02/12/24 - Ferrari's New Cockpit Offers LHD, RHD, Central Seating Switch 🤖, California Offers Up to $10k for Pothole Car Damage 🏭, Lotus Emeya finishes testing 🚗

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: 

  • Lotus Emeya finishes testing, looks great doing it

  • Rivian Cuts R1T, R1S Prices as EV Demand Wanes and R2 Reveal Looms

  • SsangYong previews electric coupe SUV

• 🏭 Industry trend: California Will Repay You Up To $10,000 For Pothole Damages To Your Car

• 🤖 Auto Tech: New Ferrari Cockpit Lets You Switch Between LHD/RHD/Central Seating As You Please, Daimler releases 'open source' hydrogen fueling standard for trucks

• 💡 Tips: Old Cat C and Cat D insurance write-off categories explained

Lotus Emeya finishes testing, looks great doing it (3 mins read)

Lotus Emeya, an upcoming EV sports saloon, undergoes rigorous testing in diverse climates, including the Arctic Circle. Speculated to rival Porsche Taycan, it promises engaging driving dynamics and luxury. Features advanced control systems, four-wheel drive, and a heated wheel controllable via app. Read more.

Rivian Cuts R1T, R1S Prices as EV Demand Wanes and R2 Reveal Looms (3 mins read)

Rivian reduces base R1T and R1S prices by $3,100 to $71,700 and $76,700 respectively, introducing new trims with 315 miles range. Tax credits available. Rivian reacts to EV demand shift amid industry price war. Plans debut of cheaper R2 SUV on March 7, aiming to challenge Tesla Model Y. Read more.

SsangYong previews electric coupe SUV (3 mins read)

KG Mobility, formerly SsangYong, teases the J120, a sleek electric coupe SUV following the Torres EVX. The EVX boasts a single electric motor producing 150kW of power, paired with a 73.4kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery sourced from BYD, offering a claimed WLTP range of 500km. Both models feature distinctive styling, with the EVX showcasing a unique front-end design and an overhauled interior. Read more.

California Will Repay You Up To $10,000 For Pothole Damages To Your Car (3 mins read)

In Q3 2023, several automakers in the U.S. reported strong sales. Audi USA had a 21% YoY increase, delivering 59,535 vehicles, with the Audi Q5 leading. BMW delivered 83,949 vehicles, with the BMW X5 as the top performer. General Motors sold 674,336 vehicles, with the Silverado series in the lead. Honda and Acura had a 52.7% sales increase. Hyundai saw a 9% growth, delivering 200,534 vehicles, mainly led by the Tucson. Kia surpassed Hyundai, selling 210,341 units. Subaru reported a 23.4% YoY growth, with the Forester leading the way. Toyota delivered 590,296 vehicles, with the RAV4 and Camry performing well. Read more.

New Ferrari Cockpit Lets You Switch Between LHD, RHD, And Central Seating As You Please (3 mins read)

Ferrari's patent reveals customizable driver controls for a supercar, allowing movement around the cockpit. CarBuzz found the patent at the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Ferrari suggests using wire connections for moving controls. Patents also include adjustable seats and bodywork. Potential for future transformational features in Ferrari's lineup. Read more.

Daimler releases 'open source' hydrogen fueling standard for trucks (3 mins read)

Daimler Truck and Linde Engineering introduce sLH2, a cost-efficient sub-cooled liquid hydrogen refueling technology, promising higher storage density and faster refueling than gaseous hydrogen. Achieves 1000 km range from 80 kg of hydrogen, refuels Mercedes semi in under 15 mins. New public refueling station in Wörth am Rhein, Germany. Read more.

Old Cat C and Cat D insurance write-off categories explained (6 mins read)

This article discusses the implications of car insurance write-offs, exploring the transition from older categories like Cat C and Cat D to newer classifications like Cat N and Cat S. It highlights potential safety concerns, financial considerations, and advises caution for buyers considering purchasing written-off vehicles. Read more.