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Category Archives: electronics
New Ford Recalls – Aviator, Bronco, Expedition, F150, Ranger
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is recalling ~392,000 vehicles from its Ford and Lincoln brands for a variety of safety defects according to the latest documents made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) this week. During the first half of 2025 Ford Motor booked a $1.3 billion loss from repairs of vehicles under warranty, cancellation of plans to build an electric sport utility vehicle and other one-time costs. Ford is operating under a consent order from NHTSA because of its handing of recalls.
The largest of the latest safety defect recalls involves the Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module that controls the bakes on some of the most profitable and popular Ford Motor models in the United States. Here ~312,000 model year 2025 Lincoln Navigator SUVs, Ford F-150 pickups, Expedition SUVs, Bronco SUVs, and Ranger pickups can lose power-brake assist when driving. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, customer satisfaction, electronics, engineering, news analysis, quality, recalls, software recalls
Tagged audio control module software, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Electronic Brake Booster, FMVSS118 Power-Operated Window Systems, Ford recall 25C33, Ford recall 25S77, Ford recall is 25C31, Ken Zino, NHTSA recall 25V488 or 25V-488, NHTSA recall or Campaign Number 25V484 or 25V-484, NHTSA recall or Campaign Number 25V489 or 25V-489, X @KenAutoinformed
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BMW Group – My Trips Apps Now Show Driver’s Carbon Footprint
The BMW Group said today that it is now offering customers an analysis of their driving personal carbon footprint stats in the My BMW App and MINI App for the first time. This in AutoInformed’s view is a breakthrough that will ease the ride on the sometimes-bumpy road to electrification.
“Our usage research shows: The information in My Trips is one of the most popular features in the app,” said Dirk Wiedmann, Senior Vice President Sales Steering and Strategy, Digitalization. “We are now expanding this successful function with carbon footprint calculation, giving our customers simple and straightforward access to sustainability-related information via a popular and widely used channel.” Continue reading
Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, electric vehicles, electronics, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, milestones, mobility company, news analysis, public health, shows and events, software defined vehicles
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, BMW Group electrification, Dirk Wiedmann, global warming software, Ken Zino, My BMW App, My MINI App, TÜV-certified carbon footprint, X @KenAutoinformed
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Spring Hill to Make Advanced LFP Batteries
“At GM, we’re innovating battery technology to deliver the best mix of range, performance, and affordability to our EV customers,” said Kurt Kelty, VP of batteries, propulsion, and sustainability at GM. “This upgrade at Spring Hill will enable us to scale production of lower-cost LFP cell technologies in the U.S., complementing our high-nickel and future lithium manganese rich solutions and further diversifying our growing EV portfolio.” Continue reading
Posted in auto news, economy, electric vehicles, electronics, energy, environment, global warming, manufacturing, news analysis, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Ken Zino, Kurt Kelty, LG Energy Solution, Wonjoon Suh, X @KenAutoinformed
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Another Ford Mach E Electrical System Recall
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: Ford) is recalling 239 2022 model year Mustang Mach E vehicles equipped with an extended range battery. The high voltage battery main contactors may overheat. This recall is an expansion of a previous NHTSA recall number 23V687 or 23V-687 because of a calculation error. Ford is operating under a consent order from NHTSA because of its handing of recalls.
“The recalled Bussed Electrical Center parts NK48-10C666-AA, NK48-10C666-BA, or LK98- 10C666-AB were introduced into production on 05/27/2020 and were taken out of production on 05/27/2022. Vehicles produced 5/27/2020 through 5/24/2022 are included in the original recall population (23V687). Affected vehicles are equipped with the extended range battery, but without the GT powertrain. These vehicles are not produced in VIN order,” Ford told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the mandatory safety defect recall filing that NHTSA made public today. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, customer satisfaction, electronics, manufacturing, news analysis, quality, recalls, safety
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Ford Mustang Mach E recalls, Ford Recall 23S56, Ford Saftey Action 23S56/23V687, Ken Zino, NHTSA Ford Mach E recall number 23V687 or 23V-687, NHTSA Ford Mach E recall number 25V441 or 25V-441, TE Connectivity Mexico, X @KenAutoinformed
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Autonomous Cars – Cognitive Intelligence v Machine Learning
MOTOR Ai* announced today a $20 million “seed funding round to bring ‘cognitive intelligence’ autonomous driving technology into full deployment, starting with German public roads.” The new capital will support hiring, commercial rollouts, and expansion of its technology. AutoInformed notes that the recent Nazi propaganda spouted by Grok, the X social media chatbot, is just the latest example of the problems with large language models, aka L.L.M.s. Gathering large amounts of data doesn’t mean that systems using LLMs can think and reason safely without unintended dire consequences, such as X’s CEO Linda Yaccarino being fired by Elon Musk or Tesla’s Autopilot or leaving the company for her own reasons? [Ironically there isn’t enough verifiable data on this -AutoCrat] Continue reading
Posted in auto news, autonomous vehicles, connected vehicles, electronics, mobility company, news analysis, software defined vehicles, transportation
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Cyber Resilience Act provisions, eCAPITAL, elon musk, ISO 26262, Ken Zino, Large Language Models, Linda Yaccarino, MOTOR Ai, Roy Uhlmann, Segenia Capital, X @KenAutoinformed
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Annals of Marketing – New Electric Mercedes-Benz GLC
Mercedes Benz said today that at its Technology Center in Sindelfingen, Germany, CEO Ola Källenius is testing the new Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ technology.* In the latest YouTube video by Mercedes‑Benz, Källenius teases the model series. He previewed its design, capabilities, and handling. In previous videos, Ola Källenius drove the electric CLA and electric G-Class in the landscapes of Austria and Sweden, offering a sneak peek ahead of each vehicles’ world premiere. The new electric GLC, will be unveiled at Munich’s IAA motor show on 7 September 2025. Once upon a forgotten time this would have happened at the Frankfurt Motor show. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, electronics, engineering, marketing, mobility company, new vehicle
Tagged 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, GLC 400 4MATIC with EQ technology, Ken Zino, mercedes-benz, Mercedes-Benz Technology Center, Ola Källenius, X @KenAutoinformed, YouTube video by Mercedes‑Benz
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Nürburgring – BMW M2 CS Beats Audi RS-3 Record
BMW said today that the new BMW M2 CS setsa new benchmark on the legendary Nordschleife racetrack of the Nürburgring on 11 April 2025. Driven by BMW M development engineer Jörg Weidinger, it completed the 12.9-mile Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit in 7:25.5, beating the previous best time for compact cars by eight seconds. In March Audi set a new record lap in the compact vehicle class on the Nordschleife at 7:33.123 minutes. Depending on the ongoing Trump tariff wars, Audi might still retain the lower price entry point for a top Nordschleife runner., depending on who you value – in currency units – the ~8 seconds in elapsed times. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, electronics, engineering, marketing, milestones, mobility company, new vehicle, news analysis, performance, results, shows and events
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, BMW M GmbH, BMW M Test Center, BMW M2 CS, Franciscus van Meel, Ken Zino, Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit, X @KenAutoinformed
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Dealers Now Have the Infiniti 2026 QX60 SUV
The 2026 Infiniti QX60 is now on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $51,200. The first-ever QX60 SPORT grade, which elevates the model with its “most statement-making appearance yet,” is priced from $61,700. The QX60 is offered in four grades: Pure, Luxe, Sport and Autograph. Destination and handling charge on all grades adds $1350.
“QX60 continues to be a cornerstone of our lineup and a compelling choice for today’s premium SUV buyer,” said Brian Maragno, director, Product Marketing, Infiniti USA. “Accounting for 45% of Infiniti sales last quarter, QX60 reflects our product strategy at work – blending bold design, advanced technology and thoughtful features that resonate with our Infiniti clients.” Continue reading
Audi Adds AirConsole Gaming for Passengers
AirConsole and Audi claimed progress in the controversial area of in-car entertainment with the launch of AirConsole’s interactive gaming platform today. In Audi models equipped with a passenger display, Audi’s Active Privacy Mode, a so-called digital curtain that blocks the screen from the driver to perhaps prevent distraction, allows the front passenger to enjoy gaming while the vehicle is in motion. Previously limited to parked scenarios, in-car gaming now allows non-driving passengers to play throughout the ride. This electronic doodad now available in the Audi A5, Q5, A6, A6 e-tron, and Q6 e-tron model series equipped with Android-based infotainment systems, in all markets where Audi operates. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, distracted driving, electronics, news analysis, shows and events, software defined vehicles
Tagged AirConsole and Audi, AirConsole gaming platform, Anthony Cliquot, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Erika Winterholler, interactive gaming, Ken Zino, X @KenAutoinformed
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Nissan Shows All-New Third-Generation LEAF
Nissan Motor Company (7201T and NSANY ADR) today unveiled the all-new 2026 LEAF. The all-new LEAF will reach U.S. Nissan dealerships in the Fall, with other markets to follow, subject to the of the man who would be King, aka Donald Trump. The all-new Nissan LEAF will be assembled for the U.S. and Canada markets alongside the Ariya at Nissan’s Tochigi plant in Japan.
“Completely reimagined with clean, dynamic body lines, the third-generation LEAF combines a sleek profile with an SUV-like stance. Inside, a refined, minimalist cabin is optimized for roominess, comfort and wellbeing to accommodate all of life’s journeys. With over 15 years of proven dependability and the customer insights of almost 700,000 global sales, the all-new LEAF builds on the model’s DNA of reliable, affordable and attractive EV ownership, delivering strong value for the mass-market,” Nissan said. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, electric vehicles, electronics, engineering, environment, fuel economy or emissions, global warming, marketing, milestones, mobility company, news analysis, public health, shows and events, Trump Truth Tests
Tagged 2026 Nissan LEAF, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Ken Zino, Nissan Tochigi assembly plant, X @KenAutoinformed
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First Look – the 2026 Corvette ZR1X Hypercar
Chevrolet (NYSE: GM) said this morning that it is introducing an all-wheel drive Corvette with the ZR1 designation.* The 2026 Corvette ZR1X is GM rated at 1250 horsepower [footnote 1] and has electrified all-wheel drive. This makes the ZR1X the most advanced Corvette ever. With ZR1 and ZR1X, Chevrolet now has the most powerful American performance car duet of any auto manufacturer.
“From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with ZR1X in mind,” said General Motors senior VP Ken Morris. “This is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history, supporting the widest range of American sports cars [3] and delivering world-class performance at every level.” Continue reading
Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, electronics, engineering, marketing, milestones, new vehicle, performance, shows and events, software defined vehicles
Tagged 2026 Corvette ZR1X, 24 Hours of Le Mans, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Corvette E-Ray, Gemini small-block V8, Ken Morris, Ken Zino, X @KenAutoinformed, ZR1X hypercar
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Ford and Lincoln Add Zoom App Meet on the Move
Ford Motor (NYSE: F) said today that it is launching the Zoom app Meet on the Move. It is built and customized specifically for vehicles in the U.S. equipped with the all-new Ford and Lincoln Digital Experience.* With the new digital cabin, customers can bring along things they use in their so-called digital life, including their favorite apps to be entertained or to stay productive on the go – all without a smartphone – Ford said in a release. This is unique because it offers an immersive experience built directly into the vehicle, which is different from using smartphone projection. Whether this is a distinction without a real difference remains to be seen. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, connected vehicles, customer satisfaction, distracted driving, electronics, marketing, news analysis, safety, software defined vehicles
Tagged 2024/2025 Lincoln Nautilus, 2025 Ford Expedition, 2025 Ford Explorer, 2025 Lincoln Aviator, auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Ken Zino, X @KenAutoinformed, Zoom App Meet on the Move
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Autonomous Vehicles – Skepticism Rules Consumers
Virtually all automakers now have some type automated driving system categorized as Level 2 or Level 2+ on the SAE Autonomous Driving Levels standard. These include General Motors’ Super Cruise; Tesla Autopilot; and numerous Mercedes, BMW and Stellantis systems in Europe and Nio in mainland China. More options are becoming obtainable each year.
“The choice between Level 3 automation [conditional] and Level 2/Level 2+ systems [partial automation] often divides the industry, resulting in notable differences in strategies among autonomous vehicle companies,” said Vivek Beriwal of S&P Global Mobility, a distinct part of S&P Global. “A key assumption of Level 3 systems is that the automaker assumes liability for its safe operation in “autonomous mode.” This has caused some automakers to focus on expanding functionality within Level 2+ while delaying any potential Level 3 upgrades,” Beriwal observes. Continue reading
Posted in auto news, autonomous vehicles, connected vehicles, customer satisfaction, electronics, engineering, news analysis, safety, software defined vehicles
Tagged auto industry commentary, autoinformed.com, automotive blog, Automotive news and analysis, Ken Zino, S&P Global Mobility, SAE Autonomous Driving Level 2, SAE Autonomous Driving Level 3, SAE Autonomous Driving Levels, Vivek Beriwal, X @KenAutoinformed
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First Look – 2026 Honda HR-V Sub-Compact SUV
The Honda HR-V, America’s most popular SUV with first-time and Gen-Z buyers, is now arriving at Honda dealerships with a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $26,2002 for the HR-V LX (excluding $1395 destination charge). HR-V is also the best-selling sub-compact SUV with Hispanic buyers. Every HR-V is offered with Real Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control™ starting at $27,700 [Footnote 2].** The 2026 HR-V is available in three trim levels: LX, Sport and EX-L. As with the latest Toyota RAV4, the complexity of the trim levels with various packages and options present a daunting task to prospective buyers. This from Honda once famously known for a radio and television ad campaign, circa 1979-1984 with “The we make it simple,” tagline? (Read AutoInformed.com on: Toyota Debuts 2026 RAV4 Compact SUV) Continue reading

Hot Cars – Camaro ZL1 Most Stolen Vehicle
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is at the top of the list of America’s most-stolen vehicles, while a software upgrade helped reduce theft rates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles, according to new research from the Highway Loss Data Institute. Relative to its numbers on the roads, the Camaro ZL1 had a whole-vehicle theft rate 39 times the average for all vehicles. The frequency of whole-vehicle theft claims for the standard Camaro was 13 times higher than the average. Along with the two Camaro variants, pickup trucks and other expensive or high-horsepower models dominate the list of the top 20 vehicles with the highest claim frequencies for whole-vehicle theft.
“Muscle cars have often topped this list, as thieves are attracted to vehicles with high horsepower,” said Matt Moore, chief insurance operations officer at HLDI and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. “That also helps explain why the more expensive, more powerful ZL1 is stolen so much more often than the standard Camaro.”
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