One-Third Of Drivers Don't Know Their Drink-Drive Limit [Infographic]

One-Third Of Drivers Don't Know Their Drink-Drive Limit (Please, scroll down to see full infographic)

There are few issues as serious and wide-spread in their risk to both drivers and pedestrians than the enduring problem of drink-driving. A recently announced infographic from Hilton Garage has taken a deeper look into some of the stats behind the reality of drink-driving, today, as well as the fundamental actions that we can all take to help.

In order to prevent the ongoing increase of drink-drive accidents on the road, Hilton Garage is encouraging people to be more aware of the steps that they can take to prevent such incidents from ever occurring. This includes being mindful of the risk, serving non-alcohol alternatives for people who are driving, keeping an eye on friends who may be at risk of drink-driving, and acting as a designated driver.

• Furthermore, the infographic highlights just how many people don’t understand the laws revolving around drink-driving. Many currently don’t understand the drink-drive limits in terms of how much alcohol needs to be in their blood or breath to get them in danger, meaning that they not only risk the safety of themselves and others on or by the roads, they also run the risk of getting in trouble with the law.

Drink-driving continues to be a consistent and persistent issue across drivers of all ages. Driving under the influence is the number one causing factor of road accidents and injuries throughout the UK and, as a result, not only do drivers have a responsibility to avoid drinking and driving. We all have a responsibility to do what we can to prevent it.

The Infographic:

Infographic Design By Drink driving facts

Nov 17: Next-Generation Honda Civic Prototype To Be Revealed On Twitch! [Teaser Included]

Honda is giving gaming and automotive enthusiasts a first glimpse of what's in store for America’s best-selling car with the world debut of the all-new 11th-generation Civic, in prototype form, Tuesday, Nov. 17 live on Honda’s Head2Head Twitch channel.

Honda is giving gaming and automotive enthusiasts a first glimpse of what's in store for America's best-selling car with the world debut of the all-new 11th-generation Civic, in prototype form, Tuesday, Nov. 17 live on Honda's Head2Head Twitch channel. 

• This special edition episode of Honda Head2Head on Twitch will begin live at 5 p.m. PST, with the Civic reveal set to start at 6:45 p.m. PST. 

• The reveal also will feature an exclusive live performance by Grammy-nominated ART@WAR/Atlantic Records recording artist, Cordae.

Honda's iconic Civic, the No. 1 vehicle for young, first-time and multicultural consumers, will undergo a full redesign that once again raises the bar for style, performance, safety and advanced technology in the compact car market. 

Nov 17: Next-Generation Honda Civic Prototype To Be Revealed On Twitch! (screengrab)

A teaser image and video released today give viewers a glimpse of the all-new Honda Civic through a geometric looking glass, which will all take shape to fully reveal the new Civic on Nov. 17.

Since it was first introduced in America in 1973, Civic has brought nearly 12 million U.S. customers into the Honda family. The all-new Civic Sedan will launch in late Spring 2021 as a 2022 model-year vehicle.

Honda and Esports:

Honda has a significant presence in gaming and esports, as the exclusive automotive partner of Team Liquid and the Riot Games League of Legends Championship Series. In addition, Honda's gaming strategy includes a partnership with Twitch, where the Honda Head2Head gaming channel, now in its third season, is the exclusive auto-branded channel on the platform.

With Twitch's average daily visitors reaching 17.5 million, Honda aims to grab the attention of the audience behind the explosive growth of esports. These deeply enthusiastic fans share a similar passion for Civic, making the nameplate America's most popular among all vehicles with Millennial, Gen Z and multicultural consumers. Honda's integration of the all-new Civic on its Head2Head Twitch channel one-ups the brand's commitment in the gaming space.

The Civic reveal on Honda's Head2Head Twitch channel will be hosted by Rachel Seltzer and MonsterDface. The hosts will be joined by eight participants: Four top Fortnite players and four top Twitch streamers, including Benjyfishy, SypherPK, Jordan Fisher, Dakotaz, and more. The two teams will battle it out in Fortnite, the world's most popular battle royale game, ranking second on Twitch's most streamed games. Honda also will have presence on endemic gaming communities, including Twitter and Reddit, to support the reveal of the new Civic.

The Teaser:

More Information:

Consumers can get details about the Civic reveal and sign up for additional information about the all-new Civic at honda.com/civicreveal. More information, plus photos and video will be added after the reveal..

SOURCE: American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Direct Car Insurance Provider

White and black car scale model (Photo by fotografierende)

Direct Car Insurance Providers come in all shapes and sizes, and their fees match accordingly. Finding the right provider can save you time and money.

On the downside, if you are struggling to find a suitable car insurance provider due to past misdemeanours relating to car convictions, you may then have your work cut out to find an insurer who will even give you the time of day.

However, don’t give up; there are many direct car insurance provider services available and affordable.

Searching the internet can be a minefield of potential dead ends, but once you’ve found the right place to grab the opportunity to get yourself some freedom.

Car insurance is essential, and finding a quote is the best place to start your journey ahead.

Saving Money

You can save money, but you may need to shop around to find the best deal to meet your needs. Try not to fall into auto-renewal; don’t limit your options to find cheaper car insurance.

Take the time to compare quotes, and it may take time. Consider increasing your excess; this can reduce the cost of your car insurance cover.

The Impact of COVID19

You do not need to contact your car insurance provider about any changes in your driving habits. There is currently a temporary system in place by the ABI until 31st December; if you need to make changes with your car insurance provider, you should be able to after this date. For example, a reduction in using your vehicle due to changes in your circumstances, Lockdown and restrictions can be easily addressed.

If you need to self-isolate, but want someone else to drive your vehicle, please do not despair; as long as your helper has their own fully comprehensive car insurance that includes driving other cars, you should be covered. You may not be covered if your vehicle is involved in an accident.

You may also reduce the cost of your car insurance premiums by switching to paying by a monthly direct debit.

During COVID19, you could use a telematics insurer via a downloadable app to track your driving via GPS. This type of insurance requires you to have a black box installed that monitors your driving. Currently, there is a backlog due to COVID19 restrictions.

Comics and Cars

Even comic book heroes have to invest in car insurance. Kia And Comic Book Giant Join Forces To Make Superhero Cars. But your rich rewards may come at a price if you don’t have the right insurance or creative resources, don’t give up hope.

Thinking outside the box may also help you find the right solutions, and keep you heading in the right direction towards success and financial freedom.

Driving forward, you can find the opportunities to stay safe, move ahead, and keep motoring. Although the world is now starting to grind to a halt once again, you need to keep a positive mindset - rise above your fears, and set yourself on the path to readily embrace success.

Yellow die cast car on rack (Photo by fotografierende)

Everard Goes Back to the Future on Oct. 14 with 1960s Space Age Cars and Sculptural Art from Estate of John Bucci

Concept car designer/fabricator John Bucci (Italian/American, 1935-2019) at the 1964 New York World's Fair, where his 1962 fiberglass car 'La Shabbla,' thrilled millions of visitors at the Cavalcade of Cars exhibition. (Archival photo from the Estate of John Bucci.)

On October 14, Savannah's Everard Auctions will go back to the future with an online-only auction of wildly imaginative cars and sculptural art from the Estate of John Bucci (1935-2019).

A visionary artist whose work was decades ahead of its time, Bucci crafted fiberglass fantasies that drew widespread media recognition and praise from the highest echelons of the custom-car world. 

Two of his Space Age vehicles are featured in the auction: 

• The 1962 car known as "La Shabbla," which was the rage of the 1964 New York World's Fair
• "La Trieste," which created mob scenes and was pulled over by curious Polizia when Bucci drove it around Italy in 1967.

Even today, more than half a century after they were fabricated, Bucci's unconventional automotive prototypes look futuristic enough to be parked in the Jetsons' garage. They are attracting bidder interest from new and long-time fans of avant-garde and automotive art.

John Bucci was a dreamer even in his youth. He grew up in a region of Italy that became part of Yugoslavia after World War II. After immigrating to Chicago in 1959, he worked at Radio Flyer, Zenith and Sun Electric. But his true gift was being able to visualize the fantastical and create it out of fiberglass. He gained renown for his spectacular replicas of Trevi Fountain, which he supplied to trade shows and Italian festivals around the country.

Around 1962, Bucci found himself without sufficient funds to buy a car, so he did what came naturally – he made one, a car of the future that he named "La Shabbla," or "Sword." Its futuristic fiberglass body sits on a Fiat chassis with an Arbath 750 engine. It features retractable headlights, a working steering wheel, electrically powered hood cover, oscilloscope, and blue woven leather seats. 

John Bucci, La Shabbla, 1964 World's Fair Concept Car (image via liveauctioneers.com)

• The car was displayed at the Calvacade of Custom Cars at the 1964 NY World's Fair, where it was mobbed by fairgoers and even caught the eye of singer Paul Anka, who hopped inside for a photo opportunity.

In as-is condition, La Shabbla is a show car that can run off AC/DC current when in static display mode. On AC current, it can perform limited operations including opening the hood, and extending/retracting the steering wheel and passenger windscreen. The engine turns freely when rotated by hand. 

• Auction estimate: $50,000-$75,000.

John Bucci, The Trieste, Fiberglass Concept Car (image via liveauctioneers.com)

La Trieste is believed to have been constructed around a Porsche 356 floor pan and is powered by a Porsche 4-cylinder (1600cc super) engine capable of hitting a top speed of 160mph. Bucci created it with a five-layer fiberglass body that received five coats of paint. Its windshield and side windows are made of polycarbonate, and the door-locking mechanism appears to be electromagnetic. 

• In 1967, Bucci took it on an extensive tour of Italy, then exhibited it around America's Midwest. 

In 1967, John Bucci (Italian/American, 1935-2019) drove around Italy in his concept car 'La Trieste,' attracting mobs of curious, car-crazy citizens. Italian Polizia even pulled him over just to get a closer look at the futuristic vehicle, which was 100% street legal. (Archival photo from the Estate of John Bucci.)

A May 1972 article in the Chicago Sun-Times Business News section described La Trieste as resembling "a land-bound missile" and said "…even if it didn't run – which it does very well – it would have to be considered somewhat of a milestone in auto styling." 

• Currently in fair condition, La Trieste has an $8,000-$12,000 estimate.

Bucci's design oeuvre also included functional, avant-garde sculptural furniture made from plexiglass, steel, found objects and wood. A selection is entered in the auction with estimates ranging from $120-$1,500.

SOURCE: Everard Auctions

'Mazda Heroes: Honoring The Human Spirit' Recognizes Those Making A Difference In Communities During Unprecedented Year

'Mazda Heroes: Honoring The Human Spirit' Recognizes Those Making A Difference In Communities During Unprecedented Year (PRNewsfoto/Mazda North American Operations)

Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today launched its 'Mazda Heroes: Honoring The Human Spirit' program (Mazda Heroes). The initiative aims to place a spotlight on individuals across the country who have selflessly dedicated themselves to their communities throughout 2020. 

• Through Mazda Heroes, MNAO will select 50 deserving people and provide each hero with a special part of its history, a Mazda MX-5 Miata 100th Anniversary Special Edition.

'Mazda Heroes: Honoring The Human Spirit' Recognizes Those Making A Difference In Communities During Unprecedented Year (PRNewsfoto/Mazda North American Operations)

"This year marks Mazda's 100th Anniversary. We had hoped this time would be filled with moments of celebration and appreciation for our fans, employees and partners. But given the many tragic events of 2020, we decided to express, in another way, our brand's unique heritage of trying to make things better," MNAO President Jeff Guyton said. "In April, we launched our Essential Car Care Program to give free oil changes and car cleaning to healthcare workers across the U.S. Throughout this initiative we heard how grateful our dealers and employees were to be in service to those selflessly giving back every day. This inspired us to develop the Mazda Heroes program, which will honor individuals supporting communities and share their stories in a moment when people desire inspiration in their lives."

'Mazda Heroes: Honoring The Human Spirit' Recognizes Those Making A Difference In Communities During Unprecedented Year (PRNewsfoto/Mazda North American Operations)

From teachers going the extra mile to enhance distance learning, to community members sourcing PPE for others, there are countless examples of people across the country going above and beyond to support others without expecting anything in return. Mazda wants to honor these important acts of kindness, resilience and empathy. 

• Stories can be submitted now through Oct. 25 at www.MazdaUSA.com/mazda-heroes for a chance to be honored as a Mazda Hero. 
• Fifty individuals will be selected based on their demonstrated selfless acts, creative approaches, and contributions to community.
• Honorees will be announced beginning Dec. 2.

'Mazda Heroes: Honoring The Human Spirit' Recognizes Those Making A Difference In Communities During Unprecedented Year (PRNewsfoto/Mazda North American Operations)

SOURCE: Mazda North American Operations

Genovation Cars Announces Design Competition Winners

Genovation Cars Announces Design Competition Winners (Credit: Job Skandera)

Genovation Cars Inc. in collaboration with the College for Creative Studies, announces the scholarship winners and their designs of a reimagined exterior for Genovation's GXE all-electric supercar, currently holding the world speed record of 211.8mph which was witnessed and certified by the International Mile Racing Association (IMRA).

SCHOLARSHIP PRIZE AMOUNTS

• First Place: $3,000 – Job Skandera
• Second Place: $1,000 – Raymond Gonet Jr.
• Third Place: $750 – Benjamin Treinen
• Honorable Mention: $250 – Dane Hamilton
• Honorable Mention: $250 – Ali Shoghimojarad

Genovation Cars Announces Design Competition Winners (Credit: Job Skandera)

• View student submissions here: dtw-files.centigrade.com/share.cgi?ssid=0tNGAGx

JUDGING PARAMETERS

• The winning design were judged based on these criteria:
• Defines a unique American exotic supercar
• Avoids encumbering high performance aerodynamics
• Reflects Genovation's commitment to innovation, creativity, and cutting-edge electric vehicle technology

JUDGES

• Andrew Saul, CEO of Genovation Cars, Inc.
• Julie Barnard, President of Centigrade Inc.
• Ken Lingenfelter, Owner and President of Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, Lingenfelter Motor Sports, and the Lingenfelter Collection
• Gordon Platto, Design Director, NA Ford Cars and CUV's
• Ed Welburn, General Motors Vice President of Global Design (retired), Movie Executive Producer, Member of the CCS Board of Trustees

Genovation Cars Announces Design Competition Winners (Credit: Job Skandera)

"I am honored to be a part of this extraordinary opportunity from Genovation Cars and The College for Creative Studies. This design challenge has helped me grow immensely, and I'm looking forward to learning more in continuing through development," said Job Skandera. "I want to thank Genovation and CCS for the scholarship and the recognition. All the glory belongs to God, who's hand gives every beautiful and perfect thing."

"The Genovation Team was extremely impressed with the submissions," said Andrew Saul, CEO of Genovation Cars, Inc. "The high level of creativity is a credit to the student's design sense and the role The College for Creative Studies played in mentoring these talented individuals. It was a great honor to be on a judging panel with such automotive luminaries. We very much look forward to future collaborations."

"The College for Creative Studies Transportation Design Department wishes to extend their gratitude for this competition offered by Genovation. The brief, based on adherence to an existing platform, was a significant real-world experience for our students and recent graduates. I am proud to say they rose to the challenge. Also, many thanks go out to the panel of prestigious judges that brought so much richness to the experience. In addition to becoming a valuable portfolio piece for these rising stars, having the opportunity to present to you and receive your valuable feedback was an honor they will hold in their hearts as they transition into their professional careers." 

Paul Snyder, Paul & Helen Farago Chair of Transportation Design.

Genovation Cars Announces Design Competition Winners (Credit: Job Skandera)

About Genovation GXE

The GXE was designed from the ground up to have a low center of gravity and near 50/50 weight distribution: a true driver's car. The GXE also comes equipped with a programmable active suspension, carbon ceramic Brembo® brakes, state-of-the-art carbon fiber wheels supplied by Carbon Revolution, ultra-high fidelity 10-speaker JBL stereo, a 10.4-inch custom high definition center console touchscreen and bespoke exterior and interior. The all-electric supercar comes available with either a 7-speed manual – an all-electric supercar category exclusive – or an 8-speed paddle shift automatic transmission.

In normal driving operation, the Genovation GXE delivers a range of more than 175 miles on a full battery charge, imperative to ultra-high performance and efficient daily-driver convenience.

The Genovation GXE will be produced in a limited-edition run of 75 units, with initial customer deliveries scheduled in 2021.

Genovation Cars Announces Design Competition Winners (Credit: Job Skandera)

About College for Creative Studies

Located in the heart of Detroit and ranked third among U.S. art and design colleges by LinkedIn for alumni success, the College for Creative Studies (CCS) is a world-class institution that educates artists and designers to be leaders in the creative professions. A private, fully accredited college, CCS enrolls more than 1,400 students pursuing Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees.


Students in the BFA program can major in Advertising Design, Communication Design, Crafts, Entertainment Arts, Fashion Accessories Design, Fine Arts, Illustration, Interior Design, Photography, Product Design, and Transportation Design, in addition to a dual major Art Education program. Students in the MFA program can major in Color and Materials Design, Interaction Design, Integrated Design, and Transportation Design.

Genovation Cars Announces Design Competition Winners - First Place: Job Skandera (Credit: Job Skandera)

SOURCE: Genovation Cars Inc.

Are We Finally Taking Our Cars to the Sky? Flying Car, PAL-V Liberty, Started Road Admission and Can Be Seen at GIMS 2020 [Video Included]

World’s First Commercial Flying Car, the PAL-V Liberty, started its road admission tests and has reached the final stage of air certification. Are we finally going to take our cars to the sky? According to Robert Dingemanse, CEO of PAL-V, the PAL-V Liberty will be delivered in 2021 to its already pre-registered customers.

The flying car era starts. Many companies are showing their vision of future mobility. Can you imagine taking your car into the sky? Will we fly through highways in the sky? One thing is certain, mobility will change and PAL-V is recognized as one of the key players.

Since 2008, PAL-V has been developing a flying car. In 2012, it had its first breakthrough: fly-and drive-testing the PAL-V One. PAL-V has set major steps since, it has now realized its production facility in which it built its first product, the PAL-V Liberty. The order book is growing and last week the PAL-V started the European Road Admission, a major milestone towards the start of delivery. The air certification has reached the final stage as well, compliance demonstration.

World’s First Commercial Flying Car, the PAL-V Liberty, started its road admission tests and has reached the final stage of air certification. (screengrab)

Robert Dingemanse, CEO of PAL-V: "The term flying cars is used for two different applications. The first flying cars, fly and drive, and are used like cars for personal mobility going from door-to-door between towns and cities. Imagine living in Geneva and driving your flying car from your garage to go to an appointment in Cannes (South-France). Driving 10 minutes to the nearest (grass) airstrip, take-off and be on your way to Cannes. After 2 hours you land near Cannes and in minutes you convert your aircraft back to car-mode. Another 10-minute drive and you arrive at your appointment in the city. A journey that normally takes 5.5 hours will now take only 2.5 hours. On top, you enjoyed the birds-eye view of the Alps, the French countryside, and the freedom of flying. A dream comes true."

According to Dingemanse, certification, safety, ease of use, performance, and compactness on the road are critical design factors in developing flying cars. "No one wants to fly a car that isn't certified, hard to fly or that doesn't fit a standard parking spot," says Dingemanse.

The other application is flying cars designed to only fly and to be used in urban environment. 

Mike Stekelenburg, CTO of PAL-V: "We expect that flying above cities will start 8-12 years from now. These vehicles are called urban air-taxies or eVTOLs (electrical Vertical Take-Off and Landing). They are designed for use as public transportation, flying from platform-to-platform and not going from door-to-door. They're an alternative to helicopters, metros, and buses." PAL-V has also filed patents for a competitive solution for this market. It recently teamed up with the Netherlands Aerospace Centre, Stekelenburg; "While the PAL-V Liberty is designed for going from door-to-door, this eVTOL is useful for Urban Air Mobility."

The Video:

According to Dingemanse, we will take our cars to the sky in 2021 and the PAL-V Liberty can be seen on the roads in the upcoming months. However, before we see air-taxies in urban environment we still have to wait another 10 years, because of the many challenges like regulations, infrastructure, technology, noise, safety, city turbulence, and social acceptance.

SOURCE: PAL-V International B.V.

It's "Groundhog Day" All Over Again as Jeep Brand Debuts Big Game Spot Starring Bill Murray as "Phil Connors" From Iconic 1993 Film [Video Included]

Bill Murray reprises “Groundhog Day” film role for Jeep brand’s Super Bowl Commercial

In its return to the Big Game, the Jeep brand debuted a 60-second commercial starring Bill Murray reprising his role as Phil Connors from the 1993 film "Groundhog Day." In the commercial, Phil Connors enlists the help of the Jeep Gladiator as his "getaway vehicle" after taking the groundhog, thus significantly altering his days for the better.

The spot opens as the clock turns 6:00 a.m. "I Got You Babe" by Sonny & Cher starts playing, replicating the scene from the film. Phil Connors himself suddenly sits upright in bed. Twenty-seven years later, he's stuck in Punxsutawney once again. The Jeep brand worked closely with Sony Pictures to ensure authenticity with the original film, which is now available to buy on disc and digital.

"In my wildest dreams, any advertiser's dream, really, could you dare to believe that Bill Murray would agree to be in your Super Bowl commercial, and on top of that, ask him to relive his iconic role in 'Groundhog Day'?," said Olivier Francois, Chief Marketing Officer, FCA. "How do you even have that make sense and not be forced? Magic first happened when I had the incredible luck to meet Bill in person a few years ago, and I knew then that he was perfect for Jeep. Because like Jeep, Bill is a free spirit, he intentionally seeks out ways to find adventure and live an extraordinary life."

Francois continued, "When we learned that Groundhog Day fell on Super Bowl Sunday for the second time in 54 years, we couldn't help but take that chance. The stars magically aligned. Bill agreed to do the first national broadcast commercial in which he's ever appeared, and not only that, relive his role as Phil Connors for our Jeep Gladiator. But this time, in our spot, the hero makes a different choice by choosing a different pick-up truck – the Jeep Gladiator – and it changes everything for him."

Bill Murray reprises “Groundhog Day” film role for Jeep brand’s Super Bowl Commercial

"This is my first commercial. I'm glad I did it with you (Jeep)," said Bill Murray. "And I'm glad that this is my last commercial, as well."

Locations featured in the commercial include the original bed-and-breakfast where Bill Murray's character Phil Connors wakes up every morning; the Town Square where the Groundhog Day Festival takes place in the original movie; and the restaurant in Woodstock where Bill Murray's character toasts to "world peace" in the original movie. 

• Additional facts about the film set can be found here.

The brand also licensed the iconic Sonny & Cher song "I've Got You Babe" from Warner Music for use in the commercial.

Consumers will soon be able to pair a Jeep Gladiator and the all-new Jeep e-Bike powered by QuietKat (as seen in the commercial) to continue their own adventure, beginning early this summer. For more information, visit jeepe-bike.com. The Groundhog fun continues with a custom collection of merchandise inspired by the commercial on jeep.com/gear. 

The Video:

The Jeep brand commercial was created in partnership with Chicago-based agency Highdive, the Jeep Brand Agency of Record and 2019 Ad Age Small Agency of the Year (Midwest, Gold).

About Poppy the Groundhog Featured in the Commercial:

Poppy (now 10 months old) was rescued at 4 weeks old, and a birth defect prevented her from returning to the wild. She is currently in the care of a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Pennsylvania and is a beloved member of the caretaker's family. Poppy is a state- and USDA-licensed educational animal. Now thriving, Poppy has become an educational "ambassador" for all wildlife. 

• Additional information on "Poppy" can be found here.

About Groundhog Day:

In the original 1993 film, Bill Murray is at his wry, wisecracking best in this riotous romantic comedy about a weatherman caught in a personal time warp on the worst day of his life. Teamed with a relentlessly cheerful producer (Andie MacDowell) and a smart-aleck cameraman (Chris Elliott), TV weatherman Phil Connors (Bill Murray) is sent to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to cover the annual Groundhog Day festivities. 

After a surprise blizzard traps him in small-town hell, things get even worse; Phil wakes the next morning to find it's GROUNDHOG DAY all over again… and again…and again.

SOURCE: FCA

All-New Toyota Highlander Goes Wherever It's Needed in 2020 Big Game Ad [Video Included]

Toyota’s Big Game ad, “Heroes,” features Actress Cobie Smulders and the all-new 2020 Highlander.

From aliens and adventure to wild west outlaws, Toyota brings the adventure to this year's Big Game to spotlight the all-new 2020 Toyota Highlander. In the spot, titled "Heroes", actress Cobie Smulders is behind the wheel of the powerful SUV in the role of action hero and mother, as she rescues a cast of characters in familiar movie moments.

From aliens and adventure to wild west outlaws, Toyota brings the action to this year’s Big Game with the spot “Heroes.”

"This commercial truly highlights the all-new Highlander's incredible array of features, even greater capabilities and spacious interior," said Ed Laukes, group vice president, Toyota Marketing, Toyota Motor North America. "The spot's message of 'go wherever they need you' speaks to the adventurous spirit of Highlander and its ability to help drivers tap into their inner hero."

The spot, which will appear in the first ad break of the fourth quarter, features the Highlander Platinum grade. The ad kicks off the "GO HIGHLANDER" campaign for the fourth-generation Highlander, the best-selling retail model in the midsize SUV segment since 2016.

Actress Cobie Smulders on-set during Toyota’s shoot for the 2020 Big Game ad, “Heroes.”

"When Toyota approached me, I felt very flattered getting to play the hero in my first-ever Big Game commercial," said actress Cobie Smulders. "I'm a mom, and I love that I'm playing a mom in this ad. When I think of heroes, I think of women and moms - the toughest people out there - and to be able to represent that is a wonderful thing."

The Video:

"The spot was created by Toyota's agency of record, Saatchi & Saatchi. A high-intensity movie trailer music piece, which was uniquely composed for the spot, carries the viewer through each twist and turn of the Highlander's exciting journey."

• Click here to view behind-the-scenes on set with Cobie Smulders.

SOURCE: Toyota

eBay Unveils the Most Interesting and Expensive Purchases of 2019

2015 Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Roadster, 2019 Lamborghini Urus "Bianco Icarus,” 2005 Ford Ford GT, 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and a 2019 Lamborghini Huracan are among the most expensive 2019 eBay Motors purchases.

Today, eBay has released its annual 'Most Interesting and Expensive Purchases' of the year list, taking a look back at some of the most notable purchases of 2019. This year high-end shoppers scooped up everything from rare sports memorabilia, supercars, luxury timepieces, to experiences for good, regardless of the price tag. 

In 2019 alone, some of the most expensive items sold on eBay fetched more than $4 million.

These high ticket items varied from over $7,000 to $4.5 million. And, the biggest sales came from multiple categories, including investment caliber cards, luxury vehicles, fine watches and more! Record high sales included a Tom Brady 2000 Autographed Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Trading Card, which sold over $400,000 (signed by the six-time Super Bowl winner set the record for highest-sum ever paid for a football card) and a Michael Jordan 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems Card that sold over $350,000 (one of 10 ever made and the highest priced basketball card ever sold on eBay).

eBay also pulled the most expensive purchases on eBay for Charity in 2019, which included lunch with Warren Buffett, an overnight stay in the Cinderella Castle Suite at Magic Kingdom Park, benefiting organizations like The V Foundation for Cancer Research and Homes For Our Troops.

Check out a breakdown of 2019's most expensive purchases on eBay across gaming, sports, fashion, cars and more:

Top 20 Overall Most Expensive eBay Purchases in 2019

• 20th Annual Power Lunch with Warren Buffett to Benefit GLIDE: $4,567,888
• Tom Brady 2000 Autographed Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Trading Card: $400,100
• Michael Jordan 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems Card: $350,100
• 2015 Lamborghini Aventador Roadster: $349,800
• 2014 Newmar King Aire Motorhome: $280,000
• 2019 Lamborghini Urus "Bianco Icarus": $245,995
• 1986 Piper Malibu: $225,000
• 2005 Ford Ford GT: $220,000
• 2019 Lamborghini Huracan LP580-2: $209,900
• 2012 Lamborghini Aventador 2dr Coupe: $200,000
• 2019 Porsche 911: $199,000
• 2009 Lamborghini Murcielago: $190,000
• 2013 Ferrari 458 Italia: $185,000
• 2014 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder: $174,995
• 2013 Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead: $172,100
• 2017 Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe: $169,700
• Magic The Gathering MTG Black Lotus Card: $166,100
• Patek Philippe Grand Complications Calendar Manual Gold Men's Watch, 5270G-014: $139,500
• Patek Philippe Grand Complications Perpetual Calendar Chrono Watch, 5270G-018: $125,000
• Rolex New 18 Kt Rose Gold Masterpiece Pave Diamond Bracelet, 86285, Sant Blanc: $100,001

GLIDE’s 20th annual eBay for Charity Power Lunch with Warren Buffett sold for a record-breaking $4,567,888 on May 31, 2019, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the legendary auction.

Top 10 Most Expensive eBay for Charity Purchases in 2019

• 20th Annual Power Lunch with Warren Buffett to Benefit GLIDE: $4,567,888
• Miranda Lambert Closet Clear Out + Meet & Greet: $103,850.29
• Stay in the Cinderella Castle Suite at Magic Kingdom Park: $75,600
• Custom "Moon Landing" Under Armour Curry 6 Shoes Worn & Signed by Stephen Curry: $58,100.00
• UFC Ultimate Fan Experience + Private Meet & Greet with Dana White: $52,137
• Pitch Lunch with Dallas Mavericks' Owner Mark Cuban: $43,108
• Creation Storm, 2017 Art Piece by April Gornik: $39,100
• Attend the Premiere of Star Wars: The Rise of SkyWalker: $35,108
• Alabama Football Experience with Coach Nick Saban: $35,100
• Ultimate Le Batard Experience: $25,708

Most Expensive Cars Bought on eBay in 2019

• 2015 Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 Roadster: $349,800
• 2019 Lamborghini Urus "Bianco Icarus": $245,995
• 2005 Ford Ford GT: $220,000
• 2019 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: $219,000
• 2019 Lamborghini Huracan LP580-2: $209,900

Record-breaking sale of a rare Tom Brady rookie trading card for $400,100 sold in February 2019, the highest price for a football card sold at auction.

Most Expensive Trading Cards Bought on eBay in 2019

• Tom Brady 2000 Autographed Playoff Contenders Championship Ticket Trading Card: $400,100
• Michael Jordan 1997 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems Card: $350,100
• Magic The Gathering MTG Black Lotus Card: $166,100
• Magic The Gathering MTG 1993 Alpha Black Lotus Card: $39,900.68
• Magic The Gathering MTG 1993 Alpha Birds Of Paradise Card: $37,877

Most Expensive Entertainment Memorabilia Bought on eBay in 2019

• 1964 Rolling Stones First Tour Concert Poster with Ticket Sub, Rare: $25,100
• World of Warcraft 15th Anniversary Signed Art Print: $20,000
• Rock-ola Beatles Yellow Submarine Juke Box, Original, New In Box: $18,500
• Life Size Star Wars R2D2 Remote Control Aluminum Full Size Prop: $17,500
• 1940s-1950s Hollywood Autograph Collection featuring James Dean, Marilyn Monroe and John Wayne: $15,100
• Stan Lee Signed Infinity Gauntlet: $15,000

Top Luxury Watches Bought on eBay in 2019

• Patek Philippe Grand Complications Calendar Manual Gold Men's Watch, 5270G-014: $139,500
• Patek Philippe Grand Complications Perpetual Calendar Chrono Watch, 5270G-018: $125,000
• Rolex 18 Kt Rose Gold Masterpiece Pave Diamond Bracelet: $100,001
• Richard Mille Automatic Chronograph in Rose Gold/ Titanium Watch : $96,900
• Rolex Daytona White Gold Auto 40mm Diamond Strap Deployant Watch: $89,950

Top Jewelry Bought on eBay in 2019

• 5.01 Yellow Diamond in Gold ring + 1ct Side Stones: $65,950
• 7.31 Ct Light Yellow Princess Cut Diamond in Platinum 18K: $55,000
• Tiffany & Co 2.52 Ct Lucida Diamond Engagement Ring: $41,500
• 8.84 Ct Natural Sapphire Diamond Ring: $40,000
• Roberto Coin Cento 2.008 Ct Round Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring: $36,000

Top Handbags Bought on eBay in 2019

• Hermes Birkin 30 Malachite Togo Green Handbag: $9,850
• Hermes Birkin 30 Black Clemence Leather Palladium Hardware Handbag: $9,500
• Hermes Birkin Palladium Hardware Handbag with Key and Lock: $9,500
• Hermes Birkin 30CM Black Gold Tone Togo Handbag: $9,000
• Hermes Constance Handbag Evercolor 24: $8,924

Top Sneakers Bought on eBay in 2019

• Nike Zoom Vapor Roger Federer Tennis Shoes: $10,000
• Nike Air Mag 2016 Back to the Future, Marty McFly, Self Lacing: $9,000
• Nike Sb Dunk Low "Freddy Kreuger": $8,000
• 1985 Original OG Nike Air Jordan 1 Chicago, White, Black Red Bred 4280: $7,500

Top Vinyl Bought on eBay in 2019

• Northern Soul Del Larks Queen City 1967: $13,101
• Mozart's Piano Sonatas by Vlado Perlemuter: $13,000
• Beethoven's Violin Concerto by Leonid Kogan: $9,400
• George Szell Beethoven No 9: $7,760
• Bob Dylan Freewheelin' with 4 Different Tracks: $7,500

Top Comic Books Bought on eBay in 2019

• 1962 Marvel Amazing Fantasy #15, CGC 5.0, Spider Man's Origin/First Appearance, Huge Key Issue: $32,000
• Fantastic Four #1: $30,000
• Amazing Fantasy #15, Origin/First Appearance of Spider Man: $29,999
• Incredible Hulk #1, Hulk's Origin/First Appearance: $29,500
• Amazing Fantasy #15, Spider Man's Origin/First Appearance: $26,422

Top Action Figures Sold in 2019

• 1977 Star Wars Action Figures: $12,600
• Ideal Super Queens Batgirl Original 1967 Action Figure: $6,000
• Complete Set of Original Star Wars Kenner Action Figures from 1976 to 1985: $5,600
• Lord of the Rings Action Figures: $4,875
• Captain Action Super Queen 1967 Ideal Wonder Woman: $4,200

Top Video Games Sold in 2019

• NES Stadium Events NTSC Nintendo Game: $15,499
• NES Nintendo Kid Icarus VGA 85+, Gold: $14,000
• Super Mario World Nintendo Black Label SNES: $13,500
• Nintendo World Championships 1990 NWC Cartridge #273: $13,500
• Mike Tyson's Punch-Out Original NES 1989 White Label: $12,211

Top eBay for Charity sales in 2019 also included an overnight stay in the Cinderella Castle Suite at Magic Kingdom® Park, custom "Moon Landing" Under Armour Curry 6 Shoes Worn & Signed by Stephen Curry, UFC Ultimate Fan Experience + Private Meet & Greet with Dana White. Campaigns have benefited organizations like The V Foundation for Cancer Research and Homes For Our Troops.

SOURCE: eBay Inc.

Codemasters Acquires Slightly Mad Studios

Codemasters, the award winning British video game developer and publisher, has agreed to acquire Slightly Mad Studios (SMS), makers of Project Cars (above) and Need for Speed.

Codemasters today announced it has agreed to acquire racing simulation specialists, Slightly Mad Studios. The acquisition will cement Codemasters' position as a world-leading games developer and publisher of racing videogames and expands its portfolio to include the award-winning Project CARS, together with an unannounced Hollywood blockbuster title. Frank Sagnier will remain CEO of Codemasters Group plc which now includes Slightly Mad Studios and Ian Bell will retain his position of Founder and CEO of Slightly Mad Studios. Codemasters now employs c.700 people globally with offices including London, Birmingham, Southam and Runcorn.

Both companies share a rich history of creating AAA racing games. Codemasters has been a UK leader for over 30 years and is the creator of the critically acclaimed intellectual properties including DiRT, GRID and the BAFTA-winning official FORMULA 1 Series. Slightly Mad Studios has been established for 10 years and is the proud developer and owner of the Project CARS franchise which has generated both critical and commercial success. Slightly Mad Studios has also delivered high-quality racing simulations alongside its own IP including two Need for Speed titles on behalf of Electronic Arts.

"We are delighted to bring such an incredible racing game developer to the Codemasters family, and this unequivocally establishes us as a global powerhouse in the development of racing titles," said Frank Sagnier, Chief Executive Officer at Codemasters. "We share the same passion and vision and our new partnership will accelerate our growth. With more streaming services coming to market and the next generation of games consoles due in 2020, this is the perfect time for Codemasters to take its next step."

"Our combined racing games portfolio is the envy of the industry and this new partnership will enable us to learn from each other, share resources and take advantage of emerging platforms and technology," said Ian Bell, Founder and Chief Executive at Slightly Mad Studios. "My team is excited to be joining Codemasters and we can't wait to forge a relationship based on creativity, passion and the desire to create new racing experiences that excite and delight our communities."

About Codemasters:

Codemasters (AIM: CDM) is an award winning British video game developer and publisher with over 30 years of heritage. The company specialises in high quality racing games including DiRT, GRID and the BAFTA award-winning official F1 series of videogames.

• For more information on Codemasters' product portfolio, please visit codemasters.com. 

About Slightly Mad Studios:

Slightly Mad Studios is the team behind the critically acclaimed GTR series, Need For Speed Shift & Shift 2 Unleashed. It has over 10 years of pedigree in racing games, and Project CARS represents the culmination of all that experience and heritage.

• Keep up to date with Slightly Mad Studios by visiting their website: slightlymadstudios.com

SOURCE: Codemasters