01/22/24 - 2024 Acura ZDX: Electrified Performance from $64k 🚗, Stellantis Warns of 'Bloodbath' in EV Prices 🏭, US Treasury's New EV Charge Tax Credit Guidelines ⚡

GM. Rev up your day with the latest automotive news and insights delivered to your inbox in our exclusive newsletter! What we cover in today’s edition:

• 🚗 Car reveal/review: 

  • 2024 Acura ZDX: Electrified Performance from $64,500

  • Ford Announces Production Changes For Ranger, Bronco, And F-150 Lightning

  • Check out the updated Mustang Mach E GT

• 🏭 Industry trend: Stellantis Warns of 'Bloodbath' in EV Prices and Takes Jab at Tesla, BYD's Global Dominance: Mexico and Hungary as Strategic Pillars

• ⚡ EV: US Treasury Releases EV Charger Tax Credit Guidelines: Check Your Eligibility, Stellantis Unveils Flexible BEV Platform for 2024-2026

2024 Acura ZDX & ZDX Type S Deliver Electrified Performance Starting at $64,500 (5 mins read)

Acura has revealed pricing for its 2024 all-electric ZDX model, starting at $64,500 for the rear-wheel-drive A-Spec with a single motor. The high-performance ZDX Type S, featuring dual-motor AWD, starts at $73,500. Both models offer cutting-edge technology, including Google integration, wireless CarPlay, and Bang & Olufsen audio. The ZDX A-Spec's 102-kWh battery enables an estimated 81 miles of range in about 10 minutes with DC Fast Charging. Acura provides comprehensive charging solutions and offers three charging packages for ZDX buyers. Sales will be conducted through a new digital process. Read more.

Ford Announces Production Changes For Ranger, Bronco, And F-150 Lightning (3 mins read)

Ford is adjusting production based on demand, adding a third shift at the Michigan Assembly Plant for popular models like Bronco and Ranger. The F-150 Lightning faces reduced electric truck production, shifting from three to one shift at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center due to declining sales (down 45.8% in Q3 2023). Ford aims for manufacturing flexibility, balancing growth and profitability, emphasizing a mix of gas-powered hybrids and EVs. Read more.

Check out the updated Mustang Mach E GT (2 mins read)

Ford updates the Mustang Mach E GT with the Bronze Appearance Package, featuring a bronze mesh grille, and new badges. The GT promises the quickest 0-60 time among Mach E models, with exact performance upgrade details expected soon. In the US, additional standard kit includes MagneRide dampers, 385mm front brake discs, and Ford Performance seats. Orders open later in winter, priced at $60,990 with the Bronze Appearance Package. Read more.

Stellantis takes jab at Tesla, warns 'bloodbath' over EV price cuts (3 mins read)

Stellantis CEO criticizes Tesla's price cuts, warning of a potential "bloodbath" and decline in profitability. Stellantis unveils its second EV platform, set to underpin the first Jeep and Dodge electric models in the US. Jeep's electric Wagoneer S, with 600 horsepower and 400 miles range, goes on sale this fall. Dodge's all-electric Charger, rumored to have around 900 horsepower, is expected to launch later this year. Tavares' comments coincide with Ford's F-150 Lightning production cut, while Volvo and Hyundai expand their EV offerings. Read more.

BYD: Why Mexico and Hungary could be key to the Chinese carmaker’s global domination (7 mins read)

Chinese automaker BYD ships over 5,000 electric vehicles to Europe from China. The electric vehicles, part of BYD's global expansion, are transported on the "BYD Explorer No. 1" vessel from Shenzhen to Germany and the Netherlands. BYD aims to establish production plants in Hungary and Mexico, leveraging them as gateways to Europe and North America, potentially avoiding tariffs. Read more.

The US Treasury just released EV charger tax credit guidance – find out if you qualify (3 mins read)

The US Treasury updates guidance on the EV charger tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act. The tax credit, effective since January 1, 2023, offers up to 30% of EV charging property costs. Individual claims are capped at $1,000, and businesses can claim up to $100,000. Eligibility is determined by census tracts, with a mapping tool released by the US Department of Energy. The Zero Emission Transportation Association highlights the credit's role in achieving the Biden Administration's goal of deploying 500,000 public chargers by 2030. Read more.

Stellantis Launches Flexible BEV Platform for 2024-2026 (6 mins read)

Stellantis introduces the BEV-native STLA Large platform with an 800 km/500 mile range, 118 kWh embedded energy, and 4.5 kWh per minute charging efficiency. The platform, adaptable for D and E segment vehicles, debuts in North America on Dodge and Jeep, followed by Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, and Maserati. STLA Large supports multiple drivetrains, offers design flexibility, and targets 800 km/500 miles range with initial battery pack options ranging from 85 to 118 kWh. Read more.