SAE [www].

28 April 2024, .au: "The National Anti-Scam Centre's collaborative efforts across government, law enforcement, consumer organisations and industry have boosted the community's fight against financial crime, as the latest Targeting Scams report reveals a 13.1% decline in reported losses to au$2.74 billion in 20232023. ..." — ACCC .gov.au [www](#50/24).

26 April 2024: Goodings Mullin Collection Auction [www], Oxnard, California, including lot 22 a 1938 Bugatti type 57C Aravis Special Cabriolet, chassis #57768, engine #75C (sold us$6,000,000); lot 67 a 1933 Hispano-Suiza J12 cabriolet (covertible), coachwork by Vanvooren, chassis #14004, engine #321018 (sold us$2,100,000).

25 April 2024, .de: Retro Classics, Stuttgart [www].

25 April 2024, .usa: "The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received notice of two (2) incidents involving Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles that collided with stationary vehicles ... BlueCruise was engaged ... ODI has opened this Preliminary Evaluation ... SGO 2021-01 report ID: 502-7268 SGO 2021-01 report ID: 502-7426" — NHTSA [www], PE24012. Also see the [bbc].

25 April 2024: Anzac Day, e.g., [abc].

24 April 2024: Mercedes revealed the Mercedes-Benz G 580 – an electric G-wagen (£160K). Mind you it weighs 3,090kg, three tons. — Mercedes [www]. Also see, "slightly south of [us]$200,000 with availability during the second half of 2024. ...", the SAE [www].

23-25 April 2024, .uk: Commercial Vehicle Show [www].

22 April 2024, .uk: "Vera to end after 14th and final season ... It has been announced by ITV that the previously confirmed two-part 14th season of Vera will also be the crime drama's final outing [2025], with Brenda Blethyn stepping away from the title role [DCI Vera Stanhope] ..." — The Radio Times [www]. The TV series began in 2011 and is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves set in and around Newcastle upon Tyne and elsewhere in N.E. England. Vera drives an aged SWB Land-Rover Defender.

21 April 2024 (#5/24): Chinese F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Lando Norris [McLaren]; 3. Sergio Perez (Red Bull). There was a sprint race on Saturday won by Verstappen with Hamilton (Mercedes) 2nd and Perez 3rd. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

21 April 2024, .au: The Gippsland Vehicle Collection, Maffra, Victoria, Swap Meet [www]. (Also see museums.)

19 April 2024, .au: "Great Central Road remains closed [flooding] ... not expected to reopen until late May. ..." — [abc]. Also see WA [www] and NT [www] roads.

19 April 2024, .au: "Proposed Kati Thanda - Lake Eyre management plan to ban recreational access without cultural permission ..." — [abc]. The Lake Eyre Yacht Club [www] is disappointed.

19 April 2024: "'Apocalyptic' Dubai floods shake picture-perfect city ..." — [bbc].

16 April 2024, recall #REC-005942: "Hyundai IONIQ 5 (NE) & IONIQ 6 (CE) 2021-2024 ... Due to a software issue in the Integrated Charging Control Unit, the auxiliary 12 Volt battery may not charge as intended, resulting in battery drainage and loss of motive power." — .gov.au [www]. (Ditto Genesis 2022-2024.) (And similar Kia CV EV6 2021-2024.)

15 April 2024: The National Holden Motor Museum, 7-11 Warren Street, Echuca, "has permanently closed as of 15 April 2024."

14 April 2024, .uk: Bonhams Goodwood Members' Meeting Auction [www] including lot 101 a 1953 Austin Champ 4x4, chassis #737 (sold £8,050); lot 116 a 1914 Rolls-Royce 40/50hp Silver Ghost Sports Tourer chassis #48 lYB, engine #107.A (sold £207,000).

12 April 2024, recall #REC-005935: "Hyundai i30 1.6T (CN7) Sedan 2023 ... Due to incorrect software being installed in the vehicle, the 'fail-safe' mode may not operate when oil pump faults are detected in the dual clutch transmission. If this occurs it may lead to a sudden loss of motive power." — .gov.au [www].

11 April 2024: "May to July maximum temperatures are very likely to be above median for most of Australia. ... May to July rainfall is likely to very likely to be below median for parts of northern Australia and small areas of the southern mainland. ..." — [bom].

11 April 2024: Alpine (Renault) plans to demonstrate the 'Alpenglow' race-car – a V8 ICE running on hydrogen – at Spa (10 May) and race it at Le Mans (15-16 June), [www].

10 April 2024: "The Commonwealth of Australia has today signed the production contract for 123 Boxer Heavy Weapon Carrier vehicles with more than 100 of those vehicles to be exported from Australia for use by the German Army; making it Australia's largest foreign military export to Germany. ..." — Rheinmetal [www].

7 April 2024 (Sun.), .au: End of daylight saving (ACT, NSW, SA, Tas., Vic.), 3am→2am.

7 April 2024 (#4/24): Japanese F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Sergio Perez (Red Bull); 3. Carlos Sainz [Ferrari]. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

7 April 2024, Israel continued to lay waste to Gaza: "Obstacles to peace seem larger than ever after six months of war ..." — [bbc].

6 April 2024: "Sydney's Warragamba Dam spills after deluge dumps more than 100mm of rain ..." — [abc].  "South-east Queensland heads into a wet weekend as state's west floods ..." — [abc]. Check NSW [www] and Qld [www] roads.

4 April 2024: Amidst weakening sales of EVs, Ford delayed "the launch of its all-new three-row electric vehicles to 2027. See Ford [www].

3-7 April 2024: TechnoClassica, Essen [www].

2 April 2024: Heavy rain fell across central Victoria, including Melbourne (50+mm), with some locations receiving 70+mm. This is largely due to tropical moisture from ex-TC Megan. Check Vic [www], SA [www] roads. Meanwhile, Lake Eyre Yacht Club [www] was predicting that Belt Bay would eventually reach a depth of 1.2 metres. And, "Floodwaters continue to arrive in the northern parts of Kati Thanda - Lake Eyre. Water levels along the Cooper Creek are still above the Innamincka causeway. ..." — [bom][3rd] IDS20370.

1 April 2024: "Driest Perth summer on record may have lasting impact on WA's water supply ... just 21.8mm of rain between October last year and the end of March ..." — [abc].

1 April 2024: Easter Monday.

31 March 2024: Easter Sunday.

30 March 2024: Easter Saturday.

29 March 2024: Good Friday.

March 2024, .uk: Donald Campbell's 'Bluebird' (K7) was delived to the 'Ruskin Museum' and went on display there shortly afterwards. Also see the [bbc].

30 March 2024: "Can Australia shift to EVs without kicking the big ute habit? ..." — [abc]. (Also see "Beach driving ..." — [31/3].)

29 March - 7 April 2024: New York Auto Show [www].

29 March 2024, .au: "Alice Springs' youth curfew is canary in coal mine for other troubled Australian towns ..." — [abc].

27 March 2024, .uk: "Off-peak rates for ultra-rapid charging fell by 2p/kWh, making an EV on average 1.2p per mile cheaper to 'refuel' than filling up with petrol (12.58 v 13.82 p/mile), according to The AA EV Recharge Report ..." — The AA [www]. Not a lot in it.

26 March 2024: The Mercedes G-wagen 4x4 got some revisions — Mercedes [www].

24 March 2024, .au: Booleroo Rally, Steam and Traction Engine Preservation Society, Booleroo Centre, SA 5482 [www]. (Also see museums.)

24 March 2024 (Sun.) (#3/24): Australian F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Carlos Sainz [Ferrari]; 2. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari); 3. Lando Norris [McLaren]. Sainz had his appendix removed two weeks ago, missing the Saudi Arabian GP. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) started on pole but was passed by Sainz on the second lap; Verstappen retired on lap four with a brake problem, and fire. Oscar Pastra finised fourth in the other McLaren. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

23-24 March 2024, .au: Clunes Book Town Festival [www] Vic..

23 March 2024 (Sat.), .au: Tasmanian state election. (The Liberals look set to form a minority government.)

22-24 March 2024, .uk: Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show, NEC, Birmingham [www].

21 March 2024, recall #REC-005926: "Audi E-Tron 2018-2022 ... Due to a manufacturing defect, the high voltage battery may experience a thermal overload if charged over 80 percent capacity. If this occurs, the battery could overheat and lead to a vehicle fire." — .gov.au [www].

20 March 2024, recall #RC3269: "Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS 2019-2023 ... Due to a software issue in the transmission control module, the transmission may not downshift under certain conditions and could result in a sudden loss of engine power." — .gov.au [www].

19 March 2024, .au: "Central NT communities warned to prepare for heavy rain, possible flooding as ex-Tropical Cyclone Megan moves west ..." — [abc]. (TC Megan (cat.3) crossed the coast on the 18th.)

15-17 March 2024, .au: National 4x4 Show Brisbane Showgrounds [www].

11-17 March 2024, .au: Corowa Swim In, 'Year of the Blitz,' [www].

11 March 2024 (Mon.): Labour Day, Vic..

9-11 March 2024: Steamfest, National Steam Centre, Scoresby, Melbourne, Vic. [www].

8-11 March 2024 (Fri-Mon): Port Fairy Folk Festival [www].

9 March 2024 (Sat.) (#2/24): Saudi Arabian F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Sergio Perez (Red Bull); 3. Charles Leclerc [Ferrari]. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

7 March 2024: "February 2024 was the warmest February on record globally, with an average ERA5 surface air temperature of 13.54°C ... The month was 1.77°C warmer than an estimate of the February average for 1850-1900, the designated pre-industrial reference period. ..." — copernicus.eu [www].

5 March 2024, recall #REC-005906: "BMW 520i, 740i, i5, i7, iX1, X1, X5, X6, X7, XM, 2022-2023 ... Due to a manufacturing defect, signal interference may occur within the electronics of the brake system. If this occurs, a higher pedal force may be required for braking. The anti-lock braking [ABS] system and dynamic stability control will not be available." — .gov.au [www]

4 March 2024, .au: "It's a scam! Celebrities are not getting rich from online investment trading platforms ..." — ACCC #26/24 [www]. Also see "... Scammers create ads and fake news articles to get you to believe the celebrities actually use these scam investment platforms. ..." — Scamwatch [www].

3 March 2024: Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance [www], and ...

1-2 March 2024: RM Sotheby's Miami Auction [www] including lot 126 a 1990 Ferrari F40, chassis #ZFFGJ34B000084116 (sold us$3,360,000); lot 132 a 2010 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport 'Sang Bleu', chassis #VF9SK2C2XAM795043 (sold us$3,085,000).

1 March 2024 (Fri.): Gooding & Co. Amelia Island Auction [www] including lot 20 a 1938 Bugatti type 57C Atalante, chassis #57767, engine #62C (sold us$2,050,000); lot 38 a 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder Weissach, chassis #WP0CA2A12FS800325 (sold us$3,200,000); lot 116 a 1929 Bentley 4.5-litre Le Mans sports tourer, chassis #RL3428, engine #RL3432 (sold us$1,400,000); lot 128 a 1903 Mercedes-Simplex 60hp "Roi des Belges" (sold us$11,000,000).

29 February 2024: Bonham's Amelia Island Auction [www] including lot 7 a 1978 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40, SWB ST, chassis #FJ40-271607, engine #2F249051 (sold us$72,800); lot 75P the reconstructed 1904 Gordon Bennett Napier L48 "Samson" Racing Car (sold us$742,000).

2 March 2024 (Sat., #1/24): Bahrain F1 Grand Prix.

Results: 1. Max Verstappen [Red Bull]; 2. Sergio Perez (Red Bull); 3. Carlos Sainz [Ferrari]. Also see the FIA [www] and the [bbc].

1 March 2024: "Full speed ahead for second-generation Indy autonomous racers ... The achievement list includes setting a speed record for passing in autonomous racing (170mph [273km/h]), netting the autonomous vehicle land speed record (192.2mph [309.3km/h]) and establishing the fastest lap speed for an autonomous vehicle (180mph [289.68km/h]). ... Eighteen universities from around the world are participating in IAC 2024 ..." — SAE [www]. Also see IAC [www].

29 February - 3 March 2024: Amelia Island 29th annual motoring week; see above.

29 February 2024, .au: "March to May rainfall is likely to be below median for much of northern, eastern and south-western Australia. March to May maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to very likely to be above median for almost all of Australia. ..." — [bom].

28 February 2024, .uk: "Electric cars produce twice as much CO₂ as trains, says rail group data ..." — The G [www]. Also see, "[train is] almost two-and-a-half times greener than using a battery electric car" — RDG [www] #BEV #car #train #CO2.

28 February 2024, .uk: "Tata confirms [Bridgewater] Somerset will be home to £4bn battery factory ..." — The G [www]. Tata (.in) owns Jaguar Land-Rover.

26 February 2024, .au: "The ACCC has instituted legal proceedings in the Federal Court against Grays eCommerce Group Limited, an Australia-wide online auction business, over false or misleading descriptions of hundreds of cars on its site, including about the make, model, features or undisclosed obvious faults with the cars. ..." — ACCC [www].

26 February - 3 March 2024: Geneva International Motor Show, Geneva (media 26th, VIPs 27th, public 28-3rd) [www].

But, 31 May 2024: "The Comite permanent du Salon international de l'automobile Foundation has decided not to organize the next [2024] edition of the Geneva Salon, due to an uncertain outlook. The Geneva International Motor Show Qatar is planned to take place in November 2025. ..." — [www].

February 2024: Morgan's prototype 'XP1' as an electic (BEV) three-wheeler. "XP-1 will act as the forerunner to all future electric Morgan sports cars, the experimental prototype will provide key information to Morgan's engineers and designers as they embark on the development of the company's first production electric models. ..." — Morgan [www].

26 February 2024: "Fire danger risk could reach catastrophic levels in parts of Victoria, as huge bushfire continues to burn ..." — [abc]. See Vic. [www] fire.

"Authorities on high alert as bushfire continues to rage out of control in Victoria's west ..." — [28/2].  "Fire crews contain bushfire which threatened communities south of Ballarat ..." — [29/2].

25 February 2024: "Revealed: car industry was warned keyless vehicles vulnerable to theft a decade ago ..." — The G [www]. Also see 27 October 2014 and 'A Survey of Remote Automotive Attack Surfaces' August 2014.

24 February 2024: Two years since Putin began the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

23-25 February 2024, .uk: Race Retro historic motorsport show, Stoneleigh Park [www].

23 February 2024: "INEOS Automotive has unveiled its brand new 4x4 vehicle, the INEOS Fusilier ..." — INEOS [www]. The fusilier is smaller than the Grenadier, is a BEV and one version will have a petrol "range extender" ICE generator.

23 February 2024, .au: "Properties lost in Victorian bushfire as towns in state's west remain at risk ..." — [abc]. Also see Vic. [www] fire.

21-23 February 2024: F1 pre-season testing, Bahrain. Drivers and teams for the 2023 F1 season: Esteban Ocon, Pierre Gasly [Alpine]; Lance Stroll, Fernando Alonso [Aston Martin]; Charles Leclerc, Carlos Sainz [Ferrari]; Kevin Magnusson, Nico Hulkenberg, [Haas]; Oscar Piastri, Lando Norris [McLaren]; Lewis Hamilton, George Russell [Mercedes]; Daniel Ricciardo, Yuki Tsunoda [RB] (was Alpha Tauri); Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez [Red Bull]; Valterri Bottas, Guanyu Zhou [Sauber] (was Alfa Romeo); Alexander Albon, Logan Sargeant [Williams]. Ferrari, Haas and Sauber use Ferrari engines; Aston-Martin, McLaren, Mercedes and Williams use Mercedes engines; RB and Red Bull use Red-Bull/Honda engines; Alpine uses Renault engines. The general opinion was that Red Bull would dominate 2024. First GP: 2nd March.

21 February 2024, .uk: "Is the car insurance industry driving up prices to take us for a ride? ..." — The G [www].

21 February 2024, recall #REC-005895: "Ram Trucks 2500 & 3500 2013-2018 ... Due to a software issue, the engine control software requires updating for efficient engine emission performance." — .gov.au [www].

21 February 2024, .au: "Google maps error forces German tourists on survival trek ..." — [abc]. Ths is not a unique mishap.

21 February 2024, .au: "Thunderstorms, extreme heat, and Cyclone Lincoln's return ..." — [abc]. Ex-TC Lincoln is likely to cross the coast and strengthen off NW WA. Check the [bom].

18 February 2024: Victorian 4WD Show, Lardner Park, Vic., .au [www].

18 February 2024: AoMC British & European Motoring show, Yarra Glen Racecourse, Vic., .au [www].

17 February 2024: "Ex-Tropical Cyclone Lincoln has weakened overnight as it tracks south-west across the Northern Territory. ..." — [abc]. Also see NT [www] roads.

16 February 2024: "Drivers who use their mobile phone or don't wear a seatbelt are being held to account ... From 1 July to 30 December 2023 the cameras detected 53,105 offences, including 16,499 drivers and 6,375 passengers not wearing seatbelts, and 30,231 drivers using mobile phones. ..." — .vic.gov.au [www].

15 February 2024: Stellantis (Chrysler, Fiat, Jeep, ...) posted its full-year results for 2023, "Net revenues of €189.5 billion, up 6% compared to 2022, with consolidated shipment volumes increasing 7% ... in North America, 18 additional BEVs will be launched in 2024, reaching a total of 48 models by end of 2024. The all-new Citroen e-C3 starts at €23,300 and is the most competitively priced B-segment EV produced in Europe ..." — Stellantis [www].

15 February 2024, .au: "A Tropical Cyclone Warning is current for tropical low 07U that lies over the western Gulf of Carpentaria. ... likely to move southwest to the Gulf coast and then on Saturday be inland and weakening ..." — [bom]. Also see Qld [www] and NT [www] roads. (The system became T.C. 'Lincoln', cat.1, and crossed the NT coast near the NT-Qld border on the 16th.)

14 February 2024, .au: "Mazda to pay $11.5m for misleading consumers about consumer guarantee rights for serious vehicle faults ... One vehicle had three engine replacements. ... Consumer guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law provide remedies for consumers if the product they purchase is not fit for purpose or of acceptable quality. Consumers can choose to have a product replaced, repaired or refunded if there is a major failure. ..." — ACCC [www].

14 February 2024: "Thousands of homes remain without power after wild weather across Victoria on Tuesday. ... improving conditions are helping [fire authorities] get on top of two bushfires in the Grampians National Park. ..." — [abc], and [15th].

13 February 2024, .au: "Victoria could be in for its worst day for fire danger since the Black Summer bushfires ..." — [abc]. Also see Vic. [www] fire.

8 February 2024, .au: "Annual climate statement 2023 ... Australia's equal eighth-warmest year on record with the national mean temperature 0.98°C warmer than the 1961-1990 average. ... Globally, it was the warmest year on record ..." — [bom].

7 February 2024: The new car batteries that could power the electric vehicle revolution ... alternative designs to the conventional lithium-ion batteries ... sodium ion ... lithium metal ... lithium sulphur ... lithium air ..." — N. Jones, Nature, vol.626, pp.248-251, [www], Feb. 2024. (Also see, "The growing array of alternatives to #lithium #batteries ..." — [bbc][21/3].)

6 February 2024, .au: "SUV, Utes Deliver Record January Sales [of] 89,782 new vehicles ... SUVs accounted for 55.5% ... Light Commercials were 22.9%. Passenger vehicles made up 18.3% ... Low emission vehicles remained popular, with hybrids, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles making up 17.4% ... battery electric vehicles [BEVs] represented 5.4%. ..." — FCAI [www].

5 February 2024, .au: "Qld's Channel Country welcomes slow moving flood from ex Tropical Cyclone Kirrily ..." — [abc]. Also see Qld [www], NSW [www] and SA [www] roads.

5 February 2024, .uk: "Britain's millionth battery electric car (BEV) reached the road in January 2024 ..." — SMMT [www].

5 February 2024: "Parisians vote in favour of tripling parking costs for SUVs ..." — The G [www]. "... triples parking rates for cars weighing 1.6 tonnes or more to €18 (£16, us$20) an hour in inner Paris ..." — [bbc]. (So not SUVs as such, and not for local residents.)

4 February 2024: Shannons Aussie Classic Car Show, Mornington Racecourse, Vic. — AoMC [www].

4 February 2024, .au: "New vehicle efficiency standard set to be introduced next year ..." — [abc] and [5/2]. (It will help the planet but fuel costs are typically only something like 30% of the running costs of a car.) Also see 16 May above.

3 February 2024, .uk: "Our Range Rovers are not UK's most-stolen car, says Jaguar Land Rover ..." — [bbc]. (Also see 16 Jan. below.)

2 February 2024: "Lewis Hamilton signs with Ferrari for 2025 F1 season ..." — [abc].

31 January - 4 February 2024: Retromobile, Paris [www].

31 January 2024: RM Sotheby's Paris Auction [www] including lot 127 a 1980 BMW M1, 3.5-litre I6, chassis #WBS59910004301327, engine #M88-380 (sold €522,500); lot 136 a 2021 Koenigsegg Regera chassis #YT9NN1E11MA007233 (sold €2,423,750); lot 153 a 2017 Bugatti Chiron 'La Mer Argentee', chassis #VF9SP3V30HM795026 (sold €2,950,000); lot 166 a 1919 Hispano-Suiza H6 Torpedo by Duvivier, chassis #10003 (sold €522,500).

31 January 2024: "BOM issues severe weather warnings for parts of Queensland as flooding threat remains ... heavy rain in the state's western interior. ... flash flooding was likely, with six-hourly rainfall totals between 60mm and 140mm possible. ..." — [abc]. Also see [2 Feb.] and Qld [www] roads.

30 January 2024, recall #REC-005882: "Mazda CX-60 (KH), CX-90 (KK) 2024 ... Due to a manufacturing defect, the gear set within the power steering assembly may not operate as intended. As a result, the driver could experience unexpected increased steering effort." — .gov.au [www].

29 January 2024: "Continental & Aurora finalize design of scalable autonomous trucking system ... Companies plan to start mass production of the system by 2027. ..." — SAE [www].

26 January 2024: "February to April rainfall is likely to be below median for most of northern Australia, extending into parts of western and central areas. February to April maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to be above median for much of Australia. ..." — [bom].

26 January 2024: Tropical Cyclone Kirrily (cat.3) crossed the Queensland coast near Townsville. Also see the [bom] and Qld [www] roads.

26 January 2024: Australia Day.

22 January 2024: "Tropical cyclone may hit Queensland coast this week ..." — [abc]. Also see, "a coastal crossing is likely on Thursday between Innisfail and Airlie Beach ..." — the [bom].  25 Jan.: Tropical Cyclone [TC] Kirrily was declared and is likely to cross the Qld coast near Townsville. Also see Qld [www], NT [www] and WA [www] roads.

22 January 2024: "Cars are getting 1cm wider every two years ..." — Transport and Environment .org [www].

25 January 2024: RM Sothebys Arizona Auction [www] including lot 115 a 1962 Amphicar 770, chassis #100204, an amphibian (sold us$64,400). lot 129 a 1993 Jaguar XJ220, chassis #SAJJEAEX8AX220686 (sold us$472,500).

25 January 2024: Bonhams Scottsdale Auction [www] including lot 42S a 2022 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ Coupe, vin #VF9SW3V32NM795009 (sold us$5,175,000); lot 49P a 1936 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante Sunroof Coupe chassis #57432, engine #547 (sold us$1,380,000).

21 January 2024: Arizona Concours d'Elegance, Scottsdale [www].

21 January 2024, wa: "Gloucester, Bicentennial tree climb closures hit Pemberton region hard ..." — [abc].

21 January 2024: AoMC Festival of Motoring, Cruden Farm, Vic.. .au [www].

20 January 2024: "A tropical low (05U) is developing in the Coral Sea, well away from the Queensland coast. ... will strengthen over the weekend, and is likely to become a tropical cyclone by Monday. ... a coastal impact on Queensland is now considered more likely than not. ..." — [bom].

19 January 2024: End of the Dakar, 5-19 Jan. 2024, Saudi Arabia, Bikes 1. Ricky Brabec (Honda); Cars 1. Carlos Sainz and Lucas Cruz (Audi); Quad 1. Manuel Andujar (Dragon Rally Service); Trucks 1. Martin Macik, Frantisek Tomasek and David Svanda (MM Tech. Team); ... — [www].

19 January 2024: It was reported that the Holden Motor Museum in Echuca, Vic., would close on 14 April 2024; see the [abc]..

18 January 2024, recall #REC-005875: "Tesla Model 3 and Model Y 2022-2023 ... Due to a software issue, the steering wheel may feel notchy when operating the vehicle in cold temperatures." — .gov.au [www].

18 January 2024, .au: "Broken but out of warranty? ... "Even if a voluntary warranty, manufacturer's warranty, or extended warranty has expired, you may still be able to use your consumer guarantee rights under the Australian Consumer Law, which don't have a specific expiry date." ..." — ACCC [www].

16 January 2024, .uk: "Average car insurance cost in UK nears £1,000 after prices rise 58% ..." — The G [www]. That partly explains, Range Rover "clients can now benefit from a new insurance solution for new and used vehicles ... 4,000 clients ... average monthly premium of less than £200 ..." — JLR [www]. That and the "keyless theft" problem. (Also see 3 Feb. above.)

15 January 2024, recall #REC-005869: "Ford Transit Custom 2023 ... Due to incomplete software update, the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) may not operate as intended. As a result, sensors and cameras yellow warning light will not illuminate in the instrument cluster to assist the driver to detect nearby obstacles or driver errors." — .gov.au [www].

15 January 2024, .uk: "RAC pothole-related breakdowns for 2023 jump by a third compared to 2022 ..." — RAC [www]. Also see the AA [www].

January 2024, .au: The ACCC has been monitoring fuel prices in major cities, and behaviour varies, a lot. See the ACCC [www].

11-14 January 2024, .uk: Autosport International, NEC, Birmingham (11-12 trade only) [www].

11 January 2024: "Mercedes-Benz Group Cars and Vans sales increase 1.5% to 2,491,600 in 2023 ... BEV and hybrid sales account for 19% of overall passenger car sales ..." — Mercedes Benz [www].

11 January 2024, .au: "Man charged over Katherine truck and freight train collision last year [14/6/2023] that injured four ..." — [abc].

10 January 2024: "2023 has replaced 2016 as the warmest calendar year on record. ... the global-average temperature for 2023 was 14.98°C, 0.17°C higher than recorded for 2016. ... 1.48°C warmer than the 1850-1900 pre-industrial level ..." — copernicus.eu [www]. Also see NOAA [www] and the [abc].

10 January 2024, .au: "Covid cases are now being driven by JN.1 ..." — [abc].

10 January 2024, .uk: "The RAC is calling on the Government to commission an independent study into the issue of headlight glare after new research found 85% of those affected believe the problem is getting worse ..." — RAC [www].

9-12 January 2024: Consumer Electronics Show (& media 7th & 8th) Las Vegas [www].

9 January 2024: "Supernal Debuts eVTOL Product Concept at CES 2024 ... unveiled S-A2, its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle product concept ... The pilot-plus-four-passenger vehicle marks the latest milestone in Supernal's roadmap to commercialize safe, efficient and affordable everyday passenger air travel. ..." — Hyundai [www].

8 January 2024, .au: "Record rains hit Victoria with flooding set to continue ..." — [abc].  And "Broken Hill's January rainfall record smashed during 'unbelievable' storm ..." — [2]. Also see NSW [www] and Vic [www] roads and the [bom].

5-19 January 2024: Dakar 2024, Saudi Arabia, Alula to Yanbu [www].

4-7 January 2024 (Thu-Sun): Summernats Canberra, ACT [www].

4 January 2024, .au: "... 1,216,780 vehicles were delivered during [2023], the previous highest sales result of 1,189,116 was achieved in 2017. ... SUVs and light commercials accounted for 78.4% of sales and comprise all the top 10 vehicles sold in 2023 ..." — FCAI [www].

2 January 2024, .usa: "NHTSA moves on driver-impairment regulation ... takes anticipated first step in mandating driving-impairment detection for all new vehicles. ..." — SAE [www].

2 January 2024: "Gold Coast, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast on alert for flash flooding as more rain forecast as ADF deployed ..." — [abc]. Also see Qld [www] roads and the [bom].

1 January 2024: "Truck driver charged over crash that killed two SA train workers near NSW border ..." — [abc]. The Barrier Highway remained closed near the NSW-SA border after the crash on 31/12. Also see NSW [www] and SA [www] roads.

January 2024, .au, National road deaths in 2023: "During the 12 months ended December 2023, there were 1,266 road deaths. This is an increase of 7.3% from the 12-month period ending December 2022." — bitre.gov.au [www].

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