Category Archives: engineering

Crash Course – Euro NCAP on 2022 Safety Tests

However, AutoInformed thinks the emerging fresh data on electric vehicles is the most notable result. As in 2021, the EV market continues to expand quickly. During 2022, full electric vehicles made up 22 out of 65 new models, or 34%. Specifically, five out of six Euro NCAP’s Best in Class winners were electric. Europe’s bestselling car the Tesla Model Y and new Model S both achieved Top Scores in Euro NCAP. Perhaps this is a good thing because Tesla’s autopilot is a dismal safety failure on the road, as class action suits in the US attest. Also, since EVs are heavier, it remains to be seen how they affect other non-EVs when the two types collide – so-called crash compatibility. Continue reading

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Volvo Car USA Recalls all 2023 Models for Software Bug

Volvo Car USA is recalling all 2023 S60, V60, V60CC, V90CC, XC60, XC90, XC40, and C40 vehicles because of a computer code error the Brake Control Module 2 (BCM2) may cause a loss of  the Antilock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and the traction control system. A certain diagnostic test case that checks the grounding may put the BCM2 in a faulty state potentially resulting in a loss of brake support functions. Continue reading

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EV Battery Gold Rush – Honda and GS Yuasa JV Announced

The two companies will discuss specifics with the goal of establishing a joint venture company by the end of 2023 for battery production methods as well as the establishment of a supply chain for key raw materials and a “highly-efficient” battery production system. Continue reading

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New 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLA will be a Hybrid

Mercedes-Benz said today in Stuttgart that the new 2024 CLA Coupe has a revised front fascia, a radiator grille with star pattern and new rear diffuser. LED high performance headlamps will now be standard with the LED taillights. There are new paint colors Hyper Blue (exclusive to the CLA models) and Starling Blue, as well as three additional wheel designs in sizes up to 19 inches. The new 2024 CLA Coupe will arrive at U.S. dealerships later in 2023. FYI: Mercedes refers to the CLA as a coupe even though it has four-doors. Continue reading

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Honda Alabama Begins Making Largest Pilot SUV Ever

The largest Honda SUV ever, the new Pilot is longer and wider than its predecessor. It’s available in five trim levels: Sport, EX-L, Touring, Elite and TrailSport**. The mid-sized, three-row SUV has a new, stronger and more capable platform that also provides more passenger and cargo space. With a new optional opening panoramic sunroof, the new Pilot is the only vehicle in its class to combine 8-passenger seating and this type of roof. Continue reading

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More Horsepower for All 2024 Mustang Engines Next Summer

In a release today, Ford Motor said that all seventh-generation 2024 Mustang engines will have more horsepower, starting with the Dark Horse rated at 500. It has a fourth-generation Coyote V8 engine with 500 horsepower and 418 ft.-lb. of torque* … Continue reading

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GMC Debuts Electric Sierra Pickup

GMC will likely be the only US brand to offer three all-electric trucks, with the Sierra EV joining the GMC HUMMER EV Pickup and SUV2. Underpinning these three trucks is GM’s Ultium Platform, which enables versatility and claimed optimal performance in an all-electric truck. Continue reading

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Mobile Music – New Mercedes-Benz Dolby Atmos Symphony

Integrated into the optional Burmester® high-end 4D and 3D sound systems, it has a justifiable claim to be state of the art. Whether you like such art or German opera is a matter of personal taste, of course. Continue reading

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EPA Looking at EVs and the Toxic Substances Control Act

It’s the latest example of a regulatory body realizing that battery-powered vehicles present, well, challenges under existing regulations or the lack thereof. It’s a global trend and problem. Under TSCA, EPA’s New Chemicals Program plays a central role by reviewing all new chemical substances before they enter the marketplace in order to bring innovative chemistries to market in a way that doesn’t harm human health or the environment. Continue reading

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GM, OneD form Battery R&D Deal as EV Gold Rush Continues

General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) and OneD Battery Sciences * said today they have started a joint research development agreement focused on the potential use of OneD’s silicon nanotechnology in GM’s Ultium battery cells. The goal is to increase energy … Continue reading

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First Look – 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD

The pickup truck line has 2500HD and 3500HD models in Regular Cab, Double Cab and Crew Cab configurations. Dual-rear-wheel models are optional on 3500HD allowing the lineup’s highest trailering capacity: 36,000 pounds. The 2024 Silverado HD is offered in Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ, and High-Country trims. ZR2 will join the HD trim lineup later in the model year for the first time. Continue reading

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Solar Trees with 3D Leaf-Shaped Photovoltaics?

It claims that this first-generation Tree will eventually generate a family of products primarily aimed at the rapid Electric Vehicle charging market for homes, businesses and commercial car parks, where solar power can be captured and stored for charging points. Continue reading

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Stellantis Startup Awards Honor Technology, Innovations

Since the creation of Stellantis in January 2021, the Company has engaged with hundreds of startups and signed more than 40 contracts. Stellantis’ top executives, including Chief Technology Officer Ned Curic, presented each of the finalists with a customized non-fungible token (NFT) trophy. Created by the Stellantis Design Studio, the NFT is an artistic interpretation of intertwined hands expressing the concept that in turbulent times, ideas prevail. Continue reading

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IIHS Says Toyota Tacoma 2022 MY Marginal in Crash Test

Still, this was an improvement. The marginal rating applies to vehicles built after October 2021, when Toyota modified the rear leaf springs. Vehicles built prior to that date are rated poor. In an earlier test of a vehicle built before the changes, one of the rear leaf springs punctured the fuel tank, resulting in a fire risk and an automatic downgrade. Continue reading

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Toyota Adds Four New 2023 Hybrid Corolla Models

Toyota said today that the 2023 Corolla line expands with four new Hybrid grades, including a more powerful hybrid system and optional all-wheel drive. It’s a half-step to the EV future that planet earth needs to survive.
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