Stellantis has invested an additional $55 million in Archer Aviation, a pioneer in the fast-emerging field of drone-like flying taxis. That follows a previous $110 million investment the Euro-American automaker made in Archer. And it comes at a time when the start-up completed a milestone flight and is preparing to open up a new assembly plant in Georgia.
EVs and batteries
Ineos Delays Battery-Electric Fusilier
Off-road beast maker Ineos plans to push back production of its first all-electric model, the Fusilier SUV, from 2027 to an unknown introduction date. Ineos produces two off-road focused vehicles, the Grenadier and Quartermaster, and introduced the Fusilier in February. Get more details at Headlight.News.
Hackers Hijack June Sales, Automakers Report Mixed Sales Picture
Hackers blurred the sales picture for June. But it appears that overall demand was less than stellar, major brands like GM, Toyota and Hyundai reporting modest declines for the second quarter overall. That said, EV sales were stronger than anticipated — with one key exception.
Who Says EV Sales Are Slowing? Tesla, Maybe – But Not GM, Ford, Toyota or the Koreans
It’s become conventional wisdom that EV sales are slowing. With one high-profile exception, the latest numbers would tell you quite the opposite is true. As data roll in for June and the second quarter we’re seeing a number of manufacturers reporting solid increases...
Mercedes Pumping New Life Into its Gas Engines
With the EV market taking longer to charge up than many have expected, Mercedes-Benz is putting money back into the development of internal combustion technology, as well as hybrids, CEO Ola Kallenius said. But the automaker isn’t scrapping plans for a new EV architecture, despite recent reports, the executive said.
Paraplegic IndyCar Driver Finds Electric Racing Car Uniquely Adaptable
Left a paraplegic following a crash six years ago, promising IndyCar driver Robert Wickens is back on track as part of the Formula E racing series thanks to an ell-electric race car specifically modified by manufacturing partner SPARK he can drive via hand controls. The third-generation Formula E car is the world’s fastest, lightest and most sustainable electric race car.
Analysts Predict Tesla Deliveries to Drop for Second Straight Quarter
Electric vehicle sales have been pretty steady as a group, but that’s in large measure due to Tesla, the segment leader, seeing sales drop since the start of the year. Analysts predict Tesla’s global deliveries will drop at least 3% during Q2 while other EV makers are making gains. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Fisker’s Woes Continue – Rivian Gets a Bailout – Everyone Is Going Hybrid – JD Power IQS Study – Mercedes CLE Review – This Week In Automotive History
This week's edition of the Headlight.News podcast focuses on Fisker's ongoing woes while rival EV maker Rivian got a bailout from Volkswagen. We also talk about the recent surge in hybrid models, the J.D Power IQS study, and even go for a spin in the 2024 Mercedes CLE...
Polestar Reports Massive 2023 Losses as the Company Faces Questions About its Future
Polestar reports increased losses for the 2023 fiscal year as the company faces renewed questions about its long-term future amid struggles with cash burn and slumping EV demand.
Review: 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro S
Mid-cycle update brings more power, technology, and enhanced standard features that attempt to make the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro S a better EV as the segment around it rapidly evolves and changes.
Ram, Porsche Top J.D. Power’s 2024 Initial Quality Study
The constant addition of new technologies to new vehicles continues to give automakers problems with quality, according to J.D. Power’s latest Initial Quality Study. The same study shows Ram and Porsche were the top quality brands in their categories. Go to Headlight.News for more details.
Volkswagen Says Plans For Scout Still On Track After Rivian Investment Deal
Volkswagen’s investment deal with Rivian opened up new avenues of cooperation between the two firms in the world of electrification. However, Volkswagen confirms that plans for the revival of the Scout brand are still on track despite its agreement with the upstart EV company.