Author: SM

Cars are necessary nowadays because it lessens the transportation expenses from your home to the office and even saves you time to do other stuff.

Even though cars are used for our needs, it wouldn’t hurt to try a few accessories to improve the vehicle’s ambiance. And we’re here to share with you our top picks!

Car diffuser

Nothing beats the collection of Kumi when it comes to delivering comfort.

This item was made to be portable so that you could diffuse oils while on the road. They are a mini humidifier in a cup design powered by the USB interface and colorful lights.

Its ultrasonic technology is an effective tool in producing the essential oils as a mist to add moisture to the surroundings and potentially reduce stress, remove static electricity, and relieve electron radiation.

You could use it by filling it up with water until the top-level line before adding 2 to 5 drops of your chosen water-soluble oil. Then tighten its top cover by rotating it clockwise and connecting its power cord.

Next, you would want to tap the function button once to hear a “beep” sound, which would activate the item to spray mist that’ll last up to 3 hours. Yet, if you’d like an intermittent mist that would have a steady 5 seconds interval but would last at least 7 hours, all you have to do is tap the function key twice.

Meanwhile, if you tap the button thrice, its LED lights would shut off but will continue producing mist until 5 hours have passed. So, if you’re not enjoying the experience anymore, hold down the button for 2 seconds until you hear two consecutive “beep” sounds, which signal the vehicle diffusers are shutting off automatically.

LED Lights

LED lights are popular these days because of their flashy attributes. And we can’t deny that we’re also thrilled about their existence.

This may seem unnecessary, but for us, this is an actual must-have because it decreases your chances of getting into accidents. Drivers who aren’t able to see that another vehicle is already in front of them are one of the many reasons for car accidents to occur.

But with the LED lights, you could rest assured that others would be able to know that you’re trailing in front of them or at least make out the path you’re taking just in case you’re driving in the middle of the night.

Parking camera or sensors

Since many people have started owning cars, the available space in the parking lot has been significantly reduced, and parking itself has become challenging and unsafe for many.

The crowded parking lots have proven themselves daunting enough that parking sensors or cameras have been sold at stores to save us a trip to the court because of damage on the property.

The item was meant to prevent both parties from sustaining injuries or repair bills that often cost you a hundred bucks.

Its function is to utilize high-frequency sound waves to identify objects, which in this case, pertains to other vehicles. The sensors produce some sound pulses undetectable to the human ears before calculating the distance between you and another car.

It works by connecting to an alarm system that emits warning sounds to the driver whenever the car has closed a distance that’s more than necessary.

Of course, more advanced technologies could translate the emitted sounds into a pictograph on a screen that’ll display a live image of the obstacles.

It’s worth noting that even though we compiled this list, it’s still crucial that you consider all factors before purchasing a car accessory, as not all items could provide you with what you’re looking for.

With the cost of motorsport seemingly ever-increasing, governing bodies have the difficult task of trying to make their formulas or racing leagues affordable and attractive to any potential new entrants.

A task that has seemingly become more and more difficult over the past few years and you only have to look at the struggle within Germany’s DTM as evidence of how a legendary championship can fall by the wayside.

Previously running under Class One regulations and edging ever closer to an anticipated partnership with Japan’s Super GT championship, the pinnacle of German motorsport was then rocked by the departure of Audi for Formula E.

A scenario that left BMW as the only remaining manufacturer in DTM and one that meant the running of Class One regulations was no longer viable. While this scenario, also meant substantial change was required for 2021.

A change that has seen GT3 regulations installed instead and although it is still the DTM in name, it is a long way removed from the championship battles of days gone by and the reason it was so popular across the globe.

While it is the continual pressures of trying to make a combustion engine relevant in today’s age that presents many a sleepless night for those in charge and when it comes to technological insomnia, this ailment has been found within NASCAR as of late.

That’s because plans to unveil their seventh generation or (Next Gen) have been delayed by a year – albeit due to the ongoing issue of COVID throughout the world and although this delay has been rather frustrating for all involved, there is some light at the end of the tunnel.

Light that comes from the three existing manufacturers and the unveiling of their battle weapons for 2022 and from the early evidence of what has been on show, the next generation of NASCAR looks in rather good hands.

As before the trio of Chevrolet, Toyota and Ford will take the track and with the Camaro ZL1, Mustang GT500 and the Camry TRD all respectively lined up for 2022, the grid will certainly look exciting next year.

While that excitement can also be found within the sportsbook environment and such the increased state of fervour, the sportsbooks in Pennsylvania are already setting lines for next year’s races, in preparation for a betting bonanza.

Who comes out on top is something that remains to be seen and although this three-horse race in terms of horsepower is one that will always be an interesting skirmish on the tarmac, NASCAR could also do with some new interest along the way.

Which is why there has been so much investment and time placed into the creation of the Next Gen plans and although getting the three existing manufacturers to sign up was vitally important, an outside force to join ranks is arguably more.

Because with a new name in the paddock, it means that interest levels from supporters can be kept high and although the overall popularity of the racing discipline has waned over the years, it is also one that can be easily revitalized.

If the likes of Dodge, Nissan, or even BMW can see how successful NASCAR is in 2022, then it may be enough for their respective management boards to sign off an oval racing program as early as 2023.

While that may be the dream, it is not necessarily wishful thinking at the same time, and with cost-cutting measures now in place, the prospect of new entrants within NASCAR is certainly more appealing than it was 12 or 24 months ago.

The proof as always will be in the pudding (or perhaps the driving in this case) and with Australia’s Supercars also bringing in an evolution to their class next year, they will also hope to attract one more marque to the championship.

There is still money out there in motorsport, it’s just that a whole host of focus seems to be placed on electric or hybrid technology and this means that the petrol form of racing is in danger of being left behind.

However, steps as the ones being taken in the United States are encouraging and if the next edition of the Daytona 500 can be full of drama, it may be enough to entice at least a new manufacturer to oval racing’s number one discipline. 

After a turbulent 2020, officials vowed to bring back NASCAR racing in a bigger way than ever before with big changes to existing tracks and the addition of many more throughout the 38-race season – with new tracks, new racing styles, and an adjusted schedule the year has already got off to a great start, and with fans able to return to the tracks once again top, the potential for a lot of excitement. Even outside of just racing, adjustments in regulation and legislation mean that online betting is becoming much more accessible as new bills in states like Ohio could bring the option to many fans looking to wager on races. But which are some of the biggest races of the 2021 season?

The growing road courses – Internationally, some motorsports fans have viewed NASCAR as a bit of a one-dimensional sport, with tracks all largely being the same and the skillset to race these tracks remaining unchanging – that has, until recently, remained true, but the addition of a number of road tracks changes stock car racing. It brings a more technical aspect of racing that favors some drivers and some teams more than others, and whilst the traditional oval tracks that have made NASCAR a fan favorite will never disappear, these road racing tracks are a great addition and shake up the grid a bit. The biggest tracks in the world like Daytona now also feature a road course alongside the oval course and having the two be a big part of the racing season provides plenty of entertainment.

Bristol Dirt Race – Back in March, NASCAR fans welcomed back the first Cup race on dirt since the 70’s, and it turned out to be much more than a gimmick as many fans thought it would be. Much like the road courses, it brought a completely different requirement for a new set of skills, something that many drivers weren’t initially equipped to handle well with veterans like Kyle Larson who had expected to be amongst the favorites slumped down quite far – and given how well the race was received, could certainly be something seen in future Cup seasons alongside other changes already noted.

Talladega – Fans have already seen one exciting race at Talladega this year back towards the end of April and will be served with a second dose later in the year when the race returns in October – the fast 2.6-mile oval always brings exciting races with the risk of big crashes too, and towards the end of the season the typically challenging track could bring an end to the title hopes of some racers with a spot of bad luck – as the championship gets closer towards the end of the season, this could be the first of a few tracks that really decides who’ll take home the cup.

If you’re the type of person or have a family who regularly loves to go on a road trip, then an RV is something worth considering. It’s an investment that can make those long but fun trips more comfortable. 

But although it may not be a common purchase for most families, this doesn’t mean that your options will be limited. Dealers and auction sites like Cranky Ape online RV auctions, for example, offer plenty of models you can choose from. The demand for RVs is still there for those who truly enjoy the experience, so if this is going to be your first time to shop for one, you can expect to be a bit overwhelmed by the number of options available.

But to make the process easier for you, here are five things we suggest you consider when buying an RV:

1. Your Budget

RVs can usually be pricier than a van or a car because of the larger space and the unique features they often come with. But there’s an RV for every budget, whether brand new or used, you can easily find motorhomes for sale locally or online to fit your needs. Your only dilemma will be finding the one that can offer more value for your budget.

The features and size of the RV are primary driving factors for pricing, these are two things you should really think about. If you’re trying to get the best price possible, it might help to weigh your priorities and decide which aspects you’re willing to compromise on. The Winnebago Travato 59G is a good example of the many options that there are to choose from.

For example, are you okay with fewer features if the size is big enough? Or are you willing to compromise on the size you want if you get more built-in features?  If you choose the latter, you can buy a cheap roof top tent and other portable accessories that you would need for your travels.

There are also websites that provide reviews on different types of RVs like https://camperguide.org/ which features a wide range of options when selecting RVs that will fit your budget.

2. The Amount Of Space You Need

RVs come in all types, each with varying sizes. There’s no one type that’s better than another, as this would typically depend on your personal preference and needs as a driver and traveler. However, since the size is a pricing factor, considering the size you really need should give you a good head start to help narrow down your options.

Do you have a family you travel with? Or is it just you and your partner? Typically, RVs are bought by families with young children, in which case, a larger space is more suitable for comfort. Remember that you’re also going to take things with you, so aside from the typical number of passengers, you should also consider the personal belongings and large items you’ll be taking with you on the road trip. You wouldn’t want to feel cramped in your RV, especially on long-haul trips.

3. Your Matching Towing Vehicle

If you’re buying a trailer-type RV or camper to attach it to your current vehicle, you should consider compatibility.

For example, if you have an SUV or a pick-up truck, the weight of a fairly large RV shouldn’t be that much of a problem. However, if you’ve got a smaller vehicle, then you could only go for a smaller trailer RV.

4. Extra Features 

Every buyer has their own preferred features that they’re looking for in an RV. For instance, those with families prefer RVs with a full bathroom and kitchen facilities. If you usually travel during the summertime, then an RV with built-in air-conditioning would be an advantage. Some extra plugs may be helpful too if you have more appliances and devices.

Creating a list of your ideal RV models and features, and marking the non-negotiable ones will help you in this area. While there’ll be many nice-to-have features, you might have to pick one over the other, especially if your budget is limited, or two of the features you want aren’t available in a single model.

5. Availability For Close Inspection

It would be ideal to only look at RVs that have already been inspected. But even better if you can be allowed to do your own inspection. The process of buying an RV is much just like buying a car. A close inspection from professionals is a must to ensure that you aren’t being cheated with the actual quality and value of the RV you want to buy, especially if it’s a second-hand unit.

Conclusion

Buying an RV is a major decision that involves a significant amount of cash, time, and effort. So it’s only important to carefully consider your options before handing that check over. Make a list, weigh your priorities, and get a professional inspection as much as possible. This way, you’ll feel more confident about your decision, and you can be assured that you’re getting your money’s worth. 

Although driving a car is more or less easy, depending on each person’s abilities, not everyone can claim to be a good driver. This concept goes beyond the simple handling of a car since the basic driving actions, such as starting, parking, or changing gears, are internalized with practice. 

However, to know how to be a good driver, you have to have a series of habits focused on avoiding accidents and respecting other drivers. In addition, being a good driver will also help us avoid the dreaded traffic fines. 

8 Ways to Become a Safe Driver in 2021

When driving on public roads, it is very noticeable that most of the people driving along with us do not have the necessary training to operate a vehicle. Nevertheless, we need to share the spaces with every one of them.

Fortunately, we have a series of simple tips that require more than anything but a change in behavior to become better drivers and make our transfers safe for all users.

Tip # 1: obey traffic laws.

It should be a no-brainer; however, we see most people do not always follow this advice. When traveling, try to research the traffic laws of an unfamiliar area or brush up on the laws of its commonly traveled roads. By having a complete understanding of the Traffic safety laws during your trip, you can make the road safer.

Tip # 2: Keep your car safe and use car cameras.

While understanding the traffic rules of the roads you travel is very important, so is operating a vehicle in proper condition. Make sure you have enough amount of tire tread that will help in hazardous weather conditions. Snow, rain, or ice can cause unsafe conditions when driving with tires with minimal tread.

Another tip is to make sure all the running lights are working correctly. Headlights will help make the road you are traveling on visible. When traveling at night or in weather conditions that may cause visibility to be limited, lights can improve the situation. Ensuring the vehicle’s taillights and brake lights are working is also helpful. It will help other drivers know that you are getting into your pedal break to slow down so they can react accordingly. These are just a few items to check the safety of the appropriate vehicle.

You can also install car cameras to monitor your progress.

Tip # 3: Defensive Driving Practice.

Practicing defensive driving tactics is one more way to become a safe driver in 2021. Several private schools, government agencies, and non-profit organizations offer courses that can improve your driving skills. These courses can help upgrade your driving skills in a variety of areas. Defensive driving will help you learn ways to anticipate dangerous situations and master the laws of the road and also the basic mechanics of driving.

Tip # 4: Stop procrastination when traveling in bad weather.

Providing additional time when driving in bad weather conditions can help you achieve your goal of becoming a safe driver in 2021. By allowing sufficient time to reach your destination, you can eliminate the need to accelerate or drive aggressively, especially when conditions are not favorable. Adding more travel time can help a lot with traffic jams, road accidents, or inclement weather.

Tip # 5: Wear your seat belt.

Seat belts in cars protect your life. Safely strapping yourself in with the seat will help keep you safe on uncontrollable occasions, like in an accident. 

When the car is in an accident, the body will continue to travel at the previous speed unless appropriately tied, especially at high speeds. The use of a seat belt can decrease the risk of passing through the vehicle cabin in the event of an accident.

Tip # 6: Don’t speed up.

Every road you travel has a specific speed limit to make driving safe for all users. These limits are generally posted on signs located near the sides of the road, sometimes also including maximum speed limits, minimum speed limits, night speed limits, or even truck speed limits. Traveling below the maximum speed limit improves your chances of reaching your destination safely since you are driving within the traffic safety rules for those roads. 

Always be aware of speed limits; in some cases, speed limits can change, even when you are on the same street. For example, some roads may have a speed limit of 40 miles per hour in one section and 30 miles per hour in another section. It is commonly seen on roads near schools as it helps increase the safety of the area where students are walking and crossing streets.

Tip # 7: Don’t drink and drive.

“Stay alive, and don’t drink and drive” “Drive sober or get duped along” are some of the advertisements and slogans that the National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) uses. Driving while intoxicated can alter a person’s judgment, potentially leading to an accident and eventually fatal. Choosing not to drive after falling into alcoholic beverages will help keep the roads safer. There are various other options besides having a person with disabilities get behind the wheel.

Tip # 8: Don’t get distracted while driving.

Modern society requires us to stay connected at all times, and most people have much to do, even when they leave the workplace. However, distractions at the wheel are one of the leading causes of accidents among the population.

It is crucial not to fall into distractions while driving, such as making calls or sending messages. Still, if they are unavoidable, a connectivity alternative will always be available for our car.

In this way, we can be alert to any situation that may compromise our security and other users who may be under the same pressure.

Finally

That concludes our article on how to become a safe driver in 2021. These tips can improve the number of safe drivers on the road and help reduce the likelihood of an accident. Observing traffic laws and preparing for the trip can keep the streets safe.

Sports and gambling on sports have hand-in-hand for a long time. Horse racing and greyhound racing are massive in terms of gambling and in recent times, tennis, soccer, and cricket have grown hugely in terms of betting. That has seen a rise in the number of sportsbooks sponsoring sports and sporting events across the globe. In the United States, online sports betting has only recently been legalized in some states but has tremendous potential. This has led to several sportsbooks sponsoring football teams for example but why are sportsbooks beginning to sponsor motor racing in the US?

Back in February 2021, we witnessed the first deal between a NASCAR team and sports betting operator. BetMGM and Richard Childress Racing have signed a deal for one year which will see BetMGM become the official sports betting operator of RCR and sportsbook will be the primary sponsorship for select races during the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series and the partnership started at the Daytona International Speedway in February.

Talking about the sponsorship deal and the reasons why they have opted to sponsor a NASCAR team, BetMGM’s Chief Revenue Officer, Matt Prevost, said, “Richard Childress Racing is one of the most respected and formidable teams in motorsports,” before continuing, “Together we will develop compelling marketing opportunities and activations that introduce the BetMGM sports betting brand to NASCAR fans worldwide.”

From those comments, it becomes clear one of the major reasons why sportsbooks are sponsoring motor racing in the US is to introduce betting brands to motor racing fans and some of the greatest races around the world, not only in the United States. 

When betting online in the US, mobile apps is the way to go but remember to always keep your apps up to date. For example, continued problems using the DraftKings app can often be solved simply by updating to the latest version of the app.

Richard Childress, who is the Chairman and CEO of RCR, said, “BetMGM is at the forefront of the sports betting and online gaming industry and Richard Childress Racing can certainly relate to their pioneering vision. This innovative relationship will provide opportunities to collaborate in new and groundbreaking ways.”

Not only has BetMGM signed a deal with RCR, but they have also become the official betting partner of NASCAR itself. This will see the introduction of a free-to-play game and it is one of a handful of deals between NASCAR and sports betting brands, with Genius Sports, Sportradar, Penn Gaming, and IMG Arena also getting some of the action.

Many sports are already well saturated in terms of gambling deals and NASCAR, along with other motor racing events provide a new avenue for sports betting brands. Motor racing is a great opportunity for online gambling brands in the US to not only promote themselves but standout due to the fact there are not a huge number of betting brands already sponsoring motor racing teams and events.

Now the US has relaxed the law on wagers being placed on sporting events, it opens plenty of opportunities for untapped markets, one of which is motorsport.