#H&A Automotive

[haautosales]

H&A Automotive: Expert Car Repair Services Near You

In the world of automobiles, finding a reliable and professional car repair service is crucial. Whether it’s routine maintenance, unexpected repairs, or a complete overhaul, car owners need a trustworthy partner who understands the intricacies of their vehicle. Enter H&A Automotive, a name synonymous with quality, expertise, and customer satisfaction. If you’ve been searching for expert car repair services near you, H&A Automotive is the ultimate destination.

A Legacy of Excellence

H&A Automotive has built its reputation on a foundation of trust and exceptional service. With years of experience in the automotive repair industry, the company has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive car care solutions. Their team of certified technicians and state-of-the-art equipment ensures that every vehicle is handled with precision and care.

What sets H&A Automotive apart is its commitment to customer satisfaction. They understand that your car is more than just a means of transportation; it’s an essential part of your daily life. That’s why they go above and beyond to deliver top-notch services that keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Comprehensive Services Offered by H&A Automotive

At H&A Automotive, you’ll find a wide range of services designed to meet all your car repair and maintenance needs. Here’s an overview of what they offer:

1. Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your vehicle and ensuring optimal performance. H&A Automotive provides services such as:

Oil changes

Tire rotations

Brake inspections

Fluid checks and top-offs

Battery testing

These routine checks not only prevent potential issues but also enhance your car’s efficiency and safety.

2. Diagnostic Services

Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced systems that require expert knowledge to diagnose and repair. H&A Automotive utilizes cutting-edge diagnostic tools to identify and resolve issues with:

Engine performance

Transmission systems

Electrical components

Emission controls

Their technicians are trained to interpret diagnostic codes accurately, ensuring a quick and effective resolution.

3. Brake Repair and Replacement

Your car’s braking system is vital for safety. H&A Automotive specializes in:

Brake pad replacement

Rotor resurfacing

Brake fluid flushes

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) repairs

With their meticulous attention to detail, you can drive with confidence knowing your brakes are in top condition.

4. Suspension and Steering Services

A smooth and stable ride depends on a well-maintained suspension and steering system. H&A Automotive offers:

Shock and strut replacement

Wheel alignment

Power steering repairs

Suspension component inspections

Their expertise ensures that your vehicle handles well on all types of terrain.

5. Engine Repairs and Overhauls

From minor engine tune-ups to complete overhauls, H&A Automotive has the skills and experience to handle it all. Services include:

Timing belt replacement

Head gasket repairs

Valve adjustments

Cooling system repairs

Their technicians work diligently to restore your engine’s performance and efficiency.

6. Transmission Services

Transmission issues can be complex and costly if not addressed promptly. H&A Automotive provides:

Transmission fluid changes

Clutch repairs

Automatic and manual transmission repairs

Transmission rebuilds

Their expertise ensures smooth gear transitions and improved vehicle performance.

7. Tire Services

Proper tire care is essential for safety and fuel efficiency. H&A Automotive offers:

Tire installation

Balancing and alignment

Flat tire repairs

Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) services

They also provide expert advice on selecting the right tires for your vehicle and driving needs.

Why Choose H&A Automotive?

With so many options available, you might wonder why H&A Automotive stands out as the best choice for car repair services near you. Here are some compelling reasons:

1. Certified Technicians

The team at H&A Automotive comprises highly trained and certified technicians who stay updated on the latest automotive technologies and repair techniques. Their expertise ensures accurate diagnostics and high-quality repairs.

2. Advanced Equipment

H&A Automotive invests in state-of-the-art tools and equipment to provide precise and efficient services. From diagnostic machines to specialized repair tools, they have everything needed to handle even the most complex issues.

3. Transparent Pricing

One of the biggest concerns for car owners is unexpected repair costs. H&A Automotive is committed to transparency, providing detailed estimates and explanations for all services. There are no hidden fees or surprises, so you can make informed decisions about your car’s care.

4. Customer-Centric Approach

At H&A Automotive, the customer always comes first. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the repair process. This dedication to customer satisfaction has earned them a loyal clientele.

5. Convenience and Accessibility

Located conveniently near you, H&A Automotive makes it easy to access expert car repair services. They also offer flexible appointment scheduling and quick turnaround times, minimizing disruptions to your routine.

Customer Testimonials

Don’t just take our word for it—here’s what some satisfied customers have to say about H&A Automotive:

“H&A Automotive saved me when my car broke down unexpectedly. Their team was professional, efficient, and honest. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my vehicle!” – Sarah T.

“The technicians at H&A Automotive are incredibly knowledgeable. They diagnosed my car’s issue quickly and explained everything clearly. Highly recommend their services!” – Mark L.

“I’ve been going to H&A Automotive for years, and they’ve never let me down. Their routine maintenance keeps my car running like new.” – Jessica R.

Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle

While H&A Automotive is always here to help, proactive maintenance can save you time and money. Here are some tips to keep your car in top shape:

Follow the Manufacturer’s Schedule: Stick to the maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual.

Check Fluids Regularly: Ensure oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels are adequate.

Inspect Tires: Monitor tire pressure and tread depth to avoid premature wear.

Listen for Unusual Noises: Strange sounds can indicate underlying issues that need attention.

Keep It Clean: Regularly wash and wax your car to protect its exterior and prevent rust.

Conclusion

When it comes to expert car repair services, H&A Automotive is the name you can trust. Their comprehensive range of services, skilled technicians, and customer-first approach make them the go-to choice for car owners seeking quality and reliability. Whether it’s routine maintenance or complex repairs, H&A Automotive has you covered.

So, the next time you need car repair services, don’t waste time searching. Head straight to H&A Automotive and experience the difference. Your car deserves the best, and with H&A Automotive, that’s exactly what you’ll get.

[mad--house]

[stone-cold-groove]

Kelsey-Hayes disc brakes set the pace.

[watchilove]

Breaking New Ground: H. Moser & Cie. emerges as Alpine Motorsports' first-ever global partner, enveloping the entire Alpine brand spectrum 

H. Moser & Cie. proudly announces its partnership with Alpine Motorsports, taking central stage as the First Global Partner of Alpine Motorsports. H. Moser & Cie. will be present across all of Alpine’s Motorsport programme, which includes the BWT Alpine F1 Team, Alpine Endurance Team, Alpine Academy, Rac(H)er and other projects. This dynamic collaboration brings together two entities synonymous…

[diagnozabam]

Noua generație Dodge Charger va fi disponibilă și în Europa, cu motorizări termice și electrice începând cu 2025

Stellantis a confirmat că toate versiunile noii generații Dodge Charger vor fi disponibile și în Europa. Noul model va fi disponibil atât cu motoare termice, cât și în formă electrică, începând cu 2025. Pasionații de mașini americane vor putea cumpăra noua generație Dodge Charger pe cale oficială și în Europa. Stellantis a confirmat oficial faptul că toate variantele noului Charger (sedan, coupe,…

[vmantras]

Tata Curvv EV Accomplished+ S 45: A Sustainable Electric Coupe

₹19.29Lakh The Tata Curvv EV Accomplished+ S 45 represents a bold step for Tata Motors into the electric vehicle market, combining a futuristic design with impressive performance, cutting-edge technology, and a range that suits both city driving and long-distance travel. Below is a detailed breakdown of its features across various domains. General Overview Country of Origin: IndiaThe Curvv EV…

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

1961 Lincoln Continental

The 1961 Lincoln Continental represents a pivotal moment in American automotive design, marking a shift towards sleeker, more refined styling.

Performance:

- Top Speed: 120-130 mph (193-209 km/h)

- 0-60 mph: 10-12 seconds

Rarity:

- 1 of 4 Continental generations (1939-1948, 1956-1958, 1961-1969, 1970-1980)

- 1 of 2 Lincoln models with the 430 V8 engine

[autotopic]

1939/1940 Daimler-Benz T80

World-renown German auto racer Hans Stuck’s pet project was to take the world land speed record and he convinced Mercedes-Benz to build a special racing car for the attempt. Officially sanctioned by Hitler himself (a race car fan influenced by Stuck), the project was started in 1937.

Automotive designer Dr. Ferdinand Porsche first targeted a speed of 550 km/h (340 mph), but after George Euston’s and John Cobb’s successful LSR (Land Speed Record) runs of 1938-39 the target speed was raised to 600 km/h (373 mph). By late 1939, when the project was finished, the target speed was a much higher 750 km/h (465 mph). Since this would also be the first Land Speed Record attempt on German soil, Hitler envisioned the T80 as another propaganda triumph of German technological superiority to be witnessed by the entire world courtesy of German television.

[nabazakk75]

**The BAC Mono: A Singular Experience in Automotive Performance**

In a world dominated by multi-seat sports cars and luxury performance vehicles, the **BAC Mono** stands as an anomaly. With its singular, monocoque design and an almost obsessive focus on the driving experience, this British-made hypercar offers enthusiasts something entirely different—a car built for pure driving pleasure. The BAC Mono isn’t just a car; it’s a reminder of the connection between man, machine, and road.

### **A Brief Introduction to the BAC Mono**

Manufactured by **Briggs Automotive Company (BAC)**, the Mono is a single-seater, track-inspired sports car that blurs the lines between street-legal car and racing machine. Introduced in 2011, the BAC Mono has quickly gained a cult following among driving purists who appreciate its minimalistic design, extreme performance, and exhilarating driving dynamics. This car isn’t meant for daily commuting or family trips—it's built for those who crave an unfiltered, high-performance driving experience.

### **Performance That Rivals the Best**

At the heart of the BAC Mono is a **2.5-liter four-cylinder engine** that produces 305 horsepower. On paper, this might not sound like a massive number when compared to other supercars, but thanks to its incredibly lightweight construction (weighing just 540 kg or 1,190 pounds), the Mono has a power-to-weight ratio that rivals the most exotic cars on the planet.

The engine is paired with a **6-speed sequential gearbox** that allows for lightning-fast gear changes, contributing to the car's superb track performance. The Mono's 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) time is a blistering **2.8 seconds**, while it can reach a top speed of 170 mph (274 km/h). These numbers, coupled with a fully independent suspension system and lightweight carbon-fiber bodywork, result in a vehicle that is agile, responsive, and remarkably stable at high speeds.

### **Design Focused on the Driver**

The **BAC Mono** is fundamentally designed around the idea of the "driver's car." The cabin is minimalist but functional, with a single racing seat at the center, surrounded by a digital dashboard and a steering wheel that places all critical information and controls at the driver’s fingertips. The design makes it clear that this car is all about the person behind the wheel.

With its fully enclosed cockpit, a low stance, and an open-wheel layout, the Mono feels more like a Formula 1 car than a typical road-going sports car. The carbon fiber body not only reduces weight but also provides exceptional strength and rigidity, allowing the car to tackle tight corners and high-speed straights with precision and confidence.

The car’s adjustable suspension system ensures that it can be fine-tuned for a variety of driving conditions, from smooth tarmac to the rigors of a race track. The open-wheel design, while visually striking, also serves a functional purpose: it improves airflow around the vehicle, contributing to both aerodynamics and cooling, crucial for the kind of high-performance driving the Mono is built for.

### **Precision Handling**

The steering of the BAC Mono is precise, quick, and offers an incredible level of feedback. With its **low center of gravity**, the car feels glued to the road, providing a sense of control and responsiveness that is hard to find in many other vehicles. The Mono’s suspension system and high-performance tires ensure that it delivers an incredibly stable ride, whether you're taking tight corners or pushing it to its limits on a race track.

Driving the Mono is a visceral experience. The car is designed to be felt as much as it is driven. With every input, you feel the direct connection between the car and the road. Its lightweight nature and finely tuned handling make it an absolute joy to drive, especially in track conditions where its true potential can be unleashed.

### **Exclusivity and Customization**

BAC takes the idea of exclusivity to heart. Each Mono is built to order, with the company offering a range of customization options to ensure that each car is unique to its owner. Whether it’s bespoke paintwork, interior finishes, or specialized performance components, the Mono is made to reflect the personality and preferences of its driver.

Additionally, BAC offers a "Mono Track Pack" option for those who want to take the performance up a notch. This package includes enhancements like track-focused tires, additional aerodynamic elements, and lighter materials that further reduce the car's weight, pushing it even closer to the performance characteristics of a full-blown race car.

### **A Thrilling Driving Experience**

The BAC Mono is more than just an amazing feat of engineering; it’s about the **experience**. This car is not meant to be a comfortable, cushioned ride. Instead, it’s about immersion, about feeling every twist in the road and every shift in the gear lever. There are no distractions—no radio, no luxury features—just a focused, raw connection with the driving experience. It’s an experience that only those who have had the privilege of driving the Mono can fully appreciate.

### **Conclusion: A Driver's Dream**

The BAC Mono is a car that represents the purest form of driving. While most hypercars focus on speed, luxury, or technology, the Mono prioritizes one thing above all: an unadulterated driving experience. Every aspect of the car is engineered with the singular purpose of delivering the most thrilling, responsive, and dynamic performance possible.

For those who value the art of driving, the **BAC Mono** is a dream come true. It's not a car for everyone, but for those who crave the purest connection between man and machine, it offers an experience that few vehicles can match. In a world where the line between road car and race car continues to blur, the BAC Mono stands out as a reminder of the joy of driving in its most unrefined, exhilarating form.

[notf1obsessed]

wrapped round my finger: Charles Leclerc x Carlos Sainz (AU!)

Carlos and Charles are both automotive designers who are big names in the car industry, having worked with many companies before. They have both set aside their past, but what happens when they're forced to work together?

Chapter 1: disrupt my life (again)

"It's wonderful to have you with us Mr.Leclerc," Vettel shakes his hand in greeting, "Im sure you'll make a wonderful addition to the team."

Charles shook his hand in response, smile on his face. After many hours spent working, he'd finally made it. He'd finally been able to join Ferrari in designing their new car model. This was a lifetime goal of his; working with Ferrari. This was the moment he'd worked up his whole life for, he knew it.

They were standing in the Ferrari HQ in Maranello, right in front of the meeting room.  If you had told younger Charles he'd be standing here, he'd be laughing in your face. But now, Charles's fantasy was very much a reality.

"Right, you and one other will be our head of this project," Vettel continued, "Come with me so I can introduce you to them."

Vettel pushed open the doors to the meeting room, holding it open for Charles to enter.

His smile was immediately wiped off his face.

"This is-"

"Carlos," Charles interrupted him before he can continue.

Sebastian raised an eyebrow in response taking a seat in front, "I see you have met before."

"Yes something like that," Carlos joins in, smile on his face. He was at on the opposite end of the table, hands clasped together and bent forward.

Charles felt bitterness boil in him, trying hard to keep his doll face on.

He would rather be anywhere in the world than with Sainz right now.

"Well then no need for introductions I see," Vettel now continued, expression much more relaxed, "We can get straight to the point."

Charles took a seat on the table opposite Carlos, eyes glued to Vettel. He turned over his papers as he spoke, dimming his voice which was quite quiet.

Not much help to Charles. Words entered through one ear and exited through the other, though he did manage to pick up some points. It was hard to stay focused with Sainz in front of him.

He could feel Carlos's eyes pierce through him.

Seb went through the points of them having to work on the main design, nothing much besides the clauses and contracts. Though Charles payed particular attention to when Seb mentioned they would have to work together.

Together.

He dwells about that point for a short time before refocusing. He can't throw away his opportunity at Ferrari just for some guy who didn't even earn it.

He can't.

The meeting ends quite quickly, Seb simply explaining the days they will work on the design. Charles shakes Seb's hand, walking through the door afterwards. His excitement is very much bursting through him, the goal of his life finally achieved.

"Long time no see, mi amigo," A familiar voice calls from behind.

His excitement is damped rather quickly, stopping slightly before continuing to walk towards the exit.

"You too," he responded, voice barely above a whisper. He doesn't turn to face Carlos, eyes on the glass doors in front.

Sainz picked up his pace slightly, meeting level with Charles (a few centimeters taller).

"Haven't seen you around since you moved away from town," he countinued.

The mention of his past town made Charles freeze abruptly. He left all his memories there and didn't want them to return. Though, with the arrival of Carlos, 2/3 of them already had.

"Yeah well work's been busy," he responded blandly, wanting to end the conversation as quickly as possible. He raises his wrist to look at his watch, trying to find an excuse to leave.

Carlos didn't speak for a minute, hands ruffling to fix his black suit.

"I have lunch with some of my friends so I better not keep them waiting," he lied through his teeth, eyes now lifting from his watch, still not daring to face Carlos.

"Well, see you on Monday," Carlos responded, his face indicating that he knew Charles was lying. The uncomfortable silence stretched for what seemed like hours before they finally reached the doors.

Charles didn't repsond, instead walking towards his Mercedes. He opened the door to throw himself on the seat.

He buried his face in his hands, groaning loudly.

That idiotic Carlos with his idiot smile his idiot hair his idiot suit his idiot-

He lent back on the seat's headrest, slowly opening his eyes to see Carlos smiling smugly through the window.

He wanted to rip that smile off his face so badly.

___________________________________________

Charles arrived in his Mercedes on Monday, confidence spilling over. He adjusted it quickly, taking the sunglasses off his face as he entered the building and shoving them into his shirt. His hair was ruffled, not very messy though. He's planning on making a good impression, and he isn't going to allow a shitty Carlos interfere. His eyes navigate the place, looking for any sign of someone who will lead him to the designers. His trip isn't long lasting as he sees a person approaching him.

He seemed quite old, probably in his early 40's. He wore a Ferrari employee fit, his hair combed neatly to one side (probably using a lot of gel in the process considering how his hair glistened under the light).

"You must be Mr.Leclerc?" the man asks, eyes glued to a clipboard in front of him.

Charles nods, not sure the man saw him, so he replies as well, "Yes."

The man nods into his papers, finally taking his eyes off to look at Charles, "Right this way then."

The man leads him to a fairly sized room, not a lot of people crowded inside. Charles stands awkwardly in the middle of the room, not sure what to do. What doesn't help is that the man immediately abandons him afterwards. The people in the room, chattering amongst themselves, turn to face him. He freezes on the spot, not sure of how to take this forwards. And while he had worked on large projects before, this one was Ferrari, and the nerves seemed to kick in quite quickly.

He was brought out if his trance by a tap on his shoulder. A voice leaned into his ear, hot breath on his cheek sending shudders down his spine, "Leave it to me, Charlie."

He hadn't heard that nickname in a very long time, and there were only very few people who called him that. Specifically the one standing next to him, hand still on shoulder.

Carlos.

Carlos's hand left his shoulder, making his way to the front of the room. Charles stayed frozen to the spot, watching as Carlos talked. He wasn't listening for the majority of the time, words becoming noises to him. He wasn't sure when Carlos's little speech ended, but he was snapped out by Carlos walking towards him.

He leaned in closer to him this time, lips millimeters away from Charles's cheek.

"No wonder you always froze in class."

Charles hated what he was doing, pulling out pieces from the past to remind him with. He had already buried his past deep, and was not planning on reviving it.

But Carlos had other plans.

The next day of him working, Charles decided he was not going to let Carlos's reminders of his past affect him from doing his best. So he made sure that before Carlos was to go and give another one of his 'little speeches' that he was going to actually inform him what the fuck he was doing. So that's exactly what he did, trying to avoid his remarks and focus on getting to the point.

"What was your little presentation even about yesterday," Charles grabs hold of his arm, wishing slightly he hadn't. His muscles were tense, veins tracing his skin.

Carlos turns around to face him, same smug face that he always has. Charles hated that smug expression that he had, like he was the one who hung the stars. Like he was the one who brought life to earth. Like he was the centre of the universe.

"I see Mr.Leclerc wasn't really paying attention to the speech, am I really that handsome and distracting," he snarkily replies.

Charles rolls his eyes at him, "and maybe Mr.Sainz wasn't planned out enough to tell his partner what he was actually doing."

"Fine fine, it was simple points about the car's design, someone in here should have the points printed out," he said, eyes tracing as they lit up when someone waved a stack of papers in hand. He went to grab them before shoving them in Leclerc's face.

"Jesus Christ," he muttered taking the papers out of his face, "no need to be aggressive Sainz." He looked through them, they were quite short considering the time Carlos had taken to go through them.

"Since you did all the simple, baby stuff, let's get going with the real shit, shall we?"

Carlos rolled his eyes at him before going to take a seat, paper and pencil in front of him, "If you insist on being so wise, how about you begin the designs."

Charles smiled sarcastically, hand going to grab the pencil from Carlos's hand. Carlos's hands held a slightly longer than expected grip on the pencil before letting go, letting Charles take it out of his hand.

Charles leaned in to the paper, finding an angle for him to work at, pencil lightly waving over the sheet. His brows furrowed and he stuck out his tongue in concentration, taking slow steps in drawing details to the car.

Carlos thought he looked ridiculous like this, but it wasn't unusual to him.

He's seen Charles like this a million times before.

Charles sketched out a very light base of the car, only drawing the rough shape. It was the outline of a convertible, its shape curved inwards giving it a sharp front.

"What do you think," he dropped his pencil from his hand and leaned back into his chair, proud with the sketch he'd made.

Carlos did the opposite by leaning in closer to get a better look of it. His lips folded back into his mouth, dissatisfied with some details.

Read: a lot of it.

He picked up the pencil, fingers holding a firm grip. He flipped the pencil to the erasing side, taking out large chunks from the car. He then went back in to give it a more outwards curved shape, this time closing the sunroof with his detailing.

"Much better"

Charles shot him a look, picking up the pencil and re erasing the shape, restoring his once more. It gave the paper a slight wrinkle, but Charles didn't pay attention to it.

Carlos smiled sarcastically in response, snatching the pencil out of Charles's hand and once again erasing the shape. He roughly restored the shape, giving the paper an uneven look.

Charles shot him a menacing look, aggressively snapping the pencil out of his hands, once again restoring the shape. This time, the paper was severely distorted.

"Better."

It seemed like Carlos wasn't going to win this time.

Not like this.

So instead, he shot daggers through his eyes before smiling.

"Whatever you say, Charlie."

Charles ignored his remark, eyes darting to the silver clock hung on the wall.

"Oh would you look at that, it's time for my lunch," he responded, getting up from his chair, "See you in the cafeteria, Carlito."

He decided if Carlos was going to have some fun, so would he.

He turned around before exiting the door, his smile fumbling slightly.

Carlos's expression wasn't his usual one. It was a mixture of softness and hurt at the same time. Like a piece of him had been brought back, but cutting him in the process. Like going through a photo album and getting a paper cut.

Like his hope had been shattered and restored at the same time.

Charles didn't waste anymore time analyzing Carlos's expressions, instead darting his way towards the cafeteria.

He wasn't going to let Carlos's emotions interfere with him.

Not again.

[praxcrown5]

Carstober Prompt 21: Crash

Trigger warning: harassment, attempted suicide

Excerpt from my fanfic. Year is 1937, and Doc's mom, Annette, isn't dealing with life very well.

Annette left home quietly, not even bothering to close the garage door. 

Sam was still asleep after their most recent siring attempt; the act taking a lot more out of him than usual…which was surprising since she was, once again, leaving his side with an empty plasma condenser. 

Ahhh yes, her husband: the largest, strongest truck this side of the Mississippi.  He could carry loads all across the country, but he could never seem to drive one home.

She snarled at her own, bitter wit and coasted to the end of the driveway. 

It was late in the evening, and the moon was just starting to crest the pines.  Despite it being fall, there was a wintery chill in the air.

She took a deep breath, letting the cool air cycle through her TR system.

What now…?  She thought, sadly.  She had already tried talking Sam around to visiting the clinic and, when that didn’t work, bringing up the topic to her in-laws.

After that…the harassment got worse.  Most of the Longhauler women wouldn’t talk to her.  The men were more sympathetic…mostly on account of her being a damn-good mechanic—you didn’t want to offend the person changing out your piston belts, after all.  But, even so, they only made small talk. Her mother-in-law had become especially cruel, gossiping about Annette to anyone who’d listen, slapping Annette with snide, degrading comments when they were alone, introducing Annette at parties and social gatherings as her “barren” daughter-in-law. 

Despite all of this, Annette had tried her best to remain positive.  She forced herself to get up every morning…with no partner to snuggle against, sang to herself at dinner to beat back the oppressive silence of their empty home, cleaned and tended the garden to keep herself busy when she wasn’t working and did her best to smile and give her clients the best automotive care possible…despite hearing them call her things like “gold-digger” behind her boot. 

She’d been maintaining, thanks mostly to her father and brothers.  Her father, especially, did everything that he could to make her feel loved and appreciated…but, ultimately, he couldn’t solve her problems.  He couldn’t make Sam get his siring cable repaired.  He couldn’t stop Claire from spreading gossip to the rest of the townsfolk.  At the end of the day, the best he could do was lean against her and tell her that it would get better. 

Somehow.

Someday.

Tears started pooling in the corner of her eyes.  She had been clinging to this notion, whispering it to herself like a personal mantra whenever doubt began to rear its ugly head. 

It’ll get better.  It’ll get better.  Someday, It’ll get better...

Will it, though?

Annette gritted her teeth and started her engine to try to banish the thought from her mind…but it clung to her like cheap grease.  Will things actually get better? 

Her fuel pump squeezed painfully, fearfully and she gunned her engine, kicking up gravel and dust as she turned out onto the road, heading south, flicking on her headlights only as an afterthought.

Annette and Sam lived in a large, converted barn about fifteen minutes from town.  As she sped down the old logging road, the terrain grew more rugged, with tall black pine and oak replacing the smaller saplings from the reclaimed Dawson Woods.  The road began to switchback, ducking around steep exposures of sedimentary rock, but always gaining in elevation.

She was driving more recklessly than she probably should have been…but she couldn’t help it.

For years she had successfully managed use the “it’ll get better” mantra as a wall to block out any thoughts that might argue otherwise.  Working long hours at the shop and taking on extra work from the clinic helped to reinforce it. 

And up until tonight, the integrity of said wall had never been undermined.

Annette reached the top of a prominent, east-west trending hill that the locals called Oracle ridge and paused to catch her breath.

You’re not sure…are you?

Annette closed her eyes, fighting back tears.

Sam was only home for a week this time, so Annette wasn’t expecting much, surely not another siring attempt.  But…he offered…because he knew that having a child meant the world to his wife, and he was willing to keep trying in the hopes that they’d somehow be successful.  It was the first time in their two years of marriage that he’d done something like that, made an effort to show her that he cared, a rare expression of vulnerability when he had always been forced to be “strong” and “fearless.” She eagerly accepted his offer, and as they made love, the hope that she saw in his eyes and the compassion that she felt in his touch rejuvenated her, made her think that there was still a chance.  That the planets and the stars would align just for them and they could have their happy ending. 

And then she waited. Hours and hours of waiting with giddy anticipation, faithfully hoping for a factory notification.

She was going to be a mother! It was going to happen this time!

But…it didn’t. 

And, for the first time in her life, the voices on the other side of the wall began to make themselves known, hissing and spitting at her through a spiderweb of newly formed cracks.

Wiper fluid was leaking freely down her fenders and her breath came in ragged sobs. 

It’s not going to get better.

Annette shook her front end, trying to dislodge the thought.

It’s NOT going to get better.

Her eyes shot open and she revved her engine.  It will!  It HAS to! 

Sam won’t go to the doctor.  His parents won’t force him to go because they believe that you and your father are lying to them.  So, logically, every future siring attempt will fail…and your life will always be just miserable as it is at present.  It’s an exercise in futility if there ever was one.

No… No it’s not… Annette’s throat constricted

It’s hopeless.

Annette froze. 

Hopeless.

The wall shattered.  All the rogue thoughts that she’d tried to keep bottled up broke free and surged through her brain with the force of a tidal wave. 

If nothing is going to change, what’s the point in trying?  In caring?  You care so much about other people…but they don’t seem to care much for you, do they?

Panicking, Annette gunned her engine and tore down the ridge.  Her model wasn’t particularly fast on account of its weight, but the steep slope combined with her Cadillac standard V8 made sure that when she hit the first switchback, her tires had to really scrabble for traction.  She cleared the curve, but just barely. 

You’re pathetic.  A waste of metal desperately clinging to false hopes and yearning for a life that you’ll never have.

The ghostly outlines of trees blurred in her peripheral vision.  Another switchback ahead, not as sharp as the first one, but even so she could feel the literal edge of the road under her rear tires, the loose scree falling away to tumble down into the river below.  

Really, is running all you can do? 

Her eyes narrowed.  Another switchback.  Another close call, though this one came with a jolt of pain and a loud snap as she clipped a rock with her left back tire.  The snap must have been her coil spring, because from that moment onward, her body seemed to list to that side and she’d bottom out on every dip and rise in the road. 

A Sudden dip.  Something large and sharp caught her undercarriage and tore the metal; the pain made her eyes water, but rather than slow down, she gunned it harder.�� Red line.  Her engine was straining under the stress, and she was starting to feel nauseous as the hot metal began to effect nearby systems.

Annette, you’re a coward.  You always have been.  You could have stood up to your in-laws, but instead you kept your chassis low.  You’re pathetic.  So pathetic, that your family just stood by in silence while you suffered.

No!  My father stood up for me!

Your father stood up for the Glenrunner name.  Not you.

Annette counter steered the last curve, almost skidding into the river, but her flattening left rear tire helped keep her on the road.  There was another sharp pain, this time further up into the axle; she could feel hydraulic fluid running down the inside of the tire.

She was on a straightaway, now, heading for Timing-Belt Bridge. There was a sharp turn on the other side, the sort of turn you had to make at less than twenty miles per hour, otherwise you’d end up hitting a wall of limestone.

Time seemed to slow as a deadly realization sunk its claws into her brain.

By the time her tires tore into the concrete of the bridge, she had reached sixty miles per hour.  Even with her left rear tire about to give out, she would still be doing sixty as she hit the curve on the other side. 

No. More. Pain.

Her engine screamed.  Her vision was blacking out and she was starting to taste oil and other vital fluids in her mouth… 

And then…the lights.  Right in front of her.  Head-on.

Instinct kicked in.  She slammed on her brakes, but her momentum kept her going forward.

[stevebattle]

Toyota Partner Robot – Bipedal Runner (2009), by Ryosuke Tajima, Daisaku Honda, and Keisuke Suga, Toyota, Japan. Toyota modified the legs and feet of their bipedal humanoid robot for running and balancing experiments. "Toyota’s most recent humanoid robot prototype (one of many partner robots the automotive giant is developing) stands 130cm tall and weighs 50Kg. Its legs have 7 degrees of freedom and it can run at an average speed of 7 km/h. In contrast, ASIMO’s maximum speed is 6km/h. The Toyota researchers had to develop new real-time methods for balance control. These methods make it possible for the robot to remain balanced when an external force such as a push from a human is applied when in motion. … The robot takes a step every 340ms and has no contact with the ground for 100ms of that. … Even though this new robot is impressive, it is still limited on moving over flat surfaces and it can only recover from small external forces." – Toyota’s running humanoid robot.

[diabolus1exmachina]

Alfa Romeo Carabo 

The Carabo project was a collaborative effort between the Italian manufacturer and the Bertone styling house: a partnership which had previously borne fruits that included the 2000 Sportiva and BAT concept cars of the mid-1950s. The basis of the Carabo was a chassis numbered 75033.109 which was, more specifically, that of a 33 Stradale road car. Despite sharing mechanicals with the Tipo 33 race car and since being recognised as one of the most beautiful cars in history, Alfa had trouble finding owners for the Stradale due to its steep asking price of around $17,000. As a result, five of the Stradale chassis were passed to Italian carrozzerie: two to Pininfarina (used for the 33.2 and Cuneo concepts), one to Italdesign (which became the Iguana concept), and two to Bertone – the other being used as a basis for the 1976 Navajo concept.

The H-shaped tubular chassis supported an all-aluminium 1995cc engine which was designed by Carlo Chiti and, incidentally, was the first Alfa Romeo V8. The fuel-injected, longitudinally mounted motor used chain-driven camshafts and red-lined at 10,000rpm, despite being detuned to 230bhp from the Tipo race car’s 250-270bhp. This granted the Carabo a top speed of 160mph and the ability to dispatch the 0-62mph sprint in 5.5 seconds, with the power being sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed, syncromeshed, transaxle gearbox designed by Valerio Colotti.

Because of its underpinnings, designer Marcelo Gandini had the opportunity to create a car that would revolutionise the automotive industry for many years afterwards. The engine being mounted amidships allowed for a pointed front end, while the ground-hugging poise inherited from the Tipo race car meant the car was under a metre tall at its highest point. Combined with the squared-off rear end, these characteristics inspired countless wedge-shaped designs of the 70s and 80s, and also gave the car its name and colour: Carabo is derived from ‘Carabidae’, a family of ground-beetles with a distinctive green and gold colour.

The principle of the wedge-shaped profile was used to eliminate the high-speed aerodynamic lift troubles of the Lamborghini Miura, which Gandini had penned two years earlier. However, his innovative cerebration didn’t stop there: as well as having headlights hidden beneath active flaps, the Carabo was the first concept car with front-hinged wing doors, later used by Gandini when designing the Lamborghini Countach and since assuming the ‘Lamborghini doors’ meme. As well as inspiring the revolutionary raging bull, the Carabo clearly also lent styling cues to the Lancia Stratos Zero concept car, which in turn inspired the iconic Stratos HF. Unsurprisingly, the Carabo remained a one-off, but its revolutionary styling dramatically steered the automotive design industry onto a radically different path – one which produced some of the landmark cars of the 20th Century. Even those who can’t look favourably on its apparent aversion to curved surfaces should take a second to appreciate its legacy; after all, would an Aventador have quite the same drama without its ‘Carabo doors’?

[stargazestories]

WITHOUT A FACE

Parring: MinghaoxReader

Warnings: attempt at dirty talk?will say this is mildly suggestive at best still don’t want minors to read

A/N: I am so (not fully) back. I felt like finishing off one of my stories and this one haunted me for a while so it’s just a small one and if maybe I come back to it ever again I’ll follow up with a part 2 with smut but please enjoy this small story~

This is so stupid, y/n thought as she heard the line on her phone connecting. The thought of her calling a phone sex line was not something she had on her bingo card. The idea only lingered in her mind when her friend had mentioned she had called this line and had such a good time, that y/n should try it out as there was a particular operator who had such a smooth and sensual voice, that she simply had to share this with y/n.

Mentally y/n laughed as she wasn’t prone to peer pressure, but it was enticing. What kind of voice did the operator have? What would he say exactly? What kind of tone did he use? All these questions made her dial the number her friend provided for her, and here she was regretting her decision as soon as she heard the ringing.

The line quickly changed and thinking she was being connected, the voice of an automatic operator took over.

“Thank you for calling Naughty or Nice Hotline, if you wish to be connected to the next available operator please stay on the line, if you know the operator you would like to connect to, please enter their line number now followed by the pound sign”

“Naughty or nice hot line?” She couldn’t help but laugh at the cheesy name they had. She was sure that her friend might just be pulling a prank on her but she still continued.

As her friend instructed, once at the automotive menu, she had to press the number 8 to get the operator she was referring to. After pressing the number 8 followed by the # the line went silent for a moment. At this point y/n felt her heart beat pounding.

“Hello” the caller at the other end of the line finally spoke.

Y/n wanted to hang up, as realistically she didn’t think she would allow herself to get as far as she did, and now she is actually talking with a phone sex operator.

“H-hi” she managed to talk

“Nervous are we?” She could hear the playful tone of the man whose voice was soft.

“Umm…yeah” she was now embarrassed and turning a shade of pink.

“Don’t be, we can start slow” he reassured her, which was nice but she wasn’t sure if she wanted to do this.

“I…I’m” she paused wondering if she should introduce herself with her real name or a fake name. Would it matter? He’s never met her or will ever meet her.

“You don’t have to tell me your name if you don’t want to, I can just call you darling, is that alright with you?” He asked with such tenderness that made y/n blush and bite her lips.

“Yeah, I’d like that….I ummm…im not sure…about all this” she confessed. She wasn’t a stranger to sex, but the whole phone sex line and talking to a man she’s never met made her nervous and a little off put.

“It’s okay darling, we are just having a conversation, we don’t need to do anything else” The way he said it, made it seem like he was really okay with just talking, there was no mean spirited tone, no teasing or any hint of disdain. Feeling a bit more calm because of this she continued on.

“Do you have a name? Or I don’t suppose you wouldn’t give that out would you?” She chuckled while shaking her head, of course why would he give her his real name?

“I can go by any name, you can call me whatever you like”

She pondered for a moment, thinking of a name to call him. “8” she spoke without really thinking it fully through.

“8?” He was genuinely intrigued by this name.

“I sorry” she laughed, “I figured…your line is the number 8…it’s not very creative, I know” she admitted it was a bit ridiculous but it’s not like it really mattered.

“It’s truly unique” he laughed,

god even his laugh was dreamy, she couldn’t help but to laugh with him.

“So what made you call in? I don’t suppose you went out of your way to get an erotic hotline number for kicks, did you?” The question made her laugh more , not knowing if she should answer honestly that her friend told her to talk so she can talk to him specifically. Would that be weird? Or was he used to this already?

“No, I didn’t. My friend recommended this…I feel silly for actually going through with it if I’m honest, ” she sighed deeply, she really didn’t know why she was so honest with him.

“It’s alright. Again, if you feel so strongly about it, you can disconnect, there won’t be any hard feelings” he reassured her again with his velvety voice, one that made her want to stay and talk to him.

“No it’s okay...can I ask you something actually ?” She bit her lip softly.

“Anything”

“Do you enjoy this? You know the whole erotic hot line business?” She tried her best not to insult his line of work.

“I don’t mind it, It definitely was not something I saw myself ever doing but life is funny that way isn’t it?” she nodded at his response, as it wasn’t one she had expected. She assumed he would say something along the lines of ‘of course I do’.

“Do you…..” she stopped, wondering if she should ask this.

“Do I what darling?” He asked with a curious and warm tone.

“Do you also….enjoy it?” She was now red as a tomato asking such an intimate question, then again it was a erotic hotline, this might not be as intimate as anything else he’s gotten, right?

The voice at the other end took a moment before answering, she wondered if this was maybe a little too much of a personal question to ask a hotline worker.

“Sometimes, yes. I do enjoy myself on a call but in reality it’s not as often as you would think”

“Are you at least enjoying this call?” She joked.

“I’m enjoying it very much”

“Are you lying?”

“Never” he didn’t think about it twice, again the call wasn’t sexual but the suave he carried in voice, she could see why many women would call in.

The conversation never took a sexual turn, they talked on the line about many things; their favorite movies, their favorite genres of music, even their favorite books. Y/n found out that he was a fan of dancing, as he has been a dancer. She couldn’t help but to share about her life to him as well, how she worked a corporate job, how she spent her days. The conversation moved effortless and seamless until y/n noticed the time, nearly 3am and here she was on the line still.

“It’s getting late, I think I’ve taken up a lot of your time already, I’m sure others are waiting”

“I wouldn’t worry about it, you were my last call, and even then I’d enjoy you for as long as you allow me to”, his comment made her blush red now.

“I guess this is bye” she felt her heart sink a little

“I would say this is good night darling, hope to hear from you soon” the call soon disconnected.

Setting her phone to her nightstand, she smiled as she thought of the man.

“See you soon”

[stigblomqvists]

INSIGHT

In the 80s, Group B had a vast collection of automotive beasts from different car manufacturing companies. One of these companies included Peugeot, where their 205 T16 simply rocketed through tracks. This Peugeot in particular, model 205 T16, absolutely dominated rallies within the golden age that was Group B. The 205 T16 technically was the most successful car in Group B with its 16 victories out of 26 starts and lastly 2 world championships to its name.

NOTABLE DRIVERS

1. Juha Kankkunen 🇫🇮 2. Ari Vatanen 🇫🇮 3. Timo Salonen 🇫🇮 ENGINE SPECS

Cylinders: L4 Displacement: 1775cm^3 Power: 200HP [at precisely 6750RPM] Fuel System: Turbocharged Multipoint Injection Fuel: Petrol

PERFORMANCE SPECS

Top Speed: 130mph [209km/h] 0-60mph: 6s

TRANSMISSION SPECS

Drive Type: AWD Gearbox: 5-speed manual

[deke-rivers-1957]

Scott's World of Tomorrow

It was February 1956, a young Scott Heyward had just turned 16 years old. His father, Duster Heyward of Heyward Oil is about to spoil him.

"Well son taday's yer birthday. What do ya wanna do?"

"Can we go to Disneyland Pa? They have a whole section called Tomorrowland and a race car track called Autopia."

Mr. Heyward smiles as he claps Scott's shoulder.

"Tha's mah boy. Disneyland's gonna be a great client ta have. Can't be runnin no rides without oil."

"Yeah and maybe if they have real cars there I can take some notes for the research department."

Mr. Heyward chuckles as he goes to the phone.

"Ah'll just let yer tutor know yer goin on a field trip. That oughta make 'em happy yer doin yer science project."

"Ok, Pa."

Time Skip

"Alright then son. Ah'm gonna be talk with some a Disney's people. They said some fella named Bob Gurr's gonna be walkin ya through Autopia."

"Wow. Thanks Pa!"

Scott sits down on a bench with his camera and notepad. A young man his 20s approaches him.

"Are you Scott Heyward?"

"Yes. Are you Mr. Gurr?"

"That I am. Just call me Bob today. It's really an honor to have you and father come to the park today."

The two shake hands and start to walk to Tomorrowland.

"Now as you can see, the Moonliner was designed by one of my colleagues, John Hench and of course sponsored by Howard Hughes of Trans World Airlines."

Scott takes some pictures as they walk through the attraction. They get to the Monsanto Hall of Chemistry.

"Are you familiar with Monsanto, Scott?"

"Oh yes. I was only 7 when they had that explosion down in Texas City. Pa sent a crew to bring oil down to the site. He managed to get a deal where we can have a couple ships down at the port."

Bob nods. Eventually they make it to Autopia.

"Now this is what I helped design. I used what I learned from working with Ford."

"You worked with Ford? What did you do?"

"Well I helped design the Lincoln Continental. I published a few books on automotive design and that's what brought Mr. Disney's attention over to me. He wanted me to analyze the chassis for these cars. Originally designed by Hartmann Engineering, they were having issues regarding the ability to be mass produced. Too noisy and smokey with a lot of vibration. Eventually the company dropped out so I was brought on permanently to come up with a different design."

Scott's writing all of this down the best he can. Mr. Gurr's slowly turning into an idol.

"So where did you get the design for the cars? They don't look like anything I've ever seen."

"Take a closer look. If you're familiar with Porsche, I took the idea of their 54 550 Spyder and combined it with the recent custom made Italian Ferraris. Of course the Chevrolet Corvette also served as inspiration."

"Wow."

Bob continues telling his story. Scott listens to every word including everything about engineering he has yet to learn.

"What make are these cars now?"

"Currently these are the Mark II's. I had to fix the chassis so they can accommodate a sturdier, smoother-running engine. We've been getting a lot of youngsters so it was necessary to add booster seats and extensions on the peddles. I just finished a prototype for the Mark III and already started work on the Mark IVs"

"Why? What's wrong with these models?"

"Longevity and ease of repair. With how popular this attraction is getting it's only a matter of time before these cars will need repairing. Every month we're learning something new about what people like and don't like about the car. Just goes to show that even when a product is a success, there's still a lot that needs to be done to perfect it."

Scott writes this down as Bob finishes talking.

"Would you like to ride in one of these, Scott?"

"Yes! I'd love to."

Bob chuckles as they wait in line to ride in one of the cars.

Time Skip

"How was yer trip son?"

"I loved it Pa. Mr. Gurr let me take so many pictures and showed me all of Tomorrowland."

Mr. Heyward smiles as they make their way back to Texas. Scott would recite his notes and Bob's story. His father could only nod along as he never really got into the science side of business.

"Well Ah bet yer science project'll turn out real good."

"Oh yeah Pa. Until science finds a better way, everything needs oil. Even the rockets."

"Thatta boy. Yer gonna be takin Heyward Oil inta space."

Scott smiles and sits back in his seat. He starts to fantasize about making his own world of tomorrow.

AN: Shoutout to @xanatenshi for requesting this story.

Tagging: @mercsandmonsters, @georgefairbrother, @imaginationlast, @hooked-on-elvis, @arrolyn1114,

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@squaggleson, and @idk583838.