Automotive

Volkswagen’s IT outage halts production, spotlighting the hurdles traditional automakers face in transitioning to tech-focused vehicles—a space where Tesla thrives.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss what to make of Google turning 25 years old, how US shoppers feel about stores, why tiered rewards are all the rage, how Hispanic people think their values are reflected by advertisers and Americans, taxi drivers turning into robots, some mind-bending facts about US geography, and more. Tune in to the discussion with our forecasting writer Ethan Cramer-Flood, forecasting analyst Zach Goldner, and director of forecasting Oscar Orozco.

Mercedes-Benz collaborates with Nvidia to use metaverse-based “digital twins” to design more efficient factories, targeting electric vehicle production by 2030.

The UAW strike affects 9% of its 150,000 members and stops production at Detroit’s Big Three, inviting delivery delays and competitive loss.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss whether people will ever buy items they see in TV shows, if online ratings are broken, a relaunched Amazon Shipping trying to compete with UPS and FedEx, if CNN and sports can move the needle for streaming service Max, whether the continuing partnership between Target and Starbucks is boosting curbside pickup, where we got gas before gas stations, and more. Tune in to the discussion with our vice president of content Suzy Davidkhanian and analysts Blake Droesch and Paul Verna.

Tesla eyes Dojo-juiced AVs: Its value could soar $500B over Musk’s moves to inject AI across his companies. Lack of adequate safety testing and false advertising could be pitfalls.

Installing 20,000 EV chargers across 2,000 North American hotels can capitalize on soaring demand for EV charging in the post-pandemic travel boom.

A study exposes glaring privacy risks in connected cars. Just two out of 25 brands offer data deletion; most collect and share sensitive personal information.

The DOE allocates $15.5 billion for EVs and domestic battery production. The plan favors traditional auto hubs, while further efforts should improve charging infrastructure.

Toyota halted all Japan factory operations due to a computer glitch, disrupting a third of its global output. The issue isn't cyber-related but follows past tech troubles such as data leaks and cyberattacks.

Rate hikes prompt consumers to shop for new auto insurance: But the increases haven’t kept pace with the rising cost of parts and labor, as insurers’ balance sheets show.

US new vehicle sales are expected to rise 15.4% in August: Despite that strong growth, there may be limits to consumer ability to maintain that pace.

California’s DMV ordered Cruise to halve its autonomous fleet after a crash with a fire truck. Recent incidents could slow robotaxi adoption in congested cities.

Lamborghini unveils its first EV powered by AI: It wants to redefine the future of supercars with cutting-edge technologies while responding to the push for luxury EVs.

Tesla led Q2 2023 global EV sales with 10% QoQ growth, while challengers like BYD and GAC Aion rise. Price reductions prove key to broader adoption.

The electric air taxi market—forecast to be worth $57B by 2035—sees startups like Joby Aviation advancing despite regulatory hurdles and safety concerns for the new mode of travel.

Ford expects a 1,000% revenue jump from connected cars, hires Apple exec: Its big in-car software investment could help keep revenue strong amid a costly EV pivot.

Foreign investments in China plummeted 87% to $4.9B due to US-China tensions and COVID-19. Businesses are skeptical of China’s global openness, and tech giants shift production to India.

Carvana expects profitability to improve in Q3 as cost-cutting initiatives bear fruit: It’s well-positioned to capitalize on higher interest rates and new car prices.

The country is mandating 90 kW chargers and aiming for 150 kW in high-traffic zones. State subsidies for highway chargers show why success of EV adoption requires government involvement.