02/06/24 - Ferrari Promises 3 New Models For 2024 🚗, Hard Lesson As Used EV Prices Crash ⚡, US Government responds to viral videos of Tesla drivers using VR headsets 🏭

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: 

  • Ferrari Promises 3 New Models For 2024

  • Mercedes eSprinter: It's a van, but it's electric

  • 2025 Lincoln Aviator Gets A New Face And Big Price Increase

  • The 2025 Audi RS 6 GT is 2020's Wild GTO Concept Come to Life

• 🏭 Industry trend: US Government Issues Statement After Videos of Tesla Drivers Using VR Headsets Go Viral, Hertz will stop buying EVs from Polestar too

• ⚡ EV: Hard Lesson As Used Electric Vehicle Prices Crash

• 🔧 Parts/upgrade: Toyota patents truck bed cover with air bladder

Ferrari Promises 3 New Models For 2024 (4 mins read)

Ferrari plans to launch three new models in 2024. The successor to LaFerrari (potentially named La Rossa, Drake, or F80) is expected to produce over 1,000 hp with a hybrid powertrain. The F167, a replacement for the 812 lineup, may arrive as a coupe or both coupe and convertible. A camouflaged 296 GTB is spotted, potentially having variants like 296 Speciale and 296 Mugello. Additionally, a one-off model called PB24 is expected this year. Ferrari's 2023 sales report reveals strong growth in the Americas, with 44% hybrid sales and successful model transitions. Read more.

Mercedes eSprinter first drive review: here's the deal - it's a van, but it's electric (12 mins read)

Mercedes introduces the 2024 eSprinter, an electric cargo van with a 113kWh LFP battery offering 273 miles of WLTP range. Built in Charleston, South Carolina, it comes in a long-wheelbase version with a 170-inch wheelbase. Two powertrain options are available: 100kW for intra-city tasks and 150kW for more challenging routes. The eSprinter supports AC charging up to 9.6kW and DC fast charging up to 115kW. The van, starting at $71,886, emphasizes practicality for commercial use, with 5 regenerative braking settings, digital rear-view mirror, and various safety features. Read more.

2025 Lincoln Aviator Gets A New Face And A Big Price Increase (4 mins read)

The 2025 Lincoln Aviator, sharing a platform with the Ford Explorer, receives a facelift with a larger grille and new tech. Interior updates include larger digital screens, with a 13.2-inch center display and Lincoln Digital Experience integrating Google and Amazon functionality. BlueCruise, Lincoln Co-Pilot 360, and various appearance packages are introduced. The Aviator starts at $58,495, with the Black Label priced at $86,995. Read more.

The 2025 Audi RS 6 GT is 2020's Wild GTO Concept Come to Life (5 mins read)

Audi celebrates quattro GmbH's 40th anniversary with the limited-edition 2025 RS 6 Avant GT, producing 660 units. Based on the RS 6 Avant Performance, it retains the 621 hp twin-turbo V-8, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds. The GT features unique suspension, carbon-fiber elements, and a distinctive design. U.S. models have exclusive features, and deliveries start in Q2 2025, with pricing undisclosed. Read more.

US Government Issues Statement After Videos of Tesla Drivers Using VR Headsets Go Viral (2 mins read)

U.S. Transportation Secretary Buttigieg addresses Tesla drivers using VR headsets, emphasizing the need for attentiveness. Concerns arise from a video featuring a Cybertruck driver with an Apple Vision Pro headset. Buttigieg reiterates the importance of human control despite advanced driver assistance systems. The situation highlights ongoing concerns about distractions and safety risks with emerging technologies on the road. Read more.

Hertz will stop buying EVs from Polestar, too (3 mins read)

Hertz pauses plans to acquire more EVs from Polestar, citing financial setbacks. Initially targeting 65,000 Polestars and 100,000 Teslas in 2022, Hertz faces losses due to price cuts, higher depreciation, and repair costs. The company plans to sell 20,000 Teslas and has temporarily halted its Polestar deal. Despite EV market growth, some companies reevaluate commitments due to financial considerations. Read more.

Hard Lesson As Used Electric Vehicle Prices Crash: Tesla Model Y, Model 3 And Chevy Bolt At CarMax (5 mins read)

A 2021 Chevy Bolt EV's value drops significantly, appraised at $14,000 after purchase at $32,000 in 2021. Despite low mileage and a new battery, the trade-in reflects a rapid 60% depreciation in three years. Comparatively, a new 2023 Chevy Bolt EUV Premier, initially priced at $38,500, depreciates to a $23,000 trade-in value, dropping to 65% of its new value. Used Tesla Model 3 prices vary but average below $30,000 for 2017-2019 models. Model Y shows less depreciation, with a 2023 long-range model priced at $46,000 with 10K miles. Read more.

Toyota patents truck bed cover with air bladder (2 mins read)

Toyota explores a patent for a cargo stabilizer using air bladders beneath a truck's bed cover to prevent cargo movement. The bladders, supplied with air from a built-in compressor, aim to enhance stability during transit. Toyota suggests it could be applicable to SUVs with sizable cargo areas. The system may complement traditional tie-down straps if implemented, offering additional cargo stabilization functions. Read more.