EV to PIHB

Economics, Education, Perspectives

I switched from an electric car back to a Plug-in hybrid – here’s what I learned

 [Volkswagen Passat ePro / Courtesy of Volkswagen] is a revolutionary new vehicle with a monstrous driving range that can make three round-trip trips between Seoul and Busan with fuel to spare has finally been unveiled. Volkswagen’s newly revealed Passat Pro PHEV model has sent shockwaves through the domestic market, confirming it can travel over 1,300 km (810 miles) on a single tank of gas and charge. This vehicle, which combines the efficiency of electric powertrains with the convenience of internal combustion engines, has instantly positioned itself as a disruptive force in the family car segment. The new Passat Pro stretches to nearly 5 meters (about 16.4 feet) in length, making it noticeably larger than most mid-size sedans.

[Volkswagen Passat ePro / Courtesy of Volkswagen] With a significantly extended wheelbase, the rear-seat legroom rivals that of domestic Grandeur, offering expansive comfort for passengers. The powertrain, which marries a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, produces a robust combined output of 272 horsepower (203 kW), ensuring spirited performance. The ability to travel 160 km (99 miles) on battery power alone means that daily commuters with an 80 km (50 miles) one-way trip could potentially eliminate their fuel costs, resulting in $0 in fuel expenses. 706.2 mpg

The 2023 Volkswagen Passat ePro offers impressive fuel efficiency, achieving a combined WLTP fuel economy of 706.2 mpg. This model is designed to provide an electric-only range of 150 km (93 miles) and a total range of 1,300 km (808 miles) when combined with its gasoline engine. The fuel tank is 66 litres.

Personal note: Our 2019 Hyundai Ionic only has a 40-litre tank, and I have managed 1100 km on it, and it is not a plug-in. The Ionic is MPG more efficient, likely because it has less HP.

For Neil Diamond Fans

Just for Fun

For Neil Diamond Fans

Being Have been a Neil Diamond fan since the early 70s. I have found memories of making a tape (reel to reel) of several of his albums and playing it along with a James Taylor tape when I bartended at an officer’s club in Alaska. Many years later I remember enjoying the entertainment provided by a tribute artist at “The Hop” in Orange County, CA a club owned by the Righteous Brothers. I wish I could remember his name. If you are a fan, you will enjoy Song Sung Blue, go see it or stream it. Details from Wikipedia follow:

“Song Sung Blue is a 2025 biographical musical drama about a Neil Diamond tribute band, starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson.

Song Sung Blue is a 2025 American biographical musical drama written, produced, and directed by Craig Brewer, based on a 2008 documentary by Greg Kohs. The film stars Hugh Jackman as Mike Sardina and Kate Hudson as Claire Sardina, a Milwaukee couple who form a Neil Diamond tribute band called Lightning & Thunder. The story follows their journey from performing in dive bars to achieving local stardom, while navigating personal struggles, romance, and tragedy. 

Plot Overview

Mike, a recovering alcoholic and Vietnam War veteran, initially performs as a Don Ho impersonator but quits after being restricted from performing his own material. Claire, a hairdresser and part-time performer, inspires him to pursue a Neil Diamond tribute act. Together, they form Lightning & Thunder, performing Neil Diamond hits with passion and authenticity. The film explores their romantic relationship, professional challenges, and the highs and lows of performing in tribute shows. Key moments include their first gigs, misunderstandings with audiences, and Claire’s severe car accident, which tests their resilience and love. 

Musical Elements

The film features numerous Neil Diamond songs, with Jackman and Hudson delivering strong vocal performances. The music is central to the narrative, highlighting both the tribute aspect and the emotional depth of the characters’ journey. Signature songs like “Sweet Caroline” are incorporated as recurring motifs in their performances. 

Reception

Song Sung Blue premiered at the AFI Film Festival on October 26, 2025, and was released in the United States on December 25, 2025. It received positive reviews, with critics praising Kate Hudson’s performance, the chemistry between the leads, and the heartfelt storytelling. The film grossed $58 million and earned Hudson nominations for the Golden Globe, BAFTA, and Academy Award for Best Actress. Reviewers highlighted the film’s sincere portrayal of tribute culture, its emotional resonance, and the uplifting depiction of pursuing dreams through music. 

Viewing

The film is available for streaming on platforms like Prime Video, allowing audiences to experience the musical performances and the story of Lightning & Thunder. 
Overall, Song Sung Blue combines biographical drama, musical tribute, and heartfelt romance, celebrating the enduring appeal of Neil Diamond’s music while telling a story of love, perseverance, and artistic passion.

A water-powered engine?

Economics, Education, Science

A water-powered engine?

Toyota unveils water-powered engine, challenging EVs

Article by AKASH RAI

#Toyota’s water-powered engine could signal the fall of EVs. In a surprising turn of events, the automotive world has been rocked by Toyota’s announcement of a new engine technology that could challenge the dominance of electric vehicles. The CEO of Toyota has introduced a water engine, a potentially revolutionary innovation that raises questions about the future of electric cars and the broader implications for the industry. This article delves into the details of this groundbreaking announcement and what it could mean for the future of transportation. The Announcement: A New Era of Engine Technology Toyota’s recent announcement has sent shockwaves through the automotive industry. The CEO detailed a new water engine that promises to revolutionize how we think about vehicle propulsion. This engine, according to Toyota, utilizes water as a primary component in its operation, potentially offering an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and electric power. The details, while still emerging, suggest a significant shift in Toyota’s strategic direction, emphasizing sustainability and innovation. The announcement has been met with a mix of excitement and skepticism across the automotive landscape. Industry insiders and tech enthusiasts have been quick to weigh in, with some praising Toyota for pushing the boundaries of what is possible, while others caution against the technological and logistical challenges such an innovation presents. Nevertheless, the announcement has positioned Toyota at the forefront of automotive innovation, potentially reshaping its market strategy and brand positioning as it embraces this new era.