Category: Industry News

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Top 5 Things To Know About The UAW Strike of 2023

 

In the annals of labor history, strikes have always held a prominent place as a means for workers to assert their rights, demand fair treatment, and negotiate for better working conditions. The United Auto Workers (UAW) strike of 2023 stands as a significant event in this tradition, showcasing the enduring power of organized labor in the 21st century. This strike, which unfolded in the midst of a rapidly evolving automotive industry, not only reflects the challenges faced by American workers but also highlights their determination to secure a fair share of the profits they help generate.

This article delves into the UAW strike of 2023, exploring its origins, the key issues at stake, the strategies employed by both the UAW and the automakers, the impact on workers, the industry, and the broader labor movement, and the potential long-term consequences.

1. Background and Origins of the UAW Strike

Starting with the Historical Context of the UAW To understand the UAW strike of 2023, one must first grasp the historical context of the United Auto Workers union. Founded in 1935, the UAW quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the American labor movement. It played a pivotal role in the creation of the middle class, securing better wages, benefits, and working conditions for millions of autoworkers over the decades.

Next, we look at the  Recent Developments Leading to the Strike The 21st century presented new challenges for the UAW and its members. A rapidly changing automotive industry, marked by automation, globalization, and shifting consumer preferences, forced the union to adapt. The years leading up to the strike were characterized by tense negotiations, plant closures, and job losses. The UAW leadership argued that these changes had eroded job security and weakened worker bargaining power.

2. Key Issues at Stake

Job Security is at the heart of the UAW strike of 2023 was the issue of job security. As automakers increasingly turned to automation and outsourced manufacturing, UAW members feared for the future of their jobs. The union demanded stronger job protection measures, including guarantees against plant closures and layoffs.

Wages and Benefits are always on the agenda.   Wages and benefits remained a central concern for UAW members. While the automotive industry had rebounded since the Great Recession, workers argued that their share of the profits had not kept pace. They sought significant wage increases, improved healthcare coverage, and enhanced retirement benefits.

Equal Treatment for Temporary Workers continues to be a critical point of contention was the treatment of temporary workers. The UAW sought to address the disparity in wages and benefits between temporary and permanent employees, advocating for equal pay for equal work and a path to permanent employment for temporary workers.

The impact of the move to EV vehicles is on everyone’s mind. sustainability and Electric Vehicles With the growing emphasis on sustainability and electric vehicles (EVs), the UAW aimed to secure a stake in the future of the automotive industry. The union called for investment in domestic EV manufacturing and training programs for UAW members to work on these emerging technologies.

Strategies Employed by the UAW and Automakers

The UAW entered the strike with a well-organized and motivated membership. Decades of experience in collective bargaining, strike preparation, and member mobilization allowed the union to quickly mobilize its members for the strike.

As usual, Picket Lines and Public Relations Picket lines played a crucial role in the strike’s visibility. UAW members picketed outside automotive plants, drawing attention to their cause and garnering support from the public and sympathetic organizations. The union also used social media and traditional media outlets to convey their messageThe UAW Strike of 2023 to a broader audience.

Automakers, aware of the potential disruption to their operations and supply chains, sought to minimize the impact of the strike. They engaged in public relations campaigns to sway public opinion, highlighting their contributions to the economy and job creation.

4. Impact on Workers, the Industry, and the Labor Movement

The strike had a profound impact on UAW members. It tested their resolve and solidarity as they endured weeks without pay. Nevertheless, many saw it as a necessary sacrifice to secure their future and the future of the union.

The UAW strike of 2023 disrupted the automotive industry on a massive scale. Production delays rippled through the supply chain, affecting not only automakers but also suppliers, dealerships, and related businesses. This disruption highlighted the essential role of autoworkers in the broader economy.

The strike garnered significant political and public support. Politicians from both sides of the aisle expressed solidarity with UAW members, recognizing the importance of manufacturing jobs. Public opinion polls revealed widespread support for the workers’ demands, putting pressure on automakers to reach a resolution.

The UAW strike of 2023 served as an inspiration for the broader labor movement. It demonstrated that even in the face of industry challenges and corporate resistance, organized labor could still mobilize its members and capture public attention. Other unions took note, seeing the strike as a model for their own struggles.

5. Long-Term Consequences

Resolution and Contract Terms Ultimately, the strike came to a resolution. The UAW and automakers reached an agreement that addressed many of the union’s key concerns, including job security, wages, and benefits. The contract also included provisions for training and retooling for the electric vehicle era.

Shift Towards EVs and Sustainability The strike’s impact extended beyond the immediate contract terms. Automakers increased their commitments to electric vehicle production, providing a path for UAW members to work on these new technologies. This shift signaled the industry’s recognition of the importance of sustainability and the role of the UAW in shaping its future.

Empowerment of Workers The strike empowered UAW members by demonstrating the effectiveness of collective action. Workers gained confidence in their ability to influence industry decisions and protect their livelihoods. This newfound empowerment could have long-lasting effects on labor relations within the automotive industry.

Broader Implications for Labor The UAW strike of 2023 had broader implications for the labor movement in the United States. It reminded workers across various industries of the potential strength they held when united. Labor unions in other sectors saw the strike as a catalyst for renewed organizing efforts and increased bargaining power.

 

The UAW strike of 2023 was a watershed moment in the history of American labor. It showcased the enduring power of organized labor and the determination of workers to secure their fair share of the benefits generated by their industry. The strike’s impact extended beyond the immediate contract terms, influencing the automotive industry’s shift towards sustainability, empowering workers, and inspiring the broader labor movement. In many ways, the UAW strike of 2023 marked a turning point in labor history, reminding us that the struggle for workers’ rights and fair treatment is far from over.

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 The Top 10 Classic Wheels for Hot Rods

So many wheels to choose from. Should you choose from the classic choices or should you go in another direction?

Hot rods have been an enduring symbol of American automotive culture for decades. These customized and modified vehicles are a testament to creativity, craftsmanship, and a love for speed. One of the most crucial elements that contribute to the unique character of a hot rod is its wheels. Classic wheels not only enhance the aesthetics of a hot rod but also play a crucial role in its performance and handling. In this article, we will explore the top 10 classic wheels that have become iconic choices for hot rod enthusiasts over the years.

We put together our choices for the Top 10 Classic Wheels for Hot Rods.  Note that every wheel you see here has a very similar version from Boyd Coddington Wheels

  1. Cragar SS

The Cragar SS wheel is an undisputed classic in the world of hot rodding. Introduced in the 1960s, these wheels feature a distinctive five-spoke design with a prominent center cap. They are known for their timeless style and have been a favorite choice for hot rod builders looking to achieve a classic muscle car look. Cragar SS wheels come in various sizes and finishes, making them a versatile option for different hot rod projects.

 

  1. American Racing Torq Thrust

The American Racing Torq Thrust wheel is another iconic choice for hot rod enthusiasts. These wheels first hit the scene in the late 1950s and quickly gained popularity due to their sleek, five-spoke design. The Torq Thrust wheels are known for their lightweight construction and timeless appearance. They are available in various sizes, and their polished aluminum finish adds a touch of vintage charm to any hot rod.

  1. Centerline Auto Drag

Among The Top 10 Classic Wheels for Hot Rods, you have to look at this wheel.  It’s the Centerline Auto Drag wheels and thayr are synonymous with drag racing and hot rodding. These wheels feature a simple yet effective design with a centerline groove that adds a sporty touch. They are known for their durability and lightweight construction, making them an ideal choice for hot rods aiming for maximum performance. Centerline Auto Drag wheels are available in different sizes and finishes, allowing hot rod builders to customize their look.

  1. Weld Racing Draglite

The Weld Racing Draglite wheel is a favorite among hot rodders who prioritize weight reduction and performance. These wheels feature a classic five-spoke design with elongated spokes that extend to the center cap. The Draglite wheels are renowned for their strength and rigidity, making them a popular choice for drag racing applications. They are available in various sizes and finishes, including polished aluminum and black.

  1. Foose Nitrous

The Foose Nitrous wheel is the brainchild of legendary hot rod designer Chip Foose. Chip Foose use to work for Boyd Coddington.

These wheels blend classic styling with modern touches, creating a unique look that appeals to hot rod enthusiasts of all generations. The Nitrous wheels feature a split five-spoke design with intricate details and a bold center cap. They come in a range of sizes and finishes, allowing hot rod builders to achieve a custom look that sets their vehicles apart.

 

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  1. Rocket Racing Fuel

The Rocket Racing Fuel wheel draws inspiration from the traditional salt flat racers of the past. These wheels have a distinctive kidney bean shape that harkens back to the golden era of hot rodding. Rocket Racing Fuel wheels are known for their vintage appeal and lightweight construction. They come in various sizes and finishes, including polished aluminum and matte black, making them a versatile choice for hot rod projects.

  1. American Racing Salt Flat Special

The American Racing Salt Flat Special wheel pays homage to the iconic salt flat racers that set speed records in the early days of hot rodding. These wheels feature a timeless five-spoke design with a brushed aluminum finish that exudes a raw, vintage look. Salt Flat Special wheels are available in a range of sizes and offsets, making them suitable for a variety of hot rod applications.

  1. Billet Specialties Vintec

The Billet Specialties Vintec wheel offers a blend of classic design and modern machining. These wheels feature a deep-dish, five-spoke design with intricate details on the spokes and a polished aluminum finish. Vintec wheels are known for their attention to detail and high-quality craftsmanship. They are available in various sizes and backspacing options, allowing hot rod builders to achieve a customized fit.

  1. Wheel Vintiques Smoothie

The Wheel Vintiques Smoothie wheel is a classic choice for hot rod enthusiasts looking to achieve a clean and timeless look. These wheels feature a smooth, one-piece design with no visible spokes, creating a sleek and minimalist appearance. Smoothie wheels are available in various sizes and finishes, including chrome and powder-coated black. They are a versatile option for hot rod builders aiming for a traditional yet refined look.

  1. Vintage Wheel Works V40

The Vintage Wheel Works V40 wheel draws inspiration from vintage racing wheels of the 1960s. These wheels feature a distinctive split five-spoke design with deep concave spokes and a polished aluminum finish. V40 wheels are known for their attention to detail and authentic vintage styling. They are available in various sizes and offsets, making them suitable for a wide range of hot rod applications.

 

In the world of hot rodding, choosing the right wheels is crucial to achieving the desired look and performance for your custom-built machine. The top 10 classic wheels for hot rods mentioned in this article have not only stood the test of time but have also become iconic choices for hot rod enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the timeless appeal of the Cragar SS or the modern-vintage fusion of the Foose Nitrous, there’s a classic wheel option for every hot rod project. Ultimately, the choice of wheels should reflect your personal style and the unique character you want to impart to your hot rod.

Of course, the above styles have given other companies inspiration to develop their own take on these top 10 Classic Wheels for Hot Rods

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Top 10 Fastest Muscle Cars of the 1960s and 70s

 

The 1960s and 1970s were a golden era for American muscle cars. During this time, automakers were engaged in a horsepower war, churning out some of the most iconic and powerful machines ever built. These cars were designed for one thing: speed. In this article, we will take a nostalgic journey back in time to explore the top 10 fastest muscle cars from the 1960s and 1970s. These cars not only left an indelible mark on automotive history but also continue to captivate enthusiasts to this day.

Americans loved everything about them. Their sexy lines, their fat tires and chrome wheels and of course the sound and the raw power.

 

Here’s Our List of The Top 10 Fastest Muscle Cars of the 1960s and 70s

  1. 1964 Pontiac GTO

Often considered the car that ignited the muscle car era, the 1964 Pontiac GTO was a game-changer. It featured a 389-cubic-inch V8 engine producing 325 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque. With a 0 to 60 mph time of just under 7 seconds, it set the stage for the powerful machines that followed.

  1. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 was an absolute powerhouse. Under its hood was a 427-cubic-inch V8 engine that delivered an astonishing 430 horsepower. This made it one of the most potent cars of its time. The ZL1 could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds, an impressive feat for the late ’60s.

 

Top 10 Fastest Muscle Cars of the 1960s and 70s

  1. 1969 Dodge Charger R/T Hemi

The 1969 Dodge Charger R/T Hemi was an imposing presence on the road, thanks to its aggressive styling and a massive 426-cubic-inch Hemi V8 engine. With 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque, it was a force to be reckoned with. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, making it one of the fastest muscle cars of its era.

  1. 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird

The 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird was not just fast; it was aerodynamically designed for speed on the racetrack. Its 7.0-liter V8 engine produced 425 horsepower, and the car was equipped with a massive rear wing and a distinctive nose cone. These design elements allowed it to reach top speeds of over 200 mph on the NASCAR circuit.

  1. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6

The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6 was a brute of a car. Its 7.4-liter V8 engine cranked out 450 horsepower and a jaw-dropping 500 lb-ft of torque. With its potent engine and muscular appearance, it could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, making it one of the quickest muscle cars of its time.

  1. 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda

The 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda is legendary for its raw power. Under the hood was a 426-cubic-inch Hemi V8 engine producing 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. This car was not only fast in a straight line but also had the handling to match. It was a true all-around muscle car.

  1. 1968 Dodge Dart Hemi Super Stock

The 1968 Dodge Dart Hemi Super Stock was built for drag racing dominance. It featured a 426-cubic-inch Hemi V8 engine that unleashed a staggering 425 horsepower. With its lightweight body and drag-oriented setup, it was a quarter-mile beast, capable of covering the distance in just over 11 seconds.

  1. 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88

While the Chevrolet Corvette is known for its sleek design and sports car pedigree, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88 was a true muscle car in disguise. It housed a 7.0-liter V8 engine that produced 430 horsepower, though some estimates put it even higher. This made it one of the fastest American cars of the era.

  1. 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1

The 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 was a sleeper muscle car. Under its unassuming exterior was a 455-cubic-inch V8 engine with 360 horsepower and a remarkable 510 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds, making it a formidable contender in the muscle car realm.

  1. 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30

The 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 was the ultimate Olds muscle car. Its 455-cubic-inch V8 engine churned out 370 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. It featured a lightweight fiberglass hood with functional air scoops, enhancing its performance. The W-30 package made it one of the fastest and most agile muscle cars of its time.

 The Greatest Era for Cars?

The 1960s and 1970s produced some of the most iconic and fastest muscle cars in automotive history. These cars were not just about raw power; they represented an era of automotive enthusiasm and innovation. From the Pontiac GTO that started it all to the Oldsmobile 442 W-30 that closed out the decade, these muscle cars left an indelible mark on the industry and continue to be revered by enthusiasts and collectors alike. While the modern era has brought us impressive performance cars, the classics from the ’60s and ’70s will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the golden age of American muscle.

Of course, if you step away from the traditional car dealers, there is one car that tops all  of these.  What is it ?  As you may have already guessed, the hands-down winner among the fastest muscle cars of the 1960s remains the Shelby Cobra. This car attained higher performance figures than any other production vehicle of its era.

The 1963 Shelby Cobra 260 boasted the ability to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. That makes it the fastest old muscle car by a healthy margin. This performance made it one of the most feared and admired street racers on the road.

Was this the greatest era for muscle cars?  Some would disagree, especially if you consider our current period. Today’s muscle cars are faster, built better, safer, and more comfortable.

 

What Killed The Muscle CARS?

By 1967, the fastest muscle cars hit their peak. Sure, torque numbers and horsepower continued to push the envelope until 1970. But by then, something had changed.

Muscle cars had earned a bad reputation because of safety concerns. Ralph Nader’s 1965 book Unsafe at Any Speed drove home a point that many consumers already knew. Yet, it was insurance providers that put the final nail in the coffin.

They started raising insurance rates on muscle car drivers across the country. These hikes in rates coupled with skyrocketing gas prices (hello, 1973 oil crisis!) forced consumers to look for safer and more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Maintaining lower insurance premiums and reasonable fuel prices took precedence over owning the fastest classic muscle car. What’s more, many Baby Boomers traded in the fun of their youth (and their fastest muscle car in the world fantasies) for family-friendly vehicles.

In other words, a mixture of safety concerns and practicality brought the muscle car era to a screeching halt. Fortunately, there’s been a resurgence in recent years, although most consumers remain committed to cheaper, more fuel-efficient options.

Are you the owner of a muscle car and need to have it shipped? Check out our car shipping calculator now to find out how much this service will cost you.

 

Then, of course, the 1973 OPEC Oil Embargo prompted the US Government to push car companies to make smaller and more fuel efficient cars. Next, the mandate to discontinue using leaded gas, spelled the death knell.

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Here’s a list of The Top 10 Most Famous Movie Cars from an Automotive Media Source

 

  1. Lotus Esprit – The Spy Who Loved Me

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    The Lotus Esprit S1 caused quite a stir when it launched in 1976. The iconic wedge shape and mid-mounted engine made it an instant hit.

    Simply having the Esprit feature as a Bond car would be enough to cement it as a classic, but 007’s Lotus had another trick up its sleeve. Among the plethora of gadgets on board, this Esprit could morph into a submarine. If that’s not a cool party trick, then what is?  I remember watching this movie in the theater with my dad who was an avid Bond film fanatic. I was only 12 years old, but I was obsessed with this car for the next 15 years.

    #2. Toyota Supra – The Fast And The Furious

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    The Fast and Furious franchise is known for a lot of iconic cars, but few struck as strong a chord with the viewers as much as Brian O’Conner’s bright orange Toyota Supra.    Years later, by an act of chance, my personally-owned  Supra got cast in the Fast and Furious. When I saw that was rated #2, I disagreed.  It was important, and famous, but this list is full of famous cars.

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3. Pontiac Firebird Trans Am – Smokey And The Bandit

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The Pontiac Trans Am muscle car featured a 6.6-litre V8 engine with around 200hp. Along with this, you also got removable T-top roof panels and gold graphics over the car. Pretty cool right?

Cool enough in fact to be Burt Reynolds’ ride of choice in Smokey And The Bandit. There aren’t many cars better suited to outrunning the cops while trying to smuggle a truck-load of beer across state lines, are there?

I would argue that this car was more important to me. because it was attainable.  My neighbor had one and he gave me a ride. I loved the car. I always wanted, but the price of tuition and living expenses didn’t leave enough in my account each month to afford a car that only got 9 mpg.

 

#4. DeLorean DMC-12 – Back To The Future

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The DeLorean DMC-12 was a fairly underwhelming prospect when it was launched. While most agree that it looked fantastic, the detuned V6 engine was less impressive.

This wasn’t an issue in Back To The Future however, as it only had to get up to 88mph. It’s worth noting that not all of them came with a Flux Capacitor.

Another movie car that lit me up and I’m sure this car is more famous than my orange Supra.

 

#5 Volkswagen Beetle – Herbie

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Sometimes we treat our cars like sentient beings, and Herbie is probably the reason why. That said, the reality of your car coming to life and going haywire is probably quite frightening.

The Volkswagen Beetle is already an iconic shape on its own. Add in the stripes and the number 53 on the side and you have the definition of a love bug.  These movies catered to younger children, but by the time I saw these movies on TV, I was well into my teens and had driven  VWs.  They were slow, didn’t handle well and had no air conditioning, so this car never blew my skirt up.

 

#5. Cadillac Miller-Meteor – Ghostbusters

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Now we’re talking. The Cadillac Miller-Meteor is a strange beast to behold. Built as a combination of an ambulance and a hearse, it also found its way as a poltergeist fighting machine.

Ecto 1 had a myriad of lights and sirens with decent road clearing ability, and the famous red and white color scheme made it a cult favorite.

When I first saw this car on the screen, I realized that this car was a brilliant execution – it was totally perfect for this movie.

#6. Ford Mustang – Bullitt

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No action movie is complete without a good car chase, and what better car for the job than the Ford Mustang. This car oozes Americana from every angle, and the thumping V8 sweetens its presence in the movie .

 

#7 Aston Martin DB5 – Goldfinger

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No James Bond film is complete without an impressive car, and the Aston Martin DB5 is possibly the most impressive of them all. There’s no arguing that it’s properly pretty, and this one is packing a punch.

Some of the gadgets fitted to Bond’s DB5 include machine guns, front and rear rams, an ejector seat and a radar for navigation. Sadly, these options weren’t standard fit on the DB5.

Like all Bond movie cars, the gadgets, although fake, stirred the imagination of teenage car fans, and I was no exception.

 

#8 Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

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Not many people can claim to have a Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder parked in their parents’ garage. It’s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever made, and it’s also now one of the most expensive cars in the world.

Not only was this movie one of my favorite movies from the 1980s, but the jump sequence was one of the best car scenes I had scene at the time.

250GT’s fetch prices of $70 million these days, and they were expensive back in the 1980s.

In fact, several real, live close-up shots of this vehicle were actually used in the film! 

With that said, the film’s creators knew that they would have to put this vehicle through hell in order to tell the story they set out to share. For that reason, the Ferrari that appears in the movie is usually a replica, or rather one of three replicas, that are based on the original model. A firm called Modena Design handled the creation of these replicas—one of which would sell for $360,000 at an auction in 2020.

You’d be pretty miffed then if your teenage son took it for a joyride while skiving off school, especially if he then brought it back in less than ideal condition. Still, at least Ferris Bueller got to enjoy his day off in style.#

# 9  1967 Shelby GT500, Eleanor, Gone in 60 Seconds

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Named Eleanor after the 1974 original movie, this Dupont Pepper Grey 1967 Ford Mustang fastback is depicted as a Shelby GT500. Eleven of the fictional Mustangs were created for the movie, with only three of them being working cars and two were ultimately destroyed during filming.

Though not an original Shelby, its power comes from a 351 Ford V-8 crate engine, rated at 400 horsepower. The car features central-mounted driving lights, pumped fender flares, a four-speed manual transmission, lowered suspension with coilovers, 17-inch wheels with Goodyear F1 tires, and a faux nitrous kit. A primary “beauty” car for the film was sold through Mecum in 2013 for a staggering $1 million.