#High-performance SUV

[vmantras]

Lotus Eletre S: The Ultimate Luxury Electric SUV

₹2.75 Cr Design and Styling The Eletre S stands out with its futuristic and aerodynamic design. Exterior: The flush illuminated door handles, frameless doors, and gloss black aluminum roof give the SUV a sleek, minimalist look. The LED headlamps with high beam assist and sharp daytime running lights (DRLs) enhance visibility and style. With features like a touch-activated electric charging…

[akulride]

Mercedes-AMG is set to introduce its first-ever standalone high-performance SUV, marking a new chapter in the brand's illustrious history. The innovative SUV, dubbed “Born in Affalterbach”, is being developed entirely

[carsthatnevermadeitetc]

Hennessey VelociRaptor 500 Bronco, 2023. The Texas-based high-performance vehicle maker has revealed their tuned version of the Ford Bronco whose 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 has been boosted to 500hp, a 20 percent power boost over the factory spec. There are also Custom Hennessey wheels, and other styling elements

[flmboyz]

Saleen Ford Explorer

[techdriveplay]

2024 Toyota LandCruiser GR Sport - TDP review

[theautoobserver]

Jeep Wagoneer S Unveiled: An Electrifying American Alternative to the Range Rover Velar

In a recent turn of events, images of the highly anticipated all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S were inadvertently shared on Jeep's social media platforms before being swiftly removed. Despite the deletion, the digital world ensured their permanence, offering the public an early peek at this groundbreaking SUV. Initially spotted by Mopar Insiders, these images emerged just a week after Jeep teased the vehicle, sparking widespread interest.

The Wagoneer S marks a departure from traditional Jeep designs, embracing a more streamlined and elegant aesthetic. This evolution in styling seems to draw inspiration from industry competitors, notably exhibiting elements reminiscent of Range Rover models. The rear profile bears a striking similarity to the Velar, while the intricate detailing echoes the Evoque's design. Additionally, the front fascia subtly nods to the Land Rover Range Stormer concept.

Aerodynamic efficiency is at the forefront of the Wagoneer S design, as evidenced by features like recessed door handles. The SUV also sports a distinctive rear spoiler that merges seamlessly with the roof trim, extending over the rear windshield. This design choice not only enhances the vehicle's sporty demeanor but also maintains a traditional SUV silhouette while offering a more modern, coupe-like profile. This could potentially improve range, albeit possibly at the expense of interior headroom.

The Wagoneer S also boasts an attractive two-tone paint option, a panoramic sunroof, and a faux front grille with Jeep's iconic seven-slot design, further enhancing its visual appeal.

Despite sharing the Wagoneer name, the electric iteration stands apart from its full-size counterparts, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. It aligns more closely in size with the Grand Cherokee, defying initial size expectations.

Jeep promises impressive performance with the Wagoneer S's dual-motor 4xe drivetrain, delivering an estimated 600 horsepower and a swift 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3.5 seconds. This suggests a focus on on-road performance for this electric vehicle.

However, true to its Jeep heritage, the Wagoneer S is equipped to handle mild off-road challenges, featuring a standard all-terrain management system. For those seeking a more robust electric off-roading experience, Jeep hints at the upcoming Recon model, also slated for release this year.

The Wagoneer S will be Jeep's debut fully electric vehicle in the U.S. market, following the Avenger EV in Europe. Production is set to take place at the Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. The vehicle is based on Stellantis' STLA Large architecture, which is expected to be the foundation for several new EVs by 2026.

[mariacallous]

Let me start with the following principle: “Energy is the only universal currency: One of its many forms must be transformed to get anything done.” Economies are just intricate systems set up to do those transformations, and all economically significant energy conversions have (often highly undesirable) environmental impacts. Consequently, as far as the biosphere is concerned, the best anthropogenic energy conversions are those that never take place: No emissions of gases (be they greenhouse or acidifying), no generation of solid or liquid wastes, no destruction of ecosystems. The best way to do this has been to convert energies with higher efficiencies: Without their widespread adoption (be it in large diesel- and jet-engines, combined-cycle gas turbines, light-emitting diodes, smelting of steel, or synthesis of ammonia) we would need to convert significantly more primary energy with all attendant environmental impacts.

Conversely, what then could be more wasteful, more undesirable, and more irrational than negating a large share of these conversion gains by wasting them? Yet precisely this keeps on happening—and to indefensibly high degrees—with all final energy uses. Buildings consume about a fifth of all global energy, but because of inadequate wall and ceiling insulation, single-pane windows and poor ventilation, they waste at least between a fifth to a third of it, as compared with well-designed indoor spaces. A typical SUV is now twice as massive as a common pre-SUV vehicle, and it needs at least a third more energy to perform the same task.

The most offensive of these wasteful practices is our food production. The modern food system (from energies embedded in breeding new varieties, synthesizing fertilizers and other agrochemicals, and making field machinery to energy used in harvesting, transporting, processing, storing, retailing, and cooking) claims close to 20 percent of the world’s fuels and primary electricity—and we waste as much as 40 percent of all produced food. Some food waste is inevitable. The prevailing food waste, however, is more than indefensible. It is, in many ways, criminal.

Combating it is difficult for many reasons. First, there are many ways to waste food: from field losses to spoilage in storage, from perishable seasonal surpluses to keeping “perfect” displays in stores, from oversize portions when eating outside of the home to the decline of home cooking.

Second, food now travels very far before reaching consumers: The average distance a typical food item travels is 1,500 to 2,500 miles before being bought.

Third, it remains too cheap in relation to other expenses. Despite recent food-price increases, families now spend only about 11 percent of their disposable income on food (in 1960 it was about 20 percent). Food-away-from-home spending (typically more wasteful than eating at home) is now more than half of that total. And finally, as consumers, we have an excessive food choice available to us: Just consider that the average American supermarket now carries more than 30,000 food products.

Our society is apparently quite content with wasting 40 percent of the nearly 20 percent of all energy it spends on food. In 2025, unfortunately, this shocking level of waste will not receive more attention. In fact, the situation will only get worse. While we keep pouring billions into the quest for energy “solutions”—ranging from new nuclear reactors (even fusion!) to green hydrogen, all of them carrying their own environmental burdens—in 2025, we will continue to fail addressing the huge waste of food that took so much fuel and electricity to produce.

[myseungsunglove]

Do Something | Ksm

Pairing: Kim Seungmin x Reader 

Warnings: angst, but fluff to wrap it up

Word Count:  2.5k

𖠫Summary: The reader can’t keep her feelings to herself anymore when it comes to Kim Seungmin. After a particularly trying day busy with practices and an impending concert, she explodes on her best friend, spilling her feelings for him but doesn’t exactly go about expressing those feelings in the best way. 

✎A/N✎: I seriously meant for this to be a short drabble. This story has been in my head for weeks and I thought I could tell it quickly before laying down to sleep. Here I am 2.5k words later and this is anything but quick and short. I should have known. My biggest brain thoughts happen in the middle of the night. I’ve been reliving this story over and over on my own for weeks, now you guys can share in the drama with me. Sorry bout you. :p 

◠ ◡ ◠᭚ιαᵕ̈

「© September 10, 2023 by mysweethannie」

It had been a long day of rehearsal and prep for your upcoming performance at Lollapalooza with the boys. You had been on edge all day because it had really felt like you had been going non-stop for much too long. As a result, your nerves were fried and your patience was thin. 

Your best friend, Seungmin, was always in tune with your mood. As the nine of you walked to the cars waiting for you outside ready for Lee Know and Changbin to drive you to a mini retreat before your next busy schedule, Seungmin grabbed your hand as a comfort as he always did when you were exhausted or having a rough day. 

Today though, you had no patience for it. You had harbored feelings for your best friend for much too long and with your emotions on high alert after an exhausting day, the last thing you needed was comfort from your best friend who was never going to feel the same way about you that you did about him. 

As he grabbed your hand starting to interlace his fingers with yours as he was so accustomed to, you ripped your hand away. You could feel his eyes rise up to look at your face, and you just knew that stupid puppy look was plastered on his face. You refused to look at him because you knew if you did, your resolve would crumble and you would cave. So you ran ahead, leaving Seungmin to walk by himself and grabbed Chan’s arm, leaning up against him, resting your head on his shoulder as you walked. You were certain that Seungmin was very likely burning holes in the back of your head with his eyes as you walked. 

“Hey, Y/n-nah,” Chan smiled down at you, placing a comforting hand on top of yours. “You feeling any better than earlier?” 

“It’s been a busy few weeks, Chan,” you sighed. “My battery is more depleted than I thought. I’m sorry for taking it out on you.” 

“Hey! Don’t apologize. I think we’re all a little on edge. Maybe this tiny bit of time we are getting away will help?” he offered. 

“Yeah, maybe,” you mused, your head somewhere other than the conversation you were having with Chan. You reached the back of an SUV and Chan opened up the trunk. You took your backpack off your back, and set it into the vehicle. As soon as the bag was discarded into the car, there was a pair of long arms wrapping around your waist, the clean smell of soap filling your senses as Seungmin rested his chin against your neck. You could feel his warm breath against your skin and goosebumps prickled up in response. 

“I’m gonna pretend I didn’t just get absolutely rejected by my best friend and let you sit by me on the trip,” he teased, his words dancing across your skin. 

You visibly shook him off and turned quickly to face him. There was a look of utter confusion on his face as you spoke. 

“Seungmin, are you ever going to do something about this or are we going to be forever stuck in this cycle of will they won’t they?” you blurted out. He stared at you, opened mouthed, his hands now resting on your waist as you looked into his eyes, searching them for any hint or clue that he felt even the tiniest bit of something for you. All you saw was confusion. 

“Do something?” he questioned dumbly, his eyes darting back and forth between yours as if he were trying to read your mind, desperately seeking an answer to a question he wasn’t comprehending. 

You pushed away from him then, your impatience flaring into anger and you couldn’t stop the next words to come tumbling out of your mouth. 

“Yeah, fucking do something about this,” you gestured between the two of you as you took another step back. “This constant tension that is bubbling just below the surface between us every time we touch,” you rambled. “Which, by the way, is all the fucking time,” you add, gesturing wildly. “Or are you just not even remotely interested in doing anything with me and you just like that you can hold my hand and cuddle up to me without the obligation of anything more?” you accused. You felt bad the minute you said it, but there was no turning back now. 

“What are you…” Seungmin started but you cut him off.

“No, don’t. It’s obvious we are not on the same page. I can’t do this right now. Fuck. How could I have thought there could be… anything more,” you trailed off walking away. “Chan, I’m switching cars,” you told him as you walked by, making a beeline for Lee Knows car where Jisung and Felix had already climbed into the backseat, IN opening the front door to take his place. 

“Y/n, wait,” Seungmin pleaded desperately trying to follow after you. 

“Chan, do not let him follow me,” you growled as you walked around the back of the car and swung open the back door of the car where Felix was settling in. “I mean it,” you glared at Chan. 

He immediately put an arm up to Seungmin’s chest, stopping him from following you. The look on his face was nothing short of panic and confusion. You wanted so bad to make that go away, but you knew he had to get there on his own. Whatever that looked like. 

You looked down at Felix and tears started falling immediately. 

“Oh god, what’s going on?” he asked, his big, soft eyes staring up at you. 

“I just,” you started, but couldn’t continue as you dissolved into uncontrollable tears. 

Felix was immediately up and out of the car, his arms wrapping around your shoulders and pulling you tightly against his chest. You slumped in his hold and cried. You could feel him placing a hand on the back of your head, stroking it softly. You also felt the vibration of his deep, calming voice as he spoke, but you were so lost in the flurry of events that had just happened, you didn’t hear a word he said. He pulled you into the car with him, guiding you to sit in the middle seat and slid in behind you, pulling the door close. 

“We can’t all sit back here,” you mumbled, sniffling pathetically as you looked from Han to Felix. 

“Shut up, yes we can,” Han said, wrapping his arms around you and pulling you into his hold. “What the hell happened?” he asked Felix as you cried in his arms. 

“I’ve got no clue,” he said as Lee Know climbed in the driver’s seat.  

“So you finally said something?” Lee Know asked as he put on his seatbelt and started the car. 

You nodded in response to Lee Know’s words, not brave enough to look up at him. 

“Hmmm,” he responded. “He’ll sort his shit out,” he added. 

“Oh shit,” In mumbled from the front seat. You had forgotten he was there. “Noona, what did he say?” 

“Nothing. Fucking nothing at all,” you said, wiping your tears away as you pulled away from Jisung and sat up in the seat. You ran your fingers through your hair, before you brought your head to rest against the palms of your hands while your elbows rested on your knees. “He looked at me like I had grown two heads,” you added. 

“You fucking idiot, Kim Seungmin,” Jisung mumbled from beside you, rumbing your back softly. 

You shook your head. 

“No, I’m the idiot.”

“Fat chance,” Felix interjected. “You finally tell him how you feel and he does nothing? You’re not the idiot here,” he reassures you. 

You looked up then, looking around the car. All eyes were trained on you. Even Lee Know was glancing back at you as he headed for the gas station to fill up before driving on to the condo you guys had reserved for the night. 

“I didn’t exactly tell him,” you said, shaking your head. “I more accused him of wanting to benefit from the physical intimacy of our relationship without having to invest emotionally in it.” 

“Whoa,” Jisung whispered beside you. 

“Ugh, I know,” you choked out. “God, why can’t I be normal for once in my fucking life?” 

“The day I speak perfect english,” Lee Know sassed as he got out to pump gas. It made the atmosphere shift a little in the car, everyone laughing. 

“Come on, let's run to the bathroom and grab you a drink,” Han said, opening the door and grabbing your hand, dragging you from the car. 

You walked past the other car where Seungmin was filling up the SUV. He looked up as you passed, his eyes somewhat red rimmed and a brooding look on his face. When your eyes met, his glance softened, and you could see words dancing across his lips that were dying to come out but he didn’t say a word. 

You quickly used the restroom. When you came out, Felix was shaking two waters at you and handed one to you, then grabbed your hand and walked back to the car with you. Han was quickly there too, an arm thrown over your shoulder as the three of you walked together. It was like they were your protectors. If only they could protect your heart from yourself, you thought as you climbed into the car. Seungmin had already returned to the back seat of Changbin’s car. 

The rest of the trip went on, the boys doing their best to distract you from everything that had happened before you left. This day was supposed to be about STAYs and here it had turned into a complete disaster. Lee Know drove through McDonald’s, ordering everyone food and IN played DJ in the front seat. As you cruised down the dark road, Han sleeping soundly beside you and Felix singing along with the song, you glanced down at your phone to see that you had a string of messages from Seungmin. You didn’t open them. You just shoved your phone back into your pocket, and tried to shove down your feelings as well. 

The other car beat you to your destination, but none of it’s occupants, save Kim fucking Seungmin were waiting for you. He stood in the parking lot with his hands shoved in his black pants, black framed glasses resting on his face, a blue plaid shirt clinging to his broad shoulders. His eyes watched as Lee Know parked the car. Immediately he made a beeline for the car. 

He pulled open Felix’s door just as harshly as you had back at the company. 

“Out,” he said, his voice low and gruff. “Now,” he added with a warning. 

“Down boy,” Lee Know said from the front seat, but got out all the same. “Let’s go, fellas,” he called after the rest of the car. 

Han squeezed your leg and pushed open his door. 

“Just tell him the truth,” he whispered against your temple before placing a quick kiss there and getting out of the car. 

Felix looked over at you, a look on his face that said he thought he would betray you by getting out of the car and leaving you alone with Seungmin. 

“It’s okay,” you assured him. 

He climbed out reluctantly, shoving past Seungmin a little more roughly than usual. 

You saw Seungmin’s jaw clench and his shoulders bristle, but he didn’t respond to Felix, he just climbed into the car and sat where Felix had. 

“Seungmin, I…” you started but you were abruptly cut off. 

You barely had time to register that the two of you were alone in the car before Seungmin’s hands were delicately cupping your cheeks, his lips crashing less delicately and more desperately against your own. At first you were shocked, your eyes wide, your body tense. The moment your brain caught up with what was happening, you reached out for Seungmin, your hands wrapping around his small waist and pulling him against you, the kiss becoming more intense as his tongue tangled with yours. 

After many breathless moments, how long you weren’t really sure, Seungmin pulled away from you, his lips swollen from their first encounter with yours. 

His forehead rested against yours and he sighed heavily. 

“Are we on the same page now?” he asked, his breath fanning across your face. “I did something about it,” he added, almost more to himself than to you. 

“You definitely did do something,” you agreed. You moved your hands from being wrapped around him and placed them on the sides of his face. “Seungmin, are you sure that was something you wanted?” you asked, almost afraid of the answer. 

“I love you,” he let out in a whisper. “I have for so long. I have no fucking clue you ever wanted anything more,” he admitted.

You couldn’t help but laugh a little. 

You pressed your lips against his again, this time it was soft and comforting a stark difference from the desperate first kiss from before. His lips moved against your like they were made to do so. 

“Most best friends don’t act like we do, Min,” you tell him. “We’re so close. How was I ever going to do anything other than fall in love with you, you idiot?” 

He smiled then, his eyes lighting up for the first time. 

“Really?” he asked. 

“Really,” you confirmed. “I’m so sorry for what I said back there. I’m exhausted and I lashed out and before I could stop it, I had made a big fucking mess with my stupid ass words and I didn’t know how to take it back.” Your hands fell from his face then, into your lap. 

He immediately grabbed both of your hands, holding them in his. 

“I’m used to your messes,” he said gently. “You usually tell me what you’re thinking,” he added. “Why didn’t you tell me this?” 

“The same reason I guess you didn’t tell me,” you shrugged. “I was afraid you didn’t feel the same.” 

“I’ve felt this way from the moment I first met you,” Seungmin admitted. “I’m gonna be here waiting even through the shitty times if you’ll have me.” 

You pulled him into a hug then, your face falling into his neck and breathing him in. Everything about him was comforting and you were wishing like hell you had just talked to him instead of blowing up at him, but you couldn’t change that now. 

“If you can put up with me, of course I’ll have you Kim Seungmin,” you say. “It always has been and always will be you.” 

[weaponizedgems]

here’s a blurb about rachel i wrote while i had the flu / it was supposed to be a prologue to a fic i never ended up writing / forgive my adhd stream of consciousness she makes no sense sometimes

The Great Impersonator - Rachel Amber

Rachel Amber wanted to be many things.

When she was seven, she wanted to be a ballerina— wanted to be adored as she twirled around the floor every night in pink satin. When she was twelve, she wanted to be a rockstar— like Alanis Morissette or Dolores O’Riordan, performing in a different city every night to crazed fans. A dazzling actress on the red carpet. A model enchanting the lens of a camera.

She felt so deeply, inside her bones and across her muscles, that she could be anything. A hero, a villain; big, small; fleeting, eternal.

So much more than she was now— a high school theatre kid in a dying town.

Though, no one else saw her that way. To the rest of the world, Rachel proved to be so much more— she was a magician, of sorts. And her most captivating trick was one everyone had a front row seat to. It was immersive, enthralling— leaving the crowd to wonder of the girl when they laid their heads down at night. It was art.

But all good artists are tortured by their own creations; always unsatisfied. And Rachel was deemed exceptional.

In the gaps between roles, she felt nameless. Faceless. Dangling over a void of anguish so fiery it rivaled the sun’s rays; burning questions lingered that would never be answered; how and why.

How could this be it? Why couldn’t it be enough?

In another world, she knows, one role is enough. She doesn’t need to feel larger than herself. She doesn’t need to get high, or perform, or implode. In another world she knows peace. Forgiveness.

(She’s thought about it before. Of course she has.)

On the top of a hill in Northern California, a house with a blue door and white panels. Three bedrooms, plenty of windows, an SUV in the driveway. Behind every wall is evidence of love; carvings in the walls, wrinkles in the sheets, laughter in the air. She knows it’s love, because despite herself, she’d know love anywhere, in any lifetime—

(Chloe is in every corner of the house. Rachel doesn’t think Chloe would like the house, or the color of the paint or the SUV. But it was her world and so she got to decide what was there.)

Piles of laundry and taxes and bills and dentist appointments and grocery shopping and God it would suck but it would be real. It would be real, and it would be theirs. And no amount of obsession or money or greed would ever interfere with that.

In the gap between roles, she is angry because she’ll never be at peace folding laundry. And maybe she could be at peace loving Chloe all her life but she would never find out, because she wasn’t in that world. She was in this one.

So she’ll keep performing her show. Mirroring people, giving them what they want— showing them what they want— often what they expect of her. She’ll feed off the thrill of their excitement and admiration, hoping it’ll be enough to distract her from falling into the void forever.

Even if it kills her.

[sims4cars-breezemotors]

“The new shape of performance”

2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe 🇰🇷

Boasting a dramatic silhouette, the first-ever 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe embodies the perfect blend of coupe DNA and SUV prowess. With its plunging roofline and aggressive contours, this bold new vehicle is the ultimate expression of Genesis athletic elegance design inspired by high-performance sports cars.

Available exclusively for “No Limits” and “All Inclusive” tiers this September. Since October 1’st. Available for All Inclusive tier only.

Model with HQ interior, open/close doors, trunk and functional light.

Go and join my Patreon!

[vmantras]

Lotus Eletre R: The Ultimate Luxury Electric SUV

₹2.99 Cr The Lotus Eletre R represents Lotus’s foray into the luxury electric SUV market, merging cutting-edge technology, superior performance, and a premium design ethos. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its features, strengths, and unique selling points. Performance and Powertrain Power and Acceleration: With a motor power of 675 kW and a maximum output of 905 bhp, the Eletre R is among the…

[carsthatnevermadeitetc]

BMW XM Label Red, 2023. BMW M GmbH has presented the flagship version of its first-ever high-performance vehicle with an electrified drive system. The combination of a V8 combustion engine with an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission produces at total 550 kW/748 hp, making the XM Label Red is the most powerful BMW M model ever made.

[max-e-doodle]

BMW XM High Performance SUV

[foxydivaxx]

Gossip Girl AU Prequel: Z After Dark Chapter 6

Hello Upper East Siders, Gossip Girl here. And boy, do we have an eventful week to dissect. GR's meteoric rise ended in flames with that scandalous performance. I wonder if Z had a hand in that? Or maybe S? Or perhaps both? It wouldn't shock me in the slightest—those two would do anything to protect their thrones.

Regardless, GR's ex-career has been spectacularly torched. From what I’ve heard, the voice in the audio backdrop was actually Z’s. So they stole that track and handed it to GR? How utterly shocking.

With school season back in full swing, it's time to swap out those summer bikinis for school uniforms. But the burning question on everyone’s mind: is a certain someone returning to school? Hold on a second… that SUV! That’s Z’s SUV! Z is back, and he's ready to reclaim his place at the top!

Everyone, beware. The Demon King of Pheromenes is not messing around. This time, he’s out for blood. All those old friends who betrayed him better run for cover. Because Z is back, and he’s taking no prisoners. Stay tuned, Upper East Siders, because this is just the beginning. You know you love me.

XOXO,

Gossip Girl

All activity halts as Zoro emerges from his SUV, an aura of confidence enveloping him. Ignoring the clamor of paparazzi lenses, he strides forward purposefully, each step a testament to his newfound self-assurance. Sanji's eyes light up at the sight of him, and he rushes over, enveloping Zoro in a warm embrace.

"Welcome back, my love," Sanji murmurs, his voice tinged with affection.

Zoro's smirk speaks volumes. "It feels good to be back."

Rukia's grin is infectious. "It's about time, to be honest."

Sukuna nods in agreement. "Couldn't have said it better myself."

With their greetings exchanged, the group proceeds inside, drawing every eye in the vicinity. Zoro's swift recovery catches many off guard, a testament to his resilience in the face of adversity.

Amidst the murmurs of surprise and admiration, it's impossible to overlook the subtle transformation in Zoro's physique. His newfound confidence radiates from every angle, drawing admiring glances from onlookers, both male and female.

As Sanji intertwines his fingers with Zoro's, a silent declaration of their bond, the air crackles with anticipation. The simple gesture speaks volumes, confirming what many had suspected — their relationship is more than just friendship.

With their hands joined, Zoro and Sanji navigate the sea of curious stares, their unity a beacon of strength amidst the scrutiny of the spotlight.

Sesshomaru freezes in his tracks at the sight of Zoro striding down the hallway. No way that guy's back in school. Terra needs to know about this. Ignoring his former friend, Zoro walks past him, arm securely around Sanji's waist, solidifying his relationship with the Pop Prince. A quick snapshot of the couple is taken and immediately dispatched to Gossip Girl.

Meanwhile, a new student with pink hair named Sakura navigates the bustling corridors in her school uniform. She looks around nervously, trying to find her classroom. Having just moved to town, she's heard that making it in New York means the world takes notice. East Blue High offered her a scholarship, known for nurturing creative talents like hers. Plus, she's heard rumors about a celebrity couple attending. Witnessing the chaos around Zoro's SUV arrival confirms that famous kids operate differently here. Maybe she should aim to join that elite circle and make connections, but where does she even begin?

Lost in her thoughts, Sakura accidentally bumps into someone, sending her books sprawling onto the floor. "Oh, sorry," she apologizes, quickly bending down to gather them. "No worries," comes the reply. Looking up, she meets the gaze of a girl with long black hair in the same black and white uniform. "Um, hello," Sakura offers with a shy smile.

"New here?" the girl asks kindly. Sakura nods, and the girl reaches down to help her up, assisting with her scattered belongings. "I'm Keiko," she introduces herself warmly. Sakura returns the grin. "Sakura. Nice to meet you." From that moment, the two strike up a conversation and quickly form a connection.

During lunchtime at East Blue High, the cafeteria buzzed with conversations and laughter. Zoro and his circle of friends had commandeered a corner table, their animated discussion veering between school rumors and weekend plans.

"So, did you hear what Sesshomaru said to Terra about Griffith?" Grimmjow leaned in, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.

Zoro scoffed, shaking his head. "Man, that guy just can't stay out of trouble."

"Yeah, and did you see the look on his face when he saw you with Sanji?" Natsu chimed in, nudging Zoro playfully.

Sanji smirked, leaning back comfortably. "Probably realizing he's no longer the center of attention around here."

As they bantered, Keiko approached with Sakura in tow, her eyes scanning the room nervously. "Hey guys," she greeted tentatively, catching their attention.

"Keiko! What's up?" Zoro greeted warmly, pulling out a chair for her. He glanced at Sakura, offering a friendly smile. "And who's your friend?"

Keiko beamed, introducing Sakura to the group. "This is Sakura. She's new here, just moved from the city. Thought I'd show her around."

Sasuke, ever the observant one, couldn't help but glance at Sakura with curiosity. His gaze didn't go unnoticed by Grimmjow, who nudged him with a knowing smirk. "Hey, Sasuke, like what you see?"

Sasuke rolled his eyes, a faint blush touching his cheeks. "Shut up, Grimmjow."

Sanji chuckled, sipping his drink. "Welcome to the madness, Sakura. If you can handle these idiots, you'll do just fine here."

Sakura laughed nervously, grateful for the warm welcome despite the teasing. "Thanks, Keiko said you guys were… lively."

"That's one way to put it," Zoro agreed with a grin, glancing around at his friends who were already planning their next move in the ongoing drama of high school life at East Blue.

Whilst Zoro and his friends were engrossed in their usual banter, their phones simultaneously buzzed with a notification from Gossip Girl. They exchanged curious glances before checking the message, which revealed that Sesshomaru was hosting a party that upcoming weekend.

Zoro's expression darkened slightly as he read the update. "Seriously? Another one of his parties?"

Sanji chuckled, leaning over to look at the message. "Looks like trouble's brewing, huh?"

Grimmjow smirked, cracking his knuckles in anticipation. "You know what this means, right?"

Zoro nodded, a determined gleam in his eyes. "Oh, I know exactly what it means."

Keiko and Sakura exchanged puzzled looks, sensing the tension in the air. "What's going on?" Sakura asked tentatively.

Natsu filled them in quickly, his voice low but charged with excitement. "Sesshomaru loves throwing these huge parties to flaunt his status. Zoro here," he nodded at Zoro with a grin, "he's got a knack for making a memorable entrance."

Sasuke nodded in agreement. "And by 'memorable,' he means crashing in and turning the whole thing upside down."

Sanji laughed, clapping Zoro on the back. "It's always entertaining."

Zoro smirked, eyes narrowing with resolve. "Guess I'll have to remind him who runs this school."

Sakura and Keiko exchanged a glance, sensing the excitement and tension building among Zoro and his friends about crashing Sesshomaru's party. Keiko nodded with a mischievous grin. "Count me in. It'll be epic."

Sakura, though a bit nervous about the idea of crashing a high-profile event, couldn't deny the thrill of joining in on the adventure. "Yeah, why not? It sounds like it'll be a blast."

Zoro chuckled, impressed by their enthusiasm. "You're both brave. It won't be your average party, that's for sure."

Grimmjow cracked his knuckles, a devilish glint in his eye. "We could use a few more recruits. Make it a night to remember."

Sanji leaned back, grinning slyly. "Let's turn this into the event of the year."

Natsu chimed in, already planning logistics. "We'll need a solid plan. And maybe some backup."

Sasuke nodded, considering their options. "We should invite a few more people. The more, the merrier."

Lelouch, known for his strategic mind, raised an eyebrow with a mischievous smile. "What about contacting Sukuna? He's in England right now, but if we can get him on board remotely…"

The group erupted into laughter, knowing Sukuna's reputation for stirring up trouble wherever he went.

Eren, always up for a bit of chaos, nodded eagerly. "Or we could hit up Gojo. He's got a knack for causing a scene."

Sanji smirked, adding fuel to the fire. "And don't forget Levi. He's not one to shy away from a bit of mayhem."

Grimmjow chuckled, rubbing his hands together. "With those guys on our side, Sesshomaru won't know what hit him."

As they continued to plot and plan, the prospect of recruiting these notorious troublemakers only added to their excitement for crashing Sesshomaru's party. It promised to be a night filled with unexpected twists and turns, all in the name of making a statement at their rival's extravagant event.

The weekend arrived, and Sesshomaru's party was in full swing, the mansion buzzing with music, laughter, and the chatter of East Blue High's elite. Dressed to the nines in designer outfits, Sesshomaru basked in the attention, confident that the night would be a showcase of his status and influence.

However, the mood shifted when Zoro and his entourage made their grand entrance. The doors swung open dramatically, and the room fell silent as Zoro strode in, exuding a blend of confidence and defiance. His friends followed suit, each dressed to impress in flashy, attention-grabbing outfits that turned heads instantly.

Sakura and Keiko, standing beside Zoro, felt a rush of adrenaline as they surveyed the scene. They weren't alone—Zoro had indeed brought along Sukuna, Gojo, and Levi Ackerman, notorious troublemakers known for their penchant for chaos.

Sukuna grinned devilishly, his presence commanding attention as he surveyed the party with amusement. Gojo, with his signature blindfold and laid-back demeanor, casually strolled in as if he owned the place. Levi Ackerman, ever stoic yet imposing, surveyed the room with a sharp gaze, silently assessing the situation.

The tension in the room was palpable as Sesshomaru watched Zoro and his crew with a mix of surprise and irritation. Murmurs and whispers spread among the guests, speculating on what would unfold next.

Zoro, unfazed by the stares and whispers, approached Sesshomaru with a smirk. "Nice party you've got here," he remarked casually, his tone laced with challenge.

Sesshomaru, maintaining his composure, replied evenly, "You're not welcome here, Zoro."

Zoro shrugged, his grin widening. "Didn't expect an invitation. But since we're all here…"

The night took a sharp turn as the clash of personalities and egos filled the air. With Sukuna, Gojo, and Levi in tow, Zoro and his friends mingled through the party, turning heads and stirring up conversations wherever they went. The combination of East Blue High's elite and these infamous troublemakers created an electric atmosphere, with tensions simmering just beneath the surface.

As the night unfolded, it became clear that Sesshomaru's meticulously planned event had been hijacked by Zoro and his entourage, leaving an indelible mark on the evening and ensuring that this party would be remembered for all the unexpected twists and turns it had brought.

Zoro couldn't help but chuckle as he surveyed the scene, his friends and the unexpected troublemakers he'd brought along adding a layer of unpredictability to Sesshomaru's meticulously planned party. With a confident grin, he leaned back against a nearby pillar, crossing his arms.

"Never mess with the King of the Upper East Side," he declared with a hint of amusement in his voice, loud enough for those nearby to hear. The statement echoed through the room, a subtle warning disguised as a jest.

Sesshomaru, standing not far away, bristled at Zoro's boldness. His attempt to maintain control of the situation faltered as Zoro's presence overshadowed his own carefully curated event. The clash of personalities and the palpable tension between them filled the room, creating a charged atmosphere that everyone could feel.

As the night wore on, Zoro's laughter and confident demeanor set the tone, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with among the elite of East Blue High. The events of that evening would be talked about for weeks to come, a testament to the power dynamics and rivalries that defined their world.

Zoro's master plan had succeeded—it was a night where he had asserted his influence and reminded everyone of his place in their social hierarchy.

Just when everyone thought they were safe, Z decided to grace us with his presence at his old pal's party. But don't mistake it for a gesture of goodwill—the King is plotting something much bigger than a mere revenge plot.

He's poised to reclaim his throne by any means necessary, even if it means playing as dirty as he did at SE's party. The battle lines are drawn, and the key players are emerging more prominently. The question looms: who truly reigns as the King of the Upper East Side? Watch this space closely, because things are about to heat up significantly.

XOXO,

Gossip Girl

[heathermarielocke]

Breaking Down the Factors That Affect Market Perception in Auto Transport

Market Value Over Time

Resale value is a critical factor when purchasing a vehicle, as it represents the predicted market value of a car, truck, or SUV at the time of sale. It is essential to understand that a new car that depreciates faster than its competitors can lead to a lower trade-in value, potentially costing the owner more in the long run if they owe more than the vehicle's worth on a long-term loan. According to Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Awards, vehicles that maintain the highest 5-year residual values, expressed as a percentage of their original Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), are recognized for their ability to retain value. These awards are determined by experienced automotive analysts who utilize extensive data, including millions of transactions, vehicle specifications, economic conditions, and auction results, to predict and track vehicle depreciation effectively.

Brands like Lexus and Audi consistently rank near the top for value retention in the luxury segment, indicating that these vehicles are likely to depreciate less over time compared to others.

Conversely, brands such as Jaguar, Land Rover, and Volvo may struggle with maintaining high resale values, especially when compared to high-volume models like the Honda Civic or Toyota Sienna.

Brand Prestige and Consumer Perception

Brand perception significantly influences a vehicle's market value and resale potential. Consumers' perceptions are shaped by direct and indirect experiences with the brands, and this perception influences their decision-making process.

For instance, Lexus is often seen as the epitome of high resale value, which enhances its appeal among luxury buyers who consider future trade-in values.

On the other hand, mainstream car buyers who have experienced strong resale values with brands like Honda or Toyota may find the depreciation rates of luxury brands like Jaguar or Volvo less appealing.

The automotive industry's perception is also affected by factors such as safety, reliability, and operating costs. Dramatic events, such as Toyota's large-scale recalls, have been shown to impact brand perception negatively, affecting resale values.

Conversely, brands that manage to maintain strong safety reputations, like Volvo, despite challenges, can sustain their position in the market.

However, as consumer preferences evolve and more brands begin to excel in multiple categories, the perceived difference between top car brands and challengers is diminishing, making the competition for high resale value more intense.

In summary, understanding the factors that influence resale value and consumer perceptions can guide consumers in making informed purchasing decisions that consider both immediate benefits and long-term financial implications.

Making the Right Choice for Your Needs

Assessing Personal Needs and Preferences

When selecting the right vehicle for city driving, it is crucial to assess personal needs and preferences thoroughly. One should consider how the vehicle aligns with their lifestyle, budget, and driving conditions they frequently encounter.

For individuals residing in urban areas, factors like vehicle size, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency take precedence. Compact cars with a tight turning radius are particularly advantageous in cities, where parking spaces are scarce, and streets are narrow.

Understanding one's commitment to vehicle maintenance is essential. A car is not merely a tool for transportation; it reflects one's responsibility and care. Regular maintenance such as timely oil changes and adherence to service schedules extends the lifespan of the vehicle and ensures reliable performance. Prospective buyers should ponder whether they are prepared to maintain a luxury car, which often requires more attention and higher costs, or if an affordable, reliable model better suits their practical needs.

For finding a reliable and responsible auto transport services, you can browse around this website. Lucky Star Auto Transport provide a professional car shipping services in California and nationwide. They offer direct car shipping guide, with fully insured car carriers and transporters that are reviewed for excellent service and competitive prices.

[happinessismusic]

"Tuesday night marked Blake Shelton’s first appearance at RodeoHouston in six years and the sixth time he’s mounted the famous revolving stage in the middle of the stadium. Shelton’s brand of workhorse country has always been aggressively crowd-pleasing.

Shelton started the night with the fiery testimonial “God’s Country” — a sort of “A Country Boy Can Survive” update from 2019. Five years on, it seems to have kicked in the doors for the likes of Jelly Roll and Hardy. Fittingly, the latter has a songwriting credit for it, vibe-checking the Charlie Daniels Band and Bocephus along the way.

Shelton is an elder statesman of sorts in the corner of the pop country world that he inhabits alongside fellow 2024 performers Luke Bryan and Brad Paisley. The aw shucks everyman with a truck bed full of hooks and an earnest twang beating under his sweaty pearl snap Poncho shirt.

To the delight of every beating heart in NRG Stadium, Shelton’s wife of three years, Gwen Stefani, joined him onstage for one of the dynamic duo’s many duets they’ve recorded together — “Nobody But You” and “Purple Irises.” Keen eyes probably knew something was up when a black SUV rolled up near the stage in the middle of Shelton’s set. The recently-released music video for Gwen-centric “Irises” shows the pair clad in couture denim in a vintage living room swooning like Kenny and Dolly. If wedding songs are still a thing, add it to the Spotify playlist.

“Holy hell Gwen Stefani came out here and sang tonight,” Shelton said, looking genuinely flushed and revving up his cover of George Jones’ “Ol’ Red.”

When the towering Okie debuted on country radio airwaves in 2001 with “Austin” he was up against Brooks & Dunn and Lonestar for FM supremacy. The song that broke Shelton open wide made its way late into Tuesday night’s setlist and got the smartphone flashlight nebula treatment, a high honor at RodeoHouston.

“What kind of people come out here in Houston to a stadium to watch a rodeo and then a damn country music concert on a Tuesday night?” Shelton chuckled, launching into “Hillbilly Bone”.

Lock in Houston, this horsey ride lasts until March 17.

Attendance: 59,461

Blake Shelton, February 27, 2024 at RodeoHouston

God’s Country Guy With A Girl Neon Light Sangria God Gave Me You Nobody But You Purple Irises (with Gwen Stefani) Ol’ Red Austin Honey Bee Hillbilly Bone Boys Round Here"

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I like that Blake changed his lineup of songs for RodeoHouston. So happy for everyone who got to witness Blake and Gwen.