News Roundup: Jeep’s Wrangler-based pickup is almost here

The Cold Start is a round-up of automotive news to get you up to speed in the mornings, because it’s hard keeping pace in a digital traffic jam. Here’s what you missed while you were away.

Is this the next fastest street-legal vehicle?

“Street legal” and “483 km/h” aren’t terms you expect to see side-by-side, but apparently nobody told Johnny Bohmer. He and his fully street-legal, 2,700 hp 2006 Ford GT ‘BAAD GT’ are attempting to break 300 mph (483 km/h) for a Guinness World Record. Here’s what happened last time they went for it.

Tesla driver and YouTuber tows himself for a charge

Tesla drivers are resourceful folks. Remember last week when a Tesla owner figured out how to outsmart the parking metre in his town? This week, a different owner has a fresh idea: recharge a Model 3’s battery using regenerative braking by towing his Tesla behind a Ford C-Max Hybrid.  This charging style may be innovative, but we’re pretty sure it’s also illegal. See it in action.

Malibu fires claim priceless private car collection

Yesterday we were honouring the Toyota Tundra Hero who toasted his truck in a California fire while transporting some hospital patients to safety. Today, we’re mourning the loss of a valuable car collection including a priceless, one-of-a-kind Norman Timbs Special streamlined custom, which was also melted by the fire. Fires are jerks. Be safe out there, California. We love you.

Jeep leaks photos of its Gladiator

Ah, don’t you just love the Internet! Every day there’s some story or photo leaked online ahead of its intended release date. The brand with an unexpected pool underneath the kitchen sink today? Jeep. Their newest pickup product, the Gladiator, has a removable roof and doors just like the JL Wrangler. So is this just a Wrangler with an five-foot bed, a  Hummer with a Jeep badge or something else entirely? You be the judge.  

Ford wants to go to Walmart for you

Walmart and Ford are planning to enable humankind’s innate laziness a little further by partnering up for a self-driving grocery delivery service. It’s sort of like Amazon Prime, but minus the human interaction when the package is dropped off. The pair will test the waters in States, starting with 800 stores across the country. Read more.