Why Do Semi Trucks Have Vertical Exhaust Stacks?
One of the most recognizable semi truck features are the vertical exhaust stacks. Other than looking cool, do they actually serve any purpose?
Read MoreNate Williams
SlashGear Editorial Policies
SlashGear's content hails from a group of experienced technology and automotive editors and a wide-ranging team of writers, engineers, enthusiasts, and experts across consumer tech and transportation. Our goal is to provide up-to-the-minute breaking news coverage as well as original and engaging opinion and editorial content that serves as the ultimate resource for those who want to stay up to date on the latest and greatest the industry has to offer.
Our editors, advisors, and fact-checkers conduct regular reviews to ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and completeness of our articles. Complete information on our editorial process available here.
Stories By Nate Williams
-
-
Router Vs. Access Point: How Are They Different?
While you can find routers and access points in the same spot in an electronics store, they're not the same thing. Each has a separate purpose.
Read More -
Here's Why (Most) Semi-Trucks Are Rear-Wheel Drive
There's a good reason why most of the semi-trucks on the road are rear-wheel drive. The alternative doesn't make much sense once you consider usage.
Read More -
Is The Model Y Tesla's Most Reliable Vehicle In 2025?
The Model Y is certainly Tesla's most popular vehicle, outselling all the others. But is it also the brand's most reliable model? Let's take a look.
Read More -
Why Do Truck Beds Have Ridges? Here's What They're For
Truck beds may seem like the most straightforward part of any pick-up truck's design, but there's actually a lot of thought that went into every detail.
Read More -
Costco Car Insurance: How It Works & If It's Worth Using (According To Reviews)
Even if you know that Costco offers car insurance, there's still the question of whether it's worth the buy. Thankfully reviewers can give us a good idea.
Read More -
Costco Vs. Discount Tire: Who Offers The Better Warranty For Your New Tires?
If you're in the market for tires, you'll want to make sure you get the best warranty available, but does that mean you should go to Costco or Discount Tire?
Read More -
How Much Ethanol Is In 87 Octane Gas? (And Can You Use 85 Octane Instead?)
You're probably familiar with the term E87 gasoline, but how much ethanol is actually in it? Here's everything we know about that (and 85 Octane as well).
Read More -
Why Do Tugboats Have Tires On Them? Here's What They're For
Tugboats are typically covered all around with tires hanging from the sides, front, and rear. Here's why those tires are there and what they're used for.
Read More -
Trickle Charger Vs. Battery Tender: Which Tool Fits Your Motorcycle Needs?
If you won't be riding your motorcycle for a while, you'll want something to keep its battery from dying. Should you get a trickle charger or battery tender?
Read More -
Why California Has The Best Potential Average MPG In The US
While America has federal standards for gas efficiency and emissions, California has its own minimums. Here's what that means for gas mileage in the state.
Read More -
How Do Modern Cars Compute MPG In Real Time?
It's certainly handy being able to see in real time how your driving affects your mileage. But how does your car do that? And how accurate are those figures?
Read More -
Here's Why (Most) Diesel Engines Don't Have Throttle Bodies
Diesel engines typically offer higher fuel efficiency and torque and longer lifespans than gas engines. How does the lack of a throttle body contribute?
Read More -
5 Motor Oil Brands That Are Manufactured In America
It's surprisingly easy to stick to motor oil options that are manufactured in the United States. Plenty of reputable brands you already know fit the bill.
Read More -
Why Do Semi Trucks In Michigan Have So Many Wheels?
While most states limit the number of axles on a road vehicle, there are some uniquely large semi trucks on Michigan's highways.
Read More -
Why Does Colorado Have 85 Octane Gas? (And Should You Use 87 Instead?)
In higher elevation areas of the country, you may have noticed that there is an 85-octane option, but is it really the best choice for your car?
Read More -
Is 'Have I Been Pwned' Legit? Here's How The Website Works
Have I Been Pwned tells you if your personal data has been involved in a data breach, but you have to put in your email address to do it. Is it safe?
Read More -
This Bad Parking Habit Can Warp Your Brake Rotors
Did you know a common parking mistake can warp your brake rotors? Learn what it is and how to avoid costly repairs.
Read More -
How Long Does It Take To Become A Harley Master Technician & What's Required For The Title?
Harley Davidson takes the quality of its work very seriously, and that includes how mechanics earn the title of Master Technician. Here's what that entails.
Read More -
Is Libby Compatible With Kobo E-Readers?
Kobo e-readers are starting to take a chunk out of Amazon's Kindle powerhouse, but can they load e-books from Libby as easily as Kindle? It's complicated.
Read More -
Should You Change Your Synthetic Oil Based On Time Or Mileage?
Knowing when to change your oil can be difficult, especially since there can be disagreements on the topic. Here's everything you need to know.
Read More -
Is It Safe To Buy A Used Battery For Your Car?
Thinking about buying a used car battery? Learn if it’s safe, what to check for, and when it might actually be a smart move.
Read More -
Where Are The Blind Spots Of A Semi-Truck? How To Stay Safe While Driving Beside One
Semi-trucks are big vehicles, and it's impossible to see everything going on around it. Knowing where a truck's blind spots are is important to road safety.
Read More -
Leasing Vs Financing A Car: Key Differences & Decision Factors
Unless you have enough cash, you have two options for buying a new car: lease or finance. Here are the pros and cons you need to know before making a decision.
Read More -
Who Owns Road Hugger Tires And Are They Really More Affordable Than Brand Name Rivals?
You can find Road Hugger tires at Discount Tire and America's Tire locations nationwide. Who makes them, and how much cheaper are they than name brand tires?
Read More -
How Fast Is The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk? A Look At The SUV's Top Speed
The Jeep Grand Cherokee model is more than just a family SUV, especially the Trawkhawk trim. Here's its top speed and how its power compares to other trims.
Read More -
4 Myths About Supersonic Flight: What Pilots Actually Feel At Mach 1
Supersonic flight means breaking the sound barrier, but there are some myths as to what pilots actually feel at Mach 1. Here's the truth from experts.
Read More
