It’s been five years since Toyota announced plans to open an entirely new city in the shadow of Japan iconic Mount Fuji. The first phase of development of this “test course for mobility is now complete and the automaker is about to invite the first “weavers” and “inventors” to start moving in. Headlight.News has more.
Green Power
EV Sales Take Off in Fourth Quarter to Set New Records
Acceptance of electric vehicles continues to rise not just in the U.S. but around the world. One need only take a look at the 2024 sales numbers to see that buyers are more comfortable with potential EV-related shortcomings to enjoy the benefits of battery-powered vehicles. Get more details at Headlight.News.
Trump Could Roll Back Fuel Economy Rules Despite Strong Support From U.S. Motorists
During his first term in office Pres. Donald Trump attempted to roll back federal fuel economy standards. He has signaled plans to take similar steps when he returns to office and may also issue orders that could reduce demand for highly efficient EVs. But that would fly in the face of what a new survey shows: improved fuel economy “at least somewhat important” to 96% of American drivers, crossing political boundaries.
Electrified Vehicles Drive China Auto Sales to Record 31.4 Million, Twice U.S. Volume
After several weak years triggered by the COVID pandemic, Chinese auto sales surged to a new record nearly twice that of the U.S. market. And strong demand for EVs and hybrids played a critical role, according to industry data. Meanwhile, Chinese auto exports also surged to record levels. More from Headlight.News.
Back to Basics at a Very Downsized Detroit Auto Show
Once one of the most important auto shows in North America, if not the world, the annual Motor City event returned to its original January schedule after a brief summer run. But what has been renamed the Detroit Auto Show is a mere fraction of the size of what it was during its glory days. Headlight.News looks at what has happened — and why.
Next-Generation Tesla Model Y Ready for China
Much like the update on the Model 3 last year, the new look for the Model Y in China is evolutionary on outside with upgrades keeping with consumer demand on the inside. Get more details at Headlight.News.
An Icon Returns as VW ID.Buzz Wins North American Utility Vehicle of the Year – Here Are the List of Winners
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz took top honors as the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year on Friday morning during a ceremony marking the start of the annual Detroit Auto Show. As for the other winners? Headlight.News has the full story.
Electric Mustang Mach-E Outsells Ford’s Classic Coupe – and Is Anyone Really Surprised?
It may be the best-selling pony car on the market but the classic, gas-powered Ford Mustang coupe was outsold by the all-electric Mustang Mach-E last year. If anything, the EV gained significant momentum in 2024, something that one of Ford’s key competitors could take as encouragement as it launches its own, all-electric muscle car.
Honda’s New 0-Series EVs will Sport Edgy Styling, Offer Hands-Free/Eyes-Off Automation
Honda rolled out a pair of all-electric concept vehicles at CES this week, updating the two prototypes it brought to Las Vegas a year ago. And, it says, the 0 Series Saloon and SUV are close to the final production models that will roll into U.S. showrooms in 2026. Beyond the edgy styling, buyers will be offered a digital operating system borrowed from Honda’s ASIMO robot – and the ability to drive hands-free while texting or even watching videos.
UAW Files to Hold Union Election at Ford JV Battery Plant
The UAW continues its aggressive plan to expand its ranks by converting existing non-union plants or, in this case, getting new plants to align with the union right away. The organization filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board to hold an election at Ford Motor Co.’s JV battery plant in Kentucky. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Feds Investigating 2.6 Million Smart Summon-Equipped Teslas
In response to a complaint and three media reports, the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration’s Office of Defects Investigation opened a probe into the 2.6 million vehicles equipped with Tesla’s Actually Smart Summon and Smart Summon technologies. Get details at Headlight.News.
A Week With: 2025 Toyota Prius PHEV XSE
Here’s an interesting bit of trivia; while Toyota’s Prius is the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, it’s not the first of its kind to be offered in the United States. That honor goes to the 1999 Honda Insight. But Toyota’s perfected it, and the 2025 Prius PHEV XSE continues that legacy of excellence. Check out Headlight.News’ review.