Author Archives: HiOctane

Hi Octane Jewelry Brings Handcrafted Horsepower to Daytona Beach’s Iconic Turkey Run this Fall

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Hi Octane Jewelry Brings Handcrafted Horsepower to Daytona Beach’s Iconic Turkey Run

DeLand, FL – October 2025 — Hi Octane Jewelry, the handcrafted jewelry brand inspired by classic cars, speed, and design innovation, will showcase its bold automotive-inspired pieces at the upcoming Daytona Turkey Run, held Thanksgiving weekend at the Daytona International Speedway.

Located in DeLand, Florida, just a short drive from Daytona Beach — the home of NASCAR, Hi Octane Jewelry fuses motorsport culture with fine craftsmanship. Every piece is designed and made by hand using the ancient lost wax casting method, resulting in jewelry that celebrates horsepower, heritage, and individuality.

“Hi Octane Jewelry was born from a love of classic cars and the artistry behind them,” says designer and founder Alicia Hanson. “Each ring, pendant, and pair of earrings tells a story — whether it’s inspired by a vintage grille, a tailfin curve, or the roar of an engine. Our customers aren’t just wearing jewelry — they’re wearing their passion for the open road.”

Fans can find Hi Octane Jewelry in the Artisan Alley at the Daytona Turkey Run, one of the largest classic car shows and swap meets in the country. The brand will feature its signature Hot Rod Rings, Piston Pendants, Car Grille Cufflinks, and Automotive Earrings — each piece designed for car enthusiasts who appreciate originality and craftsmanship.

The collection’s signature materials — sterling silver, gold brass, and recycled metals — pay homage to both engineering and artistry. Each piece captures a sense of motion and mechanical beauty, designed for those who live life in the fast lane.

The Daytona Turkey Run runs November 28–December 1, 2025, at Daytona International Speedway, drawing tens of thousands of car lovers and collectors. Hi Octane Jewelry invites attendees to stop by the Artisan Alley booth to experience the intersection of fine art and automotive culture — and discover why their motto is:
“Jewelry with Horsepower.”


About Hi Octane Jewelry
Founded by artist and designer Alicia Hanson and Husband Brad Johnson, Hi Octane Jewelry transforms the raw energy of car culture into wearable art. Each piece is handcrafted in DeLand, Florida, using lost wax casting and metalworking techniques that highlight precision, texture, and originality. The brand celebrates individuality, craftsmanship, and the timeless allure of automotive design.

Website: www.hioctanejewelry.com
Instagram: @HiOctaneJewelry
Event: Daytona Turkey Run – Artisan Alley, Nov 28–Dec 1, 2025

Gifts for Car Lovers: Handcrafted Jewelry with Horsepower

If you’re on the hunt for a truly unique gift for the car lover in your life, look no further than handcrafted automotive-inspired jewelry. At Hi Octane Jewelry, every ring, pendant, cufflink, and earring is designed to celebrate speed, mechanics, and classic car culture — making them perfect presents for the gearhead who already has it all. In this post, I’ve curated standout pieces and given ideas for “For Him,” “For Her,” and budget-friendly finds under $150 — all with


For Him

Men who live and breathe horsepower will appreciate bold, rugged jewelry that channels the spirit of the road. Consider a grille-style ring or a piston pendant in sterling silver — pieces that echo engine design while being wearable everyday. Hi Octane offers rings that mimic car grilles or motor parts, crafted in sterling silver or with brass hioctanejewelry.com+1 A Hot Rod Car Ring makes an excellent “showstopper” gift — it doubles as a statement ring and a conversation starter. For something more subtle, automotive cufflinks or a gear shift tie bar evoke mechanic motifs without overpowering a dress shirt. hioctanejewelry.com These are gifts that say “I see your love for cars — and I celebrate it.”


For Her

Women with an affinity for horsepower deserve equally thoughtful, refined pieces. Think SS SuperSport Earrings in sterling silver (also available in 14KT gold-plate or brass), with elegant detailing inspired by muscle car heritage. A miniature car grille pendant or Charger Necklace can be both feminine and bold, marrying automotive style with jewelry finesse.

If she prefers rings, look for a compact hot rod ring with clean lines and a slim profile. Hi Octane’s design aesthetic often bridges that gap — combining chrome-like polish and mechanical motifs in wearable art.


Under $150 (for Him and Her)

Here are five standout items (for both men and women) currently available on HiOctaneJewelry.com that tend to fall under $150. (Check the site for up-to-date pricing.)

  • SS SuperSport Earrings – Elegant automotive earrings in sterling silver or gold plate. hioctanejewelry.com
  • Hot Rod Car Ring (Grille style) – A bold ring that echoes grille lines and engine styling. hioctanejewelry.com+1
  • Sterling Silver Grille Ring / Motor Motif Ring – Inspired by vintage car parts, available in silver or brass. hioctanejewelry.com+1
  • Automotive Cufflinks or Gear-Motif Tie Bar – Accents that work in formal or business wear while keeping car themes front and center. hioctanejewelry.com
  • Custom Car Culture Necklace / Charm Pendant – A pendant that references car motifs, available as a custom or semi-custom piece on Hi Octane’s site. hioctanejewelry.com+1

Each of these gifts balances affordability and thoughtful design, making them ideal gifts for car lovers without exceeding a modest budget.


Whether you’re shopping for a husband, boyfriend, wife, girlfriend, friend, or family member, a piece of handcrafted automotive jewelry is more than just a pretty accessory — it’s a symbol of shared passion, a nod to the open road, and a memory in metal. Use keywords like automotive jewelry, hot rod ring, car lover gifts, and gearhead necklace when sharing your gift ideas online, and watch how other car enthusiasts light up when they see what you’ve chosen.

Speed, Style, and Symbolism: Mercury in Myth, Muscle Cars, and Jewelry

Yesterday, I came across a striking bronze statue of Mercury, the Roman god of speed, communication, and travelers. The sculpture captures him mid-flight, balanced on one foot, wings sprouting from his helmet and sandals, and his caduceus (staff entwined with serpents) in hand. What’s fascinating is the base: Mercury’s delicate foot rests on the head of Aeolus, the god of wind, symbolizing how the very air propels him forward. This detail adds depth—reminding us that true speed comes not from force, but from harnessing energy with elegance and balance.

At Hi Octane Jewelry, this imagery feels close to home. Mercury’s legacy carried into the automotive world with the Mercury muscle cars of the mid-20th century. The Lead Sled Mercury, especially, became an icon of customization—chopped, lowered, and streamlined until it seemed to float across the highway. Much like the Roman god’s effortless flight, the Mercury Lead Sled embodied sleekness, rebellion, and motion. Both statue and car speak the same language: freedom, individuality, and power refined into art.

The connection between mythology, classic cars, and handcrafted jewelry is stronger than you might think. Mercury—known as Hermes in Greek myth—was a messenger, a boundary-crosser who moved between worlds. The Mercury automobiles carried that same spirit, bridging everyday driving with high-powered style. At Hi Octane Jewelry, we bring this spirit to life in our automotive-themed jewelry—muscle car grill rings, Mercury-inspired bracelets, and custom designs that fuse vintage car culture with wearable art. Just as Mercury soared on the winds, our pieces are designed to move with you, turning horsepower and history into personal style.

Looking closer at Mercury’s base—the god of wind himself—it’s a reminder that craftsmanship is about flow, not brute strength. That’s how we approach every piece we make. Whether it’s a sterling silver muscle car ring or a custom bracelet inspired by vintage automotive details, our work celebrates that intersection of speed, artistry, and freedom. Like Mercury rising from Aeolus or a Lead Sled gliding down a sunlit highway, Hi Octane Jewelry pieces are built to tell a story of movement and style.

Mercury isn’t just a myth or a car badge—he’s a timeless emblem of transformation, energy, and individuality. Whether cast in bronze, cruising the streets as a custom Lead Sled, or reimagined in sterling silver and automotive jewelry, Mercury continues to inspire us to move boldly forward—with speed, with style, and always with an edge.

Chrome Dreams – Why Silver Jewelry Belongs in Every Gearhead’s Collection

The shine of polished sterling silver has always had a timeless allure, but in recent years it has surged ahead as a favorite among style insiders. Much like the perfect paint job on a classic car, silver jewelry offers a cool, sleek finish that feels both modern and nostalgic. For automotive enthusiasts, the parallel is irresistible: silver’s gleam echoes chrome bumpers, polished exhaust pipes, and gleaming hood ornaments. Collecting silver jewelry with an automotive vibe isn’t just about fashion—it’s about curating pieces that tell a story of speed, craftsmanship, and individuality.

Silver’s affordability compared to gold makes it especially appealing for collectors building a statement-making lineup. High-quality sterling silver (92.5%) polishes beautifully, ages gracefully, and can be sculpted into bold forms that mimic the precision of racing parts or vintage dashboards. Designers are leaning into exaggerated proportions, rivet details, and streamlined shapes—echoing design cues straight from the track. Whether you’re a casual cruiser or a full-throttle collector, silver’s versatility means your pieces will transition easily from car shows to cocktail hours.

One key advantage of silver is its ability to pair seamlessly with both masculine and feminine styling. A chunky gear-link bracelet can toughen up a sundress, while a delicate bolt pendant offers a subtle nod to the racing world without overpowering a tailored suit. Collectors can mix vintage finds—like mid-century Scandinavian silverwork known for its aerodynamic shapes—with modern, machine-inspired designs for a curated look that feels layered and personal.

For those who appreciate detail, look for pieces with finishes that echo the automotive world: brushed silver for a raw, industrial feel, high polish for a “fresh off the lot” vibe, or oxidized textures reminiscent of weathered engine parts. By building a collection that feels like a tribute to automotive design, you’re not just wearing jewelry—you’re wearing a piece of the road. Be sure to check out our Hot Rod & Automotive Themed Jewelry at Hi Octane jewelry.com

8 of the Best Gifts for Car Enthusiasts

Photo Credit: Pexels

8 of the Best Gifts for Car Enthusiasts

If you have a loved one who is crazy about their car (or cars in general), picking out a gift for them can be challenging. It may seem like they have everything they need already, or you may not know enough about cars to confidently purchase a gift. Worry not — a truly helpful car guide is here! The most important thing to remember is that you want your loved one’s daily driving experience to be better than it was before. If you keep that goal in mind and consider the gifts in this guide from Hi Octane Jewelry, you’ll be on the right road to your road warrior’s heart.

1. Tidy Garage

We’ll start with a gift that could be the most meaningful one on the list: a clean garage. Clearing out your garage to make room for your loved one’s home auto shop is a great way to show how much you care. If you don’t know what to do with all the items in the garage, don’t worry. Self-storage units are less expensive than you might expect, which can buy your car lover a little time to go through their things. Need some help finding the right storage place? Move.org has some great tips and resources to make the process painless.

2. Car Speakers

If your auto enthusiast loves to listen to music, give them the gift of amazing sound quality in their vehicle. Getting them a set of new speakers for their vehicle will provide them with a way to listen to music at the highest quality, which is something their stock speakers likely aren’t doing. Since there are so many different brands and types of speakers, be sure to read through some online guides before buying a set.

3. Security Devices

One thoughtful idea is to consider gifts that help prevent auto theft, ensuring the safety and security of their prized vehicle. Options include advanced car alarms that offer state-of-the-art protection against break-ins, steering wheel locks that act as a strong visual and physical deterrent, and GPS tracking devices that allow for real-time monitoring of the vehicle’s location.

These gadgets not only provide peace of mind but also demonstrate a caring and considerate approach towards the recipient’s love for their car. Such gifts are not only useful but also show a deep understanding of the enthusiast’s passion and the importance of safeguarding their treasured possession.

4. Hi Octane Jewelry

Gifting the car enthusiast in your life with a pair of cufflinks or a custom belt buckle from Hi Octane Jewelry is a unique and thoughtful way to celebrate their passion. Hi Octane Jewelry specializes in crafting automotive-themed accessories, perfect for those who have a deep appreciation for cars. The cufflinks are a subtle yet stylish way to add a touch of their automotive enthusiasm to formal attire. Meanwhile, a custom belt buckle can be a striking statement piece, showcasing their love for cars in everyday wear. These pieces are meticulously designed and crafted, ensuring that they’re not just accessories but also treasured keepsakes that reflect their personal style and interests.

5. Car Cover

Just as seat covers can help protect the seats of a car, a car cover protects the exterior from the elements. This is the perfect gift for someone who constantly washes their car and settles for nothing less than the most pristine-looking automobile.

6. Car Buffer

To further assist your loved one with achieving that pristine aesthetic for their vehicle, get them an orbital car buffer to care for their paint. These buffers can not only remove stubborn stains with ease, but they can also remove scratches.

7. Vacuum

Gifting your loved one a high-quality car vacuum will help them keep their interior spic and span, and it may even help capture that perfect new car smell! This might sound like a pricey present, but you can pick up the Dirt Devil Scorpion for under $40. Plus, a car vacuum will give your loved one a little peace of mind the next time someone drops a french fry while on the road.

8. Roadside Emergency Kit

There isn’t a more practical and useful gift than a car emergency kit. It can be easily stored, and it can assist your loved one in the most common of problems they may experience on the road, like a flat tire, dead battery, burned-out headlight. These kits not only provide convenience, but they also help ensure your loved one will make it home safely.

There you have it: some of the best gifts for the car enthusiast in your life. Keep in mind that you want your loved one’s everyday driving experience to be enriched, so be sure to check online reviews for any products you’re considering. Then, you’ll be well on your way to getting them the perfect gift.

Nikola the Future of Trucking – Not So Much

3 new lawsuits & CEO stepped down When it sounds too good to be true apparently it is.

Today I was listening to one of my favorite Podcasts called the Founder Hour while working on a custom 3D printed design I am doing for a customer.  The Podcast featured Trevor Milton of Nikola.  Below is the link to the Founder Hour podcast. I would encourage you to take a listen and see how Nikola is poised to take over the trucking world.

Pat & Posh of Founder hour always start their podcasts asking their guests about their childhood, which in many instances gives you an early look into how the entrepreneurs developed into who they are now.  In Trevor’s case it certainly applies. His father was in the Train industry and Trevor grew up on locomotives and recalls one of the train engineers saying to him, “Can you imagine these same electric locomotives on a semi truck?”  So that sparked the idea for his electric semi trucks.  Trevor has spent years laying the ground work for Hydrogen fuel cell powered semi trucks and Nikola will also control the Hydrogen Fuel stations that will fuel these trucks across the country. Nikola is able to provide zero emissions. Hydrogen also has higher energy storage density than lithium ion batteries, both in terms of energy stored per unit weight and energy stored per unit volume. Fast Fill up – Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles fill up–like their gasoline equivalents – in about five minutes. This short refilling time means that drivers aren’t inclined to walk away during a refill, unlike battery electric vehicles which can take up to take 3 to 18 hours to fully charge vehicle batteries.

Nikola’s is also entering  into the Personal Truck Market with the Nikola-Badger.  

0-60 MPH 2.9 Seconds
Peak HP 906
Continuous HP 455
Peak Torque 980 Ft. LBS
Range 600 Miles
Battery 300 Miles
Fuel Cell 300 Miles
Hydrogen 8 kg
Fuel Cell 120 kW
Towing Capacity 8,000 LBS
Drivetrain 4×4 Independent Wheel Drive (IWD)
Dimensions 5890mm L x 2180mm W x 1870mm T
*Specs can change due to weather, altitude, hydrogen output, battery state of charge, thermal needs and customer requirements. Final specs may change or vary.

 

PreOrder a Badger here

 

Below is a video about the Nikola-Badger as well. 

Regenerating Tire Tread



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Goodyear has unveiled their latest concept car tire featuring tread capable of regenerating itself. The recharge tyre has a biodegradable tread that can regenerate thanks to a special liquid compound made from a biological material and reinforced with fibers inspired by spider silk.

When the tire needs recharging, drivers can insert a new capsule containing this liquid compound into the centre of the wheel. depending on the their location, vehicle, what season they are driving in and how long their journey is, the tire will then regenerate itself accordingly. Thanks to artificial intelligence a driver profile would be created around which the liquid compound would be customized, generating a compound blend tailored to each individual driver and their style of driving.

 

Radically simplifying the process of replacing your tires with rechargeable capsules, the tread would be supported by a light-weight, non-pneumatic frame and tall-and-narrow shape. this is a thin, robust low-maintenance construction that would eliminate the need for pressure maintenance or downtime related to punctures.  Sounds like this tire concept is only available for future EV cars for now.  



SheCar a new way to buy cars

Have you checked out SheCar Yet? I did while back. I had heard about it online awhile back from a Forbes article.  I happened to have a friend that was car shopping and asking me for some car input regarding what car she should get etc.  So I did some online searching.  Then I remembered the article I had read a while back at the time I had followed them on social media as well.  And you know how these days you think about something and then almost magically like google and Instagram are reading your thoughts they show up in your feed.  And SheCar popped up in my Instagram feed and they were doing a giveaway.  So I entered and low and a behold a few weeks later I was notified I was a winner.  Well after getting on the phone with Athena to thank her for the gifts she had sent.  I told her about my friend and her needs and she gave me a very thorough explanation and demo of their services.

The way SheCar works is you contact SheCar and they provide an online demo of the service and how it works. You are given a log in to access an Automobile Auction portal site.  You can then select the area of the country that is closest to you.  And then you put in the type of car and features your looking for.  Then the site pulls up a search of vehicles that are available and you can review photos and notes about the vehicle that consists of any extras or damage the car might have etc.  Here is a nice graphic showing how it works.

 

 

 

So if you’re wondering how does SheCar make any money well I will tell you because I was wondering that too.  In Step 2. Athena itemizes her fee into the cost for you.  So you know exactly what SheCar is charging and it is very fare.  And if you happen to be experiencing hardship, SheCar and her newly formed non-profit organization, SheCare, Inc. which exists to provide women who are emerging from hardship with reliable and safe vehicles. Together the two organizations serve to provide women and men with honest, transparent, and truthful information about the cost and condition of cars.

SheCar® is a woman-owned and operated online car dealership created to help women and men trust – even love – their car-buying experience. Click on over and give it a try I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised like I was at how easy it is.   Book a Demo here