Electric Cars

Toyota's latest electric midsize SUV, the 2026 bZ, breaks from the brand's traditional aesthetic with a distinctly angular and sloped rear profile, reminiscent of a doorstop, and a uniquely positioned dashboard gauge cluster. Despite these unconventional design elements, the vehicle quickly proves its mettle, drawing comparisons to Toyota's highly successful gas-hybrid RAV4, a significant endorsement of its functionality and appeal.

The bZ, tested over 300 miles in its front-wheel-drive XLE Plus variant, impresses with its highway acceleration, which surpasses that of many internal combustion engine counterparts. Its low-slung battery contributes to a well-balanced ride, and passengers consistently report a comfortable journey with minimal road noise, even over challenging city terrains. The vehicle also demonstrates remarkable efficiency, achieving approximately 4.1 miles per kilowatt-hour under summer conditions with air conditioning active, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer excursions. However, the driving experience is occasionally marred by an intrusive driver-attention monitoring system and an inconsistent S-Flow climate control, which can be overly vigilant in its alerts and selective in its passenger recognition.

Toyota is making a decisive move into the electric vehicle sector, expanding its previously limited EV offerings. The 2026 bZ, a refreshed and renamed model with an upgraded battery, spearheads this expansion, alongside new additions like the bZ Woodland wagon and the C-HR subcompact SUV. Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, is also bolstering its electric portfolio with updates to the RZ and the introduction of the ES electric sedan and a forthcoming three-row TZ SUV. This strategic pivot, occurring as some competitors scale back their EV plans, positions Toyota to become a dominant force, offering a diverse array of seven consumer EV options by 2027, surpassing even Tesla's current lineup and challenging earlier criticisms of the company's slow EV adoption.

This renewed commitment to electric vehicles by a major automaker like Toyota underscores a pivotal moment in automotive history. By embracing innovation and responding to evolving consumer demands, Toyota is not only broadening its market reach but also contributing to a more sustainable future. This forward-thinking approach, coupled with a focus on practical and comfortable electric transportation, showcases the industry's capacity for positive change and its dedication to meeting the needs of a new generation of drivers.

In the Dark, a Light Shines: Koney King's Unwavering Commitment

Immediate Response to a City-Wide Blackout

Following a destructive storm that plunged a significant portion of Gary, Indiana, into darkness, Jimmy Hendricks, the proprietor of the beloved Koney King eatery, took swift and decisive action. Rather than waiting for the restoration of electricity, he immediately secured a $1,300 generator on the very day of the outage, showcasing remarkable foresight and determination.

Overcoming Operational Hurdles During the Crisis

The subsequent days presented numerous challenges for Hendricks, who diligently managed the generator's fuel supply by rising early to procure gasoline, avoiding the extensive queues at gas stations during peak hours. His unwavering commitment ensured that Koney King remained operational for its regular business hours throughout the week-long power disruption, standing as one of the few establishments able to serve the affected community.

Koney King's Rise to Prominence and Local Significance

Koney King, a fixture in Gary for over a century, gained recent recognition through an appearance in a standalone episode of FX's hit show, 'The Bear.' Hendricks, who has owned the restaurant for seven years, expressed the deep personal connection he feels to the establishment, having frequented it since his youth. The television feature further cemented its status as a local landmark.

Maintaining Service Amidst Unprecedented Demand

Hendricks described the period as immensely stressful, focusing on critical tasks such as preserving food quality in refrigerators and freezers, meticulously managing inventory, and meeting the increased demand from patrons. He lauded his staff's dedication, noting that they consistently reported for duty despite their own homes being without power, highlighting their extraordinary commitment during a challenging time.

A Community Anchor in Times of Need

As one of the few operational businesses, Koney King experienced a surge in patronage, transforming into an essential gathering place where residents could eat, socialize, and charge their electronic devices. Demonstrating profound generosity, the restaurant also provided complimentary meals to individuals unable to afford food, embodying a spirit of community support.

Reflecting on the Storm's Immediate Impact and Lingering Effects

Hendricks vividly recalled the storm's ferocity, describing the sky's ominous transformation to dark grey, green, and purplish hues, and the intense shaking of the building. He recounted his struggle to keep the doors secured against the powerful winds. Although the immediate chaos subsided within hours, the aftermath left a lasting impact on the city.

The Return of Power and Enduring Gratitude

A week after the initial blackout, Hendricks, arriving at the restaurant with 17 cans of gasoline, discovered that power had finally been restored. While acknowledging the ongoing uncertainty and frustration faced by others in the community still awaiting electricity, he expressed deep gratitude for Koney King's ability to offer a safe and welcoming space during the crisis.