02/14/24 - Chrysler Halcyon: Future Autonomous EV Concept, 2025 Audi S3 coming with more power 🚗, Tesla releases new yoke steering wheel with normal horn 🏭

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: 

  • Chrysler Halcyon Promises To Be an Autonomous EV Concept for Drivers

  • 2025 Audi S3 coming with more power, RS 3's torque splitter

  • 2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe Looks Pretty But Has A Heavy Price Tag

• 🏭 Industry trend: BMW Says Buy A Manual M Car Now Before It's Too Late, Tesla releases new yoke steering wheel with normal horn

• 🤖 Auto Tech: Waymo Recalls Robotaxi Software Post Two Crashes with Towed Truck, Stanford scientist: “To extend a lithium-metal EV battery's life, just drain it and let it sit”

• 💡 Tips: The Tires That Come With Your Car Aren't Always the Best. Here’s Why

Chrysler Halcyon Promises To Be an Autonomous EV Concept for Drivers (7 mins read)

Chrysler's future pivots towards electrification, aiming for an all-electric lineup by 2028. The Halcyon concept, set for a 2025 debut, showcases futuristic design and technology, resembling a Vision Grand Turismo car. Sustainable materials, retractable seats, and personalized features define its interior. The car incorporates innovative elements like Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer and Level 4 autonomous driving. This concept signals Chrysler's ambitious direction but remains a glimpse into the brand's future. Read more.

2025 Audi S3 coming with more power, RS 3's torque splitter (3 mins read)

Audi prepares to launch updated A3 sedan and hatchback, including performance S3 and RS 3 models. The 2025 S3 boasts 328 hp from a 2.0-liter turbo-4, 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds. Features include optimized transmission, torque splitter, brake-based torque-vectoring system, and upgraded brakes. Expected as 2025 models in the U.S., likely the last with gas engines due to Audi's electric focus. Read more.

2024 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupe Looks Pretty But Has A Heavy Price Tag (3 mins read)

Mercedes-Benz unveils the 2024 CLE-Class Coupe in the U.S., with two engine options: the 300 4Matic and 450 4Matic. Prices start at $56,500 for the CLE300 4Matic and $65,650 for the CLE450 4Matic. Standard features include Burmester 3D Surround Sound, MBUX operating system, wireless device charger, and blind spot assist. Optional packages add luxury and safety features. Read more.

BMW Says Buy A Manual M Car Now Before It's Too Late (3 mins read)

BMW's M division, one of the last holdouts for manual transmissions, signals the end of this option. Board member Frank Weber confirms declining demand, advising enthusiasts to buy now. While over 50% of M2 buyers opt for a manual, the trend may not last. Despite this, BMW sees success with the M3 Touring and hints at a potential M5 Touring for the U.S. market. Read more.

Tesla releases new yoke steering wheel with normal horn (3 mins read)

Tesla introduces an updated yoke steering wheel for Model S and Model X, now featuring a traditional horn at the center. Despite initial resistance, Tesla aims for a seamless user experience with force touch buttons replacing traditional stalks. The update addresses concerns about usability and improves build quality, while maintaining existing controls. Read more.

Waymo recalls and updates robotaxi software after two cars crashed into the same towed truck (3 mins read)

Waymo recalls software following two minor crashes involving its robotaxis in Phoenix, Arizona, in December. The update aims to address a scenario where vehicles collided with a towed pickup truck. Despite the incidents, Waymo's ride-hailing service continues uninterrupted. The recall reflects the company's commitment to safety amid increasing scrutiny of autonomous vehicles following recent controversies.Read more.

To extend a lithium-metal EV battery's life, just drain it and let it sit, find Stanford scientists (4 mins read)

Stanford University researchers discover resting discharged lithium-metal EV batteries can significantly extend their lifespan. Published on February 7 in Nature, the study suggests allowing batteries to rest after discharge dissolves dead lithium, improving energy generation upon recharge. This method, requiring no additional cost or equipment changes, offers practical insights for EV manufacturers, potentially doubling EV range. Read more.

The Tires That Come With Your Car Aren't Always the Best. Here’s Why (3 mins read)

This article discusses the impact of renewable energy on the global economy. With the growing shift towards sustainable energy sources, including solar and wind power, countries face both opportunities and challenges. Examining economic implications and trends, it explores how renewable energy shapes the future of various industries and markets. Read more.