Survival 101: Is your car EMP-ready?

Published

1 year ago

September 29, 2023

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An electromagnetic pulse (EMP)is one of the by-products of a nuclear detonation.

It is an invisible pulse that spreads out at the speed of light and is very disruptive. An EMP can also be lethal to certain electronic components.

If you are worried about transportation after an EMP attack, you should learn how to make your car EMP-ready. You can also start looking into other transportation alternatives so you can travel after SHTF. (h/t to UrbanSurvivalSite.com) Modern cars may be vulnerable to an EMP attack

An EMP attack can potentially shut down some, if not all, of your electronics. It can also fry the components.

But how will an EMP affect your car?

Before 1980, vehicles were mainly mechanical machines paired with electrical systems. After 1980, vehicles started to incorporate features like computers and electronic components.

Computers and their components are more sensitive to EMP’s effects than a simple electrical wire.

As technology advanced,computers and their components became more and more integrated into a vehicle. Those components also continued to become smaller, making them more sensitive.

This means that if an EMP attack happens and your vehicle is in the area, a modern vehicle will be instantly shut down, maybe even permanently. Preparing transportation for an EMP attack

If you’re worried about an EMP attack, the best thing to do is to getthe oldest vehicle you can find because the older the car, the fewer electronic components it will have.

But this may varydepending on the type and year of the vehicle since it may still be susceptible to the effects of an EMP, but not to the same degreeas a newer car.

To illustrate, a carfrom 1980 might only have several components that would need to be replaced after an EMP event compared to a newer car from 2019 which might need more components replaced.

You should also remember that older cars would be easier to work on than newer cars.(Related: How to prepare for an EMP strike.)

But owning a car from the right decade isnt enough.

If you want to prepare for an EMP attack, you also need to stock up on spare parts, fluids, tools and fuel. After all, there’s no point in investingtime and money in finding a vehicle that can survive an EMP attack if you don’t have the tools you need to keep it running after the first tank of fuel runs out or it needs to be repaired.

The car and spare parts should also be shielded using the principles of a Faraday cage.

You also need to start learning how to maintain and repair your older car since you dont want to be driving around your neighborhood with the only working vehicle and looking for a mechanic.

This seems intimidating at first, but many common car maintenance issues arent too hard difficult to learn about or fix. What are the best EMP-ready cars?

When looking for an EMP-ready car, look for somethingwith the least amount of electrical components.

You dont want electrical components and computers controlling primary functions like pumps or and fuel injection. You also look for an option with simple functions like lights, locks and windows.

Note that cars are broken down into two broad categories: Utility cars and non-utility cars, or passenger cars.

Utility vehicles include jeeps and trucks. These types of cars are better for driving off-road, hauling supplies and towing. They are not designed for comfort, speed, or transporting a lot of passengers.

Utility vehicles may also consume more fuel than passenger cars.

Non-utility vehicles or passenger cars include almost all other vehicles, such as compact cars, station wagons and sports cars. Non-utility vehicles are designed for comfort, transporting more passengers, or speed. Unlike most utility vehicles, they often have better fuel mileage.

You should get a non-utility vehicle if you are sure that your car will always be driven on smooth, even or paved roadways.

Many people may disagree with this but when SHTF, the comfort and speed offered by non-utility vehicles shouldnt be a big concern because your drives will often be uncomfortable and the roads may be bumpy.

The speed or the acceleration of your car is something to consider, especially if you think you will need to escape dangers or threats. However, lack of speed can be compensated for in other ways.

There isnta right type of car to choose since the answer will depend on your circumstances and what you will be using the car for. But if you can’t choose, it would be better to invest in a utility car.

When trying to decide what car to get, here are some things to remember: What year is it? Are parts for the car still available? How easy is it to work on? Will it serve your prepping and survival needs? Where do you plan on primarily driving it? Other transportation alternatives

Here are some options to consider if you are looking forthree transportation alternatives that will not be affected by an EMP.

Bicycles

Bicycles are a great alternative mode of transportation. They areaffordable, and you can buy one for your whole family for less than what a new car would cost.

Spare parts for bikes are relatively cheap and they dont take up much space. meaning you can stockpile a lot of spare parts before SHTF.

Bikes are easier to work on and repair, especially if you are bugging out. They also won’trun out of fuel as long as you are strong enough to pedal.

If needed, your bikecan pull carts behind them. There are also several ways to attach supplies to them.

Bikes are silent and they can be ridden over different terrains, both in urban environments and more rural settings.

Boat or canoe

Depending on your location, you can also travel after an EMP by boat or canoe.

Check the rivers, lakes and large streams near your property to see if any of your alternate bug-out routes after an EMP would be faster by water.

You should also havea plan for a viable way to get your boat or canoe from your home to the water.Lastly, prepare your gear and supplies with waterproof clothing and waterproof bags so you’ll be fine even after an accidental capsize.

Horses, mules and wagons

If you prefer something that requires no fuel or maintenance, you should consider a horse or mule and wagons.

While this option wont work for everyones current situation and it can entail a lot of work, it is very dependable.

VisitEMP.newsfor more tips on how to preparefor an EMP attack.

Watch the video below for tips on how to prepare supplies for your bug-out car.

This video is from the Sons of Adam channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories:

5 Survival essentials for your bug-out vehicle.

Possible scenarios following an EMP event.

Bug out survival planning: Transportation ideas during a financial crisis.

Sources include:

UrbanSurvivalSite.com

SurvivalSullivan.com

Brighteon.com
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World

Pope Francis has ‘initial, mild’ kidney problem and still in critical condition, says Vatican

Published

2 hours ago

February 23, 2025

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Pope Francis has 'initial, mild' kidney problem and still in critical condition, says Vatican

The Pope remains in a critical condition and is now showing an “initial, mild” kidney problem – but is “vigilant” and took part in Mass in hospital with those caring for him.

The Vatican statement said Francis hadn’t had any more “respiratory crises” since Saturday evening.

However, a problem with his kidneys has emerged, with blood tests showing “an initial, mild, renal insufficiency, which is currently under control”, according to the update.

The 88-year-old Pope is still having “high-flow oxygen therapy” into his nose, while his hemoglobin value has increased after being given blood transfusions on Saturday.

The Pope has been at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since 14 February and is being treated for double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis.

Sunday evening’s statement said he was “vigilant and well oriented”, but due to the complexity of his case the prognosis is “reserved”.

“During the morning, in the apartment set up on the 10th floor, he participated in the Holy Mass, together with those who are taking care of him during these days of hospitalization,” the update added.

On Sunday morning, the Vatican said the Pope had a “tranquil” night and confirmed he would not lead prayers for the second week running.

Instead, Francis, who has been Pope since 2013, prepared words to be read on his behalf at the recitation of the Angelus.

‘I ask you to pray for me’

The Pope’s message said: “I am confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!

“I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick.

“In recent days I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children.

“Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me.”

The message is understood to have been written in the last few days.

On Saturday night, the Vatican said the Pope was in a critical condition after a “prolonged respiratory crisis” that required a high flow of oxygen.

It said he’d had blood transfusions after tests revealed thrombocytopenia, which is associated with anaemia.

Millions around the world have been concerned about his increasingly frail health – and his condition has given rise to speculation over a possible resignation.

Faith is never lost but it feels optimism is fading

By Lisa Holland, Sky correspondent in Vatican City

It’s hard to imagine a Sunday in the Vatican City without the Pope. Every week – unless he’s travelling – he is a constant, appearing at the same Vatican windows to deliver his message.

Instead, his written words were distributed by Vatican officials. In his message, the Pope thanked his doctors and people around the world for their good wishes.

But it seems the upbeat message was written before the dramatic downturn in the Pope’s health, which has left him in a critical condition. The business and the events of the Church are continuing in his absence.

Faith is never lost but it feels like optimism is fading and we are living through the last days of Pope Francis.

In St Peter’s Square the sun shone – and a gentle light fell on the ancient stone of the basilica.
The beauty and pageantry of columns of deacons and visitors filing in for a special mass as part of the Catholic Church’s jubilee year sat awkwardly with the prognosis of the Pope’s ailing health.

The visitors and deacons who’d come from around the world to take part, and hoped to see the Pope, were left disappointed. Though they said they felt his presence. “It is what it is,” said one.

They know the Pope is an 88-year-old man who has spent the last few years assisted by a wheelchair and walking stick. Throughout his life he has been dogged by lung issues.

It leaves an almost philosophical mood ahead of what the coming days may bring.

Doctors said on Friday that he was “not out of danger” and was expected to remain in hospital for at least another week.

They also warned that while he did not have sepsis, there was always a risk the infection could spread in his body.

Sepsis is a complication of an infection that can lead to organ failure and death.

Pope Francis has a history of respiratory illness, having lost part of one of his lungs to pleurisy as a young man. He also had an acute case of pneumonia in 2023.

Environment

Volvo Penta set to show off its new BESS subsystem at bauma 2025

Published

4 hours ago

February 23, 2025

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Volvo Penta set to show off its new BESS subsystem at bauma 2025

Volvo Penta BESS subsystem to be Bauma highlight

Volvo Penta will debut its latest modular and scalable battery energy storage system (BESS) platform for the off-grid construction and mining industries at the bauma equipment show – here’s what you can expect.

Best-known for its marine engines and gensets, Volvo Penta is the power production arm of the Volvo Group, specializing in putting energy to work. Operating under the tagline, ‘Made to Move You’, Volvo Penta is headed to bauma 2025 with a plan to keep construction, port shipping, and mining operations moving productively and competitively throughout their transitions to battery and (in theory, at least) hydrogen power.

To that end, the company will show off a job site ready version of the scalable and modular BESS subsystem concept shown last year.

Volvo says its new, modular BESS subsystem will enable other OEMs and third party system integrators to seamlessly deploy electric power to meet the ever-exceeding energy needs in construction and mining.

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“Our modular and scalable battery-electric platform is designed to support the electrification ecosystem—combining high-performance drivelines with the crucial energy storage subsystems for efficient charging and operation in construction and mining,” says Hannes Norrgren, President of Volvo Penta Industrial. “We want to meaningfully collaborate with our customers on value-added customization that will enable them to stay productive, efficient, and future-ready.”

The Penta substation at bauma will be built around the company’s “Cube” battery pack, an energy-dense solution with a favorable C-rate designed to make it easy for BESS manufacturers to offer more compact job site solutions capable of charging and discharging energy with high levels of speed and efficiency, enabling both stationary and mobile BESS configurations that can change and grow to meet the evolving needs of a given asset fleet or project.

A Volvo Penta-developed DC/DC unit converts the voltage from the Cube battery packs (600 V) into lower voltage (24 V) for powering auxiliaries and portable offices.

Electrek’s Take

BESS concept packed with Penta Cube batteries; via Volvo.

Volvo Penta has always provided power. Historically that’s been from combustion, but the company is looking ahead, developing products that will bring energy to job sites, tractors, and more long after the last ICE engine shuts down.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Volvo Penta.

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World

Exit poll may appear decisive – but path to coalition is not clear yet

Published

5 hours ago

February 23, 2025

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Exit poll may appear decisive - but path to coalition is not clear yet

Initial exit polls appear to confirm what we have known for weeks: that the conservative Christian Democrats (CDU) and their Bavarian sister party the Christian Social Union (CSU) have got the most votes in the federal election, with Friedrich Merz most likely to be the next chancellor.

While this result isn’t a surprise, it doesn’t mean the path to power will be easy.

First off, the CDU-CSU don’t have a majority so they need to try to build a coalition.

Their most obvious choices as partners are the third-place Social Democrats. A two-party coalition is preferred as it can avoid excess bickering but the SPD and CDU disagree on several key points including sending long-range Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine.

Follow live: Germany’s election results

Forming a government can take months but Mr Merz is keen to speed up the process – aware of the pressing issues both at home and abroad.

One of those is the rise of the far right, with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party celebrating historic results.

The initial results suggest that for the first time since the Second World War, a far-right party has got the second highest number of votes.

That could also cause serious issues for the next government.

As a result of Germany‘s Nazi history, mainstream parties have a long-running pact known as the “firewall” which says they will not work with the far right.

Even before the polls had closed, AfD leader Alice Weidel echoed Donald Trump and released a video statement urging people to “observe” the ballots being counted and to “protect democracy”.

Many of the AfD’s supporters have said not allowing the second most popular party into government is undemocratic, threatening to take to the streets.

The US vice president JD Vance also sparked outrage when he spoke out against the firewall at the recent Munich Security Conference and suggested the new Trump administration would be ready to work with the AfD.

Conversely, in the run-up to the election, hundreds of thousands of Germans have protested to demand that the firewall remains.

In January, Mr Merz caused controversy when a draft motion got through parliament with AfD support, he’s since vowed he will not go into government with them.

If he sticks to that pledge then he is likely to see right-wing demonstrations as well becoming a target of prominent AfD backers including Elon Musk.

The AfD’s result also cannot be ignored. While some of the vote may be a protest, the party has expanded its traditional base in the east to pick up support in the west.

Dissatisfaction over migration, the economy, rocketing prices and the war in Ukraine have all helped to grow its ranks as people feel ignored by mainstream parties.

Mr Merz has already tried to win back some of its voters by proposing tough migration reforms including permanent checks on the borders and potentially turning away some asylum seekers when they try to enter.

If he fails to deliver on these promises then the AfD will continue to make gains.

Other urgent to dos for the next government include sorting out Germany’s economy following two years of recession and restoring its position at the centre of the EU.

Ministers must also face up to the fact their traditional allies are no longer guaranteed.

The Trump administration appears to be ripping up the rule book when it comes to being a protector of Europe and its ongoing support for Ukraine.

If America steps back, as Europe’s largest power and Ukraine’s largest European backer, Germany will have to step up.

Again, that’s going to be a big challenge as its military needs to be transformed.

The final results are not even confirmed yet but whatever form it takes, the next government knows it has four years to fix Germany, if it fails then populists are highly likely to ride to power in 2029.