Ford applied for a patent for a new system that could allow a driver to monitor whether other vehicles are speeding, information that could then be reported to police – though the automaker says it sees the technology as a way to make it even easier for cops to crack down on speeders. Meanwhile, Ford and other automakers face new legislation that could require future vehicles to come with speed limiters.
Technology
Toyota Upgrades 2025 GR Corolla – and it’s Likely to Expand the Appeal of the Hot Hatch
When Toyota rolled out the GR Corolla two years ago it did a lot to change the image of a compact model long known for its plain vanilla styling and lackluster styling. But for many potential buyers there was one big drawback: its lack of an automatic transmission. That’s the biggest issue Toyota is addressing with the 2025 GR Corolla update. Here’s more.
Plug-in Hybrids Now Outselling EVs
As EV sales growth slows, automakers are looking for other ways to reduce emissions without turning off potential buyers. That’s led to a wave of new plug-in hybrids coming to market – and to a surge in demand for PHEVs which grew 50% globally during the first five months of the year. But will they continue to outpace all-electric models? That’s a matter of debate.
2025 Ford Maverick Lobo: Return of the Street Truck
No wolf in sheep’s clothing, the 2025 Ford Maverick Lobo does nothing to hide its aggressive nature. It’s the latest spin-off of the compact pickup and was “inspired” by the lowered performance trucks of decades past, according to the automaker. But it also picks up on the functional features of the Maverick that have made it a hit with young buyers on a budget. Here’s a first look.
Audi Expands All-Electric Offerings with New A6 E-Tron
German automaker Audi revealed the A6 e-tron as well as the performance-oriented variant, the S6. The brand will bring three versions of the vehicle to the U.S., electing to not bring its Avant models to American roads. Get details about the newest e-tron offering at Headlight.News.
A Week With: 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV: A Hint of Great Things to Come
The Blazer name has had a long history at Chevrolet. In its newest incarnation it offers a sign of the direction the bowtie brand plans to take in an electrified automotive market. But does it live up expectations? Jeff Zurschmiede spent a week with the new Chevy Blazer EV to find out.
Ford Maverick Hybrid Goes AWD for 2025
It may be the smallest pickup in Ford’s North American line-up but the Maverick has been a big success since its launch three years ago. And Ford hopes to keep the momentum going with the 2025 update of the compact truck by adding an all-wheel-drive version of the Maverick hybrid, as well as an assortment of new tech features.
Tesla Recalls 1.85 Million Vehicles in the U.S.
EV maker Tesla Inc. announced plans to recall 1.85 million vehicles due to a problem with hood latch. The issue is software related so it will be resolved with an over-the-air update. To get more details, go to Headlight.News.
A Week With: 2024 Polaris Slingshot Roush Edition
Every summer I look forward to two weeks with one car: the Polaris Slingshot. This three-wheel sports beast looks like few things on the road today. It not only continues to attract favorable attention, the company continues to make it better each year. Find out what we thought after two weeks with the Slingshot at Headlight.News.
Instant Karma: EV Maker Set to Unveil Two New Models at Pebble Beach
While Fisker Inc. may be heading to the junkyard in the sky, there’s new life to founder Henrik Fisker’s earlier automotive start-up. Now owned by the Chinese and renamed Karma Automotive, it will show there can be life after death by unveiling two new models at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance next month. And they are meant to channel the ghosts of several other one-time automotive greats, including luxury brands Pierce-Arrow and Duesenberg.
New Mobile Auto Repair Service Software for Dealers Kicks Off
If anyone thought Tesla’s mobile vehicle service fleet was a great idea, don’t worry, you’re not alone. In fact, some of the team who helped develop it decided it was good enough to tweak it and pitch it to auto dealers. And many also agreed and now San Francisco-based Curbee is in business. Find out more at Headlight.News.
First Look: “Ultimate” Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
When the eighth-generation Corvette made its debut four years ago, some long-time fans questioned how much further Chevrolet could go after rolling out the first mid-engine version of what has come to be known as “America’s sports car.” They got their answer Thursday night when the bowtie brand rolled out what is likely to be the “ultimate” version of the ‘Vette – at least an all-gas model. What’s clear is that the 2025 ZR1 is the fastest, most powerful – and most intimidating model in Corvette history. Here’s a closer look.