They’ll build it. They’ll build it not. The fate of the retro-futuristic Hyundai N Vision 74 concept has been a source of constant debate since it was first unveiled in July 2022. The automaker subsequently insisted the show car was never going to see the light of day. Now, however, it’s starting to look like a production version really is in the works, at least based on what came out during the automaker’s latest Investor Day event.
Business
Tesla Readying Debut of First Robotaxi
The day that Tesla CEO Elon Musk has talked about for years is about to arrive. Tesla’s reportedly set to debut its first purpose-built robotaxi in California next month. It arrives at a tenuous time for self-driving vehicles. Get more detail at Headlight.News.
Chrysler Descendant Wants to Keep Brands All in the Family
Since the formation of Stellantis a few years ago, speculation about what will happen with the low-selling, but still-iconic Chrysler brand has run rampant. Officials, led by CEO Carlos Tavares, assured there were plans for Chrysler. However, time has passed with just one product left, the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, and now someone wants to resurrect the brand: Walter P. Chrysler’s great-grandson. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Ford Joins Ranks of U.S. Companies Abandoning or Scaling Back Diversity Programs
Ford Motor Co. will pare back its diversity efforts, joining companies like Lowe’s, John Deere and Beam Suntory, the producers of Jim Beam liquor who have entirely abandoned so-called DEI programs. Ford’s move was hailed by conservatives, but denounced as “shortsighted” by human rights advocates. For his part, CEO Jim Farley said the automaker will still work to creative an “inclusive workplace.”
Automotive Brand Loyalty Increases During First Half of 2024
For the first time in several years, the number of people buying a new vehicle remained loyal to the brand of car, truck or SUV they were getting out of. According to S&P Global Mobility, the first half registration data showed 52.5% of buyers remained loyal — a 1.9% increase on a year-over-year basis. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Hyundai Way Means Massive Sales Increase, More Hybrids, More Profit
South Korean automotive behemoth Hyundai Motor expects to sell 5.5 million vehicles globally by the end of the decade, including 2 million EVs and 1.8 million hybrids. The global number represents a 30% jump over last year’s numbers. Find out more at Headlight.News.
New Vehicle Sales Expected to Make Big Jump in August
The auto industry’s been expecting a big sales month at some point this summer in the wake of the CDK outage that cut into new vehicle sales in mid-June. Some thought it would come in July, but inventory levels we’re quite settled. But now it appears everything’s in place for a 7% year-over-year increase. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Lexus, Toyota Top List for Most Reliable Used Cars
With the high cost of today’s new vehicles it’s likely no surprise that more buyers have turned to previously owned models. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort, safety or fuel economy. But if you’re looking for something used you should consider which models are most reliable. And, according to a new study, Lexus and Toyota top the chart. Which other brands should you consider – or avoid? And what are the most reliable models? More from Headlight.News.
Fisker Inc. Finalizes Liquidation Plans While Helping Owners
EV maker Fisker secured a deal with creditors to liquidate its assets while providing ongoing assistance to the owners of the vehicles it has already produced. Find out more at Headlight.News.
J.D. Power Study Reveals Drivers Can be Overwhelmed by Technology
It’s often said you can never have too much of a good thing; however, J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. Tech Experience Index Study reveals that’s just not true. Drivers want certain types of advanced tech and little more. Find out what they want and why at Headlight.News.
GM Recalling 1,200 Cruise Robotaxis to End U.S. Safety Probe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration agreed to end its probe of General Motors’ Cruise subsidiary’s robotaxis after it agreed to recall 1,200 of the vehicles. Go to Headlight.News for a closer look and details.
BYD, Stellantis Dismiss Rumored Chrysler Acquisition – But Chinese Maker May Still Seek Back Door to U.S. Market
It’s been the subject of speculation for weeks, “knowledgeable sources” chattering amongst themselves about the possibility China’s BYD is in talks with Stellantis as it looks for a way to crack into the U.S. market. The two makers have firmly dismissed the rumors. But there seems little doubt Chinese automakers want to target the world’s second-largest automotive market and are sniffing around the North American auto industry looking for a way to break in.