2025 Infiniti QX80 aims to bring the fight to flagship SUV rivals while also previewing Infiniti’s new design direction.
Automakers
Mercedes-Benz Expands Plug-in Hybrid Line-up with 2025 GLC 350e 4Matic
With millions of American motorists still skeptical about going all-electric, many industry planners are betting plug-in hybrids can serve as a “bridge” technology for those worried about range and a lack of a widespread public charging network. Mercedes-Benz is expanding its own line-up of PHEVs with the addition of the new GLC 350e 4Matic based on its compact crossover line.
Hyundai Debuting 2025 Tucson and Santa Cruz at NY Auto Show
Who says auto shows are dead? Not Hyundai. The Korean carmaker plans to make some big news at the New York International Auto Show next week, unveiling not just one new model but two: the 2025 versions of the compact Tucson SUV and compact car-cum-pickup, the Santa Cruz.
EPA Updates Emissions Rules, Delays EV Phase-In
Updated fuel economy rules from the Environmental Protection Agency delays phaseout of EV mileage rules that provide extra credits to automakers for EVs they sell as electric vehicle market faces cooling sales and demand.
Shell Shutting 1,000 Gas Stations in Shift to EV Charging
The Dutch-based energy giant Shell plans to eliminate 1,000 gas stations by the end of 2025 as it begins to put more emphasis on its EV charging operations, the company said in a new report. It already operates 3,700 charging stations in the U.S. and will not only add more facilities but expand the size of existing ones.
First Look: 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT43
A slightly slower but no less dynamic Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe arrives latter this year. If you can give up 1.5 seconds, you’ll save a bit of cash. A new 2025 Mercedes-AMG GT43 coupe is joining the lineup as the entry-level model beneath the more powerful 469-horsepower...
First Drive: 2024 Polestar 2 Performance Package – A Sharper EV
Polestar puts the Polestar 2 sedan under the knife for 2024 and gives it more power, technology, and performance in an attempt to ward off rivals from Tesla, BMW, and Hyundai. Get the full story at Headlight.News
EPA Expected to Give Automakers a Break on Emissions and Mileage Standards
The Biden administration is expected to roll back new rules governing vehicle emission and mileage standards, a move that should prove particularly helpful for Detroit automakers who are heavily dependent upon large, fuel-hungry models like the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Suburban. But the changes likely also will benefit some Japanese manufacturers, including Toyota and Honda, that have been reluctant to invest heavily on EV technology.
Consumer Satisfaction with Dealer Service Departments Improve Despite Rising Wait Times
Automakers are making strides at improving the dealer service experience for customers, but a new report shows that wait times for appointments are still increasing. Get the full story at Headlight.News.
First Drive: 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe — A Rugged Remake
When it came to market nearly a quarter century ago, Santa Fe was Hyundai’s first SUV. Today, it’s part of a broader line-up that runs from the little Venue to the flagship Palisade – but it remains one of the brand’s best sellers. To keep momentum building, the Korean carmaker has given the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe a complete makeover, starting with the bolder and more classic SUV design. The cabin is not only roomier but adds more upscale details and plenty of welcome tech. And the XRT package now adds more rugged features for those looking to head off-road.
Better Move Fast if You Want a Tesla Model Y — Prices Are Going Up
After spending much of last year cutting prices on its EV lineup, Tesla has reversed course, announcing a $1,000 increase in the U.S. sticker price for its best-selling Model Y. In Europe, meanwhile, buyers will pay as much as 2,000 euros, or $2,177 more for the electric SUV. While that might not be good news for buyers, Tesla stockholders hailed the price hike, giving shares traded under the Nasdaq ticker TSLA their first big gain in a month. Find out more at Headlight.News.
United Auto Workers Union Seeks to Schedule Representation Vote At Volkswagen’s Chattanooga Plant
The United Auto Workers is asking the National Labor Relations Board to schedule a vote on union representation among workers at the Volkswagen assembly plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Get the story at Headlight.News.