Automotive Industry
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The Slate Truck is great, but this one problem may stop a lot of folks from buying it
The Slate Truck's modular design aims to reduce costs by only including essential features. However, this approach may limit its appeal outside of the United States, potentially hindering widespread adoption.
Why China’s Carmakers Are Racing Into Humanoid Robots — Tesla’s Bet, Copied
Chinese automakers, facing declining car profit margins, are heavily investing in humanoid robots, mirroring Tesla's strategy. Xpeng's robotics arm recently secured significant funding, highlighting a broader trend across the sector with companies like BYD and Chery also developing humanoid robots. While hardware manufacturing is a strength for these companies, catching up to Tesla in AI development remains a key challenge.
2026 Lexus ES 500e first drive: A classy sedan with a slow charge
The 2026 Lexus ES 500e offers a luxurious driving experience and competitive pricing, but its electric vehicle technology appears outdated, particularly concerning its charging speed. Despite these drawbacks, the sedan is praised for its refined interior and driving dynamics.
The Offspring, Jimmy Eat World to perform at SEMA Fest 2026 — MP3s & NPCs
SEMA Fest 2026, the closing ceremony for SEMA Week, will feature performances by The Offspring, Jimmy Eat World, 311, and The Alive on November 6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This event, unlike the SEMA Show, will be open to the public and aims to blend automotive culture with music. Tickets go on sale July 17.
Volkswagen will dramatically shrink its model lineup and factory footprint
Volkswagen plans to significantly reduce its model lineup and factory footprint in response to potential job threats. This strategic shift aims to streamline operations within the German automaker.
Tesla Q2 vehicle deliveries are up 25 percent over last year
Tesla reported a 25 percent increase in vehicle deliveries for the second quarter compared to the previous year. The company has seen growing success in the European market.
Volkswagen reportedly plans to cut 100,000 jobs
Volkswagen is reportedly planning to cut 100,000 jobs. The specific reasons and timeline for these cuts were not detailed in the report.
Polestar won't be able to sell its cars in the US next year
Polestar may be prevented from selling its vehicles in the United States starting next year, despite having moved some of its production to the US. The company faces potential sales restrictions in the American market.
Honda is reportedly reviving the Element as an affordable hybrid
Honda is reportedly considering a revival of the Element nameplate, with a new hybrid SUV model potentially launching in 2029. The cult-favorite vehicle could return as an affordable option in the automotive market.
Car manufacturers are ditching Android Auto in 2026: Here's why
Several car manufacturers are planning to discontinue support for Android Auto starting in 2026. While popular with consumers, automakers are reportedly finding the integration and licensing of the system to be problematic.
Evening Mobilization
The article discusses the future of Android Auto as presented by Google, expressing concern about its integration into personal vehicles. It also briefly mentions an EU exemption for a Chinese chipmaker due to automotive industry supply concerns.
Lotus will return to combustion engines for its cars
Lotus, the UK car maker, is planning another significant shift by returning to the use of combustion engines in its future vehicles. This marks a new strategic direction for the company.
Porsche is discontinuing its performance e-bike division
German automaker Porsche is discontinuing its performance e-bike division to refocus on its core automotive business. The decision marks a shift in the company's strategy away from electric bicycle manufacturing.
Rivian begins production on the R2 electric SUV
Rivian has commenced production of its R2 electric SUV at its Normal, Illinois factory, with CEO RJ Scaringe driving the first vehicle off the line. While initial customer deliveries are slated for later this spring, starting with a more expensive Launch Package, the headline-grabbing $45,000 base model is not expected until late 2027. The company aims to position the R2 as a competitor to Tesla's Model Y.
Elon Musk lied again about the April 2026 Tesla Roadster 2 design update
Elon Musk has announced that the planned April update for the Tesla Roadster 2 design will not occur as previously stated. This marks another delay for the highly anticipated electric sports car.
The hottest EVs from the 2026 New York Auto Show (plus one brawny concept)
The 2026 New York International Auto Show featured several notable electric vehicle debuts and concepts, including the three-row Subaru Getaway SUV and the rugged Hyundai Boulder Concept. Other highlights included the US-bound Kia EV3, the luxurious Genesis GV60 Magma, and the performance-oriented Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT.
Lucid Motors recalls over 4,000 Gravity SUVs over seat belt defect
Lucid Motors is recalling over 4,000 Gravity SUVs due to a defect in the second-row seat belt anchors, which may not function properly in a collision. The company attributes the issue to a seat supplier's unapproved manufacturing process change. Lucid will inspect and repair affected vehicles, and no injuries have been reported related to this defect.
Toyota's still trying to make hydrogen fuel cells happen
Toyota is partnering with Daimler and Volvo by joining their joint venture, cellcentric, to develop and produce fuel cell units. This collaboration aims to create leading fuel cell systems for heavy commercial vehicles, despite a broader industry trend away from hydrogen fuel cell technology. Toyota President and CEO Koji Sato expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to a hydrogen society.
Sony and Honda Have Abandoned Their PS5-Integrated Electric Car Afeela
Sony and Honda have officially canceled the Afeela electric car project, citing changes in the EV market and Honda's reassessment of its electrification strategy. The joint venture's first and second models will not be developed or launched. While the car featured PlayStation integration like Remote Play for PS5 games and customizable themes, the project's underlying assumptions were fundamentally altered.
Sony takes cancelling things to a whole new level by cancelling the car it was making with Honda
Sony and Honda have officially cancelled their joint electric vehicle project, Afeela. The decision stems from Honda's reassessment of its own electrification strategy, despite a recent presentation at CES 2026. The companies stated they will continue discussions regarding the future of their joint venture, Sony Honda Mobility.
