Inside the Industry

Lotus Emeya completes final stage of intensive test and development program



Cold-weather validation program
at Arctic Circle confirms performance

(February 12, 2024) LONDON — The Lotus Emeya hyper-GT has completed the final stage of a rigorous global test and development program in one of the world’s harshest environments. Over the winter, the all-electric grand tourer was in Ivalo, Finland, as Lotus engineers conclude their validation work.

2025 Kia Carnival MPV redefined — Hybrid power now available



(February 12, 2024) CHICAGO — The refreshed 2025 Kia Carnival multi-purpose vehicle has reaffirmed itself as a trailblazer in the minivan segment, bringing a distinct edge in the space between SUV and family hauler. Commanding attention with a grand SUV-like design while offering up exceptional passenger and cargo space more akin to a van, the Carnival expands its versatility with an available turbo-hybrid powertrain.

All-New 2024 Toyota Tacoma handles it all in Super Bowl LVIII ad



(February 9, 2024) PLANO, Texas  — Toyota returns to Super Bowl LVIII with a 30-second ad celebrating the launch of the all-new 2024 Tacoma. The Tacoma is completely redesigned from the ground up, primed and reimagined to make off-roading dreams come true.

New 2025 Kia K5 makes North American debut at Chicago Auto Show



Design updates inside and out
reflect K5's sporty intentions

    
(February 9, 2024) CHICAGO — Kia America chose the concrete corridors of Chicago to pull the wraps off the refreshed 2025 K5 midsize sedan Monday at the opening of the Chicago Auto Show. The show played host to the sporty sedan’s North American debut, which features a new-for-K5 2.5-liter normally aspirated engine, updated design cues inside and out, drivetrain refinements and numerous tech upgrades across five trim levels: LXS, EX, GT-Line (in front or all-wheel drive) and the hot-blooded turbocharged GT.

Ford pulls plug on automated parallel parking feature



(February 8, 2024) It was a neat party trick showing off the automated parallel parking in your new Ford crossover. But in the future, people purchasing new Ford vehicles will no longer be able to check off that option. Ford has announced it plans some big cost cuts as part of a drive to boost profitability and beat back inflation, including removing some once-ballyhooed features from its vehicles — like automated parallel parking.

New 2024 Jeep Gladiator production starts at Toledo Assembly Complex



(February 8 2024) TOLEDO, Ohio — Production of the new 2024 Jeep Gladiator is underway at the Toledo Assembly Complex, the home it shares with the iconic Jeep Wrangler.   Revealed during the 2023 North American International Auto Show in Detroit last September, "the world’s most off-road capable midsize truck" offers several new features for the 2024 model year.

Electrify America debuts first indoor flagship station in San Francisco




(February 8, 2024) SAN FRANCISCO —  Electrify America, the largest open DC fast-charging network in the U.S., announced the opening of its first indoor flagship station available to the public on Feb. 9 at 928 Harrison St. in San Francisco. Located two blocks from the Bay Bridge, the indoor charging station provides easy access for EV drivers visiting the South Market neighborhood.  

First fully electric van from Mercedes-Benz — All-new eSprinter hits the road



New eSprinter now available
for order at U.S. dealerships


(February 7, 2024) The all-new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter is the electrified pioneer of the large van segment. For the first time, U.S. customers can make their fleet more sustainable with an emission-free, battery-electric van bearing the Mercedes-Benz star. In addition to optimized efficiency, the all-new eSprinter offers customers a multitude of technical innovations that make driving and fleet logistics more convenient and sustainable.

The split doors close on an icon — Farewell Mini Clubman



1.1 million vehicles produced
during model’s 55-year-history

(February 7, 2024) OXFORD, UK — The last Mini Clubman rolled off the production line this week at MiniPlant Oxford, 55 years after the model’s debut in 1969.  With its unique styling and signature rear split doors, the Mini Clubman remains instantly recognizable around the world. The end of the Mini Clubman signifies a closing chapter in Mini’s history, while the brand continues to introduce its new, all-electric Mini family.

Toyota bringing battery electric vehicle production to Kentucky



$1.3 billion investment reinforces
commitment to future production


(February 7, 2024) GEORGETOWN, Ky. — Toyota has announced a $1.3 billion investment at its flagship Kentucky facility for future electrification efforts including assembly of an all-new, three row battery electric SUV for the U.S. market. The project brings the plant’s total investment to nearly $10 billion and reinforces Toyota’s commitment to high-quality vehicles and long-term job stability.