Category Archives: connected vehicles

Coming Soon Chinese-Built Jeeps?

Posted on 15 May 2026 by Ken Zino

“Dongfeng Motor has always taken the transformation and revitalization of Dongfeng Peugeot Citroën Automobile Co., Ltd. (DPCA) as a key strategic priority, fully supporting and advancing its sustainable development. Through the signing of this strategic cooperation, by integrating Hubei’s industrial strengths, Stellantis’ global layout advantages and Dongfeng’s intelligent electric vehicle technologies, a new path featuring complementary strengths and win-win outcomes for all parties has been forged. This will undoubtedly inject strong momentum into DPCA’s transformation,” said Qing Yang, Dongfeng Group Chairman. Continue reading →

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BMW N.A. Starts Preferred Pricing at IONNA Charging Sites

Posted on 14 May 2026 by Ken Zino

“BMW firmly believes in an electric future, and it’s no secret that reliable high-speed charging infrastructure remains essential to the continued growth of the electric vehicle market,” said Shaun Bugbee, Executive Vice President, BMW of North America. “We currently offer one of the broadest portfolios of premium electric vehicles in the U.S., with the next-generation BMW iX3 arriving in the U.S. later this year. As our electric vehicle offerings continue to expand, initiatives like this help ensure our customers enjoy a seamless ownership experience wherever they travel.” Continue reading →

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First Glance – Acura Hybrid SUV

Posted on 14 May 2026 by Ken Zino

“Honda will reallocate more development and production resources into hybrid models to accelerate the market launch ahead of the original schedule and increase the number of compelling products,” said Toshihiro Mibe, global CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. “We have made steady progress in the development of hybrid vehicle technologies, where Honda has strengths, based on our belief that hybrid models will continue to be the key to addressing environmental challenges.” Continue reading →

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California Starts $1 Billion Rebate Program for Electric Trucks

Posted on 13 May 2026 by Ken Zino

The California Air Resources Board (CARB)* today announced retailer enrollment is now open for the California Clean Fuel Reward (CCFR) for electric medium‑ and heavy‑duty trucks. CCFR is financed with revenue utilities generate from the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). The innovative [and planet-saving initiative in AutoInformed’s view despite the ongoing efforts of the Trump Administration’s Environmental Pillaging Agency, aka EPA] plan is expected to become the largest utility-administered rebate program for electric trucks in the country. This year $250 million will be available. There will be more than $1 billion in total rebate funding expected through 2030. Continue reading →

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Lexus ES to Debut AT&T 5G Network Connectivity in 2026 ES

Posted on 11 May 2026 by Ken Zino

Lexus (NYSE: TM, 7203 T) said today it debuting the first integration of AT&T 5G Network Connectivity in the Lexus lineup. The enhanced version of the Lexus Interface multimedia system will make its debut in the 2026 ES before rolling out to future models in the Lexus lineup.

“We are excited for guests to experience something truly special,” said Brian Inouye, chief engineer, Connected Experiences Division. “We’ve made bold updates to Lexus Interface that deliver both function and performance, with every detail meticulously designed to delight, inform and entertain.” Continue reading →

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Lexus Shows 2027 TZ 3-Row Electric SUV

Posted on 7 May 2026 by Ken Zino

Toyota Motor (NYSE: TM, 7203 T) today in Japan revealed a prototype version of the Lexus TZ 3-Row Electric SUV. The all-wheel-drive, full-size SUV is aimed directly at the popular and profitable SUVs from the brands at General Motors and Ford Motor Company. TZ is capable of driving from Los Angeles to Las Vegas [or Tokyo to Kobe -AutoCrat] on one charge. Acceleration is rated by Lexus at 0-100 kms (62.1 miles) in 5.2 seconds. Grade and pricing information for the all-new Lexus TZ will be available later in 2026.* Continue reading →

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New Porsche Cayenne Coupé Electric Debuts in Beijing

Posted on 24 April 2026 by Ken Zino

Porsche AG’s (P911.DE) new Cayenne Coupé Electric model with three drive variants celebrated its world premiere at Auto China 2026 in Beijing today. They can be ordered immediately. The Chinese market has been challenging for Porsche lately as customers are turning to less expensive and innovative EVs from Chinese makers.

“The gently sloping roofline sweeps elegantly over the car’s broad shoulders and gives the Cayenne Coupé a particularly sporty appearance,” said Thomas Stopka, Head of Exterior Design, Style Porsche. “The adaptive rear spoiler blends harmoniously into the body, while the way the rear window is embedded and flush-mounted with fewer joints ensures a clean, modern look. Continue reading →

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VinFast Auto Posts March Sales of ~28,000 EVs

Posted on 22 April 2026 by Ken Zino

VinFast Auto (NASDAQ: VFS) in Hanoi today posted preliminary domestic Vietnam deliveries of 27,609 electric vehicles during March 2026, an increase of 127% year-over-year. For Q1 of 2026, the Company delivered a preliminary total of 53,684 EVs to customers in Vietnam.* [By global automaker standards this is roughly one final assembly plant on an annual basis – AutoCrat.] Continue reading →

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Canada and U.S to Co-Host Global Vehicle Safety Conference

Posted on 22 April 2026 by Ken Zino

“Canada is proud to welcome the global road safety community to Toronto for Enhanced Safety of Vehicles 2026. By bringing together researchers, regulators, and industry leaders, we are fostering innovation and cooperation that will shape the next generation of vehicle safety and strengthen our collective efforts to make roads safer around the world,” said the Honorable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the government in the House of Commons. Continue reading →

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First Look – Mercedes-Benz 2027 C‑Class EV

Posted on 20 April 2026 by Ken Zino

The all-new 2027 Mercedes-Benz C 400 4MATIC Electric arrives at U.S. dealerships in the first half of 2027 as MBUSA (MBG.DE, MBGAF OTC U.S.) is posting sales declines and all global automakers are wrestling with the negative trade and war policies of the Trump mis-administration. [Makers are also facing a marked shift in consumer presences to hybrid vehicles – AutoCrat].

“The all-new electric C‑Class is redefining the mid-size segment for electric vehicles. Customers will get exactly what they expect from this new version of the beloved model: the perfect blend of performance, comfort, dynamics, and intelligence. On top of that, it is the most powerful and sportiest C‑Class we’ve ever built, offering pure driving pleasure and outstanding real-world range, all while being the perfect sanctuary for our customer,” claimed Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes‑Benz Group AG. Continue reading →

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IONNA Partners with Circle K on EV Charging

Posted on 14 April 2026 by Ken Zino

“We are honored that Circle K has recognized IONNA as a leader in the industry and entrusted us to serve their customers with the same care and commitment to excellence that they show now,” said Aaron Wolff, COO of IONNA. “Circle K’s scale, customer focus, and quality of location make them an ideal partner as we rapidly expand high-power charging where drivers already want to stop.” Continue reading →

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April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

Posted on 3 April 2026 by Ken Zino

“No one should ever get hurt or lose their life because of a text or a phone call,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC CEO. “By keeping our eyes on the road and our hands on the wheel, we all have the power and responsibility to make our roads safe for everyone. The National Safety Council calls on every driver to travel distraction free – doing so will save lives.” Continue reading →

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Electric Vehicle Experience Home Charging Study Released

Posted on 26 March 2026 by Ken Zino

“While users of more advanced features on Level 2 systems do encounter more problems due to things like Wi-Fi and mobile app connectivity issues, their overall satisfaction levels are so much higher because they are scheduling charge times, monitoring results and engaging more actively in getting the most out of the home charging experience,” said Gruber. Continue reading →

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First Look – Genesis GV60 Magma Performance EV

Posted on 18 March 2026 by Ken Zino

“In a very short period of time, our engineers achieved something truly remarkable,” stated Manfred Harrer, President and Head of Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D Division. “They created a car that is not only fast, but truly Genesis; a car that inspires confidence and provides a true emotional connection.” Continue reading →

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J.D. Power – Dealer Service Satisfaction High, But…

Posted on 13 March 2026 by Ken Zino

“While it’s no surprise that customers gravitate to operations that serve them well, the study clearly shows that good service leads to loyal customers,” said John Tenerovich, director of automotive retail at J.D. Power. “This phenomenon proves true across all service types – oil changes, repair, tires and brakes. While complimentary maintenance programs drive strong retention, the level of intent to return for actual customer-paid service depends on the service experience delivered by the dealer.” Continue reading →

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