(July 31, 2017) IRVINE, Calif. — Kia today announced the Niro Skill for Amazon Alexa to deliver instant access to product information for the Niro crossover vehicle, direct to consumers. The Niro Skill for Amazon Alexa will offer product information, including local dealer inventory and product specifications to make the car shopping process easier for consumers.

"Kia is committed to simplifying the car buying process and this provides a one stop source for Niro information and engages consumers through the digital channels they use the most," said Kimberley Gardiner, director of marketing, KMA.

By Christopher A. Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(July 31, 2017) Let’s get the important stuff out of the way first. The Mercedes X-Class pickup will launch in Europe this November, in South Africa, Australia and New Zealand in early 2018, and Argentina and Brazil in 2019. There are no current plans to bring this vehicle — which starts at the equivalent of $35,368 in Europe and is built off the Nissan Frontier/Renault Alaskan — to the U.S.

(July 29, 2017) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has announced that it has received a certificate of conformity from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a conditional executive order from the Air Resources Board (ARB) of the State of California, permitting the production and sale of FCA US 2017 model-year light-duty Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles equipped with 3.0-liter diesel engines.

(July 28, 2017) NEW YORK — Looking to expand its mobility offerings, Ford is launching its crowd-sourced shuttle service Chariot in New York City in August, aiming to provide new mobility solutions to consumers.

Chariot offers commuters, some of whom live in transit deserts — areas that are not within walking distance of public transportation — a new way of getting from point A to point B.