November 2022

Microchip shortage still a big problem for auto industry



(November 22, 2022) North American factories were forced to eliminate another 79,000 vehicles from their production plans this week because of ongoing shortages of microchips, according to AutoForecast Solutions, Automotive News has reported. As the industry nears the end of a second full year of the shortages worldwide, automakers still face more schedule changes to deal with the problem.

Air-cooled safari 911s, uprated Cayennes complete off-road Trans-Andes rally



(November 22, 2022) Traveling just shy of 11,000 kilometers (6,800 miles) in purpose-built, air-cooled Porsche 911s and first- and second-generation Cayennes through some of South America’s harshest terrains over 39 thrilling days, KALMAR Beyond Adventure’s (KBA) privateer teams triumphantly crossed the finish line of its Trans-Andes rally last week.

Lexus ‘December to Remember’ celebrates moments of connection



(November 22, 2022) PLANO, Texas  — Every year, Lexus ushers in the holidays with the December to Remember campaign including the familiar jingle, the red bow and the gift-giving moment. This year, the signature red bow returns with a twist in a new spot called “Time Machine.” And, in a holiday first, Lexus is partnering with Sprinkles to make December a bit sweeter with exclusive giveaways at nationwide Sprinkles locations courtesy of Lexus dealers.

Refreshed 2024 Kia Seltos gets new design, desirable tech, 195 hp



(November 21, 2022) LOS ANGELES — The refreshed 2024 Kia Seltos made its debut last week at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, where the compact SUV boasted big changes. Designed to appeal to consumers who enjoy life on the move, Seltos sports a more commanding presence thanks to refined design on the outside, while inside, a segment-first available panoramic display is the centerpiece of the futuristic and modern cabin.

Hyundai's 2023 Ioniq 6 leads new era of electrification



(November 21, 2022) LOS ANGELES — Inspired by Hyundai’s Prophecy EV concept, the four-door Ioniq 6 electrified streamliner, was unveiled here with a targeted estimated driving range of 340 miles and equipped with the relevant technology and best-in-class ultra-fast charging that can charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes.

Toyota bZ compact electric SUV concept revealed in U.S.



(November 21, 2022) LOS ANGELES — The Toyota bZ Compact SUV Concept touched down in Los Angeles, making its world premiere at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show last week. Already a leader in electrification, the company gave a glimpse of what the future could be with the Toyota bZ Compact SUV, extending the vision under the “Toyota bZ” brand umbrella.

GM invests another $45 million at Bedford casting operations



(November 19, 2022) DETROIT — General Motors has announced plans to invest $45 million at its Bedford, Ind., aluminum die casting foundry. This investment will be used to expand the facility's production capacity of EV drive unit castings to support the anticipated strong demand for the Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV full-size pickups. The capacity expansion work at the facility will begin immediately.

Fiat announces new all-electric 500 for North America



(November 19, 2022)  LOS ANGELES — Olivier Francois, Fiat CEO and CMO global of Stellantis, announced plans this week to offer the fully electric Fiat 500e in North America. Spearheading the brand's electrification strategy, the new 500e will arrive in the U.S. market in early 2024, marking a North American expansion in Fiat's global journey outside Europe.



Inspired by X — Genesis completes EV concept trilogy with convertible



(November 19, 2022) MALIBU, Calif. — Genesis demonstrated its design versatility this week with the unveiling of the Genesis X Convertible concept in California. The brand unveiled a four-passenger open-roof concept. The venue was a natural choice as California leads the U.S. in adoption of electric vehicles and its temperate climate allows year-round enjoyment of the convertible vehicle format.