California lawmakers are considering a bill that could require new vehicles to come with an “intelligent speed limiter” that, in most instances, would prevent motorists from driving more than 10 mph above the speed limit. Such devices have also been recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board, though that has gained little traction on a federal level.
Technology
Used Tesla Cybertruck Sells for $244,000
It’s anyone’s guess how well the Tesla Cybertruck will do long-term. Even CEO Elon Musk has sent mixed signals about the stainless steel-bodied electric pickup. But, with production ramping up a painfully slow rate, it appears that some of those who truly want the EV will pay a substantial premium to get one – even a used one, with a brief auction resulting in one customer shelling out more than double the sticker price.
All-New Fiat 500e Jumps into Crowded Market with Style
Fiat recently reintroduced the cute-as-a-button 500e. The new model is ready for a second run in the U.S. and may be the jumping off point for a larger return of the brand to the minds of consumers. Headlight.News took a closer look at the newest EV coming to the market.
Ford EV Owners Now Can Start Using Tesla Superchargers
It’s official. Starting on Leap Day owners of Ford EVs will be able to plug into any of more than 15,000 Tesla Superchargers. That roughly doubles the number of public chargers that they previously had access to. With “charger anxiety” seen as one of the biggest obstacles to widespread EV adoption, Ford is hoping this will help up boost demand for its all-electric products. To make it even easier, Ford will begin shipping free Tesla adapters to its owners starting late next month.
President Biden Orders Probe of Foreign Connected Vehicles
Citing Chinese automobiles and trucks with internet connectivity as a possible national security threat, President Biden directed the Commerce Department to launch an inquiry into foreign software in automobiles. Get details at Headlight.News.
Dealerships Remain Critical to Buying Experience Despite Predictions of Disappearance
In the wake of the COVID pandemic, many predicted the demise of auto dealerships. Study after study “revealed” more and more buyers were comfortable conducting most of their purchases online, especially younger buyers. Now with things nearly back to normal, it seems the reports of their demise was an exaggeration. Find out more at Headlight.News.
EVs Are Getting Better but Public Charging is Getting Worse
While the rate of growth may be slowing, EV sales hit a record 1 million last year as more and more Americans find them to be acceptable alternatives to conventional, gas-powered vehicles. But “charging anxiety” has become one of the key factors slowing EV growth, according to industry analysts. And a new J.D. Power study concludes that “Public charging isn’t just bad, it’s getting worse.” That said, most owners are ready to buy another EV when it’s time to trade in, especially those with the top-ranked BMW i4.
Aston Martin is the Latest to Delay its EV Plans
Aston Martin is following the lead of manufacturers including Ford, General Motors and Volkswagen, responding to slowing growth in the EV market by delaying the launch of its first all-electric model by at least a year. Find out more at Headlight.News.
Tesla Shipping New Roadster in 2025, Musk Claims
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, revealed the company plans unveil its second-generation roadster by the end of this year with deliveries starting next year. The Roadster was the first-ever Tesla vehicle, and its replacement was slated to arrive four years ago. Details at Headlight.News.
IIHS Tightens Requirements for Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick + Awards
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tightened Its qualification criteria for Top Safety Pick Awards. The organization cited demand for better side crash protection and improved pedestrian detection systems as key reasons for making these changes. Get details at Headlight.News.
Farewell Titan: Apple Finally Abandons its Autonomous EV Program
After investing a decade and billions of dollars in a project meant to bring a fully autonomous EV to market Apple reportedly has pulled the plug on the program known internally as Project Titan. More from Headlight.News.
New 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV Gets the Automaker Back into the “Hydrogen Economy”
Honda unveiled a new version of the familiar CR-V hybrid on Tuesday, and the e:FCEV is the automaker’s newest fuel-cell vehicle, the first Honda to run on hydrogen since it killed off the Clarity FCV three years ago.