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Ford Offering Free Tesla Charger Adapter to Ford Lightning and Mach-E Owners

Last May, Ford was the first manufacturer to announce that they entered an agreement with Tesla to allow Ford EVs to charge at Tesla V3 SuperCharger stations and that starting in 2025, they would begin moving their vehicles to the NACS charge port.  For vehicles built in the interim, owners would be provided with an adapter to allow a CCS vehicle to accept a charge from a Tesla station.
Ford has announced that reservations for the adapter will be open soon.  Owners will be able to register their VIN to reserve one adapter per vehicle.  At present, only Ford Mustang Mach-E and Ford F-150 Lightning owners are eligible for the adapters. We don't know where this leaves E-Transit customers, but we have reached out to Ford for comment. NACS to CCS1 adapters aren't yet available on the market, but several are in development. Such adapters going from CCS1 to Tesla typically run $150 - $250.
Ford also plans to continue to expand the BlueOval Charging Network of over 100,000 chargers nationwide.  Ford BlueOval allows charging on multiple charge networks through a single app.
Update: A Ford rep said that there will be a future announcement regarding Supercharger access for Ford E-Transit customers closer to launch. Updated Update: Ford E-Transit gets Enhanced Range and SuperCharger Access
Update 2: Owners may register their VIN to receive their adapter in the Ford Pass app or at ford.com/FastChargingAdapter. Owners are allowed one free adapter per VIN.

  • Reservations open soon for the Tesla to CCS charger adapter.

Drew Dowdell

2025 BMW M4 Receives iDrive 8.5 Inch Infotainment System and Live Cockpit Professional

BMW's M4 Competition, with its three-liter twin-turbo inline-six, already has a lot of power, clocking in at 503 horsepower. For 2025, BMW decided to add more power to the xDrive all-wheel-drive trim for 2025, bumping it up 20 to 523 horsepower. For comparison, non-Competition trims of the Rear-wheel-drive M4 use the same three-liter twin-turbo inline-six producing "just" 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque while the more powerful rear-wheel-drive Competition makes 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque.
With the six-speed manual transmission, the standard M4 coupe accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 4.1 seconds, while more powerful rear-wheel-drive Competition can achieve this in 3.8 seconds. Since the horsepower bump is meager, the M4 xDrive coupe and convertible have the same 0-60. The M4 Competition xDrive sees 60 MPH in 3.4 seconds, while the convertible achieves this in 3.6 seconds. With the optional M Driver's Package, the top speed increases to 180 MPH for the coupe and 174 MPH for the convertible.
0-60 times:
M4 Coupe RWD - 4.1 seconds M4 Competition RWD - 3.8 seconds M4 Coupe Competition xDrive - 3.5 seconds M4 Convertible Competition xDrive - 3.6 seconds Exterior changes include a new headlight LED design, and the taillights receive a new laser-accented design. For a bolder look, a new M Design exterior graphic that puts stripes on the hood and trunk lid in black or red. This includes an M logo on the hood and accent lines around the exterior.
The interior contains a new steering wheel with a flat-bottomed rim and comes in M Alcantara finish for the first time. BMW has integrated the latest iDrive 8.5 infotainment system in the new M4 with a 14.9-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster. Also standard is BMW's Live Cockpit Professional, which contains navigation and an M-specific heads-up display.
2025 BMW M4 prices have increased. A base M4 coupe starts at $80,095, and the rear-wheel-drive Competition costs $84,195. The M4 Competition coupe costs $89,295, with the more expensive Competition xDrive convertible coming in at $96,295.

  • The range starts at $80,095 for the M4 and rises to $96,295 for the Competition xDrive convertible.

Anthony Fongaro

GMC Acadia Joins the List of Models with Huge Price Increases

The last few weeks have been awash with reports about huge price increases in the large crossover segment. The 2024 Hyundai Santa will jump over $5,000 on some trims, the 2024 Ford Explorer jumps $4,360, and the sibling to the GMC Acadia, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse increases, at minimum, $3,580.  So it is no real surprise to see a report today from CarsDirect that the order guide is showing some versions of the 2024 GMC Acadia are going up by over $6,600.
The GMC, like the Hyundai Santa Fe, likely has the best excuse for such a large price increase, it is sizing up as well.  For 2024, the Acadia's wheelbase grows 8.9 inches, overall length grows just over 10 inches, and width and height are both up 4 inches.  It is also equipped with a significantly more powerful 2.5 liter turbo 4-cylinder, replacing the aging 3.6-liter V6 and the overworked 2.0 liter base engine.
While reports are preliminary, the new starting price of $42,600 is an increase of $5,800, pushing the Acadia base price higher than almost every competitor in the mainstream segment. Only the Jeep Grand Cherokee L and Toyota Grand Highlander start higher.
The popular AT4 trim, with its rugged good looks and off-road equipment, will start at $50,000, an increase of $6,600. The full-zoot GMC Acadia Denali will set you back $54,300, a $5,700 mark-up, but to be fair, the Denali has dialed up the luxury interior so much, you may feel the price increase is justified.
Going with the size increase is a significant tech increase as well. The infotainment system sports a vertically oriented 15-inch diagonal screen with Google built-in, an 11-inch digital gauge cluster, and available SuperCruise.
While the GMC Acadia has grown, it has left a gap in the GMC lineup with the next smaller crossover being the compact GMC Terrain. We do expect to see a refreshed GMC Terrain soon following in the tire tracks of the recently released 2025 Chevrolet Equinox, but even with the inevitable price increase for the Terrain, that still leaves a significant gap for GMC to fill.
The 2024 GMC Acadia official pricing is due to be released in the near future.

  • The Acadia grows significantly larger for 2024, but so does the sticker price.

Drew Dowdell

2024 Ford Edge is Ending Production in April

Ford has discontinued the Edge SUV, and the last one will be out the factory doors on April 26, 2024. The union representing workers reported this information while Canada's Unifor 707 broke the news to members, stating, “As communicated by the Plant Manager, the last Edge is scheduled to be built on April 26th.”
This isn't a surprise since reports came out last year that the Edge, Escape, and Transit Connect compact could be discontinued. Ford's Transit Connect is no longer available in the U.S. market. What doesn't help the Edge is the overlap in Ford's lineup, sitting alongside the three-row Ford Explorer and off-road-focused Ford Bronco. The Edge's platform mate, the Lincoln Nautilus, was dropped for a year while an all-new Lincoln Nautilus waits in the wings to arrive in dealerships later this year.
All Edge trims except the top Ford Edge ST come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel-drive and an eight-speed automatic accelerate the Edge to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds. The top-of-the-line Edge ST has a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive propels the ST to 60 MPH in 5.6 seconds. Pricing of the 2024 Ford Edge starts at $39,960 for the SE and up to $48,700 for the ST. 
Debuting in 2017, the current Edge went through the years with minimal changes. Other than evolving the Edge Sport to the Edge ST in 2019 and a bigger infotainment system in 2021, the majority of the interior remains the same. The recent trend in rugged-looking square-body SUVs makes the rounded and smooth Edge look dated.  With the Edge now gone, reports suggest the Ontario plant that builds the Edge might be updated to produce electric vehicles (EVs). A long wheelbase version on a new platform called Edge L will live on in China.

  • Ford is simplifying their lineup and shifting to electrification.

Anthony Fongaro

Ford Updates the Explorer for 2025

Ford unveiled the updated 2025 Ford Explorer today with a simplified engine lineup, trims, and revised exterior and interior.
Ford has cut the number of trim options from eight to four, with just the Platinum, ST, ST-Line, and Active trims available.  All trims except ST come standard with the 300-horsepower 2.3-liter Ecoboost 4-cylinder mated to a recalibrated 10-speed automatic. Available on the Platinum and standard on the ST is the 400-horsepower 3.0-liter Ecoboost V6.  All versions come standard as rear-wheel drive with all-wheel drive optional.  The hybrid option was dropped from civilian Explorers after the 2023 model year.
Outside, the primary visual difference is an enlarged grille, all-LED headlamp and tail lamp clusters, a front skid plate, and an updated tailgate.  Platinum, ST, and ST-Line buyers can select a black-painted roof option. Each trim line will receive a distinct grille.
Most of the changes in the 2025 Explorer appear on the inside.  A reimagined interior has more soft material in high-touch locations.  The large vertically oriented infotainment screen in some 2020-2024 models has been replaced with a more traditional, horizontally mounted unit. The dashboard has been pushed forward to give front-row occupants a more open and spacious cabin.
The 2025 Explorer also debuts Ford's new Ford Digital Experience infotainment system.  This 5G-enabled system features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, plus has the ability to download select apps from the Google Play Store. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are built-in and designed to prioritize voice control over in-vehicle controls such as cabin temperature and entertainment selection. It can also control home automation systems.  This new platform allows for over-the-air updates for the first time in Explorer.
When parked, Explorer customers can also use YouTube and Prime Video, as well as play select games available on the Google Play store. Surfing the web on the built-in Vivaldi browser app, or Google Chrome coming soon, is made easier with a Bluetooth-connected keyboard.
Buyers of ST-Line, ST, and Platinum trim Explorers come equipped with Ford's BlueCruise hardware, enabling hands-free highway driving. Lane Change Assist is included, allowing the driver to pass with the tap of the turn signal when the path is clear.  New customers can activate their plan for one year at purchase or select a 90-day free trial.
Following the trend of large price jumps in the large crossover market this year (see: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2024 Chevrolet Traverse), the base price of the 2024 Explorer jumps to $41,220, a $4,360 increase over the current model.
The 2025 Ford Explorer will be in dealerships in the 2nd quarter this year.

  • A refresh for the all-time best-selling SUV in America, plus a big jump in price.

Drew Dowdell

Kia Delays EV4 To Early 2025

On January 29th, 2024, South Korea reported on the EV4 from Kia Vice President Woo-Jeong Woo during a conference call. Kia plans on launching their EV3 in the first half of 2024 while the EV4 will now launch in early 2025. During the 2023 Kia EV Day in October 2023, Kia announced the launch schedules of these two. EV4 was planned to be released before the end of 2024
In the conference call, Vice President Joo stated “Electric vehicles are the biggest influence on Kia’s sales and profits. We plan to flexibly respond to market changes in the medium to long term. The EV3, EV4, and EV5 will be launched sequentially, and we are determined to make these three models successful.” Although Kia has not stated about the delay, they may be waiting to enhance EV4 quality.

From the EV3 to EV5, they will use Kia's E-GMP electrical vehicle platform. EV3 is positioned as a small SUV, the EV4 as a compact sedan, and the EV5 as a compact SUV. Kia has announced that the EV3 to EV5 will cost from around $35,000 to $50,000, respectively. An update to the Gwangmyeong Plant 2 for electric cars has been completed after eight months of work. For now, there are no details about EV4's specifications, but it is likely to be front-wheel-drive. These inexpensive vehicles may use a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and a 400V system. 

  • The smaller EV3 is aimed to launch in the first half of this year.

Anthony Fongaro

Jeep Reveals its First Pure EV - Jeep Wagoneer S

Jeep shared some more details of the upcoming Jeep Wagoneer S today.  While it shares its name with the Ram 1500-sized Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, Jeep is billing this new entry to its lineup as a mid-size.  Looking roughly similar to the Grand Cherokee in size, the Wagoneer S cuts a more athletic profile. While no performance specs were released with this announcement, Jeep has previously said it is targeting 600 horsepower, a 3.5-second 0-60 time, and up to a 400-mile range.  We will have to wait and see if those numbers hold up.  The Wagoneer S will maintain some off-road prowess in spite of its city looks with a Selec-Terrain dial to adjust the S for various surface conditions. Standard features will include a dual-pane panoramic sunroof and a McIntosh 19-speaker, premium flagship audio system.
Interestingly, as the Jeep Wagoneer S is built on the Stellantis STLA-Large platform, Jeep could also offer this as a gasoline hybrid as well, though no hints of that have been made.
The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S goes into production this summer for a late Fall 2024 launch

  • The first fully electric Jeep will arrive in the U.S. later in 2024.

Drew Dowdell

2025 Mazda CX-70 Revealed

The much anticipated 2025 Mazda CX-70 has finally been released after a bit of a delay.  The new model to the Mazda lineup, the CX-70 further moves Mazda into the premium segment.
The CX-70 rides on the same rear-wheel drive platform as the new Mazda CX-90.  Powered by Mazda's new 3.3-liter, turbocharged inline-6 hybrid or 2.5-liter 4-cylinder plug-in hybrid trims, the powertrain promises a smooth and effortless driving experience typically reserved for luxury-branded vehicles. 
While the specifications for the CX-70 haven't been released yet, in the CX-90, the power output from the mild hybrid is 280 horsepower @ 5,000 - 6,000 rpm and 332 lb-ft @ 2000 - 3,500 rpm. The plug-in hybrid model makes 323 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm on premium fuel or 319 horsepower at 6,000 rpm on regular fuel. The torque output of 369 lb-ft remains the same regardless of the octane.  Both powertrains feed the rear-biased all-wheel drive system via an eight-speed automatic. If plugged in, the system can provide an EV range of 26 miles and an MPGe of 56 mpg in the CX-90.  Those numbers could improve with the smaller and lighter CX-70.
Keeping with Mazda's Zoom-Zoom personality, the CX-70 was designed with a wide, athletic stance, a benefit of being derived from a large platform. The interior maintains the luxury car level of quality with an available red Nappa leather coupled with high-end finishes.
The Mazda CX-70 goes on sale in the U.S. later this year. Click the gallery below to see more of the 2025 Mazda CX-70.
 

  • The 2025 CX-70 further pushes Mazda into the premium space.

Drew Dowdell

Hyundai Santa Fe Price Jumps as it Grows Up

Just last week, we reported that the all-new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse will see a large price jump. In what is looking to be an industry trend, Hyundai just reported significant price increases for its large mid-size 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe.
The new 2024 Santa Fe base price starts at $33,950 plus a destination charge of $1,395, bringing the out-the-door MSRP to $35,345. That is $5,260 more expensive than a 2023 Santa Fe SE at $28,750 plus $1,335 destination. The middle-of-the-road "rugged" trim XRT sees the largest jump in price, climbing $6,350 from $34,250 to $40,600 before destination charges. Buyers of the base hybrid trim see the least of the increase, only $2,540 from the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Blue trim to the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid SEL AWD trim.  New for 2024 is the availability of the hybrid in front-wheel drive which brings the hybrid cost back down to around the 2023 AWD Hybrid base price.
That said, these price increases aren't without merit.  The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe has increased significantly in size, adding a third row. The base, naturally aspirated 4-cylinder has been dropped and all non-hybrid models now have the 277-horsepower 2.5-liter direct-injected 4-cylinder turbo as standard.  Hybrids are powered by a 1.6-liter turbo with 231-horsepower combined system output.  Gasoline models come with an 8-speed automatic while hybrids get a 6-speed unit. All trims, except the all-wheel drive only XRT, are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The plug-in is absent for now, but mules have been spotted, so it could be coming.
 

  • Some 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe trims jump more than $5,000 over the 2023 model.

Drew Dowdell

Honda Will Upgrade your 2018-2022 Accord to Wireless CarPlay / Android Auto

Honda has announced that it will offer a software update to 2018 - 2022 Honda Accords to enable wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to vehicles originally equipped with the wired-only version of the mirroring softwares. This is part of a company-wide initiative to add value to prior model-year Hondas and extend the lifetime of their vehicles.

The upgrade must be performed at a dealership and costs $112 plus dealership labor charges.  Owners who purchased their car through Honda's certified pre-owned program are eligible for the upgrade at no additional charge.
Roughly 631,000 Honda Accords in the U.S. are eligible for this upgrade.

  • Honda is offering an update to prior year Accords to add wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as part of a sustainability effort.

Drew Dowdell

Ford Slashes Ford Mach-E Price

Ford has cut the price on the Ford Mustang Mach-E EV by up to $8,100 on some trims in a move to increase sales and keep the price war with Tesla going.  Tesla has recently been aggressively lowering prices, with some models seeing as much as a 20 percent decrease. This move follows a similar price cut by Ford around this time last year that helped make the Mustang Mach-E the number two best-selling EV SUV on the market.
The Premium trim with the extended range battery sees the biggest price cut of $8,100 while the two GT trims cut $7,600 from MSRP.  The base model drops $3,100 off MSRP and moves the Mach-E base price under the $40,000 mark for the first time.

In addition to these price moves, Ford is offering a $7,500 incentive when leasing through Ford Credit on top of the $7,500 federal tax credit for EVs. The Mustang Mach-E only qualifies for the federal tax credit when leased do to the battery supply chain.
While these prices are only for the U.S., Ford is planning on increasing global production of the Mustang Mach-E. With these new price changes and incentives, plus Ford's move to join the Tesla Supercharging network, Ford is hoping to see a significant increase in sales.
Update:
Ford Offering Free Tesla Charger Adapter to Ford Lightning and Mach-E Owners
Ford EV Access to Tesla Supercharging Opens

  • Following Tesla's price cuts, Ford drops the price of the Mach-E by as much as $8,100.

Drew Dowdell

The US Postal Service Adds More to their EV Future

United States Postal Service (USPS) has taken an interesting road to updating their fleet of mail delivery vehicles. 

Lets start with March 24th, 2022 the USPS signs a contract with OshKosh Defense to the tune of $2.98 billion dollars for 50,000 mail trucks and 10,019 are to be EV. These new trucks are to replace the very aged fleet that is currently running on empty and lack many modern conveniences.
The LLV or Long-Life Delivery Vehicles lacked many things from AC to a wide variety of safety items and on top were not very efficient for actually delivering mail on top of the fact that the 190,000-vehicle fleet has an average age of 30 years.

In comparison, the NGDV or Next Generation Delivery Vehicle will feature air conditioning, improved ergonomics, and some of the most advanced vehicle and safety technology — including 360-degree cameras, advanced braking and traction control, air bags, a front-and rear-collision avoidance system that includes visual, audio warning, and automatic braking. The vehicles will also have increased cargo capacity to maximize efficiency and better accommodate higher mail and package volumes.

The NGDV were supposed to be built and on the streets starting the end of 2023 but have since been pushed back to a June 30th, 2024. The electric version will follow some time in 2025.
USPS on December 20th, 2022, updated the NGDV to be a contract of 60,000 mail delivery vehicles with a minimum requirement of 45,000 to be EV and the rest to be ICE (internal combustion engine) or gas powered for rural routes. At this same time, USPS indicated that they are now focused on replacing not only the 190,000 mail delivery trucks but will also replace their large parcel delivery vans also bringing the total to 220,000 vehicles as congress had approved an additional $3 billion dollars to make the fleet green provided as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
With delivery to 163 million addresses six days per week, the fleet of mail and packages delivery autos are now costing far more money to run than replacing them with modern autos. The bulk of these delivery autos on average only cover 10 to 15 miles a day.
March 1st, 2023, USPS selected Ford Motor Company's E-Transit vans to replace aging parcel vans. Ford will deliver 9,250 electric vans starting in 2024. Ford will build the needed infrastructure at their Kansas City Assembly Plant to build by their UAW workforce these vans.

We move forward to January 22nd, 2024, and USPS with Ford announce the first delivery of E-Transit vans for use in their Atlanta Sorting and delivery center with the prototype OshKosh NGDV.

This Atlanta center also has the first large scale charging network and is the first of 400 sorting and delivery centers across the U.S. that will be converted to support a majority EV focused auto fleet. This charging station was manufactured by Siemens and is the start of a 14,000-charging network to be installed in 2024. Siemens, Rexel/ChargePoint and Blink will be the suppliers of choice by contract to install these charging stations across the U.S. through 2028.

Now lets move forward by two days, January 24th, 2024, and the USPS signs a contract with Canoo a maker of their Lifestyle Delivery Vehicle for six of their delivery vans to test against the Ford E-transit for possible inclusion in future EV auto purchases.
Canoo will deliver these six EVs called the LDV 190 in Q1 2024 or by the end of March.

The USPS has dedicated $40 billion dollars to the modernization of their whole fleet from the residential mail delivery vehicles to parcel delivery vans and mid to class 8 semi trucks to reduce their carbon footprint. These six vans will be used in 2024 to allow USPS to consider Canoo as a potential supplier of modern EV delivery vehicles.
Per Canoo press release:
“The multi-purpose platform with steer-by-wire technology and a unique low-profile suspension system allows for a readily configurable right-hand drive system while maintaining desired roll and ride stability,” said Tony Aquila, Investor, Executive Chairman, and CEO of Canoo.
This is part of a committed USPS 10-year Modernization plan expected to be complete by 2034.
USPS has stated that Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) will now play a critical role in helping modernize the 220,000-delivery vehicle fleet of which OshKosh will make up 60,000 plus potentially more.

  • USPS has signed commitments with three auto companies for EV vans to start updating their ancient mail delivery fleet.

G. David Felt

Second-Generation 2024 Porsche Macan Ditches Internal Combustion Engines

After ten years, Porsche has redesigned the Macan. This time, the German sports car brand unveiled the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo Evs. While the Macan 4 produces 402 horsepower, the Turbo makes 630 horsepower. Those are much bigger numbers compared to the internal combustion engines (ICE). 
The new Macan EV has underpinnings co-developed with Audi. This platform is called Premium Platform Electric (PPE) with an 800-volt electrical architecture which will be used on the upcoming Audi A6 and Q6 EVs. Later on, an all-electric Cayenne could use this platform. 
Porsche uses batteries with Lithium-Nickel Manganese Cobalt with a new capacity of 95 kWh and 100 kwH gross. The Taycan was the first vehicle to utilize 800-volt electrical architecture which reduces copper usage and gives faster charging speeds. Hooked up to an 800-volt DC charger, the Macan can charge up to 270 kW. Plugging in at a 400-volt charger activates the battery pack sensor, splitting the batteries charging in parallel. This helps to reduce charging time.
Porsche's Macan 4 and Turbo use permanent-magnet synchronous motors at each axle, and the rear motor is turned 180 degrees for better rear-biased weight distribution. The combined power for the Macan 4 is 402 horsepower and 479 lb-ft, while the Macan Turbo has 630 horsepower and 833 lb-ft. Both vehicles achieve these figures with an "over-boost" feature, which can be used with Launch control. Macan 4 gets from 0-60 MPH in 4.9 seconds, while the Turbo gets the job done in a scant 3.2 seconds. The top speed for the Macan 4 is 136 MPH and the Macan Turbo is 161 MPH.
These acceleration and top-speed runs were accompanied by a single-speed gearbox, while the Taycan uses a two-speed gearbox. Unfortunately, the Macan is similar to the Taycan, lacking one-pedal driving. The majority of regenerative braking comes from the brake pedal. There are no official EPA figures, but the Macan can regenerate up to 240 kW of energy in braking depending on the state of charge.
Porsche gave the new Macan EV  multi-link suspension front and rear. A double-wishbone setup is at the front while the upper wishbone split into two links, moving the steering axis further outboard. Air springs and Porsche Active Suspension (PASM) adaptive dampers are standard on both trim levels. The Macan can now get optional rear-wheel steering which turns the rear wheels up to five degrees depending on speed. Driving at slower speeds turns the rear wheels in the opposite direction while quicker driving turns the rear wheels in the same direction. 
Since Porsche's designs are more evolution, the Macan EV keeps a few design cues from the ICE Macan. While the proportions and silhouette remain almost the same, the front end gets Taycan0like daytime running lights (DRLs). Headlights move to the front bumper along with a lower hood line with a shallow frunk. This can be used to haul around charging cables and small items. With a deployable rear spoiler, flaps both in the front fascia and underbody paneling, and other aerodynamic elements, the Macan has a coefficient of 0.25.
Macan's interior is similar to the Porsche Cayenne and Panamera. Inside is a digital gauge cluster with a curved display and a wide-screen infotainment system that plays Spotify and YouTube. Optional is a passenger display along with an augmented reality (AR) heads-up display. Route planning with charging stops has been updated in the infotainment system. There is a lot of technology, but Porsche has kept the tried-and-true physical controls for HVAC and a volume knob. 
If you're interested in a Macan EV, you'll have to pony up more than the ICE version. The Macan 4 starts at $80,450, almost $19,000 more than the base gas-powered Macan. Turbo models start at $106,950, or $18,500 more than the top GTS trim level. These are some steep increases in price and are much costlier than its competition. Still, the entry to an electric Porsche drops from $92,550 for a base rear-wheel-drive Taycan to the Macan 4.
Gas-powered, first-generation Macans will continue production in the US. Due to new EU cybersecurity regulations, production of the ICE Macan in the EU has ended, however, Porsche is allowed to sell through the remaining inventory of the previous generation ICE Macan. With the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, Porsche is one step closer to their goal of full electrification of their models.

  • The Macan EV can be had in either the 4 or Turbo trim levels.

Anthony Fongaro

Over 2 Million Ford Explorers Recalled for Trim Flying Off

It's not even the end of January and Ford is already doing recalls. Ford was the leader of recalls in 2023 with 58 recalls and 6.1 million units. With this recall of 1.8 million Explorers in the United States and 2.2 million globally, Ford has already recalled one-third of its total vehicles recalled in 2023. Earlier this month, Ford recalled the Ford EcoSport and Focus with the 1.0-liter Ecoboost engine for engine failure. This latest recall is due to trim pieces that can come off while driving. 
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), recall number 24V-031 is because "some of the exterior A-pillar applique trim clip attachments are not properly engaged due to improper assembly or repairs". Ford Explorers from 2011 to 2019 are affected, and those clips that "are not properly engaged" can lead to trim pieces flying off the SUV.
Although Ford states there haven't been injuries or accidents from this, there are many incident reports. Ford identified 568 Vehicle Online Questionnaire reports and 14,337 warranty reports for the A-Pillar trim detaching or missing.
The report says Ford conducted an investigation back in 2018 per the NHTSA. It was deemed to be "not an unreasonable risk to safety due to the low mass/geometry of the part with NHTSA alignment." In February of 
A Ford spokesperson stated: "Ford issued a recall Jan. 22 on certain 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles for potential A-pillar trim detachment. We expect only 5 percent of the vehicle population to be affected and encourage customers to contact their dealership for an inspection when parts are available. At that point, customers will have free access to mobile repair and pick-up-and-delivery services at participating dealerships."
Thankfully, the fix is straightforward. Ford dealers will inspect the Explorer's A-pillar trim and either repair or replace the part if it's not securely fastened. Owners will be notified at the beginning of March, and concerned customers can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and use the reference Ford recall number 24S02 for more information.

  • Ford had 58 recalls in 2023, affecting 6.1 million vehicles.

Anthony Fongaro

2024 Volkswagen GTI Gains Power, Loses Manual

On Tuesday, Volkswagen debuted the refreshed 2024 Golf. This renowned hatchback receives an updated exterior and revised interior. The GTI also receives mild styling changes and a more powerful engine.
European GTIs have an updated 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 261 horsepower, an increase of 20 horsepower. GTIs will still be front-wheel-drive, but Volkswagen killed off their six-speed manual. This leaves VW's seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic. 
Exterior changes include different headlights, a lower grille opening with upward-slanted accents, and taillights. Other changes include a thinner reverse light, a C-shaped bracket, and six internal markers.  The GTI can be optioned with a contrasting black roof option along with 15 exterior colors. S and SE trim levels get 18-inch wheels, while the Autobahn gets 19-inch wheels. 
Volkswagen revised the interior of the GTI with the needed changes. The GTI's steering wheel reverts from capacitive buttons to regular buttons. Its infotainment touchscreen is larger and improved. There are now illuminated touch sliders for the air conditioning and volume controls. 
For now, the American 2024 Golf GTI makes 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. Although Volkswagen has not shared information about the US-bound GTI, there are expectations that these updates will be found in 2025 models. Unfortunately, that means this is the last year a GTI with a manual will be available. If you want a GTI with a manual,  act now before they become extinct. 

  • Volkswagen has also given the new GTI an improved infotainment system. 

Anthony Fongaro

Chevrolet Gives the Equinox Fresh Looks for 2025

The hottest and most competitive segment in the auto industry is the compact crossover, with every mainstream brand fielding at least one or more entries.  Fresh off updating the Trax, Trailblazer, Blazer, and Traverse in the last two years, Chevy is circling back to update its bread-and-butter Equinox.  Equinox's current platform came out in 2018 with a mild nip-tuck in 2022.  For 2025, the Equinox gets a major redesign, inside and out, on the same platform.
The headliner for this release is the new ACTIV trim. Representing a ruggedized version of the Equinox, the ACTIV has a unique front fascia, blacked-out badging, 17-inch machined aluminum wheels,  a Maple Sugar / Black interior scheme, and an available white roof.
The current LT and RS trims also each have distinctive front fascias, a C-pillar shark fin, All-LED lighting, and several wheel choices up to 20 inches for RS.  The RS is also available with a black roof.
The Equinox's interior has received a major refresh focusing on tech.  New is an 11-inch diagonal, reconfigurable instrument cluster and an angled 11.3-inch infotainment screen featuring Google built-in.  CarPlay and Android Auto device mirroring will be offered.
The gear selector has been moved to the steering column in a stalk on the right side of the wheel, opening up room for more console storage in the center. All models have standard heated steering wheels and front seats.  RS buyers get a flat-bottomed steering wheel and can add ventilated front seats and rear heated outboard seats.
The Equinox comes standard with a host of automatic detection and reaction systems, including:
Automatic Emergency Braking Forward Collision Alert Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking Following Distance Indicator Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning IntelliBeam Additional standard safety and driver assistance features include:
Side Bicyclist Alert Rear Vision Camera Rear Seat Reminder Adaptive Cruise Control Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking Rear Cross Traffic Braking Rear Park Assist Enhanced Lane Keep Assist The 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder carries over from last year's model, producing 175-horsepower at 5,600 RPM.  Torque and transmission specifications vary by driveline with the front-wheel drive models producing 184 lb-ft and routing through a CVT while all-wheel drive models make 203 lb-ft and use a traditional 8-speed automatic. When equipped with all-wheel drive, the Equinox can tow up to 1,500 pounds. View the gallery below to see more of the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox
Expect the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox to be available in mid-late 2024.

  • The 2025 Equinox gets a new ACTIV trim and more visual distinction between trim levels.

Drew Dowdell

2024 Chevrolet Traverse Price Rises Significantly

Chevy announced the pricing of the upcoming 2024 Traverse, and hold on to your wallets because it just got a lot more expensive to buy a big crossover from the bow tie brand.  The 2024 Traverse will start at $39,995 for the base MSRP, an increase of $3,580 over the outgoing 2023 Chevy Traverse LS FWD.
What's new for that $3.5k? There is the massive new 17.7-inch infotainment screen, over 10" larger diagonally than the prior units. Plus, there is more power from the 2.5-liter inline-4 with 315 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, a slight increase over the 310 horsepower of the old V6, but a significant boost over the V6's 266 lb-ft of torque.  There was a gear dropped as the 9-speed drops to an 8-speed unit, but with the extra torque, we doubt owners will notice.
At the top end of the lineup, Chevy has phased out the High Country and Premier trims, instead offering the off-roading Z71 trim and a sport-oriented RS model.  A first for the Traverse, the $47,795 Z71 trim isn't just an appearance package and adds actual off-roading capability with a 1-inch increase in ground clearance, a widened track, off-road dampers, all-terrain tires, aluminum skid plate, Terrain Mode control, Hill Descent control, and a twin-clutch all-wheel drive system.
The tippy top of the range is the RS, starting at $55,595 and getting practically all of the options from the lower trims, it also sports 22-inch wheels, a firmer sports suspension, blacked-out exterior trim, a flat bottom steering wheel, and standard one-touch folding second row and power-folding thirst row seating.
The Traverse has always been one of the largest cargo capacity crossovers available on the market and that continues to be true with a 98 cubic-foot max cargo capacity.
If you like the current model better, it will live on for a while as the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Limited.
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse will be built at GM's Lansing Delta Township plant in Michigan and will go on sale early this year.

  • Now starting at $39,495, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse is $3,580 more than the 2023 model.

Drew Dowdell

2025 Jeep Wagoneer S and Dodge Charger Will Share EV Platform

The parent company for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM announced details of the new STLA Large platform. Stellantis says this flexible architecture will underpin vehicles at Dodge and Jeep later this year. Confirmed by Jeep, the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S EV will arrive this fall. Dodge released a few teaser images of the 2025 Charger on social media, saying it will be "available later 2024"
Since these announcements started last week, it isn't surprising that Stellantis revealed the STLA-L platform. This will underpin six unspecified vehicles from Alfa Romeo, Maserati, and Chrysler. Interestingly, STLA Large can accommodate hybrid and internal combustion powertrains. The EV platforms will be available with either a 400- or 800-volt architecture. Reports online say the Dodge Charger will be offered as an EV and an ICE possibly with the Hurricane 500+ horsepower twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight-six. 
Keeping with engines, STLA-L supports transverse and longitudinal engine layouts and limited-slip differentials. Stallantis points out that STLA-C can handle "extreme power that will outperform any of the existing Hellcat V8s". Since Dodge's Challenger SRT Demon 180, the swan-song for the Challenger makes 1,025 horsepower, there could again be Challengers with over 1,000 horsepower. Jeep's Wagoneer S has 4xe capability with all-terrain management, advanced Jeep brand-focused technology while producing 600 horsepower with 0-60 MPH in around 3.5 seconds. 
Stellantis is providing two battery capacities from 85.0 to 118.0 kWh, although we don't know if that is net or gross capacity. These EVs have a targeted driving range of 500 miles for sedans with an 800-volt architecture. These estimates are for the more optimistic WLTP test, so the real range should be around 425, still very impressive. Stellantis says that it will use silicon carbide for the semiconductor material which is used to minimize power loss. Porsche does the same with its PPE platform in the upcoming Macan EV. Over-the-air (OTA) updates will allow these powertrain performance upgrades during the course of the vehicle's life. There will have next-generation technology will include STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit, and STLA Drive. 

  • Jeep and Dodge will launch the new platform in AWD, FWD, RWD hybrids, EVs, and gas-powered vehicles.

Anthony Fongaro

Buick Releases Next-Generation Enclave Teasers

Buick's large crossover will get the sleek Buick Wildcat concept styling from the show car. The Enclave will sport the same slim "eyes" and large lower grille as seen on the Buick Envista, but scaled up for the Enclave's size.  We expect the Enclave to receive the same 328 horsepower / 326 lb-ft of torque 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder found in the recently refreshed Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia. While the Enclave has been fully redesigned, it will continue to use an updated version of the existing C1 platform and be roughly the same size as the outgoing model.
While the teaser sketches show a more rakish rear glass, the mules that have been spotted retain the more traditionally upright profile we are familiar with. Its a shame, however, as we can see a space in the Buick lineup for a more rakish and svelte Enclave following the concept art.

Buick also took the time to tout their growth. Buick sales for 2023 were up 61% with the Encore GX scoring a 92% increase year over year. It was also a great year for Buick's Avenir trim with more than 26% of all retail sales. Envista is bringing fresh customers to the Buick brand, nearly 70% of Envista buyers are new to Buick. Even the Enclave, in its final full year of production of the current model saw sales increase 29%.

The 2025 Buick Enclave will be unveiled later this year and likely hit dealerships in the fall of 2024. We expect a significant price increase as the 2024 Traverse jumped over $3,500 for the refreshed model.

  • Buick's large crossover will get the sleek Wildcat styling from the show car.

Drew Dowdell

Dealerships Get the Government to Pause Upcharges and Shady Practices

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) created a rule last year to help consumers against unfair practices and fees. Known as the Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS), this was supposed to take effect on July 30th, 2024. Now, lobbyists were able to get this paused indefinitely. 
This new development of CARS was fought by the National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) and the Texas Automobile Dealers Association. They filed a petition with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and challenged the law. The Court agreed with NADA and the Texas Automobile Association to stop CARS from happening. 
One of the biggest issues with this legal battle concerns if the FTC has the jurisdiction to impose this. Both dealership groups called the rule "an abuse of discretion" which they used in court to stop the rule from being implemented. The FTC agrees, saying the rule "does not impose substantial costs, if any" for non-shady dealerships. They guarantee a more even playing field for consumers and dealerships by eliminating hidden costs and junk fees.
If the courts decide to rule for the FTC, the FTC thinks the CARS rule will be delayed by a few months. This means CARS could be enacted before 2025. Even with the FTC fighting and possibly winning this, dealerships have pressured Congress to make laws removing the FTC from regulating car sales. If a dealership breaks the rules, they would have a violation of $50,120. 

  • This ban on upcharges and shady tactics went from taking effect on July 30th to an infinite delay.

Anthony Fongaro

Hyundai's Ioniq 5 N Is Only 2.6 Seconds Slower Than the BMW M2 CS At The Nürburgring

Electric cars have great acceleration, but they can seem dull to drive. Hyundai didn't get that memo when creating the 640-horsepower Ioniq 5 N. They tout that the Ioniq 5 N is truly fun and a "corner rascal".  Piloting the Ioniq 5 N at the Nürburgring was Sport Auto's test driver, Christian Gebhardt. 
Gebhardt has driven both the Ioniq 5 N and last-generation BMW M2 CS. The Ioniq 5 N completed a time of 7 minutes and 49.59 seconds, only 2.6 seconds slower than the BMW. Back in 2020, Gebhardt completed a time of the Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 42.99 seconds. Hyundai used Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, while the last-generation M2 CS had Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s. With all that power, the Ioniq 5 N hit speeds up to 163 mph on the straights.
Comparing a sports car with an electric crossover doesn't happen often but comparing the two times is interesting. There is a larger gap between the Ioniq 5 N and the current M2, with a time of 7 minutes and 38.17 seconds last year. In the next few years, there will be a quicker M2 CS that will be quicker around the 'Ring.
Since Hyundai also has the Ioniq 6, there's a chance they will create an Ioniq 6 N. Hyundai's RN22e concept car looks to be a preview of a production model. This could be quite the quick electric sedan with a lower center of gravity and better aerodynamics. BMW's M division is working on a high-performance M3-like sedan. This should arrive in the latter half of the decade with an X3-sized crossover.
 

  • With the Ioniq 5 N, Hyundai is trying to prove EVs can be fun.

Anthony Fongaro

BMW Says Gas Car Sales Have Peaked and Will Focus on EVs

Recently, there has been a shift in BMW's sales plans. Walter Mertl, BMW's Chief Financial Officer, said they have hit the tipping point for internal combustion engines (ICE) and will focus more on electric cars. Mertl also says that ICE vehicle sales have plateaued and will start to decrease. This is due to changes in environmental regulations with stricter or zero emissions. Regulations from China, the European Union, and the United States are causing automakers to expedite creating and producing electric vehicles (EVs).
In 2023, 15% of BMWs sold globally were EVs. Their most popular model was the i4 M50 for the second year in a row. BMW is targeting a 33% share by 2025 and will unveil six vehicles under the Neue Klasse EV lineup. The first vehicle, an X3-sized EV SUV, is expected to arrive in 2025. Mertl did acknowledge that BMW's profit margins for EVs and ICE vehicles won't align until at least 2026. One of the factors Mertl pointed out included the higher costs associated with new battery technology.
Although BMW is shifting towards an all-electric brand, they still want owners to have fun driving a manual. BMW confirmed that the M2, M3, and M4 will keep their manual gearboxes for the current generation. In 2023, 15-20% of M3 and M4s had a manual gearbox, while the M2 was closer to 50%. 

  • They also said they are keeping its manual transmission in the M2, M3, and M4.

Anthony Fongaro

Lamborghini Finally Breaks Selling Over 10,000 Models

Selling 10,000 cars in a year can seem like a small achievement. For automotive companies in the highest echelons, that number is a significant milestone. Delivering 10,112 vehicles worldwide in 2023, Lamborghini broke through the 10,000 vehicle sales mark for the first time since it was founded in 1963. Selling exactly 3000 cars, the United States was Lamborghini's biggest market. Canada received 357 cars. Germany was the second biggest market with 961, while China came third at 845 units. Lamborghini's home market of Italy came in eighth place with 409 cars delivered.
 
What makes this more impressive is that Lambo only had two models for 2023. Unsurprisingly, the Urus SUV was the top seller with 6,087 sales. Huracán sales represented 3,962 with 63 being the last Aventadors. The total includes the last 112 of the Countach LPI 800-4 hypercar. Lambo's replacement for the Aventador, the Revuelto, was launched too late in the year to have any production numbers. Revuelto uses a V12 with plug-in-hybrid power to make around 1,000 horsepower.
If you want a Revuelto, you're out of luck. Unless you already have one on order, Lambo says the Revuelto is sold out for the next three years. While the Huracán is bowing out at the end of this year, there will be a facelifted Urus. It should use the same twin-turbo V8 producing 729 horsepower found in the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. Ferrari and Bentley sold 13,221 and 15,147 vehicles, respectively. At the top of the food chain, Rolls-Royce, sold a little over 6,000 cars, at 6,032. 

  • With 3,000 cars sold in the United States, Lamborghini sold 10,112 vehicles globally in 2023.

Anthony Fongaro

BMW's iDrive 9 Revolutionizes In-Car Entertainment with Sony's PlayStation Controller Integration

If you've played a video game, most likely you used a controller. With the introduction of BMW's iDrive 9 infotainment system at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), things are going to change. Customers will be able to do the same later in the year. Customers can play video games in BMW models with the AirConsole app introduced earlier this year. Users can download games and use their smartphone as a controller. This is only possible when the car is stationary. BMW's iDrive 9 will be able to play video games with full-size controllers from PlayStation and Xbox
This in-car gaming will be accessible through the ConnectedDrive Store along with other third-party apps. These are possible due to the Android-based software integrated into iDrive9. Customers do have to pay for the BMW Digital Premium option. If a new model is sold without the controller feature, BMW will send the update out via over-the-air (OTA) update.
BMW showcased its iX RC car parking itself within certain parameters and situations. Valeo, a mobility-focused tech company, said drivers could leave their vehicles at a designated drop-off location and the car will both search for an open spot and return when summoned. This Level 4 autonomous system can be controlled with a remote control. A pair of augmented-reality glasses called "XREAL Air 2", provides the driver and passengers with information supplemented by BMW's displays. 
A demonstration for the AR glassed showcased Las Vegas and showed points of interest (POI), navigation, and entertainment features. BMW's iDrive 9 showcases a myriad of new technology and features but isn't their first augmented-reality system. They previewed this technology in 2015 with the Mini Augmented Vision project. It seems that BMW is heading head-first into gaming, augmented reality, and remote-control valet parking. 

  • The iDrive 9 system will feature gaming, autonomous parking, and augmented reality. 

Anthony Fongaro

Toyota Puts the GR Corolla Engine in the Small Lexus LBX Morizo MM Concept Car

Lexus has finally put the GR Yaris and GR Corolla's three-cylinder engine in one of their vehicles. This time around, the engine is in the LBX, an upgrade to the Yaris Cross. The full name is the Lexus LBX Morizo RR. The LBX was launched last year, with this version of the LBX creating 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. This debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon as a concept car.
The LBX is smaller than the UX in the United States but is significantly more powerful. Toyota gave the Lexus the Morizo moniker, something interesting since that's the nickname of Toyota's chairman, Akio Toyoda. Although the GR Corolla comes with a six-speed manual transmission, this version of the LBX comes with a new eight-speed automatic transmission. 
The torque-converter gearbox also debuted at Tokyo Auto Salon in the 2024 GR Yaris. The LBX's transmission uses all transmission to all four wheels. Lexus has given the LBX Mirozo RR 19-inch wheels, a wider body, and stiffer suspension. There's a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear. As a nod to Akio Toyoda's favorite color, there are many yellow accents. As of now, Lexus has not said if they would put the LBX Morizo RR into production or if they intend to keep it a concept car. 

  • The Lexus LBX is getting the 1.6-liter three-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft.

Anthony Fongaro

Ford Recalls Their 1.0-liter EcoBoost Engine for Oil Pressure Issues

It looks like Ford has another recall. This time, Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost is in the crosshairs. It's being recalled in various 2018-2022 EcoSport SUVs and 2016-2018 Focus models with the tiny three-cylinder. This engine could suffer a loss of engine oil pressure due to a defect with the oil pump drive belt tensioner. The recall says that the belt tensioner arm may fracture because the retention caulk joint isn't strong enough to withstand engine vibrations. If this happens, the tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth. The tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth.
From this, the engine might lose oil pressure which could damage the engine. If you are driving, there may be a loss of engine and braking, which could to an accident. Ford does know of one crash allegedly similar to this issue with two injuries but no fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened up an investigation into nearly 250,000 EcoSports for reports of alleged engine failure in 2018-2021 models in September.
This engine has been under scrutiny since 2022 when NHSTA began the investigation into the Bronco. NHTSA expanded this "catastrophic engine failure probe" in 700,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. The 2.7-liter and 3.0-liter EcoBoost are found in the Ford Edge, Explorer, and F-150 along with the Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus. Total number of the affected EcoSport and Focus models is 139,790. Last year, Ford remained the automaker with the most recalls at 56, affecting 5.6 million cars. That's less than in 2022, when Ford issued 68 recalls for 8.5 million cars. 

  • The two models with these engines are the EcoSport and Focus.

Anthony Fongaro

Hertz Selling Off 30% of its EV Fleet because of Tesla

Hertz has announced that it will sell off roughly 30%, or 20,000 vehicles, of its EV fleet.  The move came after it announced a scale-back from its original goal of electrifying 25% of the rental fleet. Hertz's original goal was to acquire 100,000 Tesla and 65,000 from Polestar over five years. Teslas make up roughly 80% of the Hertz EV fleet. At the time of this writing, there are 631 Teslas for sale on Hertz's website and only 40 EVs from other brands.
In a statement, Hertz cited substantially higher than average repair costs "for EVs" with extended wait times for parts availability. Additionally, Hertz reported that manufacturers' new lower retail prices hurt the resale values of the existing fleet, leading to substantial depreciation losses. Hertz is expecting to take a $245 million write-down on the vehicles, or an average loss of $12,250 per vehicle. Unlike other brands, Teslas purchased by Hertz were purchased at the same retail price the general public pays without any volume discount.
Our take
While many in the anti-EV crowd see this as an indictment against EVs, it is really more of an indictment against Tesla.  Tesla's use of the Gigapress, while revolutionary technology, means that even minor collisions can be catastrophic to the vehicle. But this technology is coming to other brands as well. General Motors has purchased a Gigapress manufacturer and Volkswagen is planning on using Gigapress in their future vehicles. Additionally, Tesla does not have a deep reserve of spare parts, leading to long wait times for repairs. Tesla's erratic pricing moves have also made it difficult to accurately predict resale value of their vehicles.  For an individual, it is an annoyance but for a corporation that buys 100,000 vehicles, it can cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
But Hertz's loss could be your gain.  If you have been looking at purchasing an EV but don't want to pay the high prices of a new one, a wave of Tesla Model-3 and Model-Y are about to hit the market. Couple that with a $4,000 tax credit for pre-owned EVs and there will be good deals to be had.  Even if you do not buy one of the Teslas from Hertz, this move will likely drop the price of used EVs on the market, so keep your eyes open for a deal.

  • High Tesla repair costs and heavy depreciation really Hertz.

Drew Dowdell

VinFast Announces America Will Get the Tiny VF3

Vietnamese automaker VinFast has been creating a lot of buzz. They launched the VF8 in the United States last summer, and their larger VF9 SUV should come later this year. Although the VF8 did not meet journalist expectations, VinFast is expanding its lineup. This week at CES in Las Vegas, VinFast unveiled two different vehicles. The first is their first pick-truck concept, the VF Wild. Meanwhile, a production-ready subcompact VF3 SUV.
Styling-wise, the VF3 looks strikingly similar to the much-loved Suzuki Jimny. The VF3 is 125.6 inches long, 66.1 inches wide, and 63.8 inches tall. This would make it the smallest car sold in America. The VF3 features VinFast's V-shaped chrome trim on the front and rear along with chunky wheel arches. This comes with 16-inch wheels and decent ground clearance. Although there are no specs, VinFast is aiming for 125 miles of range.
Inside is a four-seater cabin with a minimalistic design. There is a single 10-inch infotainment system behind the steering wheel and has both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. When folding the second row of seats, the cabin expands to 19.4 cubic feet. VinFast debuted the VF3 in Vietnam in June 2023, but the global debut was at CES. For now, the timing and deliveries of the VF3 depend on different markets. A spokesperson told Automotive News that the VF3 could be less than $20,000. If that is true, this would be the cheapest EV in the United States. 

  • The VF3 was shown at CES but there are no details on timing.

Anthony Fongaro

Mercedes Brings Out a Slew of Tech at CES

Mercedes-Benz's MBUX infotainment system already comes with a plethora of features along with their large Hyperscreen display. At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Mercedes displayed the new systems they wanted to implement. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be integrated into the native system and its voice recognition.  This system will use a more empathetic tone which, according to Mercedes, is capable of sarcasm.
A combination of ambient interior lighting and haptic feedback embedded in the seats helps the AI get your attention. The system can learn your daily routes and access information from the driver's calendar. It can also make suggestions for your route. If you're running late for work or a meeting, it could offer to call into the meeting virtually.
Along with the software updates are updates to gaming. Thanks to partnering with Antstream Arcade, users can play vintage games from Nintendo, Sega, and Atari. Mercedes worked with Sony Pictures Entertainment for films and TV content. This will be accessible via the Ridevu app. Drivers in California, Nevada, and Germany will be able to its level 3 autonomous driving system. 
Mercedes also announced partnerships with Amazon Music and Audible to stream audio content, audiobooks, and podcasts. These will be integrated into MBUX and created to work with Dolby Atmos' spatial audio system. Audible's "audio movies" collection has actors including James McAvoy, Michael Sheen, and Gillian Anderson.
Out of the ordinary, MBUX will gain a feature to display NFTs and a concept called Sound Drive. This allows drivers to play their Mercedes like a musical instrument. Mercedes collaborated with rapper and music producer will.i.am for Sound Drive. The system utilizes the throttle, brakes, regenerative brakes, and steering input to determine which song to play. Sound Drive produces an array of songs from calm to high-energy. As the driver speeds up, the tempo will increase. Slowing down decreases the intensity.
During his presentation of Sound Drive, will.i.am stated: "I can't think of another dimension of creativity. Yes, the sample was important in the 1980s and 1990s. Yes, the computer was awesome . . . but this is a dimensional shift in the process.” Sound Drive will appear on Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG vehicles starting in mid-2024. It will be available via an over-the-air (OTA) update for vehicles with Mercedes' second-generation MBUX system. 

  • The MBUX infotainment system will have an AI voice assistant along with a surprising collaboration. 

Anthony Fongaro

ChatGPT Will Soon Be in New Volkswagens

At the start of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Volkswagen will show off something interesting. Volkswagen will integrate ChatGPT into its existing IDA voice assistant. This will be offered on vehicles such as the ID electric vehicles, Tiguan, and Passat. 
Open AI's ChatGPT won't replace what Volkswagen currently offers. Instead, it will be utilized as a backup assistant if Volkswagen's IDA doesn't have an answer. Theoretically, you could ask your car random questions with ChatGPT to come up with an answer. Volkswagen hasn't given details for how much involvement ChatGPT will have, but a press release says it can "provide relevant responses to nearly every query imaginable."
Volkswagen has worked out how secure the integration will be. ChatGPT doesn't gain access to your vehicle data, so personal information shouldn't be compiled. Questions are "deleted immediately" so any personal questions won't be kept. ChatGPT integrates with VW's current infotainment system and uses the same voice. 
Kai Grünitz, a member of Volkswagen's Board of Management for Technical Development, said: "Volkswagen has always democratized technology and made it accessible to the many. This is simply ingrained in our DNA. As a result, we are now the first volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology a standard feature to vehicles from the compact segment upwards." 

  • This integration will not replace Volkswagen's factory system.

Anthony Fongaro

Ram's 16-Year-Old 1500 Classic Truck Continues Into 2024

Look back to the year 2008. Fuel prices are at the point where customers are flocking to smaller and more economical cars. The automotive and financial worlds are in crisis.  January 2008, Dodge debuted their new Ram 1500 at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Michigan.  That truck is still on sale and is now 16 years old.
That fourth-generation truck, which was still a Dodge, is still available for sale. Ram doesn't have a configuration set up yet. There are two trim levels for the Ram 1500 Classic. A work-friendly Tradesman trim and a more robust Warlock trim. Tradesman 1500 Classics offers buyers a single-cab/lob box layout, along with Quad and Crew Cab configurations. The Warlock trim can be had in a Quad or Crew cab. 
That can be some changes to the 2024 Ram 1500 Classic, but they're probably minor since this is a 16-year-old platform. Standard for both trim levels is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. An optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic. 

An older 7.0-inch touchscreen is in the center stack with a more analog cabin. There's a plethora of buttons and knobs where newer trucks use capacitive buttons or the touchscreens. Pricing should be similar to the 2023 Ram 1500 Classic. The Tradesman starts at $34,340 for a Regular Cab eight-foot box and rear-wheel-drive. The 1500 Classic costs about $6,000 less than the regular 1500. Old tech and a reliable Hemi V8 in the Ram 1500 Classic is a good choice for local government officials, the military, and contractors. 
 

  • Two trim levels and two engines are offered.

Anthony Fongaro

In 2023, Nissan Sold 390 GT-Rs Compared to Selling 57 GT-Rs in 2022

2023 sales figures for Nissan show that they sold 898,796 over 22 models. One car is an outlier: the company's flagship GT-R. Somehow, 390 of Nissan's supercar-fighting GT-R were sold. That is an incredibly high increase of 584% compared to 57 GT-Rs sold in 2022. 

Speculation as to the boost in sales can be attributed to the 2023 refresh. New GT-Rs have a new fascia both front and rear for better aerodynamics. Nismo models now come with a front limited-slip differential. There's a new T-Spec trim that combines the engine of the regular GT-R with NISMO suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a widened body. Two new colors include Millennium Jade and Midnight Purple.

This sounds odd since the GT-R has been around for almost 20 years with minor changes. It still uses the same drivetrain since 2007. For the past eight years, the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 produces 565 horsepower and 467 lb-ft. With the same six-speed dual-clutch automated manual and AWD, the GT-R gets from 0-60 MPH in 2.9 seconds. Premium GT-Rs start at $122,885. T-Spec trim levels cost $142,885 while the top-dog NISMO model costs $222,885.  

In a digital world of EV vehicles and advanced technology, sports car buyers may want a more analog experience. The Nissan GT-R still comes with hydraulic steering which is a rarity, even in the world of supercars.  GT-Rs retain physical buttons and it weighs less than a new BMW M2. This may be the final hurrah of the GT-R, but it will be missed. Known as Godzilla, the GT-R still has supercar performance without the price tag. 

  • This is an increase of 584% and can be attributed to the supercar's analog feel. 

Anthony Fongaro

Pricing and Specs are Released for the 2025 RAM 1500

Ram 1500s are getting many changes for the 2025 model year. Pricing for the base model is up by $855 compared to last year. A basic Tradesman with the 3.6-liter V6 starts at $42,270. The bigger news includes a fully loaded-trim level called Tungsten and an optional twin-turbo inline-six engine replacing the V8.
Carried over into the 2025 is Ram's 3.6-liter V6 with a 48-volt eTorque hybrid system. You'll find this in the Tradesman, HFE, Lone Star, and Big Bend trim levels. The new  "Hurricane" twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six costs an additional $2,695 and comes with 420 horsepower. This engine is standard on the $62,025 Laramie and $66,190 Rebel trim levels. If you opt for a crew-cab configuration and six-foot-four-inch bed, the inline-six is the only option.
In addition to the regular inline-six, there is a high-output version. This produces 540 horsepower and is standard on the $77,150 Limited and $77,645 Longhorn trim levels.  The high-output inline-six comes with four-wheel drive, while V6 and normal-output engines come with standard rear-wheel-drive on all but the off-roading Rebel trim level.
At the top of the 2025 Ram 1500's range is the Tungsten. Pricing starts at $89,150 and Tungsten models come with a high-output engine and four-wheel drive. It only comes in crew-cab configuration with a five-foot-seven-inch bed. The Tungsten has an assortment of features including 24-way power front seats with a massage function, power tailgate, upgraded interior materials, and a 23-speak sound system.
Fuel-powered versions of the 2025 Ram 1500 are set to go on sale this quarter. There is no pricing for the Ramcharger, the plug-in hybrid with a combined 663 horsepower. Ram's first EV, the 1500 REV, is set to go on sale by the end of the year. Currently, there is no pricing information for the Ramcharger or REV.

  • The new fully-loaded Tungsten trim is $89,000

Anthony Fongaro

Since 2020, More Than Half of New Vehicle Launches Have Been Delayed

Automakers have been struggling since 2020 to launch their new vehicles on time. Shifts to creating electric vehicles and the COVID-19 pandemic created large supply chain issues. These issues have increased delays for new vehicles to be launched. 
PwC Consulting discovered in a report that 34% of vehicle launches 2023 had production delays. An additional 21% of delays were "due to other factors". PwC did a calculation of production delays with issues such as quality standards, supply chain issues, and workforce situations. They compared actual to planned production dates.
Within this analysis, automaker delays can cost them around $200 million annually. Compare this to 2018, where 5% of launches faced delays and 18% had setbacks from other issues.  2023 saw automakers complete 45% of their launches, the most since 2019. Delays dropped to 30% in 2022 with 39% of production delays. 
According to the PwC report, there are several reasons for the delays. These include the advancement of driver assistance systems, various software issues, and more EV vehicle launches.  PwC's reports expect that the production setbacks will last until 2026.  

  • These setbacks are due to software issues, more advanced safety systems, and a large lean toward EVs. 

Anthony Fongaro

Cummins Agrees to Settle Claims of Emissions Tests Cheating

Cummins Inc., the manufacturer of diesel engines, has reached an agreement with the United States and the State of California. The $1.675 billion settlement would be the largest penalty for Clean Air Act Violations. Hundreds of thousands of engines were found with an emission-cheating defeat device. There were 630,000 defeat devices from 2013 to 2019 RAM 2500 and 3500 trucks. 
The Clean Air Act requires automakers and engine manufacturers to comply with emission limits. Defeat devices can be hardware or software, which can modify emission tests. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland from The Justice Department issued the following statement:
“The Justice Department is committed to vigorously enforcing the environmental laws that protect the American people from harmful pollutants. 
“Today, the Justice Department reached an initial agreement with Cummins Inc. to settle claims that, over the past decade, the company unlawfully altered hundreds of thousands of engines to bypass emissions tests in violation of the Clean Air Act. As part of the agreement, the Justice Department will require Cummins to pay $1.675 billion, the largest civil penalty we have ever secured under the Clean Air Act, and the second largest environmental penalty ever secured.
“The types of devices we allege that Cummins installed in its engines to cheat federal environmental laws have a significant and harmful impact on people’s health and safety. For example, in this case, our preliminary estimates suggest that defeat devices on some Cummins engines have caused them to produce thousands of tons of excess emissions of nitrogen oxides. The cascading effect of those pollutants can, over long-term exposure, lead to breathing issues like asthma and respiratory infections."
Cummins released a statement on Friday, December 22nd, stating Cummins “has seen no evidence that anyone acted in bad faith.” Along with this statement, Cummins said they "fully cooperated" with regulators. 

  • This agreement costs Cummins $1.67 billion

Anthony Fongaro

Average Transactions Between EV and ICE Vehicles Reveals Price Parity

Automakers are trying to achieve price parity between EV and ICE vehicles. This is a key objective so EVs become more attainable to buy. Price parity would help consumers who are interested in EVs. Kelly Blue Book's (KBB) November average transaction price data for new vehicles shows that we are moving slightly in the right direction. In 2024, certain EVs will lose the federal tax credit.
The industry average transaction price (ATP) for every type of vehicle was $48,247. The new EV average transaction price (ATP) was $52,345, or 8.5% more expensive. November had the highest incentive for EVs at 8.9% of the average transaction price (ATP). Last year, EV incentives were less than 2% of the ATP. Kelly Blue Book (KBB) has not revealed all vehicles' average transaction price (ATP). Hybrids/alternative-powered cars had an average transaction price of $49,680.
The Director of Strategic Planning at Cox Automotive, Stephanie Valdez-Streaty told Inside EVs: "In recent months, price parity between EVs and ICE has almost seemed possible. It is a complicated measure with plenty of variables, but newer products and higher discounts have brought down average EV prices, even before potential tax incentives. A year ago, the EV premium was more than 30%. Today, it's less than 10%."

  • While ICE vehicle's average transaction was $48,247, EV average transactions were 8.5% higher, at $52,345.

Anthony Fongaro

NHTSA Reports All 2023 Recalls

Reporting through December 20th, 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has data about manufacturer recalls for the year. Ford has issued 54 recalls affecting 5,692,135 vehicles. Not only is this the highest of any automaker, but it marks the third year in a row that Ford is at the top spot for recalls.
Ford had almost twice as many Kia vehicles at 3 million. This was related to leaking brake fluid which is a fire risk. Stellantis came second with 45 recalls and 2.7 million affected cars. Third to fifth place goes to BMW with 29 recalls, Mercedes-Benz with 27 recalls, and Nissan with 22 recalls.
Ford had the highest number of recalls but didn't have the largest recall in 2023. That honor goes to Tesla for its Autopilot safety system. This affected 2,031,220 Tesla vehicles. According to NHTSA, Autopilot currently is not set up to prevent misusage. Tesla plans to remedy the Autopilot recall with over-the-air (OTA) updates.

  • One automaker dominates the number of total recalls.

Anthony Fongaro

Auto Factories Slowing Down Due to Car Dealers' Overstocking

Car dealers have more cars in stock as of December since the spring of 2021. The metric car dealers use to measure their supplies is "days of inventory". This measures how long it would take to sell a new car at today's sales price. The age-old industry guideline is 60 days on a car lot.
According to Cox Automotive, the average dealer has a 71-day supply. When you have an oversupply, prices start to lower. KBB states that the average for new car prices dropped from November 2022 to November 2023. It's the third straight month with year-over-year pricing decreasing. 
Due to anticipation of a union strike, automakers stocked up on cars during the summer. When the United Auto Workers (UAW) initiated their strike, they utilized a different tactic. A few factories were closed, but many factories were at full capacity. 
Several automakers are slowing down factories. Stellantis has announced it is cutting one of its shifts at a Jeep plant In Detroit. Stellantis is also cutting jobs and production at a Jeep plant in Toledo, Ohio. Meanwhile, GM is putting several assembly pants with scheduled downtime for product changeovers and maintenance. 
Not all brands are affected by the oversupply issue. November 2023 Toyota dealers had an average of 32 days, with Honda, Kia, and Lexus below 50. Jeep has the worst oversupply issue with a 128-day supply. Nine brands had over 100 days' worth of vehicles. 

  • New car prices are on the decrease and factories are cutting shifts. 

Anthony Fongaro

GM Issues a Stop Delivery on a Few SUVs

General Motors announced on December 1st, 2023 a stop delivery of certain 2024 Chevy Equinox, Blazer, Blazer EV, and GMC Terrain models. A document published by NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration" specified certain Chevy Equinox and other vehicles were announced. GM has provided a list of VINs. 
Although GM halted deliveries, the main issue has not been publicly announced. This stop delivery is labeled under "Global Safety Field Investigations.". This suggests that GM is still working on a solution. Dealers with affected Chevy Equinox and other vehicles cannot be sold or delivered until they have further information. 
Some of these models have been sold to customers, but a bulletin given to dealerships with VIN should help with this situation. Further information includes a list of all dealers who had or sold the Stop Delivery. Along with the Stop-Delivery, these models can't be dealer-traded or used as a demonstration. This notice also has the problem reference number N232429910. For now, there is no timeframe for further information. 

  • These include the Chevy Equinox, Blazer, Blazer EV, and GMC Terrain. 

Anthony Fongaro

Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Issued Stop-Sale

Looks like GM is in the news again. Certain 2024 model-year Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra trucks could split in the metal on the passenger side. Due to this, GM announced a stop-sale.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) has published a document that 3,067 vehicles are being inspected. They will test the 1,500, 2,500, and 3,500. Although it is stated that the damage is on the passenger side at the roof panel joint under the molding, the exact cause was not stated.
Dealers were advised to wield up the crack. There are a few steps before wielding up the crack such as removing roof rail airbags on the passenger side. This document advised technicians to add anti-corrosion material and seam sealer to the underside of the weld. After this, they repaint the outer roof.
There is no definitive time to fix the trucks with this defect.  Along with the stop-sale, 3,893 2024 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks are under recall for steering gear shaft problems. 

  • The Stop-Sale is due to roofs that could split open. 

Anthony Fongaro

The Final Chevrolet Camaro Has Been Made

It's the end of the road for the Chevrolet Camaro. The final Camaro was a ZL1 1LE with a manual transmission. As of now, there are no images of the final Camaro. Chevy didn't tell a spokesperson from Motor1 whether they would keep it or sell it to a customer. 
 A Chevrolet spokesman said in a statement "Camaro is a passion product. It has developed a fan base worldwide and brought people into Chevrolet dealerships for generations. The sixth generation specifically represented athleticism and composure – exuding confidence on the road and dominance on the track."
Chevy had previously announced in March 2023 that the Camaro would retire after the 2024 model year. The final edition for the Camaro is a 350-unit Collector's Edition. ZL1 Camaros come with Panther Black Matte paint and the unit number. Lower trim levels receive a Panther Black Metallic paint with satin black stripes. 
The current Camaro ran from 2010 to 2023. Throughout the years it had various inline-four, V6, and V8 engines. The Camaro ZL1 has a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 creating 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft. It came with either a six-speed manual or a ten-speed automatic. Currently, there are no confirmed plans for a replacement for the Camaro. 

  • The last ever Camaro is a manual ZLE 1LE.

Anthony Fongaro

GM Delaying Launch of EV Drive Production

GM has decided to postpone EV drive production at its Toledo Propulsion Systems plant in Ohio. They have revised their schedule, with plants to start EV production by the end of 2024. 
This postponement has affected EV drive unit production by nine months. GM announced this information during a Wednesday meeting with employees at the Toledo plant. GM, in a statement on Wednesday, indicated that the decision to "retime the launch of Electric Drive Unit at the plant to Q4 2024" was made to better synchronize with the planned production schedule at the Orion Assembly.
This development follows GM's previous announcement of a substantial $760 million investment aimed at preparing the Toledo plant to manufacture the first electric drive units for its EV lineup in the United States. GM's recent delays also extend to its electric trucks at the Orion Assembly, including the Chevy Silverado RST and GMC Sierra Denali EVs. The revised timeframe for production is late 2025.
Despite these setbacks, GM continues its electric vehicle efforts, currently producing the Chevy Silverado EV Work Truck at Factory ZERO, already available for purchase. The Silverado RST EV, set to roll off the same facility's assembly line, is expected to be available in the first half of 2024. The GMC Sierra EV, slated for production at Factory ZERO, is expected to hit the market next summer.

  • This delays EV production by nine months.

Anthony Fongaro

2024 Lexus GX Price Starts at $64,250 and Tops Out Over $80,000

Since the reveal of the 2024 Lexus GX, we have seen the new designs, trim levels, and off-roading prowess. Now, Lexus has revealed pricing increases compared to its predecessor. The entry GX500 in Premium trim starts at $64,250. Top-tier Luxury+ trim levels increase the price to $81,250. 
For those seeking additional features in the Premium trim, the higher-tiered  Premium+ trim, priced at $69,250, offers additional features that will be disclosed at a later time. High-end Luxury and Luxury+ trims, commencing at $77,250 and $81,250 respectively. An off-road Overtrail trim, available at a starting price of $69,250, is aimed at the off-road enthusiast. As with the Premium+ and Luxury+, there is a better-equipped Overtrail+ at $77,250, similarly priced to the Luxury trim level.
Under the hood of the LX500  is a 379-horsepower twin-turbo 3.4-liter V-6 coupled to a 10-speed automatic and four-wheel drive.  Four-wheel drive is optional apart from the Platinum trim. This powertrain delivers an EPA highway fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, a 2 mpg improvement over the previous generation's V8. Lexus has hinted at a hybrid version, but as of now, there has been no confirmation. 
All trim levels of the 2024 Lexus GX550 have a plethora of standard equipment. These include a 12.3-inch driver display and 14-inch center touchscreen grace the interior, along with heated/ventilated front seats, a 10-speaker stereo, and Lexus's Safety System+ 3.0. That includes automatic emergency braking, radar cruise control, lane-keep assist and departure warnings, and onboard cameras that can read road signs. Available upgrades include additional heated seats for the second row, a 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, a heads-up display, and a cooler box.
Look for the 2024 Lexus GX500 in your local dealership in early 2024. As of now, pre-orders are available but the build configurator is not yet live.
  

  • A new off-road Overtrail model starts at $69,250.

Anthony Fongaro

Cadillac Announces the 2026 Vistiq

Cadillac showed the first images of the coming 2026 Cadillac Vistiq EV today. This vehicle slots above the Lyriq and below the Escalade IQ in Cadillac's EV lineup, effectively taking the ICE-powered Cadillac XT6's spot on the electric side of the lineup. Though they did not provide any technical details, we can assume it will ride on the Ultium platform and come in single-motor rear-wheel and dual-motor front-wheel drive configurations with 340+ horsepower to 500+ horsepower, respectively.  GM's modular Ultium battery packs will likely be configured for between 300 miles to 320 miles of range.
The Vistiq joins the smaller Optiq to fill out the small, medium, large, extra-large EV-SUV lineup at Cadillac.
 

Click to enlarge
 

  • A new larger EV for Cadillac to join the lineup in 2026.

Drew Dowdell

More Than 2 Million Teslas Are Recalled Due to Autopilot Errors

The National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received a recall from Tesla covering 2,031,220 vehicles. Products affected span from the 2012-2023 Model S, 2016-2023 Model X, 2020-2023 Model Y, and 2017-2023 Model 3. These recalls are for those vehicles with Autosteer. Tesla's Autosteer system, in certain scenarios, would fail to consider driver awareness or emergency driver intervention. This leads to potential misuse or cancellation issues. 
After testing the Autosteer technology, the NHTSA stated, "In certain circumstances when Autosteer is engaged, the prominence and scope of the feature's controls may not be sufficient to prevent driver misuse of the SAE Level 2 advanced driver-assistance feature." 
Tesla's response to the problems will be to send out an over-the-air (OTA) software update to address these issues. This update will include additional alerts and control beyond what the current system has. When Autosteer is activated, there will be more checks on the driver outside controlled-access highways. There is a possibility that Tesla will suspend Autosteer for those driving irresponsibly. 
As of midday on December 7th, 2023, Tesla's fleet has received a soft release to incorporate the necessary updates and enhancements. 
 

  • This recall spans from the 2012 Model S to all current Teslas  with Autosteer.

Anthony Fongaro

New Mercedes-AMG SL63 E Performance Packs 816 Horsepower

Mercedes-AMG has revealed the most powerful SL to date. The SL63 S E Performance makes 816 horsepower and 1,047 lb-ft. This is thanks to combining AMG's 612 horsepower 4.0-liter V8 and AMG's Electric Unit, making this a plug-in hybrid. Performance now has the 0-60 MPH in a mere 2.9 seconds. Top speed is 197 MPH. The inclusion of a 400-volt, 6.1-kWh battery pack offers 8 miles of all-electric range. This battery pack is engineered by AMG and has direct cooling to keep the battery at the optimal temperature. 
Innovative aerodynamics plays an important role in performance. AMG adapted the SL's active aerodynamics for the electrified platform, introducing enhancing stability and offering the rear spoiler to tilt in five positions. The stopping power of the SL63 S E Performance is through ceramic composite brakes with bronze calipers. Enthusiasts will be able to identify the SL63 E S Performance due to the charging port, name highlighted in red, E Performance fender badges, grooved trapezoidal twin tailpipes. 
Inside, the SL63 S E Performance offers a luxurious and sporty feel. AMG sports seats are standard, but buyers can get optional performance bucket seats with integrated headrests. The cabin contains one- and two-tone Nappa leather for a more opulent feel. Mercedes' MBUX infotainment system has AMG and hybrid-specific features, offering a blend of performance and technology. Mercedes' Manufaktur program is available for customers to extensively customize the interior and exterior. 
Standard features include active rear-axle steering, AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, and AMG Active Ride Control suspension with semi-active stabilization. This innovative suspension system replaces the traditional torsion bar stabilizer, reducing body roll movements and enhancing overall driving dynamics. The regenerative braking system provides four levels of recoupment, with the ability for one-pedal driving. For now, there is no word on pricing, but the SL63 AMG S E Performance will come out sometime in 2024.
 
 

  • This is the most powerful SL Mercedes-Benz or Mercedes-AMG has made.

Anthony Fongaro

2024 BMW Z4 M40i Gets a Manual Transmission

After many years, auto enthusiasts in the United States can purchase a 2024 BMW Z4 with a six-speed manual. Production is scheduled for the first quarter of 2024 and no pricing has been released, but there is some speculation. BMW’s more powerful Z4 M40i will exclusively have the option of a manual gearbox. M40i Z4’s come with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 328 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. 
This unique manual transmission was a collaboration between BMW and transmission company ZF. Manual-equipped Z4s get a rear axel from the BMW M240i which gives the Z4 an M Performance limited-slip differential. Other changes compared to the automatic include stiffer front anti-roll bar mounts and recalibrated adaptive dampers. Steering should feel more precise and responsive.
 Although many components are shared between the Z4 and Toyota Supra, the shift linkages are different. You’ll also find staggered wheels with 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. For now, there are no performance stats for the manual Z4 M40i. Tests of the automatic result in a 0-60 MPH time of 3.9 seconds, so the manual should be slower. Still, the inclusion of a manual results in more driver engagement in their sports convertible.
With manuals disappearing more and more every day, it’s refreshing that BMW gave the Z4 a manual transmission. In M40i trim, the Z4 is already plenty quick. The inclusion of a manual gearbox gives those with a penchant for three-pedals a compelling vehicle. Automatic Z4 M40i models start at $67,000. Even if that price increased by $3,000, a manual Z4 would still be thousands less than an entry-level Porsche 718 Boxster at $72,000. The #savethemanuals fans can rejoice that they can get a powerful sports convertible.
 

  • After many years, the 2024 BMW Z4  will offer a six-speed manual-transmission.

Anthony Fongaro

Pilot / Flying J and General Motors Partnership Opens Their First 17 High-Speed Charging Locations

Pilot-Flying J and General Motors opened the first seventeen locations of their partnership for high-speed charging across the U.S., with twenty-five total targeted to be open by the end of the month. The chargers are part of the EVgo network and can deliver up to 350 kW charging.  The partnership is targeting an additional 175 locations open by the end of next year.
The newly opened locations are spread across 13 states and feature round-the-clock staff, food and restroom amenities, and free wifi.  The charging stations themselves will be pull-through to allow for the charging of EVs that are towing, and for vehicles equipped with it, will feature plug-and-charge compatibility for a seamless charging process.  The locations will appear natively in GM's onboard navigation apps, the Pilot myRewards app, the EVgo app, Plugshare, and others.  Pilot will offer extra discounts on charging for GM EV drivers, plus the ability to reserve a charger in advance. Other EV drivers using Pilot's myRewards app will receive additional discounts on food and merchandise.
Once complete, the project will include 500 locations with up to 2,000 fast chargers.  Pilot's and Flying J's locations on rural interstate routes makes them especially attractive to EV drivers on a long-distance drive.

Drew Dowdell

2025 Chevrolet Tahoe & Suburban Receive Updated Technology

Chevrolet’s refreshed 2025 Tahoe and Suburban are getting updated technology and safety features. Some of these updates come from the Silverado EV. These SUVs will come with a 17.7-inch touchscreen along with an 11-inch driver’s display. Once optional safety features such as adaptive cruise control, rear pedestrian alert, and side bicyclist alert are now standard.
Along with the updated tech are two new features. The first one is called Connected Cameras. Standard on the RST, Z71, Premier, and High County, allows owners to see various exterior and interior angles. This also records crashes and thefts. OnStar service will be required, along with a subscription. GM’s hands-free Super Cruise will be available for LT, RST, Premier, and High Country.
Tahoe and Suburban will have the same trim levels as before. These are LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country. A 5.3-liter V8 is standard on all but the High Country trim level. Standard on the High Country and optional on the RST, Z71, and Premier is the 6.2-liter V8. While the 5.3-liter V8 produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft, the 6.2-liter V8 makes 430 horsepower and 460 lb-ft. An updated 3.0-liter inline-six turbo diesel makes 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft. Every engine gets a 10-speed automatic.
Both SUVs come with animations for turn signals and approach lighting. Two new colors include Cypress Gray and Lakeshore Blue Metallic. RST and High Country trim levels get 24-inch wheels. While the Suburban can tow 8,200 pounds, the Tahoe can tow 8,400 pounds. Pricing has yet to be revealed. 
 

  •  Certain trim-levels are available with GM's hands-free Super Cruise.

Anthony Fongaro

2024 Acura TLX Refresh Pairs-Down Trim Levels

A vehicle refresh can include updates to technology, slight design changes, and updates to interiors. For 2024, the Acura TLX is back with a few exterior design changes. The most prominent is the front-end with new grille. TLX still uses slim headlights but incorporates a better designed grille. At the side, both the regular TLX and A-Spec TLX come with new 19-inch five-spoke wheels in dark gray. Step-up to the Type S models come with 20-inch black wheels; Type S models can be had with high-performance tires and copper 20-inch wheels. 
At the rear, A-Spec models get a new diffuser along with rounded exhaust tips. Since the Type S already aggressive styling, the rear remains mostly the same. An optional carbon-fiber spoiler is available for the Type S. Acura has included two new paint colors for the 2024 TLX. The first one is a dark Liquid Carbon Metallic paint for TLX's with the Technology Package. A-Spec and Type S vehicles can be had with Urban Gray paint. Engines remain the same for all models. A 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four comes with the TLX and A-Spec, while the Type S continues with its 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. All get a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Interior changes include both a 12.3-inch digital display and infotainment system. TLX now offers Amazon Alexa Built-In, along with a standard wireless phone charger and rear-seat charging ports. A-Spec TLXs come with thicker carpets, better sound-deadening, and acoustic glass. The TLX still comes with a push-button transmission selector and mousepad for the infotainment system. Interior leather includes black and red, although the Type S has a unique Pearly Orchid color.
Although changes may look minimal, Acura has raised prices for the 2024 TLX. It now starts at $46,195 for a front-wheel-drive TLX with Technology Package. Last year's TLX without the Technology Package cost $5,000 less but lowers to $950 more with it. A-Spec and Type S models also see a price increase of between $1,000 and $1,250. A-Spec Models cost $51,195 and the Type S costs $58,195. The 2024 Acura TLX will arrive at dealerships at the end of November.
 
 

  • Acura gives the 2024 TLX new technology, updated styling, and a price increase.

Anthony Fongaro

Factorial Energy Opens Solid-State Battery Production Facility

Factorial loves to quote Thomas Edison who in 1883 said the following:
"The storage battery is, in my opinion, a catchpenny, a sensation, a mechanism for swindling the public by stock companies."
Factorial states that this sentiment is true and has been held over the last 138 years till now.
Investing in solid-state battery R&D over the last 6 years has allowed Factorial to create their proprietary FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology).

Factorial held their grand opening ceremony at their state-of-the-art solid-state battery production facility in Methuen, Mass.
Siyu Huang, CEO of Factorial stated the following:
“We are thrilled to open our next-generation battery facility in Massachusetts as we scale our batteries for mass production,” said Siyu Huang, CEO of Factorial. “This facility will enable us to manufacture cells to meet the needs of our automotive partners and progress our mission to commercialize solid-state batteries. As a U.S. company, we’re also proud to contribute to the onshoring of battery manufacturing for EVs and advancement of battery innovation for a differentiated supply chain.”
This opening represented a $50 million investment and creation of over 150 local jobs. The current footprint of this facility will enable Factorial to ramp up Solid-State battery production to a maximum output of 200MWh annually, making this the largest solid-state battery assembly line in the U.S.
Former Chairman and CEO of Panasonic Corporation of North America and current Executive Chairman of Factorial, Joe Taylor made the following statement:
“Factorial continues to drive the battery industry forward and this milestone is no exception, automaker demand for American-made batteries is high to produce electric or hybrid vehicles that qualify for incentives. Our facility will manufacture automotive-sized solid-state batteries at pre-production speed and volume, illuminating a clear path to mass production and reaching economies of scale.”
Factorial quasi-solid-state batteries are designed for higher energy density and safety compared to today's lithium-ion wet batteries.
Factorial Energy Press Release
At the start of October 2023, Factorial started to ship to EV auto companies' samples of their 100+Ah lithium-metal battery cells sized to meet the needs of the auto industry and certified passing the UN 38.3 safety tests.
Stellantis, one of the few auto manufacturers to go on record has stated that Factorial Energy solid-state batteries are 30% denser than today's lithium-ion batteries. This allows Stellantis to deliver two ways, lighter vehicles and those that have a much longer driving range.
Stellantis back at CES 2023 keynote stated that they are working with Factorial to deliver a second-generation version that will be 50% denser than today's lithium-ion batteries. 
The 100 Ah solid-state battery cells are delivering on the promises Factorial has made and looks that a second generation battery cell expected by 2030 could give Stellantis and other auto companies that have invested a future of where the auto industry will be going in this decade as Factorial has stated that their solid-state cells will provide a 20 to 50 percent higher energy density based on use case and that it directly translates to a 20 to 50 percent greater range.
Could this be a potential jump on finally moving society to EVs?

  • Located in Methuen, Massachusetts, Factorial opens their production facility for Solid-State Batteries with massive expansion capabilities.

G. David Felt

Mazda unveils the Iconic SP concept

At the 2023 Tokyo auto show, Mazda unveiled a sports car concept. Originally named Vision Study Model, the Iconic SP, utilizes an interesting engine combination. This hybrid-rotary-powered sports car uses the twin-rotor rotary engine as a generator to recharge the batteries. Iconic SP is around 10 inches longer than Mazda’s compact Miata.
Although Mazda hasn't disclosed the number of electric motors, they are the main propulsion system. As a range-extending EV, that rotary engine doesn’t drive the wheels. Iconic SP’s engine is carbon-neutral, but can use unconventional fuels such as hydrogen. We do know the Iconic SP had around 365 horsepower. This concept can also run as a power supply if you have a power outage.
The exterior of the Iconic SP showcases a low and sleek coupe. This has a grille similar to current Mazdas with a smooth body. Inside, you’ll see a lack of clutter in the cabin. There’s a small digital gauge which, in this concept, displayed the Monaco Grand Prix circuit map and a g-meter. 
 
At 3,197 pounds, the Iconic SP’s weight is at the lighter end of the EV spectrum. Painted in Viola Red, the Iconic SP is a look into Mazda’s future. Mazda is looking into the future of electric vehicles, so this rotary-hybrid engine could be produced. It looks like Mazda will continue the ever-losing trend of a relatively light and interestingly-propulsion sports coupe. 

  • This concept car uses a hybrid-rotary engine.

Anthony Fongaro

Mazda CX-70 Delayed Until 2024

Since the introduction of the Mazda CX-90, a smaller SUV has been in the pipeline. The CX-70 was supposed to go on sale at the end of this year but has been delayed until 2024. Mazda is aiming to offer more SUVs for American customers. 
This means that the CX-70 will compete alongside the CX-90 is the mid-size SUV segment.  Europe already has the CX-60, and Mazda said the CX-70 is essentially the same with a wider body. CX-70 will have a shorter wheelbase than the CX-90 due to it being a two-row.
Engine options should match the CX-90. This means two engines will be available. A PHEV CX-70 would have the 2.5-liter hybrid from the CX-90. Mazda’s 3.3-liter inline-six should also make the cut, with either 280 horsepower or 340 horsepower. 
Since there is a delay for the CX-70, more information will be coming out in the next few months. Mazda has not revealed when the CX-70 will debut, and it has no official pricing. 
*The photo included is the European CX-60, in which the CX-70 will be based on*

  • The smaller sibling to the Mazda CX-90 should share identical powertrains. 

Anthony Fongaro

EPA Has Announced the Range for the 2024 Kia EV9

The EPA has announced the various electric ranges of the Kia EV9. This new crossover SUV is Kia's flagship SUV, with various battery sizes and ranges. Kia gave the EV9 five trim levels along with two battery sizes. At the bottom of the EV9 lineup is the $56,000 Light rear-wheel-drive Light trim level. An EV9 Light utilizes a 76.1-kWh battery, good for 215 horsepower/160 kW and 258 ft-lb /339 Nm. The range for the Light rear-wheel-drive is 230 miles, or about 3.0 miles/kWh.
The Light trim level can get a larger battery pack if you want more range. The upgrade raises the price to $61,000 and increases the battery to a larger 99.8-kWh. Light Long Range models produce the same power as the regular Light, but the EPA estimates 300 miles of range. This also equals out to about 3.0 miles/kWh. 
All-wheel-drive models start with the $65,000 Wind trim. Dual motors increase power to 379 horsepower/279 kW and 443 ft-lb/603 Nm. This carries over to the $71,000 Land trim, which the EPA estimates the range around 280 miles. This equates to around 2.8 miles/kWh. Sitting at the top is the GT-Line, which bumps the torque to 516 ft-lb/702 Nm. GT-Lines do get a range penalty, at a minor 10 miles resulting in a 270-mile range. Efficiency lowers to 2.7 miles/kWh.
EV9 Light RWD - 230 miles EV9 Light Long Range RWD - 304 miles EV9 Wind AWD - 280 miles EV9 Land AWD - 280 miles EV9 GT-Line AWD - 270 miles Every model comes with an 800-volt architecture that supports DC fast charging. Peak charging rates can get as high as 236-kw, which can get the EV9 from 10-80% state of charge in 25 minutes. EV9 also comes with vehicle-to-load (V2L), which can charge appliances and vehicles. It also comes with vehicle-to-grid (V2G), which can send power back to the grid. Kia announced it will give a 1,000-mile credit with Electrify America.
Just last week, Kia announced that they will be joining the NACS/Tesla charging network sometime starting in Q4 2024.
Kia EV9s will go on sale later this year.   

  • Rear-wheel-drive Long Range EV9s can get up to 300 miles of range. 

Anthony Fongaro

EV in a Box Gives EV for EVERYONE!

What happens when you take a CALSTART Advanced Transportation graduate with a marketing and product development leader and connect them with Lee Iacocca, many others who are specialists in the EV industry and a connection to NASA?
EV FOR EVERYONE (orbiselectric.com)
You get a brain trust of individuals who have access to funding and additional folks that have helped set Bonneville Salt Flats speed records with a passion to help people convert to electric vehicles in minimal time.
ORBIS ELECTRIC believes if there is a better way to allow folks to convert their vehicles to electric vehicles in minimal time, that the adding of gigatons of CO2 to the atmosphere can be slowed down and eventually stopped.
Orbis Cofounder Marcus Hays and Chance Claxton believe that the hurdle to EV adoption is not the vehicles, but the parts.
Orbis electric has reinvented the wheel to deliver EV for EVERYONE! They are the designer and creator of automotive parts engineered to radically accelerate the global conversion to electric vehicles. Their guiding principle is hyper-efficiency, resulting in affordable solutions that bring immediate and lasting benefits to consumers, OEMs, and the planet.

How does this work you ask, simple, Orbis patented ring-wheel and disk brake assembly re-engineered the architecture of conventional internal combustion engines (ICE) by distributing the power and weight across 2-4 in-wheel motorized spindle inserts.
The two current packages offered are the
EV IN A BOX/160 (120kW/160hp) EV IN A BOX/560 (420kW/560hp) Revolutionary by Design
Ready to go assembly for rapid EV conversion of passenger and Class 1-8 vehicles
40%-70% fuel mileage gain
Instantaneous torque
Runs on 110V, can charge anywhere; LDVs require no more than household current
Innovative battery design, allows stacks and swaps
Proven 10% more efficient, 25% lighter, which equate to 35% better range over current EVs
Architecture frees up space and weight for cargo or passengers
Smaller mass and lighter weight, no unsprung weight penalty
Transform fleets and solo ICE vehicles into fuel efficient, emissions compliant EVs and Hybrids for pennies on the dollar
Environmentally Driven Performance
ORBIS Products are positioned to meet the new EURO 7 regulations on emissions which are the toughest in the world.

We have covered their EV in a box conversion package that Orbis has stated can be done by company certified installation experts in 3hrs or less at a starting cost of $7,500.
Orbis also has what they call their ECOWAVE brake. The Orbis hyper-efficient ECOWAVE brake operates as a freestanding brake, providing lighter, cooler, safer and greener alternative to traditional brakes. EcoWave is the first in a line of Orbis Brakes designed for each market segment, covering EVs, PHEVs and traditional ICE vehicles.
50% reduction in brake assembly mass, reducing overall weight and manufacturing costs 50% smaller brake pad yields 50% fewer brake dust particles 25% reduction in brake temperatures prevents additional brake dust and Non-Exhaust emissions ZERO dangerous brake fade
June 5th 2022 was when Orbis Electric and NASA announced the EVOWAVE, but now the products are finally shipping.
6522-Orbis-Brakes-Debut-Press-Release.pdf (orbisbrakes.com)
According to the financials about Orbis Electric, the company is a private company, founded in 2014 by 3 private investors and has 20 employees. They are located in Santa Rosa, California. 
The company has 39 patents filed, with 7 granted to date and has stated the following 4 things is what drives the company.

Orbis approach is to be a lighter EV package compared to today's heavy solutions, be cooler for the environment while producing less brake dust, greener by supplying longer range, lower emissions, and a smaller carbon footprint and smarter by offering the first comprehensive EV solution that fits in a box.
Are you ready to join the EV revolution and consider possibly converting your current ICE to EV with EV IN A BOX?

 
Many folks that have thought about converting their favorite auto to EV have hit the same wall as just about everyone else. A complete solution that makes it easy to undertake this project as till today, there has been no real boxed solution, just various EV resellers of parts and while they have tried their best to direct you to all one needs, there has always been what have I forgotten to have a complete EV conversion solution.

  • They say if you can give a way to convert an auto to the way one wants it for the future, they will come. Has ORBIS ELECTRIC found the holy grail of EV for EVERYONE?

G. David Felt

Tesla EV share of U.S. market tumbles to 50% as EV Sales Surpass 300,000 in Q3

Cox Automotive group released their Q3 2023 EV sales for the automotive industry in the United States showing that in Q3 EV sales jumped past 300,000 for the first time in the U.S. market. EV sales through September reached just over 873,000 which puts the market on track to surpass 1 million EV sales. This milestone is estimated to be reached some time in November.
Q3 EV sales estimates are 313,086 EV sales, a 49.8% increase over the same period last year. This is an increase from the 298,039 EVs sold in Q2. Sales of EVs posted noticeable gains over 2022 with Hyundai, Nissan, Volvo and Mercedes having a 200% increase in EV sales thanks to the new products they released to market.
Total industry sales in Q3 showed EVs had a 7.9% market share. This is up from 6.1% a year ago and 7.2% in Q2 2023. As pointed out by Cox, EV sales have now had 13 straight quarters of increased sales.
EV transaction prices were down in Q3 compared to a year ago with most of this due to Tesla slashing prices to increase sales. Prices are now down 25% across the board for all EVs year over year. While price cuts helped Tesla grow their sales which is showing a 19.5% year over year increase and an industry overall growth rate of 16.3% this does come with the downside that Tesla has lost market share hitting 50% as more EV options from competitors hits the sales room.  Tesla had a 70 plus % market share ending 2022, closed out Q1 2023 at 62% and now closes Q3 with a 50% market share.
German luxury makers showed rapid EV sales as Audi, BMW, and Mercedes showed a tripling of sales year over year with Audi posting the largest increase of a 94% sales increase in EV sales.
While we have the 100% club of Fisker, Rivian, Tesla and Vinfast who only sell EVs, the rest of the automotive industry is a mix of ICE and EV sales and as such was led by BMW who closed out Q3 with 15.6% of their auto sales being EVs in the U.S..

In 2020 the U.S. had sold just 250,000 EVs with the bulk of that being Tesla. Three years later we are primed for EV sales crossing 1 million sold. Tesla still is the undisputed leader in EV sales, but their market share is dwindling.
The coming flood of EV models over the next 18 to 24 months have analyst forecasting a doubling of EV models offered and a major shift in marketshare for every auto company.
Full details of the sales report can be read here:
Q3-2023-Kelley-Blue-Book-Electric-Vehicle-Sales-Report.pdf
The key takeaway for Q3 is that EV transaction prices are down 22% with an average transaction price of $50,683 paid in September. This on top of other companies rapid increase in sales such as Rivian who delivered 15,564 EVs for Q3 representing a 126% increase year over year. GM began deliveries of the Silverado EV with 18 units delivered at the end of September.
 

  • U.S. EV sales have set another record, but how much growth is it and who is leading among all auto companies?

G. David Felt

Instant EV Rebate, Will it Launch an EV Purchase Revolution?

October 2023 the IRS released this clarification that the Inflation Reduction Act will offer the provision that allows consumers to transfer their credit to the car dealer, instantly reducing the purchase price of new and used EVs at the time of sale.
Registration Requirements PDF
rp-23-33.pdf
This guidance also provides proposed eligibility rules for the previously owned clean vehicles credit. End result is that ELIGIBLE CONSUMERS may transfer the full value of the new or previously owned EV credit regardless of their individual tax liability to the dealership.
Per the IRS press release: 
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is focused on lowering transportation costs for consumers and giving American car companies the tools to lead the market,” said Chief Implementation Officer for the Inflation Reduction Act Laurel Blatchford. “For the first time, the Inflation Reduction Act allows consumers to reduce the up-front cost of a clean vehicle, expanding consumer choices and helping car dealers expand their businesses. The IRS has focused on streamlining this process for car dealers as part of its commitment to improving service and helping taxpayers claim the credits they are eligible for.” 
Later in the month of October, the IRS will allow auto dealerships to register via the IRS Energy Credits Online, this new website will allow the dealerships to signup and take part of this new instant rebate program that the IRS has stated will be a 72 hr turnaround for the dealerships to get the rebate deposited into their bank account.
Benefits for the consumers are that the rebate will be instantly taken off the agreed too purchase price reducing the amount they need to pay via finance, cash or lease.
Full details for those wishing to read the long winded and dry IRS press release is here:
Inflation Reduction Act Rebates
So what do you think about this Instant Rebate for EVs? Good Idea? Will it Jump Start EV sales? 
Sound off and let the debate begin!

  • Starting January 1, 2024 Consumers can choose to transfer their new clean vehicle credit of up to $7,500 or used clean vehicle credit of up to $4,000 to the car dealer effectively lowering the vehicles purchase price, will this jump start the EV Revolution of sales?

G. David Felt

Toyota Signs Long Term Battery Supply Agreement with LG Energy Solutions

Toyota Motor North America and LG Energy Solutions has announced a long-term supply agreement for Lithium-ion/high-nickel NCMA battery modules starting with 20 GWh of production in 2025 for 2026 model year EVs.

These pouch type battery cells are a nickel, cobalt, manganese, aluminum cell design that will be produced at LG Energy Solutions Michigan facility and shipped to Toyota's Kentucky assembly site for all Toyota and Lexus EVs.
Tetsuo "Ted" Ogawa has stated this is the start of securing a long-term supply of lithium-ion pouch cells to help us reach our goal of contributing to Toyota's expected year sell of 3.5 million EVs globally by 2030.
LG Energy Solutions has committed to investing $3 billion U.S. dollars in their Michigan facility for a new production line that will produce these pouch cells for Toyota.
This agreement leaves open the opportunity for expanded production as Toyota needs down the road based on EV sales.

  • Expecting a 900 mile solid-state battery in your next Toyota, think again as Toyota gets in bed with LG Energy for future EVs.

G. David Felt

Genesis-Hyundai-Kia Adopt NACS

October 5th was a major press release for Genesis-Hyundai-Kia as all three auto companies announced that they would begin shipping their EVs at the start of Q4 2024 with NACS ports on their EVs.

With NACS ports, Genesis, Hyundai and Kia EVs will gain access to the 12,000 plus North America Tesla Supercharger stations which have over 50,000 charging stations. 
Genesis, Hyundai, Kia EVs are built on the E-GMP or Electric Global Modular Platform that is an 800V fast charging platform. The current EV owners that have CCS ports will have access to the Tesla Supercharger network starting the beginning of Q1 2025 and upon receiving their CCS to NACS adapter.
This also includes that Genesis, Hyundai and Kia have joined six other global leading auto companies in building their own high power North American Charging Network that has a committed 30,000 chargers. This new network will have the first of the Charging Stations opened in Summer 2024 in the U.S. and later in the year in Canada.

All three auto companies have stated that their specific EV applications on the customers cell phone will be updated allowing them to use the Tesla Supercharger stations, pay for their charging and any other needs at the tesla sites giving customers the ultimate experience in a single smartphone app for all their EV needs.

Genesis Newsroom (genesisnewsusa.com)
Hyundai Electric Vehicles to Add North American Charging Standard - Hyundai Newsroom
KIA TO ADOPT NORTH AMERICAN CHARGING STANDARD IN THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2024 (kiamedia.com)

  • What does a company do when so many others have changed their approach to a charging port standard, Join the Party!

G. David Felt

Ultium Twins to hit the market soon from Honda / Acura

April 2020 Honda / Acura signed a deal with GM to use the Ultium Platform to produce two SUVs, one for Honda and one for Acura that would target the 2024 model year with an end of 2023 on sale date.
Today we give you the Honda Prologue and Acura ZDX:
Let's dive into how much these two vehicles are the same and yet different. Both are built on the GM Ultium platform and will come off the same assembly line according to Honda.
We will present a bullet list here for quick comparison of the basic info that folks like to know about these two vehicles:
Pricing Honda Prologue to start upper $40K with top end hitting $60K Acura ZDX to start around $60K and top end hitting $70K range Mileage Honda Prologue to have an EPA range rating of 300 miles Acura ZDX to have an EPA range rating of 325 miles Charging Both models will handle 800V DC fast charging Honda will recharge 65 miles of range per 10 minutes, charging rates up to 155 kW Acura will recharge 81 miles of range per 10 minutes, charging rates up to 190 kW Battery Capacity Honda - 85 kWh Acura - 102 kWh Powertrain details Honda - 288 HP / 333 lb-ft AWD - 2WD TBA Acura - ZDX 340 HP RWD / TBA AWD - ZDX Type S 500 HP torque for all models TBA Trim Levels Honda - EX, Touring and Elite Acura - A spec and Type S TouchScreen Auto Android Snap Dragon system powered by Android that will allow Apple CarPlay & Android Auto cell phone connectivity use Honda and Acura will have 11" instrument display and 11.3" central touch screen Safety systems are marketed under the Honda or Acura name, but include things like a 360-degree vision camera system, blind spot detection of autos and humans, a various assortment of Smart technology Cargo Space Honda - 25.2 cu-ft behinds rear seats, with seats down 57.7 cu-ft and a .5 cu-ft hidden space under rear cargo area Acura - TBA Wheel options Honda 19" or 21" depending on trim Acura 20" or 22" depending on trim Suspension Honda - multi-link, fixed coil Acura - A spec multi-link, fixed coil with amplitude reactive damper system. Type S multi-link Air suspension with High-performance Adaptive damper system EV Size Honda Wheelbase - 121.8" Length - 192" Width - 78.3" Height - 64.7" Acura Wheelbase - 121.8" Length - 197.7" Width - 77" Height - 64.4" Towing Capacity Honda - 5,000 lbs Acura - 3,500 lbs Audio Systems Honda - 12 speaker Bose system with subwoofer  Acura - Bang & Olufsen Surround sound system Charging ports - 3.0A - USB C 45W charging ports for both brands Brakes Standard Honda Brakes Acura has an option to upgrade to Brembo brakes from a premium brake More details can be found at either website:
2024 Honda Prologue – All-Electric SUV | Honda
2024 Acura ZDX Type S | Electrified Performance
With having taken a crash comparison course between the two SUV's based on the GM Ultium platform, let's see visually how these two vehicles stack up.
Interior Dashboards

Back storage area

Acura has been very limiting in their interior pictures of the ZDX compared to Honda. With what is available, one can say that interior space and layout will be pretty identical in many ways from the 60/40 split rear seat to the dash and sky roof.
Honda has talked highly about how the SUV will have a very open green house feel.

One noticeable area of identicalness between Honda and Acura is the blah black and white two-tone interior both models seem to be sharing.

This is what GM had on the Chevrolet Bolt and makes one wonder why Honda and Acura are doing this blah, cold interior?

Style is as expected with Honda taking a very conservative approach to their exterior look compared to Acura more aggressive look.

The final part of Honda/Acura EV approach is that they have also joined the NACS party. While the 2024 model year will come with CCS ports, in 2025 as a 2026 model year, they will move to the NACS ports. They have also joined the other auto companies that are planning to build out a large North American charging company to compete with Tesla Super Charging stations and with other companies like ChargePoint and Electrify America.

Depending on what a person seeks with their EV, it is a personal choice about spending more or less for an auto and both have a wide variety of options for buyers with these two SUVs.

  • Honda and Acura signed on to use the GM Ultium platform and will have their first SUVs out soon, which do you like?

G. David Felt

Electric-only is the road NISSAN is taking in Europe!

NISSAN Motors which sparked the electrification of cars has announced that effective immediately, every new Nissan model in Europe will be 100% electric from now on as all R&D will only be done on EVs and the Nissan products will be 100% electric starting in 2030.
Nissan President and CEO Makoto Uchida stated that EVs are the ultimate mobility solution with more than 1 million Nissan customers having already made the switch and are experiencing the fun of driving electric.
Long-term vision: Nissan Ambition 2030 | Our Company | Nissan Motor Corporation Global Website (nissan-global.com)
Nissan has updated and released their Ambition 2030 plan which was originally released in November 2021 with reaching carbon neutrality and zero-emission vehicles by 2050 globally. This has been dialed in as Nissan has acknowledged that the new emissions standards by Europe have made it unprofitable to continue to develop and sell ICE autos in Europe. 
Globally NISSAN MOTORS has committed to using their EV platform to develop and introduce 27 electrified vehicles for global markets with 19 being pure EVs and the rest Hybrid depending on markets. Nissan has also committed to have Cobalt free batteries by 2028 in their EVs globally as they move to make their EV batteries solid-state with an average cost per kWh of $75 by 2028 and $65 per kWh by 2030 on par with the cost of gasoline vehicles.
Nissan has stated that from 2018 to 2022 sales of Electric vehicles rose from 5% to 44% for the whole auto market in Europe as Nissan EV sales have rose from 1% to 16% in Europe with a total sales of EV and Hybrid making 50% of Nissan sales in Europe. Nissan is expecting this to reach 98% in the next 3 years.
With Nissan having an R&D center in Cranfield and Bedfordshire England, they wanted to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the London design studio with the unveiling of this all-new sporty urban electric concept car built on their new EV platform.

The Concept 20-23 was lead by Nissans younger members of the Nissan Design Europe (NDE) team with a simple directive of designing a car they would want to drive with no constraints on the streets of the city where they work.
This team took this to heart in using the influences from Nissan's Formula E success in building a 3-door hatchback body-style that incorporates extreme aerodynamics and deep skirts to direct the airflow away from the front of the car, auto cooling of brakes and the battery pack and out the rear of the car.
Everything on the auto is low power usage components including the LED lighting from the front to the interior to the rear of the car.

Safety has taken a focus in that one has to step over a brace bar to get into their seats and carbon fiber components are used throughout the car to give lite weight to the EV yet being minimalistic.

Complete gallery of the car can be found at the press release here: Nissan celebrates 20th anniversary of London design studio with unveil of Concept 20-23 show car (nissannews.com)
Nissan is looking to the future of exciting desirable cars, trucks and SUVs in EV format for global consumption starting with the European market.
Nissan counts down to electric-only sales in Europe (nissannews.com)
 

  • ICE is dead and Electric is the Future for Europe by Nissan motors per their new press release.

G. David Felt

Kia EV9 First Impression

Today was a day of change, for almost 2 months I have been on a family home remodel project for my son and today he wanted to go check out the Kia EV9 that is making the rounds of the local Kia dealerships.

My first impression was that Kia has nailed the traditional brick on wheels style of SUV that Americans should appreciate.
I started at the front of the EV9 wanting to see the Frunk.

Surprise, not as big as the F150 Lighting or GM's EV pickups but double, maybe even triple the size of what Tesla offers. While not real deep, you could have two bags of groceries on their side. Observation is under this frunk is where the 12V battery is located. From the back is where the cabin airfilter is located and I noticed it was a HEPA filter. Funny thing is that you can see on the left hand side an whiteish lever. This is an emergency frunk lid release. Not sure why they have one as I cannot think of any way a human could fit in this frunk even if they were part of the tiny  or dwarf size humans. Interesting note that I wish I had taken a picture of was that in the very front deeper section, they had a NACS to CCS adapter. Surprised to already see one built by Kia.

My son opened the front driver's door and I wished now I had taken a video of this as the steering column auto moves up out of the way and then after you get in and close the door, it returns to the position that is set. Very cool, I love this kind of tech where I do not have to adjust things once it is set. I did as you can see in this picture observe the issue that many folks have complained about on touch screens and that is all the fingerprints.
David Size test commenced, I set the front passenger chair for my comfort and 3 inches between the front of my knees and the dash. I then got out and into the back seat and WOW, roomy and comfortable. This wins the 6'6" 300lb David test. Plenty of head, shoulder and girth room. This SUV will be a winner for many folks due to the roominess of this EV.

As you can see by my left knee is a USB C port for connection to charge and connect to the internal media system. The 3 levers you see on the side of the seat are for upper seat comfort adjustments.
Now one thing I was happy about was the heated and cooled seats in the front and back. Kia did some smart thinking here and that is where would be a good place to put the controls?

They put them on the internal arm rest and this arm rest had additional thinking as many times when you adjust the back of the seat for relaxing the arm rest in many current SUVs today have limited fixed positions. Here you can pull the arm rest all the way up, go all the way down and then in micro adjustments pull it up till it is comfy for the seat occupant.
Controls for the seat moving forward, up, down lumbar, etc. are the same for all four captain's chairs. On the right side bottom cushion.

Have to say that while Kia will have a basic all black interior, they are offering as an upgrade multiple two-tone interiors and I really like this brown/black one in this unit.
I did sit in the 3rd row split-bench seat and while I could get back there and had headroom, leg room kept me to the middle of this seat. I could make it work for a short ride, but it really is not an adult seating area.
The next thing was to check out the back for storage behind the third seat as this is an issue I have seen even in ICE auto's where you either have enough for 6 to 8 bags of groceries or you have pretty much nothing.
Kia has actually given a decent set of space where you could get two rows of 8 bags of groceries in terms of traditional paperbags. It of course gets even bigger with the third row of seats down.

If you look at the picture with both third row seat areas up, you can see the controller below the European plug and that is four buttons that allow you to open or close the second and third row seats. So, for those running to Home Depot or Ikea and need to put something large in, you can easily do it all from the back and not have to move around to the different sides to do each seat. Decent storage was under the back lift cover.
Better yet, while this was clearly told to me by the Kia sales folks that it was a pre-production model off the assembly line that will be producing the EV9s for Asian and European area, the fit n finish was some of the best I had seen. No info on pricing, but I was asked if I was interested in putting down a deposit to save a place in line for the EV.
End result is that this Kia EV has way better fit n finish than current production Tesla and I suspect it will really give a run for its money to Tesla and other EV manufacturers.
I have always stayed true to my roots and bought GM, Ford, Jeep and Dodge. The EV9 is a strong contender for a possible next auto in my household especially since like GM they are by default offering bi-directional power so that with the EV9 plugged into the home charger, you could power your home if you wanted when you have a power outage.
Ask away any and all questions. Happy to Answer!

  • America has had full size SUVs dominated by Detroit, how does Kia EV9 3 row SUV stack up?

G. David Felt

Marriott and EV Connect Partner to Install EV Chargers in North America

Fresh off Hilton's partnership announcement with Tesla to install 20,000 chargers, Marriott has announced a partnership with EV Connect to deploy, manage, and service EV chargers at Marriott locations across the U.S. and Canada.  Marriott brand hotel operators will have a turnkey solution from EV Connect to add and manage charging stations at their properties.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, EV Connect offers various charger capacities, including DC Fast Charging, tailored to the individual property's needs. EV Connect's interface will allow hotel operators to offer incentives and discounts to customers as well as control access.
Over 6,000 Marriott-branded hotels qualify for the EV Connect package, however, each property will need to opt in.
Read More:
Hilton Adding EV Charging to Over 2,000 Hotels in North America
Choice Hotels Signs Agreement with Tesla to Install Chargers

  • Over 6,000 Marriott locations will qualify, but each location must opt-in for charger installs.

Drew Dowdell

The Jeep Gladitator gets a gentle refresh for 2024

Jeep is understandably reluctant to mess with success, and the Jeep Gladiator has been one of the brand's greatest success stories in the last decade.  So when it came time to give the Gladiator a nip-tuck, Jeep went in with the gentlest of hands.
The biggest visual update is a refresh of Jeep's iconic 7-slot grille, windshield-integrated trail-ready stealth antenna, and seven all-new wheel designs. Inside is a redefined interior with more technology and amenities, including available 12-way power-adjustable front seats and all-new instrument panel featuring Uconnect 5 system with a best-in-class standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with improved speech intelligibility.
Two new trims are available; Mojave X and Rubicon X, which expand Gladiator’s portfolio with an integrated off-road camera, steel bumpers, and Nappa leather-trimmed 12-way power-adjustable front seats.
New safety features for Gladiator are standard first- and second-row side-curtain airbags, standard forward collision warning (Sport S and above), and standard advanced cruise control with stop (Sport S and above).
The 2024 Jeep Gladiator is available for ordering now.
Drew Dowdell

GMC Upsizes the Acadia for 2024; New 2.5L Turbo-4

GMC caused a stir in 2016 when it downsized the Acadia in 2017 from its previous near-Yukon length. That downsize brought the Acadia down to be inline in size with the contemporary Jeep Grand Cherokee.  In the years since, the Grand Cherokee has grown and GMC is matching that with the 2024 GMC Acadia.
Inches matter in this class and in that the Acadia gains (back) 10.6 inches in length and 3.2 inches in height. That equates to 80% more space behind the third row and 36% more space behind the second row.
The biggest news is with the powertrain. The naturally aspirated V6 is gone from the lineup and now all Acadias are powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4. This engine is new to GM's lineup and in the Acadia produces 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque.  All models get an 8-speed automatic with all-wheel drive available. The Acadia AT4 gets and exclusive off-road-capable Active Torque Control AWD system.
The interior is focused around a portrait-oriented 15-inch-diagonal premium GMC infotainment. The system has Google Assistant built in and can display up to 9 camera positions around the vehicle.
The long safety features list includes:
Forward Collision Alert Following Distance Indicator Front Pedestrian and Bicycle Braking IntelliBeam High Beam Assist HD Rear Vision Camera Rear Park Assist Safety Alert Seat Rear Cross Traffic Braking Blind Zone Steering Assist Buckle to Drive Rear Seat Reminder7 Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking and more. AT4 exclusive features include:
A 1-inch taller ride height and a wider track, coupled with 18-inch AT tires enhancing stability, handling and capability when driving off road Off-road-tuned suspension with hydraulic rebound control AT4-exclusive Active Torque Control all-wheel-drive system with twin-clutch rear differentials for optimal traction and control in demanding scenarios Front fascia accented with signature AT4 red tow hooks and integrated skid plates Selectable drive modes including Terrain mode and Hill Descent Control Exclusive AT4 interior elements featuring Forest Storm interior with Mahogany stitching and additional chrome-metallic trim Acadia Denali returns to redefine the premium mid-size SUV, with new, stylish enhancements, elevated design cues and a bolder roster of luxurious features including:
Standard one-touch folding second-row seats and power-folding third row Distinctive exterior trim and design features, including unique trim accents, a signature Denali grille and available, all-new, 22-inch machined aluminum wheels — the largest ever on Acadia Elevated interior featuring an available panoramic, pillar-to-pillar sunroof, authentic laser-etched wood décor with Galvano chrome accents, and perforated leather-appointed heated and ventilated front seats and available second-row outboard heated seats Active noise cancelling technology and a Bose premium sound system with 12 standard speakers— and up to 16 available on Denali The 2024 GMC Acadia will be produced at GM’s Lansing Delta Township Assembly in Michigan and should go on sale early next year.
 

  • Longer, wider and taller; Acadia brings increased passenger spaciousness, with extended third-row cargo space and increased front-row leg room

Drew Dowdell

Cadillac Refreshes the CT5 with an Updated Look for 2025

Today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Cadillac unveiled the refreshed Cadillac CT5 sedan.  CT5 retail sales have been on an upswing of late, increasing over 35%.  In a time when sedan sales are stagnating or disappearing entirely, Cadillac's positive numbers have given hope that the luxury sedan market isn't quite dead yet.
The refresh of the CT5 begins with the exterior. A new larger, bolder grille is flanked by new vertically stacked headlamps and Cadillac's signature fangs.  The LED light clusters feature an animated startup sequence that "celebrates" you as you approach the car.  Two new exterior colors are available; Deep Space Metallic and Typhoon Metallic.  The Sport model grill features a mesh insert while standard models feature the Cadillac chevron.
The cockpit gets a major upgrade with a customizable 33-inch diagonal 9k digital information cluster and infotainment system.  The 9k resolution enables extremely crisp graphics and brings depth to the look. The infotainment system features Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play built in. Updated HVAC controls complete the upgrade.
Cadillac SuperCruise is available, now upgraded with new Driver Attention Assist. A new safety feature is standard Intersection Automatic Emergency Braking.
The familiar 237 hp / 258 lb-ft 2-liter turbo 4 and the 335 hp / 405 lb-ft 3-liter turbo V6 carry over along with the 10-speed automatic.
The 2025 CT5 goes on sale in the spring of 2024 and will be built in GM's Lansing Grand River Assembly in Michigan.
 
Drew Dowdell

Ford updates the 2024 F-150 with More Standard Power, More Hybrid Production, and a New Tailgate

Tonight at an event ahead of the Detroit Auto Show, Ford unveiled the updated 2024 Ford F-150. Starting in 2024, the F-150 will drop the base 3.3-liter naturally aspirated V6 in favor of the familiar 2.7-liter Ecoboost V6. This increases standard power across the line by 25 horsepower and a whopping 135 lb-ft of torque.  Additionally, citing a 28% increase in hybrid F-150 sales, Ford is increasing production of the hybrid powertrain to meet this demand. Ford expects to double the mix of hybrid availability in the coming years and aims to be one of the best selling hybrids across all segments.   To help achieve that goal, Ford has matched the MSRP of the 3.5 Powerboost Hybrid to that of the 3.5 Ecoboost gasoline model.  The Powerboost hybrid powertrain is available on XLT through Platinum Plus models. Hybrid power doesn't mean low power either. The Powerboost hybrid can produce a maximum of 430 horsepower and a stump ripping 570 lb-ft of torque.
Available on Powerboost equipped trucks is the Pro Power option, up to a 7.2 kWh power-on-demand capacity for running tools and even some household appliances. This is the most powerful power export option in full-size trucks.  Pro Power is available in 2.0 kWh, 2.4 kWh, and 7.2 kWh options.
Ford has upgraded their Blue Cruise system to version 1.2 to allow for new features like Lane-Change Assist and In-Lane Repositioning.
New for 2024 is is the Ford Pro Access tailgate. Ford widened the step cut-out and increased bumper depth to create the best tailgate experience yet: Pro Access Tailgate.
The F-150 with available Pro Access Tailgate is the only pickup in its class to offer a 100-degree fully opened integrated swing gate. Opening from the driver’s side, this solution reduces walking distance to the tailgate handle, facilitates operation when towing, and even features a specially designed integrated handle for easy entry and exit of the swing door opening.
 
The swinging door has built-in stops thanks to the use of detents, or devices to position and hold parts in place, in the door’s internal mechanism, which help avoid banging the door into the trailer jack, offering a seamless user experience even when towing.  
The 2023 F-150 will continue to be built in Ford's Michigan and Missouri plants and should go on sale in just a few weeks
 
   
   
Drew Dowdell

Hilton Adding EV Charging to Over 2,000 Hotels in North America

Hilton has announced that they will install up to 20,000 Tesla Universal Wall Connectors at 2,000 hotels across North America, creating the largest EV charging network in the hotel industry.  The project will start in early 2024 and include at least six chargers at each selected hotel. Hilton says that customers are increasingly searching for EV charging at their hotels, with the charging availability filter being the second highest attribute that converts a search to a booking. For Hilton, allowing EV owners to charge where they park means no unnecessary stops along their journey and that adds value to Hilton's product.
The Tesla Universal Wall Connector natively supports both NACS and J1772 type plugs, covering the vast majority of the new EV market, however, owners of older EVs with CHAdeMO or the Nissan Leaf will not be able to use these chargers. Using a standard 220-volt / 48-amp circuit, the 11.5 kW Tesla Universal Wall Connector can charge a Tesla Model-3 up to a rate of 44 miles of range per hour.
When set up in groups of six, the Tesla Universal Wall Connector is capable of managing access, allowing locations to monitor when and who is using the charging stations.
Our take: Building a charging network at locations where people naturally spend a significant time parked brings in additional customers who might otherwise go elsewhere.
Cheers and Gears is reader-supported. If you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Read More:
Choice Hotels Signs Agreement with Tesla to Install Chargers
Marriott and EV Connect Partner to Install EV Chargers in North America

  • In an expanded agreement, Hilton will install at least six Tesla Universal Wall Connectors at each eligible location.

Drew Dowdell

Century for the Next Century, Toyota Launches Century SUV

Toyota has had for the rich and powerful their Century car for the Japanese market only for decades. This chauffeur-driven car was a coveted auto that never was allowed to be exported out of Japan.
Today, Toyota has announced a new chauffeur-driven Century for the 21st century in meeting the demands of a new age, new generation while maintaining the inheritance of the history of what made Century so special. The Century SUV while being a new shape, combines elegance, comfort and functionality as demanded in this new age of automotive excitement.

Toyota streamed the launch making a statement of the following:
A bold design with an elegant and graceful silhouette that incorporates Japanese aesthetic elements. Based on a concept of human-centeredness, the interior space is designed to provide an even more safe and comfortable travel experience for rear-seat passengers as well as the driver. The newly developed plug-in hybrid system, which inherits the quietness of the Century and delivers both environmental performance and powerful, exhilarating ride befitting the future of chauffeur-driven vehicles. The Century chauffeur-driven sedan debuted in 1967 as the premium Toyota executive car. The market had been dominated by U.S. and European luxury brands till now. Embodying the unrivaled spirit of omotenashi, or hospitality, ensuring that the important passengers reached their destinations safely and in comfort. The Century Sedan has been doing this for the last 5 plus decades.
Today's Century SUV is launched with the following outline:
Majestic, dignified body design with both horizontal and vertical form features. From the hand engraved phoenix emblem to the mirror finish. Interior space designed with the concept of being human-centered to realize comfortable travel time. From the fully reclining rear seats to the finely hones audio system and the rear doors that open to a wide 75-degrees allowing for elegant entry and exit of the SUV. Be it that the Century SUV is chauffer-driven or owner-driven, the cockpit is designed for ease of use by all, allowing focus on their driving with minimal distractions. Powertrain of the 21st century, delivering performance while exceeding expectations. The all new 3.5-liter V6 hybrid system achieves both performance and a quieter drive for both driver and passenger. The all new Century SUV is built on the Toyota TNGA platform with a high-rigidity body. This allows superior handling along with noise-reduction as well as privacy quietness associated with a chauffer-driven vehicle. The 2024 Century SUV has the following specifications:
Length - 5,205mm or 205 inches Width - 1,990 mm or 78 inches Height - 1,805 mm or 71 inches Wheelbase - 2,950 mm or 116 inches Couple distance - 1,220 mm or 48 inches Weight - 2,570 kg or 5,666 pounds Capacity - 4 persons While Toyota talks about this as being a Japan only auto, the all-new Century SUV is built on their global TNGA platform, a first for the Century line and it has their global all-new Hybrid system. Both would imply that this auto which is slated for just 30 hand built per month could become a global auto designed to take on the top Luxury SUVs in the world such as the Mercedes EQS SUV, Cadillac Escalade, etc.
Check out all the images and details here in the press release folder of images:
Toyota Century SUV - Cheers & Gears (cheersandgears.com)

Toyota Launching New Century in Japan

  • Meeting the demands of the 21st century, a new chauffeur-driven vehicle to meet the demands of a new age, welcome the Century SUV. 

G. David Felt

Butterflies in Detroit

In Chaos Theory, the butterfly effect is the idea that a tiny change can result in massive changes later. The simple act of a butterfly flapping its wings could set into motion a series of events that change the weather.
In the summer of 2018, the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, the organization responsible for putting together the Detroit Auto Show, more formally known as the North American International Auto Show or NAIAS, announced that beginning in 2020, the show would move in the calendar from its traditional time in January to a summer month to allow for exhibits and demonstrations outside of what was then Cobo Hall. Little did the show organizers know, but they may have changed the course of history for millions of people.
The final January show in Detroit was in 2019. It was also the last time I attended after ten straight years of reporting directly from the show. I was looking forward to the summer shows in Detroit. The weather for the January shows has always been unpredictable. There have been years when it has been pleasantly mild and years where I’m driving through unplowed snow six inches deep and then having to schlep to the Cobo Center in dress shoes.  Even with the poor weather, the Detroit Auto Show was always an exciting time to see the newest products and catch up with industry friends.
There was no Detroit show in 2020, nor was there a New York show, Chicago show, or Los Angeles show, for reasons we all understand in 2023. In the years following, the already struggling shows were cut down significantly, if they even ran at all.
Yesterday, I received my media credential for the 2023 North American International Auto Show, taking place in Detroit, starting September 13th. While I’ve registered for the credentials to various shows since 2021, this show in September will be the first I plan to attend since 2019. Thinking back, I realized how our recent history with Covid may have been very likely changed by the Detroit Auto Dealers Association’s desire to move the show outdoors. It is highly likely that this simple change in the schedule saved millions of lives.
I can remember hearing about this strange new virus in China in December 2019. I had recently left a position that I had held for 14 years and, armed with a very generous severance package, had decided to take a few months off to recuperate from burnout.  We already knew that the Detroit auto show was not going to happen until the summer, so I took all of January off with the intent to start looking for work in February.  History being what it was, I wouldn’t work full-time again until May 2020.
But consider the significance of NAIAS’s move to the summer; Wuhan is China’s 9th largest city, having a population of over 11 million. It is one of China’s most important industrial and research centers and, as such, is home to a large number of automobile part suppliers. Those automobile parts suppliers send reps to all the major auto shows globally.
December 31st, 2019
On New Year’s Eve 2019, Covid-19 was officially identified. Though it is now known that the earliest known infection was a person who fell ill on December 1st, 2019, there is also a possible earlier case on November 17th. I can tell you from experience that those of us in the U.S. who attend the Detroit auto show have our travel booked at least a month in advance, so it is likely that individuals who would be traveling internationally would have booked even earlier.  And remember, before Covid, we did not have the mentality of “if you’re sick, stay home”.  For an event as large and as important as the Detroit Auto Show, you just sucked it up and went. I am guilty of this myself. Before Covid-19, I would still attend the show even if I was feeling a little under the weather.
January 15th, 2020
Sixteen days after being officially identified, the seven-day rolling average for Covid-19 related deaths was nearly 8,000, mostly in China. January 15th is also traditionally the first or second day of the Detroit Auto Show, and Wuhan was still nine days away from lockdown. California, the first state in the US to lock down, was still two months away.
A series of unfortunate events… that didn’t happen
From here, it is not hard for anyone who has attended Media Days at any auto show to imagine the rest of the scenario.  Auto shows are crowded affairs. Journalists and industry spies juggling to get access to the latest product or talk to manufacturers’ representatives. Shaking hands, talking in close quarters, and a distinct lack of respect for personal space is basically required. Nearly no one wears a mask.
With several hundred to over a thousand visitors coming into Detroit from Wuhan, the Detroit Auto Show would have been not A super spreader event, but THE super spreader event.  This massive gathering of thousands of people in close quarters from all over the globe would have accelerated the pandemic on an unimaginable scale. The virus would have been taken back to cities across the US, Europe, and Asia in large numbers a full two months earlier and caused the pandemic to be far worse and far more rapid than what we went through.
Returning to Normalcy
Prior to Covid, working at the Detroit Auto Show could be a 14+ hour day. One year, I remember a 5 a.m. wake-up call to make a 6 a.m. Porsche press conference and then a series of events that lasted well into the evening.  Those days are gone now, and the Detroit Show is a shell of its former self. This year, we expect five or fewer reveals, and even those might be simple facelifts or trim packages.
But one of the reasons that's happened is because attendance and coverage has dropped so significantly. Manufacturers don’t see the value in a show with a low attendance rate.  I know it’s not going to be like the old days, but it will never come back if we continue to stay away. With that in mind, though the news from the show will still be thin this year, I will be covering the show in person once again, this time with a mask and some butterflies.
Drew Dowdell

Fisker Joins Others to Adopt Tesla's NACS Charging

Fisker Inc. announced today that, starting in the first quarter of 2025, Fisker drivers will be able to charge at Tesla's 12,000 Supercharger Stations in the U.S. and Canada. All current and future Fiskers will be eligible.
Current model drivers will use an NACS adapter, but a future refresh is planned to change the charge port on the vehicles to the NACS model.  Those future vehicles will be supplied with a CCS to NACS adapter, ensuring broad compatibility.
This move by Fisker will more than double the number of public chargers available to Fisker drivers when it comes into effect.
Drew Dowdell

Cadillac Electrifies an Icon with the Cadillac Escalade IQ

Today, Cadillac unveiled the newest member of their electrified lineup, the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ. With The Escalade IQ, Cadillac introduces the first full-size electric SUV to the market. Like the Silverado EV that rides on the same Ultium platform, the Escalade IQ will offer up to 450 miles of range.
The Escalade IQ is powered by a dual-motor system capable of producing up to 750 horsepower and 785 lb-ft of torque, delivering a 0-60 time of less than 5 seconds when in the driver-selectable Velocity Max setting. The preliminary towing capability estimate is targeted at 8,000 lbs. Electricity is provided by a 24-module Ultium battery with 200 kWh of available energy. The system architecture is compatible with 800-volt charging, the fastest currently available, and can take on 100 miles of range in as little as 10 minutes. Vehicle-to-Home charging will be available via a software update in the future when combined with Ultium Home products, while Vehicle-to-Load enables the E-IQ to power larger external devices.
One-Pedal Driving, Variable Regen on Demand, and an innovative heat pump thermal system help extend range and increase passenger comfort.
Four-wheel steer reduces the turning radius to 39.4 ft, a 6.5 ft reduction versus not using four-wheel steer. Cadillac arrival mode is a four-wheel steer feature that allows the Escalade IQ to move diagonally, making it easier to pull in and out of tight spaces while making a statement. Adaptive Air Ride plus Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 promises a comfortable and composed driving experience without sacrificing handling. The Adaptive Air Ride is capable of raising the E-IQ by one inch and lowering it by two. Low Ride mode allows the Escalade to be driven with the vehicle fully lowered at low speeds.
Inside, passengers are treated to a premium cabin featuring a nearly full-width, 55-inch display across the dash, with some space at each end reserved for two of the forty speakers of the available AKG Studio Reference sound system on the available Executive Second Row package.  Luxury 2 and Sport 2 systems feature a thirty-six speaker AKG system, while Luxury 1 and Sport 1 trims have nineteen.
Cadillac is offering four interior themes with 126 ambient lighting options. Interior trims feature delicate detailing with laser-etched woodwork, and with the available illuminated trim package, the patterns light up at night, offering a unique look and glow.
The Executive Second Row package includes stowable tray tables, dual wireless phone charging pads, 12.6-inch personal display screens, USB-C and HDMI ports, massaging seats, and headrest speakers.
An available package adds power open-and-close doors to all four doors, and if enabled, the driver's door will automatically open as the driver approaches with the keyfob. In addition to the standard rear cargo area, a 12 cubic ft. eTrunk is located at the front of the vehicle.
As Cadillac introduced SuperCruise to the market several years ago as an option in high end trims, but in the E-IQ, it now comes standard.  Additional active safety features include blind zone steering assist, intersection automatic emergency braking, which enables detection of cross traffic, HD Surround Vision, Enhanced automatic parking assist, and front pedestrian and bicyclist braking that works at speeds from 5 mph - 50 mph.
Pricing is expected to start around $130,000 when it goes on sale in the Fall of 2024.
2025 CADILLAC ESCALADE IQ PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
EFFICIENCY
Cadillac-estimated range1
450 miles (724+ km)
1On a full charge based on development testing and/or analytical projection consistent with SAE J1634 revision 2017 – MCT. Range subject to change prior to production. Actual range may vary based on several factors, including ambient temperature, terrain, battery age and condition, loading, and how you use and maintain your vehicle.
BATTERY SYSTEM:
Type:
Rechargeable energy storage system comprising multiple linked modules
Battery Chemistry:
Lithium-ion NCMA cathode, blended graphite anode
Battery Rated Energy:
200 kWh
ELECTRIC DRIVE:
System:
2 drive units with 1 motor each
Motor:
Permanent magnet, bar wound
Power1:
680 hp / 505 kW – Normal Mode
750 hp / 560 kW – Velocity Max
Torque1: (lb-ft / Nm):
615 lb-ft / 834 Nm – Normal Mode
785 lb-ft / 1064 Nm – Velocity Max
Final Drive Ratio (:1):
13.26:1 – front
11.63:1 – rear
1Based on GM testing
CHARGING TIMES1
 
240V (7.7 kW Including Dual-Level Charge Cord):
Approximately 14.8 miles of range per hour of charge
240V2 (19.2 kW AC):
Approximately 37 miles of range per hour of charge time
DC Fast Charge (Public):
Up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes of charge time
 
1Actual charge times will vary based on battery condition, output of charger, vehicle settings and outside temperature. See the vehicle's Owner’s Manual for additional limitations.
2Home charging requires professionally installed 100A dedicated charge station, sold separately.
CHASSIS & SUSPENSION
Front and Rear Suspension:
Short-Long Arm (SLA) suspension with air springs and MagneRide dampers. Balanced ride and handling with premium isolation.
Steering Type:
Front: Rack & Pinion Electric Power Steering;
Rear: Continuously variable actuator up to 10 degrees.
Turning Circle, Curb-to-Curb (ft. / m):
39.4 / 12
Brake Type:
4-wheel disc with DuraLife™ Rotors
Brake Rotor Size OD:
(in. / mm):
13.98 / 355 (front)
14.05 / 356.8 (rear)
Wheels:
24-inch alloy
Tires:
LT275/50R24 
1Lower-profile tires wear faster. Tire and wheel damage may occur on rough or damaged roads or from surfaces, curbs, debris or obstacles. This damage is not covered by the GM New Vehicle Limited Warranty. For more details, go to my.cadillac.com/learnabout/tires or see your dealer.
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase (in. / mm):
136.2 / 3460
Overall Length (in. / mm):
224.3 / 5697
Overall Width (in. / mm):
94.1 / 2389 (with mirrors)
85.3 / 2167 (mirrors folded)
Overall Height (in. / mm):
76.1 / 1934
Track Width (in. / mm):
Front: 68.7 / 1745
Rear: 68.7 / 1745
Ground Clearance (in. / mm):
6.9 / 175
INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Headroom (in. / mm):
1st row: 43.5 / 1106
2nd row: 39.9 / 1015
3rd row: 37.2 / 944
Legroom (in. / mm):
1st row: 45.2 / 1148
2nd row: 41.3 / 1051
3rd row: 30.1 / 765
Shoulder Room (in. / mm):
1st row: 65.4 / 1662
2nd row: 63.6 / 1615
3rd row: 56.5 / 1435
Hip Room (in. / mm):
1st row: 61.1 / 1551
2nd row: 60.3 / 1532
3rd row: 49.4 / 1256
CAPACITIES   
EPA Passenger Volume
(cu. ft. / L):
1st row: 1841
2nd row: 1651
3rd row: 1092
Cargo Volume1
(cu. ft. / L):
119.2 / 3374 (second and third rows folded)
69.1 / 1958 (third row folded)
23.7 / 670 (behind third row)
eTrunk Volume1
(cu. ft. / L):
12.2 / 345.4
Max Trailering Capacity2 
(lb. / kg):
8000 / 3628
1Cargo and load capacity limited by weight and distribution
2Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner’s Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo, and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.

  • 450 miles of range from an all-electric full-size SUV

Drew Dowdell

EVgo / GM partnership Produce 1,000th DC Fast Charging Stall

Starting off August for GM and EVgo is the fact that a signed agreement in 2020, expanded upon in 2021 has led to a growing collaboration between the two companies in development and installation of FAST DC charging stalls in major metro markets.
To date the agreement between GM and EVgo is for 3,250 DC fast charging stalls to be installed and managed by EVgo as part of GMs Ultium fast charging network. Todate, the companies have installed DC Fast charging stalls in 230 locations in 39 markets covering 27 states of the EVgo 350kW chargers.

Cathy Zoi, CEO of EVgo had the following to say in the press release:
As one of the preferred EV charging point operators, this continues to grow the Ultium Charge 360 initiative that GM is funding to expand public charging access.
This 1,000th DC Fast charging stall was opened at the Woodridge, Illinois, Woodgrove Festival Shopping mall.
EVgo released that on June 12, 2023 they would support the NACS charging connector in the EVgo charging stalls joining GM and many other auto companies in offering NACS charging alternatives to Tesla Supercharger stations.

  • Partnership is speeding up availability of DC Fast charging stalls for EVs.

G. David Felt

Seven Manufactures Form Joint-Venture to Build a Rival to Tesla's Supercharger Network

BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis announced a new venture today to build out an EV charging network to rival Tesla's.  The aim is to install at least 30,000 high-speed charging points in urban and highway locations across then country.  The first chargers will go online in the U.S. in the summer of 2024, with chargers in Canada following shortly after.
Of the manufacturers in this venture, General Motors and Mercedes-Benz recently announced agreements with Tesla for access to their SuperCharger network. While Ford, General Motors, Rivian, Mercedes-Benz, have all committed to Tesla's NACS charging connector.
The network will use the 350-kw / 800-volt and offer both Tesla's NACS and CCS connectors. What wasn't announced was support for the V4 version of the NACS standard, which supports 800-Volt peak charging, but 800-Volt charging is a key feature of GM's Ultium technology, so we expect it will be offered.
The as yet unnamed network will be powered by renewable energy and will be open to all makes and models that use either the NACS or CCS connectors.  Sorry, Nissan Leaf and Kia Soul EV owners, you're out of luck.
This move reflects a frustration by manufacturers regarding the reliability and build-out speed when relying on third-party charging networks. Electrify America, one of the largest non-Tesla fast-charging networks, has a reputation for broken and error-prone charging stations.  With EV adoption being a Chicken and Egg problem, this move by the manufacturers is an attempt to squeeze the egg out of the chicken.
To put a project of this size into perspective, the Tesla SuperCharger network offers 20,400 fast-charging ports at 1,900 locations while Electrify America offers 3,600 fast-charging ports at 800 locations, but EA's network is mostly at the slower charge rate of 150kw rather than 350kw.
General Motors and Mercedes-Benz, which are both building out their own charging networks, will continue to do so separately from this plan.
Related Articles:
Mercedes-Benz Announces Their New EV Charging Network
Tesla Supercharger Network of North America Now a Benz Charging Option
Rivian Latest to Join the NACS Camp
NACS the North American New Charging Standard?
Ford EVs Gain Access to Tesla SuperChargers, Ford to Adopt Tesla NACS Charge Port
 

  • Minimum of 30,000 high-speed charging points nationwide

Drew Dowdell

Toyota Land Cruiser Returns - August 1

Today, Toyota released a more detailed teaser image of the nearly reborn Land Cruiser.  Featuring a boxy, egg crate grille, and a profile similar to the new Lexus GX, we have a pretty good idea what the Land Cruiser will look like. Since the two will share most of the body, only the front fenders, grille, and rear tailgate will offer much in terms of styling differentiation.

Old and New Land Cruiser Silhouettes - Via Toyota
We expect the Land Cruiser to be powered by the same 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 349-hp  and 479 lb-ft of torque in the GX. Lexus will later be adding a hybrid to the line-up based on the Toyota Tundra i-Force Max that can produce up to 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.  Like the Lexus, which now offers the GX in an off-road trim called Overtrail, there will almost certainly be a TRD Pro version of the Land Cruiser with increased ride height, locking rear differential, and oversized off-road tires.

2024 Lexus GX550 - Via Lexus
The previous Land Cruiser shared its platform with the larger Lexus LX, but the new GX has grown in size, just a few inches smaller in overall length and sharing the same wheelbase as the LX. This gives Toyota room with the Land Cruiser to keep it above the Sequoia in the lineup.
The Land Cruiser will be officially unveiled at 9:20 p.m. on August 1st.  Keep it here for details!

  • Rebirth of a Legend

Drew Dowdell

Stellantis and Samsung Announce Second Gigafactory for the US

On Monday, Stellantis and Samsung announced they had signed a memorandum of understanding to build a second battery manufacturing plant in the US via their joint partnership firm, StarPlus Energy.
Their first facility is under construction in Kokomo, Indiana. Targeted for production start in the first quarter of 2025, the plant was initially planned to have a production capacity of 23 gigawatt-hours, later to increase to 33 gigawatt-hours as demand rises. However, the partners are bypassing the initial 23 GWh phase and are building out to the full 33 GWh capacity now. The plant is expected to be further expanded in the future to meet demand. The Kokomo plant is expected to create 1,400 new jobs.
The latest plant is slated to initially add an additional 34 GWh of capacity, with further future expansion possible. StarPlus Energy is aiming to have battery production started at the new plant in 2027. The location of the newest plant has not yet been announced.
Stellantis is aiming to offer at least 25 new battery electric vehicles in North America by 2030 with a roughly 50% BEV sales mix.  For Europe, Stellantis plans to be 100% BEV by 2030.  To meet those targets, Stellantis is working on global partnerships to secure at least 400 GWh of battery production capacity.

  • Another 34 gigawatt hours to be added to capacity.

Drew Dowdell

Ultium Bolt Announced by Chevrolet

GM Chairperson and CEO Mary Barra announced during GM's Quarterly earnings call that Chevrolet next-generation Bolt will come on the Ultium platform continuing to offer great affordability, range and technology.
The next-generation Bolt which has had record sales and some of the highest customer satisfaction and loyalty scores in the industry, especially among conquest sales will come to market using the Ultium and Ultifi technology advancements according to Barra.
The Bolt and Bolt EUV are driving EV adoption sales currently and Chevrolet is planning to continue this trend.

Barra stated during the earnings call that drawing on the Ultium and Ultifi technology will help GM accelerate the timeline to market and that an announcement of the next-generation Bolt will be done at a later date. With the Silverado EV, BLazer EV and Equinox EV launching this year, that the Ultium Bolt will join the family very soon.
According to GM, from the introduction of the Mass production of the Bolt in 2017 to Q2 2023 production has been a success. While parts supplies during the pandemic limited sales, the Bolt and Bolt EUV have clearly picked up. Sales of the Bolt from 2017 to 2022 are supplied by Statista.

Barra announced that Chevrolet had a 17% increase in sales with the Bolt / Bolt EUV making up 13,900, a 101% increase in sales over the same period last year. Adding success to Q1 Bolt / Bolt EUV sales of 19,700 gives the Bolt sales of 33,900 for the first half of the 2023 calendar year.
GM has stated that they are excited for the Chevrolet family of electric vehicles to build on the bolt sales with the Next-Generation of Ultium Bolt.
 

  • America's most affordable EV, Chevrolet Bolt to return in Ultium Form for Chevrolet's growing lineup of Electric-Vehicles.

G. David Felt

Ford Shows Off Mach-E Rally Edition at GoodWood Festival of Speed

What is not to love about off-road rally races? Speed, dirt, crazy driving, spectacular occasional crashes, lots to love if you love the planet being outside. Now Ford has decided to go green with the latest rally auto to help the planet and that is the:

As per Ford's press release, for the first time in six decades of Mustang history, the Mustang is leaving the tarmac and hitting the dirt road. Welcome to the road rally Mach-E.

At this year's rally, Goodwood Festival of Speed 2023, enthusiasts and onlookers will get a look at the first rally-inspired electric SUV from Ford. The Ford Mach-E rally will be available to order starting fall 2023 in the U.S. and Europe, then later for other markets.

Professional off-road rally driver Ott Tanak will drive this Mach-E rally edition at the Festival.
Darren Palmer, VP for Electrical Vehicle Programs had this to say: 
“Mustang Mach-E took the freedom and fun of Mustang and made it free from emissions. Now with Mustang Mach-E Rally, we’re providing our customers the freedom to venture off the asphalt and beyond the beaten path,”
Ford is ensuring right from the start that the Mach-E Rally will be ready to go from the factory to handle anything that comes your way.

For those that want to stay up on the first-ever rally-inspired, five passenger Ford Mach-R, monitor the following link: MACH-E Rally
From the inside to the outside, the MACH-E Rally is ready to tackle anything thrown at it.

Rally your world in the Mach-E Rally
Mustang-Mach-E-Rally-B-Roll.mp4  
 
 

  • Into off-road rally racing, check out Ford's latest competitor, Mach-E Rally!

G. David Felt

GMC 2024 Hummer EV 3X Pickup has Longer Driving Range

GMC has announced the full details of the Hummer EV 3X Pickup, with both standard and Extreme Off-Road packages.
Standard features on the 3X Pickup trim include:
22-inch wheels and 35-inch All-Terrain tires 4-Wheel Steer with CrabWalk3 diagonal drive capability Air Ride Adaptive Suspension Extract Mode Watts to Freedom4 launch experience 0-60 mph in approximately 3.5 seconds with the standard 20-module battery 0-60 mph in approximately 3 seconds with the available 24-module battery Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance feature with more than 400,000 miles of compatible roads in the United States and Canada5 Up to 381 miles of GM-estimated driving range on a full charge1 with the available 24-module battery pack
Building onto the truck’s capability, the available Extreme Off-Road Package on the 3X trim adds:
18-inch wheels and 35-inch Mud-Terrain tires Four additional underbody camera views6 for 18 total camera views Front e-locker and rear virtual locking differentials Heavy-duty ball-spline half-shafts Underbody armor consisting of five skid plates and rocker protection with built-in assist steps, as well as two underbody shields to protect the battery and drive units Up to 359 miles of GM-estimated driving range on a full charge2  with the available 24-module battery pack
In standard mode of 381 estimated Miles, this is a 26-mile increase over the 2023 model. With Extreme Off-road Package, the Hummer EV Pickup is rated at 359 miles, a 30-mile increase over the 2023 model.
The 2024 model goes on sale this fall 2023 to current reservation holders. The Hummer EV 3X standard will have a starting price of $106,945.

  • The 2024 GMC Hummer EV 3X pickup has longer standard and Extreme Off-Road mileage.

G. David Felt

Kia $200 Million Expansion of U.S. Assembly Plant

Sean Yoon, president and CEO, Kia North America and Kia America made the following statement: 
“Like Telluride, EV9 has the potential to be another ‘game changer’ for Kia, this will be the most sophisticated vehicle that we have ever built and will be a standout in the EV market and on the road. Best of all, it will be assembled in West Point, Georgia.”

Kia has announced a $200 million expansion of their West Point, Georgia assembly plant allowing production of the 2024 EV9 three-row SUV in the second quarter of 2024. Kia has stated that this will create 200 additional jobs and will be the fifth model assembled at Kia Georgia joining the Telluride, Sorento, Sportage and K5 EV.

Kia first manufacturing site in N.A. will have a annual capacity of 340,000 vehicles for their 2,200 acre campus located in West Point, GA. Kia Georgia began U.S. production on November 16th, 2009 and currently produces the Telluride, Sorento and Sportage models. They also produce the K5 mid-size EV sedan at the Georgia site with the expansion of adding the EV9 and others yet to come for U.S. production.

All Kia models are assembled from locally and globally sourced parts including the EV product line. As required by the IRA act, as production comes online in the U.S. components will be changed from global suppliers to local suppliers.

  • Kia has announced a major expansion of their U.S. assembly plant for EV production.

G. David Felt

Tesla Supercharger Network of North America Now a Benz Charging Option

The first of the German auto companies has fallen inline with the Tesla NACS charge port, Mercedes-Benz made this Announcement late Friday night. This is a major change as news had been reporting that VW was in talks with Tesla and the expected first German auto company to support NACS ports, now we know that Mercedes-Benz will be that first company moving from CCS to NACS.

Mercedes made the following points in their press release:
Mercedes-Benz to integrate North American Charging Standard (NACS) in its electric vehicle line-up – introduction in North America starting 2025 Mercedes-Benz drivers gain access to more than 12,000 Tesla Superchargers across North America beginning in 2024 Mercedes-Benz to simultaneously expand new Mercedes-Benz Charging Network with more than 2,500 high-power chargers in North America to provide a best-in-class charging experience First Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging sites to open in Q4 2023 for both Mercedes-Benz and non-Mercedes-Benz drivers Starting in January 2024 all Mercedes-Benz will come with a CCS to NACS adapter to allow existing EV customers to get a superior charging experience at Tesla Supercharger stations according to the press release.

Starting in January 2025 all EVs will then be built with NACS ports and the following quote was made by the Chairman of the Board of Management Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
"Our strategic priority is clear: Building the world’s most desirable cars. To accelerate the shift to electric vehicles, we are dedicated to elevating the entire EV-experience for our customers - including fast, convenient, and reliable charging solutions wherever their Mercedes-Benz takes them. That’s why we are committed to building our global Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging Network, with the first sites opening this year. In parallel, we are also implementing NACS in our vehicles, allowing drivers to access an expansive network of high-quality charging offerings in North America."
Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management Mercedes-Benz Group AG
Andre Cornelia, CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America had the following to say:
“With the development of Mercedes-Benz’s new North American High-Power Charging Network, we are ready to redefine the electric vehicle charging experience. We’re building on our strong brand promise here by leveraging the renowned quality, reputation, and customer focus for which Mercedes-Benz has been known for well over a century. With its own charging network, Mercedes-Benz will set a new standard for EV infrastructure, enabling a convenient charging experience in terms of fast, safe and green charging of electric vehicles.”
It will be interesting to see how this works out for the German auto companies and who will be next, will it be BMW or VW/Audi/Porsche to join the NACS port club.
Press Release

  • Mercedes-Benz will integrate NACS (North America Charging Standard) ports on all EVs starting in 2025 with Tesla Supercharger Access.

G. David Felt

2024 GMC Canyon AT4X AEV Edition Unleashed

QUOTE: “GMC is giving customers the ability to forge their own path within the premium off-roading space,” said Duncan Aldred, global vice president, Buick-GMC. “GMC Sierra LD and HD AT4X AEV Editions delivered what customers were looking for in the off-roading space and now we’re applying that same formula to the next-generation Canyon.”
Welcome the 2024 Canyon AT4X AEV edition.

AEV was first introduced in the 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 and now today GMC has completed covering the full GMC truck lineup with the AEV Edition brought to the Canyon, delivering premium, advanced and authentically capable trucks in North America.
Building off the strong AT4X foundation, AEV Edition takes capability even further with additional 1.5-inch lift, 35-inch tires and upgraded hardware Enhanced off-road capability matched with signature GMC premium appointments 2024 Canyon also includes upgraded technology features across the lineup
So what does GMC mean by taking the Canyon to the next level you ask, simple as GMC has pursued the goal of offering the most capable premium off-road focused mid-size truck in the segment. The Canyon AT4X AEV offers an assertive stance, enhanced hardware and further upgrades to the vehicle chassis that include the following:
35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires with an additional AEV in-bed vertical spare tire mount Updated front fascia and larger fender flares to enable larger, wider tracks and ultra-high, best in class 12.2-inch ground clearance1 4.5-inch (114mm) factory-installed lift — 1.5-inch (38mm) more than the Canyon AT4X Heavy-duty, AEV stamped-steel front and rear bumpers with heavy duty recovery points and winch capable front bumper Five ultra-high strength, hot-stamped boron steel skid plates (positioned along the radiator, steering gear, transmission and transfer case, fuel tank and rear differential) for optimized underbody protection The addition of three standard auxiliary control switches which enable the integration of off-road and overlanding accessories. Exclusive AEV beadlock-capable Salta wheels AEV branding across the vehicle, including on bumpers, embroidered head restraints and all-weather floor liners The 2024 Canyon AT4X AEV edition now has a 38.2 degree front approach angle.

A 26.9 degree breakover angle and a 26 degree departure angle.

Bumpers front and rear have been designed for the serious off-road enthusiast featuring heavy-duty cast recovery points and front winch capability as a dealer or 3rd party option.

To quote the GMC press release in regards to advanced technology, "Canyon’s Baja drive mode — available exclusively on the Canyon AT4X and AT4X AEV Edition — has been enhanced to include a new launch control feature, which allows drivers to press the brake and accelerator pedals at the same time, and then release the brake pedal, resulting in improved acceleration on- and off-road. This smart launch control feature learns the driving surface and can adjust engine speed and torque accordingly to improve subsequent performance on future launches."

All 2024 Canyons are built on GM's Ultifi platform allowing new features and software updates over time with OTA service.
The Canyon 2024 is produced at GM's Wentzville Assembly in Wentzville Missouri. The Canyon AT4X AEV Edition is expected to be available for customer orders later this year.

  • Less than a Year after the Next-Generation Canyon was released, and we now have the ultimate premium off-road mid-size truck!!!

G. David Felt

Features Customers Will Buy, Fords New Approach to Sensors

Doug Field was a Leader at Tesla before being hired by Apple to lead their EV program. In 2021 Ford hired Mr. Field as their new CTO to lead Ford into a new future of "Subscription Services".

At the latest investor event Doug Field pointed to a pile of individual computer driven sensors and talked about how a central processor running software written by Ford will change fundamentally how people use their autos. 
In this interview with the Associated Press, Ford's CTO talked about the coming transformation to electric vehicles and the change that is happening not only to EVs but to ICE autos.
As of today in 2023, the Ford F-150 Lightning EV and all internal combustion F-series pickups now use a central computer and have software defined sensors.
Here is some of the Q&A:
Q: How far along is Ford on moving to this central computing system?
A: The transition has happened where we designed the hardware and the software for the immediate user interface, the center screen. That’s gone into both the F-150 Lightning EV as well as the internal combustion F-Series. The next step is with our next generation of electric vehicles (coming in 2025). We’re expanding to control the overall vehicle and control over the autonomy system. There will be software in parts that comes from suppliers that is appropriate. The reason for that is to make it as fast as possible. A great example is firing the air bag. We don’t want that coming back through the central passage. Q: As a driver, why should I care about this?
A: The car’s a robot, which means the interaction with the software includes pieces of hardware. So something like an Amazon interface where you know a delivery is coming. A one-time code opens the trunk. Doesn’t open the rest of the car. They get to drop it off. That requires an interaction between centralized software and what today is a locking-unlocking module. There also are sensors that we don’t have access to the information. An easy example is an autonomy system that’s supposed to keep you in the lane. There’s a camera. We can’t say to the customer that we’re going to give you a dash cam for free or for a subscription where it’s always running. And if we detect any kind of a bump or anything like that, you’ve got a 30-second recording. We will be able to do that. We talked a little bit about our ability to predict if the car is heading toward a failure or a wear-out situation. I want to count wiper strokes combined with how much water is coming down and where it’s being driven and how dirty it is. Maybe develop an algorithm that knows exactly when your wiper blades are wearing out.
Q: How do you come up with something that’s compelling enough to get me to part with my hard-earned money and subscribe?
A: The model is already transitioning from ‘you check a box when you buy the car’ to ‘you can get a free trial.’ You only part with your hard-earned money after you are on the road trying it and say, ‘this is pretty great.’ A big part of how I try to guide the engineers is you must earn the right to collect money. You’re going to come up with things, you’re going to try them.
Q: You’ve shown the bear cam, where a Bronco parked at a campsite recognizes a bear nearby and may honk the horn to scare it away. How important is security?
A: We are going to build a whole set of services around this. The car is the most sophisticated sensor that you have in your life, and the number of accelerometers and microphones and cameras and things on it will allow it to be not only something that protects you when you’re in the car, but it’ll actually be useful when you’re not there. Even acting as a remote sentry if there’s stuff going on outside the house.
Q: Does having a centralized computer open you more to the possibility of hacking?
A: Anything where you are allowing the car to be software-updated opens you to that possibility. You need to have an architecture where that has been really carefully thought through. And the more you go toward things like firing the airbags or controlling the steering, the more that becomes a pretty involved process to actually update your access.
Q: How long will Ford still be selling internal combustion vehicles?
A: There are a number of applications where it is going to be near impossible for an EV to perform the same mission. There will be many, many places where EVs are a slam dunk. There will be ones where it’s going to take a lot of work to get battery technologies to the point where it could serve that mission. There are ones we see now that the ICE engine needs to be a part of it. Maybe we partially electrify it, but they’ll be out there. The incremental value to the world of getting those last ice engines out versus the value that they provide to an ambulance in Alaska. That will take a very, very long time.
Q: Affordability has become a big issue. Ford has gotten out of cheaper cars in the U.S. Is there a $20,000 EV coming?
A: I don’t want to talk a lot about what we’re doing here. It is possible, with the advent of EVs, to make step changes in the way vehicles are built and sourced. Yes, I believe very low cost EVs are possible. I also believe the way the business model is changing is going to require it. If you are in the software business, what you want is installed base. How many people can I sell software to? To do that, you need affordability.
GM moved to a central processing system a while back and have had their ICE and EVs running this way. It would seem that Ford is now making this move and as such, the change in how autos are built and programmed is on the move to make things simpler for the builders.
Simplification on top of Service Subscriptions is where the Auto Companies are hoping to increase their profitability while offering auto owners new features that they believe they will want based on a trial period. 
This will simplify the building process of autos and increase based on what a person is willing to pay for on the features they get.
The question to ask is how much is too much subscription service versus check the box of what you want in your auto, pay for it and have it with your car payment versus car payment plus subscription service monthly fee.
How do you the individual retail customer think about this subscription service approach to features enabled, disabled on your auto?

  • Doug Field, CTO of Ford says a central processing system will allow Ford to offer Auto Features Customers will be happy to pay a subscription for.

G. David Felt

Electrify America Adding NACS Connectors

Today June 29th, 2023 the North America largest independent charging station company, Electrify America (EA) has announced their commitment to a broad charging solution for Electric Vehicles today by adding NACS connectors to their stations.
EA will continue to provide CCS-1 connectors throughout their network of charging stations and will add the Tesla NACS connector option to all existing and future charging stations by 2025.
Robert Barrosa, president and CEO of Electrify America stated the following:
“Since our founding, we have focused on building an inclusive and open hyper-fast charging network to facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles. We look forward to continuing to support industry-wide standards that increase vehicle interoperability and streamline public charging.”

EA has also joined the newly created (ChargeX) National Charging Experience Consortium where they will focus on strengthening the national charging infrastructure and improving EV ownership experience.
EA has stated that as e-mobility accelerates, EA will continue to deliver what the customer needs. The addition of the NACS connector continues this commitment. EA network has 850 charging stations and growing across North America. The 4,000 individual charges as of today in the U.S. and Canada are either 150 kW or 350 kW and will continue to be improved.
EA has committed to spending $2 billion dollars in upgrades and new charging stations in 2023.
Part of this expansion is the partnership with TravelCenters of America.

EA is just the latest in the growing group of auto and charging companies to support the Tesla NACS connector.
You can find more information on the other companies here:
NACS the North American New Charging Standard? - Automotive Industry - Cheers & Gears (cheersandgears.com)

  • EA or Electrify America has announced they will add NACS connectors to their North America Charging stations.

G. David Felt

GM Simplifies Energy Management for Ultium Home Customers

GM Energy has announced today the product details and specifications of their initial suite or Ultium Home offerings.

To quote Wade Sheffer, VP of GM Energy:
“As GM Energy’s ecosystem of connected products and services continues to expand, we’re excited to provide customers with options for greater energy management beyond the vehicle, our initial Ultium Home offerings represent an opportunity for customers to take greater control over their personal energy independence and resiliency.”
Ultium Home Products will be offered through unique bundle options, providing customers with the ability to select a solution that aligns with their energy needs and budget.
GM has announced the following three bundles:
Ultium Home V2H Bundle
This bundle is designed for customers seeking to leverage their compatible GM EVs for V2H functionality.
This bundle includes the following products:
GM’s PowerShift Charger Enables V2H bidirectional charging with a compatible GM EV, when paired with Ultium Home V2H Enablement Kit Up to 19.2 kW AC charge speed Ultium Home V2H Enablement Kit Includes an inverter, home hub and dark start battery 9.6 kW of discharge power Safely disconnects the home from the grid
Ultium Home Energy System
This bundle is designed for customers seeking to leverage their compatible GM EV for V2H functionality and stationary storage.
This bundle includes the following products:
GM’s PowerShift Charger Ultium Home V2H Enablement Kit GM’s PowerBank Ultium Home’s PowerBank stationary storage unit can connect to the Ultium Home V2H Enablement Kit to extend backup capability and store solar or grid energy Available in 5 kW/10.6 kWh and 7 kW/17.7 kWh variants
Ultium Home Energy Storage Bundle
This bundle is designed for customers seeking to integrate stationary storage into their home, without the need for an EV.
This bundle includes the following products:
GM’s PowerBank Inverter and home hub
In addition to the suite of Ultium Home products, GM is also offering Solar integration for those customers seeking to integrate solar energy into their Ultium home. SunPower is GM Energy's exclusive solar provider and preferred EV charger installer.
Each Ultium Home product is connected to the GM Energy Cloud, a software platform which enables customers to seamlessly manage the transfer of energy between applicable and connected GM energy assets.
GM Energy has stated that the MSRP and timeline for delivery of each Ultium Home bundle will vary. Customers interested in getting further information about GM Energy ecosystem and services that cover Ultium Home, Ultium Commercial and Ultium Charge 360 should visit GM Energy: An Electric Ecosystem, Reimagined

  • The Ultium Home product offerings will be the first solutions to be made available to residential customers through GM Energy, and are designed to provide greater energy independence, resiliency and value, enabling the use of backup power for essential home needs during times when energy is unavailable from the grid.

G. David Felt

Rivian Latest to Join the NACS Camp

12,000 Tesla Supercharger stations and growing in North America, the Supercharger stations by Tesla are the largest EV charging stations around North America as well as the world when looking at Europe and Asian.

Rivian emailed out today that all Rivian owners will gain access to the Tesla Supercharger station network. Starting in Spring 2024, Rivian will offer an NACS to CCS adapter for purchase for existing R1t and R1S customers who want to take advantage of the Tesla Supercharger network.
In 2025, Rivian will incorporate NACS charge ports as standard on R1T and R1S EVs along with the adapter for allowing use to older CCS chargers.
No matter where you are, Rivian says that this will grow the access to over 25,000 DC fast chargers across North America enlarging the Rivian Adventure Network.
Rivian upon release of the NACS to CCS adapter in Spring 2024 will then also via OTA update the Rivian Infotainment system to add the available NACS sites and update the phone app to include the Tesla Network.
Rivian has stated that this collaboration does not affect their plans to expand the Rivian Adventure network to over 3,500 fast chargers at more than 600 sites including trail heads for off-roading.

  • Rivian will switch to the Tesla plug and join the Tesla SuperCharger network

G. David Felt

August 9th 2023, The Standard of the World Reveal, Escalade IQ

Cadillac's first-ever all-electric full-size SUV, Escalade IQ, Cadillac's most iconic nameplate will reveal the reinvention of the full-size Luxury SUV on August 9th, 2023. This continues Cadillac goal to become an all-electric vehicle brand by 2030.
The Escalade IQ will be produced at Factory ZERO Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center, which was renovated and retooled with a $2.2 billion investment to serve as the launchpad for GM's EV strategy.
 

  • The Escalade IQ is coming, are you ready?

G. David Felt

AEHRA, Italy's Newest Electrical Vehicle Company

AEHRA is an Italian EV startup that believes they can deliver a vision with a mission to the world. This company was assembled with an introduction of their leadership team in June 2022.
AEHRA Vision
Synthesize the elegance of Italian design global engineering, and American customer service with the future of EV monobodied manufacturing. AEHRA is intensely-focused on creating a driving experience that is always extraordinary. For business or pleasure, AEHRA is a valued necessity to everyday life that is as beautiful as it is functional.
AEHRA Mission
The mission of AEHRA is to provide customers with an unparalleled driving experience that is beautiful, environmentally respectful, and functional.

AEHRA is led by a team of industry experts who has deep auto credentials including the fact that they brought in former Lamborghini design boss Filippo Perini who is the Chief Design officer that is overseeing both their SUV and Sedan.
While the SUV was revealed in November 2022, the sedan was revealed at the 2023 Milan Motor Show this past Friday, June 16th 2023 to what one would call an Auto Fashion Show.
What is AEHRA? 
The company in their press release has stated that they will be a new global ultra-premium electric automotive brand. AEHRA EVs will have an exceptional three-meter (108 inch) wheelbase, providing class-leading occupant space, setting new standards for comfort, technology, materials and usability.
AEHRA believes that their bold strategy unlocks the full potential that only an EV focused platform affords. The AEHRA platform offers an avantgarde exterior design, while delivering a revolutionary interior concept. The AEHRA EVs exceptionally short overhangs, long wheelbase and completely flat floor have enabled their designers to create unique solutions that transforms the interior environment for drivers and passengers.
While AEHRA has not shown an actual interior for the autos, they did release the following interior design drawing.

AEHRA dashboard is what they call the HMI or Human Machine Interface. To quote them:
"The screen sits in a lower position, to display all the information the driver requires, such as speed, range, heating and ventilation settings and navigational instructions. The two outer areas of the screen serve as virtual exterior mirrors, relaying high-definition images from two front exterior side cameras. When the vehicle is parked, occupants can choose to extend the screen upwards, instantly transforming the AEHRA into a home theater or an office environment. 
This is a direct result of the game-changing approach taken by AEHRA to the exterior shape of its EVs. In traditional vehicle layouts the interior dimensions do not allow the front row passengers to operate such a flexible and expansive HMI screen because it would sit too close to their eyes. AEHRA has filed a patent for this solution, and it believes it will set new standards in terms of productivity and entertainment inside a vehicle."

To quote AEHRA Chief Design Officer Fillippo Perini:
“With the screen fully extended, the occupants can relax and enjoy a movie, perhaps when the car is charging or when a parent is waiting to pick up a child from school or a party. And for those who have work to do, the screen and the spacious interior afford the perfect solution for video conference calls. Instead of staring at your smartphone or laptop, you can sit back and not only see all the participants on the call-in perfect high-definition clarity, but also listen to them with crystal-clear, pitch-perfect audio quality.” 
As one can see in the pictures above, there is a secondary smaller touchscreen, this enables both front-seat occupants to control many of the vehicle's functions such as navigation, heating, ventilation as well as entertainment.

The aeronautic industry has been drawn on for inspiration in strength from lite weight design. As such, the seats have been created for low-weight, high-strength construction and optimum comfort levels. The seats will be constructed from Aluminum, recyclable carbon fiber composite and leather as one would find in first-class aircraft accommodations. Rear seats will have reclining levels greater than the front seats and on par with business class airline accommodations.
Where you have the SUV above, the Sedan also has the same inspired aeronautical seats but with a slight door difference.

AEHRA has stated that production will start in 2026 for both the SUV and the Sedan. The only other specification given at this time is that the driving range will be 800km or 497 miles of range for the sedan, a little less for the SUV. 
The rest of the specification will be released when reservations are opened to the public.
AEHRA-SEDAN-finale-lq-transcode.mp4  
AEHRA-Video-SUV-lq-transcode.mp4  AEHRA Electric Sedan and SUV - Cheers & Gears (cheersandgears.com)

  • AEHRA is the latest EV startup from Italy, welcome to the Milan fashion version of EV.

G. David Felt

ProLogium Reveals Lithium Ceramic Battery Large-Footprint @ ees Electrical Energy Storage

January 26th, 2022 Mercedes-Benz signed a partnership with ProLogium in developing next-generation batteries for electric vehicles. Mercedes has committed to a complete all electric auto portfolio starting in 2030. As such, having easily accessible supplies of battery packs would be needed on top of planning for next generation battery cells known at solid-state.

Mercedes with a heavy financial commitment to R&D under ProLogium and a seat on ProLogium's board is looking for ways to increase energy density and reduce costs as they change into EVs globally with a 2030 commitment to no longer producing ICE auto's.
Through the 2022 calendar year, ProLogium took a solid-state concept for next generation battery cells and took it into a physical form and tested to validate that said design.
While current Lithium-ion battery cells such as the famous 2170 or newer 4680 design are very safe, there have been the occasional time where a battery pack has caught fire and burnt down. Still safer than gasoline auto's, the understanding is for mass adoption of EVs globally, that battery cells will need to move to Solid-State design removing all chance for fires while increasing energy density.

June 14th to 16th in Munich Germany at the ees or electrical energy storage tradeshow, ProLogium revealed their break-through innovation in a next-generation solid-state battery cell design called Large-Footprint Lithium Ceramic Battery or LLCB. 

ProLogium has committed to having evaluation units into European auto companies by the end of 2023 as they have started to build their first mass-production LLCB plant in Dunkirk, France. This $5.2 Billion Euro investment for a planned battery capacity of 48 GWh with room to expand will serve as a manufacturing base to supply the European EV market. This will allow ProLogium to localize R&D and supply chain ahead of competitors for the european market.

ProLogium has pointed out that to reduce the number of cells in a battery pack is an effective way to optimize the battery pack while reducing the cost of the pack. This is why the industry is moving away from 21x70mm cells (2170) to 46x80mm cells (4680). 
This same concept can be applied to the solid-state cells. Taking advantage of the solid-state unique structure and manufacturing process, ProLogium has surpassed the liquid type limits of the 2170 or 4680 cells and has developed a large-footprint, high-capacity battery pack cell. 
LLCB flat shape have superior thermal conductivity allowing for less complex cooling system, optimizing space utilization. The design of the LLCB flat pack allows for simplified pack structure giving ease of maintenance and reduction of ownership costs.
ProLogium see's greater design flexibility for EV's. As Simon Wu, Assistant VP of ProLogium stated:
“For the same space as the mainstream 2170 EV battery pack, the LLCB pack’s volumetric energy density can be nearly doubled, and for the same total energy, the LLCB pack’s weight can be cut by up to 115 kg. More importantly, the LLCB production processes will produce less waste in terms of substrate materials, and the reduced number of cells will require less raw materials, which means increased sustainability and affordability.”
What this means is that as an example, the EQE 350+ that has a 90 kWh battery pack could go with a lighter battery pack and a weight savings of around 254lbs. Or Mercedes could stay with the over all current size of the battery pack and double the power to 180 kWh, increasing the driving range by 79% in the EQE 350+.
Polun Cheng, Global Project Management AVP of ProLogium Technology stated the following:
“ProLogium is currently cooperating with FEV, a globally leading engineering provider in the automotive industry and internationally recognized leader of innovation across different sectors and industries, to carry out verification tests of the LLCB and design applicable solutions. Samples are targeted to be delivered to European car OEMs for testing as early as the end of 2023.”
Third party validation in testing the LLCB across a wide range of different sectors and industries will confirm and validate the benefits of LLCB cells.

  • ProLogium claims it's LLCB doubles energy density and releases to European Auto companies testing samples.

G. David Felt

Japan to Fund Toyota Solid-State Battery Development with $853 Million Subsidy

According to the news story from NIKKEI Asia The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has designated battery cells as a crucial part of Japan's economic security and has secured $330 Billion Yen in supplementary fiscal budget to support the Japanese sector.
Beneficiary of this is that $120 Billion Yen or $853 million dollars will go to Toyota Motor Corporation to support their R&D in developing the 900-mile solid-state battery that Toyota talked about in their revolutionization of the auto.
Toyota New Technology to Revolutionize the Future of Autos - Toyota - Cheers & Gears (cheersandgears.com)
This financial aid comes as China, Korea, Europe and the U.S. governments have decided to invest in R&D to support home grown battery production. Japan currently holds less than 10% of the automotive battery industry with the bulk of this being Tesla supplier Panasonic, while Chinese suppliers' control over 50% and the remaining 30ish percent is from Korea, Europe and the U.S.
Toyota has had to commit yen to yen to qualify for this state aid. Toyota has stated that this subsidy will go into expanding the Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, a joint battery venture with Panasonic, Japan's leading EV battery manufacturer.
Toyota says that the battery R&D will allow them to increase their range on all Hybrids almost immediately as well as develop class leadership in EV battery packs for EV production in 2026 or 2027.
The Ministry also stated that $160 billion yen will go to Honda Motor and GY Yuasa for their battery investment plans. 
These investments will cover about 1/3rd of the capital investments for building the new assembly lines and about half of the R&D costs.
Japan once led the automotive battery industry with over 50% market share at the end of 2015 but have now been replaced by Chinese and Korean companies that have greater production and supply for the EV segment. Japan currently relies on raw materials from China and finished cells from Korea to build their battery cells for use in EVs.
China leads the world in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. Toyota is working on Bipolar LFP technology, which is seen as a alternative to the Chinese cells.
The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act signed into law last year includes incentives aimed at bolstering the EV supply chain in the U.S. which is seeing massive investment from South Korea with global Automakers as they ramp up to take advantage of the IRA benefits.
This has Japan trailing Korean, European and U.S. auto companies that have or are currently moving EV production to the U.S. to take advantage of these financial benefits.

  • The Japanese government recognizing that Japan has less than 10% of the global battery cell market, will fund Toyota R&D to help capture market share.

G. David Felt

Mercedes-Benz Offers In-car Voice Control via chatGPT A.I.

Mercedes-Benz has chosen to expand control over one's vehicle via chatGPT that was enabled in 900,000 U.S. autos that have the MBUX infotainment system. All vehicles with MBUX of model series A 238, C 118, C 167, C 238, C 253, C 254, C 257, H 247, N 293, R 232, S 213, V 167, V 177, V 295, V 297, W 206, W 213, WV 223, X 167, X 243, X 247, X 253, X 254, X 294, X 296, Z 223 and Z 296 had the A.I. software update pushed out to their auto over the air.
Customers that wish to participate can do it via the Mercedes app or directly from their auto by using the voice command "Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program".

Mercedes has stated that the MBUX Voice Assistant has already set the industry standard for the most intuitive operation of a auto's infotainment system and via the app can also allow you to control your smart homes.
Mercedes has stated that the chatGPT complements the existing intuitive voice control infotainment system by using the Hey Mercedes command. Auto voice systems are limited in current implementation to predefined tasks and responses that Mercedes feels is limiting and frustrating for users of their product line. ChatGPT leverages a large language module of self-learning natural language understanding allowing it to expand the topics and ability to respond to user's needs.
Mercedes A.I. enabled MBUX system will allow drivers to keep their hands and eyes on the road while having a conversation with the Voice Assistant covering everything from their destination to dinner recipe suggestions to weather, news and even complex questions / discussions.

Mercedes has chosen to go with Microsoft's Azure OpenAI Service that incorporates enterprise-grade security, privacy and reliability. The voice command data is stored in Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, where it is anonymized and analyzed allowing it to grow in responding to the driver or any passengers in the auto.
Mercedes had the following statement:
“The integration of ChatGPT with Microsoft in our controlled cloud environment is a milestone on our way to making our cars the centre of our customers’ digital lives. Our beta programme boosts the existing Hey Mercedes functions such as navigation queries, weather requests and others with the capabilities of ChatGPT. This way, we aim to support conversations with natural dialogues and follow-up questions. Our customers can always rely on us to ensure the best possible protection of their data privacy. Everything is under one big goal: Redefining the relationship with your Mercedes.”
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement
chatGPT stands for " Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer", an intelligent chatbot that learns as it communicates with end users helping to automate tasks. A family of lare language models have been trained to create or summarize texts, answer questions, translate languages and self-generate programming code to improve itself. Mercedes chatGPT is built on a sophisticated neural network developed by the Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service.
Mercedes had this statement for the end of their press release:
"Mercedes-Benz is taking an approach to the integration of ChatGPT that aligns with the company's AI principles to make the benefits of innovative AI solutions accessible to customers. Mercedes-Benz keeps a close eye on potential risks and the system will be continuously improved for the benefit of all customers. A responsible approach to generative AI solutions is top priority at Mercedes-Benz."
This brings up the question of;
Does A.I. belong in an Auto and if your auto has it, will you use it?

  • Mercedes enabled 900,000 MBUX infotainment equipped autos in the U.S. on June 16th 2023 with chatGPT. Is AI the right thing to do to autos?

G. David Felt

Toyota New Technology to Revolutionize the Future of Autos

Toyota, June 13th 2023 held a technical briefing session that is supposed to support Toyota Motor Company transforming into a mobility company. 
CTO Hikoki Nakajima was the first to present to the industry and news about how Toyota will be changing to a mobility company through embracing a wide range of technology.
The following is what will make Toyota Motor Company, become Toyota Mobility Company.
All Solid-State batteries for all EV products coming between 2026 and 2030 Aerodynamic technology based on rocket hypersonic technology. Use of Giga-casting in all Toyota products Use of Small eAxle motors True EV platform that supports multi-pathways for various global market needs from subcompact cars to full size trucks and SUVs. Water electrolyzer systems Next generation voice recognition Manual BEVs On-demand self-modified autos for various driving tastes Standard steer-by-wire Highly Efficient Transportation Operation Support System for fleets e-Palette, self-driving autonomous systems for mass transit e-Palette, freight movement system One-touch wheelchair fixation devices for auto driving JUU (Electronic Wheelchairs Toyota is a multi-faceted company that has always built more than just auto's and with this presentation they have re-enforced that they will continue to be focused on everyone from those in wheelchairs to the most able-bodied human.

Toyota seems to have looked at the GM portfolio in that their e-Palette mass transit system resembles the GM Cruise self driving system, but currently the Toyota e-Palette requires a human driver.
Cruise

e-Palette

Toyota was more than happy to show off their e-Axel motors next to current generation electric motors.

This was followed by their Giga-casting examples of how things will get simplified and better quality in building autos.

Here Toyota also took time to introduce others that have critical roles in the future of Toyota Mobility such as Takero Kato, newly appointed president of the BEV factory. Toyota released a whole slew of videos from various leaders talking about the wide range of areas in the company and the future.
 
 
 
Toyota reinforced the Toyota mobility concept three approaches that were presented in April 2023 at an executive and investor briefing. Toyota Mobility believes that the key to the future is electrification, intelligence and diversification.
Toyota believes that their Solid-State batteries will allow them to have some EVs that can travel 900 miles on a single charge with this tech going into select EVs by 2027 or 2028. They also reinforced that a full EV lineup will be launched in 2026 with BEV production from the BEV factory in Japan to produce 1.7 million EVs a year out of a global production of 3.5 million EVs they expect to produce and sell in 2030.
Toyota also stated that energy-dense batteries will go into EVs in 2026 that will have a 1,000km on a single charge, fully charge in 20 minutes or less and cost 20% less than todays batteries found in the bZ4X.
Toyota also stated that they would offer LFP or low-cost lithium-ion phosphate batteries in EVs starting around 2026 or 2027 that would have a 20% increase in range over current bZ4X battery packs and be 40% less expensive.
Toyota released the following briefs:
Electrified Technologies - Batteries, Fundamental technologies to improve BEV product appeal (global.toyota) Electrified Technologies - Hydrogen, Carbon neutral (CN) fuel (global.toyota) Intelligence Technology (global.toyota) Diversification Technology (global.toyota) This brings up the question that many will ask, is Toyota playing catch up to VW, Audi, Porsche, Ford and GM?
Toyota does have a deep bank account to handle dwindling sales as consumers move over to EVs as Toyota now sees what they thought was the future of consumer autos in Hydrogen now go to Commercial use and the future of consumer autos is EVs.
What do you think about Toyota Mobility?
Toyota Unveils New Technology That Will Change the Future of Cars | Corporate | Global Newsroom | Toyota Motor Corporation Official Global Website
Clearly Toyota is playing catch up to everyone else, but can they truly make a difference and catch up to where Tesla, GM and Ford are in regard to battery production, EV productions in the U.S. if they want to capture IRA incentives?
The new much younger CEO is making the changes that should see Toyota survive, but at what size and what cost? The boomer leadership of Toyota motor corp clearly missed out on this global change.
Sound off on your thoughts about Toyota's plan.

  • Toyota held a technical briefing session under the theme of "Let's Change the Future of Cars", is it too little too late for Toyota coming to the EV party?

G. David Felt

NACS the North American New Charging Standard?

The last couple of weeks has seen a flurry of announcements in signing on with Tesla corporation around their charging stations and their NACS charging standard.
First, let understand that the Tesla NACS was offered to the auto industry that snubbed it and went to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) who developed the CCS1 connector that combined the standard J1772 connector with two high-speed charging pins. Currently the existing EVs other than Tesla and plugin Hybrids use this connector for Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 (DC fast charging).
For those wanting to learn more about this you can read on it here: Combined Charging System - Wikipedia
It looks like this:

This same SAE governing body has come up with CCS2 for higher speed charging which is still a rather big bulky connection used in Europe. You can read about this at the above link also.

With this charging interface of CCS1 in North America, CCS2 in Europe and China having their own proprietary interface you have the following for the existing 3 types that cover 80% of all EVs/Hybrids Globally.

While Europe and China have rapidly built out their own charging stations and the only other option has been Tesla where Tesla Ships their EVs with CCS2 in Europe and their proprietary NACS in China along with an adapter for GB/T, North America has been left to the CCS1 standard that has been viewed as Bulky, and has had positive and negative views across Canada and the U.S. as depending on what region one is in, you can either have a good experience or a bad one, especially if the chargers are blocked by petro powered autos known as Icing or they have been damaged and not fixed leaving Tesla to be the only 12,000 strong charging stations across North America.

Ford announced on May 25th 2023 that starting with the 2025 model year, all electric vehicles built for the North American market would change to the NACS charging interface. This is a Tesla standard that would allow all Ford Customers instant access to the 12,000 Tesla Charging stations and growing across North America in addition to the 10,000 plus BlueOval Charge Network.
Musk has stated that all companies that sign on to support the NACS standard would have the same access and charge rate that Tesla customers have at their stations. Currently according to Tesla, charging stations contributed $9.96 Billion in revenue in 2022 and is expected to generate by 2025 over $25 billion a year annually.
Back before SAE ever got involved, Tesla built their own charging stations with their own interface focusing on ease of use and comfort by the user. This NACS allows fast charging while making it easy to use. Tesla has been upgrading their charging stations from version 1 to the current highspeed version 4 using this NACS connector.

So how does this connector compare to the CCS specification you might ask? Easy, the black image (NACS) shown below over the grey (CCS) image is the difference in size.

For those in Europe that have an Older Tesla where they have the NACS port, they have to use an adapter to connect to the CCS2 plugs across Europe to charge. This puts considerable stress on the small NACS port from Tesla but looks like this.

This gives an even better comparison to the electrical charging port standard differences.
This understanding of the port differences brings us squarely to the question of this writeup, is the NACS plug the new North American Standard?
One might just gather that it is when you have the following announcements to consider about supporting and changing over to the NACS standard. 
GM with their 2025 Model year EVs will move to the NACS port replacing the CCS1 port. Adapters will be needed for current EVs that have the CCS1 port to allow them to use Tesla stations. Thus giving us EVs for Everyone with NACS ports.

Date June 8th 2023 - General Motors Doubles Down on Commitment to a Unified Charging Standard and Expands Charging Access to Tesla Supercharger Network (gm.com)
GM's announcement has since been followed over the last four days by the following charging equipment companies that are moving forward with supporting the charging equipment with NACS charging cords replacing CCS1.
EVgo Further Extends Fast Charging Network to Tesla Drivers

Tritium Announces Support for NACS Connector | Tritium DCFC Limited (tritiumcharging.com)
ChargePoint Will Soon Offer NACS Connector Options for Its Charging Solutions | ChargePoint
Blink Charging Announces Final Design and Development of New EV DC Fast Charger with Dual-Port CCS and NACS Connectors at EVS36 : Blink Charging
FLO Stations to Offer North American Charging Standard (NACS); Supports Broader Use

The question to ask is who in the Legacy Auto industry will be next to change over?
Hyundai / Kia / Genesis of Korea?
VW/Audi/Porsche/BMW/Mercedes of Germany?
What about the Japanese who are not only late to the EV market but have yet to launch anything in North America?
Is the NACS plug the new standard moving forward ignoring the work done by the SAE group?
Sound off on your thoughts on the EV charging standard.

  • What is NACS and is it the new Standard that everyone is moving too?

G. David Felt

Ultium Chevrolet Bolt, Replacement for the BOLT/BOLT EUV?

Mary Barra has sat down with Marketplace multiple times already during the Month of June 2023 and to clarify, she has stated to get humanity to all electric all the time is to skip Hybrids. Better for the planet, better for the consumers.
GM CEO on reaching EV goal and charging stations - Marketplace
The goal here is to be gasoline and diesel free by 2035 with the current plan to be producing 1 million EVs by 2025.

This brings us to the whole point of this story on an Ultium BOLT and how Mary Barra is currently driving a BOLT. 
Here she has stated that she just took delivery of a LYRIQ and how GM is working fast to ramp up battery production and Ultium component production. At 9:40 minutes into the podcast here: GM All Electric, All the Time Podcast Mary states clearly that the current Chevrolet Bolt/Bolt EUV is generation 2 of their electric vehicles and that Ultium is the future with a 40% reduction in the cost of the battery packs alone as to why they will stop building it at the end of the 2023 calendar year. 
GM CEO goes on to state that people relate and understand what an auto is by the name of the auto and as such, the public will identify with a Chevrolet Equinox EV, BOLT EV and the BOLT EUV.

The podcast interviewer for Marketplace asks Mary Barra on this and she answered as follows: 
Ryssdal: So why are you stopping making it?
Barra: Because it’s our second-generation technology. The difference between our second generation and third generation, which is Ultium, is a 40% reduction in battery costs. And we’re leveraging the names of our vehicles that are well understood and known in industry. People, you know, who drive an Equinox today will understand what an Equinox EV, what that delivers to them. But, you know, Bolt is something that has built up a lot of loyalty and equity. So I can’t say more because I don’t discuss future product programs. But, you know, it was primarily a move from second generation to third generation. But that’s [an] important vehicle in our portfolio.
Ryssdal: Nudge nudge, wink wink, I guess.
So this brings up the case that the brand equity of the Bolt is worth having a generation 3 of the Bolt/Bolt EUV built. If we go with this thinking, then we move to where the Bolt slots in below the Equinox and we gain a ton of options.

Electrek did a piece on what they believe a Ultium Bolt would look like and here is there take on that:
Ultium will afford the Bolt to have decent charging speeds and other benefits as well. Let’s imagine what we’d get in a basic $25,000 Ultium Bolt:
51kWh battery – GM Ultium batteries tend to come in 50kWh increments Lyriq (102kWh, Hummer/Silverado 204kWh, etc). I imagine the base, $30K Equinox will have a ~51kWh battery and around 215 miles of range. With the Bolt’s smaller size, you might be able to get closer to 240 miles of range out of 51kWh. AWD option – GM showed us a small 30kW motor at the 2020 Battery Day that it said it could use to make any of its vehicles AWD. This wouldn’t necessarily be for performance so much as getting out of snow and mud and maybe adding some efficiency to offset the additional weight and electronics of the second motor. Of course GM could just add 2x150kW Bolt motors and get a 0-60 time in the low 3-second area and sell this for $50k and… just take my money. Charging speed will have to obviously be better than the current Bolt’s 54kW but with such a small battery, it will be hard to get it to 150kWh. Still, though if we’re talking about a $25K car, and I think anything over 100kW is acceptable. Efficiency – The Bolt is already one of the most efficient vehicles on the road but with an added Ultium heat pump, improved electronics, and motors, we could be looking at one of the most efficient EVs ever made. $25,000 without subsidizing? Interestingly, Barra in the interview said that the company could save 40% on the cost of batteries using Ultium vs the Bolts 2nd generation EV system. That means they could likely get to the Bolt’s current price point without having to subsidize anything. Of course Barra also said that GM wouldn’t be able to make a profit on sub $40,000 vehicles until 2030 so the ‘it is coming soon’ piece might be wishful thinking. Electrek’s Take
Rejoice, fellow Bolt EV owners! Our favorite car isn’t dead, just going on hiatus. 
This kind of hidden message would imply that GM is not done with the BOLT name yet for Chevrolet. This also goes hand in hand with the fact that back in December 2022 Mark Russ stated in an Interview with GMAuthority that GM was developing an EV Sedan for the Chinese market, but it could also easily be for any market place globally.
GM Working On Potential All-Electric Chevy Malibu Successor (gmauthority.com)
Chevrolet shares more details about the FNR-XE Concept - ArenaEV

End result is that we should not only see a third generation of the BOLT, but a Malibu replacement could very well happen in the next few years.
What are your thoughts on the future of the BOLT and a possible Malibu EV?

  • Did Marry Barra just tell us that we will have an Ultium Bolt in the near future?

G. David Felt

Is Hyundai starting the next Pony Car war?

Ju-yung Chung founding Chairman of Hyundai wanted to help rebuild Korea after the Korean War and improve the lives of the people. He introduced at the 1974 Turin Motor Show the Pony Coupe Concept.

To quote Hyundai: 
"The two-door sports car’s exterior featured a sleek roofline, pure surfaces, dynamic proportion profiles and a unique shape for the B pillar, which elevated its daring spirit. The interior showcased an iconic sensibility with the Giugiaro monocoque design and driver-centered floating architecture. 
With its unique aesthetic sensibility, the 1974 Pony Coupe Concept was a groundbreaking model in its time. Unfortunately, due to the adverse global economic conditions in the late 1970s, what could have been Hyundai’s first sensational sports car was unable to reach commercial production and was lost to history."

We all have seen how much Hyundai Motor Group has grown into the current global auto industry it is today.
We fast forward to the desire of Hyundai to bring a modern version of this Pony Car to concept form again when they introduced the N Vision 74 Concept Car.
Comparisons of the original to the current.

The N Vision 74 will now compete in the Concept Cars and Prototype category at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, one of the worlds largest and best know competitions from May 19th to May 21st.

We now have via a Korean News site:
 [Exclusive]"Pony Coupe will be mass-produced" Hyundai Motor Company to be announced later this month - Money Today (mt.co.kr)
That Hyundai is going to move forward with this EV. Inside sources have stated that on the 27th of June, Hyundai will hold a Pony Day at their Hyundai Motor Studio in Seoul to reveal the production model of the Pony Coupe

According to various sources, the Pony Coupe from 1974 was of great inspiration in the creation of the DeLorean DMC 12 which was as we all know later used for a time machine in the 1980's classic "Back to the Future"
Hyundai as a very profitable auto company has been returning to it's past legacy for inspiration especially in production of their IONIQ series of EVs. Auto enthusiasts have been very vocal about Hyundai producing the N Vision 74 car at a time that many auto companies are going truck/SUV only.
Hyundai has returned to bringing back the original Pony Car by working with the original designer Giorgetto Giugiaro and his son along with others in the Hyundai family to restore for public enjoyment the Pony Car.

The original specs for the Pony Car.

The N Vision 74 Concept specification also includes a Hydrogen generator for extended driving range.

Hyundai brought back the original team that created the Pony Car for the review of the restoration.

Hyundai has opened a Heritage Exhibition to high light the PONY and introduce RETRACE a book and magazine series celebrating the brands heritage. 
Hyundai Motor Opens Heritage Exhibition 'PONY, the timeless' and Introduces RETRACE, the Heritage Publication Series - Hyundai Newsroom
This brings us to what inspired this story to begin with, the news story that Hyundai will during the Month of June 2023 reveal a production EV version of the N Vision 74 Concept.
Hyundai already has the platform and 77.4kWh battery pack to support such a performance EV.

The question for you the reader:
Is this the start of a new Pony car war with American brands as Hyundai brings to market a 2 door coupe with 680 HP (500kW) and 664 lb-ft of torque (900Nm) with RWD torque vectoring EV?
Should Mustang, Camaro and Challengers be worried?
Will the Japanese and Chinese respond?

  • Does a 2 door, 680 HP (500kW) and 664 lb-ft of torque (900Nm) with RWD torque vectoring EV an opening salvo in the new Pony car war?

G. David Felt

Fisker Ocean Extreme Receives 360-mile EPA Range, Starts Deliveries This Month

Fisker has announced that the Ocean Extreme has achieved an EPA rating of 360 miles, longer range than any SUV under $200k currently sold.  The Extreme is the top range of the Ocean lineup, with Ultra and Sport offering 340 miles and 250 miles of range, respectively.  There is also the Fisker Ocean One, a special edition of the Extreme, but unless you already hold a reservation for one, you're not able to buy it.
The Ocean Extreme prices out at $68,999 base and features dual-motor AWD, boost mode, and a host of driving assist features. California Mode drops all windows aft of the windshield, including the tailgate and D-pillar windows, allowing for an open-air driving experience.
Ocean Ultra has a base price of $49,999, which slightly undercuts the Tesla Model Y LR while offering 10 extra miles of range. Ocean Sport undercuts the Tesla Model Y base by about $10,000 but has 29 fewer miles of range.
On a 350 kW DC-Fast Charger, the Fisker Ocean can gain 200 miles of range in just 30 minutes.
Now with EPA certification in hand, Fisker says that the first Ocean deliveries will start the week of June 19th, with production rapidly expanding after that.
Drew Dowdell

The Cadillac GT4 - A Cadillac Crossover you can't have.... for now

General Motors has recently been in the habit of releasing vehicles in China before bringing them to the U.S.  Buick released the Envista in China back in September of 2022 but waited until just a few weeks ago to announce the Envista for the U.S. Similar patterns have happened with the Cadillac XT4 and Buick Encore GX. We suspect the same thing is happening here with the Cadillac GT4 that debuted Monday in China.
What is it?
The Cadillac GT4 is essentially a slightly fastback version of the Cadillac XT4. While decidedly less "coupe" shaped than the Buick Envista, the GT4 stretches the vehicle's look and gives it a more low-slung side profile.
The interior of the GT4 is essentially a direct carryover from the XT4 with a large, curved 33-inch-diagonal infotainment and gauge screen that sweeps two-thirds of the way across the dash. Other available features include a 15-speaker AKG Audio system, HD streaming mirror, heads-up display, haptic seats, and iKey wireless entry.
For China, the GT4 is powered by either a 1.5-Liter turbo or a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder, both with a 48V mild hybrid system.  While power specs for the 1.5-liter are not discussed, the 2.0L is listed at 233 horsepower, roughly the same as the 235 horsepower in the U.S. version.  Buyers can select front or all-wheel drive.
What will we get?
While the overall vehicles that are sold in both the U.S. and China by GM are essentially similar, the details and features often change.
Don't expect the U.S. version of the GT4 to come with a mild-hybrid system, 1.5T, or iKey, but the AKG Audio system, HD Mirror, and heads-up display will probably make it over. A feature that the US may get that China does not is massaging seats.
Cadillac has choices on where to build the GT4. The XT4 hasn't been selling in large volumes and it shares its U.S. production line with the Chevy Malibu in Kansas City, so GM could decide to build it there. Or, with the possibility of the GT4 being a low-volume model, they could just as easily ship it over from China.
In China, and with the lower spec 1.5T, the GT4 will have a base price around the equivalent of $31,000, and we suspect that number will be higher in the U.S. as the 2024 XT4 has a base price of $39,090.
While Cadillac has no official word yet, we expect to hear something soon about the GT4 for the U.S. market.

  • Cadillac introduced a new Crossover in China, but still no word if it is coming here.

Drew Dowdell

Volkswagen ID.Buzz Coming to the U.S. in Long-Wheelbase Form

Volkswagen has been teasing us with the I.D. Buzz for 6-years when they made the announcement back in 2017 that they would bring the I.D. Buzz to market.

The standard wheelbase model has been on sale in Europe since May of last year, and today, Volkswagen is officially announcing the long-wheelbase version for sale in the U.S. starting next year. The ID.Buzz will not, as previously reported, be built at VW's Chatanooga plant alongside the ID.4, instead being built in VW's Hanover Germany plant.
Powering the LWB ID.Buzz is a new 210 kW (286 hp) electric drive motor and a newer, larger 85 kWh battery, an increase over the standard length model of 201 kW and 81 kWh, respectively.
Later, there will be an all-wheel drive model called the ID.Buzz GXT with 250 kW (339 hp) that can get to 60 in 6.4 seconds. Helping to keep the range up is a new heat pump HVAC system in all versions.
While the photos make it look small, at 195 inches long, it is two inches longer than a standard wheelbase Jeep Grand Cherokee and the same length as a VW Atlas Cross Sport.  But with no internal combustion equipment to take up space, the ID.Buzz offers seating for up to seven people and a cavernous interior. It is likely that the ID.Buzz will offer more room than even full-size mini-vans from Chrysler, Honda, and Toyota.
A panoramic smart-roof is offered that can adjust from transparent to opaque with the touch of a slider or a voice command. North American versions will also offer air-conditioned seats.
The official reveal with more details will come later today.

  • Has the flower bus returned?

Drew Dowdell

The New Chevrolet Colorado gets a New Bison ZR2

The performance off-road mid-size pickup truck war has turned into a hot war in 2023.  Ford has recently released their 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, and Toyota introduced an all-new 2024 Tacoma with an incredibly capable Tacoma TRD Off Road. Back in 2018, Chevrolet teamed up with American Expedition Vehicles to the 2019 Chevy Colorado Bison ZR2 to the Colorado lineup. 
About a year ago, the all-new 2023 Colorado was released, and while there was a ZR2, the Bison was not part of the announcement.  Today, Chevy remedied that by announcing a new Chevrolet Colorado Bison ZR2 for 2024. 
The Bison starts with the ZR2's longer wheelbase and high-output 2.7L turbo producing 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque and added new segment exclusive Multimatic front and rear jounce control dampers, 17-inch bead-lock capable wheels with 35-inch outer diameter mud/terrain tires, and boron steel skid plates. All of these add-ons combined with a best-in-class approach angle (38.2 deg.), departure angle (26 deg.), and breakover angle (26.9 deg.)  combine to make the Bison ZR2 a true off-road king of the class.
The 2024 Colorado ZR2 Bison joins the 2024 Silverado HD ZR2 Bison in dealerships later this year.
 
Drew Dowdell

Ford EVs Gain Access to Tesla SuperChargers, Ford to Adopt Tesla NACS Charge Port

Ford and Tesla jointly announced today that starting in the spring of 2024, Ford EV drivers will gain access to more than 12,000 Tesla Superchargers in North America.  This move will more than double the number of chargers available to Ford EV drivers who currently have access to 10,000  DC fast-chargers in the BlueOval EV network.  Additionally, Ford dealers are adding 1,800 public-facing fast chargers across the continent.
Existing EV models like the F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E, and E-Transit Vans will be able to use a Tesla developed adaptor to convert from the Tesla NACS Charger to the built-in CCS charge port, allowing access to Tesla V3 Superchargers.
Moving forward, Ford will change from the CCS standard to the Tesla NACS standard on all EV models starting in 2025.  The addition of Tesla SuperChargers to the BlueOval Charge Network creates the largest integrated network of fast-charger in North America.
Ford cites Tesla's charge network reliability and the smaller form factor of the NACS plug as reasons for the switch.

  • Starting Spring of 2024, Ford EV drivers will be able to access over 12,000 additional charging stations in the U.S.

Drew Dowdell