INBOXIFY ORIGINAL's [21/July/2023]

Good morning Welcome to our weekly newsletter filled with captivating stories, exciting updates, and valuable insights. Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery and inspiration as we dive into the highlights of the week. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your Friday read!

AUTO

Ford brings its pickup to the EV price wars

Who has two electric motors and a $10,000 price cut? Slaps roof of F-150 Lightning this guy. Yesterday, Ford reduced the starting cost of its battery-powered pickup truck from $59,995 to $49,995, saying it was because of lower material prices and greater production capabilities.

It’s likely also because, over the weekend, Tesla rolled out its first production Cybertruck, which will directly rival the F-150 Lightning and is estimated by Kelley Blue Book to start at ~$50,000. While Ford has slashed the price tag on the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV several times to try and compete with Tesla, whose own cuts have helped it dominate 60% of the American EV market, it had been raising prices on the F-150 Lightning…until now.

With sales of the F-150 Lightning dropping from 13,000 in the second half of 2022 to 8,800 in the first half of 2023, Ford hopes the price cut will juice sales. But there’s still an oversupply of the reduced cost Mach-E that far outpaces demand.

Ford isn’t the only one with too much supply: The quantity of EVs available for purchase in the US has exploded by almost 350% this year, according to Cox Automotive, and demand hasn’t kept pace—leaving many unsold cars on lots.

TRAVEL

Skiplagging: When the layover is your destination

One of the internet’s favorite travel hacks made headlines recently after a teen allegedly got detained and barred from boarding an American Airlines flight because his North Carolina driver’s license aroused suspicion.

The passenger wasn’t suspected of smuggling Cook Out: His trip to NYC had a layover in Charlotte, NC, and airline staff (correctly) supposed he was committing a textbook example of skiplagging, the thrifty trick of booking a flight with a stopover with no intention of proceeding to the final destination.

Why skip out on the final city?

Airlines usually charge more for direct flights than ones with layovers, so booking this way can save you a lot on the fare.

But missing out on the extra cash makes carriers side-eye the practice like you would a seatmate keen on unpacking the trauma of his three divorces with you. Most major carriers explicitly forbid skiplagging. United and Southwest have both sued the founder of Skiplagged.com, a website that’s been helping travelers use the trick to find cheaper flights since 2013 (the United case was tossed, and Southwest settled).

It’s a risky hack: It’s legal, but airlines have retaliated but airlines have retaliated by threatening to revoke travel points and banning passengers from their planes. Plus, your skip lagging plans are kaput if you’re forced to check your carry-on or your flight gets rerouted.

SPORTS

When you step into a Publix, you always witness greatness, but that became even more apparent last week when soccer legend Lionel Messi was spotted at the South Florida grocery store picking up household staples.

The Publix sighting, which went viral on social media, sent the Messi hype cycle into overdrive ahead of the Argentine’s expected debut for his new squad, Inter Miami, on today.

Quick refresher: Lionel Messi, one of the best soccer players of all time, left his long career in Europe to join Major League Soccer in the US for a historic deal laden with incentives from brands like Apple and Adidas. The deal was finalized this weekend in what could be a game changer for MLS.

And now that Messi has stocked the pantry of his new South Beach home, Miami is giving its newest resident a hero’s welcome:

• Murals depicting Messi have sprung up on buildings around the city—especially in the Wynwood neighborhood.

• A brewery is selling a Messi-themed beer in a can bearing Inter Miami colors.

• The Hard Rock Cafe released a “Messi Chicken Sandwich,” so you can eat a Milanesa just like Leo.

Looking ahead…tickets for Messi’s expected debut on Friday will look like a steal to anyone who’s been trying to see Taylor Swift: You could snag seats for under $300 on SeatGeek

AROUND THE WEB

🎥That’s interesting: The real story behind Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film, Oppenheimer.

🐟That’s interesting: Since 2019, Singapore has had vending machines that dispense frozen Norwegian salmon filets.

🎵Cure boredom: Play the cello.

1. Celebrate Accomplishments: Take a moment to reflect on your achievements throughout the week. Celebrate your successes, no matter how big or small they may be.

2. Treat Yourself: Treat yourself to a little something special—a favorite snack, a small gift, or some me-time to indulge in a hobby you love.

3. Plan Your Weekend: Make a loose plan for the weekend ahead. Think about activities you want to do, places you want to visit, or friends you want to catch up with.

4. Express Gratitude: Reach out to someone and express your gratitude for their presence in your life. A simple text, call, or even a handwritten note can brighten someone's day.

5. Enjoy Nature: Spend some time outdoors, even if it's just for a short walk in the park. Fresh air and nature can do wonders for your mood and well-being.

6. Random Act of Kindness: Surprise someone with a random act of kindness. It could be holding the door for a stranger, buying a coffee for the person behind you in line, or helping someone in need.

7. Dance or Sing: Let loose and have a mini dance party or sing-along to your favorite tunes. It's a great way to de-stress and boost your energy.

8. Try Something New: Step out of your comfort zone and try something you've never done before. It could be a new recipe, a creative DIY project, or a new hobby.

9. Unplug and Relax: Disconnect from your digital devices for a while and enjoy some screen-free time. Read a book, meditate, or simply take a power nap.

10. Make Weekend Goals: Set a few realistic goals for the weekend, whether it's finishing a book, trying a new recipe, or spending quality time with loved ones.

11. Reflect on the Week: Take a moment to reflect on the challenges you faced during the week and what you learned from them. Use these lessons to grow and improve in the future.

12. Plan a Friday Night Treat: Whether it's a movie night with popcorn or ordering in your favorite food, plan a treat for yourself or with loved ones to kick off the weekend.

Remember, the Friday to-do list is all about enjoying yourself, spreading positivity, and setting the stage for a great weekend ahead!