Kia pumped life into an otherwise quiet Chicago Auto Show today, launching two new models at the McCormick Place Convention Center, including a new version of the Carnival people-mover which adds new technology, an updated design and a fuel-saving hybrid drivetrain option. Headlight.News checks out the 2025 Kia Carnival.
Technology
First Look: 2025 Kia K5 Gets Midcycle Update
More power from a new base engine, more tech, new safety features and a midcycle design update, Kia rolls out the 2025 K5 sedan at the Chicago Auto Show. Headlight.News checks it out.
GM Keeps Pushing Toward All-Electric Future, Hiring Former Tesla Exec
General Motors is staying the course, it would seem, when it comes to its all-electric future. The company announced it has hired a former Tesla executive to oversee its battery development and operations. Find out more at Headlight.News.
A Week With: 2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country B5 AWD
Volvo’s long been known for its wagons, and the latest V60 Cross Country conjures up memories of wagons past. Check out our review at Headlight.News.
Porsche’s Charged Up about 2025 Taycan Trio
Porsche made waves a few years ago when it introduced the all-electric Taycan. Now that we all know how to say the name correctly, they’ve rolled out the next iteration of its bestselling battery-electric model for the 2025 model year. Get details at Headlight.News.
Ford CEO Farley Reveals “Skunkworks” Program Developing Low-Cost EV
With EV sales growth flattening out, automakers are struggling to find ways to charge them back up. A critical step will require the launch of new, affordable models like the Model 2 Tesla reportedly is developing. During an earnings call, Ford CEO Jim Farley said he’s not planning to cede the market to his rival, revealing that the second-largest Detroit automaker has a “skunkworks” project underway to develop new EVs that could match, perhaps even undercut what Tesla is working on.
Ford Reports Q4 Loss, but Enjoys Full Year Profits
Ford took a hit in the fourth quarter courtesy of a massive charge, reporting a loss for the period. However, the company saw its revenue rise and it finished in the black for 2023. Get details at Headlight.News.
Rivian Announces March 7 Reveal for Lower-Priced R2 Line
Rivian plans to take a step closer to becoming a full-line automaker next month, the automaker confirming it will reveal its R2 line on March 7. Smaller than the existing R1T pickup and R1S SUV, the R2 models also will be more affordable, officials last year indicating they could start around $40,000. Get the details at Headlight.News.
Ford Debuting Two Off-Road EVs, Mustang Mach-E Rally and Lightning Switchgear, at Chicago Auto Show
Ford may be slowing its $11-billion EV investment program but it’s still rolling out new entries, and two of them will make their debut at the Chicago Auto Show this coming week. Notably, both the Mustang Mach-E Rally and F-150 Lightning Switchgear take aim at those looking for off-road-capable battery-electric vehicles, a growing EV niche. See the story at Headlight.News.
Money, Drugs, Elon Musk and the Tesla Board of Directors
Elon Musk created a fair share of controversy several years ago when he appeared to smoke a joint during an appearance with podcaster Joe Rogan. A new report is kicking up even more dust, the Wall Street Journal alleging money and drugs have improperly tied the Tesla CEO to the same board of directors that previously approved a $55 billion pay package for Musk.
First Drive: 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
The iconic Mercedes-Benz tri-star badge today graces a wide range of products, from the little CLA sedan to the flagship GLS crossover. It’s also found on one of the world’s most popular vans, the big Sprinter. And, as the German automaker accelerates its switch to zero-emissions propulsion, the latest model to go all-electric is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter. Headlight.News spent a day in Southern California testing it out and discovered it was surprisingly fun to drive while delivering plenty of range. It also maintains the flexibility of the classic Sprinter and could even wind up with an RV option.
Mitsubishi Turns to Allies to Flesh Out its Meager Lineup
Despite a modest increase in sales last year, Mitsubishi Motors earnings took a tumble during the most recent quarter. Bargain-basement pricing and rising incentives took much of the blame. But it hasn’t helped that the automaker has a miniscule product lineup that leaves little for dealers to sell. Company officials now hope to tap allies Nissan and Renault to help add new products to help put Mitsubishi back on the radar, especially in the critical U.S. market.