Inside the Industry

Hennessey sends off V8-powered TRX with ‘Last Stand’ Mammoth 1000



Mammoth 1000 TRX — 1,012 bhp,
969 lb-ft torque, 0-60 mph in 3.2 sec.


(March 13, 2024) SEALY, Texas — Hennessey, the Texas-based hypercar manufacturer and high-performance vehicle creator, has announced a special edition "Last Stand" Mammoth 1000 TRX to send off the world’s favorite hypertruck in style. The Texas team will offer the special edition V8-powered Ram TRX exclusively on 2024 model year trucks, which feature new colors and distinctive "Last Stand" graphics.

NHTSA probes Honda vehicles over unintended braking



(March 12, 2024) WASHINGTON — U.S. auto safety regulators have launched an investigation into nearly 251,000 Honda vehicles for unintended activation of the automatic emergency braking system. The safety probe covers 2019-22 Honda Insight hybrid sedans and Honda Passport midsize crossovers, Automotive News reported.

Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid — Performance, efficiency in a new combination



AMG-enhanced 3.0-liter engine,
electric motor make 577 hp

       
(March 12, 2024) With the new Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid, the performance and sports car brand from Affalterbach introduces its latest plug-in Hybrid model, combining outstanding performance and engaging driving dynamics with electric efficiency. The 2025 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Hybrid arrives at U.S. dealerships later this year.

Rivian introduces smaller, less expensive platform



R2 mid-sized SUV to start at
$45,000; R3 priced below R2


(March 11, 2024) LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. — Rivian has unveiled its new midsize platform which underpins R2 and R3 product lines. R2 is Rivian’s all-new midsize SUV delivering a combination of performance, capability and utility in a five-seat package optimized for big adventures and everyday use. The silhouette and face of R2 are distinctly Rivian. R3 is a midsize crossover that is tidy on dimensions but delivers big on performance.

Chevy Blazer EV sales resume with lower starting price



(March 11, 2024) Chevrolet has resumed sales of the 2024 Blazer EV, more than two months after sidelining it to fix a software quality problem. The automaker also has cut the midsize electric crossover's price by at least 9 percent, pushing all three available versions below $50,000 after shipping and a $7,500 federal tax credit. GM made a sourcing change on some ineligible parts so the Blazer EV is again eligible for the full credit, according to Automotive News.

Ram launches next-gen 'Ram Professional' commercial mobility solutions



(March 11, 2024) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Ram has announced the new Ram Professional commercial vehicle division with full-service customer mobility and value solutions. As a key brand within Stellantis Pro One, the enhanced strategic offensive to achieve commercial vehicle business global leadership, Ram Professional will play a pivotal role in North America to achieve the company’s Dare Forward 2030 global plan targets to reduce the company’s carbon footprint and to lead customer satisfaction. 

All-electric Acura ZDX Type S rated at 500 maximum horsepower



Acura says every ZDX now
qualifies for $7,500 tax credit

    
(March 11, 2024) TORRANCE, Calif. —Acura has released the power ratings for the 2024 ZDX, its highly-anticipated all-electric SUV, and the high-performance ZDX Type S — the most powerful Acura ever. With a performance-tuned dual-motor AWD powertrain, ZDX Type S delivers an exhilarating 500 maximum horsepower and 544 lb.-ft. of maximum torque — more than the Acura NSX Type S supercar.

Nissan launches the performance-minded Ariya NISMO in Japan



(March 10, 2024) YOKOHAMA, Japan — Nissan has launched the Ariya NISMO — unveiled in January at Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 — with initial sales planned to start in Japan in June. NISMO’s flagship EV model further enhances the speed, comfort and handling with up to  429 horsepower.

Everrati delivers first electric Land Rover classic in United States



Hand built, meticulously restored

'71 classic comes with 150-mile range

(March 8, 2024)  Everrati, a company renowned for redefining and future-proofing automotive icons through cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, has announced the delivery of its first electric Land Rover Series IIa in the United States. The commission is an electrified Land Rover Series IIa, which integrates a state-of-the-art OEM-grade electric powertrain designed and developed at Everrati’s global headquarters in Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire, England.

2024 Audi Q4 55 e-tron mid-model refresh arrives with more power and range



(March 8, 2024) RESTON, Va. — At a time when others are entering the segment, Audi is systematically continuing its course for growth of its fully electric vehicles, introducing comprehensive updates to its premium e-tron entry models. Mid-way through the 2024 model year, the Q4 50 e-tron becomes the Q4 55 e-tron and has been further infused with dynamic Audi DNA — offering a newly revised suspension and steering tune, increased range, and a sharper look with an available 21” wheel.