Latest news with #Gelfand
Yahoo
10 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
6 New Luxury SUVs That Are Bad Investments for Retirees
When it comes to retirement, financial decisions matter more than ever, especially big-ticket purchases like a new vehicle. While luxury SUVs may offer style, comfort and cutting-edge features, not all of them are practical for retirees. On top of the purchase price, there are surprise costs that can eat into a retiree's budget. Read Next: Check Out: Here are six new luxury SUVs that may look appealing for retirees but could end up being a bad investment over the long run. Alan Gelfand, German car expert and owner at German Car Depot in Hollywood, Florida, noted that these vehicles look great, but they'll eat into your retirement savings. He explained that the air suspension system will likely start to fail, and the repairs can get pricey, especially when the warranty expires. 'The electrical systems are nightmarishly complex,' Gelfand said. 'A door handle malfunction requires the replacement of a control module that costs $800. The repair costs for infotainment system failures amount between $2,500 and $3,500.' Be Aware: The Maserati Levante, a luxury crossover SUV with sleek coupe-like design and a powerful engine, certainly turns heads. However, its sharp depreciation means you're unlikely to recoup much of your investment when it comes time to sell. 'The Levante experiences such rapid depreciation that it surpasses most luxury SUVs with a 60% to 70% value drop in three years,' Gelfand explained. Maintenance costs are also pricey, especially brake jobs. Gelfand also pointed out that customers often experience lengthy delays for basic components, as supplies are often limited to main urban areas. The BMW X7 may appeal to luxury SUV enthusiasts, but it's far from retiree-friendly. According to Gelfand, the twin-turbo V8 engine requires premium fuel, which can get costly. It's also known to have electrical issues. 'Each minor issue in the complex electronic systems results in costly diagnostic fees from the beginning,' Gelfand explained. The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 is a powerful SUV, but it's overkill — and expensive — for retirees. 'The maintenance requirements of the AMG vehicle are strict since brake fluid needs to be changed every two years,' Gelfand said. It's also a gas guzzler and demands high-grade fuel. 'Retirement drivers who stay near home need to bear supercar maintenance expenses because they will never benefit from these features,' he said. According to Gelfand, the supercharged V8 Escalade-V is a maintenance disaster. 'The GM electronics in these vehicles experience reliability problems and supercharger rebuilds demand prices ranging between $6,000 and $8,000,' Gelfand explained. 'Older passengers will find the driving experience of this vehicle to be too much like a truck.' More From GOBankingRates 6 Popular SUVs That Aren't Worth the Cost -- and 6 Affordable Alternatives This article originally appeared on 6 New Luxury SUVs That Are Bad Investments for Retirees Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
German Car Depot Publishes New Article on ‘BMW Repair Services: Expert Care for Your Ultimate Driving Machine'
Hollywood, FL, May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --German Car Depot, a leading auto repair shop specializing in German car brands, is happy to announce that it has recently published a new article, 'BMW Repair Services: Expert Care for Your Ultimate Driving Machine.' Leveraging years of expertise and knowledge of Alan Gelfand, German car expert and owner of German Car Depot, the repair shop's new article aims to provide guidance to BMW drivers on how to find the most reliable repair technicians, the benefits of maintenance and what should be included, and the most common BMW issues, along with how to remedy them. 'As the owner of German Car Depot and someone who has spent over two decades working with German automobiles, I've seen firsthand how proper maintenance and skilled repairs can extend the life of a BMW,' stated Mr Gelfand. 'When it comes to your 'Ultimate Driving Machine,' expertise matters—cutting corners with inexperienced technicians can lead to costly complications down the road. At German Car Depot, we believe that proper BMW repair isn't just about fixing what's broken—it's about understanding these remarkable vehicles well enough to keep them performing at their best for years to come.' Some of the core areas outlined in German Car Depot's new specialist BMW repair article include: Why BMW-Specific Knowledge Matters BMWs are engineering marvels with unique systems that require specialized knowledge. From the complex electronics to the precise engine timing, these vehicles demand technicians who understand their distinctive architecture. Unlike general repair shops, specialists possess: Extensive training on BMW-specific systems Access to specialized diagnostic equipment Experience with common model-specific issues Understanding of BMW's engineering philosophy BMW Common Issues That Require Expert Attention Electronic Systems Modern BMWs contain sophisticated electronics that control everything from engine performance to comfort features. Common electronic issues include: iDrive system malfunctions Electrical parasitic drains Failing sensors that trigger check engine lights Adaptive headlight system failures Expert technicians use specialized diagnostic tools to pinpoint these issues accurately rather than replacing parts through guesswork. Cooling System Reliability BMWs are known for certain cooling system vulnerabilities that benefit from preventive maintenance: Water pump failures (particularly in 3-series models) Thermostat housing leaks Expansion tank cracks Radiator plastic end tank failures An experienced BMW technician recognizes early warning signs and can recommend timely preventive repairs before a minor issue becomes a major breakdown. Oil Leaks and Gasket Failures As BMWs age, several seals and gaskets commonly require attention: Valve cover gaskets Oil filter housing gaskets Oil pan gaskets Timing cover seals These seemingly minor leaks can lead to serious problems if oil contaminates electrical components or drive belts. Proper repair requires meticulous attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of how these components interact. The Value of Proper Diagnostic Procedures When a BMW displays a warning light or exhibits unusual behavior, the proper diagnostic approach makes all the difference: Comprehensive computer scanning using BMW-specific software Physical inspection by a technician familiar with model-specific issues Road testing to reproduce intermittent problems Systematic troubleshooting based on experience with similar cases This methodical approach saves both time and money by addressing the root cause rather than merely treating symptoms. Maintenance: The Key to BMW Longevity Preventive maintenance is especially crucial for BMWs. Following manufacturer-recommended service intervals is essential, but a BMW specialist often knows which services should be performed earlier than recommended for certain models based on real-world experience. Critical BMW Maintenance Services include: Oil service using BMW-approved lubricants Transmission fluid changes (despite 'lifetime fluid' claims) Cooling system flushes and component inspections Brake fluid replacement (BMW recommends every two years due to fluid's hygroscopic nature) Finding the Right BMW Service Partner When selecting a service facility for a BMW, individuals should consider the following factors: Technician certifications and BMW-specific training Diagnostic equipment capabilities Access to genuine or high-quality parts Warranty options on repairs Transparency in explaining issues and solutions A quality BMW service provider views their relationship with a client as a partnership in maintaining a vehicle's performance, safety, and value. 'Your BMW represents precision German engineering at its finest—an investment that deserves care from technicians who understand its unique requirements. Whether you're maintaining a classic E30 3-series or the latest X7 SAV, entrusting your vehicle to specialists with model-specific expertise will ensure many miles of the legendary BMW driving experience,' added Mr Gelfand. German Car Depot encourages BMW owners seeking a comprehensive guide to ensuring a highly functioning and long-lasting vehicle to read its new article today. About German Car Depot Located in Hollywood, FL, German Car Depot has been serving its local community for over 30 years with top-notch repairs for German car brands at prices that will save 20-30% compared to the dealership. With the latest equipment and technology and a team of trained technicians, German Car Depot maintains vehicles quickly and accurately without the costs and time associated with taking a vehicle to the dealer. More Information To learn more about German Car Depot and its new article, 'BMW Repair Services: Expert Care for Your Ultimate Driving Machine', please visit the website at Source: CONTACT: German Car Depot 2130 Fillmore St Hollywood Florida 33020 United States 954-921-1515
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
City Councilman fears higher education desert with closure of Penn State Dubois
DUBOIS, Pa. (WTAJ) — Dubois city officials and residents are reacting after the Thursday afternoon vote announcing that Penn State will be closing seven of its branch campuses, including Penn State Dubois. It was a dreary day on campus Thursday due to the rain and the announcement. Dubois City Councilman Elliot Gelfand has been outspoken since the list of campuses that were recommended to close was leaked. 'It happened a lot quicker than I thought it was going to,' Gelfand said. Gelfand said that everyone he has spoken with in the community and some council members are very upset with the decision. 'People in rural PA are getting tired of not getting the same attention from the state and from institutions that places with larger populations get,' Gelfand said. 'No point in waiting,' PSU trustees vote to close DuBois, 6 other campuses Gelfand said that he worries that the closure could impact the city's economy significantly, due to fewer people visiting who otherwise wouldn't have. 'We'll also lose a lot of training specific to the industries that are in the area,' Gelfand said. 'Penn State Dubois has created programs to support the powdered metal industry that is a very large employer in this area, to help build up that workforce as we've lost population over time.' College students aren't the only ones who will feel the effects. With the college being walking distance from the Dubois Area High School, several students take advantage by gaining early college credit through dual enrollment. 'There's math and calculus that some people take over here and there's English that some of my friends take over here as well,' said high school junior Adalyn Whitherite. Whitherite was on campus Thursday, returning books to the library that she had been using for a research project. She said it's sad to think that others in the future won't have that opportunity. 'Some of my classmates' parents work here as professors and stuff, so we were talking about like what would happen after they decided to close it down and what that would mean for their families, that would definitely make an impact,' Whitherite said. Since Lock Haven University announced that it will be closing its local campus as well last year, commutable higher education for the area may soon become a thing of the past. 'Losing the campus is going to create kind of a higher education desert, we are an hour from State College, but not everyone can go to State College,' Gelfand said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Time of India
08-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Stanford's Professor Gelfand on the most underrated leadership skill today
What began as a conversation about her academic journey quickly evolved into a deep and insightful masterclass on culture, leadership, and the invisible forces that shape our societies, organizations, and even our own identities. A renowned cross-cultural psychologist, Michele Gelfand is the John H. Scully Professor of Cross-Cultural Management at Stanford Graduate School of Business and the author of the widely acclaimed book Rule Makers, Rule Breakers. Her work has taken her across continents and disciplines, from psychology to neuroscience, from anthropology to organizational behavior and is reshaping the way global leaders think about cultural variation and adaptability. Professor Gelfand's journey into cross-cultural psychology was sparked by serendipity and a growing sense of cultural curiosity during a study abroad program in London. A biology enthusiast who once aspired to become a doctor, she pivoted toward understanding the cultural codes that govern behavior after a transformative trip to Egypt during her undergraduate years. 'I started to realize how profound a force culture was, and how much I had taken it for granted,' she shared. That realization led her to work with Harry Triandis, one of the founding figures of cross-cultural psychology, at the University of Illinois. Since then, professor Gelfand has spent over three decades studying how cultures vary and why. She often tells her students the story of two fish swimming in water who are asked by another, 'How's the water today?' only to respond, 'What's water?' 'For us humans,' she says, 'culture is our water. It's omnipresent but invisible.' Her book Rule Makers, Rule Breakers emerged from a desire to make scientific insights accessible. 'My dad is a civil engineer and one day he said to me, 'I don't understand what you do.' That's when I realized that we need to communicate science in a way that even the smartest non-specialists can relate to.' The book introduces readers to the concept of tight and loose cultures. Tight cultures, she explains, have stronger social norms and strict punishments for deviance, think Japan or, yes, India. Loose cultures, like Brazil or the Netherlands, allow for greater behavioral flexibility. 'All cultures need both tight and loose elements,' she emphasizes. 'But some lean more in one direction because of historical or ecological pressures like threats, invasions, or natural disasters that make strict norms necessary for survival.' The implications of this framework ripple across multiple levels, from national cultures to households, classrooms, and even individual mindsets. 'We all have tight-loose tendencies. For instance, my husband is a lawyer and very tight. I'm moderately loose. We negotiate these dynamics even in our household. You can take the tight-loose mindset quiz to find out where your general default is.' One of the most important themes of the conversation was Cultural Intelligence – or CQ, a term still unfamiliar to many, but one professor Gelfand believes will define effective global leadership in the 21st century. 'People know about IQ. Some know about EQ. But CQ is the new kid on the block—and it's crucial,' she asserts. 'It's not about how smart or emotionally aware you are. It's about how well you understand and navigate cultural differences.' Cultural Intelligence includes – Metacognition: Thinking about culture and being mindful of it. Knowledge: Learning about different values, norms, and behaviors. Motivation: Being curious and interested in other cultures. Behavioral Adaptability: Knowing how to adjust your actions in different cultural contexts. Her research, including a recent study in Harvard Business Review, demonstrates that cultural differences are related to the success of international mergers and acquisitions. 'Even minor cultural mismatches, like a tight company acquiring a loose one, are significantly related to financial performance over time,' she explains. At Stanford, Professor Gelfand teaches courses in global leadership and negotiation, where she blends rigorous science with practical tools. 'I want students to leave the classroom seeing the world in a new way,' she says. Exercises in negotiation, cross-cultural team simulations, and self-assessments are part of her practical teaching style. Her classes attract a culturally diverse student body, and she is often struck by how even brilliant students have rarely been exposed to the science of culture. 'Once they get it, they can't stop seeing culture everywhere. It changes how they lead, collaborate, and even how they see themselves.' Leaders today, she believes, need to master what she calls tight–loose ambidexterity – the ability to shift between structure and flexibility depending on the situation. 'In tight industries like manufacturing or aviation, you need rules. But sometimes, those rules can become suffocating. On the flip side, tech or creative spaces can get too loose – chaotic, even. Effective leaders know how to calibrate that balance.' She teaches this concept through executive education at Stanford and consults with governments and multinationals on applying tight-loose theory to organizational design, behavioral change, and even national policy. Her recent work includes mapping tight–loose patterns in US, Iraq, and soon, India. For younger audiences navigating their way through uncertainty and career decisions, her advice is clear: be open to serendipity, follow your curiosity, and never underestimate the importance of understanding culture. 'CQ isn't something you're born with. It's a skill you can learn. Start by getting curious. Read, travel, listen, find cultural mentors, and most importantly, try to be empathic and understand why cultural differences have evolved in the first place.' As someone who has trained her own daughters in negotiation from a young age and believes in the transformative power of education, Professor Gelfand is committed to equipping the next generation of leaders with tools to build more inclusive, adaptive, and culturally intelligent organizations. Professor Gelfand is working on a new book The Negotiators with Nir Helevy at the Stanford GSB, is doing a large cross-national study on culture and trust, and is exploring tight-loose ambidexterity across different levels of analysis. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
6 Best Cars To Get If You Are Trading In Your Tesla
Tesla, the electric vehicle brand once synonymous with sustainability, is gradually losing its appeal with American consumers and it has nothing to do with money. A March 2025 poll conducted by Yahoo News/YouGov revealed 67% of Americans said they would not buy or lease a Tesla. Controversial Tesla CEO Elon Musk is 'the whole reason' for 30% of Americans or 'part of the reason' for 26% of Americans who refuse to buy from Tesla. See More: Explore Next: For drivers looking to trade in their Teslas, GOBankingRates decided to see which cars provide the most value and reliability while still providing a smooth ride. GOBankingRates spoke to Alan Gelfand, owner of German Car Depot, for his insight — see why he recommends swapping in these six vehicles for a Tesla. Gelfand, who has seen many former Tesla owners return to traditional German engineering or different EV brands, recommends the Porsche Taycan as an even more efficient EV alternative. 'The Taycan provides Porsche driving excellence through its exceptional build standards and handling and interior sophistication, which surpasses Tesla technology and range capabilities,' Gelfand said. 'In numerous instances, the Taycan's 800V architecture provides faster charging speeds than Tesla's network.' Read More: View Next: Another car brand with several models on Gelfand's short list of Tesla alternatives is BMW. He recommends the new BMW M5 due to the vehicle's 20 to 30 miles of electric range for daily commutes and peace of mind afforded to drivers during extended journeys. Be Aware: Drivers who value luxury features may also explore the BMW i7, especially if they were previous Model S owners. 'The vehicle features superior interior construction compared to Tesla and provides a dual-motor powertrain that produces smooth power delivery instead of solely acceleration.' According to Gelfand, the Audi e-tron GT uses the same platform as the Taycan but emphasizes a focus on luxury features instead of sports elements. Gelfand said this car is ideal for drivers who value 'practicality' due to its conventional controls and Tesla-outperforming craftsmanship. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, as Gelfand told GOBankingRates, presents technology that integrates better than Tesla's basic design approach. This allows the high-end vehicle brand to maintain its position as the luxury standard. Find Out: Drivers who have gotten accustomed to Tesla's performance capabilities and are less than willing to give those up will want to seriously consider the Porsche 911 as their alternative road warrior. 'The Porsche 911 continues to be the ultimate performance car for those who want to feel the driver's connection to their vehicle,' Gelfand said. 'The current models provide remarkable efficiency for highway driving and provide a driving experience that no electric vehicle can match at this time.' More From GOBankingRates Mark Cuban: Trump's Tariffs Will Affect This Class of People the Most How Far $750K Plus Social Security Goes in Retirement in Every US Region How To Get the Most Value From Your Costco Membership in 2025 How Much Money Is Needed To Be Considered Middle Class in Every State? Sources Yahoo! 'Two-thirds of Americans now say they wouldn't drive a Tesla — and most of them cite Elon Musk as the reason why, according to a new poll' Alan Gelfand, owner, German Car Depot This article originally appeared on 6 Best Cars To Get If You Are Trading In Your Tesla
