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Marvel stuntman and his three kids killed in car crash

The world of cinema was struck by a tragic incident on Halloween night when Taraja Ramsess, a talented stuntman known for his work in Black Panther and The Avengers, lost his life in a horrifying car crash. What makes this loss even more heart-wrenching is that Taraja was not alone in the vehicle; three of his beloved children, including his newborn daughter, also lost their lives as a result of the tragic accident. Ramsess, at the age of 41, had already left an indelible mark in the film industry. Known for his stunt work in blockbuster hits like Avengers: Endgame and Avengers: Infinity War, Taraja was a dedicated athlete and an exceptional stunt performer. His filmography included not only stunt roles but also numerous art department credits in films such as The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Fast & Furious 7. But beyond his professional achievements, Taraja was cherished as a dedicated family man and a loving father. His mother, Akili, described him as having a deep capacity for love and an unwavering commitment to his children. The pictures she shared on social media show Taraja beaming with pride while surrounded by his children, a testament to the love he had for them. Ava DuVernay, a renowned filmmaker, paid tribute to Taraja Ramsess as a "regal" figure who walked like a king. She spoke of his selflessness, always willing to say "yes" to the demands of his work, and how his enthusiasm inspired others. Taraja's cousin, Pharaoh Hardee, recalled his journey into the world of film, starting with a passion for music videos and eventually realising his artistic talents in the realm of cinema. Taraja was also known for his infectious enthusiasm and his deep pride in being cast in Black Panther. He was a person who cherished the moments of life and had an unquenchable passion for his work. In the wake of his untimely death, Taraja's cousin Pharaoh Hardee encouraged everyone to honour his memory by not taking life or loved ones for granted. These words serve as a poignant reminder to treasure the moments we have with our family and loved ones. In the face of this immense tragedy, the community has rallied to support Taraja Ramsess' family. A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/ramsess" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> campaign was launched to provide financial assistance, and it has already raised over $US80,000. "Taraja was a dedicated father, son and husband and a true philanthropist who was well known and loved by many," reads the tribute on the fundraising page. "He lived for his children. He paved the way and provided opportunities for so many people along the way." That outpouring of support from friends, colleagues and well-wishers is a testament to the impact that Taraja had on those around him. Images: Instagram

Caring

Harrowing footage shows passengers clinging for life in falling cable car

Harrowing new footage has shown the moment 12 people were forced to hold on for dear life inside a falling cable car in Pakistan. The video footage, captured by a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-asia-66597447" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BBC News</a> drone, shows the terrified passengers - six children and six adults - clinging on to parts of the cable car as they dangled stranded for 12 hours. The group were travelling to a school in the cable car when a cable broke halfway through their journey high above the remote Allai valley in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. They were more than 300 metres in the air when they became stranded. A daring rescue operation took more than 12 hours to complete, with the use of a military helicopter and several zip wire experts. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CwS_rAiMksY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CwS_rAiMksY/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by BBC News (@bbcnews)</a> </div> </blockquote> The children were rescued first, with the adults the last to be plucked free. Some of the passengers told AFP that several times they lost hope in ever being rescued, and had considered leaping from the chairlift. “Some of the children were so frustrated and were considering to jump down, but the elder passengers gave us confidence,” 15-year-old Rizwan Ullah told AFP. “When the cable car was twisting, we were terrified and we started reciting the Koran and gave confidence to each other not to jump down.” Gul Faraz, a 25-year-old shopkeeper who was in the cable car, said they had started to lose hope that they would be rescued. “During the whole process we thought we would die. There were some times when we thought we would not survive,” he said. On Twitter, now known as X, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kak said he was “relieved” after the safe rescue. “Great team work by the military, rescue departments, district administration as well as the local people.” The owner of the cable car company in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was later arrested by police on multiple charges including negligence and endangering valuable lives. Image credits: BBC News

Travel Trouble

Why we’re more prone to car-sickness when we set off on holiday

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/william-emond-1431510">William Emond</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-technologie-de-belfort-montbeliard-2637">Université de Technologie de Belfort-Montbéliard</a> Travel sickness isn’t just hearsay. Nearly <a href="https://www.autonomicneuroscience.com/article/S1566-0702(06)00212-8/fulltext">a third of people</a> experience motion sickness – and to this day we don’t exactly know what causes it. The prevailing theory suggests it is triggered by a <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/cns.12468">poor perception of movement</a>. Departure to and return from summer holidays seem moments especially prone to this sickness’ stealthy advances. We (or at least those of us inclined to travel sickness) are more often ill during these particular journeys than during our normal comings and goings. Let’s note too that lots of travellers feel a sense of fatigue, drowsiness, apathy or lack of energy without having done any particularly exhausting activity. These are in fact symptoms of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0094576598001532">mild motion sickness</a>, which show that many more people are affected by the condition than you’d think. Why this apparent heightened susceptibility during holiday trips? There are many reasons. Compared to normal travel, these journeys feature certain conditions, all with the potential to increase the incidence and severity of symptoms. Here are some pieces of explanation, and advice to minimise the risk. <h2>Long journeys – repetition of movements that make you queasy</h2> In a car, the further one travels, the more likely one is to feel ill, as shown by a number of <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1243/0954407042580093">mathematical models which predict motion sickness</a>. It’s the adding up of unpleasant movements which takes us over the threshold where we feel symptoms. For certain people, this <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1566070206002128">can happen after just a few minutes</a>); for others it develops more slowly. Only on long journeys, after several hours on the road, in the air or on a boat, will this latter group be pushed over their limit and start feeling unwell. Activities undertaken to pass the time during a long journey could add to feelings of queasiness. Often people do something to occupy and entertain themselves: read a book, watch a film, play a video game or scroll through social media. Except, these visually stimulating activities absorb our attention to the point that we’re not tuned in to the visual cues that allows our brain to assess the movement of the vehicle. This creates a confusion in the perception of movement. As a result, it becomes <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0141938214000043?via%3Dihub">much easier to feel sick</a>. <h2>Journey conditions: risks adding up</h2> In summer, the temperature inside a vehicle is difficult to control, with the sun often imposing a stifling heat; conditions which <a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/asma/asem/2013/00000084/00000005/art00004">tend to accentuate the symptoms of motion sickness</a>. When it’s hot, <a href="https://theconversation.com/lesquels-de-nos-organes-sont-les-plus-menaces-par-la-canicule-119563">our body has to make an effort to regulate its temperature</a>, through sweat or breathing for example. These various signals amount to ‘primary symptoms’ as they can contribute to the appearance of other more substantive symptoms: dilation of the blood vessels, sickness, nausea or vomiting, as applicable. To counter these effects, one is tempted to switch the air conditioning on, which could itself, perversely, <a href="https://www.francetvinfo.fr/sante/environnement-et-sante/la-climatisation-rend-elle-malade_2885673.html">worsen the situation for passengers highly susceptible to motion sickness</a>. Ventilation and cabin air systems also push people toward their nausea thresholds. Unpleasant smells are another factor that can <a href="https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/asma/asem/2013/00000084/00000005/art00004">accentuate car sickness symptoms</a>: traffic fumes, cigarette smoke, fetid air or even <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00221-015-4209-9">the smell of leather</a> were identified as <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1369847819306539">second most common cause of car sickness</a>! These are bigger risk factors at the start of holiday season, when <a href="https://www.francetvinfo.fr/economie/transports/trafic/vacances-les-vagues-de-departs-massifs-sont-associees-a-de-fortes-emissions-de-polluants_2839361.html">air pollution peaks regularly</a> and the sun’s rays heat up materials. It’s also known that there is a region of the brain – the area postrema or chemoreceptor trigger zone – which can trigger over-production of saliva and nausea specifically when certain smells are detected – a protective reflex against toxins and other poisonous substances. <h2>Traffic: a physical and mental imposition</h2> In a car, it isn’t speed that makes one ill but <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/001401399184730">changes in speed</a>, especially abrupt ones. Acceleration and breaking movements aggravate the human body, even more than turning corners. In practice, variations in speed are often forced on the driver by road design (speed limits, crossings, traffic lights), but also by the state of the traffic. A car stuck in jams will be forced to speed up and slow down at random intervals, <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/366836220_Effect_of_Horizontal_Acceleration_and_Seat_Orientation_on_Motion_Sickness_in_Passenger_Cars">which grates, even at low speeds</a>. Traffic jams also have a psychological element. Delays to a journey (which might already have been very long), anxiousness about arriving at the arranged time, which is looking less and less likely, tiredness, stress and irritation can all cause the passengers’ mood to crash. It’s been observed that these factors <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0018720819876139">significantly impact the degree of motion sickness symptoms</a>. It would be better to take these setbacks calmly and stay in a relaxed frame of mind but that’s of course easier said than done. <h2>Some tips to limit the damage</h2> If you’re driving with passengers with a tendency to be car sick, or you’re susceptible yourself, some adjustments to your travel habits might help you. For the driver: <ul> <li> Take regular breaks. This allows passengers to take a breather, and to reduce to a significant extent or even get over their symptoms. Sometimes symptoms can take a while to disappear but <a href="https://content.iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vestibular-research/ves7-6-01">generally 15-30 minutes is enough</a>. </li> <li> Try to cut down the amount of hard acceleration and braking you do. Keep as far as possible to the same speed and adopt a smooth driving style, including when you overtake or brake. </li> <li> Avoid taking corners too sharply on winding roads. Passengers should be <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00140139.2015.1109713">jolted in their seats as little as possible</a>. </li> </ul> For passengers <ul> <li> <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/001401399184730">Sit as far forward in the vehicle as possible</a>. Any movement while travelling is better absorbed by the body from this position. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00140139108964831">It’s in the driver’s seat that people are least affected by car sickness</a>, since one has control over the vehicle’s movement. </li> <li> Avoid looking at screens and other visual content (books, etc.), particularly when the vehicle isn’t moving at a constant speed. Instead, <a href="https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1348/000712699161594">try and look forward out of the window</a>, towards the horizon. </li> <li> <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00140139.2015.1109713">Shut your eyes</a> or <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1976-12574-000">try to sleep</a>. Slowing down activity soothes the body. </li> <li> <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-27928-8_26">Tilt your seat back</a>. This allows you to be less destabilised by the vehicle’s movements </li> <li> Go for car games with the other passengers if you get bored: play “I Spy”, <a href="https://theses.gla.ac.uk/80069/1/13905209.pdf">sing songs</a>, count cars of a particular colour or make, and other old favourites of proven effectiveness to help pass the time and, above all, <a href="http://iospress.com/articles/journal-of-vestibular-research/ves00541">take your attention away from the queasiness</a>. The emergence and disappearance of symptoms is mainly a psychological phenomenon. </li> </ul> Finally, given the role of the mind in car sickness symptoms, note that passengers experiencing queasiness can feel better with a placebo (something with no proven medicinal value but presented to them as a magic cure). Simple tips <a href="https://academic.oup.com/jtm/article/5/2/89/1801039">have been shown to be particularly effective</a>. For example, <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00221-021-06303-5">offering a sweet, a piece of chewing gum</a>, <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00221-017-5009-1">a sip of water or a breath of fresh air</a> while talking up their effectiveness will give your fellow travellers a little boost. We wish you happy travels, hoping your journey conditions are as good as they can be. <hr /> Translation from French to English by <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshNeicho">Joshua Neicho</a><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/210338/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/william-emond-1431510">William Emond</a>, Doctorant en mal des transports (PhD Student on carsickness mitigation), <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/universite-de-technologie-de-belfort-montbeliard-2637">Université de Technologie de Belfort-Montbéliard</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-were-more-prone-to-car-sickness-when-we-set-off-on-holiday-210338">original article</a>.

Travel Tips

10 tips for cleaning your car’s interior

<h2>Clear rubbish</h2> Before you pull out the vacuum and cleaning supplies, clear out all the obvious rubbish. Check everywhere thoroughly. There will likely be rubbish on the floor, under the seats and in the seat cracks. Toss out any wrappers, bottles, toys and other objects that your vacuum can’t handle. <h2>Tackle floor mats</h2> Pull the floor mats out of the vehicle and shake them out as much as possible. This will make vacuuming easier. Scrub them with soap and hot water or a foaming carpet cleaner and allow them to air dry completely before reinstalling them. <h2>Vacuum, vacuum, vacuum</h2> Vacuum both front and back seats, the floor and, if necessary, the boot. Vacuum every area of the vehicle where you can get the nozzle, including under the pedals and along the side door panels. <h2>Wipe away grime</h2> Now that the car is vacuumed, grab a soft cloth or cleaning wipes to wipe up all that dirt, sticky stuff and dust. You can also spray a small amount of car-specific cleaner over the console, steering wheel and the area between the seats to restore that new-car look. <h2>Clean cup holders</h2> Cup holders can harbour grime – and the residue from sticky spilled drinks. Try using a cotton swab dipped in a little cleaning solution to reach those difficult areas. <h2>Wipe windows</h2> Spray a window cleaner solution on windows and wipe clean with a paper towel or microfibre cloth. You can also mix one cup of water, two tablespoons of vinegar and one cup or rubbing alcohol for an effective homemade window cleaner. <h2>Attack stains</h2> If there are stains on the seats or on the carpet (and we guarantee there will be, especially if you have kids!) try this homemade solution. In a spray bottle mix two cups of water, one cup of vinegar and about a tablespoon of dish soap. Spray on the stains and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then wipe clean with a wet cloth. If the stain persists, try a stain remover. Spot-test in an inconspicuous area to make sure the upholstery fabric is colourfast. <h2>Remove pet hair</h2> If you have a dog, you know the pain of dealing with pet hair in the car. If the vacuum doesn’t remove all the fur, try using a rubber-dipped glove. Simply brush the hair away with your hand, and it sticks to the glove like magic! To protect your car’s interior from any future pet damage, try a waterproof seat protector. <h2>Get into crevices</h2> Grab a paint stirrer or two next time at you’re at the hardware store. Wrap an end with a microfibre cloth and use the stick to get into those hard-to-reach areas between the seats and around the centre console. <h2>Freshen up</h2> Create a homemade car freshener with one cup of baking soda and five drops of your favourite essential oil. Place both the soda and oil in a sealable plastic bag or glass jar for 24 hours. Then shake it up, sprinkle on the car’s floor and let it sit for 20 minutes. When the time has passed, vacuum up the baking soda. The scent will linger, making your car smell fresh and clean! Image credit: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/food-home-garden/home-tips/10-tips-for-cleaning-your-cars-interior" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home Hints & Tips

Neglected pre-war car up for sale after miracle restoration

A 1939 MG VA, initially purchased as a stripped bare shell of itself, is heading for auction. When the pre-war vehicle sold for only a few hundred dollars, it wasn’t asking for much - most likely because it wasn’t offering a whole lot either. Missing entire doors and rusting in more than one place, the car left a lot to be desired. Its original owner had tucked it away in the garage after the MG failed an MOT in 1969 - an annual test in the United Kingdom to verify a vehicle’s safety. Although they’d intended to restore it, those plans never came to fruition, with the car learning a hard lesson in dust bunnies instead. 45 years later, it finally got the chance to see the light of day again, with its next owner snatching it up from a family friend at a ‘bargain’ price. And to everyone’s delight, the vehicle finally got the makeover it had been waiting almost half a century for. The owner - who has requested anonymity - even performed the bulk of the work by themself, although they left the engine overhaul and respray to the professionals. The hard work produced some spectacular results, and with the car now rolling into auction with an asking price of ~$18,500-$22,2000, its next owner is sure to enjoy all that it has to offer. When the line of MG VAs left production, they sold for up to $650 (or roughly $35,000 in 2023), and only 2,400 of them were ever made. The vehicles were produced alongside the larger SA and WA models, with their smallest-in-the-range 108-inch wheelbases distinguishing them from their counterparts. The VA model was only produced for two years, before the Second World War saw production come to a screeching halt. The MG company itself had been founded in the 1920s, and was renowned for its range of two-seater sports cars. After years of ownership changes, and after it was absorbed into the British Leyland group, the firm - which at that point was known as MG Rover - faced financial difficulty in the early 200s, and by 2005 was forced into receivership. However, the group was then purchased by Nanjing Automobile Group, and resumed its production of vehicles in 2007. In 2011, the MG6 appeared in the market, establishing itself as the first UK model in 16 years. And as for the 1939 VA model heading to auction with Charterhouse, Richard Bromell - who is handling the sale - had one just one thing to note, “to say the MG was bought as a project makes it sound much better than it was as it was in a very sorry state indeed “Thankfully the owner was more than handy with a spanner and undertook a complete restoration of the MG.” Images: Charterhouse Auctioneers & Valuers

Money & Banking

Mother’s car stolen with baby still inside

A woman who suffered injuries while trying to stop an allegedly stolen car with a baby in the backseat said her “blood ran cold” when she realised what was happening. Phone Halson said she and her sister were out for a day at the zoo in Yeppoon, Queensland on April 19, 2023, when the incident occurred. Speaking to Today, Halson said, "As soon as we got out of the car we heard tyres screeching and a woman screaming, so me and my sister ran over. I had my son in my arms,” "At first we saw the baby's capsule laying on the ground and we were thinking, 'Oh my God, this baby has been hit’." She said she and her sister then saw a woman screaming, "They took my baby”. "We are trying to console this mother still in the loading bay where you get your groceries, and the car did, like, a turnaround," she continued. "It has come flying through the exit-way. Me and another woman were still standing there. We were trying to call out, 'Stop, stop, there is a baby, stop', and she wasn't stopping.” Halson said she turned to protect her son, who was still in her arms when she was struck by the car. She revealed she suffered fractured ribs and internal bleeding and went through a two-week recovery period. The allegedly stolen car then returned, and Halson said the mother was “absolutely hysterical”. "It was madness. There were people trying to jump in front of the cars. Some succeeded in getting the baby," she said. "But, yes, some people were just screaming in horror. Other people were crying. There were some chasing after the car. It was absolute madness.” She said it was one of the most terrifying experiences of her life, although added that when the mum was reunited with her baby, it was “beautiful”. "You could see the relief on her face as soon as the woman put that baby in her arms," Halson said. "She just pretty much melted holding that baby.” Fortunately, the baby was left unharmed as the car drove away. Authorities said that around 4 pm that same day, they discovered an allegedly stolen grey Nissan Patrol at Bungundarra, north of Rockhampton, and arrested a 24-year-old woman and a 36-year-old man. The 24-year-old Cobraball woman has been charged with one count each of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, abduction of a child, and driving without a licence. The 36-year-old Mount Morgan man has been charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle. They have both been denied bail and are due to appear in court on April 20. Image credit: Queensland Police

Legal

We were told we’d be riding in self-driving cars by now. What happened to the promised revolution?

According to <a href="https://electrek.co/2015/12/21/tesla-ceo-elon-musk-drops-prediction-full-autonomous-driving-from-3-years-to-2/">predictions</a> <a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2016/09/lyfts-president-says-car-ownership-will-all-but-end-by-2025">made</a> nearly a decade ago, we should be riding around in self-driving vehicles today. It’s now clear the autonomous vehicle revolution was overhyped. Proponents woefully underestimated the technological challenges. It turns out developing a truly driverless vehicle is hard. The other factor driving the hype was the amount of money being invested in autonomous vehicle startups. By 2021, it was estimated more than <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2022/02/04/self-driving-cars-why/">US$100 billion</a> in venture capital had gone into developing the technology. While advances are being made, it is important to understand there are multiple levels of autonomy. Only one is truly driverless. As established by <a href="https://www.sae.org/blog/sae-j3016-update">SAE International</a>, the levels are: <ul> <li> level 0 — the driver has to undertake all driving tasks </li> <li> level 1, hands on/shared control — vehicle has basic driver-assist features such as cruise control and lane-keeping </li> <li> level 2, hands off – vehicle has advanced driver-assist features such as emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, auto park assist and traffic-jam assist </li> <li> level 3, eyes off — vehicle drives itself some of the time </li> <li> level 4, mind off — vehicle drives itself most of the time </li> <li> level 5, steering wheel option — vehicle drives itself all the time. </li> </ul> <h2>Why the slow progress?</h2> It’s estimated the technology to deliver safe autonomous vehicles is about <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/mar/27/how-self-driving-cars-got-stuck-in-the-slow-lane">80% developed</a>. The last 20% is increasingly difficult. It will take a lot more time to perfect. Challenges yet to be resolved involve unusual and rare events that can happen along any street or highway. They include weather, wildlife crossing the road, and highway construction. Another set of problems has emerged since <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/simonmainwaring/2022/08/22/cruise-ride-hailing-goes-green-and-driverless/?sh=6a7439376843">Cruise</a> and <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/19/23467784/waymo-provide-fully-driverless-rides-san-francisco-california">Waymo</a> launched their autonomous ride-hailing services in San Francisco. The US National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2022/12/16/cruises-autonomous-driving-tech-comes-under-scrutiny-from-safety-regulators/">opened an investigation</a> in December 2022, only six months after the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/jun/03/california-driverless-taxi-cars-san-francisco">services were approved</a>. It cited incidents where these vehicles “may have engaged in inappropriately hard braking or became immobilized”. The San Francisco County Transportation Authority <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/01/technology/self-driving-taxi-san-francisco.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stated</a>, "[I]n the months since the initial approval of autonomous taxi services in June 2022, Cruise AVs have made unplanned and unexpected stops in travel lanes, where they obstruct traffic and transit service and intrude into active emergency response scenes, including fire suppression scenes, creating additional hazardous conditions." In several cases, Cruise technicians had to be called to move the vehicles. <h2>What’s happening now?</h2> Active autonomous vehicle initiatives can be grouped into two categories: ride-hailing services (Cruise, Waymo and Uber) and sales to the public (Tesla). Cruise is a subsidiary of General Motors founded in 2013. As of September 2022, it operated 100 robotaxis in San Francisco and had plans to increase its fleet to 5,000. Critics said this would increase city traffic. Cruise also began to offer services in Chandler (a Phoenix suburb), Arizona, and Austin, Texas, in December 2022. Waymo, formerly the Google Self-Driving Car Project, was founded in January 2009. The company lost <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/11/23453262/waymo-av-driverless-taxi-phoenix-california-dmv-progress">US$4.8 billion in 2020 and US$5.2 billion in 2021</a>. Waymo One provides autonomous ride-hailing services in <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2023/2/28/23617278/waymo-self-driving-driverless-crashes-av">Phoenix as well as San Francisco</a>. It plans to expand into <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/10/19/23410677/waymo-los-angeles-autonomous-robotaxi-service-launch">Los Angeles</a> this year. Uber was a major force in autonomous vehicle development as part of its business plan was to replace human drivers. However, it ran into problems, including a crash in March 2018 when a self-driving Uber killed a woman walking her bicycle across a street in Tempe, Arizona. In 2020, Arizona Uber sold its AV research division to Aurora Innovation. But in October 2022 Uber got back into autonomous vehicles by <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2022/10/06/motional-and-uber-announce-10-year-deal-to-deploy-automated-vehicles-in-multiple-us-markets/?sh=44d83a84273e">signing a deal</a> with Motional, a joint venture between Hyundai and Aptiv. Motional will provide autonomous vehicles for Uber’s ride-hailing and delivery services. Lyft, the second-largest ride-sharing company after Uber, operates in the US and Canada. Like Uber, Lyft had a self-driving unit and in 2016, Lyft co-founder John Zimmer <a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2016/09/lyfts-president-says-car-ownership-will-all-but-end-by-2025">predicted</a> that by 2021 the majority of rides on its network would be in such vehicles (and private car ownership would “all but end” by 2025). It didn’t happen. By 2021, Lyft had also <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2021/04/26/lyft-sells-self-driving-unit-to-toyotas-woven-planet-for-550m/">sold its self-driving vehicle unit</a>, to Toyota. In 2022, Zimmer <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2022/10/20/lyft-co-founder-says-autonomous-vehicles-wont-replace-drivers-for-at-least-a-decade/">said</a> the technology would not replace drivers for at least a decade. However, Lyft did partner with Motional in August 2022 to launch <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lyft-and-motional-deliver-the-first-rides-in-motionals-new-all-electric-ioniq-5-autonomous-vehicle-301606519.html">robotaxis in Las Vegas</a> and <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/lyft-motional-launch-robotaxi-service-los-angeles-2022-11-17/">Los Angeles</a>. Telsa is the <a href="https://www.ev-volumes.com/">world leader in sales</a> of battery electric vehicles. It also purports to sell vehicles with full automation. However, by the end of 2022, no level 3, 4 or 5 vehicles were for sale in the United States. What Telsa offers is a full self-driving system as a US$15,000 option. Buyers acknowledge they are buying a beta version and assume all risks. If the system malfunctions, Telsa does not accept any responsibility. In February 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration <a href="https://amp.theguardian.com/technology/2023/feb/16/tesla-recall-full-self-driving-cars">found</a>, "[Fully self-driving] beta software that allows a vehicle to exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash." This led to Tesla <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2023/feb/16/tesla-recall-full-self-driving-cars">recalling 362,000 vehicles</a> to update the software. Another setback for autonomous vehicle sales to the public was the October 2022 announcement that Ford and VW had decided to <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2022/10/26/ford-vw-backed-argo-ai-is-shutting-down/">stop funding autonomous driving technology company Argo AI</a>, resulting in its closure. Both Ford and VW decided to shift their focus from level 4 automation to levels 2 and 3. <h2>So, what can we expect next?</h2> Autonomous vehicle development will continue, but with less hype. It’s being recognised as more an evolutionary process than a revolutionary one. The increasing cost of capital will also make it harder for autonomous vehicle startups to get development funds. The areas that appear to be making the best progress are autonomous ride-hailing and heavy vehicles. Self-driving car sales to the public are <a href="https://www.drive.com.au/news/level-4-self-driving-technology-mercedes-benz/">further down the track</a>. This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/we-were-told-wed-be-riding-in-self-driving-cars-by-now-what-happened-to-the-promised-revolution-201088" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Images: Getty

Technology

Dick Van Dyke injured in car crash

Dick Van Dyke has suffered "minor injuries" after being involved in a car crash in California. The 97-year-old actor's silver Lexus collided with a gate in Malibu on Wednesday, as police officers were called to the scene of the collision. A spokesman for the Malibu Police Department confirmed to CNN that Van Dyke had suffered "minor injuries" in the crash. Other reports claim the actor was bleeding from the nose and mouth after the incident, as he was reportedly treated by paramedics at the scene, but not taken to hospital. The crash comes just weeks after Van Dyke, who is preparing to celebrate his 98th birthday, became the oldest contestant to appear on The Masked Singer. On the show, Van Dyke performed Frank Sinatra's When You're Smiling, which his wife, Arlene Silver, helped him pick. "They wanted me to do something current and I know nothing from rock," Van Dyke told People at the time. "So we picked out one which typifies me. She's the one that came up with it and I liked the song, too." The Hollywood legend recently <a href="https://oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/relationships/dick-van-dyke-reveals-the-secret-to-feeling-young-at-98" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spoke out</a> about defying the ageing process in an interview with Yahoo, saying there are four key things that help him maintain his youthful vigour and zest for life. Firstly, he credited his good genes for helping him stay young later in life. Secondly, the actor said that his 51-year-old wife, Arlene Silver, was instrumental in helping him feel young. “Having a beautiful young wife half my age to take care of me (helps),” the actor gushed over his spouse of 11 years. Van Dyke also added that a “positive attitude” was key to keeping healthy, stating, “I get that from my wife.” Image credits: Getty Images

News

"He’s a very proud dad": Unearthed snap of Michael Schumacher stuns fans

Max Verstappen has shared never been seen photos of Michael Schumacher with the world. The back-to-back Formula 1 world champion is currently preparing to secure a third straight crown for Red Bull in 2023. Before the season begins, F1 fans are being treated to a sneak peek behind the curtain as Netflix’s smash hit Drive to Survive releases its fifth season. Verstappen is heavily featured throughout episode four of the new season, which was released globally on February 24, focusing primarily on former Haas driver Mick Schumacher. The episode, titled Like Father, Like Son?, brings to light the struggles the famous young racer endured before he was let go by the Haas team. However, it's Verstappen who once again steals the show as he shares what it was like to grow up alongside the Schumacher family. Max’s father, Jos, was teammates with Michael at Benetton, with an old interview filmed in the 2000s showing the pair being asked if they would let their kids become F1 drivers. “I think this could be the first time we have an argument if our two would be racing,” says the German. It’s what came next that stole the hearts of many, leaving F1 fans stunned. As Max talks about the relationship between the two families, a clip of Max as a toddler interacting with Michael is played before a never been seen photo flashes on the screen. “We used to go on holidays when we were little together, the two families, and these kind of memories will stay with me,” explains Max, who is now a 35-time race winner in F1. “For both of us to be in F1 is amazing and also for Michael, he’s a very proud dad for sure.” The image shows Michael sitting on a hanging chair with baby Max on one knee and his daughter, Gina-Maria, on the other. Mick was replaced by F1 journeyman Nico Hulkenberg and will have to sit out 2023 as a reserve driver at Mercedes behind Sir Lewis Hamilton and his teammate George Russell. Drive to Survive charts Mick’s difficult sophomore season in 2022, including his horror 170mph incident in Saudi Arabia. Mick’s rough year saw him outscored by his teammate, the returning Danish veteran Kevin Magnussen. The Netflix series focuses on Mick’s struggles and the pressure that came with racing under the Schumacher name. “Mick has the lineage of one of the greatest drivers the sport has ever seen,” said F1 journalist Will Buxton. “But it remains to be seen if he has the same character as his dad.” Haas boss Steiner said the Schumacher name was a “blessing and a curse” for Mick. But in characteristically non-nonsense fashion, the famously foul-mouthed team principal says at some point the young German will have “stand up” and be his “own man”. Mick outlines the struggles surrounding pressure on the show, including the admission “dreams don’t always come true”. His dad is one of the most renowned F1 drivers of all time, rising to power in the 90s and going on to dominate the sport by the early 2000s. He raced from 1991 to 2006 and again from 2010 to 2012, a second act of his racing career which became instrumental in setting up the dominant Mercedes team. The German won five world championships with Ferrari and two for Benetton. Schumacher retired in 2012, but a year later, he was involved in a life-changing skiing accident while on the slopes with Mick. He was left in a medically induced coma before being sent home, and no further information has been revealed since the incident. His family, led by his wife Corinna, protect Michael’s privacy and offer him a quiet life. There have only been hints and cryptic rumours about Schumacher’s health, with information being drip-fed by friends and anonymous sources. Image credit: Getty/Netflix

Family & Pets

Arnold Schwarzenegger allegedly hit cyclist with his car

Arnold Schwarzenegger has allegedly been involved in a car accident that resulted in a woman being sent to hospital. The former California governor, 75, reportedly struck a woman on Sunday who was riding a bike with his car after she swerved into his lane, according to <a href="https://www.tmz.com/2023/02/05/arnold-schwarzenegger-involved-bicyclist-traffic-accident-not-at-fault/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TMZ</a>. A spokesperson for the Los Angeles police department could not immediately confirm the accident to the <a href="https://pagesix.com/2023/02/05/arnold-schwarzenegger-involved-in-car-accident-report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">New York Post</a>, although police sources told TMZ that Schwarzenegger was not to blame for the accident. The source said Schwarzenegger, who is an avid cyclist himself, was not able to avoid the unidentified victim in the crash after the woman made a left turn in front of Schwarzenegger's vehicle before he could hit his brakes to come to a stop. The actor was reportedly co-operating with officers at the scene in West Los Angeles, while the cyclist was taken to hospital with minor injuries. Schwarzenegger also allegedly took the woman's bike to a local shop to repair the damage it sustained from the collision. An investigation into the incident is still ongoing, while reps for Schwarzenegger have yet to comment on the crash. The Austrian-born actor has had a run of bad luck with motor vehicle accidents lately. In January 2022, Schwarzenegger was involved in a multi-car crash in Brentwood, California. Schwarzenegger walked away from that crash seemingly uninjured, but another person involved sustained a head injury. Sources said at the time that the star was “deeply concerned” about the woman and intended to personally check up on her. Image credits: Getty Images

News

Car safety travel tips for pets

Any pet owner will tell you their furry companion is part of the family, so it’s no surprise that pets are increasingly joining in on family holidays. If you’re travelling by car, though, it’s not as simple as loading your pet into the vehicle. Car safety is just as important to animals as it is to us humans. Here are some tips to ensure you have a safe and smooth car tip with your pet. Familiarise them If you’re planning a long car trip and your pet has never been in a car, take them on short rides before the getaway. This will familiarise them with a moving vehicles as well as the sounds of an engine. It will also let you see how your pet copes. While most animals are fine, some do suffer from anxiety or motion sickness. If that is the case, talk to your veterinarian. Secure your pet Just like us, animals need to be restrained in cars. Keep your pooch in the backseat and make sure they are secured with a harness that attaches to the seatbelt. Don’t restrain the collar, though, as it could injure your dog in the event of an accident. For cats, keep them in a well-ventilated carrier or crate secured to the seat. No windows While your pooch might love the feeling of whipping air, letting their face hang outside the window can be very dangerous. Flying road debris can be caught up in ears, eyes and mouth. Don’t leave your pet alone Never ever leave your pet alone in the car. The temperature on a hot or cold day can skyrocket or plummet dramatically. Bring ID Animals are excitable in unknown surroundings so make sure your dog or cat is wearing their ID and an extra tag with your contact information. No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen so make sure you are prepared. Keep hydrated Bring along a fresh supply of water to keep your pet hydrated on long car trips. No food Don’t feed your pet during the car ride as it can upset their tummies, and you wouldn’t want any unpleasantness during a car trip! As a general rule, feed them a light meal around three hours before the car ride. Entertain them Bringing along their favourite toy or blanket will not only comfort them but keep them busy and distracted. Image credits: Getty Images

Travel Tips

Laser hack of self-driving cars can ‘delete’ pedestrians

Although a city filled with entirely self-driving cars is still in the realm of science fiction, more and more cars are <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_Autopilot" target="_blank" rel="noopener">coming with ‘self-driving’ features so</a> it’s a little alarming to learn that there are ways to use lasers to mess with the technology the cars use to detect its surroundings. <a href="https://arxiv.org/abs/2210.09482" target="_blank" rel="noopener">In a study uploaded to arXiv</a> by a team of researchers in the US and Japan, researchers were able to trick the ‘victim vehicle’ (their words not ours) into not seeing a pedestrian or other object in its way. Most self-driving cars use LIDAR to be able to ‘see’ around them by sending out a laser light and then recording the reflection from objects in the area. The time it takes for the light to reflect back gives the system information about how far away the object is. This new ‘hack’ or spoof works because a perfectly timed laser shined onto a LIDAR system can create a blind spot large enough to hide an object like a pedestrian. “We mimic the LIDAR reflections with our laser to make the sensor discount other reflections that are coming in from genuine obstacles,” <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/969698" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said University of Florida cyber security researcher professor Sara Rampazzi.</a> “The LIDAR is still receiving genuine data from the obstacle, but the data are automatically discarded because our fake reflections are the only one perceived by the sensor.” <div class="newsletter-box"> <div id="wpcf7-f6-p221287-o1" class="wpcf7" dir="ltr" lang="en-US" role="form"> </div> </div> Although the technology is relatively simple, the attack isn’t an easy one. The team demonstrated the attack up to 10 meters away from the car, but the device must be perfectly timed, and move with the car to be able to keep the laser pointing the right way. The researchers have already told manufacturers about this potential exploit and have suggested ways to be able to minimise the problem. Manufacturers might be able to teach the software to look for the tell-tale signatures of the spoofed reflections added by the laser attack. “Revealing this liability allows us to build a more reliable system,” <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/969698" target="_blank" rel="noopener">said first author, University of Michigan computer scientist Yulong Cao.</a> “In our paper, we demonstrate that previous defence strategies aren’t enough, and we propose modifications that should address this weakness.” This unfortunately isn’t the first time that researchers have found <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/news/tricking-driverless-car-sensors/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">vulnerabilities with LIDAR sensors on self-driving cars</a>, but as more of these problems are uncovered and fixed, the technology will hopefully end up safer in the long run. The research is to be presented next year at the <a href="https://www.usenix.org/conference/usenixsecurity23" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2023 USENIX Security Symposium</a>. <img id="cosmos-post-tracker" style="opacity: 0; height: 1px!important; width: 1px!important; border: 0!important; position: absolute!important; z-index: -1!important;" src="https://syndication.cosmosmagazine.com/?id=221287&title=Laser+hack+of+self-driving+cars+can+%E2%80%98delete%E2%80%99+pedestrians" width="1" height="1" /> <div id="contributors"> <a href="https://cosmosmagazine.com/technology/laser-hack-lidar-self-driving-cars-delete-pedestrians/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">This article</a> was originally published on Cosmos Magazine and was written by Jacinta Bowler. Image: Getty Images </div>

Technology

Car crash claims the life of TV icon Leslie Jordan

TV actor and social media sensation Leslie Jordan has died at the age of 67. The Will & Grace star crashed his BMW into the side of a building in Los Angeles on Monday morning, local time, with the New York Post reporting that he suffered from a medical emergency while behind the wheel. In a statement shared with the Post, Jordan’s manager confirmed the heartbreaking news. “The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan,” his manager said. “Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of its most difficult times. “What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner and human being. “Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.” The 4’11” star rose to fame on television screens in the 1990s, with roles in Reasonable Doubts, Ally McBeal, Boston Legal, and Judging Amy, as well as guest appearances on Dharma & Greg, Ellen, and Caroline in the City. He became best-known for his comedic roles, including his starring role in the show Hearts Afire and as sassy socialite Beverly Leslie in Will & Grace, with his humour earning him fame and 5.8 million followers on social media during the pandemic. His fame earned him a spot on CNN’s New Year’s Eve 2021 countdown, where he rang in the new year with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CkG-tMgOI-y/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CkG-tMgOI-y/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Leslie Jordan (@thelesliejordan)</a> </div> </blockquote> Jordan’s Instagram account, where he shared clips of himself singing gospel hymns and humorous stories about Hollywood, shared the news of Jordan’s passing and encouraged fans to “comfort each other” and share their memories of the actor. “The love and light that Leslie shared will never go out and we invite you to share your memories and comfort each other during this time,” the post read. “In the coming days we will be giving a glimpse of a project Leslie was really proud of and was looking forward to sharing with the world.” The star, who released his memoir How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well-Lived last year, was raised as a Southern Baptist and was openly gay, being widely revered as a queer icon. Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1955, Jordan previously said he struggled growing up in a traditional family and conservative city, though he was supported by his beloved mother, Betty. He moved to Los Angeles in 1982 to pursue a career in showbiz, but soon became involved in drugs and alcohol and had been arrested several times by his mid-20s. Overcoming his addictions by the 1990s, Jordan’s TV career quickly blossomed. Jordan’s role in Will & Grace during the 2000s, which he reprised during the show’s reboot in 2017, earned him an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series in 2006. In the wake of his death, his co-stars and others in Hollywood were among the first to pay tribute. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> My heart is broken. Leslie Jordan was one of the funniest people I ever had the pleasure of working with. Everyone who ever met him, loved him. There will never be anyone like him. A unique talent with an enormous, caring heart. You will be missed, my dear friend. 😔❤️ <a href="https://t.co/RNKSamoES0">pic.twitter.com/RNKSamoES0</a> — Sean Hayes (@SeanHayes) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanHayes/status/1584620699473563648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2022</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Crushed to learn about the loss of <a href="https://twitter.com/thelesliejordan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thelesliejordan</a>, the funniest & flirtiest southern gent I’ve ever known. The joy and laughter he brought to every one of his <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WillandGrace?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WillandGrace</a> episodes was palpable. Gone about thirty years too soon. You were loved, sweet man. 💔 — Eric McCormack (@EricMcCormack) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricMcCormack/status/1584614461511413760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2022</a></blockquote> “Crushed to learn about the loss of Leslie Jordan, the funniest & flirtiest southern gent I’ve ever known. The joy and laughter he brought to every one of his #WillandGrace episodes was palpable. Gone about thirty years too soon. You were loved, sweet man. 💔” Eric McCormack, who played Will Truman on Will & Grace tweeted. “My heart is broken. Leslie Jordan was one of the funniest people I ever had the pleasure of working with. Everyone who ever met him, loved him,” fellow Will & Grace actor Sean Hayes wrote. “There will never be anyone like him. A unique talent with an enormous, caring heart. You will be missed, my dear friend 😔❤️.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> I am stunned at the death of Leslie Jordan, who delighted us with his many roles on television and film. The cause of death was a car crash after he suffered a medical emergency. Leslie, we are heartbroken at your loss and will miss your mirth and your inimitable spirit. — George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) <a href="https://twitter.com/GeorgeTakei/status/1584612609956884481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2022</a></blockquote> Star Trek actor George Takei paid tribute to Jordan for delighting viewers with his roles, writing: “Leslie, we are heartbroken at your loss and will miss your mirth and your inimitable spirit.” Image: @thereallesliejordan (Instagram)

News

Tips for buying a second hand car

If you’re not a car expert, buying a used car can be tricky. Here’s a few simple tips to make the process easier. Second hand or used cars are an affordable option when you’re looking to purchase a vehicle that will get you from A to B. However, if you’re not a car expert, it can be difficult to determine if the pre-loved vehicle you’re buying is reliable and trusty, or will need extensive repair work to make it roadworthy. Having said that, you can buy a used car without having studied exactly what makes a car run. Your insurance company won’t cover the costs of damage that was already on the vehicle when you purchased it. These costs will need to be covered by you. It’s for this reason that it’s important to do a thorough check of the vehicle, both internally and externally, before buying it. Follow these basic guidelines to help ensure you buy a gem and not a lemon. Take a sniff “The first thing to do is check the interior of the car really closely,” says David Skapinker from over 50s insurer, Apia. “If there has ever been water damage to a car it might only show under the carpeting, but ultimately it could lead to rust issues. What we suggest is to take a bit of a sniff around the car. It sounds funny but the water damage may actually show itself as a musty smell. “We would also suggest people check for things like scuffing, loose trimming and upholstery tears. Basically, anything that is considered pre-existing damage to when you take out an insurance policy won’t be covered by that policy, so the costs to repair that really will be up to you.” Don’t forget the boot Another key area to check is the car’s boot. Take a look inside the boot to check if the vehicle has any internal damage, which could be the result of a previous incident. “If the car you’re buying has had a rear-end accident the external damage may have been fixed, but it’s very hard to fix the internal damage easily,” Mr Skapinker explains. “Take a good look at the exterior very closely too. If panels are slightly different colours, this might mean that damage from an accident has been repaired. There may be nothing wrong with that, but it’s worth getting an independent check of the quality of past repairs before you commit to buying the vehicle.” Check for rusting, small scratches and dents, and if you’re happy to live with these, then go ahead with your purchase. However, if you’re hoping to get these fixed, keep in mind a new insurance policy wouldn’t cover it as pre-existing damage is not included. . Getting mechanical From the boot to the bonnet, it’s important to check the mechanics of the car as well. “If you are someone who is comfortable taking a look under the bonnet, common things to look out for are blocks or wear and tear around the carburettor, fuel injector, timing belts and spark plugs,” Mr Skapinker says. “For those who wouldn’t know where the carburettor is located, there are companies you can get in touch with who send out independent inspectors to thoroughly check the vehicle for you.” After giving your potential purchase an inspection, take it for a test drive as this is one of the most important steps in purchasing a second hand car. When you’re taking the car for a spin around the block, check the wheel alignment is not pulling the vehicle to the left or right, ensure the tyres and brakes work properly and that there are no odd sounds coming from under the bonnet. “Listen out for sounds like knocks and rattles,” Mr Skapinker says.“This can be a good indicator that something may be wrong.” Remember, this is a large purchase so take your time before making a decision. Be prepared in knowing what you want, what to look out for and what your limits are.

Money & Banking

Five things to keep in your car's glove box

Whether it’s a long drive to visit family or a quick trip to the local shopping centre, your car should always be equipped with a few essential items. Does your car have all of these items? While many of today’s new cars feature the latest gadgets and technologies for comfort and safety, many don’t come with other useful everyday items which are vital in case of emergency or an unforseen event. For example, a flashlight would come in handy if you need to change a tyre in the evening or an in-car phone charger for when your battery has gone flat. By storing these types of essential items in your glove box, you’ll always be prepared for when life takes an unexpected turn. 1. Important documents wallet One item that should always be stored away in the glove box is a plastic folder or wallet with your vehicle documents, such as owner’s manual, emergency contact numbers and proof of insurance. A spare pen and paper will also come in handy. The owner’s manual should always be left in the car so you never lose it and should be the first point of reference for when experiencing car trouble. 2. Plastic bags and tissues You would be surprised at the number of times you’ll need a plastic bag or some tissues. There could be a spill, a car mess or a passenger may not be feeling well. All good reasons for keeping a few plastic bags handy. The same can be said for tissues or wet wipes, which will be useful if your hands get greasy from having to change a tyre or lift up the hood of the car to check the oil and water levels. 3. First aid kit Always a good inclusion no matter where you go. A basic first aid kit can be purchased from your local pharmacy. Along with the basic contents, such as bandages, antiseptic cream or solution, and a pair of tweezers, make sure you include any items specific to you. If your first aid kit won’t fit in the glove box, pop it under the front passenger seat so it’s easily accessible, if needed. 4. Torch For long trips, it’s a good idea to have a torch stowed away. You never know when you might need to change a tyre or inspect your vehicle for unusual sounds that might occur whilst driving at night. A small LED flashlight would do the trick – and remember to keep a spare pack of batteries in the glove box too. 5. Mobile phone charger Back in the days before we all had mobile phones, we actually remembered phone numbers! However, nowadays, many of us have these important digits stored away in our phones. This makes having a spare phone charger very important, especially when you need to contact someone and your phone has run out of battery. There are phone car charges which you can plug into the power outlet in your car to then charge the battery on your mobile phone. Image: Getty Images

Home & Garden

Hero dad coward-punched while trying to rescue car crash victim

A 63-year-old father is fighting for his life after being coward-punched in the head while helping a teen in a car accident. Rob Seddon rushed to help a 17-year-old who crashed his Toyota Corolla into a caravan outside his home on Skyhawk Ave in Hamlyn Terrace on the Central Coast around 10pm on Saturday. Along with other neighbours, Mr Seddon assisted the teen before they were ambushed by a group of males who attacked them. Mr Seddon was allegedly hit from the back on the head which caused him to fall backwards, hit his head and lose consciousness. He was flown to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition where he underwent brain surgery and remains in intensive care in a coma. Mr Seddon’s 21-year-old son was also allegedly attacked and suffered a broken nose. “I could hear the sheer horrible noises from this guy that was being hurt, I had tears in my eyes, I knew it was bad,” neighbour Diane Gardner told Nine News. “It was absolutely horrible. You could hear his pain and he wanted help.” Police are asking anyone with information about the alleged attackers to come forward. The 17-year-old driver who crashed into Mr Seddon’s caravan was breathalysed at the scene and returned a positive blood-alcohol reading. He was then charged with negligent driving and drink-driving on P-plates. Images: Nine News

Caring

Chilling note reveals Princess Diana may have predicted her fatal car crash

Two years before the car crash that claimed the life of Princess Diana, the royal predicted she would "either end up dead or be seriously injured" in a car accident that "could be staged". The eerie revelation, which became known as the "Mishcon Note", is discussed in detail in the upcoming docuseries, The Diana Investigations, of which <a href="https://pagesix.com/2022/08/17/princess-diana-predicted-fatal-car-crash-in-chilling-note/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Beast </a>obtained a preview. In October 1995, Diana requested a private meeting with her personal legal adviser, Victor Mishcon, allegedly to “tell him about something that was on her mind.” Mishcon took diligent notes during their conversation, in which Diana allegedly said “reliable sources,” whom she refused to name, had informed her “that a car accident might be staged.” Diana apparently predicted she would “either end up dead or be seriously injured.” Two years later, in August 1997, Diana died after her driver Henri Paul slammed their Mercedes into a pillar at 104km/h in Paris’ Pont de l’Alma tunnel. Paul was under the influence of alcohol and prescription drugs, but he was also trying to dodge the relentless paparazzi, who were trailing them on motorcycles. According to the experts in the docuseries, Mishcon gave the notes of his meeting with Diana to the London’s Metropolitan Police commissioner at the time, Sir Paul Condon. It wasn’t until after Condon’s successor, John Stevens, assumed the commissioner role that the public found out about the note, as Condon had locked it away in a safe. “When the coroner announced his inquest, I made sure that letter was immediately given to the royal coroner, who at that time was Michael Burgess and then subsequently became Lord Justice Scott Baker,” Lord Stevens told Daily Beast. “I saw Lord Mishcon about a month before he died, in about the spring of 2005, and he held course to the fact that he thought [Diana] was paranoid, and he hadn’t held much credence to [the note].” Image credits: Getty Images

Ellen DeGeneres’ frosty response to ex’s car crash

Ellen DeGeneres has commented on ex Anne Heche’s horrifying incident which has landed her in a coma. The 53-year-old actress was reportedly driving at an extraordinary 140km/h when she crashed her Mini Cooper into a house in Los Angeles. Her <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/new-details-of-actor-anne-heche-s-fiery-crash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">car burst into flames</a> and Anne was pulled out, suffering severe burns and has since ended up in a coma. Anne’s ex, talk show legend Ellen, was inquired about the incident and asked if she has spoken to her. “No, I have not. We’re not in touch with each other, so I wouldn’t know,” she responded, <a href="https://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/ellens-cold-response-to-ex-anne-heches-horror-car-crash/news-story/e58a3fbbd62c457c1e050a0206a70e55" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a> reported. Ellen was then asked if she had any well wishes for her former partner to which she just responded with a, “Sure, I don’t want anyone to be hurt”. The crash is <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/health/caring/actress-fighting-for-her-life-after-horror-car-crash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">currently being investigated</a> by the LAPD who have confirmed that if Anne is found to have been drunk she would face significant charges. "If found intoxicated, [Heche] could be charged with misdemeanour DUI hit and run. No arrests have been made so far,” a representative said. Anne’s representative has confirmed that she is in an “extreme critical condition”. “She has a significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention,” her representative said. “She is in a coma and has not regained consciousness since shortly after the accident.” Anne and Ellen made their relationship public on the red carpet for the movie premiere of Volcanoes back in 1997. However, Anne was told she would lose her contract if she appeared with Ellen, who was also advised to appear alone. The pair did not adhere to what they were asked to do and instead showed up on the red carpet but were reportedly kicked out before the movie ended. Their relationship lasted three-and-a-half years before they broke it off and within hours, Anne was spotted at a stranger's house which saw the police called. She also had a public breakdown amid the break-up. Images: Getty

Caring

Actress fighting for her life after horror car crash

US actress Anne Heche is fighting for her life following a <a href="https://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/new-details-of-actor-anne-heche-s-fiery-crash" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fiery car crash</a> in Los Angeles. The 53-year-old crashed her Mini Cooper into a house at a great speed, and was subsequently hospitalised with severe burns. According to the New York Post, the star is reportedly in a "critical condition". A spokesperson for Heche told the Post, "Shortly after the accident, Anne Heche became unconscious, slipping into a coma." They explained that Heche, who also crashed into an apartment garage earlier in the day, suffered "significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention". The Post also reported that the Los Angeles Police Department received a warrant to test the actress' blood, as they worked to determine if the crash was a result of drugs and alcohol. According to the Post, a representative for the LAPD confirmed the warrant was "obtained the same day as the traffic collision, which was August 5. The warrant was to draw blood, and an investigation is ongoing pending the blood test results." "If found intoxicated, [Heche] could be charged with misdemeanour DUI hit and run. No arrests have been made so far." Witnesses to Heche's first crash tried to help the star out of the vehicle, but she allegedly backed up and drove off before crashing into another home where her car became "engulfed" in flames. Aerial shots from the accident show smoke billowing out of the home she crashed into while photos from the scene capture Heche being put on a stretcher before being taken to hospital. Image credits: Getty Images

Caring

A heated steering wheel for $20 a month? What’s driving the subscriptions economy

From gym memberships to music and movies, to razors, toilet paper, meal kits and clothes, there’s seemingly no place the subscription economy can’t go. Having conquered the software market – where it gets its own acronym, SaaS (Software as a Service) – the subscription model is now moving into hardware. Car makers are among the first cabs off the rank, using software to turn on and off optional extras. German auto maker BMW is offering “<a href="https://www.theverge.com/2022/7/12/23204950/bmw-subscriptions-microtransactions-heated-seats-feature" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in-car microtransactions</a>” to access options for car buyers in Britain, Korea, Germany, New Zealand and South Africa. A heated steering wheel, for example, has a monthly cost of NZ$20 in New Zealand, and £10 in the UK. Other markets <a href="https://www.drive.com.au/news/bmw-australia-monthly-subscriptions-detailed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">including Australia</a> will soon follow. In the UK, seven of 13 “digital services” – from heated seats to automatic high beam and driving assistance – are now available in subscription form. “Welcome to microtransaction hell” is how <a href="https://www.pcgamer.com/welcome-to-microtransaction-hell-buy-a-bmw-pay-monthly-for-the-cars-features/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one headline</a> put it. But that’s probably overselling the onset of a corporate dystopia where “you will own nothing”. BMW’s motives are pretty straightforward – as is most of what’s driving the subscription economy. What is the subscription model? The subscription model means paying a fee for periodical access to a service or product. Until a decade or so ago, it was largely confined to a few select industries, such as the delivery of milk, newspapers and magazines. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=400&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474494/original/file-20220718-68552-hvzp5p.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=503&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="From milk and magazines, subscription services have proliferated with digital technology." /><figcaption>From milk and magazines, subscription services have proliferated with digital technology. Shutterstock</figcaption></figure> Other business models had similarities – such as rental businesses – but the point of the subscription model was different. It was not about meeting a demand for a service someone only wanted to use temporarily or could not afford to own outright. It was about locking in a continuing relationship, to maximise “customer lifetime value”. As <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/042715/how-do-subscription-business-models-work.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Investopedia puts it</a>, the subscription model’s focus is on customer retention over customer acquisition: <blockquote> In essence, subscription business models focus on the way revenue is made so that a single customer pays multiple payments for prolonged access to a good or service instead of a large upfront one-time price. </blockquote> This in large part explains why subscription services are now being adopted in markets outside their more obvious fit for things such as streaming news and entertainment. In a broad sense, consumers can now be divided into two groups. One group comprises the “transactional shopper”, who interacts with the vendor once or twice, then disappears. The other group comprises customers whose connection and “investment” in the brand is maintained through their subscriptions. <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=338&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/474211/original/file-20220715-24-eopgdo.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=424&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="The subscriptions model emphasises customer retention over customer acquisition." /><figcaption>The subscriptions model emphasises customer retention over customer acquisition. Shutterstock</figcaption></figure> E-commerce and access Part of the growth in the subscription economy has come from companies riding the e-commerce wave, delivering goods such as meal kits, wine, coffee, baby supplies, pet food, cleaning products, razors and toilet paper. Consultant firm McKinsey has estimated the subscription e-commerce market is <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/technology-media-and-telecommunications/our-insights/thinking-inside-the-subscription-box-new-research-on-ecommerce-consumers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">doubling in value</a> every year – though that was before the pandemic. It could be well be more now. The other part of the market is represented by BMW’s approach, offering extra features to customers that can only be accessed for a fee. In some cases this may involve standard “upsell” techniques. For example, when you buy a new Peloton exercise bike you’ll be enticed with <a href="https://www.onepeloton.com.au/membership" target="_blank" rel="noopener">subscription offers</a>, such as virtual classes and “customised” training programs, to “reach your goals”. Or increasingly, as with BMW’s heated seats and steering wheels, it can be done with software turning actual bits of hardware on or off. What is BMW’s game? Is BMW’s purpose to gouge its customers for more money through getting them to pay an ongoing fee for something instead of owning it outright? This is not what its subscription structure indicates. The opposite, in fact. Customers can still buy these options outright. A heated steering wheel in the UK, for example, costs <a href="https://www.bmw.co.uk/en/shop/ls/dp/Steering_Wheel_Heating_SFA_gb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">£200</a>, and in New Zealand <a href="https://www.bmw.co.nz/en/shop/ls/dp/Steering_Wheel_Heating_SFA_nz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NZ$350</a>. But now they can also pay a subscription – for three years (£150, NZ$250), annually (£100, NZ$250) or monthly (£10, NZ$20). These prices represent a strong signal – that the cost of outright ownership is the most economical. It’s unlikely BMW expects anyone to sign up for the annual or three-yearly options. These are probably just to make the outright cost look more attractive. The monthly offering, on the other hand, may lure owners to try out a feature they would otherwise have rejected buying outright at the time of purchase. Indeed, car makers argue the reason they offer so many options as extras is because most owners don’t want them. So this mostly looks like BMW offering a “try before you buy” option. The pitfalls of over-subscribing That said, companies don’t need to have sinister motives for us to have concerns about the spread of the subscription model. The more things we pay for with “micro-payments”, the harder it becomes to keep track of payments. Many of us continue to pay for products and services we don’t use. A survey of 1,000 Australian adults in 2021, for example, found about a third wasted money on unused subscriptions or memberships – losing an average of about <a href="https://www.savings.com.au/savings-accounts/unused-lockdown-subscriptions-are-costing-aussies-200-a-year" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A$200 a year</a>. Deep psychological associations can influence these decisions. Experiments by US marketing professors Jennifer Savary and Ravi Dhar suggests people with lower “<a href="https://academic.oup.com/jcr/article-abstract/46/5/887/5498871" target="_blank" rel="noopener">self-concept</a>” are less likely to sign up for subscriptions – but also less likely to cancel subscriptions they are not using. We may see the subscription model increasingly used in other sectors – including the health and justice systems. For example, a subscription payment may provide a better level of nutritious food for a resident in an aged care facility, or a hospital or even a prison. This is not dissimilar to the way private health insurance premiums are managed, but still presents important justice and equity concerns. So while there’s no reason to exaggerate the dangers of the subscription economy, it’s also prudent for consumers, advocacy groups and governments to ask “What next?”.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/186913/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/louise-grimmer-212082" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Louise Grimmer</a>, Senior Lecturer in Retail Marketing and Associate Head Research Performance, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-tasmania-888" target="_blank" rel="noopener">University of Tasmania</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-heated-steering-wheel-for-20-a-month-whats-driving-the-subscriptions-economy-186913" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>. Image: Getty Images

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Marvel stuntman and his three kids killed in car crash

Harrowing footage shows passengers clinging for life in falling cable car